As a person ages, they may develop age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which can cause blurry central vision. It occurs when the macula, the part of the eye that controls sharp, straight-ahead vision, is damaged due to aging. This condition is a primary cause of vision loss in older individuals, making it crucial to recognize the symptoms early on and seek appropriate management. Here are some signs to look out for and tips for managing the condition. Signs and symptoms The symptoms of the disease show only at different stages of the condition, and also, in dry AMD, the symptoms are not observed till the late stage. In the early stage of AMD, no symptoms can be observed. Some individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms during the intermediate stage, while others may notice mild signs. These can include slight blurriness in their central vision or difficulty seeing in low-light conditions. In the late stage of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which can be either wet or dry, all the signs and symptoms become visible. At this point, individuals may notice crooked or wavy lines instead of straight lines, and their vision gradually becomes blurry. With time, the blurry area in the central vision expands and can even lead to blank spots.

Dry age-related macular degeneration is generally diagnosed among those over the age of 50 years. It causes the breakdown of a part of the retina known as the macula. It leads to reduced or blurred central vision. The intensity of vision loss can be between mild to severe. It is possible to delay vision loss through early diagnosis, self-care measures, and timely treatment. Here are some common management options for dry age-related macular degeneration. Treatment options Low vision rehabilitation Age-related macular degeneration doesn’t impair side vision. However, it reduces central vision, which is needed for certain essential tasks such as driving and reading. To help cope with the weakening central vision and adapt to using side vision only, one may go through low vision rehabilitation. A specialist such as an occupational therapist, eye doctor, or health practitioner trained in low-vision rehabilitation generally offers this. Surgery to implant a telescopic lens In some instances, when advanced dry macular degeneration affects both eyes, surgery is used to improve vision. The process involves implanting a telescopic lens in one of the affected eyes. The telescopic lens is a simple, narrow tube fitted with multiple lenses. The goal of this procedure is to improve distance and close-up vision.

Nasal congestion, also known as a stuffy nose, is a feeling of fullness in the face or nose. Some people may also have fluid dropping out of the nose or down the back of the throat. There are various reasons why one may develop nasal congestion. Based on the cause, experts may recommend treatments to fight the illness. A healthcare professional may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as eating specific foods to relieve nasal congestion. Link with MAC lung disease and COPD Before moving on to healthy foods, one should be mindful of certain health complications that may trigger nasal congestion. MAC lung disease may lead to familiar symptoms like chronic coughs with or without mucus when people breathe in airborne MAC bacteria. Moreover, excessive inflammation in response to irritants is common in COPD, which makes one more susceptible to chronic sinusitis, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion. Foods that may relieve nasal congestion Here are seven foods to help fight nasal congestion and the conditions that may cause it. Berries This antioxidant-rich food may fight free radicals that trigger chronic sinusitis. Berries also contain vitamins and minerals that may protect the mucus membranes and help avoid congestion. Pineapples The fruit is rich in healthy enzymes that break down the buildup of sinuses and reduce inflammation.

Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, is a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of glucose in the bloodstream. Usually, a level below 70 mg/dL is considered low, which is common in those with diabetes. However, consistently low blood sugar can affect various parts of the body, causing issues with cognitive function, nerves, cardiovascular health, kidney function, and vision. So, here are common signs of low blood sugar that impact health: Disorientation When blood sugar levels plummet, one may experience disorientation, confusion, or mental fog. This can impair the ability to think clearly, make decisions, and even recognize familiar surroundings or people. At times, this symptom can lead to a complete loss of awareness and might require immediate hospitalization. Managing hypoglycemia promptly by bringing up blood glucose levels is essential to restore mental clarity and prevent further disorientation. Drop in energy levels Glucose is converted into energy in the body, and cells in the body use this energy to function. So, another common effect of low blood sugar is a sudden and dramatic decrease in energy, leaving one feeling fatigued, weak, and physically drained. Tremors and rapid heartbeat When dealing with low blood sugar, the body may release adrenaline, which can cause muscle tremors and shakiness.

The kidneys play an important role in eliminating harmful toxins from the body. If the kidneys are impaired and do not function well, one can experience a series of symptoms. Chronic kidney disease can be caused due to several factors, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, unhealthy lifestyle choices, and abnormal kidney structure. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of any early signs of kidney disease or changes in the body. Frequent urination According to doctors, urinating 8 to 10 times a day is a normal bowel movement. However, if one finds themselves running to the bathroom frequently throughout the day, this may indicate kidney dysfunction. Also, one of the early signs of kidney disease is urinating in the middle of the night. When the filters of the kidneys are not able to function properly, the urge to urinate increases. Swollen ankles When the kidney function is compromised, there can be sodium retention in the body. This retention can cause the swelling of ankles and feet. Swelling in the lower extremities can also lead to other health issues like heart disease, chronic leg vein issues, and even liver problems. Muscle cramping As the kidneys shut down, the organ fails to filter and remove toxins and excess fluid from the body.

