How to Clean a Couch the Right Way

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Whether you’re a true ‘couch potato’ or not, most people still spend a lot of time sitting on their couch, so dirt, crumbs, and stains are bound to accumulate over time. Since a couch takes center stage in the living room, it’s important to know how to keep it clean. From minimizing the impact of accidental spills to freeing your couch from everyday debris, our cleaning pros have the answers that will teach you how to clean a couch effectively!

How to Clean the Sofa

Couch cleaning strategies vary, but generally speaking, you’ll want to wipe the sofa down using the appropriate couch upholstery cleaner. Focus on scrubbing the stained areas, then allow the area to dry before you assess your success at removing the stain.

How to clean a couch successfully often comes down to using the right cleaning solution on your particular couch fabric. Here are some things to consider when cleaning each type of fabric.

How to Clean a Cloth Couch

Learning about cleaning furniture fabric takes a little practice and patience. What works best for one fabric couch may not work well for another. So, use these tips the next time your cloth sofa requires a thorough cleaning, but be sure to adjust your technique based on the color and specific type of fabric.

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  • Brush the couch. Use a clean white towel or stiff brush to loosen anything that has dried onto the couch.
  • Apply baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda on the entire couch. Leave it for 20 minutes to an hour. Then vacuum the baking soda up with a brush attachment.
  • Make a DIY couch cleaner. While the baking soda sets in, you can concoct a simple cleaner to remove any remaining stains. Combine 1 tsp dishwashing liquid, 1 tbsp -white vinegar, and 1 cup warm water in a spray bottle. Next, add 1 tsp of baking soda and put the top on the spray bottle. It’s best to create this solution over a sink to avoid a mess. (Baking soda and vinegar create a lot of bubbles when combined!)
  • Wipe down the couch. Spray a clean white cloth with the cleaning solution and use it to gently dab and rub any stains on the fabric. Alternatively, wipe down the entire sofa with the solution for a good cleaning.
  • Let the fabric dry. Leave the couch to dry for a few hours. Do not sit on the couch or place anything on it during this time.

How to Clean a Microfiber Couch

When it comes to DIY couch cleaning, rubbing alcohol can be a real lifesaver—especially when dealing with microfiber sofas. As previously mentioned, be sure to check that tag and test the solution on a small area before using it to clean the entire couch. The cleaning code “S” (for “solvent”) means rubbing alcohol is a great option.

  • Scrub with rubbing alcohol. Working section by section, spray an area with rubbing alcohol and then scrub with a white or light-colored sponge (so no color transfers from the sponge to the couch while you scrub). You should see the stains lift onto the sponge as you go.
  • Brush in circles. The couch should dry quickly because alcohol evaporates rapidly. Once it’s dry, use a dry scrub brush to fluff the fabric. It’s best to brush using a circular motion.
  • Repeat the process with distilled water. If there are any water stains on the couch (and both water and solvent cleaning are acceptable), follow the same cleaning process mentioned, but replace the alcohol with distilled water.

How to Clean a Suede Couch

If you’ve ever wondered how to clean a suede couch, we have some tips that can help restore its original luster. Suede is a popular choice for sofas because it looks good and feels very comfortable. Unfortunately, suede material also has a reputation for being difficult to maintain. Therefore, a little extra care is required for cleaning furniture fabric on your suede couch. Here are our tips for cleaning a suede couch:

  • Refresh your suede couch with a damp cloth. Avoid getting the suede too wet. Squeeze as much water out of a washcloth as possible before applying it to the couch. The damp cloth will remove surface dirt and debris without damaging the suede material.
  • Find a product designed specifically to clean suede. As we have recommended several times before, always test any new cleaning product in a small, less-visible area of the couch before using it all over. Dab a little area of the couch with the solution and wait about 20 minutes to see how it reacts with the material. If you can’t find special suede cleaners, try a little distilled white vinegar.
  • A rubber eraser can be used to gently wipe away stubborn stains. This is especially helpful for ink and crayon stains that have become embedded in the suede over time.
  • For wet stains, blot up as much of the moisture as you can. Apply a suede-friendly stain treatment, and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse the couch with a clean, damp washcloth. Dry the area with a hair dryer.

