As more and more people are starting to take the necessary precautions, it is important to know exactly what type of fever or condition you are suffering from, so that you can get the right medical care at the right time. However, as all three are mosquito borne diseases, it can sometimes get a little confusing to understand the symptoms and associate them correctly with the disease.

Take a look at the symptoms of dengue, malaria as well as chikungunya so that you can tell the difference yourself.

Symptoms of Dengue

• In the initial stage, the fever will remain for about three to four days.
• After the first few days, you may start to experience body ache that can start off as mild and may be on and off, but then can start getting more pronounced and constant.
• You may also start feeling pain behind your eyes, which you can initially confuse as a type of headache.
• In severe cases, you will pass urine less and less frequently.
• You may have difficulty in breathing.
• You may notice bleeding or spotting.

Symptoms of Malaria

• You will start off with high temperature.
• The fever will come and go, with phases in between where you have no fever at all.
• In some cases, you could have fever for three to four days, then have no fever for a day or two, then the fever comes back again.
• Experience chills and sudden tremors in the body.
• In severe cases, you might get extremely constipated and your kidney can also get affected.
• If you are suffering from cerebral malaria, it could also lead to disorientation.

Symptoms of Chikungunya

• In the initial stage, you will experience a sever body ache and may also notice rashes all over your body, or at certain parts.
• In addition to the body ache, you can also have swelling in your joints, which will further contribute to the pain.
• The body ache will be severe and you may be unable to get out of bed, and it will also interfere with your regular day to day activities.

The moment you notice any of the above symptoms, make sure to schedule an urgent appointment with your doctor so that you get immediate medical attention.

Read Also: How To Spot A Drug Addict?

DISCLAIMER: While we have taken steps to check the accuracy of information & practices shared here; it is not a replacement for a doctor’s opinion. it is important to first always check with your own doctor before trying any medication, practice or suggestion from this site.

The post Dengue, Malaria, Chikungunya: How To Tell The Difference? appeared first on HotFridayTalks.

Before you freak out, did you know that 1 in 20 people do get kidney stones at least some time in life?

What causes kidney stones?

There can be many causes for kidney stones, but here are some of the more common ones:

• Dehydration and lack of water in the body
• When urine frequency goes down
• The amount of substances that can turn into hard deposits are too high in your urine (especially calcium and uric acid)
• Excessive sweating due to workouts where you do not replenish the lost liquids in your body
• Living in very hot and dry climates
• Infection in the urinary tract
• Problems with metabolism or metabolic disorders
• Medical conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, high blood pressure

Image Credit: baaam.se

How to prevent kidney stones

Drink enough fluids

When you are dehydrated, you pass less urine and the substances in your urine can get difficult to dissolve, increasing your risk of kidney stones. Drink enough water, at least 8 to 10 glasses in a day. Orange and lemon juices are also good because they contain citrate that can prevent the stone formation.

Drink a glass especially before each meal, or put a reminder after every half an hour to have a glass of water.

Reduce sodium

Foods with high amount of salt can increase your risk as it prevents the calcium from getting absorbed properly. Reducing your salt intake will reduce your stone risk and also improve your overall health and weight.

Staying away from canned and processed foods is also a good way to reduce.

Reduce eating foods that are rich in oxalate

Limit having foods such as sweet potatoes, wheat bran, beets, peanuts, soy, spinach and coffee as these are high in their oxalate content.

Make sure to speak to your doctor about this.

Home remedies

• Mix two tbsp. of apple cider vinegar to about 236 ml of water and have it every day.
• Having a few spoons of extra virgin olive oil a day is especially good if you have already started getting some kidney stones, as it will ease their passage.
• Pomegranate juice is high in its antioxidant properties and reduces acidity in urine.

Image Credit: addictedtohorrormovies.com

And if you are feeling stoned about these kidney ones, take heart in counting yourself in the same celebrity list as Alfred Hitchcock, Billy Joel, Newton (!) and Michelangelo, who all had kidney stones at some point in time.

