Overactive bladder (OAB) is a health condition where one experiences a frequent urge to urinate. They also find it hard to control, leading to involuntary loss of urine. About 33 million people across the country are diagnosed with an overactive bladder, and women are more prone to the condition than men. Read on to learn about the treatment options, meal plans, and lifestyle changes to manage the symptoms of an overactive bladder: Treatment options Besides simple home remedies, several oral treatments help manage the symptoms of an overactive bladder. The most common FDA-approved options include GEMTESA, MYRBETRIQ, and TOVIAZ. These work in different ways to relax the bladder muscles, help the bladder hold more urine, and keep it from squeezing often. If used correctly, they can reduce the frequency and urgency of going to the bathroom. Meal plans A balanced food plan can help cope with the symptoms of an overactive bladder. Patients must avoid sodas, canned juices, flavored yogurt, and ice cream. These have added sweeteners and preservatives that irritate the bladder, squeezing it and making it difficult for the muscles to relax. Instead, one can opt for fresh juices, high-protein home-cooked meals, whole grains, and fiber. Creating a meal plan makes it easy to have the ingredients ready for different recipes. If unsure, one can consult a doctor about the foods to eat and avoid. Lifestyle changes Doctors advise patients to follow an active lifestyle besides using treatments and eating the right foods. A 40-minute workout can be rewarding. One can choose a sport, go for morning or evening walks, or join a fitness club. Specific exercises help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, helping control the urge to urinate for longer. However, strengthening the pelvic muscles can take some time, and patients must seek the advice of an expert to perform the exercises correctly.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) affects about one million people in our country. It is a kind of arthritis that affects those with a skin disorder known as psoriasis. Usually, patients have psoriasis years before arthritis develops. However, the good news is that one can manage the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, such as stiffness, swelling, and joint pain. Here are a few treatment options, nutrition tips, lifestyle changes, and other remedies psoriatic arthritis patients must follow: Treatment options RINVOQ is a popular oral treatment for adults with active psoriatic arthritis. It is generally used when traditional options have not been effective. Note that RINVOQ may not be safe and effective for children below 12. Its side effects include allergic reactions and immune system problems. Otezla is another treatment option for active psoriatic arthritis that helps relieve inflammation caused due to the disease. It inhibits a particular enzyme, which helps control inflammation inside the cells. The common side effects of Otezla include diarrhea, nausea, and upper respiratory tract infection. A proper meal plan Patients must avoid fatty red meats, dairy products, refined sugar, and processed foods because these can trigger inflammation. Nightshade vegetables like potatoes, eggplants, and tomatoes also have the same effect. Instead, one should eat fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, mackerel, and tuna, which help relieve inflammation. Blueberries, sweet potatoes, carrots, and green leafy vegetables like kale and spinach are also suitable. Lifestyle changes Patients must incorporate light physical activity into the daily routine that does not put too much pressure on the joints. Gentle and low-impact exercises like swimming, yoga, and walking are good starting points. Exercises that help strengthen the muscles are crucial so that the joints do not have too much pressure. Hydrotherapy Hydrotherapy is a popular remedy for arthritis. Soaking in warm water eases joint stiffness and strengthens the muscles.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder that causes the airways to become restricted due to inflammation, which then triggers excess mucous production. 1 in 13 people are affected by this condition every year. There is no cure for asthma, but individuals can manage it to the point where symptoms become negligible. Given below are some useful tips on nutrition habits, lifestyle changes, preventive care, and effective prescriptions for asthma management: Treatment for asthma Prescriptions are the first line of treatment for asthma. Xolair® prevents common allergens from triggering asthma symptoms in patients who don’t respond positively to inhaled corticosteroids. Nucala® and Fasenra® both belong to a class of biologics designed to inhibit certain internal responses that trigger inflammation. Tezelpelumab, marketed under the brand name Tezspire™, specifically targets alarmins released by the lungs that trigger inflammation and lead to an asthma attack. Zyrtec® is an antihistamine that provides relief from indoor and outdoor allergies, which may aggravate asthma symptoms. Suggested nutrition for asthma Studies indicate that vitamins A, C, D, and E help lower the risk of asthma flareups. Egg yolks and salmon are excellent sources of vitamin D. Also, an apple a day can certainly keep asthma symptoms at bay. The fruit contains selenium, an anti-inflammatory compound shown to ease swelling in the airways. Cantaloupes and carrots are good sources of vitamin A and help promote healthy lung function. In addition, foods rich in antioxidants prevent cell damage and promote better respiratory functions. Assorted berries, dark greens, and leafy vegetables are a must-have to better manage asthma. Effective lifestyle changes Not getting adequate rest also increases the risk of infections and common allergies. A proper sleep routine plays a crucial role in boosting immunity. Daily exercise can help keep inflammation under control. In fact, any form of physical activity will promote better lung function.

