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Leukocytes in Urine during Pregnancy

Your developing baby is going to demand a lot from your body and to make sure that your baby's growth and development is taking in the right manner, you will have to visit the doctor for regular check-ups. Many tests will be performed during every visit, however, one of the tests that you will need to take at every check-up is a urinary test. This can help detect the level of leukocytes in the urine, making the doctor able to tell you if you have any infections that will need treatment. What Are Leukocytes in Urine? Leukocytes are white blood cells that work side by side with the immune system and defend the body from infections and diseases. They appear when there is damage to the kidneys and urinary system and when foreign materials enter the body. When leukocytes damage or when they are killed while fighting off infections, they are expelled from the body through the urine, signifying a low level of leukocytes in the urine. The average level of leukocytes that should be present in the urine is between 2 to 5 WBCs/hpf. However, if the level of leukocytes rises and goes above 5 WBCs/hpf, it may be a sign of infection or disease and must be investigated. What Causes Leukocytes in Urine During Pregnancy? There are many reasons why the number of white blood cells increases in pregnant women, the most common being when there is some sort of infection in the vagina, which if left untreated can develop into something far more serious. Some of the main causes of Leukocytes in urine during pregnancy are discussed below: 1. Urinary Tract Infection Leukocytes are usually present in the urine if you are suffering from UTI. When a woman is pregnant, there is an increase in the bladder volume, but the tone will be reduced due to the weight of the baby pushing down on it. It is very difficult in this situation to completely empty the bladder, and so the bacteria may never fully leave the system. Instead, it multiplies. 2. Asymptomatic Bacteriuria When there are bacteria in the uterus, it is called asymptomatic bacteriuria. About 30% of pregnant women may have a bacterial infection in the urinary tract but show no symptoms. These can cause leukocytes to manifest in the urine. If left unchecked, this causes pyelonephritis in pregnant women, and it is because of this it is important that doctors perform a routine urine test for them. 3. Genital Infection Sexually and non-sexually transmittable infections may lead to the presence of white blood cells in the urine of a person. Some of the infections that can cause leukocytes to appear in the urine of pregnant women are Chlamydia, vaginal yeast infection, bacterial vaginitis, gonorrhoea and genital herpes. 4. Kidney Infections Kidney infections, or pyelonephritis, develops when urinary tract infection is left untreated in pregnant women. This is a serious condition that must be treated at the earliest to avoid preterm labour or premature rupture of the membranes. Kidney infections can cause leukocytes to appear in the urine and may cause fever, lower back pain and vomiting. Pregnant women often suffer from this more than others as the growing foetus squeezes against the kidney and bladder as it gets bigger. 5. Cystitis This is a type of urinary tract infection that leads to the bladder becoming inflamed and causes the number of white blood cells in the urine to rise. The cause of this is bacteria and causes similar symptoms as UTI, but there is also lower back pain and discomfort in the pelvic region. If inflammation is severe, a trace of blood and leukocytes in urine during pregnancy can be found. Signs and Symptoms of White Blood Cells in Urine while Pregnant Most often, the signs and symptoms will vary depending on what is causing the rise in leukocyte levels. Some of the main symptoms of leukocytes in urine during pregnancy are: Burning sensation while urinating Frequent urination Unable to empty bladder Foul smelling urine Cloudy looking urine Lower back pain Weakness and fatigue A low fever may occur Nausea and vomiting Diagnosis One of the most outstanding causes of an increase in leukocyte levels is due to a urinary tract infection. 1. How To Measure A urine culture and sensitivity examination should be done to see if any bacteria are present in the urinary system. Your white blood cell count will be taken to help detect any infections that are hidden in the body. Pregnant women are allowed an increase in leukocytes to 5-6 in the field of vision, but this depends on if all other indicators remain unchanged. An increase to 10-20 indicates that there is most likely an inflammation somewhere in the excretory system. If the number goes up to 40-50, then this is an indication that the kidneys have been infected. 2. How To Analyse If the result of the WBC count is either higher than or lower than the normal count that is needed for your age, then there is most likely an underlying problem. During the first trimester, the test is done every three to four weeks, during the second trimester it is done every two weeks, and by the third trimester, it is done every week. The analysis will require the first urine of the morning to be collected in a jar that has been sterilized to avoid contamination of the sample. Your doctor will also need to know all about your medical history, any medications that you are currently on and your symptoms to accurately identify what is causing the abnormal WBC count. Your WBC will also need to be checked at regular intervals to ensure that the treatment plan you have been put on is working or not. 3. Instrumental Diagnosis This is usually an ultrasound where the bladder, urinary tract, and kidneys are studied. Any enlargement in the pelvic region will be clearly visible. Ultrasounds can detect the neurogenic bladder, polycystic kidney disease, and obstructive uropathy. A survey monography is also available that will show any change in the contour or positioning of the kidneys. Radiopaque methods are quite popular, and computed tomography can be used, but it does not have any special features or abilities that cannot be provided by an ultrasound. 