Most people do not give much thought to the way they urinate. But the way this important natural bodily function is carried out has a huge impact on health. A few peeing mistakes can cause bladder and kidney problems, hormonal imbalances, or other urinary tract infections that put health at risk in the long run. So, here are some common peeing mistakes one might be making and ways to avoid them: Holding it in When one is engaged in important activities, they may delay urinating even if they feel the urge. Although the bladder is designed to expand, holding pee for a long time repeatedly can damage the organ and lead to chronic bladder overstretching, disrupting bladder control. Parents or caregivers can help kids understand the importance of taking regular bathroom breaks even when in school. Peeing too frequently If one pees too frequently, even when they don’t need to, the bladder gets trained to respond to smaller volumes of urine. An overactive bladder can hamper daily life, making peeing too much one of the top peeing mistakes to avoid. Further, if one is unable to hold their pee at all, this could be a sign of an underlying health condition. Wiping incorrectly One should wipe from front to back after peeing. This is important as the anus and perianal area breed bacteria that can enter the body and cause infections while wiping from back to front. Similarly, wiping excessively or aggressively can irritate the skin and make one vulnerable to infections. Not staying hydrated Issues like pain while urinating or not peeing enough can be associated with dehydration. Usually, clear urine indicates that the body is hydrated. Not drinking enough water can make the pee take on a dark yellow color or an odor. Over time, dehydration can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and kidney or bladder stones, among other health issues.

Typically, people prefer to avoid visiting a healthcare expert since it is a stressful experience. However, a person’s skin, more often than not, provides an adequate picture of their health, so if the skin is showing signs of excess dullness, redness, changes color rapidly, or displays other symptoms, it is advisable to see a skincare expert at the earliest. Here are some of the signs that mean that one has to visit a dermatologist: Having dry, flaky skin patches Dryness and flaky skin patches are indicative of health conditions like psoriasis or eczema. In fact, these tend to be some of the early symptoms of such a condition, making it imperative for people to visit a dermatologist immediately. A dermatologist can correctly detect such conditions and provide the necessary treatment or prescription-based solutions to reduce the severity of the symptoms and improve one’s quality of life. One especially needs to consult a dermatologist if they experience flaky or overly dry skin on their scalp, chest, knees, elbows, or lower back. Having nail or skin infections Skin and nail infections mean that things like fungus, bacteria, viruses, or yeast have come into contact with a person’s skin. The most common indicator of this is swelling, inflammation, pus, warts, itching, or nail/skin discoloration. These signs are easy to detect by a dermatologist and, after that, easy to address for them. Experiencing a constant itching sensation Constant itching is a sign of several skin and health conditions and should not be ignored. It can be as serious as skin cancer in people. Therefore, while itchiness can be ignored in the short term, if one feels this sensation for longer than, say, 3 to 4 days, then the wise solution is to visit the dermatologist for a checkup immediately. Having a mole that changes in appearance Moles that change color or appearance are another massive red flag and can indicate skin cancer.

Maintaining good oral hygiene does not simply refer to brushing, flossing, and home remedies. Periodic planned visits to the dentist’s office also determine the scope of oral care in the long run. But one must also be aware of the possibility of dental negligence from the professional and unsafe practices that con unsuspecting patients. It’s necessary to assert extra vigilance and identify these common red flags that question the authenticity of dental care treatments. Providing inflated bills Often, people get overwhelmed with technical jargon used for explaining treatment packages. Some professionals take advantage of this situation to bill charges explicitly without one’s knowledge. Not paying attention to detail A comprehensive exam and a thorough review of past health complications can provide valuable insights for the dentist to plan a good treatment. However, if he or she is taking this step lightly, then it’s better to avoid fixing another appointment and find a better practitioner in the neighborhood. Lack of ethics Speaking rudely, not paying attention, or unnecessarily losing one’s calm because their patients are asking questions are all warning signs that should not be ignored or tolerated. Too many promotions and ads A dental clinic that spends too much time and money advertising on billboards and online may not be good enough, as there is such a thing called as overselling. If the professional services and treatments are good, the clinic’s reputation will likely increase through good word-of-mouth publicity. Also, look out for promotional offers that are too good to be true. Communication is a problem Healthcare professionals need to take into account personal considerations of their patients while discussing treatments. If the dentist seems disinterested or dismissive by nature, it is a clear sign that he or she is not really serious about helping overcome one’s dental problems. Bad testimonials Check social media pages and online review sites to learn more about the dental clinic and the services provided by its staff.

