Music Helps Pain: How Songs Make You Feel Better

Music helps pain. Music, which has been around for a very long time, is not just for fun. It can do amazing things! It can make you happier, less sad, and even help you think of new ideas. And guess what? Now, scientists found out something incredible about music: it can make pain feel better.

Making Pain Go Away

Imagine having pain that doesn’t go away, like when your body hurts a lot. Well, people who feel this kind of pain, like those with a sickness called fibromyalgia, can feel better when they listen to their favorite songs. And the cool thing is, they don’t need medicine or lots of visits to the doctor. Just listening to music they love can help.

How Music Helps

When you listen to your favorite songs, something special happens in your brain. It releases something like natural pain medicine called opioids. These opioids move around your body and make the pain feel less strong. Music not only helps with pain but also makes you less sad and worried, which can make pain worse.

Music Makes You Forget

Have you ever been so into a song that you forget everything else? That’s another way music helps. When you’re busy enjoying a song, your brain forgets about the pain. It’s like a fun game that helps you not think about the hurting parts.

Feeling Better for a While

Listening to music you like won’t make all the pain go away forever. But it’s like a little break that doesn’t cost anything or have bad effects like some medicines do. It’s a good way to feel better for a little bit.

More Ways Music Helps

Music doesn’t just sound good; it does lots of cool things in your brain. It makes you feel happy by releasing a chemical called dopamine. And when you hear certain songs, it can remind you of special times or make you feel a certain way. This can help your mood and make you feel comfy.

Using Music for Help

Since music can do so much good stuff, it’s smart to use it to help when you’re hurting a lot. You can listen to music every day or make your own playlist with songs you really like. But remember, while music is great, it’s still important to talk to a doctor if you’re feeling a lot of pain.

In the End

Music is more than just noise; it’s like a helper. It can help with pain, make you happier, and give your mind a break from hurting. While it may not make all the pain disappear, music is a free and safe way to feel better, even if just for a little while.

Back-of-thigh Hamstring Muscles Exercise Benefits

The hamstring muscles, part of the skeletal system, are voluntary and allow you to control their movement and function. These three-component muscles near the back of the thigh are crucial for running, jumping, and climbing. Hamstrings are prone to injury due to their active involvement in dynamic motions, notably in runners and sprinters. Sudden stops, slowing down, and directional shifts strain these muscles, and overstretching when running typically causes “pulled hamstrings.”

Hamstring Muscles Meaning

  1. Hamstring muscles perform many vital functions:

    Allowing knee flexion.
  2. Hip extension: Helping extend the hip.
  3. Hip rotation: Allowing hip rotation.
  4. Hamstring Muscles Location
  5. Hamstrings go from hip to knee on the posterior thigh. The hamstring tendons connect these muscles to hip, knee, and lower leg bones.

Hamstring Muscles Structure

Three muscles make up the hamstring group:

  1. Biceps Femoris: This muscle flexes the knee, extends the thigh at the hip, and helps rotate the lower leg when the knee is bent.
  2. The semimembranosus muscle, closest to the midline, flexes the knee, stretches the thigh at the hip, and rotates the hip and lower leg medially.
  3. Semitendinosus: Aligned with semimembranosus but between it and biceps femoris.

Back-thigh muscle strengthening with hamstring curls

Hamstring curls target the back of the leg and buttock glutes. The exercise involves bending the knee and moving the heel toward the buttocks while keeping the body still.

Hamstring curls focus on muscle strength. Building strong, supple back thigh muscles improves strength, balance, and stamina.

Hamstring Curl Benefits

Given their importance to fitness, leg exercises, especially hamstring curls, must be consistent. Regular, correct hamstring curls have many benefits:

Hamstring curls work the rear thigh (biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus) and calf (gastrocnemius and soleus). This exercise works the glutes, front thighs, and tibialis anterior throughout the descent.

Strengthening the hamstring muscles considerably reduces knee injuries by improving knee stability and pressure resistance. With strengthened hamstrings, everyday lower-body tasks are safer.

