Anemia: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and All You Need to Know

• Asthma or bronchitis
• GERD (Acid Reflux)
• Environmental irritants like pollution and Smoke
• Viral infections like the flu or a cold
• Allergic reactions due to pollen or dust

Home Remedies for Dry Cough

There are multiple home remedies available to reduce a dry cough. The following are a few that you can try to keep your cough under control:

• Honey and Warm Water: Helps soothe throat irritation
• Steam Inhalation: Helps ease inflammation and congestion
• Turmeric Milk: Acts as the best anti-inflammatory agent
• Ginger Tea: Reduces inflammation and fights infections
• Saltwater Gargle: Helps reduce throat discomfort

While these home remedies are helpful, you must consult your doctor and get expert advice if the symptoms persist for a long time. Seeing a doctor will help rule out the issue faster.

Choosing the Right Dry Cough Syrup

If you prefer a dry cough syrup, ensure it suits and works with your symptoms. Most dry cough syrups contain diphenhydramine or dextromethorphan, decreasing the cough reflex. However, do not self-medicate, particularly if you are unsure about your symptoms. Always consult a doctor before choosing a dry cough syrup, particularly for children, older people, or people with pre-existing conditions.

When Should You Consult a Doctor for a Dry Cough?

Here are a few signs that indicate it’s time to stop self-medicating and consult a doctor immediately:

• If the cough lasts more than 3 weeks
• If it gets worse than before
• If you feel chest pain, wheezing, or discomfort breathing
• If you notice fatigue and weight loss
• If you cough up blood

Knowing when to consult a doctor for a dry cough is crucial to avoid complications and ensure an easy diagnosis.

Whom to Consult for Dry Cough?

If you have a dry cough, you can consult a general physician, who will refer you to a pulmonologist if you need to get your lungs tested or if there are any chances of infections causing your dry cough.

Consulting the right specialist will help you treat a dry cough and identify the root cause of the cough.

Final Takeaway

A dry cough might seem less harmful at the early stages, but it is crucial to see a doctor when you feel like it increases or worsens over time. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics or suggest the right treatments to get you treated and avoid any complications due to dry cough. Never ignore the symptoms, and use the best medical facilities available. Do not hesitate to consult your doctors when necessary. Early action is one of the best treatments to keep your body healthy and illness-free.

     This type of stroke, also known as classic stroke, occurs during exposure to extended periods of hot environmental conditions, such as heat waves or long durations of high temperatures and humidity. Older adults, infants, and individuals with chronic medical conditions are vulnerable to this stroke.

Symptoms of Heat Stroke

The symptoms can vary based on the severity of the condition, but common symptoms include the following:

• 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher body temperature
• Behaviour changes such as agitation or aggression.
• Hot, dry skin occurs in cases of classic heat stroke.
• Flushed, sweaty skin occurs in classic heat stroke.
• Increased heart rate
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seizures
• Muscle cramps or weakness

Causes of Heat Stroke

Several factors contribute to heat stroke, which include:

• Spending long hours in a hot and humid environment
• Dehydration results from inadequate fluid intake or excessive fluid loss
• Engaging in strenuous physical activity, especially in hot conditions
• Wearing too many clothes or tight-fitting garments can trap heat
• Chronic illnesses such as heart disease, respiratory conditions, obesity, and mental health disorders can increase vulnerability to heat stroke

Risk Factors of Heat Stroke

While anyone can suffer from heat stroke, certain factors can increase the risk:

• Age: Infants and people over 65 are less efficient at regulating body temperature.
• Chronic illnesses: heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, and obesity heighten susceptibility.
• Medications: Drugs that affect hydration and heat regulation raise the risk.
• Sudden exposure: Moving from a cooler climate to a much hotter one can shock the body.
• Lack of air conditioning: Living without cooling systems during heat waves increases danger.

Treatments of Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that demands immediate medical attention to avoid severe complications or death. Treatment usually includes the following steps:

• Cooled IV fluids
• A cooling blanket
• An ice bath
• Medication to prevent seizures
• Supplemental oxygen
• A cold-water lavage

Conclusion

As temperatures continue to rise, preventing yourself from heat stroke is more important than ever. To protect yourself from heat stroke, stay hydrated, wear lightweight and breathable clothing, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and take frequent breaks in the shade. If you or someone you know shows signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, do not delay. Look for immediate care and consult a healthcare professional for proper treatment.

While there are so many home remedies for stomach pain, they may help in mild cases. At times it is crucial to consult your doctor and get your symptoms checked to know if it is a common stomach pain or something that must be concerned about. Mostly, in case of stomach pain, you can consult a general physician or a gastroenterologist.

When to see a doctor?

Consult a doctor if you experience:

• Severe or persistent pain
• High fever
• Vomiting blood or black stools
• Sudden and sharp pain in lower abs
• Inability to keep food or fluids down
• Pain that lasts more than a few days

These could be signs of a more serious condition like appendicitis, ulcers, gallstones, or gastrointestinal infections.

