Day: November 22, 2024

Flu (also called influenza) is a highly contagious respiratory illness in children common in the winter season. It is caused by influenza virus and spreads easily from person to person by coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces.

In most cases, it is self-limited and lasts less than a week, but some require hospitalization.

If left untreated, flu can lead to lung infection (pneumonia) or death.

Flu Symptoms

Influenza makes your little one suddenly ill, disturbing their daily activities. Early symptoms of influenza in kids include

• Fever (103° F to 105° F)
• Muscle and joint aches
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Cough that gets worse
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue

Children usually recover within a week but often feel exhausted for 3 to 4 weeks.

It is important to recognize flu symptoms in kids, so you can seek medical help immediately.

Who are at Risk of Flu?

A child is more at risk for the flu if they:

• Are under five years
• Are around people infected with the flu
• Have not had the flu vaccine
• Do not wash their hands after touching infected surfaces
• Have a weak immune system

Young children and children with certain underlying health conditions are at increased risk for a hospital stay or severe or complicated flu infection.

How Is the Flu Diagnosed in Your Child?

Your doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and medical history. The symptoms are often enough to diagnose the flu.

A nose or throat swab is done based on your child’s symptoms and overall health.

Flu Treatment in children

Treatment of influenza varies greatly depending on the age, symptoms, overall health, and severity of the condition.

Flu Medications

• Acetaminophen – To relieve muscle aches and lowers fever
• Antiviral drugs – To shorten the duration of the disease
• Cough medicine

You should never give aspirin to your baby with the flu, as it creates severe complications.

Always consult your pediatrician before providing your child with any flu medications.

About the Influenza Vaccine

• Centres for Disease Control and Prevention instructs a flu shot yearly for everyone aged six months and older
• Flu vaccines during pregnancy protect both the mother and her baby
• Children aged six months to eight years and getting the flu vaccine for the first time or who received one dose previously should get two doses separated by four weeks

The flu vaccine can cause some side effects, although they are generally mild and go away on their own within a few days.

Quick Tips to Follow if Your Child Has Flu

• Ensure your baby gets plenty of bed rest and remains comfortable
• Make them drink a lot of fluids to keep hydrated
• Monitor their temperature regularly and avoid putting on excessive clothing
• Offer them small, nutritious meals, even when they deny eating
• Use a cool-mist humidifier to help relieve your little one’s nasal congestion
• Warm water gargles and lozenges are offered to children over the age of 3 for sore throat
• Consult your doctor immediately if your baby has an underlying condition, such as asthma or heart disease
• Do not use nasal sprays in children under the age of six

Do’s and Don’ts If Your Child Has Flu

Do’s

• Do use paracetamol or ibuprofen
• Do give more fluids
• Do topical rub ointments and medicated vapors on your child’s chest
• Do administer saline nose drops
• Do vaccinate for flu annually

Don’ts

• Do not undress your child to reduce fever
• Do not give ice baths
• Do not use aspirin
• Do not give honey
• Do not offer over-the-counter liquid cold remedies

Cold Vs Flu

Flu and cold are both respiratory illnesses caused by different viruses. They are contagious and show similar symptoms; hence it is not easy to differentiate based on the symptoms alone.

Cold	Flu
Harmless and resolves itself	Leads to complications if not treated
Low or no fever	High fever
Headache(rare)	Frequent headaches
Mild cough	Worse cough
Mild fatigue	Several weeks of fatigue
Little or no aches	Severe aches and pain

Flu is more dangerous than common cold as symptoms are more intense and begin suddenly.

Conclusion

Flu can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe, and can have a significant impact on your daily life. It is important to take preventative measures, such as getting the flu vaccine and practicing good hygiene, to reduce your risk of contracting the flu. If you do get the flu, rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can help manage your symptoms. If you experience severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or persistent fever, seek medical attention immediately.

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to avoiding the flu.

What is Nutritional Deficiency?