4. Differential Diagnosis In this, a clinical analysis of the urine is done where any increase of white blood cells can be seen. These analysis are compared with that of a woman’s general condition and her complaints. An anamnesis is available to help identify the cause of the condition. Sowing is a process that is carried out along with the urine analysis. Here the main pathogen is identified, and the right therapy is selected. Unfortunately, this does not always deliver accurate results. At least 20% of the results are false positives in this research, and so the test must be taken at least thrice before coming to any concrete result. Effects and Complications Treatment must commence immediately if you have been found with high levels of leukocytes and the doctors have determined their cause. If, for example, you have been found to have pyelonephritis, your doctors will start you on certain antibiotics that should be taken while carefully following the doctor’s instructions to avoid further complications with the pregnancy. Eclampsia is another complication that may arise, and it causes a rise in blood pressure. Careful monitoring of your condition during pregnancy can save your baby’s life by avoiding the development of serious complications. The cause of an increase in leukocytes depends on a person's condition. For example, if cystitis is a problem, it may turn serious as urination can be very painful. Further development of this can turn into gangrenous cystitis, where the pain will be intense, and there is a complete inability to urinate, putting your bladder and peritonitis at risk of rupturing. Some infections will leave behind a residue of stone and sand as well. It is highly important to treat any problem at the earliest to avoid some very unpleasant and dangerous complications. How To Treat Leukocytes in the Urine There is no fixed method of treating the condition of an increased level of leukocytes in the urine. The treatment will vary depending on an individual’s levels of leukocytes as well as based on the cause of the issue. 1. Natural Disinfectants If the inflammation is not serious, it can be treated with natural disinfectants and diuretics. Most pregnant women will be advised to drink decoctions of chamomile, black currant, and cowberry. The urine will be encouraged out of the body with these, decreasing the chance of developing more serious infections. 2. Antibiotics If the inflammation is more serious, antibiotics will need to be administered, but the antibiotics used will need to be safe for your baby as well. The antibiotics and the decoctions will help eliminate the infection and prevent more serious complications in your pregnancy. 3. Surgery If you have an obstruction such as kidney stones or a tumour that is causing the rise in leukocyte levels, you will most probably need surgery to remove the obstruction. Drink plenty of water to try and get rid of the smaller kidney stones, though passing it naturally is quite painful. 4. Sound-waves, Chemotherapy, and Radiation For larger kidney stones, sound waves can be used to break them up. Chemotherapy and radiation are other options to look at in case of tumours. Prevention Here are some ways to prevent the rise of leukocytes in the urine: Go for regular urine tests. Drink a lot of water to flush out the bacteria and the toxins from the body. Urinate often and regularly. Maintain personal hygiene by washing your hands before you use the restroom, as well as by keeping your genitals clean after you have relieved yourself. When wiping, wipe from front to back. FAQs Here are some frequently asked questions about the rise in leukocytes: 1. Can Increased White Blood Cells in Urine Indicate Blood Leukemia? Yes, an increase in the number of WBC in the urine can indicate the presence of Leukemia, a form of blood cancer. Elevated leukocytes in the urine are used to diagnose Leukemia and Lymphoma. 2. Can Elevated Number of WBCs in Urine Lead to STD Infection? STDs such as Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia leave traces of elevated quantities of WBCs in the blood which is found through the urine. This is why elevated traces of WBC can be an indication of an STD. 3. Can Leukocytes in Urine Cause Foetal Death If Left Untreated? There are cases where the rise in the number of leukocytes in the blood are associated with late toxicosis and other rather serious inflammatory problems. Women who have this are plagued with fatigue and increased pressure, and the risk of losing the baby is possible. If the leukocytes esterase in urine during pregnancy and the inflammation is detected on time, then there is no risk, but if left untreated, the child will be at risk, and there are high chances of complications during childbirth. The most important thing is to identify and treat any rise in levels of leukocytes in the urine. If this is not done, it can have a very negative impact on your health and the life of your unborn child. Rest assured that most often, the abnormal WBC count will be noticed at the earliest as routine urinary tests are a part of the general check-ups for pregnant women. But if treatment is not followed regularly and care is not taken, the situation can worsen. So make sure you don’t miss any of your prenatal doctor's appointments and follow your doctor's instructions carefully when given. Also Read: CBC (Complete Blood Count) Test in Pregnancy Read more

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Can You Take Your Baby to The Movie Theatre?

