Laundry detergents and fabric softeners are key items on one’s shopping list as people regularly wash clothes, bedding, and even furnishings. However, even the major brands in the business heavily rely on certain chemicals and additives that increase the potency and efficacy of their product. This, of course, can come at the cost of irritating sensitive skin. So here are six common ingredients in detergents that you should avoid if you have sensitive skin: Preservatives Soaps, detergents, and laundry cleaners are laced with preservatives that increase the shelf life of the product. Phenoxyethanol and formaldehyde are common preservatives that kill bacterial growth and stabilize the solution for long-term effectiveness. However, their direct contact with sensitive skin can result in harsh flare-ups and inflammation, especially among those who already suffer from skin disorders like eczema and psoriasis. Fragrances Artificial fragrances are added to cosmetic products and laundry detergents to make fabric smell great after a thorough wash. However, most artificial fragrances are made using an ethanol base that can cause irritation once the detergent comes in contact with the skin. Fragrances also release harmful fumes that should not be ingested. Parabens Parabens are the most common chemicals in water-based laundry detergents, as they increase the product’s shelf life and prevent mold from affecting the formula.

If you are an asthma patient, exposure to environmental triggers can lead to severe breathing problems. Being inadvertently exposed to these triggers for long periods can result in aggravated symptoms compromising your quality of life. Statistics suggest more than 26 million people in the country live with asthma. And if you are one of these people, you know how much the environment of the city you live in contributes to your daily life and health. Louisville, Kentucky Louisville is one of the cities in the country with the biggest red flag for people with asthma. It is also ranked high on the list of cities in the use of treatment for long-term asthma control and management. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Philadelphia is ranked 11th on the list of cities prevalent in asthma. It also ranks high on the list of places with a substantial number of asthma-related deaths. Philadelphia also is home to a greater amount of the population that is struggling to make ends meet. This directly or indirectly impacts the patient’s ability to seek treatment for their asthma and is a cause of poor lifestyle. Dayton, Ohio Dayton, Ohio, is ranked one of the worst cities for asthma patients. It is largely believed that the entire midwestern belt of the country is unhealthy for people with asthma to live in.

Acid reflux is a condition that causes heartburn due to the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. This is also referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Although it is a common condition, it can cause problems such as heartburn, nausea, vomiting, a dry cough, foul breath, difficulty swallowing, and chest pain. High-sodium meals, acidic foods, and lack of fiber worsen acid reflux. Here are the best foods to eat to avoid GERD. Best foods to consume to avoid GERD Oatmeal Oatmeal is a high-fiber, whole-grain breakfast cereal. Foods with a lot of fiber can lessen acid reflux. These foods also promote intestinal health and help general digestion by easing constipation. Oatmeal is also linked to the easy digestion of other foods and the absorption of stomach acid. Thus, including oatmeal in your breakfast meal significantly lowers GERD symptoms. Lean meat and seafood Lean meats are simpler to digest and less likely to cause GERD symptoms, such as skinless chicken breast baked or sautéed rather than fried and greasy. Other options for lean meat include turkey, leaner beef, and seafood like fish, prawns, and lobster. Fatty meats are typically higher in cholesterol and can cause heartburn, so leaner meats are a better option for GERD symptoms.

Eczema is one of the country’s most commonly diagnosed skin allergies, affecting over 31 million people with some form of the condition. There are many subtypes, and the symptoms also vary depending on the severity of the triggers or health complications that cause eczema. However, certain lifestyle habits like using harmful or harsh cosmetic products for daily skincare routines can also severely impact skin health. Here are 3 common types of soaps that trigger eczema allergies. Soaps with harsh cleansing agents For someone who may already have dormant skin allergies, cleansing agents can trigger flare-ups upon first contact. Most cleansing agent soaps designed to exfoliate the skin contain sodium lauryl sulfates that rob the skin of its natural oils and expose the delicate derma. Without proper hydration or natural moisture, the skin becomes more prone to developing cracks, sores, and infections. For this purpose, dermatologists recommend avoiding soaps and using emollients with an organic moisturizer base that gently exfoliates and rehydrates the skin. Fragrant soaps Artificial fragrances may smell really good and add that certain oomph factor to otherwise dull formulations used in soaps. But artificial fragrances are also one of the primary triggers of eczema flare-ups. When these soaps come in direct contact with the skin, many people tend to develop an allergic reaction that triggers inflammation, dryness, and persistent irritation.

