The dents in the fingernails can cause a lot of embarrassment, especially when you are at work or out on the town, with friends. Apart from embarrassment, there are a lot of people who are conscious that this might be a sign of a medical condition. They seek out medical treatment and learn the exact cause. The doctor can also recommend methods of prevention for such problems. The important thing is that you do not waste time in seeking out the correct treatment. By taking the correct treatment, soon you will have healthy and beautiful fingernails again.

What Causes Dents in Fingernails?

These are the most common causes that lead to the appearance of dents in fingernails:

• Psoriasis
  • Psoriatic nails have a specific aspect
  • The fingernails present dents, plus they are discolored or pitted
  • May have modifications under the nail plate as well
• Reiter syndrome
  • Reactive arthritis
  • Occurs after a bacterial infection
  • Modification of the fingernails – dents
• Alopecia areata
  • The production of keratin is affected, leading to hair loss
  • The dents in the fingernails can appear at the same time with the hair loss or as an after-process
  • Fingernails are made from keratin as well, so it is understandable why alopecia areata will lead to such modifications
• Incontinentia pigmenti
  • Genetic disorder (gene mutation)
  • Hyperpigmentation of the skin
  • Dents in the fingernails
  • Dental modifications
  • Eye problems
• Vitamin deficiency
  • When dents appear in the fingernails, they can be a sign that the body lacks vitamins, such as the ones from the B complex (B12 or B6 in particular)
  • Iron deficiency can also cause dents in the fingernails
• Nail trauma/injury
  • Direct accident
  • Frequent biting of the nails
• Fungal infection
  • Can lead to dents in the fingernails, among other modifications
• Thyroid problems
  • Hormonal imbalances can lead to modifications in the fingernails, dents included
• Medication
  • Dents in the fingernails can appear as a side-effect of medication
• Stress
  • Excessive stress can lead to modifications in all parts of the body, including the fingernails, causing dents to form
• Cyst
  • Often appears in arthritis patients
  • The fingernails present deep dents, with the cyst being present at the end joint of the finger, right in the near vicinity of the nail
  • If the cyst subsides, so will the dents in the fingernails
• Diabetes
  • Can lead to dents in the fingernails
• Cancer
  • The modifications in the fingernails appear in patients who have been treated for cancer (chemotherapy)
• Raynaud’s phenomenon
  • The dents in the fingernails appear after periods of long exposure to extremely cold temperatures
• Circulatory problems
  • They can affect the health of the fingernails, causing dents to appear, among other modifications.

Treatment for Dents in fingernails

In order for these modifications to be improved, the underlying conditions must be treated first:

• Psoriasis
  • Corticosteroid cream
  • Salicylic acid cream
  • Synthetic vitamin D cream
  • Avoidance of triggering factors
  • Change of diet
• Reiter syndrome
  • Antibiotics to prevent secondary infections
  • Medication to suppress the response of the immune system
  • Anti-inflammatory medication – pain relief
  • Corticosteroids – cannot be administered as long-term treatment
  • TNF (tumor necrosis factor) inhibitors
• Alopecia areata
  • Corticosteroids – administered as injections
  • Topical creams with corticosteroids
  • Topical immunotherapy
  • Ultraviolet light therapy
• Incontinentia pigmenti
  • Topical tacrolimus
  • Topical corticosteroids
  • Skin moisturizers
  • Antibiotics to prevent secondary infections
• Vitamin deficiency
  • Administration of vitamin supplements
  • Diet changes
• Nail trauma/injury
  • Immediate medical care for nail trauma
  • Excellent nail hygiene during recovery
  • Avoidance of nail biting
• Fungal infection
  • Topical ointments or cream with anti-fungal properties
  • Oral medication is recommended in more severe cases, with no response to topical treatments
• Thyroid problems
  • Administration of thyroid hormones to restore hormonal balance
• Medication
  • Change of medication (new alternative – no side effects)
• Stress
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Breathing exercises
  • Psychological counseling
• Cyst
  • Rheumatic treatment – allows for the cyst to subside and the nail health to improve
• Diabetes
  • Medication to keep the condition under control
  • Adapted diet
• Cancer
  • Change of chemotherapy medication
  • Pause between chemotherapy sessions
• Raynaud’s phenomenon
  • Avoidance of exposure to cold temperatures
  • Massage and electrotherapy
• Circulatory problems
  • Medication to stimulate the blood flow
  • Active physical exercises – adapted to the existent problems
  • Warm baths to improve blood circulation
  • Avoidance of exposure to cold temperatures
  • Medication to prevent the blood from becoming either too thick/thin.

How to Prevent Dents in fingernails

If you are interested in preventing the appearance of dents in the fingernails, this is what you should do:

• Consider taking vitamin supplements
  • Do not wait until the fingernails present modifications
  • Go to the doctor and have yourself tested for vitamin deficiency
  • Taking vitamin supplements can prevent the appearance of dents in the fingernails
• Eat a healthy diet
  • Your diet should contain plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, as these contain a lot of vitamins and nutrients
• Look after your fingernails
  • Avoid keeping them for prolonged periods into water
  • Keep them trim and clean, to avoid infection
  • Do not bite your nails
  • Don’t cut your cuticles too short
  • Don’t use your fingernails to open things
  • Wear protective gloves if you need to work with harsh chemicals
  • Use a delicate hand lotion to keep the fingernails moisturized

As you can see for yourself, when it comes to dents in the fingernails, one must treat the underlying condition first. As for the methods of prevention, this can ensure that such problems will not bother you. By looking after your fingernails, you will make sure that you are protected against infection and other problems like that. Also, eating healthy is a must, as fingernails need vitamins in order to remain healthy. A very useful tip is to drink plenty of water: if you drink the recommended quantity each day, then the fingernails are going to look and be healthy, without any dents.

