Our eyes help us see what’s around us so that we can react accordingly. Since they perform such a crucial function, we must maintain them by following healthy practices. Sadly, many ignore eye care and increase their risk of ocular conditions. These conditions are usually treatable with timely intervention, but prevention is always better than cure. Below are a few simple yet practical ways to maintain eye health in the long run. 1. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help improve the functioning of the meibomian gland. This oil gland protects against age-related macular degeneration and dry eye disease. Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids and should be a part of one’s meals to protect the eyes. Nuts like walnuts and seeds like flax and chia seeds are also rich in this essential nutrient. 2. Maintain an active lifestyle Moderate-intensity exercises considerably reduce eye pressure, lowering one’s risk of glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and other eye disorders. Hence, individuals should avoid a sedentary lifestyle and incorporate walking, jogging, skipping, cycling, swimming, or other exercises into daily workouts. 3. Wear shades while stepping out during the day In the long run, persistent and direct exposure to sunlight can trigger several eye diseases, including macular degeneration, corneal damage, and cataracts.

Chest or lung congestion often occurs due to a common cold. Sometimes, an underlying medical condition like bronchitis, COPD, and so on can also cause persistent lung congestion. Additionally, excess fluids, such as mucus, can accumulate in the lungs, adding to the congestion. This also causes swelling of the lungs along with constriction of the airflow, which makes breathing difficult. Therefore, it is imperative to look at the signs and manage them through treatment options. Signs of congestion in lungs An affected person may experience: A hacking cough with clear, green, or dark yellow mucus A feeling of tightness in the chest A sore throat Constant body aches and frequent chills A persistent headache High fever that may last for a few days Shortness of breath or wheezing Most of the symptoms of chest congestion usually subside within a few days. However, the cough may persist for a couple of weeks as the bronchial tubes complete their healing process. If the cough lasts for more than 14 days, it is advisable to consult a doctor at the earliest. This sign might be an indicator of other serious health conditions, such as pneumonia. Tips for managing the signs of lung congestion In most cases, lung congestion can be effectively treated by rest and waiting for the virus to clear.

The eyes can accomplish amazing things. They process information using a complex mechanism that establishes a direct connection with the brain, allowing individuals to process the world around them visually. One would be surprised to know that many people don’t take eye health seriously! People who don’t think they have a vision problem seldom get routine exams with an ophthalmologist or optometrist, which can deteriorate their eye health. Here are some ways to maintain eye health: Ways to maintain eye health From the moment one wakes up until the moment they go to sleep, how they navigate their day and enjoy life is greatly influenced by their eyes. Following these suggestions will help one maintain the health of their eyes and safeguard their vision. 1. Defend the eyes from UV light’s harmful effects A condition known as photokeratitis, which resembles sunburn, can result from prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays. The eyes can become swollen, irritated, and red from this, which can be extremely painful. After 6 to 12 hours of exposure, photokeratitis symptoms, which are an inflammation of the cornea’s outer layer, usually appear. However, the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation build up over time, and the risk of developing cataracts and other age-related conditions rises noticeably.

When it comes to dealing with the seasonal or allergic flu, also known as influenza, understanding the things to avoid is as crucial as knowing the appropriate measures to take. The general characteristics of this condition include runny nose, fever, chills, and cough. Managing the flu can be a challenging and uncomfortable experience, and to promote easier and faster recovery, here are some things one should avoid doing when infected with the virus. Not drinking enough water Fever and sweating can cause dehydration, which can further delay the recovery and take a toll on one’s body. Therefore, it is advised to drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and electrolyte-rich fluids to help the body recover more effectively. It’s also important to avoid drinking coffee or tea as it can contribute to dehydration. Not resting enough Avoiding rest and trying to power through the illness can prolong its duration and increase the risk of complications. When dealing with the flu, it’s important to listen to the body and allow the time it needs to heal. Bed rest, along with sleep and relaxation, can help the immune system fight off the virus more efficiently. Experts suggest waiting for at least 24 hours before going out after the fever has subsided.

Exposure to toxic fumes, pollution, and particulate matter can quickly deteriorate lung health. While one must take precautions to lower the exposure or avoid it altogether, several other ways, like making good nutrition choices, can help improve lung health and prevent common lung diseases. One must follow meal plans that consist of foods that can help prevent such conditions. Here are some of the options one can include in their meal plans. Beets The root and greens of the beetroot plant add vibrancy to meals. In addition, these contain essential compounds that can optimize the function of the lungs. Beet greens and beetroot contain high amounts of nitrates. Also, beets are rich in magnesium, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. All of these help the blood vessels relax while lowering blood pressure and optimizing oxygen. This improves lung health. Apples While eating apples can improve overall health, this fruit is particularly good for the lungs. It lowers the risk of developing common lung diseases. The high percentage of antioxidants such as flavonoids and vitamin C in apples also helps in slowing down the decline of lung health in those with pre-existing lung problems. Walnuts These nuts are quite popular as healthy foods for the heart.

