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Important Beach Safety Tips for Kids
Summertime generally means hitting the beach for most families. Beaches are a great place to unwind. However, they can also be dangerous, especially if you have young kids who you have taken along. Ensuring the safety of your little ones is of utmost importance at a beach.
A lot of families wonder, “Is it safe to go to the beach with little kids?” It is safe to head out to a beach and unwind with your little ones as long as you follow the safety precautions. Here, we give you all the water safety rules at the beach to keep your family safe this summer.
Beach Safety Rules to Keep in Mind for Children
To keep yourself as well as your children out of danger while ensuring that they still have plenty of fun, follow these rules:
1. Brush-up on swimming skills
Do you wonder, “is swimming at the beach safe?” Remember that swimming in an ocean or a sea is much different from swimming in a pool. It is a fact that swimming in an ocean or sea requires much more physical effort and skill than swimming in a pool. Also, you must remember that the water in a sea is dark and includes living creatures with absolutely no concrete sides or ladders to hold on to. For this reason, children may struggle to swim in an ocean and may also be intimidated by the waves pushing them around while they cannot see the bottom. If you are taking your child to the beach for the first time, we recommend that you prepare your child for these differences beforehand, and it might be helpful for your child to get some survival swimming practice.
2. Purchase life jackets
We recommend purchasing life jackets if you plan to take toddlers to the beach. Remember that it just takes a second to get distracted, and your child may wander into the water. Also, having a life jacket on your little one provides you with that extra protection and peace of mind that your child won’t drown in the water easily. However, we recommend that you try the life jacket on your child and test it in a pool before using it on a beach.
3. Check the water conditions beforehand
Almost all swimming beaches have beach flags and lifeguards, which indicate the weather conditions. If these indicate a rough sea and you witness high currents, it is best to avoid the beach that day. Also, keep the children out of the water if the current brings jellyfish inland. If there is a beach safety rope available, inform your children about it before going into the water.
4. Ensure there is a lifeguard around
A lifeguard must be close to where your children are playing in the water. Always swim near a lifeguard on duty.
5. Ensure the children do not touch the marine life
It is highly recommended that your children understand that they should not approach or touch the marine life around even if they feel it needs help. Instead, you can request help from a local lifeguard or the beach patrol. An injured whale, a beached seal, or a jellyfish washed up on shore can be dangerous.
6. Educate your children on the ocean currents
There are two kinds of currents one may experience at a beach. These are the rip currents and the longshore currents. Children need to stay safe from the longshore currents as these are the currents that push one towards the beach with each wave.
7. Set-up boundaries
As longshore currents can slowly push the kids down the beach, we suggest that you set some limits or boundaries for the kids while at the beach. For example, you can ask your kids to be between two points while playing at the beach. You can probably select a specific distance between you and the lifeguard chair. This makes it easier for children to play without the danger of losing sight of the family as they know exactly where to look for you.
8. Always use the buddy system
It is never a good idea to let your kids swim alone. Children must be encouraged to swim with a buddy. For younger children, you are their buddy. You can decide and take turns with your partner or group of friends to swim with your child or children. This makes stimming at the beach a lot safer.
9. Always be alert
It may be extremely tempting to take a nap as you unwind on the beach. However, if you have taken children with you, you must always be alert and keep an eye on them even if you feel that they are old enough (tweens/teens). Little ones should always be within your reach. If you have gone to the beach as a family, then take turns to watch the kids. You can never completely rely on the lifeguards to keep an eye on your kids.
10. Sunscreen and hydration
Always ensure that you and your children put on an ample amount of sunscreen to protect the skin. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that covers the skin entirely. You also need to make sure that you and your family stay hydrated throughout the day. Make sure to carry a cooler filled with water and keep drinking water throughout the day.
The beach can be a great place to unwind and relax as a family. Just make sure to follow these precautionary steps to keep danger away.
Also Read:
Fire Safety for Children
Electrical Safety Tips for Kids
Amusement Park Safety for Children Read more
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How to Deal with Dizziness in Children
Dizziness in children is often difficult to detect. Children are at times unable to explain the problem properly and in their playfulness may not notice it at all.
If a healthy child suddenly feels lightheaded or unsteady, there is not much to worry about. It may be a natural phenomenon caused by a simple spinning motion during playtime or due to moving up very fast from a particular position.
