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Chickenpox In Babies & Children
It has been rightly said that prevention is always better than cure. If you want to prevent a disease in your child, it is important that you know everything about it. There are several health concerns that a mother has for her child, and chicken pox is one that can give many parents nightmares. This article will you get a thorough insight into the disease. Find out the causes, symptoms, and remedies of chicken pox so you can safeguard your children.
Video: Chickenpox In Children - Causes, Signs & Treatment
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KUyfmJiRV0
What Is Chicken Pox?
Chickenpox, which is also known as varicella, is a viral infection. It is characterised by small, itchy rashes or blisters all over the body along with flu-like symptoms and fever. When the infection increases, the rashes turn into fluid-filled blisters, and as they dry up, scabs and crust form on them. While some children will only have a few rashes on their bodies, other affected children may have blisters all over. The rashes generally appear on the face, ears, arms, chest, stomach, and legs. Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease and can easily infect anyone who comes into contact with the infected child. This disease is a common illness in children below 12 years of age.
Is Chickenpox Infectious?
Chickenpox is a very contagious disease and can easily spread from one child to another. It can spread through
Direct contact
Indirect Contact
Direct contact means spreading of infection through kissing and saliva. Therefore, if your child has chickenpox, refrain from kissing the child. Indirect contact means spreading of infection through coming in indirect contact with blister fluids. The infection can even spread through cough, and sneeze of the infected child. Though chickenpox is very contagious in humans, the virus does not spread to pets like dogs or cats.
Causes
Chickenpox is caused by varicella zoster virus or VZV. This virus causes painful rashes on the body. Infants and children can easily get infected with this highly contagious virus. Most of the times, it becomes very difficult to find out how and when your baby got this infection. This is because the virus can spread even before the appearance of the first pustule on the body. Therefore, an infant coming into direct contact with anyone with this infection can get infected. Once infected, the pustules start to appear on the child’s body as early as a week of getting the infection or as late as two to three weeks.
Symptoms Of Chickenpox
Chickenpox infection usually starts with flu-like symptoms. Signs of chickenpox in infants and children include the following:
Fever
Headache
Nausea
Stomach ache
Pains and aches
Loss of appetite
The rashes will start to appear on the baby’s body a few days after he has been infected. These little red bumps will be noticeable on your baby’s face first and then they will spread to the other parts of the body. This includes areas such as the arms, torso, and legs. A few babies will only have mild blisters but in some babies, the blisters come in clusters and appear to run into one another. These chickenpox blisters are sorer in the delicate areas such as mouth, scalp, and groin. The can also be painful, so make sure that your baby is wearing loose garments. The infection can spread a few days before the appearance of the rash and even when the rash has completely dried out.
Complications Of Chickenpox
If proper care during chickenpox is not given, complications can arise in children. These complications include:
Skin infection. Some sores can get infected by repeated scratching and result in skin infection
Scarring from the sores
In rare circumstances, some serious complications can arise, such as:
Inflammation of brain, also known as encephalitis. This can affect muscle coordination in children
Inflammation of lungs, also known as varicella pneumonia
Inflammation of kidneys
Appendicitis
Inflammation of heart muscles
Inflammation of joints
Though these complications are very rare, one needs to exercise proper caution to avoid such problems.
Shingles
Shingles is a skin rash. It is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. If your child has already had a bout of chickenpox then this virus stays in the nerve cells of the spine. Though it does not affect the functioning of the nerves, this virus can cause shingles in the later stages of life. Shingles are rarely seen in children below 12 years of age. It is more common in older people than in children.
Diagnosing Chicken Pox
Diagnosing chickenpox in your child in the initial stage can be tricky as the symptoms are the same as flu. The child will have a fever, running nose, headache, cough, and may feel extremely fatigued. There may be a loss of appetite too. It is only after a few days that the child will show substantial symptoms such as the appearance of rashes on the face and other parts of the body including genitals. Some children will only have a few spots on the body whereas other children might have plenty. These spots will cause pain and itching. As soon as you register these symptoms in your child, it is important to seek medical help at the earliest to stop the infection from spreading further.
How To Treat Chickenpox In Children?
