Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the prostate gland. It is one of the most common types of cancer, but it can often be treated successfully. Some cases of the condition are confined to the prostate gland and may require minimal treatment. However, some types of cancers are aggressive and can spread rapidly. Hence, it is vital to know the warning signs of prostate cancer to pursue timely treatment. 6 warning signs of prostate cancer Weak or slow urine flow Most people with prostate cancer experience trouble urinating. Patients can experience troubles like slow or weak urine flow or even lose the ability to control it. Hence, it is suggested that when one experiences this warning sign of prostate cancer, they consult a doctor immediately. Pain or burning sensation while urinating This particular condition, also called dysuria, is most commonly associated with urinary tract infections. However, in rare cases, it can also be an indicator of an underlying health condition, such as prostate cancer. Frequent urination In some cases, a tumor in the prostate can put pressure on the urinary bladder and even the urethra. Hence, healthcare professionals suggest that people at risk of prostate cancer take note of the frequency of urination, especially at night. This can result in a timely diagnosis of any underlying condition, including prostate cancer. Blood in the urine Another warning sign that can indicate prostate cancer includes blood in the urine. However, this condition, known as hematuria, is also associated with other health conditions, such as kidney disease. Numbness or pain This is one of the most common warning signs of prostate cancer; most people receive a diagnosis after reaching this stage. During this stage, cancer has already progressed, leading to pain in the hips or chest and even the lower back.

Constipation occurs when a person has not passed regular stools or experiences painful passing of hard stools. One might also experience abdominal discomfort and bloating, two of the primary symptoms of constipation. There are multiple factors, from underlying health complications and side effects of prescriptions to changes in daily nutrition and lifestyle choices that impact the frequency and regularity of bowel movements. It is important to address and avoid these mistakes that can worsen constipation. Using excess laxatives Doctors suggest the use of laxatives for constipation relief as a temporary measure. One should never take laxatives in extremely high amounts. Such frequent use for bowel movements makes the body become overdependent on the prescription. There may come a time when the digestive tract will be rendered inactive and cannot promote bowels. Excessive laxative use can also make the stools watery and can cause diarrhea as a result. Eating too much fiber too quickly Fiber is good for digestion but it’s necessary to slowly increase its intake. It’s also crucial to understand the difference between soluble and insoluble fibers. Insoluble fibers found in whole grains and even some vegetables may worsen the symptoms of constipation like bloating and flatulence. Nutritionists suggest increasing soluble fiber intake gradually, allowing the body to get used to it. Fruits and vegetables like black beans, brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, turnips, broccoli, carrots, kidney beans, apples guavas, are all excellent sources of soluble fibers. Not managing stress Stress often goes unnoticed till it’s too late. Too much stress increases cortisol levels in the body that harms healthy cells and affects vital functions. Even anxiety and depression can cause elevated levels of stress. This can lead to flare ups associated with common digestive disorders that can cause constipation. One must take time out to allow the mind and body to relax by practicing stress management techniques like mindfulness training, relaxation, and counseling for coping with stress.

A lot of people in our country struggle with allergies and hypersensitivities. It means their bodies react negatively when they come into contact with an allergen like specific foods or dust. The condition can have mild symptoms like hives and lip swelling that one can control easily or severe reactions like shock and fatal respiratory issues that need a visit to the doc. Learning about common allergies is the first step to managing them. Common allergies in the country Preventing allergies is always better than going through the hassle of treatment. People with this condition should do their best to recognize and avoid their allergy triggers. Here are some of the most common allergies to know about: Cow’s milk It is perhaps the most common and dangerous allergy that little kids and babies develop. Cow milk leads to allergic reactions in two to three percent of babies and toddlers in the nation. But one does not have to worry much because 90% of these little ones outgrow the issue by the time they turn three years old. When down with a cow milk allergy, the child may battle rashes, swelling, hives, and vomiting. In rare cases, it may even lead to a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. Tree nuts Tree nuts are a yummy and healthy snack, but eating them leads to an allergic reaction in around one percent of our country’s population. Some popular tree nuts one might find in stores are cashews, walnuts, almonds, pistachios, and pine nuts. In most cases, people with tree nut allergies cannot enjoy anything with tree nuts. This means they must even say no to some butters and oils. Like cow’s milk, tree nut allergies can be dangerous and lead to anaphylaxis-related death. Peanuts Peanuts are tiny nuts that grow under the ground. Many people munch on them as a snack or use them to make other food items like butter.

