What you should know about arthritis as a joint condition
What you should know about arthritis as a joint condition

The joints in our bodies are constantly working while we move our limbs. Hence, it is understandable that with time we may develop certain joint conditions that lead to pain and compromised mobility. One of the very common forms of these conditions is arthritis. It leads to joint inflammation. A condition that mainly affects people over 65 years of age, it can be more commonly seen in women.

Different stages of arthritis

There are many different types of arthritis, but the two most commonly occurring ones are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages.

  • Stage 1
    During this stage, inflammation occurs in the joints. Swelling, stiffness, and joint pains are common symptoms of this stage. The joint tissues swell up, too.
  • Stage 2
    During this time, the joint lining, synovium, is inflamed even more and results in cartilage damage. The joints’ motion capability is compromised due to this, leading to pain.
  • Stage 3
    In this stage, the severity of the joint condition becomes even more harmful. Rheumatoid arthritis leads to bone damages. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles.
  • Stage 4
    This is the end stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Osteoarthritis has four stages of progression, too.

  • Stage 1
    Tiny wear and tear may occur on the knee joints, and spur growths on the bone can be seen. It does not cause too much pain.
  • Stage 2
    The bone spur growths increase and lead to pain. The knee joints start to become stiffer.
  • Stage 3
    During this time, the joint inflammation leads to even more pain and stiffness. Walking can result in popping sounds, too.
  • Stage 4
    The space between the bones in the joints become very narrow, which leads to wearing of the cartilages. A chronic inflammatory response is caused by the breakdown of cartilages and leads to even more discomfort and pain.

Diagnosis of arthritis

These joint conditions can be diagnosed by a doctor using medical tests. A physical exam will reveal if you have red and warm joints. The test is also performed to examine the fluid around your joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the levels of inflammation in your joint fluids and blood to determine what type of arthritis you have. Blood tests are also done to check for antibodies such as anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans are also performed to check the condition of your cartilage and bones.

Prevention of arthritis

A family history of arthritis or aging can cause you to suffer from the disease, and you may not have any control over it. However, there are certain things that can be done to lower the chances of you developing arthritis. To start with, include omega-3 in your diet. You should also exercise regularly, keep your weight under check, not put your joints under stress, and try to avoid injuries.

If you ever feel any symptoms of arthritis, you should see your doctor immediately. They can help you slow the progress of the joint condition.

  • Oil change coupons for your Ford Motor

    Frequent motor servicing is expensive, but a Ford engine needs regular oil changes to keep it functioning optimally. Luckily, many dealerships offer coupons for a discounted oil change. Depending on your car model, your engine will require either synthetic, semi-synthetic, regular, or premium oil. Once you know the type of oil that needs to be replaced, look for a service center that has it, and check out these coupons for your Ford motor. These will make an oil change a lot more affordable.

    The Works® Package coupon
    Almost every Ford dealership is familiar with the popular Works® package coupon. With this deal, you get six quarts of Motorcraft® oil, which is a high-quality synthetic blend. The costs differ depending on if the vehicle needs premium oil; it will cost something around an additional $30 dollars. If you want to avail of this offer, get in touch with a local dealership and ask them if they accept this particular Ford Motors coupon for oil change. The Works® Package also includes brake inspection, battery test, and filter check, along with oil replacement.

    Santa Margarita Ford Express Service
    Santa Margarita Ford, based in California, is an automotive venture that specializes in Ford motor servicing. Currently, they have a Ford Express Service offer that includes six quarts of synthetic blend oil. The service also includes basic requirements like tire rotation, a factory replacement oil filter, and vehicle inspection. Print this coupon from the official website and keep it handy when you sign up for service at the dealership. Also, check for the mentioned expiry date. If the due date has already passed, check the website regularly and keep an eye out for fresh specials.

    Wolf Motors oil change coupons and packages
    Wolf Motors has a couple of oil change deals ranging from semi-synthetic options to comprehensive diesel oil packages. The ‘Semi-Synthetic Oil Change’ package starts off at $29.95, and your car gets up to five quarts of oil filter. It also includes a battery test, a filter inspection, checkup of belts and hoses, and a fluid top-off. Wolf Motors also has an offer for a full synthetic oil change that is comparatively more expensive, priced at a sale amount of $79.99. It also includes a vehicle checkup, so you get premium oil with additional perks.

