Over 50 million people live with allergies every year and many of them have seasonal pollen allergies. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) studies over 100 cities every year to curate a list of the best and worst cities for people with spring or fall allergies. Factors such as seasonal pollen scores, over-the-counter treatment use, climatic conditions, and availability of board-certified health professionals or allergists are taken into consideration. Based on these reports, here are the 10 worst cities for people with allergies to live in: Scranton, PA Scranton is surrounded by forests and grasslands, which are pushed into the city by the fall winds, causing higher-than-average pollen levels, making it one of the worst cities for allergy sufferers. Wichita, KS The city of Wichita is windy and flat. With pollen flowing down the plains and virtually no trees to stop them, the city is one of the worst places to live for people with allergies. McAllen, TX McAllen faces hot weather in the summer with abundant pollen and flowering plants. Over the last few decades, the city has also seen a stable rise in ragweed pollen, worsening the situation for allergy sufferers. Richmond, VA Richmond is known for its subtropical climate and excessive humidity. Coincidentally, these are some features that make it intolerable for many people with allergies. San Antonio, TX Ragweed in Texas can grow taller than a person, producing massive amounts of pollen and triggering seasonal allergies for many people. Oklahoma City, OK The city of Oklahoma has dry weather, with little-to-no rainfall, which causes pollen and smoke to remain suspended in the air. Thunderstorms compound this situation by spreading pollen across the city, making it unpleasant for allergy sufferers. Hartford, CT Hartford is a highly urbanized city situated close to greenery and forests. This causes high pollen suspension rates, which may be troublesome for many.

There are numerous types of allergies, each with a different impact on an individual. Respiratory allergies are caused by airborne proteins that irritate the airways. Fumes which can be found both indoors and outdoors, can worsen breathing problems brought on by allergies. Allergens like pollen, mold, or dust mites can worsen allergic asthma in people. It is advantageous to be aware of allergens to prevent issues. Here are some examples of common allergens that make breathing difficult: Common allergens that cause breathing problems Pollutants People with allergies exposed to airborne pollutants may experience respiratory symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. Pollutants can irritate and inflame the lungs as well as the airways. Some asthma triggers are ozone, chemicals, cleaning products, odors, and smog. If these contaminants are inhaled from the environment, they can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Indoor allergens Indoor allergens trigger asthma attacks in children and adults with allergies. These allergens include pet dander, mice, cockroaches, and dust mites. They are primarily found in homes, and can cause asthma flare-ups all year. Some solutions include using allergy-proof mattress covers and washing linens weekly in hot water to kill dust mites. A dehumidifier can also help prevent mold and mildew growth in the home. Outdoor allergens Seasonal exposure to outdoor allergens can also cause breathing difficulties and coughing. The most found outdoor allergens include pollen and mold. Trees, grasses, and weeds produce pollen. Pollen seasons vary depending on where one lives. Most pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds is released in the spring, summer, and fall. Mold exposure may vary depending on humidity and rainfall. Keeping windows closed during peak pollen seasons might help limit exposure. Try to clean and wash up after outdoor visits to avoid allergens. Pets Household pets are a common source of indoor allergens and asthma flare-ups.

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic condition that affects the nervous system. This includes the spinal cord, optic nerves, and the brain. The condition’s symptoms may range from vision loss to muscle weakness and can differ from one person to another. Some people may experience mild symptoms, and in severe cases, it may result in paralysis. However, in most cases, the symptoms worsen during flare-ups and improve during the remission period. Early signs of multiple sclerosis (MS) Patients with multiple sclerosis may notice that no pattern of MS applies to everyone. Different symptoms are experienced at different times. However, the early signs of multiple sclerosis may be the same in both men and women. Hence, here are some early signs of the condition to look out for. Inflammation of the optic nerve One of the most common signs of MS, a person with optic neuritis may experience blurred vision, headache, and eye pain. Mainly, it occurs on one side and may lead to partial or total vision loss. Cognitive changes People with MS may experience a few cognitive changes, such as slowed processing. This might lead to difficulty finding words, short-term memory loss, and problems multitasking. Furthermore, one may also notice that they might have to read words a few times to understand them. Changes in bladder habits Another common symptom that’s an early sign of MS includes changes in bladder habits. This can either increase the frequency of urination, or one may also experience hesitancy where they may feel like going to the restroom, but the bladder does not empty. Fatigue An extremely common early sign of MS, fatigue can also result from other medical conditions. Hence patients are advised to seek the advice of a healthcare expert at the earliest. This usually happens during the afternoon and can be accompanied by weak muscles, sleepiness, and slowed thinking.

