When it comes to chronic pain conditions, nothing is as debilitating and widespread as fibromyalgia. It is a condition that causes pain throughout the body and increases your sensitivity to pain as well. Besides that, general fatigue, sleep problems, and appetite fluctuations are some of the side-effects of the condition. Despite the fact that around 10 million people in the country suffer from the condition, and though a huge amount of research is available on the subject, the causes of fibromyalgia are still not well understood. As of now, there is ongoing research about the possible factors involved in the onset of fibromyalgia and the risk factors that may increase one’s likelihood of suffering from this condition. Understanding fibromyalgia The condition is pretty simple since it operates on the basic principle of pain detection. Nothing is as sensitive to pain as your brain is, and this is what leads to fibromyalgia. People who have fibromyalgia have more pain receptors that carry pain signals to the brain. On the flip side, cells that reduce the pain receptors from reaching the brain continuously or those that slow down this signaling, are fewer in number. Thus, a single bump feels like stabbing, and things that shouldn’t cause any pain at all lead to a numbing, painful sensation. Either way, the patient’s pain signals are all awry and off the charts most of the time. It is quite difficult to understand the factors that lead to this condition. However, here are some causes that may lead to fibromyalgia: Genetics Seeing as how fibromyalgia runs in families, it isn’t strange to suspect that a patient’s genes play a vital role. Women with a relative suffering from fibromyalgia are more likely to suffer from this condition themselves. Perhaps, there is a gene that causes hypersensitivity to pain.

Leg pain is a common physical ailment that occurs due to an injury or trauma. Sometimes, it happens due to underlying medical conditions. The reason for leg pain may vary, but sometimes, it causes severe discomfort. Leg pain may either be acute or chronic. Acute pain has mild symptoms, and self-care is enough to treat it. However, chronic pain persists for a long time and can have severe symptoms. The acute pain may also stay for a long time and lead to chronic disorders. Types of leg pain The different kinds of leg pain are as follows: Leg cramps: Leg cramps are common among old people and usually occurs at night. The calf muscles at the back of the leg tighten and cause pain. The muscle cramps last for a few seconds or minutes and reduce after stretching. One should not ignore these cramps if the pain is severe. Shin splints: Shin splints occur in the front of the legs, and its cause may be overused muscles. It occurs when there is a sudden increase in the activities involving the legs. Resting the legs for some time helps to relieve the pain. However, at times, the splints may lead to fractures. Achilles tendon injury: A common symptom of this condition is pain near the heel bone. One of the leading causes of this pain is wearing high-heeled shoes. Ignoring the pain may lead to a rupture of the tendon. Hence, one should notice the early symptoms and take proper care. Hamstring strain: Hamstring strain is an injury to the muscles at the back of the thighs. It may be due to exercising without an adequate warm up. Hamstring strain usually causes acute pain, but there may be a possibility of a partial muscle tear. Sciatica: A pressure on the sciatic nerves, usually in the spine, causes pain in the legs.

Metastatic lung cancer is when cancer cells from the other areas of the body spread to your lungs. There are various methods that are used in the treatment of this form of cancer. Read on to know more about the metastatic lung cancer prognosis. Usually, cancer develops in one area of the body and this area is known as the ‘primary site’. Cancer cells have a unique ability to break free from these primary sites and travel to the other parts of your body either through the bloodstream or through the lymph system. A cancer is termed as metastatic cancer, when it spreads from the primary sites to the other parts of the body. You suffer from metastatic lung cancer, when cancer in the other areas of your body spreads to the lungs. Some of the primary tumors that can cause metastatic lung cancer are breast cancer, bladder cancer, sarcoma, prostate cancer, kidney cancer, colon cancer, and neuroblastoma. Metastatic lung cancer may not always show up in signs and symptoms. Even when you do start experiencing the symptoms, it may be quite difficult to identity this form of lung cancer, because the symptoms are similar to several other medical conditions. Some of the symptoms of metastatic lung cancer include chest pain, weakness, a persistent cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, and sudden weight loss. If your doctor suspects metastatic lung cancer, you may have to take various tests to confirm the diagnosis of metastatic lung cancer. These tests are a bronchoscopy, a CT scan, a chest X-ray, and a lung needle biopsy. There are several methods available for the treatment of metastatic lung cancer and the main aim of these methods is to relieve the symptoms as well as to control the cancer growth. The treatment plan that is ideal for you depends on a number of factors that include your overall health, age, medical history, the number of tumors, the location and size of the tumor, as well as the type of the primary tumor.

