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9 Ideas for Removing Nail-Paint Without Using Remover
Sometimes the best manicure and pedicure can go the wrong way and before you know it, you're dying to change your look. On one hand, you don't want to chip your nails and on the other - you don't have a nail polish remover around you.
So, is it possible to get the polish off without damaging your nails the natural way? The answer is - yes!
9 DIY Ways to Take off Nail Polish Without Remover
Here are 9 DIY ways to take nail polish off without using a remover. These are safe, easy to use, and don't take a lot of time either.
1. Toothpaste Remedy
Toothpaste has ethyl acetate, a chemical compound that's commonly used in commercial nail polish removers. This works like a charm and it is also a nail polish remover without acetone.
What You Will Need
Toothpaste
How To Use It
Get a toothbrush and apply a pea-sized dollop of toothpaste on it
Gently scrub it over your fingers, let it sit for a few seconds, and rinse while scrubbing the polish away
2. Lemon Water
Lemon has alkalizing properties and goes easy on your nails. All it takes is a few scrubs and you're done! It helps in removing nail polish naturally at home.
What You Will Need
Lukewarm soapy water
One slice of lemon
How To Use It
Soak your nails in soap water for five minutes
Take the lemon slice and scrub it over them gently
Apply nail oil afterwards to keep your nails in good shape once you remove the polish
3. Alcohol
If you're worried about nail infections and don't have other alternatives lying around the house, try using some regular alcohol. It works and is much more effective than commercial nail polish removers
What You Will Need
Rubbing alcohol
Lukewarm water
Cotton balls
How To Use It
Soak your nails in lukewarm water for a few minutes
Take the cotton balls and dip them in the rubbing alcohol. Work over your nails by rubbing them gently to remove the nail polish
Finish the wiping by applying some cuticle oil to your nails
4. Hand Sanitizer
This one is another natural home remedy that works extremely well. Here is how you use it.
What You Will Need
Hand sanitizer
Cotton balls
How To Use It
Spray a bit of hand sanitizer over your nail polish, making sure not to spray too much
Rub cotton balls on your nails after spraying and wipe away the nail polish
Spray a little bit at a time and keep rubbing. Repeat until the polish comes off
Rinse your nails thoroughly with water afterwards and dry
5. Hydrogen Peroxide
Almost every household has hydrogen peroxide lying somewhere in their kitchen cabinets. Here's how you use it.
What You Will Need
A small bowl
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hot water
Nail filer
How To Use It
Take two parts of hydrogen peroxide and mix with one part water
Soak your fingers in this and use a nail filer to remove the polish
6. Hair Spray
If Bustle says hair sprays work like a charm, then why shouldn't we be using it? It's not a crazy fad - just try it out and see for yourself.
What You Will Need
Hair Spray
Cotton balls
How To Use It
Spray cotton balls using the nozzle of a hair spray to make sure it gets saturated
Glide the cotton balls over your nail polish
Do this as many times as you want until the polish comes off
Rinse with water later and put some cuticle oil to keep your nails in good shape
7. Vinegar and Lemon Juice
If lemon water isn't enough to get the job done, then you need something much stronger. Try the vinegar and lemon juice combo - that pesky polish will definitely get wiped away.
What You Will Need
4 tablespoons of vinegar
One lemon (juiced)
Cotton balls
A small bowl
How To Use It
Mix the lemon juice and vinegar in a small bowl
Soak your nails in the solution and let your fingers stay soaked for about 3 to 5 minutes
Use the cotton balls to gently wipe away the nail polish and rinse afterwards
8. Deodorant
If you want to learn how to remove nail polish without remover and need something with acetone, try using deodorant. It works.
What You Will Need
Deodorant
Cotton balls
How To Use It
Bring your nails close to the nozzle of the deodorant
Quickly spray a little and wipe the polish away immediately using cotton balls
9. Nail Polish
This one might sound crazy but trust us, it works. Why? Because the solvents present in different nail polish will help evaporate and soften the nail polish you're currently wearing making it easy to remove. Make sense? Don't take our word for it. Just see it yourself.
What You Will Need
Any other nail polish besides the one you're currently wearing
A handful of paper towels
How To Use It
Pick an old or another type of nail polish you have lying around the house. Make sure it's not the quick drying variety
Apply that over your existing nail polish
Wipe away immediately using paper towels
You might have to give this remedy a go a few times for it to work, to make sure it comes off completely
Things to Remember while Using Homemade Nail Paint Removing Methods
Here are a few things to remember when you're using any home remedies to remove nail polish
Some of these methods may not work since most commercial nail polish removers contain acetone, a key ingredient which is used for removing nail polish. These are simply alternatives and acetone is harsh on your skin which is why we recommended these.
If you plan on using quick-drying nail polish to remove your existing one, make sure to wipe away quickly. Don't let it sit or dry up because that way, you'll have to put in double the effort to remove both kinds of nail polish next time.
