Colon cancer is the second largest cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. According to reports, the chances of developing this health condition are higher in millennials than in older adults. Due to these findings, many experts have reduced the recommended age of regular colon screenings from 50 to 45 years. One must visit a doctor as soon as possible after experiencing the following early warning symptoms of the disease. Rectal bleeding Blood in the stools is one of the most common early signs of colon cancer. Doctors may send a stool sample to the laboratory for a fecal occult blood test when this symptom occurs. Pain in the abdomen Any abdominal or stomach pain (including discomforts like bloating or cramps) can be an early symptom of this health condition. The pain is due to the formation of cancer cells in the abdominal region. Changes in bowel habits Irregularities or changes in bowel habits, such as constipation and diarrhea, are early indicators. Some patients may report changes in stool consistency or narrowing of the stool. Fatigue This is a common sign in many health conditions and should not be ignored. Improper absorption of minerals in the body can lead to complications like anemia, which can cause fatigue, tiredness, or weakness.

Health insurance is a mandatory requirement for all residents in the country. Moreover, a multifold increase in medical costs has made it difficult to afford decent healthcare without insurance. But with so many plans and policies available for Medicare, Medicaid, and Medigap, choosing the right one can be challenging. It is also important to note and avoid these common mistakes while planning for healthcare coverage for self and one’s family. Here are some to avoid: Not researching properly You have to do primary research to understand the options for health insurance. For example, United Healthcare (UHC) offers exclusive Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNP) benefits to qualifying applicants covering Medicare and Medicaid. Seniors above 65, those with special needs due to disabilities, and citizens eligible in the low-income criteria can apply for particular insurance policies by UHC. These criteria also impact part A and part B premiums payable for 2022. Without research, you might miss several of these benefits provided by private insurance companies. Taking insufficient coverage Policy coverage is one of the critical factors to consider when choosing health insurance plans. The first point to consider here is the average waiting period for the policies to activate and cover expenses.

Water is one of the most essential components for the survival of all living organisms. However, rapid urbanization and industrialization over the last few decades have led to an increase in the contamination of water sources in the country. Even with multiple facilities designed for filtration and purification, drinking water can have hazardous elements that increase the risk of known chronic diseases and severe illnesses. Here is a look at the consequences of water contamination: Health concerns As the human body is made up of nearly 70% water, most organs and functions are affected by consuming contaminated water. Here are the common consequences: Heavy metal contamination issues Heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and mercury increase the risk of developing cancer in the liver, bladder, or lungs. Long-term consumption can affect neurological development among kids affecting their cognitive skills. Women drinking contaminated water during pregnancy are at substantial risk of developing fetal malformations. Heavy metals like arsenic can also be introduced into breast milk, affecting the health of breastfed newborns. Respiratory issues and autoimmune disorders Byproducts of chlorine and other chemicals used for disinfection can mix with groundwater. These chemicals adversely affect the upper respiratory tract, causing chest pain and lung irritation.

Eosinophilic esophagitis, widely known as EoE, is an allergic condition of the esophagus – the tube connecting the mouth and stomach. When a person suffers from it, their esophagus becomes inflamed and unable to contract. This condition can lead to the development of abscesses or rings, and the body employs eosinophils, better known as white blood cells, to counter it. It can happen at any age, and the symptoms vary between persons. Symptoms Eosinophilic esophagitis is a disease that is often confused with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) due to matching symptoms. The symptoms of the condition differ with age and can also vary from one patient to another, but may include trouble while swallowing, food getting stuck in the throat, upper abdominal and chest pain, heartburn, and vomiting. Causes and risk factors This condition develops when eosinophils build up in the esophagus, causing discomfort and inflammation. Multiple factors like food allergies, history of the disease in the family, and climatic conditions may put a person at risk of developing this health condition. Food allergies Food allergies are one of the biggest risk factors as it triggers the eosinophils to travel to the esophagus. It can sometimes even lead to medical emergencies and may require the assistance of a healthcare professional.

Some people often experience chronic stabbing pain in their heels, especially when they get out of bed. The phenomenon is caused because of a health condition called plantar fasciitis. It affects the lower region of an individual’s foot. The pain caused by the condition leads to immense discomfort and unbearable pain that may affect one’s ability to indulge in daily activities like walking. But with the right footwear, one can improve, cope and manage the condition. Mistakes with picking footwear for plantar fasciitis One must find footwear ideal for the gait and foot anatomy, as it helps prevent stress injuries. Many people go to a store and purchase a pair of shoes based on a sales associate’s input or how attractive the kicks look. However, this selection process is flawed as it does not account for the essential comfort factors needed for people with plantar fasciitis. Moreover, shoes that are uncomfortable due to under or oversized, cushioned, or structured footwear may lead to an altered gait pattern, causing more discomfort. Choosing the right shoes Healthcare experts like physical therapists and podiatrists do not prescribe a specific type of shoe for plantar fasciitis. Each person is evaluated differently to understand which shoe is suitable for their situation.

Peyronie’s disease is a health condition affecting men, where scar tissues cause the penis to curve and lose girth or length. It is a rare case of erectile dysfunction (ED), and in severe cases, it might be painful enough for the patient to avoid intercourse. Unfortunately, the disorder remains undertreated due to its embarrassing nature, even though one in a hundred males over 18 in our country receive a diagnosis for the same. Symptoms The primary symptom of this condition is a curvature of the penis. The other signs to look for are painful erections, shortened penis, lumps in the penis, loss of girth, and discomfort during intercourse. Usually, these symptoms develop slowly but can sometimes be noticed overnight. Causes and risk factors The definite cause of Peyronie’s disease is yet to be understood, but it is most likely due to damage to small blood vessels during sports or an accident. Although every male does not develop it, a few factors can increase the risk: Family history Experts believe the disorder might be hereditary, causing it to pass on to the males in the family. So, if a father suffers from the condition, it may likely be passed on to his son.

Multiple myeloma is a rare health condition involving cancer of plasma cells. Plasma cells secrete immunoglobulin or antibodies responsible for fighting infections and boosting the immune system. Cancerous plasma cells begin developing in the bone marrow in patients with multiple myeloma. The exact causes of multiple myeloma are unknown; however, factors like benzene exposure, age, and specific ethnic backgrounds have been linked with it. This article analyzes various myeloma stages, prognosis, symptoms, and treatment options. Stages of Multiple Myeloma Multiple myeloma stages are typically classified using one of two distinct evaluation systems – the Durie-Salmon staging method and the International Staging System (ISS): Durie-Salmon staging This staging method classifies multiple myeloma into three stages based on factors such as the number of myeloma cells, hemoglobin and albumin counts, the amount of M-protein in one’s blood or urine, calcium levels in the blood, and the level of bone damage caused by myeloma cells. This method also classifies myeloma into Group A or Group B, wherein A indicates no damage to kidneys, whereas B implies kidney damage. A person could be classified as Stage IIB, for example. International Staging System (ISS) The following aspects are considered under ISS: Albumin levels The average albumin level is 3.5 to 5.5 mg/dL.