Introduction While monsoon is often mesmerising, it can turn into a nightmare for some people. Its arrival can have a profound effect on your sinus pain and pressure. Common symptoms include: Excessive and constant sneezing Blockage of one or both nostrils Weakness Throbbing headache after waking up in the morning Runny nose Facial pain and sensitivity Pain in teeth and upper jaw heaviness while bending the head Fever Tiredness Cough that becomes severe at night Here are a few tips to overcome nasal congestion or stuffy nose during this monsoon season! Turmeric Turmeric is one of the healthiest spices that help to fight against sinus infection. Its anti-inflammatory property helps to clear the mucus in the lungs and clears the blockage of airways caused by inflammation. Turmeric has an active compound called curcumin present in it, that is very effective in controlling bronchial asthma and restoring standard breathing patterns. Add half a teaspoon of turmeric to a glass of warm milk and drink this 2-3 times a day.  Warm milk helps to remove mucus and serves as a decongestant. The optimum time to have turmeric milk is right before bed. For additional flavour and health advantages, you may add a few drops of honey to this glass of turmeric milk. Steam inhalation From curing sore throat to nasal congestion, steam inhalation is a technique that always comes to the rescue in order to provide relief from various conditions. When it comes to sinusitis, The warm, moist air helps thin out the mucus and opens the passages in the nose to relieve sinus pressure. Tea tree oil In addition, it offers a host of other wonderful health benefits, this essential oil helps in reducing inflammation and sinus swelling due to its antimicrobial properties. Researchers have found that topical treatment of this oil is helpful in relieving symptoms of congestion such as a runny nose or sinus headache. Spicy foods Believe it or not, eating spicy foods can help is a natural way to open nasal passages and get mucus flowing. Some evidence suggests that spicy foods like ginger, raw garlic and onions, chillies and spicy mustard can be an effective way to clear sinus congestion, providing sinus headache relief. This is because capsaicin, an active compound found in spicy foods irritates mucous membranes, which results in a runny nose, thereby softening any nasal obstruction. Water Drinking plenty of water and other fluids helps to thin nasal secretions, hence making your sinus passages less congested. It has been medically validated that when you are dehydrated, your sinus passages tend to dry out, leading to increased pressure, discomfort and pain. Pineapple More than just a delicious fruit, Pineapple is a great decongestant.  Pineapple is rich in antioxidants and also contains enzymes called bromelain. A study conducted by German researchers found that bromelain is effective in breaking down the junk that builds up in the sinuses and helps reduce inflammation and swelling. Chicken soup Various studies support the benefits of chicken soup in helping ease congestion and reduce inflammation associated with sinus congestion and colds. Although scientists haven’t been able to identify the exact ingredient in chicken soup, they speculate that the steam combined with the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the soup’s ingredients are what help clear the sinuses. Garlic Garlic is a versatile spice that helps reduce inflammation and pain in the sinus passages. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to dilute mucous secretions and promote drainage. Ginger Ginger is another fantastic herb that is a powerful cure for sinus ailments. It has excellent anti-inflammatory compounds like gingerols and shaogals. Drinking a concoction of ginger tea made by adding a few pieces of ginger to one cup of boiled water, thrice a day, provides instant relief from the sinus. Warm compresses Apply moistly, warm heat may help soothe facial pain due to sinus. One of the easiest ways to do this is to place warm, damp towels around your nose, cheeks, and eyes to clear the nasal passages from the outside. You may alternate hot and cold compresses for quicker relief. Final thoughts Suffering from sinus congestion can be very uncomfortable and may impact the quality of life. In addition to using decongestants and pain relievers, alternative home remedies mentioned above can also boost your recovery. However, if you continue to experience sinus pressure symptoms after a week, or if they begin to worsen, it is recommended that you should visit our doctor.

