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Numbness During Pregnancy - Causes and Remedies
Pregnancy brings about a lot of changes in a woman's body and some of these changes can cause numbness in the arms, legs, belly, or other parts of the body. Numbness is also one of the unexpected symptoms of pregnancy, and it is mostly experienced in the last trimester of the pregnancy. If you are pregnant and notice numbness in your legs, arms, or hands, you don't need to worry. But if it is accompanied by other symptoms of pregnancy, you should check with a doctor.
What Is Numbness During Pregnancy?
Numbness or tingling sensation during pregnancy is basically a loss of sensation or 'pins and needles' sensation in the hands, arms, legs, feet, and other parts of the body. It is a common symptom of pregnancy and is usually experienced by women because of the hormonal and bodily changes during pregnancy. When a woman enters the second and third trimester of her pregnancy, she may have swelling in her hands and feet because of water retention. This swelling can contribute to the feeling of numbness in pregnancy. Experiencing numbness in the first trimester of pregnancy is often considered as a symptom of pregnancy by many. And when it is experienced during the second trimester, it is mainly because of the improper sleeping posture. The symptoms may get stronger during the third trimester as during this time the blood vessels or nerves get compressed because of the growing uterus and the changes in sleeping postures.
When and Where Do Pregnant Women Experience Numbness?
During pregnancy, numbness can be felt in many parts of the body (including the tongue and the face). Some other parts of the body where you may feel numb during pregnancy are given below -
Pregnant women often experience numbness in their legs soon after waking up. If you are pregnant, you may also feel numbness in your legs if you sit for long periods of time. The symptoms range from loss of sensation to tingling and pain which usually subsides by switching sides or changing posture.
While pregnant, your arms and hands may also feel numb after you wake up from sleep or lift heavy objects.
Some pregnant women also experience numbness on the tongue after intake of a certain food, strain in the neck or sudden movements.
What Causes Numbness During Pregnancy?
Here are some of the causes of numbness or tingling sensation during pregnancy:
Hormonal changes in the body can cause tingling and numbness. The hormone relaxin which is released late in the pregnancy has the effect of softening the pelvic opening and other joints. This can cause the body’s weight to pinch nerves in the joints and subsequently numb a related area.
Early pregnancy hormones cause the body to retain water which leads to carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful condition which affects the hands and the arm. Women gain as much as 50% more blood during pregnancy to support the baby. This increased fluid can put pressure on the median nerve that runs in the arm causing pain. The symptoms include a numb tingling pain in the middle, index and ring fingers and pain that radiates up to the arm. The condition is fairly common and pregnancy increases the odds of developing it. An increase in weight during pregnancy can also cause carpal tunnel syndrome.
Anaemia caused by factors such as low red blood cell count, iron deficiency or genetic factors can also cause numbness, dizziness, and pain.
A woman may also feel pain and numbness due to sciatica during pregnancy. It is a shooting pain that runs all the way from the lower back down to the whole length of the leg. It is much more common during the second and third trimester as the growing baby exerts pressure on the sciatic nerve in the lower back.
How to Prevent Numbness of the Tongue
Numbness in the tongue may be experienced because of nerve compression, spinal compression, Bell’s palsy or allergic reactions. Figuring out the exact cause of your numbness can help treat it and here are a few suggestions on how to do so.
Maintain a diary to list down the foods that cause numbness when you consume them. Also, maintain notes of other activities and times of the day when episodes of numbness are experienced.
Do not strain your back by lifting weights or poor postures, especially in the third trimester.
Avoid eating foods that are high in sodium. Foods rich in sodium can increase your blood pressure and lead to water retention in your body, which may cause numbness.
Low blood sugar levels can also cause numbness in the tongue, therefore eat at regular intervals.
How to Treat Numbness in the Stomach or Belly
Numbness in the belly is experienced when the heavy uterus presses against the nerves and blood vessels. Here are ways to prevent it:
Maintain proper posture while sitting and standing to avoid putting pressure on your lower abdomen.
While lying down change positions now and then to relieve pressure on only one side of the abdomen and to not hamper the blood flow.
How to Treat Numbness in the Legs and Feet
Feeling a tingling sensation in feet during pregnancy is very common. And if you stand or sit for long periods of time, your feet may feel numb. This can often restrict blood flow in the arteries and cause tingling. Here are some remedies for numbness during pregnancy:
Lie down on your left side every time you rest or go to sleep.
