Health tips for wellness

Move More Find ways to move your body. It will help you keep fit and happy! Here's how. Climb stairs every time you can. Choose this option over the lift. Anything that moves your limbs is both a fitness tool, and a stress buster. It doesn't always have to be an hour in the gym or a 45-minute aerobic dance class or Ta'i Chi. Think 'move' in small increments of time So Move More, it's your mantra to health and wellness ! Cut Fat Avoid the obvious such as fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats (i.e. pork, bacon, ham, salami, ribs and sausage). Dairy products such as cheese, cottage cheese, milk and cream should be eaten in low fat versions. Nuts and sandwich meats, mayonnaise, butter and sauces should be eaten in limited amounts. Choose lower fat versions always. Quit Smoking The jury is definitely in on this verdict. Reducing the use of tobacco products that kill has been the all time sensible choice.Thought for the day: Give up just one cigarette. The next one. Reduce Stress Stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended: Think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like. (i.e., Soak in a hot tub; walk on the beach or in a park; read a good book; visit a friend; play with your dog; listen to soothing music; watch a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible. Protect Yourself from Pollution If you can't live in a smog-free environment, at least avoid smoke-filled rooms, high traffic areas, breathing in highway fumes and exercising near busy thoroughfares. Plant lots of shrubbery in your yard. It deters pollution and dirt from the street. Avoid Excessive Drinking While recent studies show a glass of wine or one drink a day (two for men) can help protect against heart disease, more than that can cause other health problems such as liver and kidney disease and cancer. Keep a Positive Mental Outlook There's a definitive connection between living well and healthfully and having a cheerful outlook on life. Thought for the day: You can't be unhappy when you're smiling or singing. top

Cultivate healthy habits

Just like brushing your teeth, healthy habits should be cultivated on a daily basis. The following is a guide to daily tasks: Activity should be a daily occurrence. Walk, run or jump for a minimum total of 20 minutes a day. Protect your skin. Sun block should be applied on face, neck, arms and hands even in the dead of winter. It protects against climatic toxins too. Moisturize skin daily. Eat fruits, vegetables, grains, low-fat dairy products and small amounts of protein. Avoid sweets and other processed foods. Meditate or spend a minimum of five minutes daily in quiet time. Find your spiritual self. Discover what inspires you, raises your level of consciousness, motivates you, and satisfies your soul. You need to exercise your brain. Read, study, solve problems, and learn new skills to prevent the brain from atrophying with lack of use. top

Beating Fatigue
Do you find it hard to get out of bed in the morning? Run out of energy in the afternoon? Need an extra cup of coffee to keep going? All of the above? If youre feeling tired all the time, your lack of energy might very well be a sign of hormonal imbalance. Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of hormonal imbalance, affecting perhaps 80% of women in perimenopause and menopause. Many women attribute it to age, as though it were inevitable. Take note: fatigue is not inevitable! Theres a lot you can do to increase your energy naturally, whether you are 20 or 50 or 90! So lets take a look at the underlying causes of fatigue, starting with their origins in hormonal imbalance. Disrupted sleep is a common cause of daytime fatigue. Worry, anxiety and depression keep women of all ages on high alert, tossing and turning throughout the night. Hot flashes and night sweats caused by hormonal imbalance and resulting in disrupted sleep lead inevitably to fatigue. Adrenal insufficiency due to stress, poor diet choices, or the effects of perimenopause on thyroid function and melatonin synthesis also leads directly to fatigue. And believe it or not, just sitting around yes, lack of physical activity can sap your body of its vigour. You have to use energy to have energy! Poor diet and nutrition are often behind hormonal imbalance and the resulting lack of energy. This is especially true of women who diet sporadically or follow low-fat, high-carb eating plans. These women often suffer from insulin resistance, which disrupts their bodies glucose/energy metabolism. They get a burst of energy from highcarb foods, but quickly wilt, and need to start the whole cycle again. top

Menstrual Cramps - Check your Symptoms

What causes Cramps? During a woman's menstrual cycle, hormones are released that increase the contraction of the uterine muscle. If the uterus contracts too strongly, it can temporarily decrease the flow of blood and oxygen to the muscle, causing cramps. Menstrual cramps - why me? Menstrual cramps are a fact of life for most women, affecting more than half of all menstruating women at least one or two days every month. Maybe you're one of them. The good news is, most cramps are simply the result of what's going on in your body during menstruation. They're not due to any underlying gynecological problem. Do all women experience a cycle to their Menstrual pain? Usually you feel cramps in your lower abdomen or back. The pain usually begins a few hours before any menstrual bleeding, then rises to a peak in the next few hours and eventually stops within one or two days. Of course, the feeling and intensity of cramps can vary from woman to woman, and sometimes can even vary between the same woman's periods. Do all women have the same Symptoms? Maybe you have cramps you barely notice. Or maybe yours are somewhat more painful. Cramps can also be accompanied by headaches, weakness, chills and dizziness. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can also occur. Severe cramps may be a symptom of another medical condition. Always discuss these symptoms with your doctor. top

Asthma Treatment
What is Asthma? It is defined as a disease of airways characterized by hyper responsiveness of the trachea and bronchi, due to a multiplicity of stimuli. Asthma is an ancient Greek word meaning panting or short- drawn breath." The most troublesome of the respiratory diseases, the asthma patient gets frequent attacks of breathlessness. In between these periods, the patient is completely normal. Asthma is manifested physiologically by a widespread narrowing of the air passages, which is relieved promptly by therapy. Most attacks are short lived and last from a few minutes to hours. It may be familial or acquired. Asthma, seasonal or perennial sneezing, urticaria and

