With the stigma around our sexual health, speaking to a gynecologist about specific issues can be tricky. One of the biggest reasons most of us shy away from asking questions about our sexual health is fear of judgment. It is important to remember that gynecologists are professionals trained to answer all your queries so that you can enjoy optimal health. Here are the most commonly asked ‘embarrassing’ questions at the gynecologist’s office: Does it look normal? Many women often worry about how their vulva looks. Like the rest of our bodies, vulvas come in all different shapes, sizes, and characteristics. There is no one-size-fits-all look, so there is nothing to feel self-conscious about. However, if you notice abnormal changes or growths, talk about them with your gynecologist. Since gynecologists are used to seeing several of them daily, they are the best person to clarify all your concerns. Do I need to shave/wax/groom before my visit? Having to strip down in the gynecologist’s office can be intimidating for many people, especially if it’s your first time. Many women feel they would be judged for their personal grooming practices and hair growth around their vagina. So unless you have a bump or a concerning spot covered by pubic hair, you do not need to worry about having to groom before your visit.

Bathing and showering are essential parts of our daily hygiene routine, but sometimes we make mistakes that can affect our skin and overall health. While these are some of the most basic and simple activities of the day, some tips can enhance this self-care experience further. This article discusses 7 common bathing mistakes people make. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you make your skincare routine more efficient in maintaining good health and hygiene. Taking hot water showers This can be especially comfortable when there’s a nip in the air or even after a long exhausting day of work. But hot showers are notoriously famous for rinsing the natural oils off the skin. This can leave the skin to be dry and flaky. If you suffer from skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, hot showers should not be considered at all. It can cause flare-ups due to dry skin and dehydration. Also, always keep the baths short, just 10 mins. In fact, a lot of people might enjoy a hot shower after a workout, but studies suggest that a cold shower after a workout can help relax the muscles even more. And this can also help keep the pores of the skin closed.

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the lymphatic system, which is responsible for producing and utilizing white blood cells to protect the body against infections. There are two main types of lymphomas—Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The symptoms of both these conditions can be vague and vary greatly from person to person. Nevertheless, here are a few silent signs of lymphoma one should recognize: 1. Swollen lymph nodes Lymphoma mainly affects the lymphocytes, i.e., the white blood cells in the bone marrow and lymph nodes—parts of the immune system located in the neck, groin, armpit, and spleen areas. The growth of cancer can cause the lymph nodes to swell or become enlarged. So, one can feel lumps under the skin that may not cause pain or discomfort in most cases. 2. Pain The initial stages of lymphoma are often painless. However, as the condition progresses, some may experience severe pain in certain parts of the body. This symptom generally develops when lymphoma has affected one or more organs. To rule out any serious disease or illness, any unexplained pain lasting longer than 4 days must prompt one to consult a medical professional for a thorough examination.

Influenza, commonly called the flu, is an infectious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can spread easily from person to person, especially in crowded places. While patients usually recover without treatment, learning about the traditional hot spots for the flu can minimize the risk of infection in the first place. By focusing on regular cleaning and personal hygiene, individuals can contribute to breaking the chain of flu transmission through these common areas. Shopping malls Shopping malls are significant hot spots for flu transmission. Individuals may come into contact with contaminated surfaces or breathe air shared with infected individuals. Wearing masks and sanitizing hands are two ways to curb the potential spread of the flu in such places. Door knobs Door knobs are among the most common hot spots for the flu virus. An infected person may inadvertently transfer the virus to a door handle while coughing or sneezing. When another individual comes into contact with the contaminated surface and touches their eyes, nose, or mouth, the virus enters their body. Regular cleaning of door knobs with disinfecting wipes or sprays is imperative to disrupt the chain of transmission. Dish sponges and rags Often considered the heart of the home, the kitchen harbors unsuspecting hot spots for flu germs.

High blood sugar levels in the body are the common cause of Type 2 diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). According to the National Kidney Foundation, type 2 diabetes is a leading cause of CKD. Thus the best way to prevent CKD related to type 2 diabetes is by controlling high blood sugar levels. Here are some warning signs and foods that may indicate and contribute to a spike in blood sugar levels. What is blood sugar level? Glucose is an essential energy source for the body and is obtained from different foods. The blood sugar level, also known as blood glucose level, measures how much glucose (sugar) is present in the bloodstream. Upholding healthy blood sugar levels is crucial for overall health and well-being. Various conditions, including diabetes and other illnesses, can cause high or low blood glucose levels. When it comes to blood sugar levels, it is essential to understand how to monitor and manage them to maintain optimal health. Warning signs that increase blood sugar levels Here are some crucial warning signs of diabetes that you should be aware of. If you experience any of these symptoms on a regular basis, it’s important to see a doctor and get tested for diabetes.

