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An Untreatable STD Is Rapidly Spreading. Here’s What You Need to Know

Published

7 years ago

November 1, 2017

Untreatable Gonorrhea Is Rapidly Spreading. Here’s What You Need to Know

As drug-resistant gonorrhea rapidly spreads around the world, one team of researchers may have a strategy to combat it, according to a new study.

Gonorrhea is becoming a superbug, meaning the drugs typically used to treat it are no longer reliably effective. Should gonorrhea’s antibiotic resistance continue to increase, the results could be bleak, given that the sexually transmitted disease can cause long-term complications like infertility if left untreated.

In July, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that around the globe, about 78 million people are infected with gonorrhea each year, and that 97% of 77 countries surveyed from 2009 to 2014 reported the presence of drug-resistant gonorrhea strains. Sixty-six percent of the countries reported the emergence of resistance to last resort drug treatments for the infection.

If a person gets a resistant strain of gonorrhea today, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they won’t ever clear the infection. “At the moment, all cases of gonorrhea are still treatable using some combination of available antibiotics,” says Dr. Xavier Didelot, senior lecturer in the department of infectious disease and epidemiology at Imperial College London. “But at the current rate at which resistance is developing, we could find ourselves facing a situation where no antibiotic works, which would mean a return to the pre-antibiotic era.”

To prevent that from happening, researchers are working to figure out new treatment strategies for gonorrhea. In a new study published Tuesday in the journal PLOS Medicine, Didelot and his colleagues report that relying more on an older drug for the disease may stop it from becoming more resistant to antibiotics.

Cefixime is an antibiotic that was previously used to treat gonorrhea, but doctors largely stopped using it due to high levels of resistance and its inability to clear infections. However, Didelot and his fellow researchers developed mathematical models to look at cefixime’s resistance trends between 2008 and 2015 and determine whether it could still be used in some people without increasing resistance. In the study, they predict that cefixime could be re-introduced successfully as long as it is only used to treat a quarter of infections.

“We are now running out of options to treat gonorrhea cases,” says Didelot. “So instead of waiting for the few remaining options to fail, we need to start using antibiotics in a way that does not lead to resistance developing.”To deal with gonorrhea infections, health experts in the United States currently recommend a combined therapy of the antibiotics ceftriaxone (an injection) azithromycin (taken orally). Dr. Bob Kirkcaldy, an epidemiologist at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Division of STD Prevention, says that researchers have noticed that gonorrhea strains are becoming less responsive to both antibiotics. But he adds that if a person’s gonorrhea strain is resistant to one drug, it typically responds to the other. Kirkcaldy says it is still “unusual” for a gonorrhea strain in the U.S. to not respond at all to antibiotics.

“Currently recommended therapy is still highly effective,” says Kirkcaldy. “But given the history and what we’ve seen, that may not always be the case.”

The fact that most gonorrhea infections respond to treatment in the U.S. doesn’t mean the infection’s growing resistance is not raising serious concerns. In 2016, there were 470,000 new cases of gonorrhea among Americans, though that is likely an underestimate — the CDC estimates that about less than half of gonorrhea infections in the U.S. are detected and reported the agency. Each year, the CDC estimates that 246,000 new gonorrhea infections are resistant to at least one antibiotic.

Kirkcaldy says getting tested for gonorrhea is an important way to cut down on the problem since current drugs still work and can lessen the number of people who get the disease and spread it. Most people with gonorrhea will not experience symptoms, which means getting tested is critical for knowing if you have it. “It’s important for people to get screened and treated,” he says. “We know this bug can mutate rapidly.”

The CDC recommends sexually active women under age 25, or women with risk factors like a new sex partner, or multiple sex partners, should get annual gonorrhea tests and be tested for HIV if they’ve never been tested. For men who have sex with men, the CDC recommends yearly tests for syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea and HIV. If men have other risk factors, including multiple sex partners, the CDC recommends testing every three to six months.

“There are things we can do to slow [resistance] down and push it into the future while we try to develop more weapons,” says Kirkcaldy.

Source: MSN

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HEALTHY LIVING

Here’s How To Manage Anxiety Naturally

Published

4 days ago

May 11, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Reduce Anxiety Naturally: Here's How | Fab.ng

Ever feel that fluttering feeling in your stomach before a big interview or when you’re waiting on important news? That’s actually anxiety! But don’t worry; it’s not always a bad thing, and there are ways to reduce anxiety naturally.

This kind of anxiety is actually our body’s way of helping us out. A little racing heart, tenseness, or nervousness can all be signs of good anxiety. It’s our body’s natural reaction to get us ready and focused on what’s to come.

What Is Anxiety?