Lupus is an inflammatory autoimmune health condition wherein one’s immune system attacks healthy tissues and body organs. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), lupus caused due to some prescription medicines, and neonatal lupus are the types of this condition. Although the exact cause of lupus is unclear, the cell-death theory, proposing that such inflammation is a normal cell-renewal process, is a widely accepted explanation. Taking the necessary steps to heal from lupus begins with identifying its early signs: Butterfly-shaped rashes A butterfly-shaped rash that spreads across the face, typically covering the cheeks and the bridge of the nose, is a common symptom of lupus. Such rashes are often the result of exposure to UV rays and the consequent adverse reaction of immune-related cells in the body. Lung problems Pleuritis, pulmonary hypertension, “shrinking lung” syndrome, lupus pneumonitis, and acute lupus pneumonitis are the major lung problems due to lupus. Such lung issues are caused due to inflammation of the outer lining of the lungs, which worsens pain. Shortness of breath often results from such lung ailments. Swelling of joints Lupus can also lead to joint inflammation, causing acute joint pain, swelling, and stiffness in areas like the shoulders, neck, thighs, and arms. It also tends to affect joints in the body’s periphery, such as fingers, knees, ankles, and toes. Fever Individuals with lupus are often affected by fever exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which results from inflammation. People with lupus also typically experience bouts of low-grade fever at the outset. Hypothyroidism Individuals with lupus and thyroid problems share a common immunological etiology; hence, patients with lupus may also experience symptoms of hypothyroidism. Thyroid nodules are typically common among patients with SLE. Gastrointestinal issues Sometimes, lupus can affect one’s digestive process, triggering gastrointestinal problems like vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. Such digestive issues result from attacks on the immune system.

Eating certain foods can be hazardous to one’s health. In fact, unhealthy foods, coupled with unhealthy eating schedules, are the primary cause of cancer in a vast majority of individuals with the condition. Now, there are several foods that fall into this category. While each food listed here may contribute to other health hazards, the common thread that connects them is their specific carcinogenic components. Here are the foods that can cause cancer: White bread Refined carbohydrates and refined sugar are directly linked to increasing the risk of cancer in individuals. So, foods such as white bread, white rice, white pasta, baked sweets such as cakes and pastries, and sugar-heavy cereals need to be eaten in moderation or avoided altogether to keep cancer at bay. Refined carbohydrates are chemically stripped of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other natural components that make them organically healthy. So, foods containing refined carbs and sugars can increase a person’s blood sugar and enhance the possibility of developing colorectal cancer and other malignancies. Farmed salmon Like other farmed fishes, farmed salmon leave consumers vulnerable to cancer if eaten regularly. Such fish are farmed and commercially raised in huge quantities. For preservation, farmers and businesses that farm and sell this kind of fish use a host of pesticides, antibiotics, and antivirals. These chemicals, used to prevent bacterial and parasitic growth in their fishes, have carcinogenic characteristics. Farmed fish does not even contain large quantities of omega-3 fatty acids, the main nourishing element found in non-farmed fish that is useful to fight cancer-causing elements. French fries Deep-fried foods are among the worst from any health-related perspective. Fried foods contain a compound known as acrylamide. Like other fried, starch-heavy foods, French fries also contain massive amounts of this chemical. Several research studies have found that acrylamide has serious carcinogenic properties, damages the DNA in a cell, and can eventually cause its death.

The brain controls all actions in the body using an intricate network of nerves connecting everything from head to toe. Parkinson’s is a neurological progressive disease that affects this network and disrupts vital nerve signals controlling body parts and functions. The disease does not have a permanent cure. But its symptoms can be managed with treatment, therapy, and lifestyle changes. One must recognize early signs of Parkinson’s disease to get a prompt diagnosis and treatment. Tremors Stress or physical fatigue can trigger shaky hands. However, a tremor that develops in the thumb, one of the fingers, the hand, or even the chin while resting may be an early sign of Parkinson’s. Tremors can start in the fingers but can turn into severely uncontrolled movements affecting the entire arm as the condition progresses. Poor balance, posture, and gait Changes in one’s walk and pace, like suddenly walking slower, could be another early sign of the disease. Parkinson’s also affects the nerves that control flexibility and balance. If the person takes more time or struggles with maintaining balance, it indicates damage to the basal ganglia nerves. Changes in stance are also noticeable as the disease progresses, with one developing a stooped or hunched-over posture. Trouble sleeping Tremors, stiffness, restless leg syndrome, and discomfort associated with the disorder also affect one’s sleep quality and cause insomnia. This leads to daytime drowsiness and severe fatigue brought on by chemical changes in the brain. Changes in speech and writing Small, cramped handwriting or experiencing trouble writing are subtle signs of the disease that one should not ignore, especially if there are no underlying ailments. Changes in one’s voice, like monotonous speech, slurring, soft speech, or even increased hesitation before speaking, are all symptoms of early-stage Parkinson’s. Loss of smell Conditions like the common cold and infections can affect one’s sense of smell.

