Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also called Lou Gehrig’s disease after the famous baseball player who succumbed to the disease, is a motor-neuron condition characterized by the breaking down of nerve cells in the body and leading to a degeneration of the brain and spinal cord. Approximately 5.2 per 1,00,000 individuals are affected by this neurodegenerative disease each year nationwide. Here are some early warning signs of ALS that can facilitate timely intervention: Early warning signs of ALS Difficulty walking This health condition begins with muscular weakness, which eventually poses difficulty standing and walking. Thus, ALS patients may require assistive devices like crutches or wheelchairs as the disease progresses. Problems with chewing and swallowing Since ALS involves the weakening of the masseter and temporalis muscles responsible for chewing and swallowing, individuals with ALS face difficulties carrying out these activities independently and may require assistance while having their meals. Muscle cramping Muscle cramping is a highly prevalent symptom among patients with ALS, reportedly affecting 95% of patients with this condition. Spasticity Muscle weakness due to ALS may progress to muscle tightness or spasticity, making it difficult for patients with this disease to move the different muscles in their bodies. Loss of control over emotional expression Some patients with ALS may experience a momentary loss of control over their emotional expressions, such as crying or laughing.

Eating nutritious foods is incredibly essential, especially for those with heart conditions. Certain ingredients can affect the organ and worsen existing issues, while others can help maintain heart health without compromising taste. When switching to a healthier food plan, experts recommend starting the day with the right breakfast. This first meal should support the heart and provide energy for the tasks ahead. Here are five heart-healthy breakfast ideas to try today. Whole wheat pancakes Adding whole grains to meals is a great way to keep heart health in check and potentially decrease the risk of developing cardiac diseases. Experts suggest whole grains can also help reduce cholesterol and the risk of a stroke. One of the best ways to consume whole wheat in the mornings is to make whole wheat pancakes for breakfast. Follow the usual pancake recipe, but use whole wheat flour over unhealthy varieties. Have them with seasonal fruits and a little blueberry syrup for extra deliciousness! Quinoa breakfast bowl Quinoa is another heart-healthy food that can easily be incorporated into breakfast. It contains a lot of fiber, which can help lower the risk of heart disease and diabetes and keep cholesterol and blood sugar in check. Since this ingredient is also rich in antioxidants, it may help prevent heart damage.

Cord blood (that is left in the umbilical cord and placenta after birth) contains special cells that can be beneficial in treating more than 70 types of conditions, including some genetic disorders, neurologic disorders, and even some forms of cancer. This method of stem cell banking has grown leaps and bounds in technology and popularity today. However, there are many myths floating around about cord blood banking. Here are five of them debunked: Myth 1: Banked blood stem cells are only good for 18 years Most blood banks offer cord blood storage for 18–20 years. Due to this, many people believe that stem cells ‘expire’ post this point. However, if stored safely, cord blood cells can last indefinitely. Myth 2: Taking blood samples from the birth mother is unsafe for the baby When the mother arrives at the hospital for delivery, a tiny amount of blood is drawn from her (before fluids are given). This blood is sent to a laboratory to run an infectious disease panel to screen any potential risks or threats for the child. Some people believe that giving extra blood before delivery can be dangerous. However, since a very small amount is drawn, this poses no risk of an unsafe delivery for the mother or child.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a respiratory condition characterized by obstructed airflow, leading to breathing difficulties. Individuals with COPD often face symptoms like persistent coughing, increased mucus production, shortness of breath, and wheezing, which can significantly impact their quality of life. Managing COPD necessitates a comprehensive approach, with suitable food choices playing a crucial role. Proper nutrition can help optimize lung function, strengthen the immune system, and enhance overall well-being for individuals with COPD. 7 foods that worsen COPD symptoms Processed foods Processed foods, often convenient but nutritionally lacking, can pose challenges for individuals with COPD. These items are typically high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives, which can have detrimental effects on respiratory health. Excessive sodium intake can lead to fluid retention, potentially placing extra strain on the heart and lungs. Trans fats, commonly found in processed foods, have been linked to inflammation, which can further compromise respiratory function. For those managing COPD, it is advisable to scrutinize food labels and opt for whole, unprocessed alternatives to support optimal lung health. Cauliflower While cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower offer a wealth of nutrients, they can sometimes lead to excess gas production in the digestive system.

Angioedema is a chronic condition marked by sudden and severe swelling in the deeper layers of the skin, often occurring around the eyes, lips, throat, and sometimes even the hands and feet. Various factors can trigger it, including allergies, insect bites, certain treatments, anxiety, stress, or underlying health issues. Treatment options for angioedema depend on the cause, but what one eats daily can also significantly manage this condition. Types of angioedema Allergic angioedema may be triggered by food, pollen, and other allergens, while hereditary ones can occur due to abnormally mutated genes in one’s family. Idiopathic angioedema has no known cause but may be triggered by certain ongoing treatments. Angioedema of any type usually leads to symptoms like painful swelling, vision problems, breathing difficulties due to inflamed airways, dizziness, or even collapsing. Infections, pregnancy, or birth control may also trigger the condition. In severe cases, a person might require hospitalization. Foods that can help with angioedema Certain foods are known to help provide relief from angioedema. Some of them are as follows: 1. Fruits and vegetables like tomatoes Many plant-based foods are good sources of quercetin, including tomatoes, broccoli, apples, grapes, berries, onions, and leafy greens. Quercetin is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound found in various fruits and vegetables.

