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Month: October 2018

  • Finally the Razer 2

    Finally the Razer 2

    I’ve been waiting for this news for a while. I kept asking when is Razer going to make a move for a new phone. Well Things are heating up in the Android market. We have seen the Note 9 and Pixel 3 release this month. There were very few surprises in store for the Pixel 3, which is now Google’s most expensive phone ever. Lack luster release to say the least. Starting at $799 there are better options. For instance, you could buy the Razer Phone 2 instead, Razer’s brand new gaming phone. We knew the new Razer Phone was coming. Razer announced this a few weeks ago when it stated the original gaming phone was a tremendous revenue generator. Why is this a better choice than the Pixel 3? Let me tell you folks if you want to ratchet up specs and a screen that’s unlike anything available on smartphones stay tuned and check out the Razer 2.

    For starters the Razer 2 is the 5.72-inch IGZO LCD with 2560 x 1440 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, wide color gamut, UltraMotion technology and Corning Gorilla Glass 5. Unlike everything else this month, no notch. The Razer 2 is featuring top and bottom bezels. Camera? We have two 12-megapixel cameras, including a telephoto lens and a wide-angle lens with optical image stabilization. On the front, there’s an 8-megapixel selfie taker.

    The Power

    How is the power on the Razer 2? Look inside and you will see the Snapdragon 845 is popped in the Razer Phone 2, so plenty to spare. Also you get twice the memory — the phone has 8GB of RAM compared to 4GB for the Pixel. Lastly it features a Vapor Chamber cooling system. The base model comes with 64GB of UFS storage and does feature support for microSD storage expansion.

     

    The Final Razer 2 Thought

    It is bad to the bone and the top android phone on the market. It is also a better price then its competitors at $799. The phone will be available in two shades of black, including Mirror Black and Satin Black, and it will ship in the fourth quarter in the US, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, with preorders set for October 11th. The Pixel 3, meanwhile, will reach buyers on October 17th.

  • How to Keep Your iPhone Safe from Hackers

    How to Keep Your iPhone Safe from Hackers

    If you’re an iPhone user, you’re in luck: iOS is one of the tightest operating systems in the world. Your data is really quite safe with iPhone as long as you follow some simple safety tips. Today, we’re looking at the best things you can do to keep your iPhone safe from hackers!

    How to Keep Your iPhone Safe from Hackers

    Make Sure USB Restricted Mode is On

    There is a popular iPhone hacking tool called GrayKey. GrayKey is used by law enforcement and criminals alike to hack into iPhones by brute-forcing the passcode. Using your iPhone’s USB port, the GrayKey tool tries every possible combination of numbers to break through your password. The work-around that keeps GrayKey from working is USB Restricted Mode.

    This mode is on by default, but you may have turned it off for things like CarPlay. If you have USB Restricted mode off, it’s easy to turn back on. Go to settings, the Passcodes. After entering your passcode, find the radio button labeled USB Accessories. Make sure this is switched off.

    Set Your Phone to Erase All Data if Stolen

    While you’re making sure USB Restricted Mode is on you can enable this setting, too. It’s labeled as “Erase Data,” and it makes your phone literally delete everything if your password is entered incorrectly ten times. Don’t do this if you have kids who might grab your phone and mash buttons, though.

    In either event, make sure you have iCloud auto-backup on if you enable this feature. There’s no reason to let your data get obliterated forever just because some thief tried to break into your phone.

    Turn on Find my iPhone

    Find my iPhone will allow you to track down your iPhone if it gets lost or stolen. Additionally, this function allows you to remotely wipe the data from your iPhone. In the event that a hacker actually knows your passcode, or guesses it correctly, this allows you to strip the phone of any sensitive data. This is a great option in case someone knows your passcode and has stolen your phone.

    Keep iOS Up to Date

    One of the main ways hackers break into existing operating systems is through exploits that they learn over a long period of trial and error. Thanks to this, simply keeping your iPhone up to date is often enough to stymie most efforts to hack into your phone. Data security is something Apple takes very seriously, so you can rest assured that each new version of iOS keeps you one step ahead of black-hat hackers!