Please also note that vertigo and dizziness are not one and the same thing. Dizziness is an overall feeling of being lightheaded, unsteady, disoriented etc. symptoms of which we will discuss in details in a section below. Vertigo, on the other hand, is a different and definite kind of dizziness. Vertigo in children may be suspected if they complain of dizziness accompanied by a spinning sensation of the entire room and the sensation of titling, rocking and/or flipping.
However, if either vertigo or dizziness persists and aggravates you should consult your doctor immediately because studies indicate that many of the cases of dizziness in children go unreported because they cannot be identified easily.
Common Causes of Dizziness in Kids
The cause of dizziness in children is varied. One has to identify whether the cause is physiological or psychological. Dizziness is caused by the conditions mentioned below:
Ear Problems
Disorder of the inner ear or Meniere's disease.
Excessive buildup of fluid in the inner ear.
Some other inner-ear problem or infection
Brain or Head Problems
Migraine: A disease marked mainly by a specific type of headache, motion sickness, nausea and some other signs and symptoms. However, note that a vestibular migraine may not be accompanied by a headache. It may rather involve vertigo, motion, light sensitivity etc.
Epilepsy: A problem in the functioning of the brain cells.
Chiari 1: Malformation of the cerebellar (part of the brain) tonsils.
Genetic ataxia: Damage in the cerebellum, spinal cord or some other nerve because of a faulty gene.
A brain tumour
Head injury
Other Medical Problems
Benign Paroxysmal Vertigo that is accompanied by bouts of vertigo and balance problem without hearing loss or tinnitus.
MDD (Mal de Debarquement) is a kind of vertigo, rocking sensations that happen after a boat, ship or any other kind of sea travel.
Drop in blood pressure, accompanied by Syncope or temporary fainting.
Hyperventilation (over-breathing) or holding one’s breath
Hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones.
A cardiac problem
Developmental delay
Muscle pain or problems
Dehydration
Anaemia
Psychological distress
Hysteria
Seizures
Anxiety
Signs and Symptoms of Dizziness
The first step is to understand if the child is really suffering from clinical dizziness. Watch out if the child persistently complains of a feeling of being:
Light-headed
Heavy-headed
Foggy or cloudy sensation
Woozy movement or feeling
Spinning head
Unsteady gait
Darting/jumping eyes
In very young children it is very difficult to detect. Watch out if the child:
Reports that his/her tummy or head feels uncomfortable
Walks unsteadily
Clumsy in their activities
Tends to fall down
Displays disturbance or developmental delay in motor skills like difficulty on holding the head upright, crawling, standing and finally walking.
In extreme cases, dizziness may be accompanied by unconsciousness/fainting as well. Please see a doctor for treatment immediately.
How to Treat Dizziness in Children?
Dizziness can be temporary and do not require treatment if it is caused by simple movement changes during playtime or a simple ear infection. However, treatment is required if the child complains of persistent dizziness. The treatment will depend upon the main cause of dizziness. Some of the possible treatment methods are:
In case of Meniere’s disease diuretics are used to reduce water retention.
Increased water intake and salt intake in case of dehydration.
Rehabilitation exercises and physical therapy like head exercises for vertigo.
Cardiac interventions if any heart problems are detected.
Conventional treatment, therapy and medication for anaemia, epilepsy, migraine, Chiari 1, genetic ataxia, head injury, developmental issues.
High-dose steroids and vestibular rehabilitation under a specialist may be recommended for dizziness that is caused due to a viral infection and does not resolves on its own and causes long-term balance deficits for weeks, months or even years.
In dizziness caused by certain vestibular problems accompanied by anxiety, doctors may suggest habituation-based vestibular rehabilitation with a physical therapist, cognitive behavioural therapy and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) therapy.
Surgery, in rare cases, such as severe brain tumours.
When to Consult a Doctor?
You should see a doctor immediately if the child complains of dizziness along with:
Head injury
Stiff neck
High fever
Vision problems
Loss of hearing
Speech problems
Weakness in legs or difficulty walking
Chest discomfort/pain and/or breathing problems
Slow pulse
Since dizziness is difficult to detect in children you must not ignore any complaints, signs or symptoms. It is important to get treatment early because dizziness may be caused by some serious underlying diseases. Read more
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10 Tips to Tackle Joint Pain during Winter
With winter around the corner, fatigue and pain, particularly joint pain, are likely to increase. But why do you experience it most in winter? Let’s find out! Read about joint pain and how it can be tackled, especially in the cold winter months.
What is Joint Pain?
Joint pain can be the result of an illness or an injury affecting any of the tendons or ligaments surrounding the joint. It can even occur as the result of an inflammation of any part of the joints, like the cartilage, bones, ligaments, tendons, or muscles. The pain can range from mild to severe and may last for a couple of weeks, or even months. The symptoms of joint pain include swelling of the joint, stiffness, weakness, joint tenderness, etc.
Why Do You Experience Joint Pain in Winter?
A change in the weather can lead to joint pain. As the barometric pressure drops in winter, the tendons, muscles, and the surrounding tissues of the joints in the body expand. This expansion puts pressure on the joints and causes pain.
10 Tips To Tackle Joint Pain during Winter
Here are some tips that will ease your joint pain in the cold months of winter.
1. Wear Warm Clothes
It may seem like a no-brainer, considering the fact that it’s cold outside, but there is no harm in placing a friendly reminder, now, is there? Wear warm clothes, and layer up if you live in the colder regions of India. Wear two or more sweaters, gloves, a scarf, and just about anything that’ll keep you warm. To avoid joint pain, make sure your knees, feet, and hands are covered properly.
2. Exercise Indoors
Don’t let the winter chill stop you from exercising. Exercise is one of the best ways to stay active and keep your joints pain-free during winter. However, stepping outside the house will seem like a challenging task in winter, so make an indoor exercise plan. You can try indoor exercises, like jogging on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike. Go easy on yourself if you have joint pain - do not indulge in strenuous exercises; instead, opt for low-impact exercises.
3. Keep The ‘Burn’ Alive
In winters, you subconsciously start leading a sedentary lifestyle. Staying in bed till late, eating more, and not indulging in any physical activity only intensifies the pain. Yes, you want to stay indoors but don’t let the cosy indoors tempt and trap you. Get up, exercise, and run errands. Keep moving as it will keep your joints mobile, and your muscles, strong.
4. Take Warm Baths
To soothe joint pain, take warm water baths. Warm water stimulates blood flow to stiff muscles and joints, thus, relaxing them and easing the pain. You can also consider using heating pads or warm compresses to alleviate the pain. Place the heating pad on the affected area to stimulate blood flow to that region and help it heal quickly.
5. Include Fish Oil in Your Diet
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that help in relieving joint pain. You can buy fish oil from stores or online; however, make sure that you consult your doctor first for dosage instructions. Fish oil can cause certain side effects, like nausea, rashes, or indigestion, which is why you need to take it with caution. If you experience any side effects, inform your doctor about the same.
6. Take Vitamin D Supplements
A deficiency of Vitamin D can also make your joints hurt. To cope with this deficiency, bask in the sun as much as possible. However, in winters, you will not see the sun shining down brightly always, so consider taking Vitamin D supplements. You can buy over-the-counter Vitamin D supplements from a pharmacy. However, to be on the safer side, it is advised that you consult your doctor before starting with these supplements.
7. Use a Topical Medication
Topical medications are available in the form of gels, sprays, creams, or patches. These medications contain pain-relieving substances that can provide you relief from joint pain (although only temporarily). Topical medications work best for hand and knee pain, as the medication gets absorbed easily. After applying any of these medications topically, always remember to wash your hands and do not touch your mouth or eyes.
8. Stay Hydrated
We know as the cold winter days approach, your water intake will reduce, even without you realising it. But that’s something you need to take care of because even mild levels of dehydration can make you sensitive to pain. Staying hydrated, on the other hand, will help you stay active. Drink at least 2 -3 litres of water daily; it will help your body stay flexible and reduce the possibility of stiffness. Furthermore, drinking water will also keep you full, preventing you from overeating!
9. Lose Weight
Obesity can lead to various health issues, which is why you should try to maintain a healthy body weight. An increased body weight puts pressure on your feet and knees, which leads to pain. So keep a check on your weight; you will be less prone to joint pain.
