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Knee Pain in Children
Knee problems are generally associated with the challenges of old age or with adults. When a child complains about his or her hurting knee, we generally assume that the child has hurt their knee in a fall while playing or jumping, and that the pain will pass away in a few days.
However, as you will read in this article, there are at least 8 serious causes of knee pain in children. As children grow, their body muscles, bones, and ligaments also grow in tandem, which is a natural process. However, in certain instances, all the parts of their body do not grow at the same rate, which can lead to growing pains that are generally felt in the leg or knee region.
Video: Knee Pain in Children - Causes and Treatment
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Causes of Knee Pain in Children
Listed below are some of the common causes of knee pain observed in children:
1. Bacterial Infection
Bacterial infection in the knee region can cause pain and swelling, thus preventing the child from walking. If you observe any inflammation in or around the knee, the chances are there is a pus formation within the knee joints.
If the knee pain or swelling lasts for more than a day, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
2. Juvenile Arthritis
Juvenile arthritis can occur in children from the age of 6 months up to 16 years. Warm or reddened knee joints along with swelling around the joints are an indication of juvenile arthritis. In teenage or pre-teenage children athletes, this cause of knee pain usually occurs in the anterior (or front) part of the knee. It is recommended to consult a doctor if you observe signs of this condition.
3. Osgood-Schlatter Disease
This common knee disease usually occurs in children reaching puberty or children in athletics or sports. This disease causes a knee inflammation in the area where the shin bone attaches to the knee cap.
Along with medicines, proper rest is necessary for the child to recover from this knee disease.
4. Jumper’s Knee
This is another knee condition that affects the patellar tendon (the tendon that enables the knee to straighten up following jumping or squatting). Excessive jumping or squatting in active children can put severe pressure on the patellar tendon, thus causing injuries to the tendon fibres. Common symptoms of Jumper’s knee are swelling or pain right below the knee cap.
Children affected by this condition are advised to stop all sporting or jumping activities until the swelling is reduced.
5. Soft Tissue Knee Injuries
Common in physically-active children, soft tissue knee injuries are caused by excessive use or pressure on the knee muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The RICE method that comprises rest, ice packs, compression (using a bandage) and elevation can speed up the healing of these injuries.
6. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral pain syndrome, also known as PFS or runner's knee, occurs in the anterior part of the knee. Common among young teenagers and athletes, PFS is caused by excess weight pressure on the knee or kneecap displacement. Children with PFS experience knee pain when they perform squatting, jumping, or bending of the knee. The RICE method is useful for treating this condition as well. Consult a doctor if the pain persists or becomes severe.
7. Quadricep’s Tendinitis
Quadricep’s tendinitis is a result of injury or strain caused to the quadriceps muscles in the knee. This condition is common in young teenagers who are involved in sports such as football or athletics or activities which involve a lot of running. Along with swelling and weakness, the affected child can experience pain in the lower thigh area, just above the patella.
Anti-inflammatory medicines, along with adequate rest, can help the child recover from this knee condition.
8. Tumours
This is among the mildest forms of knee pain in children. Tumours are formed around the knee area and are usually the only symptom. You may need to diagnose this knee condition by looking for any abnormal growth of tissues. It is recommended to consult the doctor for the further plan of action.
Symptoms of Knee Pain in Kids
For almost 2 out of every 5 kids, knee pain usually occurs due to growing pains, particularly during spurts in growth in pre-teen children. Growing pain usually results in aches in their legs, calves, thighs, and the back of their knees. Other common aches may be simply due to the amount of running, playing, and jumping that most children are involved in. If there is a medical history of restless leg syndrome (uncomfortable sensations in the legs) in your family, chances are that your child may also have this condition.
If your child experiences more severe symptoms, it could be because they have a more serious knee condition than simply growing pains or aches. Here are some symptoms to watch out or which may indicate a bigger issue:
Your child experiences pain in the thigh, calves, or posterior part of their knees, through the entire day, or even in the next morning
Severe swelling or inflammation in or around the knee joints
Your child experiences severe pain for a long time after sustaining a physical injury
Your child displays constant tiredness or weakness
Constant limping or the use of one particular leg for activities
Lasting signs of knee pain such as unusual rashes around the knee region
Your child has high fever, which can be an indication of Juvenile arthritis
Warm or severely reddened knee joints
Your child is unable to fully move the knee, or the knee is unable to support your child’s weight
Your child is experiencing constant locking of the knee, due to which your child is unable to move
If you find your child complaining of knee pain on a daily basis, or showing any of the above symptoms, it is probably time to consult your doctor or a knee specialist.
