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Blood clotting is an important process that keeps you from losing a lot of blood when you have an injury. But what if they happen too often and last too long? Thrombophilia, a condition characterized by frequent blood clot formation, can be life-threatening if left untreated. Fortunately, both acquired and hereditary thrombophilia can be managed with blood thinners in most cases. This article will explore the genes and changes in them that may increase your risk for this condition.
Did You Know? Your ancestry test DNA data includes 700,000 markers, which can be used to learn everything from disease risk and drug sensitivities to nutritional requirements and fitness parameters. Learn more. Here's how 23andMe and AncestryDNA users have benefited from uploading their DNA data to Xcode Life
Thrombophilia is a blood clotting disorder that increases the risk of blood in veins and arteries clotting.
This condition is also called ‘hypercoagulable’ as it causes the blood to clot more easily.
When blood clots occur due to thrombophilia, they block the arteries and veins, preventing adequate blood supply to or from organs and tissues.
One of the main causes of thrombophilia is genetics. However, it may be caused by other factors too.
A few medical conditions that may cause thrombophilia include:
Thrombophilia does not cause signs or symptoms until it forms a clot that affects an organ or tissue.
The signs and symptoms depend upon the organ or tissue affected by the blood clot.
Deep vein thrombosis
One of the most common presentations of thrombophilia is the development of a clot in a vein, causing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
DVT can occur anywhere in the body but most commonly affects the large veins in the leg.
A few symptoms that may occur due to DVT are pain and swelling in the leg.
Pulmonary embolism
If the blood clot travels to the lung, it can result in pulmonary embolism.
Symptoms you may experience due to this condition include chest pain, breathing difficulty, shortness of breath, painful deep breathing, and an increased heart rate.
Blood clot in the abdomen
Nausea, vomiting, and pain in the region are the most common symptoms of thrombophilia.
Blood clots in the heart
If a blood clot develops or travels to the heart, you may experience chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and lightheadedness.
Thrombophilia can be acquired or genetic (inherited).
Acquired Thrombophilia
This type of thrombophilia is more common than the inherited type.
It is said to be ‘acquired’ as one acquires it during their lifetime due to lifestyle factors, medications, or other diseases.
The most common type of acquired thrombophilia is antiphospholipid syndrome.
Hereditary Thrombophilia
As the name suggests, this form of thrombophilia occurs due to the inheritance of affected genes from one or both parents.
People who inherit the affected genes are unable to make one or more clotting factors, which results in thrombophilia.
For example, some women who have had recurrent miscarriages before the age of 40 years may have inherited thrombophilia.
There are different types of hereditary or genetic thrombophilia:
Hereditary thrombophilia is genetic.
Two of the most common genetic variants associated with hereditary thrombophilia are found in two genes - F5 and F2.
Both these genes are required for the normal clotting process.
The coagulation or blood clotting system in the body is controlled by several proteins and molecules.
The F5 gene provides instructions for making a protein called coagulation factor V.
This protein circulates in the blood in its inactive form till it reaches the liver, where it is activated.
When activated coagulation factor V combines with activated factor X, they form a complex that converts prothrombin to its active form, thrombin.
Thrombin, in turn, converts a protein fibrinogen to fibrin, which is what forms a blood clot.
Coagulation factor V also has another role.
It regulates the clotting mechanism by interacting with activated protein C (APC).
This protein inactivates coagulation factor V, slowing the clotting process and preventing clots from growing too large.
However, in some people with factor V Leiden thrombophilia, coagulation factor V cannot be inactivated by APC.
Due to this, the process of clotting remains active for longer, increasing the risk of developing abnormal clots.
The F2 gene is responsible for coagulation and maintenance of vascular integrity.
It also provides instructions for making the protein prothrombin (or coagulation factor II).
Prothrombin thrombophilia is caused by an abnormal change (or mutation) in one of the building blocks of the DNA in the F2 gene.
This causes the F2 gene to be overactive and produce more prothrombin.
