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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

This is why your back hurts—and how to relieve the pain

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Deborah Douglas enjoys walking to work, but usually stops about halfway to rest her back. As a senior lecturer at Northwestern University, the 56-year old is often on her feet—that’s become more challenging since being diagnosed with arthritis in her back, a condition known as spondylosis, last year.

“I just hurt all the time,” she says. Pain radiates into her legs, making her feel miserable all over. Sometimes, it just hurts to move. “I find myself mentally anticipating all the ways it’s going to hurt when I actually have to move. It’s just not a normal way to live…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

Douglas’s condition is fairly typical. About eight in 10 people will have back pain sometime in their lives—and it tends to become more common after about age 45.

Why does my back hurt?

Back pain can be caused by simple muscle strain, or an underlying condition like kidney stones, endometriosis, or cancer. Chronic back pain, especially in middle age, can develop for several reasons, including degenerative disc disease, nerve root irritation, arthritis, or a slipped vertebra, according to Nicholas Beatty, a physiatrist specializing in spine sports medicine at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City.

Pain seems to occur slightly more often in women than in men, which could be due to anatomy, biology, or a combination of factors, including a person’s environment or job function, Bending, twisting, lifting, walking, or even standing can make it worse. Many middle-aged adults are also “weekend warriors” who are relatively inactive Monday to Friday, then very active on the weekends. This increases the risk for sprains, strains, and disc injuries.

Then there’s ergonomics. A too-soft mattress, poor posture, an unsupportive chair, hunching over the laptop or phone, and a sedentary lifestyle may all contribute to ongoing pain. Psychological distress—chronic stress, anxiety or depression—can make mechanical back pain worse and be a source of back pain itself, according to Beatty.

“Personal beliefs about back pain and anxiety-related fear of moving when in pain can heighten the pain intensity and make the pain stick around longer,” he says.

You are also at higher risk of chronic back pain if you

  • Don’t exercise
  • Have an existing condition like arthritis or cancer
  • Are overweight
  • Lift using your back instead of your legs
  • Smoke or use other tobacco products

Other types of chronic oxidative stress such as a diet high in processed food, prediabetes, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or poor cardiorespiratory fitness can create inflammation inside the disc, leading to faster disc degeneration beyond normal aging, according to Beatty.

How to treat back pain at home

You can initially treat most chronic back pain at home, with low-impact exercises such as swimming, gentle stretching or walking, combined with ice or heat, and over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen. These techniques usually help relieve pain, break up knotted back muscles, and make doing everyday activities easier.

While evidence varies on alternative approaches like acupuncture, and structural integration, Beatty says there’s little risk in trying them as long as you vet the practitioner first. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

What to do when home treatments don’t work

If pain persists, then it’s time to get evaluated by a doctor. If you have acute pain, notice or any bowel or bladder changes, weakness, fever, chills, or unexpected weight loss, then see a doctor right away. Additionally, “people with cardiovascular disease or kidney disease should make sure that the back pain is just mechanical and it’s not medical. It is important that their pain is evaluated and figured out by a doctor,” says Beatty.

Sibyl Wilmont, a 54-year-old nurse researcher in Chapel Hill, N.C., has dealt with back pain for much of her life. She even left her job as an emergency department nurse to take a less physically strenuous position: “My body was just failing me. I would get into such terrible back spasms that I could not pick myself up off the floor.”

After a diagnosis of multiple herniated discs, she tried numerous treatments, including cortisone injections and physical therapy, with little success. Other options—disc surgery, spinal fusion, regular epidural injections, or learning to live with the chronic pain—were equally unappealing.

Wilmont’s physical therapist suggested an evaluation for sacroiliac joint dysfunction, or SI—an extremely painful condition that can be tough to diagnose and is often mistaken for disc herniation or sciatica. An SI joint specialist quickly confirmed that was the primary cause of her pain.

While this condition is usually seen in pregnant people, it can also occur for other reasons. In Wilmont’s case, falls related to riding horses as a child likely destabilized the joint. At age 43, she opted for open joint fusion surgery and, once healed, has been free of SI-related pain for about a decade.

“It gave me my life back,” she says. Pain stemming from her herniated discs is manageable with ibuprofen and rest.

