How to manage skin flare-ups for psoriasis: treatment and medications Psoriasis is a skin condition that is known to be a recurring autoimmune disorder. This condition is characterized by red, flaky patches on the skin, and there is a rapid buildup of skin cells, which causes scaling on the skin’s surface. Though some treatments help ease the symptoms of psoriasis, there is no cure for this condition. These treatments are a combination of home remedies and prescribed medications to control specific triggers. Different treatment approaches There are two types of approaches to treating this condition. The first is topical and involves direct application of creams and ointments on the skin to relieve mild to moderate psoriasis. The other is the systemic approach, which involves taking medication orally or injecting it directly to treat moderate to severe psoriasis. Since these medications can have severe side-effects, they are just short-term prescriptions. Light therapy is another approach to treatment that uses ultraviolet or natural light to kill the overactive white blood cells that attack healthy skin cells and cause rapid cell growth, leading to the buildup. Patients are advised to use both UVA and UVB light to help reduce the symptoms of this condition. Prescriptions to be aware of when getting treated for this condition Skyrizi This is the brand name for risankizumab-rzaa. This medication is an injection prescribed to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults. It is not known yet whether Skyrizi is safe or effective for children aged below 18 years. Stelara Its generic name is ustekinumab, and this medication is an immunosuppressant that reduces the effects of a chemical substance in the body that causes inflammation. Unlike skyrizi, this is used to treat plaque psoriasis in adults as well as children aged 12 years and above. Ilumya It is an injection prescribed to treat moderate to severe cases of psoriasis in adults.

Osteoporosis is a medical condition that over time, weakens and makes bones porous and brittle. This increases the risk of fractures. On the positive side, osteoporosis symptoms can be managed to significantly improve the patient’s health. Several studies have suggested that certain foods and medications can be highly effective in managing osteoporosis symptoms and alleviating the resulting pain. From kale to tofu, there are many foods that can help and these are listed below. Dark green leafy vegetables Dark green leafy vegetables are rich in vitamin K, magnesium, and calcium, which are vital in keeping bones strong. Some of these include kale, Brussels sprouts, and spinach. One can also add dandelion, collard, turnip, and mustard to their daily food portions. Colored veggies Vegetables like artichoke, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, red and green peppers, and potatoes, are excellent sources of potassium, magnesium, and vitamin C. They also are high in carotenoids, which is an antioxidant that boosts bone health. Fruits Oranges, bananas, and papayas come with exceptional amounts of potassium that negates the buildup of acid in the bones, thus preventing any loss of calcium. Fruits rich in calcium and vitamin A, C, and K — like kiwis and figs — will also improve bone density. Dairy products Consume dairy products with high concentrations of calcium and vitamins, such as cheese, yogurt, milk, and more. Soy-based variants like soy milk or tofu are suitable substitutes for those who are lactose intolerant. Seafood Certain fish are rich in vitamin D, which is an essential nutrient to help absorb calcium naturally. Healthy seafood options include tuna, mackerel, sardines and salmon. Legumes Legumes like black beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, and edamame are rich in protein and fiber. These foods are the best sources to improve bone health. Plant seeds Plant seeds like pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, sesame seeds, and chia seeds are packed with phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, and polyunsaturated fatty acids.

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.

Flu can be caused by several environmental or lifestyle factors. While some of its symptoms, such as coughing and sneezing, help expel phlegm and other irritants from the system, it tends to be a painful and unpleasant experience. Flus normally subside by themselves in 7-10 days, but the foods and home remedies given below can help hasten the recovery process. It is advisable to follow these tips regularly for visible and effective results. Foods for flu relief Soups and broths Foods like soups and broths can help decongest the nose and sinuses and provide flu relief by thinning the mucus. They also help in reducing inflammation, which can further provide relief from the symptoms. Chamomile tea This beverage can help fight the viral infection that has caused flu by boosting immunity, and it provides relief from congestion by thinning the mucus. Garlic and turmeric Consuming turmeric and garlic when suffering from flu can also boost immunity and help effectively manage flu symptoms, as both these common ingredients are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Home remedies for flu symptoms Saltwater gargles It is one of the primary home remedies for flu relief. Gargling with lukewarm saltwater can help in treating upper respiratory infections. It also loosens the phlegm and mucus that contain virus, bacteria, and other pathogens and allergens settled in the throat and lungs. The saline water additionally helps in easing soothe throat pain and nasal congestion. Swish the solution around your mouth and throat for approximately half a minute before spitting it out. Repeat this process till the water is finished. Hot shower If the patient is suffering from mild fever due to flu, a warm sponge or a hot shower can reduce the symptoms of the same. Doctors or healthcare professionals recommend adding baking soda, Epsom salt, and essential oils to the bath to help reduce body aches and other symptoms related cold and flu.

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.