5 uncomfortable questions to ask a gynecologist
health

5 uncomfortable questions to ask a gynecologist

Visiting the gynecologist once a year is important. However, you may feel nervous about scheduling an appointment, with concerns like the need for grooming before a checkup and discomfort you may experience during the examination. Additionally, being on your period can make you put off the visit. This embarrassment can also keep you from asking important questions during your visit. But here are a few seemingly uncomfortable questions you can ask your doctor: Should I be worried about bumps down there? Bumps in intimate areas may not always be a cause for concern. There are numerous reasons for the vaginal area can develop acne or bumps, including shaving. Other reasons could be sebaceous cysts, skin tags, or gentle warts. You do not have to be embarrassed to ask your gynecologist about such skin issues, especially if you experience any pain or changes in the color or size of the bump. Is my vaginal discharge concerning? Vaginal discharge is part of normal reproductive health. However, if the discharge causes discomfort like itching or pain, you should speak to your OB/GYN about it. A cottage cheese-like discharge could be an indication of a yeast infection, while greying vaginal discharge with a raw egg-like odor can be a sign of bacterial vaginosis.
4 unusual questions to ask an oncologist
health

4 unusual questions to ask an oncologist

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatments, it can be an overwhelming experience. It takes a toll on your physical and mental health. Sometimes there can be concerns about health that you may not have an answer to, and you may feel embarrassed talking to an oncologist. However, there is nothing wrong with asking those questions. Here are some of those embarrassing questions that you can ask an oncologist. Does cancer treatment affect bowel control? Some side effects of cancer treatments like surgery or radiation therapy can involve some bladder and bowel complications. This includes symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, or even urinary incontinence. It is important to understand the extent of these side effects and prepare yourself to prevent any shocks. Does chemotherapy or radiation affect sex life? Studies have suggested that going through long phases of chemotherapy or radiation can possibly cause sexual dysfunction in some people. This can mean side effects like erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, and also decreased libido. Usually, the side effects are temporary and last till the treatment process. However, sometimes, there may also be long-term side effects. This may also depend on the dosage of the treatment and the duration of it.
Lifestyle factors that may affect one’s menstrual cycle
health

Lifestyle factors that may affect one’s menstrual cycle

There can be minor variations in a woman’s menstrual cycles. While the average cycle lasts 28 days, it can, at times, occur after every 24 to 31 days. When a woman’s cycle unexpectedly falls outside of the usual range, she may be experiencing irregular periods. A disrupted menstrual cycle can lead to excruciatingly painful symptoms. A number of factors can be responsible for this, some of which are listed below. The reasons for irregular menstrual cycles The following are the primary causes for skipped or irregular menstrual cycles. An unhealthy meal plan The thyroid and adrenal glands are affected due to a meal plan that’s high in stimulants but lacking minerals, antioxidants, and probiotic foods. For instance, a meal plan high in sugar, hydrogenated fats, and chemical additives has been related to thyroid problems and adrenal exhaustion, which can cause cortisol to rise. This could lead to a longer cycle and anovulation. If cortisol remains high for an extended time, periods can become irregular or even less frequent. To avoid this, make sure to eat foods that are nutrient-dense and contain enough protein. Low BMI A low body mass index (BMI) of below 18 or 19 may lead to irregular periods.
Common causes and symptoms of tinnitus
health

Common causes and symptoms of tinnitus

Tinnitus is a widespread illness that affects millions of people globally. It can be identified if a person can hear in their brain or ears but not from an external source. Noises akin to ringing, buzzing, humming, and hissing are the hallmarks of tinnitus. While tinnitus is not a disease in and of itself, it can be a symptom of other conditions such as hearing loss, ear or head trauma, or circulatory issues. Common causes of tinnitus Given that the illness can have a variety of causes, it may occasionally be challenging to determine the exact underlying cause of tinnitus. Some of the most frequent tinnitus causes are listed below: Loud noise exposure Loud noise exposure, whether from a single incidence or recurrent exposure, can damage the hair cells in the inner ear and result in tinnitus. Hearing loss as people age Tinnitus and hearing loss are brought on by harmed or dying inner ear hair cells. Earwax buildup Blocking sound waves in the ear canal when earwax builds up might result in tinnitus. Pharmaceuticals Some anti-inflammatory prescription treatments can cause tinnitus as a side effect. Medical issues Conditions like Meniere’s disease, high blood pressure, and temporomandibular joint abnormalities (TMJ) can cause tinnitus.
4 worst foods for teeth
health

