Medicare is a government-run health insurance program that provides coverage for Americans who are 65 and older or have a disability. While Medicare covers a lot of medical expenses, there are certain things that it doesn’t cover—like cosmetic procedures, outpatient prescription drugs, and many new treatments and alternative treatments for chronic conditions, like cancer. Here are seven things that Medicare doesn’t cover: 1. Routine eye exams Medicare doesn’t cover routine eye exams unless you have diabetes or are at high risk for glaucoma. However, if you need surgery to correct your vision, Medicare will cover it. If you want routine eye exams, you can purchase additional coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan or a private insurer like Kaiser Permanente, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Humana, or Cigna. 2. Hearing aids Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aids, exams for fitting hearing aids, or exams for hearing problems. However, Medicare will cover diagnostic hearing and balance exams if your doctor thinks you need them. You can purchase additional coverage for hearing aids through a Medicare Advantage plan or a private insurer. 3. Routine dental exams Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental exams, cleanings, fillings, or extractions. However, Medicare will cover dental services if they are necessary for a covered medical procedure, such as jaw reconstruction after an accident.

Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus starts to grow outside the uterus. This can cause infertility as well as other symptoms such as fatigue or pain during ovulation. There are many treatments and medications that can help such as hormonal birth control which can help with getting hormones under control as well as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) which can be used to combat infertility. Here are some of the warning signs of endometriosis to look out for: 1. Pain and swelling in the abdomen and pelvic area Pain and swelling in the abdomen and pelvic area are the most common symptoms of endometriosis. The pain typically occurs during ovulation, periods, or intercourse but can also occur outside of these triggers. The growths caused by endometriosis can swell and bleed in the same way the lining inside of your uterus does during periods. However, since the tissue grows and bleeds in an area it cannot easily get out of your body from, it can cause pain and swelling. 2. Abnormal bleeding Another red flag to look out for with endometriosis is abnormal bleeding. Sometimes the tissue outside of the uterus can bleed excessively causing a very heavy menstrual flow or bleed when you are not on your period causing bleeding to occur randomly.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition affecting millions of men worldwide. It is characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection during sexual activity. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available to manage this condition, including exercise treatment and erectile dysfunction medication. Medications such as Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Vardenafil, and Avanafil are effective in treating ED. Lifestyle modifications such as food changes, can also help improve erectile function. In this article, we will discuss tips to lower the risk of ED: 1. Quit smoking Smoking can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of ED. Quitting smoking can help improve overall health and reduce the risk of ED. It can also improve blood flow and reduce inflammation, which can help improve sexual function. 2. Consume a healthy diet A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help reduce the risk of ED. These foods are rich in nutrients that can improve blood flow and overall health. Foods that are high in antioxidants, such as blueberries and spinach, can also help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation. 3. Reduce stress Stress can increase the risk of ED. Practices such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and improve overall mental health.

Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are debilitating conditions affecting millions of individuals worldwide. As people age, it becomes increasingly important to recognize the early warning signs of these diseases, such as memory loss, and consider various care options including supplements, caregivers guidelines, independent living, assisted living, and great medical alert systems, such as medic alert bracelets, to help manage the effects of progressive cognitive decline. In this article, we’ll explore the early warning signs of dementia and discuss some different care options available to individuals and their families: 1. Confusion about time and place Dementia can cause confusion, particularly when it comes to time and place. Patients may get lost in familiar surroundings, have difficulty following a routine, or forget the day of the week. 2. Changes in behavior Dementia can also cause changes in mood and behavior. Patients may become agitated, irritable, or withdrawn. They may also experience changes in personality or exhibit impulsive behavior. 3. Memory loss Memory loss is often one of the first signs of dementia. Patients may forget important events or appointments, have difficulty remembering names or faces, or struggle with new information. Supplements such as Omega-3 fatty acids, ginkgo biloba, and vitamin E may be helpful in supporting brain health.

Depression is a common mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. While medication can be effective in treating depression symptoms, it’s not always the best option for everyone. Some popular antidepressant medications include Auvelity, Viibryd, Lexapro, Trintellix, Latuda, Spravato, Vraylar, Vortioxetine, Bupropion, and Rexulti. However, there are alternative ways to reduce depression symptoms without the use of medication. Some alternative strategies that can help alleviate depression symptoms include online therapy, online counseling, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy, exercise, and changing the foods you eat. Here are some recommended alternative ways you can reduce the symptoms of depression: 1. Make achievable goals Setting achievable goals is a great way to regain a sense of control in life and boost self-esteem, which can help with depression symptoms. Small, realistic goals, such as completing a task or learning a new skill, can provide a sense of accomplishment and help to build a positive outlook. 2. Consume more omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts, have been shown to improve mood and cognitive function, making them a useful supplement for those struggling with depression. Omega-3s work by promoting healthy brain function and reducing inflammation, both of which can contribute to depression symptoms.

