What to Eat When You are Sick

Source: By Charlotte Lillis https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321786.php

When a person is sick, they may find it difficult to develop an appetite. However, it is important to receive nourishment and stay hydrated, especially when feeling unwell.

Different types of food can combat different types of illness. A person with a sore throat may benefit from foods that would not help someone who feels nauseous.

In this article, we provide a list of foods to eat and avoid for people with common illnesses.

Colds and flu

Herbal teas provide hydration, and breathing in their steam can help to clear mucus from the sinuses.

A blocked nose, a cough, and a sore throat are common symptoms of colds and flu. The following foods can help to ease congestion and inflammation and boost the immune system.

1. Herbal teas

When experiencing cold and flu symptoms, it is important to stay hydrated. Herbal teas are refreshing, and breathing in their steam can help to clear mucus from the sinuses.

Adding ground turmeric to a cup of hot water may help to relieve a sore throat. Research suggests that turmeric has both anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

Tea leaves are abundant in natural plant compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and catechins. These stimulate the immune system. Catechins, in particular, may protect against certain types of influenza virus.

Some people recommend drinking Echinacea tea to shorten the duration of cold and flu symptoms. However, this effect has yet to be proven by scientific research.

2. Honey

A sore throat can be caused by a bacterial infection. Honey is rich in antimicrobials that help to clear these types of infection.

Honey may also be effective in treating children's coughs, though it should not be given to infants under 12 months of age.

A review published in 2018 compared honey with common over-the-counter children's cough remedies, a placebo, and no treatment.

The authors found that honey appeared to be more effective than diphenhydramine and salbutamol, which are drugs often used in cough medicines. Honey also produced similar results as dextromethorphan, another common ingredient.

The results were limited, however, as most studies in the review only looked at 1-night acute coughs.

3. Citrus fruits and berries

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, contain high levels of flavonoids and vitamin C. These decrease inflammation and boost immunity, which may help to fight a fever.

Some studies suggest that a flavonoid called quercetin, which is also found in berries, may help to treat rhinovirus infections. This virus is responsible for the majority of common colds.

Frozen, slushy fruit juices can often help to soothe a sore throat.

Foods to avoid

Dairy is believed by many to increase mucus production, although there is little scientific evidence to support this. Dairy may make mucus thicker, however, which can worsen sinus congestion.

Caffeine can cause dehydration, which makes congestion worse. However, some caffeinated drinks, such as tea and coffee, contain immune-boosting antioxidants, and they may be helpful in moderation.

Alcohol can dehydrate and trigger an inflammatory response, which may aggravate cold and flu symptoms.

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

Ginger may help to reduce the effects of nausea and vomiting.

When someone has one or more of these symptoms, the key is to eat foods that settle the stomach. Doing so should help people to regain their appetite.

1. Ginger

Research suggests that ginger could help to reduce the effects of nausea and vomiting, although more studies are required to confirm these findings.

A person can make ginger tea by adding 1–2 teaspoons of fresh ginger to a cup of hot water. Steep the ginger for 5 minutes before straining the mixture and sweetening it with a little honey.

Crystallized ginger should be eaten in moderation, due to its high sugar content.

Avoid fizzy ginger ale, as this can further irritate an upset stomach.

2. BRAT foods

BRAT stands for: bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These foods are bland and gentle on the stomach.

The diet is rich in starch and contains little fiber, which can have a binding effect on loose stools and speed up recovery from diarrhea.

Other bland foods that can be added to a BRAT diet include:

crackers, oatmeal, watermelon, boiled potatoes.

A person should start slowly, sipping water regularly for the first few hours, before gently introducing other liquids, such as apple juice or broth.

If the stomach remains settled, it may be safe to try more solid BRAT foods.

Those sensitive to gluten should make sure to choose gluten-free options.

It will usually be safe to return to a more regular diet after around 48 hours.

3. Coconut water

An upset stomach occurs when the stomach lining becomes inflamed. Compounds called tannins that are present in coconut water may help to reduce this inflammation.

Coconut water is also high in minerals such as sodium and potassium. They can help the body to rehydrate quickly after diarrhea or vomiting.

One study found that coconut water may provide the same level of hydration as a sports drink. It is also more healthful, containing no added sugar. However, it is worth noting that this study only included 12 participants.