Parents of a newborn who are holed up in the house for many weeks desperately want to go outside. Watching a movie in the theatre with your favourite stars in it is an exciting pastime. With good planning, you can take your baby to the movie theatre along with you. But always remember that some people become very irritated when parents bring babies to movie theatres and they might give you some nasty looks when your baby makes even the slightest peep. So to avoid the same it is better to exit from the theatre if your baby starts crying. Why Is It Unsafe to Take Newborns to The Movies? While planning for a movie with an infant, you must be wondering are infants allowed in a movie theatre. There are no hard and fast rules and you can take your babies to the theatre at any time. However, newborns are very sensitive and loud music or noises in the movie theatre can damage the baby's eardrum and may lead to hearing issues. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, for infants, a noise level that exceeds 45 decibels can lead to hearing issues and in some movies, the noise level may increase to 90 decibels. Also, the movie theatre atmosphere is dark and cold which can be uncomfortable for the babies as they are not habituated to the same. Secondly, Babies can easily catch infections so taking newborns to the public places like theatre can be risky as you won’t know if the persons sitting beside you are not sick. When Can Babies Go to the Movie Theatre? You are now probably thinking at what age I can take my baby to the movies? It is advisable to take your babies to the movie theatre after the age of 2 which will become easier for you and for the rest of the audience. By the age of 2, the child begins to understand music and enjoy visual treats, and also the immune system is much more developed and stronger than before. Things to Consider Before You Take Your Child to the Movie If you are planning to take your child to the movie then following are a few things you should keep in mind. Since the theatre has a cold and dark atmosphere, your child may be uncomfortable and start crying. You may want to take your baby out and have one more try. If he continues to cry, then you'll have to cut short the trip. Sometimes strangers will tend to touch your baby. While telling them 'No' may sound rude, you may want to be careful about this. Or you can set boundaries and tell them 'No' in a polite manner. Look for movies that are slower-paced or are of a shorter duration than the average blockbuster. Choosing the movie after seeing the trailer and taking reviews from your friends and relatives will help as it is difficult for babies to sit quietly for a long time. Always remember to book a seat near the exit gate or toilet as you may have to exit more than one instance. Book a weekday early day show as the crowd will be less compared to the weekend and people might be more tolerant if the baby cries. Tips While Taking Infants to the Movies? Now that we've explored can a baby watch a movie in the theatre, let's focus on some tips. It is very important to choose the right movie as the movie should be kid-friendly and you can also let your baby watch movies at home or at a special screening. Carry baby soother and snacks with you so that you don't have to wait in ques to buy the snacks. Carry a warm and cosy blanket for your baby and also make your baby wear socks and cover your baby’s ears which will protect the baby's ear during the loud noise. Carry a hand sanitizer and baby wipes with you to clean the baby's hands or wipe down armrests as they tend to touch everything which is around. Exit from the theatre if your baby cries in the middle of the movie. Once your baby is calm and quiet, feel free to return to the movie. Check whether you have a baby-friendly movie theatre in the city or not. Some theatres are more tolerant of babies than others. There are cinemas which have strollers or “mothers and babies” screenings to accommodate parents with young children. Avoid 3D, 4D, and Scary movies as the visual affect can make your baby feel scared. If you find your baby is scared then just hug and hold your baby until the scene passes or move out. Carry extra diaper with you to avoid stinking up a movie. Make sure to change any messy diapers as soon as they occur as the smell will bother the audience. Bring a quiet toy along with you. The baby may tend to fall asleep while playing with the toy. Always hold your baby in your arms because theatres are very dark. An unsecured baby could stumble down the stairs or fall through aisle borders, so keep an eye on them for the entire movie. Last but not least, if your child cries or troubles someone during the movie, apologize to the person they're bothering and take your child outside until they can calm down. Taking babies to movies is a debatable topic and most parents agree that they should wait until they are older. However, if it is a harmless movie and you can control the parameters, you can take the precautions to make sure that you can enjoy a nice, kid-friendly movie with your little one. Read more

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How to Identify and Get Rid of Brain Fog?