4 worst foods for teeth

The foods we eat play a significant role not just in maintaining our physical health but also our oral health. There are several foods that act as natural mouth cleansers, while others are a big no no for oral health. These are foods that can cause tooth decay, leading to cavities and other such issues. It is important to know which foods to avoid to eliminate the risk of tooth decay. Bread This is a staple in a lot of cuisines. While bread tastes delicious, it is also something that affects teeth health. As it turns into a chewy substance inside the mouth, the bread crumbs can easily get attached to the crevices in the teeth. This can lead to build up and potential tooth complications. Carbonated drinks Drinking carbonated sugary drinks is never a good idea. The bacteria in the mouth feed on the high amount of sugar present in them. This can result in tooth decay and other oral hygiene issues. Drinking too much soda coats the teeth in acid, which affects the tooth enamel, leading to its decay. Carbonated drinks also causes your mouth to dry. This leads to lower saliva levels, which could result in tooth decay.
4 common skincare myths debunked
health

4 common skincare myths debunked

Skincare can be a complex routine for some people, especially those who are not very well-versed with their skin types and are constantly experimenting with products. If you are dealing with some skin issues like acne or pimples, speak to a dermatologist who can give proper advice. Also, do your research before going to the doctor and be aware of certain myths that can complicate your skincare journey. Here are a few common skincare myths: Avoid facial oils for oily skin This is a common myth among people, especially those who have oily skin. If you are someone with this skin type, know that oil massages can greatly benefit your skin, as they help in keeping the barrier function healthy and balanced. All you have to do is speak to your dermatologist and understand what type of oil is best for your skin and the issues you are dealing with. Skincare that burns is skincare that is effective In a lot of skincare products, there are some active ingredients present. These active ingredients can be responsible for the tingly sensation you feel after application. This means that there is a chemical reaction that is helping to take care of your skin issues.
5 harmful effects of smartphones
health

5 harmful effects of smartphones

Using a smartphone has multiple benefits, including enjoying content, playing games, and carrying out financial transactions. The device is also useful for work-based tasks, such as answering calls and sending texts and emails in seconds. But on the flip side, using a smart device may have several adverse effects on our health, such as affecting our sleep and eye health. Here are five such complications that may occur due to excessive smartphone use. Circadian rhythm instability Circadian rhythms are physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a 24-hour cycle. The natural processes respond to light and dark. For example, a normal circadian rhythm involves staying awake during the day and sleeping at night. However, when we use a smartphone at night, our eyes are exposed to blue light emitted from the screen. Such light could affect the internal body clock and disrupt an individual’s circadian rhythm. Difficulty sleeping Studies have shown that exposure to blue light could suppress melatonin and affect one’s sleep-wake cycle. And this could result in insomnia, irritability, and tiredness during the day. Even viewing something entertaining on a smartphone before going to bed could trigger a response that prevents one from falling asleep. The use of the device may also delay REM sleep.
Tips to maintain eye health and posture while using devices
health

Tips to maintain eye health and posture while using devices

Being aware of your posture while reading is an important aspect. You should be aware of certain things while reading a book or working on your laptop as continuously doing such tasks can affect your eye health. Working on gadgets constantly can have some side effects like text neck, stiff shoulder muscles, and headaches. To prevent any vision issues, here are some things to keep in mind while using devices. Sitting straight up Bending your neck or your back while reading a book, scrolling through your phone, or working on a laptop is a common problem. Especially if you have a desk job that requires you to be working on a computer most part of the day. This can mean slouching down and risking bad posture. You should take appropriate breaks while working to do some mild shoulder and back exercises that can keep the muscles relaxed and stress free. Remind yourself frequently to sit upright and fix your posture. While reading a book, it is recommended that you hold it at a 60-degree angle and 15 inches away from the eyes. Limiting screen time This is important while working on your laptop. Most smartphones today have a feature that shows your average screen time.
5 common Botox mistakes to avoid for best results
health

5 common Botox mistakes to avoid for best results

These days, receiving a Botox treatment is easy due to its widespread popularity. It is a quick and pain-free treatment that a dermatologist can administer. Moreover, Botox has several skin and health benefits, such as reducing wrinkles, treating chronic migraines, reducing excessive sweating, and addressing neck spasms. However, one must avoid certain common mistakes before, during, or after the procedure to utilize this treatment’s benefits fully. Some common Botox mistakes to avoid are listed below. Getting a massage after the procedure Getting a massage after undergoing Botox treatment can be harmful. A massage causes the components of Botox to spread to other areas of the skin and unintentionally affects those muscles and tissues. Therefore, undergoing a massage right after Botox can have several undesirable results, such as unwanted stretching or loosening of skin in specific areas. To avoid such issues, it is advised to get a massage at least a week to 10 days after receiving Botox treatment. Exercising on the day of treatment The skin retains an element of sensitivity after Botox. Therefore, health experts advise people undergoing this procedure to avoid exercising for at least three to four hours after the treatment. Exercising involves wear and tear of the skin tissues and muscles.
8 warning signs of poor blood circulation
health

8 warning signs of poor blood circulation

Good overall health indicates the presence of a proper lifestyle and the right food choices. Among other things, it also points to proper blood circulation. Poor blood circulation can lead to improper functioning of the organs and body systems. The condition can be caused by damaged or restricted blood vessels and plagued arteries, among other factors. Thus, it is crucial for one to be aware of the various symptoms of poor blood circulation. Cramping The painful cramping of muscles, even after minimal or a regular amount of activity, can be a sign of poor blood supply. The symptom is generally resolved after getting some rest. Numbness and tingling The feeling of numbness or tingling generally occurs in the body’s extremities. This is a sign and a result of poor blood flow to the limbs. If the sensation is chronic, it may also be caused by some underlying condition. Exhaustion and feeling cold A proper blood supply gives the body the energy to carry out organ functions, system activities, etc. It also fuels the maintenance of optimum temperature levels along with energy. If the blood supply to the body is compromised, it may lead to one feeling cold, lethargic, and fatigued.

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3 river cruises to board in 2022
travel

3 river cruises to board in 2022

If you are planning to go on a long vacation and would love to relax on a deck overlooking a river, then river cruises are for you. From the mighty Mississippi to the scenic Columbia, you can unwind with comfort and luxury on the country’s many rivers. Here are some of the best river cruises of 2022 that will help you make a memorable trip. America’s Great River by Viking Cruises One of the best river cruises of 2022, Viking Cruise offers a unique opportunity to discover American folk music and learn more about the country’s civil rights movement. This 15-day river cruise spans the Mississippi River, letting you explore historic and beautiful cities such as New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Natchez, Vicksburg, Memphis, and many more. The cruise originates from Louisiana and takes a scenic route up till Minnesota. On this cruise, you can enjoy views of the scenic coastline on the full 360-degree deck and treat yourself to a variety of cuisines. Nashville to Chattanooga (or Reverse) by American Queen Steamboat Company This is a nine-day river cruise that spans the scenic Columbia River. The cruise offers unlimited shore excursions beginning with a hotel stay at Chattanooga, Tennessee. The ship cruises along small river towns and lush landscapes.
5 affordable hotels for a luxurious stay
travel

5 affordable hotels for a luxurious stay

The country is a traveler’s delight as there is a lot that you can see and explore, but before you head out for your next trip, you must make a list of the hotels that you would like to stay in while you travel across the country. Here is a list of best hotels to check out in the country for a luxurious yet affordable stay on your next vacation: Hotel La Croix, Hawaii Hawaii is not exactly a place for tourists who are on a tight budget, and the hotels are quite expensive too. Hotel La Croix, however, is an exception. The three-star hotel that was recently renovated offers an excellent view of the nearby Waikiki Beach and is, arguably, one of the best hotels in the country. The rooms cost less than $150 for a night-long stay and feature a balcony each. The hotel boasts of excellent room service, and all the studios, rooms, and suites are designed with a luxurious touch to help you relax on your holiday. Eagle Ridge, Illinois Eagle Ridge offers most of the services that you would expect to find in a high-end resort, but what’s great is that staying here will not burn a hole in your pocket.
Top 5 hotel booking websites
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Top 5 hotel booking websites