Introduction The monthly menstrual cycle is frequently associated with several symptoms such as exhaustion, bloating, mood fluctuations, and cramps. For some, the symptoms are significantly severe, making the entire period difficult. All you want to do between the excruciating cramping and mood swings is reach for some comfort food. However, there are some things that can aggravate your period symptoms, which you definitely do not want to happen. A lot of foods that you usually eat correspond to higher cramps and increased menstrual pain. Here’s a list of 7 foods that make period cramps worsen. Canned foods Canned foods not only have fewer nutrients, but they can also be high in sodium. This can induce more bloating and cramping. Additionally, canned products can also contain high amounts of preservatives. So when you’re on your period, stick to nutritious foods, lean proteins, fruits, and veggies. Try to significantly limit your sodium intake during this time of the month. Sugary foods As tempting and delicious as high-sugar foods are, the unfortunate truth is giving into sugar-filled cravings during your period may be linked to increased pain during your period. When you are menstruation, your blood sugar levels change dramatically. More artificial sugar sweetener consumed during this time adds fuel to the fire, by making your blood sugar level will fluctuate dramatically. Furthermore, sugar is inflammatory and can worsen cramping. Additionally, refined sugar causes your body to retain sodium and water, resulting in bloating and mood swings. Fried foods You could be tempted to consume something fried, particularly if you enjoy ready-made snacks. It’s best to avoid fried foods during your monthly cycle as it may upset your stomach and make your cramps worse. Fried foods like burgers, pizza and french fries are notorious for increasing your estrogen levels and throwing them out of whack, which can in turn cause period pain. Additionally, these foods can cause stomach distress and interfere with healthy digestion. It is recommended that you stick to lightly boiled, steamed, or grilled foods during your period. Dairy products Dairy products are generally considered to be healthy options. However, during your period, the saturated fats in dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream can trigger inflammation, which can worsen your menstrual pain. This is because these foods contain arachidonic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid), which can increase inflammation. Nevertheless, given that the calcium in dairy products can help cramps by controlling your muscles’ nerve activity, it might be a good idea to consume dairy products in moderation. Fatty foods Fatty foods like bacon raise the level of prostaglandins in your body. Prostaglandins are natural chemicals present in the body. High levels of prostaglandins in the body can constrict blood vessels and cause your uterus to contract. This uterine contraction can induce abdominal cramping.  Caffeine Caffeine-filled drinks like tea and coffee can worsen pelvic pain before or during your period. Excessive coffee consumption can promote the narrowing of blood vessels (vasoconstriction), which can aggravate period pains. It can also cause bloating and discomfort. Alcohol While you may crave a glass of wine or other alcoholic beverages, drinking is not recommended during menstruation. Alcohol can dehydrate you, exacerbating headaches and causing bloating. It can also cause digestive problems including diarrhoea and nausea. As a result, it is recommended that you postpone your alcohol consumption until later in the month. Final thoughts Limiting or eliminating the above-mentioned foods during this time of the month can help stabilise your mood and, hopefully, lessen cramp pain. Eat foods in their natural state. Choose light, nutrient-dense foods to tame period cramps. These foods may provide relief from stomach pain during your period.  Aside from eating the correct foods during your period to minimise cramping, make sure to consume frequent, regular meals. Avoid skipping meals, as feeling hungry will aggravate the cramps. Drink plenty of water because dehydration exacerbates muscle spasms, resulting in more acute cramping. In association with a diet plan, you can also opt for frequent health screening tests to keep track of your physical fitness and necessary vitals as well as incorporate some preventative measures to improve your quality of life.

