The modern age has ushered in an era where we compromise our health for luxuries that we now consider essential. In a bid to stay ahead of the competition, and to provide for ourselves and our family, we feverishly work towards our goal without cutting ourselves some slack. We tend to forget that our bodies can be pushed only to a specific limit. The most important things in life — money, family, health, love, and career— are the ones that we stress about the most, and ironically, it’s for these factors that we decide to slog without a second thought. The repercussions of leading such a stressful and restless life are that people are plagued by anxiety and insomnia, each of which is a silent killer in its domain. They spend the day being anxious about reaching the workplace on time, finishing the tasks at hand, ensuring that their kids and spouse have everything they need to lead a comfortable life, and they spend the night staying awake because they feel that something is still amiss. Such constant obsessing can have a negative impact on one’s health. So, it becomes essential to take some measures to treat one’s anxiety and insomnia.

Erroneous lifestyle choices and one’s genetic predisposition plays a major role in making them susceptible to one of the most formidable ailments of all time: diabetes. In fact, more than 100 million adults in the country are currently living with diabetes or prediabetes, and these numbers keep escalating every year. Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases that cause an increase in the blood glucose levels either because of inadequate insulin production or because the body’s cells do not respond favorably to the insulin. Sometimes, it can be a combination of both. Diabetes is a health condition that cannot be cured completely and the blood sugar levels fluctuate as insulin and glucagon hormones go haywire. However, the various advancements in the field of medical science have offered diabetics a new lease of life by helping them bring this serious illness under control. As diabetes is a condition that arises due to the lack of insulin production or the body’s response to it, all the major diabetes treatment methods are focused on supplying the body with enough insulin. For this purpose, various medications like metformin, glyburide, and insulin injections are recommended. These medications when coupled with major lifestyle changes, such as adhering to a balanced diet, weight reduction, and exercises, are known to yield desirable results.

The primary function of Ozempic®, also known as semaglutide, is to clone the functions of the glucagon hormone in the body. This glucagon hormone has a direct impact on the development of diabetes, as it helps in controlling the digestion as well as blood sugar and insulin levels. This medication is used in the form of a single-patient-use injection pen, which is disposed of after every single use. Ozempic® fulfills the purpose of improving and maintaining the blood sugar levels in patients that are suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus. The usage of this medication is limited only to the patients with type 1 diabetes. This medication is not among the first preferences for replacement of glucagon, it is used only when no other medication has a positive impact on the patient’s health. Medications, being chemical compounds, hold the probability of clashing with other medications. Most health conditions like pregnancy require taking medications regularly. These medications can clash with a person’s existing diabetes medication. Read along to find out more on the impact of Ozempic® on pregnancy. Pregnancy The lack of studies and experiments with this medication is a reason for limited data on the use of Ozempic® among pregnant women.

Clostridium botulinum is a type of bacterium that delivers a chemical called Botox. The chemical is naturally found in soil, lakes, and forests. The bacterium can also be found in the intestinal tracts of mammals and fishes and crustaceans. Botox is also used as a popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment as millions of citizens across the country use it to treat muscular conditions and to cosmetically remove wrinkles. Recent medical developments find the use of Botox for treating at least 20 different medical conditions. Here are 10 such medical uses of Botox that you should know: Blepharospasms Also known as eyelid spasms, the neurotoxin in the Botox causes temporary paralysis, thus blocking how the nerves communicate with the muscles. Blepharospasms results in losing the ability to communicate with basal ganglia, a part of the brain controlling the eye movements. As a result, the person’s eyes become droopy and twitch uncontrollably. Botox is used as a blockade at the neuromuscular site as it blocks the receptor and cuts off access to the nerves, thus providing relief from uncontrollable twitching. Strabismus Also known as crossed eyes, strabismus is a medical condition for which Botox was initially approved. Strabismus can be a childhood congenital issue occurring from trauma.

The process of aging is inevitable. While the best way to pave through this journey is by aging with grace, the development of wrinkles and expression is undesirable. Most individuals fret at the very thought of experiencing these changes in the appearance of the skin, but this aspect is natural. There is no denying the fact that wrinkles bring in a different character; however, if it’s bothersome, there are different notable options available in the cosmetic world. One of the many, Botox continues to the most popular. The process can bring glorious results when performed right. Botox is the trademark name that is commonly used to denote botulinum toxin. This toxin is produced with the use of the Clostridium botulinum bacterium. This bacteria is sourced through the soil, water, animal intestines, and plants. Working of Botox Botox effectively works by blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine that, in turn, causes paralysis of the muscles. The procedure enhances the texture of the skin and makes it look much younger. Botox, when used in high proportions, can be very poisonous and harms the nervous system. However, for the procedure of Botox, the chemical is administered in a very small dose. The shot amount is enough to paralyze the muscles and reduce the fine lines that are apparent when making different expressions.

Fat can be stubborn to an extent where even the most efficient diet and workout plan cannot burn it. This is when one might need to seek help from other clinical tools like a fat removal procedure. CoolSculpting® is one of the fat removal procedures that can be used for areas like the stomach or abdomen, flanks, double chin, thighs, and arms. It is an FDA-approved treatment that helps people lose fat through a patented cooling technology based on the science of cryolipolysis. This non-surgical technique freezes and destroys stubborn fat cells using cold temperatures. CoolSculpting® is recommended to those who are within 15 to 20 pounds above their ideal weight. While this procedure permanently destroys the fat cells, it doesn’t prevent the formation of new ones. So, it is important to commit to a healthy lifestyle post the treatment for maintaining the results of the treatment. It is important to follow proper due diligence before deciding to opt for this fat removal procedure. Here are some tips you can follow before undergoing CoolSculpting®. Learn the benefits of CoolSculpting® There is a lot one can achieve through this fat removal procedure. One of the greatest benefits of this treatment is that it doesn’t hurt at all; however, there are a few side-effects that can make one temporarily uncomfortable.

Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that affects the spine primarily. The condition forces the individual vertebrae of the spine to fuse together. The bone fusion also affects the nearby bone mass, including one’s rib cage, resulting in an abnormal joining of bones. Spondylitis commonly results in pain, stiffness, and inflammation right from one’s neck to the lower back area. Ankylosing spondylitis can also cause pain in the ligaments and tendons. Breathing problems are quite common as the rib bones fuse and limit the lungs from expanding when breathing. The chronic condition can further aggravate flare-ups associated with inflammation, increasing the risk of heart conditions. Other health complications include uveitis, inflammatory bowel diseases, psoriasis, and chronic problems associated with fatigue. One must consult with a specialist who is either an orthopedic surgeon or a certified physical therapist to discuss the future course of treatment. Specialists may recommend one or more groupings of the treatments for ankylosing spondylitis. Medications for ankylosing spondylitis Medical professionals often prescribe one or a combination of NSAIDs, Corticosteroids, and TNF inhibitors to treat the condition.  Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) Inflammation is a major symptom in any form of spondylitis. NSAIDs are available over-the-counter to fight the symptoms of inflammation causing pain and stiffness.

Cancer is said to have metastasized when the cancerous cells spread to the other parts of the body. The signs and symptoms of this disease depend on what other organ has been affected by the rogue cells. If breast cancer metastasizes, it typically affects organs like the bones, brain, lungs, and liver. Bones The symptoms will usually include pain in the bones or joints that gets worse with physical activity, back or neck pain, numbness or weakness in some parts of the body, trouble urinating, nausea, constipation, lack of appetite, and extreme thirst. Lungs Persistent dry cough, wheezing, trouble breathing, coughing up blood and mucus, and chest pain are some common symptoms of breast cancer metastasizing to the lungs. Liver Jaundice, abdominal swelling, itching or rashes, and pain around the liver area are a few signs and symptoms that can come to the surface in case of liver metastasis. Brain If cancer has spread to the brain, it can cause symptoms such as headaches, memory problems, changes in vision, confusion, changes in mood or personality, difficulty in movement, balance issues, dizziness, seizures, and strokes. Treatments While there is no certain cure for this condition, treatments can help manage the signs and symptoms and also slow down the progression of metastatic breast cancer.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, about 20% of the total population suffers from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This condition occurs when the stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube called esophagus which connects the mouth and stomach. This backwash of the stomach acid, also known as acid reflux, can irritate the lining of this tube. People who experience acid reflux more than twice a week are diagnosed with GERD. There are several symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, and coughing which can make this condition an extremely unpleasant one. GERD is initially treated with over-the-counter medications, but unless it is coupled with lifestyle and dietary changes, it cannot be treated completely. Most people do not seek medical attention for GERD and this tends to eventually result in permanent damage to the esophagus. 11 effective treatments for GERD Prescription-strength H-2-receptor blockers: These medications are available only by prescription. The H-2-receptor blockers include prescription-strength famotidine, nizatidine, and ranitidine. These medications are well-tolerated but prolonged use of this medication is often associated with a slight increase in the risk of vitamin B-12 deficiency and bone fractures. Medication to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter: The stomach acid often backs up when the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes.

Major depressive disorder or clinical depression has a negative effect on how a person feels, thinks, and reacts. It causes a perennial feeling of sadness accompanied by a loss of interest in once enjoyable activities. Moreover, it causes a number of emotional and physical problems that can decrease the affected person’s ability to function normally. As opposed to what many assume, depression is more than just bouts of blues. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 300 million people across the world suffer from depression. This health disorder requires long-term treatment. Treatments are often a combination of therapies, prescription medications, and lifestyle changes. How does the treatment for depression begin? The first step of treatment is to go through a physical examination. In some cases, medical conditions such as viral infections and certain medications cause symptoms similar to depression. A physical examination can rule out certain suspicions. Following that, a psychological evaluation is conducted either by the physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist. The evaluation will include a complete check of the symptoms and family history, especially for depressive illnesses. Finally, a doctor will conduct a mental status examination to determine whether thought and speech patterns or memory of the person have been affected.

Depression can be caused by a combination of reasons. The factors that cause depression can be genetic, psychological, biological, or even environmental. The theory that depression is caused by an imbalance of chemicals or neurotransmitters in the brain has been difficult to prove, and the MRI’s of people suffering from depression appears different from those without depression. This cannot, however, explain why the person is undergoing depression or how it can be diagnosed. Scientists are still researching in order to find out what causes depression. Although certain genes may be responsible for causing depression, as it is known to run in some families, this cannot be said to be the only cause as people without a family history of depression also seem to suffer from it. Sometimes a depressive event in life can trigger a depressive episode. Certain trauma that may cause depression could include the loss of a loved one, relationship issues, stress, drug or alcohol abuse, certain medical conditions, and even certain medicines. There is, unfortunately, no established cure for depression. But there are certain therapies that are practiced in many depression treatment centers that can help patients suffering from depression. Let’s take a look at some of the most effective therapies that are followed widely in depression treatment centers: