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Insect Bites On Infants
Just like adults, babies too can get bitten by different types of insects. The insect bites do not cause any major medical complications in babies and can be treated with topical creams and ointments. Here’s all that you need about insect bites on babies, its symptoms, prevention and various ways of curing it.
How Common Are Insects Bites On Babies?
Insect bites are very common on babies. However, it majorly depends on the time your baby spends indoors or outdoors. Babies who remain most of the time indoors with tightly shut doors and windows are less likely to have insect bites than babies who spend more time outdoors. The weather also plays an important role in this. The insect bites are more common during hot and humid weather than in cold weather.
Symptoms Of Insect Bites In Infants
The insect bite symptoms may vary according to the place of bite, type of insect, whether or not the toxins or irritants have been injected. Also, some babies may not cry or show any signs unless the parents notice it, on the other hand, some babies may cry frantically. Following are some of the symptoms that you may notice:
Raised red bumps on the skin
They may be itchy or painful
Some insect bites appear like blisters
How To Treat Your Baby For Insect Bites?
Following are some options for insect bite treatment for babies:
You may move your baby to a safer place to avoid more insect bites.
If you notice the stinger lodged in the skin, try pulling it out with tweezers or fingernails.
Use soap and water on the bite.
You may give ibuprofen or paracetamol for pain and Antihistamine for itching to treat ant bites on baby.
You may apply ice pack on the affected area to soothe itching; it works well in case of bed bug bites on baby.
You may use hydrocortisone cream or other topical creams to cure various insect bites, such as for flea bites on babies.
You may apply a paste made from baking soda and water to soothe itching from gnat bites on babies.
All the above-mentioned treatment options work really well in treating most insect bites. However, if you notice that the insect bite is becoming redder or the swelling is increasing, you should seek immediate medical help.
Home Remedies
You may try some of the following home remedies to treat insect bites on babies:
Apply Honey: Honey works really well on insect bites. You may apply honey directly on the insect bite. The soothing properties of honey will help ease the itching and prevents any kind infection.
Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera is great for any kind of skin related problems. The fresh aloe vera gel provides relief from the discomfort of an insect bite. Aloe vera is very safe for a baby’s skin. You may apply fresh aloe vera, or you may procure natural aloe vera gel from a good store.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It can help in treating mosquito bites in babies. You may apply this vinegar liberally on the affected area. The only caution you need to exercise is, to keep it away from the baby’s eyes to avoid burning sensation.
Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is a very good disinfectant. You may take few drops of lemon juice and apply on the affected area. Alternatively, you may rub the lemon peel on the site of the bite to disinfect it.
Toothpaste: As weird as it may sound, but toothpaste also works well in treating insect bites. Do not use the gel-based ones, instead use the ones with natural ingredients. You may apply a small amount of toothpaste on the affected area to provide relief from itching and swelling.
Baking Soda Paste: You may take baking soda and add few drops of water to make a paste-like consistency. You may apply this solution to mosquito bites to cure swelling and itching.
These home remedies may help in treating insect bites in babies. It is recommended that you consult your doctor before adopting any home remedial measures to treat insect bites on babies.
How To Prevent Your Child From Getting Insect Bites?
The following measures may reduce your child’s chances of getting stung by insects:
Do not let your kid roam barefoot on the grass.
Cover your child properly when you plan any outdoor trips.
Use mosquito net when sleeping outdoors or with windows open.
Make use of screens to cover windows and doors.
Use mosquito and insect repellents.
Avoid taking your child to insect-prone areas such as beehives, wasp nests, trash cans etc.
FAQs
Here are a few FAQ’s that will help you know more about insect bites on babies and how you may handle it effectively:
1. Should I Be Concerned If My Child Has Been Bitten Or Stung By Any Insect?
Insect bites are very common in children. Fleas, mosquitoes, spiders or ticks often have milder symptoms, whereas fire ants, bees, wasps and hornet bites can be very painful and discomforting for your child.
2. What To Do If My Baby Is Allergic To Insect?
Some insect bites (wasps, hornets, bees etc.) may cause a severe allergic reaction in babies, and these may cause serious complications. Keep a watch for the below symptoms:
Abdominal pain or vomiting
Trouble in breathing
Rashes on the body
Increased heartbeat
Swollen lips or throat
3. How To Treat Sting If My Baby Doesn't Have Any Allergic Reaction?
If you notice a stinger in your baby’s skin, you may pull it out with your fingernails, tweezers or try scraping it out with a credit card. After washing the area, you may apply ice to reduce swelling and itching. Baking soda solution or calamine solution can be applied to relieve itching. If all these do not help, seek your doctor’s advice immediately.
