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Millions may have chronic kidney disease without knowing it – here are the symptoms

Chronic kidney disease may be far more widespread than previously believed.

According to The Sun, researchers estimate that many serious cases are never diagnosed, even in high-income countries, and the disease can progress for years without causing obvious symptoms.

Millions are living with the disease without knowing it

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Around 844 million adults worldwide are believed to have chronic kidney disease, a condition that gradually reduces kidney function, according to The Sun.

Many serious cases go undiagnosed

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Researchers estimate that up to half of people with severe chronic kidney disease have not been diagnosed in high-income countries.

Diagnosed patients are often unaware

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Among those whose condition has been recorded in their medical records, nine out of ten are unaware that they are living with the disease.

Symptoms often appear late

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The disease frequently causes symptoms only in its most advanced stages, when the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant may be approaching.

Fatigue can be a warning sign

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Persistent fatigue may be one of the symptoms that develops as the disease progresses.

Swollen hands and feet may be a signal

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Swelling in the ankles, feet, or hands is among the signs that can appear in the later stages of the condition.

Shortness of breath is linked to the disease

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Some patients experience shortness of breath as chronic kidney disease advances.

Nausea can occur in advanced stages

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Feelings of nausea are among the symptoms that may occur during the more severe phases of the disease.

Blood in the urine should be taken seriously

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Blood in the urine is one of the symptoms that can be associated with chronic kidney disease.

The disease could become one of the leading causes of death

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Researchers behind studies published in The Lancet estimate that chronic kidney disease could become the fifth leading cause of death worldwide by 2040.

Several factors are driving the increase

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The growing prevalence is linked in part to an expanding and ageing population, as well as rising rates of diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure.

Lifestyle factors play a role

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Researchers point out that several risk factors are preventable, including low consumption of fruit and vegetables and excessive salt intake.

Early detection is highlighted as important

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According to researchers, routine urine tests for protein could help identify the disease earlier and improve treatment outcomes.

Kidney damage cannot be reversed

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Once kidney damage has occurred, it cannot be reversed, making prevention and early detection especially important.

Some patients require extensive treatment

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Treatment may include lifestyle changes and medication, while some patients require dialysis several times a week or a kidney transplant.

The disease can lead to serious complications

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Chronic kidney disease is associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer, and kidney failure can trigger both heart attacks and strokes.

Sources: The Sun and The Lancet.

New weight-loss drug could outperform Ozempic, trial suggests

Treatment for severe obesity has developed rapidly in recent years.

Now, new research findings from pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly suggest that a new drug may be even more effective than existing alternatives, according to Nieuwsblad.

The drug is called retatrutide and belongs to the same class of medications as Ozempic and Mounjaro.

The difference is that retatrutide targets three hormone receptors, while most similar drugs affect one or two.

Experts see potential

According to endocrinologist Imke Matthys of UZ Gent, having several different types of medication available can be beneficial.

Some patients do not achieve sufficient results with existing treatments, while others experience side effects.

That is why it is important to have multiple options available, she told Nieuwsblad.

However, Professor Chantal Mathieu of KU Leuven believes that very rapid weight loss is not necessarily the best solution.

She points out that sustainable weight loss often takes time.

Illegal sales raise concerns

Although retatrutide is not yet available on the general market, it is already being sold online and discussed on various internet forums. This concerns experts.

Toxicologist Jan Tytgat warns that consumers cannot be certain of the contents of illegally sold medication.

Previous investigations of similar products have revealed problems with both dosage and quality.

The manufacturer’s trial, which included 2,339 participants over 80 weeks, produced striking results.

Participants lost an average of 32 kilograms, equivalent to 28 percent of their body weight.

According to Eli Lilly, retatrutide could therefore become the most effective weight-loss drug to date if the findings are confirmed through peer review.

Source: Nieuwsblad.

Laura Dern shares the most important lesson she learned from her mother’s battle with illness

Most people will eventually find themselves helping a sick family member.

However, the role of a caregiver is rarely something people are prepared for in advance.

Actress Laura Dern spoke about this based on her experiences with her mother, Diane Ladd, who was diagnosed with the serious lung disease Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), according to Prevention.

A difficult journey

Before doctors arrived at the correct diagnosis, several years passed filled with uncertainty.

The family was left without clear answers and without a plan for the future.

