Rheumatoid arthritis or RA is the inflammation of joints, leading to cartilage degeneration. It is an autoimmune disease wherein the immune system attacks the body's tissues and can be caused by the wear and tear of the joints. It is estimated that more than 20 percent, which is over 50 million people, get diagnosed with rheumatic conditions like arthritis. Here are some things to avoid in daily lives for better management of rheumatoid arthritis. Leading a sedentary lifestyle A sedentary lifestyle is one of the biggest risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis. Lack of movement can weaken the joints, making it challenging to manage rheumatoid arthritis. Doctors recommend doing some light intensity exercises to relieve pain due to arthritis and help build stronger joints. Bad posture Bad body posture can put excess weight on weakened joints, which can worsen rheumatoid arthritis. A good body posture reduces the pressure on the joints, thereby reducing other symptoms like excess joint pain and trouble walking or doing simple chores. Wearing high heels High heels can put a lot of pressure on the hips and knees. This can aggravate arthritis symptoms. The cartilage around the joints can get damaged further, resulting in pain and inflammation. Performing high-intensity exercises Joints tend to weaken with age, and performing specific exercises damages the weakened joints and aggravates rheumatoid arthritis caused by inflammation triggered by exercising. Consuming refined carbohydrates Refined carbohydrates such as white flour, rice, pasta, pizza, and many breakfast cereals have little to no nutrient value. Having too many sources of refined carbohydrates in one's meals can increase and worsen arthritis symptoms. Consuming refined carbohydrates with refined sugar in the form of pastries and cakes can be even more harmful, as they can increase inflammation and pain. Eating processed foods Processed foods contain high amounts of preservatives in the form of MSG (monosodium glutamate). These preservatives can increase the amount of sodium and uric acid in the body. Excess uric acid in the body can result in its crystallization in the joints, resulting in pain and inflammation. Drinking aerated drinks Aerated or carbonated drinks contain high amounts of sugar. These drinks increase the risk of one putting on visceral fat and being diagnosed with diabetes and reduce the body’s ability to absorb calcium. Low calcium levels in the body increase the risk of osteoarthritis. Women with low calcium levels stand a greater chance of getting rheumatoid arthritis. Otezla® (apremilast) is used to treat the symptoms of active psoriatic arthritis in adults that works by inhibiting an enzyme (phosphodiesterase 4) within the immune system that can affect certain cells and contribute to inflammation in the body. In very early studies, Otezla showed potential in the treatment of RA.

The lung is prone to many infections and other deadly diseases such as cancers, etc. These are the results of injuries, causing varying degrees of impediments to the transfer of nerve impulses from the brain. Improved surgical techniques repairing of spinal injuries is a respite, indeed. Listed below are some of the types of respiratory disorders that can affect people: Types of respiratory disorders Respiratory muscle paralysis can occur if the spinal cord is severed or seriously damaged in the neck (cervical) or the chest (thoracic) region. This interrupts the nerve signals and the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles (muscles between the ribs), and the respiratory muscles get paralyzed. This will practically cease respiration. Transection of the spine generally happens due to one being in automobile accidents and accidents during diving into shallow water. Poliomyelitis, a viral infection that destroys neurons, can affect the respiratory center and motor neuron that control the respiratory muscles. Universal vaccination against poliomyelitis has eradicated this scourge. Another cause for failure of respiratory muscle is the respiratory center being affected by anesthetics and central nervous system depressants when taken in large doses. Tuberculosis Tuberculosis (TB), another the scourge of humanity, has steadfastly refused to yield to human endeavors to solve it. Of course, these endeavors did not get the cooperation of humanity they deserved for one reason or the other. The 18th century and early 19th century saw an outbreak of TB in Europe and North America. It was in 1882 that German microbiologist Robert Koch discovered that the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis' as the root cause of this scourge. Subsequent developments of vaccines and effective drugs gave rise to the hope this will be eradicated. However, it did reappear in 80s and by 93 it was declared a global emergency by WHO. Appearance of HIV complicated matters. HIV incapacitates the immune system and the weakened system cannot fight the TB. The treatment is long drawn and needs to be undergone without disruption. Add to this malnutrition and poor hygiene in less developed countries, and it did not help matters. Consequently, the TB bacteria developed resistance to the drugs and it has come that the patients have to take a combination of the appropriate drugs till it is cured, a tall order for many in the less developed countries. Inclusion of the tuberculosis vaccine BCG during childhood has greatly helped in prevention and early detection. Greater awareness and monitoring has helped in ensuring proper and completion of the treatment especially in the economically and educationally societies. Cheaper drugs, simpler and shorter treatment regimens and closer monitoring and enforcement will be a great help.

