Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) vs. Schizophrenia: How They Differ

As mentioned, BPD and schizophrenia have several overlapping symptoms, including:

  • Difficulty maintaining close relationships
  • Feelings of paranoia
  • Episodes of psychosis

“Borderline personality disorder can consist of extreme emotional distress that appears like paranoia, which is very similar to the paranoia of schizophrenia,” says Ciara Bogdanovic, a licensed marriage and family therapist based in Los Angeles.

But as mentioned, BPD and schizophrenia have distinct differences, says Dr. De Gannes. The core symptoms of BPD center on emotional disturbance, while schizophrenia symptoms come from the disturbance of reality and thought, adds Bogdanovic.

“BPD often involves intense emotions, while schizophrenia can lead to pulling away from others,” Frank adds. “Emotional ups and downs and cognitive challenges are typical in both, though they stem from different causes.”

Although both conditions can lead to fractured relationships, the “why” varies by condition. In schizophrenia, confusion and hallucinations cause the most issues in relationships, says De Gannes. But in BPD, it’s the frequent switch between affection and anger, he adds.

Psychosis in BPD usually arises from extreme stress and is less common and severe than in schizophrenia, notes De Gannes.

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Head and Neck Cancer Signs and Symptoms

Head and neck cancers affect the tissues of the mouth, throat, sinuses, and surrounding areas. They can impact crucial functions like breathing, swallowing, and talking. There are several types of head and neck cancer, with nuanced symptoms. Noticing these symptoms and reporting them to your healthcare provider early can improve your treatment outcomes.
Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer Symptoms A wide variety of less-serious conditions can mimic head and neck cancer symptoms. A sore throat that doesn’t improve is the most common symptom of head and neck cancers, and should be taken seriously.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d4fd63c1-9ba3-4caa-b87e-1bfa491b1e4c Other head and neck cancer symptoms may include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bf968713-e58d-4293-b1b4-96c19c1f5855 A lump in the neck, jaw, or mouth Swelling under the chin or jawbone Sores or red or white patches in the mouth or the throat that won’t heal Difficulty or pain when swallowing Pain in the upper teeth or problems with dentures Pain in the face, neck, or chin that does not go away Unexpected paralysis of the face muscles An unexplained change in the voice or hoarseness Ear pain or hearing loss Frequent headaches Other less-common symptoms of head or neck cancer can include frequent earaches and a chronic sinus infection that doesn’t respond to antibiotics. Issues with the mouth, including unusual bleeding or numbness in the mouth or tongue could be signs of head or neck cancer.
Types of Head and Neck Cancer Types Head and neck cancers are categorized according to where the disease originates in the head and neck region. Most begin in the squamous cells that line the mucosal surfaces of the head and neck.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293d22120e-5503-4b09-ba31-5f1def600325 Types of head and neck cancer include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762928a52827-0bbd-4922-9129-682c654a18d9 Oral Cancer Oral cancer develops in the mouth and may affect the lips, tongue, cheek, and the floor or roof of the mouth. It’s one of the most common types of head and neck cancer.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297a900af0-bf44-4ba9-83f4-431a7f22ccb6 Oropharyngeal Cancer This type of cancer occurs in the oropharynx , or the middle section of the throat. It may include the base of the tongue, tonsils, and back of the throat. Nasopharyngeal Cancer This rare type of cancer occurs in the nasopharynx , behind the nose and back of the throat. It’s often diagnosed in later stages. Hypopharyngeal Cancer This cancer forms in the hypopharynx, the lower part of the throat surrounding the larynx (voice box). Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinus Cancer These uncommon cancers occur in the nasal cavity or sinuses. Salivary Gland Cancer This rare cancer occurs in the salivary glands , including those near the mouth and jaw. It has multiple subtypes. Tonsil Cancer This is a subtype of oropharyngeal cancer that affects the tonsils and is often linked to HPV infection or tobacco use. The National Cancer Institute notes that cancer in other nearby areas, including the brain, the eye, the esophagus, the thyroid gland, and the skin of the head and neck are not usually classified as head and neck cancers.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a175301d-ae5f-430e-9f5e-b46e0ccfe29f
When to See a Doctor Doctor’s Visits Detecting cancer early often leads to more successful treatment outcomes, so you don’t want to ignore any sign of a potential head and neck cancer. Although symptoms of head and neck cancer could be caused by many other things, if you have any of them, especially a chronic sore throat or a new lump in the head or neck, it’s important to ask your doctor about the possibility of cancer. You should also talk to your dentist about any issues with your mouth besides your teeth, including pain, swelling, or unexplained bleeding, that could be signs of cancer or other problems.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f0086d15-c5b4-4259-b4ae-2b022337069c Your doctor is likely to examine the head and neck area to feel for abnormalities and may use mirrors and lights inside the mouth and throat to explore areas that are harder to see. Blood or urine tests may also be performed. If your doctor or dentist thinks there is a possibility of head or neck cancer, you may be referred to a specialist like an otolaryngologist for a more comprehensive examination.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293c317ca6-14fd-42b8-8974-099928e96cb2 Some common tools for helping diagnose head and neck cancer include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ed49f5c9-0101-48f7-bcca-8727de91966a Endoscopy This thin lighted tube with a camera at the tip can help a doctor explore areas of the head and neck, including the sinuses, that are harder to reach. Diagnostic Imaging A radiologist can take images of your throat that may include CT scans, PET scans, MRIs, or an X-ray called a Panorex (panoramic radiograph) that shows the upper and lower jaw and the sinuses. Biopsy A surgeon may remove a small amount of tissue from an area where cancer is suspected. A pathologist examines the sample and consults with team members to make a diagnosis. If there is a diagnosis of cancer, your doctor will consult with you to determine the best options for treating the cancer, based on its location and how far it has progressed.
The Takeaway Head and neck cancer is a group of cancers that develop in the tissues of the head and neck, including the mouth, throat, sinuses, and salivary glands. Early detection of head and neck cancer is crucial for better outcomes, and symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for those of other conditions. Common signs include persistent lumps, sores that don’t heal, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, and unexplained pain. If you notice these signs and symptoms, especially sore throat or a new lump in the head or neck, talk to your doctor immediately.
Resources We Trust Mayo Clinic: What is mouth cancer? A Mayo Clinic expert explains Cancer Care: Coping With Oral and Head and Neck CancerHead and Neck Cancer Alliance: Oral, Head & Neck Self-Exam GuideSupport for People With Oral and Head and Neck Cancer: Find a Local Chapter Near YouMemorial Sloan Kettering: Resources for Head and Neck Cancer Survivors

