We have all seen movies where right before the hero starts fighting, he cracks his knuckles and makes it look like the coolest thing in the world! But then our parents told us that you should not crack your knuckles because that weakens your grip and hand strength. But is that true? While many people do say that they experience a small loss in strength immediately after they crack their knuckles, but are their long-term effects to it? And what is the sound actually coming from?

The reason why people crack their fingers is because the evident and sharp crack noise causes a sense of relief. Many people also do it when they have done an activity that required them to work with their hands a lot like typing or sewing, giving themselves a sense of satisfaction, similar to stretching after doing hard work. That "crack" sound can make some people cringe, while others find it strangely satisfying. Cracking your knuckles is a pretty common habit, but there are a lot of misunderstandings about it. Some people do it without even thinking, others can't stand the noise, and some can't crack their knuckles at all. You might have been told as a kid that it causes arthritis or makes your fingers swell up. But those are just old wives' tales. There's a real science behind this habit, and it's more interesting than you may think.

Why Do Knuckles Make That Popping Sound?

The "crack" isn't actually bones breaking or anything bad happening to your joints. It's a normal thing called "crepitus." This just means harmless popping, snapping, or grinding sounds that come from your joints. The main reason you hear this sound is because of gas bubbles in the fluid that cushions your joints. This fluid is called synovial fluid. When you move or stretch, these tiny bubbles form and then pop, making the sound. It's totally normal and doesn't hurt you. Sometimes, especially in bigger joints like your knees, shoulders, or ankles, the sound can also happen when the stretchy tissues that connect your bones (ligaments and tendons) move slightly and then snap back into place.

After you crack your knuckles, you can't usually do it again right away. You have to wait a bit. That's because the gas bubbles in your joint fluid have already popped, and it takes a little while for them to build up again. While cracking your knuckles doesn't give you arthritis, doing it too much might cause some problems. Doctors say that cracking them too often could make your joints a little wobbly and might even make your grip weaker. Also, if the stretchy tissues in your joints keep snapping over your bones, they can get irritated and sore.

When Joint Popping Might Mean Something More

Sometimes, a pop in your joint is just like cracking your knuckles, nothing to worry about. But other times, it can be a sign of something else. As we get older, the cushiony stuff in our joints, called cartilage, can start to wear down. This cartilage helps your bones move smoothly. When it gets thin or uneven, the bones can rub together, and that can make a grinding or popping sound. This is different from the pop you get from gas bubbles. If this grinding sound happens along with pain, it could be a sign of osteoarthritis. This is a type of joint problem that's more common in older people, but younger people can get it too, especially after a joint injury. If your joints hurt, especially in the morning or after you've been sitting still for a while, feel wobbly, or are hard to move, it's a good idea to see a doctor.

Winter creates the perfect setting for coughs, colds, and stomach bugs. With people spending longer hours indoors, infections pass from person to person more easily. Right now, one virus in particular is spreading fast across the UK.

Norovirus, often referred to as the winter vomiting bug, is circulating widely. Several NHS trusts have announced a “critical incident” after a sharp rise in hospital admissions linked to norovirus and flu. A critical incident is declared when Accident and emergency departments are no longer able to provide all services safely.

With cases climbing this winter, many are asking the same question: how can you protect yourself from catching the winter vomiting bug?

What Is Norovirus?

Norovirus is one of several viruses that infect the gut and cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. These symptoms can continue for a few days and, in some cases, may lead to severe dehydration. Outbreaks are often reported in settings like cruise ships, nurseries, and care homes. You may have heard it called the “cruise ship virus.” These environments make it easier for the virus to spread because people are in close contact and often share food and drink sources.

Norovirus Symptoms To Take Note Of

Symptoms of norovirus typically appear between 12 and 48 hours after exposure, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). People may experience repeated bouts of vomiting and diarrhoea throughout the day, with symptoms usually lasting one to three days.

As per the NHS, other symptoms include:

• Nausea and vomiting, often sudden and intense.
• Diarrhoea with loose, watery stools.
• Abdominal pain, including cramps and discomfort.
• Body aches, such as muscle pain and general weakness.
• Headaches.
• A mild fever.

Norovirus: How Can You Avoid Getting The Winter Vomiting Bug?

Try not to eat food prepared by anyone who is unwell or has recently been sick, although this is not always easy to manage. One of the most effective precautions is regular handwashing. Clean your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially at key moments.

A useful habit is to wash your hands before putting anything in your mouth. This becomes even more important in group settings or if you are near someone who is ill.

If norovirus is a concern, make sure to wash your hands before eating in these situations:

• At shared meals, after serving dishes have been passed around and you have filled your plate.
• While snacking, if you are using shared utensils or pouring drinks from a communal bottle.
• After shaking hands when greeting people at gatherings involving food or drinks.
• In restaurants, after touching shared items such as menus or buffet and salad bar utensils.
• At work, if you are eating while using a computer or shared equipment.
• If washing your hands is not possible before handling food, it may be safer to eat using utensils only.

With proper care, most people bounce back from norovirus without complications. Staying well hydrated, getting enough rest, and managing symptoms should be your focus, while strict hygiene and isolation help stop the virus from spreading to others.

Lung cancer is especially dangerous because its symptoms often do not appear until the harmful cells have already spread through the body. However, there are some early warning signs you might be able to spot. Common indicators include breathlessness, wheezing, and a persistent cough that may bring up blood or mucus. While lung cancer is typically linked to respiratory problems like a chronic cough, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort, experts note that noticeable changes in your fingertips and nails can sometimes serve as early alerts for this potentially serious disease.