Read Also: How Much Water Should You Drink According To Your BMI?

DISCLAIMER: While we have taken steps to check the accuracy of information & practices shared here; it is not a replacement for a doctor’s opinion. it is important to first always check with your own doctor before trying any medication, practice or suggestion from this site.

The post Kidney Stones: Causes, Prevention And Home Remedies appeared first on HotFridayTalks.

If you have grown up around the 90s or just after, you still might remember the term shikakai, which was part of a lot of Indian homes back then. With major international brands setting up shop in India, the Indian tradition of using shikakai to clean hair almost got lost, as it was always easier to use shampoos instead.

(Image credits: giphy )

And, why not?

For starters, shampoos come with a range of fragrances that you can barely ever find in a shikakai cleanser. They are quick and easy to use, easy to carry around, and promise to add an instant shine and volume to the hair. And let’s admit it, saying that you use ‘shampoo’ sounds way more ‘modern’ than saying you just washed your hair using ‘shikakai.’ No?

What is Shikakai?

For those who may not know, shikakai is a type of herb that is considered extremely healthy for hair. You can use this in ready to use powder form, as a shikakai shampoo or even add it to your hair oil or cleanser.

Shampoo or Shikakai?

Shampoos do contain some amount of chemicals and preservatives, while you can use shikakai in its purest form. Also, regular use of shampoos can dry out your hair, and leave your scalp feeling dry and itchy. Shikakai will not only calm your scalp, it will also prevent greys and add natural shine and volume.
If you ask us, between shikakai and shampoo, adding shikakai in your hair care routine definitely makes a lot of sense.

What are the benefits?

(Image credits: giphy )

Shikakai can have the following effects on your hair:

• Make your hair soft and shiny

• Control frizz

• Reverse the damage caused by chemical based products

• Treat dandruff and lice

• Make your hair stronger and thicker

• Prevents dryness and itchiness in the scalp

• Delays greys

• Helps in detangling hair

How to use Shikakai?

Even though it may sound like a lot initially, you can try using shikakai at least once or twice a month to bring back some natural care to your hair routine. And once you start, it will only get easier.

(Image credits: giphy )

As hair wash: Buy shikakai pods, reetha and amla from the store (most local kirana stores still have them) and soak overnight. In the morning, boil the water along with the ingredients. Let it cool, mash the ingredients and strain. Use this water instead of your shampoo, and even though it will not lather, it will clean your scalp and hair. Do the last rinse with cool water.

As oil: Mix half tbsp. shikakai powder with half cup coconut oil and leave it for a few weeks. Make sure to shake up the bottle in between. Apply this oil twice a week and shampoo with a regular shampoo or shikakai hair wash.

As hair pack: Mix shikakai powder and yogurt (quantity can vary depending on hair length, thickness, dryness and so on) and apply all over the hair. Let it sit for half an hour, then wash off with regular shampoo or cool water.

Okay, so we know that it doesn’t really sound that cool when you say you’ve been using ‘shikakai,’ but the idea is, with the way it will make your hair shine and get healthier, you are sure to get a lot of compliments. So it’s definitely worth a try we say!

The post Shampoo Vs Shikakai: What’s Good For Hair? appeared first on HotFridayTalks.

A dry wooden mouth, a pounding head, stinging eyes and congestion are just some of the few firsts you notice when you wake up (unless a different bed or a stranger lying next to you are the other firsts that you notice!).

(Image credits: businessinsider )

Did you know that a weed hangover can actually be more dangerous than an alcohol hangover? The reason is that, weed hits us much slower than alcohol, and most of the time, we never realize how high we already are, till things are pretty late.

If you’ve suffered like some of us and want to avoid a weed hangover in the future (or basically hangover from any substance), then try and follow these tips below.

