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8 Harmful Effects of Mobile Phones on Children
Children all over the world use smartphones for various purposes. Some children are seen talking to their friends for long hours, while others spend their time playing countless games on the phone. The internet is an abode of knowledge for children. Though the utility of smartphones cannot be debated, continued use and exposure can have harmful effects on the child.
Bad Effects of Smartphones/Cell Phones on Children
Mobile phones may be an easy way to distract children or keep them occupied. However, they come with their own set of vices. Some of the negative effects of regular use of mobile phones include:
1. Tumours
For quite some time, there has been extensive research in the field of understanding cell phone radiation effects on children. Since children are still in a stage where their bodies are undergoing changes and growth, the effects of mobile radiation could be different on them, from those on adults.
Children that have a tendency to use phones for extended periods of time, keeping them close to their ears, have shown a higher chance of developing non-malignant tumours, especially in the regions of the ear and brain. The bones, tissues, and protective linings for organs such as the brain, are still very thin in the kids. Hence, these organs end up absorbing beyond 60% radiation that is emitted from the mobile phones. The radiation can have strange effects on the human body, sometimes directly affecting the nervous system, too. This has been classified by the World Health Organisation as a “possible carcinogen” and carries a potential risk of cancer.
2. Disturbed Brain Activity
Mobile phones primarily function on electromagnetic waves for all forms of communication, even internal. The brain has its own electric impulses and communication is carried out in the neural network. In children, the waves from the phone can easily penetrate right into the interior parts of the brain, as they do not have a strong shield.
Research has shown that by merely talking on the phone for 2 minutes, the electrical activity inside a child’s brain can be changed. This erratic activity can cause changes in mood patterns and behavioural tendencies, and children may have trouble learning new things or focusing properly.
3. Academic Performance
Many children carry phones along with them to their schools. Chatting with friends or playing games during school breaks, or even in the class, is increasing day by day. This results in children failing to pay attention in the class, missing out on important lessons, and consequently, being clueless about studies and examinations.
4. Academic Malpractice
Smartphones not only distract children from studies, but may also be their tool of malpractices to score well in exams. Using the inbuilt calculator in exams where it isn’t allowed, storing photographs or reference information to cheat in the examination, or even exchanging answers with other students over chat during the exam, have been widely observed in various schools. Such behaviour not only affects academic performance, but also results in a personality issue.
5. Inappropriate Media
Like any other gadget, the mobile phone is also a tool and can be used for wrong purposes. Kids could come across inappropriate messages, images, or texts shared by their friends or in the group, and further pass it on to others. They can find their way to pornography at an early age, changing their perceptions and thought process. Even exchanging images of their own, irresponsibly, can create a fiasco that impacts their lives for a long time.
6. Sleep Disruption
Children may stay up late talking to friends, playing games, or scrolling through social media, which over a period of time, causes fatigue and restlessness. Sleep also disrupts academic life, as kids are too sleepy to concentrate on what is taught in school. Hence, this has a domino effect that seeps into all walks of their lives.
7. Medical Issues
With children glued to the mobile phone during their free time, they don’t partake in physical activity and get fresh air. This puts them at risk for obesity and other illnesses, which can later develop into harmful diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
8. Mental Health
Children on social media may come in contact with cyberbullies who harass and bully them over the internet. Many children who have been cyberbullied may only admit their experience much later in life, when the mental damage has already been done. Social media may also induce depression and anxiety when the kids are not given the online attention they expect.
Mobile Phone Safety Tips to Decrease the Risk
Taking the right measures to ensure mobile phone safety for kids is extremely important while they are growing up.
Avoid giving cell phones to children under the age of 16. Young children are yet to develop the required skull bone density and protective tissue for the brain, making them vulnerable to effects of the radiation.
When your child talks on the phone, make him/her use a wired headset instead of holding the phone to the ear.
While travelling, avoid constantly giving your child your mobile phone. The metal body of the vehicle blocks signals, which causes the phone to increase its power to catch them.
Do not let your child use a mobile phone in areas where the signal strength is weak. Mobiles, in such cases, amplify their own radiation to get a good signal strength, which can be harmful to the child.
As an adult, it is important for parents and other people in the house to restrict their use of phones when they are around children. This is not only for purposes of avoiding radiation, but to create a behaviour pattern as well.
It is advised to take extra care if there is a mobile phone tower on or nearby, or even close to the child’s school, since their exposure to radiation is more than usual.
