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Symptoms Of Typhoid Fever

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Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection that can spread throughout the body, affecting multiple organs, and if left untreated, may lead to severe complications or death.

It is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, which is related to the bacteria responsible for salmonella food poisoning.

The infection is highly contagious, with infected individuals excreting the bacteria through their stool, and occasionally through urine.

When someone consumes food or water contaminated with even a small amount of this infected waste, they can contract the bacteria and develop typhoid fever.

Who’s at Risk?

Typhoid fever is most common in regions with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. Children are particularly vulnerable to the disease, likely due to their developing immune systems. However, children often experience milder symptoms compared to adults.

Symptoms of Typhoid Fever

Key symptoms of typhoid fever include:

  • A persistent high fever that gradually increases each day
  • Headaches
  • General body aches and discomfort
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Cough
  • Constipation

As the infection progresses, symptoms may become more severe, such as loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. A rash may also develop in some cases.

Without treatment, these symptoms can worsen over several weeks, increasing the risk of serious, life-threatening complications.

Symptoms Of Stroke

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A stroke happens when the blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked, which can affect functions like speech and movement and may result in a prolonged recovery.

Read Also: Symptoms And Causes Of Heart Attack

Immediate medical attention is vital, as a stroke can be life-threatening.

Symptoms of a Stroke
Identifying Stroke Symptoms

The main symptoms of a stroke can come on suddenly and may include:

  • Facial Weakness: One side of the face may droop, making it difficult to smile.
  • Arm Weakness: You may have difficulty lifting both arms or keeping them raised because of weakness or numbness in one arm.
  • Speech Issues: Speech may become slurred or confused.
Additional Stroke Symptoms

Along with the main signs, other symptoms that may indicate a stroke include:

  • Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
  • Blurred vision or sudden loss of sight in one or both eyes
  • Trouble speaking or forming words
  • Confusion or memory loss
  • Dizziness or balance issues
  • A severe headache

While some stroke symptoms may seem to disappear quickly, it’s critical to seek medical help immediately, even if you feel better.

Though the likelihood of a stroke increases with age, it can happen at any time.

Things You Can Do To Help You Stop Snoring

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Snoring is common and usually isn’t a serious health concern, but if it becomes bothersome, there are ways to address it.

Causes of Snoring

Snoring happens when parts of your mouth, throat, or nasal passages vibrate as air moves through them during sleep.

Read Also: Treatment For Sleep Deprivation

This typically occurs because these areas relax and narrow while you sleep.

You’re more likely to snore if you:

  • Are overweight
  • Smoke
  • Drink too much alcohol
  • Sleep on your back

In some cases, snoring may be related to conditions like sleep apnea, where your airways temporarily close during sleep.

Tips to Reduce Snoring

Simple lifestyle changes can help reduce or eliminate snoring:

  • Try to lose weight if you’re overweight.
  • Sleep on your side. You can use a tennis ball sewn into your pajamas or a special pillow to encourage side sleeping.
  • Suggest that your partner use earplugs if your snoring disturbs their sleep.
  • Avoid smoking.
  • Limit alcohol intake.
  • Avoid sleeping pills, as they may contribute to snoring.

How To Treat A Sore Throat Yourself

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Sore throats are common and typically not a serious issue, usually improving on their own within a week.

Symptoms of a Sore Throat

If you’re experiencing a sore throat, you might notice:

  • Pain in the throat, especially when swallowing
  • A dry or scratchy sensation in the throat
  • Redness at the back of the mouth
  • Bad breath
  • A mild cough
  • Swollen neck glands

While children may have similar symptoms, they may also develop a high fever and appear more lethargic than usual.

Causes of Sore Throats

Most sore throats are caused by viruses, like those responsible for colds or the flu, or by smoking. In rare instances, bacterial infections can be the culprit.

