Breathing is an essential function that occurs naturally and effortlessly. It is automatically monitored and regulated by the body and does not require constant intervention. However, many significant circulatory and metabolic functions depend on respiration. So, one must occasionally analyze how they breathe and look for irregularities. Experts have identified a few mistakes people make that affect their breathing and respiratory function. Individuals should avoid these breathing mistakes as far as possible. Breathing through the mouth It is common for people to inhale from their mouths without even realizing it. However, experts suggest breathing using the nasal passage. This passage has filters that clear out debris and allergens and humidify the air before it enters the lungs. Getting anxious about breathing Some people closely monitor every breath they take. Respiration is a process closely regulated by the body and requires no major intervention. Therefore, breathing should be monitored only when one experiences respiratory problems like shortness of breath or chest pain. Not using the diaphragm The best way to absorb oxygen is by using the diaphragm muscle located above the stomach. The American Lung Association recommends this technique as it creates negative pressure in the chest and enhances airflow. With training, it is possible to use the diaphragm for regular breathing. Not exhaling properly The body absorbs oxygen and also releases carbon dioxide. So, it is crucial to exhale just as properly to maintain balanced respiration. Balancing inhalation and exhalation is even more important while working out, jogging, running, or performing strenuous activities. Improper breathing can result in muscle spasms and cramps as the tissue expands and contracts. Breathing with a poor posture Poor posture affects the diaphragm and compresses the chest, affecting regular breathing function. One should never sit or stand for long periods in positions that limit the lungs’ range of motion.

Esophageal cancer is a severe type of cancer that occurs in the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Esophageal cancer is frequently not discovered until it has progressed significantly, making treatment challenging. On the other hand, knowing the early warning signs of esophageal cancer can help improve the chances of diagnosis. Listed below are some symptoms and treatment options for esophageal cancer to be aware of. Warning signs of esophageal cancer Difficulty swallowing Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is one of the first symptoms of esophageal cancer. It can cause the sensation that food is stuck in the throat or not passing easily. If this symptom frequently occurs, especially when eating solid foods, it is best to consult a health expert immediately. Chest pain Chest pain can be caused by esophageal cancer, especially when swallowing food or liquid. This pain, which may feel like a burning sensation in the chest, may worsen over time. Therefore, it is important to distinguish this type of pain from other types of chest pain, such as heartburn, to receive appropriate treatment. Change in body mass Another common symptom of esophageal cancer is an unexplained change in body mass. As cancer spreads, it can make swallowing difficult, resulting in decreased food intake and body mass loss. It is advised to consult a doctor or a nutritional expert in such cases. Hoarseness or coughing Esophageal cancer can also cause hoarseness or a chronic cough. It happens when a cancerous tumor grows close to the vocal cords or cancer cells spread to the lungs. Constant hoarseness and a persistent cough can be dangerous and necessitate a healthcare professional’s attention to avoid complications. Acid reflux Regular acid reflux or heartburn can also be a sign of esophageal cancer. When stomach acid goes back into the esophagus, it causes irritation and inflammation, eventually leading to the formation of cancerous cells.

Headaches are a common health complaint worldwide. The general causes of headaches include lack of sleep, dehydration, eye strain, and sinus infection. While most headaches are not a cause for concern, some persistent ones may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. It is important to recognize the alarming signs of headaches to ensure that appropriate care is sought in a timely manner. Here are seven alarming signs of headaches one shouldn’t ignore. Sudden onset of severe pain If one experiences a sudden onset of severe pain, it could be a thunderclap headache. A thunderclap headache is a severe and sudden onset headache that reaches its maximum intensity within 60 seconds. This type of headache can be a sign of a ruptured blood vessel or bleeding in the brain. It’s best to seek medical attention immediately. Oftentimes, the condition can be accompanied even by seizures or fever. Headaches after a head injury Headaches that occur after a head injury could be a sign of a concussion or other traumatic brain injury. These types of injuries can be serious and may cause dizziness, issues with focus and memory, and ringing in the ear along with a headache. Headaches with fever, stiff neck, and confusion If one experiences a severe headache, which is accompanied by fever, stiff neck, nausea or confusion, it could be a sign of meningitis. Meningitis is a serious infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites and early treatment can help manage the condition. Vision changes Headaches that are accompanied by vision changes, such as blurred vision, blind spots, partial or temporary loss of vision, could be a sign of a serious health condition. These vision changes with headaches may be due to low blood sugar, migraine, clotting in the brain’s blood vessels, stroke, or other conditions.