1. Juice up:

Drinking fresh juice is one of the best cures to get rid of a weed hangover. If you are of course not able to make it the first thing in the morning, the smarter thing to do would be to keep a few store bought bottles of natural juice in the house. You could try having tomato juice, orange juice or even cranberry juice. This will help to keep you hydrated and flush out the toxins from your body.

(Image credits: holytaco )

2. Try to purge:

It may be late to purge out, but it’s still a good idea to try and get as much stuff out of your system as possible. The finger in the mouth method is always the best and is guaranteed to get some ‘shit’ out, unless you have used it so many times now that your body is immune to it (which we still doubt!). Once that’s out of the way, spend some good time on the throne as you try to flush out last night’s sin and promise yourself not to repeat it again (at least for a few days, if not a few months).

3. Vitamin Supplement, Rest And Some Food:

Instead of popping a painkiller, try popping a vitamin supplement instead, especially vitamin C. Avoid doing too much and get as much sleep as you possibly can. In most cases, a weed hangover will ease itself out without you having to do too much. Also, before you sleep it off, try and eat something simple, such as a basic sandwich you can easily put together.

Remember to open up the windows and let fresh air in, as it will help your head clear up faster and make you feel better.

The post 3 Ways To Get Rid Of A Weed Hangover appeared first on HotFridayTalks.

It’s making sure that your feet are in perfect condition to be shown off!

Our feet are no doubt one of the most ignored parts of our body and often end up getting last minute care and attention.

But this summer, try and follow a simple foot care routine that will make your feet look really pretty and also let you show them off in style.

1. Start A Simple Home Pedicure Routine Once A Week

Lukewarm water will help to remove the bacteria from your feet and will help to prevent the growth of any fungus or germs. You can simply fill in a tub with lukewarm water and add a few drops of body wash or even your favourite shampoo in it. If you often wear closed shoes and socks, you can add a few fresh neem leaves. These have natural anti-fungal properties that will prevent the growth of bacteria.

2. Pumice Stone Is Your Summer Best Friend

Don’t underestimate the power of a good pumice stone. In fact, rather than waiting to use this during your home pedicure, use them each day when you take a bath or wash your feet. This will remove dead skin cells and keep the skin on your feet soft and beautiful. It will also prevent the buildup of dead skin cells and reduce the chance of corns and callouses.

3. Use This Simple Technique To Boost The Blood Flow

Image Credit: rancholapuerta

Have you ever noticed how a foot massage can make you feel so relaxed, and even doing something so simple as rubbing your feet can make you feel so relieved at the end of a long and tiring day? To make sure that your feet are not stressed out and to also give a boost to the blood flow, you can use a very simple tool that you may find at home – a tennis ball. Sit down on a chair or on the side of the bed and use the ball to massage your feet from the heel towards the toes. If you feel any pain or tension in a particular area, give it a little more attention.

You can also use a sliced lemon to rub your feet and nails each day to give it a clearer look, as lemon acts as a natural bleaching agent. Also, don’t forget to put on some bold and summer colours on your nails!

Read Also: 5 Tips To Get Rid Of Stinky Feet

DISCLAIMER: While we have taken steps to check the accuracy of information & practices shared here; it is not a replacement for a doctor’s opinion. it is important to first always check with your own doctor before trying any medication, practice or suggestion from this site.

The post Summer Care Tips For Happy Feet appeared first on HotFridayTalks.

The demands of the job industry change quite frequently, and while some jobs are much in demand one year, the next year can see another role being in high demand.

For the year 2020, here are a few roles that are already on top this year, say recruiters.

If You Are In The IT Sector, Here Are The Top Roles This Year

According to Kshitija Pradhan, who is involved in Talent Acquisition with a recruitment technology platform called HireaJackal and who has been in this industry for four years now, “Looking at the current trend within the IT industry, most companies are aggressively looking out for Data Scientists, Machine Learning Engineers, AI Engineers, Data Engineer, NLP Specialist and NLP Engineer.”