People with Alzheimer’s go through different experiences when battling with the disease, and have been seen to witness the same ambit right from the start of the disease, to the sympathetic end. The exact number of Alzheimer’s stages is quite arbitrary, to be honest. Some experts try using a subtle model with a three-phase, while others have invented a granular breakdown and have considered it to be effective, in understanding the progress of the disease. Alzheimer’s stages – Everything you need to know before proceeding with the treatment The model held out by New York University claims that there are altogether seven Alzheimer’s stages. This particular model for understanding Alzheimer’s progression has been taken up and been in use ever since, by innumerable providers of healthcare and also the Alzheimer’s Association. Below are the details of Alzheimer’s stages: Stage 1 Normal Outward Behavior When your loved one is going through the beginning Alzheimer’s stages, you may not see any noticeable changes. So you won’t understand the symptoms. A thorough PET Scan, which is an imaging test, can reveal the actual condition of the brain’s functionality, and reveal if the person has Alzheimer’s disease. With fleeting time and as the disease progresses, your relative or loved one will be seen to undergo a lot of changes; both in their reasoning and thinking process as well. Stage 2 Decline The patient may start to display slight memory related issues due to the disease. They may seem to be losing random things in the house, though it may not be extreme enough to differentiate it with the normal memory loss that one undergoes with age. The person may also miraculously do well in several tests for memory power. Stage 3 A Mild Decline The third stage may help close observers to recognize some signs of cognitive and memory loss.

Those who suffer from eczema develop itchy skin feel constant inflammation, and one of the main triggers of this condition is food. So, eczema patients must add the right food to their diet, which mainly comprises foods that can naturally help the healing process. These foods must contain substances that stimulate the body’s immune system to release anti-inflammatory compounds that are useful to reduce redness and itching. Herein, we discuss some of the foods that are beneficial for those suffering from eczema. Foods with Fatty Acids Fatty acids are useful in fighting inflammation. They provide nutrients that protect and rejuvenate the skin, reducing the symptoms of eczema. The essential fatty acids are found in whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oats, barley, seeds, nuts, plant oils, and avocado. Omega-3 fatty acids are especially useful in fighting inflammation. It is found in fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines. It is recommended to consume at least 250 mg of Omega-3 fatty acids daily. Apart from fighting inflammation, these compounds are also good for the heart. Foods with Quercetin There are several fruits and vegetables like apples, avocado, kale, berries, cherries, broccoli, and spinach that contain a flavonoid called quercetin. It gives the natural color to fruits and vegetables. Quercetin helps reduce inflammation and acts as a natural antihistamine to fight allergies. Foods with Beta-carotene Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals, which is good for the skin. Beta-carotene is found in carrot, pepper, tomato, mango, squash, and leafy greens. Probiotic Foods Yogurt is a food that contains probiotics. These are food containing good bacteria that not only help in digestion but can also reduce allergies. Apart from yogurt, probiotics are found in soft cheese, sourdough bread, sauerkraut, and fermented pickles. Foods with Anthocyanin Anthocyanin is a pigment that adds color to food like red cabbage.

Eczema is a condition where patches of skin become inflamed, itchy, cracked, rough, and red. For some people, blisters may occur too. While some people are cured of this condition, some continue to have it throughout their adulthood. It is important to recognize the symptoms and seek immediate professional help to make treatment more efficient. Symptoms to be aware of: In adults; rashes commonly appearing in the creases of the elbows or knees or the nape of the neck Rashes that cause very dry skin Itchy rashes that do not seem to go away Rashes that look scaly Skin infections caused by these rashes Rashes differ in infants under two years and children aged two years until puberty. For infants; They commonly appear on the scalp and cheeks They bubble up before there is liquid leaking from it Rash interferes with sleeping, and there’s a continuous itch For children aged two years and above; Rashes can be bumpy They can be light or dark in colors It develops a permanent itch or a knot Some treatment approaches While there is no cure for eczema, there are treatments that can help control the swelling, rash, itchiness of the skin, by using a mix of home cures and some doctor-prescribed medications. Some home remedies involve taking lukewarm baths, applying moisturizer on the skin within three minutes of the bath to ensure it keeps the skin hydrated; wearing cotton and soft fabrics is recommended over rough, scratchy, and tight-fitting clothes, using a humidifier in dry or cold weather, keeping fingernails short to prevent any scratching of the skin and inflammation caused due to it. Each person has their own triggers which make their condition worse, so it is important to recognize those symptoms and take control of what works and what doesn’t. Some medications that you could be aware of when getting treated for eczema are:

