Health & Fitness

Juggling With Chronic Fatigue? Here are the Possible Causes

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Chronic fatigue syndrome is a disorder characterized by constant tiredness for a long period of time. This type of fatigue doesn’t have a clear underlying cause and doesn’t go away with rest. Although there’s no fixed cause of CFS, medical experts believe psychological stress and viral infection to be the possible factors affecting the disorder. 

And since there’s no underlying cause of this disorder, it is hard to cure it. Medications can only help to relieve the symptoms. In this article, we’ll discuss the possible causes of chronic fatigue, symptoms, treatment options, and everything else that you need to know. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of CFS can vary on the individual and the severity of their condition. Yet, the most common symptom is tiredness, which can affect an individual’s ability to perform everyday tasks. Here is a list of symptoms that are common in most people suffering from CFS: 

  • Day-time sleepiness
  • Disturbed sleep
  • Feeling exhausted even after a good night’s rest
  • Lack of willingness to do everyday things
  • Laziness 
  • Anxiety
  • Reduced concentration 

Physical symptoms of CFS may include muscle tension, sore throat, frequent headaches, joint pain, etc. 

Causes 

  • Stress: Stress is the most common cause of fatigue. While occasional stress and anxiety are common, dealing with stress every other day (psychological or emotional stress) can lead to stress build-up, which can be a potential trigger for CFS. Hence, it is suggested to manage your stress triggers in order to prevent fatigue. 
  • Viral Infection: In some cases, people suffer from CFS after a viral infection. Some of the possible viral infections that could cause fatigue include: 
  • Weak Immune System: Research shows that immune dysfunction or a weak immune system triggered by a viral infection plays a vital role in developing chronic fatigue. In fact, CFS is also known as an immune dysfunction syndrome.  
  • Hormonal Imbalance: Many times, CFS could be due to hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone levels in the body, especially in men. If you have low-T, there are multiple Effective testosterone replacement therapy options that you can consider. Taking this treatment will not only increase your strength but will also boost your sex drive, help you lose weight, and promote better sleep. 

How Is Chronic Fatigue Treated? 

As per the Institute of Medicine, chronic fatigue syndrome occurs in more than 2.5 million Americans. And there are no medical tests to diagnose CFS. This is because its symptoms are similar to many other medical conditions, and people suffering from CFS don’t look sick.

Hence, it gets practically difficult for doctors to recognize the condition, and hence, finding the optimum treatment option becomes difficult. To get the right treatment plan for your particular condition, it is necessary to consult your doctor and discuss your condition with them. The doctor will read your medical history and give you a customized treatment plan accordingly. 

Lifestyle Changes 

Since there’s no fixed treatment option for people dealing with CFS, incorporating a few lifestyle changes in their routine can help manage the symptoms. Here are a few lifestyle changes that can greatly help: 

  • Create a Proper Sleeping Routine: Many people who suffer from CFS find it helpful to relax after a good night’s rest. So, make sure you take at least 7-8 hours of sleep every day in order to feel refreshed and energetic throughout the day. 
  • Cut off Caffeine: Caffeine intake in the evening time or before going to bed can trigger anxiety, which can further trigger insomnia and make it hard for you to sleep. Caffeine is a stimulant that initially gives you an instant kick but slowly drops your sugar levels, which makes you anxious, and you get off the track. Hence, doctors advise people with CFS not to take caffeine at least three hours before going to bed. 
  • Avoid Napping: Constant tiredness throughout the day can induce you to take naps for quick relaxation. However, for many people, it can disturb their urge to sleep at night, and they find themselves staring at the ceiling all night. Thus, even if you feel like taking a nap, try to avoid and preserve that sleep for the night. 

The Bottom Line 

Living with chronic fatigue is no more than a challenge for most people. If you think your symptoms are mild and can be managed by trying out some lifestyle changes, you should make the necessary changes in your routine. 

However, if you think the symptoms are severe and aren’t manageable, consult a doctor as soon as possible and get a full diagnosis. The doctor will take a look at your medical history and give you a treatment plan for your particular symptoms. 

