Categories
Eye Health Health Tips

Eye Health – How To Achieve It?

Eyes play a very crucial part in our life. Hence it is very important to tend to our eye health more seriously. However, We cannot just take our eyes for granted, to achieve good vision. Keep our eyesight at its best need to follow a few tips. Do you know most eye problems are avoidable? Alternatively, you can protect your eyes and vision with some simple yet most effective below mentioned tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What regular Eye itching says?
2. 5 easy exercises to improve your Eye muscles
3. Common Eye problems and overcome tips

Simple Tips to Achieve good Eye Health

1. Eat a healthy and balanced diet

Food that we eat plays an amazing role in preserving our eye health. Foods rich in fatty acids, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E and others can keep several eye problems at bay. For healthy eyesight include plenty of green veggies, fatty fish, nuts, eggs, beans, carrots, oranges and other citrus fruits.

2. Wear the right shades 

Too much exposure to UV rays can make you more prone to cataracts and macular degeneration. Moreover, it is always recommended to wear the right shades on your eyes. To protect them from harmful UV rays of the sun. Choose shades that can protect your eyes from both UVA and UVB beams. Wraparound shades help to protect your eyes even from the sides.

3. Quit smoking

Smoking can damage the optic nerve and make you more prone to get cataracts and macular degeneration. Smoking exposes our eyes to a high level of oxidative stress. Not only this but it can also trigger the risk of several health conditions affecting the eyes.

4. Look away from computer screens

Staring too much at computer screens and phone screens can increase eye strain. However this can also trigger your risk of blurry vision, dry eyes, trouble focussing at distance and so on. If you feel that your eyes are becoming dry, blink your eyes more. Rest your eyes every 20 minutes i.e., look away from your computer screens for at least 20 seconds.

5. Get your eyes checked regularly

Everyone including young children should get their eyes examined regularly. By the way with these regular eye checks, one can spot abnormalities early when they are easy to treat.

6.Rest your eyes and get a good night sleep

Rest your eyes more to improve the health of your eyes. While spending a lot of time in front of digital monitors and blue light, our eyes need rest. As a result, you will notice the difference after you rest your eyes. Your eyes feel great and refreshed after getting enough sleep. One should even close their eyes for a few seconds and blink their eyes more during working hours to avoid dry eyes.

Categories
Hair Fall Health Tips

Everyday Things you do that Cause Hair Fall

Hair Fall is not always caused due to some underlying health conditions. It can also be triggered due to our every habit. However, Hair Fall starts from what we eat and wear can affect the health of our hair. Though hair thinning is believed to have a genetic component. Hair Fall for regular habits turns out to be major triggering aspects. Knowingly or unknowingly we tend to do these mistakes every day.  This can have an effect on our hair. Can also lead to hair fall and hair thinning. Hair Fall occurs due to the many reasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Eating habits that lead to excessive hair fall
2. Reasons of hair thinning in women
3. Essential hair care tips in Monsoon
4. How to control hair fall in Winter?

Indeed, if you are worried about your excess hair Fall and wondering what could be the culprit. Then check out this list of everyday activities that can cause hair Fall.

Everyday Habits which can Cause Hair Fall

1. Skipping meals or crash dieting for Hair Fall

Many people in order to control their weight, tend to skip their meals or opt for crash dieting. This can lead to malnutrition. Lack of essential nutrients can severely disrupt the hair cycle and lead to hair Fall. However, we all know our hair needs nutrients to stay strong and healthy. If you wish to control your weight or go on a diet, make sure to eat a balanced diet for healthy hair. Include plenty of lean protein in your diet to control your hair Fall and keep your hair healthy.

2. Taking hot water shower for Hair Fall

No one can deny the fact of how a hot water shower can boost our energy and helps us relieve stress. But one should know the fact that it can be one of the reasons for hair fall. Yes, Hot water showers dehydrate our hair strands by washing out the natural oils from the scalp. This loss of oils makes our hair dry, brittle and more prone to breakage. It is always recommended to use lukewarm water than hot water to wash the hair.

3. Combing wet hair

This is a common mistake most of us do knowingly or unknowingly. While in a rush, most people tend to comb their wet hair or opt for aggressive towel drying, which is not at all recommended. Our hair is more prone to breakage when it is wet. Even though you are in a hurry dry first and then slightly comb with a wide-toothed comb.

