Eosinophilic esophagitis, or (EoE) is a rare, chronic allergic condition affecting the esophagus. In this, several white blood cells, known as eosinophils, are found in the inner lining of the esophagus, where typically there are none. These cells release inflammatory substances, resulting in symptoms such as difficulty in swallowing dry or dense solid foods and loss of appetite. Although EoE is not curable, these innovative eosinophilic esophagitis treatments have been developed to manage the symptoms. Prescriptions This treatment involves the use of prescription-based antibodies, which are administered intravenously. This helps in lowering the inflammation caused by EoE. Furthermore, it improves the ability to swallow foods. This eosinophilic esophagitis treatment is usually used to treat persons above the age of 12 years or older. Dilation As EoE progresses, it causes the esophagus to become narrower. Over time, severe narrowing makes it difficult to swallow liquids as well. This is also referred to as stricture. In such cases, a person with EoE undergoes the process of dilation. In this procedure, a balloon is passed to the esophagus via an endoscopy. It is inflated in the area of the esophagus where the narrowing is severe. The inflation is large enough to stretch the esophagus just a bit without rupturing it. This process helps in alleviating some of the symptoms of EoE. It makes it easier to swallow. However, it does not alleviate the underlying inflammation. Empiric elimination meal plans One of the well-known ways to treat EoE is by eliminating food allergens, which can trigger and aggravate inflammation. Some of the common food groups that are usually removed from daily meals include the following. Dairy products Wheat-based foods Egg and egg-based food products Soy-based foods These foods are slowly added back to meals over time. However, follow-up endoscopies are done after the addition of each food group.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is an inflammatory lung disease involving the obstruction of air passage to the lungs. COPD is an umbrella term that comprises several progressive lung conditions, such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Research data suggests nearly 16 million adults nationwide grapple with COPD. Besides consulting a pulmonologist early, a healthy lifestyle is essential to combat the disease. Here are some foods one should avoid to manage COPD symptoms better. French fries One medium serving of French fries has about 260 mg of sodium, which comes from its high salt content. Salty foods elevate one’s blood pressure, increasing one’s risk of pulmonary hypertension, a common complication associated with COPD. Moreover, since it is deep-fried, it can aggravate stomach inflammation and worsen COPD symptoms. Hence, it is best to avoid French fries and other foods containing high salt levels while healing from COPD. Cured meats Studies indicate that cured meat sources like sausages, hot dogs, and bacon can increase one’s risk of COPD and lung dysfunction. It is possible that the presence of nitrites, i.e., preservatives contained in cured meats, are triggers of COPD. Thus, patients with COPD should replace processed or cured meats with fresh lean meat sources like chicken and turkey breast. Broccoli Although broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, including cabbage, bok choy, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, are packed with nutrients, they can trigger or aggravate bloating and associated breathing problems. While one need not completely avoid these vegetables, it is best to incorporate more alternatives that may be lighter on the stomach while recovering from COPD. Coffee Although coffee may be the perfect start to one’s day, the high levels of caffeine in this beverage can trigger gastrointestinal reflux disease, or GERD, characterized by bloating and indigestion. The onset of GERD can worsen one’s COPD symptoms and affect recovery.

Dental implants have become a practical, safe, and effective way of replacing missing or damaged teeth with artificial tooth roots. This solution has enabled people to maintain oral health and restore functionality. Every year, about 3 million people get dental implants in the country. The success and longevity of an implant depend not just on the surgery and execution but also on its aftercare. Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure a successful implant. Skipping evaluation It is crucial to undergo a comprehensive health check-up before getting dental implants. Some patients may have underlying oral health problems, such as gum disease or bone loss, which must be treated before the implant placement. It is also important for those with diabetes or undergoing other treatments to inform their dentist. Assessing the patient’s suitability before the procedure is essential for the success of the implant. Being unaware of other options Before jumping into a dental implant procedure, exploring all the tooth replacement options is essential. Dental implants may not be suitable for everyone, and alternative treatments like bridges or dentures might better meet one’s needs. Consulting with one’s dentist to discuss these options can help one make an informed decision. Touching or poking the implant The healing process requires the implant site to form a blood clot. Touching or poking the implant or brushing too aggressively can dislodge the blood clot and lead to bleeding. One should also avoid using straws or eating from the implant side. Forgetting to drink enough water Hydration helps neutralize acids in the mouth, wash away food particles and bacteria, keep the mouth clean, and promote saliva production necessary to ensure implant success. Eating the wrong foods during recovery After dental implant surgery, eating soft food is essential to promote healing and reduce the risk of damaging the implant site.

