Healthy teeth are a sign of overall physical well-being and personal hygiene. However, over 25% of individuals nationwide grapple with untreated tooth decay. Hence, oral health and hygiene should be as important as other aspects of physical health. Besides going for regular dental checkups and consulting a dentist regarding any dental issues promptly, one should avoid certain unhealthy habits, which can damage one’s teeth and impede the management of existing oral conditions: 1. Biting one’s nails Biting one’s nails is often an indication of stress or anxiety. Besides damaging one’s nails and the surrounding skin, biting one’s nails can also harm dental health in the long run. Fingernails are typically petri dishes of germs and dirt, which are transferred to the teeth when one engages in nail biting. The accumulation of such agents on the teeth’s surfaces over time can lead to gum disease. Moreover, the friction caused between one’s teeth and nails during nail biting can eventually cause enamel to wear away, triggering tooth brittleness. Therefore, it is important to avoid cultivating this habit early on to prevent dental problems. Managing stress levels is an effective way to prevent one from biting one’s nails. 2. Having excess processed sugar Sugar has been commonly linked to tooth pain and decay. Since added sugar mixes with bacteria in one’s teeth, it causes the enamel to dissolve, even ultimately leading to tooth extraction. Hence, it is essential to avoid added sugar to the best extent possible, rinsing one’s mouth or brushing immediately after occasional sweet treats. It also helps to replace added sugar with natural sugar sources like fruits and fresh fruit juices. 3. Using one’s teeth to open packets and bottles Many individuals use their teeth as natural tools to open bottles, packets, etc. While it may be convenient to do so while traveling or when no sharp equipment, such as a knife or a pair of scissors, is available, this habit may cause the teeth to crack or chip.

Blood pressure (BP) measurement is crucial to gauge one’s health and well-being. This tool comes in handy during emergencies. Some individuals may feel a fast heartbeat with elevated blood pressure, while others with low blood pressure may experience fatigue and dizziness. Having recorded data on blood pressure levels can help the doctor customize a treatment plan. However, there are some mistakes cardiologists want their patients to avoid when recording BP at home. Incorrect sitting position A consistent mistake among most blood pressure patients is the sitting position. People tend to forget that blood flow is highly impacted by gravity. By standard directions, blood pressure needs to be measured at the heart’s level. This is applicable to both direct and indirect modes of measurement. Measuring blood pressure with the cuff placed lower than the heart level produces high blood pressure levels. Similarly, placing the cuff higher than the heart level means the readings might indicate low blood pressure. The rule applies to either of the extremities, arms, or legs. These false results could be highly erroneous. For the most accurate reading, the patient needs to be seated upright, with the patient’s arm beside them. If the patient is lying on their side, this too could pose a problem for the reading. Using wrong cuff size This is one of the most common mistakes one makes when taking blood pressure readings at home. An incorrectly sized blood pressure monitoring cuff has a higher chance of producing false readings. When the cuff is bigger than necessary, its loose grip can produce false low-pressure results. Similarly, patients might get high blood pressure results with a tighter cuff. This can be concerning in either case when people are not aware of the importance of the right-sized cuff. Websites like the American Heart Association have shared guidelines intended for the correct blood pressure measurement and readings.

Teeth are an important structure of the body, and any damage to it is usually irreversible. Tooth sensitivity is a common complaint regarding oral health, with about 40 million adults in the country suffering from it. It is a curable problem that can be alleviated with some dental care practices. While the cause of tooth sensitivity may vary from person to person, it is usually due to some lifestyle habits and these oral hygiene mistakes. Having extremely hot or cold foods Tooth sensitivity is usually a dormant condition that causes a sudden and sharp pain in the teeth and gums after consuming certain types of foods or beverages. Usually, the sensitivity is triggered after eating or drinking extremely hot or cold foods or drinks. So, it’s important to avoid them. One should remember that even breathing in cold air can trigger this sensation, so it’s best to be suitably covered when the temperature drops. Eating acidic foods Acidic foods have proven to erode the tooth enamel, which is the protective layer of the teeth. Aging also naturally causes enamel to wear down, but acidic foods tend to speed up this process. Enamel erosion worsens sensitivity and makes one’s teeth susceptible to cavities. So, it’s best to steer clear of them or have them in moderation. To name a few, carbonated or fizzy beverages like sodas, sports drinks, or sparkling water or foods rich in vitamin C like lemons and tomato products are some of the culprits. Coffee, tea, vinegar, mustard, and even pickled vegetables can have the same impact. Eating hard, sugary, or sticky snacks Granola bars, nuts, caramelized popcorns, tortilla chips, corn nuts, chips, crackers, chocolates in any form, from bars to cookies, toffees, and candies are all hard, crunchy, or sticky snacks that can cause havoc and rapidly deteriorate one’s dental health.