Overall Strength and Fitness: Hamstring curls improve athletic performance, especially sprinting. These muscle groups gain strength and flexibility, which helps older people with knee, joint, and back discomfort.

Hamstring curls also stretch the front leg quadriceps, relieving lower back stiffness.

In order to build a well-rounded and robust physique, you need to include hamstring curls in your routine. Consult your primary care physician or a fitness professional before beginning a new workout plan to ensure that it will help you achieve your desired level of health and fitness. A holistic approach to improving one’s health and strength can be achieved by making one’s safety and well-being a top priority.

 

Ashish Sachdeva Inspiring Weight Loss Journey

In the realm of weight loss triumphs, Ashish Sachdeva stands out as a testament to the incredible possibilities of human determination. A 46-year-old businessman hailing from Rewari, Haryana, Ashish achieved a remarkable feat by shedding an astounding 60.9 kilograms. This significant transformation emerged from a journey that began with numerous challenges, including obesity-related complications such as hypertension, joint pains, and memory loss. In an exclusive conversation with Etimes Lifestyle, Ashish shared the pivotal moments, lifestyle alterations, dietary adjustments, and fitness routines that paved the way for his extraordinary accomplishment.

Ashish Sachdeva Turning Point: Embracing Spirituality

The crux of Ashish Sachdeva transformative journey can be traced back to a pivotal moment on June 21, 2010. This marked the day he made the life-altering decision to bid farewell to alcohol. This act of self-discipline became the gateway to spirituality, as Ashish found solace and guidance through the Art of Living. The integration of meditation and self-discovery became instrumental, reshaping his worldview, values, and, notably, his approach to life. Spirituality became the anchor at the inception of Ashish’s weight loss odyssey.

Lifestyle Changes

Ashish Sachdeva underscores two fundamental lifestyle changes that became the bedrock of his metamorphosis:

  1. Early to bed, early to rise: Establishing a consistent sleep schedule was prioritized, recognizing the pivotal role of adequate rest in the journey towards well-being.
  2. No to junk food & sugar: A radical departure from unhealthy dietary choices was a cornerstone of Ashish’s commitment to a healthier lifestyle.

Ashish Sachdeva Diet Behind the Transformation

Central to Ashish Sachdeva triumphant journey was his daily dietary regimen, meticulously crafted to support his weight loss goals. A glimpse into his typical meals reveals a thoughtful approach:

Breakfast:

  • 4 egg whites + 2 whole eggs
  • Oats/poha/green dal cheela

Lunch:

  • Salad
  • Fruits
  • 1 bowl of seasonal veggies
  • 1 bowl of curd

Dinner (7:00 pm):

  • 4 egg whites
  • 2 whole eggs
  • 2 multigrain rotis with 1 bowl of veggies/dal
  • Salads

Pre-workout meal:

  • Rice cake and peanut butter

Post-workout meal:

  • Protein shake
  • Nuts

Cheat Days:

  • Anything and everything (except sugar)

In addition to these staples, Ashish vouches for some low-calorie dishes that became his allies in the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle:

  • Air-fried kofta cooked with 1 tablespoon of mustard oil
  • Oats idli with coconut chutney
  • Vegetable khichdi
  • Vegetable porridge
  • Indian pancakes made of sprouted whole moong/dals with vegetable stuffing
  • Oats roti with vegetable raita

Ashish Sachdeva Workout Routine

Ashish Sachdeva workout routine reflects a holistic and balanced approach:

  • Strength Training (3-4 days): Building muscle and endurance.
  • Cardiovascular Workout (1-2 days): Embracing cycling and running.
  • Stretching/Yoga (1 day): Ensuring flexibility and mindfulness.

Fitness Secrets

Beyond the sweat and exertion of workouts, Ashish stresses the importance of rest, recovery, and ample sleep for overall well-being. He highlights the value of active recovery as a tool to keep the body in motion throughout the day.