Understanding male infertility Male infertility is a condition that reduces the chances of the female partner getting pregnant even after 12 months sexual activity aimed at pregnancy. Around 13 out of 100 couples are unable to get pregnant after regular or unprotected sex. One-third of the infertility problem is associated with the female partner, one-third is associated with the male partner, and one-third is caused by a combination of problems in both partners or maybe unexplained.  There are a variety of causes for infertility in men but it is often due to problems with sperm production or with sperm count and/or delivery. In normal conditions, the sperm goes into the female’s vagina by traveling through her cervix to the uterus and from the uterus, the sperm goes to her fallopian tubes. When the sperm and the female’s egg meet, fertilization happens. This process can only go well if the genes, hormone levels, and environmental conditions are appropriate.  Producing a healthy and mature sperm that can travel through the vagina and fuse with the egg in the fallopian tubes of the female is dependent on a variety of factors. What causes male infertility? Problems in the male may cause cells to stop growing into a sperm while some problems in men may keep the sperm from reaching the egg or maybe the temperature of the scrotum may affect the fertility of the man. There are a variety of main causes and other factors such as environmental and genetics that can contribute to male infertility.  Main causes of male infertility: Sperm disorders such as immature sperm, oddly shaped, or low count Retrograde ejaculation Immunologic infertility Blockages, birth defects, or physical damage in parts of the testicles  Hormonal imbalances in the pituitary and the thyroid glands Certain medications can alter sperm production, function, and delivery. These medications may be given to treat other health issues such as arthritis, depression, high blood pressure, or digestive problems.  Chronic diseases such as anemia, malnutrition, cancer, neurological disease, or diabetes A disease of the male genital tract such as cancer, trauma, or infection Surgery on the male genital tract for the treatment of undescended testicle or hernia Sexually transmitted diseases or other infections  Sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation  Environmental factors for male infertility:  Excess heat or high temperature Consumption of drugs including marijuana or cocaine Alcohol  Smoking Exposure to toxicants and environmental hazards like pesticides, lead, radiation, mercury, and other radioactive substances Stress Excessive workout Dietary deficiencies such as zinc, vitamin C and folic acid Obesity Genetic factors for male infertility: Mutations inside the genes that may determine the male sex such as y-chromosome Genetic disease such as cystic fibrosis Other irregular differences in the genes such as some men may have a common condition called Klinefelter’s XXY syndrome in which they have an additional copy of the female sex-determining genes such as x-chromosome Hormonal issues such as diabetes or high levels of the milk-producing hormone called prolactin Treatment for male infertility  Men should also get tested for fertility as well as women. You can talk to your doctor or urologist who may ask you for a physical exam. After the physical exam, Your doctor may order a semen analysis which can monitor the quality and quantity of the sperm in the semen. A semen analysis can also determine Azoospermia (no sperm production), oligospermia (few sperm productions), the problem with sperm motility, and the problem with sperm morphology (problem with form and structure). These conditions may be the straight cause that you cannot conceive or those conditions may be caused by an underlying condition. Your doctor may examine the issue further by conducting a blood test, transrectal ultrasound, testicular biopsy, or urine tests. Treatment of male infertility depends on what causes infertility. Several male problems can be cured by drugs and surgery that can allow conception through normal sex.  The treatment is divided into three categories including non-surgical therapy, surgical therapy, and treatment of unknown causes of male infertility. If you are someone who has been diagnosed with male infertility, discuss with your doctor any behavioral changes that can boost your chances of conceiving. If your sperm count is low, your doctor may ask you to have less intercourse to form a better concentration of sperm. Your doctor may recommend some lifestyle changes such as  Avoiding toxicants and environmental hazards Avoiding smoking and alcohol Reducing stress and Relax Taking vitamins such as iron, folic acid, and zinc Antioxidants such as vitamin C Get enough vitamin D Take fenugreek supplement Lose excess weight Get adequate sleep Avoid eating too much soy Eat lots of walnuts The bottom line Infertility is a common health issue affecting men worldwide. If you have infertility issues, one thing you can do is to improve your general health. We hope you find this article useful for yourself. 

