Published 13:58 10 Sep 2024 GMT+1
Small detail in your fingernail could indicate if you're at risk of sudden death
A doctor has advised patients to spot Quincke's sign early on
Stefania Sarrubba
A doctor has explained that a fingernail detail that may indicate an underlying heart condition is present.Dr Joe, a US-based emergency response doctor who boasts two million followers on TikTok, has warned people against a seemingly harmless red pulsation in one's fingernails that could actually be a 'bad sign'.
The appearance of your fingernails can actual show signs of a number of health conditions, and this is one of the most serious.
Quincke's sign is 'one of the clues doctors use to help diagnose' aortic regurgitation, says Dr Joe. (Instagram/@drjoe_md)In a clip, Dr Joe explained that spotting a red pulsation when pressing down on your fingernail may be linked to a potentially serious heart condition known as aortic regurgitation.
"When the nail is pressed down there's a pulsation in the nailbed and this is from something called aortic regurgitation," the doctor said.
"As the blood is leaving the heart to go to the body, a significant portion of it actually backflows into the heart and this can cause a whole host of problems," he continued.
The capillary pulsation, that is medically known as Quincke's sign or Quincke's pulse, can be linked to a whole range of difficulties and signals the heart is having to work harder than usual to complete the blood pumping cycle.
The problems connected to Quincke's sign includes issues like shortness of breath and fatigue, but also more serious concerns like the possibility of heart failure, and even death.
According to the NHS, aortic regurgitation occurs when the aortic valve, which links the left ventricle to the aorta, does not close properly when the heart contracts.
This causes blood to leak back into the left ventricle, which then has to work harder to pump the extra blood away from the heart to the rest of the body.
Aortic regurgitation is a condition where blood flows back into the heart instead of moving forward. (Instagram/@drjoe_md)While one in 20 people is said to have aortic regurgitation, only one in 200 will be diagnosed with the more serious kind.
The condition is usually diagnosed in people between 40 and 60 and is more common among men. Some form of the condition is present in 1.5 million people over the age of 65 in the UK.
Other symptoms of aortic regurgitation can be general fatigue, weakness and shortness of breath while exercising, having irregular heartbeat or palpitations, dizzy spells or fainting, as well as swollen ankles and feet.
If you're experiencing any of those symptoms and you're concerned, you're advised to contact your doctor, who may recommend further tests and/or medications to manage the side effects.
Those with more serious cases of aortic regurgitation may need to undergo surgery to repair or replace their aortic valves.Featured Image Credit: TikTok/@drjoe_md/Getty Stock
Topics: Health, TikTok
Stefania Sarrubba
Updated 16:01 31 Aug 2024 GMT+1Published 16:02 31 Aug 2024 GMT+1
Doctor says everyone is making toilet mistake that could be bad for your health
The doctor has asked people to hear him out even if you think its 'awkward or gross to talk about' toilet problems
Anish Vij
A dermatologist has quite literally lifted the lid on an accepted toilet mistake we all continue to make.
We all have our own toilet routine and quite often when we go and take a s**t there's not much of a thought process going on.
Sit down, take a dump, wipe, wash hands (very important) and that's pretty much it.
Brits use 3,115,437 feet of toilet paper a year (Getty Stock Images)However, it would seem that even our bathroom has some rules to it - ranging from how you hang your toilet roll to even how many times you wipe after doing a number two.
But according to Dr Scott Walter (@denverskindoc) - who practices at The Hill Center for Dermatology in Colorado, US - he suggests taking replacing the wiping step and adding something a lot more beneficial to your health.
Taking to TikTok, he asked for his followers to 'hear him out' even if they 'think it's awkward or gross to talk about'.
Might be time to ditch the toilet roll (Getty Stock Images)In his video, he goes over the benefits of using a bidet instead of just toilet paper, adding: "To put it simply, would you ever consider cleaning your dirty hands with a dry paper towel?
"Exactly, that's what we're doing when we're using toilet paper. It's a dirty area and we're using a dry paper to clean.
"Now, in addition to being more environmentally friendly, which I think is great, bidets actually have proven health benefits, so let's get into those."
Dr Walter continued: "Number one, they offer enhanced hygiene. They clean the skin better and leave less bacteria behind.
"And as a dermatologist, they're much kinder to the skin down there and provide much less irritation compared to toilet paper.
A bidet could be the way forward (Getty Stock Images)"This is great for people already prone to issues down there, such as rashes, fissures or even haemorrhoids.
"And last, they've actually been shown to decrease the incidence of UTIs (Urinary tract infections) in women due to less bacterial transfer.
"I got my first one a few years ago and it's hard to imagine now life without.
"And the good news is they're affordable. So even if you just want to try them out, it's not a big investment.
"Just think about all the money you're going to save on toilet paper."
People were quick to issue their response in the comments below.