If you complain to a doctor about brain fog, you're likely to be informed that it's not a recognized condition. However, if you describe brain fog to a friend, they will immediately correlate to the condition. Foggy thinking, difficulty concentrating, fumbling for the correct word, and sudden numbness or slowing down of the brain are common in brain fog. In reality, brain fog is not a medical condition in itself, rather a warning sign for your body. What Is Meant by Brain Fog? Confusion, forgetfulness, loss of attention, and lack of mental clarity are brain fog symptoms. Excessive work, lack of sleep, stress, and excessive time spent on the computer could be the causes of brain fog. On a molecular level, it is believed that brain fog is produced by elevated levels of inflammation and changes in the hormones that regulate mood, energy, and focus. Hormone imbalances cause the entire system to malfunction. Additionally, brain fog syndrome can develop additional illnesses such as obesity, irregular menstruation, and diabetes mellitus. Causes of Brain Fog Depression, bacterial overgrowth from sugar consumption, or even a thyroid disease can cause brain fog. Other typical reasons for brain fog include overeating, inactivity, lack of sleep, persistent stress, and a poor diet. Common causes of brain fog are: 1. Hormonal shifts It's normal to go through hormonal fluctuations throughout your life. One study indicated that 60% of women have trouble concentrating during menopause. Mood or sleep changes may be contributing to your foggy brain, but it might also be due to shifting hormone levels as your body tries to rebalance. 2. Sleep issues A lack of sleep, or exposure to blue light before bed, alters your circadian rhythm or internal body clock. This causes brain fog in several ways. Blue light exposure before bedtime reduces the hormone melatonin, which is required for deep REM sleep. Memory consolidation and processing require both REM and non-REM sleep. Being active between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. disturbs the body's normal detoxifying process and might contribute to fogginess. 3. Inadequate diet, food sensitivities Vitamin B12 builds red blood cells and maintains the nervous system. That's why a B12 deficit will leave you feeling tired and drained. Vitamin D insufficiency is linked to reduced cognitive performance and can cause brain fog. Unidentified dietary intolerances can also contribute to brain fog. 4. Stress Though stress is a popular and harmless term, persistent stress can cause serious health issues. Stress triggers the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), or the fight-or-flight response. This response causes the body to release epinephrine and norepinephrine, diverting energy away from normal operations. This can impair your ability to think effectively or focus and weary your brain sooner. 5. Medication Certain prescription and OTC drugs have been linked to brain fog. Though a hazy head after taking medication may appear typical, it isn't. 6. Mood disorders Anxiety and depression have been proven to impair executive function, attention, and memory. The loss of energy and motivation is connected with mental health disorders or physiological impacts on the brain that make optimal brain function harder. 7. Metal poisoning Heavy metals are existent in our food, beauty products, and even dental fillings. Heavy metals include Arsenic, Mercury, Aluminum, Lead, Thallium, and Cesium. While small levels of these metals may not be hazardous, persistent exposure can induce immunological malfunction, hormone imbalance, weariness, cognitive fog, and high blood pressure. Signs & Symptoms of Brain Fog Feeling down or stressed out on occasions is natural. However, if you've felt anxious, tense, depressed, or despair for more than two weeks, you may have difficulty thinking coherently and may divert your focus from the tasks at hand. Some symptoms of brain fog are: Insomnia Headaches Irritation Depression Lack of energy Forgetfulness Inability to focus Lack of motivation or ideas Absent mindedness Impaired mental health Mood swings How Long Does Brain Fog Last? Brain fog can linger anywhere from a few minutes to years. Because mental fog is a symptom rather than a serious condition, it is critical to determine the underlying reason. Consultation with a physician and administration of a test may be the simplest way to determine the cause. Even if the cause of fog, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, is identified, treating it may not be as straightforward. When to Consult a Doctor? A person should consult the doctor if they have additional symptoms that indicate an underlying medical illness, if their brain fog started or worsened abruptly, or if their symptoms do not improve despite lifestyle adjustments. Before testing, a doctor will typically request information about the patient's mental health, diet, and other symptoms. How Is Brain Fog Diagnosed? Consult your physician if your lack of clarity persists or worsens. A single test is incapable of diagnosing brain fog. Because brain fog may indicate an underlying problem, your doctor will conduct a medical examination and inquire