Moisturizing your nails and applying cuticle oil afterwards is a must. This will help protect your nails, keep them healthy, and prevent them from drying up.
Remember to keep your nails in good shape and care for them the right away. We all make mistakes and it's totally normal to wear the wrong type of nail polish sometimes. Just make sure you use these remedies with care and don't depend on them. They're just healthier alternatives and if they don't seem to be working, just opt for a commercial nail polish remover. The investment would be worth it but we definitely recommend these for mild cases, for example, if you've just finished a manicure and changed your mind. Let us know how these home remedies work for you.
Also Read:
How to Shape Your Nails Perfectly?
How to Do a Pedicure at Home?
How to Give Yourself a Manicure at Home? Read more
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How to Identify and Get Rid of Brain Fog?
If you complain to a doctor about brain fog, you're likely to be informed that it's not a recognized condition. However, if you describe brain fog to a friend, they will immediately correlate to the condition. Foggy thinking, difficulty concentrating, fumbling for the correct word, and sudden numbness or slowing down of the brain are common in brain fog. In reality, brain fog is not a medical condition in itself, rather a warning sign for your body.
What Is Meant by Brain Fog?
Confusion, forgetfulness, loss of attention, and lack of mental clarity are brain fog symptoms. Excessive work, lack of sleep, stress, and excessive time spent on the computer could be the causes of brain fog. On a molecular level, it is believed that brain fog is produced by elevated levels of inflammation and changes in the hormones that regulate mood, energy, and focus. Hormone imbalances cause the entire system to malfunction. Additionally, brain fog syndrome can develop additional illnesses such as obesity, irregular menstruation, and diabetes mellitus.
Causes of Brain Fog
Depression, bacterial overgrowth from sugar consumption, or even a thyroid disease can cause brain fog. Other typical reasons for brain fog include overeating, inactivity, lack of sleep, persistent stress, and a poor diet. Common causes of brain fog are:
1. Hormonal shifts
It's normal to go through hormonal fluctuations throughout your life. One study indicated that 60% of women have trouble concentrating during menopause. Mood or sleep changes may be contributing to your foggy brain, but it might also be due to shifting hormone levels as your body tries to rebalance.
2. Sleep issues
A lack of sleep, or exposure to blue light before bed, alters your circadian rhythm or internal body clock. This causes brain fog in several ways. Blue light exposure before bedtime reduces the hormone melatonin, which is required for deep REM sleep. Memory consolidation and processing require both REM and non-REM sleep. Being active between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. disturbs the body's normal detoxifying process and might contribute to fogginess.
3. Inadequate diet, food sensitivities
Vitamin B12 builds red blood cells and maintains the nervous system. That's why a B12 deficit will leave you feeling tired and drained. Vitamin D insufficiency is linked to reduced cognitive performance and can cause brain fog. Unidentified dietary intolerances can also contribute to brain fog.
4. Stress
Though stress is a popular and harmless term, persistent stress can cause serious health issues. Stress triggers the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), or the fight-or-flight response. This response causes the body to release epinephrine and norepinephrine, diverting energy away from normal operations. This can impair your ability to think effectively or focus and weary your brain sooner.
5. Medication
Certain prescription and OTC drugs have been linked to brain fog. Though a hazy head after taking medication may appear typical, it isn't.
6. Mood disorders
Anxiety and depression have been proven to impair executive function, attention, and memory. The loss of energy and motivation is connected with mental health disorders or physiological impacts on the brain that make optimal brain function harder.
7. Metal poisoning
Heavy metals are existent in our food, beauty products, and even dental fillings. Heavy metals include Arsenic, Mercury, Aluminum, Lead, Thallium, and Cesium. While small levels of these metals may not be hazardous, persistent exposure can induce immunological malfunction, hormone imbalance, weariness, cognitive fog, and high blood pressure.
Signs & Symptoms of Brain Fog
Feeling down or stressed out on occasions is natural. However, if you've felt anxious, tense, depressed, or despair for more than two weeks, you may have difficulty thinking coherently and may divert your focus from the tasks at hand. Some symptoms of brain fog are:
Insomnia
Headaches
Irritation
Depression
Lack of energy
Forgetfulness
Inability to focus
Lack of motivation or ideas
Absent mindedness
Impaired mental health
Mood swings
How Long Does Brain Fog Last?
Brain fog can linger anywhere from a few minutes to years. Because mental fog is a symptom rather than a serious condition, it is critical to determine the underlying reason. Consultation with a physician and administration of a test may be the simplest way to determine the cause. Even if the cause of fog, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, is identified, treating it may not be as straightforward.
When to Consult a Doctor?
A person should consult the doctor if they have additional symptoms that indicate an underlying medical illness, if their brain fog started or worsened abruptly, or if their symptoms do not improve despite lifestyle adjustments.