Writing in the comments, one person agreed: "#teambidet forever! I can’t believe I ever didn’t have one. Under $40 for the basic model and not tough to install."
Though, a second viewer wondered: "I don't get how it's good for the environment. You get wet from it, how do you dry up?"
To which Dr Walter clarified: "Some have built in air dryers. But still use maybe a tenth of the normal tp (toilet paper) if drying with that."
So there you have it. Forget the wiping and welcome the spraying.Featured Image Credit: TikTok/@denverskindoc/Getty Stock Images
Topics: TikTok, Health
Anish Vij
Published 10:59 17 Mar 2024 GMT
How to check if you're at risk after popular air fryer brand recalled over fire risk
Consumers have been urged to check if their models are affected by the recall
Olivia Burke
Your air fryer is probably the apple of your eye when it comes to kitchen appliances - they're speedy, make anything scrummy and leave a lot less washing up.
But your plans to recreate a wacky TikTok recipe might have been brought to a halt over the weekend, as a popular brand has announced an urgent recall of several models.
Air fryer bursts into flames
Credit: MEN Media
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So, if you bought an air fryer from Best Buy, you ought to listen up.
The US firm have warned that the gadgets could burn users, start a fire or injure people when glass shatters, which has obviously sparked fear among the army of air fryer owners.
Six models made in China by Insignia - including a dual basket model, two air fryer ovens and three normal air fryers - were found to be the culprits.
cpsc.gov/RecallsDuring the investigation, officials said that they found that four air fryers had the ability overheat to the point where the handles can melt or break, or even pose as a fire and burn hazard.
The two air fryer ovens mentioned can also overheat, except their handy glass door feature could also shatter too.
This had the potential to cause lacerations to those close to the device while they're cooking up a storm if it does break.
Owners have been urged to immediately stop using the recalled models and to get in touch with Best Buy promptly.
cpsc.gov/RecallsYou can check out some tips here which can help you understand the instructions on how to destroy it or to submit your model to Best Buy for refunding.
Around 187,400 Insignia air fryers are being the recalled in the US, alongside another 99,900 in Canada due to the safety concerns which first emerged on Friday (15 March).
At this time, Best Buy has received 24 reports of overheating, glass shattering or even melting devices - including six cases of air fryers catching on fire.
cpsc.gov/RecallsBut thankfully, the incidents did not cause any injuries or property damage for users.
So, how on earth do you find out if you own one of these dangerous gadgets?
First things first, take a look at your air fryer and check if the brand name INSIGNIA is on the top or front of your unit.
From there, you can find the model number at the bottom of the appliance to see if yours is part of the recall.
The models which are subject to the recall are as follows:NS-AF34D2
NS-AF5DSS2
NS-AF5MSS2
NS-AF8DBD2
NS-AF10DBK2
NS-AF10DSS2
If you are affected, you can then register for the recall by completing the online form found on the links above, which will begin the process for you to receive a refund.
The announcement states: "To register, you will need scissors to cut the cord and a device that can snap and upload photos of your unit. You may also upload a copy of your purchase receipt (if available).
"Instructions on the requirements for the destruction of the unit are provided as you move through the registration process. "You will need to follow these instructions to be approved for a refund."
As always, when you’re using an air fryer you should practice safety precautions such as not leaving it plugged in overnight, keeping the device away from liquids, keeping an eye on it as it cooks and ventilating the area.Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Images/recallrtr
Topics: Food And Drink, Health, World News, News, Technology, US News, Business
Olivia Burke
Published 15:59 6 Sep 2024 GMT+1
Expert explains how to get to sleep if your anxiety is worse at night
Anxiety flare ups when trying to go to bed are common for many
Tom Earnshaw
Struggling with anxiety is something society has never been better equipped to combat, with the issue spoken about and accepted right across modern life.
It's something that impacts people in a variety of different ways.
One significant way it can impede a person's daily life is when it comes to trying to sleep and relaxing at the end of a day.
There is solid, scientific reason for why anxiety impacts us worse at night time, as well as ways to help with general tiredness and fatigue.
For some, it's about having a background noise when they try and get to sleep; although this is something that isn't without its own underlying problems.
You're not alone if you find it difficult (Getty Stock Images)If anxiety is taking a real toll on your ability to sleep, don't worry too much., there is advice out there that can help.
With that in mind, LADbible spoke to Professor Ivo Vlaev, a behavioural psychologist from Warwick Business School at the University of Warwick.
"Nighttime anxiety is a common experience due to the combination of environmental, psychological, and biological factors that occur as the day winds down," he said.
"Reflecting on the day's events, overthinking in the quiet, and the body’s stress response can all contribute to feelings of heightened anxiety. By adopting relaxation techniques and cognitive-behavioral strategies, individuals can better manage their nighttime anxiety and achieve more restful sleep."
Professor Vlaev has issued seven ways you might be able to address your anxiety and its impact on your sleeping pattern.