    This is super easy to do. Just go to your settings app, tap General and check Software Update. Then, if there’s a new update waiting for you, download it and update! It’s that easy!


  • Which Game Console Should You Buy?

    Which Game Console Should You Buy?

    There are a lot of great video games out there today! Everything from super high-end simulation experiences to fun RPGs and platformers make this the best time ever to be a gamer.

    If you’re wondering what system to buy, you’re likely looking at the big three home consoles and wondering what sets them apart from one another. Today we’re answering the question of what game console you should buy! You should take a look at how you expect to use the device. Some are able to stream video services, play your movie library on a disc, and even produce stunning 4K graphics.

    Right now the most popular platforms are the Xbox One, the PlayStation 4, and the Nintendo Switch. Look at which games are available on which platform, if it can be taken in the car, and if you can play your older games on the new console. Also, take into consideration which online gaming service you may already participate in before deciding on the move your loyalties to a different platform.

    Really, there is no definitive “right” or “wrong” answer, as all three main systems have great things and drawbacks. However, each game console has a pretty distinct niche, and we’re going to help you wrap your head around what each system has to offer!

    Which Game Console Should You Buy?

    PlayStation 4

    The PS4 was released way back in 2013, so it’s getting up there in age. That said, there’s no current plan to phase the system out, so odds are good that the PS4 will be Sony’s flagship console for at least two more years. As for specs, the base PS4 is capable of putting out 1080p graphics, and games on it look great. The current base model is the PS4 Slim, which retails for $300.

    There’s a 4K-enabled spec called the PS4 Pro, and it retails for $400. If you want a ton of power, the PS4 Pro is for you. Sony’s system has a ton of awesome exclusives, such as God of War, Bloodborne and Spider-Man. Fans of big-budget single-player experiences will love the PS4’s library.

    Xbox One

    The oldest console in the current generation, the Xbox One was released in Summer of 2013. Like the PS4, there are no plans to retire the console yet, so expect it to be around for a few more years. Also, like the PS4, the Xbox One comes in two configurations, the Xbox One S and the Xbox One X. As you’d expect, the One S, which is the Slim model, goes for $300, and the One X, which supports 4K, is $400.

    Xbox doesn’t have the same lineup of stellar exclusives as PlayStation, but it’s still a pretty great console. The system packs a ton of power and has a really great controller. The Xbox Live online service is unparalleled, and it’s a great service for people who love online multiplayer. Fans of titles like Halo and Forza should absolutely grab an Xbox, as they’re exclusive to the platform.

    Nintendo Switch

    While Microsoft and Sony’s offerings compete directly, Nintendo’s most recent console is a bit of a black sheep. Not only was it released much later, in March of 2017, it also operates under a different premise. The Switch is both a home console and a portable console, capable of “Switch”-ing back and forth. The unique Joy Con controllers make this transition smooth and satisfying.

    While the Switch isn’t packing nearly as much power as the Xbox One or PS4, it offers premium gaming experiences on the go and at home. It’s hard to understand just how cool the system is until you’re playing Legend of Zelda on the bus! The Switch is a must-have for fans of Mario and Zelda. Pokemon and Smash Bros are also coming to the hybrid console later this year!


  • Tips on How to Quit Smoking

    Tips on How to Quit Smoking

    It’s neither controversial nor shocking to say that cigarettes are bad for you. It’s now no secret that smoking can cause heart problems, lung disease, a stroke and cancer. Nearly everyone who smokes is fully aware of the nature of just how bad cigarettes are for your body.

    Your risk of cancer, lung and heart problems and issues with your kidneys and intestines are all increased by smoking. However some smokers still fail to accept these proven risks and give up cigarettes. People who smoke die an average of 13 to 14 years sooner than nonsmokers. Smoking can also cause sexual and reproductive issues. Pregnant women who smoke risk the health of their unborn child as well.

    Quitting can be extremely difficult though and nicotine and smoking has been proven to be highly addictive. What is the main reason why you want to quit smoking? It is important to establish why you want to quit to stay motivated during what could be a long process.

