8 common signs of itchy skin

8 common signs of itchy skin
Itchy skin or pruritus is a sensation most people experience at some point. It is generally harmless and often annoying. However, if itchy skin persists continuously over a long period, it may indicate an underlying health condition. Also, if the itching occurs over the same body area and does not go away with simple remedies, one must consult their primary care doctor for a proper diagnosis. Here are some common signs of itchy skin that may require attention. Dry skin Dry skin is one of the most common causes of itching. When the skin cells lose hydration, the top layer becomes dry and flaky, which leads to irritation and repeated itching to get relief. Dryness can occur due to cold weather or low humidity. Excessive bathing, frequent showering with hot water, and using harsh soaps may also cause the skin to lose its natural hydration, leading to itchiness. Rash or redness Another common sign of itchy skin is when rashes develop over the affected areas. There can be redness as well, which results from inflammation. These rashes and red patches will vary in shape and size. These are usually areas of intense itching that worsen unless treated properly. Such rashes may develop due to allergic reactions, contact dermatitis, insect bites, or infection.

8 fragrant plants that repel ticks

8 fragrant plants that repel ticks
Tick infestation is a grave concern that endangers humans and their furry companions. A single tick in one’s home could signal the beginning of a severe infestation. While commercial sprays and chemicals effectively keep ticks at bay and prevent an infestation, natural and eco-friendly alternatives exist. One of the most efficient natural solutions is cultivating specific fragrant plants that naturally repel these pests. Here are some that stand out as effective tick repellents. Lavender Lavender is a plant that is aesthetically pleasing and has a sweet, soothing fragrance. However, ticks do not particularly love this fragrance, which keeps them away, as the scent of lavender is a natural repellent. One can grow lavender in their garden or indoors in a pot. While lavender thrives in hot and dry climates, it can grow in slightly low temperatures. Along with cultivating lavender plants, one can also use lavender essential oil for repelling ticks. Mint Mint is an herb widely loved for its fragrance and aroma. Owing to its strong aroma, it is popularly used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages and for making essential oils. However, ticks despise this strong scent and prefer staying away. Mint is relatively easy to grow in pots and open gardens.

8 mistakes to avoid when supporting charities

8 mistakes to avoid when supporting charities
Engaging in charitable activities and giving back to the community offers many benefits. For instance, it provides a sense of fulfillment to the giver, enhances community well-being, builds empathy, and sometimes provides tax benefits. However, donating to a noble cause requires planning. Many people make mistakes when giving to a charity, which wastes their hard-earned money and brings no long-term benefit. Here are some of these common mistakes to avoid. Relying on emotional appeals Many people visit homes and make appeals through social media, asking for donations. However, one should exercise caution, as not all requests are genuine. Certain charity telemarketers are linked to for-profit entities and retain a significant portion of the collected funds for themselves. Therefore, individuals should make informed choices and ensure their donations benefit the intended cause. It is best to verify the legitimacy of the requests before making any commitments. One way to do this is to visit the organization’s website and inquire about its activities. Not researching well Individuals must research the legitimacy of charities and their functioning before deciding. For instance, one can learn how the organization distributes the money it receives for supporting a good cause and performing administrative activities. Ideally, a charity should assign about 75% of its profits to the cause and the remaining for promotions and administration.

5 ways to maintain office water systems

5 ways to maintain office water systems
Clean drinking water is an absolute necessity, which is why most workplaces and homes install water filtration systems that can provide people with uncontaminated water. For offices, a water filtration system is a better alternative to having bottled water for all employees. Aside from the convenience of a water system, the environmental impact and cost-effectiveness make it the ideal choice. However, water filtration and purification systems often require regular upkeep. Here is what to expect: 1. Regular filter replacement For any water filtration system to work optimally, regular maintenance is a must. A crucial part of maintenance is replacing the filter. This can help filtration systems continue to keep contaminants at bay and maintain optimal functionality, especially in an office space where the usage volume is considerably higher than in homes. Over time, the filters can become clogged due to continual use, ultimately affecting the quality of water being filtered. So, one should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appliance and follow the recommended filter replacement schedule that helps ensure the water remains clean and safe to drink. If one fails to replace the filters of the office water system, they might have to deal with poor water quality, which can also pose health risks.