What Is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is a malignant growth that begins in the tissues of the lungs, usually from DNA damage in the cells lining the airways, which then grow uncontrollably to form tumors. Smoking is a major contributor, but other factors such as exposure to radon, asbestos, or inherited genetic conditions can also play a role.

Symptoms often include a persistent cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Lung cancer is mainly classified into two types: Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Types Of Lung Cancer

Although many cancers can develop in the lungs, the term “lung cancer” usually refers to two main types: non-small cell and small cell lung cancer.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

NSCLC is the most common form, accounting for more than 80% of lung cancer cases. Common subtypes include adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, while adenosquamous carcinoma and sarcomatoid carcinoma are less frequent forms of NSCLC.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

SCLC tends to grow more quickly and is more challenging to treat than NSCLC. It is often detected as a small tumor that has already spread to other areas of the body. Types of SCLC include small cell carcinoma (also known as oat cell carcinoma) and combined small cell carcinoma.

Lung Cancer Symptom On Fingers

Have you ever pressed your fingernails together and noticed a small diamond-shaped space of light? If that gap is missing, it could be a sign of finger clubbing, a condition where the ends of the fingers swell, which may indicate lung cancer.

This change occurs gradually, starting with the base of the nail becoming soft. Next, the skin around the nail bed may appear shiny, followed by the nails curving more than usual when viewed from the side.

Eventually, the tips of the fingers can enlarge and swell as fluid builds up in the soft tissue. While a missing diamond-shaped gap between your nails doesn’t automatically mean you have lung cancer, it can be a warning sign. If you notice this, it’s wise to consult your doctor.

What Are The Warning Signs Of Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer can present differently in every individual. Some people show multiple symptoms, while others may have none.

Key signs to watch for include:

• Swelling in the face or neck
• A cough that changes or worsens
• Frequent chest infections
• Shortness of breath
• Chest or shoulder pain
• Wheezing
• Coughing up blood or blood-stained phlegm
• Hoarseness
• A persistent cough lasting three weeks or longer
• Unexplained fatigue or low energy

West Bengal is witnessing a Nipah virus outbreak, with five cases of the disease detected in just one week. In an age where information travels faster than verification, fear often fills the gaps left by facts. Each time the Nipah virus makes headlines, anxiety spikes, driven by rumors and alarming social media claims. Doctors say this reaction is understandable but unnecessary. Nipah is a serious illness, but it is not an uncontrollable mystery. Understanding what is true and what is not can help people stay cautious without slipping into panic.

Dr Satya Ranjan Sahu, Senior Consultant in Pulmonology at Narayana Hospital, Gurugram, explains that misinformation can sometimes be more dangerous than the virus itself. Here are some of the most common myths around Nipah virus, and what medical science actually says.

Myth 1: Nipah virus spreads easily through the air

Many people assume Nipah spreads like COVID-19 or seasonal flu. That is not accurate. Nipah does not spread through the air over long distances. Most infections occur after close contact with infected animals or through exposure to bodily fluids of an infected person, such as saliva or respiratory secretions, usually during caregiving. Human-to-human transmission is possible, but it typically requires prolonged and unprotected close contact.

Also Read: Nipah Virus Case Detected In Two Nurses From West Bengal

Myth 2: Getting infected always leads to death

The severity of Nipah has led to the belief that infection equals death. Doctors strongly refute this. While Nipah can be life-threatening, not every case is fatal. Many patients recover, especially when the infection is identified early and medical care begins promptly. Early diagnosis, hospital monitoring, and supportive treatment can significantly improve outcomes.

Myth 3: There is no treatment, so nothing can help

It is true that there is no specific antiviral drug approved to cure Nipah virus. However, this does not mean patients cannot be treated. Medical care focuses on managing symptoms, supporting breathing, maintaining hydration, and preventing complications. With proper hospital care, patients can be stabilised and supported through the illness. Calling Nipah untreatable often discourages people from seeking timely medical help, which can be dangerous.

Myth 4: Without a vaccine, prevention is impossible

The absence of a vaccine can make people feel helpless, but prevention does not depend on vaccines alone. Simple steps are highly effective. Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding contact with sick animals, using protective gear while caring for infected individuals, and following public health advisories all reduce risk. Doctors stress that informed and cautious behavior remains one of the strongest tools against Nipah.

Read: Unique Symptoms Of Nipah Virus Found In West Bengal And How Long Infection Now Last

Myth 5: All fruits are unsafe to eat

Fruit bats are natural carriers of the Nipah virus, which has led to widespread fear around fruit consumption. Doctors clarify that fruits are not automatically dangerous. Properly washed, peeled, and hygienically handled fruits are generally safe to eat. Most human infections have been linked to close contact with infected animals or people, not routine fruit consumption.

What doctors want people to remember

Nipah virus is serious, but it is not as easily spread or as hopeless as many believe. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle pain, or vomiting, and in some cases progress to breathing or neurological problems. Seeking medical care at the first sign of symptoms can save lives. Health experts urge the public to rely on verified information from trusted medical sources and avoid spreading unconfirmed claims.

During outbreaks, calm awareness matters. Separating myths from medical facts allows communities to respond with care, responsibility, and confidence rather than fear.