Your child’s immune system is what fights the chickenpox virus. The treatment recommended by the doctor will include easing the pain and discomfort of the child. Apart from that, the following things can also take care of some of the issues related to chicken pox:
Fever - Proper medication will be given to the child to control the fever. One of the most popular medicines used is Acyclovir. It must be administered as soon as 24 hours after the first rashes break out for the best results
Blisters and sores - Creams and ointments are prescribed to keep provide relief from the itch and speed up healing of the sores. Calamine is one such lotion that can ease the scratching and also feel nice on the child’s skin
Comfortable clothes - The child should be dressed in comfortable cotton clothes. Dressing them in light clothes will help them feel much more comfortable and not raise their body temperature
Clipping the finger nails - The child’s nails should be clipped so that the child cannot scratch the blisters
Keep the child hydrated and fed - Enough fluids should be given to the child to avoid dehydration. Try to give them water and avoid spicy food or sugary drinks like cola or milkshakes, especially if the chickenpox has spread to the mouth, as such foods and drinks can aggravate the pain. You can give your child eggs, chicken or any meat as it has lysine which helps in the healing process. Other recommended foods include garlic, coconut oil and apple cider vinegar
Neem leaves - Need leaves are another great way to prevent the sores from hurting. You can either crush them into a paste and apply it or boil the leaves and use a washcloth after it cools down
Gauze pads - Soaking a gauze pad in bicarbonate soda and water and applying them on the wounds is another way to reduce the itchy feeling
Mittens and socks - By having your kids put on mittens or socks on their hands, you can prevent them from itching their skin, which can otherwise lead to scarring
Prevention
Chicken pox in babies can easily be prevented with the chickenpox vaccination. Children who have had a chickenpox shot get 80 to 90 percent protection from this infection. The question is can you get chickenpox after being vaccinated?
Some children who do not develop complete protection from the virus may have a bout of chickenpox after being exposed to the infection. However, this bout of chickenpox is milder, causes fewer rashes, and almost no fever. Chickenpox vaccination is given to the child after 12 months to 15 months and a booster dose is also recommended from 4 to 6 years of age.
The vaccination can be given as a single vaccination for chickenpox alone or in formulation with other vaccination that comes as MMRV (mumps, measles, rubella, and varicella).
Other methods of prevention of the disease include not allowing your child to come in contact with an infected person as the disease can spread. It is important that the child understands the situation as he/she could feel left out during this delicate time. Also, maintaining hygiene will enable the child to build a stronger immune system against the occurrence of such diseases. However, the best way is to ensure that your child is administered with the chickenpox vaccine.
Chicken Pox Vaccine
Some parents believe that it is unnecessary to give chicken pox vaccine to a small baby. This is because babies get a milder bout of chicken pox as compared to adults. Their bodies fight the infection on its own without much difficulty. However, many health practitioners recommend this vaccine. It is advisable to get protection against chickenpox with a chickenpox vaccine as sometimes the complications can turn fatal. There are scenarios where the child can have a serious infection in the brain, liver, kidney or other parts of the body.
These vaccines are easily available with all healthcare providers. Chicken pox vaccines are extremely safe to be administered to small babies. Though this vaccine is costly, it provides protection to your baby.
Types Of Chicken Pox Vaccine
The chicken pox vaccination is very effective in treating this viral infection. Though in most cases the vaccine provides complete protection from the disease, in some cases the child still might get this infection. Symptoms of chickenpox in vaccinated children are very mild and do not cause much discomfort. Therefore, it is always recommended to get a chicken pox vaccine in comparison to letting the child’s immune system fight the disease. There are two types of chicken pox vaccines:
Varicella- This vaccine is given for the protection of chicken pox only
MMRV- This is a combined vaccine for mumps, measles, rubella, and varicella and works effectively to protect the body against chicken pox
When You Should Give Chicken Pox Vaccine
Chicken pox vaccine can be given as soon as one year after the birth of your child. The vaccine is given in two shots which should be at least three months apart. Therefore, the first schedule of medicine should take place between 12 months to 15 months. The second schedule or the booster dosage is given to the child between 4 to 6 years of age. If by any chance this schedule is missed then a child of 13 or more years can receive two doses at 1 month apart.
Is Chicken Pox Vaccine Safe?
Chickenpox vaccine is effective in the prevention of chicken pox and it is also very safe for babies. The vaccine helps your child to fight the infection by developing antibodies in the body. This vaccination involves injection of a weakened form of the virus in your child. Though there may be some redness and pain, it will gradually subside.
