Dangerous Health Concerns in the Home That Can Be Prevented with Theses Tips

 

 

In every home, there are hidden hazards that are potentially dangerous to the occupants. These hazards are most often found in common spaces such as the bathroom, kitchen and bedrooms. Certain items can quickly deteriorate and cause numerous health problems. It is important to identify what and where the potential dangers can begin and take the necessary steps to control them. Six potential hazards a homeowner should be aware of include:

 

 

1. Mold

Mold spores are extremely dangerous because they can easily enter the home. Mold can start to grow on wet surfaces or damp dark areas where there is not sufficient ventilation. It is most commonly found under sinks, in showers and in the walls. Breathing mold is very dangerous because it can lead to a host of respiratory problems including asthma and bronchitis. To reduce the growth of mold, be sure to keep surfaces dry, check for water leaks under counters and showers and keep areas well ventilated to reduce humidity.

 

 

2. Carpet Toxins

When new carpet is installed, harmful chemicals and glue is used which contain benzene and formaldehyde. Often, the odor emitted can make some people sick. Common symptoms include headaches, rashes and coughing. The best way to avoid exposure is to open windows and use fans to increase the air circulation immediately after installation.

 

 

3. Sponges

Kitchen and bathroom sponges act as a breeding ground for bacteria to grow and spread to surfaces. This is because multiple surfaces are used with the same sponge to clean cutting boards, counters and dishes. To reduce the amount of bacteria, replace sponges often, use disposable wipes, or sanitize your sponges in the dishwasher or microwave daily.

 

 

4. Rodents

Infestations of rodents such as mice and rats in and around the home can cause serious health problems. Airborne particles from urine, feces, nest materials and dead rodent’s causes the spread of leptospirosis, which can lead to kidney and liver damage. If untreated, it can also lead to cardiovascular issues such as sneezing, flu symptoms and wheezing. The most effective way to get rid of rodents is to hire a pest control company that will spray the attic, basement and openings around the home where pests could enter.

 

 

5. Carbon Monoxide

This odorless gas is extremely dangerous and can be released from leaky faucets, fireplaces, furnaces, gas appliances and water heaters. The best way to detect carbon monoxide is to install detectors in upstairs and downstairs spaces as well as keep areas well ventilated to reduce the risk of exposure.

 

 

6. Dust Mites

Dust mites live and breed in carpets, bedding and curtains. These microscopic insects can cause watery eyes, sneezing, coughing and congestion. The best way to combat these insects is to launder bedding once a week and purchase allergen free bedding.

 

Protecting your home and family by identifying potential hazards should be the number one priority for a homeowner. Take the necessary steps today to keep your home free of dangers that could harm your health.

 

 

Informational credit to ICE Pest Control and Wildlife Removal.

Categories: Dangerous, health concerns, Home

4 Surgeries That Could Improve the Quality of Your Life

We all suffer from physical problems that impact our quality of life. Some of these problems are overwhelming, such as chronic pain and broken bones, both which demand immediate treatment. Other problems are smaller and easier to deal with, although they still cause our quality of life to decrease. This article will discuss a few surgeries that will correct small physical problems without a lot of recovery time or pain to make a person’s life better.

 

Laser Eye Surgery

One problem that plagues a great deal of the population is that of having skewed vision. Some people will be able to see perfectly up close and not be able to see at all from far away. Others will be able to see the exact opposite. This problem can be dealt with through the use of corrective lenses, such as glasses or contacts, but still poses and inconvenience to those who have to wear them. A way to fix this problem is to get lasik eye surgery, which is a minimally invasive procedure that has almost no recovery time and will fix a person’s vision so that he or she does not have to wear glasses anymore.

 

Appendectomy

One of the most important minimally invasive surgeries is an appendectomy, which is a procedure that removes the appendix when it becomes damaged or infected. When the appendix is not functioning properly, it will cause a person a great deal of pain. Removing the appendix will make that person’s life much better.

 

Arthroscopy

This minimally invasive procedure can be used on a wide variety of different types of joints, from ankles and wrists to shoulders and knees. It is a procedure that is used to diagnose and repair issues with the cartilage in a person’s joint. The cartilage is one of the parts of the joint that allow it to move smoothly. If it is damaged, then a person’s mobility will be severely limited, but can be restored with an arthroscopy.

 

Cholecystectomy

This is a procedure that removes the gall bladder from a person’s body when it has become infected or inflamed. When this occurs, a person will suffer a great deal of pain, as well as nausea and fever. To resolve these symptoms, a person can have this procedure performed.

 

These minimally invasive procedures are designed to help a person resolve unpleasant symptoms before they get out of hand, without requiring a lot of recovery time. They allow a person to improve his or her life without a lot of difficulty or danger.

Categories: eye surgery, health concerns, invasive procedure, life, minimally invasive, nbsp, person, physical problems, procedure, Quality of Life, recovery time, surgery

How Your Addiction May Be Affecting Your Health

A long term addiction can damage nearly every system in the body. Some drugs cause more damage to some bodily systems than others. Here are only a few of the ways that an addiction can badly impact your health:

 

Damage to the Nervous System

Drugs cause intoxication because they bind surprisingly well to the receptors on the surfaces of the nerve cells in the brain. Over time, the number of receptors, nerve cells and even the structure of the nerve cells are changed. Sometimes, these changes are permanent. Depressant drugs like opioids and alcohol also slow down bodily functions like breathing. An overdose occurs when a function like respiration is slowed down to the point of unconsciousness or death.

 

Pregnancy Complications

Women who are addicted to drugs while pregnant run the risk of premature delivery and complications like breech birth. However, the baby suffers the brunt of the mother’s addiction. Alcohol can stunt the growth of the brain and lead to fetal alcohol syndrome. Amphetamines and opioids cause babies to be born with underdeveloped brains, and cocaine can cause the placenta to separate prematurely.

 

Negative Impacts To the Circulatory System

Addiction can produce effects on the heart and the circulatory system that are more insidious than a sudden heart attack or stroke. Drugs that cross the blood/brain barrier like heroin can influence both the heart rate and the blood pressure. If the drug is taken to the point of addiction, the damage to the cardiovascular system can be permanent.

 

Drugs like amphetamines can be responsible for blood clots, which can lead to heart attack and stroke. Alcoholic cardiomyopathy is a scourge of people addicted to alcohol. Over years, the alcohol scars the heart muscle, and the heart begins to fail. The symptoms of this are fatigue, edema in the legs and feet and swollen veins in the neck. Alcohol can also react badly with medicines that are prescribed to treat a patient’s heart disease. One of the benefits of a drug addiction rehab center is that the staff is knowledgeable when it comes to the comorbidities that often accompany addiction.

