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Nosebleeds During Pregnancy - When Should You Worry?
The female body undergoes a lot of physical changes during pregnancy. During this period, the circulatory system of the body expands to accommodate the baby. As a result of this, blood circulation increases and the nasal blood vessels expand. These blood vessels are quite delicate, and the increased blood supply becomes a primary reason for nose bleeding during pregnancy. The technical term for a nosebleed is epistaxis.
Are Nosebleeds Common In Pregnancy?
Amongst the problems faced by women during pregnancy, nosebleeds are fairly common. Almost 20% of pregnant women suffer from it as compared to 6% non-pregnant women. An occasional nosebleed should not be cause for alarm and can prove to be harmless in most cases. Most doctors are of the opinion that nosebleeds in early pregnancy are common due to pressure on the nasal blood vessels. As long as you are not losing too much blood through nosebleeds, you should be okay.
Causes Of Pregnancy Nosebleeds
The following are common causes of nosebleeds during pregnancy:
The delicate vessels in your nose are under tremendous pressure due to the increased blood supply during pregnancy. In fact, the blood volume increases by as much as 50% due to which the tiny vessel in the nose expands. Since they rupture easily, they prove to be a common cause for nosebleeds.
Medical conditions like hypertension or clotting or an injury could become one of the causes of nosebleeds.
You can get a bloody nose during pregnancy when you have cold, allergies, sinus infection or even when the nasal membranes dry out. This could happen when you live in a cold climate or if your home/office is air-conditioned.
Incessant nose-picking is also a cause of nosebleeds during pregnancy and should be avoided.
Inhaling cleaning products (read chemical agents) can irritate the nasal membrane. Agents like ammonia and harsh acids used for removing stains etc. should, therefore, be completely avoided during pregnancy.
Use of aspirin and blood thinners can prove to be probable causes of nosebleeds. Your doctor might be able to suggest an alternative or change the dosage, so, speak to him if you are taking any of these.
Air-borne allergies can lead to nosebleeds.
Although there is no method of avoiding a common cold, it is best to keep it away by abstaining from excessive cold drinks or frozen eatables like ice cream etc.
How To Stop A Nosebleed?
Do the following things when your nose begins to bleed during pregnancy:
Sit down as soon as the bleeding begins. However, ensure that your head is at a higher level that of your heart.
Do not lie down or bend backward either as the blood may enter your mouth.
Hold/pinch the bleeding nostril for about 10 minutes.
Bend forward and breathe through the mouth for the time being.
Ensure you hold the nostril for at least 7-8 minutes, and do not release it to check if the bleeding has stopped.
If you feel faint, lie down on your side but not on the back.
Keep track of the time taken for the nosebleed to stop as it shouldn’t exceed 20 minutes. Use it as a benchmark for timing if the nosebleed repeats.
Preventing Nosebleeds While Pregnant
As the age-old saying goes “prevention is better than cure”, you can do the following things to ensure that you stay away from nosebleeds during pregnancy:
Never blow your nose too hard. Develop the habit of blowing it gently to prevent a nosebleed. Also, blow the nose only when necessary as frequent blowing could lead to bleeding.
Keeping the mucous membranes hydrated is the key to avoid nosebleeds. Ensure you keep yourself hydrated through the day.
If you live in a dry climate or during winter, make liberal use of a humidifier. Install one if you do not have one. The chances of a nosebleed are dramatically reduced due to the moistened air it creates.
Smoke can initiate a sneezing bout, so stay away from it.
If your doctor has suggested a decongestant or a medicated nose spray, make sure you follow the instructions exactly as given. Overuse can lead to a negative effect. Make sure the spray does not dry out your nasal passage as this could increase the irritation further.
Try sneezing with your mouth open to divide the immense pressure of the sneeze and give your nose some relief too.
It is important to keep the nose from drying completely. Using a lubricant like petroleum jelly is of great help or you could use saline sprays and drops. Special water-based OTC lubricants can also do the trick for you.
Can Nosebleeds Affect Your Pregnancy?
Nosebleeds do not have a telling impact on your pregnancy or the manner of giving birth to the baby. However, you may be advised to opt for a C-section delivery instead of a normal one. This is done especially if you experience nosebleeds quite frequently, especially post the second trimester till the delivery.
If you have nosebleeds during pregnancy, there is a 10% chance of the same increasing after the birth of your baby. These nosebleeds are mostly limited till the time you are pregnant and stop after delivery. They stop automatically after you give birth to the baby without any additional medications.
When To Worry About Nosebleeds In Pregnancy?
While nosebleeds in pregnancy are common, you should be worried if it leads to certain health issues. It is always a prudent thing to seek quick medical attention under such conditions. In pregnant state, you will be at a higher risk for diabetes, stroke, and hypertension. You should be worried if nosebleeds are accompanied by any of the symptoms mentioned below:
If the nosebleed is accompanied by laboured breathing or persistent chest ache, you should definitely be worried. Slight discomfort may be fine, but if the pain is quite severe or prolonged, it should be checked.
Facial drooping, tingling or any kind of numbness can be indicators of a stroke and should be quickly addressed as time could be short.