There are a lot of people who wake up with a dry mouth, feeling the acute need to drink lots of water. This problem can impact bodily functions, such as swallowing, chewing food or speaking. According to certain medical studies, it seems that dry mouth is also a common cause of teeth problems. If the condition is not treated, then one can develop bad breath and feel uncomfortable around other people. One will avoid talking to other people, suffering from embarrassment.

When you wake up with a dry mouth, this means that your body does not produce enough saliva during the night. In general, having a dry mouth is a condition presented in the medical field as xerostomia. The dry mouth can appear because of various reasons, being often caused by medication (side-effect). It is important to talk to your doctor about the medication that you are taking, making sure that you are informed about potential side-effects.

People who complain of having a dry mouth right after they have woken from sleep describe the sensation as if they had cotton balls in their mouths. Sometimes, a burning or tingling sensation may accompany the feeling of dryness. The tongue can feel as if it was made out of leather and the condition can generate a lot of discomfort. The discomfort can appear when the person tries to talk, chew or swallow food. The lips and the throat might also be dry; plus, because of all the dryness, canker sores can appear inside the mouth.

Causes

These are the most common causes that lead to waking up with dry mouth:

Medication

• This is the number one cause
• The dry mouth is a side-effect of many medications
• Be sure to check the prospect of any medication and talk to your doctor about the potential side-effects
• Request for alternative medication that does not have this side-effect
• Do not interrupt the medication without talking to the doctor first

Sjögren’s syndrome

• Chronic autoimmune disease
• The exocrine glands are destroyed by the aggressive immune system
• Affects the mucous membranes, leading to dry mouth and dry eyes, among other modifications

Diabetes

• Waking up with a dry mouth is a frequent symptom of type 2 diabetes (diabetes mellitus)
• This is a sign that the blood sugar levels are too high
• Patients also present excessive thirst

HIV/AIDS

• Patients infected with HIV or those suffering from AIDS often wake up with a dry mouth
• Their glands do not produce enough saliva
• The chewing and swallowing processes are difficult because of these modifications

Depression

• Depression can often cause physical symptoms, including dry mouth

High blood pressure

• The condition leads to a wide range of modifications
• Patients wake up with dry mouth and a feeling of dizziness

Other causes

• Stress, anxiety or fear
• Degenerative disease – Alzheimer’s disease
• Chronic adrenal insufficiency – Addison’s disease
• Diseases of the liver – cirrhosis (alcoholic)
• Infection of the salivary glands
• Generalized state of dehydration

Treatment for Waking Up with Dry Mouth

These are the most common courses of treatment undertaken for waking up with dry mouth:

Fluoride

• Topical administration
• Home prescription
• Administered in precise quantities, so as not to damage the teeth

Mouthwash

• Recommended by the dentist
• Antibacterial or antiviral properties, in order to prevent the growth of bacteria or viruses inside the mouth
• Daily usage is indicated for the best results

Treatment of dental problems

• Restoring of teeth decay
• Plaque removal
• Correction of ill-fitted dentures
• Excellent oral hygiene – as instructed by the dentist
  • Regular brushing of the teeth
  • Flossing

Apart from the treatment, there are certain measures that you can take yourself, in order to improve the condition:

• Drink plenty of water
  • Make sure that you increase your intake during the day
  • Drink water with each meal that you are taking
  • Keep a bottle by your bed during the night
• Do not drink water that is either too hot or too cold, as this can damage the mouth tissues, causing them to become dry
• Avoid drinks that contain a high quantity of sugar, especially if you are suffering from diabetes
• Do not drink beverages that have a lot of acid, as these will only aggravate the dry mouth condition (do not hydrate the body)
• Chew gum or suck on a candy (no sugar), as this will stimulate the production of saliva and it will prevent the mouth from becoming dry when waking up in the morning
• Avoid using mouthwashes that contain alcohol, as these can lead to dehydration as well
• Sleep during the night with an air humidifier by your side; it will moisten the air in the room and it will prevent the mouth from becoming dry.

The infection of the eyelid is one of the most common eye disorders. The skin on the eyelid is very thin and it is highly susceptible for infections of any kind, associated or not with inflammation. The infection can affect the upper eyelid, the lower eyelid or both. It can range from mild to severe, requiring emergency treatment in some cases. However, before considering the treatment for the eyelid infection, one must correctly identify its cause. Once the cause has been correctly identified, there are medical treatments and home remedies that can be used in order to reduce the upsetting symptoms.

Upper Eyelid Infection

In case of infection, the upper eyelid becomes enlarged or swollen. This happens because the infection generates fluid and this has the tendency to build up, leading to swelling. It is important to understand that the upper eyelid infection can cause serious discomfort, impairing vision in a wide range of cases. If the condition is left untreated, then it will become aggravated and the symptoms will only be worse. After the infectious organism has breached the skin, it will cause upsetting symptoms and it will lead to discharge in the eye corner.

Apart from the symptoms that were already presented, the infection of the upper eyelid can also lead to a sensation of irritation experienced in the eye. This is because the eye is extremely sensitive and it will easily be influenced by the infection in the nearby area. The patient might also suffer from excessive tears, as the eye is constantly trying to eliminate the infectious pathogen. The swelling is often accompanied by redness and warmth in the area; if the infection extends to the eye, then the eye conjunctiva is going to be red as well. Most often, the infection is associated with the inflammation of the eyelid glands.

Lower Eyelid Infection

If the lower eyelid is infected, then it will become enlarged or swollen as the upper one. The buildup of fluid is going to be present in the area below the eyelid and the swelling can range from mild to severe. The vision impairment is also possible in the infection of the lower eyelid. This infection can lead to eye discharge, it can contribute to the eyelid becoming dry and it can cause a lot of pain, especially if the infection is more severe. Sometimes, the obstruction of the eyelid glands can lead to the appearance of a lump on the lower eyelid. This is known as a stye. It can affect either of the eyelids, being accompanied by a wide range of symptoms. Apart from the actual inflammation, the area is going to be red, warm and tender (if not painful) to the touch.