Before testing, a doctor will typically request information about the patient's mental health, diet, and other symptoms.
How Is Brain Fog Diagnosed?
Consult your physician if your lack of clarity persists or worsens. A single test is incapable of diagnosing brain fog. Because brain fog may indicate an underlying problem, your doctor will conduct a medical examination and inquire about the following:
Diet
Mental health
Medication or supplements being taken
Physical activity
If you notice additional symptoms, consult the doctor immediately. For instance, someone suffering from hypothyroidism may experience brain fog in addition to hair loss, dry skin, weight gain, and brittle nails.
Blood tests can assist your doctor in determining the reason for brain fog. A blood test can be used to determine the following:
abnormal glucose levels
liver, kidney, and thyroid function deficiencies
malnutrition
infections
inflammation-related disorders
Your doctor will decide whether to pursue the matter based on the results. Other diagnostic tools may include imaging tests that examine the body, such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) scans. Additionally, the doctor may perform allergy tests or a sleep study to rule out a sleep condition.
Treatment for Brain Fog
Depending on the cause of symptoms, your doctor may be able to assist you. While not all cases of brain fog can be easily resolved with medication, certain lifestyle modifications can help clear brain fog instantly.
There are numerous technology tools available in the digital age that can potentially assist you in changing your condition. Whether it’s a programmable timer set to remind you to take your medication at a specific time, a digital calendar to remind you when and where you need to be next, a software that helps you block out distractions while you work, or a note-taking app that helps you organize your day, the key is to incorporate fail-safes that can assist you as you go about your daily activities. These tools, referred to as ‘external memory,’ can significantly impact how you navigate the environment when coping with brain fog.
Caffeine consumption in excess might result in further difficulties, such as a racing heart or raised blood pressure. Additionally, most energy drinks are high in sugar and include many ingredients that may cause health problems. Preferable recommendations include increasing daily movement - this may sound counterintuitive, but the more we move, stretch, and discover ways to be active, the more energized we feel.
Various Supplements That Help Stop Brain Fog
It is possible to experience brain fog for various reasons, such as a medical condition, stress, unhealthy diet, lack of sleep, and certain medications. Various supplements may be effective in alleviating symptoms that are caused by a medical condition.
Fish Oil: Fish oil is a type of long-chain omega-3 fatty acid that includes DHA. Salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines are the primary sources. It has been shown to improve cognitive function, motor abilities, and vision.
Ginkgo Biloba Extract: The benefits of ginkgo Biloba include improved cognitive performance, a more positive mood, higher energy, improved memory, and a reduction in symptoms associated with a variety of chronic conditions. Additionally, it may help lessen the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
Choline Bitartrate: Choline is a vitamin that chemically belongs to the B group of vitamins. Such vitamins are necessary for cell membranes formation and synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is involved in memory and muscular function.
Gamma Oryzanol: It is believed to increase neurotransmitter levels in the central nervous system. Additionally, it aids in mood relaxation and comfortable sleep.
L-Theanine: It aids in relaxation and sleep by raising serotonin, dopamine, and GABA levels. L-theanine is classified as an anxiolytic, which means that it serves to alleviate anxiety.
Phosphatidylserine: It is a critical molecule that performs a variety of functions in the body. It is a structural component of the cell and plays a critical role in maintaining cellular function, particularly in the brain. Phosphatidylserine supplementation may help alleviate some of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Additionally, it aids in the improvement in the thinking capacity, attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity (ADHD) of children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Inositol: It was previously regarded to be a component of the vitamin B complex. It is involved in the neurological system and the metabolism of fat. It aids in forming healthy cells in the bone marrow and creating the cell membrane – the myelin sheath. Additionally, it is necessary for hair development.
Ginseng Extract: Ginseng is an adaptogenic herb that efficiently modulates the immune response and hormonal changes associated with stress, promoting homeostasis. In addition to preventing the onset of psychological ailments such as anxiety and depression, ginseng protects against physiological diseases connected with stress.
Soy Lecithin: Phosphatidylcholine-based, Soy Lecithin enhances memory and the ability to learn. Additionally, it assists in lowering the danger of gallstones and improving liver function. It has been shown in research to boost brain function and help prevent dementia.
L-Carnitine L-Tartrate: It is essential for the synthesis of acetylcholine. It aids in the improvement of cognitive functions and dementia. This amino acid can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and modulate the brain's neurotransmitter levels.
Vitamin C (Calcium Ascorbate): It is a critical component of the human body. It is required to keep the skin, cartilage, teeth, bone, and blood vessels healthy. Additionally, it is employed to protect the body's cells from injury. It is a well-known antioxidant. Additionally, it aids in the regulation of body temperature and hormonal production.
