We all have health conditions and if not now, you can expect them to occur as you age. Some are universally receiving sympathy, while others…you just get judged! It’s time to address health conditions properly and why I enlisted the help from Sandy Getzky, a registered Herbalist and member of the American Herbalist’s Guild and the executive coordinating editor at The Global Nail Fungus Organization for guidance.
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According to Sandy:
Many of the most common health conditions that plague us today are often things that hardly anyone ever wants to talk about—at least, not in public. And no wonder: after all, many of these things can be pretty embarrassing to bring up in daily conversation.
So let’s take the bull by the horns here—let’s come right out and discuss the top 5 most common embarrassing conditions, and what we can do to find ourselves an effective cure or method of prevention for each of these situations.
Nail Fungus
One reason, perhaps, that people stay away from this topic is because having a fungal condition is often associated with the lack of proper hygiene. While this may be true in a few instances, it’s not always so. Also known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium, fungal infection of the fingernails or toenails is caused by dermatophyte, a special kind of fungus. Fungal infection in toenails is more common compared with fingernail fungus. A 2014 study showed that at least two in every 10 persons in Europe and East Asia suffer from onychomycosis.
The study also found that the incidence of this health condition affects as high as 14 percent in North America, with fungal infection affecting about 50 percent of all the cases involving nail disease. So if you are suffering from some kind of fungal infection—don’t fret. A lot of other people also have the same condition as you.
Examples of fungal infection of the nails include hematoma, green nails (which may cause a foul odor), pitted nails (which may be linked to psoriasis or various skin problems), yellow nails, and nail infection. For many, fungal nail infection occurs in moist and wet areas. If you shower in a communal shower at a swimming pool or gym, for instance, you’re likely to have a higher chance of getting a fungal infection. You could also be at greater risk if you live with relatives who suffer from fungal infections or have treatments done at nail salons where instruments are inadequately sanitized.
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Athletes, elderly people, as well as those suffer from underlying medical conditions such as diabetes also face a higher risk of fungal infection. One way to address the solution is to keep your nails trimmed and filed. This can also give you immediate pain relief, especially when you have thickened nails causing pressure-related pain. If you are suffering from nail fungus, you may also seek the help of a dermatologist or podiatrist to help you with your condition.
Ringworm
Also known as tinea or dermatophytosis, ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the skin. Ringworm affects both humans and animals, typically on the skin of the feet, groin, beard, scalp, and various other areas. If you suffer from ringworm infection, you’ll likely develop red and scaly patches that, in some cases, may even begin to ooze or develop into blisters. Three types of fungi may cause this infection, which is commonly spread in the household by relatives sharing items.
A doctor may give you medications (including both antifungal skin creams and oral medications) and advise adjustments to your lifestyle (such as showering regularly or avoiding sharing items such as clothing or hairbrushes with others) to address your ringworm situation.
Stye
Also known as hordeolum, a stye happens when there is infection of the oil gland located at the edge of your eyelid. Akin to a pimple, the stye may grow on the outside or inside area of your lid. A stye may mean having to suffer through having an eye swollen shut (a condition which that can last for several days or weeks), eyelashes falling out, or redness around an entire eye.
To be fair, almost anyone can suffer from stye, as almost anyone can get the bacteria. Anyone, whether you are young or old, rich or poor can develop a stye at a moment’s notice. Having said that however, if you are suffering from a stye, you wouldn’t want to pass on the bacterium to anyone else.
To avoid sharing the bacteria that causes the stye, you should make sure your eyes as well as hands remain clean at all times. Avoid sharing the pillowcases and bed sheets you use, as well as washcloths or towels.
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Hasten the healing process by using a hot compress on the infected area for about 10 to 15 minutes at least thrice a day, for several days. Do not ever pop a style the way you would on a pimple. Allow it to “ripen” on its own. If complications should occur, get in touch with an ophthalmologist or a medical specialist in eye care and surgery.
I know this is one of the uglier health conditions many may suffer that everyone can see, but know you are the not first to have one and most certainly will not be the last! My husband’s coworker was just out for a few days because of one! Hey, it happens!
Halitosis
Deny as you might, a lot of people do suffer from halitosis or chronic bad breath. Unfortunately, halitosis is something that good brushing, mouthwash, or mints cannot simply solve. It isn’t something like “morning breath” or that strong smell that pervades after you have eaten garlic or onions.
Chronic bad breath continues for a long period of time and may indicate something that is far more serious. A 2015 study showed that about as low as 10 to as high as 50 percent of the population may be suffering from halitosis.
One way to fight a common health condition like halitosis is by drinking plenty of water. Always brush your teeth (or dentures) after meals, and floss at least two times a day. You also might want to replace the toothbrush you are using every two months. If you are suffering from a severe case of halitosis, you can seek out a dentist for consultation and regular dental checkups.
Another embarrassing issue that may be a health condition and not just something someone suffers with. Don’t take this personally and simply try and fix the problem.
Armpit Odor
This may sound awful, but armpit odor does exist and it happens to many people. Armpit odor usually starts at puberty, when bacteria combines with your apocrine gland secretions. This in turn may produce a malodorous smell, which might seriously affect friendships or relationships.
If you are concerned about your body odor, you may want to consider using a deodorant bath soap or an antiperspirant. Antiperspirants have aluminum that can help or even prevent sweat glands from over-producing perspiration.
You might also want to consider your diet, since it may have a role in the smell of your armpits. A diet that is mainly focused on whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains may help reduce your armpit odor. Eating foods that are rich in chlorophyll such as cilantro, mint, and parsley can also be good for you for numerous health conditions.
Solving Common Medical Conditions
While you may be hesitant to discuss these very real medical conditions, know that these things happen all the time and that there are remedies to solve them. Don’t let your embarrassment prevent you from seeking viable solutions.
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No one wants to share their embarrassing health conditions, especially if they feel they will be judged. This is why we are giving you all the deets so you don’t even have to ask! Remember, more people than you realize suffer from the very same health conditions you do so take heed and get your body right!
Sandy Getzky
