Eosinophils are white blood cells that circulate in the blood and help the immune system fight diseases. An abnormally high count of these cells can trigger inflammation and affect other organs in the body. Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an allergic reaction where the inflammation affects the esophagus, forcing the passage to become constricted and develop rings or abnormal abscesses. One way to counter this reaction is to eliminate certain foods from the nutrition regimen. Common discomforts of eosinophilic esophagitis Patients may experience abdominal pain, vomiting, chest pain, or heartburn. This reaction can also make it difficult to swallow food. Food can get stuck in the esophagus due to inflammation and constricted passages if the symptoms are left unchecked. Foods that trigger eosinophilic esophagitis This kind of allergic reaction is caused by one of these common trigger foods: Dairy products Dairy products and ingredients derived from them can trigger or worsen the symptoms. This includes milk, condensed milk, buttermilk, artificial cream, margarine, cheese, ice cream, sour cream, and even some forms of mayonnaise. Casein, lactose, lactoglobulin, lactalbumin, milk powders, milk sugars, milk solids, and whey proteins commonly used in recipes are also potential triggers to eliminate or consume in moderation as per the doctor’s advice.

When eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, start building up in the esophagus, it leads to a condition called eosinophilic esophagitis. This can cause symptoms like soreness, pain, heartburn, and difficulty swallowing. The condition is triggered by immune system dysfunction and allergic reactions. It is a rare disease, so there is limited awareness regarding its symptoms and treatment options. However, food plays an important role in managing the symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Dairy-free milk Milk and other dairy products are common food allergens that can aggravate the body’s allergic response. It is safer to eliminate all dairy-based foods from one’s meals and replace them with safer alternatives that do not trigger eosinophilic esophagitis. This means avoiding foods that include any milk compound, including lactose, casein, tagatose, and whey. Dairy-free milk derived from coconut, hemp, or rice is a great alternative. You can also use dairy-free cheese and yogurt. Egg substitutes Be it mayonnaise or meringue, anything that comes with eggs is can trigger an allergic reaction when dealing with eosinophilic esophagitis. This also includes baked goods that usually contain eggs. Check ingredient labels for compounds like lecithin, albumin, and globulin, and avoid such foods. Alternatives like apple sauce, mashed banana, flax seed and water mixture, and other binding ingredients can be used.

Leukemia refers to types of cancer that develop in the blood cells. A person is at a greater risk of developing the disorder if they are over 55. However, it isn’t uncommon for younger children to also suffer from similar complications. Moreover, a permanent cure for leukemia is still in the works. However, one can still follow simple methods to manage the condition, including eating specific foods to fight cancerous cells. Berries Berries have a long history of benefits in improving overall health. When it comes to leukemia, they are rich in antioxidants, which are known to protect the body from free radicals. Berries are specifically known to fight the effects of breast, bladder, and esophagus cancers. Tomatoes The antioxidant lycopene present in tomatoes may help those with leukemia manage the symptoms. The food is also rich in other properties like vitamins A, C, and E, known to fight free radicals that may trigger cancer formations in the body. Tomatoes are also known to benefit those with prostate cancer. Yogurt Yogurt contains healthy bacteria that can improve how a person handles the foods they eat. This bacteria is also known to regulate the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines in the body.

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that impacts one in every hundred children. It is a genetic condition that can be diagnosed early in life, with its symptoms being observable in children as young as 1 to 2 years of age. To be able to spot these early signs, parents need to be aware of the early indications of the condition. For example, children on the spectrum might not have the same degree of signs or the same condition, and early diagnosis can go a long way in helping both the patient and the parents. Here are a few signs and behavioral patterns to look out for: Avoiding eye contact Babies are great at maintaining eye contact with people around them. It is also suggested that since infants cannot communicate verbally, eye contact is their preferred mode of communication. Babies can identify faces and respond to people who address them. It is a crucial social skill to help build relationships and take note of what is happening in their surroundings. Children on the autism spectrum are prone to less visual contact as compared to children who are not on the spectrum. If any children constantly avoid eye contact and prefer to speak to someone without looking at them, it might be an early indication of autism spectrum disorder.