Be proactive about your back health

A multifaceted healthy approach at home can help stave off back pain; optimizing overall health and well-being are key:

  • Get up and walk around every hour, especially if you have a sedentary job.
  • Do some gentle stretching every day.
  • Take some easy walks around the block to keep muscles limber.
  • Swap out your mattress if it’s more than 10 years old.
  • Develop a daily practice of exercises or postural cues to improve body positioning over time. Most posture issues are modifiable and can be optimized.
  • Work with your HR department if you have a physically demanding job or need better office ergonomics. Many HR departments partner with occupational therapists to conduct an office assessment. If reinjury is a problem, discuss your job description and physical requirements with your physician and your HR manager.
  • If you’re in pain, avoid aggressive manipulations, intense exercise or high-velocity motion until you receive a diagnosis.
  • Limit nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen to a maximum of two weeks; extended use has been linked to gastrointestinal issues, and you may become dependent on them.

Consider multiple options to manage pain. Neuropathic medications can help target specific nerve pain. Physical therapy and exercise can help strengthen your core muscles to better support your spine. Spinal manipulation may improve both pain and function. Surgery may be appropriate for certain conditions—disc problems and stenosis, for example, and actually increase the spine’s stability. If you are unsure about surgery, seek out a second opinion.

“Get the best diagnosis, then use the evidence to treat it, as opposed to just calling it back pain,” Beatty says.

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

3 Reasons Why People Die In Their Sleep: Please Do Not Ignore

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Getting adequate shut-eye is crucial to your health, and that much should go without saying. However, it could be unhealthy to sleep too little. When you lay your head down for the night, a lot of bad things can happen to you.

Have you ever wondered what causes individuals to pass away peacefully during their sleep? It is a phenomenon that has intrigued scientists, doctors, and the general public alike. In this blog post, we delve into the five most common reasons why people may unfortunately die in their sleep…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

While this topic may seem morbid, understanding these causes can help shed light on certain health risks, encourage awareness, and encourage proactive measures to prevent such circumstances. So, let’s explore the various factors that can lead to these unexpected occurrences.

5 Reasons Why People Die in Their Sleep

1. Cardiac Arrest: A Silent Culprit

Cardiac arrest is one of the most prevalent causes of sudden death during sleep. It occurs when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, resulting in a sudden loss of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Factors like age, family history, lifestyle choices, such as smoking and unhealthy diets, and underlying medical conditions can all contribute to an increased risk of cardiac arrest during sleep.
Factors Leading to Cardiac Arrest

a. Age and Genetics: The Silent Influencers

As individuals age, the risk of cardiac arrest, especially during sleep, increases. Family history also plays a role, as genetic predispositions can make some individuals more susceptible to experiencing cardiac issues. It is crucial to be aware of these factors, as prevention and early detection can significantly reduce the risk.

b. Lifestyle Choices: Pushing the Boundaries

Poor lifestyle choices, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, and an unhealthy diet, can heighten the risk of cardiac arrest during sleep. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly minimize the occurrence of such incidents. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Breathing Troubles

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder characterized by breathing difficulty during sleep. People with OSA experience temporary blockages in their airways, leading to frequent interruptions in their breathing patterns. Severe cases of OSA can result in a decrease in oxygen levels, causing stress on the heart and an increased likelihood of heart-related health issues.
Contributing Factors to Obstructive Sleep Apnea

a. Obesity: A Weighty Matter

Obesity is a major contributing factor to OSA. Excess weight, particularly around the neck and throat area, narrows the airways and can lead to frequent breathing disruptions during sleep. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise is essential in reducing the risk of OSA-related fatalities during sleep.

b. Untreated Snoring: A Warning Sign

Persistent snoring can be an indicator of an underlying health issue, including OSA. Failing to address chronic snoring can lead to severe complications and fatal outcomes during sleep. Seeking medical advice and undergoing necessary diagnostic tests can facilitate early detection and appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

While passing away peacefully during sleep is relatively rare, understanding the potential causes can help safeguard against potential health risks. By acknowledging the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle, being aware of our family history, and heeding warning signs like chronic snoring, we can take proactive measures to minimize the possibility of experiencing these unfortunate circumstances. Remember, prevention and early detection are key in maintaining overall well-being and longevity. Stay informed, take care of your health, and give yourself the best chance of a restful night’s sleep!

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

When You Drink Hot Water Every Day, This Is What Happens To Your Body

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Have you ever given any thought to what would happen to your body if you continually subjected it to the effects of drinking hot water? When everything is taken into account, we are aware that water is important for the body to keep adequately hydrated and that it accounts for sixty percent of the human adult body (via USGS). Water makes up sixty percent of the human adult body. Who would have thought, though, that the temperature at which you consume it plays a role in the kinds of health benefits you gain from it…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

As a result of the fact that Tom Cruise’s relationship with Suri has been lately brought to light in a variety of different ways.