It’s a well-known fact that, most of the germs spread through the air. The vivid example is Covid, itself. Also Influenza, Measles are one of those diseases which spread from air. “Measles, is a viral infection that’s serious for small children, but this easily preventable by a vaccine”. Children younger than 5 years of age, adults older than 20 years of age mostly get affected from Measles. Sometimes pregnant women, people with poor immune system such as leukemia may also get affected.  Though Chickenpox and measles are both infectious disease and caused by viruses, but both are not same by nature. Once you had measles, it’s highly unlikely you will get it again. But there is a duel opinion against it. However measles may lead to serious complications in some people (but the chances are less).  Measles is caused by a virus found in nose or throat. When someone coughs or sneezes, the infectious droplets spray into the air and stay in the air about an hour. Thus one get affected from measles virus.  The symptoms of it appear 7 to 14 days after contact with virus. The person with this disease suffers from high fever, cough, sore throat, running nose, and inflamed eyes. The red rash starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading the rest of the body. Within two three days the spot remain discrete.  There is no such particularly treatment to get rid of it, but vitamin A may help with symptoms. For such cases the doctor also suggests to take a proper rest and drink plenty of fluids. Vaporizer may ease the cough and nasal congestion. Sometimes sponge baths with lukewarm water is also effective to reduce the fever or Discomfortness. But sometimes we observe many of us using home remedies to get rid of it, which is not correct. Always consult a doctor before applying anything to a Measles affected person or child. Some disease are too sensitive to handle. Only good diet and good lifestyle can give you a better life.

There are some specific problems, about which we cannot speak up properly. We develop the misconception without knowing the fact, because we do not want to discuss. We feel shy to share our feelings our experience, which we should not. The matter which we used to keep quiet is about “Sex”. Erectile Dysfunction is one of such disorders which we avoid to discuss. Erectile Dysfunction, also known as impotence. It is defined by difficulty getting and keeping an erection. As per the report more than half of men between the ages 40 and 70 experienced from ED. This Erectile Dysfunction occurs when a man can’t get or keep an erection firm enough. Men’s sexual process  is very complex, which involves the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles and blood vessels. ED can result from a problem of any of these, but the common causes include – 1. Heart Disease 2. Clogged blood vessels 3. High Cholesterol 4. High Blood Pressure 5. Tobacco use 6. Sleep disorder 7. Low testosterone 8. Parkinson’s disease 9. Metabolic  Syndrome 10. Diabetes 11. Certain Prescription medications And many more, it basically depends on individuals.  But as per some reports the main cause of it is abnormalities the penile arteries, Veins or both. Chronic illness, certain medications, operations for the prostate, bladder and colon cancer may also be contributing factors. Frequently using abused drugs (like alcohol, Tobacco, cocaine etc.) also may lead to ED. It is also a common side effect of a number of prescribed drugs too. Approximately one in 10 adult males will suffer from ED on a long term Basis. This type of sexual problems may have some specific symptoms but it also includes mental health sometimes. Because physical intimacy is as equal as mental intimacy. It is a sign of physical or psychological condition. Which cause stress, relationship strain and low self-confidence. Patients suffering from erectile dysfunction should first be evaluated for any physical and psychological. Medication and Assistive devices such as pumps can be prescribed.  Sexual problems are such problems which we often avoid to discuss. If we find something by our own, we tend to hide. But any type of sexual problem or such disorder should be diagnosed properly and get treated well.