When you feel like taking a break or resting, sit down in a comfortable position rather than lying down as lying down may put pressure on your lower abdomen and make your legs feel numb.
If you are working out during pregnancy, watch for movements that make you feel tingly or numb afterwards. Make a note of them and avoid doing those.
Can You Prevent Numbness?
Although preventing numbness in the body is not possible during pregnancy, by making certain changes in your routine, you can feel better. Sleeping with the hands in an elevated position or using a wrist brace can prevent tingling sensation in your fingers and prevent swelling in the wrists. Maintaining the right posture when you sit, stand, or lie down can reduce the effect to a great deal. Also, wear comfortable shoes with a soft sole that is flat-heeled. It can relieve pressure on the legs and ward off numbness.
When to Consult a Doctor
Although experiencing numbness in the hands and legs is normal during pregnancy, a sudden onset of severe numbness or tingling can be an indicator of something serious. Sudden onsets are symptoms of an injury or a blockage and warrant an immediate medical examination. Consult your doctor if you decide to use any alternative medicine or creams to relieve numbness in your belly or legs. Such creams often contain unregulated herbal preparations and can be dangerous during pregnancy. Also, consult your doctor if you notice any unusual symptom.
Numbness and tingling sensation during pregnancy are normal and most often not a cause of concern. Take the necessary precautions and consult your doctor if you don't feel better. Have a healthy pregnancy!
Also Read: Swelling During Pregnancy Read more
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Foetal Brain Development - Stages and Foods to Improve Development
It is fascinating to see how a baby already knows the way to suck on a breast and swallow the milk, along with various other behavioural patterns. The development of the brain is a key aspect in creating a fully functional human and parents often wonder in which month baby brain development during pregnancy begins. While the answer in itself is quite astounding, there are many factors that you need to be aware of to understand your baby’s brain development better.
Baby Brain Anatomy
Just like any other adult human brain, the baby’s brain also consists of a few major sections that control all of the activities required for the body to function properly.
1. Hypothalamus
The sensations that control the feeling of hunger and thirst, along with the necessity to fall asleep and feel different emotions, all stem from the hypothalamus. Furthermore, it also is responsible for maintaining an optimal temperature of the body.
2. Pituitary Gland
Once a child is born, it needs to conduct a large amount of growth as quickly as possible to survive in the real world. A lot of this is a result of hormones that satisfy the requirements successfully, by promoting growth, setting in place a proper metabolism, and carrying out various bodily activities. These major hormones are all secreted by this tiny gland, which is the size of a pea.
3. The Brain Stem
This may not be precisely considered as a separate part of the brain, but it is quite an important section nonetheless. The brain stem is what keeps the body truly alive, by controlling the action of breathing in air, maintaining a constant heart rate, and regulating the blood pressure.
4. Cerebellum
All the kicking around your baby does, the weird movements he so loves, and the first steps he takes, are all a result of a properly functioning cerebellum. This section of the brain controls all the motor activities of a child.
5. Cerebrum
The largest of them all, this section is big for the very reason a brain exists. The main cortex, the frontal and temporal lobes, all reside in this section, and provide the functionality of feeling emotions, recalling memories, and carrying out thinking processes.
Stages of Baby Brain Development in the Womb
While a child’s brain continues to grow even after birth, some of the major development takes place right within the womb during different phases of the mother’s pregnancy. Here’s how a fetal brain development timeline might look like.
1. First Trimester
Within a couple of weeks following conception, the neural plate of a foetus is already formed. This evolves to become the neural tube, which houses the future development of the brain. Simultaneously, tiny neural cells travel across the embryo and lay the initial pathways for the nerves. This gives rise to the initial movements of the baby within the womb.
2. Second Trimester
The second trimester initiates with the development of breathing patterns as well as various sucking impulses. Slowly and steadily, kicks and jabs will begin to take place as motor control sets in gradually. The nerves are protected by a cover of myelin, causing communication to set in rapidly and manifest in the form of blinking eyes and rapid heart rate. Sensory perception begins to quickly evolve, with aural development taking the lead. Your baby begins to sleep and dream as well.
3. Third Trimester
In the final phase, the networking of nerves reaches a completion and the brain weight begins to rapidly increase. The folds in its tissues begin to form and motor control enhancement reaches its peak. While the cerebrum might be approaching a good size, its actual functioning begins only when the baby is out into the real world, triggered by the stimulus of the environment.