    Tips on How to Quit Smoking

    Talk to People About It

    You don’t have to go it alone. In fact, if you try to handle this by yourself, you’re likely going to relapse. So, to prevent the likelihood of that, tell people in your life that you’re trying to quit. Talking about things helps to make them feel more real. It’s harder to stay consistent if there’s no one to hold you accountable. Get the people closest to you on board in this process!

    Get Help

    Whether it’s medical help or therapy, you should look beyond just moral support of friends and family. Addiction is a serious thing, and it takes some serious work to undo the claws tobacco products have in your central nervous system. Things like nicotine gum, patches and support groups are all excellent steps to combat the issue.

    Eliminate All Traces of Smoking from your Personal Space

    This one might seem obvious, but it goes deeper than you think. Start by throwing away or giving away all of your cigarettes, ash trays, lighters and matches. Then, shampoo your carpets, clean your drapes and do everything you can to eliminate the smell. You don’t want that smoke smell welling up and driving your desire to light one up.

    Find Healthy Alternatives

    Even if you’d prefer to not use nicotine in your efforts to quit smoking, look for other ways to relax. The biggest draw to smoking is the relaxation that follows a cigarette as nicotine sinks into your system. In order to combat the worst cravings, seek out other relaxing activities.

    Meditation, yoga, tai chi and hobbies like painting, drawing or making music are all great alternatives. If you can afford it, getting professional massages hits similar mental notes as smoking a cigarette! These activities are good for your mental health as well as your physical health.

    Don’t Give Up

    If you slip up and smoke a cigarette after weeks of being smoke-free, it’s not the end of the world. Don’t sweat the small lapses like that, and don’t let them convince you to pick smoking back up. No one is perfect: small mistakes don’t define you. Keep up the good effort and follow the advice in this article. You’re strong enough to quit smoking, so keep at it!


  • 7 Signs and Symptoms of Addiction

    7 Signs and Symptoms of Addiction

    When you discover that a friend or family member has a problem with drugs or alcohol, it often comes as a huge surprise to you. But secrecy is the drug on which addiction thrives, so it’s not really that odd that you were in the dark.

    Addiction grows worse over a sustained period of time, and there are some indicators that may give you an idea something is wrong with your loved one before the bottom falls out.  Here are the 7 signs and symptoms of addiction you should look for if you suspect someone you love has a problem with drugs or alcohol.

    7. Change in Behavior

    As people’s addictions get bigger, their lives start to change and the things that they value the most begin to fall away. Depression sets in, and suddenly they stop doing activities or hobbies that they once loved, or maybe their mood becomes erratic. An example of a change in behavior that’s worth noting would be when a person who values health and fitness abruptly stops exercising or eating well.

    6. Change in Friends

    This sign isn’t always the easiest area to recognize, because it’s fairly normal for friendships to fade and new people come into our lives. But when normally social people stop hanging around with their usual group of friends with no explanation, it’s important to take notice — especially if there wasn’t an event that precipitated the change. Or, maybe there’s a new person in their life that just doesn’t seem to be someone they would normally be friends with. This can be a telltale sign that something funky is going on.

    5. Job/Career Issues

    When addiction takes hold, inevitably some issues are going to come up at work or school. Over time, addicts becomes less capable of hiding performance flaws in areas of their lives that are under the microscope. If a normally responsible person is missing deadlines or not following through on commitments, this could be an indicator that something’s up.

    4. Legal Issues

    Addiction is likely to create a bevy of legal issues that are going to make it hard to ignore that something is going on. A DUI or getting thrown in the clink for a drunk and disorderly is an obvious tell that your loved one’s judgment is off. But there are also less obvious signs, like doctor shopping or frequenting ER rooms. And addicts can justify their behavior so that they make you feel foolish for asking why they have so many doctor appointments. But if you think something’s wrong, go ahead and ask anyway.

    3. Family Strain

    Relationships with family are often jeopardized when people develop an affinity for drugs or alcohol. Early on, it may reveal itself in behaviors like retreating to their room after work or spending too much time with their face in the computer, playing games or surfing the Web. Communications become strained, and the addict stops showing up to family engagements, or maybe even to dinner. If you feel a substantial shift in your relationship with a family member, you should start asking questions.