What is male sexual dysfunction? Male sexual dysfunction is a common health condition affecting men of all ages but especially the older ones. In this condition, many men struggle with problems during sex and it occurs with increasing age. Sexual dysfunction can be physical or psychological that prevents men from getting sexual satisfaction or pleasure. Problems in sex may be caused due to various factors such as your health, stress, relationship concerns, and other issues. The most common type of sexual dysfunction disorders include erectile dysfunction, ejaculation disorders, inhibited sexual desire, and low libido. Around 31 percent of men and 43 percent of women get some kind of difficulty during sex. But several sorts of sexual disorders can be corrected by treating the underlying causes and can be improved with the help of the latest technologies.  Causes of male sexual dysfunction There are a variety of causes leading to male sexual dysfunction including common sexual problems, health problems, mental and emotional issues. Common sexual dysfunction problems Men with sexual dysfunction may feel problems at different points during sex including:  Lack of sexual desire Inability to get or keep an erection Orgasms that occur too slowly or quickly Inability to have orgasms Deformities of your penis  Retrograde ejaculation Health problems affecting male sexual health Several medical conditions and overall decay of men’s health may affect their sexual life including: Heart and blood vessels disorders e.g. high blood pressure Low testosterone levels Diabetes Kidney problems Hormones imbalances Stroke and nervous system disorders e.g., multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease Obesity High blood pressure High cholesterol Prescriptions drugs for  depression and high blood pressure  Smoking Drinking too much alcohol Drug abuse  Mental and emotional issues Mental and emotional issues can have a big effect on your sex life including  Stress Anxiety Depression Fear of pregnancy Low confidence during sex Relationship concerns Regular workout, maintaining weight, and managing stress can be helpful to improve your sex life. Occasional problems with sexual functions are normal but if problems last more than a few months or cause distress for you and your partner, you should talk to your healthcare provider. You may feel shy while discussing your sexual problems with a doctor but being honest about your sexual concerns can be the first step to get help and the best treatment can be recommended. Diagnosis and treatment of male sexual dysfunction Your doctor may ask you several questions about your symptoms, medical and sexual history. They may perform a physical exam and other tests ( including blood tests, Blood pressure check, rectal exam, and examination of your penis and testicles) to check whether an underlying health condition is a reason behind your sexual problems. If your medical condition including heart disease, diabetes, or depression are causing problems in your sexual life, your doctor may treat it first.  The healthcare provider or doctor may also ask you to follow a treatment plan, eat a heart-healthy diet, avoid smoking, and drinking alcohol. They may also encourage you to do workouts such as aerobic exercise and weight-building exercise, and change unhealthy habits. If sexual problems are happening due to emotional and psychological issues, you can also get treatment to manage stress, depression, and anxiety. In addition, open communication with your partner may also help you.   Male sexual dysfunction cannot be prevented but such things may help you to improve your sexual ability and overall general health. Other treatments are also available such as hormone therapy, counseling, testosterone therapy, Penile traction therapy, surgery to correct penis deformities, penis implant surgery,  medications, psychological therapy, and mechanical aids are some of the therapies that can help alleviate male sexual dysfunction.  Foods that help you to reduce male sexual dysfunction Some foods have the potential to improve male sexual dysfunction disorders especially erectile disorder. This diet may also help you to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and erectile dysfunction in males. The diet include  Vegetables Fruits Olive oil Fish Legumes Whole grains Flavonoid-rich foods and drinks including strawberries, blueberries, apples, pears, and citrus products.  L-arginine rich food such as poultry, red meat, nuts, and dairy products Foods rich in nitrate including spinach, lettuce, radish, beetroot, and Chinese cabbage Cocoa and dark chocolates Tea Foods rich in lycopene including tomatoes, watermelon, grapefruit, papaya, and red peppers The bottom line If managing a healthy lifestyle is not helping you with your sexual problems, consult with your doctor immediately.

