Many people try to disregard the early warning signs of a potentially severe health problem, hoping they will go away. It’s important to learn from the example of those who go to the physician at the first sign of even a minor shift in their bodies. If any of the following symptoms persist or worsen, it is time to set up a doctor’s appointment, whether virtual or in person. Here is a list of warning signs and symptoms that should immediately prompt a visit to the doctor: 1. Sudden weight changes It is normal for a person’s weight to rise and fall as their body adapts to changes in diet and exercise. If you lose more than 5% of your body weight in a short period without making any changes to your diet or lifestyle, however, it is recommended that you see a doctor. Diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer have been linked to unexpected weight changes. Also, gaining weight along with symptoms such as abdominal pain or bloating, fluid retention, fever, sweating, heart palpitations, difficulty breathing, and skin sensitivity suggests that you need medical attention. Making a timely appointment with a doctor will allow them to diagnose the underlying cause of your weight gain or loss.

Breathing issues occur when you face difficulty getting sufficient air into your system. Breathing complications signal medication conditions affecting the air pathways, lungs, or heart. For instance, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) signal lung problems. On the other hand, pneumonia and COVID indicate infections on the air paths. Mold, pet dander, pollen, and dust mites are common triggers for allergies, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Below are five ways to treat breathing conditions: 1. Vaccines Most breathing ailments are infectious and can spread from one person to another upon exposure. Vaccination is one of the best ways to reduce the chances of contracting such diseases. Vaccination entails introducing the harmless aspect of the germs to trigger the production of antibodies that fight against the disease. The process allows your body to recognize and fight invasion by the same germs, boosting your immunity against the said disease. Vaccines are available for infectious respiratory conditions such as COVID-19, influenza, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and whooping cough. However, we do not have a vaccine yet for RSV and common cold diseases that affect normal breathing. 2. Oral or nasal antihistamines and decongestants Breathing diseases lead to inflamed tissues and nose swellings, obstructing airflow.

Endometriosis is a common yet often misdiagnosed condition affecting women of reproductive age. This disorder is characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, resulting in inflammation, scarring, and pain. According to the Endometriosis Foundation of America, endometriosis affects around 10% of women worldwide, and it takes an average of 10 years to receive a diagnosis. Here are some early signs of endometriosis that you should be aware of: 1. Painful periods (dysmenorrhea) Painful periods are a common symptom of endometriosis. Women with endometriosis often experience severe cramping, lower back pain, and abdominal discomfort during their periods. This type of pain is not typical menstrual cramping and can interfere with daily activities. Painful periods occur because the endometrial tissue outside the uterus responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, causing inflammation and pain. 2. Pelvic pain and cramping Pelvic pain and cramping are other common symptoms of endometriosis. This type of pain can occur at any time of the month and is often more severe during ovulation and menstruation. Pelvic pain and cramping can range from mild to severe and can affect a woman’s quality of life. 3. Pain with intercourse Pain during sex, or dyspareunia, is a symptom of endometriosis that affects many women.

Hormones play a crucial role in our body, influencing everything from our mood and energy levels to our reproductive health. When hormones are out of balance, it can lead to a variety of health concerns, particularly for women. Balancing your hormones requires a holistic approach that includes healthy eating, exercise, sleep, stress management, and gut health. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine and being mindful of potential hormonal disruptors, you can support optimal hormonal balance and improve overall health: 1. Lower your sugar intake One of the most effective ways to balance hormones is to reduce sugar intake. Sugar can cause insulin levels to spike, leading to hormonal imbalances. High sugar intake has also been linked to weight gain, which can further disrupt hormonal balance. To reduce sugar intake, cut back on processed foods, sugary drinks, and desserts. 2. Get enough protein and healthy fats Protein and healthy fats are essential for hormonal balance. They provide the building blocks for hormones and help regulate blood sugar levels. Good sources of protein include meat, fish, eggs, and legumes. Healthy fats can be found in foods like avocado, nuts, and olive oil. 3. Exercise regularly Regular exercise is crucial for hormonal balance.

Those with high blood sugar are at risk of heart disease, vision loss, type 1 diabetes, type two diabetes, diabetic neuropathy, and kidney disease. By lowering your blood sugar to your target range you can avoid the risks of high blood sugar and boost your energy plus your mood. Here are the easiest ways for you to lower your blood sugar: 1. Daily exercises Physical activity can lower your blood sugar up to 24 hours or more after your workout. This is because, when you exercise your body uses stored fats and sugars from your liver and muscles, the body replenishes these stores by using the sugar from your blood. The more regularly you exercise and the more strenuous the exercise is the longer your blood sugar will be affected. 2. Eat low carb foods Foods high in carbs raise the blood sugar levels of those who eat them meaning the body needs to produce more insulin to digest the extra carbs. It is recommended that you eat only 20–50g of carbs per day in order to lower your blood sugar levels. Some examples of low-carb foods include eggs, nuts and seeds, avocadoes, and more. 3. Get adequate sleep If you get too little sleep it can increase insulin resistance, make you hungrier the next day, and reduce how full you feel after eating.