While it is entirely up to the parents to take a call on whether or not to get the child vaccinated against chicken pox, it is recommended by heath experts. Chicken pox in vaccinated children is milder and does not cause much discomfort.
Side-Effect Of Chickenpox Vaccine
Chickenpox vaccine is extremely safe and effective and does not cause any side effects. But in a few children, this vaccine can cause various side-effects after getting the vaccine. Just like any other medicine, the chicken pox vaccine can also cause some complications in children such as:
Running nose, pain in the throat
Muscle or joint pain
Fever
Redness, swelling or pain where the vaccine was administered
Skin rash
Fatigue
Headache
Problem in sleeping
Apart from the above-mentioned complications, there are some serious complications that can also arise in rare cases, such as:
Very high fever
Difficulty in breathing
Discomfort in the chest
Easy bleeding and bruising
Change in behaviour
Seizure
If any of the above symptoms occur, it is advised to seek medical help at once to avoid any further complications.
Can Child With Chickenpox Go To School?
Chicken pox is highly contagious and can spread easily from one child to another. Therefore, it is not advisable to send your child to school when your child has chicken pox. The infection becomes active even before the appearance of the first spot or rash. Thus, the decision to not send them to school can be made as soon as you notice a rash or spot on your child’s body for a day or two. If this is accompanied by a fever,f then this could be the very first stage of the viral infection. The infection can easily spread from a cough or a sneeze of the infected child. Till the time all the blisters dry up, and no new scabs are formed, you should refrain from sending your child to school. The child should be made to stay home and rest until the time the infection subsides.
Conclusion: Chicken pox is extremely contagious but with proper caution and care this infection can be kept at bay. It is advised to get your baby immunised against the disease as it reduces the chances of your baby getting this viral infection. Read more
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Dengue in Babies and Toddlers
In the early stages of their life, babies are prone to a variety of illnesses and diseases. Most of them are taken care of by ensuring that their diet is restricted to breastmilk or properly home cooked food, in older babies. But certain natural aspects cannot always be controlled, such as pests and insects. Mosquitoes are the primary suspects of these, finding their way easily into our homes and causing havoc. Not only that, they are responsible for causing a bunch of diseases, which can be quite harmful.
What is Dengue?
A specific variety of mosquitoes carry a virus that is transmitted to human beings when they end up biting them. This virus results in the illness which is termed as dengue. If not treated well, dengue is known to manifest in a severe form, which is quite fatal.
Dengue cases are widely known around the country. For infants that are less than a year old, their chances of contracting dengue and reaching severity are quite high.
What Is Hemorrhagic Dengue Fever?
When dengue is not treated well, it begins to manifest itself in the form of a fever which lasts for about a week or so. During this period, the body undergoes a lot of conditions such as intense bleeding, difficulty breathing properly, feeling of nausea and incessant vomiting. These are together termed as having contracted haemorrhagic dengue fever.
What Causes Dengue and How Does It Spread?
The variant of the mosquito that spreads the dengue virus is termed as the Aedes species. This mosquito has a very specific identity marker, which is, stripes on its body that resemble a tiger. It is also called as female tiger mosquito due to it. Whenever such a mosquito that carries the virus ends up biting a person to drink the blood, it transmits the virus to the person as well.
One of the specific tendencies of these mosquitoes is their affinity for warm and humid climate, which provides them with the ability to breed easily. This is why the onset of monsoons and the multiple puddles of water cause these mosquitoes to breed quickly and result in multiple cases of dengue. Another behaviour to be factored in is their tendency to feed and bite other humans in the daytime. Most of the mosquitoes from other variants get active towards the evening and night and begin biting then.
Dengue is not contagious among human beings since it can infect a person only when a mosquito carrying that virus ends up biting the person.
Symptoms of Dengue in Babies and Toddlers
The onset of fever that appears suddenly and reaches high temperature very soon.
The eyes start hurting a lot, especially in the region behind the eyeballs.
Headaches start occurring frequently which are quite debilitating and severe.
There is a constant feeling of nausea and dizziness causing discomfort.
Vomiting becomes frequent and incessant, sometimes even uncontrollable.