An abundance of prothrombin means excess thrombin, fibrinogen, and fibrin (or clot).
So, the presence of the F5 variant (or the factor V Leiden) and the F2 variant of the genes increase the risk of blood clot formation that can block blood flow to different parts of the body.
In some cases, thrombophilia may be due to large deletions or duplications in the following genes:
Thrombophilia may have an autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, or X-linked inheritance.
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), the most common and aggressive form of acquired thrombophilia, is an autoimmune disease.
It is a condition that causes blood clots to form in the blood vessels and causes serious health problems.
In APS, the body’s immune system attacks a type of fat molecule called phospholipids.
Phospholipids are found on the surface of many cells, including those lining the blood vessels.
This causes abnormal blood clots to form in the blood vessels.
Besides genetics, a few factors that may increase one’s risk of developing thrombophilia are:
Since blood clots can affect any blood vessel in the body, they can prevent the smooth flow of blood to many tissues and organs.
This can lead to complications like:
A thorough medical history, a physical examination, and blood tests to check for a genetic cause of thrombophilia can help diagnose thrombophilia.
Your doctor may recommend genetic testing if someone in your family has thrombophilia.
Besides blood and genetic testing, your doctor may also advise angiograms, venograms, or an ultrasound to detect the presence of clots in your blood vessels.
There is no cure for genetic or hereditary thrombophilia.
However, the signs and symptoms can be effectively managed with:
Medications
Medications routinely used for treating thrombophilia include anticoagulants like heparin and warfarin.
Warfarin is an oral drug that takes a few days to show its effects.
When you have many clots that need urgent treatment, you may need a fast-acting drug like heparin that is usually injected.
Use of compression stockings
Both types of thrombophilia may require the use of compression stockings for your legs to prevent the breaking up of a clot.
Some people may require surgery to remove the clot.
Practice healthy lifestyle habits
If you have thrombophilia, you must make a few lifestyle changes, like eating a nutritious diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding long periods of rest or inactivity.
These tests usually include a prothrombin time test and an international normalized ratio (INR).
If you have thrombophilia, your doctor will advise you to eat a healthy diet.
Here are some foods that you may need to stay clear of:
If you are on blood thinners like warfarin, you must consume foods rich in vitamin K in moderation.
This is because vitamin K is known to interact with warfarin.
Did you know genetics play a significant role in migraines? Around 60% of people get migraines because of the genes they inherit. One type of genetic headache is familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM). Recent scientific studies have identified two novel genes linked to FHM, providing a deeper understanding of the genetic factors at play.
Did You Know? Your ancestry test DNA data includes 700,000 markers, which can be used to learn everything from disease risk and drug sensitivities to nutritional requirements and fitness parameters. Learn more.
Hemiplegic migraine is a rare and debilitating form of the disease that causes weakness on one side of the body during the aura phase.
This type of migraine features an aura, the second phase of a migraine attack.
Migraine aura is the sensory symptoms that occur before or during a migraine episode.
They may include neurologic, gastrointestinal, and autonomic symptoms.
Familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM)is a type of inherited hemiplegic migraine.
FHM attacks occur more frequently in younger individuals.
The frequency of the migraines reduces with age.
FHM usually begins in childhood or adolescence.
It is classified into four types, namely:
This is the most common type of FHM.
It is caused by genetic changes in the CACNA1A gene and is commonly associated with cerebellar degeneration.
This type of FHM occurs due to genetic changes in the ATP1A2 gene and may be linked to seizures.
This form of disease occurs due to mutations in the SCN1A gene.
FHM is said to be type 4 when caused by a genetic change that is currently not identifiable to cause the condition.
Why You Get Migraine During Your Period - New Study
FHM is caused by mutations (abnormal changes) in the CACNA1A, ATP1A2, SCN1A, and PRRT2 genes.
CACNA1A, ATP1A2, and SCN1A provide instructions for making proteins involved in transporting ions across cell membranes.
The movement of these ions is essential for the normal signaling between nerve cells in the brain and the functioning of the nervous system.
