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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. 

Health & Fitness

Scam from Truth: Navigating the Wellness Industry

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The health and wellness industry covers a vast range of sectors and markets that have grown exponentially in value and revenue. One of the most critical challenges in this industry is the ever-increasing information available to anyone seeking means to improve their health and navigate potential health solutions. 

A lack of ethical boundaries and credibility has turned the wellness industry into a confounding and intimidating maze of misinformation that can distort scientific truths and medical expertise.

According to data from the Global Wellness Institute in its Global Wellness Economy Monitor 2021 report, the wellness economy accounted for roughly 5 percent of global economic output in 2020. The industry’s worth is projected to grow by almost 10 percent on average year over year, which could reach a total of $70 trillion by 2025. From corporate wellness to mental health, there is the opportunity for growth and fraudulent activity in every sector of the wellness industry. 

What Defines Health Fraud?

According to the FDA’s definition of health fraud scams, they involve the advertisement or sale of products that claim to prevent, treat, or cure moderate to severe health conditions but are not scientifically proven safe and effective. 

Deceptive marketing catchphrases such as “miracle cure,” “vaccine alternative,” “guaranteed results,” “secret ingredient,” and “scientific breakthrough” are red flags for health fraud per the FDA, but not all fraudulent products are labeled so obviously and identified so easily. Some fraudsters are more cunning with their marketing tactics and may try to sell consumers on a health trend ahead of the actual product. 

The Role of Social Media in the Wellness Industry

Social media has become one of the most profitable marketing channels to target new consumers. Health trends can emerge out of thin air and become sensationalized on platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. 

The downside is that any health trend can go viral, even if it is false or misleading. Social media influencers without any credibility can lead followers into trying a new product or regimen, which can result in a wasted investment of money and time, disappointment, frustration, and even serious health risks and consequences. 

Fasting, juicing, and cleansing have all had their share of the spotlight as miraculous remedies for rapid weight loss and other ambitious health goals. However, there is often very little (if any) scientific or medical evidence to support these theories. The truth is, these wellness trends are often driven by marketing campaigns to sell products such as juices, teas, and supplements that are not as miraculous as they are hyped to be. 

COVID fraud has become an increasing issue on social media platforms, where scammers have advertised therapies and medications that can prevent, treat, or cure COVID. The Federal Trade Commission has intervened in 400 cases where companies have promoted false advertisements on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram since the start of the pandemic. The consequences of these false claims can be deadly for people who attempt to use these fraudulent and ineffective products in place of proper COVID treatments.

Final Takeaway

It is crucial to obtain information from authoritative and reliable sources, especially when a serious health issue is involved, but it can be difficult to know which sources are trustworthy. Some wellness scams can be so well-disguised and convincing that people believe whatever they claim and will buy into whatever they are selling. 

Being wary of buzzing health trends and advice from wellness gurus or influencers on social media can help you avoid becoming prey to a health fraud scam or medical myth. It is always a good idea to cross-check information you find with credible sources online to verify whether what you’ve heard or read is based on facts or fiction.

Health & Fitness

The Benefits of Inpatient Rehab

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 Inpatient rehab refers to a stay at a rehabilitation facility where you receive around-the-clock care from medical professionals. This type of care is beneficial for those who are struggling with addiction and need more support than outpatient care can provide. Here are some of the benefits of a rehab center.

Supportive Environment

One of the main benefits of inpatient rehab is that it provides a supportive environment. When you’re surrounded by people who are going through the same thing as you, it can be easier to stay on track with your recovery. There’s also 24/7 support from medical professionals, so if you have any questions or need any help, someone will always be there for you. 

Personalized Treatment Plans

Another benefit of inpatient rehab is that you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan. This means that your plan will be specifically tailored to your needs based on factors such as your age, substance abuse history, mental health, and more. Having a personalized plan can increase your chances of success because it ensures that you’re receiving the best possible care. 

Structured Environment 

Inpatient rehab provides a structured environment that can be helpful for people who need structure in their lives. The structure of inpatient rehab can help people progress in their recovery by providing a daily routine and expectations that need to be met. 

Safe Environment

Inpatient rehab offers a safe environment where people can focus on their recovery without distractions or temptations. People who are in treatment will be able to stay away from triggers that might lead to relapse. 

Who Needs Inpatient Rehab?