Nutritional deficiency is a condition where the body lacks some essential micro and macro nutrients necessary for the growth and repair of the body and to perform some essential bodily functions.

There are two different types of nutrients essential for the body:

Macro-nutrients (nutrients that are required in greater amounts)

• Carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, and fats are examples of macro-nutrients.
• They provide energy to the body, hence needed in large quantities.
• Nutrient deficiency in children may lead to health problems such as Kwashiorkor, Marasmus, etc.
• Overconsumption of macro-nutrients may result in cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, etc.
• Macro-nutrients are found abundantly in cereals, fish, legumes, meat, nuts, oilseeds, potatoes, etc.

Micro-nutrients (nutrients that are required in lesser amounts)

• Antioxidants, vitamins (A, D, E, K, and B complex), and minerals (Calcium, Iron, Zinc, Sodium, potassium, etc.) are known as micro-nutrients.
• Micro-nutrients contribute to body growth and disease prevention.
•  Deficiency results in health conditions such as Anemia, Goiter, Scurvy, etc.
• Overconsumption of Vitamins leads to liver and nerve damage.
• Micro-nutrients are found abundantly in fruits, vegetables, eggs, green leafy vegetables, etc.

Symptoms of Nutritional Deficiency in Children

Here are some signs and symptoms to watch out for in your child for nutrition deficiency disease:   

• Poor eating habits
• Underweight
• Tooth Decay
• Poor physical growth
• Constipation or changes in bowel movements
• Weakness and low energy
• Trouble in breathing
• Poor concentration
• Sleepiness or unable to sleep
• Unusual food cravings
• Lightheadedness
• Severe hair loss
• Delayed wound healing
• Deterioration in vision
• Bone pain

You can reach out to your doctor to address your concerns and find ways to overcome the gaps at an early stage.

Causes of Nutritional Deficiency in Children

1. Nutritional Deficiency in Mother: Nutritional deficiency in the mother herself can be easily passed on to the child at the time of birth and during pregnancy. A deficiency of different nutrients in the mother can affect the newborn’s overall health.

2. Poor eating habits of children: Picky eating or poor food choices such as treats, sugary drinks, and processed foods can lead to nutritional deficiencies in children.

3. Allergies and intolerances: Allergies to specific foods or food intolerances (like lactose or gluten) may result in a limited diet and nutrient deficiencies.

4. Diseases: Gastrointestinal issues that prevent the proper absorption of nutrients can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Children with medical conditions such as cystic fibrosis impact their nutritional status.

Which Nutrient Deficiencies Are Most Common in Children?

• Iron Deficiency
• Vitamin D Deficiency
• Zinc Deficiency
• Calcium Deficiency
• Potassium
• Fiber Deficiency

How Are Nutritional Deficiencies Diagnosed?

After a physical examination and based on the signs and symptoms, your child’s doctor may order certain blood tests to diagnose nutrient deficiencies.

Testing is done to evaluate the levels of specific vitamins and minerals in the body. It typically involves a blood test (complete blood count) or a series of blood tests (vitamin panel tests, electrolyte panel tests, mineral panel tests, etc.)

Speak to your doctor to determine if your child needs a blood test for vitamin deficiencies.

How to Manage and Treat Nutrient Deficiencies in Children?

Dietary and lifestyle changes 

Mild nutritional deficiencies can be treated at home by making simple changes to the children’s diet (adding more fruits and vegetables) and their eating habits (avoiding junk food).

Taking a supplement

A supplement may prevent a nutrient deficiency from becoming a nutritional disease.

Medical Care

Severe deficiencies may require hospitalization and involve parenteral nutrition (introduction of nutrients intravenously) and other medical management.

Early diagnosis and treatment can stop nutritional deficiencies from turning into chronic diseases and avoid associated complications.

What Are the Complications Associated with Nutritional Deficiencies in Children?