Angioedema is a distinctive medical condition that flares with sudden, localized swelling beneath the skin’s surface. This swelling primarily targets areas like the eyes, lips, hands, and feet, distinguishing it from other forms of swelling. It is caused by fluid buildup that impacts the subcutaneous and submucosal layers of tissues in the impacted region. In most cases, an allergic reaction is the leading cause of angioedema. Here are some common signs to look out for. Pronounced swelling The most prominent symptom of angioedema is swelling, which occurs predominantly around the eyes, lips, cheeks, hands, and feet and manifests in deeper layers of the skin. Unlike the raised, itchy patches characteristic of hives, angioedema presents with a more profound, localized swelling. This swelling may cause discomfort, especially in areas where the skin is tightly stretched, such as around the eyes. Swift and sudden onset Angioedema distinguishes itself by its abrupt onset. Unlike other forms of swelling that may develop gradually, angioedema often emerges swiftly, sometimes within minutes. This rapid progression is a notable feature, underscoring the urgency of prompt recognition and intervention. The sudden nature of angioedema can be particularly alarming for individuals experiencing it for the first time, necessitating immediate attention.

Hemophilia is a rare genetic disorder that affects a person’s ability to produce sufficient blood-clotting proteins or clotting factors. Consequently, the blood does not clot properly, making the individual more susceptible to bleeding and complications. The severity of the condition is related to the amount of these clotting factors, with lower levels increasing the risk of bleeding. Symptoms of hemophilia typically appear between 8 to 36 months, depending on the severity of the condition. Frequent bleeding from the gums and nosebleeds Those with a mild form of hemophilia tend to experience frequent bruising of the gums or the mucous membranes of the nose. Because of this, there are frequent instances of gum bleeding or nosebleeds. This type of bleeding lasts only for a short while in most cases. But in some cases, the bleeding can be too severe and require emergency medical care. Severe bleeding after an injury or surgery Extreme and uncontrollable bleeding during surgery or after an injury generally occurs in the cases of mild or moderate hemophilia. In most cases where diagnosis of hemophilia has not yet happened, this symptom is encountered accidentally. The unusual bleeding leads to further tests and examinations, often pointing to hemophilia. In severe cases, the bleeding can be spontaneous and occur with a tiny bruise or during minor procedures such as tooth extraction.

Liver cancer is a potentially life-threatening condition that can sometimes remain silent in its early stages. However, in other cases, it does show a few early warning signs. Recognizing these signs and detecting the condition early is crucial for increasing the chances of its treatment being effective. So, here are a few early warning signs of liver cancer that one must look out for in order to take prompt action. Loss of appetite A sudden loss of appetite is one of the most common signs of a liver-related ailment, including liver cancer. One may find themselves lacking interest in eating, even after hours of not consuming anything. One may also feel full upon eating a minimal amount of food. These signs can be a serious cause of concern and require immediate medical attention. Jaundice Another telltale sign of liver disease, including liver cancer, is jaundice. Jaundice is characterized by yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. It happens when the liver cannot properly process bilirubin, a waste product. Abdominal pain and swelling If a person experiences persistent discomfort or pain in the upper right side of their abdomen, they must consult a medical professional, as this could be a warning sign of liver cancer.

The eyes play an indispensable role in shaping our perception of the world around us. Unfortunately, it is estimated that almost 20 million persons nationwide suffer from vision impairment due to an eye condition. While consulting an ophthalmologist is essential for timely treatment, it is crucial to protect the eyes to prevent such conditions from developing or escalating. Here are certain basic yet essential ways to maintain eye health and prevent these diseases: 1. Avoid stepping out without shades during the day Exposure to direct sunlight over a period of time can contribute to the onset of macular degeneration, cataracts, and damage to the cornea. Therefore, one should always cover the eyes with shades while stepping out in the sun. 2. Limit the use of gadgets While it is impossible to imagine life without electronics today, gadgets like mobile phones, iPads, and the TV emit blue light, which can lead to retinal damage over time. Overuse of these gadgets can cause ocular problems like dry eyes, blurred vision, dizziness, and headaches. Hence, it is important to limit one’s use of these devices, particularly refraining from them before bedtime. Today, several smartphones are equipped with options to monitor screen time and time spent on apps.

Besides forming the body’s framework, bones serve many other functions, including facilitating movement and protecting internal organs. Thus, diagnosing and treating bone-related conditions early on is essential to prevent them from aggravating. Osteoporosis is a disease involving bone brittleness, reducing bone density, and increasing susceptibility to fractures. Following a healthy lifestyle is essential to manage its symptoms. Here are some foods patients with weak bones and osteoporosis should give up: Red meat Although proteins play an indispensable role in maintaining bone health, excessive protein in the body is linked to depletion of calcium levels in the bones, worsening osteoporosis symptoms. Red meat is among the richest protein sources and is also high in sulfur-rich amino acids, which may aggravate bone brittleness. Therefore, patients with osteoporosis and weak bones should limit their red meat intake, preferably replacing it with other protein sources like lean meats, soy, and yogurt. Processed foods Processed meats, hotdogs, pizzas, and other processed foods can cause acute calcium deficiency and increase one’s risk of osteopenia and osteoporosis. A nutrient-rich meal plan containing healthy carbs and fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals can reduce cravings for processed foods. Beans Phytate is a substance that can affect calcium absorption and trigger or worsen bone weakening.