How to Clean a Velvet Couch

If you’re curious about how to clean a couch made of velvet, patience is key. Velvet has a well-earned reputation for being high-maintenance. While velvet sofas don’t require any special equipment or supplies to clean, they do require close attention and care. Velvet should be vacuumed weekly to keep it in the best condition possible. If your velvet couch requires a deeper clean, follow these steps:

  • Clean stains with paper towels first. Sop up as much moisture as possible. If the stain is solid, use a butter knife to lift as much of it off the material as possible. Then mix a few drops of dishwasher detergent with some warm water and gently blot the stain; never rub it.
  • To address creases and wrinkles in the fabric, try using a steam cleaner (one used for clothes). Start on the lowest temperature setting, and slowly work your way up to remove wrinkles.
  • Once the couch is dry, use a soft, dry brush to keep it looking brand new.

How to Clean Couch Cushions

How to clean couch cushions successfully depends on the material they are made of. Therefore, you’ll need to choose a cleaning method that works well on the cushion material you have. Removable cushions are a little easier to clean since you can toss them right in the washing machine, provided they are washable. If not, here are a few best practices to keep in mind when cleaning any kind of couch cushion:

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  • If you have pets, try using a pair of rubber gloves to start your cleaning efforts. Rubbing your gloved hands over pet fur is a quick and easy way to remove the hair from your cushions.
  • Next, vacuum the entire couch, paying attention to the little nooks and crannies where crumbs and other things are prone to fall.
  • Use a solvent-based cleaner that’s recommended for the fabric you have. Don’t forget to run a spot test on a small area before using the cleaner all over your cushions.
  • If you can’t find a recommended cleaner, try mixing a small amount of mild dish detergent with warm water. Add a little to an upholstery brush, and gently scrub any stains. If this method is effective, apply it to the rest of your cushions.

Cleaning couch cushions that can be removed is one thing; cleaning couch cushions that cannot be removed is a little more challenging. So it’s time to bring the heat in the form of steam! Applying steam to specific areas of your cushions is a great way to remove those stubborn stains. Since most clothing steamers are portable, you can get into even those hardest-to-reach spaces.

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Say Goodbye to Toenail Fungus

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Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when fungi infect one or more of your nails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail edges.

While medical treatments are available, many people prefer to try home remedies to combat this persistent issue. This article explores effective home treatments for nail fungus, offering natural and accessible solutions for healthier nails.

Home treatments for nail fungus

It is often stubborn and challenging to treat, but various home remedies can help eliminate the fungus and restore healthy nails. Here are effective treatments to say goodbye to toenail fungus.

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1. Baking soda

Add baking soda to a foot soak to try to heal the affected toenail. You can also make a paste of baking soda with a minimal amount of water and apply it directly to the foot. Allow the paste to sit on the affected area for 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water and dry the foot thoroughly.

Baking soda can also be sprinkled in shoes like foot powder. Sprinkle on some baking soda, then shake the shoes gently to distribute the powder. Let the shoes sit for at least 24 hours, then shake out any remaining baking soda.

You can also sprinkle baking soda onto the foot. Once applied to a dry foot, put on clean socks. Sodium bicarbonate, the active ingredient in baking soda, can wick away moisture while healing properties work to reduce toenail fungus.

2. Vicks VapoRub

One of the more popular over-the-counter remedies for treating toenail fungus is using Vicks VapoRub. Mentholated topical ointments contain the natural ingredients menthol, oil of eucalyptus, and camphor. Use Vicks alone or in conjunction with other treatments and medications. Clean feet and apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub daily.

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3. Listerine

Soaking an infected nail in the OTC product Listerine can also help reduce or kill toenail fungus, due to its antifungal and antimicrobial activity. Commonly used as a mouthwash, Listerine applied to the affected toe or toenail for 20 minutes twice a day can effectively reduce signs of onychomycosis. Alternatively, you can make a foot bath with Listerine, using equal parts warm water and Listerine and adding one cup of Epsom salts.

4. Athlete’s foot medication

Athlete’s foot sprays, powders, and creams help stop fungal growth before it develops on the toenail or surrounding flesh. Brand-name products that you can purchase without a prescription include Tinactin (tolnaftate), Micatin (miconazole), Lamisil (terbinafine), and Lotrimin AF (clotrimazole).

5. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is known for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it a beneficial remedy for nail fungus. It contains medium-chain fatty acids that can penetrate the fungal cell membranes. The fatty acids in coconut oil, particularly lauric acid, help dissolve the cell walls of fungi, leading to their destruction.