Diseases linked to nutritional deficiencies in children include 

• Developmental defects (physical and cognitive developmental delays)
• Increased risk of infectious diseases 
• Behavior problems
• Increased risk of poor health in adulthood

Nutrient deficiencies in childhood may lead to chronic long-term health problems. These chronic health issues may include 

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Obesity
• Rickets
• Coronary heart disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Cancer 
• Stroke
• Osteoporosis

How To Prevent Nutritional Deficiencies in Children?

• Choose a variety of foods for your kids. An ideal meal should include proteins, grains, dairy products, and fruits and vegetables.
• Fill half of your child’s plate with vegetables and fruits.
• Children need 2-3 cups of milk or milk alternatives to meet calcium needs.
• Reduce the number of treats offered to children and provide healthy alternatives to snacks.
• Avoid buying or offering sugary drinks.
• Involve your child in planning meals, purchasing food, and preparing – these improve your child’s understanding of healthy eating and food choices.

A nutrient-rich diet is important for children’s healthy growth and development and for preventing long-term or chronic illnesses.

Diarrhea is a common problem in children that can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. It is characterized by loose, watery stools that can occur frequently and may be accompanied by other symptoms like stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever.

Symptoms of Diarrhea in Children

• Loose, watery stools
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Dehydration

Causes of Diarrhea in Children

• Viruses: Rotavirus, norovirus, and adenovirus are the most common causes of diarrhea in children.
• Bacteria: Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter are common bacteria that can cause diarrhea in children.
• Parasites: Giardia and Cryptosporidium are parasites that can cause diarrhea in children.
• Antibiotic use: Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the gut and lead to diarrhea.
• Food intolerances: Lactose intolerance and gluten intolerance can cause diarrhea in children.

Diagnosis of Diarrhea in Children

Your child’s doctor will perform a physical exam to check for blood pressure, dehydration, and abdominal tenderness.  

Other Lab Tests Include: 

Stool test: To check for the presence of infection 

Blood test: To rule out other underlying conditions like (celiac disease) 

Hydrogen breath test: To study the amount of hydrogen in a child’s breath (helps diagnose other underlying conditions) 

Fasting test: To check for any food allergy  

Endoscopy: This test is done if the diarrhea is not subsiding. It helps to know the cause of long-lasting diarrhea 

Treatment of Diarrhea in Children

• Rehydration: It is essential to keep your child hydrated during diarrhea. Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids like water, pedialyte, or other oral rehydration solutions.
• Medications: Anti-diarrheal medications and antibiotics are not recommended for children with diarrhea, especially those under the age of 2.
• Rest: Your child should rest and avoid strenuous activities until the diarrhea has stopped.

Prevention of Diarrhea in Children

• Hand hygiene: Teach your child to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating or after using the bathroom.
• Food safety: Make sure that your child eats only properly cooked food and drinks clean water.
• Vaccinations: Get your child vaccinated against rotavirus, a common cause of diarrhea in children.
• Probiotics: Probiotics may help prevent diarrhea by restoring the balance of good bacteria in the gut.

When to See a Doctor?

• If your child has diarrhea for more than two days
• If your child has severe diarrhea, fever, or bloody stools
• If your child shows signs of dehydration like dry mouth, decreased urination, or lethargy

Dietary Changes For Diarrhea: (BRAT) Diet

• Bananas
• Rice
• Applesauce
• Toast

Bananas and rice are ‘binders’ and are constipating. Hence, they might help with diarrhea. However, the BRAT diet alone won’t help your child get better faster when they have diarrhea. This restrictive diet is low in fat, protein, and energy; it might not fasten the recovery.

Immunization For Diarrhea

To protect your child from rotavirus-induced diarrhea, get them vaccinated with rotavirus vaccine. The vaccine is a liquid given by mouth. Children get it at ages 2 and 4 months and again at six months, depending on the vaccine used.

Advantages Of The Rotavirus Vaccine

• It protects your child from rotavirus, a potentially severe disease
• It prevents your child from developing diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain 

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis (inflammation or swelling of one or more joints) that primarily affects the spine. 