4. Will Insect Bite or Sting Cause An Infection?
Insect bite or sting may become infected in a few days if your child scratches it with nails. If you notice the bite-site becoming redder, more swollen or your child has a fever, take your child to the hospital. Your child may need a course of antibiotics to treat the infection. Apart from these, if any unusual symptom is registered, you should talk to your doctor.
5. Do You Need To Be Concerned If You Are Travelling Outside Country?
If you are travelling to a country where flies, mosquitoes or other insects are responsible for spreading life-threatening diseases, such as dengue, malaria, chikungunya or yellow fever, you should talk to your health care practitioner about the same. You may be advised to give a shot or take medicines to help your child fight with these ailments.
Insect bites are common, and 100 percent prevention is impossible. However, the exposure of your baby to these can be minimised through careful planning and infections can be swiftly handled.
Also read: Dog Bites In Children: Treatment & Prevention Read more
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Taking Care of Your Child When You Have Another One on the Way
Emotions and attachments are what makes humans bond.
I delivered a baby girl last month. We planned our second baby for our 5 year old son, who assumed on his own that he will soon have a sister. His excitement for a sibling was so sparkling that we both got through the nine months easily.
My son helped me a lot in this. How children grow up and be so adjusting, I wonder. Along with this, he got to know from one of his friends that to get a baby, the mother has to go to the hospital for a couple of days and undergo an operation. He got scared and at once said that he did not desire a sibling any longer - mom was more important to him. We made him understand and pacified him with examples around us, but he was so fearful that he started puking on the day of delivery! These kids love you so much, that nothing is above their unbounded love for you.
He wanted a sister, and God gifted him the same. He was on cloud 9 after having her in his lap. I thanked God for listening to my little one's prayers and for completing my family.
Now, here's the twist - all the excitement, happiness and love for his sister starting dimming as he had to now share his parents with her. He got upset seeing me feed the baby the entire day, because I was paying less attention to him. Suddenly in a day even our behaviour changed towards him - we started to expect that he would understand. He had this jealous feeling for a week and became cranky. He made statements like, "mummy doesn't love my anymore". This was the time we needed to balance the situation.
We told him that she was his baby, and no matter what he does, we will only love him. We prioritsed many things for him, like asking him what clothes he would like to wear, getting him a toy first, and serving him his favourite food. Now my daughter is almost one month old, and he has accepted her.
Friends, when my near and dear ones got to know about my second pregnancy, all of them suggested to take care of the elder kids' emotional needs first. If not treated well in time, it can harm the child a lot. He can start feeling lonely and can start hating the other kid. It's very natural, but managing them well can result in them being loving siblings.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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6 Ways to Deal With an Irritating Mother-in-Law
Are you finding it hard to adjust to your mother-in-law? Do you want to make things work between the two of you and not tear your head off? Learn how to deal with a difficult mother-in-law with some helpful tips given below and keep your peace and sanity in check.
The relationship between a daughter-in-law and a mother-in-law is a complicated one. They're the two most important women in a man's life and both have his best interests at heart. As for him, he'd like nothing more than to see you two hit it off. But the road's not easy and if you have a controlling mother-in-law, you need to learn how to deal with her. It's the only way to keep your relationship in check.
One aspect that we would want to put forth is that you should learn to ignore her taunts or comments, upto a certain level. It will help you stride through your life smoothly. However, don't dismiss and disregard her from your mind and thoughts completely just because you are not able to get along. Writing her off totally would only take things from bad to worse. You never know, she may turn all the more hostile. Therefore, maintaining the balance between ignorance and cognizance is the key to success.
Get Your Sanity Back: How to Handle a Difficult Mother-in-law
1. Don't Raise Your Voice
She may get on your nerves and drive you to frustration, but avoid the temptation to yell. She could use that against you to make you feel guilty. Rather, be firm and assert your point, but don't be rude and lose control no matter how bad the situation gets. And what if you're reaching the boiling point? Well, in that case, be modest and walk away.
2. Try to Understand Her
Have you ever wondered why mothers-in-law seem to hate daughters-in-law? Well, many of them feel that they're losing their son to someone else. Your mother-in-law has always put him first and wants him to do the same with her. Now that you're in his life, she could feel that she's losing him. Try to understand her behaviour and her needs as a mom rather than taking things personally and escalating them into ugly fights.