eczema are many and different manifestations of one condition-allergy. A person may have eczema in childhood, develop sneezing when he grows up and then may contract asthma. What causes Asthma? Mainly bronchial in its symptoms, asthma is caused by a variety of factors. For many it is an allergic condition resulting from the reaction of the system to the weather, food, drugs, perfumes and other irritants which vary with different individuals. 1. Genetic 2. Allergic reaction to a variety of allergens like dust, pollen, cockroach dust etc 3. Drugs like aspirin, colouring agents like tarzine, dyes and chemicals 4. Air pollution 5. Occupational factors e.g. wood dust, grain, flour, laundry detergents, cotton dusts, coal mines 6. Infection especially in young children 7. Exercise induced 8. Psychological factors like severe stress Factors that predispose to Asthma 1. Heredity: Almost 40 percent of asthma patients give a family history of either asthma or some other form of allergy 2. Infection: Infection makes an allergy-prone individual start getting symptoms of allergy. A pre-existing sensitivity to a specific allergen may become manifest in the presence of infection 3. Psychological factors: Time and again, researchers have claimed the presence of specific personality traits in asthmatics. Most asthmatics are tensed, ego-centric, dominating, jealous and stubborn individuals. Such personality diminishes the capacity of these individuals to adapt to unfavorable situations, which ultimately results into asthma 4. Climate: Generally speaking rainy weather, strong winds and sudden changes in barometric pressure are known to precipitate asthma attacks 5. Occupation: Some occupations are particularly hazardous for people with an allergic background or those who have some manifestation of Asthma Treatment of Asthma 1. Elimination of cause from the environment. As in instances where farmers, poultry-men, dairy-workers and bakers are exposed to large amounts of fungus spores, gardeners, farmers and farm-labourers are exposed to large number of pollens, etc 2. Patient propped up in bed 3. Patients with severe attacks to be admitted 4. Drugs (Bronchodilators) Asthma treatment during the attack consists of 1. Administering oxygen through nose in case the attack has been very severe and has resulted into a deficiency of oxygen in the blood 2. Relieving the narrowing of airways and inhibiting the production of secretions by bronchodilator drugs like Theophylline, Aminophylline, Deriphylline, Ephidrine and Salbutamol 3. Combating lung infection, if any, by suitable antibiotic drugs 4. Giving intravenous 5 percent glucose-saline if the patient seems dehydrated. If the asthma attack is not adequately controlled by bronchodilator tablets or injections, corticosteroid drugs may have to be used. Prevention of Asthma 1. Give up smoking 2. Use nasal filters 3. No late nights 4. Regular exercises and deep breathing 5. Swimming top

End your Back Pain

Most mild back pain and stiffness is the result of an injured ligament or joint in the spine that causes surrounding

muscles to contract into painful spasms. Low back pain is usually caused by muscle strain from abrupt twisting or improper lifting of heavy objects. Though the pain may be severe, most back injuries heal without special treatment or complications. To Help Relieve Your Symptoms Within the first 48 hours after your back symptoms start, apply a cold pack to the painful area for 5 to 10 minutes at a time. If your symptoms last longer than 48 hours, try a heating pad,hot shower or bath to relieve your symptoms Sleep on a firm mattress. Sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees, or sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes Use a chair with a good lower back support If you must sit for long periods of time, try resting your feet on the floor or on a low stool If you must stand for long periods of time, try resting one foot on a low stool An Ounce of Prevention Exercise : It is the single best thing you can to do ensure a healthy body Avoid excessive weight gain : Excess weight puts too much strain on the muscles in your back and legs,making them more vulnerable to injury Get up and stretch : Take breaks if you have to stand or sit for long periods Be careful while lifting : Always lift with your legs, not your back. Never raise a heavy object above your waist, or lift and twist at the same time Call Your Doctor If - You have mild pain that persists after 3 or 4 days of self-treatment - Your pain is severe or recurrent - You have new symptoms top

Importance of Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of the water soluble vitamins. Since they are usually eliminated in the urine when taken in excess, they are not usually associated with toxicity. Vitamin C is also stored in the liver. It is interesting that most animals produce their own vitamin C, but man, primates, and guinea pigs do not have this ability. What is the importance of vitamin C? Vitamin C is vital in the production of collagen and helps to protect the fat-soluble vitamins A and E as well as fatty acids from oxidation. Collagen is a substance that is the most abundant of the fibers contained in the connective tissue, which gives our body form and supports our organs. A complex series of events occurs inside and outside the cells when collagen is produced. Vitamin C is essential to cellular activity by adding oxygen and hydrogen (hydroxylating) to two amino acids: proline and lysine, forming a precusor molecule called procollagen, which is then modified into collagen outside the cell. What diseases are caused by vitamin C deficiency? Vitamin C is one of the most beneficial of vitamins. It prevents and cures the disease scurvy, which cause muscle degeneration, wounds that wont heal, excessive bruising, bleeding of the gums, loose teeth, joint pain, and numerous other problems. Scurvy was described as early as 1500 BC in Greek and Roman writings. A British report in 1600 indicated that in the previous 20 years some 10,000 mariners had been destroyed by the disease. In 1747 as the HMS Salisbury sailed from England to the Plymouth Colony, the ship's physician, James Lind, performed a simple experiment to determine what might be effective as a cure for scurvy. Lind divided his 12 ill men into six groups of two each. All 12 shared a common diet for breakfast, lunch and dinner but each group received a different supplement as follows: 1. Quart of apple juice daily 2. 25 drops of elixir vitriol (sulfuric acid and aromatics), 3. two spoonfuls of vinegar three times a day, 4. concoction of herbs and spices, 5. half-pint of sea water daily, and 6. two oranges and one lemon daily. The two men who ate the oranges and lemon recovered immediately. One was fit for duty in six days and the

other was also well in six days and was appointed as nurse to all the others. The two men who drank apple cider improved but were not well enough to work. None of the others showed any improvement. The British Navy adopted his remedy and British sailors have been nicknamed "Limeys" ever since, because they took limejuice on long sea voyages to ward off Scurvy. Vitamin C can also be helpful in the treatment of iron deficiency anemia. What are the best sources of vitamin C? Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits such as oranges, limes, and grapefruit, and vegetables including tomatoes, green pepper, potatoes and many others. Optimum amounts of vitamin C are best derived from fruits and vegetables that havent been overcooked. Too much processing and heat significantly diminishes the quality and quantity of vitamin C. Can vitamin C be toxic? Although vitamin C is absolutely essential for human health, there are possible negative side effects if taken in excess. They are: the toxic release of inorganic iron which is potentially fatal, formation of oxalate kidney stones, diarrhea, teeth enamel damage if chewed, and heart arrhythmia. top