Diagnosis
According to Dr. Mark Halstead, a sports medicine specialist at the St. Louis Children’s Hospitals, parents should not neglect all the knee pain conditions in their children as simply growing pain. While growing pain is common in children aged 5-6 years, a teen or pre-teen can suffer from serious knee injuries, particularly if the child is active in physical sports.
According to Dr. Halstead, children who are involved in active sports like running and football or in multiple sports are more susceptible to knee injuries. Stretching your knees before play or keeping ice on the knees after play can be useful techniques in preventing knee injuries.
Treatment
Following a severe knee injury, you may observe the following in your child:
Your child is unable to walk or bear his or her weight on the knees.
Your child’s knee looks deformed.
Your child experiences extreme pain.
There is high swelling and numbness near the knee region.
The immediate treatment should be to control the swelling around the knee, through the use of the RICE method discussed earlier. This comprises Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, as described below:
1. Rest the Knee
This includes resting your child and protecting the affected knee area.
2. Ice the Knee Region
This involves applying a cold pack of ice on the affected area to minimize the swelling. Keep applying the ice till the swelling subsides. Once the swelling is gone, apply heat to the same area. It is important to use a towel on the ice or heat pack and not apply them directly on the skin.
3. Compress the Knee with a Tight Wrap or Elastic Sleeve
Wrapping the swollen area with an elastic bandage can decrease the swelling. Do not apply the compression too tightly as this can cause more swelling.
4. Elevate the Knee
Use a pillow or soft cushion to elevate the affected knee, while you are applying the ice or using compression.
If there is no swelling in your child’s knee, you can also gently massage the knee region to alleviate the pain.
If your child is experiencing massive pain, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) or medication can be used to provide pain relief and to reduce swelling. Drugs such as Ibuprofen, Aspirin, and Naproxen can be consumed for immediate pain relief. However, such medication is not recommended for frequent or long-term use as there may be side effects. Ensure that you consult with your doctor before administering any of these drugs to your child.
Tips to Prevent Knee Problem in Kids
Strengthening the knee muscles and bones through exercise or physical therapy is one way to prevent knee problems in your children.
Listed below are additional tips for preventing knee injuries in children:
If your child is over-weight, helping them to lose weight can reduce the body pressure on their knees and prevent any injuries.
For children who are active in physical sports, ensure that they perform appropriate warm-up exercises such as Hamstring stretch and Quadriceps stretch before and after the game. This can be followed by relaxing exercises after the workout.
Daily exercises that can strengthen the knee muscles and joints are a must for preventing knee pain. Aerobic exercises for children can also help build stronger leg muscles.
Learning to bend the knees during jumping or any other physical activity can be very helpful.
For children in athletics, use of the right sports shoes that can provide support to the knee can be useful.
Avoid physical activities such as running up (or down) the hill or deep knee bends as these activities put severe pressure on the knees.
Regular training around the year can improve the overall fitness of your child and prevent common injuries.
Home Remedies
In addition to the regular medication and therapy, you can try a few herbal remedies at home to ease the knee pain in your child. Listed below are some of the home remedies that you can use:
1. Applying a Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress using ice cubes or a pack of frozen peas on the affected knee area works in reducing knee pains and swellings. This is because the cold constricts the blood vessels, thus reducing the blood flow to the affected area.
2. Willow Bark
This common herb is regularly used in the treatment of knee pain particularly for inflammation and fever. It is also known to have provided knee relief to patients suffering from arthritis.
3. Ginger Extracts
This remedy has also proven to be effective for pain relief for patients with arthritis. Ginger contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds which reduce swelling.
Consuming ginger tea 2-3 times each day is recommended until the knee pain subsides. Alternatively, you can massage the affected part with ginger oil 2-3 times each day for pain relief. Ginger extracts also work well when consumed along with any prescription drug for knee pain.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
This vinegar is known to have alkalizing properties that are useful in alleviating knee pains. Drinking 1-2 glasses of warm water mixed with apple cider vinegar can remove the toxins around the knee region, thus bringing relief. It can also improve the flexibility of the knee movements by restoring the lubricants around the knee.
5. Cayenne Pepper
This natural herb contains Capsaicin, which is a natural reliever of pain. The natural pain-relieving properties of Capsaicin provide a warm sensation to the affected knee, thus reducing the sensation of pain.
Recommended for anterior knee problems, you can make a paste of cayenne pepper powder and olive oil and apply it on the affected knee area each day. Alternatively, you can mix cayenne pepper with apple cider vinegar and apply the liquid on the affected area. You can also use a variety of ointments or gels containing cayenne pepper for immediate pain relief.
