Atrial fibrillation, or Afib, is a form of arrhythmia that gives rise to an exceedingly rapid and irregular heartbeat. The ramifications of this ailment can be quite serious, as it may result in a lack of coordination between the atria and ventricles. In turn, this can lead to blood pooling within the heart’s chambers, potentially triggering the formation of blood clots, strokes, or even heart failure. Afib is commonly seen in those with heart valve disorders, but other risk factors include sleep apnea, high blood pressure, obesity, having undergone the TAVR procedure, and more. While Afib can manifest intermittently for some, it can persist chronically for others.
The best way to protect yourself is to wear an ECG/EKG monitor to detect when your heart rate is getting too high. Additionally, there are treatments such as the pacemaker implant to help your heart beat properly. With the recommendation of a monitor or the pacemaker implant, your doctor may also recommend a change in diet. Here are a few foods that help to manage Afib:
1. Fruits and vegetables
A diet loaded with fruits and vegetables can help to decrease obesity and high blood pressure, both of which are risk factors of Afib. By decreasing the two, you decrease your chances of experiencing another Afib episode. Try topping your oatmeal with strawberries, enjoying a bowl of blueberries and raspberries, cutting up some veggies with hummus, or throwing a mix together into a smoothie.
2. Whole grains
Whole grains are very filling and have many benefits, including improving cholesterol levels and decreasing your risk of stroke, heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. In turn, this also decreases the risk of Afib. Foods like brown rice, oatmeal, whole grain bread, and quinoa are great whole grains to add to your diet.
3. Low-fat or fat-free dairy products
Low-fat milk, low-fat plain yogurt, small amounts of cheese, or dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk, are best for those with Afib. This type of food is linked to the Mediterranean diet, which has been found to lower the risk of heart problems.
4. Proteins
Lean meats, nuts, and seeds are all great examples of the types of proteins you should be including in your diet. Proteins are filling and can keep you at a healthy weight, thus lowering your risk of an Afib episode.
5. Low salt foods
High sodium in foods can raise your blood pressure, making you more likely to go into Afib. Be sure to look at the labels on your food and opt for low sodium choices—common high salt foods include pizza, deli meat, canned soups, and dinner rolls.
Loss of hair causing a receding hairline and even baldness is a very commonly encountered cosmetic problem, especially in men.
We must understand that luxuriant hair growth is usually dependent on heredity, but is also largely influenced by the nutritive quality of food, lifestyles as well as stress.
Impending baldness may be indicated by excessive hair fall when shampooing, rinsing or combing.
Many men do regard baldness as a serious issue as it affects their appearance, personality and confidence. Because of these, brands have come up with tempting hair transplant surgery. These surgeries do come with a price. Hence, one should possibly consider hair transplant after giving some of these simple and easy to try natural remedies a shot.
First of all, the most obvious of natural remedies for hair fall and baldness is to shift to a diet that is rich in proteins, fruits and other macro and micro nutrients. Foods that have a cooling effect on the body such as tender coconut water may also be included in the diet.
Regular application of and gentle massage using oils like castor seed oil or coconut oil is believed to stimulate the hair follicles and promote hair growth.
Applying the beaten up yolk of egg on to the hair roots a little while before bathing is considered to be one of the most effective natural remedies to strengthen the hair and make it less brittle.
Dermatological issues such as dandruff may also result in hair loss. Application of lemon juice is popular among the anti hair loss natural remedies. Lemon juice may be added to aloe vera gel or even to coconut oil and applied over the hair roots using a ball of cotton. It must be rinsed well after about 30 minutes.
Juice extracted from onions or shallots, which are rich in sulphur is believed to be very effective as an antibacterial agent that not only keeps the scalp free of bacteria but also is believed to enhance blood circulation in the hair follicles. Onion juice can be applied raw or in an oil base and rinsed off well with water and a gentle shampoo after a while.