Pain, stiffness in joints and swelling are the main symptoms of an arthritis onset. Rheumatoid arthritis is a major kind that is an autoimmune disease where your immune system affects your joint. Fortunately, there are snacks that help ease rheumatoid arthritis pain in humans. A study by the American Health Association mentions that around 24% of rheumatoid arthritis patients have had severe symptoms because of a bad diet. Garlic Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties. It helps strengthen the immune system. A study conducted among 1892 people was found that eating garlic reduced the chances of women get arthritis. A specific component in garlic is the reason for reducing the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Fatty fish Salmon, mackerel, sardines, trout, etc. are high in omega 3 which are fatty acids. They are known to be an anti-inflammatory food. Research showed that 33 people who used to eat fatty fish on a daily basis at least four times a week. This helped decrease inflammation and reduced the risk of the onset of arthritis, osteoporosis, etc. Supplements made from omega 3 have proven to increase mobility in arthritic patients, relieve pain, and reduce stiffness in joints. American Health Association always suggests nutritionists and dieticians to tell the customers to have fatty fish and salmon oil etc. in their diet. This is one of the easiest snacks that help rheumatoid arthritis. Broccoli One of the healthiest snacks that help ease rheumatoid arthritis. This has known to reduce inflammation in both animals and humans. A study conducted by the medical center of excellence in Ohio found that 1005 women who had any kind of cruciferous vegetables showed lesser inflammation on their joints and less swelling. Sulforaphane present in broccoli was found to block inflammation and alleviate pain in arthritic patients. In dogs and cats intake of broccoli on a long-term basis has helped alleviate inflammation.

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is an inflammatory skin condition that causes itchy rashes, blisters, skin irritation, and even results in leathery skin patches over time. While this condition is more common in kids aged less than two years, it can also affect older children and adults. Many people who suffer from eczema also tend to develop food allergies. So, it is important to discover one’s personal food needs for minimizing issues with eczema and the resulting allergies. Some of the common food allergies associated with eczema include: Shellfish Fish Nuts Gluten Soy products Eggs Cow’s milk However, not everyone may have the same flare ups or reactions to the same foods. Listed below are foods that contain properties that could help in decreasing eczema flare-ups, so that one can get to know their body and what foods works best for them. Foods to eat Fatty fish: One might be able to reduce their symptoms of eczema by eating fatty fish such as herring, mackerel, trout, and salmon. These fish include high levels of omega-3 fatty acids which leads to it having anti–inflammatory properties. One might also consider taking omega-3 supplements. Foods containing quercetin: The plant-based flavonoid quercetin helps give many veggies, fruits, and flowers their vibrant, rich colors. Quercetin also happens to be a powerful antihistamine and antioxidant which helps in reducing inflammation as well as histamine levels in the body. Foods that are rich in quercetin include kale, spinach, broccoli, cherries, blueberries, and apples. Foods containing probiotics: Probiotic food items like yogurt contain live culture that help in supporting a strong immune system, which could help lessen allergic reactions or flare-ups. Foods rich in probiotics include tempeh, kefir, unpasteurized sauerkraut, soft cheeses like Gouda, naturally fermented pickles, miso soup, and sourdough bread. Foods to avoid While what one eats might not directly cause eczema, it can be a trigger for a lot of symptoms.

Anxiety disorder is the frequent and intense restlessness regarding activities or events. Usually associated with panic attacks, it involves repeated and sudden feelings of intense terror or fear that reaches its peak within minutes. This feeling can last for a few minutes or for a much longer period, interfering with daily life. Symptoms of anxiety include intense nervousness, restlessness, hyperventilation, trembling, and having a sense of impending doom. Social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and separation anxiety disorder are some examples of the condition. Apart from treating the disorder via therapy and lifestyle changes, the following medications can be used to keep anxiety symptoms at bay. Buspirone (Buspar) It is an inexpensive medication used to treat anxiety, but is slightly less popular than other generic medication. The most common version of Buspirone or Buspar is available with the GoodRx Gold membership club at a discount up to 77% for $4.55 for 60 tablets of 10mg. Make sure to check with the doctor regarding the dosage of the medication before using it; discounts differ accordingly. Alprazolam ER (Xanax XR) Alprazolam is a type of benzodiazepine that is used for treating panic attacks and anxiety. You can buy Xanax ER or Alprazolam ER in the form of a tablet, orally disintegrating tablet, dose pack, and a bottle of oral solution. A GoodRx Gold membership lets you save up to 86% for 30 tablets of 1 mg at $7.13. Diazepam (Valium) Another type of benzodiazepine, Diazepam is used for treating nervousness and anxiety. Diazepam or valium can also be used for relaxing muscles, alcohol withdrawal, and even certain types of seizures. There are generic and brand forms of this medication. It is available at as little as $2.62 with GoodRx Gold for 30 tablets of 5mg. You are thus getting a discount of up to 83% on the average retail price.