Though the exact function of the PRRT2 gene is unknown, it may be involved in controlling the signaling between neurons.
Any changes in the genes mentioned above can affect the signaling between neurons, leading to FHM.
CACNA1A, ATP1A2, SCN1A, and PRRT2 do not play a role in the development of common migraines.
FHM falls under the category of migraines with aura.
In migraines with aura, neurological symptoms are localizable to the cerebral cortex or the brain stem and include:
Neurological effects of familial hemiplegic migraine can last for hours to days, often longer than those associated with a migraine headache.
Around 40% to 50% of families with the CACNA1A FHM variant show cerebellar signs ranging from nystagmus to late-onset mild ataxia.
Other symptoms that one may experience with FMH include:
FHM is diagnosed when an individual has at least one 1st or 2nd degree relative in the family who also suffers from the same condition.
This shows FHM is caused by affected genes.
FHM is considered to be monogenic (caused by the inheritance of a single gene mutation) but genetically heterogeneous.
FHM is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern.
This means having even one altered (or mutated) gene is sufficient to cause the condition.
In most cases, people who develop the condition have at least one affected parent.
However, some people who inherited the altered gene do not develop the features of FHM.
Hemiplegic migraine is a complex disorder with multiple genetic factors.
Currently, there are three genes known to cause FHM.
In 2023, Professor Lyn Griffiths (Director of the QUT Center for Genomics and Personalized Health) and scientists from Leiden University used genome sequencing to find two new genes involved in hemiplegic migraine.
The two genes– CACNA1H and CACNA1I- are ion channel genes that control calcium levels in the brain, affecting neurotransmitter (brain chemicals) release.
According to Professor Griffith’s study, hemiplegic migraine was associated with an increased burden of mutations in the number of variants in the said genes.
These genes modify the risk of hemiplegic migraine, supporting the hypothesis that the disease has a complex heritability.
While genetics is the primary cause and risk factor for FHM, some factors that may trigger a migraine attack are:
Stress is a common trigger factor for people with FHM.
Stress can be physical (due to exercise or sleep deprivation) or emotional (due to financial problems, relationship issues, etc.).
Many people with migraine who are sleep deprived or suffer from insomnia experience frequent attacks.
Hormonal fluctuations are the most common triggers for FHM.
These fluctuations are more common in women, especially during menstruation and pregnancy.
Hormonal fluctuations can also trigger other factors like stress and sleep.
The body’s reaction to changes in the temperature, barometric pressure, or humidity due to weather changes may cause migraine.
Temperature changes are more likely to trigger hemiplegic migraine than pressure and humidity, but the latter may have a role to play.
Some foods may trigger a FHM attack.
These include foods high in nitrates (hot dogs, deli meats, and cured meats) and caffeine-containing foods like chocolate, coffee, or caffeinated beverages.
Alcohol may be a trigger for some people, and it must be avoided if experiencing a headache.
If your doctor suspects your condition to be FHM based on your signs, symptoms, and family history, they will recommend the following tests:
Genetic testing helps confirm the subtype of FHM in the family.
To be diagnosed with FHM, you must have at least one 1st or 2nd degree relative with the condition.
Treatment and management of FHM usually involve:
In people with hemiplegic migraines, the aura symptoms resolve completely between two separate occurrences.
Hemiplegic migraines rarely cause permanent neurological symptoms, cognitive impairment, or coma.
The Gene Health panel of Xcode Life includes 47 important health aspects. 65 significant markers are analyzed for migraine risk.
If you have done an ancestry genetic test with companies like 23andMe, AncestryDNA, MyHeritage, etc., you can learn your zinc deficiency risk gene status in just 3 steps.
Not yet tested?
If you're new to the world of genetic testing, we've got you covered!
You can now get your ancestry DNA kits at an additional discount!
By following the link provided in this article, you can purchase a DNA kit at 10% OFF (the discount will be reflected when you add the product).