Motivation and Focus

Ashish’s motivation emanates from a profound connection with the divine, infusing his life with a positive perspective. He firmly believes in the attainability of goals through unwavering determination and places emphasis on learning from the positive aspects of those around him. The adoption of SMART goals and maintaining a disciplined approach towards personal and professional objectives serves as a compass, guiding him through challenges.

Conclusion

Ashish Sachdeva journey is more than a weight loss narrative; it is a chronicle of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of a determined spirit. His story resonates not only as an inspiration for those on a weight loss journey but also as a beacon for anyone striving to embrace a holistic approach to health and well-being. Ashish Sachdeva’s odyssey reminds us that within the realm of obstacles, the seeds of triumph are often sown, and the journey towards a healthier life is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

 

CDC Ongoing Vigilance: Navigating the COVID-19

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) remains at the forefront of the battle against COVID-19, tirelessly monitoring and adapting vaccination strategies. In an ever-evolving pandemic landscape, the CDC’s role is pivotal in safeguarding public health.

Vaccine Updates and Guidance

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to provide critical updates on COVID-19 vaccines, including booster shots and vaccination guidance. These guidelines are essential for healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public to make informed decisions.

Booster Shots

The debate over booster shots has been a central focus. The CDC’s recommendations on who should receive boosters and when reflect ongoing research and the need to adapt to emerging variants of the virus.

Vaccine Efficacy

Assessing vaccine efficacy and safety remains a top priority. The CDC’s rigorous monitoring of adverse events ensures that the benefits of vaccination far outweigh any potential risks.

Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy

Vaccine hesitancy remains a challenge. The CDC’s efforts to combat misinformation and enhance public understanding are vital in achieving widespread vaccination and building trust.

Global Impact

The CDC’s actions have a global impact. Its support for global vaccine distribution and cooperation with international health organizations underscores the interconnectedness of the pandemic response.

Pandemic Preparedness

As the pandemic evolves, the CDC plays a central role in pandemic preparedness. Lessons learned from COVID-19 will shape future responses to emerging infectious diseases.

Community Engagement

Engagement with agencies is essential to the CDC’s success. Building partnerships with local organizations and healthcare providers is essential in reaching underserved populations.

Conclusion

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) unwavering commitment to the COVID-19 vaccination effort highlights the critical role of public health agencies in times of crisis. As the pandemic continues to present new challenges, the CDC’s vigilance, expertise, and adaptability are instrumental in guiding the nation toward a safer, healthier future.

Breast Cancer in Older Women Raises Concerns

Breast cancer, a pervasive concern affecting women globally, has prompted vigilance in detection and treatment. In the United States, an estimated 240,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed annually, as reported by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, a recent study suggests that not all diagnoses lead to necessary treatments, especially among older women.

Unnecessary Treatment Risk: The Study’s Disturbing Revelation

Published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, a study has unveiled a disconcerting trend. Among American women aged 70 to 85, a significant proportion are potentially overdiagnosed with breast cancer, leading to the likelihood of receiving unnecessary treatments.  Overdiagnosis, on this context, refers to figuring out breast cancers thru screening that may not have posed medical troubles otherwise.

Study Details: Magnitude of Overdiagnosis

The take a look at centered on 54,635 ladies elderly 70 or older who had gone through breast most cancers screening. The outcomes suggest that 31% of girls elderly 70 to seventy four and 47% of these elderly seventy five to eighty four have been doubtlessly overdiagnosed with breast cancer. Among ladies elderly eighty five and older, the probability of overdiagnosis peaked at 54%.

Technology’s Role: Advances in Detection and Implications

Technological advancements have significantly contributed to the rise in breast cancer diagnoses. Advanced screening techniques, such as three-dimensional mammography, CT, MRI, and PET scanning, have enabled the detection of even the smallest cancer lesions. While these technologies offer a boon in early detection, they also bring forth a challenge: distinguishing between cancers that will evolve and those that will remain dormant.

