Menstrual cramps or period pain is described as throbbing discomfort experienced in the lower abdomen for women on their period or right before they start their menstrual cycle. This cramping does not just cause discomfort but gets so severe on some days of the month that it interferes with everyday activities. Some conditions like endometriosis or uterine fibroids can also trigger more pain. However, some foods may help in managing this pain. Ginger This is a popular ingredient in many home remedies that help relieve pain and inflammation in the body. It has compounds known to relieve period pain by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins. These chemicals are known to trigger the muscle contractions that happen during the shedding of the uterus lining. During periods, this production increases; hence, taking small amounts of ginger can help inhibit its production. While taking ginger is good, always be careful of the quantity and spread out its use. For example, add thin slices or paste ginger into food recipes. You can also boil tea with some ginger to help relieve menstrual cramps. Fatty fish This includes fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and anchovies. These are all fish that contain high amounts of omega-3s.

People on a time crunch may not be able to cook a healthy meal instantly, and therefore, resort to eating fast foods like pizzas and burgers. They may even eat these foods because of their rich flavor. But this may lead to high cholesterol – a waxy substance that could cause chest pain, heart attacks, and strokes. So, to enjoy a quick bite and maintain cholesterol levels, consider these easy snack ideas. Tuna wraps Those who include tuna in their daily meal regime may benefit from its omega-3 fatty acid content, a type of unsaturated fat with cholesterol-lowering effects. One could make a quick tuna salad with canned tuna and a couple of other ingredients, such as onions, carrots, mayonnaise, and celery. Once this combination is ready, use nori sheets (thin, edible seaweed) or lettuce leaves to roll the mixture into wraps. The snack will also help nourish the body with a range of other nutrients such as proteins, calories, fibers, and carbohydrates. Whole grain toast topped with avocado Both whole grain and avocado are generally healthy foods. The fruit is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or unhealthy cholesterol. Avocados are also rich in fiber, so eating the fruit could introduce about 14 grams of the current Daily Value to the body.

Eosinophilic esophagitis is an allergic response in the esophagus. It can develop as a response to certain foods, and in some people with the condition, even the smell of such foods can trigger the symptoms. So, a comprehensive treatment plan for eosinophilic esophagitis involves identifying foods that trigger a reaction and removing them from daily meals. This can help control the symptoms and improve the quality of life when dealing with the condition.  What is EoE? EoE, or eosinophilic esophagitis, is a chronic inflammatory condition. Here the immune system senses an invader, making the body produce plenty of white blood cells to protect the esophagus. However, the accumulation of these cells in the esophagus causes inflammation, making it difficult to swallow the food. The condition is difficult to diagnose as it shares symptoms with other conditions like GERD and acid reflux. What is an elimination meal plan? Healthcare professionals suggest that people with EoE should remove potential triggers from their food plan for at least 8 weeks and reintroduce them individually to determine harmful foods. A few weeks later, the doctors may perform an endoscopy to examine the esophagus and analyze whether the condition has improved. One can control inflammation and other EoE symptoms by following an elimination meal plan.

Cold sores, more commonly known as fever blisters, are a group of painful blisters caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus or HSV. HSV 1 type is responsible for causing most cold sores. These sores generally appear around your lip or in your mouth. They can turn up separately or in clusters mostly. Even though people don’t usually fall sick, the painful infection can leave you feeling ill for a few days. Symptoms of cold sores The symptoms of cold sores vary since they depend on the first outbreak or recurrence. If exposed to the virus for the first time, you may not have any symptoms for up to 20 days. These sores can last a few days, but the blisters may take up to 3 weeks to heal completely. However, some common cold sore symptoms are as follows – Tingling and itching sensation Upon contracting this infection, you will experience a burning or tingling sensation in and around your lips for a few days. After that, small round painful spots start appearing, and blisters form. Blisters The blisters are nothing but fluid-filled small spots collected on the border of your lips. You may also find them on the tip of the nose or inside your mouth.