Fish oil is a rich source of two essential omega-3 fatty acids, namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) . Omega-3s are responsible for helping create new cells and tissues in the body, providing energy, and supporting overall health. They are naturally found in a variety of fish, such as mackerel, herring, tuna, trout, sardines, and salmon. To ensure daily intake of omega-3s, many people also opt for fish oil supplements, which may offer benefits like: Supporting heart health According to several studies, people who consume fish regularly have lower rates of heart disease. This is because fish or fish oil helps to: Lower triglyceride levels Triglycerides are a type of fat in the body. Their presence in high levels can lead to fatty build-up in the artery walls, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Omega-3s can help lower the levels of triglyceride. Reduce the risk of arrhythmia The term arrhythmia refers to an abnormal heartbeat. Some varieties, such as Atrial fibrillation (AFib) can pose serious health issues. Although fish oil supplements are not an effective treatment strategy, their omega-3 content may help reduce the risk of arrhythmia. Slower the rate of plaque build-up Plaque is a unique mix of fat, cholesterol, and calcium. When this collects in the arteries, it can reduce blood flow, increasing the pressure on the heart. However, regular intake of omega-3 can have anti-inflammatory effects and improve the function of endothelial cells that line the blood vessels. This may slow down the rate of plaque build-up in the body. Please note that research in this field is still ongoing. Lower blood pressure High intake of omega-3s has also been reduced to a slight reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This improves overall heart health and can reduce the severity of or mortality from heart diseases.

The mind is as important as the rest of the body, and with increasing mental health awareness, conditions like depression are getting the attention they need. Even so, symptoms of mental health conditions may be difficult to identify because they may be confused with general mood swings and or mere sadness. What differentiates depression from such feelings is its severity and duration. So, here are some common and unusual depression symptoms: Common signs of depression Persistent feelings of sadness Everyone experiences phases of extreme sadness and despair, but for those with depression, these feelings are persistent for weeks or even months at a stretch. These feelings are so strong that they overpower all other emotions, distracting the person from all other usual activities. Extreme feelings of hopelessness People going through depression often develop an outlook of hopelessness, often pondering over questions about purpose and self-worth. Patients have reported feeling worthless; for them, even daily chores may seem to take up too much effort, making them believe that all the hard work ultimately amounts to nothing. Loss of interest in hobbies and activities A tell-tale sign of depression is when individuals lose interest in hobbies or activities that they used to enjoy earlier. As mentioned earlier, many individuals with depression feel a lack of energy to do even the most basic tasks, so they tend to eventually stop trying. The same is the case even with their hobbies and interests. Withdrawal from people and social situations Those with clinical depression may become withdrawn from close family members and friends too. They may actively avoid social situations repeatedly and try not to interact with anyone if they can help it. So, they’re often missing from social activities and situations that they used to frequent, leading to further isolation. Severe fatigue and sleep issues One of the reasons people with depression stop engaging in activities is that they are typically fatigued and have sleep issues.

Preserving perishable food items has become essential in modern life. Throwing out a perfectly cooked meal or good produce just because it wasn’t stored properly can be heartbreaking, not to mention environmentally wasteful. So, one is advised to follow proper storage methods for perishables. Simply stuffing leftovers into the fridge does not always guarantee freshness. Each food item requires specific care. Here are some proven ways to keep food and leftovers fresh for a long time. Start fresh One way to store food for a long time is to buy fresh fruits and veggies in the first place. Look for richly colored leafy greens without limp or yellowing leaves. Root vegetables, cabbages, squash, and onions should feel heavy for their size and be free of blemishes or soft spots. If you rely on grocery delivery, choose produce types that last longer. Now, let’s talk about how to store them effectively. Containers matter It is important to ensure that the storage containers are all leak-proof. Resealable packages have airtight seals that do not expose food to air. These can include zip-lock bags or glass containers. One can also use wraps for the same purpose, but ensure they tightly secure the food and do not cause leakage or aerial exposure. Airtight containers keep foods fresh for a long time because they create a barrier against external factors in the refrigerator, like air, moisture, or even odors from other food items. This feature slows down the process of oxidation or growth of bacteria and keeps the food fresh for a long time. Additionally, it is best to store the leftovers in flat containers to cool faster. Always eat/cook the oldest food first It is a commonly known fact that one should not eat the food that’s spoiled. However, it is advised to follow a specific order while emptying the fridge.

For those experiencing a slight tickle in their throat, body aches, and a sudden fever, these are the first signs of the flu. Recognizing these early signs is crucial and helps prevent the spread of the virus. It is especially critical for younger children, older adults, pregnant women, or people with health conditions that may affect their respiratory and immune systems to seek immediate aid. Here are some other early warning signs and their prevention. Early warning signs Here are some of the early signs that one should be careful of. Body aches This is an early sign before the onset of the flu and is easily noticeable. When body chills accompany the body ache, it is likely a flu symptom. This body ache points to seasonal illness unless one may have gone for a recent workout that led to sore muscles. One way to manage this symptom is to keep the body warm using blankets and warm clothing. Sore throat Coughing, related to the flu, is also known to lead to a sore throat in which the virus affects the food pipe and causes inflammation. Other accompanying symptoms include scratching and irritation when swallowing food, so noticing these signs is essential. Gargling with salt water is recommended to help relieve the pain in the throat. Gastrointestinal issues Another set of symptoms includes stomach pain, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. Related complications with these symptoms, like dehydration, can cause further issues. Drinking more water and unsweetened drinks is recommended, as they help keep the body appropriately hydrated. Fever This is a common sign of getting the flu; typically, the body temperature is more than 100.4 degrees F. This is experienced in the early stage, but it is also noted that not everyone with the flu will experience a fever. Some people may only get symptoms, like body aches and chills, while the flu virus still runs in the system.

Mental illnesses are health conditions that can cause changes in thinking, emotional states, and/or behavior. Such changes affect daily lives and the ability to function in private, social, family, and work settings. Nevertheless, mental illnesses, like other health conditions, can be managed with appropriate medical intervention, guidance, and care. Further, early diagnosis can help with management. Here are a few other things one should know about mental health conditions: 1. Mental disorders are common Close to a billion people around the world live with a diagnosable mental disorder. Further, 1 in 5 people in the country may have a mental illness. While the prevalence of mental disorders varies with gender and age, anxiety and depressive disorders are the most common in both males and females. 2. Mental health exists on a scale Living with mental health conditions does not mean one is mentally ill or healthy. Mental health exists on a complex continuum, with experiences ranging from an optimal state of well-being to mental and emotional distress. So, it is not defined by the presence or absence of a mental disorder. While those with mental health conditions are more likely to experience lower levels of mental well-being, this is not always the case. Similar to how those with physical health conditions can be physically fit, even those with mental health issues can have high levels of mental well-being. 3. Disorders can affect people of all ages A mental health disorder can affect people of all ages, including children. Around 8% of young children (5 to 9 years) and 14% of adolescents (10 to 19 years) in the world live with a mental disorder. Studies indicate that half of the mental disorders develop by the age of 14, while three-quarters appear by the age of 24. 4. Poor living environment is a risk factor There are various causes of mental health disorders, including poor living conditions.

Over the last few years, telehealth has become quite popular for those who would like remote access to quality healthcare services. This includes access to mental health care. Online psychiatrist platforms offer a convenient way to look for board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners (NPs). One can get consultations and diagnoses from the comfort of a private space. Here are some of the top ones for those looking for popular online psychiatrist platforms: 1. Brightside Brightside is an online platform that specializes in the treatment of anxiety and depression. It offers psychotherapy and psychiatry services in addition to providing streamlined and coordinated treatment plans. Besides, it is known for focusing on seamless tracking of patient progress, which ensures improvement of symptoms over time. This is done by asking patients to fill out surveys frequently. With this, medical providers on Brightside are also able to adjust the treatment and management plans.  Also, the plans are quite affordable, at $95 a month, which gives access to one 15-minute psychiatric appointment, prescription delivery, and continual provider support. With Brightside accepting most major insurance plans, out-of-pocket costs can go lower. 2. Teladoc Health Teladoc Health is one of the leading online psychiatrist platforms with a highly intuitive and easy-to-use interface. It has a vast network that includes well-qualified mental health providers and over 80 online mental health services. Besides, it offers flexible scheduling, with appointments available all through the week for nearly the entire day, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET. However, there are no same-day or next-day appointments available. Patients can usually schedule a consultation with a provider of their choice only after a few days but within a week.   In terms of pricing, Teladoc Health charges $499 per session for therapy visits. The initial psychiatric consultation is around $299, with $199 per session for further follow-ups.