3. Accept that She May Not Change
If your mother-in-law criticises you constantly and speaks about you behind your back, despite your best efforts to win her heart, it's time to accept that she's unlikely to mend her ways. The only thing you can do to save your sanity without losing control is to detach yourself from her emotionally. Respect her, but maintain a distance. On the off chance that your mother-in-law seems like she's turning the other cheek, give it time before deciding whether she's really changed.
4. Identify the Triggers
By now you must've figured out the mother-in-law issues that make you go mad. Maybe it's her rude remarks or condescending tone or her nagging that gets on your nerves. Whatever it is, identify the triggers so that you know when to hold your tongue or walk away. The sooner you do this, the quicker you can defuse situations.
5. Don't Nag Your Man About Her
Try to resolve your mother-in-law problems on your own. While you should tell your husband when the two of you have arguments, try to keep from complaining too much. She's his mother and he loves her no matter what, so you need to tread carefully. Too much nagging and things could go against you!
6. Let Her Have Her Say
An interfering mother-in-law can be tough to handle. More times than most, all you want to do is rage and get her to shut up. But a better solution is to let her give you as many advices and suggestions as she wants. Simply listen rather than getting into an argument. You don't have to follow them if you don't want to, but letting her have her say could get her to leave you alone quicker.
If you want to find a solution to your in-law woes, you need to get to the root of the problem first. Understand why she's rude or indifferent towards you and learn to get around it. Try to be good to her and win her heart before terming her as a bad mother-in-law. And if that doesn't work, it's time to try the clever tricks you've learnt from reading the write-up above. Read more
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Excessive Saliva during Pregnancy
Everyone knows the classic (or common) symptoms of pregnancy: tender breasts, missed period, morning sickness, feeling tired, etc. But some pregnant women experience a host of other symptoms that are not-so-common (and are unexpected too) such as saliva build-up in the mouth. Excess saliva in the mouth is a rare symptom of early pregnancy and is usually experienced by those pregnant women who have morning sickness. Saliva build-up in early pregnancy is medically termed as ptyalism gravidarum.
Is it Normal to Have Excess Saliva During Pregnancy?
Yes, it is perfectly normal to salivate a lot more than usual during pregnancy. Usually, the glands that produce saliva tend to generate approximately 600ml of saliva in an entire day. We know, that seems like a large amount, but it goes unnoticed since we constantly keep swallowing it throughout the day. However, during pregnancy, if a woman has excess saliva in her mouth, it could be because of increased saliva production or decreased swallowing tendency or a combination of both.
A few pregnant women may salivate intensely when they are nauseous. The saliva in such cases can make one feel like spitting it out.
When Does Excess Saliva Production Start During Pregnancy?
Some women may believe that excess saliva could be an early pregnancy symptom. However, excess production of saliva starts around the 2nd or 3rd week of the pregnancy and settles down around the end of the first trimester. For certain women, this condition continues throughout the pregnancy and up until the delivery. Experts believe that excess saliva production is the body's way of protecting the mouth, throat, and teeth from the corrosive effects of stomach acid.
Causes of Salivation During Pregnancy
Some of the possible causes of excessive salivation during pregnancy are given below -
Experts aren't sure but one of the possible reasons for an increase in saliva during pregnancy is pregnancy hormones. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to an increase in saliva production.
The usual tendencies of morning sickness and nausea may prevent women from swallowing the saliva as the taste might make it unpleasant and even more nauseous. This leads to saliva build-up in the mouth.
Producing excess saliva during pregnancy can be because of heartburn, which is a common problem during pregnancy. As the uterus expands to accommodate the baby and pushes the stomach, it can cause the stomach to push up its contents in the oesophagus, leading to a bad irritating and burning sensation. As a bodily reflex, the oesophagus causes the glands to produce more saliva in order to soothe the stomach acid and burning sensation.
If the pregnant woman suffers from any oral infections such as tooth decay, cavities, dental caries or so, there is a chance of salivation increasing in such scenarios and being excessive.
Being exposed to some toxic chemicals might cause the body to react in a manner of producing more saliva than usual.
Specific medications namely anticonvulsants, lithium, tranquillizers, and so on, are known to react with the salivary glands causing them to produce excessive saliva.
Benefits of Increased Salivation
Some of the benefits of excess saliva production during pregnancy are given below -
Increased salivation works directly in neutralizing stomach acids that can cause a burning or irritating sensation. (Is this correct? Since above it is mentioned that excess saliva happens because of heartburn and burning sensation)
Saliva in the mouth is a natural defence against bacteria that can harm the teeth.
