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Discover 18 Proven Strategies to Reduce Your Blood Pressure Naturally

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High blood pressure, clinically known as hypertension, is a silent risk factor for severe conditions such as heart disease and stroke. It is typically characterized by a blood pressure reading of 130/80 mm Hg or more. However, even an elevated reading of 120-129 over less than 80 is a signal of impending hypertension. While medications can be beneficial, several lifestyle modifications can also contribute to managing your blood pressure effectively.

The realm of physical fitness provides a solution in the form of both aerobic and resistance exercise. These forms of exercise have been linked to blood pressure management, with the benefits persisting for up to 24 hours post workout. Engaging in a regular exercise regime reinforces the heart, reducing the effort it takes to pump blood and reducing pressure on arteries. The CDC advocates for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, split into approximately 30 minute sessions every day.

“Regular exercise means you regularly increase your heart and breathing rates. Over time your heart gets stronger and pumps with less effort. This puts less pressure on your arteries and lowers your blood pressure.”

Managing your body weight is another crucial step towards a healthier blood pressure. Excess body weight exerts an undue strain on the heart and the cardiovascular system, pushing up blood pressure levels. If your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 25 or higher, a weight loss of just 5-10% can significantly lower blood pressure and reduce your risk for other health problems.

The magic of cacao could also be of help, coming packed with flavonoids – an antioxidant that can assist in lowering blood pressure. These flavonoids work by dilating or enlarging your blood vessels. However, the American Heart Association warns that while a little dark chocolate might not be detrimental, the quantity consumed daily is unlikely to deliver enough flavonoids to yield health benefits. Overindulging in chocolate, especially those laden with sugar, fat, and calories, could negate any potential benefits.

An everyday staple, caffeine, has a mixed role in blood pressure regulation. For regular coffee drinkers consuming up to 4 cups daily, there’s typically no subsequent rise in blood pressure. But for non-regular coffee drinkers, even a small amount could hike blood pressure levels. High-caffeine energy drinks, in particular, are associated with increased blood pressure and pose cardiovascular risks.

If you need to lower your blood pressure quickly, resorting to quiet sitting and breathing exercises could help. Those with pre-existing medical conditions may have to rely on their prescribed medication. Immediate medical attention is advised for blood pressure readings exceeding 180/120, classified as a hypertensive crisis and a significant health threat.

“While research suggests that drinking 500ml of water within 2 hours of waking up and another 550ml 2 hours before bedtime may help reduce blood pressure, more research is needed.”

Managing blood pressure is an ongoing process that requires consistent lifestyle adjustments, regular exercise, a healthy diet, and mindfulness of one’s habits. Always consult with your healthcare provider to understand your individual blood pressure targets and the best ways to achieve them.

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What You Need to Know About the New Contagious Fungal STI

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A rare and highly contagious fungal infection, resembling ringworm, has recently emerged in the United States and is causing concern among health professionals. This new fungal STI, known as Trichophyton mentagrophytes ITS genotype VII (TMVII), was identified in a case involving a man from New York City who had traveled to England, Greece, and California. He presented to the doctor with circular rashes on his penis, buttocks, limbs, and back. Researchers identified TMVII as the cause, according to a report published in June in JAMA Dermatology.

Dermatologists have been aware of this super contagious fungus for some time. Reports of TMVII have surfaced in Southeast Asia and Europe, with 13 known cases in France in 2023. Similar to ringworm and jock itch, TMVII can cause a scaly red rash. However, unlike these more common fungal infections that spread through skin-to-skin contact or by touching infected objects like towels or sheets, TMVII has a different mode of transmission.

“It’s problematic because of how it seems to spread, which appears to be through sexual contact,” Avrom Caplan, MD, lead author of the report and assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, tells SELF.

Twelve of the 13 infections in France last year were among men who have sex with men, and the patient in the JAMA Dermatology report mentioned having male sexual partners during his travels.

As a relatively new STI, there is still much to learn about TMVII and the best ways to manage it. Here are five important things to know about this very contagious, though still rare, fungus:

1. **TMVII Causes Unusual Lesions**: Unlike other tinea infections, the lesions caused by TMVII appear on genital skin, which is atypical. Dr. Caplan notes, “the lesions appear on genital skin, which isn’t typical.”

2. **Intense Itching is a Key Symptom**: Those infected with TMVII often experience intense itching. However, because doctors are not accustomed to seeing these infections on the buttocks or genitals, they might misdiagnose it as eczema or psoriasis.

3. **Potential for Stigma and Delayed Treatment**: Since TMVII is sexually transmitted, there is a concern that people might feel anxious or stressed about stigma. This could lead to delays in seeking medical advice, which Dr. Caplan warns can “lead to impaired quality of life and potential for further spread.”

4. **Transmission Through Sexual Contact**: Unlike other dermatophyte infections, TMVII spreads primarily through sexual contact. This mode of transmission is concerning and requires awareness and caution.

5. **Rareness and Geographic Spread**: Although TMVII is still rare, its presence in multiple countries, including recent cases in the US and France, indicates that it is spreading. Awareness and vigilance are essential to prevent further transmission.

Ringworm, jock itch, and athlete’s foot are all caused by dermatophytes that live on the skin, hair, or nails. These infections typically manifest as red, scaly, itchy rashes that can be ring-shaped. They usually appear in moist areas like the limbs, scalp, groin, feet, or nails. Despite their name, ringworm infections have nothing to do with actual worms.

These infections are generally picked up through casual contact with people, pets, or public spaces like locker rooms or pool areas. Until recently, they were not considered sexually transmitted.