It causes spinal joint (vertebrae) inflammation, leading to severe pain and discomfort.

This pain results from inflammation of the joints (sacroiliac joints), and the inflammation is called sacroiliitis.

The inflammation then spreads to the joints, eventually affecting the whole spine and causing spondylitis. 

In advanced cases, spine movement gradually becomes limited due to ankylosis (new bone formation in the spine), causing a fixed and immobile position. This progressive fusion is called ankylosis. 

Ankylosing spondylitis can cause inflammation, pain, and stiffness in other joints, including the shoulders, hips, heels, and small joints of the hands and feet. In some cases, the eyes can become involved, and the lungs and heart can rarely be affected.

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis 

The symptoms usually develop between 20-30 years of age and develop slowly over months or years. 

The symptom of ankylosing spondylitis also varies significantly from person to person.

However, knowing the warning signs can help. The most common warning signs include:

• Back Pain Early in the Morning or at Night 
• Pain in Hips and Shoulder Joints

Other Symptoms Include:

• Early Morning Stiffness
• Poor Posture or Dropping Shoulders
• Loss of Appetite
• Weight Loss
• Fever and Fatigue
• Anemia (Lack of Hemoglobin)
• Reduced Lung Function

Other Rare Symptoms Include:

• Inflammation of the Bowels
• Eye Inflammation
• Heart Inflammation
• Inflammation in the foot 

What Are the Risk Factors Associated with Ankylosing Spondylitis?

• Family history
• Age
• Sex
• Other arthritic and rheumatic disorders
• More common in males than females

How is Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosed?

There are no definitive tests used to diagnose ankylosing spondylitis. The doctor will check your symptoms and family history and conduct a physical exam. 

Other tests include:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
• X-rays
• Blood tests

What is the Treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis?

The treatment aims to relieve pain and stiffness and prevent complications. Ankylosing spondylitis treatment is more successful if diagnosed early.

The doctor may prescribe certain medications to help relieve pain, inflammation, and stiffness; however, they also might cause gastrointestinal bleeding. If medications are not helpful, your doctor might suggest injections through an intravenous line. 

Physical therapy is another essential part of treatment and can help relieve pain and improve strength and flexibility. Specific physical exercises include:

• Stretching exercises
• Strengthening exercises for abdominal and back
• Correcting sleeping and walking positions

Most people with ankylosing spondylitis will not need surgery. Surgery may be recommended if you have severe pain or damage to your hip joint.

Preventing Measures and Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis:

• Stay active: Regular exercise can help relieve pain and maintain flexibility to improve your posture
• Practice Good Posture: Practicing standing straight can help you avoid a few problems associated with ankylosing spondylitis
• Eating Healthy Diet: Foods rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Whole Grains, Fruits, and Vegetables 
• Avoid Unhealthy Foods: Eliminate foods rich in fat, sugar, and sodium, and other highly processed foods
• Drink Plenty of water
• Quit Alcohol and Smoking

What are the Complications of Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis can affect your day-to-day life and lead to additional health complications.

• Inflammation of the joints in the pelvis, shoulders, hips, and knees
• Inflammation between the spine and ribs 
• Spinal fractures (broken vertebrae) 
• Jaw inflammation
• Painful eye inflammation
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Heart diseases
• Chest pain that affects breathing

When to Consult a Doctor? 

Consult a doctor if you have the following issues:

• Severe chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Vision problems
• Painful back or joint pain
• Rigidity of the spine
• Unexplained weight loss

Make a list of:

• Your symptoms
• Recent lifestyle changes 
• Family medical history
• All medications and supplements you take

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic and progressive condition that can cause significant physical and psychological symptoms. Although there is no cure, treatment options are available to help manage the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, including physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes. With proper management, individuals living with ankylosing spondylitis can lead a full and active life.

Osteoarthritis of the knee (degenerative joint disease) results from wear and tear when cartilage (a strong, flexible connective tissue that protects the joints and bones) in the knee joint breaks down. Due to the loss of cartilage, the knee joint bones rub together, causing friction that hurts the knees, causing stiffness and swelling. 