Application:

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  • Clean and dry the affected area.
  • Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the infected nail and surrounding skin.
  • Massage gently until the oil is absorbed.
  • Repeat this process two to three times daily.

Ensure to use virgin coconut oil for the best results. There are generally no side effects, but always perform a patch test if you have sensitive

6. Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can kill the fungus that grows on toenails. You can use hydrogen peroxide for toenail fungus by wiping it on your infected toes or toenails with a clean cloth or cotton swab. A hydrogen peroxide foot soak can also be used. Mix 1/8 cup of hydrogen peroxide (or several capfuls) to four cups of cool water and soak feet for 10 to 20 minutes. Rinse feet with warm water and pat dry.

7. Black tea

Soaking feet in plain tea can also be beneficial in treating toenail or foot fungus. Black tea contains tannic acid that dries out the feet, kills bacteria, and helps to close the foot’s pores to reduce sweating. Boil two quarts of water then add five to six tea bags. Allow the solution to cool and soak feet for 30 minutes. Use this foot soak daily if desired.

8. Soaking feet in vinegar

Another home remedy to treat toenail fungus includes the use of apple cider vinegar foot soak. Vinegar is an antifungal ingredient that can be mixed with water to create a foot soak. Its acetic acid component helps to whiten discolored toenails and stop the spread of the infection to other toes. Try one part vinegar to two parts warm water and soak feet for 20 minutes daily. If the smell is too overwhelming, a few drops of essential oils can be added to make the experience more pleasant. White vinegar can be used as an alternative as both are equally effective.

9. Garlic

Garlic is a potent antimicrobial plant. For topical treatment, chop cloves of garlic and leave them on the affected nails for 30 minutes daily for a week. Use raw garlic sparingly, as it can result in a chemical burn.

Ask a pharmacist about herbal supplements that contain garlic. These supplements can be taken orally to not only treat skin infections but also can help high blood pressure, heart disease, certain cancers, and lower the risk of tick bites. Garlic supplements should not be taken by people with stomach ulcers, digestion problems, or bleeding disorders. It might also make birth control pills less effective. Talk to a healthcare professional before taking oral garlic supplements.

Conclusion

Nail fungus can be a stubborn and persistent problem, but various home treatments offer effective solutions to combat this condition. While these remedies are generally safe and natural, it is important to monitor your skin’s response and consult a healthcare professional if the infection persists or worsens. Combining these treatments with good hygiene practices can help restore your nails to their healthy, fungus-free state.

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11 Signs You May Have Kidney Disease

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Kidney disease, often termed chronic kidney disease (CKD), is a progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their function over time. This can lead to serious health complications, as the kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products from the blood, balancing bodily fluids, regulating blood pressure, and contributing to the production of red blood cells.

Early detection is crucial for managing the disease and preventing further complications. Here are ten signs that may indicate you have kidney disease:

1. Fatigue and Weakness

One of the early signs of kidney disease is feeling tired and weak. This is because kidneys are responsible for filtering waste from the blood. When they are not functioning properly, waste builds up in the body, leading to fatigue.

Additionally, kidney disease can cause anemia, a condition where the body has a lower than normal count of red blood cells. This also contributes to feelings of weakness and tiredness because there are not enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the muscles and brain, leading to a general sense of fatigue.

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2. Swelling (Edema)

Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, face, and hands can be a sign of kidney disease. This occurs because the kidneys are not able to remove excess fluid and sodium from the body, leading to fluid retention. This swelling, known as edema, can be particularly noticeable in the lower extremities due to gravity.

In severe cases, this can cause a significant increase in body weight and can be uncomfortable and debilitating. Persistent swelling should be evaluated by a healthcare provider as it may indicate worsening kidney function.

3. Changes in Urination

Kidney disease can cause noticeable changes in urination, which may include:

  • Increased frequency: Particularly at night (nocturia), which can disrupt sleep.
  • Decreased frequency: Producing less urine than usual despite adequate fluid intake.
  • Foamy urine: Excessive bubbles in the urine can indicate proteinuria, a condition where protein is present in the urine.
  • Dark or discolored urine: This may signal blood in the urine, a potential indicator of kidney problems.
  • Painful urination: This could be a sign of a urinary tract infection or kidney stones, both of which can impact kidney function.