6. Mustard Oil
Massaging the knee with mustard oil can reduce pain and inflammation, as well as improve the blood circulation in that part.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric is also an effective home remedy for the treatment of knee pain. Turmeric contains the Curcumin chemical, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, both of which are good for pain relief.
Drinking a glass of hot water mixed with ginger and turmeric can help in reducing knee pain.
8. Lemon
Lemon contains citric acid, which acts as a solvent for Uric acid crystals, one of the primary causes of arthritis. Lemon is thus an effective home remedy for reducing knee pain.
Wrap a cotton cloth with 1-2 pieces of cut lemon, dip the cloth in sesame oil, and place the cloth on the affected part of the knee for 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, drinking a glass of warm lemon water early in the morning is also beneficial.
9. Other Herbal Ingredients
Other herbal ingredients such as Epsom salt, Fenugreek, and Eucalyptus oil are also known to be effective in relieving knee pain or injuries.
When Should You Call the Doctor?
Children mostly hurt their knee during a fall while playing or when they bump their knee against a hard object. In such cases, most of the home remedies, or in certain cases, pain-killing medication or pain-relieving ointments or sprays, should be sufficient.
However, it is recommended to schedule a doctor’s visit if the knee pain was caused by immense force and is followed by:
Severe swelling around the knee
Severe redness around the knee region
Significant pain
Tenderness or warmth around the knee joint
A popping sound at the time of the knee injury
It is also advisable to call the doctor if a knee pain was caused by a minor incident but leads to the following:
Lasts for a long duration, particularly for the entire day
The child is limping or shows weakness in the knees
The child is unable to bear his or her weight
Interferes with the child’s sleep patterns
The pain is inhibiting the child’s normal activities
Knee pain is not just an irritant for an active child, but can also be an indicator or precursor of long-term problems if not addressed in time. If your child complains of severe or frequent knee pain, it is advisable to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Swollen Lymph Nodes in Kids
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Recurring Fever in Kids
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Chocolates for Toddlers & Kids - Benefits, Side Effects and Fun Facts
For many kids, the first chocolate bar that they received on their birthday might have been the very incentive they needed to socialise with new people. As infants and even as adults, chocolates have always been the favourite comfort food for everyone. But parents often wonder whether chocolate is good for kids? This is because it is linked with poor dental health. The answer is rather straightforward. Treating chocolate like a treat and not a mandatory food item is how you can begin to keep those chocolate-eating habits in check. Pairing that with a healthy chocolate choice would be the right way ahead.
History and Interesting Facts about Chocolate for Kids
Before your child dives into his first bar of chocolate, we’ve put together some information about chocolate for kids to get their interest level piqued as well.
Chocolate was used as a currency in the Mayan civilization
Chocolate was usually considered a food meant for the deities.
It was in 1819 when the first chocolate bar was manufactured. Until then, people would only drink chocolate.
Christopher Columbus was the first individual to get cocoa beans to Spain and give it to the kings.
In the Aztec civilization, the kings used to drink about ten cups of chocolate-based drinks in a single day.
Different Types of Chocolates
Though most kids are introduced to chocolates in its popular form as a chocolate bar, there are numerous forms of chocolate that can be used. These vary across form, flavour and composition, making them the preferred choices to be used in a variety of recipes.
1. Ground Chocolate
What do you get if you were to keep smashing a chocolate bar until it reduced down to a powder-like state? That is precisely what ground chocolate is, and is commercially available, too. Used in various preparation for garnishing or even as an important constituent, it is necessary to know that this is not the same as the cocoa powder that you might find in the supermarket as well.
2. Unsweetened Chocolate
The inclusion of sugar and other sweetening agents in the chocolate bar is what brings out its flavour and makes it deliciously edible. Pure chocolate, which is extracted from the liqueur of the same substance after hardening it, is not sweet at all. This is also termed as bitter chocolate or even baking chocolate since pure chocolate forms quite an integral component of various baked dishes and even cakes.
3. Chocolate Liqueur
The precursor to unsweetened chocolate, chocolate liqueur can be termed as the initial stage that leads to the formation of other chocolate types. It resembles a smooth liquid with chocolate flavour, although the word “liqueur” is not to be connected with alcohol. When cocoa beans are procured, they are ground together until they form a paste that has a smooth texture. This paste generally contains a substantial proportion of cocoa butter.