Cholesterol is a condition that is mostly seen among people over the age of 50. But with unhealthy food and lifestyle habits, younger people today are prone to it as well. High levels of cholesterol mean there’s a higher risk of premature heart attacks and complications. Moreover, stats claim that over 1 million adults have an inherited risk for cholesterol. This article highlights some lifestyle tips and ways that help manage cholesterol levels: Treatment There are medications to clear the cholesterol from the system. LIVALO (pitavastatin) is used to lower bad cholesterol in patients who have abnormally high levels of it. This oral prescription can be had daily, but the dosage can vary depending on the advancement of the disease. Repatha® is another prescription to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Food habits Foods play a huge role in the development of cholesterol. People should generally avoid greasy options like fries, deep-fried snacks, and frozen dinners. Moreover, foods like cheese and butter should be eaten in moderation. Packaged foods like chips, canned foods, and ready-to-make dinners should also be avoided, as they are high in sodium and preservatives, which also contribute to complications related to the heart. Instead, choose to cook fresh meals from scratch and include more vegetables and fruits in one’s meal plans. Try to include more salads, as it’s the easiest way to stay healthy and away from carbs. Lifestyle changes Make time for a good run, walk, or practice yoga. Alternatively, take up gardening as a hobby or join a fitness club that practices varied activities. This is an ideal way to combine workouts and fun. The easiest way to keep oneself motivated is by enjoying workouts, making them more interesting, and finding good company. Keeping active is one of the most rewarding things to do for the mind and body.

Leukemia is a cancer that involves blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow as well as the lymphatic system. It is the sixth most common type of cancer diagnosed in the country. It primarily impacts the white blood cells that are responsible for the body’s ability to fight against microbial and parasitic infections. Listed below are a few treatment options, meal plans, and lifestyle changes to manage the symptoms of leukemia: Treatment BLINCYTO® BLINCYTO® is used in the treatment of some types of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). It works by directing T-cells to target and bind with a particular protein within lymphoma cells. TASIGNA® TASIGNA® contains nilotinib, a compound that is used in the treatment of certain types of Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML). It works by slowing down the progression or stopping the growth of cancerous cells. Foods to eat and avoid Patients undergoing treatment have a compromised immune system that makes them more susceptible to food-borne illnesses. It is important for them to be more mindful of the food they consume. Whole grain Whole grains are rich in minerals and vitamins. Including whole grains like rice, buckwheat, oats, and quinoa will give leukemia patients the nutrients they need. Fruits and vegetables Cruciferous vegetables and legumes are highly recommended for patients. Fruits like apples and berries can also be consumed. They help the body in fighting off the side effects of the condition and the treatment. Unpasteurized dairy products Leukemia patients are advised to stay away from dairy and dairy products. They can cause stomach infection or food poisoning. Raw meat Raw meat carries parasites that can prove dangerous to patients. These parasites can either cause food poisoning or lead to other diseases and illnesses if the meat is not cooked properly. Lifestyle changes Active routine Leukemia patients can adjust their daily exercise routine according to the energy they have that day.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are characterized by burning sensations, abdominal pain, and cloudy urine. These infections are significantly more common in women than in men and can affect any part of one’s urinary tract including the kidneys, bladder, and even the urethra. If left untreated, UTIs should not be left untreated as they can lead to severe pain and other serious complications. Read on to know about the ways to keep UTIs in check: Get the right treatment FETROJA® (cefiderocol), is a cephalosporin antibacterial treatment option used to tackle complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs). These include pyelonephritis caused due to susceptible Gram-negative microorganisms. This treatment is prescribed to individuals over 18 years of age. It is often a last resort for those who have limited or no alternative treatment options. Common side effects of FETROJA® include diarrhea, injection site reaction, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Individuals may also experience constipation, rash, cough, and low blood potassium levels. FETROJA® can interact with other ongoing treatments, so it is best to consult a doctor before going for this treatment option. Eat the right foods Foods can go a long way in managing UTIs. Berries such as cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries can help fight UTIs. This is because they contain proanthocyanidins, which prevent the infection-causing bacteria from growing on the urinary tract. Probiotics and high-fiber foods can also help manage UTIs. Probiotics such as yogurt and pickles contain good bacteria, which prevent UTIs while high-fiber foods such as bananas, nuts, and lentils can improve bowel movement and reduce the pressure on the bladder. While such foods can help improve urinary tract health and prevent infections, spicy foods and caffeinated drinks can increase the risk of developing UTIs. Make lifestyle changes Aside from treatment and foods, there are some lifestyle changes that can help with with reducing the risk of developing UTIs.