Yoghurt which is naturally considered to be rich in protein is one of the tried and tested natural remedies to condition the hair. The inclusion of yoghurt, cheese, cottage cheese and other protein rich foods like chickpeas as part of your daily diet can also promote hair growth.
While there are indeed many natural remedies for hair loss, do remember that at times excessive hair loss may indicate some other underlying issue that needs to be treated medically. If the issue still persists even after these tips, make sure you consult a specialist to prevent any further damage.
Myelodysplastic syndromes, or MDS, are a group of disorders caused by poorly formed blood cells or ones that don’t work properly. The MDS life expectancy varies greatly from patient to patient, depending on several factors, including age, overall health, and how well the disease responds to treatment. One of the major complications of MDS is that it can cause anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of red blood cells. It’s important to recognize the warning signs of MDS to seek early treatment. Here are ten signs that may indicate the presence of this disease.
1. Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms of MDS is fatigue. This is primarily due to anemia, which can make you feel tired and weak. If you’re feeling unusually fatigued, it might be worth discussing with your doctor.
2. Shortness of breath
Another sign of MDS can be shortness of breath, especially during physical activities. This symptom is also related to anemia, as your body isn’t getting enough oxygen due to a lack of red blood cells.
3. Frequent infections
MDS can cause your white blood cell count to drop, making you more susceptible to infections. If you find that you’re getting sick more often than usual, it could be a sign of MDS.
4. Easy bruising or bleeding
If you notice that you’re bruising easily or bleeding more than usual, it could be a sign of MDS. This is because MDS can affect your platelet count, which is responsible for blood clotting.
5. Skin paleness
Anemia, a common complication of MDS, can cause your skin to look paler than usual. This is due to the lack of red blood cells, which give your skin its color.
Now that we’ve covered the warning signs, let’s look at some FDA-approved treatments for MDS.
6. Blood transfusions
Blood transfusions are often used to treat anemia in people with MDS. This involves receiving healthy blood from a donor to increase your red blood cell count.
7. Medications
Several medications can be used to treat MDS, including growth factors to stimulate your body to make more blood cells, and immunosuppressive drugs to help your body accept these new cells.
8. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is often used to kill off abnormal cells in your bone marrow. This can help to slow the progression of MDS and alleviate some symptoms.
9. Stem cell transplant
A stem cell transplant involves replacing your diseased bone marrow with healthy marrow from a donor. This can potentially cure MDS, but it’s a complex procedure with significant risks.
10. Supportive care
Supportive care involves managing the symptoms of MDS, such as fatigue and shortness of breath. This can include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
In conclusion, it’s important to recognize the warning signs of MDS and seek treatment early. With the right care, it’s possible to manage this disease and maintain a good quality of life.
Life insurance is a critical safety net for many individuals, especially those over 50 or seniors who want to ensure their loved ones are financially secure after they’re gone. But it’s essential to understand that not all situations are covered by life insurance policies. Here are seven things that life insurance does not typically cover.
1. Fraudulent information
One of the key aspects insurance companies look at when underwriting a policy is the honesty of the information provided. If you have lied or omitted important information on your application, your insurer can deny your beneficiaries’ claim. Always be honest and thorough when applying for life insurance.
2. Suicide within the exclusion period
Most life insurance policies include a clause that excludes coverage for suicide within the first two years of the policy. This period may vary depending on the insurance company and the specific policy, but it’s a standard exclusion across the industry.
3. Death from risky activities
If you regularly engage in high-risk activities such as skydiving, mountain climbing, or extreme sports, your life insurance policy may not cover death resulting from these activities. It’s crucial to disclose these hobbies when applying for insurance, as failing to do so could result in a denied claim.
4. Death in a war zone
Many life insurance policies exclude coverage for death occurring in a war zone. If you are a military personnel or a civilian working in a conflict area, you may need to seek a special policy or rider to cover this risk.