These changes are often among the earliest signs of kidney disease and should not be ignored.

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4. Shortness of Breath

Kidneys help balance the levels of minerals and fluids in the body. When they are not functioning correctly, fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath. This condition, known as pulmonary edema, can make even simple activities like walking or climbing stairs challenging.

Additionally, anemia associated with kidney disease can lead to decreased oxygen delivery to tissues, contributing to this symptom. Patients may feel out of breath with minimal exertion or even at rest.

5. High Blood Pressure

The kidneys play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure. They do this by controlling the amount of fluid in the blood and releasing the hormone renin, which regulates blood pressure. Damaged kidneys are less effective at controlling blood pressure, which can lead to hypertension.

Conversely, high blood pressure can also damage the kidneys, creating a vicious cycle. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can accelerate the progression of kidney disease and lead to other complications, such as heart disease and stroke.

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6. Persistent Itching

Kidney disease can lead to a build-up of waste products in the blood, causing persistent itching (pruritus). This is because the kidneys are not effectively filtering these waste products out of the body.

Additionally, imbalances in minerals such as calcium and phosphorus can contribute to skin irritation and itching. This itching can be widespread or localized and can be severe enough to interfere with sleep and daily activities.

7. Metallic Taste in Mouth and Ammonia Breath

A build-up of waste products in the blood (uremia) can lead to a metallic taste in the mouth and breath that smells like ammonia. This can affect appetite and cause weight loss.

Many patients describe this as having a constant bad taste in their mouth, which can lead to a decreased interest in eating, further contributing to weight loss and malnutrition. Proper nutritional support and management are crucial for patients experiencing these symptoms.

8. Nausea and Vomiting

Toxins that accumulate due to reduced kidney function can cause nausea and vomiting. This is often seen in more advanced stages of kidney disease and can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and nutritional status.

The build-up of waste products in the blood, particularly urea, can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to discomfort and the urge to vomit. Persistent nausea and vomiting can result in loss of appetite, dehydration, and weight loss, all of which can exacerbate the underlying kidney issues.

Managing these symptoms often requires dietary changes and medications prescribed by a healthcare provider.

9. Trouble Concentrating

Anemia and the build-up of toxins can also affect brain function, leading to trouble concentrating, memory issues, and dizziness. This condition, often referred to as “brain fog,” can make it difficult to perform daily tasks and affect overall cognitive function.

Patients may find it challenging to focus on work, engage in conversations, or remember simple tasks. The lack of oxygen-rich blood and the presence of waste products in the bloodstream impact brain activity, highlighting the importance of addressing anemia and other contributing factors in kidney disease management.

10. Your Skin Becomes Dry And Itchy

A normal and healthy pair of kidneys perform many tasks for the body. They help in removing toxins and wastes from the body, maintain the right amount of minerals in the body, promote healthy and strong bones, and make red blood cells. Apart from all these functions, they also help in maintaining healthy and hydrated skin.

Thus, dry and itchy skin is an indication that your kidneys are no longer able to maintain the right balance of minerals and nutrients in the body. Itching usually happens when there is an accumulation of uric acid and other waste products and build-up on the skin.

11. Pain

Pain in the back or sides where the kidneys are located can be a sign of kidney disease. This pain can indicate kidney stones, a kidney infection (pyelonephritis), or other kidney-related issues.

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a genetic disorder, can cause large, fluid-filled cysts on the kidneys, leading to chronic pain and discomfort. The pain associated with kidney stones is often severe and can come in waves, radiating to the lower abdomen and groin.

If you experience persistent or severe pain in these areas, it is important to seek medical attention for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of kidney disease early can significantly improve the chances of effective management and slow the progression of the disease. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

Early diagnosis and intervention can help manage the disease, maintain kidney function, and prevent complications. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is vital for supporting kidney health. This includes:

  • Balanced Diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting salt, sugar, and processed foods can help manage blood pressure and blood sugar levels, reducing the strain on your kidneys.
  • Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help control blood pressure, improve heart health, and manage weight, all of which are beneficial for kidney health.
  • Hydration: Staying well-hydrated helps the kidneys clear toxins from the body. However, if you have kidney disease, your doctor may recommend a specific fluid intake to manage fluid balance.
  • Avoiding Smoking and Limiting Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney disease.
  • Monitoring Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar: Regularly checking and managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels can prevent kidney damage, especially for individuals with hypertension or diabetes.

