Lymph nodes are integral in the immune system and are present throughout the body. The cancer that starts here is known as lymphoma. Often, it has already spread to other parts of the body by the time it is diagnosed in children and adolescents, making it difficult to treat. That is why it is important to watch for any silent signs of lymphoma in children. Here are some common signs: 1. Enlarged lymph nodes As lymphoma grows and spreads, it can cause the lymph nodes to expand. These feel like lumps under the skin but do not cause pain. They can often be spotted on the sides of the neck, around the underarms, above the collarbone, or in the groin area. However, it is important to note that enlarged lymph nodes are generally a result of infections, such as a cold, an ear infection, or a sore throat, and not a direct indicator of lymphoma. These are known as reactive or hyperplastic nodes and tend to be tender to the touch. 2. Low blood cell counts Lymphoma can also spread inside the bone marrow and crowd the healthy blood cells. This can increase one’s risk of infections (due to a low white blood cell count), may cause easy bruising or bleeding (as a result of dwindling platelet count), and can make the child appear pale and tired (due to a low red blood cell count). 3. Abdominal swelling or pain If the lymph nodes in the belly are affected, one may experience swelling or pain in the abdomen. This may also be accompanied by fluid buildup in the area, causing more sensitivity. As this lymphoma spreads, it may press on the spleen and the stomach, leading to loss of appetite or feeling full after a small meal. The lymphoma spreading near the intestines can block bowel function, causing nausea and vomiting.

It is essential to have a routine medical checkup at least once a year. This helps one take measures to ensure problems do not become serious or unmanageable. And while visiting a doctor for these annual checkups can be a bit stressful, it is crucial to do so and have open communication with them. Asking important questions during routine checkups can help get the right care at the right time. Questions to ask Here are a few questions to ask one’s doctor: 1. Do the vital signs look good? Whether one is visiting the doctor for a normal annual physical exam or to begin treatment, the first thing that is done is taking the vital signs. These include heart rate, respiratory (breathing) rate, temperature, and blood pressure. However, the doctor doesn’t need to check all four. They may simply measure the pulse and blood pressure if it is a general health check-up. Ideally, a doctor should inform the patient outright if any vital signs cause concern. They do not usually say anything if the signs are healthy. Yet, it can be useful to ask the doctor whether the vital signs look okay to ensure one is in better health. 2. Are there any vaccinations one needs? Usually, with age, the immune system tends to lose its strength. Its ability to fight off intruders starts to become weak. So, one becomes more susceptible to infections and health problems such as shingles, pneumonia, and flu. Sometimes, complications may arise due to these conditions, leading to more severe long-term health disorders that may require hospitalization. So, one may need some additional help in the form of vaccinations to strengthen the immune system and help fight off infections. It’s a good idea to ask the doctor during the annual check-up if one needs to get any vaccinations.

Thyroid eye disease (TED), also known as thyroid-related ophthalmopathy (TRO), is an autoimmune condition that triggers the immune system. As a result, inflammation occurs in the socket of the eyes, which affects the muscles responsible for eye movement. The fatty tissues behind the eyes are also affected, leading to other complications. So, the eyes are pushed forward (forming a bulge), leading to symptoms like double vision, decreased vision, red eyelids, and eye irritation. Symptoms of thyroid eye disease The signs and symptoms of TED differ from person to person. Besides, the intensity of the symptoms can range from mild to highly severe. Sometimes, the symptoms can cause pain and disfigurement of the eye socket, which can eventually lead to loss of eyesight over time. Aside from this, the symptoms do not change substantially over the years for some people. While for others, the symptoms may become worse or even improve as years go by. In some cases, a person with TED may experience recurring episodes of worsening symptoms followed by a period of improvement or remission. Some of the most common symptoms of TED to watch out for include the following. Bags under the eyes Blurred or double vision Change in the appearance of the eye – bulging or as if one is staring continuously Difficulty in moving the eyes Dry or watery eyes Gritty feeling in the eyes Low tolerance to bright lights Pain inside or behind the eye, especially when looking up, down, or sideways Redness of the lids and eyes Swelling or fullness in one or both upper eyelids Sometimes, thyroid eye disease can become quite severe and cause the following symptoms. In such cases, it is best to consult a doctor as soon as possible. There is blurred vision that does not improve by blinking or covering either eye The eyes may perceive colors differently as they may appear less bright when compared with the other There is double vision The symptoms worsen quickly over a few days or weeks Since most of these symptoms are quite similar to other eye diseases, such as hay fever, conjunctivitis, or allergies, TED can be difficult to diagnose.

