A period is the time of the menstrual cycle when the uterine lining sheds in the form of blood. A typical cycle lasts anywhere between 24 and 38 days. Some of the most common symptoms a woman feels during her period include cramps, mood changes, trouble sleeping, headaches, bloating, breast tenderness, and acne. Certain mistakes can add to the discomfort one feels during their period, and therefore, must be avoided. Using scented toilet paper, tampons, or pads Scented sanitary products may sound appealing but it can be quite irritating and may even cause burn-like symptoms. Ideally, one should stick to using fragrance-free hygiene products that are free of additives like aloe to maintain the pH levels around the vulva. Those with extremely sensitive skin may also benefit from using organic sanitary products that are free of chemicals such as pesticides. Douching the vagina and vulva The word “douche” is the French translation for “wash” or “soak.” Many women use this method to wash out the vagina during or after their period as they think it helps them feel cleaner. However, the vagina is a self-cleaning organ and douching can throw off the pH balance of one’s nether regions, making them more susceptible to yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.

Disorders, such as asthma and COPD, that affect the airways and conditions, such as pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer, that affect the lung tissue are known as respiratory diseases. Many factors can lead to lung disease. These include air pollution, genetics, and certain existing medical conditions. The management of lung disease varies depending on the patient’s specific situation. This article sheds light on the signs, symptoms, types, and management of lung diseases. Types of lung disease Infections or chronic illnesses can significantly impact one’s quality of life. This also depends on the type of lung disease one has. A few common types of lung disease include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, tuberculosis, lung cancer, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary fibrosis, and sarcoidosis. Signs that indicate a lung disease Lung disease can be detected by some common signs: Breathing problems: Breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, are a typical sign of many lung conditions, such as pulmonary fibrosis, COPD, and asthma. Chronic cough: A cough that lasts for a few weeks or longer is considered chronic and might indicate a lung condition. The cough may occasionally produce phlegm or mucus. Wheezing:  Wheezing, commonly linked to asthma and COPD, is a high-pitched whistling sound during breathing.

According to statistical data, nearly 40% of women and men will be diagnosed with cancer at some point. Such statistical evidence indicates that cancer treatment is the need of the hour in the country. Today, several interventions have been developed to help patients overcome cancer. Timely diagnosis can facilitate better treatment response, aiding in recovery. Here are some important questions that patients may find embarrassing but must ask their oncologists to have a better understanding of the condition: What stage of cancer do I have? One of the most crucial questions to ask an oncologist upon cancer diagnosis is what stage of cancer is one in. Most cancers have four stages. The first stage is the most preliminary one, wherein cancer has not begun spreading to other areas of the body. In the second stage, cancer has grown but has not begun spreading to other areas. The third stage involves the spread of cancer to other tissues and lymph nodes, while the fourth stage is where cancer spreads to other body organs. It is imperative to ask the oncologist the stage of cancer one has and the extent to which it has spread in the body. Such information can help patients understand the course and intensity of treatment that may be required.

Despite modern times, some women still feel embarrassed to ask questions about their reproductive health to the gynecologist for fear of being judged. But to achieve optimal vaginal health, being honest with one’s gynecologist is essential. By clearly discussing one’s issues, individuals can better understand their body and allow the doctor to give the proper treatment or advice if needed. Here are some common but potentially awkward questions worth asking to encourage this vital conversation. Why is intercourse painful? Some women may experience painful sex and deduce that that’s how it is, but the act is supposed to be pleasurable. There may be several reasons why one experiences pain, from lack of lubrication and arousal to low libido or discomfort due to a cyst. So, discussing one’s concerns openly is best to find a suitable solution. How can I feel more comfortable stripping down for my visit? Visiting a gynecologist may require one to strip down, which can be awkward, especially for the first time. Most doctors are mindful of the problem and may have initial conversations to ease the patient. But one can always ask for ways to find more comfort. Should I wait for my period to end before booking an appointment?