How to Improve Baby Brain Development During Pregnancy
To ensure a healthy and smart baby, we have put together a pregnancy food list for baby brain development, which will help ensure that your little one gets the core elements without fail, along with a proper balanced and healthy diet.
Foods to Eat for Healthy Fetal Brain Development
Apart from the importance of prenatal vitamins for brain development, it is also necessary to include certain key elements in the diet that can provide the necessary support and even a boost to the brain’s growth in a child.
1. Zinc
This might be a trace element found in food sources but plays an essential role in brain development from an early stage.
What It Does
With progress in the growth of the child, the neurons and transmitters that are formed need extensive support to spread their network and make the brain cells stronger. The presence of zinc can prevent the occurrence of any behavioural or learning problems in a child.
Food Sources
Red meat, kidney beans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and even spinach are great sources to include zinc in your diet.
2. Protein
A core element of a pregnant mother’s nutrition, it is also a vital one for the baby’s brain development.
What It Does
Protein-rich foods contain numerous amino acids that are required by various parts of the body. These also work in enhancing the function of brain cells and develop a brain that is healthy in every aspect.
Food Sources
Eggs, legumes, fish and lean meats are some of the best sources to satisfy your protein requirement.
3. Iodine
There is a reason why the government enforces a presence of iodine in the daily salts, which is connected to brain development directly.
What It Does
Right from the prenatal stage, iodine begins to work in carrying out the development of the spinal cord and connecting parts of the brain. Any deficiency in that regard can leave the child cognitively impaired and even set in a premature delivery.
Food Sources
Apart from salt, strawberries and yoghurt can also contain iodine in good quantities.
4. Iron
Iron might be recommended for women to prevent premature deliveries, but it also is essential for the child’s neural development.
What It Does
The brain’s proper functioning is highly reliant on the neurons being able to transmit communication signals between them effectively. This is precisely what the presence of iron improves and enhances thoroughly.
Food Sources
Spinach, raisins and various lentils contain a good proportion of iron in them.
5. Choline
Many parents might not be aware of a nutrient such as this, but a proper development of the baby’s brain is highly dependent on its presence.
What It Does
The reduction in chances of defects in the formation of the baby’s neural tube as well as the foundation of memory and learning abilities are all a result of choline’s presence in substantial quantities. This is also why choline is generally termed as a super nutrient.
Food Sources
Chicken, pork, and potatoes are great ways to introduce choline in your diet.
6. Folate
The number of times consumption of folate is stressed to a pregnant woman would be countless. And that is with good reason.
What It Does
Many babies are born with a malformed spinal cord or an incomplete brain, leading to a major neural tube defect. Intake of folate can considerably reduce the chances of such defects, even before conceiving the child in the first place.
Food Sources
Beetroot, avocado, orange juice, and green leafy vegetables are friends of folate.
Factors that are Harmful to Baby’s Brain Development During Pregnancy
The factors that cause various fetal brain development problems can be as varied as the problems themselves.
1. Exposure to Toxic Substances
Even the simplest fumes emerging from cars and new paints can affect the foetus in various ways. Certain elements such as lead, arsenic, mercury are observed in paints used at home or newly polished furniture, all of which can be easily inhaled and lead to developmental problems in the child’s brain.
2. Presence of Rubella
While rubella might not be as harmful to the mother, the effects it has on the child within her womb are substantial. If a mother contracts rubella in the initial months of her pregnancy, the child can suffer from cataracts, deafness and even be born retarded.
3. Pesticides
No matter how cleanly you wash your vegetables before cooking them or eating them raw, the chances of pesticide exposure have never been as high as it currently is. Opting for organic food products is highly recommended.
4. Heroin Usage
Drug usage is in any case quite harmful. But heroin usage is quite dangerous since the baby can be born with a heroin dependency, and even exhibit certain disorders in interacting socially with others.
5. Cocaine Usage
Unlike heroin, cocaine affects the physical development of the child’s brain directly. Such babies are born with a tiny skull, leading to extreme retardation or even fatal brain haemorrhage.
6. Marijuana Usage
While marijuana might be considered a recreational drug by many, its use during pregnancy is highly detrimental to the baby’s development, causing speech-related defects and memory problems.
7. Drugs for Epilepsy
Certain women with a propensity for epileptic attacks might be prescribed drugs, which need to be stopped or replaced during pregnancy since they can result in babies being born with a substantially lower IQ.