Anyone who is struggling with addiction or substance abuse can benefit from inpatient rehab. Inpatient rehab is a form of treatment that involves living at the facility while receiving around-the-clock care and supervision. This type of care is beneficial for those who are struggling with severe addiction or have relapsed after previous attempts at sobriety. Inpatient rehab provides a structured and safe environment where people can focus on their recovery without distractions or temptations. 

Inpatient rehab usually lasts for 30 days but can be longer or shorter depending on the individual’s needs. During treatment, people will participate in individual and group therapy, as well as other activities like recreational therapy and 12-step meetings. The goal of inpatient rehab is to help people achieve and maintain sobriety so that they can live healthy and fulfilling life. 

Why choose Inpatient Treatment?

Inpatient rehab provides many benefits that can help you on your journey to recovery. If you’re struggling with addiction, consider seeking out inpatient rehab so that you can take advantage of the supportive environment and personalized care that a rehab center provides.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, inpatient rehab can be an effective form of treatment. Inpatient rehab offers many benefits, such as 24/7 supervision, a structured environment, and a focus on individual needs. If you are considering inpatient rehab, it is important to find a reputable facility that will provide you with the level of care that you need to recover from addiction.

Health & Fitness

It’s Time That You Took Back Control Of Your Overall Health.

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People have been performing the art of yoga for such a long time now and it is an excellent way to help you relax, reduce your stress levels and become a lot more flexible then you probably are. Medical practitioners advise their patients to take up yoga as it helps to keep them limber and strong. Many people are now beginning to appreciate and understand the benefits that it offers both in a mental and physical capacity, and so they are putting aside time every day to make sure that they complete their routine.

Many people say that they just don’t have the time to take up a pastime such as yoga, but they are just making excuses because this is something that you can do almost anywhere and at almost any time of the day. One essential thing that you do need is a mat and you can find the best yoga mats in Australia all around. All you need is a quiet place to lay down your mat and you can easily go through your full routine and enjoy the many benefits that it offers. The following are just some of those.

– Stress & anxiety levels are greatly reduced – In the modern world we just suffer from high levels of stress due to the incredibly hard jobs and we have and the families that we need to take care of. This is a lot of responsibility on one person’s shoulders and so it is logical that it is going to take a detrimental effect on both your physical and mental health. It’s all about reducing the amount of cortisol that is in your body and a healthy habit that you can start today is yoga which helps greatly with this. Yoga provides the necessary balance in your life that everyone needs but seldom gets a chance to experience.

– You sleep better – We all complain about not being able to get a good night’s sleep and it’s generally because our mind is not relaxed because we are so stressed out thinking about the day that is coming tomorrow and the day after that as well. We need to do something that calms our mind and performing yoga is the perfect answer. Most people who do yoga on a regular basis report that they sleep much better and they get the required amount of sleep needed to live a healthy balanced life. Yoga is an excellent exercise and it can be used as part of a calorie controlled diet and fitness program. There is always assistance provided for those of you that are new to yoga.

As you can see, yoga offers us many benefits and these are benefits that we can partake of anytime and anywhere. All you need is your yoga mat under your arm and a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated. Once you have these things, it’s plain sailing and your health will improve as a direct result.

Health & Fitness

What is Diabetic Dermopathy? Causes & Treatments of Diabetic Skin Conditions

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Photo credit: Cottonbro

No one wants skin problems, but at some point we all get them. Globally we spend billions trying to fight and prevent skin problems. This ranges from issues with acne, disease, and scars to aging. Experts estimate that by the year 2024 we will spend 180 billion annually around the world for skincare products. This should highlight the commitment people have to control skin problems and not letting them rob them of their quality of life.

Diabetics have special issues when it comes to skin concerns. Diabetes causes changes in the small blood vessels. These changes along with circulation problems, and high levels of glucose in blood cause different types of skin issues. These skin problems are treatable and sometimes preventable, but they are continual and must be watched for.

Photo credit: Kjerstin_Michaela

Diabetic control

Logically, the easiest way to prevent skin issues due to diabetes is to control diabetes as much as possible. The key is proper eating and blood glucose testing. A diabetic patient should never be without their glucose meter. They need a high-quality meter that is portable, made by experts in the field, easy to use, and easy to transmit the data to their medical professional. 

The Contour Next Glucose meters made by Ascensia Diabetes Care. They meet all of these requirements. The repeat expense is the lancets and the testing strips. Here is the problem. People hesitate to keep up with their blood sugar because they do not want to spend money on the supplies. There are ways to obtain free glucose test strips. There are ways to cut the expenses down so you can afford to keep up. Skip the drug store and go to the manufacturer’s website. They have programs to help. One program gives you a free meter and enrolls you in a savings plan where you get big discounts on the strips that go in the meter. You just register and print the cards and take them with you to the drug store. If you want to control your skin, you have to control your diabetes.   