Headaches can be a common problem and a sign of health conditions. The pain can be triggered by stress, anxiety, or a lack of quality sleep. However, certain headache symptoms can indicate bigger, more serious health conditions such as migraine or diabetes. Such symptoms must be taken seriously as, if left unchecked, they could pose health risks. Here are a few headache signs that could be a result of underlying health conditions: Pain behind or around the eye Headaches are closely linked to vision problems. If a person experiencing headaches also senses sharp pain in and around their eye, they may be affected by acute glaucoma. In this condition, there is a pressure buildup in the eye, and eventually, the blood flow gets cut off. This is a serious condition that can lead to blindness. So, if one experiences any pain in and around their eyes accompanying a headache, they must consult a local healthcare expert immediately. Neck stiffness Another notable sign of a headache is stiffness and pain in the neck. The stiffness here can be a symptom of meningitis—a bacterial or viral infection that directly affects the membrane surrounding the spinal cord and brain. The subsequent enlargement of these membranes results in neck stiffness, neck pain, and, eventually, headache. High fever Meningitis can be a challenging condition to diagnose as its signs resemble the behaviors of multiple diseases. However, fever is another typical symptom of the infection that can be followed by headaches. Meningitis can be a serious health condition, so headaches accompanied by a stiff neck and fever can indicate the development of such infection and must not be ignored. Nausea and vomiting Nausea and occasional vomiting can follow bad headaches, especially when dealing with migraines. The two symptoms are also accompanied by dizziness and blurred vision.

Pain is a sensation that everyone has either already experienced or will experience at some point in life. Most pains are harmless and, more often than not, resolve on their own. However, some aches and pains might not go away quickly and would require expert intervention. To be able to identify when the pain is a cause of concern, it is important to learn the body’s cues. Pelvic pain Painful conditions, such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can give rise to pelvic pain. Therefore, it is crucial not to ignore severe and persistent pelvic pain, especially when it is accompanied by vaginal bleeding or fever. Neck pain Poor posture, injury, cervical spondylitis, and meningitis are all possible reasons for neck pain. Because of the varying range of severity of these conditions, neck pain is one of the aches and pains that should never be ignored. The condition can get crucial if it is present with headache, fever, or stiffness. Tooth pain Gum disease, cavities, and abscesses can cause tooth pain. If someone experiences persistent tooth pain, it is advisable to seek a dental consult, especially if the pain is in combination with fever, swelling, and difficulty swallowing. Joint pain Joint pain can be a symptom of gout, arthritis, or other inflammatory health conditions. If the persistent joint pain is accompanied by stiffness or swelling, it can be concerning. Chest pain If there had to be one pain that should never be ignored, it would be chest pain. It is often a sign of heart concerns, including a heart attack. If someone experiences chest pain that radiates back into their back, arms, or jaw, it could be a cause of concern. If it is accompanied by nausea or shortness of breath, one must consult a licensed professional at the earliest.

Our food moves to our digestive system through the esophagus, a long, hollow tube that starts from the throat and ends in the stomach. But when tumors start growing long anywhere along the esophagus, specifically over the cells that line the insides, that’s when esophageal cancer occurs. Its symptoms usually start showing up at later stages. However, certain signs of esophageal cancer can help in early diagnosis. Some of them are: Difficulty while swallowing Difficult swallowing of food and liquids is one of the most prominent signs of esophageal cancer. As the cancerous cells grow slowly, a person finds it difficult to swallow food. The experience is similar to having food stuck in the chest or the throat. In some cases, it may even cause choking. This usually begins as a mild symptom and worsens over time as the lining of the esophagus narrows. Acute pain in the chest In some cases, esophageal cancer may trigger discomfort or pain in the chest. The sudden flare-up of pain usually occurs in the central part of the chest. Sometimes, the pain may be accompanied by a burning sensation or may feel like pressure building up. This type of sign is often reported as a symptom of other health problems, such as heartburn. So it is necessary to observe how often and when this symptom occurs and consult a healthcare expert. Dark-colored stool The cancerous cells inside grow into tumors, making the esophagus narrower. In such a case, certain foods may have an abrasive effect and lead to bleeding in the esophagus. In such cases, the blood and food pass through the digestive system, where the former will also show up in the stool. As a result, a person with esophageal cancer may have a dark-colored stool or observe blood in their stool.