Completely restrict your child from taking phones to school. Keep the school’s contact number and provide them yours in case of an emergency.
Keep your mobile phones safely with you and out of sight of your kids at night. Children may quietly try to get a hold of it, without you finding out.
As with every technology or tool out there, a mobile phone is a double-edged sword. The technological prowess of the smartphone is tremendous and it is quite a learning tool for children as well. However, keeping things in moderation and restricting usage hours goes a long way in ensuring children’s well-being and inculcating good behavioural habits in them.
References & Resources:
Webmd
Also Read:
Positive & Negative Effects of TV on Kids
Positive and Negative Influence of Advertising on Kids
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What are the Right Clothes to Wear When Pregnant?
Pregnancy is a huge milestone - You're bringing a new life to this world. Mothers do everything within their power to make sure that their little ones are comfortable and taken care of. But more often than not, mothers forget that they too, need to be taken care of, equally. Comfort is top on the list, because your body, as well as your mind, need it so that you have an easy, comfortable pregnancy. Wearing the right clothes during pregnancy is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Why Pregnant Women Should Wear Comfortable Clothes?
Can clothes you wear affect your health during pregnancy? Here are reasons why pregnant women should wear comfortable clothes:
Your body changes drastically. The entire phase of pregnancy sees tremendous change, so, you need to wear clothes that are not just comfortable, but appropriate for your growing form as well.
During pregnancy, your body is on high alert, because of the drastic change in your hormonal functioning. One of the results of hormonal imbalance is skin sensitivity. This means that your body is prone to skin allergy and rash. Wearing the right material is imperative if you want to avoid any type of skin irritation.
The first trimester of pregnancy is synonymous with nausea and vomiting for most women. Wearing uncomfortable clothes is not the wisest decision, as you're just contributing to feeling worse. Clothes that are tight can cause heartburn and indigestion, which in turn can cause nausea and vomiting.
Going through nine months of pregnancy means you'll be going through different seasons as well. A lot of pregnant women complain of heat and sweat during summer and too much cold during winter. During the summer days, wear cotton clothes that absorb sweat and keeps you cool, especially during the day. Keep yourself warm during winter by wearing woollen clothes.
Your sleeping posture changes during pregnancy, especially during the final trimester. While sleeping, choose appropriate night wear that is loose and soft.
What Types of Clothes You Should Wear during Pregnancy?
Pregnancy can come in the way of your fashion statement, especially when your favourite pair of jeans and tops don't come anywhere close to fitting you right. However, all hope is not lost, because you can still look like a million dollars and be comfortable as well. So what types of clothes should you wear during pregnancy?
Cotton is your best friend. Wear cotton clothes that are loose and breathable. Cotton helps absorb sweat and keeps you cool and free. Cotton also happens to be skin friendly, so that works in your favor as well.
Go for pants or skirts that can be fastened with a drawstring, as opposed to those who have a belt or zipper. This way, you can adjust the looseness or tightness as per your convenience. These are easy on your skin too.
Wear clothes that provide ample support for your growing belly. This makes you more comfortable. There are a lot of maternity tops and clothing that are available.
With pregnancy, your waist and breasts increase in size - discard your old inners for new ones. You might want to invest in bras that can aide in breastfeeding as well, for after your pregnancy. Also, avoid wearing underwire or padded bras, as this can inhibit blood circulation, and in some cases, cause lumps due to fluid retention.
Wraparounds are not just trendy and classy; they're extremely comfortable as well. Invest in these, and team them up with tank tops or tunics.
You can wear clothes that have elastics as well, but make sure these aren't too tight.
Frequent visits to the loo to pee are common during pregnancy. Buy clothes keeping this factor in mind, like skirts and dresses.
Avoid unnatural fabrics like synthetics, elastin, chiffon and georgette. Your hormones are in overdrive, owing to which you will sweat excessively. Wearing these materials will make it worse.
Wear clean clothes during pregnancy. The last thing you need is an infection or skin rash.
Maxi dresses, loose shirts, gowns, tunics, and wraparounds are a few appropriate choices because they are easy wears that are comfortable. Look up for loose dresses to wear during pregnancy.
Things to Keep in Mind while Choosing Pregnancy Clothes
Firstly, as mentioned before, your stomach is growing - and in a matter of months. You need to remember this while choosing pregnancy clothes.