The infection of the lower eyelid can cause the eye conjunctiva to be irritated and the whole area to be red and warm. Excessive tears are going to be produced as well and the patient will declare he/she feels as though he/she had sand in the eyes. The inflammation that is generated by the infection can cause discomfort and general irritation. It is important to determine the correct cause that has led to the infection of the lower eyelid, as the wrong treatment can aggravate the infection.

Causes of Eyelid Infection

These are the possible causes that can lead to the infection of the eyelids:

• Bacteria/viruses
  • Bacterial infection of meibomian glands – styes
  • Preseptal cellulitis – affects the eyelids and the area around the eye, but does not extend into the eye socket.
  • Orbital cellulitis – serious infection around the eye, potentially life-threatening
  • Blepharitis – inflammation of the eyelid edge, near the eyelashes (most often, bacterial)
• Conjunctivitis – the infectious organism can easily be transmitted from the eye conjunctiva to the eyelid, causing swelling and other symptoms.
• Using cosmetic products past their expiration date or of low quality
• Trauma to the eyelid – if proper hygiene measures are not taken, then the risk of infection is even higher
  • Eye contusion (black eye)
  • Cosmetic surgery to the eyelids (lifts)
• Blockage of the eye glands
• Insect bites can initially cause inflammation but they can also cause infection, especially if not proper care is taken of the bite zone

Treatment

These are the most common methods of treatment recommended for eyelid infection:

Antibiotics

• Topical applications – ophthalmic ointment containing erythromycin is recommended in case of serious styes (often combined with oral administration of the same antibiotic, as topically is not so well absorbed). Antibiotic drops can also be used in case the infection has spread from the eyelid to the eye conjunctiva.
• Oral administration – recommended for more serious infections, associated with systemic symptoms. Oral antibiotics include Cephalexin, Dicloxacillin, Clindamycin, and Augmentin.
• Intravenous antibiotics are indicated in cases of orbital cellulitis, as this kind of infection is quite severe. Also, intravenous antibiotics often represent the first course of treatment in children (as these have a pretty weak immune system).

Antifungal topical cream

Recommended for fungal infections, eliminating the fungi and preventing them from growing as well.

Anti-inflammatory medication

Recommended to relieve the pain commonly associated with the infection of the eyelids

Surgery

• Can be used in styes – incision and drainage will contribute to a faster healing of the infection.
• Recommended in case of orbital cellulitis, for:
  • Orbit decompression
  • Abscess drainage
  • Infected sinus opening.

Remedies

These are the most common home remedies you can apply for eyelid infection:

• Cold compress over the eyes
• Ice packs can also be applied – apply them using a cloth (direct application can cause circulatory problems) and do not maintain them on the eyes for prolonged periods of time
• Warm compresses are recommended only after the inflammation has subsided, as they can help with the pain
• The debris that accumulates on the eyelids should be cleaned with the aid of a cotton stick
• The affected eyelid can be kept free of crusts by using a mild soap or baby shampoo. The eyes should be kept closed during the cleaning process, so as to avoid further irritation.

Eyelid Infection Pictures

Collection of photos, images and pictures of Eyelid infection…

Chlorine is a chemical substance often used for the disinfecting of various surfaces, as it prevents the growth of bacteria. It is also found in common products used for cleaning around the house, serving the same purpose. Chlorine poisoning occurs when a person ingests or inhales chlorine. It is important to understand that chlorine is a poisonous ingredient and that chlorine poisoning requires immediate medical intervention.

If it happens that a person inhales chlorine, the gas has a powerfully irritating effect on the lungs and the airways. It is soluble in the water inside the body, leading to respiratory tract damage. One of the most encountered situations of chlorine poisoning is occupational hazard. A person can suffer from chronic poisoning, ingesting or inhaling small but harmful quantities of chlorine or can be exposed to large doses of chlorine at once, suffering from its serious toxicity and health problems such as pulmonary edema.

What are the Symptoms of Chlorine Poisoning?

Chlorine poisoning can lead to serious symptoms, affecting different organs and systems within the body:

• Difficult breathing
• Constriction in the throat – this can add to the already difficult breathing.
• Pulmonary edema – this is fluid accumulating in the lungs, leading to shortness of breath as well.
• Modification of pH – organ damage.
• Vision loss.
• Pain/burning sensation felt in the oral area – it can affect the tongue, lips but also the eyes or the ears.
• Gastrointestinal modifications:
  • Stools with blood
  • The chlorine, by ingestion, can burn the esophagus
  • Abdominal pain of severe intensity
  • Vomiting – with/without blood.
• Cardiovascular collapse – this can occur after a rapid drop in the blood pressure.
• By direct contact of the skin with the chlorine, the skin can present modifications ranging from a simple irritation to severe burns and even necrosis.

Specific symptoms can suggest acute/chronic exposure or high/low level exposure:

Acute exposure – low level

• Irritation of oral area
• Sneezing
• Sialorrhea
• State of agitation.

Acute exposure – high level

• Dyspnea
• Coughing (violently)
• Vomiting (preceded by nausea)
• Headaches, fainting
• Pain/burning sensation in the chest
• Overall weakness and abdominal pain
• Skin burns/ulcerations (direct exposure with chlorine).

Chronic exposure – this usually occurs with low to moderate levels of chlorine:

• Specific acne
• Retrosternal pain
• Cough – with/without blood
• Irritated throat.

Causes of Chlorine Poisoning

There are several situations in which a person can suffer from chlorine poisoning, such as:

• Inhalation or ingestion of household products that contain chlorine – this is especially valid if the chlorine is mixed with another cleaning product (the gas released is poisonous).
• Harmful chlorine gas is released when there is a large body of water, such as a pool, that has been covered for a long time and a person decides to remove the cover.
• High concentrations of chlorine in the swimming pool.
• Occupational hazard – if a person works with chlorine, depending on the level of exposure (high/low), that person can either suffer from acute or chronic chlorine poisoning.
• Children are highly prone to chlorine poisoning by ingestion, especially if the household cleaning products are left unsupervised or in area that is easy to reach.