 

Cognitive Damage

Addiction to drugs like amphetamines and marijuana can also impair thought processes like the ability to concentrate, decision making and planning and locating and reacting to objects in space. Some of these impairments are permanent.

 

As can be seen, the impact of addiction on a person’s health can be devastating. The sooner an addict joins a drug rehabilitation center, the higher his or her chances are of returning to good health.

Categories: addiction, Alcohol, drugs, Habits, health concerns, heart, Heart Attack, nbsp, nerve cells, permanent nbsp

Medical Supplies You Should Have In Storage

Medical emergencies are something that could strike anyone at any time, no matter how old or young the person may be. Luckily, the Internet age has made it much easier to acquire medical supplies that go above and beyond the standard First-Aid kit.

 

It is unfortunate that many homeowners do not even own a First-Aid kit, let alone any specialized medical gear. The following items are common medical items that have been proven to save lives.

 

First-Aid Kit

The two main functions of a First-Aid kit are to stop bleeding and to keep wounds from getting infected. The items included are gauze, antibiotic cream, band-aids, medical tape, and a cold pack to treat muscle strains. This is the basic kit that any safety-conscious homeowner should have.

 

Defibrillator

This apparatus is designed to start a heart that has stopped beating as a result of cardiac arrest. This is especially useful for those who are not trained in CPR. The reason is that defibrillators often come with clear-cut instructions for operation. With that being said, at least one member of a household should be trained in CPR. These classes are fairly cheap and are usually offered at a community’s activity center.

 

Suture Kit

Many people think that stitching a wound is a complex procedure; however, the reality is that it is the same fundamental procedure as stitching a seam. Do some research online on how to sew and confer with your doctor regarding the slight differences between the two procedures. It is a skill that most people never need, but it is always good to know how to be able to stitch a wound in case of an emergency. This is what field medics who are stationed in war zones specialize in.

 

Stethoscope

A stethoscope is what doctors use to listen to a patient’s heartbeat and pulse. This checks for any irregularities in heartbeat or blood flow, which are both early warning signs of cardiac arrest. If there is a clot forming somewhere in the body, then you will be able to hear the flow of the person’s blood moving at a slower pace. This also may indicate that the artery is blocked. The best course of action is to give the person an aspirin to thin their blood and call the paramedics immediately.

 

Catheters

When most people hear the word catheter they think of a urinary catheter. While this is certainly a common use of catheters, the reality is that they have several uses. When shopping for medical catheters it is important to understand that different sizes have different functions. Some other uses for catheters include cardiovascular, neurovascular, and gastrointestinal issues.

 

By owning this simple list of items you will be sufficiently prepared for any medical emergency that comes your way.

Categories: aid kit, Blood, cardiac arrest, catheters, health concerns, items, Medical, medical supplies, nbsp

Cancer: Finding Hope In The Little Things In Life

“Cancer” just might be the scariest word a patient can hear from a doctor’s mouth. It sounds like a death knell, like a pronouncement of the end. But with all the research and treatment options available to cancer patients in this day and age, many patients who are diagnosed with cancer will find themselves returning to or continuing on with their normal lives. What can make the difference? Hope.

 

Hope Can Keep You Going

Hope can be the motivation to accept or continue treatment even when it’s hard to go through. It can keep your spirits up day by day and hour by hour. Finding hope can help you look past today’s trials and tribulations toward the better days to come. Hope lends us strength in the hard times, as it has for centuries.

 

Explore Your Many Options

Treatment professionals like the ones at Century Wellness Clinic can help you locate sources of hope. You might also find hope in little personal things, like an upcoming birthday, a visit from a friend or a movie you plan to see. Look for hope in the words of cancer survivors, in person or through the many online references available. Find hope in the research of organizations like the American Cancer Society.

 

Everyone Has Unique Sources

What provides hope for one person might not work for you, and that’s perfectly normal. If what you find isn’t giving you hope, don’t give up. And don’t hesitate to ask someone for help, or use more than one source for help. Reaching out to others may even be something that brings you hope all by itself. Find what works for you.

 

Yours is Renewable

Even when it seems like everything is at it’s gloomy worst, there are still more things to find that offer hope. A friend can often help find them. A professional can guide you toward them. Someone who’s already gone through what you’re going through can show you some. Sometimes it’s just a matter of looking harder, or finding something to look forward to, especially when you’ve thought your hope is lost. You can always get it back.

 

There is hope in even the smallest things in life. And hope can give you the emotional strength to continue, even in the face of something as frightening as cancer. Reach for it, and let it help you through your whole treatment plan. And all of your life!

Categories: cancer, cancer hope, finding, finding hope, health concerns, Hope, nbsp, treatment

Health Industry: Jobs You Can Find Anywhere

The healthcare industry offers an abundance of positions to suit every personality type and inclination. Best of all, many of these jobs don’t require a traditional four-year diploma. In fact, several healthcare positions simply require a high school diploma or GED, along with on-the-job experience and a willingness to learn. If you’re looking for a new career in the healthcare industry, check out the following jobs that are always accepting applications.

 

Surgical Tech

Surgical or operating technicians assist doctors during surgery by preparing the room, sterilizing instruments, and providing ongoing support during operations. You’ll need some training and education to become a surgical tech, but many community colleges offer two-year programs for this career path. You can expect an average salary of nearly $42,000 per year.

 

Occupational Therapy Aide

An occupational therapist assists those suffering from limited mobility issues in regaining control of their lives. As an aide to this professional, you would be responsible for providing administrative support, as well as occasional therapy support. There are a variety of places to work as a therapy aide, including hospitals, homes for nursing care in VA, and athletic offices. Most training happens on the job, and aides earn just under $32,000 per year.

 

Paramedic

If you’re looking for a fast-paced, and exciting career in which you can really make a difference, then consider becoming a paramedic or EMT. Training programs can last between six months and two years depending on the certification requirements, and these highly skilled professionals earn a little more than $31,000 per year.

 

Medical Assistant

Medical assistants can be certified, but training happens on the job. People who pursue medical assistance as a career, enjoy organization and working with people. They streamline the hospital or office experience by providing support to both doctors and patients. The average salary is around $30,000 per year, but varies depending on location and certification.

 

Phlebotomist

Are you comfortable with needles, blood and small talk? Phlebotomy may be right up your alley. Phlebotomists are medical professionals who draw blood, and ensure that the correct amount is gathered into vials for testing. They earn a median salary of around $29,000 per year and attend a training program for certification.