Blood vessels are channels that transport blood throughout the body. However, these vessels can sometimes get inflamed due to an autoimmune disease called vasculitis, which can disrupt blood flow and damage organ tissue. While most people can manage their symptoms with treatment options, they may often fail to notice the signs of this condition in the first place. So here are some symptoms to help individuals identify the disease and seek treatment early. Common signs of vasculitis Individuals who develop this condition might experience common symptoms that develop slowly over months. These may also surface quickly, within a couple of days. Furthermore, not all people will experience the same symptoms. General signs of vasculitis include loss of appetite, sudden loss of muscle mass, tiredness, fever, and general aches and pain. Since vasculitis may affect particular regions of the body, people may experience signs specific to that area. These are as follows: Skin spots:  An individual suffering from vasculitis may notice spots that may burst, leaving open sores (ulcers). If the disease only affects the skin, its long-term effects are not severe. Therefore, it will subside once the inflammation has settled. Nosebleeds:  Those who develop inflamed blood vessels in the nose may experience nosebleeds. They may also notice crusting inside the nose. Some people may notice physical changes, such as an alteration in the shape of their noses. Whitish fingers and toes:  Another symptom of vasculitis is pain around an individual’s fingers and toes. The condition is known as Raynaud’s phenomenon and causes the associated area to turn white or blue. When exposed to colder conditions, the fingers and toes may also tingle or hurt. Painful vision:  Someone at risk of vasculitis or living with the condition might also struggle with eye trouble. The condition may cause one or both eyes to turn red or be painful.

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a rare, inherited neurodegenerative disease. This brain disorder is a result of an inherited mutation in a gene for the protein called huntingtin. It is known to significantly impact one’s functional abilities, leading to the development of movement, cognitive, and psychiatric disorders. Those with Huntington’s have a higher risk of choking and developing eating and swallowing troubles. To ease this, the following tips may be helpful: Food management strategies for Huntington’s disease Rest one to two hours before mealtime. Create a calm and relaxed eating environment. Sit in an accessible spot on the table, just in case choking occurs and a carer needs to be involved. Sit in an upright position while eating. Avoid lying down. Instead of eating three spaced apart meals, eat smaller, more frequent meals. Choose foods that are easier to chew and swallow. Keep eating aids within reach. Use non-slip table mats and light utensils such as plastic knives and forks. Incorporate sauces and gravies to make foods easier to swallow. Avoid hard foods such as nuts and lollipops. Avoid food that separates into strings or sections during chewing, such as tomatoes and bacon. Opt for foods that have a higher nutritional value. For instance, opt for a protein smoothie instead of a cup of black tea. Avoid non-fat and low-fat products. Drink fortified beverages such as juices, protein shakes, and nutritional supplement drinks. Remain sitting upright for up to half an hour after a meal. Lying down too soon could increase the risk of reflux and choking. Symptoms of Huntington’s Disease Symptoms of this condition can be classified into three major categories: Movement-based symptoms, such as: Involuntary movements or writhing, known as chorea Muscle problems such as rigidity or muscle contracture Slow or unusual eye movements Impaired posture and balance Difficulty with speech and swallowing Cognitive impairments, such as:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an inflammatory lung disease affecting airflow in and out of the airways, making breathing difficult. It is a progressive disease, and if not diagnosed early, can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases. COPD is a group of diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive asthma. Identification of warning signs and early diagnosis could help reduce other risks and give a head start in essential treatment. Persistent or chronic cough This is one of the first signs of COPD – a persistent or long-term cough. The American Lung Association recommends seeking a medical diagnosis if a cough lasts more than eight weeks. A chronic cough could be an indication of an underlying issue with the functioning of the lungs. Shortness of breath and wheezing Any type of exercise or exertion is generally accompanied by heavier breathing, but if the feeling of being winded or having shortness of breath occurs during routine activities, it could be an early warning sign of COPD. Obstruction in the air passage causes difficulty in breathing and results in shortness of breath. COPD causes excess mucus to obstruct the airways, and this along with muscular tightening narrows the airways, causing the wheezing sounds when one exhales. Air being forced through swollen or obstructed airways causes this distinct whistling sound. Tightness in the chest Discomfort in the chest does not always mean a cardiovascular issue. One of the early warning signs of COPD is tightness in the chest, which is caused by damaged airways, making it difficult to breathe. When the lining of the airways swells because of COPD, they get blocked with mucus, making it difficult for air to move in and out with ease. Fatigue Blockage in the airways due to COPD makes it difficult for one to breathe with ease, in turn resulting in fatigue due to the low oxygen levels in the body.

