Does heart disease run in your family? If so, you might wonder what that means for your own heart health. Our genes play a significant role in health, especially when it comes to conditions like heart disease. In fact, having a family history of heart disease can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular problems yourself. But family history is not destiny – it’s one risk factor among many. In this article, we’ll explore how genetics and family history influence heart health, what a “strong” family history looks like, and most importantly, what you can do about it. How Family History Affects Heart Disease Risk Heart disease remains one of the top causes of death worldwide. While lifestyle factors (like diet, exercise, and smoking) are major contributors, heredity is also a key piece of the puzzle. You share a lot with your relatives, including genes and often lifestyle habits. If your parents or siblings developed heart disease at a relatively youn...

  Internal haemorrhoids are a very common health issue – in fact, most people will experience haemorrhoids at some point in their lives. Unlike external haemorrhoids, which form under the skin around the anus and often cause sharp pain, internal haemorrhoids develop inside the rectum and tend to be more subtle. Because internal haemorrhoids usually don’t hurt, many people overlook their early warning signs. This article explains what internal haemorrhoids are and highlights the often-ignored signs and symptoms, so you know when your body is sending you a red flag. What Are Internal Haemorrhoids? Haemorrhoids (also known as piles) are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. Internal haemorrhoids are located inside the rectum, meaning you typically can’t see or feel them, and they rarely cause discomfort at first. Straining during bowel movements or other pressure on these veins can cause the internal haemorrhoid to swell and lead to symptoms. Because the r...

Traveling to exotic places can be the adventure of a lifetime. But if your travels take you to regions where malaria is present, it’s important to take some extra precautions so you return home with only happy memories – not an unwanted illness. Malaria is a serious and sometimes life-threatening disease spread by mosquito bites. It remains widespread in many tropical and subtropical areas, causing hundreds of millions of infections each year. The good news is that malaria is preventable and treatable with the right measures. By planning and following a few safety steps, you can dramatically reduce your risk of malaria and enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Before You Travel: Plan and Prevent The best time to start thinking about malaria prevention is before you even set foot on the plane. Do some research or consult reliable health resources to find out if malaria is a risk at your destination. Malaria isn’t present everywhere – it’s mostly found in p...

  For an older adult, a stay in the hospital can come with an unexpected and frightening side effect: delirium. If you’ve ever visited an elderly parent or grandparent in the hospital and found them suddenly confused, disoriented, or not themselves, you’ve witnessed this condition. Hospital delirium is an acute state of mental confusion that happens to many seniors during an illness or after surgery. It’s often called a “hidden risk” because it’s not the illness that brought them to the hospital - it’s a complication that arises from the hospitalisation itself, and it can be easily overlooked or misattributed to something like dementia. However, delirium is usually temporary and treatable, and recognising it early can make a big difference. What Is Delirium? Delirium is an abrupt change in brain function that causes confusion and difficulty with attention and clear thinking. It develops over hours to a couple of days and fluctuates through the day. People may be disoriented, ...

  Most women know the tell-tale signs: that persistent itch, irritation, and sometimes a cottage cheese-like discharge – classic symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection. Yeast infections are extremely common; about 3 out of 4 women will experience at least one in their lifetime. Though they’re not usually serious, they can be very uncomfortable and inconvenient. The good news is that yeast infections are generally easy to treat once you recognize what you’re dealing with. In this article, we’ll discuss how to identify a yeast infection (and not confuse it with other issues), effective treatments – including medications and home care – and ways to prevent those pesky infections from coming back. Is It Really a Yeast Infection? The vagina has a delicate balance of flora, including the yeast, Candida. A yeast infection happens when something upsets that balance (like antibiotics, hormonal changes, or diabetes) and yeast overgrows, leading to irritation. However, other infe...

Hernias are more common than many realize, and while some cases present dramatic symptoms, many are subtle and easily overlooked. Recognizing these warning signs early can prevent complications and reduce the risk of emergency surgeries. This article explores the subtle symptoms of hernias, how to identify them, and what steps you can take for effective management and treatment. Understanding Hernias A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weakness in the surrounding muscle or tissue wall. While inguinal hernias are most common, other types such as umbilical, incisional, or hiatal hernias can occur. Awareness of these conditions is essential, as early detection can often lead to less invasive treatments. Types and Causes Inguinal Hernias:  Often occur in the groin and are more prevalent in men. Umbilical Hernias:  Common in infants and adults, where tissue pushes through the abdominal wall near the navel. Incisional Hernias:  Develop at the site...

  Diabetes doesn’t have to mean endless complications. Thanks to modern medical advancements and lifestyle strategies, it’s entirely possible to manage diabetes effectively and reduce your risk of serious problems. From consistent blood sugar monitoring to balanced nutrition, each step you take can make a meaningful difference in your overall health. Here’s a comprehensive guide to staying on top of diabetes and preventing its common complications. Understanding Blood Sugar Control The cornerstone of diabetes management is blood sugar regulation. Monitoring your glucose levels helps you detect patterns and make timely adjustments in your diet or medication. Whether you use a glucometer or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), these tools offer immediate feedback that can guide your daily decisions. Healthy Eating Habits Nutrition is pivotal in managing diabetes. Meal’s rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables help stabilize blood glucose levels. Limiting su...

  Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health threat, affecting millions of people annually. While TB primarily impacts the lungs, it can also spread to other parts of the body. With drug-resistant strains complicating treatment, understanding TB's causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies is essential. Transmission and High-Risk Factors TB is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis , which spreads through airborne particles when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or malnutrition, are at a higher risk. Overcrowded living conditions and poor ventilation also increase the likelihood of transmission, particularly in areas with limited healthcare access. Symptoms of Active and Latent TB Active TB presents with persistent cough, chest pain, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. However, not everyone infected with TB bacteria develops symptoms. Latent TB, where the bacteria remain dormant, ...

  Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a global health issue that quietly affects millions. Often without symptoms until severe complications arise, CAD restricts blood flow to the heart, leading to heart attacks and other potentially life-threatening events. Understanding its risk factors, detection methods, and treatment options is essential in combating this “silent killer.” The Basics of Coronary Artery Disease CAD is caused by the build-up of plaque in the coronary arteries, which supply blood and oxygen to the heart. This plaque, composed of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances, hardens, and narrows the arteries over time. Reduced blood flow deprives the heart of oxygen, causing symptoms such as chest pain (angina) and, in severe cases, heart attacks. This gradual development makes CAD challenging to detect early, underscoring the importance of regular health screenings for at-risk individuals. Advances in Early Detection: Coronary Calcium Scoring One of the ...

Heart attacks are a significant health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. Understanding the symptoms and risks associated with heart attacks is crucial for early detection and prompt medical intervention. In this guide, "Heart Attacks Unveiled: Recognizing Symptoms and Risks," we delve into the essential aspects of heart attacks, empowering you with knowledge for better heart health. Heart Attack vs. Cardiac Arrest Heart Attack A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when the blood flow to a section of the heart muscle is blocked, usually due to the formation of a blood clot in one of the coronary arteries. These arteries are responsible for supplying oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. When blood flow is obstructed, the affected portion of the heart muscle begins to die, leading to severe consequences if not treated promptly. Cardiac Arrest Cardiac arrest, on the other hand, is a sudden and unexpected loss of heart function, ...