Vitamin A Acetate: It is a fat-soluble vitamin of critical importance. It enhances vision and protects against night blindness and eye problems. Vitamin A contributes to the correct functioning of the immune system. Additionally, it is required for optimal cell growth and development. Another critical function is that it acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from free-radical damage.
Vitamin E (DL-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate): It neutralizes free radicals and helps prevent the development of diseases. Certain isomers of vitamin E provide potent antioxidant properties that help reduce free radical damage and inflammation, thereby naturally slowing cell aging and combating health problems such as heart disease, hypertension, aging, and cancer.
Vitamin B Complex: B complex vitamins assist your body in converting food into energy, forming red blood cells, and performing several biological activities. Vitamin B1 is a neuropathy treatment. Vitamin B2 aids in the conversion of food to energy. Vitamin B3 aids in the normal functioning of enzymes in the body by assisting the body in utilizing other B vitamins. Vitamin B5 supports a healthy digestive system and skin. B6 is necessary for immunological function and brain development. It is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Vitamin B12 is necessary for red blood cells and DNA synthesis. It is also necessary for the metabolism of proteins.
Exercises for Preventing Brain Fog
While you are certainly aware that regular exercise strengthens and protects your body, you may be shocked to learn that these benefits extend to your brain as well. While scientists do not fully understand all of the mechanisms at work, evidence consistently demonstrates that physical activity improves cognitive health.
1. Exercises to prevent brain fog
Walking briskly for 30-60 minutes, 3-5 times a week, resulting in demonstrable improvements in cognitive functioning.
Resistance training (planks, pushups, squats, weightlifting) and cardiovascular exercises (such as walking, jogging, swimming, and biking) can be more beneficial to your brain than stretching exercises.
Lifting weights twice or thrice a week for older persons with mild cognitive impairment improve cognitive performance and increase muscle tone
Natural Remedies to Treat Brain Fog
The good news is that you can make lifestyle adjustments that can help minimize chronic inflammation and reduce or eliminate brain fog. Try these natural brain fog cures:
1. Eat properly
Your diet is your first line of defense against any health troubles. Diet is vital to your body's functioning, including your brain. Consume lots of healthy fats, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory foods to feed your brain.
2. Sleep well
Plan your day in a way you get 7-9 hours of sleep every night.
3. Reduce stress
If you're always stressed, take actions to manage and lessen your stress, prioritize self-care, add mindfulness or meditation, etc.
4. Regular exercise
Staying active has been linked to greater memory and mental sharpness. For one thing, exercise generates cytokines and endorphins, both of which revitalize the brain.
5. Take correct supplements
Vitamin D is essential for most people, and its link to brain health requires further proof. Add a B-complex vitamin to avoid B12 deficiency.
6. Eliminate foods
Avoid common dietary allergens (gluten, dairy, soy) and vices (alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, etc.) to see if food sensitivities have caused your brain fog. Repeat and observe the results after abstaining from each food type.
7. Consider Intermittent fasting
It offers several advantages, including enhanced brain function. Numerous studies show how intermittent fasting improves cognitive performance.
8. Buy an air filter
If you suspect air pollution is causing your brain fog, invest in a high-quality air filter or air purifier. While you can't influence the quality of the air outside, you can spend most of your time inside.
With changing human age, the functions and capabilities of the brain also deteriorate. This is also a result of the age of the brain, which is unrelated to human age. Mental decline is a common occurrence and one of the most feared effects of aging. There are several strategies to assist in maintaining brain function, including limiting your use of a smartphone, tablet, or computer, getting adequate sleep, eating healthy foods, and supplementing with critical nutrients suggested by a team of experts. These can aid in memory enhancement, stress reduction, and emotional balance.
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Kidney Stones During Pregnancy
Kidney stones can be very painful to bear, especially when you are pregnant. While being pregnant does not increase your chances of getting kidney stones, it makes it complicated to diagnose and administer the usual methods of treatment due to the risks of harming the foetus. While most kidney stones may pass without the need for any treatment, some of them may cause intense pain. In such cases, medical treatment is recommended.
Causes of Kidney Stone During Pregnancy
Although being pregnant does not mean that you are at a higher risk of getting kidney stones, there are certain causes that can connect kidney stones and pregnancy. Some of the common causes of kidney stones during pregnancy are:
1. Lack of fluids: A common reason for kidney stones is the inadequate consumption of water. The lack of fluids in your body causes an increase in the concentration of minerals like phosphorous and calcium in the urine, which leads to the formation of kidney stones. During pregnancy, your body requires more water than usual. Drinking less than the required amount of water may thus lead to kidney stones.
2. Genetic predisposition: The genetic makeup of your body may also increase your chances of kidney stones. If you are from a family with a high incidence of hypercalciuria - a condition where there is an excess quantity of calcium in the urine - you may be more prone to kidney stones during pregnancy.
