According to the current rules, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) instructs people to isolate themselves for at least five days once they test positive for COVID-19. That may change in the coming months because the CDC may issue new guidelines. The new guidelines would depend on symptoms and not merely a positive test result. This marks a shift from how people currently attempt to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The new guidelines state that you can end isolation if you are fever-free for 24 hours and have mild or improving symptoms. Changes to existing guidelines would not go into effect until at least April, which is the end of respiratory viral season. Health experts agree that that is a wise choice, given the presence of influenza, RSV, general viruses, and COVID strains that are currently circulating. This would be a big transition from current protocols, with some arguing that the newer guidelines are dangerous. Others agree that not everyone can afford to isolate. Here’s how infectious disease experts feel about the potential upcoming changes. 

New Guidelines Rely On Personal Responsibility

Most infectious disease experts agree that you should not go to work when you are sick, no matter what sickness you have. Taking time to rest and heal is paramount, and not going to work helps reduce the spread of whatever virus you have. Changing COVID-19 isolation guidelines, then, essentially normalizes COVID-19, along with other viruses that can cause respiratory illnesses. 

It is up to the individual to be responsible and honest about symptoms. If the symptoms are bad, they should not go out in public. When symptoms improve, they should continue to take precautions, like wearing a mask inside public spaces, for example. Once the person does not have a fever and symptoms are either improving or generally mild, experts agree that it is reasonable to return back to the outside world. It is, however, possible that the new guidelines will suggest people to wear masks upon returning to work. 

The new guidelines also take into account that more people are protected against severe disease or hospitalization and death. Gone are the early days of the pandemic, when most people didn’t have any immune protection. Infectious disease specialists agree that people have built up a certain level of community immunity, so the new guidelines seem reasonable. 

The Change Addresses The Fact That Most People Cannot Miss Five Days Of Work

If the person works from home, which became a popular method of employment during the pandemic, then missing work doesn’t really factor into the equation. You don’t have to leave your house, therefore you don’t have to worry about infecting fellow employees. If people work in an office or in a physical location, missing work for five days may not be easy or possible. Plus, people tend to rely on at-home testing more so than a test from a doctor’s office. 

Many employers may not be willing to accept an at-home test as a reliable confirmation of COVID-19 infection. A test may be required from a doctor, so it is harder for people to abide by at-home isolation requirements these days. 

Could New Guidelines Threaten High-Risk People?

In some places, more so than others, COVID cases have dropped this year. Additionally, experts note that those who contract the virus have had lower severity of significant illness. That said, some people continue to experience complications, such as severe disease, that require hospitalization, or symptoms from long COVID. Is it true that many people recover just fine from COVID without serious symptoms? Yes, but people with weak immunity, even if they got the vaccine and boosters, may not have a protective immune response against the virus. 

That means that a significant number of people have an increased risk of severe symptoms that result from COVID-19 infection. Because of that, it is the responsibility of the people with stronger immunity to take precautions if symptoms are mild. Wear a mask in public if you don’t have a fever and are no longer isolating. That can go a long way in limiting the spread of the virus to people who are highly vulnerable. 

There is still a risk to reentering the public with active COVID-19 infection. Infectious disease experts hope that masking becomes more of a norm if people come out of isolation with mild symptoms. Masking is more commonplace in other countries, but there is still a general stigma around it in the United States. If you do not feel well enough to go out, wear a mask so that you don’t spread whatever you have to your loved ones, coworkers, or community. 

COVID-19 Isn’t Gone

COVID-19 is not gone forever if the CDC changes its guidelines. Many experts agree that COVID is here to stay, and the public needs to understand that, even if it isn’t the primary news story. Do all that you can to protect and care for yourself and others, especially those who have weaker immune systems or existing health conditions. All experts can do is encourage people to do the right thing, but it will be interesting to see what the CDC’s new guidelines are and how they affect the spread and infection rates. Even though COVID-19 may soon be viewed as an endemic disease, it is by no means an insignificant illness.

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Although some conditions are more common among Black people, there are several conditions that disproportionately affect Black communities. In other instances, Black people may have worse outcomes, or develop conditions earlier, than other communities. 

The sad reality is that there are disparities between communities, and they are often complex and intertwined. Before we can delve into the conditions that disproportionately affect Black people in the United States, we have to address causes of racial disparities in health. Why do these disparities exist? In some cases, biology and genetics are the primary determining factors. In most cases, though, disparities are rooted in numerous systemic issues. 