You need to know what to wear during pregnancy in summer as well. Summer is hot and adds to the fact that your hormones are all over the place - this means you're going to be sweating like never before. And this is why investing in cotton clothes that are light colour is a must. Avoid black or dark coloured clothes. Summer is not the time for synthetic clothes as it can cause you to sweat more. Make sure your clothes don't have heavy works on them like sequins or embroidery, unless you absolutely have to wear such clothes, like on an occasion that calls for it.
Having said that, what to wear during pregnancy in winter is the next question. Your body is sensitive during pregnancy, and you're taking care of both you and your child, so keeping warm during the winter is a smart decision. Woolen clothes are soft and warm, so invest in these. Keep your feet warm too, so buy a lot of socks.
Don't step out in the rain; you can't afford to get wet, as you might fall sick or worse, slip and fall.
Another thing you need to keep in mind while shopping for pregnancy clothes is your budget. You can get thrifty and shop at the local store, but make sure that these clothes are of good quality.
Wear clothes that can be washed often. This is because, owing to morning sickness and sweating, your clothes get dirty faster.
Pregnancy is not just about your baby; it is about you as well. The first step to taking care of your baby is by taking care of yourself. Wearing the right set of clothes means a happier you, and a happier you means a happier baby.
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How to Choose Right Bra during Pregnancy
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Your Baby This Week : 6 Month Week 3 Old
Your baby can now roll over from stomach to back and vice-versa. This can be even when he’s sleeping. However, back sleeping is still the optimal position. When your baby can sit-up independently, he is ready to start bathing in the big tub. Here are a few guidelines to make bath time safe. Supervise your child at all times during a bath. A robust and water proof bath seat or bath ring with suction cups on the bottom can help keep your baby at a manageable position but it doesn’t guarantee his safety. Do not leave your children unsupervised at any time. Keep the water temperature between 96 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Soap, shampoo, and bubble bath can irritate your child’s skin during a long soak (and a bubble bath can irritate the urethra, leading to urinary tract infections), so use them sparingly.
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Cold Shower or Hot? Find Out Which One is The Best For Your Health!
As a mom, long baths are a thing of the past. So, how do you maximise the goodness of that five-minute window for cleanliness and relaxation? Discover what is more beneficial for your body and mind, hot showers or cold showers.
The moment you step in for 5-10 minutes of peace and solitude in the shower, your baby either wakes up and starts crying. Or, if you have older kids, they are at each other's throats! So how do you get the most out of that limited time? How do you choose between a cold and hot water shower?
Hot Vs. Cold Shower
Some of us eagerly look forward to our hot shower first thing in the morning. But some others like it cold. Hot and cold showers are both popular; however, how can you be sure you are making the right choice for your age and heath? Strange as it may seem, the kind of shower you take has a big impact not just on your day but also on your overall wellness!
Let’s compare hot and cold showers so you can make an informed choice.
Benefits of Cold Shower
1. Makes you more alert and energetic
Showering in cold water increases alertness. When you step into one, you can’t help but take deep breaths, which increase the flow of oxygen to the body and release a rush of blood that keeps you energetic and awake. Take a cold shower and you'll feel pepped up through the day and energetic enough to handle anything that comes your way.
2. Protects your skin and hair
Cold showers are also beneficial for your skin and hair. They help hydrate you and tighten your cuticles and pores. For people with dry skin, hot water can exacerbate the problem, which is why experts advise toning the temperature down.
3. May help you burn fat
When you take a cold shower, you activate your body’s brown fat. This is a heat-generating kind of fat that actually burns energy! So, during a cold shower, your body ends up burning more calories by activating this brown fat. We think this is one of the coolest benefits of cold showers, don't you?
Did you know: Another way to lose weight through ‘cool’ therapy is by placing an ice pack on your upper back and chest for 30 minutes daily.
Watch: How to Burn Fat By Taking a Cold Shower Every Day!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_GYzEbzcZQ
Key Takeaways:
When you are exposed to the cold, it mimics the effects of exercise and fights against obesity!
A cold shower is one way of losing fat without actually engaging in exercise. Another thing you can use is a big glass of ice cold water on an empty stomach (in the morning)
4. Can even cure depression!
Doctors often recommend cold showers as a treatment for depression. The cold water sends electrical impulses to the nerve endings in the brain. This produces an anti-depressive effect and makes cold showers an effective mood lifter. In fact, doctors often recommend 2-3 short cold showers in a day for people suffering from depression.
