Over-the-counter painkillers can be a godsend for many of us. Whether they’re needed to relieve a headache, back ache or get rid of cold or flu symptoms, they make dealing with minor health issues more bearable.
In the UK we rely heavily on paracetamol, a medicine used to treat mild to moderate pain According to the University of Oxford, we buy around 6,300 tonnes each year – equivalent to roughly 70 tablets per person…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
But as with any medication, it can come with some risks.
Doctor Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, issued a warning on paracetamol intake and revealed the potential long-term effects.
He explained: “Taking too much paracetamol or utilising the medication when it’s not needed can pose significant risks to our physical wellbeing – both immediately and in the long-term.
“It’s important to understand the risks that come with paracetamol to ensure it’s only taken when needed.”
He therefore urged people to never take more paracetamol than is needed or take it while drinking alcohol.
This could result in serious liver damage, Dr Grant said, and even death.
“Too much paracetamol can have drastic effects on liver health, causing damage and risking failure,” he said.
“This occurs when there’s too much of the drug present in the body, highlighting how important it is to stick to recommended dosages for the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
“To avoid causing damage to the liver, it’s also important to avoid consuming alcohol when taking paracetamol as the combination of the two can drastically increase the risk of damage.
“Ingesting more than the recommended daily amount of paracetamol can result in overdose, which has a range of symptoms including jaundice, nausea, loss of appetite and confusion. It may even result in death in extreme circumstances.
“An antidote can be administered to treat a paracetamol overdose, but this must be done urgently.”
According to Public Health England, around 100,000 people are admitted to hospital each year as a result of overdosing on paracetamol.
It’s vital to understand the recommended paracetamol dosage for adults and children, to avoid a dangerous intake, Dr Grant said.
He continued: “Adults can take two 500mg tablets every four to six hours and are not recommended to exceed eight tablets over 24 hours. This can be even lower for those weighing less than eight stone.
“For children, it’s best to discuss the correct dosage based on the child’s specific age and weight, to ensure the correct amount of paracetamol is administered.
“By understanding the health risks that come with a high intake of paracetamol and learning the recommended dosage, people can avoid long-term health implications and the risk of overdose.”
If you’ve ever had stomach pain and found yourself wondering: What side is the appendix on?—you’re not alone! The appendix is a small but significant organ. It is often associated with pain and medical emergencies like appendicitis.
While we don’t think much about the appendix in our everyday lives, it can certainly make its presence known when something goes wrong. Knowing where it’s located, how it functions, and what symptoms to look out for can help you take better care of your health.
Before we talk about where the appendix is located, it’s helpful to first understand what the appendix actually is. The appendix is a small, finger-shaped tube that is attached to the cecum, the beginning of the large intestine. Despite being a small organ, its role has been a subject of curiosity for centuries.
The exact function of the appendix remains somewhat unclear, but current research suggests that it may act as a storage site for good bacteria that help with digestion.
The Function of the Appendix
For many years, scientists believed the appendix had no significant function and was merely a vestigial organ left over from our evolutionary ancestors.
However, recent studies suggest that the appendix may play a role in the immune system, particularly in young people. It can store healthy bacteria that help with digestion and gut health.
Despite these potential functions, the appendix can be removed without causing any long-term health issues, which is why appendectomy (surgical removal of the appendix) is commonly performed when appendicitis is diagnosed.
What Side Is the Appendix On?
Now, let’s dive into the question that brought you here: What side is your appendix on?
For most people, the appendix is located in the lower right part of the abdomen. This location is important to note, as pain from appendicitis typically manifests in this region. However, while this is the most common location, the appendix can sometimes be found elsewhere within the body, causing symptoms to vary depending on its position.
Where Exactly Is the Appendix Located?
Lower Right Abdomen: The appendix is most commonly located in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen, just below the belly button and to the right. It connects to the cecum, which is the first part of the large intestine.
Behind the Cecum: In some cases, the appendix can be located behind the cecum (a position known as retrocecal appendicitis). This location might cause less obvious symptoms, as pain may not be felt in the traditional lower right side of the abdomen.
Pelvic Area: In rare instances, the appendix can be found in the pelvic cavity, closer to the bladder or reproductive organs. This is called pelvic appendicitis, and the pain associated with it may resemble that of a urinary tract infection or gynecological problems, making diagnosis more difficult.
Can the Appendix Be Located Elsewhere in the Body?
While the appendix is usually found in the lower right abdomen, it doesn’t always follow this typical pattern. There are several variations in appendix location that could potentially cause complications in diagnosis.
1. Retrocecal Appendix
One of the most common alternate positions for the appendix is behind the cecum, which is the first part of the large intestine. This variation is called retrocecal appendicitis.