• Economic stability: Lacking income or employment can prevent stable housing and access to medical care and nutritious foods. 
• Healthcare access and quality: In the United States, Black people are more likely to be uninsured or underinsured than white counterparts. Many reports indicate that they unfortunately receive a lower standard of care. 
• Education access and quality: The level of your education is typically tied to income, but education itself can play a role in informing you about health and helping you live a longer life. 
• Social and community context: The mistrust of the medical community may have deep roots in some pockets of Black communities. 
• Environment: Where you live can impact your overall health. For example, living in an area with high rates of violence or pollution can expose you to adverse health problems or injuries. 

How do these factors influence Black people’s experiences with specific health conditions? Let’s explore that and more below. 

Diabetes

Statistically, Black adults are twice as likely as white adults to develop type 2 diabetes. That occurs when the body cannot produce sufficient insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. Although genetic factors play into the development of diabetes, many socioeconomic factors and high obesity rates are at play. Complications from diabetes, such as kidney disease, are also more common in Black people. To fight back against diabetes, try to eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and maintain moderate weight. If you have diabetes, monitor and manage blood sugar to avoid complications. 

Stroke

A stroke is usually a result of a blockage in an artery, which means that not enough blood can get to the brain. Similar to other conditions relating to cardiovascular health, stroke disproportionately affects Black adults in the United States. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, stress, smoking, and diabetes contribute to stroke. Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of stroke, even if you have a family history of the condition. Reduce your salt intake, quit smoking, and learn more about the signs and symptoms of a stroke. 

Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming nearly 700,000 lives per year. Despite having lower rates than white people, Black people in the United States are 30% more likely to die from heart disease. Research indicates that heart disease is also more likely to affect Black adults at a younger age. It’s worth noting that Black Americans have higher rates of major risk factors for heart disease, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and smoking. You can reduce your risk of heart disease if you adopt heart-healthy habits, know your family history, check blood pressure regularly, make efforts to reduce blood pressure, and maintain a healthy weight. 

Obesity

If you are obese, you significantly increase your risk of heart disease and diabetes, in addition to other health conditions. Surveys indicate that Black adults in the United States are 30% more likely to have obesity than white adults. For children and teens and women, the disparity is even greater at 50%. As we’ve stated in this article, obesity is a risk factor for many health conditions on this list, and it can worsen outcomes. The obesity disparity is largely attributed to economic and geographic causes. Some people may live in food deserts, where nutritional options aren’t as readily available and physical activity is challenging. To fight the obesity epidemic, help children develop healthy eating and exercise habits. Support community efforts to make nutritious food options more accessible and engage in physical activity. 

High Blood Pressure

The American Heart Association (AHA) estimates that 55% of Black adults in the United States have high blood pressure. That is one of the highest rates for high blood pressure in the world. Additionally, high blood pressure typically affects Black people earlier in life than it affects white people. Both obesity and diabetes are two contributing factors to high blood pressure, but so are racial discrimination and stress. If you want to reduce blood pressure levels, limit your alcohol and salt intake, find ways to manage stress, maintain a moderate weight, exercise daily, and eat a balanced diet. 

Kidney Disease

The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) states that Black Americans are more than three times as likely as white people to have kidney failure. Diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure, all of which affect Black Americans disproportionately, can increase the risk of kidney problems. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) test assesses kidney function. Doctors state that this test often estimates that Black people have higher kidney function than they actually do, which can delay detection and treatment. For this reason, the NKF eliminated this calculation and is currently working on better tests to properly assess kidney function because the key to kidney management is early detection.

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Several surveys revealed that the average American spends about 7.7 hours of their day sitting. With cubicle and work-from-home jobs in full-swing, sitting is just a part of modern day work. Some people try to counteract hours in the chair by purchasing a standing desk. Others try to sit on exercise balls or kneeling chairs to better correct posture. Nevertheless, all of that sitting can create tension in the hip flexors and lower back. 

After a long day of sitting, most people continue to sit on the couch or in the dining room, either watching TV or hunching over their phone. Even self-care hobbies like journaling or meditation involve sitting! Although long periods of sitting may be inevitable, you can engage in a few simple techniques to mitigate the negative effects of sitting. In this article, we will go over a few strategies that may help reduce pain and improve posture. 

The Health Risks Of Sitting For Long Periods

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Contrarily, those who sit less report fewer instances of these chronic health conditions. They also experience better mood and sleep quality, in addition to an overall enhancement of daily functioning. 