4. Not washing your hair often cause Hair Fall

In either case, not washing hair properly can also trigger hair fall. If you do not wash your hair regularly dirt, sweat and other products build up on your scalp. This can even clog your hair follicles. It is recommended to wash your hair often, once every two days probably.

5. Opting for tight hairstyles

Even though neatly combed and tight hairstyles look cool. But it can damage your hair from the roots. Hair follicles get damaged when you pull your hair and wear tight hairstyles. In the long run, in severe cases, wearing tight hairstyles can even lead to traction alopecia. This is one of the main reason cause Hair Fall.

6. Using too many chemical products cause Hair Fall

To get healthy and bouncy hair. Many people tend to use several chemical products available in the market. While in the long run, these chemical products can dry and brittle your hair. Hence it can cause more damage to your hair than you realize.

7. Exposing hair to more heat causes Hair Fall

If you are using blow dryers or heated styling products (like curling iron or straightener) on your hair. Then it is time to keep them away. These products can damage your hair and lead to breakage, hair fall and hair thinning.

Categories
Eucalyptus Health Tips

Amazing Health Benefits of Eucalyptus

This article is all about the Benefits of Eucalyptus. In this, we discuss the importance and Benefits of Eucalyptus. Before learning about the Benefits of Eucalyptus firstly we have to learn about Eucalyptus.

Benefits of Eucalyptus is a very powerful and highly exploited plant because of its wood and oil. It is commercially produced in tropical and subtropical regions all over the world. While it consumes huge quantities of water from the ground, eucalyptus can be utilized for draining marshes. It can likewise remove malaria by destroying wet habitats which are essential for the development of mosquito eggs. Drying of the soil negatively influences other plant species.

When we hear the name Eucalyptus, we realize it’s an essential oil (Eucalyptus oil). Which is widely used to boosts the immune system and helps to control cold, cough and several other health conditions.

Today, let us in detail discuss the Eucalyptus tree and some of its amazing health benefits of Eucalyptus:

Benefits of Eucalyptus Tree

Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree, with a wide array of medicinal benefits. Over 700 different species of the Eucalyptus tree and most species are native to Australia. Different species of Eucalyptus vary greatly in size and shape from shrubs to tall trees. The whole Eucalyptus tree is very useful, i.e. each and every part of the tree-like leaves, oil and bark highly benefit us. The eucalyptus tree extracts are widely used globally due to their diverse health benefits.

Amazing Health Benefits of Eucalyptus

Let’s have a detailed look at the amazing health benefits of Eucalyptus

1. Improves respiratory health

Cold, cough, flu, sore throat, Asthma and others can be effectively controlled with Eucalyptus oil. One can rub the Eucalyptus oil on to chest to get relief from the chest congestion and to improve breathing. Another method to get rid of the chest or nasal congestion is to add a few drops of Eucalyptus oil. To the boiled water and inhaling the steam. This steam acts as a natural expectorant. Although it eases congestion and removes excess phlegm from the respiratory tract and sinuses. In place of Eucalyptus oil, one can even add Eucalyptus leaves to the boiling water. It inhales the steam to reduce congestion and improve respiratory circulation.

2. Boosts immune system

Eucalyptus oil and tea have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Which naturally boost our immunity and protect us from several infections and allergies. Eucalyptus tea can naturally boost the compromised immune system. This is due to illness and provides relief from the symptoms.

3. Provides dental care

The antibacterial, antimicrobial and germicidal characteristics present in Eucalyptus promotes dental health. These particular characteristics help in fighting.  The bacteria can lead to tooth decay. It also treats several dental problems like cavities, gingivitis and others. Nowadays Eucalyptus used in some toothpaste and mouthwash.

4. Cools down body temperature

Eucalyptus oil works wonderfully in controlling body temperature?. Especially in the summer season where the risk of heatstroke raises. Eucalyptus oil cools down and maintains the body temperature.

5. Relieves Headache 

Eucalyptus oil is one of the best solutions for Headaches. It controls headache by relaxing the tense facial muscles and by controlling exhaustion and stress. It also reduces inflammation and pressure in the sinuses which are treated as one of the major causes of headache.