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer associated with white blood cells. In this condition, the white blood cells fail to perform their usual function of fighting infections. These unhealthy white blood cells crowd out the healthy cells. Multiple myeloma is a rare type of cancer in the country, with a lifetime risk of 1 out of 132 (0.76 percent). This article highlights some treatment options, food choices, and tips to manage the condition: Treatment options Two major treatment options for multiple myeloma are BCMA therapy and the use of monoclonal antibodies. BCMA (B-cell maturation antigen) can be seen in almost all multiple myeloma cells. Many studies indicate that targeting BCMA can significantly help in multiple myeloma treatments. BCMA is a part of signaling pathways that lead to the survival and growth of cancerous plasma cells. Many new BCMA-targeted therapies are being developed, which could help in the treatment of relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma. The use of monoclonal antibodies is another treatment method. Monoclonal antibodies can help in restoring, modifying, or improving the immune system’s attack on unwanted cells, like cancer cells. Some monoclonal antibodies prevent cancer cells from connecting with proteins that promote cell growth. Thus, they can block the growth of cancer cells. Certain other types of monoclonal antibodies are known to directly destruct cancer cells. Food choices Myeloma patients should consume fruits and vegetables like carrots, broccoli, spinach, kale, avocado, lettuce, beetroot, pomegranates, berries, and peaches. These foods are rich in antioxidants that help improve the immune system. One can also consume fiber-rich foods like apples, pears, whole grains, oatmeal, broccoli, carrots, and celery, as they help prevent constipation due to chemotherapy. Multiple myeloma can significantly weaken one’s immune system. It is important to stay away from foods that could make you sick or develop a food-borne infection.

The lymphatic system is part of the body’s germ-fighting network, comprising lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow. When cancer begins in the lymphatic system, it is called lymphoma. Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin are the two main types of lymphoma, the latter being the most common. Both types are often treatable, especially if detected in the initial stages. Here are some treatment options, foods to eat and avoid, and other ways that help manage lymphoma: Treatments Treatment options for all types of lymphoma usually include a combination of therapies. One of the most common therapies is an oral therapy, such as IMBRUVICA® (ibrutinib). IMBRUVICA® is used to treat mantle cell lymphoma, small lymphocytic lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma, and other types of cancers. The active substance in IMBRUVICA®, ibrutinib, inhibits the enzyme Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK), which is linked to lymphoma. IMBRUVICA® is typically taken once a day and can work alone or together with other treatments. Common side effects include diarrhea, tiredness, rash, bruising, muscle pain, and bone pain. Other treatment options for lymphoma include chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation. Foods to eat and avoid Although no specific food or meal plan can cure lymphoma, eating and avoiding certain foods can help ease symptoms and reduce the side effects of treatments. It is recommended to eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables rich in a variety of antioxidants that help fight cancer. These include carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli, avocados, and oranges. One must also load up cruciferous vegetables, such as kale, cauliflower, and broccoli. These veggies contain compounds called glucosinolates, which may help prevent lymphoma relapse. Lymphoma patients with lower levels of white blood cells must avoid foods and drinks that may contain live bacteria, such as probiotic yogurts, kefir, kimchi, raw honey, or blue or mold-ripened cheeses.

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast mutate and grow out of control. They grow to form a mass of cancerous cells called a tumor. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers. Estimates suggest at least 13% women in the country face an increased risk of breast cancer. This is why it is important to be aware of its management. Such tips are listed below along with treatment options and food choices: Treatment options Before discussing management tips, it is important to know some treatment options for breast cancer. AFINITOR® (everolimus) is one such option. It is an mTOR inhibitor. mTOR is a type of protein that provides energy to cells to grow. AFINITOR® stops cancer cells from getting energy since it is an mTOR inhibitor. It is used to treat postmenopausal women that have HER2-negative and advanced hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Another treatment option is CAR-T cell therapy. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a process that helps T-cells specifically recognize and attack malignant or cancerous cells. It is a less toxic treatment method than conventional options like chemotherapy. Eating healthy Consuming healthy foods is an effective cancer management technique. The nutrients and minerals in our food improve the efficacy of medications. The food we eat also protects us from the toxicity caused by cancer treatments. Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and arugula contain antioxidants like beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which are known to reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence. Citrus fruits like grapefruits, lemon, limes, and tangerine have anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial in providing relief from the side effects of cancer treatments. It is best to avoid processed foods like packed meats, chips, and junk food, as they can aggravate the symptoms of breast cancer. Exercise regularly Clinical treatments and having nutritious meals may not be enough for managing breast cancer.