In 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) indicated that lower back pain impacted 619 million people worldwide. Health experts estimate that this number will reach 843 million by 2050. Lower back pain usually begins with stiffness, particularly in the hips and along the spine. It is the leading cause of disability globally and affects people across all ages and genders. 

Pain is complex, and there are limited solutions to the way people process it. Since standing all day is not an option for everyone and can also lead to pain, we hope the following strategies help ease stiffness and reduce lower back pain from sitting.

Strengthen Your Core

Not only does a stronger core contribute to better balance, but it also helps support your torso while seated. Increasing core strength supports the spine and reduces strain on joints and intervertebral discs. One study monitored 30 participants with lower back pain who engaged in a five-week core strengthening program. At the end of the study, everyone reported a significant reduction in pain and muscle fatigue after performing seated tasks. 

Optimize Your Desk Setup

Ideally, your chair should support your back and you should be able to rest your feet flat on the floor. Your knees should be in line or slightly lower than your hips. Reduce strain on the neck by having your screen be at eye level and an arm’s length away. Consider investing in lumbar supporters, footrests, or monitor stands if you spend a lot of time at your desk. A standing desk can also be beneficial so that you can change positions throughout the day. 

Stay Active

You don’t have to jog in place while checking emails; rather, counteract your sitting by moving your body. Health experts suggest 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week. You can supplement this time with resistance training and mobility workouts to counteract all the sitting you do. It can be highly beneficial to flow through a series of yoga poses, engage in water aerobics, or take part in Zumba classes. A little movement goes a long way, with a short walk on your lunch break providing great benefits.

Take Movement Breaks

According to research, two hours of continuous sitting can trigger immediate lower back pain or general discomfort. Your ability to solve problems may be impacted by this sitting! Get out of your chair every 30 minutes to help prevent some of these issues. Engage in some squats, a full-body stretch, or even pace while on a phone call. Consider a few hip stretches or some foam rolling to reduce pain in your hip flexors. 

Be Mindful Of Your Sitting Habits

While you are seated at work, take note of your posture. Are your shoulders slouched? Are your legs crossed? Are you leaning to one side to compensate for pain on the other? These observations may indicate that you need to improve your work set up to reduce pain. You may even require an ergonomic assessment or visit to your health care provider to prevent back pain, especially sciatica. Early intervention is essential, so tackle the issue before it becomes a serious problem.

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Second only to the skin, the liver is the largest organ in the human body. It has quite a few responsibilities, some of which are more well-known than others. Some of the liver’s primary jobs include filtering the body’s blood, storing energy, and processing nutrients. Due to the liver’s many responsibilities, it is highly vulnerable to scarring (cirrhosis) and complete failure, which can lead to cancer. 

Although most people associate liver damage with alcohol abuse or misuse, other factors can play a role. In this article, we aim to highlight the various health conditions, drugs, and lifestyle habits that can damage your liver. 

Health Conditions That Damage The Liver

Various health conditions, one of the more notable ones being hepatitis, can directly damage the liver, or increase the risk of liver complications. Some of the primary health conditions include genetic diseases, obesity, and certain autoimmune disorders. 

Hepatitis

Chronic hepatitis B and C are the root cause of most liver cancer cases worldwide. Hepatitis C is the more common cause in the United States, while hepatitis B is less common because of vaccine availability. Hepatitis C is spread via contact with infected blood, e.g. sharing needles, unprotected sex, and (rarely) blood transfusions. Chronic hepatitis C is a silent killer because most people don’t know they have it. If left untreated, the condition can cause liver damage, cirrhosis, liver failure, and even death. 

Autoimmune Disorders

There are certain autoimmune disorders that can harm the liver. Autoimmune hepatitis is characterized by the immune system mistakenly attacking the liver. Medical experts don’t fully understand why the body turns on itself, but genetic factors may play a role. This disease usually affects people assigned female at birth, and it is more common in people with existing autoimmune disorders. Even people with autoimmune diseases can keep things under control and live a normal life if they have the right treatment and lifestyle habits. 

Lifestyle Factors That Damage The Liver

When it comes to genetics and autoimmune disorders, you may not have complete control of your risk of liver damage. What you do have control over, however, is how you live your life. Certain lifestyle habits, including the medications you take, the foods you eat, and exercise you do or don’t do, can influence liver health. 

