In 2023, people who received the updated Covid vaccine covering the new Covid-19 variant saw greater protection against illness and hospitalization than those who did not. To date, hundreds of millions of people have safely received a COVID-19 vaccine under the most intense vaccine safety monitoring in United States history. CDC recommends everyone ages 6…
Read MoreSleep hygiene refers to adapting healthy habits and practices that encourage regular, high-quality sleep. It entails establishing an environment and routine that facilitates the body’s inherent sleep-wake cycle. Proper sleep hygiene aids in the prevention of sleep disorders, enhances overall well-being, and boosts daily performance. Why is Sleep Hygiene Important? Sleep hygiene is essential for…
Read MoreHypoxia, or a lack of oxygen reaching the tissues, is a common and possibly dangerous side effect of high-altitude exposure. The growing popularity of mountaineering, hiking, and high-altitude travel necessitates that anybody travelling to high-altitude areas understand the causes, effects, and precautions of hypoxia. High altitude refers to location above sea level, such as above…
Read MoreThe concept of “safe smoking” is a misconception. All forms of smoking involve inhaling harmful chemicals that can lead to serious health issues, including cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems. Even alternatives like e-cigarettes or “light” cigarettes are not without risks. The only truly safe option is to avoid smoking entirely. Even if you don’t…
Read MoreMold is a form of fungus that grows in damp settings, both indoors and out. It reproduces by releasing microscopic spores into the air, which can settle and develop on a variety of surfaces under ideal conditions. Bathrooms, basements, and kitchens are common indoor sites where Mold can grow due to high moisture levels. Indoor…
Read MoreCold weather does not directly cause pneumonia, but it can contribute to conditions that increase the chance of acquiring the illness. Pneumonia is a lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses, fungus, or other microbes. Cold temperature favourable to certain viruses. During cold weather certain viral infection are more prevalent. This can lead development of simple…
Read MoreHow does steroid help in asthma? Oral steroids (such as prednisone and prednisolone) are drugs that reduce inflammation in the airways. They are used to treat severe asthma episodes or exacerbations when other treatments (such as inhalers) are inadequate. Which form of steroid is better oral or inhaled? The choice of steroid depends on the…
Read MoreGlobal COPD Day, marked annually on the third Wednesday of November, raises awareness of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a chronic lung ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) organises the day, which focusses on education, prevention, and improved care for COPD patients. Each year, Global…
Read MorePulmonary toilet refers to the treatments and therapies used to remove mucus, secretions, and other obstructions from the airways in order to improve lung function and prevent respiratory problems. It is critical for people who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, or are recovering from surgery. It is performed by: Pulmonary toilet is…
Read MoreIn asthma, the immune system in our airway develops an allergic response to the allergens in the environment like cold air, pollen, dust, mites, smoke and etc. The airway becomes inflamed and swollen which makes them narrow and hence this makes breathing difficult, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Steroids are a type…
Read MoreAs the winter months are approaching, people with asthma may notice their symptoms becoming more difficult to control. Cold air can be a potent asthma trigger, causing coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Understanding how to manage symptoms during the winter months might help you breathe easier and stay healthier. Managing Asthma in…
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