Quality sleep is one of the most important factors in maintaining one’s health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a sleep duration of around seven hours or more per night is recommended for most adults. When one fails to get this required snooze, it is called sleep deprivation. This can be a short-term issue affecting one over a few days or a chronic condition lasting weeks and months. Warning signs of sleep deprivation Sleep deprivation can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as work stress, new parenthood, lifestyle, sleep disorders, health conditions, or environmental factors. Even 24 hours of missed sleep could impact one’s motor functioning and response times. There are various other warning signs of sleep deprivation to be aware of. Acne breakouts Some studies have shown a close relationship between lack of sleep and increased acne breakouts. This occurs because sleep deprivation can enhance the body’s cortisol levels, which increases inflammation and production of sebum, causing breakouts. Puffy eyes During the deep sleep stages, the body regulates hormones and works on tissue and muscle repair. Without adequate sleep, this becomes an issue, causing redness and/or puffiness around the eyes, dark circles, and deep eye bags. It may also increase the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, swelling, and droopy eyelids. Junk food cravings Sleeping for less than six hours can also decrease the production of the appetite-controlling hormone – leptin and increase the release of the hunger-promoting hormone – ghrelin. As a result, those who are sleep-deprived may frequently crave or reach out for unhealthy snacks and meals. Over time, this could become a major risk factor for lifestyle conditions like diabetes. Increased caffeine intake Not getting enough sleep at night can leave one feeling drowsy throughout the day. As a result, one may end up reaching out for more caffeine in the form of coffee or energy drinks.

The start of menopause indicates the end of menstruation. The menopausal phase begins after one hasn’t had a period for 12 months straight. While the phase can begin in the 40s or 50s, many experience menopause when they turn 51. It is a natural biological process, the onset of which brings several changes in the body and issues like hot flashes, sleep disruption, and lethargy. But, these symptoms can be managed. 1. Make better food choices It has been observed that once those who menstruate reach their mid-40s, they develop a near deficiency of many essential nutrients, like magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, essential fatty acids, vitamin D, and B vitamins. As a result, they tend to feel tired and lethargic most of the time. Also, many menopause symptoms are the result of hormonal changes. The balance of hormones can be directly affected by the levels of essential nutrients in the body. So, increasing the intake of these minerals and vitamins can help with managing menopause and its symptoms. This approach is also useful in maintaining overall health, once the initial symptoms of menopause have passed. Here are some nutrients one should add to their meal plans: Magnesium-rich foods: If one increases the intake of magnesium-rich foods along with those containing B vitamins, Vitamin D, calcium, zinc, and fatty acids, these can have a positive effect on brain function and hormonal balance. A few rich sources of magnesium are fresh fruit and vegetables, especially green leafy ones such as spinach, kale, collard greens, cabbage, beet greens, watercress, and romaine lettuce. All of them are also rich sources of B vitamins, which can help in dealing with with menopausal symptoms. Fatty acids: Foods with essential fatty acids or omega-3s are vegetable oils and oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring, and sardines.

The gut is host to colonies of microorganisms that live in the intestines, called the microbiome. Many of these microbes support healthy bodily functions, improve mental and physical health, and reduce the risk of diabetes, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), and psoriatic arthritis. Upsetting this microbiome can result in stomach issues, sleep disturbances, fatigue, skin irritation, compromised immune function, and other problems. Fortunately, eating certain foods rich in probiotics and prebiotics can considerably improve gut health. Probiotics Probiotics are good, live bacteria that thrive in the intestines. These are abundantly found in several fermented foods that can be prepared at home or easily available at the grocery store. Greek yogurt Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein and probiotics, which help improve gut health over time. It is prepared by fermenting milk and straining the whey, i.e., the liquid part, giving it a thick, creamy consistency. Have it as it is, add it to a smoothie, or serve it with some berries for a delicious and healthy snack. Kefir Those who like dairy-based drinks can try kefir. According to some sources, this probiotic beverage has more probiotics and protein than regular yogurt and can help improve gut health by reducing inflammation. It may also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, making it an excellent addition to one’s meal plan. Like Greek yogurt, one can blend it into smoothies, add it to a parfait, or consume it as is. Kimchi Those who can’t give up spicy foods must try kimchi as a probiotic. It is a popular Korean side dish made by fermenting cabbage, spices, and herbs. Kimchi helps in multiple ways—it improves gut health and increases one’s intake of cruciferous vegetables. Sauerkraut Individuals who prefer savory foods can also opt for sauerkraut, a delicious fermented cabbage dish. To get the best probiotics in this dish, look for refrigerated options at the grocery store with active live cultures, or prepare some at home!