3. Bowel irritation: If you have gastrointestinal sensitivity, you may be prone to hypercalciuria or be at a higher risk of kidney stones. This is because chronic inflammation in the bowels may increase the number of calcium ions that are deposited on the kidneys, which then turn into crystals.
4. High calcium intake: Pregnant women are encouraged to consume more calcium - this may put extra pressure on the kidneys and cause crystal formation on the kidneys. Also, as your body absorbs a lot of calcium to aid the development of the baby, you may have a higher chance of getting kidney stones.
5. Increased filtration: Due to an increase in the filtration activity of the kidney, the amount of uric acid that you excrete may also increase, which may lead to uric acid stones.
6. Dilation of the uterus: The upper urinary tract may become large during pregnancy, which can cause an incomplete clearing of the urine and increase the risk of kidney stone formation.
7. UTIs: Constant urinary tract infections during pregnancy may be indicative of kidney stones.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of kidney stones during pregnancy aren’t unlike the usual ones. However, there are no specific symptoms that indicate kidney stones and any pregnancy complications caused due to it. Some of the common symptoms of kidney stones during pregnancy include:
1. Pain: Intense pain is one the first and the most common signs of kidney stones. The area of the pain is based on where the stone is, internally. If the stone is in your kidney, you will experience pain in the back, below the rib cage area. Once the stone moves down to the ureter, you will experience pain on the side of your body. As the stone moves further down the ureter, you may even feel pain near your genitals or in the thigh. Apart from this, you may also feel pain in your lower abdomen.
2. Pain during urination: If the stone has travelled down and is stuck at the lower end of the ureter, you are likely to have intense pain while urinating.
3. Blood in the urine: As the stones in the kidney move spontaneously, they may damage the tissues and the cells in the kidney. This may lead to blood in the urine.
Apart from these symptoms, you may also have vomiting, nausea, fever with chills (indicates infection), or may even feel some distension in the abdomen.
How Is Kidney Stone Diagnosed During Pregnancy?
A blood and urine analysis is performed to diagnose kidney stones during pregnancy. A urine test can identify blood, crystals of calcium or uric acid in the urine. A urine culture test can also recognise infection-causing organisms and determine what antibodies they are sensitive to.
A renal ultrasound may be conducted as it is a painless procedure that does not expose the foetus to radiation. However, the drawback of undergoing a renal ultrasound is that it cannot identify certain types of kidney stones and may not be able to identify the cause of an enlarged kidney (whether it is due to pregnancy or due to the obstruction caused by a kidney stone).
X-rays and CT scans are avoided to prevent any damage to the foetus. While an MRI is considered safe as it does not use radiation or contrast materials, it is still not advisable to use it to detect kidney stones during pregnancy.
Indications When Surgical Intervention Is Advised
If natural and conservative remedies do not work, you may have to opt for surgical intervention to get rid of kidney stones under these circumstances:
The stones that have obstructed the urinary tract have caused pyelonephritis or inflammation due to bacterial infection
If you have only one kidney
Acute kidney failure
Intense pain
Risk of premature labour due to kidney pain
How to Get Rid of Kidney Stones While Pregnant
If you notice any symptoms of kidney stones, it is advisable to consult a urologist for treatment options. Here are some of the methods used to get rid of kidney stones during pregnancy. Treatment methods are also dependent on the nature of your kidney stones and the trimester that you are in.
1. Medical Treatment
Paracetamols are prescribed to relieve pain caused due to kidney stones. However, in the event that medication fails to reduce your pain, or if there is any indication of preterm labour, you may need surgical intervention.
2. Surgical Treatment
Ureteroscopy – this procedure is used for diagnosis as well as for breaking down the stones. A small tube called a ureteroscope is inserted into the kidney, which passes through the ureter, the urethra, and the urinary bladder. The process uses a laser to break the stones. This procedure is only ideal for stones smaller than 1 cm.
Tube or stent placement – this procedure uses a hollow tube passed through the ureters to drain the urine and the stones. It is minimally invasive and needs local anaesthesia at most.
Shockwave therapy and open surgery - these are not prescribed to pregnant women due to risks to the foetus.
3. Natural/Home Remedies
Conservative methods and natural remedies are the most preferred treatment for kidney stones. Some of these include,
Intake of water: Drinking at least 8 glasses of water every day can help dilute the minerals and organic salts in the urine. It also helps clear small stones from the kidneys.
Fruits: Consuming fruits like watermelon, blueberries, peaches, and other fruits that have high water content is also beneficial.
Avoid commercial juices: Packaged juices have a high mineral (and possibly added sugar) and salt content which may make your condition worse.
Lemon: Lemon is known to break down medium-sized stones and also open up the ureters, helping the stones pass without much pain.
Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV contains acetic acid which dissolved kidney stones. Just adding a tablespoon or two to 1 litre of water and drinking it through the day can be helpful. However, make sure to check with your doctor as the consumption of ACV should be limited during pregnancy.