Later, Diane Ladd received a new evaluation from another lung specialist. It proved to be a turning point.

According to Laura Dern, the experience demonstrated how important it is to ask questions, seek a second opinion, and insist on being taken seriously by the healthcare system.

The biggest lesson

As part of her treatment, Diane Ladd was encouraged to take walks every day.

The walks not only benefited her lungs but also gave mother and daughter time to talk and strengthen their relationship.

Laura Dern shares one clear lesson that she hopes others in similar situations will take to heart.

Patients and their loved ones must be willing to speak up for themselves.

She believes that active support from family members and caregivers can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes, quality of life, and maintaining hope.

According to Prevention, Diane Ladd lived approximately seven and a half years longer than her initial prognosis had predicted.

Sources: Prevention.

These common mouth changes could be darly warning signs of oral cancer

Oral cancer is often associated with older adults, but doctors are now seeing more cases among younger people. Many patients overlook the early warning signs, which can delay diagnosis and make treatment more extensive.

Oral cancer is no longer limited to older adults

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Specialists are noticing a clear shift, with more patients in their 30s and early 40s being diagnosed with the disease.

Symptoms are often dismissed

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Many people do not associate persistent mouth problems with a serious illness and therefore delay seeking medical attention.

Early changes can be easy to miss

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The first signs are often subtle and may not cause significant discomfort, making them easier to ignore.

Mouth ulcers that do not heal deserve attention

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Sores that remain for more than a couple of weeks should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Unusual patches inside the mouth can be a warning sign

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Red or white areas on the lining of the mouth are among the changes doctors advise people not to ignore.

A burning sensation while eating may signal a problem

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Some patients experience discomfort or irritation when eating, particularly spicy foods.

Difficulty opening the mouth should not be overlooked

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Reduced mouth mobility is one of the symptoms that may warrant further examination.

Unexplained bleeding requires attention

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Bleeding from the gums or the inside of the cheek without an obvious cause can be an important warning sign.

Pain during chewing or swallowing can be a symptom

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Discomfort while eating or swallowing may be linked to changes within the oral cavity.

Many young adults do not consider themselves tobacco users

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People who use chewing tobacco or similar products often do not identify as tobacco users because they do not smoke.

Damage can develop gradually over time

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Cancer-causing substances may remain in direct contact with the tissues of the mouth for extended periods, increasing the risk of long-term damage.

Late diagnosis can lead to more complex treatment

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When oral cancer is detected at an advanced stage, treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, potentially affecting speech, eating, and daily life.

New study: Ham, sausages and snacks linked to increased dementia risk

Many people consume foods with a long shelf life and numerous additives on a daily basis.

These include cold cuts, breakfast cereals, chips, biscuits, and ready meals.

A new U.S. study published in the American Journal of Public Health examined how this type of food may be associated with the development of dementia.

What is ultra-processed food?

According to the British Heart Foundation, as cited by The Sun, ultra-processed foods are products that often contain ingredients not typically used in a standard home kitchen.

These may include preservatives, flavour enhancers, sweeteners, and artificial colourings.

The category includes products such as ham, sausages, soft drinks, breakfast cereals, instant meals, and a variety of snack foods.

Researchers followed participants

The study followed more than 5,300 American adults over a ten-year period.

The researchers emphasised that the study cannot prove that these foods directly cause dementia.

However, the findings are consistent with previous research suggesting that ultra-processed foods may affect brain function.

According to the University of Liverpool, as cited by The Sun, this type of diet may also increase the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, all of which are known risk factors for dementia.

58 percent higher risk

The study’s most significant finding was that individuals with a high daily intake of ultra-processed foods had a 58 percent higher risk of developing dementia.

Researchers also found a 46 percent higher risk of mild cognitive impairment.

Processed meats such as bacon, sausages, and ham were associated with the greatest risk.

At the same time, people who consumed the highest amounts of minimally processed foods, including fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, had a 41 percent lower risk of dementia.

Sources: The Sun, American Journal of Public Health, and British Heart Foundation.

Researchers track men for 32 years and find health risks associated with snus

Researchers in Sweden studied 4,222 men from Västmanland. The participants were either 40 or 50 years old when the study began in the 1990s.

None of the men smoked or had previously smoked. This allowed researchers to better determine whether snus itself had an impact on health.