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Gout and Diabetes

Diabetes and gout have a bidirectional relationship, which means that each condition influences the other.

“The two conditions have a common upstream risk factor, which is obesity,” says Stephen P. Juraschek, MD, PhD, a gout researcher and an associate professor of medicine at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. “We know that a higher BMI and obesity is associated with diabetes and is strongly associated with gout.”

Additionally, metabolic syndrome is also common with these two conditions.

 Metabolic syndrome is a group of warning signs, including high blood pressure, abdominal obesity, hyperglycemia, and unhealthy cholesterol levels, that collectively indicate a higher risk for life-threatening illnesses.
According to gout researcher Youssef M. Roman, PharmD, PhD, an associate professor of pharmacy practice and administrative sciences at Idaho State University in Pocatello, gout may also be related to insulin resistance.

Higher amounts of insulin in your blood caused by insulin resistance is called hyperinsulinemia.

“Hyperinsulinemia, a hallmark of type 2 diabetes, can have major effects on the expression of multiple genes responsible for uric acid disposition,” says Dr. Roman.

Despite the obvious overlap, the relationship between gout and diabetes isn’t completely understood. Roman says it can be difficult to tell exactly which one leads to or causes the other. One study suggested diabetes could be associated with increased serum urate levels.

Another study found that developing diabetes at a younger age was associated with early gout development.

To confuse things further, other research suggests that diabetes may protect against gout.

“Studies that have looked at diabetes duration over time have shown that gout risk trends downward a little bit and the mechanisms for this are not entirely clear,” says Dr. Juraschek.

Juraschek says there is bidirectionality between the two because of metabolic syndrome, “but I’m not sure I would say that uric acid is explicitly causing diabetes or diabetes is acting directly on gout.”

If you do have both conditions, talk to your doctor about harmonizing your treatments so you can treat each condition without making the other worse.

