Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a rare genetic disease that causes the progressive weakening of muscles in the body. This occurs due to the loss of motor neurons, which are responsible for controlling muscle movement. Depending on when the symptoms begin to appear, this condition is categorized into four distinct types, from severe to mild. Read on to find out more about this condition, its symptoms, diagnosis, and recommended treatment plans. Symptoms of spinal muscular atrophy Some of the typical symptoms of this condition include: Floppy or weak arms or legs Mobility problems, such as difficulties in standing up or walking Tremors or muscle twitching A curved spine (scoliosis) Swallowing problems Breathing difficulties Individuals with this condition experience progressive muscle weakness, which can also give rise to complications such as bone fractures, hip dislocation, pneumonia, respiratory infections, malnutrition, and dehydration. Diagnosing spinal muscular atrophy Doctors begin with a thorough physical exam along with a detailed examination of one’s healthcare history. Depending on these results, they may recommend one or more of the following: An enzyme and protein blood test to check for levels of creatine kinase. High levels of this enzyme in the bloodstream signal deteriorating muscles. A genetic test to identify problems with the SMN1 gene.

The sensation of indigestion can be challenging to live with. Unlike in the cases of certain types of discomfort, one cannot simply brush off or take their mind off certain things indigestion makes them feel. In the long run, people must eat healthy and exercise to keep indigestion episodes at a minimum. However, for immediate resolutions, here are some options that provide instant or near-instant relief from indigestion-related sensations like bloating and pain: Having baking soda Many studies have found direct links between baking soda consumption and immediate digestion improvement in people who experience indigestion. Sodium bicarbonate’s high pH levels neutralize the acid levels in one’s stomach and alleviate indigestion-related problems like upper GI discomfort, gas, bloating, and pain. For the best results, one can mix one-half teaspoon of baking soda in around 4 ounces of water before consuming the mix. Do not consume baking soda as a solution excessively, as that causes side effects like stomach cramps, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea. Older people must not use too much baking soda as it may have profound health implications. Consuming peppermint or chamomile tea Peppermint is an effective digestive agent to reduce abdominal pain and cramps. Moreover, peppermint tea is an effective and healthy food that relieves those with an upset stomach.

The US Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, is an organization that is responsible for the drinking water regulations in the country. And while tap water may be safe for some, it may not be the recommended choice for many. There could also be some side effects from drinking tap water, which are mentioned below. This article also highlights why a water purifier is recommended. Tap water regulations and side effects According to the EPA, anything other than water molecules found in the water is termed a contaminant. However, the EPA suggests that some contaminants are not as harmful at certain levels. The contaminant list includes bacteria, viruses, parasites, industrial runoff, lead, mercury, arsenic, and pesticides. Radium or uranium deposits in the soil could also contaminate the water in some areas. Here are some of the side effects of drinking tap water: In tap water, these contaminants are at deficient levels, and it is not that they are always present. However, if they reach the human body in huge quantities, it can lead to many health issues. Arsenic is known to trigger partial paralysis in some people, vomiting, numbness in hands and feet, stomach pain, diarrhea, discoloration of the skin, and blindness.

Cold sores (or fever blisters) that appear on or near the mouth are common symptoms of the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). These fluid-filled blisters can be extremely painful. While there is no permanent cure for this condition today, one can manage cold sores and relieve associated symptoms to improve their quality of life. Read on to learn about a few natural remedies that may help one get rid of cold sores: 1. Ice To manage pain associated with a cold sore, one should consider using an ice pack. It is important to wrap it in a towel before applying, as icing the area directly could damage the skin. 2. Sunscreen Direct sun exposure could trigger or worsen a cold sore. So, one should always wear sunscreen when heading out. 3. Aloe vera gel Aloe is well-renowned for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Using natural aloe on cold sores could be beneficial in fighting off viruses and helping the sore heal faster. 4. Apple cider vinegar A lot has been said about apple cider vinegar’s antimicrobial properties. It may help treat cold sores as well. However, it is best to dilute the vinegar in water before using it on the skin.

