The eyes are your window to the world. Not only do your eyes tell a tale during your times of happiness, but also in your times of sadness. You may cry out of joy or in pain, the only thing common to the two situations is the secretion of tears. They help provide lubrication and moisture which help you see properly and ensure that your eyes are comfortable. Tears are a mixture of several substances which include water for moisture, oils for lubrication, mucus to ensure that they spread evenly and antibodies and special proteins which ensure that infections are kept at bay. All in all, tears have quite a few more uses than you would imagine. These ingredients come from glands present around the eye. Dry eyes is a condition commonly characterized by the tear system being out of order. Symptoms and causes of dry eyes There are several symptoms of dry eyes which include itching, redness, blurry vision, light sensitivity, a gritty feeling, and a feeling like there is something in your eye when there is actually nothing. The condition may sometimes lead to the secretion of excess tears as well. This condition is referred to as reflex tearing. This occurs as there is a lack of moisture in the eye that causes irritation. A distress signal is then sent which leads to the production of excessive tears in order to provide lubrication. The problem is that these tears do no good as they are mostly made of water and cannot coat the eye and provide it with moisture. Here are a few of the most common causes of dry eyes: One of the most common causes of dry eyes is a lack of balance in the system that creates tears. Another common cause of chronic dry eyes includes the air conditioner or heater, which could dry out the tear film.

The thyroid is one of the most important glands in the body. It is shaped like a butterfly and is located in the front of the neck, just below the thyroid gland, around the windpipe. The isthmus—a bridge of tissues—joins the two thyroid lobes on each side. The thyroid gland helps regulate several metabolic processes throughout the body. When there are certain discrepancies noted in the functioning of this gland, it could cause either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism and so on. Symptoms of thyroid problems are often very distinctly noticed in the human body. The different types of thyroid problems affect either the gland’s functioning or its structure as a whole. The thyroid gland produces four important hormones to regulate the metabolism of the body. Of these four, thyroxine is the primary hormone produced by the thyroid gland; it is also known as T4. After its delivery to the tissues via the bloodstream, a tiny portion of the thyroxine released by the gland is converted into triiodothyronine, the most active hormone produced by the thyroid. It is also known as T3. Iodine is mainly used by the thyroid gland to produce these vital hormones. The functionality of the thyroid gland is controlled and regulated by a mechanism involving feedback received by the brain. When thyroid hormone levels are low, the hypothalamus in the brain produces thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). The release of this hormone causes the pituitary gland to release thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). The TSH causes the thyroid gland to release more thyroxin. Disruptions in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland can affect the functionality of the thyroid gland and cause several thyroid-related problems. Mentioned below are some of the types of thyroid problems and their symptoms. Hypothyroidism This condition is categorized with the thyroid gland producing lesser quantities of its primary hormones. The pituitary gland produces more TSH in order to compensate for this.

Eczema is a group of skin conditions with symptoms such as itchy, inflamed cracked, rough, and reddish skin. Sometimes, patients may also develop blisters due to this skin problem. One of the most common kinds of eczema is atopic eczema or atopic dermatitis. There are numerous eczema creams available in the market to treat this condition. You can talk to your dermatologist to know which is the best cream for eczema. Common symptoms of eczema The symptoms are different for kids and adults. Some of the common signs of eczema are: Rashes: Rashes are commonly seen on the elbows, nape of neck, and knees. However, they can appear on any other part of the body as well. Most of the times, these rashes lead to other symptoms. Dry skin: These rashes can make the skin dry as well. Itchiness: There are chances that skin rashes will become itchier every single day. Skin infections: These rashes may lead to skin infections if not treated in time. Colored rashes: The color of these rashes keep changing, either they get darker or lighter. Oozing pus: Bubbles may form on the rashes and become bumpy before they leak fluids. It is vital to treat eczema to avoid skin infections. Here is a list of some of the best creams for eczema available in the market for treating this condition: Skinfix Hand Repair Cream Skinfix Hand Repair Cream is one of the best creams for eczema and is quite popular too. It contains one percent of colloidal oatmeal, and you will be able to get immediate relief from itchy skin after applying this cream. AVEENO® Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream AVEENO® Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream is one of the best creams for eczema. People with eczema should keep their skin moisturized at all times. This cream contains colloidal oatmeal and lipids, which can help prevent dry skin.