Diabetes-Related Skin conditions

Diabetic Dermopathy

Dermopathy often looks like light brown, scaly patches. These patches may be oval or circular. Some people mistake them for age spots. This usually happens on the front of each (both) legs. They are not painful and they do not itch. Dermopathy requires no treatment. They are not contagious and are not symptoms of another illness. It is caused by changes in the small blood vessels in the legs and poor circulation. 

Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum

The spots caused by NLD are similar to those of diabetic dermopathy. However, there are fewer of them and they are bigger and deeper.  

They begin as a red spot that is raised and after a while, they will have a light purplish border. They will look shiny and you can sometimes see the tiny veins inside them. This is a rare condition and usually women get them. The sores become itchy and painful. If the sores break open, medical treatment is needed to prevent infection. 

Acanthosis nigricans

Acanthosis nigricans is a condition in which tan, gray, or brown raised areas appear on the sides of the neck, armpits, inner thighs, and groin. Sometimes they also occur on the hands, elbows, and knees. Acanthosis nigricans usually affects people who are obese. The best treatment is to lose weight. Some creams can help the spots look better. Some patients have said the use of Tea Tree Oil has helped fade the condition. 

Photo credit: Hans

Bacterial infections

People with diabetes get a lot of bacterial, fungal, and viral infections in the skin. Besides the regular diabetic-related issues, many people with diabetes fight obesity. The problems with moisture being trapped in folds of skin create a perfect location for bacteria to grow. Other bacterial and fungal infections include:

  • Styes (infections of the glands of the eyelid)
  • Boils
  • Folliculitis (infections of the hair follicles)
  • Carbuncles (deep infections of the skin and the tissue underneath)
  • Infections around the nails

Inflamed tissues are usually hot, swollen, red, and can be extremely painful. Many organisms can cause infections, the most common being Staphylococcus bacteria, also called staph. Staph has gotten more difficult to treat in recent years and it spreads easily.

Note! Untreated, a staph infection can cause death. If you have a sore that hurts, is hot to the touch, and is anywhere close to the brain, see your doctor immediately. Oozing sores are contagious to others also. 

People with diabetes have more bacterial infections than other people do. Doctors believe people with diabetes can reduce their chances of these infections by practicing good skincare.

Eruptive xanthomatosis

Out of control diabetes is believed to be the cause of eruptive xanthomatosis. These yellow bumps in the skin are the size and shape of a pea and they have a red halo. The bumps are often found on the backs of the hands, on the arms, legs, feet, and buttocks. They usually itch.  They are found most often on men with type one diabetes whose illness is out of control. Once his diabetes has been restored to a manageable level, it usually goes away. 

The disorder usually occurs in young men with type 1 diabetes. The person often has high levels of cholesterol and fat in the blood. Like diabetic blisters, these bumps disappear when diabetes control is restored.

What you can do

No one wants to have skin problems. They are not fun to say the least and they are embarrassing and painful. But there are some steps you can take to prevent them.

  • Watch your blood sugar
    • Check your blood glucose often and adjust your diet to keep your levels under control
  • Drink plenty of fresh water
    • Drinking water is good for everyone’s skin. It is especially true for the diabetic. Keep your body flushed of toxins and your skin hydrated
  • Self-checks
    • Every diabetic should be in the habit of doing daily self-checks. This is to ensure there are no blisters or sores on your feet, cuts or scrapes on your body, or problems that you are unaware of. 
  • Stay clean and dry
    • Bacteria grow in moist places. Shower daily using antibacterial soap. Do not use moisturizing beauty bars or body washes These products are fine for your face and arms. Anywhere there are folds of skin that air cannot easily reach, wash with antibacterial soap.
  • Wear clothes that breathe
    • Allow maximum air to reach your body by wearing natural fabrics like cotton.
  • Stay in communication with your doctor
    • Learn which skin conditions you deal with and how to work with them. Set-up video appointments so you can reach his office and have him take a look if something looks unusual to you. Do not ignore anything. What is minor tonight could be major by morning. 

These steps are just part of the life of a diabetic. You have this. The easiest way to deal with diabetic skin issues is to prevent them. So, start today and keep these problems away from your skin. You will be glad you did. 

Source: American Diabetes Association