Long-term exposure to daily-use cleaners, dishwashing soaps, air fresheners, and other aerosol products harms lung health, mainly because these products contain irritants and volatile organic compounds that cause allergies in the lungs. There is a potential risk of lung disease, asthma, MAC disease, and common chronic obstructive pulmonary disease developing due to long-term exposure. So, it’s crucial to check the label of the following household items before buying them and practice caution while using them. Air fresheners Room and air fresheners are not just used in homes but also in offices, malls, and many other public places, which means one can be continually exposed to the product in and outside their living space. While the purpose of air fresheners is to keep odor at bay, several ingredients in the air freshener can cause harm to health. Fresheners are known to have volatile organic compounds and release harmful gasses in the air that are eventually inhaled by people in the room, increasing their risk of developing respiratory issues. Some of the known chemicals in such products include formaldehyde, benzene, and phthalates which can cause issues like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty in breathing when inhaled. Here is a list of ingredients that one will usually find in air fresheners and a look at how they can potentially harm the lungs:

Sleep is an essential part of daily routine. As you rest and relax during the night, the body carries out repair and restoration processes to help you stay healthy. The position and level of comfort while asleep can affect this process. Certain sleeping positions may cause or worsen pain, exert stress on the spine, or increase stiffness in the back. Here is a look at how sleeping positions can affect sleep: Finding the best sleeping position When it comes to sleep, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Your ideal sleeping position depends on factors such as your health, lifestyle, spinal alignment, and comfort. However, sleeping on the back or side is generally considered more beneficial than sleeping on your stomach. This is because your spine is better supported and balanced in the former, making room for pressure relief and muscle relaxation. Sleeping on your side A whopping 60% of adults sleep on their sides. For children, it is common to alternate between different sleeping positions, but as the flexibility of the spine decreases, there is a clear preference for side sleeping. Sleeping on the side is associated with several health benefits, like promoting healthy spinal alignment, reducing pain in the neck and the back, and decreasing the risk of heartburn and snoring.

Infections caused by viruses are called viral infections. Viruses are tiny pathogens that use a person’s cells to replicate repeatedly. They usually cause digestive and respiratory illnesses, but some variants can also affect other body functions. Common viral illnesses include the flu, cold, and herpes (cold sores). These go away on their own in most cases but can sometimes cause life-threatening or chronic health problems. Here are the types and early symptoms of viral infections. Types of viral infections Viral infections are usually classified depending on the body part they infect, how they spread, and the symptoms they cause. Certain viruses, such as adenovirus and herpes virus, can cause different health problems. The common types of viral infections include the following: Respiratory viral infections Respiratory viral infections start in the lungs, airways, throat, and nose. These infections cause pneumonia, ear infections, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Some common types of respiratory viral infections include: Common cold, which is generally caused by rhinovirus Flu caused by influenza Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) Parainfluenza Viral infections in the digestive system Viral infections can affect any part of the digestive system but usually start in the stomach, intestines, gastrointestinal tract, or liver. Some common types of digestive system viral infections include the following:

It can be highly beneficial to have a reliable gynecologist to ensure optimal reproductive health. Some individuals may feel uneasy discussing personal matters with their gynecologist. Hence, finding a doctor who creates a safe and comfortable environment is crucial. A proficient gynecologist will provide factual and informative responses to all sensitive inquiries without causing any embarrassment or judgment. The following are some questions that can be asked during a gynecologist appointment: What is my vulva supposed to look like? It is extremely normal to be curious about the vulva. Is it too big, too small, too dark? These are some of the common questions most women have about their bodies. A vulva is different in every woman, and it is completely normal. A good gynecologist will help one understand this easily and can explain that this is just a part of the genitals, and as long as it is healthy, one does not have anything to worry about. Should I shave or wax before visiting? Some may question whether it is appropriate to wax, trim, or shave pubic hair before going for a doctor’s visit. This is a valid question; the right answer is to do what makes one feel comfortable.

Acid reflux, commonly referred to as heartburn, is a discomfort that most adults experience on a regular basis. The stomach holds digestive juices that break down the foods and beverages consumed before moving them along the digestive tract. When these juices flow back up the esophagus, the resulting burning sensation and discomfort is called acid reflux. Here are some known causes, triggers, and habits that may inadvertently worsen the condition. Having a large meal The body can only absorb and process a certain amount of nutrients from foods and beverages consumed daily. Overeating only adds extra calories that remain unprocessed and adds to the body mass index, triggering the risk of high body fat, among other complications. Putting pressure on the stomach forces the gastric foods back up the esophagus. This happens as the esophageal sphincter relaxes, opening the valve connecting the end of the esophagus with the top of the stomach. The acidity content of these gastric juices is extremely high, and the upwards regurgitation is what triggers painful heartburn. Instead of having a large meal, doctors advise splitting up the same food into smaller portions and having smaller meals every couple of hours. Wearing clothing that presses against the stomach Wearing tight fitting clothes may be a stylish fashion choice, but this habit can trigger heartburn.

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be a worrisome premise for many. This life-altering condition can make people feel overwhelmed, causing them to shut themselves off from any new information. However, taking an active part in treatment planning can help one achieve better outcomes and reduce side effects. Doctors with special training in diagnosing and treating tumors and cancers are known as oncologists. Here are some questions to ask your oncologist about cancer: About the diagnosis It is important to understand what tests are being conducted to diagnose cancer and how you can prepare for them. Here are some questions to ask at your initial appointment: What diagnostic tests or procedures do I need? How often do they need to be conducted? How can I prepare for these tests? What will these tests tell us? When will I get my results, and how will I receive them? Will I need to repeat any tests if I seek a second opinion? About cancer Upon diagnosis, it’s important to completely understand the type and stage of cancer, as this will help determine your treatment plan. Here are some questions you must ask: What type of cancer do I have? Where is the cancer located?