Colds and allergies are two extremely common conditions, somewhat similar in nature and expression, and affect both children as well as adults of all ages. According to a survey published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is not at all uncommon for an adult to suffer from cold two to three times a year. This survey also correctly concludes that children are more likely to suffer from more frequent bouts of cold every year immune system is still developing. Allergies as a condition are also very common in both children and adults. According to a survey, around 50 million people in the country suffer from allergies. Read on to know more about the symptoms that help provide a difference between these two conditions. Cold and allergies are not the same It is true that the symptoms of these two conditions are somewhat similar, but cold and allergies themselves are fundamentally different from one another. These two conditions have significantly different causes and outbursts and the cold and allergies symptoms vary in type as well as the duration for which they last. If the doctor correctly identifies the cause behind the symptoms, then appropriate and timely treatment can be undertaken. Symptoms of a common cold Despite the apparent similarities between cold and allergies’ symptoms, the essential differences between them would be best explained if one understands these conditions would be beneficial. A cold, which is also known as “the common cold,” is, more often than not, caused by a virus and its symptoms show that. There are many different types of viruses which are responsible for causing a cold. While the symptoms and their severity may differ from individual to individual, all types of cold generally share some of the same basic characteristics. Here are some of the most common symptoms of cold:

The chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a collection of progressive lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and refractory asthma. These COPD-based lung diseases cause trouble in breathing and limit the airways. Chronic bronchitis narrows down the bronchial tubes and causes inflammation. Also, it builds up mucus. In emphysema, slowly the air sacs in the lungs get destroyed. Well, until date, no sure cure for this disease is available. However, a proper and timely treatment can help to ease the COPD-based lung disease symptoms along with lowering the complications and improving the overall quality of life. In the country, almost 24 million people suffer from this chronic disease. The more worrisome fact is that almost half of these people or more simply remain undiagnosed. According to various research and medical studies, smoking is one of the major reasons, causing this fatal disease. However, studies have also reflected the fact that 1 in 4 people, who are suffering from COPD lung disease symptoms, has never been into smoking! Here is a list of the various symptoms of this disease along with the treatments available to ease them and help the sufferers lead a better life. Symptoms of COPD Lung Disease Now, this chronic lung disease has several stages. In the earlier stages, the COPD lung disease symptoms can be a bit mild. There is a high chance of confusing it with a cold. Here are some of the symptoms of COPD at the earlier stages. Occasionally, feeling shortness of breath. This can especially be experienced after exercising. Feeling the need for clearing throat every now and then. Having a mild cough that is recurrent as well. You might think that making subtle changes such as avoiding stairs or skipping some physical activities can actually help you but these symptoms can not only become progressively worse but also can become very hard to ignore.

Iron deficiency or anemia is one of the most common forms of anemia and affects many people. It is the result of an inadequate amount of healthy red blood cells in the body. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the tissues in the body and are vital to the healthy functioning of the body as well. As the name suggests, a deficiency in iron leads to the onset of the disease. Your body cannot produce healthy red blood cells without sufficient amounts of iron. Iron deficiency or anemia may result in you feeling tired at all times and suffering from a shortness of breath. You need to maintain a healthy diet rich in iron to get back on track or correct your iron deficiency by taking iron supplements. You may need additional tests to determine the true nature of the disease, especially if you are bleeding internally. Here are some of the symptoms of iron deficiency or anemia: Symptoms of iron deficiency or anemia The onset of the disease is so mild that it generally goes unnoticed. The signs and symptoms of the disease gather pace once the deficiency of iron starts having a telling impact on the body. The signs and symptoms of iron deficiency or anemia include the following: Pale skin Weakness Extreme fatigue Chest pain Fast heartbeat Shortness of breath Dizziness, headaches, or light-headedness Cold hands and feet A poor appetite Unusual cravings for substances like starch, dirt, and ice Brittle nails If you end up suffering from these symptoms, it suggests the likelihood of iron deficiency or anemia. The worst you can do at this stage is do a self-diagnosis and find a treatment for yourself. While it seems simple to take iron supplements or drastically change your diet to incorporate more iron, overloading the body with iron can be extremely dangerous as well.