4. Cocoa Powder
Another popular ingredient used by many people in a variety of preparations, this is interpreted by many to be similar to ground chocolate. However, that isn’t the case. Cocoa powder is exactly what it states, a powdered form of the cocoa beans. The shells of the beans are removed and these are then ground together, which also ends up containing a small amount of cocoa butter in them. This powder is the first step to be used in making any kind of chocolate-flavoured beverage.
5. White Chocolate
If compared on technical terms, white chocolate would not be considered in the category of chocolates, since the essential ingredient of chocolate liqueur, is missing from its constitution. However, the reason why it is popular and included in the list of chocolate forms is due to the presence of around 25% chocolate in its form, paired with sugar and milk-based products.
6. Bittersweet Chocolate
This is one of those types a lot of health fanatics swear by and indulge in regularly to satisfy their cravings without feeling guilty. This is not the same as dark chocolate, which is actually a variant of it with a little more sweetness. Bittersweet chocolate primarily contains a specific proportion of sugar, cocoa butter and raw chocolate. These proportions have to be precise in order to deliver a combined flavour that’s bitter and sweet at the same time.
Health Benefits of Chocolates for Children
For children, chocolate is usually considered to be a treat or an occasional luxury to indulge in. And as proper as it might be, it is not just the taste, chocolate has vitamins for kids that provide numerous health benefits as well.
The constitution of chocolate is known to contain certain elements and substances that affect various mood-regulation hormones within our body such as serotonin and help in getting them back to a good level. Dark chocolates especially are extremely beneficial to elevate your mood.
When lacking in energy or a tiredness starts dawning upon you, taking a bite out of the chocolate can make you feel rejuvenated and give you a quick boost of energy to get back to your tasks.
Dark chocolate is recommended by many people since it plays a vital role in triggering the presence of flavonoids in the brain’s hippocampus. These elements, when stimulated, result in your children developing good concentration and an effective memory.
Certain flavonoids are present within the cocoa powder used for the chocolate production itself. Apart from improving the properties of preventing inflammation, increasing antioxidants and improving the clotting properties within the blood, insulin sensitivity gets a boost as well, reducing the chances of being diabetic in the future.
Milk chocolates and dark chocolates, when combined effectively, provide the appropriate balance of flavonoids from the latter and a reduced caffeine consumption from the former.
The flavonoids present in the cocoa powder used in chocolates are similar to those found in red wines and certain fruits. As doctors suggest that a glass of red wine is good for your heart, a similar proposition can be presented for your kids in regards to chocolate.
If your child suffers from skin related issues or does not have a healthy skin, eating chocolate could help restore the healthy skin back, without inducing any acne.
The antioxidants present in the chocolate play a key role in taking care of any free radicals within the child’s body, and preventing them from damaging the body internally.
Dark chocolate is considered a healthy choice by many, simply because of the presence of various minerals such as selenium, zinc, potassium, magnesium, iron and many others, making a part of its constitution.
Most parents avoid giving their children chocolate due to the belief that eating chocolate causes teeth to decay. The truth is actually the opposite since chocolate actually works towards reducing the presence of plaque.
One of the key effects that eating chocolate has is the immediate boost to blood circulation within the body. This helps support the developing brain function in children as well.
Most dark chocolates contain tryptophan. This is essential in revitalizing your mood and reducing the stress in your body.
Side Effects of Chocolate when Taken in Excessive Quantities
Even though chocolates might provide a lot of happiness and some health benefits, the effects of chocolates on toddlers and kids, when consumed in improper circumstances or quantities, can be harmful temporarily or even in the long term.
1. Insomnia
Yes, this isn’t just an issue plaguing the adults of today. Though this might not be due to stress in children, the presence of caffeine in most chocolates today can be a stimulant for kids, keeping them awake at night, and robbing them of the necessary amount of sleep.
2. Avoiding Healthy Food
What starts as an occasional tantrum, could very well manifest into a habit. The affinity that children develop towards the sweetness and taste of chocolate, could cause them to push away any other healthy foods, resulting in their development taking a hit.
3. Increased Risk of Allergies
Various chocolates contain a lot of other constituents such as milk, nuts, or added flavours. If your child tends to have an allergy for either of these, choosing a chocolate blindly and eating it, could trigger them right away and cause a medical emergency.
4. Peeing a Lot
The bladder capacity in children develops over time, which is why they need to go to the toilet more often. The presence of caffeine in chocolate aggravates this further since it is diuretic. This could cause your little one to visit the loo numerous time or even end up wetting his pants.
5. A Propensity for Addiction
Chocolate addiction is real. Very real. Be toddlers or young kids, the taste of chocolate can get too hard to resist at times, leading children to start crying when they are refused chocolate, or resorting to eating chocolates by hiding it from the parents.