Alcohol

Alcohol remains a major cause of cirrhosis and other forms of liver disease. Roughly 10-15% of heavy drinkers will develop liver scarring, but those with liver damage should abstain from alcohol. Drinking in moderation, or not at all, goes a long way in keeping the liver healthy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines recommend no more than one alcoholic beverage a day for women and no more than two for men. One drink is considered to be 12 ounces of beer or five ounces of wine. 

Sugary Beverages And Sodas

Popular in the Standard American Diet, sugary beverages and sodas can cause weight gain and liver damage. A 2015 study found that people who drank one or more sugar-sweetened beverages per day had increased markers of fatty liver disease than those who didn’t drink any sugary drinks. That isn’t to say that diet drinks are healthier; rather, it highlights that sugary beverages do more damage than you think. Additional research found that people who consumed two sugary drinks a day for six months showed signs of fatty liver disease. 

Smoking

Yet another reason to quit, smoking can increase the risk of liver cancer and cirrhosis. According to a 2013 study, smoking was linked to an increased risk of liver cirrhosis independent of alcohol intake. Additionally, the toxins in cigarettes can cause inflammation, which can eventually lead to cirrhosis. If you have hepatitis B or C and you smoke, the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma increases drastically. 

Medications That Damage The Liver

If you have ever read the “Directions” section on certain cold and flu medications, you know not to take too much. Some ingredients, like acetaminophen, in these medications can be harmful in high doses. There are many other medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, that can damage the liver. 

Acetaminophen 

Acetaminophen exists in many medications, including DayQuil and NyQuil, Tylenol, and prescription medications like Vicodin or Percocet. In high doses, acetaminophen can cause liver failure and even death. Never take more than the recommended dose of acetaminophen, or any medication for that matter. Acetaminophen is a common ingredient in over-the-counter cold and flu medications, so always check the ingredient labels and directions to ensure that you don’t exceed the recommended dose.

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An enema is the process where you or a healthcare professional inject fluids into the rectum. The purpose is to clean out the colon, stimulate bowel movements, or administer medication. You can use different devices to perform an enema, such as a bag or bottle, which you manually insert into the rectum. Upon doing so, the liquid is released into the rectum. 

You don’t simply use any old liquid for an enema, but you can use a few different solutions. Some enemas may release medication to manage a certain health condition, for example, ulcerative colitis. Other enemas can consist of certain solutions that may relieve constipation. The type of enema, how it’s used, and what liquid is inside all depend on why you’re using the enema.

What Is An Enema Kit And How Do You Use It?

Used by medical professionals and the average person alike, an enema kit is readily available and consists of a bag/container and a tube or nozzle. If you have decent flexibility in your arms, you can easily administer an enema at home. Instructions for each kit can differ, but most follow these steps:

• Choose a quiet place with space to lie down (a bathroom is ideal). Make sure that you have towels, a timer, and the enema kit at the ready.
• Take all of your clothes off from the lower half of your body. Wash your hands with soap and hot water and pat them dry.
• Lay a towel (ideally one you don’t care about) on the floor and lie on your left side if right-handed, or on the right side if you’re left-handed. 
• Bend the knee on the top leg and place a rolled or folded towel between your legs for support. 
• Remove the cap of the from the nozzle on the enema. Gently insert the tip of the nozzle into the anus and continue inserting it 10 centimeters (three to four inches) into the rectum. 
• Slowly squeeze the liquid from the enema bag until it is completely empty. Carefully remove the nozzle from your rectum and wait for it to take effect. It can take anywhere from two minutes to one hour, but the kit’s instructions should give a more specific time frame. 
• Go to the toilet as usual and empty your bowels. 

What Is In The Enema?

Enemas contain different types of fluid. The liquid solution in your enema container will depend on what you want the enema to accomplish. Some people use coffee, while others use a mineral solution. More often than not, enemas contain the following solutions:

• Glycerin: A glycerin enema is occasionally used as an alternative to saline. Glycerin makes the colon absorb water, which stimulates muscle contractions in the colon to encourage a bowel movement. 
• Barium: This is an element that, when released into the colon, can help diagnose certain conditions of the large intestine. Typically, this enema solution is used when you get an X-ray of the colon and rectum to detect health issues like cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. Barium can make the images clearer, but barium enemas are becoming less common due to the increasing popularity of colonoscopies. 
• Sodium Phosphate: This solution consists of salt and water and works to pull water into the large intestine. In doing so, you help to soften the stool and make it easier to empty your bowels. A person with occasional constipation may use an enema with this solution.
• Bisacodyl: This is a type of laxative, a drug used to stimulate bowel movements, that you may see in some enemas. 
• Medication: Sometimes, but not always, an enema can contain medication to treat certain health conditions. 
• Minerals: A mineral solution typically acts as a lubricant in the lower portion of the digestive tract, making it easier to pass stool.