5. Promotes muscle repair after workout/exercise
If you are into daily exercise (which, by the way, is amazing), cold showers are what you need. The cold water prevents the swelling and pain which often follow a strenuous workout, and helps your muscles repair.
6. Bonus benefit – this one is for your husband!
Scientists have now established that taking a cold shower has a positive effect on the levels of testosterone, the male sex hormone! This means a happier and, err, naughtier sex life!
Disadvantages of Cold Shower
1. Difficult during the winter
Goes without saying, cold showers aren’t for everyone or for all weather! Taking a cold shower in the cold winter months can be a very unwelcoming thought.
2. Not recommended during illness
If you are unwell, it is not recommended to take a cold shower. The body needs the heat from a hot shower for faster healing and rejuvenation.
Benefits of Hot Shower3. Relieves cold and nasal congestion
Hot showers are beneficial for you if you have a cold and congestion. The hot steam is a natural decongestant and unclogs nasal passages. If you're not feeling so good, step into the bathroom and shower in hot, steamy water. Have somebody reliable look after the kids if you're feeling unwell, and spend time inhaling the steam in the bathroom.
4. Provides stress relief
One of the biggest benefits of hot showers is that they are a great tension reliever for stressed moms. They increase your oxytocin levels and ease anxiety. Have hubby or your mom babysit the kids for half an hour, and just let the water beat down on you in thick streams. You'll be ready to face the day!
5. Cures muscle stiffness and body aches
If you're feeling stiff and have cramps, the benefits of a hot shower become clear. It can work wonders on your body. A powerful showerhead throws down strong streams of water that can work as a massage to relieve the stiffness of your muscles. Showering in hot water also relieves any soreness you may be feeling anywhere in your body, whether during your period or otherwise.
Disadvantages of Hot Shower
1. Harmful for your hair and skin
This is perhaps the biggest disadvantage of a hot shower. The hot water can be very drying for your hair and skin, leaving you with dry skin and split hair-ends.
2. Increases risk of skin breakouts
Hot showers tend to open your skin pores which means there is a greater likelihood that debris and dirt will accumulate. This makes you vulnerable to skin conditions and problems.
Confused between Hot and Cold Water Shower?
So, both hot and cold showers seem to have their own merits and demerits. Which one to choose? Here is a quick test to help you decide:
Age: If you are older than 40, it may be advisable to bathe with lukewarm water. For people under 40, cold water is recommended
Time: If you shower in the morning, choose cold water. For the evening, a hot water shower is recommended.
Health: Choose hot water if you are suffering from illnesses like cold, cough or joint pain. According to the ancient science of Ayurveda, people with liver disease, indigestion, etc., should bathe with cold water. Also opt for cold water if you have skin problems like dermatitis or breakouts.
Habits: If you have an active lifestyle and engage in daily exercise, a cold water shower is better for you.
That’s it! Choose between a cold water vs. hot water shower depending on the need of the hour. Quick Tip: You could also take a hot shower, followed by a 2-minute cold splash. You’ll reap the goodness of both in no time!
How to Shower According to Dermatologists
Now that you have made your choice between a hot and a cold shower, time to get going! Hot or cold, it is important to shower in the correct manner to reap all its health benefits. We have brought you some expert tips on showering, straight from dermatologists.
Don’t shower for too long. Prolonged water exposure can lead to dry skin and hair. If you have any skin conditions like dermatitis, keep the showers even shorter. Dr. Lauren Ploch, a board-certified dermatologist with the American Academy of Dermatology, recommends “keeping showers to five minutes or less. Don't stand under water for minutes at a time."
Don’t wash your hair too often. This is truer if you have coloured hair, which tends to be drier. Washing twice a week is usually considered adequate
Shower top to bottom so the soap can work its way down your body. Bonus tip: If you are prone to acne, condition your hair first and then cleanse your face, chest and back
Shave at the end of the shower. If you shave your body hair, do it at the end of a short shower so your hair is damp but not swollen from heat/steam
Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it with a towel. Focus on drying sensitive areas such as the groin, between toes and other skin folds
Never forget the moisturiser. Moisturise within a few minutes of showering so you can create a barrier between your skin and the air, thus preventing moisture loss
A shower is your personal time that you need to keep aside for yourself to relax and rejuvenate. Make the right choice based on your health and personal needs, and reap the many benefits of showering. Happy bath-time! Read more
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Toddlers Turning Switches On and Off
It’s common to see toddlers turn switches on and off in the house. They're at an exploratory stage and want to check out everything. However, this can turn out to be hazardous. There's a need to childproof your home, including switches and electrical controls.