However, drinking water that has been brought to a boil on a frequent basis offers a variety of additional health benefits, which your body may be prevented from taking advantage of if you drink cold water instead of water that has been brought to a boil. People have a propensity, when they think about drinking water, to picture themselves in a position in which they are sipping some water that is really cold while basking in the warmth of the late spring sun or relishing in the virus-like sensation of it after a particularly tough twisting class. This is because people have a tendency to picture themselves in scenarios in which they are partaking in activities that involve extreme temperatures. Drinking warm water first thing in the morning is recommended by medical professionals, as stated by Stella Metsovas, a professional nutritionist, who explains why this is the case. Medical Daily has been provided with this information. In point of fact, and to some degree one is taken aback by this revelation, access to this kind of information has been available for a significant amount of time now. According to Reader’s Digest, both Chinese and Indian physicians encourage drinking this steaming hot beverage first thing in the morning to get the most out of the day due to the many excellent benefits it has on one’s health. This is because traditional Chinese medicine and Indian medicine both believe that drinking this beverage in the morning helps one get the most out of the day.

Therefore, would you be so kind as to elaborate on what you mean by that? If you drink hot water on a regular basis, your body will experience these effects, which are something that may be expected.

There is some evidence that lowering your blood pressure can be accomplished by drinking hot water on a regular basis. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

In this difficult environment, there is a clear approach for being able to stretch less, and it all starts with establishing a daily appreciation for water. This is the first step in the process. Dietitian Amanda Carlson, who is also a qualified dietitian, is of the opinion that individuals can benefit from keeping an adequate level of hydration in order to experience reduced levels of anxiety. If you don’t give your body the liquids it needs, you’re adding extra weight to it, and your body will react to this by acting erratically.

According to Healthline, consuming hot water reduces the activity of your focus sensory system, which is responsible for determining how your brain reacts when it is subjected to pressure. According to the American Psychological Association, not getting enough water can cause confusion in the central nervous system, which can trigger a vicious loop that never comes to an end. It is actually easier to become dehydrated when you are under pressure, as your pulse will be higher than normal, and you will be breathing more actively than usual, says Renee Melton, MS, RD, LD, who is the head of nutrition at Sensei. This is because your pulse will be higher when you are under strain. WebMD received this information from another source. Therefore, if you truly want to get rid of the problem the next time it comes up, you might want to consider the alternative of continuously drinking hot water.

Regularly consuming water that has been heated to a boil has the ability to reduce the amount of physical pain and suffering that individual is experiencing

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Place this leaf in every corner of your house and you will not see cockroaches again

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Cockroaches are notorious and unsightly pests that are commonly associated with waste and dirt. However, they can also be found in homes, making their way into the closets and bedrooms.

Their ability to adapt and survive is remarkable, allowing them to thrive in various environments around the world. Cockroaches are incredibly resilient creatures, capable of withstanding high levels of radiation and surviving for over a month without food. As omnivores, they can consume both plant-based foods and other animals, which explains their ubiquitous presence as they scavenge for sustenance…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

In addition to feeding on garbage, cockroaches leave chemical trails through their feces. This serves as a form of communication, enabling them to locate sources of water and food. It is this behavior that leads to their establishment in specific areas. Despite their ability to squeeze through tiny openings and endure long periods without sustenance, they often enter homes through bags, boxes, and even gaps under doors.

If you’re looking to eliminate cockroaches that have invaded your home, I recommend a highly effective method that is safe, especially if you have young children or pets. Bay leaves serve as an excellent natural repellent for cockroaches. While they may not kill the pests, the strong odor emitted by the leaves is unbearable for them, driving them away quickly. Placing bay leaf branches in every corner of the house is recommended.

Specifically, putting ten bay leaves in the kitchen will prevent cockroaches from roaming around. Bay leaves are particularly suitable for areas where food is stored, such as the kitchen or pantry, as they are safe and non-toxic. Additionally, I suggest placing bay leaves in your garden, especially if you have pets. This way, you can eliminate cockroaches without worrying about the safety of your children or pets. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Whether you use fresh or dried bay leaves, the most effective way to utilize them is to crush the dry leaves into a powder. This intensifies the fragrance they release. To use bay leaves as a cockroach deterrent, place whole leaves behind appliances, near entry points, in closets, and in various corners of your home. Open containers and bowls can also be filled with bay leaves and strategically placed. Furthermore, burning a bay leaf in your home not only adds a pleasant natural aroma but also provides additional cockroach protection.

In conclusion, by ensuring you have ten bay leaves in the kitchen, you can effectively prevent cockroaches from roaming around. Bay leaves are a safe and non-toxic option for areas where food is stored, such as the kitchen or pantry. By following this method, you can eliminate cockroaches without worrying about the safety of your children.

 

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