Basil Juice: Like ACV, basil contains acetic acid which can be helpful in breaking down kidney stones. Basil generally helps with inflammation as well. Simply take some fresh or dried basil leaves, boil them in water, and consume the tea. Avoid the prolonged consumption of this tea as it may cause problems like low blood pressure and blood sugar. Always consult with your doctor before trying any home remedy, especially during pregnancy.
Prevention
Some of the best ways to prevent kidney stones are:
Drink a lot of water. A minimum of two litres or eight glasses per day is essential.
Reduce your salt intake. Avoid junk food especially, as it may contain unhealthy amounts of monosodium chloride.
Avoid excess calcium. Keep your calcium intake under 1000 to 1200 mg per day.
Talk to your doctor about your medication. Certain medications can make a person susceptible to kidney stones. If you are on medication – any medication, regardless of whether you have been prescribed them during pregnancy – mention them to your doctor. In any case, however, do not stop consuming those medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Reduce your consumption of certain foods. Green leafy vegetables, chicken, fish, nuts, beetroot, chocolate, peanuts, beef, red meat, tea, and coffee can make a person more vulnerable to kidney stones.
Kidney stones can occur during pregnancy, and in most cases can be treated using natural treatment methods. However, in case the pain is severe, you will need to opt for medical or surgical treatments to alleviate it. Always remember to reach out to a doctor immediately after you notice symptoms of kidney stones to get the appropriate treatment method and avoid complications.
Also read: Hydronephrosis In Pregnancy Read more
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Anxiety Attacks During Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Pregnancy can be a time of both excitement and anxiety for all women regardless of whether it's their first time or another addition to their family. It’s natural for expecting mothers to fret about everything from eating to drinking to recurring thoughts and feelings or even panicking over trivial things. Anxiety is not only a part of being pregnant but also a part of being human in general. But it can become a serious issue if it becomes a part of a person's regular thought process. Read on to understand the causes and effects of anxiety disorders that occur during pregnancy and how they can be treated.
What is an Anxiety Disorder during Pregnancy?
An anxiety disorder makes you worry or afraid of things more often. Although fear and worry are natural responses to threats and situations in people, an anxiety disorder would make those feelings much worse than what most people would feel in the same situation. If your anxiety is stopping you from doing things you would normally do with ease, then it could be that you have an anxiety disorder.
It is estimated that women are 60 percent more likely than men to experience anxiety disorders and 1 in 10 pregnant women suffer from anxiety at some point. Anxiety disorders are characterized by anxiety attacks that involve various physiological responses like sweating, racing heart, shakiness and restlessness.
1. Normal Anxiety Attacks
Anxiety attacks occur when feelings of intense fear or terror erupt without warning. They usually last between a few minutes to about half an hour and can be triggered by certain situations, places or people. They involve some or all of these:
Heart palpitations or a racing heart
Discomfort and chest pain
Feeling dizzy and nauseous
Shortness of breath and choking
Feeling like you’re losing your mind or going crazy
Serious Anxiety Attacks
A serious anxiety attack can be much worse. The symptoms mentioned above are heightened in this case, and hospitalization might be necessary in order to control the situation. Patients report the following sensations:
Having a heart attack
Fear of dying
A detached feeling from oneself
Types of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders come in different forms, and it’s not unusual to have more than one disorder at the same time. It often coincides with other mental health issues such as depression.
Some of the most common ones include:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Women with this condition worry a lot about everyday situations which in turn interfere with their day-to-day activities. The common characteristics are irritability, inability to concentrate, tension in the muscles, difficulty in sleeping and a general sense of apprehensiveness.
Panic Disorder: Recurring panic attacks that occur out of the blue without an apparent cause is a sign of a panic disorder. It involves an intense feeling of fear accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating, dizziness, shaking, racing heart and nausea.
Phobia: A phobia is a feeling of extreme fear and anxiety about specific objects or events which are harmless. Some of the phobias such as fear of heights or fear of poisonous insects relate to moderate risk, but the fear is exaggerated. People go to great lengths to avoid these things.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Experiencing or seeing a traumatic or distressing event can cause PTSD which involves intense feelings of anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares etc. Losing a baby in a previous pregnancy can cause PTSD in some women and can bring back extreme fear and anxiety in a subsequent pregnancy.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Women can sometimes experience OCD during pregnancy, and it can get worse after the baby is born. Women with OCD have recurring obsessions such as unwanted thoughts, sensations and ideas which lead to compulsions that are repetitive behaviours that relate to the obsession.
Other Health Conditions: In a few cases a health condition such as a heart disease, hyperthyroidism or a respiratory illness can also cause anxiety.
What Causes Anxiety Attacks when Pregnant
The exact trigger for anxiety attacks is uncertain and is different for different women. The bodily changes that women go through during pregnancy may cause an anxiety attack in some women.