Having a T-shaped stick inserted into the uterus may sound difficult at best, terrifying at worst. However, do you know this is a preferred birth control method? IUD is a birth control device inserted into the uterus, positioned just above the cervix. IUDs can be hormonal or non-hormonal. Despite the high rate of effectiveness, both types have prominent side effects. Thus, here are some tips for managing the side effects of IUDs proactively. What is an IUD? An IUD, or Intrauterine Device, is a tiny, plastic, T-shaped contraceptive device inserted into the uterus. Once it’s positioned in place, it will work to intercept the pregnancy by preventing the entry of sperm and thus avoiding egg fertilization (non-hormonal) and thickening the cervical mucus, and modifying the environment of the fallopian tubes and uterus (hormonal). The device may also cease ovulation altogether based on the type of IUD you choose. Typically, IUDs, once inserted, remain effective between 3 and 12 years. What to expect from an IUD insertion? An IUD insertion will be performed at the doctor’s office. The healthcare professional might suggest a prescription plan to dilate the cervix or administer the local anesthetic to numb the area beforehand. During the process, the doctor will use an instrument known as a speculum and place it in the vagina.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are among the most popular and safe contraceptive options for long-term protection against pregnancy. But despite the good results and positive user feedback, some women hesitate to use them. One reason is that they believe in the myths about IUDs and do not understand how they work. Considering this, we decided to clear the misconceptions once and for all. First, let us understand what IUDs are and how they are used. What are IUDs? IUDs are long-acting T-shaped contraceptive devices placed inside the uterus. They can be categorized into two types: non-hormonal and hormonal. Non-hormonal IUDs are generally made of copper, which intercepts and kills sperm, preventing them from fertilizing the egg. Hormonal options release progestin, a hormone that thickens a woman’s cervical mucus, preventing the male reproductive cells from reaching the egg. IUDs are easy to place inside the uterus and can be removed to induce conception. Women who have concerns and questions about the procedure or find it hard to choose an IUD brand can speak to a healthcare professional. Experts always recommend products approved by the FDA. Common IUD myths debunked As a contraception method surges in popularity, so do the myths associated with it.

Having a head full of beautiful hair is something many of us desire. Unfortunately, not everyone is blessed with perfect hair due to various reasons. Hair loss is a common problem that occurs as a part of the hair growth cycle, and it can happen gradually or quickly. In severe cases, it can even lead to baldness, which may require treatment. Hair loss can affect anyone, regardless of age, from children to adults. Types of hair loss There are different types of hair loss that an individual may go through in their lifetime. Some of the most common hair loss types are as follows: Androgenic alopecia It is a type of hair loss that affects people assigned male at birth. It causes a person to lose hair covering the scalp, and they don’t grow back. Alopecia areata It is an autoimmune condition wherein one’s immune system attacks the body, the hair follicles in this case, and leads to several bald patches on the head. One may also experience hair loss in other parts of the body. Telogen effluvium In this type of hair loss, people may experience rapid hair loss within a short time. It occurs a few months after the body goes through something physically or emotionally stressful, like childbirth, surgery, losing a loved one, etc.

It is no secret that regular exercise is vital to maintaining overall well-being. However, indulging in physical activities might sound daunting for migraine sufferers. The good news is that certain exercises can release muscle tension and positively impact your system, easing migraines’ effects and preventing episodes altogether. However, how do you know what exercises most benefit migraine management? Read below to find out. Types of exercises for migraine management As a key part of a comprehensive treatment plan for migraines, exercise can help you effectively manage headaches and other symptoms. Here we have compiled the best six exercises that can help with migraine management. Yoga According to the American Headache Society, tight or constricted muscles, poor posture, and excess stress can worsen headaches, especially if you have migraines. Practicing yoga can improve your posture and relax your muscles. It also claims that adding yoga to your daily routine will balance the body, mind, and spirit, positively affecting your mood and energy. There are different forms of yoga to choose from. Most of the poses involve breathing techniques and holding postures. For instance, therapeutic yoga is a relaxing form used for better migraine management. However, before embarking on this exercise, make sure to consult with your doctor.