A gastroenterologist (GI) specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the digestive system organs, such as the liver, pancreas, stomach, gallbladder, intestines, colon, and esophagus. When experiencing digestive discomfort that does not go away, it might be wise to seek the expertise of a gastroenterologist. Patients should clarify their doubts about their symptoms and overall gastrointestinal health during the visit. Sometimes, it might be awkward, but it is necessary to ask certain uncomfortable questions. Should I worry if I fart too much in a day? Passing gas, a natural bodily function, can result from various factors, such as ongoing treatment, eating specific foods, and even childbirth. Excessive flatulence may point toward conditions like sleep apnea or, in rare cases, colon cancer. If frequent and bothersome farting persists, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for a checkup. The expert can assess a person’s discomfort level and provide necessary guidance to address adverse impacts on their daily life. Should I worry if I urinate too often? How many times an individual pees in a day depends on many factors, such as their water intake and consumption of certain beverages. Since people have different bladder capacities, there is no fixed number of times one should use the bathroom. However, if a person suddenly urinates more frequently than usual without any lifestyle changes, they should consult a doctor. The overactive bladder may be caused by several reasons, from urinary tract infections (UTIs) to undiagnosed diabetes. Does my vaginal discharge have normal color and texture? Talking about the color, consistency, texture, or smell of one’s vaginal discharge might be awkward. However, having this discussion with a healthcare professional is crucial if one notices changes in the discharge. For example, a thicker texture can indicate a yeast infection. Similarly, a yellow, green, or gray discharge may be a cause of concern.

The nails, hair, and skin perform more vital functions than we can imagine. While the nails contribute to sensations and protect the digits, the hair helps regulate the body’s temperature. The skin forms the body’s outermost layer and protects it against harmful substances and injuries. Thus, healthy hair, skin, and nails are essential for overall physical well-being. Here are some foods one should incorporate into one’s meal plan for hair, skin, and nail health: Fatty fish Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are high in omega-3 fatty acids, significantly boosting skin, hair, and nail health. They protect the body from sun damage and ensure good scalp health. Eggs Besides being excellent protein sources, eggs are rich in essential nutrients like vitamins A, E, and B7, zinc, and biotin. Consequently, they are highly recommended for hair, skin, and nail growth and strength. For example, one can have eggs for breakfast in the form of popular breakfast meals like scrambled eggs, boiled eggs, and omelets. Oatmeal Oatmeal is packed with fiber, zinc, copper, and essential vitamins. Zinc is particularly effective in reducing acne and facilitating strong nails. When eaten with milk, oatmeal can act as a complete breakfast meal and replenish the body with the required protein intake. Almonds Almonds are packed with vitamin B7 or biotin, which is essential for scalp health and steady hair and nail growth. It can also protect the body and hair against damage caused by harmful rays of the sun. Beans Beans, loaded with zinc, biotin, protein, fiber, and iron, are required by the body to fight biotin deficiency and ensure the healthy growth of the hair and nails. They also help enhance skin elasticity and moisture. It is a good idea to include different types of beans, such as black beans, kidney beans, and broad beans, in one’s meal plan.

Although made from skin cells, fingernails and toenails are hard due to the laminated layers of a protein called keratin. Regardless of their texture, nails are an essential body part as they help us pick up things and protect our toes and fingers. Hence it’s crucial to care for them and maintain their health and appearance. What follows are a few dos and don’ts when practicing a nail care routine. Dos for healthy nails Keep them dry and clean Fingernails and toenails shouldn’t be kept wet for too long as moisture is a hotbed of bacteria production. Soaking the nails in water for an extended period can also lead to a split in the fingernails, which can become painful and lead to infections. Always wear rubber gloves with a cotton inner lining when washing dishes and cleaning the house or bathroom. They will keep your hands and nails from getting wet and coming into contact with harsh chemicals. Cut them regularly An essential component of good personal hygiene is cutting the nails regularly. While you can get a manicure from a professional, using clean clippers at home will also do the job. Cut the tips across and then shape them from the sides for a gentle curve that doesn’t hurt or get stuck in clothes. Moisturize Yes, you must moisturize the cuticles and fingernails. Nail dryness can lead to the formation of painful dead skin, cracks, and flaky skin. Besides using a moisturizer, you can apply a nail hardener that helps strengthen the nails. Don’ts for healthy nails Bite your nails Biting the nails and cuticles is a habit some unknowingly develop. A minor cut alongside the fingernail can cause mouth bacteria to enter the wound, causing an infection. Biting the cuticles can also cause inflammation, which can be painful. Pull off hangnails Don’t pull off any part of the nail if it’s hanging or broken.