Diagnosis

Chlorine poisoning is a medical emergency and, often times, the person will first be administered emergency treatment before making the actual diagnosis. The most important sign that can help the diagnosis of chlorine poisoning is pulmonary edema, as this leads to difficult breathing.

Among the investigations that can be performed to establish the diagnosis of chlorine poisoning, one can find:

• Pulse oximetry – monitors the saturation with oxygen (indication of oxygen levels in the blood). Arterial blood gases can also be investigated, to determine if the chlorine poisoning has started to affect the blood circulation or not.
• X-rays – pulmonary, so as to determine whether there is pulmonary edema or not.
• ECG – to investigate cardiac function and prevent cardiovascular collapse.
• Testing of the pulmonary function.
• Other investigations might include: determining serum electrolytes, urea nitrogen in the blood and creatinine levels, the latter showing the functioning of the kidneys.
• If there is a suspicion of inhalation/ingestions, the doctor can either perform a laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy, to assess the internal damage done by the chlorine exposure.

Treatment

In case of severe chlorine poisoning, the most important thing is to maintain the patient stable. This means that the vital signs will be monitored, including the pulse, the breathing and the blood pressure. Supportive care – respiratory and cardiac – is going to be offered in case there is a risk of cardiac collapse.

Among the other treatments that might be offered for the symptoms of chlorine poisoning, one can find:

• Activated charcoal – this often used in cases of poisoning, as this substance is capable of absorbing the poisonous ingredient from the gastrointestinal tract.
• In case of difficult breathing, respiratory support might be offered by intubating the patient and connecting him/her to a ventilator.
• Intravenous fluids are going to be administered to keep the patient hydrated and prevent vascular collapse.
• Specific medicine can be administered in an attempt to reverse the effects of the chlorine poisoning.
• In case the skin presents burns or ulcerations after direct contact with chlorine, surgical debridement is going to be performed. In case of less severe burns, the skin might be just washed and protected from potential irritants.
• If the chlorine has been ingested, the gastric lavage is going to be performed, in order to remove the poisonous substance from the stomach.

Prevention

Every day, hundreds of children are taken to the emergency room after they have ingested chlorine. The best prevention method for chlorine poisoning is to keep the household cleaning products out of reach for children. This does not mean to store them in a closet, where the children can easily find them. One should consider keeping these products locked, so that they cannot be accessed by children.

Also, in case of occupational hazard, there are specific protection methods that should be followed in order to avoid or reduce the chlorine exposure. Using a protection mask, goggles and gloves (or any other protective equipment) is essential if you are working in a medium with high levels of chlorine.

Having blisters on toes can lead to discomfort and even affect one’s ability to walk. There are many reasons that cause blisters to appear in the toe area, including inadequate footwear. Some of these blisters can be really painful, especially if they break. When a blister breaks and the liquid comes out, the pain is accompanied by a burning or stinging sensation. Most blisters heal on their own and they do not require any specific treatment. However, in some cases, one can consider certain home remedies and medical treatments, both of which can contribute to a faster and better healing.

Causes of Blisters on Toes

These are the most common causes that lead to the appearance of blisters on toes:

• Inadequate footwear – if a person wears shoes that are too tight, especially in the front, there is a high risk for blisters to occur.
• Excessive rubbing – this appears in persons who wear tight shoes, without socks. It also appears in professional runners or joggers, as there is a lot of rubbing or friction in the area.
• Bone spurs – there are different medical conditions that can lead to the appearance of bone spurs at the level of the toes. These will have a negative effect on the muscles and the skin, causing blisters among other modifications.
• Burns – chemical or thermal burns cause blisters on toes. The most important thing is not to break these blisters, as there is a high risk of infection.
• Hypothermia – the extremities of the body are most sensitive to extreme temperatures. Freezing of the toes can lead to the appearance of blisters, due to the circulatory problems.
• Direct skin contact with chemical contaminants – there are chemical substances that can cause directly blisters, without chemical burns. Proper skin care is necessary immediately after the exposure.
• Infection – improper trimming of the nails or trauma to the toes can expose the area to infection. Blisters filled with clear liquid or pus can appear as a result of the infection.
• Allergic reaction (dermatitis) – this can appear as the toes enter in contact with socks (fabric) or the laundry detergent. Among the many allergic reactions that can occur, there are blisters.
• Excessive foot sweating – this can lead to the formation of blisters, among other modifications.
• Fungi – fungal infections lead to a wide range of symptoms, including bad odor, cracks in the skin and blisters.

Other medical conditions can cause blisters as well:

• Eczema – especially when associated with excessive sweating
• Infectious diseases : Chickenpox/shingles , Herpes

How to Treat Blisters on Toes?

If a blister is filled with blood or pus, then it is recommended you avoid breaking it and leave it to resorb on its own. However, if the blister is filled with clear liquid, you may attempt at breaking it in a controlled manner. If you follow the recommended steps, then the blister will heal faster and you will be able to resume your daily activities, including walking.

The first thing that you need to do is wash your hands thoroughly and also the area of the blister. Then, be sure to apply alcohol/iodine to the area with a cotton swab. Do not press forcefully on the blister or it will break and this is not the way it needs to be handled. Once you have applied the alcohol/iodine to the area, use a previously sterilized needle in order to make a small hole in the blister.

Make sure that the hole is made at the edge and not in the center, as this will allow for better drainage of the fluid. Try to drain the fluid without breaking the whole skin, and then finish the process by applying a disinfecting substance. This might sting a little but it is recommended if you want to avoid infection. In order to prevent secondary infections, it is indicated that antibiotic cream is applied to the area as well. The blister should be bandaged and it should be left to heal.