The Impact of Aggressive Treatment: Unintended Consequences

Aggressively treating cancers that may not progress, spread, or prove lethal due to genetic factors can lead to unintended negative outcomes. Surgical procedures, radiation, and chemotherapy could potentially harm patients unnecessarily, leading to complications and increased stress. Additionally, the financial burden and emotional toll of unnecessary treatments cannot be overlook.

Balancing Treatment and Well-Being: Tailored Approaches

Dr. Ilana Richman, lead writer of the take a look at and an assistant professor of drugs at theYale School of Medicine, advocates for individualized decisions regarding breast cancer treatment for older women.  She highlights the need to weigh potential overdiagnosis against a patient’s life expectancy and overall health.

Lack of Guidance: Mammograms for Older Women

For women aged 75 and above, the US Preventive Services Task Force does not offer definitive guidance on whether mammograms are necessary. The decision to continue mammograms is a nuanced one, heavily dependent on individual circumstances. Mammograms for this age group cost Medicare over $410 million annually, underscoring the financial implications of widespread screening.

Future Prospects: Cancer Genomics and Refined Definitions

Experts predict a future where advances in cancer genomics will enable the differentiation between benign and aggressive cancers. This enhanced understanding could lead to a redefinition of cancer based on an individual’s genetic makeup and distinct patterns of behavior. Such personalized approaches could minimize unnecessary treatments and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion: Navigating a Complex Terrain of Decisions

The study’s findings spark a critical conversation about the appropriate response to breast cancer diagnoses in older women. Balancing the potential risks and benefits of treatments, considering individual health factors, and aligning with evolving technological capabilities are all essential components of making informed decisions.  As the medical landscape continues to advance, tailored strategies that prioritize patient well-being stand to redefine the path forward in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Significant Changes in Blood Donation Policy Benefit Gay Men

Kody Kinsley, the Secretary of North Carolina’s Department of Health and Human Services, recalls his high school days of organizing blood drives to contribute to the US blood supply. However, due to regulations that barred most gay men from donating blood, Kinsley’s personal efforts were in vain. Now, a monumental shift is underway, marking a transformative moment in blood banking history that allows more gay men to contribute to this essential cause.

A Personal Journey Towards Inclusion

Kody Kinsley, who identifies as gay, eagerly anticipates the moment he can donate blood as an adult, breaking free from the restrictions that once hindered him. Reflecting on his experience, he emphasizes that the focus should be on behaviors rather than sexual orientation. The change is a victory over the stigma that has long surrounded gay men’s involvement in blood donation.

Shift Towards Inclusive Risk Assessment

The shift in policy is groundbreaking, as the Red Cross, a major blood provider in the US, adopts an inclusive risk-based individual assessment. Starting from Monday, the organization will assess eligibility for blood donation based on individual behavior, regardless of sexual orientation. This change is particularly significant given that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had enforced restrictions on most gay men from donating blood for nearly four decades.

An End to Stigmatization

The impact of this policy shift is immense. It eliminates the unnecessary stigmatization of gay men who were deemed ineligible to donate blood even when they posed no threat to the blood supply. Instead, the new approach focuses on evaluating behavior-related risks rather than categorically excluding individuals based on their identity.

Historical Context: The HIV Epidemic

The roots of the previous policy can be traced back to the early days of the HIV epidemic, when the FDA instituted regulations based on the assumption that a majority of HIV infections were among gay or bisexual men. However, over time, advances in HIV screening technology allowed blood banks to better identify the virus, making the need for the older policy obsolete.

A Significant Milestone

In May 2022, the FDA finally updated its guidance to align with scientific understanding. This marked a significant turning point, where risk assessment is based on behavior rather than orientation. While the change is commendable, it’s acknowledged that further progress is needed to ensure a truly inclusive policy that accounts for the nuances of individual behavior.

Blood Banks’ Response and Implementation

In response to the updated guidance, blood centers across the United States are adapting their policies to embrace inclusivity. The timeline for these changes varies, with smaller centers adopting the new approach more swiftly. However, it’s essential for the transition to be executed sensitively, involving staff training to ensure a smooth and respectful implementation.