Life without blood cells is impossible to imagine. From supplying oxygen to forming blood clots and helping excrete waste products, the cells perform a host of functions. And that’s why it is important to detect any cell-related health conditions early. Myelodysplastic syndromes are a group of disorders in which the body generates cells that are either deformed or do not function well. Here are some signs and treatment options for myelodysplastic syndromes: Signs and symptoms Shortness of breath Many patients with myelodysplastic syndromes grapple with anemia. Since anemia is characterized by low red blood cell count, those suffering from anemia induced by myelodysplastic syndromes usually experience shortness of breath. Fatigue Anemia also tends to cause extreme tiredness and fatigue because oxygen levels in the body are very low. So, those with myelodysplastic syndromes may be highly fatigued throughout the day, even when not physically active. Frequent nosebleeds and bruises If one has a low platelet count, bleeding and bruising become more common than usual. For this reason, myelodysplastic syndrome causes frequent bruises and nosebleeds, even if the injury is minor. Petechiae Petechiae are tiny reddish spots that appear on the skin’s surface, often on the stomach and legs. Patients with myelodysplastic syndromes often experience bleeding into the skin, which reflects as these tiny spots on the skin.

Dupuytren’s contracture is a health condition in which one or more fingers bend toward the palm. These fingers cannot straighten entirely because tissue knots are formed under the skin, which pull the fingers into a bent position. To manage the problem, one must first identify its existence. Here are four common signs and symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture that one could keep an eye out for and bring to a healthcare professional’s notice. Bump in the palm One of the first symptoms individuals notice is a bump or a nodule in the palm. This unusual mass indicates that the connective tissue in the palm has become infected or diseased. It is observed that the growth almost always starts on the pinky finger. This bump is not cancerous but benign, so one may not worry too much. However, individuals should still see a doctor because treating Dupuytren’s contracture in the early stages is important. Not doing so can cause the condition to get worse. Inability to open one’s palm People with Dupuytren’s contracture often complain about having difficulty opening their palms to perform everyday tasks. Some say their palms do not open up entirely while washing the face, so their fingernails poke the skin.

Hemorrhoids are a common health complaint, generally around midlife. This condition is a result of swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum, which causes pain, swelling, itching, bleeding, and mucosal discharge, among other symptoms in the region. Although hemorrhoids are not typically dangerous, they can be painful and uncomfortable. So, here are a few ways to manage the condition at home, along with formal treatments and therapies to get rid of hemorrhoids. At-home management In case of mild swelling or symptoms, the following at-home remedies may help: – Increasing water intake can help reduce the risk of constipation or hard stool. – Eating high-fiber foods helps soften the stool and increase bulk, reducing pressure around the area. – One should avoid sitting on the toilet for a prolonged period. – Using topical treatments such as a hemorrhoid cream can help calm the affected area. – Soaking the affected region regularly in a warm or sitz bath can also help. – Ice packs can help relieve any swelling or pain. – Sitting on cushions rather than hard surfaces can help one manage swelling. – Using moistened pads (such as baby wipes) instead of regular toilet paper is a better option for gently cleaning the area.

Overactive bladder, or OAB, is when one feels a persistent, uncontrollable urge to pass urine. Often, people with this disease choose to stay away from social situations because of the embarrassment involved. But the good news is that identifying this problem early on can help treat it on time and prevent it from escalating. Doctors usually suggest a combination of medical interventions and lifestyle changes. Here is everything one should know about OAB: Causes and triggers of overactive bladder – Diabetes High blood sugar can damage the urinary tract nerves, which culminates in bladder problems. So, people with diabetes are highly prone to overactive bladder. – Neurological disorders Often, loss of control over urination can happen because of an underlying nerve, brain, or spinal cord problem. People with disorders like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis may suffer nerve damage, which can cause or worsen OAB. – Bladder stones Bladder stones or tumors and infections of the bladder can increase one’s risk of OAB because the bladder’s normal functioning is severely affected in many of these cases. – Certain treatments Sometimes, treatments for certain other diseases may trigger an overactive bladder, a side effect of the intervention. Symptoms of overactive bladder – Urgency incontinence Urgency incontinence is when one feels a sudden urge to urinate, after which one may experience an involuntary urine leak.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common condition where bacteria enters the urethra and infects the urinary tract of individuals. This bacteria is found on the skin or enters through the rectum, resulting in infection in the tract. The bladder infection, called cystitis, is one of the most common UTIs. UTIs are curable with the right care given at the right time. Here are some key details about this health condition: UTI symptoms One can detect UTI on the basis of certain typical symptoms of the conditions, including: Burning sensation during urination Due to the bladder getting infected, it becomes particularly painful to urinate. Pain during urination is one of the earliest signs that a person is developing a UTI within their body. People who experience this symptom should not ignore it, as the disease can cause serious health issues, especially if the bacteria travels to the kidneys. Constant urge to urinate Studies have found that a UTI tends to put pressure on the bladder, resulting in the need to empty the bladder immediately. However, when affected individuals go to the toilet to relieve themselves, they are unable to urinate much or at all in some cases. Causes of UTIs A urinary tract infection can be caused by various factors.