Your child is growing up every day and is eager to explore the world out of his cot and playpen. But he has no sense of danger, so he will try out everything that is in his line of sight and hands. Since most people use electrical appliances and gadgets, power outlets and extension cords are part and parcel of most houses. Unfortunately, they’re not really designed keeping your baby’s safety in mind. He will try to put his little fingers in sockets, turn switches on and off, and pull at wires. It’s, therefore, important to childproof your home so that he can explore it without getting hurt.
Numerous Ways to Toddler-proof Switches and Gadgets
Identify Electrical Hazards around the House
There are various appliances, gadgets and wires that can prove to be hazardous for a toddler. You need to identify them and then think about childproofing them. Common hazards are:
Electrical outlets with open sockets and switches
Extension cords
Hanging and looping cords
Plugged in appliances like toaster, mixer, TV, DVD player and computers.
Make it Unreachable
Once you know what needs to be childproofed, start with making them unreachable for your child. This can prove to be a bit difficult but it does provide a temporary solution to the problem. Place furniture or heavy items in front of the switchboard to keep your toddler from touching switches. You may find it tricky to get to the switchboard but you can rearrange the furniture once your little one gets over this on-and-off game.
Cover Them
The next solution is to get socket covers or caps to conceal socket holes. If you want a cheaper solution, you can even use masking tape or sticky tape. While it may not last as long as a proper switch cover, it’s a temporary solution to preventing your 23-month-old from turning switches on and off.
Explain the Danger
Another way how you can stop your toddler from turning switches on and off is to make him aware of the hazards of playing with them. It will take him time to understand, of course, but repeated warnings and an occasional time-out will eventually work.
Make Him Feel Responsible
Turning switches on and off is like play for children. They find it intriguing to see what happens when they press a switch. When teaching your tot not to play with them, do so by giving him responsibilities. For e.g. while going into a room, ask him to turn on the lights. Ask him to turn them off when you leave the room as well. This way, he’ll know that he’s fulfilled an important task that’s not a playful activity.
Living with a toddler is like dealing with a single-man army! But there are ways in which you can make yours and your toddler’s life safer. Try out these tips and let us know how things go.
If you have any other suggestions, do share them as well!
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Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
9 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts is it okay that the baby is kicking less than usual?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
9 hours ago
A. Yes it is the what part is that your child is kicking if you feel that there is a movement of your child whether it is a cake or slight movement also you know that your child is doing fine so there is no problem in that if the movement is less it’s completely alright
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
8 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what to do if the baby’s nose is blovked
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
8 hours ago
A. Nasal blockage is very common, specially in small children because of the narrow nasal cavity. Any kind of saline drops like nasal clear will be helpful in dissolving the stuffy secretions, which can be taken out by vnasal aspirator gently also steam inhalation will be helpful also, try to avoid keeping the child directly under the fan.
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
6 hours ago
Q. 22 week pregnant,baby konse month me or din me kitni baar move kartaa he ,pls bataye abhi sirf 2, 3 baar hi hota he
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. hi
yes it's enough
and the frequency and timing may vary as we all are different
but yes, the frequency of feeling baby movements will increase now
please go for regular check-up to your gynecologist
and follow his or her suggestions
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
5 hours ago
Q. hi
need help and advice
my RT 18x16mm and LT 10x16mm ET 6.59
and did ovulation rest also showing fertility test C as if now , pls advice if we intercourse tomorrow then when will be my ovulation start.
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. You can check with an ovulation kit if it is positive then you can certainly go ahead with the conception because ovulation kit is going to give you 100% clarity whether you are ovulating or not with that you can try practising if you can conceive the same time
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
56 mins ago
Q. Bread feeding mother can have green tea
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
31 mins ago
A. absolutely no problem to have green tea 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
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
22 mins ago
Q. In my growth scan doctor found that 2 round cord has been partly around baby necks. Is there any problem with this. will I get normal delivery?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
19 mins ago
A. A lot of times normal delivery is actually seen in these cases also if the doctor is quick and the child cooperate then yes normal delivery is very much possible but some doctors don’t take a chance with the health of your child and so they normally suggest C-section so let’s see what’s your situation by the end when you are into your labour
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