8. Exposure to Pollution
A check needs to be kept in the exposure to traffic-related pollution and any kind of pollutants present in the air since their inhalation can result in a child being born with autistic tendencies.
9. Alcohol Consumption
No rationalization around the amount of alcohol consumption is possible for a pregnant woman. Any amount can find its way directly to the baby via the placenta and lead to a massive damage to the nascent nervous system.
10. Tobacco Usage
Whether it is via smoking or by chewing tobacco, nicotine affects the child just as much it affects the adult brain. Such children can develop physical abnormalities such as being born cross-eyed or even have psychiatric issues later in life.
11. Reduced Sun Exposure
A mother who is primarily indoors throughout her pregnancy can risk a development of multiple sclerosis in her foetus along with a hindered nervous system development.
12. Psychiatric Issues in The Mother
Pregnant women suffering from depression or any kind of psychiatric disorder are at a higher risk of transferring the same and affect the unborn baby's brain development with various anomalies.
13. Presence of Stress
While stress is also related to the mother’s mental state, it can manifest in ways that can cause a woman to starve herself and prevent the baby from getting the nutrition it needs.
14. Medications
Once the pregnancy is detected, a woman is advised to stay away from any kind of medication as a general rule. Even the simplest medicines such as aspirin, or any painkillers, have been known to fatally affect brain development in the foetus.
15. Deficiency of Vitamin D
While exposure to sunlight is one factor, the deficiency of vitamin D from other sources might end up in a child being born with respiratory issues as well as suffer from language processing disorders ahead in life.
16. Deficiency of Folic Acid
Folic acid is highly stressed as a vital nutrient for a pregnant woman to include in her diet. Failure to do so causes the neural tube enclosing the brain and spinal cord to remain open, and give rise to numerous malformations.
17. Insufficient Nutrition
If certain elements are extremely vital, there are many others that need to be present in the right quantities for the baby’s development to proceed normally. All of these elements make sure that the presence of other factors supporting the brain development continues to stay so, and their absence could affect the development of various skills in the child’s later life.
18. Premature Delivery
Many premature babies can properly survive after completing a specific number of weeks in the womb. However, their brain development does take a hit since a majority of it takes place within the mother’s body, causing such kids to exhibit poor performance in school.
19. The Job of The Father
Even if the mother keeps herself safe from harmful substances, the exposure of the father to certain elements can put the baby at risk indirectly. Such elements can either enter the body or affect the sperm to cause brain-related disorders.
20. Parental Age
A child conceived by parents who are older than 35 or 40 years old, is at a higher risk of developing mental disorders. While some might be developmental, others could be psychiatric causing severe behavioural issues in many cases.
Understanding the prenatal brain development from conception to birth can leave you fascinated and stunned at the marvellous process that gives rise to a fully formed baby. However, your own support and vigilance are quite necessary for ensuring that this magical journey doesn’t face any untoward problems.
Also Read: What are the Symptoms of a Healthy Baby during Pregnancy? Read more
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Eating Sushi during Pregnancy - Is It Safe?
Pregnancy has been characterized by the inability of moms to take part in activities they love. After a woman finds out that a baby is on the way, she will no doubt be full of doubts about her actions and diet- questions start to pop up in her mind regarding everything around her. Questions about suitable food items are common, and the mother will definitely find herself having to forfeit on a lot of items she loves.
Sushi is a Japanese dish that has become famous and loved all over the world. However, sushi can raise a lot of questions during pregnancy, regarding whether it is safe to consume or harmful to the health of the foetus. In this article, let us take a look at whether sushi is safe to eat during pregnancy.
Can You Eat Sushi during Pregnancy?
Consuming sushi during pregnancy is not harmful to the child, provided it does not have uncooked or unfrozen fish. It has been found that raw fish has higher levels of harmful chemicals like mercury, and may also contain harmful bacteria and other pathogens. If the fish has been frozen or cooked thoroughly, sushi is fine to be consumed. Freezing the fish kills off a lot of parasites present in it, and high temperatures also have a similar result. The fish must be cooked at temperatures close to the boiling temperature to make it safe for consumption.
Risks Involved If a Pregnant Woman Eats Sushi
The sushi itself is not harmful for consumption, for pregnant women- the methods which are followed to make the sushi are what makes it harmful. In extreme cases, consuming sushi can also induce miscarriage in the woman. Let us take a look at a few of the risks involved in consuming sushi.
