Runny noses, tear-filled eyes, and difficulty in breathing are not only signs of crying due to an emotional outburst; they are also the symptoms of seasonal allergies. Close to fifty million individuals in the country suffer from seasonal allergies each year. This is caused by exaggerated immune responses to allergens in the air, the most common of which are pollen from trees, grass and weeds, mold, and even pet dander. 5 Cities with the Worst Seasonal Allergies 1. McAllen, Texas Rated as the worst city for allergies in the spring of 2019, McAllen is not a great city for people who suffer from seasonal illnesses. On average, the city’s air pollution is measured at 120 µg/m3 PM 2.5 pollution for 24 hours. In both spring and fall, the heat and humidity encourage plants to shed more pollen, making sneezing and sniffling commonplace twice a year. The particulate matter does not help, making skin allergies more frequent as well. 2. Orlando, Florida While not featured in all the lists for worst cities for allergies, Orlando is worth mentioning since its weather conditions are conducive for various allergies. Even though the population does not have a large percentage suffering from hay fever, the air is abound with dust mites and pollen.

Colon cancer is the growth of cancerous tumors in the large intestine or colon. Colorectal cancer, often appearing with rectal cancer, is one of the most common cancers. The American Cancer Society, ACS, estimates that one in 23 men and 1 in 25 women have this type of cancer. While naturally, these statistics are alarming, understanding the risk factors enables one to decide whether they need a screening or not. 1. Advanced age While colon cancer can affect people of all ages, it is most common in those older than 50 years. In recent years, doctors have identified this cancer in an increasing number of people in their 20s and 30s. But they are unable to explain why. Age is a fixed risk factor and one that cannot be altered. Hence, it is essential to consider other risk factors and decide whether to get screened or not. 2. Family history Colon cancer is more prevalent in individuals whose family members had or have the disease. And they are even more likely to develop the disease if more than one family member has cancer in the colon or rectum. Statistics show one in three people who develop colorectal cancer has a family member with the condition.

GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a condition where the acid-containing contents in the stomach leak upwards into the esophagus. GERD is also called chronic acid reflux. Doctors often talk about burning sensations in the chest and heartburn, but the depth of GERD is comprehensible only to those with the disease. Symptoms can arise when you least expect them, but you can escape them by avoiding certain trigger foods. 1. Trigger journal Each individual’s triggers are different, and the best way to find out what your triggers are is by using a trigger journal or trigger log. You should note what foods you eat each day as well as the activities you did that day. When you experience the symptoms, you can identify the triggers. Note down the time you ate and how much you did. All this can determine if there are patterns that you can avoid in the future to ensure you do not repeat eating habits that trigger GERD symptoms. No specific diet can prevent symptoms, but a trigger journal can help your doctor formulate a menu that works for you. Some common triggers of GERD are listed below. 2. Large meals Heartburn is most likely after large meals.

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. Fatigue, muscle aches, tenderness in the abdomen, jaundice, dark urine, and light-colored bowel movements are the most common characteristics. Antiviral drugs can cure hepatitis C, but there are no vaccines for the infection. Today, with advances in technology, the prognosis is excellent for those who are infected. However, it is a severe illness, and it is best to understand Hepatitis C in its entirety. Causes of hepatitis C The hepatitis C virus or HCV causes hepatitis C infection. There are three versions of the hepatitis viruses, A, B, and C. The viruses invade the liver causing swelling and dysfunction, and over time the inflammation can damage other organs. Hepatitis C can be acute or chronic, and even an initial acute infection can become chronic in over half of the cases. Transmission of hepatitis C virus Acquiring and transmitting the virus is possible in multiple ways, but the basic principle is that the hepatitis C virus spreads via contaminated bodily fluids, especially blood to blood contact. Keep in mind that the virus can be transmitted even when the symptoms of the disease are not present. 1. Blood and blood products Even a speck of blood can carry hepatitis C virus particles.

Urinary tract infections or UTIs are bacterial, fungal, or viral infections that affect the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. Escherichia and Staphylococcus are the most common bacteria, accounting for 80% of all UTIs. Symptoms are related to urination – either abnormal color, smell, or frequency. While antibiotics can treat UTIs and long-term doses prevent a recurrence, many home remedies and alternative treatments are available for UTIs. 1. Drink fluids Hydration and urinary tract infections are undoubtedly linked. Researchers suggest adults drink at least eight glasses of water, and children 5-7 glasses of water in a day. Regular urination flushes the bacteria from the urinary tract, preventing UTIs. Low fluid intake and infrequent urination are both linked to recurrent urinary tract infections. Remember to stay hydrated and meet fluid needs as and when you feel thirsty. 2. Probiotics While people think probiotics are beneficial for digestion, their contribution to urinary health slips the mind. There are naturally occurring microbes in the vagina, just like the biome in the intestine. Probiotics are beneficial to promote balance in the vaginal biome. Foods like kimchi, kombucha, and yogurt are full of probiotics. Many studies indicate the positive effects of Lactobacillus to prevent UTIs. Hence, in combination with antibiotics, UTIs face an almost non-circumventable line of defense.