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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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Fasting during Pregnancy
Whether you are motivated by religious devotion or enjoy an occasional detox, you are sure to be accustomed to fasting. This common practice, however, comes under the scanner when you are pregnant, and understandably so. While you are carrying, the food you eat provides nourishment, not just to you but also to your growing baby. Read on for the different views people have on fasting during pregnancy, precautions to take if you do decide to fast, and alternatives to fasting if you decide to forgo it.
Is Fasting Safe During Pregnancy?
There is no clear answer to this question. On one hand, women have been fasting during pregnancy for centuries and still have healthy children. On the other hand, new research has been warning women of risks involved in this practice.
Studies have indicated that during the first trimester, fasting may result in low birth weight in babies, but the difference is marginal. Furthermore, studies have also shown that children may grow to be slightly shorter and thinner than average but again the difference is negligible. It is recommended, however, that expert advice is sought from medical professionals before fasting in early stages of pregnancy.
The third trimester is that period of pregnancy when the baby displays fast growth. During this period the baby needs more nutrition and greater amounts of minerals and vitamins to sustain the accelerated growth. Some studies do suggest that besides possible adverse effects on the speed of growth, fasting during pregnancy in the third trimester is by and large safe. It is recommended that proper medical advice is sought before taking the decision to fast. Your doctor will be able to check for any complications that could arise if you forgo food for some time, and advice you accordingly.
Effects of Fasting during Pregnancy
Fasting during pregnancy can have several effects. Some of them are short-term effects and would subside with time whereas others may have implications for the long term. Here are some of the possible effects of fasting.
Increase in the probability of premature birth.
Increases the possibility of dehydration.
Fasting could result in low birth weight.
Reduced gestation period.
Baby and mom could be deprived of essential nutrition.
Tips for Safe Fasting
If you decide to go ahead and observe a fast during pregnancy, here are some tips and advice to do so safely:
Ensure that you eat healthy before initiating your fast.
Avoid physical activity during the fasting period which could leave you tired.
In case of a fast which requires you to give up water too, hydrate yourself well before fasting.
Break your fast immediately if you feel too weak.
When it is time to break your fast, do so gently as your digestive system has slowed down.
Include a bit of all type of healthy food while breaking your fast.
Plan your day to accommodate appropriate time for rest and relaxation.
Avoid stressful situations.
Think positively.
Warning Signs to Look for
While there are some precautions to be taken while fasting during pregnancy there are also some warning signs to look out for. These include the following:
If you are not putting on weight or are losing weight, there may be cause for concern.
Reduced frequency of urination accompanied by getting thirsty often you may need to break your fast.
If you experience nausea and vomiting you may need to see a doctor.
Headaches, pain in other parts of the body and fever are warning signs which must not be ignored.
Dark coloured strong smelling urine could be a sign of dehydration and may cause UTI (urinary tract infection).
Extreme weakness and fatigue should be addressed immediately.
Best Ways to Break a Fast
There are some precautions to be taken while breaking your fast to avoid any damage to your health. These include the following:
Break your fast slowly: Fasting slows your digestive system. Start with small morsels to give your digestive system a chance to operate at its normal pace.
Choose your first foods carefully: Consume complex carbohydrates like whole grains oats and cereals as they release energy slowly, and consume high fibre foods such as pulses fruits and vegetables to avoid indigestion and constipation.
Avoid sugar: Food that is high in sugar content should be avoided as it can result in rapid fluctuations in blood sugar levels resulting in dizziness and fainting.
Watch what you drink: Caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea, green tea, and aerated drinks such as cola should be avoided while breaking your fast.
Stock up on protein: Make sure you consume high protein foods such as eggs, meat and beans.
Steer clear of fatty food: Avoid high-fat content refined food, consume potatoes and chickpeas instead.
Alternatives to Fasting Daily When Pregnant
Depending on which culture you follow, some occasions may require you to fast for more than a single day at a stretch. All available alternatives to daily fasts should be explored during pregnancy.
If there is a provision to avoid fasting altogether during pregnancy then it is best to make use of it.
Rather than fasting daily one could fast every alternate day or opt for fewer fasts in a week.
Donate money to charities or explore other such alternatives to compensate for not keeping religious fasts. Such exemptions, options and provisions are available to members of all faiths.
Check if you could substitute a complete fast with other types of fasts. You could consider fruit fasting or water fasting while pregnant as they are less stressful as compared to a 'complete fast' which requires one to not have any water or food for an extended period of time.
Pregnancy involves a lot of changes to the body, the gain in weight and the fact that there is a baby which needs constant nutrition means that there are certain disadvantages of fasting during pregnancy, they are as follows:
Low birth weight, there is the increased likelihood that the baby may be born with low weight.
There is an increased likelihood of fatigue dizzy spells and fainting.
Fasting during pregnancy may result in severe acidity.
Increased likelihood of premature birth.
Fasting may also increase the likelihood of dehydration.
