Pneumonia is an infection that can cause inflammation of the air sac in the lungs, either one or both. In pneumonia patients, the air sacs become filled with pus or fluid, leading to fever, chest pain, cough (often with pus or phlegm), and breathing difficulties. While anyone can develop the condition, young children and older adults are more susceptible to it. Learning the silent signs of pneumonia is imperative for timely diagnosis and treatment. 10 silent signs of pneumonia Typically, the symptoms indicating the development of pneumonia can vary from one person to the other. While it can be mild for some, it can also be severe. Its severity often depends on certain factors, such as the age of the patient, his/her overall health, and the type of pneumonia-causing germ. Furthermore, in cases of mild pneumonia, the signs can be quite similar to the ones experienced during a cold or flu. However, they may last longer. Therefore, it is essential to watch for the silent signs of pneumonia mentioned below. Chills One of the silent signs that can indicate pneumonia is chills. These can be mild in most cases. But sometimes, especially in adults, these chills can also cause one to shake uncontrollably (also known as rigors).

A type of cancer that starts in the lungs is known as lung cancer. Here, abnormal growth of cells results in a tumor or cancerous mass in the lungs. The treatment for the condition is determined by the stage of cancer. Some of the initial signs of the condition can overlap with common infections. So, it is important to be vigilant and get examined upon noticing the following signs for an early diagnosis.  Common signs While symptoms can differ based on the stage of cancer, here are some of the common signs associated with the onset of lung cancer: A persistent cough that does not go away for weeks on end and continues to get worse Sudden loss of appetite Coughing up blood or rust-colored spit or phlegm (also called sputum) Chest pain that gets worse with deep breathing, coughing, or even laughing Shortness of breath Hoarse voice Feeling tired or weak Onset of wheezing Infections that do not go away or come back often, like bronchitis and pneumonia On the other hand, if lung cancer spreads to different regions of the body, it may cause the following symptoms: Bone pain: The pain here is usually observed in the hips or the back.

Maintaining eye health is often overlooked despite our vision playing a crucial role in our daily lives. We must take proactive steps to ensure that our eyes stay healthy. Even if one has no vision problems, adopting a few healthy habits can go a long way in preserving vision and reducing the likelihood of developing eye issues. This article will provide ten tips to help one maintain healthy eyes. 1. Do not rub the eyes Our hands are exposed to bacteria, dust, and dirt. These can transfer to the eyes whenever one rubs or touches them. So, one must avoid touching their eyes without washing their hands. 2. Go for a regular eye examination Getting assistance from an eye specialist is imperative to maintain healthy vision. Depending upon any ongoing health condition or one’s current eye health, an optometrist may advise how often one must get a vision examination and recommend some measures to shield one’s eyes. 3. Eat healthy, balanced foods Maintaining sound eye health requires paying attention to what one eats. A diet that includes a variety of vegetables and fruits, mainly green, leafy, or deep yellow, can provide the essential vitamins needed for healthy eyes. Additionally, incorporating Omega-3 fatty acids from flax and chia seeds can supply the vital nutrients and vitamins necessary for good eye health.

Dental issues can be particularly troublesome for seniors, affecting their overall well-being and quality of life. Dental implants, often hailed as the gold standard in tooth replacement, offer numerous benefits to seniors seeking to regain their smile, confidence, and oral function. Keep reading this article to learn about the benefits of dental implants for seniors and why they are a transformative solution for a happier and healthier life in the golden years. 10 benefits of dental implants for seniors Improved quality of life Dental implants can significantly enhance the quality of life for seniors. Missing teeth can lead to difficulty chewing, speaking, and enjoying favorite foods. As seniors age, malnutrition becomes a concern due to limited food choices and reduced ability to chew properly. In such cases, dental implants restore full oral function, allowing seniors to savor their favorite meals without restrictions. This improvement in nutrition can positively impact overall health, energy levels, and longevity. Enhanced self-esteem and confidence A confident smile can work wonders for self-esteem and mental well-being. Seniors with missing teeth may feel conscious about their appearance, which can lead to social withdrawal and reduced self-confidence. Here, dental implants offer a natural-looking and permanent solution to help seniors regain their smiles and feel more comfortable in social situations.

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a complex neurological disorder characterized by involuntary and repetitive movements of various body parts, most commonly the face, neck, and trunk. These abnormal movements often occur as a side effect of certain treatments. Other factors can contribute to its development as well. It has a multitude of causative factors. Understanding these causes is vital for healthcare providers and individuals alike, ultimately aiming to mitigate the impact of this challenging neurological disorder. Treatment-induced tardive dyskinesia The primary and most widely acknowledged cause of tardive dyskinesia is the prolonged use of certain treatment options. These treatments are typically prescribed to manage psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression. Unfortunately, while they can be effective in treating these conditions, long-term use can lead to the development of TD. Other risk factors While treatment use is the dominant cause, several additional risk factors can contribute to an individual’s susceptibility to tardive dyskinesia: Age:  Older adults are at a higher risk of developing TD. This may be due to age-related changes in brain structure and function, making them more vulnerable to treatment effects. Genetics:  Genetic factors can influence an individual’s likelihood of developing TD. Some people may have a genetic predisposition that makes them more susceptible when exposed to triggering treatment options.

