Nasal polyps are soft, benign growths that occur on the inner linings of the nasal passages, otherwise known as sinuses. In some cases, these polyps can grow incredibly large and cause breathing problems and other complications. Moreover, they can also lead to different kinds of frequent infections if not treated on time. These are often observed in people who have asthma, a recurring infection, allergies, or other similar disorders. Symptoms Small nasal polyps can often go unnoticed since they do not affect one’s quality of life in any way. Polyps are only diagnosed when they grow to be considerably large and cause blockages in the nasal pathways. Nasal polyps also lead to chronic sinusitis that can often be diagnosed through symptoms like a runny and stuffy nose, poor sense of smell, headache and pain in the facial muscles, and frequent nosebleeds. If a person starts having trouble breathing or they experience swelling around the eyes and double vision, they must immediately consult a doctor. Risk factors of nasal polyps Although nasal polyps can occur in any individual in their 30s or 40s, there are certain health conditions that make people more vulnerable to nasal polyps. These are conditions that cause long-term irritation and swelling in the nasal passages and restrict breathing. Asthma is one of the most common health conditions associated with nasal polyps. Other conditions include cystic fibrosis, Churg-Strauss syndrome, and health concerns, like aspirin sensitivity and vitamin D deficiency. It is also noted that people with a family history of nasal polyps are more likely to develop them sometime in their life. Foods that help prevent nasal polyps People who are suffering from asthma or certain allergies, as well as those with a family history of nasal polyps are more vulnerable to developing the condition. There are certain foods that can help prevent the growth of nasal polyps in such individuals.

Macular degeneration, commonly known as AMD or Age-related Macular Degeneration, is a degenerative eye disorder that affects a large number of individuals over the age of 50. It is caused due to damage in the macula that is present in the retina. It can lead to poor vision and eyesight-related problems. In this article, we take a closer look at the early signs and symptoms as well as foods to eat and avoid for AMD.  Loss of quality of vision Individuals who suffer from AMD start to experience an overall loss in their vision. Individuals could have trouble seeing clearly in the dark, have blurry vision, or even be unable to see clearly in poor light or darkness.  Visual distortion Another common early sign of macular degeneration is visual distortion. Visual distortion makes it difficult for the individual to see straight lines. Items often appear bent or distorted, and this can make the person’s everyday life very difficult. Other common signs of AMD Other common signs and symptoms that can manifest in the early stages of macular degeneration are difficulties in recognizing and distinguishing faces, a decrease in intensity and brightness of colors, trouble adapting to dimly-lit locations such as restaurants, and blurry spots or blind spots in the field of vision.  Aside from medication, studies have suggested that certain foods can help improve overall eye health as well as slow down the progression of macular degeneration. They include:  Kale Kale is rich in antioxidants known as carotenoids, which help protect the cells that are necessary for vision. Kale also contains lutein and zeaxanthin that help boost the protection of the macula and slow the progression of macular degeneration. Orange Oranges contain vitamin C, which is essential in building collagen, a protein responsible for improving blood vessels in the body including the eyes.

Pulmonary fibrosis affects the respiratory system. It causes the lung tissues to thicken and scar over time. Hardened lung tissues don’t expand as they should, making breathing difficult. Pulmonary fibrosis affects tiny delicate air sacs in the lungs called alveoli that help in getting oxygen into the bloodstream. This is a progressive disease that has no permanent cure. Read to know the symptoms, nutrition guidelines, and medication options to manage this condition. Symptoms Pulmonary fibrosis symptoms are similar to easily treatable conditions such as common cold or upper respiratory infections. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, long-term dry cough, muscle and joint ache, extreme tiredness or fatigue, and unexplained loss of weight. Clubbing may occur as the disease progresses, wherein the fingertips or toes appear wider and rounder. Cyanosis is another symptom where the skin becomes blue (in fair-skinned people), gray or white (in dark-skinned people) around the mouth or eyes due to lack of oxygen in the blood. The severity of the symptoms varies from person to person. Some may experience severe symptoms, also known as acute exacerbation, that could last for weeks or months. These individuals may need a mechanical ventilator to breathe. Nutrition guidelines Individuals diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis should eat foods that are rich in antioxidants since they help in combating free radicals. Foods rich in antioxidants include all types of leafy greens, sweet potatoes, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, squash, garlic, herbs, spices, citrus, mangoes, cherries, melon, all types of berries, cocoa, and green tea. Include lean protein like fish, grass-fed meat, and poultry as well. Make sure these foods are cooked properly since bacteria can damage the already weak immune system. Consume omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, sardine, flax, and hemp seeds. Also, add probiotic foods like yogurt. Drink a good amount of water daily since hydration will decrease fatigue and shortness of breath.