Other possible causes of a sore throat include:

  • Laryngitis
  • Tonsillitis
  • Strep throat (a bacterial infection)
  • Glandular fever
Self-Care for Sore Throats

To relieve discomfort and possibly speed up recovery, try the following remedies:

  • Gargle with warm salt water (not recommended for young children)
  • Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids
  • Eat cool or soft foods
  • Avoid smoking or being around smoke
  • Suck on ice cubes, ice lollies, or hard candies (be cautious with young children to prevent choking)
  • Get sufficient rest

Benefits Of Eating Apples

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The well-known phrase “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” holds more truth than you might think.

Research highlights the numerous health benefits apples provide, especially in preventing chronic diseases.

Read Also: Differences Between Red And Green Apples

In fact, a 2022 study in Antioxidants found that apples contain compounds so beneficial that researchers are exploring their potential use in healthcare products for disease prevention and treating inflammation.

Here are some reasons to incorporate more apples into your diet, along with tasty ways to include them in your meals:

Health Benefits of Apples
Heart Health

Studies show that apples can protect heart health in multiple ways. A large 2020 review in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition found that eating apples was linked to lower risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD), ischemic heart disease, and stroke. Apples can also reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, and inflammation, while increasing “good” HDL cholesterol when consumed regularly.

Brain Health

Research suggests apples might also benefit cognitive function. A 2018 study in Nutrients found that individuals following the Nordic Prudent Dietary Pattern (NPDP)—which includes apples—had better brain health. Additionally, a 2022 study in Alzheimer’s Research and Therapy linked diets high in fresh fruits, like apples, with a lower risk of dementia. Foods rich in flavonoids, including apples, are also thought to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.

Weight Loss

Low in calories and high in fiber, apples are a great option for weight management. A 2018 review in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that apples are associated with weight loss. Their fiber content promotes fullness, and apple peels, which have prebiotic effects, may support healthy gut bacteria, potentially reducing obesity risks.

Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Multiple studies indicate that apples may help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. A 2019 meta-analysis in Current Developments in Nutrition found that regular apple and pear consumption was linked to a reduced diabetes risk, and a 2021 review in BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health showed similar results for other fruits. Eating an apple before meals may even help regulate blood glucose levels in people with impaired glucose tolerance.

Cancer Prevention

Eating apples has been associated with a reduced risk of several cancers. A 2021 review in Nutrients found that apple consumption might lower the risks of lung, bladder, breast, pancreatic, and other cancers. Many of the cancer-fighting compounds are found in the peel, so it’s best to eat apples whole.

What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Bananas Daily

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Bananas are a widely loved snack—tasty, convenient, and easy to find—but they sometimes spark debate.

Should they be celebrated for their potassium content or criticized for their sugar levels? And is it healthy to eat them daily? If so, how many?

This article delves into the evidence surrounding the health benefits of bananas to help you determine if they should be part of a balanced diet.

Health Benefits of Bananas

Eating a banana each day could offer several health advantages:

  1. Increased Energy Levels
    Bananas are a great source of carbohydrates, the body’s primary energy fuel, as highlighted in a 2022 study from the International Journal of Food Properties. They also contain B vitamins like B1, B3, and B6, which are crucial for energy production, according to 2020 research in Nutrients. Pairing bananas with healthy fats or proteins, such as almonds or Greek yogurt, can help maintain this energy and stabilize blood sugar levels.
  2. Support for Healthy Weight Management
    Including bananas in balanced meals can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating. While they don’t directly cause weight loss, they can be a valuable part of a healthy diet. A 2023 study in Frontiers in Nutrition found that increasing fiber intake from fruits and vegetables is linked to better weight loss outcomes.
  3. Higher Fiber Intake
    Most adults fall short of the recommended daily fiber intake of 28 to 34 grams. A medium banana provides about 3 grams of fiber, including pectin and resistant starch. These types of fiber help you stay satisfied and support digestive health. A 2021 study in PLOS One found that unripe bananas contain more fiber than overripe ones, making them a better choice for those looking to boost fiber intake.
  4. Heart Health Support
    Bananas are rich in potassium, with a medium-sized banana offering 422 mg, or 9% of the recommended daily intake, which promotes heart health. The DASH diet, known for its focus on heart health, encourages potassium-rich foods like bananas. Adequate potassium intake can help lower blood pressure, a key factor in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  5. Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases
    Bananas are also high in antioxidants, which may protect against diseases linked to inflammation, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. A 2022 study in Food Science & Nutrition highlighted their potential anticancer effects, particularly for pancreatic and breast cancers.
How Many Bananas Should You Eat per Day?