Pain is a natural response of the body that alerts one of potential harm or injury. While some types of pain are normal and can be easily treated with natural or holistic home remedies, there are certain types of pain that may be severe or persistent. These pains may be signs or causes of underlying health conditions that require immediate medical attention. Certain types of pain that one should never ignore are listed below. Chest pain Chest pain can indicate a heart attack or angina- a form of chest pain triggered by reduced blood flow to the heart. Chest pain can also indicate other severe conditions, such as a pulmonary embolism or aortic dissection. Severe headache    Common causes of headaches include dehydration, lack of sleep, eye strain, or sinus infection. But when one experiences a severe or sudden headache or headaches accompanied by other symptoms like a stiff neck, vision changes, dizziness, or tingling on one side of the body, it may be a warning sign of underlying health concerns. Usually, severe headaches may result from a head injury, the onset of stroke, meningitis, low blood sugar, or more. Abdominal pain    Abdominal pain can indicate various health conditions like appendicitis, ulcerative colitis, or a kidney stone. Therefore, consulting a healthcare professional is advised if one experiences severe or persistent abdominal pain. Back pain   Severe or persistent lower back pain can indicate an underlying disease such as kidney stones or kidney infection. The pain can either be dull or sharp and can be accompanied by other symptoms like nausea and painful urination. Unusually painful periods   Women who experience severe or abnormally painful periods may feel cramping, sharp pain, or a constant ache in their lower abdomen or back. The pain may accompany heavy bleeding or irregular periods and interfere with daily activities.

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder that affects many people around the world. The condition is characterized by recurrent seizures or uncontrolled jerking movements and confusion, mainly caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. While various treatments are available to help with epilepsy, some people may also benefit from changes in food habits. There are a number of nutrient-rich foods that can help manage the symptoms of the condition and reduce seizure frequency. Foods to manage seizures Leafy greens Leafy greens, like spinach, swiss chard, and kale, are rich sources of vitamins and minerals, including magnesium. This essential mineral can help calm the nervous system and reduce seizure activity. These foods are also low in carbohydrates and can help reduce inflammation in the brain. Berries Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries have low carbs and are rich in antioxidants that can help protect the brain from damage and maintain glucose levels in the body. Eggs Eggs are a great source of protein and contain important nutrients essential for brain health. They are also low in carbohydrates and can help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Seafood Seafood like shrimp, scallops, and lobster are rich in lean proteins, amino acids, and omega-3 fatty acids. These micronutrients and healthy fats can help fight against infection, repair and build tissues, and reduce inflammation in the brain. Coconut oil Coconut oil is a source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are converted into ketones (an alternative source or form of energy for the brain) in the body. They help reduce seizure activity. Avocado leaf extract Avocado leaf extract has been shown to have anticonvulsant properties, which may help improve seizure control. The extract is thought to improve neurotransmission activity. Water and fluids Inadequate water intake can lead to an imbalance of electrolytes in the body, increasing the risk of convulsions.

Lung diseases might be difficult to manage if not diagnosed early. One such condition is MAC lung disease—an infection causing cough and fever, among other symptoms. On the other hand, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are both lung issues associated with swelling in the airways. Recognizing the warning signs of such respiratory issues can help one get an early diagnosis. So, here are some symptoms of lung diseases that require immediate attention: Chronic cough A chronic cough refers to a cough which has been prevalent for eight weeks or longer. This persistent coughing could be a sign that there is some underlying respiratory issue that needs immediate attention and treatment. Shortness of breath This is common if one is involved in some strenuous activity like exercising, which increases the heart rate. If one is experiencing labored breathing even in everyday normal activities, it is not a healthy sign. There could indicate other things like diaphragm not having enough space to contract and expand or an infection. It is better to not ignore this sign as just something temporary. Chronic mucus production Phlegm or sputum is the body’s way of dealing with an infection or an allergic reaction. It is known to be produced by the airways to help prevent allergens from entering or other environmental pollutants, which could be harmful to the lungs. However, if this mucus production lasts 30 or more days, it is time to see a health professional who can diagnose the issue properly. Wheezing If breathing is taking up energy and creating a noise like something is blocking the airway, then it is time for a health check up. Breathing process should happen naturally, without obstruction or noise, so checking the airway thoroughly is recommended. Coughing up blood Chronic coughing can sometimes also lead to coughing up blood.