The eyes can accomplish amazing things. They process information using a complex mechanism that establishes a direct connection with the brain, allowing individuals to process the world around them visually. One would be surprised to know that many people don’t take eye health seriously! People who don’t think they have a vision problem seldom get routine exams with an ophthalmologist or optometrist, which can deteriorate their eye health. Here are some ways to maintain eye health: Ways to maintain eye health From the moment one wakes up until the moment they go to sleep, how they navigate their day and enjoy life is greatly influenced by their eyes. Following these suggestions will help one maintain the health of their eyes and safeguard their vision. 1. Defend the eyes from UV light’s harmful effects A condition known as photokeratitis, which resembles sunburn, can result from prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays. The eyes can become swollen, irritated, and red from this, which can be extremely painful. After 6 to 12 hours of exposure, photokeratitis symptoms, which are an inflammation of the cornea’s outer layer, usually appear. However, the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation build up over time, and the risk of developing cataracts and other age-related conditions rises noticeably.

When it comes to dealing with the seasonal or allergic flu, also known as influenza, understanding the things to avoid is as crucial as knowing the appropriate measures to take. The general characteristics of this condition include runny nose, fever, chills, and cough. Managing the flu can be a challenging and uncomfortable experience, and to promote easier and faster recovery, here are some things one should avoid doing when infected with the virus. Not drinking enough water Fever and sweating can cause dehydration, which can further delay the recovery and take a toll on one’s body. Therefore, it is advised to drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and electrolyte-rich fluids to help the body recover more effectively. It’s also important to avoid drinking coffee or tea as it can contribute to dehydration. Not resting enough Avoiding rest and trying to power through the illness can prolong its duration and increase the risk of complications. When dealing with the flu, it’s important to listen to the body and allow the time it needs to heal. Bed rest, along with sleep and relaxation, can help the immune system fight off the virus more efficiently. Experts suggest waiting for at least 24 hours before going out after the fever has subsided.

Exposure to toxic fumes, pollution, and particulate matter can quickly deteriorate lung health. While one must take precautions to lower the exposure or avoid it altogether, several other ways, like making good nutrition choices, can help improve lung health and prevent common lung diseases. One must follow meal plans that consist of foods that can help prevent such conditions. Here are some of the options one can include in their meal plans. Beets The root and greens of the beetroot plant add vibrancy to meals. In addition, these contain essential compounds that can optimize the function of the lungs. Beet greens and beetroot contain high amounts of nitrates. Also, beets are rich in magnesium, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. All of these help the blood vessels relax while lowering blood pressure and optimizing oxygen. This improves lung health. Apples While eating apples can improve overall health, this fruit is particularly good for the lungs. It lowers the risk of developing common lung diseases. The high percentage of antioxidants such as flavonoids and vitamin C in apples also helps in slowing down the decline of lung health in those with pre-existing lung problems. Walnuts These nuts are quite popular as healthy foods for the heart.

The liver is responsible for functions such as supporting metabolism and removing toxins from the body. If it sustains any damage, its functions are severely compromised. As a result, due to liver damage, one may notice several signs and symptoms that indicate that the liver is not functioning properly. Recognizing these signs is crucial for effectively managing and treating the liver condition. Here are a few warning signs of liver damage to look out for: 1. Jaundice Jaundice is the noticeable yellowish discoloration of a person’s skin and the whites of their eyes. It is often the most apparent sign of a liver ailment. Jaundice happens due to the liver’s inability to process a waste product called bilirubin. 2. Fluid retention Excessive fluid retention may also be indicative of liver problems. This fluid buildup occurs either in the abdominal cavity, causing bloating, or in the legs, causing them to swell up. 3. Loss of appetite Losing appetite is another common symptom noticed in liver ailments. Since the liver helps in the process of metabolism, any damage caused to it may hinder that function. As a result, one may experience this symptom. 4. Itchy skin Liver ailments may also cause an increase in the levels of bile salts in the body.

Cervical cancer is a common condition, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggesting that approximately 11,500 new cases of this type of cancer are detected every year in the country. Like other types of cancer, this condition is most manageable when diagnosed in the earliest stages of progression. So, to help receive timely treatment and diagnosis, one should keep an eye out for the following early warning signs of cervical cancer: 1. Pain in lower back or pelvis Pelvic pain and lower back pain in women are indicators of underlying issues in the reproductive organs. If one experiences pain in these areas, then the symptoms should be examined by a doctor to check for cervical cancer. Continuous pelvic pain near the appendix can develop when the cancer has advanced. 2. Loss of appetite This is a common cancer symptom. With cervical cancer, the early stages are often associated with unexplained muscle loss and a drastic change in appetite. In fact, even women with healthy appetites and adequate food intake can experience muscle loss as an early warning sign of cervical cancer. 3. Unusual discharge Vaginal discharge is a normal phenomenon in women, especially in different stages of menstrual cycle.

Lungs are vital organs responsible for the most basic bodily function required to stay alive: respiration. So, when the lungs are in poor condition, their hindered functions directly affect the individual. Poor health of one’s lungs may be easily noticeable via certain signs and symptoms. An individual must be aware of and recognize the signs of poor lung health, such as the following, to take immediate action for their well-being. 1. Shortness of breath Since the primary function of the lungs is respiration, one of the most telltale signs of poor lung health is experiencing shortness of breath. One may experience breathlessness or panting despite minimal or no physical exertion. 2. Persistent fatigue Due to one’s lungs not being healthy, they may also experience chronic fatigue. They may notice that they feel tired despite being well-rested. This is because when people breathe laboriously, they feel low on energy. 3. Wheezing Wheezing refers to the high-pitched, whistling-like sound that occurs during breathing. However, wheezing is unnatural and occurs due to an obstruction in the body’s airway. As a result, it is usually associated with respiratory ailments. 4. Chronic cough If one has been experiencing chronic coughing for more than two months, it may indicate poor lung health.