This will ensure that you have everything you need to embark on your genetic journey.
Once you receive your kits, you can follow the instructions given by the respective service providers to collect your sample and ship it.
After you receive your DNA test results from the kit, you can upload your DNA data to our secure platform.
The symptoms of hemiplegic migraine mimic a stroke, causing weakness on one side of the body.
The migraine aura can be mistaken for a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), where someone has stroke symptoms that usually pass in a short time.
For this reason, they may appear to be mini-strokes.
Stress is a leading factor that can trigger hemiplegic migraines.
Physical and emotional stress can both trigger a hemiplegic migraine attack.
While most people with sporadic hemiplegic migraines recover entirely between episodes, some neurologic symptoms, like memory loss, can last for weeks or months.
Mild to moderate intellectual disability has been reported in a few people with sporadic hemiplegic migraine.
Hemiplegic migraines are more common in younger individuals.
The frequency of these migraine attacks decreases as one grows old.
A deficiency of vitamin D and calcium have been linked to migraine.
Vitamin D plays a role in fighting inflammation in the brain and reduces the production of chemicals that may cause a migraine attack.
Epigenetics is the study of how genes are expressed. Epigenetic testing looks at changes in gene expression that can influence a person’s health. It is a new and emerging field of medicine that holds great promise for improved disease diagnosis and treatment. However, significant challenges must be addressed before this technology can be widely adopted. This article will discuss epigenetic testing and some of the challenges faced by this new field of medicine.
Genetic ancestry tests are becoming increasingly popular. While your DNA can be used to learn about your roots, did you know that it can also reveal important things about your health risks and wellness aspects? This allows you to take proactive measures for health conditions, even before the symptoms appear, thereby preventing it. You can upload your DNA data to learn 1,500+ things about your health. Learn more.
Your genes make most of who you are and play a significant role in your health.
But other factors like your behavior, environment, diet, and physical activity levels can also greatly impact your health.
Epigenetics is the science behind how environmental and lifestyle factors can change how a gene functions or turns “on and off” depending on certain external triggers.
While the genetic makeup you are born with doesn’t change in your lifetime, epigenetic changes are reversible.
Since the latter occurs due to behavioral and lifestyle factors, modifying them can undo the epigenetic changes.
| DNA Methylation | Histone Acetylation | Non-coding RNA |
| A chemical called the “methyl group” is added to the DNA. The place where it gets attached is blocked and “not” read to produce protein. So, DNA methylation turns “off” a gene. | DNA wraps around proteins called histones. When it is tightly packed, those segments of the DNA are not “read” to make proteins. The acetylation reaction loosens up the wound DNA enough to produce proteins. | Coding RNA helps make proteins. Non-coding RNA controls how genes function by attaching to the coding RNA. It also influences the function of histones. |
Exposure to germs can result in structural modifications to histones resulting in tighter wounding of the DNA.
This can lead to the “turning off” of some important immunity genes. Thereby lowering your immune strength and making you more prone to infections.
Methylation of certain genes that protect you against cancer, like the BRCA genes and TP53 gene, can turn them “off.”
This can lead to unrepaired DNA damage that can eventually lead to cancer.
While DNA tests provide insights into the potential disease risks you were born with, epigenetics tries to add the effect of environment and lifestyle to these results.
For example, if your DNA test results reveal that you do not have any risk variant associated with breast cancer, it likely means that you have a normal to decreased risk for the condition.
Studies suggest that higher glucose levels in one’s diet and regular alcohol consumption impair methylation frequency in the BRCA genes.
In fact, according to a study, obese individuals receive a 1.89-fold change in hypermethylation of the BRCA1 gene.
This can increase breast cancer risk, even if you are born with normal risk.
Using blood or saliva samples, some companies measure your epigenetic changes.
The results can also reveal your “true age.”
Your chronological or calendar age is how old you are from a time point of view (or the day you were born).
Epigenetic or biological age measures your age based on several biological markers.
These markers can be associated with disease risk and body functioning.