Final Takeaway

Home remedies basically are a great way to manage stomach pain and digestive discomforts. Just following a few simple things will help. For instance, having herbal teas, warm compress, and dietary changes will offer significant relief. Also, do not hesitate to consult your doctor if the symptoms persist or worsens. In a few cases, getting diagnosed professionally with proper medications will help fast recovery.  

·       Headache

·       Difficulty swallowing

·       Swollen and red tonsils

·       Voice changes or hoarseness

·       Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

·       White or yellow coating on the tonsils

Causes of Tonsillitis

Tonsils are vulnerable to infections, even though a part of the immune system. When tonsils are infected by bacteria or viruses, it causes discomfort in the throat.

·       Viruses such as Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Adenovirus can cause tonsillitis.

·       Group A Streptococcus (GAS), Staphylococcus aureus are the most common bacteria that cause tonsillitis.

Other causes of tonsillitis are,

Second-hand smoke

Environmental pollutants

• Age
• Allergies
• A weakened immune system

Diagnose of Tonsillitis

To identify tonsillitis, the healthcare provider takes the following steps to provide treatment.

Medical History: The ENT doctor evaluates the symptoms and their duration, and the recurrent history of throat infections.

In some cases, the ENT doctor might ask for some tests to identify tonsillitis. This test includes a throat swab, blood tests.

After identifying tonsillitis, the doctor provides appropriate treatment based on the severity of the tonsillitis.

Tonsillitis Treatment

Tonsillitis treatment is completely based on the cause. If it is by viral infection, the doctor may suggest taking proper rest, providing an Over-the-counter pain reliever, and a humidifier.

If tonsillitis is caused by bacterial infection, particularly Group A Streptococcus, doctors commonly prescribe antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin, and it is crucial to complete the full course of medication even if the symptoms begin to improve earlier.

In some severe and recurring cases, the doctor may suggest tonsillectomy, a procedure to surgically remove your tonsils.

Who is at Risk of Tonsillitis?

• Tonsillitis can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in children and adults.
• People who are exposed to irritants like smoke or pollution develop tonsillitis.

How to prevent Tonsillitis?

People can reduce the chance of developing tonsillitis. Here are some tips that help to reduce tonsillitis:

• Regular Hand Wash: Maintaining hand hygiene is essential in preventing tonsillitis.
• Cover Mouth and Nose: Respiratory droplets can also spread the virus; always cover your mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing.
• Dental Hygiene: Practicing good oral hygiene can reduce the risk. Try to replace your toothbrush at least once in three months.
• Manage Allergies: Addressing and managing allergies can contribute to throat irritation and inflammation.
• Prompt Attention: If a sore throat develops, especially if it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to consult an ENT doctor for proper treatment.

In conclusion, tonsillitis is a common condition; understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is essential for timely and effective intervention. You cannot completely prevent tonsillitis, but you can reduce the risk by following proper hygiene practices. If you suspect or your throat pain becomes severe, do not hesitate to consult an ENT doctor to prevent complications.

• Boosts immunity
• Hydrates your body
• Improves gut health
• Promotes healthy skin
• Supports digestion
• Enhances iron levels
• Regulates blood sugar
• Improves heart health
• Helps in weight management
• Reduces inflammation
• Fights anaemia
• Increases your energy level
• Improves body metabolism
• Strengthens bones
• An excellent choice for pregnant women
• Aids liver function
• Improves Eye Health

With so many health benefits, dragon fruit is a magical delight everyone should include in their healthy diet. This is the primary reason for the prominence of the pitaya fruit’s health globally.

Possible Dragon Fruit or Pitaya Fruit Side Effects to Know!

While dragon fruit's health benefits are impressive, there are a few mild and rare side effects to consider, mainly if you are a first-time dragon or pitaya fruit consumer.

• Watch out for allergic reactions. After having dragon fruit for the first time, some might experience itching, swelling, and hives.
• If you are a person who has low BP already, then eating pitaya might lower it further.
• Eating too much pitaya or dragon fruit can sometimes cause diarrhea since it is more fiber-containing.
• The high pigments in dragon fruit can temporarily transform the colour of your stool or urine.
• In drug interactions, some compounds in the fruit can interact with medicines. So, consult your doctor immediately if you face any weird symptoms.

Despite these dragon fruit side effects, they are generally rare. Most people enjoy the benefits of dragon fruit without any adverse outcomes.

How to Eat Dragon Fruit or Pitaya Fruit?

Dragon fruit or pitaya fruit can be consumed in various forms. You can add it to salads, toasts, pancakes, salsa, desserts, and ice creams, make smoothies, or scoop it and eat it raw. In any form, it is crucial to have it often.

Final Takeaway

From improving digestion to boosting your immune system and skin health, the benefits of dragon fruit are truly commendable. Including it in your daily routine is an excellent addition to your health. This nutrient-rich and vibrant pitaya fruit is a delicious way to support your wellness naturally. With all these benefits, it is also crucial to consider its rare side effects to enjoy this tropical delight responsibly. So, enjoy dragon fruit based on your taste and preferences.