Indeed, booking hotels has become easier than ever. But there’s no denying that the sheer number of booking platforms and offers can overwhelm most travelers. Typically, the best hotel booking sites feature great deals, scores of room options in any given location and allow you to filter your search results based on your preferences.  We’ve listed some excellent hotel booking websites that can help you get a great room at an affordable price. Booking.com This is one of the most popular and reliable hotel booking websites. No matter where you are traveling and what time of the year, you can easily find amazing deals on a wide variety of hotels, apartments, and hostels on the platform. Another advantage is that the website is easy to navigate, filters search results accurately, and the search engine displays total upfront cost (pretax), allowing you to determine what fits into your budget quickly. HotelsCombined HotelsCombined is a top-rated metasearch engine or aggregator, meaning it shows you the best results after comparing listings from hundreds of travel sites in seconds, including top online travel agencies like Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, Agoda, and many more. It’s a great platform if you’re looking for something at the lowest possible price.
4 websites for great hotel bookings at affordable prices
travel

4 websites for great hotel bookings at affordable prices

There’s hardly anything more fun than traveling and exploring new places. The excitement of creating an itinerary and the thrill of being on the road is unmatched, but it’s so much better if the “getaway” is well in your budget. Accommodation is an important factor that determines your overall travel expenses, so deals on that front can help you save big. Here are some of the best hotel booking websites to help you compare deals and plan a budget-friendly trip: Priceline Priceline may come across as your regular hotel booking website, but it offers some outstanding features. For instance, it offers amazing discounts through its Express Deals® feature and free cancelation on most hotels to ensure flexibility. Additionally, Priceline offers a generous best-price guarantee and assures a 100% refund of the price difference if you find a lower price within 24 hours of booking. That’s not all! They offer a 200% refund of the price difference if you find a better price on an Express Deal®. Kayak Kayak is one of the top hotel booking sites for comparing deals and is known for its filtering options and map feature. Just click on your destination on the map, and Kayak will give you all the information you need, including stay options.
Top 5 cruise lines for seniors
Senior cruises

Top 5 cruise lines for seniors

Seniors who like going on luxury vacations every now and then probably want nothing more than a cruise trip on their bucket list. Fortunately, many cruise lines cater to senior citizens, offering everything from discounts and offers to wheelchair-accessible rooms. These cruises sail to distant and serene places, be it Alaska, the Caribbean, or a quaint town in Europe. On that note, here are some of the best cruise lines for seniors to check out. Princess Cruises This is one of the best cruise lines for seniors. Their ships are wheelchair accessible, making it easier for all passengers to enjoy their trip. Though Princess Cruises sail to many destinations around the world, they are particularly known for their Alaskan cruises, which makes them a great choice for those specifically looking to explore Alaska. They even offer cruise tours that include extended land excursions. Azamara Club Cruise If you prefer to stay for a long time in port during cruise trips, consider Azamara Cruises. Almost all their itineraries have long port stays. They even have medical facilities and onboard physicians. Azamara Cruises sail to beautiful places, such as the Caribbean. Royal Caribbean International Royal Caribbean International cruises stand out for many reasons.
Explore the majestic Arctic with these 4 luxury cruises
travel

Explore the majestic Arctic with these 4 luxury cruises

Traveling to a destination is one of the best parts of vacationing. While some venture on a road trip or simply take the next flight, others prefer voyaging the seas. With onboard entertainment, luxurious rooms, and breathtaking sea view, traveling to your destination on a cruise can be an exceptional experience. And this experience magnifies when you are traveling to the Arctic. So, here are some of the best luxury cruises to the Arctic. Explore the Polar Region in style Quark Expedition brings to you adventurous yet a luxurious cruise to the Arctic. Their newest polar-class ship – Ultramrine can board two helicopters and 20 quick deploy Zodiacs for a closer interaction with the Arctic fauna. It also has a spacious viewing deck to witness the intriguing midnight sun. The cruise is a round trip from Longyearbyen to the Arctic circle. Adrenalin-filled Arctic Expedition Lindblad Expeditions is offering an unmatched experience to its customers on a six-to-26-day excursion to the Arctic. The thrilling zodiac rides gives you an opportunity to become an adept photographer to catch a glimpse of the polar bears, multitudes of penguins, seals, and whales surfacing the blue waters. You can also mingle with Svalbard’s local community and experience their rich culture.