Safety

Keep in mind that an enema is an invasive procedure and a person should only use it for medical reasons. Always purchase an enema kit from a reputable pharmacy and avoid homemade kits. Although using an enema can help treat constipation, using an enema as a regular treatment for it can cause health problems. You don’t want the body to become reliant on enemas in order to pass stool. Overuse of enemas could cause incontinence. Lastly, anyone with a compromised immune system should not use an enema because of the risk of bacteria entering the body.

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The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a serious respiratory infection that can affect people of all ages. Recently, many children’s hospitals across the country experienced an increase of pediatric patients hospitalized with the RSV, in addition to influenza. In most cases, RSV may only cause symptoms like difficulty breathing, lethargy, and cough, but it is most serious when it occurs in babies. 

What Causes RSV?

RSV is spread from person to person via close contact with an infected person via secretions from coughing or sneezing, or touching objects like toys or door knobs that have the virus on them. According to health experts, it takes between two to eight days from the time of exposure for someone to become sick. In most cases, symptoms last for three to seven days, during which time the infected patients are most contagious. Because it can spread so easily, health experts encourage you to isolate and limit contact with other people. The peak season for the RSV is between fall and spring. 

Symptoms Of RSV

People who become infected with RSV usually show symptoms within two to eight days after exposure. The most common symptoms of RSV include:

• Runny nose
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Decrease in appetite
• Fever
• Wheezing

These symptoms tend to appear in stages and not all at once. Very young infants who contract RSV may only experience decreased activity, irritability, and breathing difficulties. Surveys confirm that almost all children will have had an RSV infection by their second birthday. 

RSV Can Cause Serious Health Problems

In more serious cases, RSV can cause serious infections like bronchiolitis, which is inflammation of the small airways in the lung. RSV can also lead to pneumonia, a lung infection. Health experts say that RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under the age of one. 

Healthy adults and children don’t usually require hospitalization. Some people with an RSV infection, especially infants under the age of six months and older adults, may require hospitalization if they have trouble breathing. In the most severe cases, a patient may require oxygen or IV fluids, if they have difficulty breathing or become dehydrated. Some patients with RSV have been in need of intubation with mechanical ventilation. In most of those cases, hospitalization only lasted a few days. 

Take Additional Steps To Prevent RSV Infection

The best way to protect yourself from RSV infection is to keep the body as healthy as possible. Eat a healthy diet, exercise, wash hands, and consider the following tips when trying to prevent the spread of the virus. 

• Avoid kissing your baby on the face if you have cold symptoms. Additionally, keep your baby away from older siblings, relatives, or anyone else with cold symptoms. 
• Wash toys and the baby’s environment regularly.
• Ask people to first wash their hands before holding or touching your baby. And you do the same if you want to hold a friend’s baby.
• Limit the time that high-risk children or babies remain in daycare or play settings, especially between late fall and early spring.
• Keep your baby away from high-risk settings, for example, crowded indoor spaces. 
• Avoid environments with smoke.

As a final note, it is common for babies to make a full recovery from RSV within one to two weeks. Most babies recover from RSV without receiving treatment in a hospital setting. More often than not, you can treat symptoms at home. You can use a cool mist humidifier to introduce moisture to the air to aid breathing, or use a bulb syringe to clear thick secretions from your baby’s nose. If you think your baby has dehydration or is in moderate to severe distress because of RSV infection, you should seek medical care.

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For more than two years, the world has seen the evolution of the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that causes COVID-19. From people on ventilators to asymptomatic carriers, COVID-19 affects everyone differently. We’ve also seen breakthrough cases among vaccinated individuals and reinfection among the unvaccinated and vaccinated. It continues to be an evolving situation, as do the top symptoms. 

The UK-based Zoe Health Study (formerly the COVID Symptom Study) recently identified the most common COVID-19 symptoms among current infections. This study based the findings on the information from more than four million people who used a special app to report signs of infection. The recent analysis found that infections from omicron sub-variants result in symptoms that mimic those of the common cold or flu. Symptoms may vary depending on vaccination status, underlying health conditions, and overall health. 