The emergence of TMVII highlights the need for increased awareness and understanding of this new fungal STI. By recognizing the symptoms and seeking timely medical advice, individuals can help prevent the spread of this contagious infection.

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Understanding Hair Loss in Women: Causes and Solutions

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Hair loss can be a distressing experience for women, often leading to feelings of isolation and self-consciousness. Understanding the reasons behind hair loss can be the first step in addressing the issue effectively. Here are some common causes of hair loss in women and what you need to know about them.

Female Pattern Hair Loss

The most prevalent cause of hair loss in older women is female pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia. This condition is essentially the female counterpart to the genetic issue that causes men to go bald. According to Maria Colavincenzo, M.D., “It’s the ‘lady’s version’ of the genetic condition that causes men to go bald.”

This type of hair loss is due to inherited genes that cause hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing hair. You might notice your part widening, your ponytail thinning, or hair receding around your temples. Unlike men who often develop a receding hairline or bald spots, women’s hair loss tends to be more diffuse. “In women, it’s often more diffuse, where the hair on the whole top area of the head is a little thinner,” Colavincenzo explains.

Treatments for this condition vary, including over-the-counter 5 percent minoxidil solution (Rogaine), prescription medications, laser therapy, and various scalp injections.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly those related to menopause, can significantly impact hair health. A 2022 study published in the journal Menopause found that 52 percent of postmenopausal women experienced hair thinning or hair loss. These changes can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding and thinning.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can also contribute to hair loss. Sudden or excessive hair loss, bald patches, or hair loss accompanied by a rash, flaking, or itchiness may indicate a more serious issue. “It is a good idea to check with your dermatologist if you notice a significant amount of hair loss,” advises Shoshana Marmon, M.D., assistant professor of dermatology at New York Medical College. An accurate diagnosis is crucial, as treatment can vary significantly depending on the underlying cause.

Stress and Lifestyle Factors

High levels of stress and poor lifestyle choices can also lead to hair loss. Chronic stress can push hair follicles into a resting phase, causing hair to fall out more easily. Additionally, factors like poor diet, lack of sleep, and excessive use of hair styling tools can further exacerbate the problem.

Nutritional Deficiencies

A balanced diet is essential for maintaining healthy hair. Deficiencies in key nutrients such as iron, vitamin D, and biotin can lead to hair thinning and loss. Ensuring you get a well-rounded diet rich in these nutrients can help maintain hair health.

Medications

Certain medications can also cause hair loss as a side effect. These may include drugs used to treat cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, and high blood pressure. If you suspect your medication is affecting your hair, consult your healthcare provider for alternatives or solutions.

Understanding the various reasons behind hair loss can help women take proactive steps to address this challenging issue. From genetic factors to lifestyle choices, knowing what might be causing your hair to thin can guide you toward effective treatments and solutions. If you notice significant hair loss, it’s always a good idea to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

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Nail Changes You Shouldn’t Ignore: What They Could Mean for Your Health

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Thirty-four million Americans, or about one in ten people in the U.S., are currently diagnosed with diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Even more alarming is that an estimated one in three Americans has prediabetes, with only 15 percent aware of their condition. This alarming statistic underscores the importance of recognizing the signs of diabetes. The Mayo Clinic advises that symptoms such as fatigue, increased thirst or hunger, changes in skin, weight fluctuations, and blurred vision can indicate serious blood sugar imbalances.

Beyond these well-known signs, there’s another indicator that experts urge you to be aware of. This clue can be found right at your fingertips, particularly if you know what to look for. Read on to discover how your fingernails might reveal a diabetes diagnosis.

A “slight blush” on the nail could indicate diabetes.

Your fingernails can provide significant insights into your overall health, as pointed out by Elizabeth Salada, MD, via Diabetes.co.uk. Dr. Salada routinely checks her patients’ nails during medical examinations.
“Lots of common diseases can present themselves through the appearance of your nails,” she shared.
Healthy nails are typically pink, flat, and even in color. Any changes in shape, thickness, or consistency can signal a problem. Specifically, Dr. Salada warns that “a slight blush at [the] bottom of the nail is sometimes a symptom of diabetes.”

Your nails may also turn yellow or more brittle.

According to Healthline, yellow or brittle nails can also be a sign of diabetes. This is because diabetes makes you more susceptible to a fungal infection called onychomycosis.
“In some people with diabetes, the nails take on a yellowish hue,” the health resource explains.
“Often this coloring has to do with the breakdown of sugar and its effect on the collagen in nails.”
While the discoloration itself is not harmful and does not need treatment, it can indicate deeper issues. If you notice this change, consult your doctor for an evaluation, especially if you’re experiencing other symptoms.

A “distinctive line” across the nail is another red flag.

As you age, you may naturally develop vertical ridges on your nails. However, horizontal lines, known as Beau’s lines, could be the result of type 2 diabetes. These lines can be caused by uncontrolled blood sugar levels, according to the Mayo Clinic. This same symptom can also be linked to other conditions, such as thyroid problems. If you observe these lines on your nails, it’s essential to consult your doctor to discuss potential causes.

Your nails can also appear “shortened.”

While short nails may be due to biting or breakage, they can also indicate a deeper health issue. In rare cases, nerve damage from diabetes can inhibit nail growth, leading to nails on certain fingers appearing “shortened” and “fragile,” as reported by the journal Practical Diabetes.

Recognizing these subtle signs on your nails can be crucial in identifying diabetes early. If you notice any of these changes, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Early detection and management can make a significant difference in your overall health and well-being.

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