Because the appendix is located further behind the intestine in this case, the pain associated with appendicitis may not present as clearly in the lower right abdomen. Instead, it might be more diffuse or difficult to pinpoint.
2. Pelvic Appendix
In some cases, the appendix can be located in the pelvic cavity, particularly in women. This is known as pelvic appendicitis, and it can make the symptoms of appendicitis seem like other conditions, such as urinary tract infections, ovarian cysts, or other gynecological issues.
The pain may be felt closer to the bladder or uterus instead of the typical lower right abdomen.
3. Subhepatic Appendix
The appendix can also be located below the liver (this is called subhepatic appendicitis). This location might cause pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, mimicking symptoms of gallbladder disease or even liver issues. This makes it important for doctors to consider all possibilities when diagnosing abdominal pain.
4. Left-Sided Appendix
While extremely rare, some people are born with a condition called situs inversus, in which the internal organs are arranged in a mirror-image pattern.
In these cases, the appendix can be located on the left side of the body instead of the right. Though rare, this variation can make appendicitis harder to diagnose, as the symptoms might mimic conditions like diverticulitis or left-sided kidney problems.
What Is Appendicitis?
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed due to an infection, blockage, or other factors. If left untreated, the appendix may burst, leading to a dangerous infection called peritonitis. This life-threatening condition can spread infection throughout the abdominal cavity, making it a medical emergency.
Early Symptoms of Appendicitis
Knowing the early symptoms of appendicitis is crucial because it can lead to a quicker diagnosis and treatment, preventing the appendix from rupturing and causing serious complications.
1. Abdominal Pain
The most common symptom of appendicitis is abdominal pain, but it often starts in an unexpected place. The pain usually begins around the navel (belly button) and can be dull or cramp-like.
Over time, this pain shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen, where the appendix is located. The pain may become more sharp and intense, especially when pressure is applied to the area.
2. Loss of Appetite
Another common symptom of appendicitis is a loss of appetite. Many people with appendicitis report that they suddenly don’t feel like eating, even though they may have been hungry before the onset of pain.
3. Nausea and Vomiting
As the appendix becomes inflamed, it can cause nausea and vomiting. These symptoms typically occur after the pain starts. Some people may also experience fever, often low-grade, as the body tries to fight the infection.
As the inflammation increases, the abdomen may become tender to the touch, particularly on the lower right side. You may feel a tightness in your abdomen or notice swelling in the area. This makes it more uncomfortable to move.
6. Pain When Moving or Coughing
If you move suddenly or cough, you may feel a sharp pain in your abdomen, particularly in the area where the appendix is located. This is because the inflammation irritates the surrounding tissues and muscles.
Where Is the Pain Location for Appendicitis?
The location of pain in appendicitis is one of the key ways doctors can diagnose the condition. Initially, the pain may start around the umbilical area (near your belly button), making it feel like general stomach discomfort.
However, as the appendix becomes more inflamed, the pain usually moves to the lower right abdomen, near a spot called McBurney’s point. This is located approximately one-third of the way from the hip bone to the belly button.
Here’s a breakdown of common pain locations and variations:
Typical Pain Locations
Near the Belly Button (Umbilical Area): Pain may begin as a dull ache or cramp.
Lower Right Abdomen: As the inflammation worsens, the pain shifts to the lower right quadrant of the abdomen, where the appendix is located. This is usually where the pain becomes sharper.
Localized Pain: The pain can become localized and more intense. This will make you difficult to move or walk without discomfort.
Variations in Pain Location
Retrocecal Appendicitis: The appendix is located behind the cecum (part of the large intestine), which can cause pain to radiate toward the back or right flank.
Pelvic Appendicitis: If the appendix is located near the pelvic area (particularly in women), the pain may feel like a urinary tract infection or gynecological issues (such as ovarian cysts).
Left-Sided Appendix: In rare cases, the appendix can be located on the left side of the abdomen, especially in people with situs inversus (a condition where organs are reversed). The pain in this case may mimic other gastrointestinal conditions, such as diverticulitis.
What Causes Appendicitis?
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes blocked, allowing bacteria to multiply and cause inflammation. This blockage can happen for several reasons:
1. Fecal Blockage (Fecaliths)
A common cause of appendicitis is a fecalith (hardened stool), which blocks the opening of the appendix. This blockage causes bacteria to build up and the appendix to become inflamed.
2. Infection
Sometimes, a bacterial or viral infection in the gastrointestinal tract can spread to the appendix, leading to inflammation. This is more common in children and young adults.