about the following: Diet Mental health Medication or supplements being taken Physical activity If you notice additional symptoms, consult the doctor immediately. For instance, someone suffering from hypothyroidism may experience brain fog in addition to hair loss, dry skin, weight gain, and brittle nails. Blood tests can assist your doctor in determining the reason for brain fog. A blood test can be used to determine the following: abnormal glucose levels liver, kidney, and thyroid function deficiencies malnutrition infections inflammation-related disorders Your doctor will decide whether to pursue the matter based on the results. Other diagnostic tools may include imaging tests that examine the body, such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) scans. Additionally, the doctor may perform allergy tests or a sleep study to rule out a sleep condition. Treatment for Brain Fog Depending on the cause of symptoms, your doctor may be able to assist you. While not all cases of brain fog can be easily resolved with medication, certain lifestyle modifications can help clear brain fog instantly. There are numerous technology tools available in the digital age that can potentially assist you in changing your condition. Whether it’s a programmable timer set to remind you to take your medication at a specific time, a digital calendar to remind you when and where you need to be next, a software that helps you block out distractions while you work, or a note-taking app that helps you organize your day, the key is to incorporate fail-safes that can assist you as you go about your daily activities. These tools, referred to as ‘external memory,’ can significantly impact how you navigate the environment when coping with brain fog. Caffeine consumption in excess might result in further difficulties, such as a racing heart or raised blood pressure. Additionally, most energy drinks are high in sugar and include many ingredients that may cause health problems. Preferable recommendations include increasing daily movement - this may sound counterintuitive, but the more we move, stretch, and discover ways to be active, the more energized we feel. Various Supplements That Help Stop Brain Fog It is possible to experience brain fog for various reasons, such as a medical condition, stress, unhealthy diet, lack of sleep, and certain medications. Various supplements may be effective in alleviating symptoms that are caused by a medical condition. Fish Oil: Fish oil is a type of long-chain omega-3 fatty acid that includes DHA. Salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines are the primary sources. It has been shown to improve cognitive function, motor abilities, and vision. Ginkgo Biloba Extract: The benefits of ginkgo Biloba include improved cognitive performance, a more positive mood, higher energy, improved memory, and a reduction in symptoms associated with a variety of chronic conditions. Additionally, it may help lessen the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Choline Bitartrate: Choline is a vitamin that chemically belongs to the B group of vitamins. Such vitamins are necessary for cell membranes formation and synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is involved in memory and muscular function. Gamma Oryzanol: It is believed to increase neurotransmitter levels in the central nervous system. Additionally, it aids in mood relaxation and comfortable sleep. L-Theanine: It aids in relaxation and sleep by raising serotonin, dopamine, and GABA levels. L-theanine is classified as an anxiolytic, which means that it serves to alleviate anxiety. Phosphatidylserine: It is a critical molecule that performs a variety of functions in the body. It is a structural component of the cell and plays a critical role in maintaining cellular function, particularly in the brain. Phosphatidylserine supplementation may help alleviate some of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Additionally, it aids in the improvement in the thinking capacity, attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity (ADHD) of children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Inositol: It was previously regarded to be a component of the vitamin B complex. It is involved in the neurological system and the metabolism of fat. It aids in forming healthy cells in the bone marrow and creating the cell membrane – the myelin sheath. Additionally, it is necessary for hair development. Ginseng Extract: Ginseng is an adaptogenic herb that efficiently modulates the immune response and hormonal changes associated with stress, promoting homeostasis. In addition to preventing the onset of psychological ailments such as anxiety and depression, ginseng protects against physiological diseases connected with stress. Soy Lecithin: Phosphatidylcholine-based, Soy Lecithin enhances memory and the ability to learn. Additionally, it assists in lowering the danger of gallstones and improving liver function. It has been shown in research to boost brain function and help prevent dementia. L-Carnitine L-Tartrate: It is essential for the synthesis of acetylcholine. It aids in the improvement of cognitive functions and dementia. This amino acid