6. Increased Hyperactivity
Children are already bundles of pulsating energy, staying engaged in one thing or the other. The presence of sugar in chocolates gives that yet another boost, by increasing the levels of sugar and adrenalin in the blood. This could make it difficult for your kid to stay in one place and concentrate.
7. Risk of Diabetes
It is not chocolate that causes diabetes, but its effect on insulin sensitivity that is the culprit. Even in children, consuming chocolates in exorbitant quantities could cause a huge load on the body’s insulin production, and could create the foundations to trigger type 2 diabetes quite early in life.
8. Risk of Obesity
Not just sugar and caffeine, but chocolates have a lot of fat in them as well, thanks to the presence of cocoa butter and other ingredients. By exposing the body to a large quantity of these, and leading a lifestyle void of exercise, your child is pretty much opening the door to obesity by himself.
Tips to Choose the Right Chocolates for Kids
There’s nothing wrong with giving chocolates to your kids. However, choosing a healthy chocolate for kids and giving them at the right time is just as important.
Do use chocolates as a way to encourage good behaviour in your child but don’t use it to get them to behave properly or as a bribe to get a task done.
Instead of opting for large bars of chocolate, go for smaller ones and in limited quantities.
Opt for chocolates that have low-fat, sugar and milk content in them.
Alternate usual chocolates with chocolate-flavoured biscuits or ice cream, once in a while.
There are caffeine-free chocolate bars available as well. Choose those over the usual ones.
Falling in love with chocolate doesn’t take a long time, and neither does the addiction. By keeping an appropriate grip on the consumption of chocolates right from the start, you can make sure your child gets the benefits of it and stays away from any potential side effects, keeping himself healthy throughout.
Also Read: Simple Chocolate Recipes for Children Read more
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10 Complications During Labour and Delivery
The very thought of delivery and labour can be scary and worrisome especially if it is your first time giving birth. So, the mere mention of the word ‘complication’ can cause panic. But gaining knowledge about the possible issues that might arise at this crucial time can help you forge ahead with courage should you happen to face any of them. Let’s look at ten of the most common complications that occur during labour and delivery.
Video: Complications during Labour and Delivery
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List of Labour and Childbirth Complications
Serious concerns during labour and childbirth are now fairly rare. Advances in technology and science have helped doctors anticipate issues in advance giving them the chance to come up with a solution beforehand. However, there are some labour and delivery complications that can happen unexpectedly and require immediate attention.
1. Labour That Does Not Progress
Labour that lasts for an unusually long time is said to have failed to progress. When it is a first-time mother, this phrase is used to describe labour that has gone on for over 20 hours, and in those who have given birth previously this time frame comes down to 14 hours. The causes of prolonged labour include:
Very slow cervical dilation
A big baby
Multiple babies
A small birth canal or pelvis
Pain medications that weaken uterine contractions
The doctor might suggest walking, sleeping, bathing, other relaxation techniques and changes in position to encourage labour, depending on the stage you are at.
2. Foetal Distress
When the foetus appears to be having some difficulty while in the womb, it is termed as foetal distress. This can range from a lack of oxygen to low levels of amniotic fluid and abnormal heart rate. When this happens, you may be asked to change position, increase hydration, or be given a transfusion of fluid into the amniotic cavity. In some cases, a C-section may have to be performed.
3. Umbilical Cord Compression
At times, the umbilical cord may be wrapped around the baby’s neck or be tangled in some manner. When this happens, the cord may get compressed, which causes a decrease in the blood flow to the baby leading to a dip in heart rate. If the dip is temporary or there is no compression of the cord, then a normal birth will follow. But if that is not the case, a C-section may have to be performed to hasten delivery and ensure the well-being of the baby.
4. Umbilical Cord Prolapse
In this condition, the umbilical cord slips through the cervix after your water breaks but before the baby enters the birth canal. You might be able to feel the cord in the birth canal or it might protrude from the vagina. This calls for immediate attention because the flow of blood through the cord might get stopped leading to foetal distress.
5. Abnormal Position
The best position for delivery is when the baby is facing downward and is head first. One of the common complications of labour and delivery occurs when the baby is in some position other than this, making a vaginal delivery difficult. The baby might be in a breech position where the buttocks or feet come first and some babies might also be lying horizontally instead of vertically. The doctor might be able to change the baby’s position manually or use forceps to facilitate delivery. An episiotomy or C-section might be necessary in some cases.
