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Day: July 20, 2022

  • Ear Infections Explained

    Ear Infections Explained

    Ear Infections Explained

    What is the cause of an ear infection?

    Ear Infections Explained: The middle ear is a small space behind the eardrum that should be kept clean and dry by air that generally travels up from behind the nose through the Eustachian tube.

    When the middle ear isn’t adequately ventilated with fresh air, such as when the Eustachian tube is clogged or obstructed, the area becomes damp, sluggish, and heated, making it an ideal breeding ground for germs.

    The Eustachian tube is frequently too soft or immature in children and newborns and has difficulties keeping open.

    Allergies, postnasal discharge, sinus infections, cold viruses, and polyps can all impair the Eustachian tube’s ability to transport air into the middle ear.

    When the doctor examines the eardrum, they notice it is red and frequently bulging, allowing the doctor to diagnose an ear infection.

    Ear Infections Can Take Many Different Forms

    A solitary, isolated case of an acute ear infection (acute otitis media). A recurrent ear infection occurs when a problem cures but recurs three times within six months (or four times within a year) (acute otitis media).

    This usually suggests that the Eustachian tube isn’t working correctly. Otitis medium with effusion, a disease in which fluid lingers in the ear due to poor ventilation, but germs have not yet begun to develop, is caused by an accumulation of fluid in the middle ear without infection.

    In recent years, experts have discovered the people who are most prone to suffer from recurring middle ear infections:

    Men

    Those who have a family history of ear infections

    A bottle-fed baby (Breastfed infants have more minor ear infections.)

    Children who visit daycare facilities

    People who live in tobacco-smoking households

    People who have palate abnormalities, such as a cleft palate

    People are more susceptible to infections with weakened immune systems or long-term respiratory problems like cystic fibrosis or asthma.

    How can I avoid getting an ear infection?

    Eliminate as many harmful substances as you can from your home, such as:

    Dust

    Cleaning supplies and solvents

    Tobacco smoke

    Symptoms

    Ear infections are classified into three categories. They are named after the three major components of the ear: the inner, middle, and outer ear.

    Infection of the Inner Ear

    An inner ear infection may be misdiagnosed as an inflammation rather than an infection. Symptoms other than ear ache include:

    Dizziness

    Nausea

    Vomiting

    Dizziness

    unexpected hearing loss

    In rare situations, inner ear symptoms may be a warning of a more dangerous condition, such as meningitis.

    hands-

    Infection in the Middle Ear

    The area right behind the eardrum is known as the middle ear.

    Otitis media is another name for a middle ear infection. An accumulation of fluid behind the eardrum is to blame, which causes the eardrum to protrude. In addition to ear pain, you may feel fullness in your ear.

    A fever may accompany a middle ear infection. You may experience hearing loss until the illness clears.

    Fluid oozing from the ear may indicate that the middle ear infection has progressed to eardrum rupture. This disorder can result in temporary hearing loss, but it usually resolves independently.

     

    Infection of the Outer Ear

    The ear region that extends from the eardrum to the ear hole is known as the outer ear.

    Otitis externa is another name for an outer ear infection. An itchy rash is a common symptom of an outer ear infection. The ear may develop into:

    painful

    tender

    red

    swollen

    Causes

    Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections can all cause ear infections. However, whether you have an outer or middle ear infection is determined by how you become infected.

    Infection in the Middle Ear

    A cold or other respiratory ailment is frequently the cause of a middle ear infection. The infection enters one or both ears via the Eustachian tubes.

    These tubes control the pressure in your ear. They attach to the back of your nose and throat.

    An infection can irritate and enlarge the Eustachian tubes. They may not discharge correctly due to edoema. When the fluid in these tubes cannot drain, it accumulates on the eardrum.

    Swimmers Ear

    The external auditory canal is infected. that might take place as a result of swimming is referred to by the colloquial phrase “swimmer’s ear.” This is because it is frequently caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming or bathing. Bacteria multiply in a damp environment.