It is a painful chronic joint disorder and is more common in older adults. The intensity of the symptoms varies for each person and usually progresses slowly.

Osteoarthritis of the knee is very common, and about 46% of people develop it during their lifetime.

What are the clinical symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis?

• Knee pain that worsens with activity
• Joint stiffness
• Joint swelling
• Pain after prolonged sitting or resting
• Cracking or grinding sound on movement
• Feeling of warmth or redness
• Deformity of the joint 
• Feeling the knee may “give out”

What are the possible causes of Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee Osteoarthritis could be either primary or secondary, depending on its cause:

Primary Knee Osteoarthritis is cartilage degeneration without any known reason and could be due to age or wear and tear.

Secondary Knee Osteoarthritis is cartilage degeneration due to a known reason which could be:

• Obesity
• More joint flexibility or instability
• Malposition of the joint 
• Previous injury to the joint 
• Congenital defects (birth defects)
• Immobilization and reduced mobility
• Underlying medical conditions like rickets
• Family history

What are the Possible Risk Factors?

The primary risk factor for knee osteoarthritis is age. Other factors which increase the risk of developing arthritis include:

• Increased body weight: An increase in weight increases pressure on all the joints, especially the knees
• Heredity: Genetic mutations or inherited abnormalities in the shape of the bones that surround the knee joint increase the risk of the disease
• Gender: Women (aged 55 and older) are more likely to develop osteoarthritis of the knee than men
• Repetitive stress injuries: People with occupations that include a lot of activity, such as kneeling or lifting heavy weights, cause constant pressure on the joint and are more likely to develop osteoarthritis of the knee
• Athletics: Athletes such as soccer, tennis, or long-distance running may be at higher risk for knee osteoarthritis. 
• Other underlying conditions: People with rheumatoid arthritis and certain metabolic disorders like iron overload or excess growth hormone are at a higher risk of knee osteoarthritis.

How Is Knee Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?

The diagnosis begins with a physical examination of the knee. 

 Inform the doctor if the pain is worse to help determine the cause of the pain. Further investigations include:

• X-rays: To check the bone and cartilage damage and the presence of bone spurs
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans: MRI scans may be ordered when X-rays do not give a clear reason for joint pain or when X-rays suggest any damage. 
• The doctor may also recommend blood tests to rule out other conditions causing the pain.

What are the Treatment Options for Knee Osteoarthritis?

The primary goal of treating knee osteoarthritis is to relieve pain and return mobility. The treatment options include:

• Weight loss: Losing weight can significantly decrease knee pain from osteoarthritis.
• Exercise: Stretching and other strengthening exercises help keep the knee joints more stable and decrease pain. 
• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs: The doctor may prescribe certain anti-inflammatory or other medication to help ease the pain.
• Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections for the knees: Hyaluronic acid, which is normally present in joints as a lubricating fluid and steroids are powerful drugs used to ease the pain.
• Alternative therapies: Topical creams or supplements can help decrease knee pain from osteoarthritis.
• Using devices like braces: The doctor may recommend braces that provide support to the knees.
• Physical and occupational therapy: This helps you with your daily activities and can help strengthen muscles and increase flexibility in the joint.
• Surgery: The doctor may recommend surgery when other treatments do not work. 

Surgical Options Include:

• Arthroscopy: A procedure used to remove damaged cartilage, clean the bone surface, and repair other types of tissues.
• Osteotomy: A procedure used to improve knee alignment by changing the bones’ shape.
• Joint replacement surgery (arthroplasty): A procedure in which joints are replaced with artificial parts made of metals or plastic.