6. Shoulder Dystocia
Here, the baby’s head gets delivered vaginally, but the shoulders remain stuck. When this happens, the doctors might try to get the baby unstuck through different manoeuvres such as applying pressure to the abdomen, turning the baby manually, or conducting an episiotomy to allow for the shoulders to slip out. Any complications caused by shoulder dystocia are usually temporary or treatable, but there is always the risk of significant injury to both mother and child.
7. Amniotic Fluid Embolism
Considered a serious complication, this occurs when a small amount of amniotic fluid enters your bloodstream and travels to the lungs causing the arteries there to close up. This can result in increased heart rate, cardiac arrest, and even death. Widespread blood clotting is another problem that may arise. This condition is seen in labour that has been extremely difficult, or during a C-section, and requires emergency care.
8. Perineal Laceration
A Perineal Laceration is a tear in the perineum, or the area between the vagina and the anus, and usually happens during first time deliveries. The tear can be classified in various degrees from one to four. A first-degree tear is considered minor and might not even require any stitches. Having a large baby increases the risk of such tears. Perineal massages in the last month of pregnancy can help lower the possibility of this happening.
9. Rapid Labour
Usually, labour lasts for somewhere between 6 to 18 hours. But it is termed ‘rapid labour’ when it lasts for only 3 to 5 hours. This is characterised by quick, intense contractions that give you no time to rest. When this happens, there is greater risk of vaginal tears and haemorrhage. There is also greater chance of the baby aspirating amniotic fluid.
10. Uterine Rupture
If you have had a C-section previously, there is a chance that the caesarean scar might tear open during labour. This can lead to oxygen deprivation in the baby. Vaginal bleeding, irregular contractions, and abnormal heart rate of the baby are indicators of a rupture. An immediate C-section is the solution when this happens.
These are a few of the possible complications that can arise during labour and delivery even if you have had a normal pregnancy. Knowing the issues is half the battle won and will help you deal with any emergencies.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice from a qualified professional. Read more
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I'm a Mother of Twin Babies and One Had a Congenital Abnormality
Always expect the unexpected...I completed the last line of a book and slept that day. I absolutely did not have any idea that the same line is going to be true in my case.
Soon, I came to know that I am expecting twins and the whole world around me changed significantly. A mother started taking shape inside me and whatever I used to do, the first thought was about my babies.
And one day, my twin sons were born. They give birth to a new mother. Before having them, life was completely different. Both of them were born with low birth weight and immediately sent to NICU for further care. I could barely see them. I was still under anaesthesia post-C-section. My husband told me that one of our sons had a congenital abnormality and had to be operated the next day. He underwent surgery when he was 2 days old and I was not there with him.
It was too painful for me to think about all the pain he would go through. But luckily all the doctors and nurses were great and the operation was successful. He had a malformed anus and doctors performed a surgery called colostomy. I had never heard about this before and when I Googled, it said bypassing anal area and creating an opening on the left side of stomach.
In simpler words, my baby was doing potty from his stomach and not from the anal area. It was a shock for me for a moment because I had never heard something like this exists. But then I prayed to God for giving me all the strength I needed to take care of him.
I really thank God that my son got the best possible care from Surya Hospitals in Mumbai. The nurses trained me about how to take care of his colostomy. The next question in my mind was- is this permanent? Will he be doing potty always like that? I asked doctors there and they calmly cleared all my doubts. They said it's temporary. When he will be around 9 months old we will reverse the colostomy, means close it and your son will start doing potty the normal way.
I trusted them and finally, my son had a successful reversal surgery and now he does potty the normal way.
This one year journey was the toughest time of my life. I had two babies to take care of. One of them had to be taken to doctors frequently for check ups. But I had a strong family support. My parents, hubby and in-laws, all were there with me.
Sometimes I used to get emotionally exhausted and I could open up with my mother-in-law more than I used to with my mother. Even the caretaker of the children was so good that I did not have to worry about the other twin when I was in hospital with the first one.
Now by God's grace both of them are growing extremely fast and showering love on us. I am through that difficult phase. But it teaches you a lot. You need your family always. Through thick and thin, they will always be with you. You start believing in God and start to believe that someone is taking care of you...
This is not the end of the story but a new beginning- of a newborn mother.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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Chicken soup with veggies
Oh, chicken soup! They call it food for the soul, so correct indeed! This chicken soup is full of goodness and flavor, and it's super filling too. This gluten-free, dairy-free, chicken vegetable soup is a great winter meal. It has a low glycemic index and is high in proteins, so will fit easily into your wellness plan. It is useful for anyone trying to lose weight since it's a low-carb, low-fat meal.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
5-10 Minutes
`10 to 15 Minutes.
