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Our body is made up of 600 muscles which help in proper functioning of the body. Some muscles have autonomous functions, which cannot be controlled, while there are some that are controllable. The medical term used for sore and painful muscles which vary in severity from mild, moderate, and severe pain is Myalgia. Myalgia can affect any part of the body and can stay for weeks to months. It is common to hear of muscle pain for a person who exercises and works out on a daily basis. Although, pain caused without any form of exercise can be linked to a medical condition. Muscle pain and soreness usually affects only one muscle or a few muscles around a specific body part, caused mostly by stress, injuries, or overuse of muscle. This can also be due to certain illness, infection, or by use of certain medications. 1. Vitamin D Deficiency Vitamin D receptors are widely present in most of the cells of our body. Due to a lack of vitamin D in the body, these receptors tend to become hypersensitive leading to severe musculoskeletal pain. This deficiency can also have a great impact on the structure of the bone, making them weak, brittle, and painful. And since the bones and muscles are attached, it causes pain in the muscles as well. It is important to get exposure from the sun for at least 15-20 minutes every day to maintain good health. For those who are unable to get exposure through the sun, Vitamin D supplements are widely available. Caption: Getting exposure from the sun for a while everyday is necessary. Credits: Health mil Alt tags: Vitamin D 2. Iron Deficiency Another common cause for muscle soreness without exercise is the deficiency of iron. Iron deficiency can be easily cured in people by consuming foods like, fish, spinach, mushrooms, beans etc. Muscle soreness and pain due to deficiency in iron is more likely to happen in women as they tend to lose a lot of blood during their menstrual cycle. Maintaining good iron levels in the body is very necessary for people of all age group 3. Stress Stress can also be a reason for muscle pain. When a person is under stress, the body releases stress hormones which are known to cause muscle tension. So, those who have chronic stress, are likely to have their muscles tensioned all the time. Relaxation techniques such as yoga and breathing exercises must be adopted to reduce stress levels. 4. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Caption: A girl feeling tired and exhausted after completing her work. Credits: Pexels Alt tags: Fatigue If signs and symptoms such as headaches, weakness, muscle pain and soreness, lack of concentration, extreme exhaustion last for a minimum of 6 months or longer in a person, they are said to have a chronic fatigue syndrome. A healthy diet, lots of water, good sleeping habits and regular exercise can help overcome this syndrome. 5. Fibromyalgia Fibromyalgia is a medical condition that affects the joints and other tissues of the human body and causes muscles to sore and ache. For those dealing with fibromyalgia, depression, lack of sleep and anxiety are common problems. Muscles of the back and neck are mainly affected in this condition. There exists no definitive cure for this medical condition, although a healthy lifestyle combined with regular exercise and positivity can do great benefits. 6. Disuse Atrophy This is another reason for muscles to sore up without exercise. Disuse Atrophy starts developing as the muscles get weak, as the muscle tissue and tone get lost due to inactivity. An inactive lifestyle is the common cause of disuse of muscle dystrophy. Patients put under bed rest for very long periods due to certain medical conditions also suffer from this. 7. Other Health Conditions Dehydration can be a major reason for muscle pain. Keeping the body hydrated can prevent it from many such illnesses. Common cold, flu also lead to muscle pain and soreness throughout the body. When the body does not get the necessary vitamins and minerals from a balanced diet, such as potassium, magnesium etc it can cause muscles to sore up and pain. It is generally advised to visit the doctor if the swelling or pain lasts for more than three days and signs of redness or some infection are evident. For those leading a sedentary life must bring a change in their habits. Regular exercise, balanced diet, plenty of water, optimism and certain painkillers if required are more than enough to cure such pain in the body.

Clutter is defined as having your possessions around you in a disorganised way. In Simpler words, it is the mess all your things make. While some people like to lead spick and span lives, having every part of their lives organized, there are many of us who are not so organised. Lack of organization may be fine but if it leads to a clutter around you then it can cause you discomfort. The answer to the question can clutter cause stress is Yes. There are various studies which have linked clutter to stress. Some explanations to why it causes stress are: Increase in The Number of Stimuli The presence of clutter increases the number of stimuli to the mind. These can be visual, tactile or olfactory. The presence of these stimuli affects the processing ability of the brain. This increase in stimulus has been linked with stress Whenever we have tasks that we need to do there is a pressure that we have to complete them. Clutter items are things that are not in their place which means that have to be put in place. This constant reminder that there is a task which requires work can cause stress because clutter eventually requires work. Credits: Pixabay Caption: Clutter acts like a to do list for the brain. Alt text: A vector of a to do list. It Draws Attention If you have items out of place they are bound to draw your attention. When you are already having a tough day with lots to do, these things can affect your concentration and can cause you stress. To work efficiently it is important to be concentrated. Decreases Productivity Clutter increases the amount of time it takes for you to perform tasks because of being unorganized. It takes more time to find things that you need. It also decreases your workspace making it difficult to have ideal productivity. Feng Shui Feng Shui is a pseudoscience which originated in ancient China. It is also known as Chinese Geomancy. According to Feng Shui having clutter in your life has a negative effect. It says that it increases the negativity. Various other practices also suggest removing clutter from your life. Clutter has a harmful effect on your mind. A small amount of clutter exists in everyone’s life but a vast amount can be damaging and you should ensure that it does not bother you. What Can You Do? Removing clutter from your life is easier said than done. If it was easy, it won’t have been there in the first place. Removing clutter once can still be done but the goal is to ensure that it does not come back. The