The term osteoporosis translates to “porous bones”, and is a disease in which your body either loses too much bone, or doesn’t make enough bone, or in some cases even both. This results in weakening of the bones. A minor bump, or sneezing can also cause injuries to the body. Women are more prone to being diagnosed with osteoporosis. How do you know you have osteoporosis? While many diseases can be diagnosed as its symptoms are experienced in the early stages, but with osteoporosis, one can experience little to no symptoms. It progresses slowly, making the condition severe over time. Some of the osteoporosis symptoms you need to watch out for are: Experiencing back pain Because of loss of bone density, you may have a fracture or a collapsed vertebrae. In this condition, back pain should be taken lightly as it can relate to your bone health. Loss of height As strange as this sounds, loss of height is one of the signs and symptoms of the onset of osteoporosis. This essentially denotes that your spine has been fractured making you unable to stand straight. Some of these spine fractures are painless so you may not recognize this sooner. Hence, you need to watch out for this osteoporosis symptom. Stooped posture This is another sign that shows a decreased amount of bone density. With bones being more porous and soft, they are unable to hold your body up straight leading to a curved spine. This curved spine naturally leads to a stooped posture. Easy fractures Fractures are not easy injuries, so if you are injuring your bones often, it is probably because your bones are porous and not strong enough. Tips for a healthy lifestyle While you cannot prevent any disease, you sure can manage it, and lower the risk of triggering it further.

When the body loses bone mass faster than it can restore its bone health, this bone disease is known as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis causes bone loss and affects the mineral density that makes the bones weak and more susceptible to fractures. An estimated 10 million people in the country suffer from osteoporosis and 80% of the cases reported are women. Identifying the symptoms Osteoporosis is a “silent” disease as one may suffer from the symptoms and be completely unaware of the condition. There are a few ways to watch out for these osteoporosis symptoms that cause pain and can affect a person’s mobility. Some can be identified in the early stages while severe symptoms are only evident in the advanced stages. Symptoms in the early stages A developing condition of osteoporosis can be identified when even the slightest of impact from a fall or injury causes the bones to break. One can watch out for these osteoporosis symptoms in the early stages. Weak gums A receding gum line suggests the jaw is losing bone mass. The gums become weak and can no longer anchor the teeth. Low grip strength If one experiences trouble holding onto an object or maintaining a strong grip, it can be a result of a developing osteoporosis condition. Studies have associated low bone mineral density to reduced hand grip. Brittle fingernails Physical changes in one’s fingernails as a result of compromised bone health is another possible indicator in the early stages. Symptoms in later stages One can watch out for these osteoporosis symptoms in the advanced stages as the bone deterioration increases in intensity. Height loss Loss of height is the most noticeable symptom caused due to the compression of the spine as a result of bone loss. Fractures Fragile bones are more susceptible to fractures and some of the most harmless actions including a sneeze or cough can trigger a mild fracture.

Dupuytren’s contracture, a deformity, is triggered in the hand. It develops when a layer of tissue beneath the skin in the palm forms knots. These knots then go on to create a thick cord that pulls one or more fingers, causing them to bend. Unfortunately, this condition can make everyday tasks difficult like shaking hands, using gloves, and holding objects. Symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture Typically, the two fingers that are farthest from the thumb are affected by Dupuytren’s contracture. Since this condition progresses at a very slow pace, it is quite difficult to understand or detect it early on. However, some of the symptoms that are most likely to be noted include: Thickening of the skin that covers the palm of the hand. Overtime or with further development of the condition, the skin on the palm may appear dimpled. There may be a lump formation in the palm. The lump tissue feels thicked against the skin and there may also be sensitivity when touched. However, one may feel no pain. Over the advanced stages, the cord knots in the fingers begin to pull much tighter. The fingers are pulled closer towards the palm, causing them to bend further. As a result, one may have difficulty using their hands for basic functions. In rare cases, Dupuytren’s contracture can affect even the index and middle finger. Sometimes, the thumb too be may be affected. The condition may also occur in both hands; however, one hand usually suffers a more severe impact. The symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture can range anywhere between mild to severe, depending on the progression of the condition. Despite intense medical research, professionals are unable to point out the main cause of Dupuytren’s contracture. Currently, there is no evidence that points out specific factors that lead to its development. However, there are some factors that are believed to increase the risks of developing the condition with time.