Menstruation is a regular cycle of the reproductive system that is regulated by hormones. During menstruation, women shed the lining of the uterus mixed with blood and it is a cycle that repeats every month till menopause. During this cycle, many women experience pain and discomfort in the abdomen caused by menstrual cramps. So, it is imperative to pay attention to one’s daily routine and habits, and particularly avoid making these common mistakes during period. Having excessive tea or coffee Doctors suggest drinking coffee or tea to alleviate pain and menstrual cramp discomfort. However, consuming too much caffeine during period can trigger problems like high blood pressure and increased metabolic rate and may even induce stress. Caffeine is also a diuretic, meaning it will cause dehydration. So, it is necessary to have tea or coffee in moderation. Delaying changing menstrual products Changing sanitary pads or tampons regularly is the best way to maintain good hygiene and prevent bacterial infections from flaring up during menstruation. So, never delay changing menstrual products if the flow is too heavy or it has been more than four hours since the last use. Not drinking enough water Drinking water can naturally help alleviate cramps and better manage period pain. During menstruation, the body also undergoes hormonal changes that cause the belly to become bloated. It is necessary to keep up water intake to replenish the fluids lost due to the continuous shedding of the lining and blood. Giving in to cravings Period pain, discomfort, and mood swings can cause one to develop certain cravings and unhealthy eating habits that impact overall health. However, this is one of the most common mistakes to avoid during period. It is necessary to not give in to these cravings and instead, add nutritious foods to one’s daily meals to boost metabolism and immunity and manage cramps.

According to statistical data, nearly 40% of women and men will be diagnosed with cancer at some point. Such statistical evidence indicates that cancer treatment is the need of the hour in the country. Today, several interventions have been developed to help patients overcome cancer. Timely diagnosis can facilitate better treatment response, aiding in recovery. Here are some important questions that patients may find embarrassing but must ask their oncologists to have a better understanding of the condition: What stage of cancer do I have? One of the most crucial questions to ask an oncologist upon cancer diagnosis is what stage of cancer is one in. Most cancers have four stages. The first stage is the most preliminary one, wherein cancer has not begun spreading to other areas of the body. In the second stage, cancer has grown but has not begun spreading to other areas. The third stage involves the spread of cancer to other tissues and lymph nodes, while the fourth stage is where cancer spreads to other body organs. It is imperative to ask the oncologist the stage of cancer one has and the extent to which it has spread in the body. Such information can help patients understand the course and intensity of treatment that may be required. What treatment options do I have, and what are its side effects? Oncologists recommend a course of treatment based on the type and stage of cancer. Radiation chemotherapy, surgery, and oral chemotherapy are some interventions oncologists suggest to treat cancer. It always helps to discuss with the oncologist about other treatment options and why the prescribed intervention would work best for the patient. Moreover, understanding the side effects of a certain line of treatment is imperative to find ways to alleviate such effects if possible or just be mentally prepared.

