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.

Heart health is important for living a long, fulfilling life. With so many options of processed foods available in the market, it is crucial to make wise choices and add fresh and preservative-free produce to one’s daily meal plans. Moreover, there are some foods that should especially be added to one’s meals every week to keep their heart healthy. Here are the top four foods that could save one’s heart. Black beans These are not only protein-rich foods but also packed with folate, antioxidants, and magnesium. These are all heart-healthy nutrients that help keep blood pressure in check. Other nutrients to look for include fiber, which is not just great for the gut but also helps control cholesterol and blood sugar levels in the body. This can be an easy addition to curries or salads. However, it is important to wash the beans if one is using a canned product, as it has too much salt as a preservative. Moreover, one can always make their own black beans by soaking them overnight and boiling them the morning after. Salmon A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, this fish is known to be a superfood when it comes to heart-healthy meals.

Shortness of breath occurs when the lungs are not able to absorb oxygen to support vital organs and functions that rely on fresh air. It is one of the most commonly observed discomforts of known health complications that affect respiration. The intensity of breathlessness varies depending on the underlying cause and severity of the triggers. Here are the most common causes of shortness of breath that can affect young children, men, and women. Existing diseases and disorders Shortness of breath is one of the primary noticeable discomforts triggered by health complications that affect respiration. These could range from a panic attack to pneumonia, and even serious asthma flareups. In addition, seasonal allergies causing inflammation, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and even chronic respiratory failure can worsen breathlessness. The severity of the symptom will vary depending on the underlying disease. Pollution Exposure to polluted air can also trigger shortness of breath due to the particulate matter irritating the respiratory tract. Carbon monoxide is one of the more dangerous gases that affects breathing and impairs respiratory function. It’s a common pollutant in the atmosphere released during forest fires, volcanic eruptions, and even lightning strikes. Carbon monoxide is also an industrial pollutant that is released due to burning of fossil fuels for powering vehicles and machinery.

Just like cleaning one’s surroundings is necessary to prevent waste accumulation, one’s body must also destroy toxins and undigested matter to ensure health and well-being. Constipation is a significant health issue today, with about 16% of adults worldwide showing signs of the condition. Although not life-threatening, severe constipation can cause complications like fecal impaction, hemorrhoids, and bowel incontinence. Some common mistakes to avoid to manage constipation and its symptoms are discussed below. Excessive soluble fiber intake It is important to understand the difference between the two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber, found in foods like lentils, barley, beans, oats, and bran, forms a gel-like substance in the stomach, which delays digestion and is helpful for individuals grappling with diarrhea symptoms. However, too much soluble fiber can worsen constipation. Therefore, individuals who are constipated should limit their soluble-fiber intake and increase their proportions of insoluble fiber, which does not convert to a gel-like formation and moves faster through the digestive system, preventing constipation. Insoluble-fiber sources include broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, leafy greens, blackberries, and potatoes. Depending on laxatives to pass stools While laxatives may help prevent constipation, studies indicate that they can cause damage to the nerve cells in the colon.

Several cleaning products are currently available in the market, and various brands are working on making household and industrial cleaning possible with easy options. However, unbeknownst to many, these cleaning products are made of harsh chemicals, and prolonged exposure to them can lead to health issues that are not easily addressed or recognized. Therefore, it is important to be aware of ingredients used in cleaning products to ensure optimum health and environmental safety. Respiratory risks caused by cleaning products Several health risks are linked between cleaning products and one’s body, especially the lungs. Research carried out by the American Thoracic Society’s American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine points towards how cleaning products can reduce lung function, especially among women exposed to more spray cleaning chemicals than women not exposed to them. Evidence suggests that exposure to toxic chemicals in cleaning products creates more complications for people with asthma, COPD, or respiratory allergies. Impact of chemicals in cleaning supplies on health These products contain ingredients like volatile organic compounds or VOCs, which vaporize at room temperature and can irritate the eyes and throat, leading to headaches and other respiratory issues. Studies suggest that exposure to these cleaning chemicals can increase the risk of occupational asthma and other related lung disorders.

Visiting the gynecologist once a year is important. However, you may feel nervous about scheduling an appointment, with concerns like the need for grooming before a checkup and discomfort you may experience during the examination. Additionally, being on your period can make you put off the visit. This embarrassment can also keep you from asking important questions during your visit. But here are a few seemingly uncomfortable questions you can ask your doctor: Should I be worried about bumps down there? Bumps in intimate areas may not always be a cause for concern. There are numerous reasons for the vaginal area can develop acne or bumps, including shaving. Other reasons could be sebaceous cysts, skin tags, or gentle warts. You do not have to be embarrassed to ask your gynecologist about such skin issues, especially if you experience any pain or changes in the color or size of the bump. Is my vaginal discharge concerning? Vaginal discharge is part of normal reproductive health. However, if the discharge causes discomfort like itching or pain, you should speak to your OB/GYN about it. A cottage cheese-like discharge could be an indication of a yeast infection, while greying vaginal discharge with a raw egg-like odor can be a sign of bacterial vaginosis.

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatments, it can be an overwhelming experience. It takes a toll on your physical and mental health. Sometimes there can be concerns about health that you may not have an answer to, and you may feel embarrassed talking to an oncologist. However, there is nothing wrong with asking those questions. Here are some of those embarrassing questions that you can ask an oncologist. Does cancer treatment affect bowel control? Some side effects of cancer treatments like surgery or radiation therapy can involve some bladder and bowel complications. This includes symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, or even urinary incontinence. It is important to understand the extent of these side effects and prepare yourself to prevent any shocks. Does chemotherapy or radiation affect sex life? Studies have suggested that going through long phases of chemotherapy or radiation can possibly cause sexual dysfunction in some people. This can mean side effects like erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, and also decreased libido. Usually, the side effects are temporary and last till the treatment process. However, sometimes, there may also be long-term side effects. This may also depend on the dosage of the treatment and the duration of it.

There can be minor variations in a woman’s menstrual cycles. While the average cycle lasts 28 days, it can, at times, occur after every 24 to 31 days. When a woman’s cycle unexpectedly falls outside of the usual range, she may be experiencing irregular periods. A disrupted menstrual cycle can lead to excruciatingly painful symptoms. A number of factors can be responsible for this, some of which are listed below. The reasons for irregular menstrual cycles The following are the primary causes for skipped or irregular menstrual cycles. An unhealthy meal plan The thyroid and adrenal glands are affected due to a meal plan that’s high in stimulants but lacking minerals, antioxidants, and probiotic foods. For instance, a meal plan high in sugar, hydrogenated fats, and chemical additives has been related to thyroid problems and adrenal exhaustion, which can cause cortisol to rise. This could lead to a longer cycle and anovulation. If cortisol remains high for an extended time, periods can become irregular or even less frequent. To avoid this, make sure to eat foods that are nutrient-dense and contain enough protein. Low BMI A low body mass index (BMI) of below 18 or 19 may lead to irregular periods.