 

Whether you want to work directly with patients by assisting doctors, or work behind the scenes as an assistant, you’ll find a variety of entry-level healthcare positions that can propel your career forward. Most of these jobs require little up-front investment, but yield significant returns. The healthcare industry provides a great start for those seeking a little more adventure in their career paths.

Categories: health care, health concerns, Professional

Easy Ways to Keep your Asthma and Allergies from Flaring Up

Allergies and asthma attacks are a fact of life for many, but they don’t have to make life totally miserable. If they get out of hand, allergies or asthma can not only cause discomfort, but they can lead to hospitalizations and other medical complications. Fortunately, there are ways you can try to keep asthma and allergies from flaring up.

 

1. Contain pet dander

We love our pets, so it’s tough to blame them for our problems. Pet dander is a common allergen. If something at home triggers asthma or allergy symptoms, first try restricting the animal. Keep them from the area where you spend the most time, especially the bedroom. If this does not bring relief and the pet is indeed the issue, you may need to resort to a pet-free home. Allergy shots and medication are also an option for people who can’t bear to part with their pet, but don’t want to live with uncomfortable allergy symptoms like a runny nose and itchy eyes.

 

2. Fix leaky pipes

Are there water leaks under the sink, in the bathroom or in the basement that need repair? These areas are prone to grow black mold, one of the most serious health risks. Mold spores love moisture which can trigger allergic reactions and make some people severely ill. Be sure the bathroom has an exhaust fan in good working order, and take care of all leaks. Children are most likely to run health risks from mold because their immune systems are still not fully developed.

 

3. Replace AC filters

Air conditioner filters trap allergens. Pollen, dust, mold spores and animal dander will remain in the filter until it is full. Depending on the type of filters you use and the environment in and outside your home, a good rule of thumb is to replace the filters every 3 to 6 months. If you live in a climate like Arizona where you rely heavily on your air conditioner, you may need to contact a professional of duct cleaning in Phoenix on a more regular basis. Clean filters mean the allergens continue to be trapped and are not circulating around the house where you can breathe them in.

 

4. Control the dust

Dust, pollen, mold spores and animal dander circulate around the home in the air, and lodge in furniture and carpeting. Dust tables, entertainment centers, shelves and other furniture often and regularly wipe down windowsills with a damp cloth. Rather than dusting with a dry cloth, try using a wet cloth to trap the dust effectively rather than spread it around the home again. Furniture and carpets should be vacuumed once or twice a week. When cleaning, be sure to wear a dust mask.

 

5. Cover bedding

Most asthmatic attacks are attributed to dust mites. The microscopic bugs like warm, humid environments with a special preference for bedding and carpeting. Pillows, mattresses and box springs can be protected with airtight covers. Bedding should be washed weekly in hot water, and sheets and covers dried in a hot dryer.

 

There are ways to minimize allergy symptoms. The trick is to learn which irritants affect you and avoid the triggers. Keeping a clean and well maintained home will ensure that your family stays healthy without having to suffer from daily allergies or asthma attacks. Although there may still be things in your home that trigger symptoms, basic cleaning and maintenance is a good place to start.

Categories: Air Conditioner, allergies, Allergy Symptoms, animal dander, Asthma, Asthma Attacks, dust, health concerns, Health Risks, Home, mold spores, Pet Dander, pets

Ways To Improve Your Appearance After A Facial Injury

A facial injury can have a negative effect on your appearance and impact your self-esteem. Fortunately, there are some things that you can do to improve your appearance after a facial injury. Depending on the size and severity of your injury, you may have different results, but there are many ways to make your scars or injuries less noticeable.

 

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a procedure that can help reduce scarring. It involves using a diamond wheel or wire brush to remove the top layers of the skin. New skin will grow in the place of the damaged skin. Re-growth will typically occur within five to eight days. However, it can take up to 12 weeks in order to see the full results.

 

Microdermabrasion

If you have minor scarring, then you may want to consider getting microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is less invasive than dermabrasion. It involves using crystals to remove the top layer of the skin. You may need to have the treatment done just a few times or repeatedly over the course of a few months to see results. If your scarring is minute, you can also get kits to try this procedure at home yourself.

 

Dental Implants

If you have missing teeth due to your facial injury, then you should consider getting dental implants. Dental implants, are false teeth that replace teeth that have unexpectedly fallen out or been knocked out. Dental implants have a 95 percent success rate and appear very natural. According to professionals from Stones Crossing Cosmetic Dentistry, most patients prefer dental implants over bridges or dentures because they look and appear more natural.

 

Laser Scar Treatment

Laser scar treatment is a safe, non-invasive way to remove scars. It involves the use of fractional laser technology. One of the many great things about this treatment is that it reduces the appearance of the scar without harming the surrounding skin. The skin will be more attractive and smoother to the touch after laser scar treatment. A few treatments are typically required before people get the results that they want.

 

Scar creams

For those who don’t feel that they need surgical treatment, another option to reduce scarring is over the counter scar creams and gels. These gels can be applied every day and with continued use, they will reduce the appearance of scars in a just a few weeks. They are shown to make scars appear softer and lighter so they will be less noticeable.

 

Dealing with a facial injury can have a negative impact on a person’s self-esteem and life. The good news is that there are several procedures that can enhance your appearance whether you are dealing with a minor facial cut to missing teeth. Your appearance can have an effect on everything from your social life to your job, so take the time to recover and improve the appearance of your injury.

Categories: appearance, dental implants, dermabrasion, facial injury, health concerns, laser scar, missing teeth, noticeable nbsp, reduce scarring, scar creams, scar treatment

Going In For Surgery? How to Prepare For the Process

In the days leading up to your surgery, there are many things you can do to prepare that will offer you the best chances for a successful outcome. Although you may experience a wide range of emotions during this time, knowing that you are fully prepared will help you relax on the day of scheduled surgery. Whether your upcoming surgery is minor or major, here is everything you need to prepare for the process.

 

Get Informed

As soon as surgery is recommended by your physician, it is important to begin gathering as much information as possible about your health condition and the type of surgery that is recommended. For some patients, this will mean getting a second opinion. Once you are satisfied that surgery is the best method of treatment, get to know your medical team and ask questions regarding success rates, possible complications and typical recovery times.

 

Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes

As a general rule, patients who are in good health tend to have less complications and faster recoveries after their surgery. Before your surgery, make changes in your lifestyle that will enhance your health such as quitting smoking. Eating a nutritious diet and starting an exercise routine will also help you to go into surgery with the highest level of health possible.