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that develops in the white blood cells of the body known as lymphocytes. It is a cancer of the lymphatic system and can easily spread or metastasize to other parts of the body if not treated early. It can affect the liver, lungs, or bone marrow. Read to know the signs, foods to eat and treatment options for lymphoma. Early signs and symptoms Swollen Lymph Nodes: This symptom is common in both non-Hodgkin and Hodgkin lymphoma. Due to the ill-functioning of the immune system, the lymph nodes get swollen or enlarged and look like lumps under the skin. These lumps can form anywhere from the side of the neck to the groin to the underarm area or even above the collarbone.  General Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin symptoms: Fatigue, erratic weight loss, loss of appetite, easy bruising or bleeding, fever, sweating, and chills.  Location-specific symptoms: If the cancer is spread to the abdomen, it will cause the liver or the spleen to swell, causing pain. If it affects the intestines, it can lead to vomiting and nausea. If cancer spreads to the brain, then it can lead to headaches and seizures. If it affects the chest, one can experience symptoms like difficulty in breathing, chest pain, and pressure. Foods to eat Carbohydrates: These are essential nutrients that provide energy to the body. Treatments can lead to weakness and fatigue, and a food regime replete with healthy carbs can help in managing recovery. So, ensure that you choose whole-grain options that have fiber, like quinoa, brown bread, brown rice, and whole-grain cereals.  Protein: Foods rich in protein help body muscles grow and repair during treatment and after exertion. Fish, nuts, seeds, lentils, eggs, and beans are some great protein sources. Make sure that you choose lean meat.

Arthritis is a common health condition that causes people to develop chronic inflammation in their joints. The condition can cause piercing pain and inflict damage to bones, joints, and other parts of the body. Studies have shown that when it comes to dealing with arthritis, certain foods combined with medications can significantly help improve the condition. So here’s a list of foods and medications one should include in their life to cope with the condition. Foods to curb arthritis symptoms Here are a few foods you can include in your daily meals to keep arthritis in check Dark leafy greens Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, chard, and collard green are rich in vitamin D, phytochemicals, and antioxidants. The combination helps improve the immune system, even helps the body fight off any resident foreign infections. Fish Fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to possess known anti-inflammation properties. A few sources of fish include sardines, mackerel, salmon, and fresh tuna. Dairy Even dairy products are good food sources to eat when it comes to reducing symptoms of arthritis. Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese are rich in calcium and vitamin D. These properties can increase bone strength and curb any painful symptoms. Garlic Garlic is a root that contains a compound called diallyl disulfide. The property may work to restrict the harmful enzymes in the body from deteriorating the cartilage, reducing symptoms of arthritis. Green tea Green tea is a herbal remedy with several implementations in medicine. And the same can be said for symptoms of arthritis. The tea contains polyphenols, antioxidants that have shown signs of bringing down inflammation in the joints. It is also known to slow the rate of cartilage damage. Broccoli Broccoli is a healthy food source and can significantly help reduce any pre-existing symptoms of arthritis.