Differences appeared after ten years

The men were followed for up to 32 years. Researchers compared those who used snus with those who did not.

According to Aftonbladet, as cited by News 55, the differences only began to emerge after around ten years.

The study did not measure how much snus the participants used. As a result, researchers cannot say exactly how much use is required before the risk increases.

Risk increased

Snus users faced a higher risk of certain cardiovascular diseases.

The risk of high blood pressure was 64 percent higher, while the risk of heart failure was 75 percent higher, Aftonbladet reported, citing the study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Public Health.

The researchers did not find a clear increase in the risk of premature death. They also emphasized that snus is less harmful than smoking, but it is not without health risks.

Sources: News 55, Aftonbladet, and Scandinavian Journal of Public Health.

Trump’s trousers spark online speculation after memorial day ceremony

Donald Trump attended a Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery alongside Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, according to AOL.

There, they paid tribute to American service members who lost their lives in the line of duty.

After the event, social media users began discussing video footage from the ceremony.

According to Radar Online, some observers believed a noticeable bulge could be seen beneath the president’s clothing, leading to speculation about his health.

Questions raised about Trump’s health

The debate comes at a time when Trump’s physical and mental health is already receiving significant public attention.

Critics have for some time pointed to various television appearances and public events as signs that age may be affecting him.

The White House, however, continues to reject all claims of health problems. Trump himself has emphasized that he is in good condition.

Shortly before his 80th birthday, he underwent a comprehensive medical examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

Afterward, he stated that the results showed no issues.

Speech overshadowed

During the ceremony, Trump was also criticized for making a joke in his speech about the soldiers buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

Some believed the remark was inappropriate given the solemn nature of the occasion.

However, it was not the speech that came to dominate coverage of the day.

Instead, the discussion surrounding Donald Trump’s health and speculation about a possible adult diaper became the main focus of attention following the event.

Sources: AOL and Radar Online.

Trump faces renewed scrutiny after podcast appearance

A single public appearance is often enough to spark days of discussion when it involves one of the world’s most recognizable political figures. In today’s social media landscape, even minor changes in appearance can quickly become headline news.

According to reporting by GB News, Donald Trump’s latest podcast appearance has reignited online debate about the U.S. president’s health. Social media users were quick to focus on a detail that many claimed stood out during the interview, reports Express.

Online scrutiny grows

Trump appeared this week on the podcast Pod Force One, where he spoke with New York Post columnist Miranda Devine. Shortly after the interview was released, images and clips began circulating across social media platforms.

Many users pointed to what they believed was swelling beneath one of the president’s eyes, prompting widespread discussion online. While no official explanation was provided, the images generated significant attention and renewed questions about Trump’s physical condition.

The reaction highlights the intense public scrutiny that continues to surround the 79-year-old president.

White House assessment

The discussion comes just months after the White House published a medical assessment of Trump’s health. The report, prepared by White House physician Dr. Sean Barbabella, described the president as being in strong overall condition and fully capable of carrying out his duties.

According to the assessment, Trump continues to demonstrate healthy cardiovascular, neurological, and respiratory function. The report presented a positive picture of his overall wellbeing despite ongoing public interest in his health.

Weight in focus

The medical summary also revealed that Trump’s weight has increased since his previous physical examination. Physicians recommended maintaining a focus on exercise and dietary adjustments as part of his long-term health management plan.

Although there is no evidence linking the latest online speculation to any confirmed medical issue, the reaction demonstrates how closely the public continues to monitor the health of major political leaders.

Why food allergies occur – and how symptoms can be treated

Food allergy is an allergic reaction to certain foods, but the condition is relatively rare.

Symptoms can range from mild itching in the mouth to severe reactions, and a correct diagnosis often requires thorough medical evaluation, according to Netdoktor.

What is a food allergy?

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Food allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction in which the body’s immune system reacts to substances found in food.

Many people mistakenly believe they have a food allergy even though they have never been tested for it.

Food allergy is rare

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Only around three percent of young children are affected by true food allergies, and most outgrow the condition during their first years of life.

Among adults, the condition affects fewer than one percent of the population.

Why the allergy develops

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When the body is exposed to proteins found in food, the immune system may produce specific antibodies.

Upon later exposure to the same food, these antibodies can trigger an allergic reaction.

Cross-reactivity can cause symptoms

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Some reactions are not caused directly by food allergies but by cross-reactivity.

