Direct and prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can increase one’s risk of sunburn, premature aging, wrinkles, fine lines, skin damage, or even cancer in extreme cases. When it comes to protecting one’s skin from sun rays, sunscreen is a crucial tool. However, many individuals make common sunscreen application mistakes that can do more harm than good. Here are some mistakes that should be avoided for optimal skin protection: 1. Not reapplying the product Sunscreen’s efficacy diminishes over time and needs to be reapplied regularly, especially if one is spending time outdoors. Failing to reapply every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage. 2. Not using enough sunscreen Many people underestimate the amount of sunscreen needed to provide adequate protection. It’s recommended to coat the skin with at least an ounce of the product to shield the skin effectively, for instance, on a beach day. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends applying a nickel-sized portion to one’s face on regular days. 3. Neglecting sensitive areas It’s easy to forget those often neglected areas, such as the ears, lips, and the back of the neck. To avoid harm, one should use sunscreen generously on all exposed skin.

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine. Along with the inner lining of the large intestine, it can also affect the rectum and the colon. The symptoms of ulcerative colitis can be discomforting and lead to severe complications if left untreated. Hence, it is crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis for timely diagnosis and management. Abdominal pain and cramping A common sign of this disease is abdominal pain and cramping. It can range from mild to severe and may come and go, but it is often exacerbated during flare-ups. If a person is experiencing pain in their left side, it may indicate left-sided colitis. Diarrhea Another telltale sign of ulcerative colitis is frequent diarrhea. Also, it is usually followed by an urgent inclination to pass stool. This symptom can be distressing and disruptive to daily life. The diarrhea may also be accompanied by mucus and can increase during a flare-up. Blood in stool The presence of blood in stool is a concerning symptom of ulcerative colitis. This symptom can result from inflammation and ulcers in the colon’s lining. Along with blood, pus and mucus can be present in stools.

Buying contact lenses online is an easy and convenient process. Additionally, online retailers often offer lower prices, making it a lucrative option. However, there are several ways in which the purchase can go wrong, like receiving the wrong product or the risk of eye infection. To ensure that one gets the best value for money and an authentic product, it is important to avoid these common mistakes when purchasing contact lenses online. Not providing prescriptions to the online supplier The only way to buy correct contact lenses is through an eye exam conducted by an ophthalmologist. They will then prescribe the type of contact lenses one can wear. This prescription needs to be checked by the online supplier before one places an order for the lenses. If the prescription is not provided, one will likely end up with the wrong pair of lenses. So, always buy from online suppliers and retailers that check the prescription before taking an order. One can provide the prescription by scanning it or taking a photograph and uploading it online or through the mail, whichever method has been specified by the retailer. Not researching the supplier properly This is a common mistake that many people make while buying contact lenses online.

Chronic bronchitis is caused by the long-term inflammation of the airways. This causes excess mucus production. In addition, there is a higher risk of lung infection. Those who have chronic bronchitis are also diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD, or chronic bronchitis, often occurs through periodic flare-ups. A chronic bronchitis flare-up or exacerbation is a sudden worsening of symptoms. These flare-ups are generally preceded by the following signs: Signs of chronic bronchitis flare-up The signs of a flare-up can last for two days. In some cases, it lasts for several days. The intensity of the symptoms is usually more severe than usual. A person may have to go to the emergency room if they experience a full-blown exacerbation during a flare-up. Some of the common signs that indicate an incomplete flare-up include the following: Wheezing and noisy breathing sounds Coughing accompanied by more mucus than usual Change in the color of mucus Trouble catching breath Discomfort in the chest Tiredness or fatigue Some other signs include the following: Unable to take deep breaths Trouble sleeping Headaches after waking up Stomach pain Frequent bouts of anxiousness Swollen ankles and legs Drowsiness Unable to think clearly Frequent mood changes Pale skin Changes in nail and lip color Difficulty talking Tips to manage signs of a chronic bronchitis flare-up Here are a few tips to manage chronic bronchitis symptoms:

Vasculitis is a general term used to describe a group of conditions that can damage the blood vessels due to inflammation and swelling. Depending on the part of the body it affects and the symptoms it exhibits, it can be classified into different types, like Buerger’s Disease, Cogan Syndrome, and hypersensitivity vasculitis, among others. This article explores some of the warning signs of vasculitis so one can stay informed and seek medical intervention promptly. The most general signs and symptoms of vasculitis include fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches and pains. Other signs and symptoms are related to the part of the body it affects, which include: Gastrointestinal tract When vasculitis affects the digestive system (organs like the esophagus, stomach, and intestines), one may experience symptoms such as open sores in the mouth or stomach area, diarrhea, vomiting, blood, and pain in the abdominal region. Ears and nose When the ears and nose are affected by vasculitis, individuals may experience sinus infections, inner ear infections, a runny nose, dizziness, hearing loss, ringing in the ear, or even deafness. Eyes When it affects the eyes, vasculitis may cause symptoms such as redness, itching, burning, and vision changes. Those with giant cell arteritis may also experience double vision or temporary or permanent blindness in one or both eyes.

Atopic dermatitis is a skin condition that commonly affects infants and children. The term is used to describe several types of conditions that lead to reddened, scaly, itchy, and aggressive inflammation of the skin of children and infants. Knowing more about this disorder helps parents and healthcare professionals aid their children with this condition better. Thus, here are the symptoms, causes, and foods to eat to alleviate the symptoms of atopic dermatitis: Atopic dermatitis symptoms These are the typical indicators of atopic dermatitis in children or infants: Rashes Atopic dermatitis can be diagnosed on the basis of skin infection and rashes on the inside of elbows and behind the knees in children. Apart from these, rashes can appear in other areas such as the neck, wrists, ankles, the area between the buttocks, or the creases on top of the child’s thighs. Children end up rubbing and scratching these areas vigorously to get some relief from the incessant itchiness. Itchy skin As mentioned above, a characteristic aspect of atopic dermatitis is itchiness. This condition tends to dry the skin, making it highly irritable and itchy. Despite the itchiness, it is recommended for kids not to scratch their skin too much as that results in rashes and further skin damage.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or ALS, is Lou Gehrig’s disease. It is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. This leads to a gradual but inevitable decline in muscle function. As the disease progresses, individuals may face challenges in basic activities such as walking, speaking, and breathing. While there is currently no cure for ALS, early identification can significantly enhance the quality of life for those affected. Here are a few signs to know about: Muscle twitching and cramping In the initial phases of ALS, individuals may notice fasciculations, also known as involuntary muscle twitches. These sporadic movements are indicative of the underlying disruption in nerve signals. Additionally, muscle cramps may occur, causing discomfort and further highlighting the neurological changes taking place. Difficulty swallowing ALS can impact the muscles involved in swallowing, leading to difficulty moving food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. This may result in coughing or choking during meals, eventually leading to proper nutrition challenges. This is also known as dysphagia. Slurred speech As the condition progresses, the muscles responsible for speech can weaken, which is called dysarthria. This leads to slurred or unclear speech. Changes in voice quality and difficulty articulating words become noticeable, potentially affecting communication.

Research has shown a correlation between nutritional choices and heart health. Out of all meals, breakfast plays an important role when it comes to reducing the risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. A heart-friendly breakfast can set the tone for the rest of the day, providing essential nutrients and energy to keep one going. So, here are 7 heart-healthy breakfast ideas that are not only delicious and nutritious but also easy to make: 1. Overnight oatmeal Rolled oats soaked overnight in milk or dairy-free alternatives with a sprinkle of chia seeds, a touch of honey, and fresh berries can be a filling, heart-healthy breakfast. The fiber in oats helps lower bad cholesterol levels, promoting heart health. 2. Avocado toast Avocado is rich in monounsaturated fats, which have been linked to lower levels of bad cholesterol and a reduced risk of heart disease. Here, one can layer thin avocado slices on whole-grain toast and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs, lemon juice, or even a poached egg can also be added to the recipe. 3. Vegetable smoothies Smoothies with leafy greens like spinach or kale, along with cucumber or celery, can be nutritious, as these veggies are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to better heart health.