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Schizophrenia Diagnosis

Schizophrenia is a chronic, disabling psychiatric condition that causes symptoms like hallucinations and delusions . Early diagnosis and treatment are very important for managing symptoms before major complications arise and for a better long-term prognosis.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295eb633e7-d211-471a-bf1a-b80617f6b549 But diagnosing schizophrenia can be challenging for several reasons. No single test can diagnose schizophrenia. Instead, it’s diagnosed by evaluating a person’s symptoms over several months and ruling out other possible health conditions. Use of certain drugs like methamphetamine or LSD can cause symptoms resembling schizophrenia. Schizophrenia also can have similar symptoms to other psychiatric conditions, such as bipolar disorder . This can result in misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment in some cases.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f7ca9447-bafa-4259-a876-077f03bb52a4e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b9bf1bb8-62c8-41dd-b711-7a8221bc1935 Diagnosing and treating schizophrenia is further complicated by the fact that many with schizophrenia aren’t aware they have it. This symptom, called anosognosia or “lack of insight,” can make helping people with the condition more difficult.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f7ca9447-bafa-4259-a876-077f03bb52a4 Factors like these can lead to delays in proper diagnosis and treatment , which can cause worsened symptoms, physical health problems, or early death. But a timely and correct diagnosis significantly boosts a person’s odds of managing their symptoms and recovering.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f7ca9447-bafa-4259-a876-077f03bb52a4e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b9bf1bb8-62c8-41dd-b711-7a8221bc1935
How Is Schizophrenia Diagnosed? How Is Schizophrenia Diagnosed? Schizophrenia is usually diagnosed by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293d5ecbef-4cc8-4982-aba5-d60f10cb89b3 The condition usually follows a progression. Schizophrenia often starts with a prodrome, or early, mild symptoms indicating the onset of the condition, such as changes in behavior including cognitive difficulties, social withdrawal, paranoid or suspicious thoughts, or sleep disturbances. A diagnosis is usually made once the condition progresses to first-episode psychosis , a symptom of schizophrenia that involves hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there) and delusions (steadfast false beliefs that are clearly untrue to everyone around them).e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d445d8e8-a31e-48b2-84d6-4e3c2815ebb2 Getting a correct schizophrenia diagnosis typically involves the following steps: e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293d5ecbef-4cc8-4982-aba5-d60f10cb89b3 Mental Health Evaluation Your healthcare provider will perform a mental health evaluation to assess your symptoms. They do this by asking you or your loved ones questions about your health, observing your behavior, and noting your reported symptoms. Some of their questions will be aimed at ruling out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms. They will then compare this information to established criteria for a schizophrenia diagnosis.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629816d494a-8ca4-470e-9b7b-7637164846b1 The criteria are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) , which is a guide used by professionals to diagnose mental health conditions. The criteria needed to be diagnosed with schizophrenia are:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629816d494a-8ca4-470e-9b7b-7637164846b1e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290abc5cf6-3efa-46c9-bc42-fe2f3afefead You have at least two of the five main symptoms of schizophrenia. You’ve had symptoms for one month or more. Your symptoms affect your ability to work or maintain relationships. The five main symptoms of schizophrenia are:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290abc5cf6-3efa-46c9-bc42-fe2f3afefead Delusions Strongly held false beliefs that are clearly untrue, such as believing that someone is controlling your thoughts. Hallucinations Seeing, smelling, hearing, feeling, or tasting things that don’t actually exist. This can include hearing voices, for example. Disorganized or Incoherent Speech Having problems organizing your thoughts when you speak, making it difficult for others to understand what you are saying. Disorganized or Unusual Movements You move in ways that are unusual to others, such as moving excessively for no apparent reason or not moving much at all. Negative Symptoms Negative symptoms refer to the absence of expected ways of interacting with your surroundings. Examples include having little facial expression or speaking without any emotion in your voice.
Physical Evaluation A physical exam for schizophrenia includes assessing your general appearance, such as hygiene and grooming. This gives your doctor a picture of your self-care habits. It also includes obtaining a set of vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate, to screen for any underlying health problems.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762911bb6ca9-c841-48bf-801c-85108010c54c Your doctor may also take your height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) as part of your physical examination.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762940bea471-4578-42d7-a8db-de6e7a72e104 Lab Tests and Screenings Your mental health provider may also order laboratory or imaging tests to help rule out other conditions with similar symptoms. These tests may include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293d01d83f-1731-429a-8661-0b9c4d32d35d Drug and Alcohol Screening This helps confirm or rule out the use of alcohol or drugs like LSD or methamphetamines, which can cause schizophrenia-like symptoms.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293d01d83f-1731-429a-8661-0b9c4d32d35de60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629eb709ad6-c848-4352-9c35-2a2cf2a348a6 Blood Tests Blood tests help assess your kidney function, liver function, electrolyte levels, and other clinical data.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762940bea471-4578-42d7-a8db-de6e7a72e104 Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computerized Tomography (CT) These imaging scans are used to gather detailed images of the brain.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293d01d83f-1731-429a-8661-0b9c4d32d35d
Other Conditions That Can Resemble Schizophrenia Other Conditions That Can Resemble Schizophrenia As mentioned, healthcare providers need to rule out other conditions that can cause symptoms resembling schizophrenia. These include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291f015427-528e-4bf8-99e8-41b9bd5a000f Schizoaffective Disorder Schizoaffective disorder is a psychiatric condition that shares some symptoms of schizophrenia, such as delusions and hallucinations, but also involves mood symptoms, such as mania or depression.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976294eb47a2b-2608-482d-bacb-3dd8d30c131a Bipolar Disorder With Psychotic Features Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder involving alternating manic, hypomanic, or depressive mood episodes (periods of intense emotional states). Like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder can also involve episodes of psychosis.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fa9733a0-942a-4193-a525-582b8b911a49 Major Depressive Disorder With Psychotic Features Major depressive disorder (aka depression ) is a mood disorder involving persistent depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, and other symptoms. In some cases, major depressive disorder can involve episodes of psychosis . Delusional Disorder Delusional disorder is a psychiatric condition that involves delusions, but doesn’t involve other typical symptoms of schizophrenia like hallucinations or disorganized speech. Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder Substance-induced psychotic disorder is a form of psychosis caused by starting or stopping drug or alcohol use, especially during periods of intoxication or withdrawal.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629dc359585-93ad-4448-a585-523959f59d76 As mentioned, using drugs such as methamphetamines or LSD can cause symptoms similar to schizophrenia. Methamphetamine use can cause hallucinations and paranoia.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d5e11c17-d22e-4390-8f8f-cf66d3528bab LSD can cause hallucinations and a disconnect from reality.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293a6fc928-a9e5-4c26-ae30-bf9380d90db0
The Takeaway Diagnosing schizophrenia can be challenging, as its symptoms can resemble those of other mental health conditions, and many with schizophrenia aren’t aware they have it. Delays in diagnosis can lead to worsened symptoms, physical health issues, or early death, but early diagnosis and treatment can improve prognosis. A physical exam, mental health exam, lab tests, and sometimes imaging tests are needed to get an accurate diagnosis.
Resources We Trust Cleveland Clinic: Schizophrenia Mayo Clinic: Schizophrenia: Diagnosis and Treatment American Psychiatric Association: What Is Schizophrenia? National Alliance on Mental Illness: Schizophrenia Johns Hopkins Medicine: Schizophrenia