6. Controls Diabetes

Eucalyptus oil is believed to increase circulation in people with Diabetes. Brewing Eucalyptus leaves into a tea and consuming it acts as a preventive measure for Diabetes. Those who already developed the condition. It works as an effective treatment to control Diabetes. It is always recommended to consult with your doctor before trying these above tips. This strategy varies greatly depending on the type of Diabetes people have.

7. Controls anxiety and stress

The aroma of Eucalyptus leaves and oil has soothing effects. Which works as a natural sedative and offers relief from stress. Eucalyptus tea is highly recommended for those suffering from chronic stress. It reduces stress hormones and eases anxiety.

8. Controls ear inflammation

Eucalyptus oil is very well known to reduce inflammation and pain. Oil of Eucalyptus has antimicrobial properties. Which help to clear the infection that can lead to fluid build-up in the ear canal. Never put any essential oil directly into the ear. Instead, you can massage the oil gently around the outer ear to get relief from pain and inflammation.

9. Alleviates muscle pain and inflammation

Eucalyptus oil has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. To get relief from pain and inflammation. Massage a few drops of Eucalyptus oil on the affected area gently. One can even warm the Eucalyptus oil and then massage it for better results.

Categories
Health Tips Respiratory Problems

Acute Upper Respiratory Infection

Upper Respiratory Infection (URI) in general is defined as an infection in the upper respiratory tract. The common cold is one of the most common Upper Respiratory Infections.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Know more about Acute respiratory infections?
2. Effects of Bronchiolitis in Winter?
3. Safety precautions to follow during the rainy season?

Today let us in detail discuss Acute Upper Respiratory Infection, its causes and symptoms.

About Acute Upper Respiratory Infection

Our respiratory tract is broadly classified into two categories namely the upper respiratory tract and the lower respiratory tract. Where the upper respiratory tract includes the mouth, nose, sinus, throat, larynx and trachea and the lower respiratory tract consists of bronchial tubes and the lungs. Acute Upper Respiratory Infection is a contagious infection in the upper respiratory tract which interferes with normal breathing. In addition to cold, few other types of Acute upper respiratory infections include Sinusitis, Epiglottitis, Laryngitis and Bronchitis.

Though these Upper Respiratory Infections can affect people of all age groups but is more common in children and older adults this is mainly because of their weak immune system. People suffering from chronic disorders like heart diseases, lung problems and so on are more prone to developing Acute Upper Respiratory tract infections.

Causes of Acute Upper Respiratory Infection

An Acute Upper Respiratory Infection can be caused due to both viruses and bacteria.

Viruses that cause Acute Upper Respiratory Infections include

  • Rhinovirus
  • Adenovirus
  • Coxsackievirus
  • Parainfluenza virus
  • Respiratory syncytial virus
  • Human metapneumovirus

Bacteria that causes Acute Upper Respiratory Infections include

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhoea
  • Diphtheria

Risk factors of Acute Upper Respiratory Infections

As we all know, Acute Upper Respiratory Infections are highly contagious and spread easily through hand to hand contact, droplets and so on. Few risk factors of Acute Upper Respiratory Infections include

  • Weak immune system
  • Not maintaining proper hygiene
  • Coming in contact with a person suffering from URI

Symptoms of Acute Upper Respiratory Infection

People suffering from Acute Upper Respiratory Infection experience symptoms like

  • Congestion (in the nasal area or the lungs)
  • Persistent cough
  • Wheezing
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Pain and difficulty while swallowing
  • Sore or scratchy throat
  • Body aches
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Foul breath
  • Hyposmia (reduced ability to smell)

Complications of Acute Upper Respiratory Infection

In severe cases, Acute Upper Respiratory Infection can lead to complications like respiratory failure, respiratory arrest and congestive heart failure.

Categories
Fatigue Health Tips

7 Most Common Reasons behind Fatigue

Are you feeling tired or sleepy always and facing trouble concentrating and performing everyday activities? Then it may be due to Fatigue. There are many reasons behind fatigue. It is very common to feel tired at times, maybe due to stress, cold, flu or infections, anaemia and so on. In the above conditions, one can easily get relief from it with some rest or after recovering from their cold or flu conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Tips to overcome Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
2. Overcome weakness/Tiredness with Homeopathy
3. Effects of stress on the Brain and Behaviour

But if one fails to recover from this feeling of tiredness or weakness even after getting good sleep and rest, then he/she might be experiencing Fatigue.

