Depression is a mood disorder that causes a constant feeling of sadness and a loss of interest. It is among the world’s most common mental health conditions to occur in individuals where more than 8% of the country’s adult population is affected by it. The symptoms of depression are severe, with intense signs that may include significant changes in an individual’s appetite, sleep, and overall health. Here are a few other symptoms to not miss: Increased fatigue Fatigue is a sign of various physical and mental health conditions. However, when the fatigue persists and is not accompanied by other physical symptoms, it can be attributed to depression. Low energy levels and high fatigue levels are some of the most commonly occurring warning signs of depression. Lack of focus Another warning sign of depression is the inability to focus, which can significantly impact a person’s daily routine and prevent them from completing tasks that would otherwise be relatively easy. Mundane activities such as paying attention in class or meetings, finishing homework, completing necessary chores, or reading a book can require tremendous effort. Regardless of the source of this lack of focus, it could be a warning sign of developing depression. Social isolation and withdrawal If someone is repeatedly declining invitations to social events or gatherings, it could indicate that they are beginning to experience depression.

Indigestion is a fairly common issue; however, some may experience it more frequently than others. The causes of indigestion can be varied, from choosing the wrong foods and eating too quickly to underlying health conditions. Certain treatments for other health issues may also cause indigestion. Upon noticing persistent gastrointestinal issues, one should consult a doctor and seek appropriate treatment options. Nevertheless, one can also opt for the following natural remedies to quickly relieve indigestion: 1. Try ginger tea Ginger does more than just add a unique flavor to foods and beverages. It is a well-known remedy for nausea and vomiting and regulates the speed at which food passes along the digestive system. So, it can help reduce gas, bloating, and a constant feeling of fullness. A cup of ginger tea in the morning or a ginger candy after meals can help aid digestion. 2. Chew on fennel seeds Fennel seeds can make the stomach alkaline, so they can help deal with acidity and heartburn. They also provide quick relief from bloating and gas and relax the intestinal muscles, which helps relieve constipation. Eating raw or roasted fennel seeds is the easiest way to have them, but one can also add them to boiling water, strain the solution, and have it warm.

For humans, water is vital for survival as it regulates electrolyte levels, lubricates joints, and transports oxygen and nutrients. For drinking purposes, tap water is often preferred since it is convenient and cost-effective. However, unbeknownst to many, tap water is also filled with invisible contaminants and can be quite dangerous for long-term use. Here are some of the side effects of drinking tap water and the reasons why one should purify it before consumption. Contains chlorine Chlorine, a chemical often found in tap water, is known for producing many corrosive acids. Chlorine is mainly used in water treatment facilities to disinfect the tap water. While it doesn’t show signs immediately, drinking chlorine water for a long time can put one at risk of developing chest and lung irritation, cough or sore throat, breathing issues, or even cancer. Presence of heavy metals or impurities Even though the local municipal authorities regulate tap water, one can often find small traces of chemicals or heavy metals like mercury, copper, lead, cadmium, and aluminum. If it has not been purified, it does not entirely eliminate all the toxic heavy metals. These metals, as they collect in the body over time, can cause brain deformities, kidney issues, high blood pressure, and other health concerns.

Cold sores (or fever blisters) that appear on or near the mouth are common symptoms of the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). These fluid-filled blisters can be extremely painful. While there is no permanent cure for this condition today, one can manage cold sores and relieve associated symptoms to improve their quality of life. Read on to learn about a few natural remedies that may help one get rid of cold sores: 1. Ice To manage pain associated with a cold sore, one should consider using an ice pack. It is important to wrap it in a towel before applying, as icing the area directly could damage the skin. 2. Sunscreen Direct sun exposure could trigger or worsen a cold sore. So, one should always wear sunscreen when heading out. 3. Aloe vera gel Aloe is well-renowned for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Using natural aloe on cold sores could be beneficial in fighting off viruses and helping the sore heal faster. 4. Apple cider vinegar A lot has been said about apple cider vinegar’s antimicrobial properties. It may help treat cold sores as well. However, it is best to dilute the vinegar in water before using it on the skin.