Ingredients
4 cups water
1 3/4 cups chicken broth
1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 medium onion, chopped
2 tbsp(tablespoons) olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
4 medium carrots, cut diagonally into 1/3-inch-thick slices
2 celery ribs, cut crosswise into 1/3-inch-thick slices
2 red bell peppers
1 tsp(teaspoon) salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
3 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
Method
Step 1
Add water and broth to a simmer in a saucepan.
Step 2
Add chicken and simmer, uncovered for 6 minutes.
Step 3
Turn off the flame and cover the pan.
Step 4
Let it stand for about 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Step 5
Transfer chicken to a plate and allow to cool for 10 minutes.
Step 6
Reserve poaching liquid, uncovered.
Step 7
Heat oil in a pot.
Step 8
Cook onion heavy pot, covered, over moderate heat, occasionally stirring, until softened but not browned, for about 6 minutes.
Step 9
Add garlic and stir, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 10
Add carrots, red bell pepper, celery, salt, and pepper and cook, covered, occasionally stirring, until softened or for about 8 to 10 minutes.
Step 11
Add poaching liquid kept aside and simmer, covered, until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 12
While vegetables are cooking, shred chicken into 1/4-inch-wide strips (about 1 inch long). When vegetables simmer enough, add chicken into the soup. Garnish with parsley.
Nutritional Information
Calories
75
Calories from Fat
26
Total Fat
2.8 g 4%
Saturated Fat
0.8 g 4%
Polyunsaturated Fat
0.6 g
Monounsaturated Fat
1.3 g
Cholesterol
10 mg 3%
Sodium
945 mg 39%
Potassium
154.24 mg 4%
Carbohydrates
8.6 g 3%
Dietary Fiber
1 g 4%
Sugars
1.3 g
Protein
3.6 g
Vitamin A
37%
Calcium
2%
Vitamin C
2%
Iron
5%
*Based on a 2000 calorie diet
Read more
Suggested for you
11 Health Secrets Paediatrician Parents Want You to Know
When it comes to your child's health and fitness, no one gives better advice than their paediatrician. Their opinion is one you can completely trust. And when their paediatrician is also a parent, that's really all that you need. We have collected for you the top health secrets shared by paediatrician parents. When applied in daily life, together with your mommy instinct, these secrets will help your little one stay perfectly healthy, energetic and fit!
1. Never miss your child's vaccination schedule
If this strikes you as an odd thing to say – of course you wouldn't, right – there are people who think vaccines should be avoided as they are not safe. Way back in 1988, there was a physician called Andrew Wakefield who published a research paper in which he linked the MMR vaccine to autism. But not only was the paper proved to be false, but he was also barred from practicing!
The truth is, vaccines are completely safe and necessary to protect your child from typical childhood diseases like polio, chicken pox, diphtheria and tetanus – a fact supported by the World Health Organization. Make it a point to vaccinate your children as and when recommended by your paediatrician. Read more about why vaccination is important for your child.
2. Google is your friend, not your doctor
Would you ask any random person to diagnose your child's medical problems? No, right? But a lot of parents expect Google to play doctor. Google is good for a lot of things, but not for treating your medical problems. Although there is a lot of medical information available online, much of it is inaccurate and unverified. Trying to self-diagnose medical symptoms will only result in unnecessary fear, anxiety and stress.
If you are concerned about a health condition, make sure you talk to your paediatrician first. Remember, your doctor can help you only if you see him or her at the right time, not after the condition has worsened.
3. Understand when an injury may need to be stitched
While seeing a cut on your child's forearm can unnerve any parent, you may not always need to rush to an emergency room. Paediatricians suggest the "three-minute test" to judge the severity of the wound. If your child just had a fall or got wounded, do this: wrap ice in a towel and apply it to the cut for three minutes. The pressure and ice should stop the bleeding if the wound isn’t too severe. If your child is still bleeding, she may need a stitch.
4. Teach them the importance of hand-washing
Children often face the greatest risk of infection from dirty hands. There's a lot they do all day – playing in the mud and pooping included. Show them how to wash their hands with soap and water after they go to the bathroom, return from playing outside and before they eat. Paediatricians swear this is the easiest way to keep illness away. If you are looking for ways to teach this to your child, try our these creative hand-washing ideas. Psst, you can initially interest your child in handwashing by using scented handwash with yummy, fruity smells.
