Huntington’s disease (HD) is a rare, inherited neurodegenerative disease. This brain disorder is a result of an inherited mutation in a gene for the protein called huntingtin. It is known to significantly impact one’s functional abilities, leading to the development of movement, cognitive, and psychiatric disorders. Those with Huntington’s have a higher risk of choking and developing eating and swallowing troubles. To ease this, the following tips may be helpful: Food management strategies for Huntington’s disease Rest one to two hours before mealtime. Create a calm and relaxed eating environment. Sit in an accessible spot on the table, just in case choking occurs and a carer needs to be involved. Sit in an upright position while eating. Avoid lying down. Instead of eating three spaced apart meals, eat smaller, more frequent meals. Choose foods that are easier to chew and swallow. Keep eating aids within reach. Use non-slip table mats and light utensils such as plastic knives and forks. Incorporate sauces and gravies to make foods easier to swallow. Avoid hard foods such as nuts and lollipops. Avoid food that separates into strings or sections during chewing, such as tomatoes and bacon. Opt for foods that have a higher nutritional value.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an inflammatory lung disease affecting airflow in and out of the airways, making breathing difficult. It is a progressive disease, and if not diagnosed early, can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases. COPD is a group of diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive asthma. Identification of warning signs and early diagnosis could help reduce other risks and give a head start in essential treatment. Persistent or chronic cough This is one of the first signs of COPD – a persistent or long-term cough. The American Lung Association recommends seeking a medical diagnosis if a cough lasts more than eight weeks. A chronic cough could be an indication of an underlying issue with the functioning of the lungs. Shortness of breath and wheezing Any type of exercise or exertion is generally accompanied by heavier breathing, but if the feeling of being winded or having shortness of breath occurs during routine activities, it could be an early warning sign of COPD. Obstruction in the air passage causes difficulty in breathing and results in shortness of breath. COPD causes excess mucus to obstruct the airways, and this along with muscular tightening narrows the airways, causing the wheezing sounds when one exhales.

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a chronic skin condition characterized by itchy bumps on the skin’s surface. Scratching these can lead to the formation of painful nodules. The condition’s exact cause is unknown, but several factors and underlying health complications can increase its susceptibility in people. The following are a few early warning signs of prurigo nodularis to help individuals identify the condition and seek prompt help from a skin specialist. Persistent itching One of the earliest signs is persistent itching. This itching can be intense and worsen at night. Since the symptom cannot be managed instantly, it impacts a person’s sleep and overall well-being. Skin nodules or papules As the condition progresses, small, raised nodules or bumps develop on the skin’s surface around the arms and legs, upper and lower back, and abdomen. These skin lesions are typically firm, reddish-brown, and vary in size from a few millimeters to centimeters. Superficial skin injuries People with prurigo nodularis often develop abrasions on their skin due to the relentless itching. These abrasions can range from small scratches to larger, more extensive areas of skin damage, depending on the severity of the condition. Scratching and burning sensation Chronic scratching may make the skin hardened, harsh, and hyperpigmented.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and generally it is the most overlooked too. Having a hearty breakfast lends a great start to the day but only if the right food is chosen. Too heavy and one risks feeling uneasy and sleepy; too light and the mid-morning cravings start kicking in quickly. Combining these healthy ingredients into one satisfying breakfast looks like a good start to the day. Here are some 3-minute easy breakfast recipes to kick-start the day.  Greek yogurt parfait Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat) 1/2 cup granola (choose a variety with low sugar) 1/2 cup fresh berries (pick from strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) 1 tablespoon honey (optional) Recipe: Layer the Greek yogurt, in a glass or bowl. Add a layer of granola on top. Add a layer of fresh berries. Drizzle with honey if desired. Repeat the layers if you prefer a larger portion. Nutritional values: Calories: Approximately 300-350 Protein: 15-20 grams Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams Fiber: 4-6 grams Fat: 10-15 grams Avocado toast Ingredients: 2 slices whole-grain bread 1 ripe avocado Salt and pepper to taste Optional toppings: Sliced tomatoes, poached egg, or red pepper flakes Recipe: Toast the whole-grain bread until crispy.

