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How to Treat and Prevent Heartburn and Indigestion
Heartburn is an unpleasant condition often characterized by a burning sensation in the throat and chest. Most of the times, it is triggered by the food we consume, especially acidic, fatty or spicy foods.
Heartburn and indigestion are often used interchangeably. But, it is important to understand that heartburn is a symptom of indigestion. Eating certain foods can cause some discomfort in the belly, resulting in digestive pain and heartburn.
In a lot of cases, heartburn is also caused due to acid reflux, a condition in which some of the stomach’s content is forced back up into the esophagus. If the acid reflux happens more than two times a week, it is called gastroesophageal reflux disease.
According to the American College of Gastroenterology, approximately 15 million Americans experience heartburn every day.
Common causes of heartburn
If one experiences occasional heartburn, then it is generally not a cause for concern.Persistent acid reflux may result in the diagnosis of GERD, which can have serious consequences for health or may indicate another underlying health issue.
However, conditions such as digestive motility disorders, hiatal hernia, diabetes or asthma can also lead to excessive heartburn. Certain medications, such as anti-anxiety pills, steroids, antibiotics, and narcotics, can also trigger heartburn.
Some ways to prevent heartburn
There are plenty of ways to prevent this unpleasant and discomforting condition from occurring, such as the following:- Avoid excessively acidic and spicy foods
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Not wearing very tight clothes, especially around the waist
- Eating regulated portions of food
- Avoiding smoking
- Avoiding constipation
- Getting adequate rest and reduce stress
- Consuming warm liquids after meals
- Waiting for 3 hours after eating before going to the bed or lying down
Treatment of heartburn
Treatment for heartburn and indigestion usually begins with making certain lifestyle and dietary modifications.In case, one experiences occasional bouts of heartburn, one can take some over-the-counter medicines for getting instant relief. These medicines are broadly classified into three categories:
- Antacids
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
- H2 blockers.
Antacids help in neutralizing stomach acid, offering quick relief from the symptoms of heartburn, and PPIs and H2 blockers decrease the amount of acid released by the stomach.
Apart from these medicines, there are some simple treatments that help in relieving the symptoms of heartburn. They are as follows:
Standing up straight
A straight and upright posture puts less pressure on the LES, i.e. lower esophageal sphincter. This LES is a group of muscles that prevent the acid in the stomach from rising up into the esophagus.So, an upright posture at all times should be maintained. Also, if one is sitting or lying down, standing up and walking a little for some time helps to ease heartburn.
Taking ginger
Ginger is great for easing heartburn and indigestion. It is an excellent folk remedy that offers relief to a lot of people.A small quantity of grated ginger can be added to one’s favorite foods and stir-fried recipes to find comfort. One can also sip ginger tea by adding dried ginger roots or ginger tea bag into boiling water.
It is important to note that ginger ale, on the contrary, can trigger heartburn. Such carbonated beverages usually contain artificial flavors that cause discomfort in the body.
Mixing baking soda with water
If one is experiencing heartburn and indigestion, taking some baking soda is helpful. The amazing ingredient works wonders by neutralizing the stomach acid.One teaspoon of baking soda mixed into a glass of water and drinking it slowly is a great remedy.
Trying licorice supplements
Licorice root has long been used to treat the symptoms of heartburn. It is believed that licorice reinforces the mucous coating of the esophageal tube lining, which protects the esophagus from the damage caused by the stomach acid.Therefore, one can take some licorice supplements to strengthen the system and prevent episodes of heartburn. But licorice can also at times raise one’s blood pressure or interfere with certain medications. So it is best to consult a doctor before taking these supplements.
Chewing gum
According to a study, chewing gum for half an hour after every meal can help to reduce heartburn and indigestion. This is because these gums stimulate saliva production that helps in clearing all stomach acid from the esophagus.In maximum cases of heartburn, taking over-the-counter medicines, making lifestyle modifications and using simple home remedies can prove to be helpful.