Have you ever gotten butterflies in your stomach before a big interview? That’s anxiety! It’s normal to feel some anxiety in situations like that. Our bodies are actually trying to help us by getting us alert and focused. This is called “good anxiety.” It helps us stay sharp and prepared.

However, anxiety can become a problem when it’s too strong or doesn’t go away. This is called an anxiety disorder. People with anxiety disorders experience uncontrollable worry that can interfere with their daily lives.

The good news is that there are ways to manage anxiety! There are natural methods for reducing anxiety attacks, and you can also learn more about anxiety from reliable sources like Fab.ng.

Here are some signs of anxiety:

Panic attacks: These sudden surges of intense fear can be very frightening.
Physical symptoms: You might experience shortness of breath, restlessness, trembling, or even problems with sleep or digestion (diarrhoea).
Intrusive thoughts: Anxiety can lead to paranoia or obsessive worries.

When anxiety gets out of control, it can feel paralysing and hold you back from living your life to the fullest. However, there’s hope. The more you manage your anxiety, the better equipped you’ll be to take charge of your emotional, social, and physical well-being.

Now that we know what anxiety is, let’s explore some simple and natural strategies to help you reduce anxiety attacks. Keep reading to learn more.

Top Medications for Anxiety | U.S. News

9 Ways To Reduce Anxiety Naturally

Telling someone with anxiety to “calm down” simply doesn’t work. The good news is that there are effective ways to manage anxiety, and many of them focus on healthy lifestyle changes. Let’s explore some recommended strategies to help you reduce anxiety attacks naturally:

1. First up, exercise

Getting your body moving is a fantastic natural way to reduce anxiety. You don’t need to jump straight into intense workouts. Start small and find activities you enjoy.

Walking is a great option; it’s a low-impact way to clear your head and get some fresh air. Plus, it’s something most people can easily fit into their routine.

Maybe you prefer hiking, cycling, jogging, or even dancing! These activities all have a common benefit: they release endorphins. Often called “happy hormones,” endorphins improve your mood and leave you feeling good.

Exercise also helps boost your concentration and motivation, which can be especially helpful if you struggle with certain anxiety disorders. So lace up your shoes, put on your favourite music, and get moving! It’s a simple step towards feeling better and managing your anxiety.

12 Natural Ways To Reduce Anxiety

2. Next up, sleep

Experts say getting enough quality sleep is crucial for both your physical and emotional well-being. When you don’t sleep well, it can actually worsen feelings of anxiety and stress. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to help keep your anxiety in check.

Here are some tips to develop good sleep habits and improve your sleep quality:

Power down before bed: Turn off all electronics, especially phones and TVs, at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light emitted from these devices can interfere with your sleep cycle.
Create a calming sleep environment: Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. This will help your body relax and prepare for sleep.
Develop a sleep routine: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.

How to Calm Anxiety at Night: 14 Tips for Sleeping Better With Anxiety

3. Eat a balanced diet

The old saying “you are what you eat” holds for anxiety too. Eating a healthy, balanced diet can be a great natural way to manage anxiety symptoms.

Focus on magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that plays a role in enzyme function and nerve health. Upping your magnesium intake can be a natural remedy for anxiety. Load up on foods like almonds, whole-wheat grains, quinoa, spinach, cashews, black beans, and even dark chocolate, all of which are rich in magnesium.
Choose whole foods: Instead of processed foods that are loaded with artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives, opt for natural whole foods that come in a variety of colours. Aim to include plenty of protein, fruits, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables in your diet. These wholesome foods are naturally packed with antioxidants, which can be beneficial for your overall well-being.
Hydration is key: Don’t forget to stay hydrated! Water and natural homemade juices are essential for your health.
Pay attention to your body: Notice how your body reacts to certain foods. If you find that specific foods trigger your anxiety, try to limit them or avoid them altogether. This can be a simple but effective way to manage your anxiety naturally.

National Nutrition Month: 6 popular trends explained | Home Page Blog | Oakland Blog

4. Eliminate caffeine

Look, we all love that morning cup of coffee, but if you struggle with anxiety, it might be time to re-think your caffeine habits. While a moderate amount of coffee probably won’t cause problems for most people, caffeine can worsen anxiety symptoms, especially for those with chronic anxiety disorders.

Here’s why: Caffeine blocks adenosine, a chemical that makes you feel tired. Instead, it triggers the release of adrenaline, which keeps you alert. This surge of adrenaline can lead to jitters and increased nervousness, which can exacerbate anxiety.

We know that breaking up with your morning coffee can be tough. To avoid caffeine withdrawal headaches, try slowly cutting back on the amount you consume each day. Gradually reduce your intake until you reach a point where you can eliminate it altogether. This can be a significant step towards managing your anxiety naturally.