Healthy lifestyles for healthy heart and well being

Dr.S.KRISHNASHANKAR, M.D. DNB [GENERAL MEDICINE] Healthy Lifestyles: Here we are highlighting the importance of healthy lifestyles, and the ways to follow them, for you to have a healthy heart and to live long... Eat Healthy: Eating healthy diet is important, as diet modifications prevent heart disease. Avoid Junk foods- Pizza, burgers, chips will increase your calories and risk for hypertension, obesity and heart disease Avoid Aerated drinks - Pepsi, Coca cola etc. Avoid smoking and alcohol Eat lots of fruits and vegetables Eat fibre rich diet Eat 3 times a day Breakfast is essential The last meal [Dinner] has to be taken 3 hours before going to bed Eat Fruits as part of your meals but after an hour from the main course Minimise your intake of Sweets and Chocolates, resist the temptation Drink atl east 1.5 to 2 litres of water everyday Exercise: Always do physical activity To start with, it need not be rigorous Take the Stairs instead of the Escalator Walk to the nearby store instead of driving a few blocks. Walking for atl east 30 min a day helps to regulate your Blood Circulation and general health Keep your BMI within the range of 18-25 AVOID walking or practising Sports- right after a meal, as this hinders the process of digestion It reduces the benefits of Sports and causes joint pains Do exercise, eat less and eat right- Basic steps to lead a healthy life it also helps in reducing stress by distraction and gives you a lift via endorphins Deep breathing, Meditation, Yoga & Music: Breathing Exercises: it is an easy stress reliever, It oxygenates the blood- which wakes up the brain, relaxes muscles & calms the mind .You can do them anywhere, and they work quickly so you can de-stress in a flash Meditation: To get relieved of stress, meditate for at least 5-10 min Meditation builds on deep breathing, and it takes a step further

When you meditate your brain enters an area of functioning that is similar to deep sleep It carries some added benefits you cant achieve so well in any state, including the release of certain hormones that Promotes Health Yoga: It combines the Practices of several other stress management techniques It combines- Breathing, Meditation, Imagery and Movement Gives a lot of benefits for the amount of time and energy required Dates back over 5 thousand years Proven to be Beneficial for the Heart Music: It is one of the most relaxing and spiritually boosting factors in life Soft or classical music is relaxing When dealing with stress, the right music can lower your BP, relax your body and calm your mind Music therapy has shown numerous health benefits for people with conditions ranging from mild [like stress] to severe [like cancer] Smile: Sounds simple- many people tend to miss it and frown instead It takes 17 muscles to smile and 41 muscles to frown Smile is contagious Smile relieves stress, it increases your life span The benefit increases if your smile turns into a Laughter Have a hearty laugh to keep your heart healthy Have fun, Cultivate a supportive social circle: Those with a supportive social circle, or just one close friend or partner to lean on in times of crisis, enjoy healthier, less stressful lives Have fun- filled activities that you enjoy and make time for them Volunteer a couple of hours a week to the less fortunate Living a healthy life means you are making choices daily that affect your health in positive ways Positive thoughts, visualizations: Never have Negative thoughts Have a high self esteem, be confident Healthy mind- Key to healthy living Always think positive, have visualizations. Imagine yourself- Achieving goals, healthier and more relaxed, doing well at tasks and handling conflicts in a better way Positivity increases your longevity Organise your time: Keep a schedule Stick to the schedule Learn to say no to excessive demands on time Utilize shortcuts You will become less frantic and have more time to do things, you will enjoy life, thereby energizing and de-stressing you Maintain an Organised living Space: A cluttered environment can literally drain your energy and can cause additional stress Keep your environment in your workplace as well as your house clean Get organized about cleaning and work towards the goal of having a beautiful and organised living space Will soothe you and de-stress you Take care of your body: Eat healthy diet Exercise regularly Get enough sleep- 7 hours a day Think Positive, do Yoga, Meditation Have massages

Be soft and polite De-stress to avoid distress HAVE REGULAR MASTER HEALTH CHECK UPS top

Health of the Heart

There is mounting concern over India's statistics in India in coronary artery disease(the arteries supplying the heart muscle). Current estimates suggest that by the year 2020, India will have the largest number of cardiovascular patients in the world. The age of onset of CVD(cardiovascular disease) in Indians is 10-15 years earlier than their western counterparts. Indians population as a whole is more prone to coronary artery disease due to the following facts: Indians have 33% body fat compared to 25% in Caucasian or African ethnic groups Indians have narrower arteries compared to European counterparts Indian patients have a more diffused form of disease. The length of coronary vessel affected is longer compared to their Western counterparts Coronary artery disease rates in urban India are now 4 fold higher than the United States(US) although the rates were similar in 1968 . South Asians seem more naturally vulnerable to heart diseases than other ethnic groups. In India in the past five decades, rate of coronary artery disease in urban populations has risen from 4% to 11% Risk factors Smoking High blood cholesterol High Blood Pressure (high BP) Diabetes Obesity especially central obesity: weight carried around abdomen Physical inactivity Emotional distress/stress Alcohol High Fat diet Life style change An estimated 12 out of 100 people living in cities and 7 out of 100 living in rural India suffer from heart disease. Mantras for a Healthy Heart At least 5 servings of fruit and vegetables daily A brisk walk for about 30-60 mins each day Regular exercise most days of the week..even climbing stairs,house work and walking the dog can contribute to this physical activity Cutting down on sugar and desserts while eating more whole grains Lower saturated fats-use healthier cooking oils Eating fish rich in essential fatty acids(EFA) Avoiding foods with high salt content Stress on natural foods Switch to low fat dairy products while restricting meat, poultry, eggs and alcohol top

Blood Donation
Blood is the magic potion that gives another person life. Human blood in spite of all medical and scientific advances has no practical, viable & easily usable alternative Safe blood requirements are vital for blood transfusion services The body has 5.5 liters of blood of which only 350-450 ml of blood is taken The blood taken is replaced by your body in 24-48 hours 14th June is celebrated as World Blood Donors Day

Who Can Donate Blood? Those who are 18-55 years of age with a weight of at least 50 kg, whose pulse rate, body temperature and blood pressure are normal. Both men and women can donate. Who Cannot Donate Blood? Those with history of epilepsy, psychotic disorders, abnormal bleeding tendencies, severe asthma, cardiovascular disease, malignancy Donors suffering from diseases like hepatitis, malaria, measles, mumps and syphilis may donate blood after full recovery with 3-6 month gap People who have undergone blood transfusion or surgery may safely donate after 6-12 months Pregnant or lactating women cannot donate as their iron reserves are already on the lower side Persons with AIDS or symptoms of AIDS such as unexplained weight loss, night sweats, swollen glands, long standing diarrhea or seizures STD such as syphilis, Hepatitis B Rather than donating whole blood, a donor sometimes has the option to donate only some blood components while retaining others. This is more involved, time consuming and requires more specialized equipment. The actual bleeding time is 5-6 mins. Medical check up is conducted before the blood is withdrawn. Donor is advised rest and also given light refreshments in the form of beverages, biscuits etc. Minimum time advised between 2 donations is 3 months. PRECAUTIONS: Be informed that disposable sterile needles are used for bleeding. top