While there’s no definitive guideline, eating one or two bananas per day is generally safe for most people.

For steady energy, try pairing them with protein or fat. However, individuals with chronic kidney disease should limit potassium intake to prevent issues like hyperkalemia.

Conclusion

Bananas are a nutritious, affordable, and versatile fruit. Packed with potassium, fiber, and antioxidants, they support energy, digestive health, and disease prevention. Whether enjoyed as a snack, in a smoothie, or as part of a meal, bananas are a healthy addition to your diet.

How To Lower Your Blood Pressure

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High blood pressure, or hypertension, can lead to serious health problems like heart attacks and strokes.

Read Also: 5 Foods To Help Lower Blood Pressure

However, lifestyle changes and medication can help you maintain good health.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure often shows no noticeable symptoms, so many people may not realize they have it. In rare cases, it can cause:

  • Headaches
  • Blurred vision
  • Chest pain

The only way to accurately determine if you have high blood pressure is to have it measured.

Risks Associated with High Blood Pressure

When blood pressure is high, it places extra stress on your blood vessels, heart, and vital organs such as the brain, kidneys, and eyes. If left untreated, it can significantly increase your risk of developing:

  • Heart disease
  • Heart attacks
  • Strokes
  • Heart failure
  • Kidney disease
  • Vascular dementia

Even a small reduction in blood pressure can lower the risk of these serious conditions.

How to Lower Your Blood Pressure

Making healthy lifestyle changes can effectively lower your blood pressure.

  • Eat a balanced, healthy diet.
  • Exercise regularly—aim for at least 150 minutes a week.
  • Lose weight if you’re overweight.
  • Consume too much salt—limit salty foods and avoid adding extra salt to your meals.
  • Drink too much alcohol—keep intake under 14 units per week.
  • Overconsume caffeine—be mindful of coffee, tea, and cola.
  • Smoke.

By incorporating these habits into your life, you can help manage your blood pressure and improve your overall health.

 

Coca-Cola Drinks Under Investigation Over Safety Concerns

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A large-scale recall of Coca-Cola beverages has been initiated in several European countries, including Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, due to elevated levels of a chemical called chlorate.

Coca-Cola’s European bottling unit announced the urgent withdrawal of certain drinks on Monday after detecting high chlorate levels during routine quality checks at its bottling plant in Ghent, Belgium.

The affected products include Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, and other drinks with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE.

Meanwhile, the UK’s Food Standards Agency has begun an investigation to see if any Coca-Cola products with high chlorate levels are being sold in the UK.

Chlorate, a chemical often used in water treatment and food processing, has been linked to kidney and thyroid problems.

Regulatory bodies in the impacted countries have issued warnings, advising consumers not to drink the recalled products.

The European Food Safety Authority has highlighted that prolonged exposure to chlorate could pose health risks, especially for children with mild or moderate iodine deficiency.

Coca-Cola confirmed that a “significant quantity” of drinks is affected but did not specify the exact amount.

The company assured that most of the affected products have already been removed from store shelves.

The Luxembourg Veterinary and Food Administration warned that children are especially vulnerable, while the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority urged people to avoid drinking the recalled products.

As the situation develops, other European countries are assessing Coca-Cola products for possible contamination.

An independent expert analysis has determined that the risk to consumers is “very low,” according to a company spokesperson.

The recall has raised concerns about the safety of Coca-Cola products, prompting many consumers to voice their frustration on social media.

The Ghent bottling facility processes 66,000 glass bottles and 120,000 cans per hour, operating around the clock.