About Fatigue

Fatigue is a condition where individuals face constant tiredness and weakness. Fatigue or weakness can be physical, mental or combination of both, i.e. individuals may feel tired physically or mentally. In general, Fatigue is more referred to as a symptom of some underlying health conditions like Thyroid disorders, Diabetes, sleep apnea and others rather than a health disorder. Dizziness, feeling sleepy, tired, muscle weakness, irritability, lack of concentration and so on are a few common symptoms of Fatigue.

Common Reasons/Causes of Fatigue

Below are a few causes (health conditions) which can trigger the risk of Fatigue

  • Nutritional deficiency – lack of nutrients is one of the major causes of Fatigue. Our body needs enough fuel to stay energised, when we eat a nutritionally balanced diet, our sugar levels rise and keep us charged. Lack of nutrients can make us feel fatigued. Many people tend to skip their breakfast most of the times due to lack of time, they just grab a cup of coffee or tea and leave for work, but this is not at all recommended. Breakfast is the most crucial meal of the day, it balances sugar levels and keeps us energized to kick start our day.
  • Thyroid disorders – An under active Thyroid or Hypothyroidism can also trigger the risk of Fatigue. Hypothyroidism means too little production of thyroid hormone (Thyroxine). This leads to symptoms like aching muscles, weight gain and Fatigue.
  • Diabetes -Fatigue is one of the major symptoms of Diabetes. Under Diabetes, if sugar levels are high, they stay in our body fluids instead of being used as energy, this leads to Fatigue. If in case sugar levels are less, then you will not have enough energy and this further leads to Fatigue.
  • Too much physical activities – Our body burn more calories when we exercise. With little calories, when we exercise too much, it leads to Fatigue. One needs to take a healthy diet and exercise moderately to stay fit and healthy.
  • Lack of enough sleep – Lack of enough sleep has a negative impact on our overall health. Our body energizes itself when we sleep and makes it fit to carry out our daily routines. Sleeping disorders like sleep apnea and others can disturb your sleep and lead to tiredness and Fatigue.
  • Depression – Chronic fatigue is one of the major symptoms of Depression and stress. People who are depressed tend to eat very less and sleep a little, this basic reason makes their body more tired and fatigued.
  • Anemia – Anemia is a health condition which makes our body down. Under Anemia, our body doesn’t have or don’t produce enough RBC’s. Iron plays a crucial role in our body, without this major component, our body does not get enough oxygen in body fluids. Iron Deficiency Anemia is also one of the common causes of Fatigue, especially in women.
Categories
Children Health Tips Myopia

Excess Usage of Smart Phones and Computers can Lead to Myopia in Children

Things to know about Myopia in Children

Myopia in children is one of the usual vision difficulties in childhood. About 9% of kids ages 5-17 are nearsighted. Kids with this ailment can normally see objects close up, but struggle to see something far away. It is often diagnosed around first or second grade when they struggle to view the board in class.

Are your kids facing difficulty seeing distant objects or complaining about not being able to read the letters written on board clearly? If yes, then it is better to contact an Ophthalmologist without neglecting, as this may be due to an eye problem called Myopia.

What is Myopia in Children?

Myopia also called nearsightedness, is a progressive visual disorder wherein people face difficulty seeing the object that is farther away. Myopia rates are increasing rapidly these days and too much usage of computers and smartphones is believed to have a crucial role in Myopia. Myopia along with weakening the vision also alters the physical structure of the eye. It can either steepen the front surface of the eye or stretch the retina backwards.

what are the causes of  Myopia?

Excess usage of smartphones, sitting in front of computers for hours, staying inside the classrooms and houses away from natural sunlight is having major impacts on the eye health of your little ones. In the end, these factors can also lead to Myopia and many other vision problems.

Children nowadays are spending most of the time in front of computers and touch screen phones which causes severe harm to the development of vision in childhood. Myopia if left untreated can increase the risk of blindness in children. It is estimated that by 2050, half of the world’s population i.e. around 5 billion people will get affected Myopia.

Experts even suggest conducting eye tests for newborn infants through which we can detect eye problems among children in the early stages. Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a type of vision problem which is mostly seen in premature babies. Though these kids look normal outside, their eyesight will get damaged gradually. If detected within 30 days, ROP can be corrected.