While chronological age increases at the same rate for everyone, biological age does not.
How fast you age biologically depends on your eating habits, physical activity levels, stress levels, and various lifestyle and environmental factors.
Epigenetic changes result from the normal development process, aging, and in response to your environment and lifestyle choices.
During development
Did you know that despite different cells of the body acting differently, they all have the same genes?
During growth and development, epigenetics determines what function each cell will have.
For example, your muscle and nerve cells have the same genes.
In your muscle cells, epigenetics “turns on” the muscle genes and “turns off” the nerve cell genes so that the former produces the required muscle proteins.
During aging
The epigenetic profile you are born with is not static and changes as you age.
The level of methylation decreases as we age, which can “turn on” certain “bad” genes that can increase our risk for many diseases.
With lifestyle and environment
Some epigenetic changes can be added or removed in response to changes in behavior or environment.
For example, smoking can reduce the methylation of certain parts of a gene called AHRR.
This can result in an increased lung cancer risk and mortality.
Quitting or reducing smoking can restore the methylation of this gene.
Over time, the restored methylation levels can reach that of a non-smoker.
Following the path of many direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing companies, other private companies have recently started to offer DTC epigenetic testing (DTC-ET).
Most of these companies claim that the test results are medically significant, leading to an overestimation of the medical relevance of epigenetic tests.
Further, none of the DTC-ET tests are FDA-approved.
This can become extremely problematic if a consumer decides to follow recommendations from their DTC-ET tests instead of medically-approved interventions.
Epigenetics testing may uncover a new layer of sensitive information.
While genetics tests only reveal increased risks for certain conditions. DTC-ET can provide information on exposure to stress, smoke, alcohol, and other pollutants.
Uncovering these aspects of personal and social life of an individual can give rise to privacy concerns.
No guidelines describe who can access this epigenetic information and under what circumstances.
There can also be a misuse of DTC-ET; for example, a parent wanting to know whether their teenage child is using drugs or smoking.
While there are laws that protect against discrimination based on genetic test results (such as the US Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act 2008), there are no similar laws for DTC-ET.
This warrants additional caution and accountability on the part of DTC-ET companies.
https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/disease/epigenetics.htm
https://www.bibliomed.org/mnsfulltext/53/53-1493730609.pdf?1665565499
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4890602/
https://bmccancer.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12885-020-07407-x
Love wine but find yourself feeling a bit off after a glass or two? You're not alone! Many people have unpleasant reactions to certain components giving rise to symptoms like hives and abdominal pain. Just like some people have allergies to pollen or pets, there are individuals who may experience adverse reactions to wine due to a wine allergy. And, what’s more? Your genes influence whether you are prone to have a wine allergy. Read on to understand the telltale signs and risk factors of wine allergy and how to evaluate your risk for it.
Wine allergy is an adverse immune system reaction triggered by specific components found in wine. It is a relatively rare condition, affecting approximately 10% of the general population.
There are two primary forms of allergic reactions to wine:
It's crucial to differentiate between wine allergy and wine intolerance. While both conditions can cause uncomfortable symptoms, they are distinct in their underlying mechanisms.
Yes, someone can suddenly develop an intolerance to wine, even previously having no problems with it.
Wine intolerance is the inability of the body to metabolize or process specific components of wine, resulting in uncomfortable responses.
This can be passed down genetically or due to overtime changes in sensitivity, underlying health conditions, or lifestyle factors.
If someone suspects wine intolerance, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Several allergens present in wine can cause an allergic reaction. Some of the common allergens include:
Several studies have revealed that red wine is more likely than other types of wine to cause allergic responses.
In a 2005 study, 83 percent of participants reported symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and nasal discharge after consuming red wine.
With 31% of respondents feeling similar symptoms, white wine came in next.
According to a recent study, more people reported allergy-like symptoms after drinking red wine compared to white wine. Women were also shown to be more sensitive to wine intolerance than men.
It is truly possible to be allergic to specific wines and not others. The allergens and their concentrations can differ between different wine varieties and brands.