following practices can be done: Start Small: If clutter is there in your entire house then start with one room. Do not try to do it all at once. If you just have one room with clutter then start with one table. Start small and build on. Use Organizational Skills: Making use of organizational skills means that you sort through items and put them where they are needed most. Designate places for each item and make sure they are kept there. For example, stationery supplies are required when you work, so put them on or near your work platform. This way it would increase productivity. Throw It Away: One main reason for cluttering is keeping things that you do not require. We all have items that are junk and should be thrown away but we do not. Throwing away junk is an important step to keep space for yourself and declutter. Credits: Needpix.com Caption: Throwing away things helps in decluttering. Alt text: A vector of a person throwing stuff in a dustbin. Do Not Let It Pile Up: If you let clutter pile up, then it again acts as a stress trigger. Instead, have a proper schedule of when you want to organize. Depending on your requirement you can do it daily or weekly but it has to be done. Figure out how much time you need to spend in organising to ensure a clutter-free life. Credits: Flickr.com Caption: The longer you wait the bigger the pile of clutter gets. Alt Text: A pile of clothes. Takeaway Clutter can cause you stress but it can be dealt with. It is very easy to deal with clutter as compared to other stress triggers. There are various other stress triggers in life today. Don’t let clutter be one and deal with it. Decluttering can be difficult in the beginning but once you get the hang of it you will see how beneficial it is

Asthma symptoms are highly treatable and manageable without causing many restrictions on a person’s everyday life. However, effective treatment by the use of inhalers can only be ensured when one has received an adequate dose during each use, and that’s only possible when one uses their inhaler correctly. Here are some common mistakes people make while using their inhaler along with solutions to these errors: 1) Not Exhaling First Your lungs have a fixed amount of capacity and it lets your body inhale in air accordingly. If you already have air in your lungs, you would not be able to inhale as much medicine through your inhaler. Thus, in order to ensure maximum inhalation, you must first empty out the air in your lungs before inhaling through the inhaler. What to do: Before you use your inhaler, breathe out as much as you can. 2) Not Inhaling Correctly Typically, it takes about 20-30 seconds for your inhaler to release your entire dose of medicine after pressing it. Therefore, if your inhalation is not in sync with this release, a lot of the medicine could mouth and not enter the airways and reach the lungs. Thus, inhaling too late will waste the medicine, and inhaling too early will only fill out the lungs before letting the medicinal air reach it. What to do: The only way to ensure this mistake is not repeated is to perfect it with practice. However, the best way to solve this problem is to add a spacer to your inhaler. By doing so, it allows you to breathe in the medicinal air when you’re ready. Credit: Wikimedia Commons Alt tag : Asthma spacer Caption: Use of spacer 3) Bad Body and Chin Posture Remember, your medicine dosage can only reach your lungs through the air. To ensure maximum inhalation, your posture must be good. This is because your lungs cannot take in as much as when one is slouching or hunching down. Moreover, the angle of your chin also controls how much air can reach your lungs. What to do: Stand up or sit up straight before while inhaling and lift your chin slightly up. 4) Not Holding Your Breath After Inhaling When air reaches your lungs, it takes time for the gases to exchange in and out of the alveoli sacs in the lungs. Thus, to ensure that the medicine has reached and been properly diffused, one must not exhale out air immediately after inhaling the medicinal air. Otherwise, the medicine won’t have much time to perform its effects and won’t improve symptoms. What to do: Hold your breath for half a minute after inhalation. 5) Rushing Between Puffs When one puff is taken, it usually requires shaking and a few seconds for the medicine mixture and the propellant to mix again. If one rushes the puffs, the dosage will not have enough time to mix and get propelled into the lungs. Moreover, your lungs also require some time to absorb one dosage of the medicine, and rushing it will not enable its full effects. What to do: Maintain a 60-80 seconds time difference between two puffs. Credit: Flickr Alt tag : asthma inhaler Caption: Shake inhaler before use. 6) Forgetting to Shake the Inhaler Before Use Shaking the inhaler before usage is important to ensure proper diffusion, mixture, and concentration of the medicine with the propellant so that the right amount of dosage reaches the lungs. Otherwise, too much or too little dosage will cause undesirable effects. What to do: Shake the canister for about 10 seconds before using it. 7)   Improper Aim To ensure that the medicine enters the airways and into the lungs, one must properly aim the inhaler in their mouth. This is because the medicine can get stuck on the roof of your mouth, teeth, or below your tongue. What to do: Aim the medicine back at the throat. 8) Loose Mouth Around the Inhaler Quite often, a considerable amount of medicinal doses in your inhaler goes to waste. This is because the dose escapes out through the air when your mouth or lips are not tightly sealed around the inhaler. As a result, you will not get an adequate amount of medicine required or prescribed, which may affect your symptoms. What to do: Before inhaling, make sure your lips are tightly sealed around the opening of the inhaler. Credit: wikipedia Alt tag : Asthma inhaler Caption: Seal lips before inhalation 9) Improper Cleaning of the Inhaler People usually store their inhaler in their handbags, pockets, or shelves which are prone to dust, lint, and other particles that may block the opening of the inhaler. As a result, the person may wind up shooting up these particles into the lung which could be harmful in the long run. What to do: Observe the inhaler before taking a puff and try to ensure that the inhalers are stored in particle-free places. Insert the cap on the mouthpiece after using it. 10) Not Priming Your Inhalers In order to ensure the proper diffusion of the medicine mixture with the propellant and prevent further overly concentrated or diluted medicine to be propelled out while inhaling, the inhaler should always be “primed” when it is being newly used. Priming essentially means spraying the inhaler into the air. What to do: Whenever you buy a new inhaler, going to use a spare inhaler that has not been utilized in a long time or even drop your inhaler, prime it a couple of times, say 2-3 times.