A diagnosis of infertility is given when a couple is not able to conceive a child even after having unprotected sexual intercourse for a year or more. Traditionally, it was thought of as a women’s problem. But as it turns out, fertility issues in men are as common as they are in women.  The problem could be with sperm production or sperm function. Or, there could be blockages that prevent the delivery of the sperm. Wondering why such issues occur? Let’s understand them here. Symptoms of infertility in men The only sign of infertility in men is the inability to conceive a child. Other than that, you may not see any other obvious signs and symptoms. However, if an underlying problem such as hormonal imbalance or a disorder is the cause of infertility, the following symptoms can be spotted –  Problems with sexual intercourse (difficulty with ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, etc) Pain or swelling in the testicle area Recurrent respiratory infections Reduced ability to smell Abnormal breast growth Decreased facial and body hair Causes of infertility in men Just like female fertility, male fertility is a complex process. To get your partner pregnant the following SHOULD happen You must produce healthy sperm The sperm has to be carried into semen Semen should have enough number of sperm in it Sperm must be functional and able to move So, what conditions can become a hindrance in this process? There are medical issues, environmental issues, and lifestyle issues.  Medical causes of infertility in men Varicocele Varicocele is a swelling in the scrotum (the sac containing the testes). It occurs when the veins draining blood from the testes get enlarged. Though the exact cause is unknown, it is related to abnormal testicular temperature regulation. Fortunately, this condition is reversible.  Infection Some infections interfere with sperm production and sperm health. They can also cause scarring that blocks the passage of sperm. Epididymitis, orchitis, gonorrhea, and HIV are some known such infections. While some of these infections are reversible, others can cause permanent damage. Ejaculation issues Inability to ejaculate semen or semen entering the bladder instead of emerging out of the penis (a condition called retrograde ejaculation) is amongst the common causes of infertility in men. These conditions often occur due to various health issues including diabetes, spinal injuries, prior surgeries, or medications.  Autoimmune disorders Sometimes, your own body attacks the sperm. Your immune system might produce anti-sperm antibodies which mistakenly identifies sperm as harmful invaders and tries to eliminate them. Tumors Cancers or even non-cancerous tumors can directly affect the reproductive organs of males. They can influence the organs that release hormones related to reproduction, like the pituitary gland. Sometimes, radiation and chemotherapy used to treat these tumors can also affect fertility. Hormonal imbalance Testicle disorders or any abnormality affecting the hormonal system (such as the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands) is another common cause of infertility in men. These issues with hormones can have various underlying causes.   Defects of tubules Many tubes carry sperm. They can be blocked or damaged because of injury from surgery, prior infections, abnormal development, or certain inherited conditions.  Problems with sexual intercourse Erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, painful intercourse, or psychological or relationship problems can also potentially cause infertility in men. Environmental causes of infertility in men Exposure to chemicals and metals Exposure to chemicals such as benzenes, toluene, xylene, pesticides, painting materials or heavy metals like lead can contribute to low sperm count and cause infertility. Heat exposure High temperature can hamper sperm production and their function. Frequent use of saunas, hot tubs or wearing tight clothes can increase the temperature in your scrotum and reduce sperm production. Radiation  Exposure to radiation or X-rays can reduce sperm production, but it eventually gets normal. Sometimes, when the dose of radiation is high, permanent damage can occur. Lifestyle and other causes of infertility in men Drug, alcohol and tobacco use Use of steroids, cocaine, marijuana, tobacco, or high consumption of alcohol can reduce sperm production, cause erectile dysfunction, and disbalance your hormones. All of this can become the cause of infertility. Stress Stress can throw the hormones necessary for sperm production out of balance. If it’s chronic, it can also affect your sperm count. Obesity Obesity can affect your fertility in many ways. It can directly impact the sperm or cause changes in your hormonal balance – all of which is a cause of infertility. Takeaway Infertility can sure seem like the biggest challenge of life. But, it can be dealt with if the correct cause is identified. If you notice any symptoms, be sure to report them to the doctor without any delay. Because with timely diagnosis chances of successful treatment increase.

In one word acne is such a pain! Let’s begin with an understanding of what exactly acne is and how it occurs. What is acne? Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is basically a skin condition that develops due to the clogging of hair follicles. The skin pores get clogged with oil, dust, or dead skin cells, which may lead to blackheads, whiteheads, red bumps on the skin, or pus-filled pimples.  Acne usually appears on the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders. Different types of acne The most common acne lesions are whiteheads and blackheads, also known as comedones. Whiteheads or closed comedones – small and under the surface of the skin  Blackheads or open comedones- black-coloured and visible on the surface.  