Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, is characterized by a man’s inability to get and maintain an erection for intercourse. Research from the Cleveland Clinic (CC) estimates that erectile dysfunction is experienced by 40% of males over age 40, and 70% of males 70-years of age and older. The CC also notes that males with other existing health conditions (i.e., diabetes and heart disease) are often more prone to impotence.
While the majority of men will experience erectile issues infrequently, impotence is not considered an issue that requires medical attention unless it becomes a regular occurrence. Ongoing erectile problems can indicate an underlying health issue (i.e., endocrine disease, such as diabetes and neurologic conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease). Also, impotence can lead to undue anxiety and significantly impact a patient’s self esteem and personal relationships. The most common and ongoing symptoms of erectile dysfunction include:
1. Difficulty getting and maintaining an erection
2. Other sexual issues—including delayed or premature ejaculation.
3. Decreased sexual libido—or loss of interest in intimacy.
If you suffer from these symptoms frequently, talk to your family doctor. As mentioned, several underlying health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, depression, and diabetes, as well as the medications used to treat these conditions, can cause erectile issues to occur and may be the first indicator that your health is compromised.
In order to treat your impotence, your doctor may alter your medication dosages for treating other conditions. Your physician may also prescribe erectile drugs to help you get and maintain an erection in order to make sexual intercourse possible. Your medical team may also recommend counseling if your erection issues can be traced to a psychological cause (i.e., depression or anxiety).
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is an overarching medical term used to characterize a collection of progressive lung diseases (i.e., non-reversible asthma, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis). The main symptom of this very serious disease is shortness of breath that gradually worsens with time. However, many misconceptions exist concerning what COPD, how the disease develops, and how it’s managed.
Let’s look at some truths and falsies surrounding COPD…
Fact 1: COPD can’t be completely cured
COPD is what’s known as a non-curable disease. This means that although patients can’t undo the lung tissue damage once diagnosed, they CAN properly treat and manage their disease to prevent further lung damage. For instance, medical research shows that COPD patients that treat their disease property (i.e., with bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, and oxygen therapy) and quit smoking, reduce flare ups and mucus production while preventing dangerous infections.
Myth 1: COPD only damages the lungs
While many patients with COPD suffer from increased mucus production and shortness of breath, this condition affects more than just the lungs and respiratory tract. For instance, COPD can increase the risk of anxiety and depression as well as significantly increase blood pressure, thus raising the overall risk of heart disease.
Fact 2: Early COPD diagnosis is important
This is absolutely true with so many chronic diseases, and COPD is no different. So don’t ignore the signs (i.e., chest tightness and shortness of breath). Getting diagnosed early can prevent further lung damage, decrease the risk of heart disease, and with proper treatment, help decrease symptoms and improve overall quality of life.
Myth 2: COPD only affects smokers
Of course smoking is a major contributor for many chronic disease, COPD included. However, not every COPD smokes, or is a past smoker. COPD can be caused by several other contributing factors, such as:
Fact 3: COPD is NOT a death sentence
While COPD is a non-curable disease, it is not a death sentence. Patients that seek professional treatment (i.e., medication such as a Stiolto inhaler for COPD, inhaled or oral steroids, phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors, antibiotics, oxygen therapy, etc.) and make healthy lifestyle changes (i.e., exercise, quit smoking, etc.) can safely reduce their symptoms, prevent further lung deterioration, and greatly improve overall quality of life. Regular gentle exercise (just 15 minutes per day of walking, swimming, hiking, etc.) in particular, can significantly improve blood and oxygen delivery via the heart to muscles.
Fashion is such an individualized thing. Everyone is different and therefore everyone has personal preferences when it comes to different types of dresses. One thing is true though; it’s important to have at least one versatile and flattering dress in your wardrobe. When determining what type to choose, there are several styles to consider that can be appropriate for different types of events and different figures.
Women today attend many events that require dressing up for the occasion. These may include weddings, dates, parties, work events, and brunch. When looking to buy a dress to suit a wide range of occasions, here are some flattering options for all ages and body types:
1. Wrap dresses
Wrap dresses are exactly what they sound like. These dresses are pulled together with a front closure. One side of the dress is wrapped across the front and then either goes behind the back part of the waist to either be attached by buttons or tied. The construction of this dress creates a v-neck front. It also accentuates the curves of the wearer in the chest area.
2. Maxi dresses
Maxi dresses are a great option for many occasions. They are long and go to the floor. Generally, they are designed to fit the body on the top, and then be flowy and long on the bottom. The fun thing about them is they can feature many different necklines and come in various patterns and colors. This makes them very individualized to the person.
3. A-Line dresses
A-line dresses are named after the shape they take on the body, which is an “A”. They fit to the top part of the body and begin to flare gradually out at the waist and hips, becoming wider as the hem progresses. A-line clothing can be found not just in dresses, but also in coats and skirts.
4. Little black dresses
Everyone has heard of the little black dress. This is such a versatile option that can be found in your closet. It can be dressed up or down for numerous types of events. As a general design, it is usually a simple dress that tends to be quite short. The elegance and simplicity create a fairly blank canvas that allows you to create the exact type of look that you want. Many designers provide limitless options for this much-needed wardrobe essential. Victoria Beckham cocktail dresses are one good brand to consider.