One should be seeking medical attention if the person affected loses consciousness.
Feelings of confusion post nosebleeds should receive quick medical attention as should light-headedness.
Any kind of trauma that leads to nosebleeds should be immediately investigated.
When Should You Call The Doctor?
Pregnancy is the time when every tiny issue can get blown out of proportion since your health could be under threat. Nosebleeds are common in pregnancy, but you surely do not want to take a risk if the frequency of getting one is abnormal. Speak to your doctor so that he can eliminate any major problems lurking behind it. It is best to call your doctor and ask for a quick check in case of the following:
The blood flow is quite heavy.
The bleeding doesn’t stop even after 20-30 minutes of holding or pressure on the nose.
The bleeding causes heavy breathing and leads to breathlessness.
In case of a head injury, you get a nose bleed. Call the doctor even if the bleeding is low.
You feel disoriented, lightheaded or fatigued.
There is mild discomfort or chest pain.
Your skin turns pale due to bleeding.
You must call the doctor if you have high blood pressure as the blood flow can increase.
Speak to the doctor if the steps mentioned above in “How to stop a nosebleed” do not work and the bleeding continues.
When you are pregnant, it is a good thing to be completely attuned to the needs of your body. With so many pregnant women and new mothers around you, there certainly won’t be any dearth of well-meaning advice. However, you will do well not to become too perturbed about every changing experience. This will lead to unwanted anxiety and stress. Of course, you should take a note of nosebleeds but remember it is common during pregnancy. If it worries you to no end, you will allow it to overshadow the miracle of pregnancy and childbirth.
Also read: Epilepsy in Pregnancy: Symptoms, Complications & Treatment Read more
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Raising a Child Alone Tips for Single Parents
It takes a village to raise a child, so goes the common saying. But what about when you have just one individual to do the raising, never mind an entire village? Single-parent families are increasingly becoming common and are not considered exceptions anymore. Here are 10 tips for single parents who are raising a child all by themselves.
The traditional family structure has undergone a tremendous change over the years, with single parents being just one face of the new normal. While death has always been a reason, the increase in the number of divorces has given birth to an entirely new parenting scenario.
Parenting a child isn’t an easy job at all, and when one has to do it single-handedly, it poses a fresh set of challenges. Yet, however difficult it may appear, it isn’t an impossible task, and several children of single parents turn out to be happy, healthy and successful individuals. All that is required is the right attitude, a good support system and lots of love.
Useful Tips for Single Parents
1. Show The Love
Losing a member of the family is a traumatic experience, whatever the circumstances may be. This is a time when everyone needs to feel loved. Shower lots of hugs and kisses on your kids – they will still feel the loss of the other parent, but they will also feel secure in the love of the current one.
2. Have a Routine
All experts suggest having routines for children in any case, and this becomes more important for a single parent. Apart from the fact that routines help in developing a feeling of security and familiarity in children, it is essential for the household to run smoothly. A time for every task and a place for everything – following this alone can cut down on huge amounts of stress and leave more time for fun.
3. Maintain Boundaries
While an extra dose of love is prescribed for a child with a single parent, don’t let it cloud your judgment when it comes to discipline. Maintain boundaries as you would normally do, and ensure consequences for overstepping them. Remember, you are a parent, and you make the final call.
4. Have a Support Group
Life can seem very lonely and depressing in the initial stages of your single parenthood, so have a support group for yourself and your child. The best one is your extended family – grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins are perfect to offer support and help. Let your child interact and spend time with everyone – a great way is celebrating festivals together.
5. Have Fun
Life with a single parent needn’t be all cloudy. Take out time every week to do something fun with your child, and take occasional holidays too. If you weren’t the ‘fun’ parent previously, you might have to put in some extra effort, but it’ll be worth it. Make sure you do it at your child’s pace, without making him feel forced.
6. Join Classes
Joining an extra-curricular class is a great way to make new friends and learn something new, both of which can keep a child’s mind productive, occupied and cheerful. The ideal option is a center that offers classes for both moms and kids, so both of you can reap the benefits together.
7. Encourage Independence
Some single parents turn out to be extremely protective for their children, by which they end up being mollycoddled. Try to keep a balance between being there for them and doing everything for them. Making them do simple chores around the house is a great way to foster a sense of responsibility and independence. This also offers an extra pair of helping hands.
8. Budget Sensibly
You might be tempted to fill the gap in your child’s life with gifts, but those offer only temporary respite. Going from married to single is expensive, especially if you’ve not been the primary breadwinner so far. While you don’t have to scrimp on every penny, it helps to cut out all the unnecessary expenses and start saving for your child’s future. This will also be a wonderful life lesson for your child.
9. Keep The Negativity Away
Being a single parent is bound to attract a lot of negativity from others. Try your best to keep your child away from such people and such scenarios. If they seem upset about something, talk to them in a very matter of fact way – kids are very good at understanding logic. Refrain from bad mouthing your ex, because he or she is your child’s parent too.
10. Forget Perfection
There might be immense pressure on single parents, especially single moms, to have everything perfect. They think that in order to prove themselves as good parents, they need to look good, have a beautiful and clean home, happy kids who top their exams, all with extra time to spare for social events. Do away with this image and focus only on your priorities – your child and yourself.