Food Poisoning
How to prevent it? Many jokes have been made about Delhi Belly and the runs as diarrhea is sometimes referred. However since it is a very common occurrence it is vital to be aware of the dangers. Persons that have been infected with food borne organisms may be symptom free or may have symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to bloody diarrhea (loose motions) that may lead to dehydration and even death. Thus it is very important to take steps to avoid food poisoning (medically known as gastroenteritis) General Guidelines: Ensure that food from animals like meat, dairy or eggs is thoroughly cooked or pasteurize Avoid eating raw meats or eggs Select fish and shellfish(crabs, prawns etc) to ensure that they are fresh Do not leave eggs, meat, poultry, seafood or milk out for extended periods of time. They may undergo spoilage Wash your hands, cutting boards and knives preferably with anti bacterial soap & warm/hot water Wash raw vegetables and fruits thoroughly before eating If you are ill with vomiting and diarrhea DO NOT prepare food for others, especially infants, elderly and those with weakened immune systems as they may be more likely to get the infection Wash hands with soap after handling birds, pets etc. Mothers milk is the safest food for young children. In fact breast feeding may help to protect the child from food borne illnesses and other health problems Those at high risk such as pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems ,infants and elderly should ensure that they cook food until steaming hot, especially left over food or ready-to-eat foods such as hot dogs before eating top

Management of Obesity: Guidelines

Losing even modest amounts of weight (5-10% of body weight) offers advantages in regard to health. It serves to: Lower BP(high blood pressure Reduce risk of cardiovascular disease(heart attack) and stroke Improve glucose control in diabetes Improve osteoarthritis and sleep apnea Lower the risk of cancer

Dietary Changes Consuming fewer calories: Crash diets are not advisable as they cut so many calories and nutrients that they can cause adverse effects like vitamin and other nutritional deficiencies Include vegetables and fruit in the diet Choose healthy foods like grams, beans, fish, low fat dairy products and lean meats Eat a variety of healthy foods to avoid diet boredom 45-65 % of total daily calories should come from high fiber food sources like whole grains, bran, rice, oats etc.. Cut back on sweets, table sugar and other sweeteners Limit intake of fruit juices( whole fruit is more nutritious) Reduce fat Watch portion sizes: especially when eating out as many restaurants serve oversized portions Cut down on sugary aerated drinks that are filled with large amount of worthless calories Role Of Physical Activity Engage in at least 30 mins of moderate intensity physical activity (like brisk walking) on most, preferably all days of the week Take a walk instead of watching TV Eat meals and snacks at a table & not in front of the TV or computer Take simple measures like: use stairs instead of lift. Park car further away from the workplace and walk remainder distance top

Stress in Children
Stress is part & parcel of life, a normal feeling that everybody feels from time to time. A certain amount of stress can be helpful as it motivates us .Stress becomes bad when it interferes with daily activities, relationships, physical and mental health. Contrary to belief even very young children can experience stress. So how is a parent to know that their child is stressed out Why do children feel stress Many children may have to cope with divorce, constant changes in schools, conflict within the family, peer pressure and sometimes even violence in their homes or communities. The impact of a stressful event depends on the childs maturity, nature, personality and style of coping. They may have difficulty expressing their feelings. Instead of saying I feel overwhelmed they might say my stomach hurts or my head hurts. Some children may cry, become aggressive, irritable, and talk back, show anger problems, decreased appetite, nightmares, clinginess or whining. What can parents do? Parents play a valuable role in trying to keep the harmful effects of stress ta a minimum Make sure the child gets enough rest Parents should monitor their own stress levels. They need to be particularly aware when their own stress levels contribute to marital conflict. Frequent fighting between parents is unsettling for children Ensure good communication .Kids feel better about themselves when the relationship with their parents is loving and open Parents should encourage friendships Children of all ages need time to relax and play Anticipate potentially stressful situations and prepare your child for them Let the child know that some level of stress is normal and that it is Ok to feel angry, scared or lonely sometimes top

World Arthritis Day

World Arthritis Day is observed on 12th October to create awareness among the general public. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the world. Incidence of osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis) in India is high, at 12 %.

Definition - Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints, which results in pain, swelling and limitation of movements Causes: Arthritis is due to breakdown of cartilage .cartilage has a protective effect on the joint allowing for smooth movement. It also acts as a shock absorber when we walk. When the amount of cartilage decreases, the bones rub against each other causing the pain, swelling and stiffness. Diagnosis: Osteoarthritis is detected either through a physical examination for joint changed or X ray of joint in the affected area. Risk Factors: Being overweight Previous injury to affected joint Repetitive action on affected joint, putting stress on joint(sportspersons & construction workers are at risk) Management: General Measures: Weight reduction is an important aspect of management in people who are overweight Strengthening exercises Progressive walking programme Avoid high impact activities like running and stair climbing Avoid prolonged standing ,kneeling or squatting Consider biking or swimming Pain Relief (Analgesia): Local cold therapy Local heat therapy Paracetamol (up to 800 mg 4 times daily/less than 4gms per day) Cautious use of NSAIDs (non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs) Sodium hyaluronate or hyaluronic acid Intra articular corticosteroids(avoid use more than 3 times a year) Glucosamine sulphate and chondroitin sulphate For Chronic unrelenting pain: Tropical capsaicin cream Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation(TENS) Local massage Acupuncture Amitryptyline Surgical procedures: Arthroscopy-whereby the knee joint is visualized Total knee replacement(arthroplasty) where the painful damaged or diseased knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint(prosthesis) Indications for knee replacement: Swelling of joint Knee pain that is severe and debilitating Bow legged or knock knee deformity loss of motion feeling of knee giving way top

Hypertension: Part II
Complications Hardening and thickening of arteries leading to a heart attack or other cardiovascular complications.An enlarged bulging blood vessel(aneurysm) is also possible Heart failure A blocked or ruptured blood vessel in brain Weakened and narrowed blood vessels in your kidneys Thickened, narrowed or burst blood vessels in the eyes.