    2. Physical Changes

    Extreme physical changes are a big indicator of a problem. Maybe they’re getting scraggly and smelly because they’ve stopped grooming or showering.  A noticeable weight loss or gain can be a symptom, and the same goes for a change in eating and sleeping habits. For example, crystal meth addicts can stay up for days, then crash and sleep for days. When they eat, they’re likely to ravenously consume sugary foods.

    1. Personality Changes

    In an adult brain, defined as a brain that’s 24 years or older, there are really only three things that are likely to cause a profound personality change in someone. Substance abuse or chemical dependency, mental illness and or a physical ailment, such as a brain tumor are the three things that can cause a profound personality change. Mind you, this isn’t the same as watching a person get a little down in the dumps, or go through a period of anxiety. Profound personality changes are much more extreme. If you witness this, it’s advised to reach out to a professional for guidance and counseling on how to address your loved one.


  • Best Ways to Check Credit Score

    Best Ways to Check Credit Score

    If you’re looking to make a big purchase, like a car or a house, odds are you’re going to need a loan. The way lenders check to see if you’re eligible for that loan, of course, is your credit score. If you often pay bills on time and are financially secure, your score should be high but you should regularly check your score.

    Grab hold of your financial potential with free information about your credit score. Knowing your credit score is important because it helps you decide what your buying power is and what areas to focus on to improve this important score.

    There are many factors that go into determining a credit score, including employment status, credit history, and financial consistency. There are also several different types of credit scores rather than a standard way to measure creditworthiness. Although banks and lenders may have their own method to determine a credit score, there are ways that general consumers can monitor their credit activity and keep on top of the score as it changes over the years.

    If you’re looking to check your credit score you’ll want to do it for free. That’s where these free credit check sites come in!

    Best Free Credit Reports

    Credit.com

    Credit.com allows you to see your Experian and VantageScore results for free. VantageScore is a newer model of credit scoring that is usually more up-to-date than the traditional FICO score. You have to sign up for an account with Credit.com, but it’s a free process. The site is known for its credit report card, a quick glance at which things go into your credit. This way, you can see what factors you may need to address to get your score higher!

    Credit Karma

    Credit Karma has become the most popular of the free credit monitoring sites for many reasons. You’ve likely heard of this one. Credit Karma offers scores from TransUnion and Equifax, and both are shown as VantageScore. Credit Karma is a free site as well, and they don’t share customer information. If you’re looking for a no-frills credit check, you’re looking for Credit Karma. They offer a great mobile app, too.

    Quizzle

    Since 2008, Quizzle has been helping its customers understand their credit history and providing free access to their full credit report and credit score. Quizzle offers free Equifax and VantageScore reports. Once every three months you can see a free report of your score. Quizzle technically has a premium account too, though you’re better off just using the free functions. The free functionality doesn’t require a credit card, too.

    WalletHub

    WalletHub offers personal financial tools to users online. Their main product is offering a free daily credit score and report associated with it. WalletHub requires you to take a pre-screening questionnaire before you get your free score. Once you answer a few basic questions, such as your income and the last four digits of your Social, you get a TransUnion credit score. The report is similar to Credit.com’s credit report card, showing you what factors influence your score the most.


  • Best Over the Counter and Natural Pain Remedies!

    Best Over the Counter and Natural Pain Remedies!

    Sometimes you just need a bit of pain relief. Whether it’s sore muscles, a bad bruise, a killer headache or whatever else, you’d rather it just not hurt so bad.

    Thankfully, there are plentiful over-the-counter remedies available as generics to help relieve your pain. There are also a few natural solutions that many people swear by when it comes to pain remedies. We’ll highlight a few of the most popular so you can make an informed choice!

    Best Over the Counter (or Natural) Pain Remedies

    OTC: Ibuprofen

    The brand name versions of this drug are Advil or Motrin. It’s been clinically tested with a nearly 9 out of 10 rate of people feeling it’s worth taking. It could upset your stomach, so make sure you take it with food. Also, it could cause kidney damage, so don’t take it if you’ve got a history of kidney problems!

    Natural: Turmeric

    Many swear by the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric. It’s been shown to help with upset stomach, indigestion, and even help as part of treatment for more serious conditions. It could even help with common aches and pains. If you’re the type who doesn’t tend to like taking pills, try this out the next time you’ve got a sore muscle!