Inflammatory acne lesions are more likely to cause scars, which include- Papules (raised lesions) Pustules (raised lesions with pus) Cysts (nodules filled with pus or fluid) Acne is most common among teenagers, however, adults also tend to get acne during their 30s, 40s, or even 50s. Pimples are the worst or most embarrassing thing you all get especially when you hit puberty. As it’s truly said- “Adolescence is just one big walking pimple” In fact, there are some myths and misconceptions about acne, such as- Myth #1: Acne is caused by a poor diet Fact:  As yet, research has not found any foods that cause acne.  Myth #2: Squeezing blackheads, and whiteheads are the best way to get rid of acne  No, in fact doing this can actually make your symptoms worse and leave you with a scar. Myth #3: Sexual activity can influence acne’– Fact is, sexual activity or masturbation has literally nothing to do anything with acne. Myth #4: Acne is infectious  No, acne is non-contagious and can not pass to another person. Causes of acne Acne is caused when tiny holes in the skin, known as hair follicles, become blocked.  Androgens are the sex hormones, which rise especially during puberty, thus leading to the enlargement of the sebaceous glands and the production of more oil and sebum than required. Excessive sebum blocks the hair follicles or pores and leads to the formation of acne or pimple. Still, there are other multiple factors also that can flare up acne, such as- Medications– Certain medicines including steroids, brain disorders-related medicines, anti-epileptic medicines, etc. Some cosmetic products– Since acne-prone skin is very sensitive, it is suggested to use dermatologically tested products, especially which are non-comedogenic so that they don’t clog the skin pores. Smoking– Can also contribute to acne, especially in the elderly. Genetics– Acne has a tendency to run in families. If either of your parents is acne-prone, then it can make your skin also acne-prone.  Diet– According to a 2021 review, certain foods or diets may have an effect on acne. Although, so far, research has found that no food can causes acne. But yes, according to some nutritionists there are certain foods that have a high glycemic index (GI) or sugar content, that can worsen your acne.  Food with high GI such as white rice, white bread, pasta, sugar etc, increases blood sugar levels more quickly. It further causes blood to release insulin-like growth factor-1 hormone.  This hormone increases sebum production when it is produced in large amounts, which can lead to the risk of acne and inflammation. Hormones– Teenage acne is known to be triggered in boys and girls, due to increased levels of a hormone called androgens, during puberty. It enlarges or over activates the sebaceous gland and produces much more sebum than required, which ultimately leads to acne. Hormonal changes during midlife, particularly in women, can lead to breakouts too. Acne in women– Women are more likely to have acne as compared to men. At certain times, women can have hormonal imbalance during certain conditions like periods, pregnancy or menopause, PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), etc. which can cause acne. Signs and symptoms of acne Whiteheads (closed plugged pores) Blackheads (open plugged pores) Papules (raised lesions) Pimples (pustules), which are papules with pus at their tips Large, solid, painful lumps under the skin (nodules) Painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin (cystic lesions) How to treat acne? Depending upon the particular factors like the condition’s severity, type of acne, or your age, the dermatologist may prescribe you particular medications either oral or topical.  Topical medications include Antibiotics and retinoids- Dermatologists may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics (like erythromycin or tetracycline) and retinoids (like tretinoin or adapalene), to treat acne. Because topical antibiotics alone are usually not recommended. The doctor may start with a low effective dose, because a high dose and prolonged treatment may cause adverse effects also.  In the initial phase of the treatment, the doctor might suggest using both a retinoid and an antibiotic, with the antibiotic applied in the morning and the retinoid in the evening. Oral contraceptive- Hormonal therapies or the combined oral contraceptive pill can also help to control acne in women by suppressing the overactive gland. Azelaic acid and salicylic acid– Along with antibacterial properties, azelaic acid can also be used to manage discolouration that occurs with some types of acne. Dapsone– It is prescribed for inflammatory acne lesions, especially in women with acne. Topical anti-androgen– Clascoterone is topical anti-androgen medicine, which belongs to a new class of treatment that targets the hormone that causes an outbreak. Note: Remember to visit a dermatologist to ascertain the condition’s severity, before getting on a regimen. DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE. Oral medications include Oral antibiotics- Antibiotics work by killing excess skin bacteria and reducing redness and inflammation. It is generally recommended for long-term treatment. Take what the doctor prescribes for as long as it is prescribed. Do not stop the treatment mid-way on your own, even if you see improvement in symptoms. Complete the full course of antibiotic treatment. Examples of oral antibiotics may include tetracycline, minocycline, doxycycline, etc. But, refrain from self-medication. The doctor will prescribe the appropriate antibiotic after a proper skin diagnosis. Isotretinoin- It works by reducing the oil or sebum secretion from the