Researchers have found that many people with chronic fatigue syndrome also experience hidden breathing abnormalities, such as hyperventilation and dysfunctional breathing, which may worsen symptoms and could be targeted with specific breathing therapies to alleviate some of the condition's effects.
A 68-year-old man was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a serious and often underdiagnosed lung disease that causes lung scarring and difficulty breathing. Despite a grim prognosis, he underwent a lung transplant and has regained much of his lung capacity, highlighting the importance of early detection and awareness of symptoms like persistent dry cough and shortness of breath. IPF's cause remains unknown, and it primarily affects older adults, making awareness and prompt diagnosis crucial for better management.
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects around 30 million adults in the United States. It is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, leading to disrupted sleep patterns and potential health risks. Treatment options are available to manage the condition and improve sleep quality.
Health experts warn against "sucking in" your stomach to appear thinner, as it can lead to breathing difficulties, posture problems, and pelvic floor issues. Constantly holding in your stomach can strain back and neck muscles, cause chronic bad posture, and contribute to neck pain and postural imbalances. Gripping your stomach muscles can also lead to creases in the abdomen and accentuate the belly pouch. The excessive strain can impact the pelvic floor and organs, resulting in bladder and bowel issues. While it may be appropriate during weightlifting, constantly gripping your stomach for extended periods is detrimental to your health. To reverse the damage, experts recommend staying active, using standing desks, practicing muscle-relaxing exercises like yoga, and focusing on low-impact moves to improve posture and relieve stress.