    OTC: aspirin

    Aspirin is one of the most well-known pain relievers, often found in the brand-name Alka-Seltzer. In its various forms, it can be either a pain reliever or an indigestion aid. Children under 12 should avoid aspirin, though, as it could be harmful to the liver if taken too much. Keep in mind this is aspirin with a lower-case a, which is different from the version from Bayer with a capital A.

    Natural: Heat and Ice Application

    The pain-relieving qualities of applying heat and/or ice to a sore area are well-document. However, be careful when applying hot or cold items to your body! Apply heat to an area if it is stiff or if your pain is arthritic. Conversely, ice can help reduce swelling and cut back on inflammation. Athletes swear by this pain-relieving method! Speak to a physician about how this natural remedy could be applied to your aches or pains if you’re hurt.

    OTC: Aspirin

    The brand name Aspirin, which is different from Alka-Seltzer’s version, is another well-known pain remedy. It can reduce fever, as well, and is even known to have helpful effects in those with heart disease. However, keep in mind that it is a blood-thinner. If you’re at risk for internal bleeding, stick with ibuprofen or one of the natural pain remedies!

    Natural: Acupuncture

    Seeking pain relief from an acupuncturist may seem silly at first, but it’s a well-documented and ancient practice. The Chinese art helps relieve pain through a process known as qi manipulation, altering the path of your body’s natural energies. Scientific study of the practice has found that the pain-relieving qualities are a result of the serotonin released by the sensation of the needles being driven into your skin. Either way, it’s been proven to help in some cases!

    OTC: Acetaminophen

    This medicine works by affecting the part of your brain that controls temperature and regulates pain messages. As such, it doesn’t alter the physical causes of your pain, but instead tricks you into not feeling the pain. While that might sound scary, it’s quite safe! Prolonged sessions of taking acetaminophen can lead to liver damage, though, so be aware! Just take enough to ease your pain, don’t overdo it.

    Natural: Cryotherapy

    There are a few ways to go about this, whether with a cryotherapy chamber or just an ice bath. The idea behind cryotherapy is that, by shocking your body with cold, you make your body produce special type of protein. These cold-shock proteins have anti-inflammatory properties that can help naturally fight pain!

    OTC: Naproxen

    Those with a history of heart disease may prefer naproxen over ibuprofen. Naproxen is good for treating general aches and pains, as it is an anti-inflammatory. It does run the same risk of upsetting the stomach that many other over-the-counter pain remedies, so take it with food!

    Natural: Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy

    The theory behind PEFT is that using electromagnetic fields to stimulate natural anti-inflammatory compounds. While it sounds high-tech, you can actually get the treatment for between $30 and $60 from a physical therapist or chiropractor. If you want a machine in your own home, they’re a bit pricey: they run around $1500 on the low end.


  • Top Dog Food Brands

    Top Dog Food Brands

    Dogs rely on their owners for lots of things. They need love, they need shelter, they need to be cared for. But most importantly, they need to be fed! Most experts recommend feeding your dog twice a day — once in the morning and once in the evening.

    What they don’t say is what to feed them. That’s where choosing the right dog food comes in. It’s important to take your time deciding on the best dog food for your pup because it is not recommended to change dog foods like humans do. Dogs need consistency and switching them to new foods can be a tricky business.

    There are a ton of dog food brands and they range from pennies to big bucks for high-quality top shelf dog food. Does your pup know the difference between the high-end premium dog foods and the regular? Is there a difference? There are many features to consider here. Taste, texture, and nutritional value should all be coming to mind. Dogs need the types of pet food that they’ll want to eat, of course, but they also need sustenance that will help give them energy and strength.

    Many dog foods today are manufactured with generic ingredients that aren’t the healthiest for your pup. That’s why doing your research really matters when it comes to making the right choice. So let’s take a look at the top 3 dog food brands for that special friend in your life.

    1. I and Love and You

    The best dog foods contain real foods, like vegetables and meats with Veggies like sweet potato, peas, and tomatoes provide vast nutrients for pets. Even protein such as salmon, white meat chicken, and lamb can be found in some of the best dog food today, I and Love and You. Not to mention the clever use of an Avett Bros song title, it is the highest quality, affordable, and most enjoyed by your dog. It’s great and your pup deserves it.