5. Say no to smoking and alcohol

Smoking and alcohol might seem to offer temporary relief from anxiety, but they actually make things worse in the long run. Smoking can worsen anxiety symptoms and irritate the lungs. Alcohol can also trigger anxiety and lead to dependence, which can create a whole new set of problems.

Research shows that both smoking and alcohol can worsen chronic stress and anxiety, especially for those with underlying mental health conditions.

Quitting smoking and alcohol is a smart decision for your overall health and can be a significant step towards managing your anxiety naturally.

6. Chamomile tea for relaxation

Since you’re cutting back on caffeine and alcohol, you might be looking for healthy alternatives to help you relax. Here’s a great option: chamomile tea!

This tea contains a compound called Matricaria recutita, which has natural calming properties. Chamomile tea can help reduce anxiety and even improve your sleep quality.

5 Ways Chamomile Tea Benefits Your Health

7. Breathe or rest to reduce anxiety

Anxiety attacks can be really frightening. Your heart races, and it feels like you can’t catch your breath. Here’s a simple trick to calm yourself down: deep breathing exercises.

When you take slow, deep breaths, you signal your body to relax. It’s hard to feel anxious and relaxed at the same time. There are many breathing exercises out there, but here’s a basic one to try:

Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four.
Hold your breath for a count of four.
Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of four. Repeat this process as many times as you need to feel yourself calming down.

8. Meditation for inner peace

Meditation is an age-old practice that’s been shown to be very effective in reducing chronic stress and anxiety. There are many meditation apps available that can guide you through exercises to help lower your stress levels and regulate your breathing during an anxiety attack.

Meditation helps you gain control over your body and mind, giving you the tools you need to manage your anxiety naturally.

How to Reduce Anxiety and Get Back to Being Your Best Self | The Art of Living

9. Aromatherapy to reduce anxiety

Aromatherapy is another great approach to managing anxiety naturally. It’s an ancient practice that uses essential oils and plant extracts to promote overall well-being. Anxiety attacks can strike at any time, including at night, making it difficult to sleep.

Certain essential oils can help you relax, improve your mood, and get a better night’s rest. Lavender, bergamot, ylang-ylang, clary sage, and grapefruit are all known for their calming properties.

When anxiety disrupts your sleep, try diffusing these oils, adding a few drops to your bath, or inhaling them directly. You might be surprised at how effective they can be.

Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage - Este Spa | Este Spa & Hammam

BUSINESS

How To Make Money Online As A Nigerian Student

Published

2 months ago

March 17, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Nigerian Student? How To Make Money Online | Fab.ng

Are you a Nigerian student? It can often mean balancing studies with a tight budget. The urge to be financially independent, to finally buy that desired gadget, or simply to have some extra cash for emergencies, can be powerful.

However, focusing on studies often leaves little room for traditional employment, which can feel overwhelming to take on. Thankfully, the digital age offers a wealth of opportunities to earn money online, allowing you to work from the comfort of your dorm or favourite study spot.

This article dives into various options that you can explore. Whether you leverage your existing skills or learn new in-demand talents, there are ways to make money online while still managing your studies effectively.

How you can make money online as a student in Nigerian

Being a student in Nigeria often means juggling studies with limited finances. Earning extra money online can be a dream, especially for that desired gadget or emergency.

Thankfully, the digital age offers various options to explore. Here are some ways you, as a Nigerian student, can venture into the online earning space:

1. Freelancing: Turn your skills into cash

Nigeria boasts a thriving freelance market catering to diverse skill sets. If you excel in writing, platforms like Upwork or Fiverr connect you with clients seeking content creation, copywriting, or editing services. You can craft website content, and blog posts, or showcase your graphic design abilities by creating logos and presentations.

Beyond writing, there are opportunities for coders and those comfortable with data entry. Web development and data entry gigs can be lucrative options.

2. Online Tutoring: Share your knowledge and earn

The knowledge you gain in your studies can become a source of income. Online tutoring is a fantastic option if you excel in a subject or have a knack for explaining complex concepts. Platforms like Chegg or VIPKid connect you with students seeking academic guidance. You can tailor your tutoring sessions to your schedule, making it a flexible way to earn while helping others.

Furthermore, if you have a strong grasp of the English language, consider online English language tutoring platforms. These platforms cater to students who speak English as a second language, allowing you to share your expertise and earn from it.

3. Content Creation: Build your online presence and get rewarded

Do you have a passion for a specific subject, enjoy being creative, or have a talent for making people laugh? The world of online content creation might be the perfect fit for you. Platforms like YouTube or blogging allow you to share your interests, knowledge, or humour with a global audience.

While building a substantial following and income takes time and dedication, content creation offers a unique way to express yourself and earn money. You can monetize your content through advertising, getting sponsored, or even selling your own merchandise.

