Women have to go through a transformative phase known as menopause. This is when the body undergoes significant changes due to fluctuations in reproductive hormones, marking the end of fertility. While menopause is a natural and inevitable change, the early signs can vary from one person to another. Recognizing the subtle signs can help one prepare themselves to navigate this phase with ease and get the support and care they need. Irregular periods One of the earliest signs of menopause is the sudden onset of irregular periods. In the early stages of menopause, one can observe that their periods are either becoming increasingly irregular or light. The length of the cycles may also be affected and can get shorter or longer. In some women, the gap between two consecutive periods might be as long as a couple of months. The changes in the production of hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are responsible for irregular periods. Hot flashes and night sweats Another common symptom of menopause is the onset of hot flashes and night sweats. The symptoms are characterized as a sudden sensation of intense heat, often accompanied by signs like flushing of the face, rapid heartbeat, and sweating. Night sweats can be considered a type of hot flash that usually occurs when sleeping.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a relatively rare, chronic condition that can affect children. It’s characterized by inflammation of the esophagus, often in response to allergens or other triggers. While EoE can be challenging to diagnose, recognizing early signs is essential for timely intervention and effective management. Here is a comprehensive guide to better understanding the common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children, providing an understanding of this condition for parents and caregivers. What it is Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the esophagus, the tube carrying food from the mouth to the stomach. In individuals with EoE, the esophageal tissue becomes infiltrated with eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that plays a role in allergic reactions and immune responses. Eosinophils in the esophagus cause inflammation, leading to uncomfortable and potentially severe symptoms. While the exact cause of EoE remains unclear, it is believed to be related to genetic factors, environmental triggers, and allergies. Allergens such as pollen, certain foods, or airborne allergens may contribute to the development or exacerbation of EoE. Following are the common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) One of the hallmark signs of EoE in children is difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia.

Blood cancer is a group of diseases that affect the production and function of blood cells in the body. The three primary types of blood cancer are leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. While many people are familiar with common symptoms of blood cancer, like frequent infections and unexplained loss of body mass, some uncommon signs can also be indicative of blood cancer. Let’s look at some signs that should prompt one to seek immediate medical help. What is blood cancer? There are three types of blood cells: red (RBCs), which carry oxygen to the body; white (WBCs), which fight off infections; and platelets, which help with blood clotting post injury. Any abnormal and excess production of these cells that affects their normal functioning is blood cancer. Leukemia often involves abnormal production of blood cells in the bone marrow, resulting in a low platelet count. Lymphoma affects the lymphatic system, which includes lymph nodes, spleen, and other lymphoid tissues. Multiple myeloma, on the other hand, affects a type of white blood cell called plasma, which is responsible for producing antibodies. Each cancer type is classified further based on several factors, including the part of the body where the cancer originates and the specific blood cells affected.