10. Get a Professional Massage
There is nothing like a long relaxing massage, especially when your body aches. It is when you have a great massage session that you realise that how often you need it, and how easily you keep putting it off. Don’t forget to take care of yourself because your body needs you to take care of it. A massage is very effective in relieving joint pain. Get an hour-long professional massage every week until the pain subsides completely.
The short days of winter may appear longer than expected if you experience joint pain or any kind of discomfort, which is why you need to be extra careful about your health at this time. Follow the above-mentioned tips to tackle joint pain during winter. Eat healthy, drink plenty of water, and lead an active life for a happy winter!
Also Read:
How to Fight Common Winter Ailments
Deserts to Eat during Cold Winter Nights
Honey Hair Packs for Winter Season
Indian Foods to Eat during Winter Season Read more
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Acupuncture for Infertility: Does It Really Work?
Infertility prevails as a common problem among couples these days who are trying to conceive. The term infertility refers to the inability of a couple to conceive even after regular unprotected intercourse. This can be due to some medical problem with the man or the woman or in some cases both of them. The reasons for infertility are diverse and range from lifestyle to reproductive disorders. Most of these infertility problems are treatable, and there are numerous options available for these couples. These include simple home remedies, drugs, surgery, in-vitro fertilization techniques (IVF) or even surrogacy. Using acupuncture is a new phenomenon which is gaining hype for its alleged power to treat infertility. Let’s understand if this is really true and what the side effects and health risks are.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is considered a form of medicine in which certain points on the body are stimulated by inserting very fine needles in the skin. It is believed to have originated from Chinese medicinal practices and been around for over 3000 years. Acupuncture has proved helpful in managing pain in conditions like back pain, neck pain, headaches, knee problems and more. There are over 2000 acupuncture points in the human body which when applied pressure on, maintain the normal flow of energy throughout the body. How beneficial it is for other health conditions it is still unknown. It is a safe practice and involves very few risks when administered by a licensed practitioner. Acupuncture and infertility is a growing concept among young couples with even doctors recommending it as a procedure.
How Does It Help with Fertility?
Nowadays, there are numerous options available for infertile couples but not everyone can afford all these expensive techniques. They all tend to look for affordable solutions and home remedies. Acupuncture methods are one such resort for them. There are various ways in which the practice of acupuncture can address the causes of infertility. Acupuncture to boost fertility works in many ways such as helping to stimulate the endocrine hormones, decrease stress, and increase blood flow to the uterus for a thick lining formation. Acupuncture points for infertility locations range from the face to the lower abdomen.
The treatment required varies from one person it another. It is a personalised healthcare service which may not be same for any two people. However, it cannot help with problems like tubal adhesion or reproductive organ cancers. Acupuncture for pregnancy is a growing culture in the society these days since it is a solution that is minimally invasive.
Who Can Benefit?
Couples who are undergoing the following problems can benefit from acupuncture:
Endocrine Rectification: The quantity of hormone released is an important parameter for fertility and affects egg and sperm production. Acupuncture combined with herbal therapy can help overcome such hormonal imbalances. Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, elevated follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), etc., are some problems which can be solved with acupuncture. Women suffering from Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are also given acupuncture therapy.
Stress Buster: One of the most well-known problems that acupuncture combats is stress. Lifestyle stress is a common reason for low sperm count or even irregularity with the hormone cycles.
Cost Effective: Couples who cannot afford the high-end IVF and other surgeries to improve fertility can benefit from acupuncture sessions.
When to Start Acupuncture Treatment?
Acupuncture is usually given to the patient for a few months (three to four) before progressing into insemination or any other impregnation technique. The therapy is provided depending on the acupuncturist and doctor's suggestion.
When to Stop Acupuncture Treatment?
The treatment is often carried on even after conceiving. Usually, this is done to avoid any other complications or miscarriages. Since most of the miscarriages occur within the first trimester, the women are kept under treatment till the first three months of pregnancy. This also benefits the mother by keeping her stress free and improving her blood flow.
How Does Acupuncture Fertility Treatment Work?
Acupuncture helps in improving the blood flow to the reproductive organs and helps the uterus form thicker linings. Acupuncture also helps to moderate the neuro-hormonal pathways to enhance energy flow to the reproductive systems in the body.
Are the Acupuncture Points Different After an IVF and Insemination Than Before?