Gastroenterologists are physicians who specialize in diagnosing and treating digestive tract disorders. This can include problems ranging from the passage of gas, celiac disease, and irritable bowel syndrome to even colon cancer, and more. While asking them certain questions can be embarrassing, one must not shy away from them. Instead, one must enquire about the issues to receive more information. Keep reading to know more about these questions and why they must be asked. Is passing a lot of gas an issue? Usually, one may release gas in the form of burps or even farts, but most people do not know that this gas forms due to many reasons. While the passage of gas is completely natural, sometimes when it builds up, it can lead to bloating and abdominal pain. This often occurs when the patient regularly eats fatty foods, has an increased level of stress, eats too quickly, or has irritable bowel syndrome. In such cases, gastroenterologists may provide a diagnosis of the underlying issue and develop a treatment plan. How do I know if my stool is normal? Typically, stool can be of different colors, shapes, and sizes. It must be log-like and have cracks on its surface. This usually indicates a healthy digestive system. However, when its consistency is watery or fluffy, it means that the person is sick, has food poisoning, or has an intestinal or digestive problem. In addition to the above, poop that is greyish, blackish, or even reddish can indicate issues in the body that may require treatment. What can cause stomach discomfort? In most cases, slight stomach discomfort may be nothing to worry about. But if the pain persists it could signify serious health issues. Additionally, experiencing bloating or diarrhea can be a problem. When one consults a gastroenterologist, the specialist will first go through the symptoms and deduce the origin of the problem.

Migraine, marked by a severe headache and throbbing pain, is a common phenomenon that affects many people. There are several reasons for it, including sensory stimuli, stress, weather changes, hormonal changes, and other underlying health conditions. When the neural activity becomes overactive, it gets more sensitive and causes migraine. To avoid this, it is important to make changes to one’s food regime. Adding certain foods discussed below to one’s daily meals can help relieve migraines. Leafy greens like spinach and kale Spinach and kale are both leafy greens that contain magnesium, which has shown to prevent neurons from becoming hypersensitive. This, in turn, helps keep migraines at bay. Kale is also rich in fiber, but one may require some time to get used to its strong taste. These versatile foods can be blended into soups, salads, pastas, as well as chips. Scrambled eggs Eggs are a nutrient powerhouse that also provide migraine-fighting benefits of magnesium along with other additional nutrients including protein, essential vitamins, and zinc. They are also incredibly easy to make and an affordable option to include in one’s daily food regime. Almonds Almonds are one of the best foods for migraines as they contain magnesium and essential fats and fiber, which can also bring overall health benefits to individuals. A couple of magnesium-rich alternatives are cashews and Brazil nuts. Having said that, it’s best to have these nuts in moderation to avoid other health concerns. Ginger Ginger has medicinal properties and has been traditionally considered a home remedy for migraine and inflammation. One can have hot ginger tea or add an inch of it in salad and regular meals to prevent and manage migraines. Dark chocolate Dark chocolate without any added sugar provides numerous health benefits and works wonders particularly for migraines. The cocoa regulates one’s blood pressure, which is a leading cause of migraines, especially in females.

Increased stress can be linked to a tendency to fall prey to bad habits. While it sounds mildly incredulous, there can be a link between stress, the resultant bad habits, and eventually damaged teeth. Habits like nail biting, not flossing, or not brushing at night might not seem like a big deal; however, they can lead to numerous adverse effects in time. Essentially, they can significantly impact dental health and the dental bill. 6 bad habits that damage teeth Using teeth as tools The primary activity of teeth is to chew on food and help break it down into smaller pieces, making it easy for digestion. However, that is not all we use our teeth for. On multiple occasions, we use our teeth as tools to get a few other non-eating-related jobs done, like opening a bottle, tearing off plastic packaging, biting nails, and more. All of these activities are potentially harmful to dental health. Chewing ice There are few things as crunchy as frozen water. It is no wonder that people are so fond of chewing ice and treating it as a snack. That said, it is not a good habit, neither for the throat nor the teeth. Regularly chewing ice can damage the teeth, roots, and gums. As pleasurable as the activity is in the short run, it can cause extensive damage and lead to painfully sensitive teeth because of exposed roots in the long run. Biting nails Ever observed anyone habituated to biting nails when they are thinking hard or trying to figure something out? It is one of the most common habits in children and in adults. However, this bad habit is one that can prove damaging to oral and dental health. It is suggested that biting nails can change the shape of teeth and even cause pain.

Maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond just regular brushing and flossing. One may follow several habits without realizing the potential harm they can cause to one’s teeth. From seemingly harmless activities to daily routines, these habits can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems. Here are some common but often overlooked habits that harm oral health. One must avoid them to extend the longevity of their pearly whites. Poor oral hygiene Neglecting proper oral hygiene practices, such as inconsistent brushing and skipping flossing, can pave the way for plaque buildup. This buildup contributes to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease, which can lead to more serious dental issues if left untreated. Using teeth as a tool Using one’s teeth to open bottles, tear packages, or crack nuts might seem convenient, but it’s a recipe for disaster. This habit can cause chips or cracks in one’s teeth or lead to gum bleeding. So it’s advisable to use one’s teeth only for chewing food and not as substitutes for scissors or bottle openers. Nail biting Nail biting affects one’s nails and takes a toll on one’s teeth. This habit exerts pressure on one’s teeth and jaw, potentially causing misalignment and damaging tooth enamel. It’s a habit worth breaking for one’s dental health and manicure. Using a toothbrush with stiff bristles While it may seem like a harder bristle toothbrush can clean one’s teeth more efficiently, it can cause more harm. Stiff bristles can lead to gum recession, enamel erosion, and tooth sensitivity. A soft or medium-bristle toothbrush is usually enough for gentle yet thorough cleaning. Chewing ice Chewing on ice cubes may feel satisfying, but it wreaks havoc on one’s teeth. The force exerted while chewing can lead to chips, cracks, or fractures, leaving one with a dental emergency instead of a refreshing treat.

Anemia is a condition where there are not sufficient healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to transport oxygen to the body’s tissues. There are various causes of this blood deficiency and also risk factors that could worsen its condition. And while there are treatment options for anemia, it is important to diagnose the complication early to reduce its effects. Here are six common warning signs that are potential indicators of anemia. Breathing difficulties Someone who develops anemia may suffer from breathing difficulties. The irregularity may result from the lungs trying to overcompensate to carry more oxygen. Even a little exertion may lead to symptoms like shortness of breath. Palpitations The lack of oxygen in the blood could lead to one experiencing palpitations and feeling anxious simultaneously. An irregular heartbeat is unhealthy as the heart needs to work extra hard to compensate for the lack of oxygen, which could also result in pain in the chest. In severe cases, it could lead to an enlarged heart or failure. Therefore, these signs must be discussed with an expert immediately. Cold hands and feet Feeling cold in the feet and hands is usual in cooler temperatures. However, if someone develops these signs out of the ordinary, it could be an indicator of poor blood circulation caused by anemia. The lack of oxygen in the leg muscles could also trigger symptoms of cramping or a tingling sensation in the limbs. Fatigue Feeling tired even after a good night’s sleep is a major warning sign of anemia. The symptoms may occur due to low and poorly oxygenated red blood cells and their inability to carry oxygen to the organs. As a result, one may feel weak, lethargic, and exhausted even without doing anything. Trouble focusing The lack of oxygenation of the internal organs may result in the deterioration of physical and mental energy levels.

If one has high cholesterol levels, they may have to monitor their meal plans. Neglecting what they eat may have adverse effects on their health and increase the risk of stroke and heart disease. While certain foods can help reduce cholesterol levels, eating the same thing regularly could get boring. So, here are six healthy snack ideas to diversify meals and control the levels of cholesterol – the waxy, fat-like substance made by the liver. Almonds These nuts are rich in monounsaturated fats, which may fight against the effects of high cholesterol levels in the blood. It is suggested to have about one-quarter cup of almonds throughout the day. Other healthy sources of nuts to add to meals include walnut halves and hazelnuts. Popcorn The snack choice that most people enjoy during a movie is also beneficial for those with high cholesterol. The fiber content of the food contributes to lowering the waxy buildup in the blood. However, one should avoid adding flavors like butter and salt to popcorn as these may worsen cholesterol levels. Greek yogurt dip The snack is higher in proteins when compared to plain yogurt and is also low in sugar. So, Greek yogurt dip could make a suitable addition to heart-healthy foods. One could dip foods like sliced carrots or even enjoy Greek yogurt with unsalted pretzels and whole-grain crackers, which will help lower unhealthy cholesterol. Oatmeal Adding oatmeal to breakfast or other meals throughout the day is beneficial for one’s overall health. The snack is rich in soluble fiber, which may absorb cholesterol as it moves through the digestive system. Moreover, the healthy fibers in oatmeal may help increase the bile produced by the liver, which may also help reduce LDL or bad cholesterol levels. Apple slices Apples are rich in pectin, a type of fiber known to lower unhealthy cholesterol levels.