Multiple myeloma, a rare but relentless form of cancer, often remains undiagnosed until it reaches advanced stages. While many associate it with bone pain and fatigue, there are several lesser-known signs that can act as important indicators for early detection. This article delves into these often-overlooked symptoms, shedding light on the subtler nuances of multiple myeloma. Recognizing the lesser-known signs and symptoms is essential for early detection and timely intervention. Subtle bone changes Besides the more conspicuous bone pain, multiple myeloma can manifest as subtle bone changes. These may include thinning bones, tiny fractures, or a higher susceptibility to fractures, especially in the spine or hips. These changes can be early hints of the disease and should not be ignored, especially in older individuals. Renal issues Kidney problems can be an insidious indicator of multiple myeloma. When this cancer progresses, it can accumulate abnormal proteins in the kidneys, causing damage. Signs of renal involvement may include increased thirst, frequent urination, and swelling, particularly in the legs and ankles. Monitoring kidney health is crucial for patients at risk. Neuropathy Nerve damage, or neuropathy, can be an unexpected sign of multiple myeloma. Patients might experience tingling sensations, weakness, or even loss of sensation in their extremities.

Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers among men, with a broad range of symptoms and discomforts. While it primarily affects the prostate gland, it can sometimes lead to complications, including bladder damage. This brief post explores the signs and symptoms of bladder damage caused by prostate cancer. Understanding these signs is crucial for early detection, timely intervention, and improved quality of life for individuals with prostate cancer. Increased urinary frequency and urgency One of the early signs of bladder damage due to prostate cancer is increased urinary frequency and urgency. Men may need to urinate more frequently, often with a sense of urgency that can disrupt daily activities. This occurs because prostate cancer can obstruct the urethra, affecting the bladder’s ability to hold urine. Frequent trips to the bathroom, especially during the night, can be indicative of bladder damage. Weak urine stream A weakening of the urine stream is another sign that warrants attention. Men with prostate cancer-related bladder damage may experience reduced force when urinating. This weakened stream can be attributed to the tumor’s compression on the urethra, obstructing the natural urine flow. Incomplete bladder emptying Prostate cancer can interfere with the bladder’s ability to empty.

Lung cancer is a severe health condition with a notorious reputation for remaining asymptomatic until advanced stages. Understanding the warning signs can help with early detection and improved treatment outcomes. Some common indicators include a persistent cough, unexplained body mass loss, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. This intro highlights some crucial warning signs of lung cancer, empowering individuals to seek medical attention promptly and potentially enhance their chances of successful intervention and recovery. Persistent cough – A persistent or chronic cough that lingers for several weeks or worsens over time is one of the most common early signs of lung cancer. It may produce mucus or blood, which can be alarming. Shortness of breath – Unexplained shortness of breath, especially during everyday activities, could indicate lung cancer. It occurs as the tumor grows and obstructs the airways, reducing lung capacity. Chest pain – Lung cancer can cause chest pain, discomfort, or tightness. This pain may be sharp, dull, or persistent and is often felt deep in the chest or between the shoulder blades. Fatigue – Fatigue and weakness that don’t improve with rest can be an early sign of lung cancer. Tumors may release chemicals that affect the body’s energy metabolism.

Growth hormone deficiency is a health condition that often goes unnoticed or misdiagnosed. It can have significant effects on one’s physical and emotional well-being. Growth hormone, produced by the pituitary gland, plays a crucial role in growth, metabolism, and overall health. When the body doesn’t produce enough of it, a range of signs and symptoms can manifest. These are some telltale signs of growth hormone deficiency that should prompt one to seek medical attention. Signs of growth hormone deficiency Growth hormone or somatotropin is essential for the development of bones and tissues. Its deficiency can occur at any age. The causes can be present from birth through defective genes or acquired later in life due to various reasons like infections, trauma, tumors, or certain therapies.  Here are some common signs associated with growth hormone deficiency (GHD): Stunted growth in children One of the most noticeable signs of GHD in children is slowed growth. These children may be shorter than their peers and show a significant delay in reaching growth milestones, such as height and body mass. Delayed puberty Teenagers with GHD may experience a delay in the onset of puberty. This can manifest as delayed development of certain characteristics, such as breast development in girls, facial hair growth in boys, or delayed tooth development.