When the immune system misidentifies and targets good gut bacteria, the cells that line the colon, and food, it can lead to ulcerative colitis. The condition drives the white blood cells to attack the colon lining and trigger symptoms like irritation, inflammation, and ulcers in the large intestine. While ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition, adding certain foods to one’s meals and following some treatment options may help manage the condition. Foods for ulcerative colitis Nut butters A good source of proteins and healthy fats, nut butters like peanut butter, cashew butter, and almond butter may help manage any flare-up that may result from ulcerative colitis. Peeled and cooked veggies Peeled and cooked vegetables are soft and contain less insoluble fiber, making them less irritating to the gut. A few foods to consider are carrots, spinach, parsnips, turnips, and potatoes. The vegetables are abundant in nutrients like vitamins A and K, which can help reduce the effects of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a type of ulcerative colitis. Yogurt Fermented foods like yogurt are rich in probiotics that contain healthy bacteria. Such bacteria aid the digestive system and reduce ulcerative colitis symptoms and flare-ups. But one must steer clear of flavored yogurt as its sugar content may worsen symptoms. Salmon Salmon is a rich source of protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. These properties are known to curb inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis. Other fish rich in omega-3s include shrimp and tuna. Treatments for ulcerative colitis Ulcerative colitis symptoms can be managed with certain treatment options, such as: STELARA® (ustekinumab) STELARA® is a prescription treatment for children who are six years and older and adults with moderate to severely active ulcerative colitis. Patients injected with the treatment may find quick relief from their symptoms within eight weeks. Entyvio® (vedolizumab) Adults with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis are given Entyvio when other treatment options do not work efficiently.

The bladder is an organ in the urinary tract system that stores and evacuates urine. Its muscle walls expand and contract to collect and release the urine periodically. However, certain health complications can affect this function, resulting in increased urge, frequency, or urinary incontinence triggering an overactive bladder. Some common foods can also irritate the organ and trigger such symptoms. Thus, it is important to avoid these foods for better bladder control. Citrus fruits Lemons, limes, and oranges contain active citric acid that makes it difficult for the bladder to control urine output. Citric acid is a type of irritant that can worsen the symptoms among patients suffering from overactive bladder. It can lead to flare ups, triggering pain, uncontrolled urgency, increased frequency, and even urinary incontinence if the symptoms go unnoticed for prolonged periods. Even tomatoes and grapefruits are high in citric acid and should be avoided for better bladder control. Eliminate tomato products like salsa, sauce, and ketchup since they are a more concentrated form of the fruit. Salty, spicy, and processed foods Any spice used in foods to enhance the flavors can also irritate the bladder lining. It can even trigger chronic pain, so it’s best to avoid hot peppery spices that rank high on the Scoville Scale. Excessive salt intake has direct links to urinary urgency, frequency, and incontinence. Potato chips, salted nuts, seeds, and any snacks that contain salt force the body to retain more water and put extra pressure on the bladder to evacuate. Additionally, all processed foods contain artificial flavoring, additives, and preservatives that irritate the bladder. It is advisable to start with moderate consumption before eliminating these foods to ease bladder problems. Chocolate Chocolate is one of the top foods to avoid for bladder control. Most chocolate products contain caffeine and even a few bites of chocolate can irritate the bladder and worsen symptoms linked to conditions like an overactive bladder.

A cancer patient goes through extensive treatment procedures. These procedures can lower their energy levels and affect their mental health. They become physically weak too. Such patients need a lot of emotional support. Supporting them in the form of donations is one way to help cancer patients. One can also help by raising awareness about the condition in the locality. Here are four ways through which you can donate to cancer patients. Fundraise This is a great way to not just donate your money but also inspire others to do so. There are several charities and NGOs that run a fundraising campaign whenever required. More importantly, there are several websites that can facilitate the process of fundraising. In fact, you can even start your own small fundraiser campaign locally. You can then donate the proceeds to a cancer awareness society, cancer hospitals, NGOs, or charities. Blood donations Many cancer patients rely on blood transfusions for their treatment and recovery. This is one of the most effective ways of helping out. Find a donor bank in your locality and register yourself. If you are a healthy, 16-year-old that weighs a minimum of 110 pounds, and have proper identification, you are eligible to donate. The process only takes about 10-15 minutes. Blood transfusions can help relieve certain symptoms in cancer patients. They can also help in improving their overall quality of life.  Volunteer Volunteering opportunities are a great way to support cancer patients. There are many advocacy groups that are constantly looking for volunteers. One can also contact their local hospital, cancer center, or place of worship for more information on volunteering opportunities. Volunteering can be a highly rewarding experience. As a volunteer, you can spread awareness about cancer, connect with the patient’s family and friends, and be available for their support. Bone marrow transplant Conditions like leukemia need bone marrow transplant.