can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and modulate the brain's neurotransmitter levels. Vitamin C (Calcium Ascorbate): It is a critical component of the human body. It is required to keep the skin, cartilage, teeth, bone, and blood vessels healthy. Additionally, it is employed to protect the body's cells from injury. It is a well-known antioxidant. Additionally, it aids in the regulation of body temperature and hormonal production. Vitamin A Acetate: It is a fat-soluble vitamin of critical importance. It enhances vision and protects against night blindness and eye problems. Vitamin A contributes to the correct functioning of the immune system. Additionally, it is required for optimal cell growth and development. Another critical function is that it acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from free-radical damage. Vitamin E (DL-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate): It neutralizes free radicals and helps prevent the development of diseases. Certain isomers of vitamin E provide potent antioxidant properties that help reduce free radical damage and inflammation, thereby naturally slowing cell aging and combating health problems such as heart disease, hypertension, aging, and cancer. Vitamin B Complex: B complex vitamins assist your body in converting food into energy, forming red blood cells, and performing several biological activities. Vitamin B1 is a neuropathy treatment. Vitamin B2 aids in the conversion of food to energy. Vitamin B3 aids in the normal functioning of enzymes in the body by assisting the body in utilizing other B vitamins. Vitamin B5 supports a healthy digestive system and skin. B6 is necessary for immunological function and brain development. It is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Vitamin B12 is necessary for red blood cells and DNA synthesis. It is also necessary for the metabolism of proteins. Exercises for Preventing Brain Fog While you are certainly aware that regular exercise strengthens and protects your body, you may be shocked to learn that these benefits extend to your brain as well. While scientists do not fully understand all of the mechanisms at work, evidence consistently demonstrates that physical activity improves cognitive health. 1. Exercises to prevent brain fog Walking briskly for 30-60 minutes, 3-5 times a week, resulting in demonstrable improvements in cognitive functioning. Resistance training (planks, pushups, squats, weightlifting) and cardiovascular exercises (such as walking, jogging, swimming, and biking) can be more beneficial to your brain than stretching exercises. Lifting weights twice or thrice a week for older persons with mild cognitive impairment improve cognitive performance and increase muscle tone Natural Remedies to Treat Brain Fog The good news is that you can make lifestyle adjustments that can help minimize chronic inflammation and reduce or eliminate brain fog. Try these natural brain fog cures: 1. Eat properly Your diet is your first line of defense against any health troubles. Diet is vital to your body's functioning, including your brain. Consume lots of healthy fats, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory foods to feed your brain. 2. Sleep well Plan your day in a way you get 7-9 hours of sleep every night. 3. Reduce stress If you're always stressed, take actions to manage and lessen your stress, prioritize self-care, add mindfulness or meditation, etc. 4. Regular exercise Staying active has been linked to greater memory and mental sharpness. For one thing, exercise generates cytokines and endorphins, both of which revitalize the brain. 5. Take correct supplements Vitamin D is essential for most people, and its link to brain health requires further proof. Add a B-complex vitamin to avoid B12 deficiency. 6. Eliminate foods Avoid common dietary allergens (gluten, dairy, soy) and vices (alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, etc.) to see if food sensitivities have caused your brain fog. Repeat and observe the results after abstaining from each food type. 7. Consider Intermittent fasting It offers several advantages, including enhanced brain function. Numerous studies show how intermittent fasting improves cognitive performance. 8. Buy an air filter If you suspect air pollution is causing your brain fog, invest in a high-quality air filter or air purifier. While you can't influence the quality of the air outside, you can spend most of your time inside. With changing human age, the functions and capabilities of the brain also deteriorate. This is also a result of the age of the brain, which is unrelated to human age. Mental decline is a common occurrence and one of the most feared effects of aging. There are several strategies to assist in maintaining brain function, including limiting your use of a smartphone, tablet, or computer, getting adequate sleep, eating healthy foods, and supplementing with critical nutrients suggested by a team of experts. These can aid in memory enhancement, stress reduction, and emotional balance. Also Read: How to Remove Self-Hate from Life How to Motivate Yourself When Feeling Low Impact Of Microaggressions and How to Deal with Them Read more

