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Showing posts from March, 2025

Weather or Not: Seasonal Asthma Strategies

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  Changing seasons can bring unpredictable weather and a host of triggers for people with asthma. From pollen in spring to cold, dry air in winter, each season poses its own challenges. Fortunately, with the right strategies, you can manage asthma symptoms year-round and keep breathing easily. Understanding Asthma Triggers Asthma is a chronic lung condition where airways become inflamed and narrowed. Common triggers include allergens (like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander), irritants (smoke and strong odours), and even emotional stress. Seasonal changes can intensify these triggers, leading to more frequent flare-ups. Seasonal Challenges 1.        Spring : High pollen counts can cause coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. 2.      Summer : Hot, humid air can worsen respiratory issues; keep your home ventilated. 3.     Autumn : Decaying leaves can harbour mould spores, which can irritate airways. 4. ...

Dengue Demystified: Prevention and Symptom Spotting

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  Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Characterized by flu-like symptoms, dengue can sometimes escalate into severe forms if not identified and managed in time. The good news is that by taking a few proactive steps, you can greatly reduce your risk and learn to spot warning signs early. The Basics of Dengue Dengue is transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which tends to bite during the day. Once infected, you may develop symptoms in four to ten days. In many cases, the illness is mild, but it can occasionally lead to severe complications known as dengue haemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. Common Symptoms High Fever : Usually above 38°C (100°F). Severe Headaches : Often felt behind the eyes. Muscle and Joint Pains : Sometimes described as “bone-breaking” pain. Rash : May appear a few days after fever starts. Nausea and Vomiting : ...

Keeping Your Liver Happy: Spotting Early Signs of Hepatitis and Cirrhosis

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  The liver is an unsung hero of the body, working tirelessly to filter toxins, aid digestion, and store essential nutrients. When problems like hepatitis or cirrhosis arise, they can quietly damage your liver’s function and overall health. By knowing the early signs and adopting healthy habits, you can protect your liver and catch any issues before they become serious. Understanding Your Liver’s Role The liver helps break down food, regulate blood sugar, and remove harmful substances. It also stores vitamins and minerals crucial for well-being. Given its significant role in keeping the body balanced, even minor damage to the liver can have widespread consequences. Early Signs of Hepatitis Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver and can be caused by viruses (Hepatitis A, B, or C) or toxic substances (like alcohol or certain medications). Some early warning signs include: Fatigue : Feeling unusually tired or lethargic. Jaundice : A yellowish tint in the s...

Clot Clarity: Safeguarding Your Circulatory System

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  Your circulatory system is like a well-organized highway, transporting nutrients and oxygen throughout your body. However, when traffic jams occur in the form of blood clots, serious problems can arise. Blood clots can lead to conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, and even stroke. Understanding what causes clots, how to recognize early warning signs, and how to prevent them can help you maintain a healthier, happier life. Understanding Blood Clots A blood clot forms when blood thickens and clumps together into a solid mass. While clotting can be helpful when it stops bleeding from a cut, it becomes dangerous if it develops unnecessarily or breaks loose and travels through your veins. Clots often form in the legs, but they can occur anywhere in your circulatory system, including the heart and lungs. Common Risk Factors 1.        Prolonged Immobility : Sitting for extended periods, such as on flights or behind a des...