Dementia is a condition in which an individual’s memory, social abilities, cognitive functions, and thinking are severely affected. Dementia is a family of diseases that affect patients’ brains. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common dementia, especially among the elderly. Sometimes, diagnosing dementia can be difficult as many of its symptoms seem harmless. For instance, memory loss can either be dementia-driven or due to old age. Keep reading to learn about the warning signs of dementia. Memory loss Unlike normal memory loss, which happens mainly due to old age, dementia is not a natural process. The main difference between the two conditions is that dementia-driven memory loss is accompanied by other issues, such as losing the ability to learn, reason, think, and remember. While memory loss can be sharpened over time with the right foods, sleep patterns, cognitive exercises, and physical activity, dementia is more irreversible. Altogether, dementia involves severe memory loss, but not all types of memory loss indicate dementia. Therefore, one must visit their local healthcare expert whenever they encounter either situation. Tendency to misplace belongings A person diagnosed with dementia often loses their personal belongings. It mainly happens because the memory function of their brain is irreparably damaged. Additionally, people with this condition tend to misplace things in the oddest places. For example, it is not uncommon for someone with dementia to misplace a pair of house keys inside a microwave oven or drop their wallet inside a plant vase. Such kinds of misplacements are typical of dementia patients as it indicates that they have lost some sense of what place they are in. Therefore, placing keys in an oven might seem perfectly normal to them at the moment. Frequent mood shifts People with dementia often spiral into anxiety and other related conditions due to the changing chemical composition in their brains.

Coffee and tea are very popular beverage choices. However, they contain caffeine – a substance that can boost metabolism, mood, and mental and physical performance. Many people drink caffeine for mental alertness, migraine, memory, and athletic performance. In most cases, drinking these beverages in low to moderate quantities is considered safe, but high doses of caffeine may have unpleasant and sometimes even dangerous side effects. So it’s advised to limit caffeine intake as much as possible. Side effects of caffeine Experts believe healthy adults can drink up to 400 milligrams of caffeine daily. It means nearly 4 cups of brewed coffee a day is safe. However, one must know the possible side effects of caffeine, some of which are listed below. Insomnia One of the most prized qualities of caffeine is its ability to help people stay awake. But excessive amounts of caffeine can make it challenging to get restorative sleep. Furthermore, studies have found that high doses of caffeine decrease total sleeping time, especially in older adults. In addition, caffeine taken later in the day may interfere with sleep as its effects take several hours to wear off completely. Rapid heart rate High amounts of caffeine also possess stimulatory effects that can increase heart rate. Further, it can lead to an altered heart rhythm known as atrial fibrillation. However, this may not happen to everyone, and some people dealing with heart problems may be able to tolerate high amounts of caffeine without any adverse effects. Anxiety Caffeine brings about alertness by blocking the effects of adenosine – a chemical in the brain that causes exhaustion. At the same time, it also triggers the release of the adrenaline hormone, leading to a surge of energy. But at high doses, these effects may become more pronounced, leading to anxiety or nervousness.

The early stages of any form of arthritis can make indulging in daily activities quite frustrating. One may find it difficult to hold, grab, reach, or lift objects because of the stiffness in their joints. A healthcare expert may suggest certain therapies, prescriptions, and other treatments to manage the symptoms and pain caused by arthritis. However, one must avoid factors that trigger or worsen the condition, including the foods mentioned below. Pork Pork is a red meat that an individual with arthritis should strike off from their daily meal plan. Research indicates that this meat is substantially high in saturated fat. The intake of such fats may cause strain on the heart and may lead to gaining an unhealthy BMI, triggering inflammation and worsening one’s arthritis symptoms. Beef, lamb, mutton, and elk are other sources of red meat that arthritis patients should avoid. Milk This high-fat dairy product is rich in nutrients like calcium and proteins essential for healthier living. However, milk usually contains casein, a common contributor to inflammation in individuals with arthritis. Therefore, one should consider limiting milk and other high-fat dairy products like yogurt and cheese if dealing with arthritis. Tomatoes While tomatoes make great additions to several foods, people with arthritis may have to steer clear of this food. It is a nightshade vegetable that naturally produces a chemical known as solanine. An increased level of this chemical in the body may contribute to joint pain, swelling, and inflammation in those with arthritis. Other nightshade vegetables that contain solanine include chili peppers, bell peppers, and potatoes. Liver Healthcare experts often advise against organ meats like liver because of their high purine content. These are substances that the body usually converts to uric acid. Therefore, excess of organ meat during meals may drastically increase the level of uric acid in the body.