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9 Celebrities Who Have Autism

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and chairman of X (formerly known as Twitter), revealed during a guest appearance on Saturday Night Live in 2021 that he has Asperger’s syndrome.

“I won’t make a lot of eye contact with the cast tonight. But don’t worry, I’m pretty good at running ‘human’ in emulation mode,” he joked.

Musk was likely referring to two common symptoms of ASD: lack of eye contact with others, as well as “autism masking” (per research, the term refers to behaviors that people with ASD use to try to mirror the mannerisms of neurotypical people and hide certain aspects of their condition).

In an interview aired at TED2022, Musk talked in more detail about the symptoms he’s experienced.

“Well, I think everyone’s experience is going to be somewhat different,” Musk said during the interview. “But I guess for me, the social cues were not intuitive. So I was just very bookish, and I didn’t understand. … I guess others could sort of, intuitively understand … what was meant by something. I would just tend to take things very literally, like, the words, as spoken, were exactly what they meant.”

In hindsight, Musk added, he thinks having Asperger’s syndrome may have helped him in his career. “I think there’s maybe some value also from a technology standpoint, because I found it rewarding to spend all night programming computers just by myself,” said Musk. “And I think most people, most people don’t enjoy typing strange symbols into a computer by themselves all night.”

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Why Is My Poop Black? 4 Possible Causes

Stool color is primarily determined by the amount of bile, or digestive fluid, it contains. Bile starts out as a yellow-green but tends to turn brown as it’s broken down by the enzymes in your digestive tract.

Diet, medications, and health conditions can turn stool tan, red, yellow, black, and green.

Here are a few potential reasons your stool may be black.

1. You Eat a Lot of Dark-Colored Foods

Dark foods can turn your poop nearly black, especially if you’ve eaten them in great quantities (much more than typical serving size). Common culprits include black licorice, blueberries, beets, and blood sausage.

The natural compounds that give these foods their dark color can stain your stool, Dr. Johnson explains. Blueberries, for example, contain pigmented antioxidants called anthocyanins, which can give poop a darker brown shade.

2. You’re Taking a Supplement, Like Iron

Black poop is a potential side effect of certain dietary supplements, particularly iron supplements, says Janese Laster, MD, a board-certified gastroenterologist, internist, obesity medicine specialist, and nutritionist in private practice in Washington, DC.

If iron is the culprit, your stool will likely be a greenish or grayish shade of black.

Dr. Laster says this is a normal side effect caused by the way iron pills are broken down in the gut.
Supplements that contain activated charcoal — which are sometimes touted as a remedy for gas and bloating — can also darken your poop.

 Activated charcoal is a black powder, and just like dark-colored foods, its midnight hue can stain your poop black.

3. You’re Taking Anti-Diarrheals

Black stool is a common side effect of over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medicines, which are used to treat digestive issues like heartburn, indigestion, diarrhea, and nausea.

The offender is bismuth subsalicylate, the active ingredient in many anti-diarrheal medications.

“Bismuth subsalicylate can react with naturally occurring substances in your gastrointestinal tract and result in black or dark poop,” Johnson explains. You might notice your tongue appears darker, too.
These are typical side effects that disappear after you stop taking the medication.