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that develops in the bone marrow and affects the production of healthy blood cells. It typically affects the plasma, the largest part of the blood, and its ability to develop antibodies. While there is no cure for this cancer, it can be managed by making certain changes in lifestyle. For instance, exercising, having medications, and eating and avoiding certain foods can help keep the disease under control.  Freshly cooked vegetables Darks greens and starchy vegetables are rich sources of vitamins and minerals that help boost immunity. Those who have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma are also at risk of developing anemia. Doctors advise including more iron-rich foods to reduce the risk of low red blood cell count. One can add broccoli, kale, brussels sprouts, and bell peppers to their means, as they are rich in iron. Additionally, carrots and artichokes are rich in fiber. Fiber boosts digestion and reduces the risk of constipation, a common symptom observed during chemotherapy treatment. Fresh fruits Fruits, rich in antioxidants, can counter oxidative stress and boost immunity. Blueberries, raspberries, cherries, cranberries, strawberries, and blackberries are cancer-fighting fruits that help combat the damage done to healthy cells. Also, certain tropical fruits like mango, guava, papaya, and pineapple are recommended to those with this type of cancer. This is because they are rich in iron, which helps manage conditions like multiple myeloma. Meat and dairy Lean cuts of meat and low-fat dairy are acceptable foods to eat for multiple myeloma. Note that meat should be cooked thoroughly, and it is best to use low flame cooking techniques instead of grilling, pressure cooking, and charring. Foods to avoid Raw vegetables It is essential to avoid having raw vegetables, as eating them is not healthy for those with multiple myeloma.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension affects the lungs as well as the right ventricle of the heart. Such a condition can cause various symptoms in patients, such as shortness of breath, dizziness, and pressure in the chest. However, since pulmonary arterial hypertension is a progressive condition, these symptoms are known to worsen over time. Thankfully, along with being prescribed certain medications, having these foods can help one manage the difficulties caused by pulmonary arterial hypertension. Garlic This is a potent food that can be used in many forms in several recipes. The regular consumption of garlic protects one against severe pulmonary arterial diseases as it contains allicin, which is an active metabolic agent that effectively prevents pulmonary hypertension from worsening. Broccoli This dark-green vegetable carries a plethora of nutrients like iron and vitamin C. Iron helps in combating pulmonary arterial disease; in fact, patients with this condition usually suffer from a deficiency of this nutrient. Many studies suggest that a meal plan rich in iron is a must for people who have respiratory issues. Red meat Red meat can be eaten in moderation as it is a potent source of iron. And to have the body absorb iron seamlessly, one must include foods that are rich in vitamin C in their daily meals. Tomatoes Nutritionists recommend this food to our daily meals in its raw form. Tomatoes are especially good for those who suffer from respiratory diseases as they contain the antioxidant lycopene that reduces inflammation in the airways, which is essential for asthma patients. Bell peppers These vegetables can be cooked in many ways and can be a part of many recipes. Bell peppers are potent sources of vitamin C that acts as an antioxidant against free radicals. Carotenoids present in red bell peppers help reduce the risk of lung cancer. Beans Pinto, edamame, and kidney beans are great for heart health as they lack sodium, saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol, which pose a risk of narrowing the arteries of the heart.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus or HIV attacks a person’s immune system, making it vulnerable to diseases and infections. The virus is transmitted through bodily fluids. HIV is a lifelong condition; however, it is much more easily manageable now. Detecting HIV at an early stage can help the doctors treat the patient better. The article sheds light on some uncommon early signs of HIV infection and foods that can delay its progression. Early uncommon signs of HIV infection One of the challenges faced in managing HIV is detection in the early stages. However, researchers have concluded that the early signs mentioned below could indicate an onset of HIV. Aids-defining symptoms In some cases, HIV patients develop symptoms at an early stage that are typically observed in the later stage of infection. These symptoms include esophageal candida and herpes zoster (shingles). Gastrointestinal symptoms Close to 15% of HIV patients develop non-HIV-associated gastrointestinal symptoms like gastric bleeding, kidney failure, gallbladder inflammation, and tonsillitis in some cases. CNS-associated symptoms Central nervous system-associated illnesses such as encephalitis or brain inflammation, meningitis, transient facial paralysis, and acute psychiatric cases were observed in close to 12% of HIV patients in the early stages. Unfortunately, most of these early symptoms are misdiagnosed, resulting in the progression of HIV infection to AIDS. Foods that slow HIV progression Some foods can help manage the condition and delay its progression. Kale Inflammation is one of the critical markers of HIV. So, vegetables like kale, spinach, yellow and red bell peppers, carrots, and radicchios can help keep inflammation under check. Salmon Weight loss is one of the significant symptoms of a progressing HIV, and low body weight can make the body more vulnerable to a host of infections. Some of the best protein sources like salmon, lean meat cuts, nuts, beans, and seeds can help maintain muscle mass and body weight.

The nerves and muscle cells need potassium to function, and the mineral is also responsible for regulating nerves in the heart. However, when potassium levels in the blood exceed the normal range, i.e., 3.6–5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L), it can lead to a condition called hyperkalemia. This can cause severe health complications, including irregular heartbeat and even heart attack. However, hyperkalemia can be managed through treatment and changes in meal plans. Foods to avoid A high-potassium meal regimen or using excessive potassium supplements can contribute to the development of hyperkalemia. Excessive amounts of this mineral can result in numbness, tingling sensations, and digestive problems. So, one should avoid potassium-rich fruits like honeydew melon, oranges, bananas, and cantaloupe. Additionally, people affected by the condition should also limit high-potassium foods like apricots, mangoes, avocados, kiwis, breakfast cereals (with dried fruit), salt substitutes, milk and dairy products, chickpeas, and lentils. One should ensure that their potassium intake is limited to a maximum of 2,000 milligrams (mg) per day. A doctor can help develop a manageable meal plan to keep the potassium levels in check.  Maintenance treatment options  Various treatment options are recommended for different stages of hyperkalemia. If the potassium levels are not severe but still need to be lowered, doctors may recommend sodium bicarbonate to temporarily shift potassium into body cells. Albuterol may be prescribed to raise blood insulin levels and move potassium into the cells. Another option is patiromer (Veltassa), which binds potassium in the intestine. A healthcare expert may also recommend Lasix (furosemide) to reduce extra fluids in the body brought on by conditions like heart failure, kidney disease, and liver disease. This is a water pill that helps the body flush out excessive fluids and remove potassium through urine. Lokelma is another recommended treatment for high potassium levels. It binds the excess potassium and lowers its concentration to keep the levels in check.