Lung diseases might be difficult to manage if not diagnosed early. One such condition is MAC lung disease—an infection causing cough and fever, among other symptoms. On the other hand, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are both lung issues associated with swelling in the airways. Recognizing the warning signs of such respiratory issues can help one get an early diagnosis. So, here are some symptoms of lung diseases that require immediate attention: Chronic cough A chronic cough refers to a cough which has been prevalent for eight weeks or longer. This persistent coughing could be a sign that there is some underlying respiratory issue that needs immediate attention and treatment. Shortness of breath This is common if one is involved in some strenuous activity like exercising, which increases the heart rate. If one is experiencing labored breathing even in everyday normal activities, it is not a healthy sign. There could indicate other things like diaphragm not having enough space to contract and expand or an infection. It is better to not ignore this sign as just something temporary. Chronic mucus production Phlegm or sputum is the body’s way of dealing with an infection or an allergic reaction. It is known to be produced by the airways to help prevent allergens from entering or other environmental pollutants, which could be harmful to the lungs.

More than half of the human body is made up of water. This fluid is indispensable in helping different organs carry out their functions correctly. Drinking less water can cause dehydration and contribute to several health conditions. To avoid complications, smartwatches and mobile apps have been developed to remind people to drink water regularly and stay hydrated. The following are a few common repercussions one may face due to less water intake. Constipation Water helps food move through the gastrointestinal tract. When the body does not have sufficient water, it cannot perform this function effectively. As a result, individuals may experience hard stools or constipation. Bad breath Water helps produce saliva and destroy the bacteria inside the mouth, resulting in optimal oral hygiene. Dehydration hampers this process, leading to bad breath. The foul smell may not recede despite brushing regularly and practicing other oral care activities. Skin problems Although moisturizing and cleansing are essential skincare practices, they are typically ineffective if one does not drink enough water. Dry skin is among the most common symptoms of dehydration. The skin may appear sunken and dull, with dark circles underneath the eyes and chapped lips. Dark-yellow urine When a person is dehydrated, the kidneys try to conserve water in the body, which causes the urine to become darker in color.

Pneumonia, a widespread respiratory condition, majorly affects the lungs and is triggered by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. The body’s response to pneumonia is unique to each individual. Some may exhibit mild symptoms that could be mistaken for a common cold, while others may experience severe signs requiring immediate medical attention. Pneumonia may particularly affect those with weak immune systems. Recognizing the early warning signs of pneumonia is essential for timely intervention. What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is an infection that causes swelling in the lungs. Pus or other fluids due to external infections build up in the organ, leading to several health issues. Early warning signs of pneumonia Cough and breathing issues Persistent cough, wheezing, or noisy breathing, particularly when inhaling, accompanied by noticeable breathing difficulty, are some of the most common signs of pneumonia. Increased heart rate An accelerated heartbeat can be an indicator of pneumonia as the body attempts to compensate for reduced oxygen levels. Chest discomfort Individuals might experience sharp, stabbing chest discomfort that is exacerbated with deep breaths. Sweating and fever Profuse sweating and high fever that can go up to 105 degrees Fahrenheit are some other telltale signs of pneumonia. Fatigue Pneumonia often brings extreme fatigue in individuals.

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a severe skin condition that can cause itching, inflammation, and discomfort. While there is no known cure, managing its symptoms often involves a holistic approach. One aspect of this approach is the role of nutrition. Certain foods can potentially play a crucial role in alleviating atopic dermatitis symptoms. This article explores the foods that may help manage this condition, shedding light on their potential benefits. Salmon Salmon is renowned for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA. These essential fats have anti-inflammatory properties, which can benefit individuals with atopic dermatitis. Omega-3s help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially alleviating the itching, redness, and irritation that eczema sufferers experience. Yogurt Yogurt, especially varieties containing live probiotic cultures, can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome. Research has seen a connection between gut health and skin conditions like atopic dermatitis. Probiotics in yogurt may help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, which can prove helpful in eczema management. Blueberries These berries are a rich source of antioxidants, particularly vitamins C and E. These antioxidants play a crucial role in combating oxidative stress, which can exacerbate atopic dermatitis symptoms. Oxidative stress can lead to skin inflammation and damage, intensifying itching and discomfort.