Life without blood cells is impossible to imagine. From supplying oxygen to forming blood clots and helping excrete waste products, the cells perform a host of functions. And that’s why it is important to detect any cell-related health conditions early. Myelodysplastic syndromes are a group of disorders in which the body generates cells that are either deformed or do not function well. Here are some signs and treatment options for myelodysplastic syndromes: Signs and symptoms Shortness of breath Many patients with myelodysplastic syndromes grapple with anemia. Since anemia is characterized by low red blood cell count, those suffering from anemia induced by myelodysplastic syndromes usually experience shortness of breath. Fatigue Anemia also tends to cause extreme tiredness and fatigue because oxygen levels in the body are very low. So, those with myelodysplastic syndromes may be highly fatigued throughout the day, even when not physically active. Frequent nosebleeds and bruises If one has a low platelet count, bleeding and bruising become more common than usual. For this reason, myelodysplastic syndrome causes frequent bruises and nosebleeds, even if the injury is minor. Petechiae Petechiae are tiny reddish spots that appear on the skin’s surface, often on the stomach and legs. Patients with myelodysplastic syndromes often experience bleeding into the skin, which reflects as these tiny spots on the skin.

Hemorrhoids are a common health complaint, generally around midlife. This condition is a result of swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum, which causes pain, swelling, itching, bleeding, and mucosal discharge, among other symptoms in the region. Although hemorrhoids are not typically dangerous, they can be painful and uncomfortable. So, here are a few ways to manage the condition at home, along with formal treatments and therapies to get rid of hemorrhoids. At-home management In case of mild swelling or symptoms, the following at-home remedies may help: – Increasing water intake can help reduce the risk of constipation or hard stool. – Eating high-fiber foods helps soften the stool and increase bulk, reducing pressure around the area. – One should avoid sitting on the toilet for a prolonged period. – Using topical treatments such as a hemorrhoid cream can help calm the affected area. – Soaking the affected region regularly in a warm or sitz bath can also help. – Ice packs can help relieve any swelling or pain. – Sitting on cushions rather than hard surfaces can help one manage swelling. – Using moistened pads (such as baby wipes) instead of regular toilet paper is a better option for gently cleaning the area.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common condition where bacteria enters the urethra and infects the urinary tract of individuals. This bacteria is found on the skin or enters through the rectum, resulting in infection in the tract. The bladder infection, called cystitis, is one of the most common UTIs. UTIs are curable with the right care given at the right time. Here are some key details about this health condition: UTI symptoms One can detect UTI on the basis of certain typical symptoms of the conditions, including: Burning sensation during urination Due to the bladder getting infected, it becomes particularly painful to urinate. Pain during urination is one of the earliest signs that a person is developing a UTI within their body. People who experience this symptom should not ignore it, as the disease can cause serious health issues, especially if the bacteria travels to the kidneys. Constant urge to urinate Studies have found that a UTI tends to put pressure on the bladder, resulting in the need to empty the bladder immediately. However, when affected individuals go to the toilet to relieve themselves, they are unable to urinate much or at all in some cases. Causes of UTIs A urinary tract infection can be caused by various factors.

Overactive bladder, or OAB, is when one feels a persistent, uncontrollable urge to pass urine. Often, people with this disease choose to stay away from social situations because of the embarrassment involved. But the good news is that identifying this problem early on can help treat it on time and prevent it from escalating. Doctors usually suggest a combination of medical interventions and lifestyle changes. Here is everything one should know about OAB: Causes and triggers of overactive bladder – Diabetes High blood sugar can damage the urinary tract nerves, which culminates in bladder problems. So, people with diabetes are highly prone to overactive bladder. – Neurological disorders Often, loss of control over urination can happen because of an underlying nerve, brain, or spinal cord problem. People with disorders like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis may suffer nerve damage, which can cause or worsen OAB. – Bladder stones Bladder stones or tumors and infections of the bladder can increase one’s risk of OAB because the bladder’s normal functioning is severely affected in many of these cases. – Certain treatments Sometimes, treatments for certain other diseases may trigger an overactive bladder, a side effect of the intervention. Symptoms of overactive bladder – Urgency incontinence Urgency incontinence is when one feels a sudden urge to urinate, after which one may experience an involuntary urine leak.