Some of the significant causes of anxiety attacks can be:
The hormonal changes during pregnancy.
Stress, worries and over thinking during pregnancy.
Pre-existing anxiety issues that start to re-occur during pregnancy.
The woman is at an age where anxiety attacks are common.
Anxiety disorders can also be genetic, or hereditary.
How does Anxiety Affect your Baby?
There hasn’t been much research on effects of anxiety during pregnancy to tell conclusively about its impact on the child. However, it has been observed that women with high anxiety and stress during pregnancy have a slightly higher chance of preterm birth. Anxiety is also linked to complications such as slow labour, fast labour and forceps delivery. Some research suggests that children whose mothers have experienced anxiety disorders during pregnancy reach developmental milestones slower.
Is it Anxiety or Baby Blues?
Baby blues occur in all women after they give birth due to the sudden change in hormones following the stress of delivery, sleep deprivation, stress and fatigue. Women often feel tearful and emotionally overwhelmed. This typically starts a few days post delivery and reaches its peak at about one week and tapers off eventually by two weeks postpartum. On the other hand, anxiety is characterised by panic attacks, thoughts and physiological symptoms that interfere with their normal functioning.
Symptoms Of Prenatal Anxiety
The symptoms of prenatal anxiety are often excessive and seemingly uncontrollable. They include:
Constant worry and a feeling that something terrible will happen
Uncontrollable thoughts
Difficulty in sitting still
Physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, hot flashes, dizziness and nausea
Disturbed sleep and appetite
Available Treatments for Anxiety Disorders
Non-Medicinal Approaches
There are a few approaches to treatment that do not involve the usage of medications.
1. Psychotherapy
Guided by a skilled therapist, techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are used. The therapist teaches new ways of looking at the stress factors and how to come up with better responses.
2. Omega 3
The Omega 3 essential fatty acid acts as a natural mood booster and is found in foods such as walnuts and oily fish.
3. Light Therapy
Light therapy is a method where an artificial source of bright light resembling the sunlight is used on the patient. Sitting by the side of the light at specific times of the day or having it set up in the living room can relieve depression symptoms.
4. Acupuncture
This is an ancient Chinese practice that involves placing tiny needles on specific points on the body. The meothod is used to influence mood and treat stress.
5. Talk Therapy
The method where a patient talks to a therapist or a counsellor about the thoughts and feelings that generate anxiety is called talk therapy. It acts as a release and helps find new ways to think about the anxiety triggers.
Medications For Prenatal Anxiety
Since anxiety medications can cross the placenta, doctors are always cautious about prescribing them during pregnancy. Prescribed medicines include:
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Similar to their usage with depression, they are used to treat anxiety in pregnancy. Some of the commonly used ones are; Fluoxetine, Sertraline, Citalopram, Paroxetine etc.
Benzodiazepines: These drugs are used to manage severe anxiety and panic attacks but are known to cause congenital disabilities in babies when taken during pregnancy. If you are already on benzodiazepines, your doctor would slowly lower the dosage and switch to a different drug once you’re pregnant.
Herbal and Home Remedies
Kava is a commonly used root to alleviate anxiety but isn’t recommended during pregnancy as it can weaken the muscles of the uterus. There is very little research on herbal remedies, and since they are unregulated, it’s advisable to stay away from them.
Who is at Risk?
While anxiety is normal during pregnancy, there are risk factors that put a few women at higher risk. These include:
Having a family history of mood disorders
History of Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Being a young mother who is single, having poor support or low income
Living alone or divorced, separated or widowed
Pregnancy complications
Having experienced stressful or traumatic events before
Preventing Anxiety during Pregnancy
Talk to your partner or a trusted friend about your feelings often
Learn simple relaxation techniques and maintain a regular practice
Look after yourself and read a self-help book for better understanding
Try not to feel embarrassed or guilty. It is not your fault.
FAQs
1. What will Happen if my Anxiety is Left Untreated?
Both you and your child are at risk in this case. The baby might be preterm with low birth weight and score low on APGAR. The baby might also have problems with adaptation outside the womb. Risks to you include pregnancy termination, postpartum depression, substance addictions etc.
2. Will Anxiety Result in Depression?
Anxiety disorders often coincide with other conditions such as depression. About half of the women who develop postpartum depression start noticing early signs during pregnancy.
3. Where Can I Get Help?
If you are pregnant and start having symptoms of anxiety, it’s best first to consult your ob-gyn or midwife.. There are international groups such as Postpartum Support International (www.postpartum.net), Women’s Mental Health Consortium (http://womensmentalhealthconsortium.org/), and The MGH Center for Women's Mental Health (www.womensmentalhealth.org)
Anxiety need not hold you back from experiencing the joys of early motherhood. With a better understanding of your condition, the appropriate treatment can be prescribed, thereby making it possible for you to enjoy your pregnancy to the fullest.