1. Infections
If the fish used in the dish is raw, there is a high chance of the woman contracting parasitic infections from it. Raw fish contains high levels of bacteria and other parasites, like tapeworm which can deprive the foetus of a lot of necessary nutrients when it grows. Such infections also affect your digestive system and gastrointestinal tract, which means that the growth of the foetus will be hampered. Anaemia and malnourishment are some other side effects of contracting a parasitic infection, and it can result in a miscarriage of the baby.
2. Immune System Suppression
During pregnancy, the immune system of the woman will be suppressed and greatly ineffectual. Consuming sushi at such a time can result in the mother contracting diseases that spread through the food, like listeriosis. Raw fish can also contain harmful listeria bacteria, so this remains a huge possibility.
3. Mercury
If the fish has not been cooked properly, it may still contain high levels of harmful chemicals like mercury. This is especially dangerous during pregnancy, as it can result in the nervous system, lungs, kidneys, vision and even the hearing abilities being damaged in the baby.
How Can Sushi be Made Safe to Eat While Pregnant?
Even though there are many harmful effects of consuming sushi during pregnancy, it can still be made safe for consumption by using the right kind of fish. The fish used in the dish must be ‘flash frozen’, which refers to a process of keeping the fish at extremely low temperatures right after harvesting it. This process has the capability to kill off the majority of the parasites and bacteria present in the fish, making it safe to consume.
Types of Sushi Pregnant Women Can Eat
Mercury levels are a real danger for pregnant women, so they should make sure to consume only fish with the lowest levels of mercury. These include fish such as:
Ark Shell
Conger
Sweetfish
Sandfish
Abalone
Clam
Shrimp
Scallop
Sandfish
Salmon
Squid
Crab
Shellfish
Gizzard Shad
Flatfish
Halfbeak
Trout
Smelt Egg
Octopus
Sea Bream
Cockle
Flying Fish Egg
Sea Urchin Roe
Freshwater Eel
What Kind of Sushi Should Pregnant Women Avoid?
Pregnant women should avoid sushi using fish with high levels of mercury, which include these apart from shark, swordfish and Mexican tilefish:
Mackerel
Tuna
Bonito
Yellowtail
Seabass
Blue marlin
What Sushi Rolls You Can Try during Pregnancy?
Pregnant women can consume some types of sushi rolls without any fear, and these are:
Cooked Salmon
California rolls
Eel rolls
Steak and Chicken Rolls
Shrimp Rolls
Vegetable Rolls
Tempura Rolls
Sushi Alternatives to Avoid Risk of Eating Raw Fish
Pregnancy is all about feeling good and feeding your desires, but the risks of consuming raw sushi outweigh the feeling of happiness you get when you consume it. However, you can consume the varieties of sushi given below, as they are safe to eat even during pregnancy.
1. Sushi from Cured Fish
While flash freezing can take care of the parasites present in the fish, there is an alternate process to kill those bacteria too- curing. If the fish has been cured, salted and pickled, you can be sure that all the parasites in it have been killed off. In order to cure the fish, you will need vinegar and salt. The first step is to apply the salt over the fish and leave it untouched for around one and a half hours. Then, wash the salt away and dry the fish using a towel, before soaking it in vinegar for about ten minutes. Dry the fish again, and then use it to cook the sushi.
2. Veg Sushi
This is the safest type of cooked sushi while pregnant, as it does not contain fish at all. Instead, you replace the fish in the dish with vegetables like carrots, avocado or even cucumbers. For people who love fish, this can seem unappealing- however, it can turn out to be a great, tasty dish if it is made with the right ingredients.
3. Homemade Sushi
Instead of curing the fish at home, you can also treat it in other ways to make it safe for consumption. Ensure that the fish has been left in the freezer for at least four days so as to eliminate the bacteria before cooking it.
Sushi Recipes You Can Make at Home
Here are a few recipes that you can try at home when you feel a craving for some sushi.
1. Vegetable Sushi
A great alternative to using fish, it is also perfectly safe for consumption even during pregnancy.
What You Will Require
Bamboo sushi mat
Nori seaweed sheets
Pickled ginger and wasabi
Vinegar from rice
Medium sized rice
Sugar
Soy Sauce
How to Make It
To make the rice, you need to cook the rice first with 2 and a quarter cups of water. Heat the sugar and the vinegar together so that they dissolve, and mix it with the rice.
