Lower back pain is a disorder involving the nerves, muscles, and bones of the back. It is a common problem that everyone suffers from at some point in their life. As the pain affects the lower end area of the spinal cord – the lumbar region, the condition is also called as lumbago. The lumbar region is a complex structure of joints, muscles, ligaments, and nerves all of which perform together to give support to the upper body. Muscles in the L1, L2, L3, L4, and L5 regions of the vertebrae are responsible for flexibility and rotation of the hips. The nerves in this area support the muscles in the limbs. If any muscles or bones are strained in this area, it can impact a person’s routine tasks. The pain symptoms can be in the form of a dull ache to a sudden stabbing sensation that can affect the body’s mobility. Daily activities like standing up straight, bending or moving around may become painful and strenuous. The condition may occur in an acute form as a repercussion of an injury or a health condition. Over time the swelling in the muscles or the nerves heal, and the pain subsides. However, if the pain extends over a few weeks, then the condition becomes chronic, and effective measures need to be taken to assuage the discomfort.

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited disease in which the initially flexible, round red blood cells become crescent moon- or sickle-shaped. As a result, blood flow through small vessels slows down or stops, leading to various symptoms. The only cure for sickle cell anemia is a stem cell or bone marrow transplant. However, recent studies have shown that certain herbs and their blend can also provide relief. Read on to learn more about the herbal management of sickle cell anemia. Niprisan herbal extract formula Nigeria has the highest number of sickle cell patients in the world. To help its citizens fight the disease, the Nigerian government’s National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) developed a herbal formula called Niprisan that has shown promising results. It is made with extracts from four different plants: Piper guineense seed: Also called the West African pepper or Guinea pepper Pterocarpus osum stem: An African timber Eugenia caryophyllus: Also called cloves Sorghum bicolor: Also known as sorghum, great millet, durra, jowari/jowar, or milo The main active compounds of these herbs are piperine, chavicine, capsaicin, and cubebin. The medicine is unlikely to cause significant side effects. Fagara zanthoxyloides Herbal management of sickle cell anemia involves a few other herbs as well, which have shown promising results.

Sickle cell disease, also known as sickle cell anemia, is a genetic disorder that modifies regular red blood cells into a sickle or crescent shape. The disease is more common in people with a deficiency in vitamin D and poor appetite. The condition may also lead to reduced growth and development in children. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how nutrition can help support sickle cell patients. Balance and increase nutrients When it comes to sickle cell disease, asymptomatic patients tend to show energy levels below the set threshold. This number falls to about half when illness sets in or when the person is hospitalized. Therefore, one should increase the food they eat if they wish to tackle the condition’s symptoms. Some of these foods include the following: Whole grains, rice, and cereals, which are high in vitamin B, magnesium, folate, and selenium Milk, cheese, and yogurt that are loaded with vitamin D and calcium Certain vegetable oils that are rich in vitamin E and fatty acids Meats, nuts, seeds, and beans are good sources of protein, zinc, and iron Green leafy vegetables and fruits, as these foods carry high amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, and even fiber Calorie intake A high-calorie intake also supports those with sickle cell disease.