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  • 4 best network cards for high-speed internet

    Network cards, also known as network interface cards (NIC), help you connect your computer to the internet over both wireless or wired networks. The card also ensures seamless communication between devices connected via LAN (local area network) and large-scale networks via Internet Protocol. Here, we will talk about some of the best network card brands on the market.

    TP-LINK TL-WDN4800
    TP-LINK is one of the best network card brands, and this card from the company is feature-packed. Its durable dual-band N900 PCI adapter can easily fit in most computers, eliminating any disturbance and making your connection more stable. It comes with a low-profile bracket and has three inbuilt antennas. Besides, its plug-and-use design further makes it a preferred choice. The card comes with a two-year warranty and will cost you around $59.

    Asus PCE – AC88 AC3100
    Besides gaming laptops and desktop computers, Asus is also known for its top-class network cards. Its PCE – AC88 AC3100 offers spectacular speeds for online gaming. It supports MU-MIMO technology and comes with a custom heatsink that keeps the temperature under control even after a long deployment. All individual antennas are capable of connecting directly to your PCle card. You can get this network card for approximately $100 on Amazon.

    Intel PWLA8391GT PRO-1000
    At $29.99, this is one of Intel’s best network cards. It is highly durable, and its low-profile design makes it compatible with most computers. Besides rendering high internet speed, it enhances the performance of your computer. The installation is pretty simple, and the device’s plug-and-use functionality makes it a hit among users at all levels.

    EDUP WiFi 6 Card AX
    This card comes packed with WiFi 6 and an Intel AX200 chip. These features, clubbed with dual-band high speed, give you brilliant coverage for every connected device. This card also dissipates heat efficiently, preventing any overheating issues and keeping your computer safe. What’s more? The device is Bluetooth compatible.

    It goes without saying that if you use the internet for high-intensive activities, such as streaming 4K content or playing online games with high graphics, you will need a good network card brand. Besides, you do not want to be stuck up with your work while on a slow connection. These were the best brands you can consider to solve any issues related to network or connectivity. They offer you high speed, multiple antennas, and many other reliable features that make them the best in the market.

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  • A brief history of prayer beads across different religions

    The word bead originates from the old Anglo-Saxon word “bede,” which refers to prayer. Beads were first used for religious purposes 29 centuries ago in Hinduism. Soon thereafter, Muslims and Buddhists started using prayer beads. Later, Christian rosaries became prevalent during the Middle Ages. Here, we take you through the various forms of prayer beads across three different religions.

    Types of prayer beads
    Here are a few important forms of prayer beads across diverse religions:

    Christian prayer beads
    These prayer beads are recognized in Lutheran, Episcopal, and Catholic churches. They are used for meditating, counting prayers, and chanting. Additionally, they can also be seen during devotionals. In certain instances, every bead represents a specific concept or event. These prayer beads can be made in the form of a necklace or bracelet, and many materials are utilized to make them.

    Christian prayer beads are used in several religious practices, as they help them work more efficiently. With these beads, you can recite prayers better. A few denominations that use these prayer beads include Lutheran churches, the Episcopal Church of the United States, the Anglican Church, Protestant believers, and the Eastern Orthodox Church. The rosary is the most popularly known prayer bead. It is made with five sets of ten beads. The other types of Christian prayer beads are the Lutheran rosary, the Wreath of Christ, and the Anglican rosary.

    Buddhist prayer beads
    Also known as Tibetan prayer beads, these beads can be useful in many aspects of meditation. They are connected through a string and consist of 108 beads and one Guru bead. Each bead denotes a breath or chant, which you pay attention to as you inhale and exhale. Tibetan prayer beads are made of materials such as gemstones, wood, and seeds, among others. These beads are a representation of spiritual identity. At present, they are used in different techniques of meditation. Apart from traditional prayers, you can use them to achieve peace of mind and positive spiritual energy. These prayer beads can help reduce blood pressure and stress, as well as improve sleep.