There are several things that you need to consider when it comes to treating blisters on toes. First of all, the larger a blister is, the higher the risk of infection will be. So, make sure that you cover it with a pad, in case you do not want to break it. If the blister happens to break on its own, avoid peeling off the dead skin. You will remove the barrier of protection and you will be at high risk for infection. Instead, cover the area and let it heal. Special dressings are available in pharmacies, allowing for better healing and keeping you infection free. If a blood-filled blister has burst, then make sure you disinfect the area and cover it with a sterile dressing. Also, if the blisters have been caused by burns, avoid using the above methods and do not break the blisters. The risk for infection is high and you will need to visit a doctor for specialized treatment in this situation.

Pictures of Blisters on toes

Here are some of the photos, images and pictures collection of toe blisters…

Having a sore roof of mouth is not a pleasant sensation, as it can cause a lot of discomfort and even prevent you from eating or drinking the things you like. There are many reasons that can lead to the mouth roof becoming sore and you need to identify the causes correctly, so that you make sure you get properly treated. Sometimes, besides the treatment, you will need to make certainly lifestyle changes, related to your diet. The truth is that the mouth roof is extremely sensitive and it can be sore quite easily. Let’s find out the most common causes that lead to such problems.

What Causes Sore Roof of Mouth?

These are the most common causes that lead to the mouth roof becoming sore:

• Hot food and drinks
  • The tissues on the roof of mouth are extremely sensitive to high temperatures
  • Regular intake of hot food and drinks can cause it to become sore
  • If the temperature was too high, blisters can occur because of the tissue burn
• Foods with irritating effect
  • Spicy food – can lead to sore roof of mouth and inflammation
  • Sharp foods – can scratch the roof of mouth, leading to soreness
• Tobacco
  • Excessive smoking can lead to soreness
  • Chewing tobacco can have the same effect
• Canker sores
  • Caused by bacterial infection or because the mouth roof has been irritated (hot foods and drinks, sharp foods)
• Infection
  • Viral/bacterial infections can lead to roof of mouth soreness
  • Most common – strep throat
• Dental problems
  • Tooth abscess – can extend to the roof of mouth, causing soreness
  • Dentures – when they are not placed correctly, they irritate the roof of mouth
  • Oral devices (braces) – can lead to the mouth roof becoming sore, especially if they are not worn correctly
• Burning mouth syndrome
  • Unknown cause
  • Suspected triggering factors: dry mouth, oral thrush
  • Symptoms include roof of mouth soreness
  • Worse in the morning, symptoms alleviate during the day
• Cancer
  • Cancerous growth present on the roof of the mouth
  • Can cause soreness, difficult talking or eating
• Other causes
  • Cold sores
  • Diabetes
  • Infections of the ear
  • Menopause
  • Vitamin deficiencies

Treatment for Sore Roof of Mouth

These are the most common courses of treatment undertaken for sore roof of mouth:

• Mouthwash
  • Recommended by the dentist
  • Contains corticosteroids
  • Reduces inflammation and pain
• Antibiotics
  • Recommended for bacterial infections
  • They should be taken for as long as they are prescribed, otherwise the bacteria will develop resistance to the treatment
  • Probiotics are indicated during the treatment, in order to preserve intestinal healthy bacteria
• Topical applications
  • Promote faster healing
  • Pain relieving properties
• Oral corticosteroids
  • Recommended for severe canker sores or if they did not respond to other treatments
  • The treatment cannot be administered for prolonged periods of time, as it can have serious side-effects on one’s health
• Cautery
  • The doctor will use a specialized instrument in order to destroy the damaged tissue
  • Chemical cautery is also possible, the available choices including Debacterol and silver nitrate
• Vitamin supplements
  • These are recommended in case of vitamin deficiency
  • May include zinc, folic acid or vitamins from the B complex (B12, B6)
• Treatment for underlying conditions
  • Chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgical removal of cancerous growths
  • Hormonal supplements for menopause

When suffering from sore roof of mouth, it might not be enough to take medication for the problem to go away. There are certain lifestyle changes that you need to make, such as:

• Don’t eat food that is too hot in temperature and avoid hot beverages (tea should be drunk warm, not hot)
• Eliminate spicy foods from your diet
• Chew your food properly before swallowing it – sometimes the roof of the mouth gets scratched because the food wasn’t chewed completely
• Avoid drinking excessive quantities of alcohol, as this can irritate the mouth roof as well
• Quite smoking or chewing tobacco, as this is one of the main factors incriminated in roof of mouth soreness
• Clean your palate by gargling with salt water
• Drink milk to soothe the sore roof of mouth
• Use aloevera to promote the healing of the sore tissues.

All women experience vaginal white discharge before their period, during the years they are fertile. The white discharge is completely normal and it does not represent the sign of any medical condition. It is a common sign that the menstruation cycle has either started or ended. As a woman, you will certainly make the difference between the discharge related to ovulation and the one that appears right before the menstruation. Also, it is important to keep in mind that the white discharge can be one of the symptoms that you are pregnant.

If you are wondering about the connection between the white discharge and ovulation, you should know that the body basically prepares itself for the process. You are probably aware that ovulation means that an egg is going to be released from the sack, being prepared for the fertilization. In order for the release of the egg to be as smooth as possible and the fertilization process to have the highest level of success, the body produces increased quantities of mucous. This is the actual white discharge you experience before ovulation. The white discharge will also appear after ovulation, but in more reduced quantities.

When should you be worried about vaginal discharge? As it was already mentioned, white discharge before your period is normal. However, if the discharge has another color, such as yellow or green, it might be a sign of infection. You should also search for modifications in texture or odor. The white discharge before your period is odorless. Contact a doctor if the vaginal discharge changes its color, texture or smell.

Various Types of Discharge

Keep in mind that the vaginal discharge can differ according to the menstrual cycle. Basically, the difference is given by the fluctuating level of estrogen hormones in the body.

The white discharge occurs before the period and will also return after the cycle has ended. Keep in mind that this white discharge is not commonly accompanied by other modifications or symptoms. For example, if you experience a lot of itchiness, then you might have an infection that needs to be treated.