Metabolic syndrome: Includes raised waist circumference (in men 45 and women 35) high triglycerides, low HDL or goodcholesterol, high blood pressure and high insulin levels. If you have high blood pressure ,you are more likely to also have other components of the syndrome. Cognitive impairment and dementia are more common in people who are hypertensive In the case of patients undergoing treatment for hypertension coronary artery disease is the most common cause of death. Systolic BP is found to be the most important predictor of cardiovascular disease(fatal and non fatal) compared to diastolic BP Self Care Emphasising the need for life long management and vigilance to avoid serious complications. When on treatment ,stand up from bed slowly (to avoid giddiness on sudden standing due to fall in BP) Do not stop any drugs suddenly, without physicians advice. Eat healthy foods: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low fat dairy foods. Eat less saturated fat and total fat. Also limit the amount of salt in your diet Maintaining a healthy weight: In overweight patients a loss of even minimal amount of 2.5 kgs can lower your blood pressure. Increase physical activity-Try to aim for at least 30 mins of physical activity a day Manage stress: reduce stress as much as possible. Reduce stress with healthy coping techniques such as muscle relaxation and deep breathing. Also get plenty of restful sleep Management Check your blood pressure at frequent intervals Take your medication properly and regularly Schedule regular doctor visits Adopt healthy habits Manage stress top

Drug Therapy
Individualised drug therapy Drug therapy is tailored to each individual patient taking into account the age, height ,weight and sex of the patient, associated diseases like diabetes or elevated cholesterol, kidney functional status, cardiac status, prostate problems with regard to men ,life style, cost of treatment and physicians previous experience with the medicines. In patients except those above 65 years the goal of therapy should be to lower the BP to <135/80mmHg or as near to the level as is tolerated by the patient. The aim of therapy being to prevent organ damage while also giving the patient a sense of well being. Hypertension-High Blood pressure-Part 1 Hypertension is one of the most common disease .In India over the last 50 years, incidence of hypertension has increased by about 30 times in urban areas and about 10 times in rural areas .This is chiefly due to change in life style, habits , diet and stress. Hypertension is most important modifiable risk factor for coronary heart disease, stroke, congestive heart failure, end stage renal disease and peripheral vascular disease. Symptoms: Although few people during early stages may have dull headaches, dizzy spells or more nose bleeds than normal, symptoms dont occur until hypertension has reached an advanced, possibly life-threatening stage where damage to end organs like heart, kidneys, retina(eye) and central nervous system has occurred . Diagnosis: This depends on repeatedly demonstrating higher than normal systolic and/or diastolic BP & exclusion of secondary causes. Optimal :systolic lower than 120mmHg,diastolic lower than 80mmHg, High Normal blood Pressure(Pre hypertension ): Systolic 130-139mmHg Diastolic 85-89mmHg Hypertension : Systolic > 140mmHg,

diastolic >90 mmHg Mild : Systolic 160-179mmHg, Diastolic 100-109mmHg Severe : Systolic 180-209mmHg Diastolic 110-119mmHg Higher systolic pressure is s a greater risk factor than diastolic pressure for heart, kidney and circulatory complications and for death, particularly in middle-aged and elderly adults. Causes: Hypertension may be either essential or secondary. Essential hypertension is diagnosed when there is no identifiable cause. Multiple factors including genetic predisposition ,excess dietary salt intake and increased blood vessel tone may produce hypertension Risk Factors: High blood pressure has many risk factors ,some of which are beyond our control AGE: the risk of hypertension increases as you get older. Women are more likely to develop high blood pressure after menopause RACE: Hypertension is particularly common among Blacks and Asians.Serious complications such as stroke and heart attack are also more common in Blacks and Asians particularly Indians Familial: hypertension tends to run in families Modifiable risk factors: Excess weight Inactivity, sedentary Tobacco use Increased salt intake Low potassium intake Excessive alcohol Stress and response to stress Certain chronic conditions may also increase your risk of high blood pressure including high cholesterol, diabetes, kidney disease and sleep apnea. top

Diabetes
Diabetes is the inability of the body to use and store glucose (sugar). There are two kinds of Diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. In the former, the body is incapable of producing insulin and so a person with Type 1 diabetes is insulin dependent and cannot survive without injecting it regularly. However, most diabetic patients are affected by Type 2 diabetes. The body produces insulin but in insufficient quantities. People above the age of 40 are prone to Type 2 diabetes and are not insulin dependent. Symptoms: High blood sugar level Dehydration of the body Increase in thirst Extreme tiredness Loss in weight Blurred vision Dry and itchy skin Repeated infections and increased healing time Diabetes check is a must for: People with diabetic background in the family Obese people People above 35 years of age Those with a sedentary life style Those who were diagnosed diabetic during pregnancy (gestational diabetes) People prone to hypertension

Those who have other disease, which may be precipitated or aggravated by diabetes Diagnosis: Fasting Blood Glucose (Blood Sugar) Level: Diabetes can be diagnosed after an overnight fast (not eating anything after midnight). A value above 140 mg/dl on at least two occasions typically means a person has diabetes. Normal people have fasting sugar levels that generally run between 70-110 mg/dl. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: An oral glucose tolerance test can be performed in a doctor's lab. The person being tested should fast overnight (having no food or drink except water for at least 10 hours but not greater than 16 hours). An initial blood sugar is drawn and then the person is given a "glucola" bottle with a high amount of sugar in it (75 grams of glucose), (or 100 grams for pregnant women). Blood tests are done again at intervals of 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours and 3 hours after drinking the high glucose drink. The oral glucose tolerance test is conducted by measuring blood glucose levels five times over a period of 3 hours. In a person without diabetes, the glucose levels in the blood rise following drinking the glucose drink, but then fall quickly back to normal. In a diabetic the glucose levels rise higher than normal after drinking the glucose and takes a longer time to fall to normal. Treatment: Type 1 diabetes is treated with insulin, exercise and diet. Type 2 diabetes is initially treated through weight reduction, exercise and diet. If this fails, insulin is taken. Prevention: Prevention of diabetes is possible through diet control and exercise. Exercise burns excess fat in the body. Best exercises to burn fat are regular walks and aerobics. A balanced diet low in fat and sugar is an ideal diet. The meals should be taken in many small supplements spread over the day replacing the usual three meals a day. top