More than half of the human body is made up of water. This fluid is indispensable in helping different organs carry out their functions correctly. Drinking less water can cause dehydration and contribute to several health conditions. To avoid complications, smartwatches and mobile apps have been developed to remind people to drink water regularly and stay hydrated. The following are a few common repercussions one may face due to less water intake. Constipation Water helps food move through the gastrointestinal tract. When the body does not have sufficient water, it cannot perform this function effectively. As a result, individuals may experience hard stools or constipation. Bad breath Water helps produce saliva and destroy the bacteria inside the mouth, resulting in optimal oral hygiene. Dehydration hampers this process, leading to bad breath. The foul smell may not recede despite brushing regularly and practicing other oral care activities. Skin problems Although moisturizing and cleansing are essential skincare practices, they are typically ineffective if one does not drink enough water. Dry skin is among the most common symptoms of dehydration. The skin may appear sunken and dull, with dark circles underneath the eyes and chapped lips. Dark-yellow urine When a person is dehydrated, the kidneys try to conserve water in the body, which causes the urine to become darker in color. Thus, dark-yellow urine is a sign of less water intake. Craving for high-sugar and high-carb foods A sudden craving for foods high in sugar and carbs is another symptom of dehydration. When dehydrated, the body cannot utilize glucose to produce energy. Consequently, individuals may experience sudden cravings or hunger even after heavy meals. Frequent headaches Many individuals who are dehydrated experience severe and frequent headaches. Such headaches are often accompanied by other dehydration symptoms like dry mouth and fatigue. Fatigue Low water intake can cause extreme tiredness and fatigue.

Many of us have set reminders or installed apps on our phones that remind us to drink water. But most of us often fail to heed those reminders and get tempted to have coffee, tea, or soda instead of a glass of water. Sadly, giving in to this temptation is one of the reasons so many of us today are dealing with health issues and a host of other side effects. Persistent headaches A major part of the brain is comprised of water. When a person does not drink sufficient water, persistent headaches can occur as a side effect. So the next time someone has a headache, instead of using a prescription treatment, they should try drinking a glass or two of water to manage the headache. Mental fog The body and the brain are almost three-quarters water. This makes drinking water a crucial part of staying healthy with a sharp brain. It has been suggested that dehydration can negatively impact your productivity and memory power. If a person experiences brain fog oftentimes, drinking more water might just help. Moodiness Hormone imbalance and stress are not the only things that can make a person cranky. Dehydration is a fair contributor as well. A person’s emotions are heightened with a low level of water in the body. Studies suggest that as little as a one percent decrease in water levels can significantly change one’s mood. If someone unexpectedly feels irritated or moody throughout the day, they can rely on a glass of water. Cravings When an individual is dehydrated, their body does not create sufficient energy. This, in turn, increases the cravings for sugary snacks. But snacks won’t help remedy your dehydration in the long run. It is advisable to have a glass of water before a meal. That should give the person an idea about how hungry they really are.

Cancer is a health condition wherein the cells in the body grow uncontrollably. Some individuals develop cancer in the prostate, a part of the male reproductive system. The symptoms of prostate cancer may differ from one person to the next. Some may not experience any abnormalities until a much later stage. But here are some of the common warning signs of prostate cancer. Being mindful of them could help an individual seek treatment at the earliest. Slow or weak urine flow Most individuals with a prostate will develop difficulties urinating as they age. So it does not necessarily have to be the result of prostate cancer. However, if someone experiences weak or slow urine flow, or if the urine flow starts and stops beyond their control, it’s better to get the prostate checked. Problems with urination might point toward prostate cancer, especially if the symptoms begin at an early age. Painful or burning sensation while urinating If an individual develops dysuria, a burning or painful sensation while urinating, it might be a sign of a urinary tract infection. However, these signs are also associated with prostate cancer and must be checked immediately. Blood in urine One of the most common warning signs of prostate cancer is hematuria, which causes blood to mix with urine. Urinary tract infections often cause the condition. However, one should get the complication checked to assess if they are at risk of prostate cancer. Frequent need for urination When a person develops prostate cancer, a tumor might take shape in the gland. Furthermore, the development may put pressure on the bladder and urethra. The phenomenon can trigger the frequent and urgent need to urinate, especially at night. So those who find themselves in this situation should visit an expert and get their opinion on the symptom.