Coronavirus symptoms from earlier variants now rank lower on the list of the most common symptoms. Loss of smell (or other sensory changes from COVID-19), shortness of breath, and fever are less common among newer infections. And although vaccinated individuals can still contract COVID-19, the study found that the symptoms were much more mild among them, or that they experienced very few symptoms. Additionally, vaccinated individuals got better more quickly. 

Top COVID-19 Symptoms Among Those Who’ve Received Two Vaccine Doses

• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Blocked nose
• Persistent cough
• Headache

Researchers in the Zoe study found that vaccinated people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported sneezing. If you are vaccinated and start sneezing a lot without explanation, consider getting a COVID test as you may be infected. This will help reduce the risk of spreading the virus to those around you, some of whom may be in worse health than others. 

Top COVID-19 Symptoms Among Those Who’ve Had One Vaccine Dose

• Headache
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Sneezing
• Persistent cough

Zoe study editors observed that persistent cough was one of the original symptoms of COVID-19 infection. Among the most recent data, though, it ranks lower than sneezing and runny nose, two symptoms that were originally thought to be unrelated to COVID-19 infection.

Top COVID-19 Symptoms Among The Unvaccinated

• Headache
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Fever
• Persistent cough

According to the Zoe study, loss of smell is still in the top 10 symptoms for unvaccinated individuals who contract COVID-19. It ranks at number nine, but shortness of breath (an original symptom) now ranks at number 30. 

Why Have The Top Symptoms Changed?

The data from the Zoe study is consistent with what many clinicians have observed in COVID-19 patients over the past few months. Why the shift in symptoms is not entirely clear, though. Infectious disease specialists think that the change in top symptoms is multifactorial. The virus has evolved over time in order to maximize transmission and higher levels of immunity in the population (attributed to vaccination and prior infection). 

Cough, Cold, Or Flu? It May Be COVID-19

We covered that symptoms of recent omicron infections tend to mimic those of the common cold or flu. Because of that, people who experience those symptoms may not think that they have COVID, especially since they weren’t common symptoms earlier in the pandemic. If you do experience those symptoms, especially if they are respiratory symptoms, it is wise to test to confirm infection. COVID-19 is still a relevant illness, despite the fact that nearly all restrictions have been lifted. Take care of your health, get a new bivalent COVID-19 booster this fall if you want to, and be safe during the upcoming holiday season. 

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The Supreme Court leaked a draft opinion earlier this week, revealing that the high court may overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade decision. In 1973, the Roe v. Wade decision established a constitutional right to abortion. If the Supreme Court overturned the case, the legality of abortion would be up to each state. According to preliminary reports, 26 states will either ban or restrict access to abortion upon overturning Roe v. Wade. 

A 2017 study found that about one in four women in the U.S. are expected to get an abortion at some point during their lives. Experts noted that about 40 million women of reproductive age currently live in states that are “hostile” towards abortion. Overturning Roe v. Wade would have a massive impact in states across the country. And although the leaked document is authentic, it doesn’t represent a Supreme Court decision or the final position of any member on the issues of the case.

What Is Roe v. Wade?

Roe v. Wade is the name of the lawsuit that led to the landmark 1973 U.S. Supreme Court decision that established a constitutional right to abortion. The majority opinion found an absolute right to abortion during the first trimester of pregnancy. Jane Roe was a pseudonym for Norma McCorvey, a 22-year old unmarried, unemployed pregnant woman for the third time in 1969. She sought to have an abortion in Texas, but she had given birth to a girl, whom she placed for adoption, prior to the 1973 ruling. Henry Wade was the district attorney in Dallas, Texas. His job was to enforce a state law that prohibited abortion, unless it would save a woman’s life. McCorvey sued him when she sought her abortion in 1969. 

The Current Case On Abortion Rights

Mississippi’s attorney general asked the court to undo Roe v. Wade in December of 2021. The attorney general wanted to modify the Roe v. Wade ruling to no longer have protections around abortions before fetal viability, around 24 weeks into a pregnancy. Should the Supreme Court overturn Roe v. Wade, there will likely be an increase in laws or proposed laws that restrict abortion to earlier than 15 weeks. The ensuing laws or bans will entirely depend on the Supreme Court’s decision. The decision on the case is expected by June or July 2022. 