Obesity
It has been receiving greater attention in recent years and Weight Loss as a subject is much in focus lately. Obesity is a chronic condition of excess body fat in a person. A certain amount of body fat is required for storing energy, heat insulation, shock absorption, and other functions of the body. Normal amount of body fat in women: 25% - 30% Normal amount of body fat in men: 18% - 23% Women with more than 30% of body fat and men with over 25% body fat are considered to be obese. Obesity increases the risk of developing a number of diseases like: Premature death Type 2 diabetes Heart disease Stroke Hypertension (high blood pressure) Gall bladder disease Osteoarthritis Sleep apnea Asthma Cancer (uterus/colon/kidney/gall bladder and post menopausal breast cancer) High blood cholesterol Menstrual irregularities Hirsutism (excessive facial hair) Stress incontinence Increased surgical risk Psychological disorders such as depression Psychological difficulties due to social stigma Body Mass Index (BMI) Causes

Genetics Overeating High diet in carbohydrates Frequency of eating Slow metabolism Physical inactivity Medications Psychological factors Treatment: Diet therapy Exercise Behavioral therapy Drug therapy Genetics Prevention: Monitoring excessive fat intake. Eating 3 balanced moderate meals everyday. Exercising regularly to increase the metabolic rate. top

Heat Stroke & Heat Exhaustion

What is heat stroke? This is a body temperature higher than 40 degrees C (104 degrees F) with malfunction of the nervous system. What does heat stroke mean? Heat exhaustion is a warning that the body is getting too hot. If not treated the heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke which can result in death What do heat exhaustion and heat stroke look like? Before heat stroke a person suffers heat exhaustion, the symptoms of which are Confusion Fatigue/tiredness Heavy sweating Dark yellow or orange urine When the body is no longer able to control normal body temperature, heat exhaustion progresses to heat stroke the symptoms are Elevated body temperature over 104 degrees F Hot and dry skin Absence of sweating Muscle cramps Rapid & weak pulse How do we treat heat stroke? Emergency medical treatment is needed. Patient should be transferred to hospital or medical centre immediately. First aid should be initiated as soon as possible First aid involves the following: Remove person to a cool, darkened place Apply ice packs in armpits and groin Cool person by sponging with warm towel Water with electrolytes (electoral) fruit and vegetable juices should be given Urgent rest is needed How do I prevent heat stroke? Observe precautions to avoid overheating and dehydration Wear light loose fitting cotton/linen clothing Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather Drink plenty of fluids (especially water and tender coconut water) Use cooling fans/air conditioners

Use an umbrella for shade Do not stay or leave anyone in a closed parked car during hot weather Enjoy summer by taking these simple precautions top

Cancer
Cancer is an uncontrolled proliferation of cells. Uncontrolled multiplying of cells in the body when the body does not require it results in the growth of tumor. It can be malign or benign. The malign tumors are cancerous and life threatening Causes: Smoking is the main cause for cancer in most people. Tobacco causes lung cancer, oral cancer, cervical cancer, cancer of the esophagus, kidney, pancreas and larynx. Passive smokers also have high risk of being affected by it. Diet Diet which contains high fat meat, oil, salt and high fat dairy products increases the risk of developing breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, uterus cancer, pancreatic cancer and ovarian cancer. Sunlight Repeated exposure to ultraviolet radiations from the sun and other sources causes skin cancer. Being under hot sun radiations in summer increases the risk of getting skin cancer. Alcohol Drinking alcohol increases risks of oral cancer, liver cancer. Alcohol damages the liver and thus results in liver cancer. Exposure to radiation and harmful chemicals: Exposure to large doses of radiation from medical x-rays and chemical substances like asbestos, nickel, cadmium, uranium, benzene, vinyl chloride increases the risk of cancer. All the metals contain carcinogenic substances and can cause damage to the lungs. Genetics Genetics can play a big role in cancer development. In case there has been a history of breast cancer in the family the future generation have a greater likelihood of getting it. Treatment Treatment for cancer varies depending on the type, stage and overall condition of the patient affected by it. Surgery - In surgery the cancer tissues are removed and it is helpful in diagnosing the likelihood of its reoccurrence. Chemotherapy - is administering drugs through veins or through pills to kill cancer cells. It is done systematically based on the patient's condition. Radiation therapy - is using high energy rays to kill cancer cells and preventing it from growing further. It is administered along with other cancer treatments like surgery and chemotherapy and is delivered externally. Hormonal therapy - These are drugs that block the production or way of functioning of hormones that may cause the spread of cancer. It is a systematic treatment similar to chemotherapy. Prevention: Quit smoking and avoid an environment where tobacco is used. Eat healthy food with lot of fiber and antioxidants. Use a sunscreen while going out in the sun. Take genetic tests to be aware of the condition in case of a family history with cancer patients. top

Swine Flu
Awareness needs to be created to safeguard individuals & their families from the impact of HINI (Swine Flu) Do's Cover your mouth and nose whenever you sneeze and cough. Wash your hands frequently with either soap or water or alcohol based sanitisers. Consult your doctor if you have any of these symptoms (fever, cough, running nose, sore throat, vomiting or

diarrhoea). Stay at home. Have adequate sleep, nutritious food and plenty of oral fluids. Namaste is better than a handshake. Don'ts Don't panic. Don't touch your eyes, nose and mouth unnecessarily. Don't undertake unnecessary travel. Avoid crowded places like Mall, Railway Station etc., if possible. top

World Asthma Day

Observed on the first Tuesday in May. Asthma is one of the most common chronic(long standing) diseases in the world Estimated 40 million with this disease in India Major underlying causes are modern urbanization and increase in atmospheric pollution Asthma is responsible for 1 in 250 deaths worldwide. Fortunately 90% of these deaths are preventable with awareness and proper medication and intervention Asthma Prevention for Children Irritants, allergens, upper respiratory tract infections(URTI; common cold /sore throat) and changes in weather can trigger acute (sudden) attacks Avoid things that triggers child attacks; keep a asthma diary Look for warning signs of an impending attack like worsening allergies, runny nose, cough, exposure to known trigger and begin medication early Environmental Control Get rid of objects that collect dust like heavy curtain, carpeting, stuffed animal etc Control cockroaches Use allergy proof plastic cover on all mattresses and pillows Wash all bedding in hot water every 7-14 days Try to keep pets out of the childrens bathroom Keep children away from damp areas Keep indoor humidity low(less than 50% Provide a smoke free environment Avoid strong odors and sprays in the home Take allergy medication that has been given by doctor on a daily basis, since uncontrolled allergies can make symptoms worse top

Health Habits for Everyday

Eat breakfast everyday Get enough sleep Add fish and omega 3 fatty acids to your diet Exercise for better all round health Make social connections and strong relationships Practice good dental hygiene Take up a meaningful hobby Protect your skin from sun and pollution Snack using healthy foods Drink plenty of water and eat milk and milk based products (low fat) Drink Tea (especially Green Tea) Take a daily walk Plan - a little planning goes a long way