    Islamic prayer beads
    In Islamic culture, prayer beads are referred to as “Subha” or “Misbaha.” The most common types have 99 beads and are segregated into three segments containing 33 beads each. The materials used to create these beads include plastic, pearls, and wood. Semi-precious gemstones, such as amber, agate, carnelian, and onyx are also used to make these prayer beads. These beads are common gifts for spiritual pilgrimages.

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  • Choosing the right dishwasher for your home

    Dishwashers are useful in any kitchen, and it would be no exaggeration to say that this appliance can be your perfect companion, especially when you are running short on time. For both working individuals and homemakers, a dishwasher is nothing less than a blessing in disguise. Several best-rated dishwashers in the market can be just perfectly suited for different families, lifestyles, and preferences based on their portability options and setting-up requirements. That being said, to be able to utilize the functionality of your dishwasher fully, you need to get the right one home.

    Finding the perfect dishwasher
    When you are out looking for the best-rated dishwashers, make sure that you have done your homework well and precisely know what type of dishwasher would be ideal for your home and give you years of comfort. If you haven’t, here are the different kinds of dishwashers available so that you make your pick –

    Traditional built-in dishwasher
    These are the traditional, bulky dishwashers that are permanently placed in a kitchen cabinet. The installation would require plumbing and water works as these units are separate from the sink, having their dedicated water supply line.

    Drawer dishwasher
    These are more compact than the traditional dishwashers but require permanent installation. These best-rated dishwashers come in varying capacities, even with double drawers, with an option to operate only one drawer when you have fewer dishes.

    Freestanding portable dishwasher
    The free-standing dishwasher is the ideal type when you need something portable and don’t have too much space on your counter. These are simple to run and can be moved around. You will need to connect them to the kitchen sink faucet to operate.

    Countertop dishwasher
    This type of portable dishwasher can be placed on your counter-top but does not need any permanent installation. Like the freestanding model, it needs to be connected to the sink faucet.

    Based on the space available in your kitchen and your lifestyle, you can choose from the above best-rated dishwashers and enjoy a hassle-free time in the kitchen!

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  • Keep your senior dog healthy with these fortified senior dog foods

    It is said that the only fault of dogs is that their lives are too short. If you have a pet dog, you will know that your furry one is your greatest source of joy, despite its short life. Young dogs are full of energy; you spend a lot of time taking your dog for walks and hikes and playing with them when they are young.

    Once your dog reaches their senior years, they undergo a lot of physiological changes. Their energy levels dwindle, their joints become weak, their coat starts to lose its natural shine, and a lot of health issues crop up. To make things easier for your senior dog, you have to make changes in their lifestyle which includes their diet. The digestive system of senior dogs become sensitive; their bodies are unable to process and assimilate food quickly. This makes it necessary to give the best senior dog food fortified with essential nutrients to your senior dog. Here are some of the popular and best senior dog food available in the market:

    BLUE Life Protection Formula by Blue Buffalo
    This dry food for senior dogs is fortified with protein and carbohydrates as it contains chicken and brown rice. It also contains, wholesome grains, fruits, and vegetables. Available in the form of dry kibbles, this senior dog food packs in packs in seven essential minerals and vitamins. It is fortified with omega-3 fatty acids that improve the health of your dog’s coat and skin. It also aids in improving the immune system and preventing infections. It does not contain soy, corn, wheat, and artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Thus, it is free of allergens. This senior dog food is available in packs of 6 lb, 15 lb, and 30 lb. Depending on the weight, the price will be between $15 and $54.

    Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food by Nutro
    This senior dog food contains 12 superfoods that provide the necessary nutrition to your aging pet. These superfoods include tomatoes, sunflower oil, flaxseed, coconut, pumpkin, spinach, apples, carrots, blueberries, chia seeds, egg, and kale. It also contains rich sources of protein such as salmon, chicken, and lamb. Since senior dogs often suffer from joint disorders such as arthritis, the protein blend contained in this senior dog food helps to maintain a good joint health. If your senior dog is prone to allergies, you do not have to worry since there are no gluten, corn, or soy ingredients. Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food by Nutro has fish oil that alleviates inflammation and boosts the immune system. There are no preservatives or artificial ingredients in this senior dog food. If you buy the dry variety in 30lb package, the price will be around $57; for the wet variety, the price is about $18.