As a result, someone may experience an allergic reaction to one type of wine but not to another. Understanding your triggers can help you make informed choices and avoid wine allergies.
Wine allergies can cause a variety of symptoms that impact several body systems and can differ from one person to another, which commonly includes:
If you experience any of the wine allergy symptoms mentioned above after drinking wine, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor for a better treatment plan.
If you suspect any adverse reaction your body faces gradually after drinking wine, there are ways to find out if you have the specific wine allergen responsible.
If you are allergic to the tested material, you may experience redness, itching, or swelling at the testing site.
This type of testing can help identify your immune response to specific allergens found in wine, such as yeast or sulfites.
An important factor in wine allergies is the immune system.
An allergic person's immune system generates immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies when exposed to specific allergens found in wine.
Certain genetic variations can make a person more susceptible to producing higher levels of IgE in response to these allergens.
Histamines and other chemicals are released when IgE antibodies interact with basophils and mast cells to induce allergy symptoms.
Our bodies have different ALDH enzymes that help process alcoholic beverages.
ALDH has four forms, and one specific form called ALDH2 is responsible for breaking down a substance called acetaldehyde. When this process doesn't work properly due to gene variations, it can lead to wine allergy symptoms like flushing.
The ALDH2 gene produces the ALDH2 enzyme and comes in two variations: ALDH21 and ALDH22.
People inherit two copies of this gene, and this results in three possible combinations:
Having at least one copy of the defective ALDH22 gene reduces the enzyme's activity, causing the slower breakdown of acetaldehyde.
As a result, acetaldehyde levels increase after consuming alcohol, leading to wine allergy symptoms.
Whether you're young or old, male or female, it doesn't matter. Wine allergies can happen to anyone.
Let's explore some of the conditions where chances are more:
Identifying a wine allergy starts with recognizing allergic reaction symptoms after drinking wine. Doctors use skin pricks and blood tests to confirm the allergy to determine specific allergens.
Treatment
Note: All of these only be taken with close medical supervision.
Management
To manage wine allergy and prevent reactions:
If you suspect a wine allergy or experience allergic reactions after drinking wine, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis, treatment, and management guidance.
The best approach is to manage the condition by avoiding allergens and minimizing exposure to substances that trigger allergic reactions.
Taking the advice of healthcare professionals, following recommended treatment plans, and maintaining open communication with your medical team can help effectively manage your wine allergy.
Wine allergies and intolerances can cause discomfort and adverse reactions.
Wine allergy involves an immune system that responds to specific allergens in wine leading to symptoms like skin reactions, headaches, respiratory issues, and anaphylaxis in severe cases.
While wine intolerance results from difficulty digesting components like sulfites or histamines, causing similar symptoms without immune involvement.
Common allergens in wine include sulfites, histamines, grape proteins, and fining ingredients.
Red wine is more likely to cause allergic responses than other types.
Skin prick and blood tests help identify allergens and measure the immune response.
Genetic variations, like the ALDH2 gene, can contribute to wine allergies. Anyone can develop a wine allergy, but those with previous sensitivities, asthma, hay fever, or sensitivity to wine compounds may be more vulnerable.
Managing wine allergy involves avoiding allergens, identifying triggers, and reading labels.
Prescribed antihistamines, carrying an EpiPen for severe reactions, and oral immunotherapy (under medical supervision) are potential treatment options.
By being mindful and consulting with healthcare providers, individuals can manage wine allergies responsibly and continue to enjoy wine with awareness.
https://www.healthline.com/health/wine-allergens
https://www.verywellhealth.com/wine-allergy-5218808
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6883207/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alcohol-intolerance/symptoms-causes/syc-20369211
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15878494/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3391999/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/angioedema/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2847274/
https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/alcohol
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6875758/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alcohol-intolerance/symptoms-causes/syc-20369211
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alcohol-intolerance/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369215
We've all experienced those nights when sleep seems to be playing a game of hide-and-seek, leaving us frustrated and drained the next day. Getting a good night's sleep is crucial for our overall well-being, and fortunately, there are simple yet effective ways to improve our sleep quality. Today, we'll delve into the top three scientifically-backed methods to help you fall asleep faster, promoting better health and vitality.