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The Role Of Medications In Osteoporosis:

Medicines are given both to prevent and treat osteoporosis. Some work by slowing the rate of bone loss or by increasing bone thickness. Along with these medications, calcium and vitamin D supplements should be included along with a healthy diet with nutritional value and regular exercise. At present not all the medicines listed are used in India or even widely available-treatment is individually tailored to suit each person: Bisphosphonates: Constitute the mainstay of treatment in India. Among Alendronate and Risendronate, alendronate is commonly used.Their effects are specific to bone.Commonest side effects include heartburn and irritation of oesophagus (food pipe)which can be avoided by taking the medication in the morning on an empty stomach with a full glass of water.Not to be taken with other beverages such as orange juice, milk or coffee. After the drug is taken the patient must remain upright (in a sitting or standing position)and avoid bending over and lying down for at least 30 minutes Calcitonin: Hormone that is prescribed as a nasal spray is used in the case of post menopausal women of 5 or more years. Effect is specific to bone with possibly mild side effects (runny nose, nose bleeds and nose pain). Estrogen therapy and hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Available either as a tablet or skin patch.HRT reduces the risk of fractures including hip fractures & also decreases risk for colorectal cancer. Increased risk for breast cancer, heart disease, blood clots and stroke. Hence HRT should be used for the shortest period of time possible in the realm of osteoporosis prevention. Oestrogen therapy not indicated for women who had cancer breast, uterus and liver diseases. Raloxifene: used in post menopausal women .Therapy improves bone mass throughout the skeleton and reduces the risk for spine fractures..Like all medications it is important to discuss all the potential benefits and risks before taking this medication. Teriparatide: Only available injectable parathyroid hormone (PTH) approved for use in post menopausal women and men who are at high risk for fractures.Not used in low risk cases. Studies indicate that teriparatide increases bone mass, restores the skeletal framework and reduces risk for spine and other fractures. Common side effects are dizziness and leg cramps. Treatment for longer than 2 years is not recommended. References from: www.emedicinehealth.com www.nof.org www.medlib.med.utah.edu www.4woman.gov www.mayoclinic.com Bone densitometry studies :-what is it and do I need it? Dual Energy X Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) is the established standard for measuring the bone mineral density (BMD). DEXA is a rapid, comfortable and painless procedure for assessing bone. The measurements of the lower spine and hips are most often done Common uses of DEXA bone scan: 1. Diagnosis of osteoporosis 2. Assessment of risk for developing fractures If your bone density is found to be low, you and your physician can work together on a treatment plan to prevent fractures before they occur Testing Strongly Recommended If You : are a post menopausal woman not taking oestrogen supplementation Have a personal or maternal history of hip fracture or smoking Are a tall (over 5 ft 7inches ) or thin (less than 60 kg) post menopausal woman Are a man with clinical conditions associated with bone loss eg. hormonal treatment for prostate cancer

Use medicines that are known to cause bone loss. Eg.steroids such as prednisone, anti seizure (fits) medication such as phenytoin (Dilantin) and certain barbiturates or high dose thyroid replacement drugs have type 1 diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease or family history of osteoporosis Have high bone turnover, showing up in the form of excess turnover products in urine Have a over functioning thyroid(hyperthyroidism) sustained a fracture after mild trauma Have had x ray evidence of vertebral fracture or other signs of osteoporosis Pre Test Guidelines: Normal diet on day of exam but calcium supplements should be stopped 24 hours prior. If you have recently had a barium exam or have been injected with contrast material for a CT scan ,a waiting period of 10-14 days may be required before undergoing a DEXA test. (References from :www.emedicinehealth.com, www.nof.org, www.medlib.med.utah.edu, www.4woman.gov,www.mayoclinic.com) top

What is osteoporosis? :
A multifactorial bone disease marked by low bone mass making the bone more vulnerable to fractures of the spine ,upper thigh, arm ,pelvic bones and ribs.A disease mainly seen in post menopausal women and much less so in men.May be secondary to chronic liver and kidney diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, over functioning thyroid and cancer among others. May also occur after prolonged steroid medication for other disorders . Osteoporosis: the scenario in India: According to WHO figures one out of eight males and one out of three females in India suffer from osteoporosis, making India one of the largest affected countries in the world What happens in osteoporosis: Bones are of 2 kinds, outer compact and inner core spongy bone.Both types of bone get thinned out due to loss of calcium and protein.Even though remaining the same size the bone gets thinned on the outside with the holes of the spongy bone becoming larger, greatly weakening the bones. Risk Factors menopause before age 48 years surgery to remove ovaries before menopause not getting enough calcium not getting enough exercise smoking osteoporosis in the family alcohol abuse thin body and small bone frame fair skin(Caucasian or Asian race) hyperthyroidism long term use of oral steroids Symptoms Back pain or tenderness,loss of height,slight curving of the upper back.As the spinal bones weaken,they slowly collapse under the weight of the upper body causing a permanent curving of the spine ,often called a dowagers hump. PROGNOSIS:In 70% of cases, treatment will lead to stabilization of skeletal manifestations with small increases in bone mass. The aim being to reduce pain and increase mobility as well. General Measures Protein and calcium rich diet, exercise and adequate exposure to sunlight( to fulfil Vitamin D requirements) Increased calcium(upto 1500mg/day) and vitamin D (400-800 IU/day) Avoidance of sedentary lifestyle with restricted mobility. Daily routine of low impact exercise. Patient Awareness Maintain ambulation( movement of less moderate nature) Avoid maneuvers that increase compressive forces on vulnerable sites If overweight, reduce weight by dieting Prevention:(Especially women to be advised before menopause) Walking daily, stair climbing .low impact aerobics, gentle weight bearing exercises 3 times a week

Avoid excess coffee intake(negative calcium balance) Avoid tobacco, alcohol Hormone replacement therapy in minimum effective dose: Ideal within 5 years of the start of menopause but effectiveness seen even in women over 70 years of age The Role Of HRT( hormone replacement therapy) IN OSTEOPOROSIS MANAGEMENT In HRT , hormones are taken in combination(estrogen and progestins together) to counteract the drop in oestrogen that happens in women at menopause or when ovaries are removed by surgery.Women who take HRT are at an increased risk for breast cancer, heart attack ,stroke, serious blood clots and Alzheimers Disease ..Factors such as your health history and your familys health history will be important when weighing the risks and course of treatment ultimately decided upon by your physician top