Apart from the remedies mentioned above, there are some foods that may help in moderating digestion and keeping bowel movement regular. Some of the foods that can be included in one’s food regime are prunes, figs, grapes, broccoli, and asparagus.
Since vegetables contain low sugar and fat, they help in reducing acid in the stomach, which in turn, helps in acid indigestion relief and heartburn. Prunes contain both soluble and insoluble fiber that assist in regular bowel movement and digestion. Figs too are packed with high fiber and are excellent source of prebiotics that aid digestion and improve gut health.
In case, one experiences frequent cases of heartburn, i.e. two or three times a week, it is imperative to consult the doctor. A doctor does a close examination of the condition and can prescribe a suitable line of treatment.
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Popular medications for neutropenia
Popular medications for neutropenia
Neutropenia is a condition where the body does not have enough neutrophils. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cells that are vital to helping the body fight infection. They fight the infection off by destroying harmful bacteria and fungi like yeast that invade the body.
Importance of neutrophils
It is essential to have a sufficient number of neutrophils in the body; otherwise, the person is prone to several infections. The risk of infection is so high that the person has to be extra cautious about sanitation and hygiene. While washing hands, in general, is good practice, they must wash their hands regularly or they are at the risk of getting serious infections.
Symptoms
While neutropenia itself does not cause any symptom, it triggers infections which show symptoms like:
- Sore throat
- Sores in the mouth or a toothache
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Abdominal pain
- Pain near the anus
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Redness, swelling or pain around cuts or wounds
- Diarrhea or sores around the anus
- Shortness of breath or a cough
Causes
Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow of larger bones and anything that disrupts this process of production in the bone marrow can lead to this condition. One of the most common causes of neutropenia is chemotherapy, and in fact, almost half the cancer patients that undergo chemotherapy experience some level of neutropenia.
Treatment and medication
The treatment for this condition usually involves glycoprotein.
Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF)
It is a glycoprotein that triggers the bone marrow, which is a tissue that contains stem cells, to produce a sufficient number of neutrophils and release them into the bloodstream. Its generic name is filgrastim, but it also has different trade names that one may be aware of.Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)
A naturally producing glycoprotein that carries out the same functions as that of G-CSF.Antibiotics
Since a low count of white blood cells leads to infections, some patients are also given antibiotics to treat those infections.So apart from increasing the count of white blood cells, the doctor may also prescribe a combination of medicines to treat other conditions that are caused by this. While this is a serious condition, if someone had febrile neutropenia, it is regarded as a medical emergency and the person needs immediate attention.
Some trade names of the medications used to treat this condition that one should be aware of:
Neulasta, Udenyca, Fulphila
All these are trade names for pegfilgrastim. It is a man-made version of a certain natural substance in the body which helps make more white blood cells.Leukine
Its generic name is sargramostim, and it works similarly to pegfilgrastim in making a natural substance in the body that promotes the production of white blood cells.Granix, Zarxio
Filgrastim is their generic name, which is again used to promote the production of white blood cells. It is given to people who are going through chemotherapy, chronic neutropenia or exposure to large amounts of radiation.It is always advisable to consult a doctor before consuming any of these medications. These are medications that are prescribed by a professional after a detailed diagnosis that is done under proper care.
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Best Home Remedies to Deal with Chronic Cough
Cold and cough are not very serious health conditions but may be an indication of other illnesses. A person may experience a cough may be due to chest congestion or throat infection or allergies or tuberculosis, or even gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). An acute cough develops suddenly and lasts for short durations, while a chronic cough lasts for more than 3 to 8 weeks. A chronic cough that does not have any obvious cause and lasts for several weeks is a cause of concern.
A chronic cough can cause a considerable amount of discomfort and be a hindrance to your work and home routine. A chronic cough can strain the muscles of your chest and leave your throat feeling raw and painful. There are chronic cough remedies which aim at eliminating the cause of cough. Cough due to cold can be cured through simple home remedies, while serious infections of the throat or lungs may require antibiotic medication. Mild throat infections may be treated by gargling with warm salt water.