Anxiety is a mental health disorder in which feelings such as worrying and fear are common. The number of cases of anxiety disorders is increasing in the world. According to various studies, an estimated 275 million people in the world suffer from anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders are difficult to deal with and are often made worse by what others say. People who suffer from anxiety disorders have a lot of difficulty in dealing with their issues. Something which may seem very easy for you is not very easy for them. It is important to watch what you say to people suffering from anxiety disorders. Here are 10 things you should never say to them: It is Not a Big Deal This is an inaccurate phrase. Mental illnesses are similar to physical illnesses when it comes to the amount of discomfort they cause. Understand it in this way. It may be easy for you to go for a 10km run on a day you are healthy but you cannot do it on a day you have a high fever. Similarly, if someone with an anxiety disorder is struggling then do not tell them their problem is not big enough, Instead help them deal with it. You Need to Calm Down This is a very commonly used statement by most of us but it comes to anxiety it does not work, so there is no point using it. The fact of the matter is that if someone suffering from anxiety could calm down, they would say this statement will not make a difference. In some cases, it can even aggravate the sufferer by making them feel that you are not taking their issue seriously. Have a Drink, It Will Make You Feel Better Alcoholic beverages are not a treatment for anxiety. What we fail to understand is that an anxiety disorder is a long term disease and using alcohol has the potential of making the disorder worse. Do not make such suggestions to people suffering from anxiety. Other People are in Worse Situations Compared to Yo Comparing one individual’s situation to another is not right. Especially when it comes to diseases. Such statements increase the worthlessness that one might be feeling and this increase often causes more problems. Do not make any comparisons of one individual with another on how they deal with their diseases. Suck It Up and Do It Such statements are intended to make people face their fears but in case someone is suffering from an anxiety disorder, a forceful facing of fear can have a very bad effect. It can cause damage to the person and make them more afraid of it than they were before. Everything Overwhelms You! Being overwhelmed is a common feeling for someone suffering from anxiety. Patients do not do it on purpose. Small things which do not seem much to others can be overwhelming to them. Pointing it out only makes it worse. Get Over It In most cases of anxiety disorders, individuals often link past traumas with present situations. The effect of the trauma is so bad that they keep thinking about how that trauma would affect them in the present situation. Asking them to get over it only reminds them that they are not over it. This constant reminder has to be avoided at all costs. I Also Get Anxious, It Does Not Stop Me From Doing Something Getting anxious and suffering from an anxiety disorder are two different things. Most of us feel anxious at some point in our lives but that cannot be compared to the disease. Do not try to compare your anxious moments with someone. The comparison is not right. It is in Your head Saying statements like this has no positive effect on the patient. It often makes them feel that their condition is not real. Concentrate on saying things that help rather than cause harm. It is Not a Real Disease This statement could not be more wrong. Anxiety disorders are real medical conditions that require treatments. Telling people that they are not real makes it difficult for them to accept that they have a condition that requires treatment. Takeaway People with anxiety disorders require support from those around them. Our focus should be on making sure that they feel comfortable and not doing any activities that might serve as triggers for them. Pay special attention to what you say to people suffering from anxiety disorders.

Having low esteem can affect you a lot. There are various studies which show that low self-esteem has been linked with anxiety, depression, loneliness and stress. It can be a major problem for people. One thing about self-esteem is that it can be improved if you work on it just a little, and make some changes in your life. TED talks are freely distributed videos with the goal of spreading knowledge worldwide. TED stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design and their slogan are ideas worth sharing. With this ideology, TED talks have addressed many issues effectively and are a highly recommended source for learning. To get you started towards building your self-esteem, here are 5 TED talks: Success, Failure, & the Drive to Keep Creating This Ted Talk is given by  Elizabeth Gilbert who is the author of the famous book Eat, Pray, Love. In this, she talks about her journey of becoming an author. She explains how she used to be a failed author for a very long time and what she did to get through that phase. She also has a very interesting take on the kind of fears you face after succeeding once. She talks about the psychological similarity between success and failures and how to push through them. The link to this TED talk is here. Credits: Wallpaperflare Caption: The speaker talks about building confidence to advance your career. In this Ted Talk, Susan Colantuono talks about moving forward in your career and how to build yourself to move up from the middle. The talk is aimed primarily at women and has received tremendous response from them. There are pretty good takeaways for men too. She has an unexpected piece of advice for you. To watch this TED talk click on this link. The Power of Believing You Can Improve This TED talk by Carol Dweck focusses on your approach towards tackling problems. She uses very good real-life examples to explain to you a specific approach to tackling problems. Her examples offer a unique take which can be very beneficial. Being a researcher, she goes on to talk about her research on the concept that the problem-solving capacity of our brain can be increased. It’s called the Growth Mindset. Watch her unique take here. Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are Credits: Pxhere Caption: Projecting confidence can increase your self-esteem Alt Text: A man standing. This TED talk is given by social psychologist Amy Cuddy. We all know the importance of body language in how others see us but she explains how our body language can also change how we view ourselves. She talks about the research she has conducted to back her claim. Moreover, she goes on to explain how projecting confidence through body language can increase confidence and self-esteem. Her talk is believed to be very effective in battling low self-esteem. Her TED talk is available at this link. How I Beat Stage Fright Credits: Flickr Caption: Stage fright can be due to low self-esteem Alt Text: A woman performing on stage. Joe Kowan who himself struggled with stage fright talks about his battle to emerge victorious, and appear on the stage. This talk is aimed at people with low self-esteem who have trouble expressing their views in front of people and perform on stage. His personal experience of getting over stage fright acts as a learning moment for all others who are struggling with it. Find his TED talk here. Takeaway TED talks are a wonderful platform to learn new things that will be helpful to you. They cover a whole range of topics. Building your self-esteem is very important as it can help you achieve your goals and dreams while significantly reducing discomfort in your life. Make it a priority to build your self-esteem.