4. You Have a Gastrointestinal Bleed

In more serious cases, black stool can signal bleeding in the digestive tract. Doctors refer to this kind of black poop as melena, Johnson says, and it can signal bleeding in the stomach, esophagus, or small intestine caused by ulcers (open sores in the lining of the gut), cancer, or a tear in the lining of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Johnson explains that melena is black instead of red because the blood has passed through the colon, where bacteria break down its hemoglobin (the protein that lends blood its scarlet hue). For this reason, it also usually has a tar-like texture.

Some people are more prone to this kind of internal bleeding, including those who take blood-thinning medications like warfarin or use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen sodium, Laster says. Blood thinners make it harder for your blood to clot, so a small tear or sore in the intestines that would normally heal just fine could lead to worrisome bleeding, Laster says. NSAIDs, on the other hand, can damage the inner lining of the GI tract, leading to ulcers in this lining that cause bleeding.

People who had gastrointestinal surgery or have mechanical heart valves (often used to replace diseased or damaged heart valves) are also at greater risk of melena, as are those with the following conditions:

Melena requires immediate medical attention.

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Hypothyroidism Symptoms

These are the most common symptoms you may have if you have an underactive thyroid gland.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Adults

The most common hypothyroid symptoms are fatigue, cold intolerance, constipation, slower metabolism, and dry skin, while more surprising signs may be a slower heart rate, joint and muscle pain, and dry or puffy skin, says Gregory Dodell, MD, an assistant clinical professor of medicine, endocrinology, diabetes, and bone disease at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. Some people might experience one symptom but not the others. Adults with hypothyroidism may have any of the following signs and symptoms:

  • High cholesterol
  • Puffy face
  • Weight gain
  • Fatigue
  • Sensitivity to cold
  • Constipation
  • Slowed heart rate
  • Memory decline
  • Stiff, swollen, or achy joints
  • Irregular or heavy periods
  • Muscle weakness, aches, stiffness, or tenderness
  • Hoarseness

Hypothyroidism Symptoms in Infants

Babies born without a thyroid gland will develop hypothyroidism while those born with a dysfunctional thyroid gland may develop the condition.

Thyroid function is typically screened at birth. Babies may not immediately have signs or symptoms of the condition, but when they do, they include:

  • Growth abnormalities
  • Yellowed whites of eyes or skin (jaundice)
  • Puffy skin
  • Constant sleepiness
  • Constipation

Signs of Hypothyroidism in Children and Teenagers

Like infants, children and teens are also at risk of hypothyroidism. Often, symptoms in this age group mimic those of adults.

In addition to the symptoms that occur in adults, signs of hypothyroidism in this age group include:

  • Cognitive delays
  • Short stature
  • Late development of permanent teeth
  • Delayed puberty

Weight Gain Is Often One of the First Signs of Hypothyroidism

Gradual weight gain is perhaps one of the first noticeable signs of hypothyroidism.

This is related to a slower than normal metabolism. You may find losing weight more difficult, or perhaps you gain weight despite diet and exercise. On top of that, you may also feel bloated from hypothyroid-related constipation.

Fatigue That Persists May Signal Hypothyroidism

Excessive fatigue is another common symptom of hypothyroidism.

You may feel extremely tired all the time, no matter how much sleep you get.

Habitual daytime naps or a constant need for caffeine may also be signs of excessive fatigue related to this condition (unfortunately, these practices can also make it more difficult to sleep at night).

Reproductive Changes in Women Could Mean You Have Hypothyroidism

Women are at an increased risk for developing thyroid disease. Women are also more likely to develop thyroid conditions after pregnancy and following menopause.

“Women may experience a change in their menstrual cycle if their thyroid function is off,” says Dr. Dodell. Not only might you experience irregularities in your cycle, but hypothyroidism may also cause periods that are much heavier than normal.

Women who are trying to conceive may have difficulties getting pregnant.

“Therefore, women who are trying to get pregnant or are planning to try and get pregnant in the near future should have their thyroid levels checked,” Dodell explains. “We also monitor women who are being treated for hypothyroidism closely during pregnancy, since the dose of medication may need to be adjusted.”

Menopausal women may experience worsening symptoms.

Cold Intolerance Is a Symptom of Hypothyroidism

A slowed-down metabolism from hypothyroidism may also lower your body heat. This can make you more cold intolerant.

Depression and Hypothyroidism Are Comorbidities

A lack of adequate thyroid hormones can make you feel unusually depressed. Aside from feeling depressed, forgetfulness is also common in people with hypothyroidism.

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Beans, Lentils, and Peanut Butter: Are Legumes Good for Diabetes?