4. E-commerce and affiliate marketing: Explore your entrepreneurial spirit

For the business-minded student, the possibilities are endless. With research and planning, you can set up an online store to sell handmade crafts, clothing, or other products. Platforms like Etsy provide a user-friendly space to showcase your creations. Identifying a niche market and offering unique, high-quality products is key to success.

If managing an online store seems daunting, consider affiliate marketing. This approach involves promoting other companies’ products on your social media platforms or website. You earn a commission when someone purchases through your unique affiliate link. Affiliate marketing allows you to leverage your existing online presence to earn income without managing inventory.

Remember, success in any online venture requires dedication and perseverance. Building a strong portfolio, consistently delivering quality work, and effectively promoting yourself are crucial steps.

The Internet provides Nigerian students with a vast and ever-changing landscape of opportunities to make money. Whether you choose to leverage your existing skills or develop new ones, identifying your strengths and interests is key. Even a small amount of online income can significantly improve your life as a student. Embrace the digital age, refine your skills, and embark on your journey towards financial independence, one click at a time.

For more articles like this, check here.

BUSINESS

How To Make Money On Facebook

Published

2 months ago

March 16, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Like other online platforms, earning money through Facebook requires dedication and effort. While it’s not necessarily “easy,” consistent work and implementing effective strategies can lead to income generation.

Many people spend a significant amount of time on Facebook. This time can potentially be used to generate income through various methods. This article explores five strategies for earning money on the Facebook platform.

1. Monetize your Facebook account

Earning money directly through Facebook can be achieved, but it requires specific criteria and strategies.

Content creators and frequent posters have the potential to monetize their content through various methods, which include:

Facebook Stars and Gifts: Viewers can purchase virtual stars and send them to you during live streams. These stars can be exchanged for money, and viewers can also buy gifts using stars.
In-stream Ads: This option is available for those who upload video content. You can enable ads to be displayed within your videos, generating revenue based on ad views.
Paid Subscriptions: Facebook allows creators to offer exclusive content to subscribers for a fee.

It’s important to note that monetization on Facebook comes with requirements. To be eligible, you’ll need to reach a certain level of engagement, such as having at least 10,000 followers or exceeding specific video viewership metrics within a set timeframe.

You can easily check your eligibility through Meta Business Suite on Facebook. Simply select the page you want to monetize and navigate to the “Monetization” tab.

2. Facebook Marketplace

Another option to generate income through Facebook involves selling on the Facebook Marketplace. Unlike content monetization, selling on Marketplace doesn’t require specific follower counts or engagement metrics.

The process is straightforward:

Access the Facebook Marketplace.
Locate the “Create New Listing” option.
List the product you want to sell.

Important to remember:

You can only sell physical items.
Animals, medical products, services, and health-related items are not allowed for sale.
When creating a listing, you’ll need to provide:
- Clear pictures of the product
- A detailed description
- The asking price

Overall, selling on Facebook Marketplace offers a relatively simple way to turn unwanted items into cash.

3. Affiliate marketing on Facebook

Having a Facebook page or group with a sizable following can open doors to earning potential through affiliate marketing.

What is affiliate marketing?

In simpler terms, it involves promoting other companies’ products or services and earning a commission for each sale generated through your unique referral link.

Success with affiliate marketing relies heavily on having a substantial audience. Therefore, if your Facebook page or group has a strong following, you can leverage that reach to:

Promote products or services relevant to your audience’s interests.
Include your affiliate link when recommending these products or services.
Earn a commission if someone purchases through your unique link.

However, it’s crucial to be transparent with your audience. Disclose that you’re using affiliate links and avoid misleading them about the products or services you promote.

4. Facebook social media manager

Another way to leverage Facebook for income generation is by working as a social media manager.

What is a social media manager? This role involves overseeing the Facebook presence of businesses, brands, or even individual influencers.
Responsibilities of a social media manager:
- Growing the follower base of the assigned Facebook page.
- In some cases, creating engaging content to be posted on the page.

Essentially, social media managers act as the voice and helping hand for these entities on the Facebook platform.

5. Through paid sponsorships

Building a large and engaged following on Facebook can open doors to potential income opportunities through brand sponsorships.

What are brand sponsorships? This involves collaborating with companies or brands that aim to reach your audience and promote their products or services.
How can this lead to earning money? Brands may directly contact you, or you can approach them to establish a partnership. If both parties agree, you can earn income by:
- Featuring the brand’s products or services on your Facebook page, group, or profile.
- Creating sponsored content promoting the brand.

It is important to remember that gaining a large and active following takes time and consistent effort. Earning money through sponsorships is not guaranteed and requires a strategic approach.

While building an audience takes dedication, it can unlock possibilities for collaboration with brands in the future.

For more business-related articles, check here.