Currently, the usage of smartphones has increased drastically. Most of the parents today are handing their phones to their kids in order to complete their tasks and kids are playing with them for hours. This excess usage of smartphones leads to many problems like dry eyes, headache, irritation, physical discomforts and so on.

Approximately, 3 lack people are suffering from Myopia in our country, whereas, around 30% of the population are facing glaucoma and eye cancer problems, 50% of people are facing refractive error problem and about 5-10% of people are facing other eye-related problems.

Precautions to control Myopia in Children

Below are few precautionary steps which help to prevent and control Myopia in children
  • Blink your eyes more often when working on a computer for long hours. Blinking can prevent eye dryness and irritation.
  • Do not keep your smartphones closer to your eyes.
  • Make sure kids play and spend most of their time outside under the sun instead of playing indoors.
  • Eat more Carotenoid rich foods like Carrots, spinach, pumpkin and other available greens.
  • Get enough night sleep. Sleep does not just prevent vision problems but also improves overall wellbeing.
  • Get your eyes checked regularly.
Categories
Children Health Tips Pneumonia

Pneumonia Turning into a Major Cause of Child Deaths in India

Pneumonia is turning into a major problem for Children

Recent studies revealed that Pneumonia is turning to be a major cause of child deaths in India. It is estimated that,  at the end of 2030, Pneumonia can strike down 17 lack children below the age of 5 years. The study also estimated that around 1.1 crore child deaths may occur worldwide due to Pneumonia.

The research report on Pneumonia is turning into a major problem

On the account of World Pneumonia Day, an International NGO “Save the Children” released an annual research report on Pneumonia cases on Monday. Major elements of the report include

  • A study revealed that Pneumonia has turned to be the leading cause of child deaths in the world-beating back other severe diseases like malaria, diarrhoea and chickenpox.
  • In the year 2016, 8.8 lakh people died due to this infectious disease and most of them are children below 2 years of age.
  • With vaccination and nutritious food, around 40 lakh pneumonia deaths can be prevented.
  • Up to 6.1 lakh deaths can be prevented with 90% of vaccination in children below 5 years.
  • Around 25 lakh child deaths can be prevented with nutritious food and around 90 lakh deaths can be prevented with cheap antibiotics.
List of Countries with Highest Pneumonia Deaths In Lakh’s
Nigeria

 

India

 

Pakistan

 

The Democratic Republic of the Congo

 

17.3

 

17.1

 

7.06

 

6.35

 

 

 

Categories
Children Diabetes Health Tips

Diabetes, a Sweet and Deadly Disease in Children

Things to know about Diabetes in children

Diabetes is once considered to be an elder’s problem but now is also seen diabetes in children. Diabetes is affecting more and more children these days. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are seen in children of this generation. Currently, in India, around 1 lakh children are suffering from Type 1 diabetes, whereas even Type 2 diabetes (which is mostly seen in elders) is also affecting many children. Surprisingly Type 2 cases are increasing at a faster phase these days.

Irrespective of type, it is very important to recognize and treat diabetes at the right time. If left untreated or timely diagnosis is not provided, it disturbs the children both physically and mentally. In long run, it also affects many organs like the heart and kidney and leads to several complications. Hence it is very crucial to know about Diabetes.

As we all know, every cell in our body needs the energy to function properly and we get this energy from the food we eat. Our body breaks down the food we eat into glucose. After the glucose reaches every cell, insulin (a hormone released by the pancreas) acts as a key and allows glucose to enter into every cell in our body.

The glucose entered into the cells can then be used as the energy right away or can be stored for later use. In this whole process, Insulin plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of our body. If enough insulin is not produced or if the insulin produced by the pancreas is not used properly, it greatly affects the sugar levels and cells in our body gets damaged leading to Diabetes.

Introduction to Diabetes in children

Most people believe that diabetes affects only elders, but it is not true, Diabetes in children has become common these days. In fact, diabetes in children can start at any point, at the age between 3-7 years or 10-12 years of age. Rarely, few kids get affected with Diabetes under the age of 9 months. This type of diabetes affecting infants is called “Neonatal Diabetes” and is mainly caused due to genetics.