A ring of muscle known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is located right at the entrance of our stomach. This esophageal sphincter is meant to close as soon as the food that we eat passes through it. However, in a condition where the esophageal sphincter fails to close or if it keeps opening regularly, the acids produced by the stomach travels up to the esophagus. This movement of stomach acid can lead to discomfort-causing symptoms such as a burning sensation in the chest known as heartburn. If the signs and symptoms of acid reflux last for more than a week or two, the condition is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. While acid reflux is commonly associated with heartburn, there are several other symptoms that can be caused; however, not everyone may be aware of these symptoms. The following are some unique signs and symptoms of acid reflux. Chest pain When the stomach acid travels to the esophagus, the most classic symptom of this is a pain in the chest. The chest pain caused by acid reflux can be more severe than expected and last longer than you know. Many people confuse the heartburn caused by acid reflux with a heart attack as well. If you suffer from chest pain, ensure to speak to a doctor at the earliest. Pain after taking meals When you eat a meal, especially a heavy one, this often leads to overloading in the stomach. When the acids produced in the stomach with all that extra food intake has nowhere to go, it travels straight to the esophagus. This leads to post-meal pain in the chest and a more severe heartburn sensation. The symptoms can also worsen if you recline after having a heavy meal. Bitter taste in the mouth The acid that escapes from the stomach reaches the esophagus and eventually causes heartburn.

7 common symptoms of acid reflux in infants Acid reflux is a condition in which the acid produced by the stomach moves to the esophagus, causing a burning sensation of the stomach and discomfort in the chest that we normally refer to as heartburn. If you experience acid reflux twice a week or more, you may be suffering from a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Infants may, however, be more highly susceptible to acid reflux as their lower esophageal sphincter (LES) may be weak. LES is a ring at the bottom of the esophagus where it connects with the stomach. It has been estimated that close to 50% of infants experience acid reflux due to weak or underdeveloped LES. Usually, infants at four months experience this condition the most and it tends to mellow down and vanish when they are around 12 to 18 months. Here are the common signs and symptoms of acid reflux noticed in infants: Vomiting or spitting While spitting is normally considered normal in infants, forceful spitting may often be a sign of GERD. It is an important symptom in infants that are over a year old and still spit forcefully shortly after having meals. Also, spitting blood or any fluid that is green or yellow in color is a cause for worry. While usual spitting is painless, forceful spitting because of GERD may cause pain and discomfort. Difficulty in eating and swallowing food When partly digested particles from the stomach go back towards the esophagus, infants may become irritable and refuse eating or drinking at all. This is an important sign of acid reflux. Hiccups and wet burps An infant may also spit out liquid when he or she burps, which is among the signs and symptoms of acid reflux. Though not very common, this may also be a sign of GERD.

An overview of the symptoms and causes of dyskinesia Dyskinesia is a movement disorder that is characterized by involuntary muscle movement. It usually affects the head, or the arms and sometimes the entire body. It could also be painful. While suffering from dyskinesia, a person can experience mild to debilitating discomfort. Based on the type and severity of the condition, it could affect your daily activities as well. The frequency and the intensity of the condition cannot be predicted. Dyskinesia is often observed in people suffering from Parkinson’s disease. It could be caused due to levodopa treatment, which continues for a long time. It may also occur in people with movement disorders and is not restricted to Parkinson’s patients alone. People with brain injuries or others who take antipsychotic medications could also experience the condition. These uncontrollable movements could be as mild as minor body twitches to complete movement of the body. Facts about dyskinesia Dyskinesia starts out as minor fidgets or movements that are abnormal and uncontrollable in the dominant hand or foot. It could be a minor shake or tremor. The causes of dyskinesia may vary depending on the type of the condition. People who suffer from dyskinesia due to autism could benefit from behavioral therapy. Unless symptoms pose a significant challenge and affect daily life, it may go untreated if the symptoms are mild. Symptoms of dyskinesia Dyskinesia’s symptoms are different for each person. It may be mild with minor movements of the hands, feet, or head. It could also be more severe wherein multiple body parts start moving randomly. The symptoms tend to get worse over time and some symptoms start after a serious brain injury or they may get intense after trauma to the head. Dyskinesia is not related to the tremors experienced by Parkinson’s patients.