Did You Know? Your ancestry test DNA data includes 700,000 markers, which can be used to learn everything about your sleep, from insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea risk to sleep patterns and sleep quality. Learn more.
According to researchers, it is generally normal for healthy individuals to fall asleep within 15 to 20 minutes after lying down. This time duration, known as sleep latency, signifies the transition from wakefulness to sleep. It's important to note that sleep latency can vary among individuals.
Some people fall asleep too quickly, while others may take longer. Sleeping too quickly or slowly may signal an underlying physical or mental health issue.
There could be various causes for your inability to fall asleep quickly. The following are five possible reasons with explanations:
Now that we have a better understanding of the reasons behind difficulty falling asleep quickly.
Let's explore the top three methods that can help improve your sleep ability.
Deep breathing exercises help promote relaxation and prepare the body for sleep. You can relax your thoughts and reduce tension by focusing on your breath and engaging in mindful breathing patterns.
Here are two popular breathing methods that will help you sleep faster.
This method involves tensing and relaxing different muscle groups to promote deep relaxation. By releasing muscle tension, you can reduce physical discomfort and mental stress, allowing you to fall asleep faster.
Here's how you can practice PMR:
This technique was developed during world war II and is said to have helped the U.S. Navy preflight school airmen fall asleep in 120 seconds.
Creating a consistent nighttime routine can signal your body that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Following a set of activities exclusively before bedtime can rewire your brain.
Here are some steps to establish a consistent nighttime routine:
Adding several foods to your bedtime routine can effectively promote relaxation in your body, paving the way for a truly peaceful sleep.
Here are some options to consider:
Remember that individual responses to food can vary. It is advised to consult your doctor if you have any dietary concerns or allergies.
to fall asleep faster
The Gene Sleep panel of Xcode Life includes 14 important aspects, from sleep pattern traits like your chronotype and the tendency for excessive daytime sleepiness to sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea.
If you have done an ancestry genetic test with companies like 23andMe, AncestryDNA, MyHeritage, etc., you can learn your zinc deficiency risk gene status in just 3 steps.
Not yet tested?
If you're new to the world of genetic testing, we've got you covered!
You can now get your ancestry DNA kits at an additional discount!
By following the link provided in this article, you can purchase a DNA kit at 10% OFF (the discount will be reflected when you add the product).
This will ensure that you have everything you need to embark on your genetic journey.
Once you receive your kits, you can follow the instructions given by the respective service providers to collect your sample and ship it.
After you receive your DNA test results from the kit, you can upload your DNA data to our secure platform.
Falling asleep quickly is a common challenge for many individuals. By implementing the top three methods discussed in this article, you can improve your sleep initiation and enjoy a more restful night's sleep.
Remember to practice breathing techniques, engage in progressive muscle relaxation, and develop a consistent nighttime routine.
Additionally, Consider adding sleep-promoting foods to your diet per your doctor's recommendation.
Wake up refreshed, rejuvenated, and prepare to tackle the day ahead by taking proactive steps towards better sleep.
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-faqs/how-long-should-it-take-to-fall-asleep
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-hygiene/bedtime-routine-for-adults
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-hygiene/best-breathing-exercises-for-sleep
https://www.healthline.com/health/progressive-muscle-relaxation
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/9-foods-to-help-you-sleep
Have you ever wondered if your seasonal sniffles could be more than what it seems? A new study has unearthed a surprising link between allergies and arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a chronic debilitating condition that affects millions all over the world. This discovery can lead to a better therapeutic approach and better management of this condition.
Did You Know? Osteoarthritis has a high prevalence in those with low bone mineral density (BMD). Genetics is one of the significant influencers of BMD. Those with certain genetic types are at a higher risk of low BMD than others. Learn more:
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis.