Diabetes affecting children of 6 months age is called Type 1 Diabetes and around 90% of the children with Diabetes are suffering from this type. Especially children with 5 years are mostly getting affected with this type. Type 2 diabetes which is mostly seen in elders, is also affecting children nowadays. A sedentary lifestyle is the major cause of Type 2 Diabetes, children with obesity are at an increased risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes. The number of children getting affected by Diabetes has increased up to 10% in the past 30 years.

What is Type 1 Diabetes in children?

Type 1 Diabetes which is also called juvenile diabetes is a condition where the pancreas produces very little (fails to produce enough insulin) or no insulin. Without enough insulin, the cells in our body fail to use glucose which in turn leads to high glucose levels in the body fluids. This presence of high glucose levels in body fluids is called Type 1 Diabetes. This type mainly happens when Beta cells present in the pancreas gets damaged. Autoimmune disorders are considered to be the basic cause behind the damage of beta cells where our immune system mistakenly attacks the beta cells. The exact cause of this condition is not clear, but viral infections are considered as the risk factors.

Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes

Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes in children start suddenly and it is very important to notice them in the early stages. Early detection of symptoms helps to get timely treatment and also helps to eliminate the risk of several health complications. Few common symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes include

  • Feeling thirsty and peeing more than usual- With a rise in glucose levels, water from our tissues comes out and makes us feel thirsty. Drinking more water also makes us pee more frequently. Furthermore, our kidneys also produce more urine to remove excess glucose from our body fluids.
  • Weakness and extreme hunger- Due to insufficient insulin, our cells do not get the required amount of glucose due to which the muscles and organs do not get enough energy and get exhausted. This further makes us feel weak and hungry.
  • Irritability and mood changes- This feeling of weakness and lack of energy make the kids irritable and few kids also fail to concentrate on their studies.
  • Blurred vision- With excess glucose levels in our body fluids, eyes become dry and lead to blurred vision.
  • Weight Loss- When our cells do not receive enough glucose for energy, they use muscle fat for energy which leads to weight loss. Sometimes children lose weight very quickly and noticing it in the early stages is very important. If left unrecognized, acid levels increase in the body and lead to severe complications.
  • Coma- In few cases, children suddenly become unconscious and this condition can be fatal in children below 5 years of age.

What is Type 2 Diabetes in children?

This is a condition where the pancreas makes enough insulin, but the cells fail to use it well as they should. This leads to high glucose levels in body fluids. This condition where cells fail to use insulin is called Insulin Resistance. The exact cause of Type 2 Diabetes in children is not clear but it is believed that it is associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Unhealthy food habits, obesity, lack of physical exercise and others act as triggering factors of Type 2 Diabetes. Before in the olden days, kids used to eat home-cooked food and play games outdoors, whereas, now the situation has changed, in this last phase of life, children are eating more junk foods and carbohydrates. After coming from schools kids are stuck with bundles of Home works and prefer to play video games or sit in front of smartphones or computers for hours without any physical exercises. This lack of physical activity is contributing to weight gain in many children. This imbalance in the amount of calorie intake and burning calories leads to fat accumulations in the abdominal area which increases the risk of insulin resistance. This further increases glucose levels in the body. Children with a family history of diabetes are at an increased risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes

Children with Type 2 Diabetes face symptoms like

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Increased hunger
  • Blurred vision
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Slow healing of sores
  • Frequent infections
  • Skin becomes black- Due to increased insulin levels, the skin around the neck, in the armpits and groin becomes black.

Control Diabetes with Lifestyle changes

High glucose levels can be controlled effectively with changes in foods we eat and adequate exercises when detected in the early stages. One can easily control glucose levels with lifestyle changes and without using any medications. If in case, the glucose levels are not controlled, then professionals prescribe suitable medications. Children are also given insulin injections for some time if necessary.

Prevention is always better than cure

As always said prevention is better than cure, taking enough care of kids and teaching them healthy habits is very important. As Type 2 Diabetes is mainly associated with our lifestyle, hence teaching our kids healthy habits, giving them a healthy and balanced diet filled with fruits and veggies, encouraging them to play outdoors and many others are very important.

Chances of children with normal weight getting affected with Diabetes are very low when compared to children who are obese. It is advisable to take your kids for glucose check-up’s once in a while especially those with a family history of diabetes.