A number of drugs that are prohibited in other countries like the United States and United Kingdom, are still widely and openly available in India. These medicines that are most often restricted are controlled substances, such as opiates, stimulants, antidepressants, and antipsychotics. Even medications such as asthma inhalers and insulin are restricted in a lot of countries. 1. Pseudoephedrine Common cold treatments like Sudafed and Vicks that contain the ingredient pseudoephedrine are banned in most countries like Japan. So, if you plan on traveling to Japan and you have a cold, it would be better to leave the over-the-counter medications at home. 2. Codeine, Tramadol Specific painkillers such as codeine and tramadol are banned in most countries throughout the world. These are controlled drugs and require a prescription to purchase and consume. In some countries like Greece, Saudi Arabia carrying these medications while travelling could result in arrest. 3. Diphenhydramine Diphenhydramine is an active component in the allergy drug Benadryl. In Japan, a person is only limited to ten-milligram capsules. If you’re traveling to Zambia and are used to taking these pills for allergies or to aid in sleep on the plane, consult a doctor for alternatives. 4. Methylphenidate Caption: Chemical formula of methylphenidate drug. Credits: Commons Wikimedia Alt tags: Methylphenidate Japan cannot be a part of your travel list if you take medications for attention deficit disorder. Japan has a zero-tolerance policy for methamphetamines and amphetamines which is an active component in many such drugs. This is the case in Saudi Arabia also. Even people with prescriptions for these medicines are not permitted to carry it with them to these countries. 5. Zolpidem In Saudi Arabia and Nigeria, sleeping drugs that have zolpidem are banned. These drugs are usually used by people who are adjusting to the new country’s time zone. For someone who is travelling to Singapore, it is necessary to obtain a license to legally carry in Ambien. 6. Phenolphthalein For the treatment of constipation, Phenolphthalein, a medicine belonging to a group of drugs called stimulant purgative, is used. It has been indicated from research work done on mice, that its use may be associated with cancer or genetic damage. Because of this, it is banned across the globe except for in India. 7. Furazolidone Caption: Photo of Furazolidone substance used to cure diarrhea Credits: Commons Wikimedia Alt tags: Furazolidone Furazolidone is commonly used for treating diarrhoea caused by bacteria. Not always, but sometimes, Metronidazole is taken along with Furazolidone for faster recovery. Studies indicate that its use has a possibility of causing cancer, and thus it is not used in most countries. In India, this drug is easily available, to be taken individually or in any combination. 8. Nimesulide This drug was never introduced in the US since it was known to cause liver cancer. Nimesulide is a painkiller with no opioid. In India, children below 12 years of age are banned from using this medicine, though it can be used in adults. 9. Oxyphenbutazone Oxyphenbutazone is also a non-opioid painkiller. Many countries have banned this drug since it is known to cause depression in the bone marrow and reduce the number of blood cells in the body, amongst other side effects. It is banned in India if taken with any other drug as a combination though it is available as a single drug. 10. Thioridazine This is an antipsychotic drug used to treat various psychotic conditions. It is known to have many side effects like abnormal heartbeat, eye damage, and a condition where the patient suffers from high temperature and rigidity of muscles. It continues to be available in India. Though still available in India, before consuming such medicines, people must do research about the possible side effects. Also, concerned authorities must take precautionary steps to prevent open sale of such medicines that can be harmful in the long run. #Drugs

1.  What is a Kidney Disease? Kidney disease, also called renal disease, is the general term that denotes damage to the kidney and its reduced function. Whereas, the Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is where the kidneys are unable to flush out toxins and waste product from the blood. This can happen all of a sudden or over time. 2.  Most Common Types Of Kidney Diseases? Glomerulonephritis, Kidney stones, Polycystic kidney disease, Urinary tract infections are some of the common types of kidney diseases. 3.  What Causes Kidney Diseases? There are many factors that can cause kidney problems. Some of which include: People who are suffering from blood or fluid loss. Who consume Blood pressure medications. Have diabetes Have high blood pressure or another Heart disease. Infection Obesity Age over 60 years Liver failure Physical injury of kidney in the past Extensive use of medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, sodium naproxen or associated medicines. 4.  Whom to Consult if you Have a Kidney Disease? In case you are looking for a doctor to check your kidney problem then you must visit a nearby nephrologist. A nephrologist is a medical doctor who specializes in kidney care and treating diseases of the kidneys. 5.  What are the Symptoms of Kidney Diseases? When you have kidney disease you feel more tired, unable to concentrate and sleep properly. You may also experience the need to urinate more often and can find blood passing in your urine, foamy urine, swollen ankles and feet, and puffiness around your eyes. 6.  How Can Kidney Diseases be Treated? Chronic kidney disease has no cure and treatment usually consists of measures that help control various signs and symptoms, decrease complications, and slow down the progression of the disease. You will need to be treated for end-stage kidney failure if the kidneys are severely damaged. 7.  How to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy? In order to keep your kidneys healthy and function properly try the following: Drink plenty of fluids and water. Consume a healthy and balanced diet. Look for all the vitamins and minerals that are important for your body. Watch your blood pressure. Don’t smoke or drink too much alcohol. Don’t put on weight and keep your body weight under control to help your kidneys. 8.  Can You Reverse Kidney Damage? Acute Kidney failure/ damage can be reversed after the underlying cause has been treated Typically, within weeks or months kidneys begin functioning again. Till then the patient is kept on Dialysis. 9.  Is Drinking Plenty of Water Good for the Kidneys? Drinking water is a healthier choice to make your kidneys work efficiently. This is because water helps to filter away blood contaminants that reduce the load on the kidney. Research studies have also shown that being well hydrated may reduce the risk of developing kidney stones and urinary tract infections. 10. How is Anaemia Related to Kidney Disease? A hormone called erythropoietin (EPO) is released by Kidney and is used to produce red blood cells by the bone marrow. When the kidneys are damaged they do not produce or make enough EPO due to which bone marrow fails to make red blood cells. So, kidney damage may result in anaemia.