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Baby Sponge Bath

Gear up to capture another momentous first-time event in your little one’s life - the first bath. Like every other first time, this too is special and worth recording. Researchers say that every bath time will be your bonding time with your baby. Hence, it is important that you are stress-free during this period. Most new parents fear that they may do something wrong as they don’t know how to give a sponge bath to baby. Here’s a detailed guide that will answer all your queries about how to give your baby a good and relaxing sponge bath. Preparation For an Infant’s Sponge Bath Newborns don’t get very dirty and don’t require a tub bath every day. Giving your little one a sponge bath gives you some time to handle your baby before you move to a tub bath. There are a few basic preparations you must make before the sponge bath too. They are: Start by washing your hands. Gather all the bathing essentials for your baby before you start: a large towel to lay your baby on, non perfumed wipes, a mild baby cleanser, a few pieces of moistened cotton wool, a clean washcloth or damp sponge, a fresh set of clothes, and a nappy. Avoid soaps or perfumed wipes as they may disturb the natural balance of your baby’s skin. Keep warm water ready for soaking the sponge or washcloth. Keep separate wash clothes for different parts of the body to ensure hygiene. Keep one cloth for legs, another one for the hands, one more for the body, and one for the head. Choose a convenient time and place. Turn off the AC, cooler, or fan of the room you choose to bathe your baby in. The room should be comfortably warm. Now, you are ready to sponge-bathe your baby. Ensure that you have enough time on your hand while doing this. As mentioned before, bathing time is a bonding time between parents and baby. Steps to Follow for Giving Your Baby a Sponge Bath Here are a few tips to help you get started: Getting Ready Firstly, pick a convenient time for giving a sponge bath to your baby. Some moms prefer giving a bath in the morning when the baby is awake and active while others prefer the evening time, as bathing can be a calm-down activity for the baby. Then, pick a room with a flat surface like a bathroom or bed or a changing table, and cover it with a thick towel. Check the temperature of the room and set it to 75-degree Fahrenheit (23-24 degree Celsius); remember babies get a chill very easily. Finally, assemble all the essential stuff required during the sponge bath and afterwards. Getting ready also means spending some time talking to your baby before the bath. After all, it’s a wonderful time to bond. Also, undress your baby before the bath and wrap him/her in a towel. Keep the diapers on though. You don't want the baby to pee all over the place just when you are cleaning him/her. Wash the Eye Area Dampen a cotton ball in warm water. Then, holding your little one’s head, gently cleanse the eye area. Start wiping from the corner of the eye and move outwards. Use a new cotton ball for each eye. Cotton balls don’t shed any lint and hence are safe for your baby’s eyes. Avoid washing the eye itself, and if there is no dried mucus in the eye, then you don't have to wash the area around the eye too. Wash the Face Take a soft washcloth, dip it in warm water, squeeze the extra water out, and gently wipe your baby’s mouth, nose, and other parts of the face. The areas behind the ears, under the chin, and creases in the neck require special attention. Once done, pat the face and neck dry. Wash The Hair Washing your baby’s soft hair is an essential part of the sponge bath. Start by wrapping your baby in a towel and putting your arm under his/her back and your hand under his/her head. Then get hold of a wet washcloth with the other hand and wipe the head gently but properly. Avoid using soap based shampoos at this stage to prevent any skin irritation. Wash The Body Use a soap-free baby cleanser to wash your baby’s body. Keep the baby’s head covered with the corner of a towel. Unwrap the towel from the rest of the body and remove the diapers too. Wet the washcloth and wipe the baby’s body from neck to waist. Also, wipe the arms and hands. Once done, pat the baby dry. Now, cover the upper part of your baby’s body and start wiping the legs, feet and toes with a fresh, wet washcloth. Wash the diaper area in the end using clean, warm water. Use a front to back motion to wipe the diaper area for both boys and girls. Please ensure that after wiping the baby clean with a wet washcloth, you pat dry, especially in the crease areas. Excessive moisture on your baby’s skin can cause skin irritation. Umbilical Cord Care Put your baby in a diaper and a t-shirt before cleaning the umbilical cord. Use a cotton ball to clean the base of the cord and the area around it. It is important to clean the cord properly because the quicker the base dries, the sooner the cord will fall off. Also, never cover the umbilical cord with the diaper to avoid chances of infection. It’s important to leave it dry and clean. Moisturizing Your newborn’s sponge bath will be incomplete without moisturisation. Use a mild moisturizer after the bath to keep your baby’s skin smooth, soft and healthy. It is essential to ensure that the baby’s skin retains its suppleness. Keep a moisturising lotion handy for application after the bath. Choosing a mild lotion is advisable. Dressing Choose loose cotton clothes for your baby. Since the baby spends most of the day lying down, avoid picking clothes which have buttons or zippers down the back. It is also important to have a receiving blanket ready to wrap your baby in after the bath. A sponge bath is easier on the baby compared to a regular tub bath. Additionally, you can regulate the quantity of water that each body part of the baby receives. This can be helpful in keeping areas such as the umbilical cord dry. Wish you and your little angel a happy bonding time during a bath! Also read: Bathing Your Baby, Cloth Diapers Versus Disposable Diapers Read more

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Happy Pregnancy and Unexpected Delivery

Pregnancy is the best phase of life for any mother. Mine was the twin pregnancy. We were so happy and were leaving pregnancy with utmost care and love. The feeling of giving birth to two children was out of the world. Month by month growth of babies was proper and in the seventh month my baby shower was also done with full-on excitement. All the giveaway gifts were handmade. Things were going nice. Suddenly at the end of the seventh month the water starts coming from one of the baby sac. It had created risk for my both children. Also the medicine which is given for lungs development in babies as a precaution for premature delivery was due next week. So for that we had to wait for at least a day to deliver the babies as the medicine could react and do it's job. But God had other plans before the day could complete my labour start and it was unbearable. The Doctor had to do my delivery in an emergency and with God's grace and Doctor's effort my babies were delivered safely. They had been kept in neonatal care for about a month. Where all the sonography and blood reports of the children were done. They took care of my babies very nicely. Our daily schedule was to visit the hospital to see our babies and following all the hygiene practices and going back home with heavy heart that children are not with me. And finally after the stress and tension, they are now with us. Loving each and every moment. The shocked face of them, their crying face, the hold of your finger by them. Enjoying motherhood --the best feeling ever. Now they are on the urge of completing three months and their development is perfectly alright. 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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Essential Hand Tools to Have at Home