Arthritis and joint pain can interfere with daily life, making the simplest of tasks challenging. While treatment is crucial, complementing it with a joint-friendly breakfast routine can help alleviate discomfort and improve mobility. Nutrient-rich foods added to delicious recipes can support joint health to make carrying out everyday tasks easier. This article explores 12 flavorful and wholesome breakfast options that can make a significant difference in managing arthritis and joint pain. Oatmeal Oatmeal has long been hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, and it is an excellent choice for those dealing with joint pain. This comforting breakfast option is rich in soluble fiber, which helps lower inflammation—a major contributor to arthritis discomfort. Additionally, oatmeal contains beta-glucans, compounds known for their immune-boosting properties. To make it even more joint-friendly, one can top the oatmeal with antioxidant-rich fruits like berries and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits. Greek yogurt Greek yogurt, with its creamy texture and protein punch, is a great addition to any morning routine. The high protein food helps maintain muscle mass, which is crucial for supporting joints. Plus, it is packed with calcium, essential for strong bones and cartilage. One should opt for plain Greek yogurt and add fresh fruits like bananas and kiwis.

In today’s fast-paced world, sugar-laden temptations lurk around every corner, often disguised as delightful treats or comforting beverages. The prevalence of high sugar consumption has given rise to a myriad of health concerns, ranging from diabetes to heart disease and beyond. In this article, we will explore the health issues brought about by excessive sugar intake and the subtle signs that may indicate an individual is unwittingly overindulging in this sweet yet harmful substance. Thanks to the advancement in health research, high blood sugar can be managed with healthy eating, blood glucose monitoring, exercising regularly, and insulin therapy. In more serious cases, surgery may also be advisable. One can visit a healthcare professional for a detailed diagnosis and treatment plan. By seeking timely intervention, those with diabetes can pave the way for a healthier future. Signs of excessive sugar intake An individual who has too much sugar might show certain signs, as mentioned below: Frequent sugar cravings Individuals struggling with a sugar addiction often experience persistent cravings for sugary foods and drinks. These cravings may signify that the body has grown accustomed to elevated sugar levels, initiating a consumption cycle and an insatiable desire for sweetness. Difficulty concentrating Sharp fluctuations in blood sugar levels can impair cognitive function.

Muscular dystrophy is not a single condition; it is a term used to define a collective of genetic disorders that cause muscle degeneration and weakness in healthy tissue. It is categorized into several types since each condition affects a particular function or organ, causing unique symptoms. The condition has no cure, but treatments can help improve one’s quality of life and outlook living with muscular dystrophy. Here are the common signs and treatments explained. Symptoms Common symptoms range from muscle weakness and muscle loss to severe motor dysfunction. Here are some major ones to note. Muscle weakness One of the first symptoms of muscular dystrophy is muscle weakness that typically starts in the pelvic and shoulder muscles and progresses to nearby muscle groups over time. Children with DMD often have difficulty standing up from a sitting position, climbing stairs, and lifting objects. The weakness tends to be more pronounced in the lower limbs and worsens with the disease progression. Difficulty walking As the disease progresses, individuals with muscular dystrophy may experience difficulty walking or completing general day to day actions. They may develop a waddling gait and may have trouble maintaining balance. Some individuals may eventually require a wheelchair or other mobility aid to get around.

Vaccines are biological preparations aimed at providing active, acquired immunity to an infectious or malignant disease. In the past few years, mRNA and Novavax vaccines have been administered to control the spread of the coronavirus. mRNA and Novavax vaccines have garnered significant attention for their efficacy and rapid development. This article attempts to shed light on the Novavax vaccine and highlights the key differences that set it apart from mRNA vaccines. Novavax’s approach Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine, known as NVX-CoV2373 or simply Novavax, is built upon a different platform than the mRNA vaccine. It belongs to a category of vaccines called protein subunits. The fundamental principle of protein subunit vaccines is to introduce a harmless part of the virus into the body to stimulate an immune response without causing the infection. In the case of Novavax, the vaccine is formulated using a small piece of the spike protein found on the surface of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is responsible for facilitating entry into human cells. This spike protein is produced in the lab and serves as the antigen, which triggers an immune response. The immune system recognizes this foreign protein as a potential threat and develops antibodies against it. These antibodies are then ready to neutralize the spike protein if the person is later exposed to the actual virus.

Novavax is a biotechnology company that specializes in the development of vaccines. During the pandemic, one of the most notable vaccine candidates developed by the company was its COVID-19 vaccine. Known as NVX-CoV2373 or simply the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine, it received regulatory approvals in various countries. However, the eligibility criteria for receiving the vaccine may vary from one country to another. Here are a few key facts about the vaccine: How was the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine developed? Novavax developed its COVID-19 vaccine to stimulate an immune response against the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for the pandemic. So, the NVX-CoV2373 vaccine is a protein subunit vaccine. It does not have a live or weakened virus, but rather, it uses a small piece of the virus’s spike protein to trigger an immune response. Here is how it was developed and tested: – Novavax conducted multiple phases of these clinical trials to assess the safety and efficacy of its COVID-19 vaccine. These trials took place in various countries, and the efficacy of the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine varied depending on the trial location and the prevalence of virus variants. Efficacy rates ranged from around 48.6% to over 90%, depending on the specific trial and the circulating variants.