 

Follow Pre-Op Instructions

Before the scheduled surgery date, your medical team will issue a list of pre-op instructions. Often, this includes a visit to the medical facility the day before to conduct a health assessment and answer any final questions. Be sure to attend this appointment and follow all instructions. For example, you may be asked to fast for a certain number of hours before you are administered general anesthesia.

 

Plan for Recovery Care

After your surgery, there will likely be a period of recovery time that may last anywhere from a few hours to several months. For this reason, you will need to plan now for your post-surgical care. Arrange to have all necessary medical supplies delivered to your home before your arrival. Then, make sure you have a caregiver available who can assist you with your needs, such as bathing and cooking, until you are fully recovered.

 

Legal Options

In the case that there are complications, you should be aware of your legal options and what course of action to follow. Many people are not aware of their rights when it comes to malpractice. But say you have had a surgery in Chicago, medical legal help is always available and should be looked into in a timely manner.

 

When you are expecting an upcoming surgery, it is important to take the time to carefully implement strategies that will ensure the best outcome. Knowing that you are prepared beforehand will help you to relax before your surgery and can smooth your arrival home. By learning as much as you can about your health condition and making the necessary arrangements for post-op care, you will be ready for your scheduled surgery day with the right types of support in place to stay safe and healthy during your recovery.

Categories: health concerns, hospital care, surgery

The Age After Acne: Skin Health Concerns that Adults Face

You may think that skin health concerns are over once you reach the end of puberty, but many adults face issues over their skin wellness throughout their lives. The good thing about skin problems is that it’s easy to tell when your wellbeing has been affected, as when something goes awry, it is often easily visible during an examination of the skin. We’ve rounded up the top skin offenders out there, so you know what to watch out for.

 

1. Shingles: Also known as herpes zoster, shingles is basically a second round of chicken pox. The infection reoccurs due to latently infected nerve cells in your spinal cord or brain. At first, you might mistake shingles for a musculoskeletal injury, as it often begins with a painful sensation. However, the skin condition soon becomes apparent with a red, blistering unilateral (one-sided) rash. While shingles most frequently impacts the elderly, you can get it at any age. However, the good news is that you can prevent shingles with a vaccination, while antiviral drug treatment within 48 hours of the onset of the eruption limits the development of persistent, severe pain (neuralgia).

 

2. Hives: This very common skin condition – the scientific name for which being urticaria, if you’re interested – occurs when antibodies in your blood stream recognise foreign chemicals. You’ll notice elevated bumps surrounded by an intensely itchy red rash anywhere on your body. There may also be lesions, but each one disappears after eight to 12 hours. In most cases, the hives will spontaneously resolve themselves within eight weeks, but oral antihistamines can provide relief to your symptoms.

 

3. Psoriasis: In this chronic, inflammatory genetic condition, you develop scaling red bumps that combine into plaques. Typically, these appear on your scalp, elbows, and knees and will come and go by themselves. Depending on the severity and extent of involvement, you may be able to find relief by using topical creams and ultraviolet light exposure to oral drugs and injectable medications. Unfortunately, psoriasis is not curable and raises your risk for cardiovascular disease.

 

4. Eczema: Like psoriasis, eczema – or atopic dermatitis if you’re feeling fancy – is a genetic condition. It turns up during your childhood with a chronic itchy, weeping, oozing dermatitis, often localised in the creases opposite your elbows and knees. You might also experience allergies, such as asthma and hay fever. Luckily, the condition improves as you age and there are treatment options, such as the application of emollients to wet skin and the use of topical steroids.

 

5. Rosacea: This chronic inflammatory condition pops up on your face, giving you redness, dilated blood vessels, papules, pustules, and occasionally by the overgrowth of nasal connective tissue (rhinophyma) – lovely. On a superficial level, it resembles that teenage acne you were so keen to get rid of, and often incurs persistent facial flushing, which is an early sign that your skin has an uncontrolled sensitivity to certain naturally produced inflammatory chemicals. Topical and oral drugs can be used for treatment, as well as avoiding certain foods like tomatoes.

 

6. Cold Sores: Herpes labialis, fever blisters, cold sores – whatever you want to call it – is caused by the herpes simplex virus. The virus is dormant in your spinal cord nerve cells, and is triggered by environmental factors like a sunburn or cold. The virus then travels along a peripheral nerve to the same skin site over and over again. You’ll commonly find the sores on the edge of your lip for about seven to 10 days, making treatment unnecessary unless the eruption becomes too frequent.

Categories: adults face, chronic inflammatory, Cold Sores, genetic condition, health concerns, nerve cells, oral drugs, Rosacea, Shingles, skin condition, skin health, spinal cord

Ready Meals Healthier than Celeb Chef Recipes, Study Finds

Wellness experts are always talking about how eating out is more damaging to your health. Studies show that takeaways and restaurant meals are higher in calories and lower in micronutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamin C, so – by that logic – it must be healthier to cook at home, right? Not according to new research, which has found that it may be time to shelve your favourite cookbook, or you could develop serious health concerns.

For the study, the researchers looked into how “home-cooked” meals created by celebrity chefs compared to prepared meals sold in local supermarkets in terms of having an impact on your wellbeing. 100 supermarket meals (randomly chosen store-brands from the three biggest supermarket chains in the UK) were compared with 100 main meal recipes (with items from two or more food groups) created by UK-based TV chefs. The lucky cookbooks chosen were Jamie Oliver’s 30 Minute Meals and Ministry of Food, Lorraine Pascale’s Baking Made Easy, Nigella Lawson’s Kitchen, and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s River Cottage Everyday.

The researchers aimed to answer the question “Is one type of meal or the other healthier?” by looking at the nutritional content of the recipes and meals. This included an analysis of the total calories, protein, carbohydrates, sugar, sodium, fat, saturated fat, and fibre found in each dish, using the World Health Organization’s (WHO) dietary guidelines and the British Food Standards Agency (FSA) guidelines as nutritional standards for comparison. Although there are a few differences in the two sets of guidelines, they both give the breakdown of calorie percentages that should come from fat, protein, and carbohydrates, and set daily limits on salt, cholesterol, and saturated fat.

While you’d think that at least one dish would make the cut, not a single ready meal or recipe met all of the WHO guidelines. However, the more surprising result was that the chef-created recipes appeared to be less healthy than the store-bought meals. Typically, the recipes were higher in calories and lower in fibre, albeit meeting the FSA guideline of less than 0.6 grams of sodium per 100 grams of food, which the ready meals did not accomplish. Still, it’s important to bear in mind the researchers’ point that WHO standards are based on average intake over time rather than individual meals, and they only used these standards because of the lack of other international criteria on which to base their study.