This is often seen in people with pollen allergies who also react to certain fruits, vegetables, or nuts.

A unique allergy to meat

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There is a serious form of food allergy that can develop after repeated tick bites.

In such cases, meat from hoofed animals can trigger severe allergic reactions, even in very small amounts.

What are allergens?

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Allergens are small parts of proteins that trigger a response from the immune system.

In allergic individuals, the body produces antibodies and immune cells directed against substances that would normally be harmless.

The most common allergens

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Foods that frequently cause allergic reactions include shellfish, milk, fish, peanuts, wheat, eggs, tree nuts, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

Birch pollen can cause cross-reactions

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People who are allergic to birch pollen may also react to hazelnuts, apples, pears, cherries, almonds, plums, kiwi fruit, tomatoes, and carrots.

Grass pollen can also cross-react

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A grass pollen allergy may be associated with reactions to foods such as beans, lentils, green peas, and peanuts.

Typical symptoms of food allergy

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Symptoms may appear shortly after eating or several hours later.

They can include itching of the mouth and lips, swelling, stomach pain, diarrhea, hay fever, asthma, or skin rashes.

Severe reactions require immediate help

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In rare cases, food allergy can lead to anaphylactic shock accompanied by a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

This requires immediate treatment with adrenaline and urgent medical attention.

Food allergy and lactose intolerance are not the same

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In food allergy, the immune system is involved because the body produces antibodies against specific substances in the food.

In lactose intolerance, symptoms occur because the body lacks the enzyme needed to break down milk sugar.

How the diagnosis is made

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Doctors assess symptoms and rule out other possible causes.

Diagnostic methods may include allergy testing, blood tests, elimination diets, and controlled food challenge tests involving suspected trigger foods.

Malnutrition can be a consequence

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Avoiding a wide range of foods without proper guidance can lead to deficiencies in important nutrients.

For this reason, advice from a dietitian may be beneficial.

Avoiding the trigger food is the most important treatment

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If the allergy has been confirmed, the primary treatment is to avoid the foods that trigger reactions.

There is currently no medication that can cure the allergy itself.

Medication can relieve symptoms

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Antihistamines are often used to reduce itching and other allergy-related symptoms.

For individuals who have previously experienced severe reactions, doctors may prescribe an adrenaline auto-injector for emergency use.

Advice for people with food allergies

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It is recommended to be aware of both the foods that trigger reactions and any potential cross-reactivities.

Symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional, and specialist guidance may be helpful.

Source: Netdoktor.

New study reveals undetected heart attacks among thousands in high-risk groups

Most people believe a serious heart condition would come with obvious warning signs. Chest pain, severe discomfort, or a sudden trip to the hospital are often what people expect. But some cardiovascular problems can develop silently for years before they are discovered.

According to researchers from The University of Manchester and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, a new study has uncovered evidence that many people in high-risk groups may be living with undiagnosed heart damage, reports Manchester.ac.uk.

Surprising findings

The findings come from the ongoing EARLY-HF study, which is investigating heart failure risk among adults over the age of 50. Participants were required to have at least two common health conditions linked to cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure, obesity, type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, atrial fibrillation, COPD, or coronary heart disease.

When researchers reviewed the first 550 volunteers, they found that nearly one in ten showed signs of a previous heart attack despite never having received a diagnosis. In addition, almost a quarter of participants were found to have heart or circulatory conditions that required medical attention.

A wider concern

The study also highlighted concerns about blood pressure management. Many participants who had already been diagnosed with high blood pressure were still recording readings above recommended levels.

Key findings included:

  • 9% showed evidence of a previously undetected heart attack.
  • 23% required medical follow-up for heart or circulatory problems.
  • 60% had blood pressure readings above recommended thresholds.
  • 30% showed blood markers indicating strain on the heart.

Researchers believe these figures may reflect a broader issue that extends beyond Greater Manchester.

Early detection matters

The EARLY-HF project aims to identify people at risk of heart failure before symptoms become severe. Heart failure affects more than one million people across the UK and can significantly impact quality of life.

The research team says the findings underline the importance of earlier screening, improved prevention strategies, and better engagement with communities that may have limited access to healthcare. The study is continuing to recruit participants while researchers work to improve methods for detecting hidden cardiovascular disease before it progresses.