As it was already mentioned, white discharge can be related to the ovulation period. You need to be aware of this, so as not to confuse it with the white discharge normally occurring before your period. The white discharge that appears before the ovulation is a good indication that you are going to enter the fertile period and it can help you take the decision to conceive. The mucous is presented in larger quantities, facilitating the conceiving process. It also appears after the ovulation period has ended.

The characteristics of the white discharge differ according to the period in which they appear. The one that appears before the ovulation period is clear in color and it has an elastic texture; most often, it appears to be more watery than thick. On the other hand, the white discharge that appears before your cycle will have a dark color and a thick texture. Do not confuse it with yeast infection, as this has a particular color and is often associated with itchiness or bad odor.

Causes of White discharge

The causes of white discharge are related to the female anatomy and the menstrual cycle. Before the period, the white discharge is caused by the buildup of estrogen hormones in the body. The same goes after the period has ended, causing the discharge to be white and thick in density. The increased production of white discharge before the ovulation is caused by the soon release of the egg. Returning to the period-related discharge, it is important to understand this starts to become thicker after the middle of the cycle. At the end of the menstrual cycle, meaning when the period is about to start, the white discharge will appear once more.

There is no need to try and prevent white discharge, as this is a normal process that occurs in each and every woman. Basically, you need to understand that the body facilitates the health of the female parts. The increased white discharge is produced with the purpose of eliminating any harmful bacteria around those parts. Also, keep in mind that pregnancy might be a cause of the white discharge. If you also experience other pregnancy-related symptoms, including nausea and vomiting, it might be a good idea to pay your doctor a visit and get an ultrasound. You might be pregnant, that being the cause of the white discharge in your case.

White discharge during pregnancy

If you have received the news that you are pregnant, then you should know white discharge is common during pregnancy. In fact, the quantity of the discharge is only going to increase as your pregnancy advances. This happens because a lot of the blood is directed towards that area and the levels of estrogen are increased in pregnant women. The white discharge will be produced in bigger quantities that you are probably accustomed to, but this is normal during pregnancy. Until the actual birth, there will be white discharge in the quantities mentioned above.

The one thing you have to be careful of is the last month of pregnancy, particularly the last few weeks. During that period, the white discharge is going to increase even more, suffering a change in its consistency as well. Basically, your body is preparing for the birth process, eliminating the mucus plug that has kept your cervix closed so far. Do not confuse white discharge with amniotic fluid; if you feel a sudden and large quantity of fluid, you should head to the hospital. This means that the body is prepared to give birth.

In conclusion vaginal discharge before and after the menstrual period is normal. Also, white discharge is a sign that you are ovulating and that your body is prepared to conceive. As for white discharge during pregnancy, this is a normal modification that your body goes through. It might cause some discomfort and it will be necessary for you to wear a protective liner, but it will also help you stay strong and healthy during your pregnancy.

The calf muscles are the ones responsible for the flexion movements in the lower part of the leg. They stretch on the back of the lower leg, being connected to the Achilles tendon. Sore calf muscles can appear because of a number of reasons, being often associated with pain or discomfort. In many cases, the soreness appears in people who have trained excessively or who were engaged in strenuous physical effort. However, the cause varies from one person to the other. There are many people who complain of sore calf muscles due to prolonged sitting.

Most commonly, the soreness or the abnormal feeling is generated by the fact that the calf muscles have been strained or pulled. The intensity of the soreness sensation can range from mild to severe, depending on how bad was the excessive stretching was. The truth is that these muscles serve a lot of functions and we are not always paying attention to how we are using them. Sometimes, a bad move is enough for the calf muscles to become sore. A visit to the doctor will be necessary if the cause of the soreness cannot be identified, if the person is in too much pain or if the self-care does not bring the desired relief.

Symptoms of Sore Calf Muscles

These are the most common symptoms of sore calf muscles:

• Soreness in the body of the muscle or at the connection with the tendon
• Burning sensation or numbness in the calf
• Warmth and tenderness to the touch
• Muscle fever
• Arthralgia (joint pain)
• Muscles spasms – appear most often during the night
• Reduced range of motion or certain movements are restricted
• If the muscle is under a lot of tension, then the skin in the area might appear as if discolored, because of the circulatory problems
• Muscle inflammation

What are the Causes of Sore Calf Muscles?

These are the most common causes that lead to sore calf muscles:

• Injury to the calf muscles
  • Stretching the calf muscles excessively can lead to muscles fibers being torn, leading to partial muscle rupture
  • This particular type of injury is often encountered in sport players, where there is a lot of active movement and frequent, sudden changes of direction
  • The severity of the injury can range from one person to the other, going from mild to severe
• Muscle cramps
  • These are caused by an involuntary spasm that appears in the calf muscles
  • Most common causes of muscle cramps include:
    • Excessive physical effort
    • Fatigue
    • Diet
    • Dehydration
    • Muscle tension
  • Often associated with intense pain
• Deep vein thrombosis
  • Blood clots form in the deep veins of the lower leg
  • Considered medical emergency, as the blood clot can either travel to the heart (causing a heart attack) or into the brain (causing a stroke)
  • Symptoms of this condition are present in the calf region and they include:
    • Pain – aggravated by movements of the foot
    • Redness and warmth
    • Tenderness to the touch
    • Inflammation
  • Often caused by prolonged sitting or appears as post-surgery complication

• Tendonitis
  • Inflammation of the Achilles tendon
  • Often appears in people whose calf muscles are either weak or constantly in tension
  • Accompanied by intense pain and reduced range of movement
• Standing for prolonged periods of time
  • Leads to the calf muscles becoming weak or tensed
  • Risk of damage because the tense muscles are also excessively stretched
  • Associated with pain
• Nerve entrapment
  • If a nerve is entrapped in the area, then it can lead to pain and soreness in the calf muscles
  • Patients also describe a tingling sensation or numbness
  • May be accompanied by sensory modifications (reduced feeling in the foot)
• Other causes
  • Baker’s Cyst
  • Peripheral vascular disease