    2. Rachel Rays Just 6

    With lots of variety, tons of high quality ingredients and grain free, Rachel Rays just 6 is great mid-priced option. If your four-legged friends suffer from food allergies, this is the best dog food to easily and efficiently manage your dog’s diet. With just 6 ingredients in each bag, you can easily identify and eliminate the allergens. This is also my consigliere and questionable sushi tester Sam’s absolute favorite.

    3. Nature’s Recipe Dog Food

    Nature’s Recipe has a wide range of products featuring chicken, salmon, turkey, beef, venison, and lamb. They also have vegetarian and grain-free dog foods. They produce foods for puppies, seniors, adult dogs, large breed puppies, and for many dogs with special needs such as skin conditions, digestion problems, small breeds, and weight control. Their food comes in both canned and dry kibble forms. Again we are seeing a trend, grain free. No one does grain free better than Nature’s Recipe Dog Food.

    Bonus: Newman’s Own

    Paul Newman, the man, the myth, the legend, and the fantastic dog food. Much like everything coming from Newman’s Own brand it is a terrific dog food that your little guy will love. Oh Paul, to be like you and walk the path, to lend a hand, and make some wonderful dog food.

    The Final Thought

    Some of the best dog foods contain real foods, like vegetables and meats we would eat ourselves in order to have a balanced meal. Veggies like sweet potato, peas, and tomatoes provide vast nutrients for pets. Even protein such as salmon, white meat chicken, and lamb can be found in some of the best dog foods today. These days, pet food makers are making a conscious effort to shift toward organics, grain-free foods, and unique formulas packed with healthy proteins and fiber. Dog food comes in many different shapes and sizes. There’s dry food, dehydrated raw food and canned food. Do your research and find the best option for your dog!


  • 7 Ways to Fight Fall Allergies

    7 Ways to Fight Fall Allergies

    A lot of people love fall season for the crisp & cool air and the turning leaves. When you think of seasonal allergies, you may think spring. But for some people living with allergies, symptoms like a runny nose or itchy, watery eyes can be just as troublesome in the fall.

    There are many who dread the coming of Fall due to their Fall allergies. Along with cooler weather and changing foliage, weeds and other plants release pollen into the air and outdoor molds grow under fallen leaves, both of which can trigger fall allergies. Ragweed, which produces pollen from August to November, triggers allergies in as many as 23 million Americans, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

    As days grow shorter and temperatures drop, we also spend more time indoors with the windows closed, exposing ourselves to indoor allergens, such as dust mites and indoor mold. However, even if you have severe fall allergies, you can usually manage your symptoms and get back to enjoying your life — both inside and outside. These seasonal allergy management tips can help.

    Best Ways to Fight Fall Allergies

    Check Pollen levels

    If pollen levels are high in your area, it’s best to limit your outdoor activity, especially during the morning, when pollen counts are highest. Keep your activities inside for a few days instead, if possible, to minimize your exposure to allergens during those days. You can check pollen counts at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology’s National Allergy Bureau.

    Wear Protective Clothing

    If you do have to go outside, wear long sleeves, pants, a hat, and sunglasses to keep pollen off your skin and out of your hair and eyes. If you’re doing fall yard work like raking or mowing — which can stir up pollen and mold — wear a protective face mask.

    Dehumidifier

    You may have heard that humidifiers can help with breathing, but dehumidifiers may actually be better if you are sensitive to dust or mold. Dust mites and molds flourish in a humid environment. Using a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels in your home low can help fight mold growth. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of American recommends keeping humidity levels below 45 percent — 35 percent is even better.

    Air Conditioner

    This is another way to help remove moisture from the air. It’s especially important to use an air conditioner in your bedroom. It’s where you spend eight or more hours each night, so it’s critical to keep it clean and pollen-free to avoid allergies. Close the windows and keep the air conditioning on.

    Change Air Filters Often

    The first thing you should do is invest in HEPA air filters for your home. These will help keep most particulates out of your home! Additionally, make sure you change the filter out regularly to keep it from becoming compromised. This should cut down on airborne allergens in your house.

