Having access to clean and safe drinking water is a necessity. However, water, in its natural form, is mixed with numerous contaminants that can lead to waterborne diseases. So, it is prudent to have a filtration system at home to avoid having contaminated water. It can be easy to maintain water quality and safety as long as people avoid making some filtration mistakes. Here are some common water filtration mistakes to avoid. Failing to monitor water quality Simply installing a water filtration system might not be enough to resolve all water quality concerns. It is important to monitor water quality periodically. Failing to do so, over time, can result in one of the biggest mistakes when using a water filtration system. Factors such as the water source, environment, and the appliance’s systematic degradation can impact the water’s purification level. To ensure the efficacy of the filtration system and that the water is safe for use, people must monitor the water quality regularly. Improper installation The improper installation of the water filtration system is a common mistake people make that can compromise the effectiveness of the system. When a water filtration system is improperly installed, it can result in leaks, improper removal of contaminants, and insufficient water flow.

An overactive bladder (OAB) is when one feels a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate. Individuals with this condition may feel the need to use the washroom multiple times during the day and night, which can hamper their daily functioning. For this reason, they may stay away from social situations to avoid discomfort and embarrassment. However, detecting the condition early on can help control its symptoms effectively. Doctors may suggest some treatment options in combination with lifestyle changes. Causes and possible triggers Here are a few causes and possible triggers of OAB: 1. Neurological disorders Many people with underlying neurological problems may find it difficult to control urination, mainly because of a spinal cord, brain, or nerve issue. So, those with neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis may grapple with nerve damage, triggering or worsening OAB. 2. Diabetes High blood sugar levels may cause damage to the nerves in the urinary tract, causing urinary tract problems. Consequently, those with diabetes are particularly vulnerable to OAB. 3. Bladder stones Bladder stones tend to affect the bladder’s functioning, so bladder stones can increase one’s risk of developing OAB. 4. Certain types of treatments Sometimes, an ongoing treatment course may trigger OAB as a possible side effect.

As the name suggests, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are infections that affect the urinary system. They can impact a part of the system or the whole of it. In most cases, a bacterium called Escherichia coli causes UTIs, leading to frequent urination, pain or burning sensation when urinating, pain in the lower back or side, and other symptoms. Most UTIs are easily treatable with simple home remedies and lifestyle changes. Causes The urinary tract is self-sufficient in preventing and fighting off infections. It kills most bacteria and prevents diseases from developing. However, the tract’s security system sometimes misses a microbe, causing an infection. The bacteria enters the system through the urethra, spreads into the bladder, and grows. UTIs are commonly seen in women and generally affect the urethra and the bladder. The urethra’s proximity to the anus makes it easier for bacteria to make its way into the urinary tract. While UTIs are most commonly caused by Escherichia coli or E. coli, they may result from other bacteria too. If left untreated, it can lead to other complications. Symptoms UTIs might not always show signs or symptoms, making diagnosis difficult during the early stages. However, the following signs may sometimes occur:

Myelodysplastic syndrome is a group of conditions that makes the bone marrow unable to produce enough healthy blood cells, leading to an excess of abnormally developed cells. Based on the type and number of blood cells affected and the genetic material in the bone marrow, myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) can be categorized into multiple subtypes. To get a precise MDS diagnosis, one should keep an eye out for the following warning signs of the condition:  1. Fatigue MDS can result in anemia, i.e., low red blood cell (RBC) count. The primary function of RBCs is to carry nutrients and oxygen to various parts of the body. When the body does not have enough of these cells, it may experience fatigue. This lack of energy may be accompanied by paleness, general weakness, shortness of breath, cold hands and feet, dizziness, and irregular heart rate. 2. Unexplained bruising When MDS affects platelets, the cells responsible for clotting blood, one may experience thrombocytopenia, i.e., low platelet count. This can cause bleeding into the skin and unexplained bruises. Here, one may notice pinpoint-sized spots on the skin called petechiae. 3. Unusual bleeding One may bleed more often than usual, and even a minor bump or a scrape can cause bleeding as the blood is unable to clot quickly.