How to Prevent Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

Preventing knee osteoarthritis is challenging; however, you can reduce the risk of developing the condition by:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Reduce stress or pressure on your knees
• Walking or jogging on smooth surfaces
• Perform low-impact exercises 
• Take supplements (adding omega-3 fatty acids with the doctor’s advice)
• Choose proper footwear (avoiding heels)
• Avoid lifting heavy objects

5 Best Exercises to Reduce Knee Pain- 

• Clamshells
• Bridging
• Hip Abduction
• Straight Leg Raise
• Quadruped Hydrant

RICE Formula for Knee Pain:

Rest for a day or two to heal

Ice your knee to calm inflammation

Compress (wrap) your joint to stop fluid buildup

Elevate your legs on a pillow or stool to curb swelling

Dos and Don’ts for Osteoarthritis knee Pain

Dos

• Do visit the doctor if joint pain worsens on activity
• Do add more nutrients and supplements to your diet
• Do knee joint-friendly exercises
• Do try braces (with the doctor’s advice)

Don’ts

• Do not rest too much 
• Do not overlook your weight 
• Do not use heels 
• Do not sit on the ground 
• Do not lift heavy objects

What is Ectopic Pregnancy?

Ectopic pregnancy is a condition where the fertilized egg grows outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. This abnormal pregnancy can have severe consequences if left untreated. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available for ectopic pregnancy.

Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy

The symptoms of ectopic pregnancy can vary from person to person. However, some common symptoms include vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, upset stomach, vomiting, sharp abdominal cramps, one-sided pain in the body, dizziness, fatigue, and pain in the shoulder, neck, and rectum. If you experience significant pain with heavy vaginal bleeding, light-headedness, fainting, shoulder pain, or severe belly pain, especially on one side, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Causes of Ectopic Pregnancy

Several factors can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), smoking, age (above 35 years), sexually transmitted infections (STIs), scarring from pelvic surgery, a history of ectopic pregnancy, and the use of fertility drugs or treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Ectopic Pregnancy Ultrasound

To diagnose ectopic pregnancy, your doctor will perform a pelvic exam and blood tests to detect the presence of the pregnancy hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Additionally, an ultrasound test can help to visualize the uterus and fallopian tubes in detail.

Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment

Ectopic pregnancy is not replaceable in the uterus, so it always requires treatment. The two methods used to treat ectopic pregnancy are medication and surgery.

Methotrexate is the most used drug for treating ectopic pregnancy. It stops the cells from growing, which terminates the pregnancy. The implanted egg is then absorbed by the body over 4-6 weeks.

Emergency surgery is needed if the ectopic pregnancy has ruptured a tube. Sometimes surgery is required even if the fallopian tube is not ruptured. The ectopic pregnancy can be easily removed from the tube using a procedure called laparoscopy. This procedure uses a slender, lighted camera inserted through tiny cuts in the abdomen under general anaesthesia.

Ectopic Pregnancy Recovery

Recovery from ectopic pregnancy can take several weeks, and follow-up appointments are required with each treatment option.

Conclusion

Ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help individuals seek medical attention quickly and receive timely treatment.

Miscarriage or spontaneous abortion is when you lose pregnancy before 20 weeks. Nearly 80% of miscarriages happen during the first three months of pregnancy.

Most miscarriages are uncontrollable and occur when the fetus stops growing.

Early miscarriages are common, and one in five women have a miscarriage for no apparent reason.

Miscarriage Symptoms

Signs of miscarriage include,

• Bleeding (mild to severe)
• Severe abdominal pain
• Severe cramps
• Breast tenderness
• Nausea

However, most women with bleeding in the first trimester have successful pregnancies.

Consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

Causes of Miscarriage

Problems in the genes cause about 50% of all miscarriages. The risk of defective genes increases with age (>35 years).

The exact causes of miscarriage remain unclear. Probable causes include:

• Chronic illnesses (diabetes, hypertension)
• Infections (malaria, AIDS)
• Hormone problems
• Uterine abnormalities (fibroids or cysts)
• Malnutrition
• Certain medications

Always confirm with your doctor whether a drug is safe to use during pregnancy before taking any medications.

How is a Miscarriage Diagnosed?