So why does it matter? Wellness experts assert that celebrity chefs have a massive influence on the foods we eat, and are arguably contributing to the British obesity epidemic. Obesity can increase your risk of all kinds of chronic health concerns, such as heart disease and diabetes, to name a few. Does this mean you need to stock up on ready meals to ensure your wellbeing? Perish the thought! It’s important to take these study results with a grain of salt – but no more than that or you’ll go over the FSA guidelines! While the top TV chefs and their cookbooks may tend towards the unhealthy, this isn’t the case for all recipes and cookbooks.

Plus, ready meals are no nutritional superstars even if they appear to be healthier in some respects. The study researchers did not consider vitamins, minerals and additives in their evaluation, so the nutritional picture presented isn’t so complete. And, no, the answer isn’t to go out for dinner every night either, as another recent study has shown that eating away from home is linked with a higher calorie and fat intake, and lower micronutrient consumption. Just think about your meals, be they microwaved or created out of a recipe book, and make healthy choices.

Categories: Celebrity Chefs, fsa guidelines, health concerns, meals, ready meals, Recipes, Research, study, tv chefs, wellness experts

Mental Health Time Off: Why You Need to Go Back to Work

Mental health concerns can significantly affect your corporate wellness, having an impact on your job performance and attendance, as well as your wellbeing in general. This may cause you to lose your job, while not having a job at all can make mental health problems worse. According to Kristin Tinker (PGCPPP, PGDPsyc, BSc, BCom), Manager of Rehabilitation Services at Resilia, Research supports the fact that employment is generally the most important means of obtaining adequate economic resources, which are essential for wellbeing and participation in today’s society; work is central to individual identity, social roles and social status.’ At the other end of that scale, there has been a strong link shown between  worklessness and poor mental and physical health.

 

Tinker explains, ‘Overall, there is a growing awareness that long-term work absence, work disability and unemployment are harmful to mental health and wellbeing. The Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (AFOEM) and the RoyalAustralasianCollege of Physicians (RACP) recently released a Consensus Statement on the Health Benefits of Work. They identified that work, in general, is good for health and wellbeing and long term work absence, work disability and unemployment have, in general, a negative impact on health and wellbeing.’ It is a well-documented fact that not having a job comes with significant financial pressures, and strains your family and relationships.

 

‘Research has shown that being out of the workforce for an extended period can lead to an increase in mental health difficulties, as well as physical health issues,’ Tinker points out. ‘Physical health issues caused by being out of the workforce include an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure. Finally, being out of the workforce has been shown to play a significant part in establishing long-term patterns of unhealthy behaviour, such as lack of exercise and increased drinking and smoking. Therefore, the sooner an injured worker is able to return to work, the less likely further difficulties will arise.’

 

If you have left work due to a psychological injury, you are less likely to return to work than those who leave due to a physical injury. However, there is a strong correlation between returning early to work and mental health. Tinker adds, ‘Work absence perpetuates itself; the longer someone is off work, the less likely it will be that they will return to work.’ You should go back to work as soon as possible, not only for financial reasons, but for your wellbeing. Once a health professional gives you the go-ahead, you should return to work for many reasons. Returning to work as soon as possible:

 

• offers therapeutic benefits


• helps to promote recovery and rehabilitation


• leads to better health outcomes


• minimises the harmful physical, mental and social effects of long-term sickness absence


• reduces your risk of long-term incapacity


• promotes full participation in society, independence and human rights


• reduces poverty


• improves your quality of life and wellbeing

 

So what’s getting in the way of you returning to work? Tinker details, ‘Research has identified that there are a number of barriers that may exist that can prevent a person from returning to work and treatment needs to specifically target these issues. Where flags are identified, communicated to stakeholders and actively managed, return to work prospects are improved. Identifying and being aware of the specific flags relevant to an individual can assist in treatment and referral options.’ So, if you’ve had to take time off work due to mental health concerns, speak to your GP and employer about potential barriers to your returning.

Categories: absence work, health concerns, health issues, Long term, Mental Health, physical health, return to work, term work, time off, work absence, work disability

8 Tests You Should Consider Having as a Woman in Her 50s

When you turn 50, the health concerns really start creeping in. Your sexual health may soon be affected by menopause, if it hasn’t already, but other conditions can also start to have an impact on your wellbeing. However, if you initiate good wellness principles and lifestyle choices there’s no reason why you can’t feel nifty at fifty, and be fully satisfied with the state of your health right up until you reach the big 6-0. One major way in which you can take care of your health during your 50s is to get screened for health concerns that commonly affect your age group. If you catch something sooner rather than later, you can get proactive with treatment and ensure you live to see the next 50 years. For women your age, the United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) provide the following recommendations:

 

1. Cervical cancer: A pap smear should be performed every one to three years. You should go for this screening every two years if your physician uses a liquid-based test, or every three if you have had three normal paps consecutively. You only need a test for human papillomavirus (HPV) if you have had an abnormal pap test.

 

2. Breast cancer: Mammograms are recommended every one to two years.

 

3. Colonoscopy for colon cancer screening: Regardless of your family or personal history of the disease, it is recommended that every woman in her 50s gets tested for colon cancer.

 

4. 25-OH Vitamin D (25 hydroxy-vitamin D): There’s no denying the importance of vitamin D; optimal levels can improve your bone density, enhance your cognitive health and reduce your risk of cancer. Therefore, if your vitamin D levels are low, that’s something you’ll want to know about! There are several tests that can determine whether or not you need to do something about your vitamin D levels, but the 25-OH vitamin D level is considered the most accurate. If you find your levels are low, you can get the vitamin D you need from sunlight on your skin, supplements or fortified foods.

 

5. Homocysteine: This is a product of protein metabolism and if your levels get too high, a whole host of wellness issues may be in store. Excess levels of homocysteine can lead to blood vessel damage, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration and depression. If the test reveals your levels are higher than the optimal nine units, you can reset the balance with a higher intake of vitamins B-12, B-6 and folic acid.

 

6. Fasting Insulin Levels: Before your blood sugar rises to the classic diabetic markers, your insulin levels will rise. This demonstrates early signs of your body’s inability to handle the sugar it’s ingesting, so it’s a good thing to know about. The goal ranges may be from 0 -14, but you should try to keep your levels around 7 units or less. If your levels are too high, you have an indicator that you should be reducing the amount of refined sugar in your diet.