    Diamond Naturals Dry Food for Senior Dogs
    This senior dog food is suitable for dogs above the age of 8 years. This is one of the few best senior dog foods packed with probiotic nutrients that is quite good got your pet’s gut health. This senior dog food is fortified with quinoa and chia seeds along with the chicken. It also contains fruits and vegetables. Thus, it contains all the essential minerals and vitamins derived from multiple superfoods. Containing a good proportion of antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids, this best dog food for older dogs fights oxidation of cells that is quite prevalent among senior dogs. You can buy this in sizes of 6lb, 18lb, and 35lb. The price will be between $17 and $37.

    Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Senior Dog Food
    This is one of the most popular and best dog foods for older dogs known to provide optimum health to your senior dog. Its main protein source comes from the chicken and it is further fortified with flax seeds, spinach, and blueberries. All these ingredients provide antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids necessary for your dog’s good health. It also contains taurine that helps to beat cognitive decline, which is commonly observed in aging dogs.  There are no allergic substances or artificial ingredients present in this best senior dog food. So, it is quite safe for dogs who are susceptible to allergies and infections. This is available in a 5-pound bag, 6-pound bag, 13-pound bag, 15-pound bag, 26-pound bag, and 30-pound bag. The price ranges from $16 to $57.

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  • Things to Consider When Buying Mattresses on Sale

    Good sleep is key to good health. Sleep deprivation can affect memory and cognition. A good mattress is one of the easiest ways to ensure good sleep; however, few people realize that investing in a quality mattress goes a long way in establishing a good sleep routine. While these products are costly, a good sale mattress can considerably ease the pressure off your pocket. If you are considering buying mattresses on sale, there are a few things you should consider.

    An array of sleep mattresses is available in the market. Most branded dealers have a solid online presence and transactions can be done swiftly. These companies also provide swift home-delivery services. What’s more, most online sales come with offers of a free return policy. This gives the user an opportunity to try to buy sale mattresses from the comfort of their homes and provides them with a sufficient duration to know with certainty whether the product works for them or not.

    Range of mattresses

    Latex and spring mattresses are the common options. One of the most common ways to classify mattresses is based on their firmness. Firm, medium-firm, and soft mattresses cater to people with specific needs. If you suffer from chronic back pain and are investing in a new mattress based on the recommendation of your physician, medium-firm mattresses might be the right choice for you. Mattresses that are too soft tend to cave in, and those that are too firm push against your spine. Both scenarios can cause back pain. Ensure to factor in various features before finalizing the purchase of the sale mattress you like.

    Ergonomic features

    Premium mattresses with excellent ergonomic features and high-quality memory foam naturally cost way more. The investment could range from a few hundred dollars to thousands. Since this particular product has a direct influence on your daily wellbeing, it makes sense to dedicate a sum for the purchase of your next mattress.

    High-quality mattresses come with several layers that provide just the right firmness, bounce, aeration, and heat insulation. The benefits of these features are that you will get a good sleep, the mattress will remain fresh for a longer time, and won’t get easily heated up because of constant body contact. These types of mattresses are definitely worth investing in. Grab a good offer for online sale mattresses and you won’t regret the decision.

    Latex mattresses

    Latex mattresses have a similar firmness like foam models. They have a bit more bounce. Natural latex also has anti-microbial qualities that give protection from dust mites. Select simpler designs for the best comfort. There are two options available in this type—Dunlop latex is a dense mattress while the Talalay latex is lighter with a softer feel. Given these qualities, the price of natural latex mattresses can go up to thousands of dollars. It is a good investment because one ends up using these products day after day for a decade or two! You can also look at your local store for sale latex mattresses. You can also try and negotiate with the salesperson regarding the price of the right latex mattress for you. You can also check online for some of the best deals on latex mattresses.

    Natural or synthetic?