Diaper Rash
Having a diaper rash is a normal part of being a baby. There are many ways you can limit the amount of rash, but from time to time it will flare up again. Why Do Babies Get Diaper Rash? Babies have ultra sensitive skin. Along with moisture of urine and stools, and covered by a diaper that rubs back and forth, diaper rash is not uncommon. This damaged skin is susceptible to the invasion of bacteria and yeast, which can make the rash worse. Seven Ways To Prevent / Minimize Diaper Rash If your baby does not have a problem with diaper rash, then you don't need to be too strict with these preventative measures. However, if you are constantly battling rash, here are some helpful hints to minimize it: Change diapers frequently - at least every two hours in newborns. You can space this out as baby starts to urinate less often. Also, newborns often have small, frequent stools, which will slow down as baby grows. Attend to soiled diapers immediately. Try different brands - if using disposables, another brand may fit a little better and cause less friction. Rinse cloth diapers - add a half-cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle. This helps remove alkaline irritants. Your diaper service can also do this. Wipe well - be sure to wipe all the stool and urine away. Use unscented wipes or just plain water - these are less irritating. You can even rinse out the wipes with water, although this takes more time. Diaper rash cream - some lucky babies don't need any. More sensitive bottoms need cream with each new diaper. There are two basic types of barrier creams: Petroleum ointment - (Original A & D ointment) - this is an excellent preventative every-day ointment. It's less sticky and less messy. White zinc oxide - this is thicker and may be better for babies who are more prone to rash. Three Ways To Treat Diaper Rash Flare-UPS No matter how diligent you are with the above measures, your baby will still have a rash from time to time. Here are some tips to treating those rough spots: Wash off bottom with water - don't wipe the sore areas. Instead, use a bulb syringe to gently wash baby's diaper area. Gently dab or pat away any remaining stool. Blot baby's bottom dry. Let it air out - leave the diaper off for a while, with no diaper cream on. Lay baby on a towel (with a waterproof pad underneath to catch accidents) with her bottom up. Do this as often as you can. This will help dry out the rash, which is important for the healing process. Identifying Specific Diaper Rashes Here are a few diaper rashes that can be more than just irritation from the stool, urine, and diaper. They usually require more specific therapy: 1. Contact diaper rash - this is simply the regular rash as discussed above. Appearance - flat, red, irritated skin. When severe, skin will peel or blister and slough off. 2. Intertrigo - this is a specific rash that occurs within the skin folds and creases around the diaper area where the skin rubs together. Appearance- Heat and moisture mixed with urine cause a red, burn-like appearance.

3. Yeast rash - when the skin is damaged, yeast from the intestines can invade the skin. This especially occurs with antibiotic use or prolonged rash. Appearance- it is a red, raised, patchy rash with sharp borders, mostly over the genitalia but ith satellite spots sprinkled around the diaper area. 4. Impetigo - this occurs when bacteria invade the damaged skin. Appearance- coin-sized blisters or red raised patches that ooze a honey-colored crust. 5. Seborrhea - an inflammatory condition that can affect different parts of the body, but can be especially severe in the diaper area. Appearance- a big, red, sharply demarcated patch over the groin, genitalia, and lower abdomen. It can be more raised, rough, thick, and greasy than the other rashes. 6. Allergy ring - a variety of foods can irritate baby's bottom, especially acidic foods such as citrus and tomatobased sauces. Appearance- a red ring around baby's anus. When To Worry None of the diaper rashes discussed here are so serious that they warrant an urgent call to your doctor in the evening or overnight. They generally can wait to be evaluated and treated by your doctor's office the following day. top

Speed up your metabolism

Exercise speeds up metabolism. The more active your lifestyle the more likely you are to have a quick metabolism and lose weight. What most people don't know is that they do have the ability to control and adjust their metabolisms and thereby control their weight. The more active your lifestyle, the more likely you are to have a quick metabolism and lose weight. It may not be healthy for all of us to get into a highly active lifestyle all at once, but it is possible to get there as quickly as you safely can as an individual. Eat a healthy balanced diet Be sure to eat a variety of foods, including plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grain products. Also include low-fat dairy products, lean meats, poultry, fish, and legumes. Drink lots of water and go easy on the salt, sugar, alcohol, and saturated fat. Stop looking at food consumption as a means of gratification. Get plenty of rest and sleep Sleep and other lifestyle patterns can help or hinder the rate at which we metabolize foods. An active lifestyle should lead eventually to being able to exercise to exhaustion; this in turn should keep your metabolism quick and your fat content low. By extending oneself to ones limits you fully utilize the lungs, heart, and muscles and burn fat most efficiently. Be strong mentally Everyone has a bad day. Do not punish yourself. Try to lose any guilt feelings towards the mistakes you have done. Instead, just move on, start again and enjoy life as it comes. top

What does an allergy mean?

An allergy refers to a misguided reaction by our immune system in response to bodily contact with certain foreign substances. It is misguided because these foreign substances are usually harmless and remain so to non- allergic people. Allergy-producing substances are called "allergens." Examples of allergens include pollens, dust mite, moulds, and foods. To understand the language of allergy it is important to remember that allergens are substances that are foreign to the body and can cause an allergic reaction in certain people. When an allergen comes in contact with the body, it causes the immune system to develop an allergic reaction in persons who are allergic to it. When you inappropriately react to allergens that are normally harmless to other people, you are having an allergic reaction and can be referred to as allergic or atopic. top

Eye Care
To reduce the risk of permanent damage caused by eye injuries, it is important to treat eye injuries immediately. Consult an ophthalmologist (eye care specialist) as soon as possible. First-aid for cuts in or around the eye

Gently bandage the eye Do not apply pressure Do not rub Do not try to remove any particles from the eye Do not wash the eye First-aid for foreign objects in the eye Do not to rub the eye Pull the upper lid down onto lower lid and blink repeatedly. The lower eyelashes may sweep the particle away Use an eye wash to wash out the speck or object You should seek medical attention immediately if the above procedures do not work First-aid for chemical splashes Use fingers to separate the eyelids, then flush the eye with water from a tap or clean container Seek medical attention immediately Cover the eye First-aid for physical trauma to the eye Immediately, but gently, apply small cold compresses to the eye without applying pressure to reduce pain and swelling Contact your physician or ophthalmologist (eye care specialist) immediately