Pros and cons of online therapy to consider

Pros and cons of online therapy to consider
Technological advancements have more than a handful of benefits to offer, including the possibility of teletherapy, also known as online therapy. It uses web-based applications to provide patients with the therapy and counseling they require. One can address their mental health issues and seek guidance without having to spend time commuting. Several types of therapies are available online, but before choosing, one must consider the pros and cons of the service. Advantages of online therapy sessions Efficiency There have been studies that suggest online therapy sessions may be just as effective as in-person sessions. Different types of mental health conditions were researched, and it was found that there was minimal difference in positive patient outcomes. Consequently, online therapy sessions are a preferable option to having no sessions at all. Furthermore, patients do not have to worry about any social stigma while seeking the care they need. Accessibility Online therapy sessions are more accessible than in-person sessions. People who are home-bound due to various reasons can easily schedule a session and get access to the treatment they need. Moreover, it can be more convenient to receive therapy sessions from a distant professional who would otherwise be unavailable. Convenience In most cases, online therapy sessions are more affordable and convenient for patients.

3 effective ways to deal with cold and flu symptoms

3 effective ways to deal with cold and flu symptoms
Cold and flu (influenza) are contagious conditions brought on by viruses that enter the body through nose, eyes, or the mouth. While cold is a milder respiratory condition, both illnesses are often characterized by similar symptoms like sneezing, coughing, fever, runny nose, congestion, and body ache. However, certain treatment options, right food choices, and remedies can help people get rid of the symptoms. So, here are 3 ways to deal with cold and flu: Treatment options Antiobiotics are usually ineffective in treating cold- and flu-like symptoms. Doctors may recommed the following options: Xofluza: Xofluza is an antiviral treatment option prescribed for patients affected by the flu. However, the tablet is said to be most effective when taken within 48 hours of the appearance of symptoms. Xofluza helps reduce the severity of symptoms like fever, sore throat, chills, and fatigue. It works by interfering with the growth of the virus and might also cut down the recovery time by a day or two. Tamiflu: Tamiflu is a treatment option prescribed for patients affected by the flu virus. It is an antiviral option in the form of 75mg tablets that are usually available in a pack of 10. This can also be recommended to prevent contracting the infection.

Our
Blog.

6 Safest SUVs to Consider Buying in 2023

6 Safest SUVs to Consider Buying in 2023

Are you looking for a safe, reliable SUV for your family? Look no further. Some of the best SUVs for 2023 come with advanced technology, superior driver assistance features, and safety equipment. They can protect the driver and occupants in a collision and lower the impact of the crash. From luxury to budget-friendly options, there is something for everyone. So here are the safest SUVs you can find this year: Dodge Hornet The 2023 Dodge Hornet is a compact crossover SUV that prioritizes safety and reliability. The Hornet has advanced safety features such as forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The interior of the Hornet has premium materials and plenty of space for passengers and cargo. You also get an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Hornet is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 268-hp engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. The SUV strikes a balance between power and efficiency and delivers good performance. You can look up “Local Dodge dealers near me” and find dealerships that sell the Hornet. You will be able to find great deals on new and used models at a local dealership.
Read More
Top 7 beauty and fashion trends

Top 7 beauty and fashion trends

Fashion trends are dynamic and go through constant change and innovation. While some styles have remained timeless for decades, some trends fail to impress and disappear without making an impact. The approach to beauty today focuses on sustainability, minimalism, inclusion, and no cruelty. The trends in beauty and fashion quite naturally follow similar lines. Based on these factors, some of the top beauty and fashion trends in the coming year are as follows: Skincare The buzzword in the last couple of years has been minimalism, especially for skin care. Women prefer to use lesser products for their skincare routines. Utilizing a bevy of cosmetics for everyday skin nourishment and enhancement is time-consuming, overwhelming, and may affect the skin negatively. Skincare trends focus on improving skin health and reducing the negative impact of long-term use of skin-related products. This move hopes to reduce the overuse of skincare and control the damage caused by chemical products. Microbiome skincare is a new trend, featuring prebiotic and probiotic components that nourish the skin. Hybrid beauty Hybrid cosmetics combine multiple active ingredients that now work both as skin care products and as cosmetics. It reduces the time one spends on beauty routine and the number of products one needs to buy, saving money, effort, and time.
Read More