1.  What Is a Fever? A fever is generally caused by an illness like cold or flu. It is characterized by a temporary increase in the average body temperature of 98.6°F (37°C). In response to fever, the hypothalamus, which regulates body temperature, may reset the body to a higher temperature. 2.  What Causes Fever? Infections related to the ear, skin, lung, throat, bladder, or kidney can cause fever. Fever may also be a symptom of a cold or gastroenteritis condition. When a person catches an infection, it activates the defence system of the body to ward off infections. During this process, the body’s temperature is raised causing mild to severe fever. 3.  What are the Symptoms of a Fever? Apart from higher body temperature, additional signs and symptoms of fever include profuse Sweating, chills, severe headache, body ache, weakness, sometimes nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite and dehydration. 4.  Does Onion Help Reduce a Fever The use of onion as a remedy dates back to ancient times, where it has shown its effectiveness in bringing down a fever by reducing the likelihood of infections.  Onions also help lower body temperature and relieve body ache caused by fever. You can use onion for fever by cutting it into small pieces and adding some drinking water to it. Then, consuming it after six to seven hours. You can see your symptoms gone within 24 hours. 5.  When to Visit Hospital During a Fever? Seek immediate medical care if your temperature is 103 F (39.4 C) or higher and if you observe any signs or symptoms like an unusual skin rash that worsens along with severe headache. 6.  How Long Does Fever Last? A normal fever usually stays for around 1-3 days. Persistent or chronic fever can last more than 10-14 days. A fever that lasts longer than normal may be serious even if it is only a slight fever. So, seek immediate medical attention in such cases. 7.  Should I Cover Myself With Blankets to Recover From Fever? There is no scientific evidence till date, that shows sweating can help you feel better during fever.  So, wrapping up yourself with an extra layer of clothes and blankets, or taking a steam bath, and moving around can bother you even more and is not recommended. 8.  What Should You Eat When You Have a Fever? During a fever, the water content in the body decreases, resulting in dehydration, and loss of appetite. This causes dry mouth in fever, which also alters the taste of the food. Hence the best way to supply nutrients to the individuals in fever is to provide them with plenty of warm liquids, like soups, vegetable stews and broths. 9.  How do You Bring Down a Fever? Bring down your fever by following these simple steps: Assess your body temperature with a thermometer. If your temperature runs 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, you have a fever. Stay in bed and take rest as much as possible. Your body needs the energy to fight the infection and resting may assist in it. Consume plenty of fluids usually warm, like warm water, hot soups and broths. Take over-the-counter medications like Paracetamol/ acetaminophen and Ibuprofen to reduce fever. Stay cool. Do not use blankets or an extra layer of clothing. Take warm baths or use a cold compress to bring down your temperature. Consult your doctor. 10.              How Does Sleep Help in Fever? Fevers are actually good for your body as it strengthens your immunity. Sleep or rest during fever releases proteins that target the infection and helps your body cope up with fever. This means sleeping helps invigorate your immune response to your illness.

Heart Attack is a medical issue in which the blood supply to the heart is blocked, possibly leading to the death of a portion of the heart muscle. It could also be fatal. A heart attack can result in various medical conditions. According to the Million Death Study Project under the Registrar General of India, 2.1 million people in India die every year with heart ailments. Out of these 4/5th are because of heart attacks. This trend is not just reported in India. According to the World Health Organization, Cardiovascular disease or heart disease is the most reported cause of death in the world. There are many medications available for the various symptoms associated with heart diseases. Medication for Heart Attack It’s significant to mention that the supply of blood to your heart is important for your life.Some heart medication are long term, and preventive in nature. While, there are others meant to be taken in an emergency to prevent a heart attack. Credits: Pixabay Caption: The heart attack medication list has many kinds of medication that the doctor can use. Disclaimer The following information is for your general knowledge only. Do not construe the same as medical advice. Taking the wrong heart drugs may have terrible results. Consult your doctor, and only procure/take heart medication as per their directives. ACE Inhibitors Angiotensin-converting Enzyme Inhibitors are blood flow dilating medications. Conversion of angiotensin Enzyme Inhibitors are blood flow dilating medications. These medications are taken as blood is limited to the heart. ACE Inhibitors are given in various conditions and increase the blood flow. Common ACE Inhibitors which are used as an immediate medication for heart attack: Benazepril Captopril Lisonipril Quinapril Ramipril ACE Inhibitors should not be given to pregnant women. If the pregnant mother consumes them, they can cause birth defects in the foetus. Credits: Pixabay Caption: A pregnant woman. Beta-blockers Beta-blockers are drugs that block neurotransmitters – norepinephrine and epinephrine. A Beta-blockers reduce heart rate and blood pressure. The result is that the heart muscles have a reduced workload. Chest pain is also decreased by beta-blockers and is a typical symptom of heart attack. Asthmatic patients should not be given beta-blockers as they can trigger severe asthmatic attacks. In diabetic patients, it is a struggle to disguise the symptoms of low blood sugar. In case diabetic patients are taking these drugs then blood sugar should be checked multiple times a day. The beta-blockers can be withdrawal gradually. Immediate withdrawal can result in more heart problems. They can also cause the following side effects: Difficulty in Breathing Insomnia Depression Decreased Sex Drive Beta-blockers which are used as heart medication are: Propanolol Esmolol Atenolol Acebutolol Labetalol Diuretics Diuretics are medicines which increase the body’s urine production. Increased urine output results in large quantities of salts such as Sodium and Potassium being expelled from the body. This results in lowering blood pressure and reducing the chances a heart attack They are usually given in combination with beta-blockers. Most used diuretics: Furosemide Hydrochlorthiazide Metolazone Toresemide Bumetanide- Diuretics have mild side effects. These are increased urination, fatigue and muscle cramps. Statins Statins act by altering the cholesterol levels in the body. The body has many kinds of lipids. Low-density lipids (LDL) and high-density lipids are predominant on which statin functions. Low-Density Lipids are considered bad lipids and Statins lower their levels. High-Density Lipids which are believed to good lipids are increased by Statins. This is the main principle behind using statins. Statins are the most common heart attack preventive medication. They should be avoided by the following types of people: Diabetic Patients People suffering from Liver Disease Geriatric Patients Kidney Disease Patients Credits: Pixabay Caption: A person getting their finger pricked. Statins which are used as heart attack medication: Atorvastatin Rosuvastatin Lovastatin Fluvastatin Simvastatin