A certificate of deposit (CD) is a popular savings instrument. Here, customers earn interest on a lump sum amount locked in for a fixed period. Unlike a regular savings account, the amount invested must remain untouched throughout the term. Failing to do so may invite penalty fees or result in a loss of interest. CDs offer a higher rate of return for the lost liquidity. Avoid these nine common mistakes when opening a CD. Withdrawing the money too soon CDs promise a higher rate of return due to the fixed lock-in period. Withdrawing money from an immature CD can be expensive, as lenders typically levy an early withdrawal penalty. The cost may vary from bank to bank. Many opt for liquid CDs, which do not incur a fee when you withdraw the principal amount early. However, these CDs offer lower interest rates and may not be as lucrative as regular ones. Signing up for a very long term CDs come in different lock-in periods, the most common being six months, twelve months, two years, and five years. The Federal Reserve meets several times yearly to review interest rates for different tenures based on the economic situation. Currently, the interest rates on long-term CDs are not as attractive as before. However, some experts believe the Fed might hike the rates soon, so holding back for a while would be wise. Instead of locking in $10,000 into a five-year CD today, you could diversify your investment, creating $1,000 CDs with shorter and staggered term lengths. As the CDs mature in the coming months, you can close them and open new ones for a better rate. Not checking what different banks are paying Many open CDs in a bank they already have an account with, which could be a mistake. You must shop around and check the rates of interest offered by other banks. Comparing will help you receive the best returns on your savings. Online banks usually offer higher interest rates on savings accounts and CDs than their brick-and-mortar counterparts. Failing to diversify CD investments The term "diversification" is often used when talking about investing. It refers to the practice of having a variety of investments, such as stocks, bonds, and CDs. Diversification helps reduce the loss in case one investment fails to perform. Interestingly, you can also diversify CDs or indulge in what is known as CD laddering. Here, you set up multiple CDs scheduled to mature at different times using a combination of short-term and long-term deposits. Staggering lets you access your funds regularly and provides an opportunity to upgrade to a higher interest rate. Ignoring other high-return savings options CDs are low-risk, low-return savings instruments. Investing all your money in them may reduce liquidity and stall earnings over the years. Additionally, money tied up in a CD does not grow at the same rate as the cost of goods and services. So, instead of focusing on a single investment option, consider several types to meet your financial goals. The ones you choose must align with your risk tolerance and liquidity requirements. People looking for higher long-term returns may find an IRA or a 401(k) rewarding. Those looking for better liquidity may find a high-interest savings account appealing. Opening a CD instead of clearing high-interest debt Consider your existing debts when planning investments. If the interest rate on your debts is higher than the interest rate of your CD, you may make losses. As a rule of thumb, pay off high-interest debts before making long-term investments with modest rates of return. Letting the CD roll over Once the lock-in period ends, do not let the CD roll over into a similar term at the same institution. Sure, it saves time and effort, but it fetches a lower rate of return. In some places, the CD may even turn into a regular savings account with lower rates of interest. Instead, begin to shop around as the CD nears its maturity date. Look into higher-yielding CDs and other investment options for the best possible returns. Ignoring odd-term CDs Some of the best CDs happen to have unconventional lock-in tenures. Often advertised as standout offerings for periods like 5-, 17-, or 21 months, these odd-term CDs can be gainful options. They may be offered to attract new customers, celebrate an anniversary at the bank or credit union, or for another reason. Keep your mind open to these unconventional options as they allow you to earn better rates of return. Opening a fee-based account first Many banks and credit unions may require you to open a checking account before setting up a CD. Ensure these accounts do not have overhead costs. Since the earnings on CDs are fairly modest, fees from checking accounts can significantly reduce your net profit. Although CDs are a relatively safe and wise investment option, stay aware of these common mistakes and avoid them diligently. Doing so can help you receive the highest possible rates of return to maximize your savings. Research before investing and consult a financial expert if you need more clarification. Also, read the policy's terms and conditions carefully to avoid misunderstandings.