The filling can be made with any vegetable, like carrots, avocado, tofu, cucumbers or even mushrooms marinated in soy sauce.
The next step is to make the roll- keep the bamboo mat over a flat surface and the nori sheet on top of that. Apply the rice in a layer over that, leaving a couple of cm from the sheet’s top edge. The filling should be added at the bottom edge of the sheet, and roll the mat. Then, cut it into small rolls.
2. California Rolls
This is a good choice for mothers who love their occasional serving of fish and sushi.
What You Will Require
Nori sheets
Bamboo sushi mat
Avocados
Sushi rice
Seedless cucumbers
Crab sticks
Spicy sauce
White sesame seeds
Kewpie mayonnaise
How to Make It
Prepare the rice as mentioned in the earlier recipe, and spread it over the nori sheet placed over the bamboo mat. Sprinkle sesame over the rice, and place the fillings (crab sticks and cucumber) leaving some place from the bottom. Roll the sheet, and press it into a cylindrical shape. Then, remove the roll and cut it into small pieces.
While sushi is a tasty delicacy, consuming it during pregnancy comes with a lot of risks. However, you can still have the dish if you ensure that the fish has been cooked properly. Otherwise, the best thing to do would be to consume vegetable sushi, which has no harmful effects whatsoever.
Also Read: Eating Fish during Pregnancy Read more
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Banana Prune Muffins
You wouldn't believe that something with prunes would be so good, but these banana prune muffin are super-delicious! And they aren't high in fat too. They are very moist and not at all rubbery or chewy! A definite must try.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
12 People
15 Minutes
20 Minutes
Ingredients
1/2 cup white sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 egg
1 cup mashed banana
1 tsp (teaspoon) vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1 cup chopped pitted prunes
Method
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350oF (175oC).
Step 2
Grease and flour a muffin pan, or use paper liners.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, oil and eggs. Beat together until smooth. Blend in banana and vanilla.
Step 4
Mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon in a separate bowl
Step 5
Stir this dry mixture into egg mixture until just moistened. Mix in the prunes. Spoon into muffin cups.
Step 6
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You can test the doneness using a toothpick - insert it into the centre of a muffin, if done, it should come out clean.
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Zika Virus in Pregnancy
Zika virus can affect pregnant women as well as the babies. This virus can cause serious birth defects in babies. This article explains all about the zika virus and how it affects a pregnant woman and her foetus.
What Is Zika Virus?
Zika virus spreads through infected mosquitoes. It is an RNA flavivirus, which is a group of viruses that have insect vectors and causes diseases like dengue, malaria, yellow fever, and hepatitis C. Zika can spread from the bite of an infected 'Aedes albo Aedes aegypti' or pictus mosquito. The disease is actually mild and most people who get infected recover completely without any complications.
Why Is it Dangerous?
Zika is dangerous as it can infect a pregnant woman and cause serious birth defects in the unborn baby. Zika causes microcephaly in the foetus, a condition characterized by an unusually small head and underdeveloped brain. It can also cause other neurological problems in the baby of an infected mother, such as hearing loss, vision problems, defective growth, seizures, and epilepsy.
How Does Zika Virus Spread?
Here are the ways in which Zika virus can spread from one person to another:
1. Mosquito Bites
This is the most common way how Zika virus spreads. When a mosquito infected with Zika bites a person, that person becomes infected with the virus. The mosquito ends up with the virus by biting an infected person and then passes it on to others when it bites them. The pathogen is present in the bloodstream for at least a week after becoming infected.
2. From Mother to Unborn baby
A mother can pass on the virus to her unborn baby. It has the capability to travel through the placenta and affect the baby in the womb.
3. Sexual Transmission
Zika can be transmitted by having sex with an infected individual through virus-infected body fluids like semen, vaginal fluids, and menstrual blood.
4. From Infected Blood, Body Fluids, and Tissues
In a hospital, you may come across infected tissue or blood. If you have a blood transfusion from an infected person, you could contract Zika.
Signs and Symptoms of Zika
Symptoms of Zika are comparatively mild and only one out of five infected people actually display any symptoms. Here are a few common signs of a Zika infection:
A headache
Joint pain
Muscle pain
Conjunctivitis (also called pink-eye)
Rashes
Redness in the whites of the eyes
Diagnosis and Tests for Zika When Pregnant
A doctor can confirm a Zika virus based on testing a blood or urine sample. The test may give negative results, which do not necessarily mean you are in the clear. Zika lingers in the body months after being infected. Doctors' order 3 different tests to make absolutely sure that it is a Zika infection.