3. Enlarged Lymphoid Tissue
The appendix contains lymphoid tissue, which is part of the immune system. In some cases, infections or immune system activity can cause this tissue to become swollen, blocking the appendix and leading to appendicitis.
4. Tumors
Though rare, a tumor or growth in or near the appendix can cause a blockage, leading to appendicitis.
5. Foreign Objects
In very rare cases, a foreign object (such as swallowed food or a piece of non-food material) can obstruct the appendix and lead to infection.
6. Genetic Factors
Some studies suggest that there may be a genetic predisposition to developing appendicitis, but this is still under investigation.
Appendicitis Surgery: What You Need to Know
The only effective treatment for appendicitis is the removal of the appendix, known as an appendectomy. This is typically done as an emergency procedure to prevent the appendix from rupturing. There are two main types of appendectomy:
1. Laparoscopic Appendectomy
Laparoscopic appendectomy is the most common method of removing the appendix. It involves small incisions and the use of a camera (laparoscope) to guide the surgery. This technique has several advantages, including:
Smaller incisions and quicker recovery times.
Less post-operative pain.
Reduced risk of infection.
2. Open Appendectomy
In some cases, particularly if the appendix has ruptured, a more traditional open appendectomy is necessary. This procedure involves a larger incision and may take longer to heal. While the recovery time is longer, it’s still a routine procedure performed under general anesthesia.
Risks of Appendectomy
Though appendectomy is generally safe, there are some risks involved:
Infection at the surgical site.
Bleeding or injury to nearby organs.
Complications related to anesthesia.
Abscesses (pockets of infection) if the appendix has ruptured.
What Happens If the Appendix Ruptures?
If the appendix bursts before it can be removed, the infection can spread throughout the abdomen, leading to a condition known as peritonitis. This is a serious infection that requires immediate surgery to clean the abdominal cavity and treat the infection with antibiotics.
Recovery After Appendectomy
The recovery process after an appendectomy depends on the type of surgery performed:
Laparoscopic Surgery: Patients often experience minimal discomfort and can usually return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks.
Open Surgery: Recovery may take 3–4 weeks, with more discomfort during the first few days after surgery.
During recovery, you’ll need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous physical activity for several weeks. If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as a fever, swelling, or increased pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
What to Do If You Suspect Appendicitis?
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of appendicitis, it’s crucial to seek medical attention right away. If left untreated, the appendix can rupture. This can lead to peritonitis (infection of the abdominal cavity), which can be life-threatening.
Conclusion
In most people, the appendix is located in the lower right abdomen, attached to the cecum. However, it can be found in different locations within the abdomen or even in the pelvis, and its position can affect the way symptoms of appendicitis present.
If you experience abdominal pain that starts around the belly button and then shifts to the lower right side, it’s important to seek medical help immediately, as this may be a sign of appendicitis.
Most anti-aging products and remedies in the market or on the internet focus on making your face look younger. But if you think about it, that’s like a job half done. Now, while your face may look younger after using products that promise youthfulness, your hands will certainly give you (and your age) away.
What’s the point of that, you ask? The goal should always be to look younger overall! Which means you have to devote as much time to taking care of the delicate, overused skin of your hands as you do of your face…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
Here are 7 things that give your hands an aged appearance and what you can do to fix them:
1. Age Spots
The term ‘age spots’ is deceiving as these spots are really not connected to your age in any way. Excess sun exposure is why you get age spots on your hands and elsewhere.The reason for them being called age spots is because they don’t usually appear till you’re in your 50s and your skin has absorbed a lot of sun rays. If you want to keep your hands free of age spots, you should always wear a sunscreen with SPF 30 in it. You can also lighten the age spots you have with a cream that contains either 2% or 3% hydroquinone.
2. Wrinkles
Wrinkled skin on the hands can make your mitts look crumpled and old. Fortunately, this can be fixed quite easily with the help of OTC creams. Prescription creams containing retinoid can boost the collagen production of the skin on your hands and take their age away. That said, you should consult your dermatologist on how to use them so you can derive its benefits sans any side effects.
3. Bulging Veins
When your hands resemble the webbed mess of a duck, you know you’ve got veins popping out of them more than they should. Of course, they make your hands look older. However, the sad thing is getting rid of them is not easy and you may need to surgically remove veins that sit right on the surface if you want a permanent cure. We’re sure that’s not everyone’s cup of tea, and luckily, there are ways you can hide these veins. Investing in a strong concealer and applying it to your hands whenever you go out should do the trick. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
4. Scales On Your Skin
Scaly skin has a rough and dry texture to it. So then, not only does it look unattractive and old, it feels pretty much the same way too. You can restore them to their youthfully smooth state though with a rigorous hand-care bedtime routine. Remove the dead skin cells from your hands with the help of a mild scrub. Then let the skin moisturize all night with the help of a hydrating hand cream that consists of plant oils and glycerin. Wrap your hands in cotton gloves so the moisture is retained overnight.