For those at higher risk, such as individuals with a family history of kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, or other underlying health conditions, regular check-ups, blood tests, and urine tests are crucial for early detection and management of kidney disease.

In summary, being aware of the symptoms of kidney disease and taking proactive steps to maintain kidney health can significantly impact overall well-being. If you suspect any issues with your kidneys, seek medical advice promptly to ensure the best possible outcome.

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15 Cancer Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

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Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with early detection playing a pivotal role in improving treatment outcomes and survival rates. While many are familiar with common symptoms such as lumps, persistent coughs, or changes in bowel habits, there exists a myriad of lesser-known signs that individuals often overlook.

Recognizing these subtle indicators can facilitate timely intervention and potentially life-saving treatment. Here are 15 often ignored signs of cancer that warrant attention:

1.Unexplained Weight Loss

One of the warning signs that cancer may be growing in your body is unexplained weight loss. While weight loss can occur due to various reasons, such as dietary changes or increased physical activity, sudden and unintentional weight loss without apparent cause should raise concerns. Cancer-related weight loss can result from factors like changes in metabolism or loss of appetite due to tumor growth.

2. Chronic Fatigue

Persistent fatigue that extends beyond normal tiredness and does not improve with rest warrants evaluation, as it could signify an underlying medical condition, including cancer. Chronic fatigue associated with cancer often persists despite adequate sleep and may significantly impact daily functioning. Individuals experiencing unexplained and prolonged fatigue should seek medical assessment to rule out underlying health concerns.

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3. Persistent Headaches

While headaches are a common ailment, persistent and severe headaches that do not respond to over-the-counter medications may indicate an underlying health issue, including cancer. Brain tumors or cancers that have metastasized to the brain can present with persistent headaches accompanied by other neurological symptoms, necessitating thorough evaluation by healthcare professionals.

4. Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing, medically known as dysphagia, can be a symptom of various cancers affecting the gastrointestinal tract, including the throat, esophagus, or stomach. Individuals experiencing persistent difficulty swallowing, especially accompanied by pain or discomfort, should undergo further investigation to identify potential underlying causes, including cancer.

5. Changes in Skin

Changes in the skin, including the appearance of new moles, changes in existing moles, or alterations in skin pigmentation, should not be ignored, as they could indicate the presence of skin cancer, particularly melanoma. Regular skin examinations and prompt evaluation of suspicious lesions are crucial in detecting skin cancer at an early stage when treatment is most effective.

6. Chronic Heartburn or Indigestion

While occasional heartburn or indigestion is common, persistent symptoms that do not improve with lifestyle modifications or over-the-counter medications may warrant medical evaluation. Chronic heartburn or indigestion may be associated with gastrointestinal cancers, such as esophageal or stomach cancer, highlighting the importance of prompt assessment for accurate diagnosis and management.

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7. Changes in Bowel Habits

Alterations in bowel habits, including persistent diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool caliber, may indicate underlying gastrointestinal issues, including colorectal cancer. Individuals experiencing persistent changes in bowel habits should undergo appropriate screening and diagnostic tests to identify potential underlying causes, including cancer.

8. Chronic Cough

While coughing is often attributed to respiratory infections or allergies, a chronic cough that persists for several weeks or worsens over time should prompt further evaluation, as it could be indicative of lung cancer or cancer metastatic to the lungs. Individuals with persistent cough accompanied by other respiratory symptoms should undergo comprehensive assessment to determine the underlying cause.

9. Frequent Infections or Fevers

Frequent infections or fevers that persist despite appropriate medical treatment may indicate an underlying immunological disorder, including leukemia or lymphoma. Persistent fever, particularly in the absence of an apparent source of infection, should prompt medical evaluation to rule out potential underlying malignancies.

10. Changes in Urination

Changes in urinary habits, including increased frequency, urgency, blood in the urine, or changes in urinary flow, may indicate underlying genitourinary issues, including bladder or kidney cancer. Individuals experiencing persistent changes in urinary habits should undergo thorough evaluation to identify potential underlying causes, including cancer.

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11. Persistent Back Pain

Persistent and unexplained back pain, particularly if it does not improve with conservative measures or is associated with other concerning symptoms, may warrant further investigation for underlying malignancies, including bone, pancreatic, or ovarian cancer. Individuals experiencing persistent back pain should undergo comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate management.