 

7. Thyroid tests: Your thyroid gland produces your thyroid hormone, which is responsible for your metabolism, energy production and mental sharpness. You may have a deficiency in this hormone if you experience fatigue, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, cold hands and feet, and sugar cravings. If this is the case, get tested through either a TSH and/or Free T-3).

 

8. C-Reactive Protein (CRP): Inflammation is a marker for heart disease, and this test measures your body’s level of inflammation. The result you’re after is anything less than 1mg/L. However, if you do find that your inflammation levels are elevated, you can fight back with fish oils, CoQ10, magnesium and vitamin D.

Categories: colon cancer, health, health concerns, insulin levels, levels, nbsp, preventative measures, Screenings, Test, vitamin, women in 50s

Apple Cider Vinegar: The Gateway to Good Health?

Apple cider vinegar has been touted as being beneficial to a number of health problems, from digestion to metabolic disorders. Amazingly, this kitchen store cupboard ingredient can work wonders on your body and health, improving your wellbeing in the process. Doctors have confirmed that you can’t use apple cider vinegar for just any purpose, it can’t actually hurt you and it could be beneficial for some problems. So how can it help? Here are some of the top uses for apple cider vinegar that you may benefit from.

Lowering blood sugar

One of the most researched uses for apple cider vinegar is its use against blood pressure, with many studies proving that it can help to lower high blood pressure when used as a dietary aid. In fact, studies have shown that it can lower blood sugar by as much as 4 to 6 percent in the morning, when taken before meals. Take two tablespoons and wash it down with some water or juice to remove the taste. The you just eat as you normally would. The belief behind this is that apple cider vinegar contains chromium which can affect your insulin levels, which in turn affect your blood sugar levels. Of course, if you suffer with high blood sugar levels you should speak to your GP before trying to self medicate with apple cider vinegar.

Aids digestion

Stomach acid and digestion are connected, and most people don’t make enough of stomach acid – apple cider vinegar can help to balance stomach acid in a healthy way, helping to improve digestion when taken with a meal. This could well help to allow more nutrition to be absorbed from your diet as well.

Assists weight loss

There have been numerous studies to suggest that weight loss and vinegar could be connected, many specifically using apple cider vinegar. While these studies haven’t found any conclusive evidence to support weight loss with consuming vinegar, participants were compelled to consume fewer calories when they’d taken it. Over a period of time, this could benefit weight loss. Of course, as with any weight loss plan, you should top up your efforts with a healthy diet and exercise – the vinegar should be used as an addition to your diet, rather than a cure for all negative habits.

Benefits to acid reflux

It may seem counter-productive to use acid to combat acid reflux, but it does actually work! We are so used to taking antacids or using creamy substances to deal with acid in the throat that we don’t think of using anything else, but apple cider vinegar could really help. With just a few minutes, you’ll notice that the acidic burning sensation dissipates and your symptoms are gone. It’s also a lot cheaper than buying costly medications to combat it. You simply need to take a few tablespoons and wash it down with a glass of water, then wait and allow the acid to dissolve.

As with any new addition to your diet, you should speak to your GP before taking anything. Although there have been many studies as to the benefit of apple cider vinegar, there have been no conclusive results to ascertain how effective it can be. There can be some benefit to this humble ingredient though, which you should try if you’re suffering with any of the above afflictions. Naturally, if you don’t see results from these remedies and are still suffering with your symptoms, you should seek further advice from your GP in order to resolve the issue.

Categories: acid reflux, apple cider, apple cider vinegar, blood pressure, Blood Sugar, cider vinegar, diet, health concerns, high blood, stomach acid, sugar levels, Weight Loss

Obesity Overhaul: How to Get Back to a Healthy Weight

We all consider a diet when we put on a bit of weight, but when does an extra few pounds turn into obesity? When you’re obese, it means you have so much body fat that you’re posing a threat to your wellbeing, risking your health with type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, arthritis, sleep apnoea, and stroke – to name a few. Even though you might feel fine now, and weight loss is such a chore, it’s important to protect your wellness by getting down to a healthy weight.

 

First and foremost, you need to tell if you’re obese. Medical professionals do this by using a measurement called a body mass index, or BMI, along with a waist size camera. There are many BMI calculators online that can help you determine where you sit on the scale, using your height and weight measurements. You know your weight is putting your health in danger if you have a BMI of 30 or higher. You’re also in danger if you carry too much fat around the middle, rather than around your hips. Women and men have an increased chance of disease when they have a waist size of 35in/88cm and 40in/101cm respectively. If you’re Asian, your health may be at risk if you have a BMI over 27.5 and a waist size of 32in/80cm (women) or 36in/90cm (men).

 

On one level, weight gain is a simple case of consuming more calories than you burn off. However, in reality there are other factors at play. If you have obese family members, for example, you may have inherited a tendency to gain weight and/or are surrounded by people who shape your unhealthy eating and lifestyle habits. Plus, these days we’re so busy it’s increasingly hard to plan and cook healthy moods, and so we reach for prepared foods, go out to eat, or go to the drive-through. Work schedules, long commutes, and other commitments also cut into the time we have for physical activity.

 

With weight loss being so at odds with modern life, it’s important that you take the right approach. Instead of focusing on “going on a diet”, turn your attention to your health. The problem with diets is that they don’t produce good long-term results, as they usually involve big changes to your eating habits that you simply cannot sustain. The better thing to do is to make small lifestyle changes that will improve your health and help you to achieve the right balance of energy and calories. This means burning more calories than you take in through reasonable amounts of healthy foods and becoming more active.

 

In order to create a plan that works for you, consult your GP and consider working with a dietician and fitness trainer. It’s also important to get support from your family and friends who can help motivate you to stick to your plan, rather than tempting you with treats. However, if and when you do stray from your healthy lifestyle plan, don’t beat yourself up about it. Feeling rubbish and hopeless will just make you want to give up, when you’ve only made a little mistake that everyone makes. Instead, look at what happened, figure out what made you go off track and work on ways to fix it for next time. Becoming healthier and staying that way is a lifelong effort, and so it’s likely that you’ll fall off the wagon countless times. Still, if at first you don’t succeed, try and try again. After all, isn’t your health worth the effort?

Categories: BMI, health, health concerns, Healthy, healthy weight, nbsp, obesity, waist, waist size, weight, Weight Loss

Could Rheumatoid Arthritis Give You Deep Vein Thrombosis?