5. Mini dresses
A mini, or short dress that hangs just above the knees is a common style. This design became popular in the 1920’s. It was later revitalized in the 1960s, and has remained an integral part of many wardrobes ever since. A mini shift style dress is a loose-fitting dress that is very comfortable and does not fit tightly around the waist or any part of the body. It is loose at both the hips and the waist so the dress falls loosely down from the shoulders all the way down to the bottom of the dress. Darts are generally located in the bust area. It is a straight silhouette that can be flattering for those that have bodies that are shaped more like a column and it also elongates petite figures as it shows off the legs.
When shopping for dresses, every designer has his or her own individual interpretation. It is fun, and a great idea to look at the individual designers and fashion forward celebrities to find the one that fits your aesthetic most closely. Also, remember that designers also have many other clothing options. As an example, when looking at what stars wear, like Kourtney Kardashian or Victoria Beckham (blouses, skirts, dresses and pants), you might find a designer that the star tends to wear a lot that you can draw inspiration from.
The right handbag can really accentuate your outfit of the day. There are also many styles and functions for different handbags. You could have a handback that works as a daily driver – a bag that you take to run errands or to the store. You could also have a bag that’s perfect for traveling or for a night out. Whatever the case may be, these are five handbags that are sure to be everywhere this season:
1. Versace Chunky Chain Bag
This Versace bag features a chunky chain which really is the stand out feature on this bag. The chain provides a cool effect when you wear it, that really draws your eyes to it. In typical Versace fashion, the chunky chain bag is made of high quality materials and is a great value for the price.
2. Lanvin Puffy Cloud Bag
The Lanvin Puffy Cloud Bag is another bag you’ll be seeing a lot of in 2021. This bag is one of the top trends in handbags right now, and for good reason. The Lanvin quality is apparent and you can really wear this on any occasion, formal or casual.
3. Stella McCartney Hobo Bag
The Stella McCartney Hobo bag has a relaxed look about it. It appears slightly slouched in nature, which provides a really cool effect. This bag can be dressed up for a nice, formal event or dressed down for a nice casual day. This bag is incredibly versatile and provides enough room for all of your belongings. It has two slip pockets and an interior compartment for maximum storage. This is one bag that can really do it all.
4. Bottega Veneta Fisherman Shoulder Bag
The Bottega Veneta Fisherman Shoulder Bag is extremely trendy right now, and for good reason. The bag features a scale like pattern which is the standout feature. It also features a shoulder strap for great versatility and a super comfortable wear. The bag features high quality materials and enough room to keep all your belongings stored nicely. This bag leans a bit casual but is a great bag if you’re looking to make a statement throughout the day.
5. Fendi Fluffy Feathers Bag
The Fendi fluffy feathers bag is a bag that’s sure to make a statement. This bag is made of high quality materials, in typical Fendi fashion. The fluffy feathers bag is covered in ostrich feathers. This bag is incredibly unique and will turn all the heads. It’s also very versatile in that all of the straps are detachable so you could wear this as a shoulder bag or as a little handheld purse. When you pair this with a stunning dress, you will be sure to turn heads at any formal event or night out on the town.
These bags can be found at many of your favorite retailers and department stores. Make sure to shop Saks Fifth Avenue bags for the latest in deals and trends for the 2021 year.
Jewelry is the one of the best accent pieces for any outfit you choose to wear. The right necklace, or the right bracelet, can really put the finishing touch on an amazing outfit. You may opt to wear a necklace on a night out, or a set of bangles to run some errands. Either way there are a few styling hacks to help maximize your jewelry. Here are six jewelry styling hacks to follow:
1. Use earrings for a pop of color
It can be a great idea to match a few pieces of jewelry, however, when they’re all very similar in style and color, they can really blend together. To solve this issue, try using earrings to create that pop of color. Earrings can really balance out an outfit
2. Know when it’s too much
Jewelry can provide a great accent to your favorite outfit but you need to be careful you don’t overdo it. By having too much, you’re really taking away from the effect your jewelry adds to your outfit
3. Personalize with statement jewelry
Something like customized wrist bracelets can be super personal. This can be a piece that no one has that truly stands out on its own. These are often hard to duplicate because they’re one of a kind and customized. Check Kay Jewelers clearance sale and see if there’s anything that you could customize and make truly unique
4. Minimal jewelry with patterned clothing
When your outfit is full of patterns, it’s already incredibly loud. Something like stripes or plaid can be a super powerful statement in itself so when picking out jewelry, make sure to keep it minimal. When it’s overdone it can have the opposite effect of what you’re looking for. One simple necklace or bracelet can be a nice, quick addition to a loud outfit with many patterns
5. Create layers with necklaces and bangles
Sometimes when we wear jewelry it can be hard to get the most out of it. Sometimes our jewelry is too thin and won’t really pop with our outfits. That’s where layering comes into play. By layering bangles you can create a super nice, textured set of bracelets that will surely stand out. With necklaces, you want to look at the style and length. By mixing and layering different necklace lengths, you can create the illusion of a much bigger piece and have them all flow together seamlessly. Either way, you really can’t go wrong with layering
6. Mix metals in jewelry
Most jewelry is made of various metals like gold, silver, and platinum. By combining different metals, you can really make them pop. When mixing and matching gold and silver you really create a palate with different colors and materials. It helps them stand out. When you wear all your jewellery in one material or one color, the pieces tend to blend in with each other. Mixing metals will help your pieces to really make a statement
When choosing jewelry, make sure to follow these 6 hacks for best results!