Treatment

These are the most common courses of treatment undertaken for sore calf muscles:

Anti-inflammatory medication

• Recommended to bring pain relief
• Also helps with the other symptoms, reducing the inflammation and sensation of soreness
• Most recommended: acetaminophen, ibuprofen
• Aspirin is recommended for muscle fever, but it should be taken with precaution, as it can lead to blood thinning

Ultrasound therapy

• Can help by bringing pain relief and reducing inflammation
• Recommended throughout the entire rehabilitation period
• The ultrasound reach the muscles in the deep layers, stimulating the blood flow

Massage

• Stimulates the blood flow to the injured calf muscles
• Allows for the tension in the calf muscles to be reduced
• Eliminates tight knots that commonly exist in overused muscles
• Allows for scar tissue to become more supple
• Promotes a faster healing process

Physiotherapy

• In the early stage, it can help the muscle soreness to be improved
• Includes gently stretching exercises that will increase the range of movement
• In the latter stages of the rehabilitation program, you will work on strengthening the muscles of the calf, so as to prevent future problems.

Home remedies

If you suffer from sore calf muscles, then you have the perfect home remedy in the form of R.I.C.E. This abbreviation includes four measures that you can take, in order to improve your condition. These are:

• Rest
• Ice
• Compression
• Elevation

Their application starts with ice, which should be applied as soon as you feel the first symptoms. Do not apply ice directly to the skin; wrap it in a towel and then apply it to the sore muscles. It will help you deal with the pain, reducing the inflammation at the same time.

The next step is compression. There are special compression garments that can be applied over the sore calf muscles, being recommended for the reduction of inflammation. However, these should not be worn for more than 10 minutes at once, or else you will suffer from circulatory problems.

Elevation is essential for a fast recovery. Make sure that the lower leg is elevated, as this will relieve the tension you are feeling in the calf muscles. Last, but not least, make sure you get plenty of rest and avoid standing on the affected leg for prolonged periods of time.

Relief

Relief from sore calf muscles can be obtained by taking anti-inflammatory medication, doing ultrasound therapy and massage. It is also guaranteed through R.I.C.E, the home remedy you can certainly handle yourself. Keep in mind that the physiotherapy program is responsible for bringing you the most relief. This is because the program will start with gentle exercises, destined to reduce the tension you feel in your calves and it will progress to new stages. Soon, the exercise program is going to be more complex, encompassing exercises that are meant to stretch your calf muscles and strengthen them at the same time.

If you suffer from sore calf muscles, then do not hesitate to seek out the opinion of a doctor and a physiotherapist. The latter can guide you on future movements that should be avoided, so that you make sure such problems will not appear. He/she will also present with solutions to improve the muscle tension felt in the calves, discussing about the importance of making the right movements. Often times, this problem is caused by movements that are bad for the body. Repetitive bad movements can lead to sore calf muscles, so you need to learn how to avoid them.

The belly button is susceptible to infections with various pathological organisms. It can affect people of different ages, being often encountered in people who have piercings or very small children. The susceptibility comes from the fact that the belly button in some people can be very deep; this leaves a lot of room for excess humidity. Plus, textile fibers can gather in the belly button, along with other debris. All of these things can contribute to bacterial growth or fungi development, causing either a bacterial or a viral infection. If you suspect a belly button infection, then you should consult a doctor and seek out the proper treatment.

Babies are highly susceptible to infections in the belly button area. This is especially valid for those who are newborn, as they have had the umbilical cord recently cut and that is practically like a wound. As they don’t have their immune system active and fully functioning, the lack of proper hygiene can ultimately lead to an infected belly button. This is the reason why mothers are instructed to give baths often to their newborn babies, with particular attention being given to the belly button area. Treating an infection in an infant is more difficult than in an adult, as there are complications to think about.

Identifying the correct cause of the infection is essential. Based on the symptoms a patient exhibits, the doctor will be able to identify the cause and provide a suitable treatment. Plus, he/she may recommend preventive hygiene measures, to ensure the infection does not appear again.

Symptoms of Infected Belly Button

These are the most common symptoms of an infected belly button:

• Inflammation – depends on the severity of the infection, ranging from mild to severe.
• Pain – as the infection progresses, the pain can reach high levels, causing a lot of discomfort.
• Redness – as there is infection in the area, the redness will become noticeable.
• Tenderness – the progression of the infection will cause the area to become tender to the touch.
• Discharge at the site of the infection – depending on the infectious organisms, pus mixed with blood might discharge from the belly button area. The discharge can have different colors but most of the times it is either yellow or green. A foul odor can be smelled at the site of the discharge.
• Warmth – the infection draws a lot of blood into the area; this is the reason why, besides inflammation and tenderness, there will also be warmth.
• Systemic symptoms can appear in more serious infections, including:
  • Fever
  • Lymph nodes swelling
  • General state of discomfort
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting.

Causes of Infected Belly Button

These are the most common causes that lead to the infected belly button:

• Debris accumulated into the belly button – this can include soap and other skin care products, textile fibers.
• Excessive humidity in the area – favors the development and growth of infectious microorganisms.

Lack of proper hygiene

• Not taking daily baths
• Using water that is contaminated with potential infectious microorganisms
• Not cleaning the belly button during the bath
• Not drying the area after the bath
• Leaving soap deposits in the belly button.

Piercing

• If the piercing is done with instruments that have not been properly sterilized, then there is an increased risk of infection.
• Also, if the person performing the piercing does not use protective gloves, he/she can easily transmit the infection.
• Lack of proper hygiene in the area after a recent piercing experience can also lead to infection.

Dirty hands

• Touching the belly button is a common mistake that many people make. Our hands have all sort of infectious microorganisms on them, some with a higher potential of infection.
• Constantly touching the belly button will lead to infection, especially if one does not washes his/her hands frequently.
• The micro-organisms transferred from the hands enjoy the darkness and humidity that the belly button has to offer.