New research has found that rheumatoid arthritis greatly increases your risk of having both a pulmonary embolism and a deep vein thrombosis. This adds to an already extensive list of health concerns associated with rheumatoid arthritis, and has serious implications for the wellness and wellbeing of suffers of the debilitating disease. Arthritis causes swelling and inflammation of the joints, and it is only now that the associated health concerns of this disease are truly coming to light.

 

In the most recent study, the researchers found that just having the disease put the sufferer at much greater risk of developing a more serious condition such as DVT or PE, which is when the blood causes clots in the veins in the legs or in the lungs, respectively. For the purposes of the study, researchers in Taiwan looked at data taken from over 30,000 patients whose details were in Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database, which was gathered between 1998 and 2008. Those who were suffering from rheumatoid arthritis were directly compared to people who were healthy and of roughly the same age and gender.

 

Looking at the data, it became evident that those who had RA were over three times as likely to develop DVT as the people who were completely healthy. They also had almost twice the risk of developing PE as the general healthy population. As part of the research, the team also discovered that patients with RA had an increased chance of developing other diseases too, such as hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes, heart failure and fractures of the lower leg. The disease appears to attack the body in more ways than just the obvious inflammation of the joints.

Categories: Arthritis, clots, deep vein, Deep Vein Thrombosis, developing, Disease, health concerns, Rheumatoid, Rheumatoid Arthritis, risk, vein thrombosis

Warning Lines: Signs of Ageing Indicate Health Concerns

When you look good, you feel good all over – but is the same true in reverse? Taking care of your wellbeing often leads to a better anti-ageing wellness, both in terms of delaying the ageing process and making yourself look younger and fresher. In fact, integrative medicine specialist Molly M. Roberts, MD, of the Institute for Health & Healing, in San Francisco, and president of the American Holistic Medical Association, warns that the signs of ageing and stress – i.e. facial lines, unsightly fingernails, or hair loss – can signal underlying health issues. She notes, ‘It’ll start by whispering, then it’ll start talking, and, if you don’t pay attention, it’ll start yelling and shouting, and then you’ve got an illness.’ So which signs should serve as a warning that your wellness is in trouble?

 

1. Tired eyes: Typically, those under-eye bags and dark circles indicate nothing more than a few too may late nights. However, if you’re sleeping like a log but your eyes indicate you’re working like a dog (cue the “Hard Day’s Night” melody in your head) you might want to take a look at your diet. In the thin, loose skin that sits below your bottom eyelid, fluid build-up can cause eye bags and puffiness. This can occur due to a plethora of factors, from allergies to crying, but one of the main culprits is salt, especially if you have a high quantity in your diet. Foods that are high in sodium encourage your body to retain water, especially in the sensitive under-eye area.

 

2. Dry skin: You usually have nothing to worry about with dry skin. Everyone gets it at some point from the wintry air or an overly hot shower, and it’s nothing more than a minor nuisance. In some cases, though, dry and brittle skin is a sign that you’re dehydrated or have an underlying health problem. If you have a poor diet or an eating disorder, the nutrient deficiency this causes can leach moisture from your skin, as can health conditions like hyperthyroidism or diabetes. If your skin is dry particularly on your feet, legs and shins, it may be a sign of atherosclerosis – the narrowing of arteries that leads to heart disease. This is because the tiny arteries that carry blood to your extremities become blocked, which deprives your skin of oxygen and thereby produces dry, shiny patches.

 

3. Facial flushing: If you find acne-like skin sores on your face but puberty is far behind you, you may be experiencing one of the common symptoms of rosacea, a chronic skin condition. When you have rosacea – the cause for which is unknown – the enlargement of your blood vessels can make you appear red and flushed in the face and, over time, bumps and pimples may form and your nose may grow bulbous.

 

4. Body hair: I don’t know of many women who want body hair on their face, chest, stomach, back, hands, or feet, but the problem is more than an aesthetic embarrassment. Hair where you don’t want it can be a sign of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women of childbearing age. More than 70% of PCOS sufferers have hirsutism, or excess hair growth, and many women with PCOS are at risk of becoming infertile or having infrequent, irregular, or absent periods.

 

5. Wrinkles: Again, no one wants wrinkles – though they are inevitable – but surprising new research suggests that wrinkles may be a sign of osteoporosis. If you’re brow is furrowed and you’ve spotted grooves around your mouth, the study showed an association between wrinkles and bone health in early-menopausal women. The worse your wrinkles are, the greater your risk is for a low bone density. Excessive exposure to cigarette smoke or the sun can speed the wrinkling process along, so avoid these things to avoid fine lines and possible bone loss.

Categories: body hair, Dry Skin, eye bags, Facial Flushing, hair, health, health concerns, nbsp, skin, underlying health, Wrinkles

What Are the Health Risks of Volcanic Ash?

There are several live volcanoes around the world, and the eruptions that sometimes occur from this have led to concerns about the effect of volcanic ash on our health. Naturally, there is the risk of some respiratory damage when inhaling such matter, but how severe is it and should you be concerned? After the renowned Icelandic volcano eruption which occurred several years ago, more people are worried about how their health will be affected by such an event if it were to happen again. There is little publicity in the way of information about what people should do in such an emergency. Volcanic ash is formed of fine rock particles, minerals and glass. The ash is rough and mildly corrosive, and it doesn’t dissolve in water. When a volcano erupts, the ash can spread in the air for thousands of kilometres away, depending on the type of eruption and the wind speed. Because ash is made up of millions of microscopic particles and fragments, it can be inhaled deep into the lungs and lead to problems with one’s breathing. How damaging this is depends on a number of factors, including how often and for how long you were breathing in the ash, how big the particles were, and whether you also breathed in volcanic gases. If you have heart or lung problems already, this may make your situation worse.

 

Short-term exposure to volcanic ash isn’t known to be a major health hazard, although it can lead to eye, throat and nose irritation. However, researchers are unaware what the long-term effects are to people who have inhaled the ash. The risks are thought to be the same as those in people who breathe in smog, which can lead to increased risks of minor breathing problems, heart and lung diseases becoming worse, and premature death in severe cases. Volcanic ash is also known to cause skid conditions on the roads, create mudslides and clog the air intake of engines, leading to them stalling. However, after an eruption of Mount St Helens in 1980, studies were undertaken on animals to see what the effect was – researchers noted that there was only minor impact on them, even when they were exposed to a lot of ash. The main health outcome of that particular eruption was eye, nose and throat problems.