While safeguarding public health has always been a key concern, recently, it has become all the more important with the emergence of new-age viruses such as COVID-19. One of the most prevalent strategies in protecting people against such emerging threats involves strengthening their immunity through certain lifestyle changes and preventive care. Here is a look at the impact of respiratory viruses and common approaches adopted today to improve immunity against these pathogens: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on lung health. With the novel coronavirus primarily affecting the respiratory system, many who contracted the infection experienced symptoms ranging from mild cough to pneumonia. Further, studies have shown that COVID-19 even led to a range of pulmonary complications, including fibrosis (scarring of lung tissue), reduced lung function, and lasting inflammation. All of these factors further highlight the importance of bolstering immunity today. Treatment options and preventive measures Treatment options for respiratory viruses primarily revolve around preventive measures and vaccination. Vaccination plays a crucial role in reducing the spread and impact of viral infections by stimulating an immune response against the viruses. There are two main types of COVID-19 vaccines, mRNA-based vaccines, and non-mRNA vaccines, each designed to trigger an immune response without causing the disease.

Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux—a common digestive issue that can cause discomfort if left untreated. Here, the stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and throat. While heartburn is usually a manageable condition, recognizing its early warning signs is crucial for preventing it from becoming a recurring issue and causing prolonged discomfort. So, here are a few warning signs of heartburn: Burning sensation in the chest One of the most common and unmistakable signs here is a burning sensation in the chest. This sensation itself is called heartburn because of its slight similarity to heart-related chest pain. This discomfort typically develops after eating a large meal, especially while lying down or bending over. Acidic taste in the mouth Those experiencing heartburn may experience an unpleasant, sour taste in their mouth. This is brought on by the stomach acid backing up into the esophagus and leaving a bitter or acidic taste. Regurgitation Along with the acidic taste, those with heartburn may occasionally expel small amounts of stomach contents into their mouth or throat, which can be uncomfortable. Difficulty swallowing Heartburn can make it difficult to swallow foods. This symptom is known as dysphagia.

Amyloidosis is a rare yet potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of amyloid proteins in various organs and tissues. These proteins can misfold and accumulate in various body parts, leading to organ dysfunction. Early detection is crucial for effective management, but this can be challenging due to the vague nature of its symptoms. This article explores the critical early warning signs of amyloidosis, offering valuable insights to help individuals recognize this condition initially. To identify the early warning signs of amyloidosis, one must be vigilant for the following: Fatigue and weakness Amyloidosis can manifest with persistent fatigue and weakness, often attributed to other causes. This fatigue may interfere with daily activities and is not relieved by rest. Swelling and fluid retention Amyloid deposits in organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver can lead to fluid retention and swelling, known as edema. Swollen ankles, legs, or abdomen may indicate underlying amyloidosis, mainly if there is no apparent injury or infection. Skin changes Some forms of amyloidosis can affect the skin, causing purplish or waxy patches, nodules, or easy bruising. These skin changes are often mistaken for dermatological issues, underscoring the importance of considering amyloidosis as a potential cause. Heart-related symptoms Amyloid deposits in the heart can lead to irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

Itchy skin (pruritus) is a sensation that most people have experienced at some point in their lives. While it’s often a harmless and temporary annoyance, persistent or severe itching could be a sign of an underlying skin condition or a systemic health issue. However, people might often misidentify them as the result of other conditions, which could make things worse. Therefore, here are 10 signs of itchy skin to help individuals identify the condition and seek treatment at the earliest. Redness and Rash One of the most evident signs of itchy skin is redness and the development of a rash. The skin may appear inflamed, with patches of redness or raised bumps. These rashes may vary in size and shape and are often accompanied by intense itching. Common causes of itchy rashes include allergic reactions, insect bites, and contact dermatitis. Dry Skin Dry, flaky skin might also lead to itching. When the skin lacks proper hydration, it becomes more prone to irritation and itching. Factors such as cold weather, low humidity, and excessive bathing or harsh soaps could contribute to dry skin and subsequently provoke itching. Burning Sensation Some individuals with itchy skin may experience a burning or stinging sensation in addition to itching.