When the patient is expecting to get pregnant after an insemination or IVF procedure, there are a few acupuncture points that your acupuncturist should avoid. These points are contraindicated and are around the stomach, gallbladder, large intestine and bladder. Hence, it is necessary to keep the acupuncture practitioner updated about your infertility treatment and what stage you are in.
Is It Recognised by the Medical Community?
Doctors understand that stress is an underlying cause of illness which can be cured by acupuncture. The importance of acupuncture is so well recognized that many certified doctors have trained themselves in Oriental medicine to master acupuncture.
Are There Any Risks of Using Acupuncture for Infertility?
As acupuncture is a minimally invasive procedure, the risks are limited. However, incorrect application of the needles could result in a miscarriage in some cases. This is why you must have a trained doctor experienced in Oriental medicine to administer the sessions.
Acupuncture has been practised through the ages. Studies have shown that an increased libido and fertility are just some of the many benefits of acupuncture. Many couples have used this form of therapy to help them bear a child with remarkable success.
Also Read: Infertility Treatment - Assisted Reproductive Technology Read more
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Go girl!!
You can do it!!
You are the best!!
There are many of us who go through a phase where u feel your downfall kind of thing post pregnancy, it is simply called PPD ( post partam depression). And seriously no one can escape from it, not even doctors (though I am one). It’s simple support from
family, husband and friends that helps the newmommies feel better and come out of it.
I am writing for the members of the family, husband and friends of Thenew moms. To be frank without a doubtevery new mom is worth million things and arepraise worthyor appreciative each and every day, itmay be it is
a single word of "love" from husband :),or in fact friends and family constantly boosting confidence by saying " you have done a great job, this is fantastic, u have a great kid and is exactly like you ( though resemblances doesn’t not matter"
:).These are very few things orchanges every family can make for the new moms and we can notice a lot of positive vibes in the family as the vibes run from the moms to the newmoms.I hope I made a small point there ;)
Now coming to moms, hey newmommies,no matter what hurdles we face or we have gone through or are going through, those could matter only today, the rest of it matters is your child’s happiness and common we are gonna do anything for it..so
cheer up, put your happy face( helps for milking too) and go on and be a fighter. I know you can do this but I am just being your mind writing these this so that u remember what you think :). And to a matter of fact everyone had this phase and
all of us will becoming out with shining colourful stars. :):):):) so never forget it cheer up yourself,make some self appreciation that is very important , be active lively and empowering, take careal of you:):):):).
Read more
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
11 hours ago
Q. When baby movement starts??
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
10 hours ago
A. 5-6 months ok. 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 this month
11 hours ago
Q. hello dr..I am 39 weeks 3 days pregnant, AFI level 8 is this normal?and normal delivery possible for me? Is the fluid enough for up to 1 week?Do I need a drip? please suggest me.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
10 hours ago
A. the levels are on the lower side. 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
Sarika gupta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
9 hours ago
Q. Hi.. Priyanka kalra doctor..I am 39 weeks 3 days pregnant, AFI level 8 is this normal?and normal delivery possible for me? Is the fluid enough for up to 1 week?Do I need a drip? please suggest me.
Sarika gupta
Mom of 2 children
9 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much and it is quite difficult to say anything about it without personally examination and proper reports evaluation. So better to consult with your treating gynaecologist in person as she knew the exact health condition of your pregnancy and can guide you better.
Take care
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
7 hours ago
Q. Hi, for May 1st they will check AFI fluid... should I need to be on empty bladder for that scan... which is around 37 weeks
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. It’s completely normal this kind of an ultrasound is different it is not necessary that your stomach should be full or you should go empty stomach you can have your basic breakfast and all whatever you would want to eat before you go ahead with getting a scan and there is no need to go empty stomach for the scan
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
7 hours ago
Q. hi everyone..the position of my baby is still in breech position from first trimester till now as I entered in my third trimester position is still breech is it normal..
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
6 hours ago
A. Absolutely hundred percent normal if the child changes the position then it’s just a matter of time otherwise I would just say that sometimes kids do not change the position throughout their pregnancy so now you should just be mentally sorted to have a C-section
parminder kaur has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
7 hours ago
Q. Mera Mera 7th month end pe hai ab scan Karate doctor please tell me
parminder kaur
Mom of a 1 yr 1 m old boy
7 hours ago
A. yess
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