If You Are In The Field Of Data, Here Is What You Can Watch Out For

Yet another sector that seems to be quite in demand this year with various companies and the recruiters are the roles that involve working on data. Kshitija also says that data has become very important now, and if you are in a role that handles data in any way, you can be quite in demand.

Some of the roles that recruiters are looking to fill in a lot this year are in the areas of image data, audio data and even raw data. If you are one of those who can understand data and can get an analysis out of it, you will definitely be in demand this year.

Apart from this, Brand Consultants are also quite in demand this year, says Kshitija.

These Soft Skills Can Make You Stand Out To Your Recruiters This Year

Image Credit: beyondcareersucces

While the exact knowledge and experience you have can definitely help you get the role, there are other things that can have a positive impact as well. In addition to the industry knowledge that you have and the work experience, your overall approach and your personality can also have a very important role to play.

Kshitija highlights the importance of the same. According to her, “most companies are looking out for candidates who are innovative in their approach towards tasks, who have strong analytical skills and have the ability to multi task.” So make sure to show off a mix of your knowledge as well as let your personality shine through.

Read Also: 3 Ways To Impress The Recruiter In The First Call

The post From Specific Roles To Skill Set, See What This Recruiter Tells You Is In Demand appeared first on HotFridayTalks.

Statistics have shown an increase in the patients checking in for breathing problems and you too may have felt that heaviness when breathing. I recently came back from a camping trip on the hills and the moment I entered the limits of Mumbai, I could feel it in my breathing.

This increase in air pollution has increased the asthma or breathing related issues and many people are now using an inhaler.

8 things to remember while using an inhaler

Inhalers can be of different types and may use different medications depending on your condition. If you have to use an inhaler or know a loved one who does, make sure to keep the following things in mind.

• Share your complete medical history with your doctor, including any health issue you have had in the past, even if you feel it has nothing to do with your breathing.
• Mention anyone in the family who may have breathing issues.

“Leonard Hofstadter in The Big Bang Theory uses his inhaler when he’s anxious or excited”

• If you have recently had any contagious disease or infection, mention it.
• INFORM YOUR DOCTOR if you are planning on conceiving or know that you are pregnant.
• Mention any over the counter or other medication you are currently taking, including any supplements.
• Always store your inhaler in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. It should not get too cold or in freezing mode.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember and space out eventual doses accordingly.
• Do not share an inhaler. Your medication and dosage will be specific to your condition. What works for someone else may not work for you, and vice versa.

Feeling short of breath?

Sit comfortably, purse your lips to make an ‘O’ and very slowly exhale and inhale. This will help your breathing to return to its normal pace.

Read Also: What Is Anxiety And How To Get Rid Of It?

DISCLAIMER: While we have taken steps to check the accuracy of information & practices shared here; it is not a replacement for a doctor’s opinion. it is important to first always check with your own doctor before trying any medication, practice or suggestion from this site.

The post What Precaution Is To Be Taken While Using Inhaler appeared first on HotFridayTalks.

If my brother is reading this now, I am sure he will smile, and say that I was always the useless one and he had to be nominated for one of those bravery awards for tolerating me. I kid you not, he was one bossy kid and even though I had prayed for a miracle, he is still the bossier one out of us both (why do some things never change?).

However, the good news is, with a little practical sense and patience, you can actually handle your sibling and stay sane, and in some cases (magic magic), also turn it into a friendly and really loving relationship.

Here’s what I learned in my relationship with my brother (and we have had some killing moments in our childhood, by which I literally mean killing, where he tried to kill me and I reciprocated with an equal amount of love).

Image Credit: collegecandy

Go get that handle

Accepting the fact that you are related by blood (NO, not the one that comes out of your bodies when you are slashing each other, no), can actually help you to get a little more patience with each other. Tell yourself that you really do not have a choice, and take it as a work issue that you can’t get out of. Tell yourself there is a great bonus at the end of this deadline (haha), and that once you really become friends, life will be more sorted.