The Future Without Roe v. Wade

Currently, there are more than 20 states that could restrict or ban abortion if the Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade. A “trigger law,” a type of statute, is designed to take effect after a Supreme Court ruling. Some states also have pre-Roe abortion bans that are not currently enforced, but they’re on the books. Other laws intend for states to crack down on abortion, provided the Supreme Court permits that to happen. 

If the Supreme Court does overturn Roe v. Wade, states that continue to allow abortion may see an influx of patients seeking care. If you recall, Texas recently enacted a roughly six-week ban on abortion. Some residents left the state to get abortions, especially in towns or cities near the state lines. During the final months of 2021, Planned Parenthood clinics in states near Texas experienced a near 800% increase in abortion patients from Texas, compared to the same period in the previous year. 

Banning Abortion Harms Women

A woman’s body is her choice, and what she chooses to do with it is her right. Overturning Roe v. Wade and limiting abortion access could lead to negative long-term health effects. One study found that denying women abortions harms them in several ways. Researches surveyed the participants in that study who gave birth. These women faced economic hardships that lasted several years, and they were more likely to raise a child alone. Additionally, these women had a higher risk of developing serious health conditions when compared to women who received abortions. 

Certain blue states have already taken steps to protect the right to abortion in state law. Other states are considering following suit. For example, California is currently reviewing ways to better support and cover costs for out-of-state residents who come to California to get an abortion. In Illinois, Reproductive Health Services of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region opened a clinic near the Illinois-Missouri border. The goal is to help Missouri-based patients who come to Illinois for an abortion. 

There are laws that protect reproductive rights, and Democratic representatives may continue to sign laws that protect these rights. The intention is to provide abortion services to people who live in states that restrict the procedure. 

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People who suffer from psoriasis tend to experience more symptoms and flare-ups during fall and winter. In addition to the stress people experience during the holidays, the colder temperatures and reduced daylight hours tend to trigger psoriasis symptoms. In fact, in a survey conducted by the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), 4 out of 10 people with psoriasis explained that they experienced more symptoms during the winter.

Psoriasis 101

Psoriasis is a condition that causes irregular immune function and involves a series of different symptoms. It’s best to consult a dermatologist to figure out the necessary steps to manage the condition, but each person deals with it in their own way. Some people only experience minor symptoms, while others develop a series of patches and deal with regular flare-ups. For the most part, though, people with psoriasis can experience a combination of the following symptoms:

• Irritated or sensitive skin
• Inflammation of skin and joints
• Itching, burning, stinging, or painful sensation in affected areas
• Overdevelopment of skin cells (resulting in plaques)
• Joint pain (for people who have psoriatic arthritis)

The colder weather and holiday stress doesn’t mean that you have to suffer through flare-ups and frustrating symptoms. You can help manage symptoms and naturally improve the condition with the following tips. 

Add Moisture To The Air

In addition to the dry air outside, indoor air is often very dry as a result of heating. This can irritate sensitive skin and worsen flaking or itching. According to Mayo Clinic, the humidity in your home should be between 30 and 50 percent. One of the best ways to add more moisture to the air is by using a humidifier. Although it’s an expensive option, it’s best to incorporate a central humidifier to your home’s air-conditioning system. A portable humidifier in the bedroom or living room is the next best option. 

Try Light Therapy

It’s possible to receive a prescription from your health care provider for UV light therapy treatment. This can be beneficial during the winter months because there is less daylight. Exposing the skin to ultraviolet B (UVB) light on a regular basis may be an effective treatment for psoriasis. According to studies, UVB light exists in natural sunlight and it helps to penetrate the skin, slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells. It’s possible that other types of light therapy exist, but they may increase the risk of skin cancer. 

Avoid Wearing Wool

When it’s cold outside, staying warm is of the utmost importance. Naturally, many people opt for wool clothing items because it keeps the body incredibly warm. Wool is also itchy and it can be especially irritating for people with psoriasis or sensitive skin. If you already have symptoms, wearing wool may only increase their severity. If you absolutely have to wear your favorite wool sweater, it’s best to do so over cotton or silk undergarments that don’t allow itchy fibers to irritate the skin. It’s also best to wear breathable clothing because bundling up and overheating may lead to chafed skin that increases the risk of flare-ups.

Take Shorter Showers And Baths

Standing in a steamy shower or soaking in a hot bath is magical when it’s cold outside. Spending a lot of time in hot water, however, can easily dry out the skin. Taking a shower or bath helps you get clean, but it also strips the skin of its natural oils. You can help minimize flare-ups and prevent symptoms by only taking one shower or bath per day. Keep it short as well, only spending five minutes or so in the shower and no more than 15 minutes in a bath. If you do take a bath, it’s best to use lukewarm water and mix Epsom salt in to increase mineral absorption.