    A bacterial infection can occur if the outer ear is scratched or irritated by placing your fingers or other things in your ear.

    Brought To You By – Ear Wax Removal Letchworth

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  • Pet’s Safety in the Heat

    Pet’s Safety in the Heat

    Pet’s Safety in the Heat

    Pet’s Safety in the Heat: A guide on keeping your pet cool in the heat.

    Summer can be unpleasant, if not lethal, in humans and animals.

    Even as temperatures climb, dealing with heavy humidity can be a challenge. Extreme heat and storm-related power outages, which can have disastrous consequences, make it even more difficult.

    In the next months, we’ll be here to help you keep your dogs happy and content this season. Keep your family healthy this summer by following our tips.

    pets safety in the heat

    Precautions for Summer Safety

    NEVER LEAVE YOUR PETS IN A GARAGE.

    Not even for a split second, please! Even with the engine running and the air conditioner on, this is not a safe situation to drive in. On a hot day, temperatures in a car can quickly rise to lethal levels.

    For example, a vehicle with its windows open on an 85-degree day can reach 102 degrees in just 10 minutes.

    After 30 minutes, the temperature had risen to 120 degrees. Your pet’s organs could be permanently damaged or even die due to this treatment.

    You should keep a close eye on the relative humidity level.

    Dr Barry Kellogg, VMD of the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association, states, “It’s vital to note that ambient temperature and humidity might impact your pet.

    The lungs of animals are filled with water, which causes them to evacuate it through a process known as panting. Their body temperature swiftly rises to lethal levels when the humidity is too high.

    Avoid strenuous physical activity on hot days.

    You should exercise caution when taking your pet on a walk. Make adjustments to your workout intensity and length depending on the weather.
    On hot days, only strenuous activity is in the early morning or late evening. Keep an eye out for short-nosed pets and pets with white ears, which are more susceptible to skin cancer.

    If you can, take your dog for a stroll on grass rather than asphalt, which might be dangerous for your pet’s paws. Drinking plenty of water is essential to your dog’s health and well-being.

    Pets are affected by heat in a different way than humans. Perspiration escapes from dogs’ bodies primarily through their paws. On the other hand, Fans do not have the same effect on pets as humans.

    Take care to ensure that there is enough food and drink available.

    If your pet spends time outdoors, ensure they have access to plenty of fresh, cool water and are shielded from the sun. During heat waves, it’s a good idea to chill the water with ice.

    Shade trees and tarps are excellent because they don’t block airflow. A doghouse won’t help the heat; it will get worse.

    Keep your pet cool both inside and out.

    Doggie sundaes can be created quickly at home. Always provide fresh water to your pets, whether inside or outside.

    Keep your pet cool inside and outside with a cooling wrap, vest, or mat. These things can be kept cool by soaking them for up to three days in icy water (typically dry).

    Even if your dog doesn’t mind getting a cold wash, see if he prefers it.

    Keep an eye out for signs of heat exhaustion, such as feeling dizzy or going into a coma.

    Heat stroke can result from exposure to high temperatures. You’re at risk of heat illness if you show any signs of heat stroke.

    Severe heat stroke can be deadly for animals, especially those vulnerable due to health issues such as being old or young, overweight, or not being used to regular movement.

    Breeds with short muzzles, such as Boxers and Shih Tzus, as well as other dogs and cats with narrow faces, may struggle more than others in the heat.

    How to treat a pet with heat exhaustion is explained here.

    Go outside or into an air-conditioned area with your pet to keep them cool Ice packs or cold towels for the pet’s neck and chest or cool (not frigid) water for the animal’s body are also effective methods of treating heat exhaustion.

    Make sure you have it. Ice cubes can be licked or sucked on for cooling relief. As soon as possible, get them to a veterinarian.