Dry eye syndrome is a condition characterized by the tear glands not producing adequate fluid to keep the eyes lubricated. This condition can lead to symptoms such as scratchy eyes, eye fatigue, heavy eyelids, pain, light sensitivity, and even blurred vision. These can disrupt one’s daily schedule and be very painful, causing further distress. This article shares some home remedies that one can try to relieve the symptoms of dry eyes. 5 Tips and Home Remedies to Manage Dry Eye Syndrome Use warm compresses Warm compresses basically stimulate the tear glands to promote the production of tears. This can be a regular practice and can provide great relief when done every day. Have a good night’s sleep Lack of sleep can instigate dry eyes and eye fatigue in people who would not have the condition otherwise. It is recommended to take short breaks between screen time and get some shut-eye. Use a humidifier People who reside in a region that is dominated by dry and cold weather must invest in a humidifier for it retains the moisture in the air and helps relieve the discomfort caused by the dry weather. Stay hydrated An adequate intake of water is essential for everyone, but it’s especially important for patients with dry eye syndrome. Having enough water can further help to keep the eyes lubricated, which helps in soothing the dry eye symptoms. Use eye drops or ointments Any over-the-counter eye drops available can help soothe the dry eye syndrome and provide temporary relief. You can also opt for eye drops that induce artificial tears to lubricate the eyes; however, remember to buy the ones without preservatives. Foods to Have for Dry Eye Syndrome Foods that are a potent source of omega-3 fatty acids significantly help relieve the symptoms of dry eyes when eaten over a period of time.

Lupus is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. Although the common symptoms are fatigue, fever, skin rashes, and joint pain, these can vary from person to person and can be confused with many other illnesses. Lupus is, therefore, referred to as “a disease with a thousand faces.” Like most other conditions, though, food choices play an essential role in managing the symptoms. Here are four foods to avoid for lupus. Alfalfa sprouts Alfalfa sprouts, or the shoots of the alfalfa plant, can increase inflammation in the body. This is particularly true for people with lupus and other autoimmune conditions. A compound called L-canavanine present in alfalfa is responsible for this. L-canavanine can stimulate the immune system and worsen the symptoms of the disease. Therefore, lupus patients must avoid alfalfa, whether as sprouts or as a garnish for soups and sandwiches. Garlic Garlic enhances the activity of white blood cells, including the lymphocytes and macrophages of the immune system. While this enhanced immune response is beneficial for others, it can prove counterproductive for lupus patients. This does not mean one should entirely eliminate the herb from the menu. Mindful and monitored consumption of garlic is okay without going overboard. Saturated fats Saturated fats and trans fats are considered harmful even for those who do not have health concerns. But the danger is, of course, magnified in the case of people with lupus. Those with this health condition are already at risk of heart attack, and saturated fats found in fried foods, red meat, full-fat dairy, and baked goods can affect heart health. Further, their calorie-rich and nutrient-deficient nature makes them one of the foods to avoid for lupus. Echinacea Echinacea is a flowering plant whose extracts are effective in improving immune function. But it does not help everyone.

Lung cancer develops in the cells that line the air passages. The two common types of the condition include small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Another form of lung cancer is carcinoid tumors. Known as neuroendocrine tumors, they are rare and grow slowly. No permanent cure for lung cancer exists yet. But certain foods, herbs, and treatment options can help one cope with the condition. Foods There are several foods that can help improve the symptoms of lung cancer. Blueberries They contain quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that eliminates cancer cells in the body. Quercetin also helps in slowing down the growth of lung cancer. Salmon Rich in vitamin D, salmon is an excellent food choice for people with lung cancer. Vitamin D prevents the growth of cancer cells in the lungs. Other healthy sources of fatty fish include mackerel and herring. Herbs These herbs can be used to manage the symptoms of lung cancer. Rosemary This herb is known for its benefits in reducing cancerous cells. Rosemary has two polyphenols, carnosic acid, and rosmarinic acid. These polyphenols are known for inhibiting proliferation of cancer cells, and in helping the body fight these abnormal cells. Basil Basil is a traditional herb that has been used in cooking and treatments for centuries. The herb has antioxidant ingredients like beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, lutein, and beta-cryptoxanthin, which can help fight the harmful effects of cancer cells. Treatment options In addition to these foods and herbs, these treatment options can be prescribed for the management of lung cancer. TECENTRIQ® (atezolizumab) It helps manage the symptoms of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). TECENTRIQ® can also help in preventing a relapse after the tumor has been removed via surgery and the person has received platinum-based chemotherapy. It is also given to patients with Stage 2 to Stage 3A NSCLC.