While there is an ongoing debate about the effects of fasting during pregnancy and there are no clear answers yet. Women who choose to fast during pregnancy must keep the following in mind:
If there is a provision of not keeping a fast during pregnancy then it is best that this provision be made use of
A doctor's advice is highly recommended and should not be ignored
Women are advised to listen to their bodies and fasting should be immediately stopped on the first signs of weakness and uneasiness.
While not being able to hold a fast might affect women emotionally - especially if it is a religious fast they really want to, or are expected to hold - please do remember that your health and that of your baby is more important than anything else in the world. Also, there's always the next year when you may fast! Offer your sincerest apologies to the Almighty, and skip fasting altogether if you can. Never push your body to do things it may not be able to bear!
Also Read: Smoking during Pregnancy Read more
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3 Fun Ideas to Celebrate World Photography Day
Gone are the days when we would run around clicking photographs on film, wait forever to get them developed, and then finally frame them and put them up on our wall. Today, even tiny tots have gotten clicking with their mothers’ phones. This World Photography Day on August 19, discover some fun ideas to bring out your “Lights, Camera, Action” person!
If you're wondering why World Photography Day is celebrated, prepare to feel nostalgic. The World Photography Day history marks the announcement of the world’s first ever photograph on 19th August 1839 in France. Louis Jacques Daguerre, a French artist and physicist and one of the Fathers of Photography, was the man behind it. The then Prime Minister of France presented his method of photography to the French academia of Arts and Science. And we cannot thank him enough for that!
Keep Calm and Celebrate all Things Photo!
Whatever the degree of your expertise or the complexity of your preferred photographic equipment (DSLR, pinhole camera or simply your phone), the ways to celebrate World Photography Day are plenty. When you get together with your little geniuses, life instantly turns technicolour anyway!
1. Feel inspired
Sometimes, all we need in life is a bit of inspiration. If those stunning captures of golden sunsets and merrymaking children delight you, why not get your skills up to speed? Sit down and enlist what you need: a camera that suits your budget, a photo editor that is user friendly, and techniques such as natural lighting, fun props or colourful backgrounds. A great picture demands some homework so read and perform as much hit and trial as is necessary.
2. Get clicking!
Every little thing around us can be the subject of a brilliant and awe-inspiring photograph. Some of the best pictures only have a flower or a leaf in them and can still convey powerful emotions. Capture candid portraits of your loved ones too (psst! Your kid is now your favourite model!). If you’ve been waiting to renovate your home, just click a picture of your flowering plants, the birds in your garden or your munchkin's brilliant smile. Frame it and hang it on your wall for a million-dollar charm.
3. Share your skill
Your photography spree was a huge success. What next? Share it of course! The internet is a hot spot for sharing your picture with the world and get those complements. Try social media and photography mobile apps where you can share and browse all you want. Over time, you can build your own network and who knows, you could turn out to be a pro at the art.
The World Photography Day 2015 could be your chance to discover the dormant photographer in you. You don’t need fancy equipment when you have the passion and an artistic perspective on things. Celebrate your own International Photography Day in the comfort of your home and share framed creations with your friends and relatives. After all, pictures speak a thousand words! Read more
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No More Bad Hair Days - Find the Perfect Dryer for Your Hair With These 5 Tips!
Tangled locks or a listless mane should be the last thing on your mind while planning an evening out, going to work, or waiting for your date. These proven tips for buying a hair dryer will help you become the right stylist, all within the comforts of your home.
Baffled by the inscriptions on hair dryer boxes and clueless about what to pick from the variety? Fret not, we know how much you care for your mane. So, instead of confusing the terms ceramic, watts, or tourmaline and going nowhere, take a step back and read these tips that'll help you choose the perfect hair dryer.
How to Choose a Hair Dryer for Your Locks
1. What’s in The Watts?
If you boast of thick and luxuriant hair, you need more heat and power in your hair dryer. That's where wattage comes into play—the higher your dryer’s watt figures, the faster and louder it'll be. And yes, fixated on drying your hair much too often? Go in for a dryer with lower wattage; it avoids damaging the lustre and smoothness of your strands.
2. Various Types of Hair Dryers
As per experts' opinion on what to look for in a hair dryer, the difference lies between dryers that are ionic, ceramic and tourmaline. For healthier and better-looking hair, you opt for a smart combination of these. An ionic dryer protects your crowning glory from frizz and damage while retaining the shine. It gives rise to negative ions, locks in moisture and decreases drying time. A tourmaline dryer is suited for all hair kinds and magnifies the advantages of ionic technology to deliver greater shine and faster drying. Which one will you pick?
3. Nozzles and Diffusers
Still wondering what makes a good hair dryer? Those attachments and accessories act as good definers. For instance, concentrated nozzles that direct hot air to focus areas help you control your desired style, especially if used at high temperatures and low speed. Women with curly/frizzy hair require a diffuser if they are arresting their wisps when in a rush. Pssst....We wonder how Rapunzel dried her hair!