Most blood cancers start in the bone marrow, a spongy and soft material that forms the center of the bone. These make stem cells, which mature over time to become platelets, white blood cells, and red blood cells. Blood cancer starts in the bone marrow, affecting the blood cells’ production and impairing their function. As a result, several symptoms start to develop. So, here are some common warning signs of different types. Leukemia Leukemia is a type of cancer that originates in the bone marrow. It causes an abnormal increase in white blood cells, which live longer than they should. However, these excess cells do not function properly to fight off infections, leading to a weakened immune system and feelings of illness. The severity of symptoms depends on the rate at which the disease progresses. Sometimes, leukemia progresses quite quickly. In such cases, the first warning signs often include a sudden feeling of sickness, similar to coming down with the flu. Other times, leukemia may take years to cause any symptoms to occur. In either case, the first signs of the cancer are often apparent when a routine blood test shows abnormal results. Over time, the cancerous cells start to disrupt the growth and functioning of the healthy blood cells. This is when several of these warning signs and symptoms appear. Anemia: Anemia is a condition that arises when the excessive number of white blood cells caused by leukemia impedes the normal functioning of the red blood cells, causing fatigue and weakness. One of the most evident signs of anemia is the appearance of pale skin under the eyelids, lips, and fingernails, which may differ from one’s natural skin tone. Additionally, anemia can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and dizziness, which can significantly affect one’s daily activities. It is essential to seek medical attention if one experiences any of these symptoms to receive prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Gummies are chewable supplements that may help in improving various aspects of health. They often contain vitamins and minerals, giving the body another source of essential nutrients in addition to daily meals. Gummies can also help in achieving specific health goals. For example, certain gummies may help burn fat, allowing one to reach their fitness goals faster. But when opting for such supplements, one should avoid the following common mistakes: 1. Skipping research With many brands selling and advertising health gummies today, it can be hard to distinguish between genuine and false claims. Brands may use all tools, from influencer marketing and social media posts to innovative designs and clickbait, to sell their products. So, without adequate research, it may be easy to fall for the claims and buy the wrong product. That’s why one should be careful about the brands they choose. Further, one should be wary of the brand if it promises miraculous results within a few days of taking the gummies. It is important to choose a brand that is transparent about what goes into its product and shares substantial evidence that supports any health-related claims. 2. Not consulting a doctor As one does not need a doctor’s prescription to buy gummies, one may decide not to consult a doctor while choosing a product. However, this can be a mistake, as one will benefit from a doctor’s expert guidance on all kinds of healthcare products. By scheduling a consultation, one can determine if they need to start taking gummies, and if so, which brand to choose and the ideal amount to take. 3. Not considering the ideal amount Most gummies come with instructions on the package suggesting the ideal intake. It is essential to follow the instructions to a tee. If one has fewer gummies than recommended, it may take them longer to see any results.

In medical terms, thyroid eye disease (TED) is also called Graves’ eye disease or Graves’ ophthalmopathy. It causes swelling in the eye muscles and affects the connective and fatty tissues behind or around the eyes, making the eye appear bulged or reddened. As the name suggests, TED occurs due to an overactive thyroid gland. There are several risks, early signs, and causes that one should be aware of to receive timely treatment for the condition. What is TED? It is an autoimmune eye disorder often triggered by thyroid dysfunction, wherein a person’s immune system targets and attacks the thyroid gland, prompting it to release excessive thyroid hormone. As a result, the thyroid gland enlarges. One usually experiences two phases of the condition. First, an individual may experience an active phase where the inflammation peaks and symptoms worsen, which can last up to three years, followed by the stable phase. Warning signs of TED The warning signs of TED may affect both or even a single eye. Here are some of the common signs to look out for: 1. Changes in eye structure The eyes may bulge out or just generally look out of line. This can also lead to double vision or even blindness in some cases due to the constant pressure of the swelling on the delicate eye nerves at the back. One may also experience ulcers or sores in the cornea or the front of the eye, which can make it difficult to close the eyes completely. 2. The ‘Thyroid Stare’ In many cases, a person may notice that their eyelids are pushed back, and the muscles that enable their movement feel restricted. This can lead to the thyroid stare, where it seems like a patient is staring blankly. 3. Vision impairment Those experiencing blurry vision, general discomfort in the eye, or vision impairment should get it checked immediately since that may indicate the onset of TED.