In order to minimise your risks, you should try not to breathe in deeply if you can avoid it to stop tiny particles from going deep into your lungs. If you can, use a dust or filter mask to minimise your exposure to the damaging ash and fragments. Those wil heart and lung problems, children and the elderly should take extra cautionary measures – this means keeping windows and doors closed, staying indoors where possible, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities which will require them to breathe in more deeply. If you live in an area where the risk if higher, be sure to keep abreast of the news in your local area so that you can be sure of the air quality. If you think you’ve been affected by volcanic ash, you should speak to your GP who can advise you further on what to do next. Of course, there are more physical effects as well, such as heavy ash fall on roofs causing damage to the home which can lead to roofs falling in on people. This is something which should be checked at the time to assess any possible risk to those living in the home. However, falling ash isn’t yet known to cause any serious health problems to already healthy people.

Categories: ash isn, Breathing, health, health concerns, lead, lung problems, people, problems, volcanic, volcanic ash

Five Ways to Beat Air Pollution’s Impact on Your Heart

Air pollution can cause a myriad of health concerns, particularly with regard to your heart wellness. This is why a new field of medicine called environmental cardiology has emerged, aiming to reduce the impact that air pollution has on your wellbeing. According to a recent panel of health and environmental experts, if you focus on eliminating other risk factors for heart disease, you can counteract the damaging effects of pollution on your heart, so let’s take a closer look at what you can do to beat air pollution:

 

1. Work on your work stress: If you work in a high-stress environment, you’re at a disproportionately high risk of cardiovascular problems and heart attacks. This is particularly true of women under the age of 51, according to a study published in the journal Occupational and Environmental Medicine, as nurses in this age bracket who reported high levels of work pressure  had a 40% increase in heart attack risk. Another study, this time found in the European Heart Journal, noted that working overtime increases your heart attack risk by 60%. Therefore, you need to find ways to reduce stress at work, and better deal with the stress that you can’t eliminate. This may mean delegating some of your responsibilities and finding a relaxing hobby or exercise to try.

 

2. Breastfeed your baby: Even though breastfeeding is well-known to be good for babies, it’s also beneficial to you. It is recommended that you breastfeed for a year, and a study published in Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that women who do so reduce their risk of developing cardiovascular diseases by 10%. Other research has shown that breastfeeding for as long as 23 months can cause your heart attack risk to drop by as much as 23%, but even breastfeeding for a short period of time will do your heart good.

 

3. Don’t do the can-can: Canned food is high in salt, which is bad for your health anyway, but the can itself can also have a disastrous impact on your heart. Bisphenol A is a hormone-disrupting plastic used in the epoxy resins that prevent cans from rusting or making food taste metallic and it may cause heart disease in women. This is according to a study from the journal Environmental Research, which found that bisphenol A increases inflammation and oxidative stress in post-menopausal women, which can lead to a whole host of health concerns, including heart disease.

 

4. Manage your migraines: Not only are migraines irritating and painful; they also increase your risk of dying from cardiovascular problems. A British Medical Journal study has shown that if your migraines are accompanied by flashes of light, zigzagging patterns or other visual problems – known as migraine with aura – your risk of heart disease is raised by 27%. As such, it’s vital that you learn the triggers of your migraines, manage your stress more effectively and get plenty of exercise.

 

5. Get you to the Greek: A wealth of research extols the heart health-boosting benefits of the Mediterranean diet, especially for warding off cardiovascular disease and heart attacks. This is because the diet emphasises fruits, vegetables and health fats found in olive oil and nuts. The diet is light on red meat, a food which can increase your heart disease risk by up to 30%. Plus, it’s a meal plan that allows you to drink wine and has been shown to aid weight loss – what more could you ask for? For more information, visit the Oldways Food Alliance, a non-profit website devoted to preserving and promoting traditional diets.

Categories: Air Pollution, attack risk, beat air, cardiovascular disease, Cardiovascular Problems, health concerns, Heart Attack, heart attacks, heart disease, study published

How Healthy Are You? Your Bowel Movements Could Tell You

A lot of people don’t realise that their bowel movements can tell them a lot about how healthy they are. Everything from how many times you go to to the colour and how much waste you expel will tell you so much about your digestive health. The digestive tract contains more bacterial cells than in the entire body, so it’s important that we pay attention to their health. If our bowels don’t work properly, it could mean that a vital bodily function isn’t working properly either. Our digestive tract needs to work properly in order to absorb the nutrients from our diets and to keep out toxins and chemicals that could lead to damage and ill health. Most people don’t think too much about what happens in the bathroom, but knowing what is right for you is important. Your diet is often to blame for a change in your bowels, but it may also be an infection or a serious condition. Here are five things to look out for:

Colour

The colour of your stools is usually a reflection on what you’ve been eating – obviously, different shades of brown are normal, but black and yellow aren’t. A black stool could indicate bleeding in the stomach or the entrance of the small intestine, and iron supplements can also darken your stools. A bright red stool could be blood coming from the lower part of the digestive system, such as the rectum or large intestine. Also, pale white or yellow stools can mean a problem – it may be a problem with the bile ducts, or even pancreatic cancer.

Shape

A change in the shape of your bowel movement could be a cause for concern, with some studies indicating that narrow and pencil-thin stools possibly indicating colon cancer. This is because it may show that there is a blockage in the intestine, making it difficult for fecal matter to pass through.

Smell

The smell of poo is never pleasant, but smells which are particularly strange or unpleasant shouldn’t be ignored. This is because it could indicate a health problem that your GP needs to be aware of. There are a number of reasons why your poo may smell worse, such as blood in the stools or medication, as well as a change in diet. If you’re worried, you should speak to your GP.

Constipation

Dry and hard stools that are difficult to pass are an indicator of constipation, and people who are constipated may only have a bowel movement a couple of times a week. It’s common for many people and almost everyone has experienced it at least once in their lives. The most common causes are a lack of hydration, poor diet, certain medications, a lack of exercise or numerous bowel disorders. A high fibre diet is often the best solution, as well as drinking more water. However, if you’re still struggling to pass stools, speak to your doctor.

Diarrhoea

When your stools are loose and watery, this is diarrhoea. Usually this only lasts for one or two days. Much like constipation, a change of diet or bacterial infections can lead to this problem. If left too long, it can lead to dehydration. If it’s lasted for a few weeks without any improvement, it could be a sign of a more serious problem. Interestingly, it could also be a sign of you chewing too much gum – there are some ingredients in chewing gums that could lead to diarrhoea.

Categories: bowel, bowel movement, bowel movements, diet, digestive health, digestive tract, health concerns, people don, problem, stools, work properly