    Pay attention whether the materials are all-natural or a mix of synthetic fibers. People with highly sensitive skin or allergies might want to investigate this beforehand. Pure latex mattresses guarantee the use of 100% natural fibers like a combination of cotton and wool. Often, some latex mattress companies use only a few inches of natural fiber as the topmost layer to pass off the product as eco-friendly. So, look out for the specifications. If the information is ambiguous, you would want to investigate more before making any commitment.

    Pocket-friendly deals

    Budget foam or coil mattresses are relatively cheap. However, if you look around and read customer reviews online, there is a good chance that you may get an excellent deal in coil or budget foam options that perfectly suits your needs as well as your pocket. Find good sale mattresses to increase your savings while buying the mattress of your choice.

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  • Understanding credit checks

    What is a credit check?
    A credit check is an inquiry to assess your credit score which is a number that is given to you after assessing your current credit, liabilities, payment history and so on.

    Why is a credit check done?
    A credit check is normally required for a bank or any other financial institution that lends you money or offers you a line of credit to minimise their own risk.

    How are credit scores calculated?
    A credit score is calculated with priority being assigned to the following components:

    35% – payment history including on time payments, delayed payments, penalties paid on delayed payments, foreclosures on loans etc.

    30% – debt burden or liabilities – this assessment includes debt to limit ratio, balances in accounts, amounts owed in various accounts, amounts paid as instalments and so on

    15% – length of credit history – this is calculated based on the average age of each account you own and the oldest account

    10% – repeated requests for credit scores – if a large number of requests are made to check your credit score within a short specified period, it could lower your overall credit score, especially in the context of hard credit checks. However, most hard inquiries do not reflect on your credit score when they are over 12 months old.

    What is a good score to pass a credit check?
    On a scale that ranges from 300 to 850, given slight variations in the policy of different credit assessment bureaus, a score of 700 and above is considered a good credit score.

    Who can request a credit check?
    Credit checks are normally requested by a bank where you have sought a loan or a mortgage or by a card issuing bank when you have applied for a credit card. Some employers may also initiate a credit check a part of a routine background assessment to verify the trustworthiness of a potential employee. House owners may also wish to be informed of the reliability of a potential tenant and may also initiate a soft credit inquiry. You are also entitled to a free yearly report on your credit score which the three credit assessment bureaus operating in the country are mandated to provide.

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  • Important guidelines for use and maintenance of Polish Pottery

    Are you by chance the proud owner of some wonderful Polish Pottery dinnerware? You can rejoice as this dinnerware is a unique, rare possession, and something that will be cherished in your family for generations to come. Each and every piece of Polish Pottery is made by hand and painted by artists and molded with utmost care and attention. The lovely vibrant shades and beautiful patterns provide a unique feel to your lovely dinnerware that is guaranteed to be an instant hit at any party.

    Wonderful benefits of Polish Pottery
    – Polish Pottery makes an ideal gift for someone you love or a wedding present.
    – They are unique as they cannot be found anywhere else.
    – They can be used not only for cooking and serving but adorn any part of your home beautifully.
    – They come in bright colors against a white back ground that make them look extremely classy and exclusive in every sense of the word.
    – They come with a transparent protective glazing coat that protects them from wearing, rubbing, and food getting stuck on them.

    Given below are some simple guidelines that will help to ensure your lovely dinnerware remains as good as new for years to come.
    – The great news is that Polish Pottery can be safely put into your oven or microwave, freezer, and even dishwasher.
    – Polish Pottery can be heated up to 350 degrees’ temperature in your oven without any issues.
    – With Polish Pottery designed with a wonderful non-porous glaze that is protective, it offers you excellent grip and makes cleaning easier too.
    – Although they have excellent durability, if it happens to fall from your hand, it will surely break.
    – Never subject your Polish Pottery to sudden temperature changes like from extreme cold to sudden heat and vice versa. Ensure it comes back to room temperature prior cleaning too as subjecting your dinnerware to sudden cold water while washing can cause risk of developing cracks or even breaking.
    – Never use pottery dinnerware directly on to a electric burner or any direct sources of heat.
    – Stoneware heats up tremendously while you place it inside your oven. So, make sure you take adequate precautions like using a pot holder or even mitts when you are taking the pot or bowl out of the oven.

    Just taking care of these simple tips is sure to ensure that this precious dinnerware will remain intact for generations.

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