Dry eye syndrome is a common health condition attributed to inadequate lubrication of eyes. It can happen either due to insufficient production of tears or low-quality tears. Dry eyes are very uncomfortable and cause a burning sensation in the eyes. Generally, dry eyes develop due to uninterrupted working on computer screens, sitting in air-conditioned rooms for longer durations, or while long driving. Here is a closer look at dry eye symptoms and treatment options. Prevalence According to one estimate, millions of people in the country suffer from dry eyes. Moreover, it increases with increasing age, and women are more prone to develop dry eyes compared to men. Causes of dry eyes Several factors lead to dry eyes. A few are listed below: Use of medications such as antihistamines, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy Dry eyes are more prevalent in people aged above 50 Vitamin A and vitamin B 12  deficiency, diabetes, and thyroid disorders are also linked with dry eyes Insufficient blinking, allergies, and autoimmune disorders Chronic conjunctivitis Symptoms of dry eyes Common dry eye symptoms are: Red eyes and burning sensations and eye fatigue Blurred vision and light sensitivity Difficulty in driving A problem in wearing lenses Ways to treat dry eyes Use of lubricants Mild dry eye symptoms due to excessive use of computer or reading can be treated with artificial tears or lubricant eye drops. Other options are the use of gels and/or lubricants after consultation with a doctor. Lifestyle changes Take periodic breaks while working on a computer screen. Blinking eyes frequently and closing them for a few minutes while using a smartphone or any digital device may also help in reducing the symptoms of dry eye. This allows basal tears to spread uniformly across the eye. In case of long driving, wear proper sunglasses which covers the eyes completely thus protects your eyes from dust particles and warm air.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common disorder where an individual’s joints are attacked by their immune system. The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis usually affect the wrists, feet, and hands, and spotting the signs early enough can make it possible for a person to get an early diagnosis and the necessary treatment. Through early and consistent management of RA, it becomes possible for a person to prevent permanent joint damage and disability. Such small measures also help to lead a comparatively pain-free life. Let us know a bit more about rheumatoid arthritis, early signs of rheumatoid arthritis, and when you should see a doctor. What is rheumatoid arthritis? This condition occurs when joints become inflamed because the immune system of a person isn’t functioning properly. However, the immune system in people with RA attacks the body cells causing joint inflammation and making the joints painful, stiff, and swollen. At the moment, RA doesn’t have a cure, but through proper treatment, the flares of RA can be reduced. If this condition is not treated or signs of rheumatoid arthritis are ignored, the cartilage, joints, and bones in the affected area become damaged. Early signs of rheumatoid arthritis Since spotting the warning signs of RA can help you seek treatment earliest possible, you need to know the signs you should look for. Rheumatoid arthritis signs usually include the following. Fatigue This is a general symptom in people who are suffering from RA especially if they are experiencing joint inflammation. It is one of the most common early signs of rheumatoid arthritis. The fatigue is caused by the reaction of the body to poor sleep, inflammation, anemia, and treatment. It occurs when the body lacks enough energy and this can affect a person’s mood and emotions, relationship with people, occupation, attentiveness, sex drive, productivity, creativity, and happiness.

Tennis elbow is a painful condition in which the exterior of the elbow becomes painful and tender. Medically known as lateral epicondylitis, this condition happens when tendons in the elbow are overburdened by repetitive action of the arms and wrists. In such circumstances, the movement of the arms and wrists becomes difficult and there is a persistent pain in the elbows. However, elbow braces can go a long way to help you manage this condition. Read on to know more about the symptoms and treatment options for tennis elbow and how elbow braces can help the sufferer. Symptoms and treatment options for tennis elbow The usual symptoms include pain while extending the arms fully, pain on the outer part of the elbow which may become worse over a period if not treated, and pain while gripping things and movements of the wrist. A popular treatment method is going for physiotherapy, which involves progressive arm exercises. Rest, cold therapy, and medication are other ways to manage the condition. Wearing tennis elbow braces can be especially helpful. What is a tennis elbow brace and how does it help? Elbow braces are considered to be the most effective way of treating tennis elbow. It helps protect the damaged tendon during the healing process. The elbow brace is gentle and works on injured elbows by firmly compressing the upper forearm. It absorbs the forces spread through the soft tissues, thereby changing the force exerted on the tendon attachment, allowing the injury to heal better. Choose a well-fitting brace and wrap it on your arms properly to resume daily activities soon. How to choose the right braces for tennis elbow Choosing an elbow brace can be confusing as there are a plethora of options available. You can consider the following tips when choosing an elbow brace: Quality and durability –  This is the main factor to consider while buying elbow braces.