Think of all the complications you already have in life – work issues, partner issues, landlord issues, household chores, bills, partying or the lack of it, drinking issues where you can’t find your favourite beer (!), traffic issues and so many more. Why would you also want to add another issue to the list by fighting with your sibling? Let it go.

Acknowledge it or not, but now that you are grown up you’ll have lots of similarities. You come from the same parents, the same culture and background, and there must be so many things you can talk about and understand that no one else can, not even your partner maybe. If you can bite the bullet and make up for it, siblings can be the best of friends when they grow up.

And yes, if my brother is still reading this now, and those two annoying sisters of mine too who I can never stop annoying, I am sure you would like to agree (who wants to brave the consequences of not agreeing with a grown up sibling, right?).

Read Also: What You Must Never Compromise On For A Relationship

The post How To Manage Your Annoying Sibling (While Staying Sane)? appeared first on HotFridayTalks.

So, is your sometimes-on-sometimes-ex really that good that you should get back to them again, or should you say your final goodbye and walk on? And more importantly, what is this relationship doing for you both?

The fact is there is no clear answer to this. So check out which side of the scale works better for you, and then take a decision.

The negatives

The negativity kills

There is some core issue behind the constant breakups that you both are not able to sort out together. When you’re in a relationship that sometimes exists and sometimes doesn’t, the negativity will take over more than the positives.

No healing time

You need time to heal from a heartbreak and you can only move on after getting over the past. In this case, you may not be ready to be in a relationship, that too with the same person, but still end up becoming a couple again. Not being able to let go of your hurt and still being in touch with the person can cloud your judgement.

No time with friends

This kind of a relationship can reduce your sense of self-worth. Your friends may be unable to understand why you still continue to behave this way. Gradually, you may lose out on your friends too.

Image Credit: telugu.boldsky.com

You stop expecting better

Being with the same person where you are not able to come out of the on-off mode can make you give up and you will eventually stop expecting any better. This is a big mistake. You do deserve better, and love does not have to mean crying and suffering all the time.

Some positives (maybe)?

The happy moments are awesome

Alright, but what when the anger and the negatives take over most of the relationship and the love becomes lesser and lesser?

You still trust each other

Trust is important in any relationship and can often be the deal maker or breaker. If you both trust each other even though there are other issues, maybe you can still work it out.

In the end, if you ask me, I’d say take a break and give yourself a few months off. See how you react. It will be killing, as you already know. Keep the phone on silent, delete all pictures, DO NOT take the call. Delete the number so that you can’t call (unless you have it memorized). But please take that break and at the end of those months, ask yourself if you still want to go back to all that pain and hurt.

There are much better people out there, who can truly make you smile and feel good, really.

Read Also: What You Must Never Compromise On For A Relationship

The post Are You In An On And Off Relationship? To Quit Or To Stay? appeared first on HotFridayTalks.

And anyways, what is the difference between venom and toxin? Is there any difference at all? Or are they just two different words that are used to refer to the same thing?

If you’re already feeling confused, relax. Venom and toxin are actually very similar, with just a few small differences that we’ll help you understand.

What is a toxin?

A toxin is a chemical produced in the body that causes some change in the normal function of another being. So, anything that causes such a reaction is toxic.

What is venom?

Venom is nothing but a type of toxin. If one bites and the other dies – it is venom. It is usually injected in the body when something bites or stings you. Bees, spiders, snakes and scorpions have venom.

via GIPHY

Quick facts about venom and toxin you may like to read

While we know you wouldn’t really be reading this when the sting really does happen, we thought this would make for some nice trivia.

Also, immediately take off any jewellery from the affected area, or remove the shoes if the bite is on the foot.

Read Also: What Are The Immediate First Aid Tips If An Animal Bites You?

DISCLAIMER: While we have taken steps to check the accuracy of information & practices shared here; it is not a replacement for a doctor’s opinion. it is important to first always check with your own doctor before trying any medication, practice or suggestion from this site.

The post Venom Vs Toxin – What You Should Know appeared first on HotFridayTalks.