Tooth loss or teeth decay does not happen overnight but you may be fooling yourself if you think you will never need dentures. According to surveys and studies, most people presume they do not need dentures since they take diligent care of your teeth. However, it is true that dentures are more common than you think. Taking care of your teeth and practicing good oral hygiene will go a long way in avoiding dentures. Many people have problems with only their lower set of teeth and hence prefer to go for lower dentures alone. There are others who choose to replace their complete set of teeth. However, a number of factors must be considered before you opt for lower dentures alone. Some signs that you may need to go in for lower dentures soon. Teeth problems Gum disease can be identified by loose teeth or shifting teeth. Generally, if you are facing such issues in the lower teeth, it is a strong indication that your teeth are in bad shape and you need to replace them as quickly as possible. Periodontal diseases are one of the most common causes for loss of teeth. Toothaches that do not disappear Toothaches are strong signs that there is decay and sometimes it can be quite severe. While a toothache in its initial stages can be treated adequately by using a filling or performing a root canal procedure. However, one should be careful with the tooth infection as it affects nerve points in the center of the teeth. This can elevate the levels of pain, thereby causing complete decay. In such situations, the most likely course of action is to remove the teeth and replace them. If there is more than one such problem in the lower jaw, then it is best to opt for lower dentures. Further, many people can regain their lost confidence by getting dentures. Taking good care of your teeth will ensure that you stay healthy and it may be advisable to opt for dentures to regain lost confidence.

Influenza is a particular kind of viral infection that attacks the respiratory system of patients, particularly areas such as the nose, throat, and lungs. Influenza is commonly known as flu, but it is not the same as stomach "flu" viruses, which are known to cause diarrhea and vomiting. In some of the cases, influenza does not require medical attention. The influenza flu symptoms come and go away silently. However, under some special circumstances, influenza and its complications have the potential to be fatal. There are a few influenza flu symptoms that need to be discussed for people to know and be aware of. Let us take a look at the symptoms of influenza. Normal symptoms Many people make the mistake of confusing flu with a very bad cold, and that is extremely common. Flu and cold symptoms both have a few overlapping symptoms that include a runny or blocked nose, a sore throat, and constant coughing. Listed below are some of the common symptoms of influenza flu that are different from a heavy cold:

• High temperature and constant bouts of it
• Cold sweats and shivering in the entire body
• A headache and a general dizziness
• Extreme amounts of pain in the joints and limbs
• Fatigue and exhaustion

Early symptoms In many cases, fatigue is thought to be one of the earliest influenza flu symptoms. With the flu, the fatigue can become more extreme. There are other early symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, fever, body ache, chilling in separate parts of the body, and in some rare cases, gastrointestinal changes. Early symptoms should be immediately noticed and it is advisable to consult a doctor. Symptoms in children

• They start to breathe fast or have trouble breathing in general.
• Their skin turns bluish.
• They are not able to drink enough fluids necessary for the body.
• They refuse to wake up or interact with other people.
• They tend to become extremely cranky.
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and a worsened cough.
• They have fever along with rash all over their body.

Though it is not a very serious disease in most of the cases, influenza flu symptoms should not be neglected as it may lead to health conditions such as pneumonia. Moreover, consulting a doctor can help reduce the symptoms and treat the condition effectively.

When we think of precious metals, gold and silver are two names that come first to the mind. Seasoned investors usually put their capital in these two metals to safeguard against the volatile stock market and inflation. Even central banks and other government entities choose to invest in precious metals. The US government is the largest investor of gold stocks in the world. But finding the best place to buy silver and gold may be difficult for beginners. Let's take a look a the different modes of investment for these two precious metals.

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs)
There are many ETFs in the market. You can buy gold and silver from the stock market, just like any regular stock. Since the supply of mines is outweighed by hoarded supply in gold, its prices will only fall when hoarders sell and vice-versa. Beginners should start by looking into iShares Gold and Silver Trusts.

Bullion
Traditional buyers usually prefer to buy gold and silver coins in their physical form. The best place to buy silver and gold bullion coins is the US mint, or you can contact any local coin supplier. The American Eagle, Canadian Maple Leaf, and South African Krugerrand contain certain proportions of gold depending on the currency value. Silver coins are increasingly rare but available in the numismatic market.

Certificates
You can buy gold and silver in the form of certificates from brokers. If you don’t wish to deal with the hassle of storing precious metal, this is a good option. However, they aren’t worth anything in times of emergency since they are just pieces of paper, so getting insurance or mortgaging them is tough.

Common stocks
There are plenty of companies that deal in gold and silver. You can invest in their shares through the NASDAQ exchange. But gold and silver stocks are valued a bit differently than regular stocks, so research is needed before diving into this option. You can get in touch with fund managers and consultancy companies for a better understanding.

Derivatives
Another way of buying gold and silver is through the derivative market. The purchasers here make money by changes in commodity prices. Those willing to invest a large sum of money will find this option ideal. It is a risky affair but the reward is much higher than other modes of investments.