If you're a housewife, you might need to take on jobs that could be out of your comfort zone. However, there are essential tools for women that can help you fix things. It beats not having to depend on a man to do a job you can do. You don't always have to borrow tools from your hubby’s box or hire a handyman each time the faucet starts troubling or the sink leaks. How? Own some of your own tools and get set to fix things easily around the home. Here are some tools a woman needs in her toolbox for a trouble-free household. Hand Tools for Woman to have Around the House 1. Hammer away If you're the kind of mom who loves to hang pictures and drawings your kids make at school, you definitely need a hammer. This essential tool will help you hammer nails in the wall and flaunt your child's creativity. With this, you can hang pictures on the wall while also engaging in small carpentry projects. Owing to its multipurpose use, a hammer is one of the best tools for women to have. 2. The screwdriver A screwdriver will always come in handy for little odd jobs around the house. If you're a beginner, pick up small, medium and large screwdrivers. They should either have a single, flat head, star head or square head. You should definitely invest in an all-purpose screwdriver that comes with interchangeable heads to help you fix your toddler's toys or his cot. A tool box for women will be incomplete without a screwdriver. 3. Take the plunge(r) If you have little children at home, you will definitely need a plunger. This tool comes in handy when you least expect it. If your kid is learning to potty train or has a habit of playing with toys in the bathroom, you need one of these. It's especially useful when you cannot find a plumber on short notice and need to unclog a toilet. 4. Drill A cordless drill is one of the essential tools to have at home. It can be quite daunting to use at first, but once you get the hang of it, you wouldn't fear using it. When mastered, you can easily hang shelves at home, install lights and even drill holes for DIY projects for your kids. Ensure you have a good set of drill bits along with the main drill. 5. Measuring tape If you're the kind of mom who shops for furniture, you would definitely need a measuring tape. Taking measurements is important to understand what dimensions you've to work with. It could be anything from knowing the length of the curtains when you want to buy new ones or how big the drain pipe is when it needs replacement. These tools for home use should only be used during emergencies and neatly placed in a dedicated tool box. If you have a reliable handyman or your husband is your man Friday mostly, ask them to get the job done. After all, you have so much on your plate that requires completion, besides when it falls on you, you can wield magic with your toolkit too. Read more

Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer

Trying To Conceive

4 hours ago

Q. my baby is running the 4th month. Why is he not sleeping. he is stretching himself without sleeping for 12 hours or more than that . will it affect the baby's development how to manage

Dr Sameer awadhiya

Paediatrician

4 hours ago

A. Sleeping pattern in children may be variable in different age group so if the baby is active and taking proper feeding with no other complaints most of the time there is nothing to worry. You have to just see the child should not be uncomfortable which may be because of factors like temperature of the room nasal blockage some discomfort like infantile colic or hunger. In older children a proper discipline is reqdvuired so that the sleeping pattern can be scheduled according to a proper time try to avoid too much of screen time with sometimes can be the causative factor for disturbed sleep.

Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer

Guardian of 0 children

4 hours ago

Q. #asktheexpert fourth month pregnancy guide for diet

Abhaya Rajput

Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy

3 hours ago

A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much. Please take eggs and chicken and chicken soup. Take an iron and calcium rich food items. Also include fresh fruits and dry fruits in your diet. Please take home cooked food and avoid maida or oily or outside food items. Thanks and take care

Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer

Guardian of 0 children

3 hours ago

Q. Is it safe to take epidural to have Pain less labor ? Is there any risk or side effects associated to it if we take it during child birth ?

Dr Vandan H Kumar

Paediatrician

3 hours ago

A. yes is safe this will require examination and check up as well as history evaluation with the gynecologist. please meet the doctor at your convenience for proper treatment as well as investigations if required. s

Rayan has added a new answer

Trying To Conceive

2 hours ago

Q. hi dr iam Shabana my daughter is very thin what should I give her in diet

Rayan

Mom of 2 children

33 mins ago

A. what is her age? calculator her BMI to know whether is she underweight or not.

Rashmi has added a new answer

Guardian of 0 children

2 hours ago

Q. advice/ tips for breech presentation to return to normal

Rashmi

Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl

2 hours ago

A. There is no tips because these things are beyond our control if the child has to change the position the child is going to change the position on its own own only and and you should be mentally sorted for a C-section delivery because if the child is not going to change the position then the will have to go for a C-section only

Rashmi has added a new answer

Guardian of 0 children

2 hours ago

Q. how to bring breech presentation to normal

Rashmi

Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl

1 hour ago

A. You cannot change these things are not in our control is the child is going to change the position the child is going to change his position on its own only so you don’t have to do anything as it is a natural thing for the child

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