Testosterone is a hormone naturally produced by the body. It is responsible for driving many physical changes during puberty, such as muscle development and hair growth in individuals assigned male at birth. Conversely, those assigned female at birth typically have higher estrogen levels and produce lower quantities of testosterone. Maintaining optimal testosterone levels throughout adulthood is important to help manage general health. That said, here are six ways to naturally increase testosterone levels. Regular exercise An effective way to boost testosterone is to indulge in regular exercise. Resistance training, such as weight lifting, may help boost testosterone levels in the short term. In addition, high-intensity training (HIIT) is very effective as well. Eating proteins, carbs, and healthy fats The foods one eats may affect the levels of testosterone. Eating meals rich in proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates could help maintain healthy hormone levels and support overall health. Manage stress and cortisol levels Experts indicate that long-term stress could elevate the levels of cortisol. Higher amounts of this hormone could result in a drop in testosterone levels. Managing stress levels is key to balancing testosterone levels. Engaging in physical activity and utilizing stress-relieving techniques can help manage stress. Increase vitamin D intake Vitamin D is a micronutrient that could influence the body’s testosterone levels.

Just like it is normal to see a doctor for physical distress and issues, seeking professional help for mental health issues should also be normalized. Fortunately, with the increase in mental health awareness, many people consider seeing mental health professionals when their minds need care. Many also wait long before reaching out, as they might not know when exactly to ask for help. So, here are some signs it’s time to see a mental health professional: 1. Severe anxiety or anxiety attack symptoms It’s normal to feel nervous or anxious to a certain extent when there is an obvious reason for it. But when one repeatedly has anxiety symptoms like constant worrisome thoughts, breathing problems, increased heart rate, and profuse sweating in stressful situations, it may dissuade one from carrying on with daily life. In such cases, it is essential to see a professional because one might be having an anxiety disorder. 2. Total withdrawal from social situations Everyone needs some space and alone time occasionally, but it can become a problem if one starts seeking comfort in solitude perpetually. As a result, one may begin avoiding any social situation, retreating into one’s shell, and bottling up emotions. Seeing a professional is critical at this time because one’s mental health condition may worsen without having someone to reach out to.

Technological advancements have enabled access to therapy from the comfort of home. So, psychiatrists can provide their services via virtual sessions. Online psychiatry services are especially beneficial for those who may not be able to visit a mental health professional in person or those who can not find suitable therapists nearby. Today, several online platforms facilitate psychiatric consultations. To make choosing a provider easier, here are some of the best platforms one can consider: 1. Teladoc Teladoc is among the most reputed online platforms for accessing therapy and psychiatric consultation. One of the platform’s key features is the option to choose a therapist or psychiatrist. One can see if they are comfortable with their choice and then continue to consult the same therapist for all sessions or choose a different one. This platform is accessible through both website and mobile application. So, users can attend therapy sessions via video chats on the electronic device of their choice. Another great feature of this platform is its pay-per-session model instead of a fixed subscription model. So, one can schedule and skip sessions if necessary. 2. Talkspace Talkspace is another great platform for online therapy and psychiatrist consultation. It offers a different approach when it comes to choosing a therapist.

Rain gutters are systems that safeguard a home from various water-related damages. They collect the rainwater and channel it to the ground away from the walls, garden, and overall foundation of a given property. Installing a gutter generally demands professional assistance. Nevertheless, many homeowners insist on taking the DIY route, which may lead to problems like wrong positioning and damage. To avoid such issues, here are certain mistakes to avoid while installing rain gutters. Choosing the wrong type of gutter Rain gutters are available in various sizes, prices, and materials and for multiple kinds of specific requirements. Choosing the wrong type of gutter can mean homeowners can’t make the most out of them. Ideally, one must choose a gutter made of aluminum, one with a thick gauge such as 0.032, a gutter that has at least 0.019 thickness for all elbows and downspouts, a system that comes with strong and hidden hangers, a gutter that matches the color of one’s home, and a gutter that is adequately sized for the amount of water flow for a specific kind of home. Overlooking improper hanger spacing Gutter hangers connect it to one’s house. The spacing between these hangers is critical to the functioning of a gutter.