Plant-based proteins like legumes and nuts are a good nutritional choice for people with diabetes. They can help lower blood sugar spikes, improve glycemic control, and they don’t contain the unhealthy saturated fats that many animal proteins do.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762917cdad13-aeae-4e80-9e60-1df06a8ac67f “Legumes are rich in protein and fiber, both of which are helpful nutrition tools for managing blood sugar levels,” says Mary Ellen Phipps, MPH, RDN , a registered dietitian-nutritionist in the Houston area and the author of The Easy Diabetes Cookbook . Nutrition authorities agree that most people — including ones with blood sugar issues — should eat more legumes. Beyond being a rich source of protein and fiber, they’re also a good source of vitamins and minerals, and they don’t contain any cholesterol.
What Are Legumes? What Are Legumes? The term legumes is not just a synonym for beans. They are a broader group of plants that are members of the bean family.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299bd07a2c-9182-480c-abc9-ceb5adff8b30 “You may have heard terms like legumes, pulses, or beans sometimes used interchangeably,” says Melissa Joy Dobbins, RDN, CDCES , a registered dietitian-nutritionist and certified diabetes care and education specialist in Chicago and the host of the Sound Bites podcast . “However, while all beans are legumes, not all legumes are beans.” Legumes include: Beans (lima, snap, string, navy, black, kidney, pinto, cannellini) Broad beans (fava beans) Chickpeas Lentils Peanuts Peas Soybeans
What Are the Health Benefits of Legumes? Health Benefits Legumes are generally inexpensive, environmentally friendly, versatile, and fit into both vegan and gluten-free diets. Legumes can help manage diabetes symptoms as well as other related health conditions. Lower Blood Pressure Legumes are beneficial to cardiovascular health. This is extremely important for people with diabetes, since they are twice as likely to develop heart disease or stroke than those without the disease.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762957768549-be6e-434a-a540-9e92845d049e Other research shows that people who have type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure (a risk factor for heart disease) who eat three servings of legumes per week had better blood pressure control than those who ate the least.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762983d7bc64-bbc4-4ff2-acb7-9e7c740ce114 Healthier Body Weight Weight management is an important component of diabetes treatment for type 2 diabetes. Weight loss can increase insulin sensitivity, helping with blood sugar control and potentially reducing reliance on diabetes medications.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762967e3a36f-8000-4a32-8567-68655e68cac5e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295cf2885a-1bd0-4202-9753-0505457fc6e3 With their combination of fiber, plant protein, and lower calorie content, legumes are a great addition to a weight loss diet. People who eat legumes regularly gain less weight and have leaner waistlines over time than those who don’t.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762904a09d51-e7bc-4b81-b380-d32563190522 Fiber and protein help promote weight maintenance and weight loss because they are so satisfying and help people feel fuller sooner and for longer.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762935d294c4-521c-4ef8-8c90-b51cd162c40b Lower Cholesterol Levels Diabetes can lead to elevated triglycerides and LDL cholesterol , while also lowering HDL cholesterol , known as “good” cholesterol.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762909025142-8100-4999-b568-7b96676db95d One small study found that eating a cup of canned beans decreased total and LDL cholesterol in adults with high cholesterol, and concluded that doing so is a practical strategy to lower cardiovascular disease risk.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762935dc42ed-26a8-4d3b-8302-3c2e25327d92 The benefits can be even larger if you’re using legumes to replace red meat.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d0f8524d-f66f-47db-b73b-d009acde5c2d
Legumes and Blood Sugar Legumes and Blood Sugar Legumes do contain carbohydrates, which means that these tiny nutritional powerhouses can lead to a gradual increase in blood sugar. If you use insulin before meals, you’ll almost certainly need to count the carbs in legumes and dose accordingly. But as far as carbohydrate sources go, you can hardly find healthier options, especially if they’re replacing sugars, refined starches, or ultra-processed foods in your diet. “While it’s important to be aware of and manage your carbohydrate intake, choosing quality carbohydrates, such as legumes, that include fiber, vitamins, and minerals is recommended,” says Dobbins. Legumes are very low on the glycemic index, a scale used to measure how foods affect blood sugar levels.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f675030c-807f-4e72-b63c-728d8aba1dd1 “Foods that are low on the glycemic index scale have less of an impact on blood sugar levels compared to foods that rank as moderate or high on the glycemic index scale,” explains Phipps. “Legumes are low on the glycemic index scale because of their low sugar and high fiber content,” she says. Fiber-rich foods slow digestion, resulting in lower blood sugar spikes after meals. One review of five studies found that people who ate legumes regularly for at least six weeks saw blood sugar benefits, such as decreased fasting blood glucose levels and a reduction in A1C by up to 0.5 percent.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296613baa1-0622-44b3-8680-1795c3fdf430 Phipps says you can incorporate legumes into your diet every day if you’d like — starchy carbohydrates like peas, beans, and lentils can also fit into almost any healthy eating pattern.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762944a500d1-ce9d-4054-9f15-f93a2ed6c959