Acid reflux during pregnancy: Symptoms and lifestyle changes to avoid them Acid reflux is a condition wherein one experiences pain in the lower chest area, which is commonly referred to as heartburn. When the acids of the stomach travel back to the esophagus, this condition arises. During pregnancy, hormonal changes may cause the LES or lower esophageal sphincter to not function properly; this is the valve to carry food to the stomach. Also, towards the second and third trimester, the fetus grows and puts more pressure on the stomach, thereby causing food to re-enter the esophagus from the stomach. Signs and symptoms Some of the common signs and symptoms of acid reflux that one may experience during pregnancy are: A burning sensation in the chest near the area behind the breastbone just after eating Chest pain experienced because of bending over, lying down, and eating Burning sensation in the throat or the aftertaste of a sour or salt-tasting fluid towards the back of the throat Belching Prolonged coughing Hoarseness in the throat Symptoms similar to asthma It must be noted that the occasional heartburn is usual and the pain may cease in some time. However, if the pain is persistent, this might be a cause of worry. A possible reason may be gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, which is the next stage of acid reflux, or it may even be gastritis. Almost half of the women complain about heartburn during pregnancy. However, if it becomes more frequent, that is when a doctor should definitely be consulted for treatment. Suggested lifestyle changes There are several lifestyle changes that may be adopted in order to avoid heartburn or acid reflux, and make the pregnancy very safe for the mother as well as the baby. Here are some of the steps one can consider taking:

Eczema is a skin condition that becomes worse due to allergies. Food is one of the factors that cause allergies. Hence, those suffering from eczema need to adhere to a diet that includes certain food items and excludes others. Eczema diet Those who have eczema are prone to allergies. Food allergies can worsen the situation. A proper diet is important to avoid allergies and to prevent the symptoms of eczema from flaring up. Certain food items are good for those suffering from eczema. These items can improve the body’s ability to handle the symptoms naturally. What to eat The following are food items that you should eat if you have eczema. Most of these food items are anti-inflammatory and can help reduce inflammation. Thus, it can help in reducing the itching and pain that eczema causes. Quercetin: Quercetin is the substance that gives many fruits and vegetables its color. It is an antioxidant and can help in reducing inflammation. It acts as a natural antihistamine and prevents allergic attacks. This is found in apples, blueberries, broccoli, spinach, cherries, and kale. Probiotic: Probiotics are friendly bacteria that help in proper digestion. They strengthen the immune system and can help in fighting allergies. Probiotics can be found in yogurt, unpasteurized sauerkraut, kefir, and tempeh. Omega-3 fatty acid: Omega-3 has multiple health benefits. For someone suffering from eczema, it can help to reduce inflammation. It is found in fish like tuna, mackerel, salmon, and sardines. It is also found in nuts. Fiber: Food rich in fiber, like whole grains, mangoes, legumes, beans, nuts, and seeds should be consumed. Foods to avoid Certain food items are harmful for those having eczema. These food items can cause allergic reactions leading to aggravation of the eczema symptoms. It should be kept in mind that some of these items may not cause any problems for some people, while for others it can cause severe allergy.

Thyroid eye disease is an eye condition known as Graves’ or Graves’ ophthalmopathy. It is an autoimmune condition in the body that generally impacts the eye muscles and tissues and impacts the thyroid gland. This condition is commonly observed in those with an overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism. In some cases, it might also occur as a precursor to a thyroid illness or without known thyroid complications. Check out some of its common signs and symptoms. Redness Redness of the conjunctiva is among the common signs of thyroid eye disease. It is mainly due to the body’s inflammatory response being triggered. If someone is experiencing prolonged redness and eye irritation, it can be pretty frustrating to receive a diagnosis that attributes their eye issues to an allergic response. Therefore, one must seek the advice of a qualified doctor for accurate diagnosis. Dry eyes A patient’s increased eye inflammation can give rise to a range of eye-related problems. One such issue is excessive tearing or dry eyes. Dry eyes can make it feel like the eyes are constantly gritty. In such cases, doctors might recommend eye drops or artificial tears to help keep the eyes lubricated. In patients with watery eyes, it is important to understand that the body attempts to combat increased irritation levels. The body can either increase or decrease the level of tear production to relieve inflammation. Bulging eyes When the inflammatory cells surrounding the eye area are activated, it can cause bulging of the eyes. The orbit is the bony cavity that houses the eyeball in the skull. When these tissues expand, it thickens the surrounding fat and cushions the eyes. This results in the entire area to grow bulkier. Hence, the eyeballs bulge forward. The condition is also known as proptosis. There are limited treatment options to help with this symptom, and patients might even have difficulty closing their eyelids.