Small teardrop-shaped growths known as polyps form in many parts of our body like the colon, bladder, nose, and sinuses. While the colon and bladder polyps can become cancerous, the nasal polyps are common and noncancerous. They can form in any part of the nasal passage and the sinus. However, they are more commonly found in the sinuses close to our eyes, nose, cheekbones, which drain into the nasal cavity. 1. Causes of nasal polyps? Doctors have not been able to establish a definite cause for the formation of nasal polyps. However, doctors say that if the nasal passages get inflamed and remain so for more than three months or more, nasal polyps may form, normally occurring in clusters. Such inflammation can be triggered by asthma, allergies, acute sinus infections, cystic fibrosis, and some small objects stuck in the nose. The fact that polyps form as an immune response is a consensus arrived at by research to ascertain more precise causes of nasal polyps. 2. Types of nasal polyps Sinuses are pockets of air in our faces, and they are connected to the nasal package through a small tube. Sinuses allow airflow from the nose to the sinus. Sinuses also help in draining the mucus from each sinus into the nose 3.

Healthy cells grow when they receive signals and undergo repair or die when they are damaged or old. When cells begin to grow and multiply uncontrollably, it leads to cancer. The DNA has specific information for cell growth and division. If the genes go through changes during cell division, it is known as a mutation and can affect cell growth and increase cancer risk. Let’s look at how genetics and cancer are associated. 1. Is cancer a genetic disease? Today, only about 5-10 percent of all cancer cases are directly caused by genetic defects, and research has linked mutations in specific genes to over 50 hereditary cancer syndromes that increase the risk of certain cancers. 2. What is the link between genetics and cancer? Changes in the genes can be inherited or acquired due to various factors throughout one’s lifetime. A child might inherit a particular gene mutation from a parent. A genetic mutation that occurs at the time of conception elevates a child’s risk of developing a specific type of cancer. Inherited genetic mutations increase the risk, but it does not mean that an individual with these mutations will develop the disease. Genetic mutation can also occur due to external triggers like cigarette smoking, dietary habits, and environmental factors.

Hemorrhoids refer to swollen or enlarged veins inside and outside the rectum and anus, the lowest parts of the large intestine through which solid waste leaves the body. Everyone has hemorrhoids, but they don’t cause discomfort until they get inflamed. That said, swollen hemorrhoids can cause pain and even rectal bleeding. The treatment for hemorrhoids varies depending on the type of the condition and the symptoms. 1. Internal hemorrhoids and their treatment Internal hemorrhoids form inside the rectum, the part of the digestive system that connects the colon to the anus. These types of hemorrhoids may bleed but aren’t usually painful. Patients do not feel any pain or discomfort unless they grow in size. Internal hemorrhoids tend to go away on their own without treatment. That said, doctors may inject a solution into the hemorrhoid tissue for treatment, causing a scar that will close it. Stapling or rubberband ligation is also used to cut off blood supply to the hemorrhoid tissue and push prolapsed hemorrhoids back into place. Surgery or laser treatment is used to remove very large internal hemorrhoids. 2. External hemorrhoids and their treatment External hemorrhoids grow on the anus, causing severe pain. Unlike internal hemorrhoids, they can be seen as well as felt by hand.

Sweating helps the body maintain its temperature. It happens for many reasons, such as exposure to hot weather, physical exertion, eating hot or spicy foods, and psychological states, like fear. In most cases, sweating stops, and the body cools down. However, sometimes, sweating occurs excessively, more than the body needs to cool itself. This condition is called excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis. Here, we discuss the main causes and treatments for excessive sweating. Causes of excessive sweating Excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis can be of two types: primary and secondary. We shall understand their causes briefly: 1. Primary hyperhidrosis In this case, abnormal sweating occurs for no apparent reason. It is just that some people have overactive nerves that trigger the sweat glands to produce more sweat than necessary. The abnormal nerves are linked to the genetics of a person. Scientists have discovered that more than 80 percent of the people who have primary hyperhidrosis develop excessive sweating during puberty. 2. Secondary hyperhidrosis This type of excessive sweating is triggered by other conditions, such as diabetes, infectious diseases like tuberculosis, or, sometimes, during hormonal changes, such as puberty or menopause. Treatments for excessive sweating There are quite a few ways to treat excessive sweating, including:

Cancer. The word grabs attention and often leaves one feeling morose. But it will be uplifting to learn that while cancer cases are increasing, the number of people recovering is also going up. With medical advancements, many treatment options are available these days. Here, we will discuss the treatment options for prostate cancer, a common type of cancer seen in men. Treatments for prostate cancer Many crucial factors determine the course of cancer treatment, including the size of the tumor, how far it has spread, the growth rate, and the patient’s age and preferences. In some cases, immediate intervention in terms of treatment may not be necessary. Low-grade tumors typically necessitate only active surveillance, that is, regular tests. Here are the treatment options for prostate cancer: 1. Surgery If cancer has not spread and if the patient is healthy, doctors often recommend surgery. The typical process is a radical prostatectomy, where experts remove the prostate, some surrounding tissues, and a few lymph nodes. There are naturally some risks with any surgery. This treatment can cause bladder control issues and erectile dysfunction. One can speak to a surgeon and oncologist before deciding on surgery as a treatment option. In some cases, surgery need not be enough, and doctors might use other treatments in combination.