An unhealthy lifestyle coupled with the amount of stress we are burdened with to achieve the “perfect life” has left us combating various serious health issues. Some of these ailments are hereditary, whereas, some of them are self-created. And, then there are those ailments that fall under both these categories. Diabetes is one such ailment that is known to have its roots firmly planted in our genes and can be a result of our reckless lifestyle as well. However, if normal blood sugar levels are maintained, people can easily coexist with diabetes and lead a normal life. Whichever treatment a person opts for controlling their diabetes, it involves maintaining normal blood sugar levels. A rise in the blood sugar levels leads to a string of other problems. So, the key to living with diabetes involves taking steps to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Diabetes isn’t an ailment that can be cured completely. So, one must follow these tips to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Lose weight Obesity is the root cause of a wide-range of disease or is known to worsen an already existing condition. Excess weight makes the person resistant to insulin, and this, in turn, disrupts the normal blood sugar levels in the body.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are characterized by burning sensations, abdominal pain, and cloudy urine. These infections are significantly more common in women than in men and can affect any part of one’s urinary tract including the kidneys, bladder, and even the urethra. If left untreated, UTIs should not be left untreated as they can lead to severe pain and other serious complications. Read on to know about the ways to keep UTIs in check: Get the right treatment FETROJA® (cefiderocol), is a cephalosporin antibacterial treatment option used to tackle complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs). These include pyelonephritis caused due to susceptible Gram-negative microorganisms. This treatment is prescribed to individuals over 18 years of age. It is often a last resort for those who have limited or no alternative treatment options. Common side effects of FETROJA® include diarrhea, injection site reaction, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Individuals may also experience constipation, rash, cough, and low blood potassium levels. FETROJA® can interact with other ongoing treatments, so it is best to consult a doctor before going for this treatment option. Eat the right foods Foods can go a long way in managing UTIs. Berries such as cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries can help fight UTIs.

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer associated with white blood cells. In this condition, the white blood cells fail to perform their usual function of fighting infections. These unhealthy white blood cells crowd out the healthy cells. Multiple myeloma is a rare type of cancer in the country, with a lifetime risk of 1 out of 132 (0.76 percent). This article highlights some treatment options, food choices, and tips to manage the condition: Treatment options Two major treatment options for multiple myeloma are BCMA therapy and the use of monoclonal antibodies. BCMA (B-cell maturation antigen) can be seen in almost all multiple myeloma cells. Many studies indicate that targeting BCMA can significantly help in multiple myeloma treatments. BCMA is a part of signaling pathways that lead to the survival and growth of cancerous plasma cells. Many new BCMA-targeted therapies are being developed, which could help in the treatment of relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma. The use of monoclonal antibodies is another treatment method. Monoclonal antibodies can help in restoring, modifying, or improving the immune system’s attack on unwanted cells, like cancer cells. Some monoclonal antibodies prevent cancer cells from connecting with proteins that promote cell growth. Thus, they can block the growth of cancer cells.

The lymphatic system is part of the body’s germ-fighting network, comprising lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow. When cancer begins in the lymphatic system, it is called lymphoma. Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin are the two main types of lymphoma, the latter being the most common. Both types are often treatable, especially if detected in the initial stages. Here are some treatment options, foods to eat and avoid, and other ways that help manage lymphoma: Treatments Treatment options for all types of lymphoma usually include a combination of therapies. One of the most common therapies is an oral therapy, such as IMBRUVICA® (ibrutinib). IMBRUVICA® is used to treat mantle cell lymphoma, small lymphocytic lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma, and other types of cancers. The active substance in IMBRUVICA®, ibrutinib, inhibits the enzyme Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK), which is linked to lymphoma. IMBRUVICA® is typically taken once a day and can work alone or together with other treatments. Common side effects include diarrhea, tiredness, rash, bruising, muscle pain, and bone pain. Other treatment options for lymphoma include chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation. Foods to eat and avoid Although no specific food or meal plan can cure lymphoma, eating and avoiding certain foods can help ease symptoms and reduce the side effects of treatments.

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast mutate and grow out of control. They grow to form a mass of cancerous cells called a tumor. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers. Estimates suggest at least 13% women in the country face an increased risk of breast cancer. This is why it is important to be aware of its management. Such tips are listed below along with treatment options and food choices: Treatment options Before discussing management tips, it is important to know some treatment options for breast cancer. AFINITOR® (everolimus) is one such option. It is an mTOR inhibitor. mTOR is a type of protein that provides energy to cells to grow. AFINITOR® stops cancer cells from getting energy since it is an mTOR inhibitor. It is used to treat postmenopausal women that have HER2-negative and advanced hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Another treatment option is CAR-T cell therapy. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a process that helps T-cells specifically recognize and attack malignant or cancerous cells. It is a less toxic treatment method than conventional options like chemotherapy. Eating healthy Consuming healthy foods is an effective cancer management technique. The nutrients and minerals in our food improve the efficacy of medications.