Screening Diabetes

There are 2 simple tests to detect Diabetes irrespective of its types

  • The Fasting Plasma Glucose Test- If the glucose levels are higher than 125 mg/dL while you are fasting, then you need to be retested to confirm Diabetes.
  • The Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)- This test is conducted after two hours of drinking a sugary solution and if the results are higher than 200 mg/dL, then you need to be retested to confirm Diabetes.

Complications of Diabetes

High glucose levels in long run can damage veins and several organs in our body and lead to complications like cardiovascular diseases, fungal and bacterial infections, foot ulcers, kidney failure, retinopathy and so on.

Diabetic Diet Guide

If you want to balance the high sugar levels in your kids it is very important to give them a balanced diet. Give proteins, fats in balanced amounts. It is important to be cautious with foods like chocolates, noodles, ice creams, biscuits and sweets. Take dietary advice from experts for better results.

Monitor Glucose levels regularly

It is very important to monitor glucose levels regularly. Glucometers are widely available in the market nowadays and you can monitor the glucose levels frequently using them.

Do not hide it from your Children

It is not advisable to keep the fact that your kids are suffering from Diabetes a secret even though it is devastating. As it can adversely affect your child’s physical and mental growth and can even lower their self-confidence. Instead, you can explain to them clearly about their condition and support them in each step to control it. This way you can assist your kid in living healthy and happy irrespective of the fact of Diabetes.

Categories
Health Tips Mosquito Borne Diseases

Simple Precautions to Protect from Mosquito Born Diseases

All you need to know about Mosquito born diseases

Mosquito born diseases like Malaria and Dengue are on the rise these days. The situation is more intense in urban areas. Irrespective of time, mosquitoes are attacking during the day and night too. Neglecting the basic precautionary against mosquitoes is the major cause of this problem. Stagnation of water in empty places, throwing garbage, empty coconut shells, plastic bottles on the roads and others can worsen the condition, as these works as perfect places for mosquitoes breeding. One can prevent these diseases by taking few simple precautionary steps.

Precautions to Prevent Mosquitoes born disease

Experts say that we can prevent these mosquito born diseases by taking few simple precautions like

  • One should keep their surroundings clean and avoid stagnation of water.
  • One should keep the empty places in surroundings clean without throwing any garbage or dust
  • Make sure to keep your house clean especially the dark corners.
  • By using mosquito nets, wearing full sleeves and covering the body with clothes we can control these mosquito-borne diseases to a great extent.
  • If you are suffering from fever, headache, body pains, red blisters on the skin or vomiting for more than 4 days, it is highly advisable to consult a professional.
  • If anyone in the house gets malaria or dengue, then the other family members should stay alert.
Categories
Health Tips Voice

Changes in Your Voice may be an Indication of Trouble

Overview of Changes in your voice or Voice Disorder

Our sweet voice is our greatest asset, we can attract many people with our speech. Our voice and speech are the main tools to share our opinions and ideas. We can easily express our feelings and emotions through our speech. Most of us do not take enough care of our voice and tend to neglect it all the time. If you experience changes in your voice due to cold or any other reasons, it is then we actually realize the importance of it.

Does anyone ever think about the fact about how we generate sounds and speech? Several organs in our body like the lungs, larynx, vocal cords, nerves, tongue, teeth, palate, lips and nose all work together to produce speech. Vocal cords (vocal folds) are two folds of tissues protruding from the sidewalls of the airways. These folds also contain ligaments and are attached to the cartilages. We have Larynx (also called a voice box) in our neck area. While we breathe, our vocal cords remain apart and open a V-shaped airway to the lungs. While we breathe, the pulses of air produce vibrations that we hear as sound. To this plain sound, our tongue, lips, teeth, palate, nose and sinuses add speech and meaning. Nerves in Larynx plays a crucial role in developing sounds and the muscles of the larynx move according to the signals of the brain. Honestly, our voice and speech are interlinked with many organs of our body and difficulties with any of these organs can directly impact our voice and speech quality.

Different conditions which cause voice disorders

Any changes in the shape or performance of the Larynx can affect the voice and speech. Talking loudly or shouting or any injuries to the neck or many others can all adversely affect the Larynx. Being aware of conditions that can affect our Larynx is very important.