Foods to avoid

Greasy foods contain high levels of fats, which are difficult to digest and can irritate the stomach, worsening nausea.

Chilies contain capsaicin, a chemical that can irritate the lining of the stomach, causing pain and discomfort.

Caffeine acts as a muscle stimulant that can cause stomach cramps and increase bowel movements.

Dairy products contain a sugar called lactose that can be difficult to digest after diarrhea, causing bloating and nausea.

Artificial sweeteners can have a laxative effect.

Constipation

Oatmeal is an excellent source of fiber, which can help to relieve constipation.

The key to relieving constipation is to increase fiber intake.

Fiber is either soluble or insoluble. Soluble fiber traps water in the stools, making them softer and easier to pass. It also helps to nourish gut bacteria. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to stools, helping to clear the intestines.

Be aware that eating more dietary fiber can cause excess gas. A person should increase their intake gradually to avoid bloating.

Soluble fiber also absorbs a lot of water, so be sure to drink plenty.

1. Oatmeal and oat bran

A single cup of oatmeal made with water contains about 4 grams of fiber, around 16 percent of an adult's recommended daily intake.

While oatmeal only contains the germ of the oat, oat bran contains the fibrous husk as well. Because of this, it provides 5.7 grams of fiber per cup, so bran is even better for digestion.

Raw oats contain more fiber per serving than cooked oats and make an excellent addition to smoothies. Rolled oats are digested more easily than steel-cut oats when in the raw form.

It is important to stay hydrated when eating dry oats. The extra fiber from blended fruits will also help to relieve constipation.

2. Dried fruits

All fruits are good sources of fiber, but dried fruits, such as apricots, figs, and prunes, typically contain the highest levels.

These fruits also contain a natural laxative known as sorbitol, which promotes bowel movements by drawing water into the intestines.

Prunes and apricots also contain polyphenols, which can increase the amount of healthful gut bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These bacteria help to stimulate the intestines.

3. Flaxseed

Due to its high soluble fiber content, flaxseed is particularly good at supporting regular bowel movements.

It is also an excellent source of omega-3 essential fatty acids. There is some evidence that omega-3 acids reduce bowel inflammation, which can occur after prolonged constipation.

The outer shell of the seed cannot be digested, so people should eat pre-ground flax. This will allow the body to absorb the beneficial nutrients.

Ground flaxseed can be added to porridge and smoothies or used in baking.

Foods to avoid

Processed foods tend to be high in fats and salt, and low in fiber. Fats are difficult to digest, while salt decreases levels of moisture in stools.

Processed grains, such as white bread and white rice, have been stripped of the bran and germ. These are the parts that provide the highest levels of fiber.

Caffeine and alcohol can both cause dehydration, depleting the water needed to soften stools.

Summary

Dietary changes can provide some relief when an individual feels sick. A person should try to follow the recommended diet for their symptoms while avoiding foods that will worsen them.

It is important to remember that prevention is better than a cure. Staying hydrated and eating a healthful diet rich in nutrients will help to stave off many of the ailments listed above.

Source: By Charlotte Lillis https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321786.php

Chronic Hiccups and How to stop them..

source: by Claire Sissons, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320234.php

Chronic hiccups are a rare medical occurrence that can interrupt daily life and cause health problems.

Hiccups lasting longer than 48 hours are defined as chronic hiccups.

Chronic hiccups are a rare medical occurrence that can interrupt daily life and cause health problems. Sleeping and eating adjustments are often needed to cope with the condition.

The cause is not always apparent, but chronic hiccups are often related to an underlying medical issue.

In this article, we look at what could cause chronic hiccups, along with steps that can be taken to treat them.

What are chronic hiccups?

Chronic hiccups are hiccups that last more than 48 hours.

A hiccup is caused by an uncontrolled spasm of the diaphragm, followed by the vocal cords closing quickly and making a distinctive sound.

There is no clear cause of hiccups, but excitement, stress, or consuming specific food or drinks, such as fizzy soda, may trigger them.

Hiccups usually go away within a few minutes, but occasionally they may affect someone for hours. Hiccups lasting longer than 48 hours are classed as chronic and considered a serious medical condition.

In addition to being incredibly irritating, chronic hiccups often disrupt sleep and can make it difficult to eat or drink. They can sometimes have serious consequences, such as exhaustion, dehydration, and weight loss.