What If the Test Is Positive?
If the test is positive, and you are pregnant, the doctor will recommend an amniocentesis to determine if the baby has been infected by Zika virus. You may also have to undergo ultrasound tests every 3-4 weeks to check the baby for signs of microcephaly and abnormal calcium deposits in the skull.
What If the Test Is Negative?
If the test is negative, it may not mean that you do not have Zika virus. Hence, the doctor may do an ultrasound to check for signs of microcephaly and calcium deposits in the skull. If there are no such signs, you will not need any further testing. If there are signs of microcephaly and calcium, the doctor may retest for Zika and do an amniocentesis just to check if the baby has been infected.
What Is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
Guillain-Barré syndrome or GBS is a condition that affects the nervous system. It is a disorder that causes inflammation in the peripheral nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. It causes paralysis and weakness in the limbs. It can also affect muscles that help us breathe. These symptoms can last a couple of weeks to several months. People with GBS usually recover fully. However, some are affected by lasting nerve damage.
How Is it Related to Zika Virus?
People infected with a zika virus are at an increased risk of developing GBS. Most people with GBS have reported an infection before they experience the symptoms of GBS. GBS is related to Zika as a significant proportion of people infected by Zika virus develop GBS.
Can it Affect Your Pregnancy?
GBS is rare in pregnancy. However, if a mom-to-be develops GBS, it can be potentially lethal. It can cause serious never damage in the mother and also be fatal for the baby. Affected mothers have to be closely watched for symptoms of respiratory failure and problems with the autonomous nervous system which controls breathing, heartbeat, and digestion.
Treatment for Zika Virus
Zika virus does not have a vaccine, cure, or treatment. Only the symptoms of the zika infection can be managed and treated. Infected people should rest, stay hydrated, and take pain relief medication. Infected people should also avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes for the first two weeks of illness. This is because they can spread the disease to other people through mosquito bites.
How Long Does Zika Last in Your Body?
According to research, it takes 6 months for the Zika virus to be completely eliminated from your body. Once you get infected by Zika, your body will develop immunity against the virus, which means you cannot get infected once again. However, there is inconclusive evidence to show how long this immunity lasts. Once the virus has gone from your body, there is no risk of birth defects in future pregnancies.
Prevention
Zika virus can be prevented if you adopt the following methods:
If you are trying to conceive or are pregnant, avoid visiting Zika affected areas. If you travel to an infected area, talk to your doctor about all the precautions you need to take. Once you return, get tested for a Zika infection.
Zika can be sexually transmitted. So, avoid multiple partners and always use contraceptives like condoms.
Protect yourself from getting bitten by mosquitoes. Use repellents and expose as less skin as possible to avoid mosquito bites.
If you need to get a blood transfusion, make sure the blood is tested for Zika virus.
If you work in the healthcare industry, follow workplace safety precautions. Wear gloves, glasses, and a mask. Do not come into direct contact with infected body fluids.
If you are planning to conceive via IVF through donated sperm, make sure that the sperm has been tested for Zika virus or that the donor is not infected.
How to Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites
The best method of preventing a Zika virus infection is by avoiding mosquito bites. You can avoid mosquitoes bites by following these tips:
1. Use Mosquito Repellent
Apply mosquito repellent on your skin before you go out. In the house, use mosquito repellent plug-ins. There are several repellents available in the markets that are safe for pregnant women.
2. Wear Clothes with Long Sleeves
Wear long-sleeved clothes, pants, and socks. Expose your skin as less as possible. There should be no room for mosquitoes to bite you. You can also get mosquito repellent treated clothes in the market.
3. Avoid Wooded Areas and Mosquito-Infested Outdoors
Avoid going outdoors when there are mosquitoes, like at sunset or after that. Also, avoid going to the wooded areas or mosquito-infested areas in the dark.
4. Use Air Conditioners
Air conditioning deters mosquitoes. So, sleep in an air-conditioned room.
5. Use a Mosquito Net
You can also use a mosquito net to prevent from getting bitten by mosquitoes while you sleep.