Hormonal birth control methods release the hormones progestin or estrogen or both through various devices. These are then gradually released into the bloodstream over a specific period based on the type of device. The hormones work in two ways – they prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs. They also thicken the cervical mucus in the vagina, preventing fertilization. This article discusses various birth control methods in detail. 1. Hormonal IUDs Commonly known as IUDs, these are T-shaped devices placed in the uterus as long as women want to avoid pregnancy. The device has to be placed and removed only by a healthcare worker. The IUDs contain hormones that will be gradually released for the specified period. Remember the expiry date and remember to get it changed after that. Using a hormonal IUD beyond the specific duration makes it ineffective and could result in pregnancy. There are currently four hormonal IUDs approved for the US market. This method of birth control is very popular as their effectiveness can be as high as 99.8%. These are ideal for women who have had one or more kids and are not comfortable using condoms or rings that require frequent insertion and removal. Hormonal IUDs can also help in regulating menstrual cycles and related pain and cramps.

Colon cancer is considered to be a lifestyle-induced cancer, with obesity being one of its primary risk factors. People with a high BMI have higher levels of insulin, which can affect cell functioning in the colon. In an obese person, the brain stops responding to a hormone called leptin, which inhibits hunger, resulting in overeating. Abnormal leptin levels also lead to colon cancer. Here are other risk factors if the condition. Risk factors of colon cancer and methods used for diagnosis 1. Lifestyle habits Physical inactivity contributes to obesity, and hence it is a major risk factor for colon cancer. A person whose diet has more junk and processed food over fresh food, red meat over seafood, or sugary desserts instead of fruits and vegetables is also at high risk of the condition. It contributes to weight gain. These items are also rich in unhealthy fats, additives, and chemicals that contribute to many types of cancer, including colon cancer. Tobacco users and moderate to heavy drinkers are also extremely vulnerable to cancer. 2. Age and race Men over and above the age of 50 are more susceptible to the disease as compared to women above 50. Apart from this, individuals of African American descent are at a higher risk of colon cancer than individuals of other races.

Osteoporosis is a bone condition characterized by the increase in the size of the honeycomb-like mesh interior inside a bone. The increased internal spaces make the bone less dense and weak. Typically the wrists, ribs, hips, and spine are affected.  Popular treatment options With incurable and progressive diseases like osteoporosis, patients must work together with doctors to develop an implementable treatment plan to improve their quality of life. And this could include medication, supplements, exercise, and lifestyle modifications that slow the breakdown and even attempt to strengthen existing bones and spur the growth of new ones. Here are some popular treatment options.  1. Medication The most commonly prescribed medication for osteoporosis patients is bisphosphonates. When taken orally or via injections, these help maintain bone mass. It includes tablets like Actonel and Fosamax. However, the formation of ulcers is a side effect of such medicines. Zoledronic acid, a venal infusion, helps increase bone strength and reduce the risk of fractures. Doctors generally prescribe tablets be taken weekly or monthly, and the intravenous infusion is given once a year. Nausea, vomiting, and bone pain are, unfortunately, prevalent side effects after a dose. There are also hormone regulating tablets like Evista, Forteo, and Tymlos that help to combat osteoporosis.  2.

The main component of red blood cells is hemoglobin, which is iron-rich. It enables the transfer of oxygen from the lungs to different parts of the body. Anemia is a condition in which there is a deficiency of red blood cells, resulting in pallor or weariness. Below, we list a few long-term effects of the condition: 1. Severe fatigue Anemia causes you to feel tired most of the time and disables you from performing everyday tasks. Constant anemia for a prolonged time may render you unable to complete tasks in both personal and professional lives. Long-term anemia is also linked to depression and incompetence. 2. Increased susceptibility to infections Oxygen is one of the most essential nutrients for the immune system to function in its optimal state. Anemia also affects the white blood cells and immune system due to the corresponding lack of oxygen supply. Prolonged anemia further compromises the body’s defense system, which leads to a higher chance of susceptibility to infections. 3. Complications during pregnancy Doctors suggest that pregnant women include folic acid in their diet to avoid folate deficiency anemia. This type of anemia causes complications like premature birth. The baby in the womb may also face developmental and functional issues in the nerves and bones, thus increasing the chances of a low birth weight.

Dry eye is a common problem. It can be largely caused by exposure to wind, too much screen time, allergies, certain medications, and other underlying health conditions. While the causes are numerous, so are treatment options. Doctors can prescribe several options—from eye drops and oral medication to punctal plugs—to treat the condition. In this article, we enlist some effective eye drops that can  help manage dry eye. 1. Blink Tears Lubricating Eye Drops These eye drops work well for people with mild to moderate eye irritation and dryness. The product claims to provide long-lasting relief from dryness and itchiness in the eyes. They have a soothing effect on the eyes, offering relief almost as soon as you use them. The hyaluronate present in these drops helps hydrate the eyes adequately. 2. TheraTears Extra Lubricant Eye Drops Always trust your doctor, and always trust products created by doctors. Created by an ophthalmologist, these eye drops assure immediate and long-lasting relief from dry eyes. The preservation-free solution works by balancing out the electrolytes in tears and regulating osmolarity. Its formula mimics natural, healthy tears. The lack of preservatives makes it suitable for people with allergies as well. 3. Similasan Complete Eye Relief Eye Drops This brand uses natural ingredients rather than harsh chemicals to treat dry eyes.