Carotid arteries are two large blood vessels that supply oxygenated blood to the brain and other main parts of the body. You can feel the pulse of carotid artery which is situated just below the jaw line. Also known as carotid artery stenosis, it is a condition in which carotid arteries are narrowed. Before we head on to find out the signs of carotid artery disease, let us look at some of the causes of the same:
Carotid artery disease is usually caused due to deposition of fatty substance and cholesterol, narrowing them. As a result, the blood flow to the brain decreases. This can cause a person to suffer from a brain stroke or a “brain attack”. This occurs when blood flow is cut off from the part of the brain.
Signs and symptoms of carotid artery disease:
- Carotid artery disease does not have any specific symptoms. Three of the main signs of carotid artery disease include: Bruit, TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack)
- Bruit
Bruit is diagnosed when a doctor uses a stethoscope to listen the patient’s heartbeat. If they hear a whooshing sound, it is referred to as bruit. The sound suggests that there is a change in the blood flow due to deposition of cholesterol on the walls of carotid arteries. The doctors will suggest some tests that will confirm the condition. - Stroke
It causes brain damage that lasts longer than usual. The brain damage can lead long-term disability, vision and speech problems and even paralysis. In extreme cases, it can even cause death. Most people suffering from strokes do not get mini-strokes as a warning sign, which makes the condition even more serious. - Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
Transient Ischemic Attack is also called as “mini stroke”. This is actually the first sign of carotid artery. The symptoms are usually similar to that of a stroke. The only difference is these symptoms lasts not more than 24 hours. Hence the name “mini stroke”. The symptoms of mini stroke include sudden, severe headache with unknown causes, loss of balance, Dizziness, Inability to move your limbs (partial paralysis), trouble seeing with both the eyes. Weakness or numbness in face and limbs (or just one side of the body), loss or inability to understand speech.
Getting treatment for these above-mentioned symptoms is very crucial, as their diagnosis will deduce the underlying disease, in this case, coronary artery disease. There are good chances of full recovery if a blocked artery is treated within 4 hours of the onset of symptoms. Learning the signs of coronary artery disease will allow one to lower the risk of brain damage or even death due to these symptoms.
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4 Tips to Treat Common Symptoms of Stomach Flu
Read moreGastroenteritis, popularly termed as stomach flu, is an inflammation of the stomach and the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in a ruthless mix of symptoms. The most common cause of stomach flu are viral infections; however, it can also be caused due to bacterial or parasitic infections and food-borne illnesses. The symptoms of stomach flu usually last up to 14 days. The condition is a highly contagious one that spreads through an oral-fecal route. The most common symptoms of stomach flu are as follows:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Cramping in the abdomen
- Low-grade fever
- Chills
- Muscle aches
Here are some tips to treat the symptoms of the stomach flu:
Drink Lots of Fluids
When affected by stomach flu, your body loses essential bodily fluids through vomiting, diarrhea, and sweating. Therefore, it is important to consume these fluids to regulate the body’s water levels and stay hydrated. The best fluids to consume when suffering from the symptoms of stomach flu are as follows:- Clear liquids such as water
- Ginger and peppermint tea to relieve nausea
- Energy drinks that assist in electrolyte replacement
- OTC preparations
Additionally, make sure to avoid highly caffeinated drinks such as coffee or black tea. These can muddle with your sleeping patterns and further upset your stomach.
Follow the BRAT diet
Most of the times, people with stomach flu do not feel like eating. But when they do, it’s best to start with a BRAT diet. BRAT is the acronym for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These four foods are easy to digest and a rich source of carbohydrates. They will replenish the vital nutrients in your body and give you the needed energy to function.On the other hand, it is advisable to avoid dairy products, fibrous foods, and anything that is greasy or spicy as it will further complicate stomach distresses.
Try Acupressure
Acupressure is a great technique that helps in alleviating nausea and other symptoms of an upset stomach. You can locate the pressure point P-6 by measuring the width of three fingers, starting from the bottom of your hand palm. Massage the area with your thumb for 2-3 minutes to experience relief.Medicate with Caution
Several people take to medicines for curing the symptoms of the stomach flu. However, it is important to note that stomach flu cannot always be cured with medications, and taking antibiotics will not help if the condition is caused due to a viral infection. Certain medications can be taken for stomach flu unless you suffer from a liver disease. They relive aches and fever and is less likely to upset your stomach. You can also take over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications to ease symptoms that are usually associated with stomach flu, such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. -
Reasons why metal detection is such a popular hobby
Read moreMetal detection is a hugely popular hobby that has won the favor of numerous enthusiasts all around the world. You may wonder why metal detection is such an enthralling and exciting hobby that makes people go gaga over it. For a person who is consumed with the love for metal detection, answering what’s so exciting about it may be quite a task. Various people find different kinds of pleasures in it. Check out some of the reasons that make metal detection such a popular hobby.
Love of history
For some history buffs, the primary reason for embracing metal detection as a hobby may be the thrill of finding antiques and items that haven’t seen the light of the day for centuries. People interested in artifacts and archaeology may especially be inclined towards this activity. Many engage in it for their interest for ancient weapons that have sundry tales to tell.Love for collecting
Collecting sundry items is a popular hobby among several people. Some people may be able to satiate their love for coin collecting through metal detectors. Metal detection gives people the liberty to collect age old colonial coins and new age wheat pennies!Keeps you active
Believe it or not but metal detection is a great outdoor activity that keeps you alive and kicking. It is also a fantastic form of physical and mental exercise. Metal detecting keeps you going to new and far off sites and engages you in the most productive of ways.Financial gains
One of the most common reasons why some people are glued on and motivated to metal detection is for some extra bucks. Some people may delve into sites with the hope of finding valuable jewelry, gold coins or nuggets and sell their finds to earn some serious money! This may not always be the case. For most hobbyists, their finds are more meaningful to them than a few dollars.Adrenaline rush
Metal detection is quite an addictive and adventurous activity that gives hobbyists all the adrenaline rush a sport like mountain biking or rafting may provide. Hunting for antiques and bygone items in itself is an engaging and exciting pursuit. To top it up, finding and pulling out dirt laden rare and obscure artifacts is all the thrill you would ever want. What’s more, the activity gives you a reason to explore permitted public parks, beaches, woods and even your own private property!