Travel

A Classic American Road Trip: Best Stops on Route 20

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Route 20 is a road that stretches across the United States from Boston, Massachusetts, to Newport, Oregon. It is the longest roadway in the United States and is ranked number 8 on the list of longest roadways in the world.  Several stops are worth making if you are planning a road trip along Route 20, let’s take a look at the best ones.

Boston, Massachusetts

As the capital and largest city of Massachusetts, Boston is a vibrant and cultural hub. In addition to the popular tourist attractions mentioned earlier, other must-see destinations in Boston include the Boston Common, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. The city is also known for its excellent seafood, so try some lobster or clam chowder there. As the starting point of Route 20, Boston is a fantastic place to begin your journey. The city is rich in history and is home to many popular tourist attractions, such as Fenway Park, the Freedom Trail, and the New England Aquarium.

Lake Erie, Pennsylvania

Being in the northwest corner of the state, Lake Erie is the among the largest of the Great Lakes and a popular outdoor destination. In addition to the water sports and state parks mentioned earlier, the lake is also home to Presque Isle State Park, which features a beautiful sandy beach and is a popular spot for birdwatching. 

Cleveland, Ohio

Being on the southern shore of Lake Erie, Cleveland is a city with a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene. In addition to the museums and cultural institutions mentioned earlier, other must-see destinations in Cleveland include the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, the Cleveland Orchestra, and the West Side Market, a historic indoor/outdoor market featuring a wide variety of food and merchandise.

Chicago, Illinois

As the third largest city in the United States, Chicago is a major transportation hub and a diverse and vibrant city. In addition to the landmarks and museums mentioned earlier, other must-see destinations in Chicago include the Willis Tower, the Chicago Theatre, and the Lincoln Park Zoo. The city is renowned for its delicious food, with a wide variety of cuisines, from classic Chicago-style hot dogs and pizza to world-class fine dining.

Yellowstone, Montana

Located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonder home to an array of wildlife and breathtaking natural features. In addition to the Old Faithful geyser and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone mentioned earlier, other must-see destinations in the park include the Mammoth Hot Springs, the Lamar Valley, and the Norris Geyser Basin. The park is also home to various recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.

In conclusion, Route 20 is a great road for a cross-country trip. It offers a diverse range of experiences and destinations, from the historical and cultural attractions of Boston and Chicago to the natural beauty of Lake Erie and Yellowstone National Park. Despite what your interests are, there is something to see and do along every stretch of Route 20. So get prepared and hit the road for an unforgettable journey across the United States.

Home Decor, Home Improvement, DIY

How to Invest in Solar Power for Your Home

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Most people don’t view solar energy as an investment due to its high installation costs and the fact that it doesn’t run like a business. However, if you consider the massive savings on your energy costs and the overall improvement on your home’s valuation, then solar energy is a great investment in the future of your home. With an installation cost as high as $45000 to $100000, solar energy will give you freedom on your energy needs and also give you a chance to redesign your home’s energy needs. This article will guide you on how to make the most of your solar energy investment. 

Why Solar Is a Great Alternative

Grid energy has been around for long and even though it has continued to serve a great purpose of powering our homes, the rising energy costs and the toll on the environment is too great a cost to bear. Most energy companies use fossil fuels to generate electricity and this is negatively affecting the environment. Global warming is therefore a reality we cannot ignore and solar energy offers the next best alternative due to its availability, simplicity, ease of use and longevity. 

Extra Advantages of Solar Energy

Another advantage of solar energy is that you can rely on its availability so long as there is sunlight. Advanced solar panels don’t require intense or direct sunlight throughout the day. They can easily convert daylight into electricity and with even more advanced batteries, you can store this energy for much longer than before. Certain battery packs can serve you for 2 days without any solar energy. You simply need to adjust your energy needs so that the output from your solar panels can meet your daily needs. 

Steps to Finding a Great Installer

For a good installation you need professionals to handle every aspect of the installation process. The best solar companies retain several professionals to help you in assessing your property and measure the possible energy output. California solar panels companies rarely offer such services since their main business is in selling solar panels and solar panel accessories. A solar company should have the right permits, licenses and professionals to handle the work.