     

    The article initially published on https://unitypets.com

    The post Pet’s Safety in the Heat appeared first on https://gqcentral.co.uk

  • Herbs and Vitamins for a Better Night’s Sleep

    Herbs and Vitamins for a Better Night’s Sleep

    Herbs and Vitamins for a Better Night’s Sleep

    There are several herbs and supplements that claim to aid in getting a good night’s sleep. Some swear by chamomile tea or valerian supplements, while others prefer to take prescription pills before bed. Finally, the key to discovering excellent sleep aids is to explore and see what works best for you.

    Some herbs are known to help you relax and decrease anxiety, while others may be used to enhance overall well-being. Similarly, a variety of vitamins and minerals have been related to improved sleep patterns. Finally, while searching for a herbal or vitamin supplement for better sleep, the best thing you can do is conduct some research and find out what works best for you. It’s up to you whether you use one herb or a mix of multiple supplements; the key thing is that you get enough quality sleep each night!

    With that in mind, let’s look at some of the most popular herbs and vitamins for relieving the symptoms of sleeplessness. Keep in mind that no one herb or vitamin will ensure a good night’s sleep. To get the most advantages, add a couple of these into your daily routine.

    healthy diet

    Chamomile

    Chamomile tea has long been used as a natural cure for a variety of health conditions, including sleeplessness. This sweet and calming tea includes flavonoids, which have been demonstrated to have body-relaxing properties. Apigenin, the most useful flavonoid in chamomile, has a calming effect, relaxes nerves, and promotes peaceful sleep (1). If you’re having difficulties sleeping, consider drinking a cup of chamomile tea before bed. It could well offer you the restful night’s sleep you’ve been looking for!

    Valerian

    Valerian is a herb that has long been used to induce relaxation and deeper, more peaceful sleep. It has been stated that more individuals take valerian when they are having difficulty sleeping than melatonin, the body’s intrinsic sleep hormone (2). According to research, valerian root may assist in shortening the time it takes to fall asleep as well as enhancing overall sleep quality.

    This is assumed to be owing to the high concentrations of specific chemicals present in valerian. Flavonoids like linarin (3) and valerenic acid (4), for example, function to boost feelings of calm and relax the nervous system via the action of the neurotransmitter GABA. This has a sedative effect, reducing anxiety while also encouraging comfortable sleep.

    While valerian has been shown to lower anxiety (5), which may frequently contribute to sleeplessness, it does have certain adverse effects to be cautious of. These include dizziness, headaches, and an upset stomach. Making you tired and falling asleep is fantastic at night but not so helpful during the day when you may have to drive. So be warned that it might induce drowsiness, particularly if you need to drive. Finally, if you are pregnant or nursing, have liver issues, or are on medicine for any other reason, see your doctor before using Valerian (6).

    Overall, valerian is a wonderful natural therapy for persons who suffer from sleep difficulties. Valerian may help you receive your full ration of everyday energy and vigor by promoting peaceful sleep and minimizing nervous sensations.

    Lavender

    Lavender is a fragrant and versatile flower that has long been valued for its calming effects. Some individuals swear by it as an insomnia treatment, believing that the calming perfume may help them sleep. Lavender scent has been demonstrated to induce calm and deep sleep. Furthermore, some study shows that lavender’s calming effects may be connected to changes in brain waves, which might explain its stated capacity to produce deep sleep (7).

    It seems to be more successful in treating moderate insomnia than severe sleeplessness, although it does not make you sleepy the next day (8). If you drive or use equipment, it is a safer alternative to prescription or Valerian.

    Diffusing lavender essential oil or placing a few drops on your pillow before night; putting a sachet of dried lavender under your pillow; or sipping lavender tea before bedtime will help you fall asleep fast and experience deep, peaceful sleep.

    Magnesium

    Magnesium is a vital element that is required for over 300 bodily activities, including muscle and neuron function, blood sugar management, blood pressure regulation (9), and the body’s natural sleep process (10). We may feel fatigued if we do not get enough magnesium, but our whole health may suffer as well.