The liver is responsible for functions such as supporting metabolism and removing toxins from the body. If it sustains any damage, its functions are severely compromised. As a result, due to liver damage, one may notice several signs and symptoms that indicate that the liver is not functioning properly. Recognizing these signs is crucial for effectively managing and treating the liver condition. Here are a few warning signs of liver damage to look out for: 1. Jaundice Jaundice is the noticeable yellowish discoloration of a person’s skin and the whites of their eyes. It is often the most apparent sign of a liver ailment. Jaundice happens due to the liver’s inability to process a waste product called bilirubin. 2. Fluid retention Excessive fluid retention may also be indicative of liver problems. This fluid buildup occurs either in the abdominal cavity, causing bloating, or in the legs, causing them to swell up. 3. Loss of appetite Losing appetite is another common symptom noticed in liver ailments. Since the liver helps in the process of metabolism, any damage caused to it may hinder that function. As a result, one may experience this symptom. 4. Itchy skin Liver ailments may also cause an increase in the levels of bile salts in the body.

Cervical cancer is a common condition, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggesting that approximately 11,500 new cases of this type of cancer are detected every year in the country. Like other types of cancer, this condition is most manageable when diagnosed in the earliest stages of progression. So, to help receive timely treatment and diagnosis, one should keep an eye out for the following early warning signs of cervical cancer: 1. Pain in lower back or pelvis Pelvic pain and lower back pain in women are indicators of underlying issues in the reproductive organs. If one experiences pain in these areas, then the symptoms should be examined by a doctor to check for cervical cancer. Continuous pelvic pain near the appendix can develop when the cancer has advanced. 2. Loss of appetite This is a common cancer symptom. With cervical cancer, the early stages are often associated with unexplained muscle loss and a drastic change in appetite. In fact, even women with healthy appetites and adequate food intake can experience muscle loss as an early warning sign of cervical cancer. 3. Unusual discharge Vaginal discharge is a normal phenomenon in women, especially in different stages of menstrual cycle.

Lungs are vital organs responsible for the most basic bodily function required to stay alive: respiration. So, when the lungs are in poor condition, their hindered functions directly affect the individual. Poor health of one’s lungs may be easily noticeable via certain signs and symptoms. An individual must be aware of and recognize the signs of poor lung health, such as the following, to take immediate action for their well-being. 1. Shortness of breath Since the primary function of the lungs is respiration, one of the most telltale signs of poor lung health is experiencing shortness of breath. One may experience breathlessness or panting despite minimal or no physical exertion. 2. Persistent fatigue Due to one’s lungs not being healthy, they may also experience chronic fatigue. They may notice that they feel tired despite being well-rested. This is because when people breathe laboriously, they feel low on energy. 3. Wheezing Wheezing refers to the high-pitched, whistling-like sound that occurs during breathing. However, wheezing is unnatural and occurs due to an obstruction in the body’s airway. As a result, it is usually associated with respiratory ailments. 4. Chronic cough If one has been experiencing chronic coughing for more than two months, it may indicate poor lung health.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for those aged 65 and above. Others who qualify for this plan include people with disabilities, End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure), or Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS). Given the complexities associated with these plans, some people may find it challenging to navigate the insurance landscape. To simplify this process, this article lists three mistakes people must avoid making when taking Medicare plan coverage. Missing the deadlines Missing the Medicare sign-up deadline is one of the biggest mistakes when taking Medicare plan coverage. Those receiving social benefits over 65 are automatically enrolled in the program. However, others need to enroll for Medicare in the initial enrollment period, which: Starts three months before one’s 65th birthday Includes the month one turns 65, and Ends three months after one turns 65. Failing to enroll in Medicare in this period could result in a coverage gap. It could also lead to a lifetime late enrollment penalty, increasing with age. Assuming spouse coverage Unlike employee insurance programs, Medicare does not automatically cover the entire family. It is meant to provide insurance at an individual level. Those with spouses under 65 may need to opt for alternative insurance plans for their partners, such as an employer-based plan, a COBRA plan, or an individual health insurance policy.

Dark circles under the eyes are quite common. It can be due to stress, allergies, dehydration, prolonged screen time, and hyperpigmentation. While there are no overnight fixes to get rid of dark circles, making certain lifestyle changes can help to manage the problem in the long term. One of these changes is adding certain foods to one’s meal plans. These foods are rich in essential vitamins and nutrients that promote healthy skin under the eyes and prevent dark circles. Tomatoes Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and are a great source of lycopene, which gives them their red color. Lycopene is known for its ability to protect blood vessels from damage, which helps with blood circulation. Additionally, tomatoes contain quercetin, an anti-inflammatory compound that makes them effective in managing dark circles. Cucumbers Cucumbers are often used as a home remedy to reduce eye puffiness. Sliced cucumbers are placed on the eyes to help the skin relax. However, cucumbers can also be eaten for their eye health benefits. They contain a high percentage of water, which helps to deal with the dark pigmentation under the eyes. Additionally, cucumbers have a high concentration of silica that effectively improves collagen production for healthier skin.