Avoid Trigger Foods

During the fall and winter months, it’s easy to abandon dietary rules and eat whatever’s in sight. Unfortunately, many of these temptations are often trigger foods that increase the risk of flare-ups. Common trigger foods include processed foods, gluten, high-fat dairy products, alcohol, and more. You can click here to learn more about trigger foods. Many indulgent holiday spreads tend to have these foods, so do your best to avoid them because consuming trigger foods during cold weather may result in severe symptoms or extreme irritation.

In addition to the above recommendations, resist the urge to scratch because that can worsen symptoms. The last thing you want is to accidentally open a lesion and develop an infection. 

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Are you self-conscious of everyday social situations? Do you regularly avoid meeting new people? Are you constantly afraid of being judged by others? If you have been feeling this way for at least six months, it’s very likely that you have social anxiety disorder. 

What Is Social Anxiety Disorder?

More than a general feeling of shyness, social anxiety disorder is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It even affects children, who tend to experience an irrational fear of others’ judgment. It’s a mental health condition (sometimes referred to as social phobia) that can interfere with daily life. Symptoms range from mild to severe, but all of them are possible to overcome if you seek treatment. 

Common Symptoms

• Panicked reactions, including shaking, shortness of breath, or sweating in social situations.
• Avoiding or worrying about situations that may provoke anxiety. These can include work presentations, eating in front of people, meeting new people, attending parties, or even going to concerts. 
• Experiencing severe distress of impairment to function while socializing or being in a social setting.
• A constant fear of being judged by others. 

People with social anxiety disorder tend to think that they are the only people with that problem. It’s very common and it persists to be a problem when it goes undiscussed. When it comes to mental health, seek the help you need to better navigate your way through life. Don’t be embarrassed about it because you are not alone. Make the decision to get help and you may be able to avoid living with the following truths about social anxiety disorder. 

It Is Very Common

According to the latest government epidemiological data, about 22 million Americans experience social anxiety disorder. That equates to 7% of the entire population. Even if the condition doesn’t affect you, it may affect someone you know. If they ask for help or confide in you, don’t shrug it off as nothing. If you have social anxiety disorder, you are not alone and help is easily accessible. 

It’s Not A Fear Of Public Speaking

It’s quite common for people to get nervous when they have to speak in public, especially if the audience is large. People with social anxiety disorder get nervous about everyday interactions or social instances. Meeting new people, going to a public restroom, eating or drinking near others, or talking on the phone can induce crippling fear. 

It Not The Same Thing As Being Shy

Social anxiety disorder and shyness share similar traits, but they are most certainly not the same diagnosis. Some people who have the condition may seem outgoing, but they can hide their anxious feelings. It’s not always crippling, but it doesn’t mean that it causes people to shy away or withdraw from social contact or events. The key distinction often lies in the severity of the symptoms. Social anxiety disorder typically involves constant dread about social situations.

It Can Cause A Complete Shutdown

A person with social anxiety disorder may get excited about doing activities outside of their comfort zone. Said person can even be in a social situation and enjoy life. Out of nowhere, legs can start to shake and heartbeat accelerates. Headaches, panic, or intense sweating may ensue and the only way to survive is to escape. It’s like a switch flips in the brain and it can feel as though the person cannot breathe. 

It Goes Beyond One Specific Moment

People with social anxiety disorder often spend a lot of time analyzing interactions with others. This can occur before, during, or after they happen. If someone fears meeting a new person and they will meet them at a friend’s dinner, for example, they may play out the scenario over and over again. What will they say? How will they react to meeting the new person? Is there an exit strategy if everything goes south? They over-analyze and scrutinize about fitting in and feel that the other person(s) will judge them openly. Every flaw may come to light and life won’t be the same after.  

It Can Be Treated

The symptoms of social anxiety disorder can overwhelm the person past the point of frustration and sadness. The good news is that there are many treatment options available. Cognitive behavioral therapy, for example, helps patients develop new thinking strategies. In a way, it reroutes pathways that lead to signature behaviors of the condition. There are ways to react differently to situations, and therapists provide suggestions to help them feel less anxious. Some cases may require a different approach to healing. The important thing is to seek help as soon as possible. There is no shame for getting help and improving mental health.

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