12. Difficulty Breathing

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath that persists or worsens over time may indicate underlying respiratory issues, including lung cancer or cancer metastatic to the lungs. Individuals experiencing persistent respiratory symptoms should undergo thorough evaluation to identify potential underlying malignancies and initiate appropriate management.

13. Unexplained Bleeding

Unexplained bleeding, such as bleeding between menstrual cycles, blood in the stool, or bleeding from the rectum, should not be ignored, as it could indicate underlying gastrointestinal or gynecological issues, including colorectal, cervical, or uterine cancer. Prompt evaluation of unexplained bleeding is crucial in identifying potential underlying malignancies and facilitating timely intervention.

14. Changes in Breast Appearance

Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast, nipple, or areola, including lumps, dimpling, or nipple discharge, should prompt further evaluation for underlying breast issues, including breast cancer. Regular breast self-examinations and clinical breast examinations are essential in detecting breast abnormalities at an early stage when treatment is most effective.

15. Persistent Fatigue

Persistent and unexplained fatigue that interferes with daily functioning should not be ignored, as it could indicate underlying health concerns, including cancer. Individuals experiencing persistent fatigue should undergo comprehensive evaluation to identify potential underlying causes, including malignancies such as leukemia or lymphoma.

Conclusion

This list of warning signs of cancer above is not exhaustive. To be sure, at the first sign of any of these symptoms or any unusually persistent discomfort or change in your body, see your doctor right away.

While there’s no guarantee that you can keep cancer at bay, it wouldn’t hurt to reduce your risk. Eat a healthy diet, keep a daily exercise routine, practice good sleep hygiene, drink plenty of water, and supplement with antioxidants like resveratrol.

Lastly, keep in mind that stress hormones can resist anoikis, a body program that kills disease cells and prevents the spread of cancer. So reduce stress in your life as much as possible.

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If You Pee During Showering, See This Right Now!

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Do you have the habit of peeing while taking a shower? If yes, great. If not, maybe you should include the habit in your daily routine. Peeing During Showering is not at all unhygienic and actually, it’s very good for the planet.

It’s not just for the liberating and rebellious adrenaline rush you may or may not have, but because this simple attitude can help save our planet. Let’s analyze the situation. Even mathematically, it’s a simple calculation.

Every time you pee, you flush (or at least you’re supposed to) in the toilet. While feces require a considerable amount of water to send them down the drain, urine, on the other hand, hardly needs any encouragement for such a journey.

Even though some more modern toilets have adapted flushes that consume water as needed, most still lack this technology, and daily, a lot of water is wasted.

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And as we know, water is essential for our life and has become an increasingly scarce resource. Today, there are already thousands of people suffering from water scarcity, and if we continue at this rate, very soon, the number of people without water in the world will increase drastically.

Benefits of Peeing During Showering:

If someone admits to peeing in the shower, at best they’ll get a weird look. But seriously, peeing in the shower is no problem at all and saves a lot of water.

Those who propose this practice estimate that many of us use up to 15 liters of water every day just by flushing. If you multiply that by the population and the days of the year, it’s literally thousands of liters of water wasted. Besides being expensive in the long run, it’s bad for the environment.

Sure, there are some low-flow toilets out there, but they still don’t make much of a difference in the water consumption scenario. Since most people shower at least once a day, it makes sense to pee and wash up at the same time.

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And there’s a double bonus: you use less toilet paper and save trees and your wallet! Here are some ways you can use your urine, and you’ll also find out why it’s not a bad idea to pee in the shower.

SAVES WATER:

A normal adult urinates at least seven times a day, spending about 49 liters in total on flushing. Assuming you take at least one shower a day, adding up the number of days in a year, you’re expected to save a good amount of water.

IT’S MORE HYGIENIC:

It’s cleaner to rinse away pee residue directly with water than with toilet paper. Everybody Does It: Although many grimace when talking about it, 80% of people admit to having done it at some point in their lives. So, what’s the problem?

TREATS SKIN ISSUES:

If you have a skin problem on your feet or legs, like eczema, a bit of urine might help. Urea, present in urine, is an active ingredient in many dermatological care creams and oils. This is because it can balance the skin’s pH and combat sensitivity and dryness.