  • Hoarseness– The main reason for this condition is the over usage of the vocal cords. While talking for longer hours or shouting, the vocal cords rub to each other and lead to the formation of vocal nodules. Even a small one-millimetre nodule can also affect your voice and speech. Teachers, singers, politicians and the marketing staff are at the greater risk of developing these nodules as they need to talk more.
  • Inflammation of the Larynx– Many small infections like Tonsillitis and others can cause inflammation of the Larynx and lead to a hoarse voice. This is just temporary and if you do not talk too much for two or three days then the swelling gets controlled.
  • Swelling of the Vocal cords– Swelling of the vocal cords mainly occurs due to the accumulation of fluids in Reinke’s Edema. This condition is mostly seen in chain smokers.
  • Development of polyps, cysts or tumours– Vocal cord polyps are benign growths and these are associated with the over usage of vocal cords. The growth of water cysts or tumours can also affect speech.
  • Damage to the nerves of the Larynx– any damage to the nerves of the larynx can affect the functioning of the vocal cord and lead to disturbances in speech. Undergoing any invasive procedures or injuries to the neck area can lead to this condition.
  • Leukoplakia– This is a condition where white patches tend to develop inside the mouth. This can be an early sign of cancer. The development of white patches on the Larynx can further affect your voice and in the long run, if ignored can lead to cancer. People who smoke and consume excess alcohol are at an increased risk of developing these white patches.
  • Functional Dysphonia– This is a multifaceted voice disorder caused due to shouting and quarrelling. In this type of voice disorder, even if people talk in a normal way it looks as if they are whispering. Few people may even require voice therapy to bring their original tone.
  • Cancers– Just like other organs, cancer also attacks the Larynx. This type of cancers can even affect the vocal cords and others. If people’s voice doesn’t come back normally within 2 to 3 weeks, then Larynx should be tested.
  • Spasmodic Dysphonia– This is a condition where the muscles in the vocal folds which generates voice go spasm (experience sudden involuntary movement). This leads to breaks or interruptions in the voice.
  • Puberphonia– Normally, adolescent male voice changes at the age of 14. If there is any problem in the voice during this age, it can be corrected through speech therapy.

Other Complications of changes in your voice.

People suffering from voice disorders, along with voice hoarseness may also face few other complications like

  • Larynx pain
  • Difficulty breathing and swallowing
  • Persistent cough
  • Ear pain

Diagnosis of changes in your voice.

If any changes in your voice due to cold or other general conditions, then it comes back to normal within two to three weeks. If one still experiences any problems after this period then it needs to be tested. At first, experts will see how the neck and throat are and if they find any abnormalities in them then they will go for Flexible laryngoscopy. Under this, a thin and flexible viewing tube will be sent inside through our nose and check the vocal cords and Larynx. In this condition, Rigid Angled Endoscopy is also useful in determining the disorders present if any. Based on your condition experts may also prescribe Stroboscopy examination and chest X-Ray to determine tuberculosis, lung cancer or others present if any. In few people, these voice disorders also happen due to the development of tumours in the ear or at the back of the nose. If the experts notice the presence of such tumours, then they will prescribe a CT-Scan of the neck and chest and even an MRI in few cases.

Small tips to get relief from voice disorders

  • Professors and teachers need to talk continuously due to their profession, especially the politician’s talk so much during the election period. This excess shouting and straining lead to voice disorders. For all these people, it is good to take some precautions. These people should give rest to their throat after giving lectures.
  • It is advisable to drink at least 6-7 glasses of water per day. People who have a habit of clearing their throat frequently should stop doing it as it is not good for your voice.
  • Politicians should always prefer to speak in the mike during meetings than shouting. Make sure you do not speak in crowded areas without a mike, as it puts extra pressure on your throat.
  • Whispering is not good for your voice, as it puts extra pressure on your vocal cords.
  • People suffering from voice disorders should avoid intake Coffee, teas and alcohol. People should also quit smoking and being in dusty and polluted environments.
  • Allergic medications can adversely affect your Larynx, hence it is always suggested to use them if necessary.

Treatment for Voice Disorders

Few available treatment options for Voice Disorders are

  • Voice Therapy
  • Vocal Cord Medialization Thyroplasty
  • Micro Laryngeal Surgery
  • Radiation Therapy

Giving rest to your throat is very important, one can control few types of voice disorders with resting. Just do not talk for too long for a few days. Steam is a good option for people suffering from infections, you can even add eucalyptus oil in hot water for better results. s