Continued Challenges

Despite this remarkable shift, some critics argue that the new policy doesn’t go far enough. The focus on behavioral risk assessment has its limitations, potentially excluding individuals who may engage in safe practices, such as using condoms or taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). The policy’s framework must continue to evolve to account for advancements in medical and sexual health practices.

Advocacy for Further Change

While the updated policy is a step in the right direction, the journey towards complete inclusivity is ongoing. The Red Cross acknowledges that the current guidance is not perfect and that more work can be done. The goal is to gather more data and eliminate deferrals based on factors like PrEP and PEP usage, ensuring that everyone who is eligible has the opportunity to contribute.

Conclusion

The transformation in blood donation policy, allowing gay men to contribute without unnecessary restrictions, is a remarkable milestone in the battle against stigma. Kody Kinsley’s journey exemplifies the potential for change when outdated policies are reevaluated. This shift signifies a crucial step towards more inclusive practices, acknowledging the importance of individuals’ behaviors rather than their identities. As the blood banking system evolves to be more accommodating and understanding, the hope is that more eligible donors, regardless of sexual orientation, will step forward to support this vital cause.

Black Fly Population Surges Amid Spain’s Heatwave: Navigating Bite Prevention

Across various regions in Spain, a surge in black fly populations has gripped attention, with experts issuing warnings about the potential health risks associated with their blood-sucking bites.

Unveiling the Black Fly

The black fly, identified by several monikers including buffalo gnat, turkey gnat, or white socks, emerges as a minuscule yet formidable insect with a penchant for blood meals. Flourishing in warm and humid climates, these creatures are especially prevalent in proximity to rivers and bodies of water.

Black Fly Population Surges Amid Spain's Heatwave: Navigating Bite Prevention

The Sting of the Black Fly Bite: Unpleasant Consequences

While the black fly bite is non-venomous, its impact can be far from benign. Inflicting a painful and irksome welt, the bite has the potential to trigger allergic reactions, infections, and in extreme cases, even lead to blindness.

Unmasking the Culprits: Factors Driving the Surge

The upswing in the black fly population is propelled by a confluence of factors, with climate change, globalization, and the dwindling bat populations at the forefront.

Climate Change: A Breeding Ground for Trouble

Climate change acts as a catalyst, rendering warmer temperatures and erratic weather patterns, which in turn foster the ideal environment for black fly breeding. These altered conditions have effectively transformed certain regions into breeding grounds for these relentless pests.

Globalization: A Pathway for Spread

Globalization plays an insidious role as well, facilitating the dispersion of black flies to new territories across the globe. Hitching rides on shipping containers and various modes of transportation, these insects venture far beyond their original habitats.

Decline of Bats: An Imbalance in Nature

The decline of bat populations has further exacerbated the issue. Bats are natural predators of black flies, and their dwindling numbers have upset the delicate balance of nature, permitting the unchecked proliferation of populations.

Navigating Black Fly Bites: Prevention Strategies

Employing preventive measures is crucial in evading black fly bites:

  1. Cover Up: Don long sleeves and pants when venturing into regions where black flies thrive.
  2. Choose Repellents: Opt for insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin.
  3. Thorough Application: Apply repellents diligently to exposed skin, adhering to recommended reapplication intervals.
  4. Strategic Timing: Avoid outdoor activities during early mornings and evenings, the prime time for black fly activity.
  5. Post-Bite Care: In case of a bite, cleanse the area with soap and water and soothe with a cold compress.

After the Bite: Navigating Responses

If you do fall prey to a black fly bite, taking swift action to prevent infection is imperative:

  1. Cleanse the Area: Gently cleanse the bite site using soap and water.
  2. Cool Compress: Apply a cold compress to alleviate discomfort.
  3. Resist Scratching: Refrain from scratching the bite, as it may exacerbate the situation.
  4. Medical Attention: If the bite manifests as red, swollen, or painful, or if you exhibit signs of an allergic reaction, consult a medical professional promptly.