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HELPS AGAINST FUNGI:

For those who don’t know, urine has antifungal properties. Many people have fungal and bacterial feet. And one of the most effective ways to treat the problem is by applying a bit of fresh urine.

You’ll be surprised by the results, as the tactic is so effective that within two days, the fungi disappear. To avoid odor and mess in the shower, try to pee as close to the drain as possible.

DISINFECTS WOUNDS:

Yes, you read that right: urine can disinfect wounds. If you get hurt and your first aid kit isn’t handy, you can clean your wounds with fresh urine. Besides cleaning, it soothes the tissue and relieves pain.

You can even use someone else’s pee, but only if the “volunteer” isn’t infected with anything. Of course, you should always see a doctor when the injury is serious. Well, who would have thought pee could be so useful? There are also ways to use it outside the body, such as grass fertilizer.

So many taboos have settled in our lives, leaving so much wisdom forgotten. But perhaps, you’ll remember the shower tip, at least this one is worth considering. Let’s be eco-friendly, yet squeaky clean!

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Easy Home Remedies for Wart Removal

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Though warts are harmless, they can be quite embarrassing. If you’re someone who believes in natural remedies, it’s time to try out these homemade solutions to remove warts. For most of us, warts are such an eyesore, and that’s probably why we are so desperate to remove them.

Warts are a fairly common skin issue and most people will have one at some point in their lives. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus or HPV. They can be found on your fingers, hands, face, toes, elbows, knees, and sometimes, around your genitals.

They have a rough surface and can be either light or dark in color. Though these small lumps aren’t dangerous, they can be unsightly. In fact, if left untreated, warts can take up several years to disappear. Fortunately, there are various home remedies to treat warts.

But if you have genital warts, don’t try these remedies because the skin in that area is extremely sensitive. Here are some effective home remedies for warts:

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1. Banana peels

Banana peels contain tanins, leukocyanidin and thymidin, which are bioactive compounds with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These components help to fight bacteria and viruses, which can help with the removal of warts.

Cut a piece of banana peel approximately the same size as the wart, and place it over the wart with the inner peel. Secure the banana peel with tape and keep it on overnight, being sure only to remove it in the morning. You can do this on a daily basis until the wart is gone.

2. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is a potent, natural antiviral that can help to treat viral, bacterial or fungal infections. This makes tea tree oil a great option for treating skin HPV and removing warts.

To use tea tree oil, apply a drop directly on the wart twice per day, allowing it to soak into the skin for as much time as possible. When used for children or on sensitive skin, you should dilute the oil in a teaspoon of plant-based oil (like almond oil, coconut oil or avocado oil).

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3. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is an acidic substance that helps to chemically exfoliate the skin. This helps to remove excess skin around the wart, which is why it is commonly used as treatment for warts.

To use apply cider vinegar, soak a cotton ball in the vinegar and apply it over the wart over night. You can secure the cotton ball with a microporous tape.

This vinegar is very acidic and can cause skin irritation, therefore it is important to discontinue treatment if you notice redness or have discomfort. This treatment should not be used on your face.

4. Duct tape

Duct tape is a simple and easy way to remove warts naturally. It helps to remove dead skin cells and stimulates the immune system to eliminate the wart quickly. This treatment option is natural and recommended by the American Association of Dermatology.

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To treat with duct tape, cover the entire wart with the tape and keep it on for 24 hours. If the tape falls off, it is important to put on another. You can keep the duct tape on the wart for 2 to 3 weeks, until the wart disappears.

When the wart becomes white and soft, you can pare it down with a nail file to remove the outer layer of skin. You should then cover the wart again with duct tape for another week, until it disappears.

To prevent contaminating other parts of the body or transmitting the virus to other people, be sure to keep the nail file for your own personal use.

5. Propolis extract

Propolis is a resin with antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains healing action. To gain benefits from propolis, apply 1 drop of this resin on the wart at night, then cover it with a microporous tape. Leave the wart covered and remove in the morning. Apply propolis on the wart on a daily basis until it resolves completely.

6. Nail polish

Clear nail polish, when applied directly on the wart, decreases the amount of oxygen that is reaching it. This causes cellular death in the area, which helps to get rid of the wart faster.

This treatment is not recommended by all dermatologists, however, which is why you should consult your doctor before applying duct tape over the wart.

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