    While there are several possible reasons for insomnia, magnesium insufficiency is one of the least understood (11). Furthermore, insufficient magnesium levels in the body may promote anxiety and sadness (12), as well as restless leg syndrome (13), all of which are recognized causes of insomnia. Magnesium regulates sleep-wake cycles, and low magnesium levels may disturb this process (14).

    Magnesium supplements may therefore aid in raising magnesium levels and, as a result, enhance sleep quality. This includes sleeping faster, sleeping longer, and sleeping more profoundly (15).

    Magnesium supplements are generally safe and well accepted, making them a useful insomnia treatment choice. However, more is not always better; therefore, it is important to stick to the dose requirements. An excess of magnesium may induce stomach discomfort, nausea, and diarrhea (16). Before using supplements, you should consider consuming more magnesium-containing foods. Nuts, seeds (particularly pumpkin seeds), beans, fish, and green vegetables are examples (17). It is better to acquire your nutrition from your diet since you also get other vitamins and minerals from these foods; your body can access and absorb the nutrients more quickly, and there is less possibility of an overdose.

    There is no need to take magnesium supplements at a set time since magnesium may be stored in the bones and other tissues of the body (18). When taking magnesium supplements, be sure the recipe is manufactured from foods rather than chemicals. This is due to the body’s increased ability to absorb and use magnesium (19). Furthermore, if you dislike taking pills, liposomal magnesium is available in liquid form and is more quickly absorbed by the body (20). Finally, you may apply magnesium cream or oil to your skin. This important mineral is subsequently taken into the body through the skin.

    Vitamins

    The impact of B vitamins on sleep is not completely understood. A shortage of Vitamin B12 results in exhaustion, sleeplessness, and a loss of vitality (21). Recent research, however, found that persons who reported suffering sleeplessness also had high levels of Vitamin B12 (22). There seems to be little anecdotal evidence that B vitamins aid with sleep.

    Another crucial vitamin that many individuals are deficient in is vitamin D. Sleep disturbances have been linked to a deficiency of vitamin D. (23). Going outdoors in the sun for as little as 13 minutes during the summer is one of the greatest ways to receive vitamin D (24), and since exposure to natural daylight may help regulate the sleep-wake cycle (25), stepping outside on a regular basis makes sense. During the winter months, however, vitamin D supplementation will assist both your general health and your sleep.

    Incorporating these herbs and vitamins into your regular diet or supplement regimen will help you sleep better and feel more refreshed and rejuvenated. What works for one person may not work for another, so give them a go and discover which one suits you best. Finally, there is no replacement for eating a nutritious diet rich in fruits and vegetables to ensure that we are receiving the complete spectrum of sleep-inducing nutrients when it comes to promoting good sleep patterns.

    References

    1. Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/
    2. Many Insomniacs Turn to Valerian and Melatonin to Help Them Sleep https://aasm.org/journal-sleep-many-insomniacs-turn-to-valerian-and-melatonin-to-help-them-sleep/
    3. Sedative and sleep-enhancing properties of linarin, a flavonoid-isolated from Valeriana officinalis https://saberdasplantas.com.br/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Valeriana-officinalis.pdf
    4. The anxiolytic effects of a Valerian extract is based on Valerenic acid https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4122768/
    5. Anxiolytic effects of a combination of Melissa officinalis and Valeriana officinalis during laboratory induced stress https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16444660/
    6. Valerian: A safe and effective herbal sleep aid? https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/expert-answers/valerian/faq-20057875
    7. An Olfactory Stimulus Modifies Nighttime Sleep in Young Men and Women https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07420520500263276?journalCode=icbi20
    8. Lavender and the Nervous System https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3612440/
    9. Magnesium https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-Consumer/

     

     

    The post Herbs and Vitamins for a Better Night’s Sleep appeared first on https://gqcentral.co.uk