Also Read:
Stress during Pregnancy
Depression while Pregnant
Migraines in Pregnancy Read more
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Romance Running Low? 6 Adorable Gestures to Revitalize your Marriage
In today’s frenetic pace of life, many couples come to realize the hard way that love is not enough to keep marriage alive. You need to express your love through simple romantic gestures to reconnect with your husband long after the honeymoon phase is over.
There's no denying the romantic power of simple gestures to keep your relationship with hubby rocking rather than on the rocks. It's time you indulge your husband with romantic gestures that are sure to tug at his heart strings. Ditch the monotony of household chores, childcare and work duties to renew your bond with your partner and say "I love you" through your actions.
Make Love Last: 6 Gestures to Make Him Go Awww
1. Midnight picnic
Nothing can be more romantic than a midnight picnic with just the two of you, and the moon to give you company. Pack your kids to your mom's home for the night. Before your partner comes back from work, place a huge mat in the garden and surround it with aromatic candles. Play his favourite numbers on a portable music player or your phone and pack a scrumptious basket of goodies you know he loves. Now all you need to do is spread out the blanket on the rug and see where the night will lead you.
2. Gentle reminders
How often have you pinned a reminder note for him on the fridge for some chore? It is time to remind him of something else besides work. Everyday for the entire month, jot down one reason that explains why you love him and what's the best thing about the relationship. Post it on the fridge and surprise him with this unexpected burst of love. This is one of those romantic gestures for him that is sure to light up his face.
3. Grab some solitude
While you love your baby, do get your parents to pitch in for babysitting on an occasional weekend and plan a romantic getaway for just hubby and you. Pop a bottle of champagne at a fine restaurant, put out the alarms to snuggle with each other till late in the morning, watch a movie, or just go for a long drive with the phones switched off. Revel in this solitude with the man you love.
4. Bubble bath time
There is something incredibly romantic about taking a bubble bath together. Fix a day for a long soak and move your schedule around to make time. Make sure you run a bath that smells exotic and sensuous. Small romantic gestures, like lighting candles or sprinkling rose petals in the bath, are definitely going to up the romance score and make your husband feel special.
5. Secret code
Remember the thrill you would feel having a secret code that only the two of you knew? One of the best romantic gesture ideas is to use a code to get "touchy"! Choose a common word that comes up often in a conversation - say, "hot" or "okay". Every time the word comes up, you have to touch your partner secretly. This could even mean exchanging quick kisses when the kids are busy eating their cereal. The smiles on your faces are bound to confuse everyone else around the table.
6. Dance away the blues
There is nothing more stress-busting than getting down on the dance floor - yes, even if you have two left feet - and breaking into a jig. Make a mix of your favourite love ballads and play them back-to-back. To spice up things further, maintain as little distance between your bodies as possible but don't move your hands. The tension will make it impossible for you to not reach for each other!
While many couples turned parents complain about the diminished spark in their marriage, getting romance back is actually quite simple. All you need to do is take baby steps every day and not waste a single opportunity to express your love for your man. In the long run, it’s the small things that really count in a relationship. After all, there are several ways to say "I love you" than only in words. Read more
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Mom of a 7 m old child
10 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts What diet to give for 6+ months Babues
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
2 hours ago
A. Food for 6 Months Old Baby :
Start with very dilute purees and gradually thicken them as your baby gets used to it. -Fruits such as banana, apple, papaya, chikoo, apricots, prunes, mango, peaches are necessary for the overall growth and development of your baby.
Mohammad amin has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
10 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts can i go for long trips with my 7 months old baby
Mohammad amin
Guardian of a 3 yr old boy
4 hours ago
A. if you are comfortable then go
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
7 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts plz suggest me medicine for toothache
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. A proper assessment is required here so regarding this it is vmore favourable to contact your local doctor and accordingly he will guide in a proper manner.
If any more queries you can tgake online consultation on the platform for a detailed discussion .
shilpi Bhandari has added a new answer
Mom of a 3 yr 5 m old child
6 hours ago
Q. 3.5 saal ki bacchi ko vomitab syrap kitni or kab den khane se phle ya khane ke bad??
shilpi Bhandari
Mom of 2 children
3 hours ago
A. hello dear u can give it before but if child is vomiting regularly then don't keep on giving medication like this u need to know the reason it might be infection so please consult with the doctor for that
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 9 months
2 hours ago
Q. i missed my periods 3 days ago today I checked then this result come. but when I checked yesterday afternoon the result is the second attachment . why this is happening I am confused 😕
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. you had to wait few days this can be delayed periods. 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
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 9 months
2 hours ago
Q. i missed my periods on 5 my result is attached but when I checked in the yesterday afternoon it was little bit dark why this is happening and what to do
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. at present it is negative please wait few more days. 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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