Statins have mild side effects which include nausea, rash, vomiting, gas, and constipation. Antiplatelet Drugs In most cases the blood clots, which restrict the blood supply to the heart, are responsible for heart attacks. Antiplatelet drugs decrease the formation of platelets and prevent clotting. They interfere with the platelet activation process and decrease the tendency of platelets to form clots. Antiplatelet drugs which are used as medication for heart attack are: Ticlodipine Clopidogrel Prasugrel Vorapaxar Terutoban Aspirin An Aspirin or Acetyl Salicylic Acid is a very common drug that has multiple indications. Its uses vary along with its dosage. For heart attacks, a very low dose is given. Generally, A low dose between 75mg and 325 mg is prescribed. At this dosage, Aspirin interferes with the clotting action of the blood and results in removing obstructions which are preventing blood flow. The correct dose of aspirin is very important. In higher doses, it acts as a pain killer and has other indications as well. Dual Anti Platelet Therapy When used in conjunction with Aspirin, the highest effects are achieved using Antiplatelet drugs. This significantly increases the effectiveness of both agents, as compared to them being administered alone. An Aspirin can have the following side effects: Nausea Vomiting Difficulty in sleeping Stomach Ulcers Anticoagulants Anticoagulants are commonly known as blood thinners. They increase the clotting time and reduce the coagulation of blood. They can reduce already formed clots and are very important as heart attack medication. Anticoagulants also help in preventing the size increase of blood clots. Anticoagulants have severe side effects. They can cause a severe increase in bleeding in case of injuries as well as menstrual periods. The following are Anticoagulants used as heart attack medication: Warfarin Heparin Apixaban Edoxaban Dabdigatran Warning Signs to Watch Out for There are various symptoms that occur before a heart attack. These symptoms can vary in different people but are observed in most of the people. Chest Discomfort: Chest pain which feels like excessive pressure on the chest, is one of the most common symptoms of a heart attack. It could stay a few minutes or it could come and go. Unexplained Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath frequently accompanies pain in the chest. In most cases, there is severe difficulty in breathing. Pain and Discomfort: Pain and discomfort can be felt all over the body. The most common sites are the jaw, neck, back, shoulders, and arms. These are the more prevalent warning signs. However, some milder and less common warning signs could be: Nausea Vomiting Cold Sweats Light-headedness Fatigue Overview The heart attack medication list contains various categories of medications. Each category also has many alternatives to choose from, but these medications can cause serious damage if taken incorrectly. If any warning signs of a heart attack are observed, then you should seek immediate medical help. A heart attack is a serious medical condition, but a timely and correct intervention can result in a positive outcome. There are various preventive methods to decrease the risk of heart attacks which should be explored. Especially in patients who have already had one heart attack. The risk of another heart attack is more high for patients who have undergone one. #heartattackheartmedication #Heartattackmedicationlist #immediatemedicationforheartattack #Medicationforheartattack

The windstorm of panic shopping that accompanied the onset of COVID-19 continues to leave market shelves swept clear of all basic resources needed to fight this pandemic. Disinfectants? Gone. Masks? Scarce. Hand sanitizer? Don’t even ask. However, in the case of most of these basic items, there are replacements that you can buy or even DIY (do-it-yourself) substitutes you can make right at home. Let’s look at some simple, yet handy workarounds in the time of shortage. DIY Hand Sanitizer This is regarded as the principal species in the present wave of shelf extinctions, with an abundance of basic supplies of Dettol and similar products disappearing rapidly. Even without hand sanitizers, doctors stress on the fact that a highly reliable substitute measure that works just as well, is to wash your hands with soap and water. Caption: A person washing his hands using soap thoroughly Rinsing and washing with soap eliminates the virus mechanically, as the lipophilic (combining) end of the soap compound, which is attracted to solvents like oils and fats, attaches to and damages the organic layer of the virus that causes COVID-19. Cheap soap works, expensive soap works, and antibacterial brands don’t matter as COVID-19 isn’t caused by bacteria in the first place. “Any soap will work for this virus,” emphasizes Dr. Koushik, a medicine resident at Johns Hopkins Bayview in the US. However, the key is washing for sufficient time and thoroughly. “From the data generated observing enveloped viruses [like SARS-2], it is recommended that a person should practice hand-washing for at-least 30 seconds,” says Dr Carl Fictenbaum, professor of medicine at the University of Cincinnati. However, what if you’re not close to a sink? This is where hand sanitizers come into the picture. Commercial hand sanitizers are little more than an ordinary amount of alcohol and a sufficient glob of an emollient (moisturizer) to prevent the skin from drying out. The ratio is generally 30% to 40% moisturizer, something like glycerine or aloe and 60% to 70% alcohol. All you need to do is stir the two together thoroughly and vigorously and funnel them into an appropriate bottle like a pump based one. For most people that works, but not all. There is a chunk of our population that might have eczema and thus for them, a lesser content of alcohol should be used—perhaps 40-50%. Doctors say that it might not be as effective but are better than nothing. DIY Sanitizing Wipes The best workarounds for sanitizing wipes is to use bleach as a base. Bleach is highly effective against germs and viruses, although doctors stress that it needs to be highly diluted, else the fumes can damage the lungs and the chemical itself can damage its surfaces. Caption: A box of wipes on a white table Take five tablespoons of bleach, and mix it with 4 liters of water, and use paper towels in place of paper to dip in it, and use as wipes. The crucial part is to make sure that once you apply it to the body, you should leave the solution intact for a long enough time. Doctors suggested that the contact time should be at least one minute and should be air-dried. DIY Disinfectant Sprays If you are addicted to brands like Dettol or Lysol or other big names, it’s time to rethink and experiment. The EPA lists an astounding 350 products that can be effective in killing the COVID-19 virus. However, before you buy any disinfectant, check the label on the bottle for an EPA registration number, and check if it’s listed on the agency’s website. Caption: A disinfectant eliminating the virus Credits: Pixabay If you are not able to buy any of the products, you can disinfect any surface from the virus by using a solution of household water and chlorine bleach. In case you have bleach, you can use it to make your solution and dispense it in a spray bottle or any bottle of your choice. Several sources give various water-to-bleach ratios for use with common bleach. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that “bleach will be effective against Covid 19” in a 1:48 solution that is ⅓ cup of bleach per gallon of water, or 4 teaspoons. Clorox, a disinfectant company recommends a somewhat stronger 1:32 ratio that is ½ cup per gallon or 2 tablespoons. DIY Face Masks In India, there is a mass mentality to mask-wearing: Not only is it a legal obligation now but people genuinely don’t like stepping out without having one on. However, science recommends otherwise. As of now, most people know that the N95 masks, the form-fitting mask that offers the most protection, are in awfully short supply all over the world. Health care personnel should have the first priority on these masks. Caption: A person sewing their own mask Credits: Pixabay For the rest of us, a surgical mask is the way to go. And, it’s essential too, to help stop the spread of the virus. A surgical mask can also provide some minimal protection against the virus, chiefly for those of us who have poor immunity, pregnant women and the elderly. However, as masks are in limited supply, some individuals are making their own. We utilize everything from several layers of tightly sewn cotton with elastic loops for the ears to bandanas. However, their effectiveness is limited by their empty spaces (porosity) in between layers. The virus is extremely small and these homemade masks are not as tightly fit as the N95 mask. For those already infected by the virus, a homemade mask is a usually faulty choice. The CDC recommended directions for making multiple DIY masks, as well as an instructional video explaining its no-sew mask-making tips. Let’s see how to make one. Cut horizontally the bottom 8 to 9 inches of a shirt or t-shirt, so that you have a piece of material for your mask. Place the material out flat on your table, and fold it at an angle of 90 degrees so that the bottom hem of the t-shirt (maybe double stitched) is now facing right or left. Next, fold it from the top to the middle, and then from the bottom to the middle. Repeat this step once again. Use a hair tie or rubber band to make a loop around each end (right and left). Leaving a few inches of material, so that it looks like a candy wrapper on each side. Now, fold the remaining fabric over the band, with both sides joining in the middle, thus adding a layer to the mask. Finally, put a band over each of your ears, and make sure that the band fits tightly to your face. The pressure on your face should keep the rubber bands and material intact. Embed Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPx1yqvJgf4&feature=emb_title Takeaway In this pandemic, a lot is going on. It’s scary and stressful at the same time. It can be tough to know what’s going on or what you should do. This is a time of exceptional innovation. If you have more doubts or questions, and in fact who doesn’t right now, we have a whole bunch of thoughtful, thoroughly researched articles about the ongoing novel coronavirus. Stay safe wherever you are, and please, if you can, stay home.

Lower back pain is one of the most common discomforts or problems that people face. This is because your lower back consists of the lower portion of your spine. This area is most prone to tissue damage and injury as one is always doing work that requires bending forward and backward. If these movements are not performed correctly or if they are performed vigorously, eventually it places a strain on your spine. In addition, your lower back carries the entire load of your upper body to help it move. Moreover, bad posture can also cause pain or discomfort. Here are some lower back exercises that will ease out back pain and strengthen your back. 1)  Knees to Chest Stretches How to: Lie down on the ground with your back touching the floor. Try to bring one knee close to your chest, while using both hands to pull them closer. Ensure that your back is flat on the floor during this process and only the knee has to move towards your chest. Keep your abdominals tight. Hold this position for a few seconds and then return to the starting position. uration: Hold each pose for about 5-10 seconds and then release. Repeat this five times for each leg. 2)  Lying Lateral Leg Raises Credit: pixabay Alt tag : Exercise side-lying leg raise Caption: lateral leg raises How to: Lie on one side of the body Ensure that your legs are touching each other. Using the hand on the side that your lying to support your head The other hand should be placed near your belly button on the floor. Flex your core muscle and then raise the top leg upwards away from the floor. Ensure that your legs are straight, do not bend your knees. Hold and then release. Duration: Hold each position for 2 seconds and repeat it 30 times for one set. Perform this exercise in 3 sets with 10-second gaps in between each set. 3)  Pelvic Tilts How to: Lie down on your back. Bend your knees and bring them a little closer to your body Ensure that your feet are flat to the ground Arch your lower back and push the stomach out. Hold for a few seconds and then release. After that, try to do the opposite by flattening your lower back and push the stomach towards the floor. Hold for a few seconds and then release. Duration: This form consists of an outward and inward pose. Hold each position for 5 times and repeat each for 10-25 times. Credit: Wikimedia common Alt tag : Cat cow yoga Captions: Cat cow stretch 4)  Cat-cow Stretc (chakravakasana) How to: Kneel down on the floor with your hips apart and legs not touching each other Extend your hands away to the ground and align your upper body in such a way that it’s parallel to the floor. Your elbows and forearms now should be perpendicular to the floor. Then arch your back upwards in such a way that you will be able to see your belly button. Hold this pose for a few seconds Then slowly relax the abdominal muscle and arching your back slightly inwards, towards the floor. Hold for a few seconds and then release. 5)  Bridges Credit: Wikimedia common Caption: Bridges Alt tag : bridge exercise How to : Lie down on your back Placing your feet flat on the ground, bend your knees until your lower leg is perpendicular to the floor. Ensure that your arms are on your sides and touching the surface. Squeeze your buttocks and with the help of your shoulders, raise them upwards away from the floor. Hold still for a few seconds and release by bringing your body to the floor. Duration: For one set, repeat this movement for 15 times. Repeat this for 3 sets with 60-second breaks between each set. 6)  Superman How to: Lie down on the floor with the stomach touching the surface. Extend your arms and legs outwards, away from your body at the same time. Hold for a few seconds and then release Duration: The recommended time to hold each superman pose is 50-60 seconds. After that, you can take rest for 10-30 seconds and then redo the exercise form. 7)  Planks How to: Lie down on the floor and lift your body upwards with the help of your elbows. Align your elbows below your shoulders in such a way that your forearms are parallel to your body and on the floor. To increase resistance or effectively, there are other variations of a plank that one can perform. They include: Plank with arm raise: Lifting one arm outwards while performing a plank. While lighting, one must ensure that their arm is parallel to the floor. This is performed with alternating arms. Plank with Leg raise: Lifting your legs upwards, perpendicular to the floor, while keeping in line with your hips. This is performed by alternating your legs after each lift. Traveling plank: It is the combination of arms raise and leg raise plank where you lift one limb at a time in a fixed manner. Duration: The recommended time to hold each plank of any variation is 50-60 seconds. Then one can rest for 10-60 seconds depending on your strength and stamina. Credit: pexels Alt tag: plank exercise Caption: Planks Duration: This form consists of two poses. Each must be held for about 10-15 seconds and then repeated for 4-5 times.