    Medical Treatments

    If your allergies prove a severe detriment, consider contacting your primary physician or an allergist. They can recommend different treatments to attempt to alleviate your symptoms. Examples of medical remedies for allergies are topical nasal sprays like Flonase. These medicines help reduce inflammation in the nasal lining.

    Other medications that are often recommended include eye drops to help reduce itchiness. Anticongestants are also commonly used, and they are present in most nasal sprays. Many over-the-counter allergy drugs are now non-drowsy, long-lasting, and effective.

    Avoid Trigger Foods

    If you have an allergy to ragweed, you may also suffer from some related food allergies. Foods that could trigger a similar allergy response include bananas, cucumbers, sunflower and zucchini. Other foods, such as melons and chamomile tea, can also trigger similar symptoms in about a third of those with seasonal allergies.


  • 7 Signs and Symptoms of Addiction

    7 Signs and Symptoms of Addiction

    When you discover that a friend or family member has a problem with drugs or alcohol, it often comes as a huge surprise to you. But secrecy is the drug on which addiction thrives, so it’s not really that odd that you were in the dark.

    Addiction grows worse over a sustained period of time, and there are some indicators that may give you an idea something is wrong with your loved one before the bottom falls out.  Here are the 7 signs and symptoms of addiction you should look for if you suspect someone you love has a problem with drugs or alcohol.

    7. Change in Behavior

    As people’s addictions get bigger, their lives start to change and the things that they value the most begin to fall away. Depression sets in, and suddenly they stop doing activities or hobbies that they once loved, or maybe their mood becomes erratic. An example of a change in behavior that’s worth noting would be when a person who values health and fitness abruptly stops exercising or eating well.

    6. Change in Friends

    This sign isn’t always the easiest area to recognize, because it’s fairly normal for friendships to fade and new people come into our lives. But when normally social people stop hanging around with their usual group of friends with no explanation, it’s important to take notice — especially if there wasn’t an event that precipitated the change. Or, maybe there’s a new person in their life that just doesn’t seem to be someone they would normally be friends with. This can be a telltale sign that something funky is going on.

    5. Job/Career Issues

    When addiction takes hold, inevitably some issues are going to come up at work or school. Over time, addicts becomes less capable of hiding performance flaws in areas of their lives that are under the microscope. If a normally responsible person is missing deadlines or not following through on commitments, this could be an indicator that something’s up.

    4. Legal Issues

    Addiction is likely to create a bevy of legal issues that are going to make it hard to ignore that something is going on. A DUI or getting thrown in the clink for a drunk and disorderly is an obvious tell that your loved one’s judgment is off. But there are also less obvious signs, like doctor shopping or frequenting ER rooms. And addicts can justify their behavior so that they make you feel foolish for asking why they have so many doctor appointments. But if you think something’s wrong, go ahead and ask anyway.

    3. Family Strain

    Relationships with family are often jeopardized when people develop an affinity for drugs or alcohol. Early on, it may reveal itself in behaviors like retreating to their room after work or spending too much time with their face in the computer, playing games or surfing the Web. Communications become strained, and the addict stops showing up to family engagements, or maybe even to dinner. If you feel a substantial shift in your relationship with a family member, you should start asking questions.

    2. Physical Changes

    Extreme physical changes are a big indicator of a problem. Maybe they’re getting scraggly and smelly because they’ve stopped grooming or showering.  A noticeable weight loss or gain can be a symptom, and the same goes for a change in eating and sleeping habits. For example, crystal meth addicts can stay up for days, then crash and sleep for days. When they eat, they’re likely to ravenously consume sugary foods.

    1. Personality Changes

    In an adult brain, defined as a brain that’s 24 years or older, there are really only three things that are likely to cause a profound personality change in someone. Substance abuse or chemical dependency, mental illness and or a physical ailment, such as a brain tumor are the three things that can cause a profound personality change. Mind you, this isn’t the same as watching a person get a little down in the dumps, or go through a period of anxiety. Profound personality changes are much more extreme. If you witness this, it’s advised to reach out to a professional for guidance and counseling on how to address your loved one.