Anxiety flares up at night time for millions of people around the world (Getty Stock Images)Creating a relaxing bedtime routine
Engaging in relaxing activities before bed can work wonders.
Activities such as reading, meditating, or taking a warm bath, can help signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down, Prof Vlaev tells LADbible.
He says: "Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can improve sleep quality and help reduce nighttime anxiety."
Limit stimulation before bed
You should try and reduce your exposure to stimulating activities before you call it a day.
We're talking about activities such as watching television, scrolling through social media, or working late. Avoiding all of these can help ease the transition to sleep.
"The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone, making it harder to fall asleep," the professor says.
This advice might be helpful (Getty Stock Images)Mindfulness and meditation
Have you ever thought about mindfulness techniques and meditation?
Both are proven when it comes to shifting your focus from overthinking to the present moment.
Prof Vlaev says: "Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and body scans can be helpful for calming an overactive mind."
Journaling
Writing down anxious thoughts in a journal before bed can help externalise your worries and put them into perspective, Prof Vlaev explains.
He says: "This helps the brain 'offload' worries, reducing the likelihood of ruminating on them while trying to fall asleep."
If you need to seek professional help, please do (Getty Stock Images)Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioural therapy, known as CBT, works wonders for many when it comes to challenging those lingering anxious thoughts.
Prof Vlaev says: "Cognitive restructuring helps identify and replace negative, anxious thoughts with more balanced and rational perspectives.
"If your mind starts to spiral into worry, ask yourself - 'Is this worry productive? Is there any evidence for or against this thought?'"
Limiting your caffeine and sugar consumption
This could have an impact on you without you even realising, especially if you are religious when it comes to having your daily brews.
Prof Vlaev says: "Caffeine and sugar can disrupt your sleep and make it harder to wind down.
"Avoid consuming caffeine or sugary foods several hours before bed to allow your body and mind to relax."
Make use of white noise or relaxing sounds
Spotify is full of white noise tracks or relaxing background sounds, like waves crashing or rain against windows.
"Soft background noise, like white noise machines or calming music, can mask external disturbances and prevent complete silence, which may help prevent anxious thoughts from surfacing," Prof Vlaev says.
If you're experiencing distressing thoughts and feelings, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is there to support you.
They're open from 5pm–midnight, 365 days a year. Their national number is 0800 58 58 58 and they also have a webchat service if you're not comfortable talking on the phone.Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Images
Topics: Education, Health, Mental Health, Sleep, UK News, Science
Tom Earnshaw
Updated 11:58 23 May 2024 GMT+1Published 11:57 23 May 2024 GMT+1
Subtle signs on your fingers that could be sign you’re at risk of cancer
A new study has claimed to have found a link between this small change in your nails and your risk of developing cancer
Brenna Cooper
A study has claimed a subtle change in our bodies means we could be at risk for cancer - and it's somewhere you might not expect to look.
Around 167,000 people die from cancer every year in the UK according to Macmillan, meaning that keeping your eye out for any changes to your body which could mean something sinister is important.
Symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, changes in bowl or bladder habits, lumps and new moles are things we know to get checked out - but did you ever think to check your hands for signs as well?
Turns out our fingernails could also reveal warning signs.
Doctor spots woman's cancer on TV show
ABC
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According to a new study, changes to your nails could potentially be a symptom of a syndrome which can increase your risk of cancer.
An important change to look out for on your nails is the appearance of a dark line running vertically down the nail from the nail bed to the tip.
The lines are known scientifically as melanonychia, and can be either brown or black in colour.
Discolouration does not necessarily mean you should be immediately worried, as the change can also be caused by trauma or pregnancy. People with a darker complexion are also more likely to develop the lines.
However it's worth getting them checked to rule out anything sinister, especially as recent studies have revealed it could be a sign of BAP1 tumour predisposition syndrome.
Stripes in the nails are something to look out for (JAMA Network)According to the US National Cancer Institute, the rare syndrome is caused by a genetic mutation with affects a gene that stops the body from developing into cancer.
The mutation means you're at a higher risk of developing tumours of the skin, eye, kidney, and mesothelium (the tissue that lines the chest and abdomen).
These tumours can develop at any age and are fast growing, however it's important to note that not everyone with the mutation will develop cancer. Benign tumours can also occur.
Another sign to look out for is a small thickened area growing under the nail along with a white line.
Other changes in your nails which you should get checked out are:Nails lifting away from the bed
Redness and swelling around the nail
Irregular pigment (such as green or black colours)
Discolouration of the skin around the nail
Any other significant nail changes such as splits, cracks or deformities
It comes following a new study. (Getty stock photo)Surprisingly your fingers can also reveal if you are at risk of developing lung cancer, with clubbing of the nails seen as an early warning sign for the disease. Cancers often associated with clubbing are lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Clubbing is a common symptom of issues related to the heart or lungs as well as diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's.