Covid-19 is a respiratory disease caused by one of the viruses from the corona family. The symptom spectrum ranges from mild symptoms such as a common cold to severe ones like pneumonia and shortness of breath. The best way to be prevent Covid-19 is to be well informed and prepared. It is important to maintain a Medical Box fully equipped to deal with small respiratory symptoms and mild fever. Moreover, this is a droplet infection and having disinfectants to ensure contact objects are virus-free is crucial. With or without lockdown, during such a pandemic, it is advisable to self-isolate and refrain from the outdoors as much as possible. This is why it is important to have medical essentials in your home if you ever were to fall ill during self-insolation. This may help reduce the chances of transmission during medical store visits especially when you or your family member could be potential positive patients. Moreover, it could also help avoid unnecessary visits to your local doctor for something that could be cured by OTC drugs and relief measures. First Things First! Medical aids are essential but hydration is known to be the body’s first line of defence. Staying hydrated that the body functions efficiently. It will boost your immune system as it helps oxygenate cells, enabling them to work at full capacity. Moreover, hydration regulates body temperature and maintains homeostasis which could prevent fevers. Keep in mind these essentials cannot cure you from the virus once you have it but it is necessary to maintain good health and a strong immune system to reduce the chances of acquiring it. And on that note… Here Are 9 Things To Add To Your Medical Box During the Covid Pandemic: 1)    Electrolyte Powder (electral): We just discussed the importance of hydration. Electrolyte solution is a great way of boosting your water intake to ensure that your body is well hydrated. Another way to increase water intake is to keep a handy Water Filter Pitcher in sight as a constant reminder. You’d be surprised to know the percentage of people who get dehydrated simply because they forget to drink water. 2)    Face Masks Although corona virus does not spread through the air easily, face masks must be worn to prevent transmission. Precaution is necessary, in case you are a carrier or unaware due to lack of symptoms during the incubation phase. So, in other words, face masks will protect the people around you. Caption: A woman wearing a protective face mask Credits: Pixabay 3)    Disinfectant Sprays and Sanitizers Since this is a droplet infection, disinfectant sprays and sanitizers will ensure that your hands and the surfaces you touch are germ-free. Use a multiple surface spray and could be sprayed on just about anything. Credits: Pexels Caption: Person holding a bottle of disinfectant 4)    Paper Soap Soap is another essential. Their molecular structure is able to dissolve lipid layers which are coincidentally also present on the outer surface of the virus and thereby physically inactivates it. Paper soaps are a great alternative to soap for when you need to step out. Credits: Pexels Caption: A man washing his hands with soap 5)    Thermometer During such a pandemic, you must monitor your body temperature and check for fever the moment you feel unwell. After all, it’s one of the first prevalent symptom after the incubation period. Credits: Pexels Caption: A thermometer lying in pills 6)    Fever Reducers In case you get a fever during the pandemic, an OTC fever reducer like ibuprofen must be administered to lower the temperature and reduce pain such as body aches. Caption: Pills and thermometer lying on a table Credits: Pixabay 7)    Anti-diarrheal Diamode (loperamide) and Imodium (pro-loperamidel) are best anti-diarrhea medicine to provide the quickest relief when administered correctly. It’s worth the trip you save to the doctor! Caption: A man uncomfortably holding his stomach Credits: Pixabay 8)    Cough drops and cough syrups Cough drops are a quick, easy and effective relief against harsh dry cough. They also prevent the strain on your tonsils which could lead to fever. Caption: Cough syrup being poured in a spoon Credits: Pixabay 9)    First Aid Kit: Caption: Medicines scattered on a table Credits: Pixabay This last one is a no brainer but worth mentioning. An emergency kit could treat mild and serious injuries. It may be simple but extremely effective and could even save a life during an emergency during unforeseen accidents in your home. Fever, common cold, diarrhoea etc are symptoms of a corona positive patient. However, they are also common sicknesses and if they can be cured with OTC drugs, it is not worth risking a visit to the clinic. However, if your body does not show signs of improvement or if the drugs fail to work like they normally do, you must get tested for Novel Corona virus. These products do not guarantee that you will not contract the virus, but they can go a long way in preventing it and keeping you indoors when it’s most important.