 

Why Trump’s HIV Funding Withdrawal May Raise Illness Risk – WHO

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised serious concerns about the impact of the recent pause in funding for HIV programs in low- and middle-income countries.

These programs provide life-saving HIV treatment to over 30 million people worldwide, and as of the end of 2023, 39.9 million people were living with HIV globally.

The Trump administration has ordered organizations in other nations to halt the distribution of HIV medications purchased with U.S. aid, even if the drugs have already been delivered and are waiting in local clinics.

This directive is part of a broader suspension of foreign aid announced last week.

In a statement on Tuesday, WHO warned that halting funding for HIV programs could immediately increase the risk of illness and death for people living with HIV and hinder efforts to prevent transmission in various communities and countries.

The organization expressed concern that if these measures continue, it could lead to a rise in new infections and deaths, reversing decades of progress and potentially bringing the world back to the 1980s and 1990s, when millions died from HIV each year, including many in the U.S.

The WHO also pointed out that such actions could cause significant setbacks in global partnerships and investments in scientific advances, which have been critical to successful public health efforts, such as innovative diagnostics, affordable medicines, and community-based HIV care models.

The WHO called on the U.S. government to make exceptions to ensure the continued delivery of life-saving HIV treatment and care.

It also highlighted the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a major initiative in the global HIV response for over 20 years.. However, the WHO noted that the funding freeze for PEPFAR would directly affect millions of people who rely on a steady supply of effective antiretroviral medications.

PEPFAR operates in over 50 countries, and its funding has saved more than 26 million lives over the past two decades. Currently, PEPFAR provides HIV treatment to more than 20 million people worldwide, including 566,000 children under 15.

Read Also: WHO Speaks Ahead Of US Exit

The WHO emphasized that PEPFAR and its partners, including the WHO, have been working with countries on sustainability plans to reduce dependency on donor support through 2030 and beyond.

A sudden and prolonged halt to these programs would disrupt these plans and put millions of lives at risk.

The WHO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting PEPFAR, other partners, and national governments in managing these transitions effectively to minimize the impact on people living with HIV.

 

How You Can Treat Insomnia Yourself

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Insomnia is a condition marked by persistent difficulty with sleep.

It often improves by making changes to your sleep habits.

Signs You May Have Insomnia

You might be experiencing insomnia if you frequently:

  • Struggle to fall asleep
  • Wake up multiple times during the night
  • Lie awake for extended periods
  • Wake up too early and can’t fall back asleep
  • Feel tired upon waking
  • Have difficulty napping during the day despite fatigue
  • Feel fatigued and irritable throughout the day
  • Find it hard to concentrate due to tiredness

Insomnia lasting less than three months is considered short-term insomnia, while insomnia lasting three months or longer is classified as long-term insomnia.

Sleep Needs

Sleep requirements vary from person to person. On average:

  • Adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep
  • Children need 9 to 13 hours of sleep
  • Toddlers and babies need 12 to 17 hours of sleep

If you’re often tired during the day, you might not be getting enough sleep.

Common Causes of Insomnia

Some common causes include:

  • Stress, anxiety, or depression
  • Noise disturbances
  • An uncomfortable room temperature
  • Poor quality bedding
  • Substances like alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine
  • Recreational drugs (e.g., cocaine, ecstasy)
  • Jet lag
  • Shift work
Self-Treatment for Insomnia

You can often ease insomnia by adjusting your sleep habits.

  • Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day
  • Relax for at least an hour before bed, such as taking a bath or reading
  • Make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet, using curtains, blinds, eye masks, or earplugs if needed
  • Exercise regularly during the day
  • Use comfortable bedding
  • Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol, tea, or coffee for at least six hours before bedtime
  • Avoid large meals late at night
  • Don’t exercise within four hours of bedtime
  • Avoid screens (TV, smartphones) right before bed, as blue light can disrupt sleep
  • Refrain from napping during the day
  • Don’t drive when you feel drowsy
  • Resist sleeping in after a poor night’s sleep—stick to your usual sleep schedule instead