Ensure you check on the installer’s credentials since this will ultimately affect the quality of the solar system you install. A good installer will take their time to assess and give you the cost implications of the installation. They will also let you know whether there are incentives and discounts on offer to help you reduce the overall spend. Most solar companies will have affiliate networks with solar components manufacturers and this is good for you since any component will have a quality assurance from the manufacturer and you can expect the best solar companies to always have most components on time as soon as they order. 

Conclusion

Investing in solar energy for your home should be a positive step. Ensure you properly maintain the solar panels and other components so that they can outlive their warranty period of 25 years. Also ensure you routinely check on the system to see whether it is working optimally.

General

Important Do’s and Don’ts When Using Pest Control in Your Home

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Have you grown sick and tired of pests bothering you and your family? The first move to make is to have proper pest control to deal with these bugs completely. Whether a pest infestation is just getting started or already at its worst, there’s always a pest control solution guaranteed to get the job done. 

However, you have to understand that there are a lot of rules to this guaranteed solution. Making pest control mistakes can at best, result in damage to your environment, while at worst, present a risk to your health. 

To ensure you properly use your pest control products, here are basic pest control dos and don’ts to follow: 

Do’s

  • Do identify your problem properly

There are as many extermination products and methods as there are types of pests. No miracle solution works for all pests. 

So, to ensure that your pest control process succeeds, you have to identify the pest you are dealing with first. In fact, you have to do this before you begin asking yourself; “what are the reliable pest control solutions near me?” 

  • Do ensure that your home is well-maintained and clean

Nothing attracts insects and pests like unwashed dishes, overly filled trash cans, standing rainwater, and poorly maintained lawns and gardens. These are things you have to keep in check if you don’t wish to share your home with different kinds of pests. 

Therefore, it’s also an important step to take in pest control because it keeps these irritating creatures from ever returning. 

  • Do notify your neighbors of the infestation

Whenever you identify a pest infestation in your home — whether it’s rodents, cockroaches, termites, or even bed bugs — your duty as a homeowner is to alert your neighbors of this problem. Speed is essential to pest control. 

Once pest problems begin, they can spread quite easily like wildfire and affect the entire neighborhood. If it gets to this point, it will become more difficult to get rid of this problem and you wouldn’t want fingers to be pointed at you for not properly dealing with the problem. 

  • Do get expert help

If you are facing a persistent pest problem, you might have to consider calling in the pros. DIY solutions might be effective for minor pest issues, but nests and infestations need a more professional and permanent solution. 

A pest control expert is way more experienced than a common homeowner and will have access to better pest control products and methods. For pest-prone environments, it’s worth scheduling monthly checks. 

  • Do dispose of leftovers properly

Many pest control products are considered hazardous wastes, and therefore, must be safely disposed of. Check the product’s label for the safest and best way to dispose of any containers or leftovers. 

Furthermore, you can also find out if your neighborhood has a hazardous waste disposal system that takes proper care of leftover pesticides. 

Don’ts

  • Don’t mix pest control products up

Think your pesticide needs a bit more kick? Well, don’t try mixing up numerous chemicals in an attempt to make it a more effective and powerful solution. It will never work and can be extremely detrimental to your health. Twice as much doesn’t translate to twice as effective. 

Likewise, avoid putting pest control chemicals in canisters other than their original, which have all the important information on them. Doing so will result in accidents, which can be quite fatal. 

  • Don’t utilize outdoor chemicals indoors 

You might be feeling indifferent about purchasing separate chemicals for both outdoors and indoors, especially if you are battling the same pests inside and out. However, outdoor and indoor chemicals are produced differently to be as effective as possible in their respective environments. 

Outdoor chemicals are much stronger than indoor ones and are designed to remain toxic for longer. This can be quite dangerous to you, your kids, and any pets, so it’s advised you use indoor chemicals, which break down faster. 

  • Don’t leave chemicals and traps in children’s reach 

Leaving insecticides, pesticides, and traps out is a major hazard, especially if you have kids in the house. The little ones will always be curious and they will touch, use, and even taste anything they can. 