5. Illegal activities
If the policyholder dies while committing an illegal activity, the life insurance claim will likely be denied. This can include anything from driving under the influence to participating in criminal activities.
6. Certain health conditions
While life insurance for over 50 and life insurance for seniors are generally available, certain health conditions may not be covered. This is especially true for policies with a graded death benefit, which only pays out the full benefit if the policyholder lives a certain number of years after purchasing the policy.
7. Acts of God
Some life insurance policies may not cover deaths caused by acts of God, such as natural disasters. However, this exclusion is less common than others and can vary significantly between insurance companies and policies.
Now that you know what life insurance typically does not cover, it’s important to find a reliable provider. Some of the top companies that provide life insurance include New York Life, MetLife, Prudential Financial, and State Farm. These companies offer a variety of policies, including term life, whole life, and universal life insurance.
Remember, life insurance is a crucial part of financial planning, especially for those over 50 or seniors. Make sure to thoroughly read and understand your policy, and don’t hesitate to ask your insurance agent or company any questions you may have. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your loved ones’ financial future.
Embarking on home improvement projects is a rewarding journey that can elevate your living space and enhance its functionality. From addressing water damage with companies that clean up water in the basement to upgrading roofing and gutters, and even considering Anderson window replacement, these hacks are designed to transform your home seamlessly. In this article, we explore seven ingenious home improvement hacks that will breathe new life into your living space.
1. Water damage prevention and cleanup
Companies that specialize in cleaning up water in the basement play a crucial role in preventing and addressing water damage. Protect your home from potential disasters by addressing leaks, floods, or excess moisture promptly. Investing in professional services ensures a thorough cleanup and mitigation of water-related issues, preserving the structural integrity of your home.
2. Roofing and gutters upgrade
Upgrading your roofing and gutters is a fundamental home improvement hack that protects your property from the elements. Consider durable roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, metal, or architectural tiles. Additionally, ensure your gutters are clean and well-maintained to prevent water damage and potential leaks. Regular inspections and prompt repairs contribute to the longevity of your roof and the overall health of your home.
3. Anderson window replacement
Enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency with Anderson window replacement. Anderson windows are renowned for their quality and durability. Upgrading to energy-efficient windows not only improves insulation but also adds a timeless and elegant touch to your interior and exterior spaces. The investment in high-quality windows pays off in energy savings and increased home value.
4. Creative storage solutions
Maximize your living space by incorporating creative storage solutions. Utilize under-the-stair storage, built-in shelving, or multifunctional furniture to optimize every square foot. These solutions not only declutter your home but also add a touch of innovation to your decor, making your living space both functional and stylish.
5. Smart home technology integration
Embrace the future of home living by integrating smart home technology. From smart thermostats and lighting to security systems, these technologies enhance convenience, energy efficiency, and security. Smart home devices can be easily controlled through mobile apps, providing remote access and customization options to suit your lifestyle.
6. DIY painting projects
A fresh coat of paint is one of the most transformative and cost-effective home improvement hacks. Whether it’s an accent wall, a room makeover, or refreshing exterior surfaces, painting projects can instantly breathe new life into your home. Experiment with different colors and finishes to create a personalized and updated look.
7. Energy-efficient lighting upgrades
Switching to energy-efficient lighting options is not only environmentally conscious but also financially savvy. Replace outdated incandescent bulbs with LED or CFL alternatives to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. Additionally, consider installing motion sensor lights in outdoor areas for enhanced security and energy efficiency.
Embarking on home improvement projects is an exciting endeavor that allows you to tailor your living space to your preferences and needs. From addressing water damage with professional cleanup services to upgrading roofing and gutters, considering Anderson window replacement, and embracing creative storage solutions, these home improvement hacks offer practical and innovative ways to transform your home. Whether you’re looking to enhance aesthetics, increase energy efficiency, or optimize functionality, these hacks provide a roadmap for a more comfortable and stylish living environment.