Causes of a chronic cough
Cough occurs when dust, virus, bacteria, food particles or pollen irritate the nerve endings present in the airways between throat and lungs. The body tries to clear the blockage by coughing. Before moving on to chronic cough remedies, it pays to take a look at the various causes of a chronic cough. Common causes of a chronic cough are as follows:- Postnasal drip
- Asthma, cough-variant asthma with a cough as the main symptom
- Chronic bronchitis
- Any type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Viral or bacterial infections of the throat or lungs
- Medications for treating other illnesses like high blood pressure
- Smoking
- Chewing tobacco
- Acid reflux.
Other causes of a chronic cough that are less common include the following:
- Cystic fibrosis
- Lung cancer
- Heart failure
- Bronchiolitis
- A whooping cough
- Bronchiectasis
Top 10 home remedies for a chronic cough
Identifying the cause of a chronic cough is primary to decide on chronic cough remedies. A mild bout of a cough may settle with simple home remedies. Natural remedies for a chronic cough are free of side effects and sometimes more effective than over-the-counter medication. Natural remedies for chronic cough help soothe the throat and relax the chest muscles. When a chronic cough is caused due to bacterial or viral infections, antibiotic or antibacterial treatment may be required.Here is a look at some of the home remedies for a chronic cough:
- Honey
Honey is known for the soothing effect on the throat. It is the most effective remedy for a sore throat. 2-3 teaspoons of honey mixed with warm water or tea soothe the throat and helps get rid of a cough. - Probiotics
A chronic cough caused by acid reflux or GERD can be treated through probiotics. Acid reflux or GERD occurs when there is a problem with the digestive tract. Probiotics help cure digestive disorders. So, indirectly probiotics help reduce a chronic cough due to digestive disorders. - Increase fluid intake
Postnasal drip is caused by cold or flu. Due to this drip, mucus flows down the back of the throat causing irritation. Increasing the intake of fluids dilutes the mucus, which in turn reduces the irritation. - Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme that is found in the stem and fruit of pineapples. This enzyme is known to suppress a chronic cough and loosen the mucus in the throat. - Peppermint
Peppermint leaves are capable of curing sore throat and chest congestion. The extract from these leaves can be added to tea or 2-3 drops of peppermint oil can be added to the steam bath. - Thyme
Certain upper respiratory illnesses can be treated with thyme. Thyme can be added to tea for relief from a cough. - Warm salt water
Mild throat infections can be treated by gargling with warm salt water 3 to 4 times a day. - Drinking warm liquids
Avoiding cold drinks and drinking only warm liquids helps in soothing the throat. Warm liquids help maintain the mucous membranes in a moist state. - Black pepper and honey
Black pepper crushed into a powder and mixed with honey helps in relieving cough caused by cold. Freshly ground pepper works best. - Throat lozenges
Menthol cough drops are effective in chronic cough relief. Lozenges have a numbing effect on the back of the throat, which in turn helps in decreasing the cough reflex.
If a cough is caused due to dust or pollen or other airborne allergens, avoiding going to place which will expose yourself to them. This will help prevent a chronic cough.
Chronic cough remedies depend on the root cause of a cough. Some causes can be addressed through simple home remedies, while others may require intensive medical treatment. In some cases, chronic cough may be an indication of other serious illnesses like lung cancer, tuberculosis or throat cancer. In such cases, chronic cough remedies are aimed at eliminating the cancerous growth or chest infection, which reduces the intensity of coughing.
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14 Supplements that Provide Relief from Joint Pain
Joint pain can throw your life out of gear. People affected by joint pain find it difficult to carry out their daily chores. Their mobility is restricted, and each movement seems painful. Arthritis refers to a group of conditions that affect the joints due to inflammation. Its most common symptom is joint pain. Several varieties of arthritis exist such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, and bursitis. The causes of these conditions vary with the type. Wear and tear of joints, immune system disorders, and other medical conditions are common causes of pain in the joints due to arthritis.