Causes

Although chronic hiccups have no clear cause, medication or a health condition could be to blame. While chronic hiccups are easy to diagnose, finding a possible underlying cause can take much longer and may not always be possible.

A hiccup is partly a spasm of the diaphragm, so conditions that irritate or inflame this part of the body, such as pneumonia or pleurisy, could be a factor in chronic hiccups.

The nerve that controls breathing may be damaged or irritated. Pressure could also have been placed on a nerve elsewhere in the body due to a change in the body, such as pregnancy or a tumor growing.

The part of the brain that controls unconscious actions, such as breathing, can stop working properly, perhaps after a stroke or head injury. Diseases affecting the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis, could have the same effect.

Chronic hiccuping may be a symptom of a gastrointestinal disease, which affects the stomach, gullet, large and small intestine, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Some examples include:

Crohn's diseasestomach ulcershepatitisappendicitis

There have been some reports of people developing chronic hiccups after undergoing brain surgery and gastrointestinal procedures, such as gastroscopy. These reports suggest that medical interventions on parts of the body associated with hiccups could trigger the condition.

Some medications are linked to chronic hiccups. These include drugs used in combination, such as chemotherapy and corticosteroids, which are used to treat some conditions, including severe allergies and skin diseases.

Treatment

As chronic hiccups are rare, there has been limited research into effective treatment and care.

Medication is usually effective in treating chronic hiccups, but further investigation into the underlying cause is necessary to determine how to prevent the hiccups from returning.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved chlorpromazine to treat chronic hiccups. Tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, and sedatives can also be used to disrupt the spasm creating the hiccup.

Sometimes, medication may not work, and surgery on the nerve that controls diaphragm movement may be necessary.

How to cope with chronic hiccups

The disruption to sleep caused by chronic hiccups may lead to exhaustion.

Chronic hiccups can have a serious impact on daily life. Living with the condition can be very stressful, causing anxiety and disrupting normal routines. As a result, trying to maintain good mental and physical health is essential.

Explaining the impact of the condition to colleagues, friends, and family, as well as seeking their support, can help someone cope with stress.

Chronic hiccups can make it difficult to sleep or cause someone to wake up during the night. This lack of sleep can result in a lack of energy during the day, causing exhaustion if the condition persists for a long time.

Getting plenty of rest and taking a nap during the day if possible can help prevent exhaustion. Regular exercise is important for a healthful lifestyle, but people should avoid activities that could be too tiring.

Hiccuping can make it difficult to eat and drink, which can result in a lack of energy, dehydration, malnutrition, or weight loss. It may be easier to eat smaller amounts of food throughout the day rather than eating larger meals at regular times.

Hot, spicy foods and fizzy drinks can make hiccups worse, so people should avoid them. Keeping a bottle of water on hand and drinking small amounts regularly throughout the day can help ensure a person stays hydrated.

People should also be aware of the possibility of choking on food or drink. Taking small mouthfuls and chewing food thoroughly before swallowing can help prevent this from happening.

Complications

A nasty taste in the mouth or pain when swallowing may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux.

If chronic hiccups last for a long time, they can affect overall health.

One study into chronic hiccups found that hiccups often occur when people are hospitalized and given a general anesthetic before surgery.

When this happens, there is worry that loss of sleep and difficulty eating, which the condition causes, could slow the recovery process.

Chronic hiccups can cause gastroesophageal reflux, where stomach acid leaks up into the food pipe. This can lead to the following symptoms:

heartburn and an unpleasant taste in the mouth, pain when swallowing, bloating, feeling sick, or bad breath.

Medications for gastroesophageal reflux include antacids, a type of over-the-counter medication that helps to reduce the amount of stomach acid produced. Stronger prescription medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPI), are also available.

Using an extra pillow to raise the head in bed and avoiding food and drinks that trigger heartburn may also help.

Outlook

Chronic hiccups are unpleasant and can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life.

It is crucial to get plenty of rest, eat and drink small amounts regularly and be aware of possible complications to help cope with the condition. Fortunately, medication is usually effective in treating chronic hiccups.

It can be difficult to determine the underlying cause of the condition. Doctors should perform a range of physical examinations and tests to diagnose any health condition that could be responsible for chronic hiccups to prevent them from happening again.