Low-Carb Legume Options Low-Carb Options Many people with diabetes choose to manage their condition with a low-carbohydrate diet , and may eat few legumes. For committed low-carb eaters, however, there are some options with surprisingly low carbohydrate counts. Green Beans We tend to think of these more as a green, nonstarchy veggie, but green beans fit into the legume family. One cup has 31 calories, 7 grams (g) of carbohydrates, and 3 g of fiber.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629eb906d1a-c173-43d7-9728-92b0654d2ac6 Peanuts Dobbins recommends peanuts for people with diabetes, although they are extremely calorie dense. A serving of peanuts is 1 ounce (oz), which contains 166 calories, 6 g of carbohydrates, and more than 2 g of fiber.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299aeaf91f-4213-42db-81db-088cbca7f689 Soybeans When eaten whole, they’re known as edamame, and roughly a half cup of raw green soybeans has 112 calories, 7 g of carbs, and 4 g of fiber.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762977560c96-24ef-4872-8024-56545bc55c03 Soybeans are also used to make tofu, tempeh, soy milk, and soy yogurt. And there’s a canned variety of this legume known as black soybeans, which could be used as a substitute for higher-carb black beans or pinto beans. Lupini Beans These Mediterranean beans have been around for centuries, but they’ve only recently made their way into specialty and high-end food stores. They’re typically sold lightly salted in brine and eaten as a snack. A ¼ cup contains only 40 calories, 3 g of carbs, and 1 g of fiber.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629983f2fd6-3667-4305-bece-7825e214db5a
Are Peanuts and Peanut Butter Good for Diabetes? Peanuts and Peanut Butter Yes and no. Dobbins says peanuts and peanut butter contain many nutrients that may reduce cardiovascular disease risk, but they are high in calories and can cause weight gain — a known risk factor for type 2 diabetes — if eaten too liberally. “[Peanuts] are high in antioxidants like vitamin E, heart healthy unsaturated fats, and phytonutrients such as resveratrol,” says Dobbins. Resveratrol is a naturally occurring plant compound known for its antioxidant properties.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f6ddda17-0461-4fe5-b97c-114127face72 If you choose to snack on peanuts, avoid those that are flavored and excessively sweet. Honey-roasted peanuts are a healthier choice than most junk foods, but you can easily find yourself eating more sugar, fat, and calories than you intended. Sometimes oils and sugars are added to peanut butter to improve the flavor and texture. Choosing a natural variety is the best way to avoid added sugar, since they’re typically just ground peanuts.
How to Incorporate Legumes in Your Diet Incorporating Legumes Into Your Diet Beans, peas, and lentils can all make delicious additions to your diet. But if you’re not sure how to make them a regular part of your meal plan, try these expert tips. Watch the serving size. Aim for a half cup, Phipps recommends. In this amount, you’ll average around 8 g of protein and 8 g of fiber. Swap legumes for animal protein . Legumes can lend a meaty texture and taste to familiar dishes you enjoy. They especially shine as a substitute for ground meat, says Phipps. “Swap out half the meat for cooked beans or lentils,” she suggests. Sprinkle them on other foods. Think salads, veggies, or rice, suggests Dobbins. When you’re cooking, think about adding a few spoonfuls to your recipe. Make them a side dish. Cooked legumes pair well with chicken or fish. Try bean salad, cooked lentils, or some steamed or roasted green beans in place of traditional rice, pasta, or potatoes, says Dobbins. Whip up a dip. Dobbins suggests hummus, which is made with chickpeas, or black or white bean dip. Use low fat and low carb baby cucumbers, mini bell peppers, or carrot slices to scoop it up.
The Takeaway Legumes, which include beans, lentils, and peanuts, are excellent plant-based protein sources that may help manage blood sugar levels due to their high fiber content. Although legumes contain carbohydrates that can impact blood sugar, they still can be a safe dietary choice for many people with diabetes. Peanuts and peanut butter are nutritionally sound but calorie dense. Be mindful of serving sizes when integrating them into meals. People who follow a low-carb diet can try green beans, soybeans, and lupini beans, which offer lower carbohydrate options without sacrificing their nutritional benefits.
Resources We Trust Cleveland Clinic: How to Follow a Diabetes-Friendly DietMayo Clinic: Bean and Legume RecipesHarvard Health Publishing: Love Those Legumes!Johns Hopkins Patient Guide to Diabetes: Getting Started on a Plant-Based DietAmerican Diabetes Association: What Superstar Foods Are Good for Diabetes?