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing flare-ups. While treatment medications like Ocrevus, Effexor, Cialis, Zeposia, Mayzent, Gilenya, and Ponvory can help manage symptoms, certain foods can trigger or worsen symptoms. In this article, we’ll discuss the top foods to avoid with MS, as recommended by the MS Society: 1. Processed foods Processed foods are high in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats, making them a no-go for people with MS. These foods can trigger inflammation, which can lead to flare-ups. Instead, opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. 2. Gluten Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. For some people with MS, gluten can trigger inflammation and worsen symptoms. If you suspect gluten is an issue for you, talk to your doctor about getting tested for celiac disease. 3. Dairy Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, can be high in saturated fats and can cause inflammation. Additionally, some people with MS may also have a dairy allergy or intolerance, which can exacerbate symptoms. 4. Red meat Red meat is high in saturated fats, which can trigger inflammation and worsen symptoms of MS. Instead, opt for lean proteins, such as fish or poultry.

Having healthy blood pressure means a healthy heart and decreased chances of a heart attack or stroke. While it can be helpful to take supplements, it mainly comes down to the foods you consume as they have a direct impact on blood pressure levels. If you have a blood pressure monitor, it can help you get a blood pressure measurement to see what your levels are at as well as keep it in check as you work to stabilize and acquire a healthy blood pressure. Here are some foods you should definitely be avoiding with high blood pressure: 1. Frozen meals Although frozen meals from the grocery store are perfect to toss in the oven after you get home from a long day of work, most of them are packed with sodium—meaning they are really bad for your blood pressure. If you’re in a rush and really need a quick, frozen meal, be sure to look for ones that contain 600mg of sodium or less. 2. Salty snacks You’ll notice a trend in this list, foods high in sodium are the ones you should be avoiding. Of course, salty snacks like chips, crackers, and salted-nuts have very high sodium levels.

Menopause marks the completion of menstrual cycles and is diagnosed after 1 year with no period. It typically occurs between 40 and 50 years of age and is a result of naturally declining reproductive hormones—meaning your fertility declines. Most women don’t need to see a doctor to receive a diagnosis, as signs and symptoms are usually enough of an indication; however, you may want to visit your reproductive doctor or healthcare provider to help manage symptoms. There are a few options to treat symptoms if you are struggling, such as hormone replacement (like estrogen therapy), supplements, or medications like Imvexxy, Relizen, and Vylessi. If you think you may be reaching menopause, read on to see if these 8 early signs and symptoms match how you feel: 1. Dyspareunia Dyspareunia, persistent or recurrent genital pain experienced before, during, or after intercourse, is a sign of menopause. The decrease in estrogen levels can cause vaginal atrophy, the tissues lining the inside of the vagina may thin and become dry or inflamed, and in turn result in dyspareunia. 2. Hot flashes Hot flashes are the most common symptom of perimenopause and are quick bursts of sudden warmth and drenching sweat that lasts between 30 seconds and 5 minutes.

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by its symptoms of inflammation of the eye muscles and fatty tissue, resulting in eyes pushed forwards that appear ‘bulging.’ TED often occurs as a result of an overactive thyroid gland due to Graves’ disease and often occurs after the diagnosis of thyroid disorder. Symptoms can be managed with treatments and medications such as Tepezza. Here are some early signs of thyroid eye disease to be on the lookout for: 1. Eye bags Due to the inflammation of the eye muscles and fatty tissue, it is normal to get eye bags with TED. Eye bags should reduce with treatment of TED, but if they are still significant, some patients consider aesthetic treatments such as skin care, wrinkle relaxers, and fillers that are injected. 2. Dry or gritty eyes With TED, the muscles around the eyes become affected. The upper lid may pull up whilst the lower lid pulls down—this paired with the build up of tissue behind the eye and ‘bulging’ makes it challenging to close your eyes tight. If you don’t blink enough or cannot close your eyes tightly, moisture will quickly evaporate and result in dry eyes. TED may also result in a reduced production of tears, another cause of dry eyes.

We love our dogs like family and we want them to live their best all of the time. Between making sure to get them the best bully sticks for dogs, natural dog food, and delicious treats, we also want to keep them safe when tossing them a bite of our meals. It’s important to know which human foods are safe for dogs and which are toxic before giving them just anything. Here’s 6 human foods that are safe to share with your pet: 1. Pumpkin pureé Plain, canned pumpkin pureé is a great source of nutrients and fiber that can aid in digestion. It is safe for every day ingestion, so depending on your dog’s weight, see how much you can give them and mix it in with their dog food to alleviate constipation, upset stomach, and diarrhea. 2. Plain popcorn If you have plain popcorn with no salt, butter, sugar, or seasonings, this can be a great, nutritional treat to share with your dog. Popcorn has healthy minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc that can be beneficial to your dog’s health. Keep your dog away from unpopped kernels, though, as this can be a choking hazard. 3. White rice If your dog is experiencing an upset stomach, plain, cooked white rice can be a fantastic option for them.