The major function of saliva is that it starts the digestion process right in the mouth, helping the stomach and intestine break down the food easily.
With vitamin supplements or so, one may experience a dry mouth. Salivation helps keep the mouth lubricated and wet.
Treatments for Excessive Saliva While Pregnant
The problem of excessive saliva in the mouth is not serious and you need not worry about the same. Furthermore, there's no known cure for the same. But there are certain things that you can try to lessen the production of saliva in your mouth.
Try making some dietary changes such as removing carbohydrate-rich or starch-based from your diet.
Visit your dentist and check for any infections that might be present in your mouth. Certain gum- related problems could result in excessive production of saliva.
Re-plan your meal times by having smaller meals at frequent intervals.
Brush your teeth often and use a mouthwash. Using a mouthwash intermittently through the day can help with the saliva.
Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth wet. Keep a bottle handy and take small sips frequently. Not only will it keep your saliva in check but also keep you hydrated
Chew sugarless gums or mints to help with the swallowing of saliva.
Take an ice cube and suck on it for some time. Your mouth will feel numb and will produce less saliva for some time.
Try chewing on lime or ginger to reduce the salivation. Consult your doctor for the same.
Add a lot of crunchy and fibrous fruits and vegetables in your diet.
If swallowing the saliva starts makes you nauseous, spit it out.
When eating biscuits, go for dry and plain ones that help soak the saliva.
If this escalates to severe vomiting, visit your doctor immediately to get medications for it.
Can You Prevent Excess Saliva During Pregnancy?
As much as one would like to know how to stop excessive saliva during pregnancy, unfortunately, there are no precautions, no habits, no known techniques that can help reduce the saliva production. It is just a phase, like pregnancy and all the other changes that your body undergoes, and will pass away with time. Do not overthink about it or let down your mood and be disgusted by what’s happening to you. It is natural, it is a bodily response, so don't worry about it.
When Can You Expect This to Stop?
If you are salivating excessively during pregnancy, obviously, you will be annoyed. But don't worry, it's just a symptom of pregnancy and should subside after the first trimester of pregnancy. However, this symptom may last longer in some women. If the same happens with you, don't panic because it will subside after you give birth to your baby. But if you feel miserable, you can always check with your doctor and ask what can be done.
When to Consult the Doctor
Excess saliva might seem extremely weird when it starts happening, but it is just as natural as morning sickness. Unless the salivation becomes too intense for you to lead a normal life or is combined with frequent episodes of vomiting, there is no reason to visit your doctor for it. They might help you put your mind to ease but on a medical level, there isn’t anything to worry about.
Salivating excessively during pregnancy can seem a bit embarrassing, but you need not worry, it is a sign of pregnancy. It a natural response to the changes in your body and drooling or excessive saliva is nothing than a minor annoyance. Keep it at that and focus on the better parts of your journey through pregnancy.
Also Read: Change In Urine Colour during Pregnancy Read more
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Hassle-free Hairstyles for Working Moms
Most moms want hairstyles that are easy to make and look super stylish. But while celebrities have hair stylists to ensure that their hair is perfect and conditioned, you need hairstyles that can be maintained easily and are frill-less.
Working moms have a lot on their plate - from running a home with kids to meeting deadlines at work. Therefore, the very thought of maintaining long tresses becomes a task. Learn about some hassle-free hairstyles for working moms with a cramped schedule, and ease your worry.
Top Hassle-Free Hair Styles for Working Moms
1. Braids
If you are a working mom, considering braids would do you a world of good. If done right, braids can look really chic, and they usually last the entire day without much effort. Opting for a French braid or a regular braid should keep your hair in place. You can tie a little ribbon at the bottom to give your look a little quirk. Braids are best suited for moms with long or medium length hair.
2. Go Layered
Choosing a layered hairstyle is also a good option. Keeping it long in the back and short in front will accentuate your jaw line while drawing attention to those beautiful eyes and that killer smile. What more! Layers also give an illusion of voluminous hair. The length is appropriate as it allows you to tie your hair in a bun during the latter half of the day. Ensure that you trim your hair regularly to avoid going from classy to messy.
3. Blunt Cut
One of the best hassle-free haircuts for working moms would have to be the blunt cut. It is a great wash-and-wear style that requires very little upkeep. All you need for dressing it up for an evening office party is a curling iron. However, the cut should be done right. A monthly visit to a stylist who knows the blunt cut is a must. A blunt would naturally suit women with straight hair.