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Does Cinnamon Lower Blood Sugar?

Given its mixed scientific results, cinnamon seems unlikely to make a significant impact on your health, especially in the smaller amounts that most people are likely to add to their meals. But even so, there’s good reason to sprinkle it on toast, add it to tea or coffee, or mix it into oatmeal or yogurt anyway, says Sandra Arévalo, RDN, MPH, CDCES, the director of the Jacob’s Family Pride Wellness Center at Montefiore Nyack Hospital in New York.

“I recommend cinnamon and nutmeg to add flavor to desserts and other sweet treats while reducing the amount of sugar used in the recipe,” she says.

Cinnamon supplements, on the other hand, make it easier to consume larger amounts of it. They can contain as many as 6 g (1¼ tsp) per dose, according to some studies.

 But taking supplements comes with some risk. Unlike prescription and over-the-counter medications, supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and their manufacturers are not required to provide evidence of their safety or efficacy.

If you decide to try cinnamon supplements, Arévalo cautions against consuming too much, since they can cause gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or heartburn.

“There are studies that show cinnamon can also affect the liver when taken in large doses because of the effects of a component in cinnamon called coumarin,” she says. A small percentage of people may be especially sensitive to liver damage from to coumarin consumption.

Check with your doctor to ensure that cinnamon supplements won’t interact with any other medicines or supplements you take. If they won’t, look for a supplement that’s been third-party tested by NSF, ConsumerLab, or U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP).

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FDA Approves Blujepa (Gepotidacin), a New Drug for UTIs

Women and girls with urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially stubborn ones that tend to recur despite treatment, have a new medication option now that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the oral antibiotic gepotidacin.

The drug, okayed for females 12 years old and up with uncomplicated UTIs (that have not spread beyond the bladder to the kidneys), will be marketed under the brand name Blujepa. It is the first in a new class of UTI antibiotics, and the first to be approved in almost three decades.

“The new antibiotic is a fantastic event, as there is a significant minority of women with UTIs that have become resistant to the current armamentarium of antibiotics. This gives an option to those who would otherwise need intravenous antibiotics,” says Craig Comiter, MD, a professor of urology and urologist at Stanford Health Care in California.

UTIs are the most common type of infection in women, impacting up to 16 million women in the United States annually. Over half of all women are affected by a UTI in their lifetime, and an estimated 30 percent experience recurrent UTIs.

Blujepa Approval Provides ‘Another Important Choice’ for UTI Treatment

Blujepa’s approval is based on positive outcomes from two late-stage clinical trials, EAGLE-2 and EAGLE-3. In these studies, Blujepa was compared with nitrofurantoin, a leading treatment for uncomplicated UTIs.

In the EAGLE-2 trial, Blujepa demonstrated non-inferiority, meaning it was at least as effective as nitrofurantoin, and 50 percent of the women were symptom free and had no microbiological signs of infection, compared with 47 percent for nitrofurantoin.

In the EAGLE-3 trial, Blujepa showed slightly better efficacy, with a success rate of 59 percent compared with 44 percent for nitrofurantoin.

Bluejepa appears to be about as effective as the currently available options, says Dr. Comiter. “But when bacteria are resistant to other antibiotics, choices are limited, and so this gives us another important choice,” says Comiter.

What Are the Side Effects of Blujepa?

Blujepa was generally well tolerated in the clinical trials. As is typical with antibiotics, gastrointestinal side effects were the most common. Diarrhea topped the list, occurring in 14 to 18 percent of participants. Nausea was also noted, at close to 9 percent.

These side effects were mostly mild to moderate, with only a small percentage of patients experiencing more severe symptoms, and there were no life-threatening adverse events.

UTIs Increasingly Involve Drug-Resistant Bacteria

UTIs, also called bladder infections, are most often caused when bacteria that are typically found in the digestive tract migrate to the urinary tract during sex or while wiping after a bowel movement.

  • A strong urge to urinate that doesn’t go away
  • Burning and painful urination
  • Cloudy, red, or pink urine
  • Pelvic pain
Most UTIs are caused by the bacteria Escherichia coli, and for decades, these infections were easily treated and cured with antibiotics. But that’s changing because of antibiotic resistance, which is when bacteria don’t respond to the medicines used to treat them.

Evidence suggests that more than 90 percent of bacteria that cause UTIs are resistant to at least one common antibiotic, and almost 80 percent are resistant to at least two.

That’s why new antibiotics are necessary, explains Comiter. “Resistance is acquired, generally ascribed to overuse of antibiotics, but it is a natural part of bacterial evolution and may be unavoidable,” he says.

Blujepa will be most appropriate for people with UTIs caused by resistant bacteria, commonly called ESBL (extended spectrum beta-lactamase) or MDR (multidrug resistant) strains, says Comiter.

“This approval will also help patients everywhere who have multiresistant infection,” he says.

When Will Blujepa Be Available and How Much Will It Cost?

Blujepa is expected to be available in the United States sometime this summer, says Lyndsay Meyer, the director of U.S. Corporate Media Relations at GSK.

“Details are forthcoming,” on how much a round of the antibiotic will cost and insurance coverage, she says.

Given that most antibiotics are generic, and Blujepa will be a new branded option, will cost be a consideration in prescribing to patients?

“Cost is always a consideration, and this treatment should be ‘saved’ for those bacteria that are known to be resistant to current antibiotics,” says Comiter.

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