5. Choose whole fruit over fruit juice
Freshly squeezed juice seems healthy, but in reality it is only healthier than the boxed version. A whole fruit contains essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre. The juice extracted from it loses a lot of these nutrients and all of the fibre. In fact, consuming such fruit juice can increase blood sugar levels quickly. According to a study by Harvard School of Public Health, eating whole fruits such as apples, blueberries and grapes significantly lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. So whether they like it or not, make sure your child consumes fruits on a daily basis.
6. Cuddle your baby while feeding them
Do you cuddle your baby while you feed him or her? This one is a secret that many moms can vouch by! Cuddling babies makes them feel loved and secure, and helps them bond with you. Paediatricians believe that babies who are attached to their parents grow up to have a good self-esteem and strong coping skills. With benefits like these, make sure you cuddle as much as you can!
7. Understand the real risk factors for your child
Is your child eating food off the floor, playing on a swing, or throwing a violent tantrum? Well, the fact is that these things are not really as dangerous as some other things. Doctors advise you to be more careful about risks like sharp furniture, open windows and swimming pools. Baby-proofing is certainly one thing you should never take lightly!
8. No need to freak out about colds and fevers
Colds make kids cranky and uncomfortable for 7 to 10 days, but they aren't usually anything out of the ordinary. And as for fevers, even temperatures between 100 and 104° F may not be dangerous. In fact, they help the body to fight infection as they turn on the immune system. However, if your newborn baby (0 to 3 months) gets fever above 100.4 ° F, visit your paediatrician immediately. If you are not sure whether your reaction to your child's illness is accurate, take this quiz to find out.
9. Start hygiene training early
It's never too early to introduce your kids to hygiene. Paediatric parents try and set hygiene standards at home as early as they can - and this includes changing your baby's diaper without delay, bathing, brushing teeth twice a day, and wearing clean clothes. This makes it evident to your kids that cleanliness is not an option but a necessity.
10. Cut down on the baby talk
Do you talk to your baby in a made-up language commonly known as baby talk? If you think it's cute to say “wuv” instead of love, know that you are delaying their speech and language development by teaching them the wrong way to speak.
Paediatricians recommend speaking in Parentese instead. Not only do babies respond to it better, it also helps them learn to speak faster.
11. Don't rush to the doctor or the medicine bottle
Parenting is tough, but that doesn't mean you have to worry about your kids all the time. They will inevitably fall sick, hurt themselves and give you a hard time in general. Learn to let go and take it all in your stride – just like paediatrician parents do. Getting overly anxious or depending too much on medication is always a bad idea. Remember - this too shall pass.
Oh, before we close, there is yet another important secret that we would like to share. Your child's paediatrician is certain to agree with this. Mom, please take care of yourself!
Only if the parents are healthy, live a quality life and have a positive frame of mind can the children learn to follow in their footsteps. So, eat fresh, exercise, and stay happy. Read more
Nikitha has added a new answer
Expecting Father due in 6 months
3 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
During the second pregnancy, Is it normal to discharge breast milk.
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
3 hours ago
A. hello no does not normal but can happen for some but Ihowever it would be better to check with the gynecologist and she will be able to guide you accordingly and never squiz which should not be good and talk to your gynecologist
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. can i color (loreal paris hair color)my hair to cover gray hair during 15week 3 days pregnantcy time
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. Yes you can use colour colouring is completely fine the doctors don’t say no to it but if you can opt for an option which is totally chemical or sulphate or ammonia free then that is going to be a much better choice for you to use otherwise you can use the one that you want
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. what precautions did take during 8 month of pregnancy
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. There is no specific set of precautions that you need to take if your pregnancy is going healthy but if there is any complication or any particular thing that you need to take care of then your doctor is going to advise you otherwise otherwise it is just going to be the same way as your previous seven months I’ve gone
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert hi doc, my afi in last months sonography was 20.5 and I’m in 35 - 36th week of gestation, is there any way of natural delivery for me ?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. Actually the fluid was on a really very high side right now so I am not very certain whether the doctors are going to allow you for a normal delivery if you hit your labour and everything goes well the dilution is fast and maybe but there is no confirmation that we can give
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert
is it safe to travel during 7 month pregnancy?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. That would completely depend how your pregnancy is is it complication Free or anything and what is the distance what is the mode of transportation for you all these things are going to make a lot of importance value you are deciding to travel and rest your doctor what she says
Nikitha has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert am 10weeks pregnent .can't eat anything .I hv smell sensitivity .what to do ?
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
1 hour ago
A. hello normal during pregnancy and absolutely nothing to worry just try to have small portion of food frequently which would be better and also safe and absolutely nothing to worry and any concern you check with your gynecologist which would be better and safe
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