Always remember to put on your own oxygen mask first. If you’re in a bad space emotionally, it is certain to rub off on your child. Get professional help if necessary, and remember that there is no reason your child shouldn’t turn out to be a well-balanced and happy individual like everyone else. Read more
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Life With a Husband Who's Often Away!
Is your husband away from home a lot? Do you often feel like a single mom who’s doing all the work? It can get frustrating and depressing when you have to manage a house and kids all by yourself.
Your husband travels a lot and you single-handedly manage the household. While you’re ace at it, you can’t help but miss him when he’s away. After all, it’s not easy for anyone to juggle everything alone. Cooking, cleaning, getting the kids ready for school, maybe your own job—you have to handle it all, along with handling kids who miss their daddy. You want to hide under the sheets and cry till hubby comes home, but that’s not an option.
Learning How to Cope When Your Husband Is Away
1. Keep in Touch
In this digital age, it’s so easy to be in touch with anyone. Instant messages, emails, video chats–they don’t cost a thing; just the internet! If your husband will be away for much of the time, send him pictures and videos of yourself and the kids. Have your children video chat with their dad often.
2. Stick to Routine
Help the children, and yourself, stick to a routine. It helps them cope well with missing their father and you won’t have to contend with tears and pouts as often. Just because dad isn't there, it’s no reason to go to bed late or indulge in too many treats.
3. Learn Something New
If you have the time, involve yourself in an activity. Learn something new, like a language or a musical instrument or a new style of dance. Keeping yourself busy and entertained will take your mind off your husband’s absence.
4. Do What You Enjoy
Do things that you love to do but that your husband doesn’t. Maybe you could catch up on your favourite soaps, or watch those rom-coms and chick flicks that you’ve been dying to, but your husband rolls his eyes at.
5. Kids Just Wanna Have Fun!
While it’s important that your children stick to routine when the man of the house is away, do something different with them at least once a week. Order pizza for a treat, or take them for ice cream or a movie. Use this time to forge a special bond with them.
6. Meet Old Friends and Make New Ones
Make the effort to shape new friendships and catch up with old ones when hubby’s out of town. Have a friend over for coffee or lunch, or just go out. It’s the perfect opportunity to socialise and be with people.
7. Spend Time on Hobbies and Social Work
When was the last time you pursued a hobby? Whether it’s sewing, cooking or reading, do it. You can also do something for others - volunteering at old age homes, orphanages and animal shelters.
Distance makes the heart grow fonder, but it also brings with it responsibilities and longing. The best thing to do is to keep yourself busy and do things that bring you joy. Use some tips to cope when your hubby is away as this will not only help you manage your time and to-do list better, but will also help your children cope up with Daddy's absence. Read more
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Baked potato mash
A baked potato, or jacket potato, has a fluffy interior and crisp skin. Serve it with fillings and condiments such as butter, cheese, vegetables or ham. Bake potatoes in a conventional gas or electric oven, a convection oven, a microwave oven, on a barbecue grill, or on/in an open fire. Otherwise, considered to be fattening, baked potatoes are, however, considered a healthier option.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
2 Minutes
45 Minutes
Ingredients
4 medium potatoes
1 tsp (teaspoon) oil for brushing
salt (optional)
Method
Step 1
Heat oven to 350 degrees and position racks in top and bottom thirds.
Step 2
Wash potatoes thoroughly with cold running water.
Step 3
Dry, then using a standard fork, poke 8 to 12 deep holes all over the potato so that moisture can escape during cooking.
Step 4
Place in a bowl and brush lightly with oil.
Step 5
Sprinkle salt and place potato directly on the rack in the middle of the oven.
Step 6
Place a baking sheet on the lower rack to catch drippings, if any.
Step 7
Bake for 45 minutes or until skin feels crisp but flesh beneath feels soft.
Step 8
Allow to cool a little.
Step 9
Remove the skin and mash it with hand or spoon.
Step 10
Serve warm.
Nutritional Information
Calories
113
Calories from fat
1 %
Total Fat
0.1 g < 1%
Sat. Fat
< 0.1 g < 1%
Cholesterol
0 mg 0%
Sodium
6 mg < 1%
Total Carbs.
26.3 g 9%
Dietary Fiber
1.8 g 7%
Sugars
2.1 g
Protein
2.4 g
Calcium
6.1 mg
Potassium
477 mg
Tip: If you're cooking more than 4 potatoes, you'll need to extend the cooking time by up to 15 minutes.
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Nikitha has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. Mera 8 month start hu white distance hora mere ko
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
5 hours ago
A. hello since u are a expecting mom this would require a proper medical attention and it is better to check with your doctor and your doctor will be able to guide you better on examination of the same and advise you accordingly
Akifa Tahreem has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
5 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
3 hours ago
A. no you can't sleep in your tummy
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
2 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
55 mins 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
2 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
At which day should I take pregnancy test
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
15 mins 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
2 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
when should I take pregnancy test?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
49 mins 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
2 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
59 mins 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
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