• Your doctor will perform an ultrasound test to check for a fetal heartbeat or the presence of a yolk sac (the first visible fetal structure).
• You may also have a blood test to measure the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone. A low hCG level confirms miscarriage.
• A pelvic examination to check if your cervix (lower end of the uterus) has opened.

What Tests Should You Have After Repeated Miscarriages?

Blood tests or genetic tests are necessary if you have 2-3 miscarriages in a row.

• Genetic tests: To check for chromosome abnormalities
• Blood tests: To check for hormonal imbalances

It is essential to know the cause to prevent repeated miscarriages.

Most people with repeat miscarriages can have a healthy pregnancy.

Miscarriage Treatment

• No treatment is necessary in case of miscarriage
• Rarely, surgery or medications might be needed

Is it Possible to Prevent Miscarriage?

Miscarriage cannot be prevented but you can reduce the risk with these tips:

• Healthy diet
• Folic acid supplements
• Weight control
• Exercise
• Avoid smoking and drinking

If you have any medical conditions, talk to your doctor to create a treatment plan that keeps your baby healthy.

Myths and Facts of Miscarriage

1. Myth: Miscarriage is the mother’s fault.

Fact: Most early miscarriages are because of gene defects and are completely out of control.

• Myth: Multiple miscarriages mean you are infertile.

Fact: With each miscarriage, the risk of gene defects decreases, thereby increasing your chance of pregnancy.

Things To Avoid During Pregnancy That May Cause Miscarriage

There are certain things that are thought to increase the risk of miscarriage during pregnancy. While not all miscarriages are preventable and some occur for unknown reasons, avoiding these potential risk factors may help reduce the risk of miscarriage:

• Smoking
• Alcohol
• Illicit drugs (cocaine and heroin)
• Certain medications
• Infections (toxoplasmosis, rubella, and cytomegalovirus)
• Environmental toxins (lead, mercury, and pesticides)
• Excessive caffeine
• Certain foods

It is important to talk to your doctor about any concerns you have during pregnancy and to follow their guidance on how to have a healthy and safe pregnancy.

What Does NOT Cause Miscarriage?

There are misconceptions that these routine activities can cause miscarriages.

• Exercise (high-intensity activities like jogging and cycling)
• Sexual intercourse
• Working (except for chemical or radiation exposure)
• Spicy foods
• Air travel
• Stress

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that affects the digestive system. It leads to pain in the abdomen and changes in the bowel (intestines).

Symptoms:

IBS symptoms are different in each person, which includes:

• Bloating (gas)
• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Either diarrhea or constipation

A bowel movement reduces the pain and other symptoms. Symptoms may aggravate when there is any alteration in the frequency of your bowel movements.

Causes:

There is no apparent reason why IBS is caused; however, bacterial infections or parasitic infections can trigger the goal of treatment to relieve symptoms.

In some cases, lifestyle modifications can help; regular exercise and improved sleep habits may reduce anxiety and help relieve bowel symptoms.

Diagnosis:

• Blood tests to check for celiac disease or anemia
• Stool examination for occult blood
• Stool cultures to see for an infection
• Microscopic examination of a stool sample for parasites
• Stool examination for A substance called fecal calprotectin

Treatment:

The following dietary changes may help:

• Avoiding foods (caffeine and tea) and drinks that stimulate the intestines 
• Eating smaller frequent meals
• Increasing fiber in the diet (to improve constipation or diarrhea)

Some medications that help to relieve the symptoms include:

• Anticholinergic medicines to control intestinal muscle spasms
• Probiotics to improve intestinal health
• Low doses of tricyclic antidepressants to relieve intestinal pain

Conquer Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) with a holistic approach, embracing dietary changes, stress management, and medical support. You’re not alone; with determination, reclaim comfort and a fulfilling life ahead.

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and irritation. While medication can help manage GERD symptoms, adopting a healthy diet can also be an effective way to alleviate symptoms. In this blog, we will discuss the foods to eat and avoid for GERD relief.