4. Stacked and Fabulous
Short hairstyles for working moms are always a great idea. Have you considered getting a bob cut like the ones sported by Mandira Bedi, Rihanna or Victoria Beckham? Visit a stylist initially and let him or her cut it below the chin line before allowing it to be stacked back. The concept of stacking ensures that hair is shorter at the bottom and full at the top. It will give a thickness illusion and is regarded as a ready-to-wear hairstyle. However, stacking would prevent you from tying your hair in a ponytail or even braiding it. But it does look fancy when you style it.
These working mom haircuts are great because they allow you to experiment while also ensuring comfort, ease, and top-notch style. When you do not have your own personal hair stylist, working with what you have becomes absolutely vital. Opting for any of these hassle-free hairstyles is sure to get you noticed and look youthful and fresh. Read more
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How to Deal with 'Exam Fear' in Kids
As your child gears up for his examinations, you might find a sudden shift in his attitude. He may visit the bathroom more often, refuse meals and be sleepless at night. This “examination fear” can fortunately be discarded with some study and lifestyle adjustments.
In recent times, examinations have taken precedence over everything else in the life of a child. Children look at examinations as super stressful rather than a positive challenge. As moms, you want to keep your little one calm and confident by helping him deal with this common but manageable exam fear.
What is Exam Fear?
Exam fear is an extreme anxiety which a child experiences before and during exams. Your child may exhibit the following symptoms:
Sleeplessness
A general feeling of fatigue
Irritable bowels
Going blank while reading the question paper
Stomach ache and headache
Nausea
Causes of Exam Fear in Children
To help your child fight examination fear, you need to tackle these questions:
Is your child under constant pressure to get good grades?
Are you expecting too much from him?
Is your child a perfectionist and doesn't settle down for anything less?
Does your kid dread rejection from peers in case he performs poorly?
Does he dread scolding from you in case his exams don't go well?
4 Ways to Deal with Examination Fear in Kids
Create a positive atmosphere at home: Your child needs silence and peace to collect his thoughts and focus on his books. Switch off the TV, finish off all your chores and sit with him for his lessons.
Prepare Study Plans: A study plan provides tangible goals to your child. Prepare well balanced lesson plans in consultation with his teacher. Ensure adequate time for rest and play so that your darling is not stressed out.
Provide balanced, nutrient rich meals: See that your child has meals on time. Also make sure that he has adequate carbohydrates and proteins. Refrain from giving him oily, greasy snacks and instead offer nuts and fruits at regular intervals.
Take him for quick outings: A stroll in the park or garden will rejuvenate and refresh your young one. Make sure that your child has his daily dose of fresh air during examinations in order to have a clear and composed mind.
While helping your child deal with his fear of exams, it is critical to empathize and make him understand that examinations are not the ultimate judge of his capabilities. Tell him that while exam time at school is a great opportunity to reap results for hard work, you will shower your baby with love come what may! Read more
Akifa Tahreem has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
9 hours ago
Q. hello doctor, I'm 3 weeks pregnant. can we sleep on our belly or which side We can sleep on during pregnancy...
Akifa Tahreem
Mom of a 7 m old boy
7 hours ago
A. no you can't sleep in your tummy
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
6 hours ago
Q. @ask_the_expert
#ask the expert
I am having pcod problem.
when should I check pregnancy test at home?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
5 hours ago
A. If you have missed your periods you can wait for one week more and then do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
6 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
At which day should I take pregnancy test
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
4 hours ago
A. after 2 weeks. do ultrasound n necessary tests after consulting a specialist. without proper check up we can't advise or help you.. Avoid shirt cuts when it comes to health if mother n baby. ok.
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
6 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
when should I take pregnancy test?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
4 hours ago
A. after missed your periods you can wait for one week more ,then you can do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
6 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
but having regular cycles below 35 days. some time it will extended upto 40 days.
so when should I take pregnancy test at home?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
5 hours ago
A. If you have missed your periods you can wait for one week more or else you can do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication.
The best treatment to have Regular periods is by having a healthy lifestyle with regular daily walking or jogging along with mild exercise and meditation whenever possible. as medications will only act till you are taking them
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
3 hours ago
Q. Done my first routine blood test ..it shows thyroid border line.its my 6 week running as per USG.
but prior to that my thyroid level was always normal I did check up every year and got it normal .this time it shows borderline high in 6 week pregnancy.
is it something to worry.plz guide
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. it is better to follow your doctors advice for treating the thyroid deficiency. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
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