Treatment

These are the most common courses approached for the treatment of the infected belly button:

Antibiotics

• These can be applied topically or orally. The oral administration is recommended in the situation of a more severe bacterial infection, causing systemic symptoms.
• The prescribed antibiotics should be taken for the time period it is recommended, otherwise the infection will return and the bacteria will be more resistant to the said treatment.

Fungal creams

• These are recommended in case of fungal infections
• They are applied topically to the belly button
• The patient is instructed to follow clear hygiene measures during and after the treatment period.

Alcohol

• This is recommended to disinfect the belly button area
• It can help to prevent the spread of the infection.

Corticosteroid creams

• These are recommended to help with the associated inflammation caused by the infection.
• They can also help the itchiness that appears during the healing period.
• The content of hydrocortisone should not be more than 1%.

Surgery

• In severe infections, often caused by poorly made piercings, surgical intervention might be necessary.
• The surgeon will remove the infected tissue, making sure that there is as less scarring as it is possible.
• The patient is instructed to follow precise hygiene measures after going through such a procedure.

Home remedies

• Vinegar mixed with warm water – this can reduce the growth of the infectious bacteria or fungi.
• Salt mixed with warm water – salt is well known for its disinfecting properties, so you can use it as a home remedy for belly button infections.
• Compresses – in the initial stage, where there isn’t much redness or inflammation, you can apply a warm compress to reduce the pain. However, if the infection is more serious and there is a lot of redness or inflammation, it is far better to apply a cold compress.
• Tea tree oil – apply the tea tree oil with a cotton swab. It will help with the inflammation and other upsetting symptoms, such as the pain.
• Aloe Vera – this plant is well known for its healing properties. Use it on your belly button and it will help with the elimination of the infection.

Having dry nostrils is not a pleasant sensation, especially if you are going out in the cold. No one likes to have chapped lips and this is the same with dry nostrils. When one has dry nostrils, this means that the entire tissue area of the nasal passages is not moisturized. There are many reasons that lead to the appearance of such problems and it is important to correctly identify the cause, so as to treat the condition. A lot of discomfort can be caused by trying to wipe your nose when the nostrils are dry, this discomfort being made even worse by the cold weather.

The level of dryness can range from mild to severe, forcing people to seek the advice of specialized personnel. Sometimes, the condition can be so severe that one simply dreads going outside. Apart from the treatment, there are home remedies and specific measures that a person can consider for improvement. Also, there are certain measures that can be taken in order to prevent dry nostrils in the future. In the following paragraphs, you will find information about the symptoms accompanying dry nostrils, the causes that lead to such problems and available treatment choices.

Symptoms of Dry Nostrils

These are the most common symptoms of dry nostrils:

• The outside part of the nostrils is dry, being red and sometimes inflamed
• The person might exhibit a burning sensation and tenderness to the touch
• The inside mucosa is also dry
• Sometimes fissures form, as the skin is dry and cracked, leading to a small amount of blood coming from the nose
• If the inside mucosa is excessively dry, then the sense of smell might be impaired
• Breathing can become painful, especially if the temperatures outside are really low
• Reduced quantities of mucus will cause the nostrils to become even more dried on the inside
• Crusts might form where the cracked skin has healed, affecting breathing or causing the sensation of having something inside the nose
• The dry inside mucosa generates an increased risk for bacterial infections

What are the Causes of Dry Nostrils?

These are the most common causes that can lead to dry nostrils:

• Medication side-effect
  • Antihistamines are well known for causing the nostrils to become dry, this being one of the side-effects of this medication
    • Most often encountered in persons who use antihistamine sprays, as these contain atropine (dries out the nasal mucosa)
• Environment
  • Indoor heating during the winter season
  • Reduced humidity – outside or inside
• Sjögren’s syndrome
  • Chronic autoimmune disorder
  • The exocrine glands are attacked by the immune system, leading to dryness of the nasal mucosa, among other modifications
• Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
  • Dry eye syndrome
  • Dryness of the eye conjunctiva
  • Dry nostrils appear as additional modifications, adding to the discomfort already caused by the dry eyes
• Bad habits
  • Wiping the nose too frequently or aggressively
  • Picking the nose
  • Sticking the finger into the nose
  • Using paper tissues to wipe the nose (inside and out – irritates the mucosa, causing to become dry)
• Not drinking enough water
  • The interior membranes of the body need water in order to remain moist
  • A reduced water intake leads to dehydration, which, in its own turn, leads to dry nostrils
• Other causes
  • Frequent usage of nasal decongestants – these can actually lead in time to dryness of the interior membranes, causing dependency at the same time
  • Extreme heat (climate)
    • Functions on the same principle as indoor heating during the winter, leading to dry nostrils
  • Air conditioning
    • The air coming from the device is not natural and moist, causing the nostrils to become dry
  • Frequent visits to the sauna (dry sauna, no steam).

Treatment

These are the most recommended measures and treatment choices for dry nostrils:

• Stop using medication that causes the nostrils to become dry; request the doctor for an alternative that does not have this side-effect
• Drink more water, to keep the body hydrated and prevent the dryness of the nasal mucosa
• Moisturize the nasal passages
  • Nasal saline spray
    • No addiction, as it contains only natural ingredients
    • Can be used as frequent as one desires, hydrating the inside membranes of the nose
• Moisturize the air in the room
  • Room humidifier/vaporizer
• Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Pain relieving properties
  • Reduce associated inflammation
  • Recommended: acetaminophen, ibuprofen
• Treatment for underlying conditions
  • Sjögren’s syndrome
    • Immunosuppressant medication
  • Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
    • Artificial tears

In conclusion, dry nostrils can be made better if you choose the follow the advice and treatment choices recommended above. Prevent this condition by drinking lots of water, keeping the air inside your rooms moisturized and eating healthy. Make sure that you also use a moisturizing lotion made from natural ingredients, for the outside part of the nostrils. This will help the cracked skin heal faster and it will reduce the chance of secondary bacterial infections.