Foods to Eat for GERD Relief:

• Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a whole grain that is high in fiber and low in fat, making it an ideal breakfast option for people with GERD.
• Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce nausea and vomiting caused by acid reflux.
• Non-citrus fruits: Non-citrus fruits like bananas, apples, and pears are low in acid and can be safely consumed by people with GERD.
• Vegetables: Vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, and green beans are low in fat and can help reduce the symptoms of GERD.
• Lean proteins: Lean proteins like chicken and fish are low in fat and can be safely consumed by people with GERD.

Foods to Avoid for GERD Relief:

• Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are highly acidic and can aggravate GERD symptoms.
• Spicy foods: Spicy foods can irritate the esophagus and cause heartburn and acid reflux.
• Fried and fatty foods: Fried and fatty foods can slow down the digestion process and increase the risk of acid reflux.
• Chocolate: Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which can relax the esophageal sphincter and cause acid reflux.
• Carbonated drinks: Carbonated drinks like soda and sparkling water can increase the pressure on the stomach and cause acid reflux.

Incorporating GERD-friendly foods into your diet and avoiding trigger foods can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux. However, it’s important to note that every individual’s triggers may differ, and it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice. By following a healthy diet and lifestyle, you can effectively manage GERD symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.

GERD is a digestive condition in which the stomach contents leak backward from the stomach into the esophagus (food pipe).

Food usually travels from the mouth to the stomach through your food pipe. GERD can irritate the food pipe and cause heartburn and other symptoms.

Symptoms:

• A burning sensation in your chest (heartburn) after eating that is worse at night or while lying down
• Backwash (regurgitation) of food or sour liquid into the throat
• Upper abdominal or chest pain
• Trouble swallowing (dysphagia)
• The sensation of a hard lump in the throat

Causes:

GERD is caused by frequent acid reflux from the stomach.

When you swallow the food particles, a circular band of muscle around the bottom of the esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) or LES relaxes to let the food and liquid to flow into your stomach. Then the sphincter closes again.

If the sphincter does not relax as normally it does, or it weakens, stomach acid can flow reversely into your food pipe. This backwash of acid irritates the lining of the food pipe, irritating the esophageal lining.

Risk Factors:

Factors that increase the risk of GERD are:

• Obesity
• Bulging of the top of the stomach (hiatal hernia)
• Being pregnant
• Delayed stomach emptying
• Certain medications (aspirin)
• Smoking
• Eating heavy foods late at night
• Drinking alcohol in more amounts

Diagnosis:

To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor would recommend some tests like:

Upper endoscopy: This helps your doctor detect any inflammation of the esophagus (food pipe)

Ambulatory acid (pH) probe test: This test checks for how long and when the backflow of acids occurring

X-ray of the upper digestive system: This test allows us to check for the outline of the esophagus and stomach

Esophageal manometry: This test measures the rhythmic muscle contractions in the esophagus when the food is being swallowed

Transnasal esophagoscopy: This test is performed to look for any damage in your esophagus

Treatment:

Your doctor would ask you to use the below medications:

• Antacids: Helps neutralize the stomach acids
• H-2 blockers: Helps to reduce the production of acid in the stomach
• Proton pump inhibitors: Helps reduce acid production and heal the esophagus

Surgical management of GERD:

• Fundoplication: It is a minimally invasive procedure. This helps make the loosened sphincter tight and prevents the reflux of acids.
• LINX device: A ring of small magnetic beads are wrapped around the junction of the stomach and esophagus. The magnetic attraction between the beads helps keep the junction closed to refluxing acid
• Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF): This is a new procedure involves tightening the (LES) lower esophageal sphincter 

Lifestyle Modifications:

Here are some simple measures that help reduce the frequency of acid reflux:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting tobacco consumption
• Elevating your head while sleeping
• Sleeping on your left side
• Eating food slowly and chewing effectively
• Avoiding foods and drinks that provoke reflux like alcohol, caffeine, fatty foods