4. Is Expensive Better
Is hair dryer good for hair? The answer is yes and no. Yes, if you happen to go in for a good quality product. But then, excessive usage may leave your hair dry, rough and listless. It's advised you go in for a higher end dryer as it gives a better warranty and good results. You can work faster and not care about damage. The dryer is the key to that perfect blowout, so you mustn't compromise on price or quality while making this investment.
5. Why Lug Around a Heavy Dryer?
Styling your hair is an art that requires consistent turns, flips and twisted movements of your wrists; a la those of your stylist at the salon. Opt for a lightweight dryer that doesn't sap out your energy or make your arms numb midway. Any dryer about two pounds in weight or less is good enough.
Which is the best hair dryer for you? That depends on the frequency of use, your hair thickness, your purpose for styling, and so forth. These tips for buying a hair dryer will surely help your cause; go for the best, you deserve it. Read more
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Spinach tortilla
A wheat tortilla is a type of soft, thin flatbread made from finely ground wheat flour. Originally derived from the corn tortilla, a bread of maize, this whole grain tortilla can be made healthier by adding vegetables to it. Spinach is a healthy, colorful add-on to this. Do these homemade spinach tortillas taste like spinach? Not at all. It’s only a sneaky way to incorporate added veggies into your food with these incredibly green wraps.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
40 Minutes
10 Minutes
Ingredients
4 cups fresh spinach
5 tbsp(tablespoon) water or as required
1 cup wheat flour
2 tbsp olive oil
¼ tsp(teaspoon) salt
Method
Step 1
In a saucepan, add the spinach and water.
Step 2
Cover and bring to a boil.
Step 3
Allow to wilt for 5 minutes.
Step 4
Place in a blender and mix until smooth.
Step 5
In a medium bowl, mix the flour and the salt.
Step 6
Add the spinach puree and olive oil into the flour mix.
Step 7
Add roughly one tablespoon of water if the flour mix is too dry.
Step 8
Add more water if required, but ensure the does not stick to your fingers. If too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until smooth.
Step 9
Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Step 10
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 11
Create four equal-sized balls from the dough.
Step 12
Roll between two pieces of parchment paper.
Step 13
Heat the tortilla in the skillet for one minute on each side or until nice brown spots develop.
Step 14
Remove from flame, place in a tortilla warmer or on a plate covered with a tea towel.
Nutritional Information
Serving Size 1 tortilla (41g)
Calories from Fat
10
Calories
100
Total Fat
1 g 2%
Saturated Fat
0 g 0%
Total Carbohydrate
20 g 7%
Dietary Fiber
1 g 4%
Sugars
1 g
Protein
2 g
Vitamin A
10%
Vitamin C
0%
Calcium
2%
Iron
8%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Tip: You can make these tortillas completely gluten free by replacing the wheat flour with cassava flour. Read more
Sarika gupta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
17 hours ago
Q. Am craving to have a burger at McDonald’s. Am 15 week pregnant.
Is it safe to have
Sarika gupta
Mom of 2 children
5 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much and it is better to avoid this at this time and also if you want to eat burger then it is better to make it a home . Thanks and take care
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
16 hours ago
Q. It's my 12th week of pregnancy but last night I noticed some bleeding. So, my doctor prescribed Duphaston for 2 weeks. Is there anything to worry about? Please guide me.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
16 hours ago
A. at present take rest and use medicines as advised by the doctor. 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 Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 3 months
10 hours ago
Q. I am 7 month pregnant with second baby I have severe abscess pain in armpit and buttocks pls tell me remedy for this ...Dr recommend antibiotics and ultracet pain tablet I have taken some doses of it but worried about the foetal development..does it hurt my baby
Read moreDr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
8 hours ago
A. You should have proper consultation with your treating doctor , as some examination or investigations may be needful, so that proper medications can be given And the treatment can be done very properly.
continue antibiotics regularly
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
4 hours ago
Q. Hello dr meri beti 6 days ki hai or use feed karwane ke bad nose or muh se milk bhar aa raha hai to aesa kyu kr rahi hai….me kya Dr ko dikhau kya???
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
4 hours ago
A. Hello dear parent! Keep your baby’s heart in a little elevated position while you’re breastfeeding. Burp your baby after every feed. Keep Babyhug tummy roll on handy. Consult your doctor for further assistance
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts how to reduce belly fat after pregnancy and skin was loose .two year passes but problem is persist.How can reduce it
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. For weight loss diet is good in intermittent fasting a good and but if your body is loose or you feel you really do tighten up your body then gymming or yoga both the things are going to be very good both the things are going to be helpful in tightening up your body and muscles at the same time but it is time consuming we just have to have patience
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. my baby is one month old and have cold symptoms. can I consume buttermilk?
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. yes u can further you can contact with your doctor and you can get thhje the solution for this by discussing with him he will guide you for more details if required .
Its always better to take the guidance by the concernged person with the geniune advice ...
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