Public Health Implications: A Graver Reality

The black fly harbors the potential to be a significant public health threat. Its bite can serve as a conduit for grave diseases such as onchocerciasis, commonly known as river blindness. This parasitic infection can cause blindness, skin lesions, and various health complications.

Additionally, there is a vector for other ailments like leishmaniasis and Chagas disease. Leishmaniasis inflicts skin ulcers, organ damage, and potentially fatal consequences. Chagas disease, another parasitic infection, manifests as heart disease, neurological afflictions, and even death.

Closing Thoughts: Vigilance and Prevention

The black fly emerges as a formidable pest with profound implications for public health. As regions grapple with surges in their populations, adopting preventive measures becomes paramount. For those planning to explore areas prone to infestations, safeguarding oneself against their bites assumes critical importance. By adhering to the aforementioned guidelines, you can contribute to curbing the risks of bites and the consequential diseases they may facilitate.

Contraceptive Pills as a Family Planning Method

Contraceptive pills, commonly referred to as birth control pills or oral contraceptives, have revolutionized family planning and reproductive health worldwide. These pills are a form of hormonal contraception that effectively prevents pregnancy when taken as prescribed. The development and widespread use of contraceptive pills have had a profound impact on women’s autonomy, reproductive choices, and overall well-being.

Evolution of Contraceptive Pills:

The journey of contraceptive pills dates back to the early 20th century when researchers began exploring ways to control fertility using hormonal manipulation. The breakthrough came in the 1950s when scientists successfully synthesized the first oral contraceptive containing synthetic versions of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This paved the way for the modern birth control pill that is available today.

Mechanism of Action:

This pills primarily work by inhibiting ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovaries. They contain synthetic hormones that mimic the body’s natural hormones, thereby tricking the reproductive system into believing that ovulation has already occurred. Additionally, these hormones also cause changes in the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and alter the uterine lining, preventing implantation in case fertilization occurs.

Types of Contraceptive Pills:

There are two main types of contraceptive pills: combination pills and progestin-only pills. Combination pills contain both synthetic estrogen and progestin and are further categorized as monophasic (fixed hormone dose throughout the cycle), biphasic (two different hormone doses), or triphasic (three different hormone doses). Progestin-only pills, often referred to as mini-pills, only contain synthetic progestin. The choice of pill type depends on various factors, including individual health history, hormonal sensitivities, and lifestyle.

Benefits Beyond Contraception:

While contraceptive stuff are widely known for their ability to prevent unwanted pregnancies, they offer additional health benefits. They can regulate menstrual cycles, reduce the severity of menstrual cramps, and help manage conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis. Additionally, contraceptive pills have been linked to a decreased risk of certain cancers, such as ovarian and endometrial cancers.

Challenges and Considerations:

Despite their numerous advantages, contraceptive pills are not without challenges. Adherence to a daily pill-taking schedule is crucial for their effectiveness. Missing doses or inconsistent use can lead to a higher risk of unintended pregnancy. Moreover, certain health conditions, such as a history of blood clots or certain types of migraines, may restrict the use of hormonal contraceptives. Consulting a healthcare provider before starting any contraceptive method is essential to determine the most suitable option.

Global Impact and Accessibility:

Contraceptive pills have played a pivotal role in empowering women to take control of their reproductive health. They have contributed to lower fertility rates, increased education and career opportunities for women, and reduced maternal and infant mortality rates. However, accessibility to contraceptive pills remains unequal across the globe due to socioeconomic factors, cultural beliefs, and healthcare infrastructure limitations. Efforts are ongoing to improve access and education about family planning methods in underserved regions.
Contraceptive pills have undergone remarkable advancements since their inception, evolving into a safe, effective, and versatile family planning method. Their impact reaches beyond contraception, positively influencing women’s health and autonomy. As we move forward, continued research, education, and advocacy will be essential to ensure that contraceptive pills and other family planning options are accessible to all, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their reproductive futures.