It affects the joints between long bones.
When the cartilage around the bones wears down over time with age, it causes osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis usually affects the joints of the hands, knee, hip, and spine.
Symptoms can be managed but not reversed.
The lifetime risk of developing osteoarthritis in the knee is as high as 44.7%.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that affects the joints.
It occurs when the cartilage around long bones and joints erode over time, either due to age or due to a traumatic injury.
Some individuals might be genetically predisposed and more prone to osteoarthritis than others.
Mild symptoms start that worsen over time.
Typically, the ends of long bones are covered with protective cartilage.
In osteoarthritis, this cartilage wears off.
As a result, there is increased friction between the heads of the bones.
It leads to wear and tear and bone spurs around the joint.
Allergy is a condition where your body reacts severely to a foreign substance.
An allergen is a substance that can trigger an allergic reaction in the body.
Common allergens include pollen, certain foods, and medications.
The purpose of the immune system is to protect the body against infection.
Sometimes, the immune system confuses harmless substances to be harmful and initiates an attack against them.
Such substances are called allergens.
When an allergen enters the body, the immune system produces antibodies to counter it.
These antibodies then "attack" the allergen and destroy it.
Common allergy symptoms include itching, wheezing, runny nose, and rashes.
A severe allergic reaction can cause anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Certain types of allergies can worsen pain associated with arthritis.
It might be due to a similar immune system reaction to both conditions.
The immune system reacts to a foreign allergen or the body's tissues, and that causes inflammation.
Managing both conditions may improve symptoms and provide relief.
Rheumatoid arthritis most commonly affects joints in the hands, wrists, and knees.
Osteoarthritis affects joints in the spine, hips, and hands.
During an allergic reaction, the joints already affected by arthritis experience the worst symptoms.
Two common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
A study conducted in 2015 suggests that people having at least one type of allergy are prone to develop rheumatoid arthritis.
It might be because of the association of rheumatoid arthritis and allergies with a chronically malfunctioning immune system.
Food allergies involving red meat, crab, and pork are associated with spinal arthritis.
Drug allergies, such as NSAIDS, are more prevalent in people who have rheumatoid arthritis.
Is Osteoarthritis Genetic?
A recent study was conducted to investigate whether people with atopic disease (a type of allergy) were at increased risk for osteoarthritis.
The results were published in the Annals of Rheumatic Diseases journal.
The researchers reviewed insurance claim data (2003-2019) and electronic health records (2010-2020).
The insurance dataset contained over 1 million people, while the electronic health records dataset contained 100,000 people.
The study had two groups of participants.
People in both groups didn’t have pre-existing OA or inflammatory arthritis
One group was named the "exposed" group.
It had people who were diagnosed with asthma or atopic disease.
The "non-exposed" group had no such diagnosis.
Both groups had a mean age of 50.
The exposed group had 60% female participants compared to the 48% in the non-exposed group.
The insurance dataset showed the exposed group had a 58% elevated chance of developing osteoarthritis.
The electronic health records dataset showed that 42% of people from the exposed group were prone to suffer from osteoarthritis.
After adjusting for multiple variables like age, gender, educational levels, etc., the researchers observed a 115% increased risk of osteoarthritis in those with both atopic dermatitis and asthma compared to the non-exposed group.
The researchers suggest that this data might indicate that allergic pathways can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
for Osteoarthritis
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Osteoarthritis is a common disorder that affects the joints between long bones.
The joints degenerate over time, causing friction and wear and tear between bones.
A new study reports that people suffering from atopic disease and/or asthma are at a higher risk for developing osteoarthritis.
People with both conditions have a 115% increased risk of osteoarthritis.
Maintaining a healthy body weight, controlling blood sugar levels, and protecting your joints from injuries are effective ways to prevent osteoarthritis.
https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies-and-arthritis#allergies-linked-to-arthritis
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6516833/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3513771/
https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/rheumatoid-arthritis-food-allergies