Despite modern times, some women still feel embarrassed to ask questions about their reproductive health to the gynecologist for fear of being judged. But to achieve optimal vaginal health, being honest with one’s gynecologist is essential. By clearly discussing one’s issues, individuals can better understand their body and allow the doctor to give the proper treatment or advice if needed. Here are some common but potentially awkward questions worth asking to encourage this vital conversation. Why is intercourse painful? Some women may experience painful sex and deduce that that’s how it is, but the act is supposed to be pleasurable. There may be several reasons why one experiences pain, from lack of lubrication and arousal to low libido or discomfort due to a cyst. So, discussing one’s concerns openly is best to find a suitable solution. How can I feel more comfortable stripping down for my visit? Visiting a gynecologist may require one to strip down, which can be awkward, especially for the first time. Most doctors are mindful of the problem and may have initial conversations to ease the patient. But one can always ask for ways to find more comfort. Should I wait for my period to end before booking an appointment? Gynecologists deal with menstrual blood daily, so it shouldn’t concern one. At times, bleeding may interfere with the results of a pap smear, but one shouldn’t postpone any visit because of this if one’s facing any pressing health issues. Is it normal? Asking if certain aspects of one’s vaginal health, including the texture or odor of one’s discharges, are normal per medical standards is a common question. Since gynecologists examine women’s bodies daily, they’re the ideal person to verify any doubts. Why can’t I reach orgasm? Some women have difficulty reaching orgasm during intercourse. There may be different reasons, from stress and exhaustion to any health-related issue.

Blood circulation is a vital process that ensures the continuous flow of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. It keeps all bodily organs functioning, ensuring optimum health. However,  certain health conditions, including peripheral artery diseases and high blood pressure, can disrupt circulation. In such cases, the essential nutrients may not reach some body parts. It is when people experience certain warning signs that indicate that their blood circulation needs a boost. Varicose veins These develop when additional pressure builds up on the blood vessels, obstructing normal blood circulation. Varicose veins may also occur due to damage to blood vessels, disrupting blood circulation in the veins. As a result, the veins appear twisted or engorged, usually in the lower extremities, such as the lower area of the leg. Blood clots These can occur anywhere in the body, blocking blood flow, either completely or partially. Although it can develop in any body part, the clots forming in the legs or arms are generally responsible for causing blood circulation issues. Sometimes, a blood clot in the abdomen can also indicate poor blood circulation. Muscle cramps When the body cannot get sufficient oxygenated blood due to poor circulation, it can cause cramps, especially in the legs. It usually happens due to claudication, a condition that causes the arteries to become narrow due to a rapid buildup of plaque along the artery walls. The cramps intensify in the calf area and, in some cases, radiate to the thighs and lower back. Often, these cramps are worsened while walking. Sores Disrupted blood circulation leads to the insufficient blood supply, leading to ulcers or sores forming on the skin. Often, these are infected and cause pain as well. However, since these take longer to heal, seeking a health expert’s intervention as soon as possible is advised to identify the underlying cause of the sores and poor blood circulation and to initiate treatment.

We might not heed a cough that won’t go away or wheezing while breathing, assuming it might be because of air quality or changing weather. However, mild but chronic symptoms like these must be noted down. People often think that trouble with breathing is normal as they get older, but these might be signs of severe lung disease. With this in mind, here are six warning signs of poor lung health that should not be ignored. Chronic cough A cough that won’t go away and has been around for eight weeks or longer is considered chronic. The constant symptom indicates something might be wrong with the individual’s respiratory system. If one experiences this, they should visit a healthcare expert for an opinion immediately. Excessive mucus production The mucus lines the surfaces of organs like the lungs and serves as a lubricant to keep tissues from drying out and as a line of defense. But if someone develops excessive mucus in their throat or chest that won’t go away, it could be a sign of lung disease. Wheezing Noisy or strained breathing is a potential sign that something might be obstructing the airwaves in the lungs or forcing them to narrow. This sign is commonly noticed in health conditions like asthma but could also occur in individuals with underlying complications like pneumonia, COPD, and bronchitis. Swelling, pain, or tenderness in legs Swelling, pain, or tenderness in the legs are common signs in people who work out or have sustained injuries. But if one experiences pain without any reason, it might be cause for concern. The symptoms might point toward blood clots in the legs. And these clots may also travel to the lungs and trigger severe problems that could threaten one’s life. Blood in the cough Coughing up blood is a symptom that should be addressed by a healthcare professional immediately.