We might not heed a cough that won’t go away or wheezing while breathing, assuming it might be because of air quality or changing weather. However, mild but chronic symptoms like these must be noted down. People often think that trouble with breathing is normal as they get older, but these might be signs of severe lung disease. With this in mind, here are six warning signs of poor lung health that should not be ignored. Chronic cough A cough that won’t go away and has been around for eight weeks or longer is considered chronic. The constant symptom indicates something might be wrong with the individual’s respiratory system. If one experiences this, they should visit a healthcare expert for an opinion immediately. Excessive mucus production The mucus lines the surfaces of organs like the lungs and serves as a lubricant to keep tissues from drying out and as a line of defense. But if someone develops excessive mucus in their throat or chest that won’t go away, it could be a sign of lung disease. Wheezing Noisy or strained breathing is a potential sign that something might be obstructing the airwaves in the lungs or forcing them to narrow.

Blood circulation is a vital process that ensures the continuous flow of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. It keeps all bodily organs functioning, ensuring optimum health. However,  certain health conditions, including peripheral artery diseases and high blood pressure, can disrupt circulation. In such cases, the essential nutrients may not reach some body parts. It is when people experience certain warning signs that indicate that their blood circulation needs a boost. Varicose veins These develop when additional pressure builds up on the blood vessels, obstructing normal blood circulation. Varicose veins may also occur due to damage to blood vessels, disrupting blood circulation in the veins. As a result, the veins appear twisted or engorged, usually in the lower extremities, such as the lower area of the leg. Blood clots These can occur anywhere in the body, blocking blood flow, either completely or partially. Although it can develop in any body part, the clots forming in the legs or arms are generally responsible for causing blood circulation issues. Sometimes, a blood clot in the abdomen can also indicate poor blood circulation. Muscle cramps When the body cannot get sufficient oxygenated blood due to poor circulation, it can cause cramps, especially in the legs.

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a skin disorder in which the skin feels extremely itchy, is flaky, and can appear reddish and inflamed. While the skin condition usually develops and is common in young children, it can occur at any age. It is also observed eczema patients are at high risk of having asthma, hay fever, and some food allergies. Keep reading to learn more about the early warning signs of this disease. Reddish and itchy skin Eczema usually starts with this symptom, which can be noticed on the feet, hands, and face. The skin may also become scaly, rough, and dry in certain areas. It needs to be properly diagnosed by a healthcare professional for initiating proper topical treatment. Blisters In some cases of eczema, one of the symptoms includes developing blisters. These are small and often have fluid filled in them. They can also be extremely itchy and, when scratched, may break and ooze on the skin. In addition, it can lead to further skin irritation in the area. Cracked skin This skin condition develops thick skin, which gets inflamed or swollen and can lead to cracks. It can get extremely uncomfortable, especially around the areas where the skin is thin and folded.

Every so often, there are questions that even the most outspoken of us may feel uncomfortable or embarrassed to ask the gynecologist. If you have questions about your health, it is best to speak up and be frank with your healthcare provider. As trained professionals, they are used to answering all kinds of queries to improve your understanding of your body. Here are some of the most commonly asked “embarrassing” questions at the gynecologist’s office: Does my vulva look normal? It’s pretty normal to wonder if your vulva looks “normal” compared to other women. Just like people, vulvas come in various shapes, sizes, and characteristics and are all considered “normal.” However, if you have noticed abnormal changes in your vulva, it may be worth conversing with your gynecologist. Why am I not interested in having sex anymore? Several different factors could result in low libido in women. It can result from stress, birth control or other medical treatments, or menopause.  In fact, low libido is one of the common side effects of using birth control. While this is considered normal, it is advised to keep one’s gynecologist updated if one faces such issues.  Talking about it with your doctor can help you find a simple solution.

Early diagnosis and active planning is the only way to manage long-term outlook regarding cancer. So, it is necessary to have a conversation with the doctor and specialist to try and understand the next best course of action. It is during this discussion that one must not hesitate to have an open dialogue about cancer, regardless of probable embarrassment, as the key to proper treatment may just be the answer to one of these questions. 4 questions to ask the oncologist without embarrassment Asking if the cancer is rare or common There are many types of cancer and dozens of risk factors and underlying causes that impact its progression. So, it is necessary to ask the doctor if the cancer is rare or commonly diagnosed. Rare cancers have little to no treatment options since most studies and clinical trials are not concluded for them. There is no definitive guarantee for commonly diagnosed cancers either, but with early and prompt diagnosis, it is possible to treat it and improve quality of life successfully. So, it is imperative to determine the type, its progression, and its stage to help plan a treatment regime. Asking about the best course of action Different types of cancers, based on severity and progression, can be managed to a significant extent with a proper course of prescriptions, nutrition advice, and daily lifestyle changes.