6. Avoid Going to the Areas Affected by Zika
Do not travel to Zika-affected areas. Regions like Brazil, Central America, Indonesia, Southeast Asia, and some parts of India are affected by Zika virus. Do not travel to these places. Of course, in pregnancy, you would avoid travelling as much as you can, but even if you do, then visit some place which is free of mosquitoes.
7. Keep Your House and Neighbourhood Clean
Do not use water from open sources, such as storage buckets, as mosquitoes breed in water. Make sure that the drains are covered well to prevent mosquitoes from spreading.
FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the important frequently asked questions about Zika virus:
1. Can Zika Virus Cause Microcephaly or Other Birth Defects?
Yes, Zika virus affects the foetus as the virus is able to cross the placental barrier and enter the baby’s body. It causes microcephaly, characterised by a very small head and underdeveloped brain. It can also cause other birth defects like problems with hearing and sight, growth retardation, and epileptic seizures.
2. Is There Any Vaccine for Zika Virus?
There is no cure if you get infected by the Zika virus. Only the symptoms of the Zika infections can be treated and managed. The symptoms are usually mild, but there can be occasional complications like Guillain-Barré syndrome, partial paralysis, and permanent nerve damage.
3. What Do I Need to Know If I Have Lived or Travelled to a Zika Affected Area?
If you have travelled to a Zika affected area, you need to get tested for Zika infection. If your test turns out to be positive, you need to treat the symptoms and avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes for at least 2 weeks to prevent the disease from being spread. You also need to abstain from sex for at least 6 months to avoid transmitting the virus sexually. If you are pregnant, your baby will need to be tested for Zika and monitored closely for signs of microcephaly and birth defects.
3. What If My Partner Has Travelled to a Place Where There Is an Outbreak?
If your partner has travelled to an area with a Zika outbreak, he or she needs to get tested for infection immediately after returning. You should avoid sexual contact with the partner until it has been proven that he or she is not infected. You should also make sure that both of you avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes as this is the main way Zika spreads from person to person.
4. Are All Babies Tested for Zika Infection at Birth?
All babies in Zika-infected areas are tested for Zika at birth. Babies of parents who have been infected by Zika are also tested at birth for Zika infection. Babies may also be tested for Zika if they show symptoms of congenital Zika syndrome. If your baby exhibits no symptoms of Zika, but the tests show that you were infected during pregnancy, then the baby will be tested for Zika infection at birth.
5. Can You Breastfeed If You Are Infected with Zika during Pregnancy?
You can breastfeed your baby if you are infected with Zika during pregnancy. The Zika virus is present in the breast milk. However, there is no evidence of babies getting infected from breast milk.
Zika virus is a mosquito-borne disease that is very dangerous for pregnant women and their unborn babies as it causes serious birth defects. It is best to follow the tips in this article to prevent Zika infection during pregnancy.
Also Read: Chikungunya Virus Infection during Pregnancy Read more
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 9 m old child
3 hours ago
Q. hi mam , my baby 1 year and 9 month old just now onwards stop breast feeding .pls suggest formula milk to my baby
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. your baby is more than 1 year 9 months of age any milk including buffalo milk cows milk ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 hours ago
Q. #AskTheExpert hello dr.
baby planning kar rhi kuch tips btayiye conceive ho jaye
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. it's a natural process ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. when baby is kick? I'm 13 weeks pregnant
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
2 hours ago
A. during first pregnancy you may feel the baby movements after 24 to 25 weeks of pregnancy and till then only mild flatters may be felt but which you may not be feeling if you are doing some work
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
1 hour ago
Q. I’m in my 31 week 1 day of pregnancy. What will be my delivery date??
As I have low lying placenta with grade 1 maturity.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. you had to correlate is ultrasound examination. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
1 hour ago
Q. My hemoglobin is 6.4 from 28 weeks of pregnancy. Now I’m 31 weeks pregnant. What should I do?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. Haven’t when you having some kind of iron supplement because they’re very good during the time of pregnancy if you are not having one you need to start with and whatever tabs you take you should just take it with any good juice specially pomegranate juice that’s going to help in doubling the impact of the medicine that you’re taking secondly try and include more of Iron which diet like spinach broccoli beetroot pomegranate black rice sweet potato these things are exceptionally healthy for you to consume
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
56 mins ago
Q. This is my cbc report
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
52 mins ago
A. No there is nothing visible on my wall so I can really really cannot help you can you please repose the question once again providing all the necessary details as once I’m certain what are you talking about what’s mentioned in the report according to that I can provide you proper help on your question
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