What to know about sleeping with earplugs

Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325284.php

Last reviewed Fri 24 May 2019 By Aaron Kandola Reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, PhD, RN, CRNA

Earplugs are generally safe to use while sleeping. However, it is possible that frequent use can lead to some minor problems in the long run, such as earwax buildup.

Sometimes, noise from the environment can disrupt sleep. For example, having a bedroom that faces a busy street can affect sleep duration. However, disrupted sleep may also be a problem when trying to sleep in different environments, such as on a plane.

Earplugs can significantly reduce the amount of sound entering the ears, which may help people get to sleep in noisy environments.

This article will discuss the safety of earplugs and the benefits they can provide.

Safety

Using earplugs is a great way to block out surrounding noises that can disturb a natural sleep pattern.

Not all noises have a negative effect on sleep. For example, some people find white noise or music helpful for falling asleep.

In many cases, however, noise can make it difficult to fall asleep or to get a full night's sleep.

Earplugs could promote good sleep for people who live in a noisy neighborhood or want to get some sleep on a flight.

What does the research say?

Research shows that earplugs are a safe and affordable way of improving sleep quality.

In some cases, the use of earplugs, along with eye masks, can increase rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. REM sleep is the deepest form of sleep and supports several important processes, such as memory consolidation.

Earplugs may also increase melatonin levels. Melatonin is a hormone that controls when the body is ready for sleep.

Compared with some other methods of inducing sleep, earplugs have fewer side effects. For example, both over-the-counter and prescription sleeping pills can have a range of side effects, such as dizziness and daytime drowsiness.

Types and how to use

It is important to use earplugs appropriately, depending on their type.

For expandable foam earplugs, roll them into a tight cylindrical shape and insert halfway into the ear canal, where they will expand.

Other types of earplugs are cone-shaped and will not expand in the ear. Carefully insert the smaller end into the ear canal and gently push the earplug in to tighten.

The earplug should noticeably reduce sound but still be comfortable enough to sleep in. At first, using earplugs may feel unnatural. However, this feeling will go away over time.

Risks

Wearing earplugs can lead to a buildup of earwax, causing itching and discomfort in the ear.

Although earplugs are safe to use in general, there is little information on how frequent use of earplugs over long periods of time could affect the ears.

One possible risk is a buildup of earwax. Earwax, or cerumen, is a waxy substance that helps protect the ear canal from water, bacteria, dead skin, and other harmful debris.

Earwax is important for maintaining good ear health, but it can also cause problems.

Repeatedly blocking the ear canal, such as with regular use of earplugs, can cause a buildup of earwax.

Having a buildup of earwax can cause:

itching and discomfort in the ear

tinnitus, a ringing noise in the ear

hearing difficulties

cough

dizziness

Treatments options for an earwax buildup include using medical eardrops or undergoing the direct removal of the earwax.

It is also possible for the regular use of earplugs to cause an ear infection. This can occur as a result of bacteria entering the ear canal from the earplug itself or growing from a buildup of earwax.

An ear infection can cause symptoms that include:

dizziness

nausea

vomiting

hearing problems

itching and discomfort in the ear

tinnitus

It is possible to treat a bacterial ear infection by taking antibiotic medications.

Other benefits

Getting enough sleep is essential for good health.

Earplugs can help improve the quality and duration of sleep. They can also allow people to take naps in public places and catch up on any missed sleep from the night before.

Getting enough sleep has a range of health benefits. A lack of sleep could increase the riskof chronic health conditions such as:

diabetes

heart disease

obesity

depression

Sleep deprivation can also have more immediate effects on the body and mind. Symptoms of sleep deprivation include:

drowsiness

problems concentrating

memory difficulties

reduced strength

increased risk of infection

mood swings

hallucinations

These symptoms can be highly disruptive to daily life. They can even be life threatening when they occur during driving or operating heavy machinery.

Earplugs can help people avoid sleep deprivation and the chronic health conditions it can cause. Adults should aim to get at least 7 hours of sleep per night, while teenagers and children tend to need around 8–13 hours of sleep every night.

Takeaway

Earplugs are a safe and affordable way of getting more good quality sleep. Frequent use of earplugs could lead to a buildup of earwax or an ear infection.

However, the dangers of sleep deprivation are more severe. Sleep deprivation can increase the risk of chronic health conditions and be highly disruptive to normal daily life.

People who are unable to get a good night's sleep due to excess noise in their environment may benefit from using earplugs.