Regardless of how carefully you monitor them, you can never be too sure of what will happen immediately after you turn your back for even a minute. So, to completely avoid any accident, simply ensure that these harmful chemicals are out of their reach. 

Key Takeaway

There you have it. Those are the dos that you have to adhere to, and the don’ts you must avoid to guarantee your family’s safety, as well as to ensure that the issue is resolved permanently. 

Bridal

How To Throw An Unforgettable Bridal Shower

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Planning a bridal shower can be stressful. Many people say that the bride should plan her shower, but I disagree. Yes, you want it to be personal and special for your friend, but if she’s busy planning her wedding and doesn’t have time to attend every bridal shower in town then let your friends help out! I’m going over some tips on throwing an unforgettable bridal shower. Here are some of my favourite memories from my showers:

Find out what the bride wants 

First and foremost, it’s important to find out what the bride wants. If you are planning to get in one of that maid of honor dresses, you can’t mess up this party. If she doesn’t have a specific color scheme or theme in mind, you may want to check with her best friends or bridesmaids to see if they have any ideas that they’d like incorporated into the shower. It’s always better to ask than assume!

Only invite people you know the bride likes 

Your bridal shower is a celebration of the bride, but it should be fun for everyone involved. If you invite people who aren’t friends with the bride, or who are not part of her family, then those guests will likely not have much in common with the other guests. They’ll be standing off to the side awkwardly during most activities and could even hurt the overall mood if they don’t know how to handle themselves in social situations.

Don’t make it all about the gifts

When you’re having a bridal shower, it’s easy to get caught up in all the gifts and flowers, but don’t let them distract you from what’s important: The bride. If you have a bridal shower, your job as a bridesmaid is not just to plan the party, but also to make sure that everything runs smoothly and everyone has fun. Above all else, keep in mind that this party should be about celebrating your friend’s happiness!

If there are any rules about “gift etiquette,” they should focus on limiting the money each giver spends—not whether or not she gives at all. After all, no matter how much money people spend on their presents), nothing says “I love my friend” more than putting together an unforgettable event. If someone can’t afford anything for their gift list (or doesn’t want to go overboard), that’s fine too! You can always give her something special later when life settles down again after the wedding day madness passes by.

Ask a few guests to assist you

The first thing to do is ask a few guests to assist you. These volunteers should be people who are good at planning, cooking, decorating and entertaining. They should also be able to clean up afterwards. Once you’ve chosen these helpers it’s time to move on to step two: planning the menu!

Activities aren’t required, but they can be fun

Activities are a great way to break up the day and keep guests engaged. You can choose activities that are educational, competitive, relaxing or silly. As long as it’s something everyone will enjoy—and you have the time for it!

Decorate, but don’t go overboard

Don’t go overboard with decorations. You can do something simple and charming like hang up some paper lanterns or put up some streamers. The most important thing is to ensure you have enough space for the food—if there is nowhere to sit down and enjoy dinner, that’s not going to be fun!

The Food

The menu depends on the time of day you’re throwing the shower. You can go for these options:

Breakfast: Omelets, fruit and yogurt parfaits, French toast casserole and sausage patties.

Lunch: Chicken salad wraps or tuna sandwiches with potato salad, deviled eggs and summer rolls.

Dinner: Shrimp scampi with pasta or chicken piccata over linguine with roasted vegetables.

Snacks: Guacamole, hummus with sliced vegetables for dipping and chocolate ganache truffles at the end of the shower send-off brunch (it’s traditional to serve this type of food after the bride has left).

Conclusion

A bridal shower is a great opportunity to show your appreciation for the bride-to-be. It’s also a chance to get together with friends, which means you should take advantage of it by making sure everyone has something in their hands at all times. 

There you have it! Some of these tips were easier to follow than others, but they all boil down to the same thing: make sure you’re thinking about the bride. It’s her special day, and she deserves it. You can throw an unforgettable bridal shower if you put in some effort and listen carefully to what she wants out of this event.

Beauty with an attitude