Multiple myeloma is a form of cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow and is associated with severe health complications. Many symptoms of multiple myeloma can go unnoticed until the disease has progressed to other parts of the body. So, recognizing uncommon signs of the condition can help one get an early diagnosis. Further, treatment options and lifestyle changes, including choosing the right foods, can help manage the condition.  Best foods Certain foods can help one manage multiple myeloma symptoms and maintain strength when undergoing treatment. Fruits and herbs: Ursolic acid is a naturally occurring compound in foods like apples, basil, rosemary, and cranberries. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, which can help reduce the symptoms of this condition. Apples are especially rich in ursolic acid, making them a great choice for those with multiple myeloma. Further, pterostilbene, a compound found in blueberries, has been linked to potential anti-cancer benefits. Its antioxidant properties may help reduce inflammation and fight free radicals. Cruciferous vegetables: Isothiocyanates are natural compounds found in cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. The compounds are derived from sulfur-containing chemicals that may inhibit cancer cell growth. Studies suggest that isothiocyanates can reduce the risk of multiple myeloma and other types of cancer.

Hyperkalemia is a health condition characterized by excessive potassium levels in a person’s bloodstream. Maintaining healthy potassium levels is crucial for optimal health, and one can do this by following a healthy nutritional regime that helps manage hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia is potentially life-threatening, so prompt treatment is necessary to keep its symptoms at bay. Various healthy foods are proven to help reduce potassium levels, and some of these food items are listed below.  Hyperkalemia Hyperkalemia is a medical condition in which the potassium concentration in the blood is too high. The condition can lead to various symptoms, such as muscle weakness, fatigue, tingling sensations, and an irregular heartbeat. The best way to manage hyperkalemia is to make lifestyle changes that help maintain healthy potassium levels in the body. These include reducing salt intake, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced meal with an adequate amount of potassium the body requires. Types of foods to manage hyperkalemia A balanced meal plan low in potassium helps manage hyperkalemia symptoms to a great extent. Four different types of foods that help manage and reduce the risk of developing hyperkalemia are listed below. Vegetables Vegetables are an essential part of a balanced meal plan to manage hyperkalemia.

Multiple sclerosis is an immune-mediated condition. This means that the system that is supposed to keep the body healthy accidentally destroys healthy body parts. Damage to the nerve cells’ protective coatings results in a decline in brain and spinal cord function. MS is a condition that can cause unanticipated symptoms of varying severity. While some MS sufferers report feeling worn out and numb, more severe cases can result in paralysis, visual loss, and impaired brain function. What is multiple sclerosis? Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune infirmity of the central nervous system. Relapsing multiple sclerosis is the most-common type of MS. It is characterized by episodes of worsening neurological symptoms, or “flares,” followed by periods of partial or complete recovery. The symptoms of MS can vary significantly from person to person and range from mild to severe.  The diagnosis of MS is made through a physical exam, imaging tests, and a review of one’s medical history. Treatment of MS usually includes supplements to reduce inflammation and slow disease progression. Other therapies, such as physical and occupational therapy, are also commonly used to manage symptoms and improve the overall quality of life. Causes of multiple sclerosis Understanding the causes of this condition can help patients, and their healthcare providers develop appropriate treatment plans.

The thyroid is a vital component of the endocrine system, responsible for producing hormones. Thyroid cancer is a health condition affecting the thyroid gland and is often difficult to diagnose in its early stages due to the silent symptoms. Therefore, understanding the early warning signs of thyroid cancer is crucial in early diagnosis and prompt treatment. The main risk factors and some silent warning signs of thyroid cancer are discussed below. Thyroid cancer As mentioned earlier, thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and body mass. There are four types of thyroid cancer- papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic. The symptoms of this cancer vary depending on the type and stage. Early detection is essential for successful treatment, so it’s important to be aware of any changes to your health. Regular health check-ups with your doctor can help detect any underlying health issues early on. One can prefer the MSK thyroid cancer center, where experts diagnose and treat thyroid cancer patients using the latest research findings. Other tests, such as ultrasounds, physical exams, or biopsies, may also be advised to check for possible signs of thyroid cancer.

Pulmonary fibrosis is a severe lung condition in which the lung tissue becomes scarred and stiff over time. The disorder makes breathing difficult, eventually leading to respiratory failure if ignored. The possible causes of pulmonary fibrosis include exposure to certain chemicals or toxins, infection, and autoimmune diseases. While there are several treatments to manage the symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life, following a healthy, balanced food regime is also essential. Foods for managing pulmonary fibrosis Patients should consult a doctor or nutritionist when creating a tailored nutrition plan, as the best foods for pulmonary fibrosis can vary depending on the kind of symptoms and their severity. Here is an overview of the foods health experts usually recommend for this condition: Beans and pulses Beans and pulses like chickpeas, lentils, kidney beans, black beans, and white beans are rich in plant-based protein. Protein plays a vital role in managing pulmonary fibrosis. It helps strengthen the lung muscles and keeps the symptoms at bay. While chicken and meat are also excellent sources of proteins, beans and pulses are good alternatives for those who do not prefer animal products. Of course, protein should be balanced with fat and carbohydrates, as excess can lead to other problems.