Nutrition is important for good health. Unhealthy food can cause damage to one’s metabolism and organs. Furthermore, various studies have suggested that food and its nutritional value significantly affect the health and aging of the skin. So, healthcare experts recommend adding healthy foods to one’s nutrition regime. Read further to know which foods help achieve glowing and blemish-free skin. Top 6 foods for glowing skin A meal plan that focuses on high-quality lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, fiber, and healthy oils is the best for supporting healthy skin. Avocados Fresh fruits such as avocados are packed with healthy fats. These fats greatly benefit the skin. Moreover, avocados are a good source of vitamin E, an important antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative damage. Tomatoes Tomato-based foods like juice and sauce may help clear up acne. Moreover, tomatoes contain a phytochemical known as lycopene, which makes them red. Lycopene boosts collagen strength and fights against the damage caused by UV rays. Ginger This superfood is best known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, multiple studies have shown that ginger has a soothing effect on the skin. So, one can also try ginger facials to achieve glowing skin. Walnuts Walnuts are a rich source of essential fatty acids, which are fats that aren’t produced by the body. This makes walnuts one of the best foods for healthy, glowing skin. Further, they contain zinc, which is required by the skin to function as a barrier. Additionally, the mineral is necessary for wound healing and combating inflammation. Carrots Carrots contain beta-carotene, which naturally helps protect the skin against sunburn. Furthermore, they are rich in vitamin A, which helps restore damaged collagen and also acts as an antioxidant to prevent the overproduction of cells in the skin’s outer layer. Including carrots in one’s daily meals can easily help achieve glowing skin.

From movement and awareness to thinking, speech, and hearing, the CNS controls several integral bodily functions. Epilepsy is a CNS-related disorder caused by brain activity abnormalities, triggering abnormal behavior phases. Muscle stiffness, uncontrollable body jerks, and loss of consciousness are some of its common symptoms. A systematic treatment course, a healthy meal plan, and some lifestyle changes can help control epilepsy symptoms. Here are some foods patients with epilepsy should avoid or limit: Bananas Bananas contain high potassium levels, which is an essential nutrient for the body. However, excessive banana consumption will lead to excess potassium concentration in one’s body. This may lead to periodic seizures. Thus, patients with seizures must consume bananas in limited quantities. Sugary foods and beverages Increased sugar intake can spike in blood sugar levels, which may trigger seizures in some people. Consequently, it helps to avoid foods and beverages containing high sugar concentrations, including soft drinks and processed foods. Baked items Baked foods are typically prepared using refined flour and contain trans fats, which can increase one’s risk for cholesterol and heart diseases, including cardiac arrhythmia. Cardiac arrhythmia can lead to convulsive syncope, characterized by seizure-like symptoms. Thus, it is important to avoid or limit having baked foods like cakes, pastries, and bread, particularly if they are store-bought. Caffeine Caffeine often triggers an overactive CNS. According to the Epilepsy Society, caffeine may increase one’s susceptibility to seizures. It is best to keep one’s intake of caffeinated drinks, such as tea, coffee, and aerated drinks in check. Monosodium glutamate Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, and other food additives may aggravate nerve cell firing and worsen neurological disorder symptoms. Hence, individuals with epilepsy must steer clear of food items containing MSG and other food additives, typically found in ready-to-eat foods and food bought from restaurants. In addition to avoiding or limiting the foods mentioned above, patients with epilepsy should also be attuned to any food intolerances they may have.

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine in the coronal or frontal plane. It is generally diagnosed during adolescence and may lead to pain in the lower back, back stiffness, pain or numbness in the legs due to pinched nerves, or fatigue due to muscle strain. Treatment for this condition involves the use of braces, spinal fusion surgery, or spine and rib-based growing operations. Further, healthy food choices are an important part of recovery. Best foods Here are three foods to eat when undergoing scoliosis recovery to improve health and wellness: Fresh fruits and vegetables: Fresh fruits and vegetables are a rich source of nutrients as well as fiber, which are important for maintaining one’s overall health. Fresh produce like broccoli, apples, tomatoes, avocados, cauliflower, carrots, kale, Brussels sprouts, pears, peaches, celery, and green beans can be beneficial during recovery. Unprocessed meats: Organic meats, such as chicken, turkey, fish, and beef, are a great way of providing proteins to the body. However, one should steer clear of processed meats, as they may have unhealthy additives and preservatives. Foods with vitamin D and calcium: Calcium and vitamin D are crucial for maintaining bone health and must be added to meals in healthy doses. Calcium can be found in beans, lentils, poppy seeds, chia seeds, and celery, while vitamin D may be obtained from fish, eggs, or mushrooms. Those undergoing scoliosis treatment must also remember to stay hydrated, as water contributes to the body’s natural functioning. Worst foods At the same time, some foods may impede recovery during scoliosis and must be avoided. These include: Soda: Sugary drinks such as soda inhibit the body’s ability to absorb calcium and can interfere with recovery when dealing with scoliosis. Fast food: Fast foods generally contain high amounts of salt, which can make one lose calcium through urine.