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a chronic skin condition characterized by itchy bumps on the skin’s surface. Scratching these can lead to the formation of painful nodules. The condition’s exact cause is unknown, but several factors and underlying health complications can increase its susceptibility in people. The following are a few early warning signs of prurigo nodularis to help individuals identify the condition and seek prompt help from a skin specialist. Persistent itching One of the earliest signs is persistent itching. This itching can be intense and worsen at night. Since the symptom cannot be managed instantly, it impacts a person’s sleep and overall well-being. Skin nodules or papules As the condition progresses, small, raised nodules or bumps develop on the skin’s surface around the arms and legs, upper and lower back, and abdomen. These skin lesions are typically firm, reddish-brown, and vary in size from a few millimeters to centimeters. Superficial skin injuries People with prurigo nodularis often develop abrasions on their skin due to the relentless itching. These abrasions can range from small scratches to larger, more extensive areas of skin damage, depending on the severity of the condition. Scratching and burning sensation Chronic scratching may make the skin hardened, harsh, and hyperpigmented. Over time, the inflammation under the skin can worsen, leading to the development of new nodules. Rashes that blister The constant scratching and breaking of the skin’s barrier can increase the risk of secondary bacterial infections. The infected patches may become painful and swollen, causing blisters to develop with warm pus discharge. Emotional problems Prurigo nodularis can have a significant psychological impact on affected individuals. Several patients experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation as the itching and skin lesions become more pronounced. Sleep disturbances The condition causes severe itching that can easily disrupt sleep patterns. Many report difficulty falling and staying asleep due to the constant urge to scratch.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and generally it is the most overlooked too. Having a hearty breakfast lends a great start to the day but only if the right food is chosen. Too heavy and one risks feeling uneasy and sleepy; too light and the mid-morning cravings start kicking in quickly. Combining these healthy ingredients into one satisfying breakfast looks like a good start to the day. Here are some 3-minute easy breakfast recipes to kick-start the day.  Greek yogurt parfait Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat) 1/2 cup granola (choose a variety with low sugar) 1/2 cup fresh berries (pick from strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) 1 tablespoon honey (optional) Recipe: Layer the Greek yogurt, in a glass or bowl. Add a layer of granola on top. Add a layer of fresh berries. Drizzle with honey if desired. Repeat the layers if you prefer a larger portion. Nutritional values: Calories: Approximately 300-350 Protein: 15-20 grams Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams Fiber: 4-6 grams Fat: 10-15 grams Avocado toast Ingredients: 2 slices whole-grain bread 1 ripe avocado Salt and pepper to taste Optional toppings: Sliced tomatoes, poached egg, or red pepper flakes Recipe: Toast the whole-grain bread until crispy. While the bread is toasting, mash the ripe avocado and season with salt and pepper. Spread the mashed avocado evenly on the toasted bread. Add optional toppings if desired. Serve immediately. Nutritional values (without toppings): Calories: Approximately 200-250 Protein: 4-6 grams Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams Fiber: 7-9 grams Fat: 12-15 grams Overnight oats Ingredients: 1/2 cup rolled oats 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy) 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Optional toppings: Chopped nuts, sliced banana, or berries Recipe: In a jar or container, combine the first four ingredients. Stir well and seal the container.