5. Nail Stains
Multiple factors can impart your nails with an unfavorable brownish or yellowish hue. The best way to regain your nails’ natural color is to figure out the cause and treat it effectively. Some of the reasons that can be behind nail discoloration include a fungal infection, overuse of dark nail paints, and the side effects of medication such as psoriasis. Usually fixing the health issue is enough. However, you can also rub a wedge of lemon on your nails to lighten them. A denture cleaner is also an excellent stain remover and you can dip your nails in them for 20 minutes to get stain-free nails.
6. Brittle Nails
Nails can chip or break easily due to a couple of reasons such as your genes, excess wetting and drying of your hands, excessive exposure to chemicals, or even weather changes. But there’s nothing to worry about as this problem is easily fixable. Simply having the right supplements can strengthen your nails. For this to happen, you need to have a daily dose of biotin (1g to be exact), which is a type of vitamin B. Your course should continue for at least 6 to 9 months or as long as your dermatologist prescribes.
7. Old-Fashioned Manicures
Not keeping up with the manicure trend of the season can make your hands look old-fashioned and even old. Staying on point though will have the opposite effect! Currently, short nails are all the rage, with nail length not exceeding beyond 1/4th of an inch from your fingertips. Painting your nails with bold colors can also impart youthfulness to your hands and steal the spotlight from wrinkle spots and other problems. Classic shades will be more age appropriate.
Don’t ever ignore your hands and nails in your anti-aging beauty regimen. Youthful hands speak as much as a youthful face.
As we age, the risk of suffering a stroke increases, but many of the factors contributing to stroke are modifiable through lifestyle choices, particularly diet. While no single factor guarantees a stroke-free life, reducing the intake of certain substances can help mitigate the risk significantly. Among the key culprits that contribute to stroke risk are excessive consumption of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Here’s how these three substances affect stroke risk and why you should consider limiting them:
1. Excessive Salt (Sodium):
High sodium intake is one of the leading contributors to hypertension, which is a major risk factor for stroke. When you consume too much salt, it can cause your blood pressure to rise, putting extra strain on the heart and blood vessels. Over time, this can lead to damage to the arteries, making them more prone to blockages, which can trigger a stroke. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends limiting salt intake to less than 5 grams per day. However, many people consume much more, primarily from processed foods, canned soups, fast food, and restaurant meals, where sodium is often hidden in excess. By reducing salt intake and choosing low-sodium alternatives, you can significantly lower your chances of developing high blood pressure and, by extension, stroke…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
2. Excessive Sugar (Added Sugars):
A diet high in refined sugars can contribute to the development of several conditions that increase stroke risk, including obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Consuming too much sugar causes an increase in blood glucose levels, leading to insulin resistance, weight gain, and inflammation—all of which are linked to an elevated risk of stroke. Additionally, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels over time, leading to atherosclerosis, or the hardening and narrowing of the arteries. To protect your brain health, it’s important to limit sugary foods and beverages, especially sodas, candies, and baked goods, which contain added sugars that can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 6 teaspoons (25 grams) of added sugar per day for women and 9 teaspoons (38 grams) for men. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
3. Unhealthy Fats (Trans and Saturated Fats):
Not all fats are created equal, and while some fats are essential for good health, unhealthy fats—particularly trans fats and excess saturated fats—can increase your risk of stroke. Trans fats, often found in processed and packaged foods like baked goods, snacks, and margarine, can raise bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and lower good cholesterol (HDL). This leads to plaque buildup in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which significantly increases the likelihood of a stroke. Similarly, a diet high in saturated fats, commonly found in fatty cuts of meat, full-fat dairy products, and certain oils (like palm and coconut oil), can also elevate LDL cholesterol and promote the narrowing of arteries. Replacing these unhealthy fats with healthy fats—such as those found in nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil—can help protect against strokes.
Final Thoughts: While there is no magic bullet to prevent a stroke, maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet is one of the most effective strategies for lowering stroke risk in older age. Reducing your intake of excess salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats can help regulate blood pressure, prevent plaque buildup, and maintain healthy blood vessels, all of which reduce the risk of stroke. Along with a healthy diet, regular physical activity, not smoking, and managing stress are also critical components of a stroke-prevention plan. By making conscious choices to limit these three substances in your diet, you can significantly improve your long-term health and reduce your chances of experiencing a stroke in old age.