The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. When one swallows food, it enters the esophagus and is pushed downward by rhythmic contractions of the muscles in the esophageal wall. The normal esophagus cells grow and replace old ones in a regulated and orderly manner. But when esophageal cancer develops, the cells grow and divide uncontrollably and form a tumor. Esophageal cancer is malignant and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms of esophageal cancer Difficulty swallowing An alarming early sign of esophageal cancer is difficulty swallowing, the organ’s primary function. This may feel like food is getting stuck in one’s throat or chest, and it can happen even when taking small bites of food or liquid. This symptom can also lead to choking, coughing, or regurgitation of food. Chest pain or discomfort Esophageal cancer can cause chest pain or discomfort, especially when eating or drinking. The pain may feel like a burning sensation in one’s chest or upper abdomen and can be confused with heartburn or indigestion. Unexplained loss of body mass Cancer can affect one’s ability to eat and absorb nutrients. So, if one seems to lose body mass without trying, it could be a sign of esophageal cancer.

Respiration is a vital function for survival, but certain breathing habits can significantly affect lung health. The body has a natural defense system to prevent dirt, germs, and bacteria from entering the lungs, and the right practices can help you maintain optimal function. Further, you can take a few important steps to lower the risk of respiratory issues. So, here are common breathing mistakes to avoid for maintaining lung health: Shallow breathing Shallow breathing, or chest breathing, is a common error that involves taking quick, short breaths that only fill the top portion of the lungs. As a result, the lungs do not get enough oxygen, which can cause fatigue, dizziness, and even anxiety. To avoid shallow breathing, practice diaphragmatic breathing, i.e., taking deep breaths that fill your belly with air. First, inhale slowly through the nose, with one hand on the belly and the other on your chest, and feel your belly rise with each breath. Then, exhale slowly through the mouth and repeat for several minutes. Holding your breath Another common mistake you can make, especially when exercising, is holding your breath. This can lead to a lack of oxygen in the lungs, increasing the risk of fatigue, dizziness, and even fainting.

As unassumingly simple as it may seem, there is a wrong way to pee! Making common peeing mistakes can impact bladder health and make one more susceptible to microbial infections, loss of bladder control, or urinary incontinence. That is why it is important to be aware and make certain lifestyle changes to improve one’s health. Here are six of the most common peeing mistakes one should avoid for a healthy bladder: Holding the pee in for too long Sometimes, one may need to hold their pee for too long at concerts or on long drives. However, making it a habit can cause urinary infections. Since urine isn’t sterile, holding it in for too long gives the bacteria a chance to grow and multiply, increasing the chances of infection. It can also cause a lack of bladder control over time. Not fully emptying the bladder when peeing Not fully emptying the bladder can also increase the risk of infections and loss of bladder control. This is also known as urinary retention. Blockages, infections, swelling, and neurological conditions may cause urinary retention and may warrant expert intervention. Increasing intake of caffeine Caffeine is a bladder irritant that increases the urge to pee.

Breathing is an essential function that occurs naturally and effortlessly. It is automatically monitored and regulated by the body and does not require constant intervention. However, many significant circulatory and metabolic functions depend on respiration. So, one must occasionally analyze how they breathe and look for irregularities. Experts have identified a few mistakes people make that affect their breathing and respiratory function. Individuals should avoid these breathing mistakes as far as possible. Breathing through the mouth It is common for people to inhale from their mouths without even realizing it. However, experts suggest breathing using the nasal passage. This passage has filters that clear out debris and allergens and humidify the air before it enters the lungs. Getting anxious about breathing Some people closely monitor every breath they take. Respiration is a process closely regulated by the body and requires no major intervention. Therefore, breathing should be monitored only when one experiences respiratory problems like shortness of breath or chest pain. Not using the diaphragm The best way to absorb oxygen is by using the diaphragm muscle located above the stomach. The American Lung Association recommends this technique as it creates negative pressure in the chest and enhances airflow. With training, it is possible to use the diaphragm for regular breathing.

Headaches can be a common problem and a sign of health conditions. The pain can be triggered by stress, anxiety, or a lack of quality sleep. However, certain headache symptoms can indicate bigger, more serious health conditions such as migraine or diabetes. Such symptoms must be taken seriously as, if left unchecked, they could pose health risks. Here are a few headache signs that could be a result of underlying health conditions: Pain behind or around the eye Headaches are closely linked to vision problems. If a person experiencing headaches also senses sharp pain in and around their eye, they may be affected by acute glaucoma. In this condition, there is a pressure buildup in the eye, and eventually, the blood flow gets cut off. This is a serious condition that can lead to blindness. So, if one experiences any pain in and around their eyes accompanying a headache, they must consult a local healthcare expert immediately. Neck stiffness Another notable sign of a headache is stiffness and pain in the neck. The stiffness here can be a symptom of meningitis—a bacterial or viral infection that directly affects the membrane surrounding the spinal cord and brain. The subsequent enlargement of these membranes results in neck stiffness, neck pain, and, eventually, headache.

Pain is a sensation that everyone has either already experienced or will experience at some point in life. Most pains are harmless and, more often than not, resolve on their own. However, some aches and pains might not go away quickly and would require expert intervention. To be able to identify when the pain is a cause of concern, it is important to learn the body’s cues. Pelvic pain Painful conditions, such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can give rise to pelvic pain. Therefore, it is crucial not to ignore severe and persistent pelvic pain, especially when it is accompanied by vaginal bleeding or fever. Neck pain Poor posture, injury, cervical spondylitis, and meningitis are all possible reasons for neck pain. Because of the varying range of severity of these conditions, neck pain is one of the aches and pains that should never be ignored. The condition can get crucial if it is present with headache, fever, or stiffness. Tooth pain Gum disease, cavities, and abscesses can cause tooth pain. If someone experiences persistent tooth pain, it is advisable to seek a dental consult, especially if the pain is in combination with fever, swelling, and difficulty swallowing.