Treatment for joint pain varies depending upon the symptoms and their severity. One can opt for medication or home remedies to treat joint pain. Some people also take supplements and vitamins to ease joint pain. If one wants to get the best supplements for joint pain, they need to consider a variety of factors. Before taking supplements, consultation with a physician is essential. These supplements are capable of providing a moderate improvement in the symptoms of arthritis and inhibit its progression. Some supplements also have an anti-inflammatory effect on the joints, which will reduce any pain.
How to choose the best supplements for joint pain?
When it comes to joint pain supplements, one size doesn’t fit everyone. The best supplements for joint pain work for you only if they are chosen based on your health needs. Here are some tips to help you choose the best joint pain supplements as per your requirements:- Scientific evidence: Look for clinical evidence that supports the supplement’s effectiveness in reducing joint pain. Do not go by the product’s reviews on the company’s website.
- Expected results: Each supplement produces different effects on different people. You need to be clear about what you expect from the supplement, and then consider factors like side effects, long-term usage effects, and value for money before making a choice.
- Ingredients: The safety and effectiveness of the supplements depend on its components. You need to scrutinize the ingredients before choosing a supplement for joint pain.
- Product reviews and feedback: Most products have customer reviews and feedbacks posted on various websites. You can use these as guidelines before making a choice.
Supplements that provide relief from joint pain caused by arthritis
In addition to the treatment of joint pain, one can also take supplements for getting relief from the pain and avoiding further deterioration of the condition. Here is a list of the best supplements for joint pain caused by arthritis:- Glucosamine: This supplement is an effective analgesic. It also alters the symptoms of joint pain. The effect of this supplement, however, is not very pronounced. Research shows that glucosamine sulfate formulation is more effective when taken over six months and longer.
- Chondroitin: Supplements containing chondroitin sulfate produce an anti-inflammatory effect on the pathways in our body. Some clinical studies reveal that chondroitin slows down the progression of arthritis.
- Avocado soybean unsaponifiable(ASU): People who consume ASU supplements are able to manage their joint pain better. This supplement shows good results, especially with knee pain.
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs): Supplements containing PUFAs provide several health benefits. Studies show an overall reduction in joint pain because of these supplements. Moreover, people who consume these supplements require lesser amounts of pain relievers.
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM): Clinical studies have shown that a 12-week course of MSM supplements leads to a significant reduction in the physical pain and immobility caused by arthritis. However, not much evidence is available regarding the side effects of this supplement or its interactions with other medicines.
- Omega 3 fatty acids: Supplements containing omega 3 fatty acids help control the inflammation caused by arthritis. The stiffness and pain associated with arthritis, especially due to rheumatoid arthritis, can be reduced through these supplements. Thus, these supplements are one of the best choices for joint pain.
- Green tea: It has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help in managing joint pain.
- Vitamin D: The levels of vitamin D in our body have a direct effect on joint pain and bone health in general. Supplements containing vitamin D are recommended for those suffering from the side effects of low vitamin D levels.
- S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e): SAM-e is a potent pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent. It stimulates cartilage growth, which in turn, slows down the progression of arthritis. This supplement is especially beneficial for treating joint pain caused by osteoarthritis.
- Boswellia serrata: Supplements containing boswellic acids have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects which can help reduce joint pain.
- Capsaicin: This supplement acts on the neurotransmitters that send pain signals to the brain. It is known to show pain-relieving capabilities in those affected by osteoarthritis.
- Turmeric: Curcumin or turmeric is a naturally occurring plant substance that has excellent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Supplements containing curcumin have shown long-term improvements in pain and functionality of joints affected by arthritis.
- Cat’s claw: It is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that also benefits the immune system, making it one of the best supplements for providing relief from joint pain due to arthritis.
- Gamma linolenic acid: This is an omega 6 fatty acid that is converted into an anti-inflammatory chemical by our body.
The ideal treatment for joint pain is a combination of medicines and home remedies. One can choose the best joint supplements for their condition after considering the factors mentioned above. The effectiveness of supplements varies, and not everyone will find a particular supplement useful. Thus, you can try different options after consulting a doctor.