Bodyache begins to increase, which is highly observed in muscles and joints of the body.
Following the fever, dengue rashes on babies begin to appear in various areas.
Bleeding occurs through the nose in mild quantities.
At times, the gums of the babies can also begin to bleed.
How to Deal With Symptoms of Dengue in Infants and Toddlers?
Intensely high temperature, body rashes, body ache, crying and vomiting are all strong signs of an illness, and especially dengue.
There is no one way to take care of dengue and no specific cure for it as well. There are a number of medications available that help in reducing the fever and nausea, which can consequently assist in taking care of dengue, too.
In any case, no sort of medication that is meant for taking care of inflammations should be administered on the baby. These could further reduce the platelet count of your baby and result in a condition even severe than before.
The immediate action to be taken is to bring your baby to the hospital so that treatment procedures can begin as soon as possible.
Diagnosis of Dengue
One of the first things the doctor will do is to undertake a blood test of the baby. Blood samples will be acquired and will be sent to the lab to check for any infections that can be observed in the blood.
Another marker for checking if dengue is present or not is noting the number of platelets in the blood. Any person contracting dengue suffers a huge drop in the platelet count that results in extreme weakness in the body as well.
If your baby has a fever, the temperature of the baby would also be noted. An extremely high temperature that rises very quickly is a strong sign of the presence of dengue.
Your doctor might ask you to recall how the baby fell ill and when did you first notice the temperature and how quickly did it rise.
He might also ask you about the surrounding conditions of your home or if you’ve recently travelled any place where the baby was exposed to outside atmosphere or mosquitoes were frequently present.
If the baby is vomiting a lot, dehydration might occur. The doctor might recommend undertaking certain procedures to ensure this doesn’t cause further complications.
Dengue Fever Treatment for Babies And Toddlers
As mentioned before, there doesn’t yet exist a medication or vaccine in India that can take care of dengue. There are multiple ways to reduce the symptoms, bring relief, and help the body fight the infection.
Taking enough rest is paramount. The body undergoes a lot of stress and it needs the relaxation to be able to recover. Since your baby will be puking a lot, it would be important to ensure that his hydration levels stay normal. The breastfeeding cycles might have to be increased or even supplemented by formula or so. For older babies, different liquid forms of food might be fine. In case your baby refuses to feed or is too weak to swallow food, the doctor might opt for using intravenous nourishment alternatives to keep the electrolytic and hydration levels on point.
In order to combat the fever, acetaminophen is the right drug to be given. Stay away from administering any form of ibuprofen or aspirin. At times, even after the fever goes down, your baby might start vomiting incessantly. This could mean the onset of haemorrhagic dengue fever. Take your baby to the hospital immediately in such cases.
How to Prevent Dengue?
Mosquitoes that spread dengue breed in fresh and stagnant water. Therefore, it is important to ensure that there is zero presence of any uncovered stored water bodies in your house or in the surroundings close to your home. This includes terraces, gardens, and even your washrooms.
When taking your baby outside or if your house is usually open, make use of mosquito repellents in the form of mats or vaporisers to keep mosquitoes at bay. Using creams and sprays might also be quite effective.
Playing around with dirt and mud can make the body attract mosquitoes even more since mosquitoes tend to hover around in moist areas. Advise your kids to stay away from playing such sports, or wash it off immediately.
Make sure your windows have a permanent mesh or make use of sliding mesh windows such that mosquitoes are prevented from entering inside.
Let your children opt for clothes that cover their bodies completely.
Sleeping in beds that have mosquito nets is the best way to have an undisturbed and safe sleep.
Dengue can very quickly cause the health of a baby to deteriorate if left unchecked. By keeping an open eye for signs of dengue in babies and taking action right away, you can keep your baby healthy and opt for preventive measures that can repeat something like this from happening again.
Also Read:
Dengue Fever in Kids
Monsoon Baby Care Read more
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
8 hours ago
Q. Can I check baby heartbeat in 9th week of pregancy?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. See that can only be monitored with a proper ultrasound or a machine which can check the heartbeat of the child otherwise there is no third way to figure it out further if you need to know more you can get a sonography done with your gynaecologist to have better clarity
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Abdominal Pregnancy - Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment
Abdominal pregnancy is rare but can pose certain health risks when it occurs. Abdominal pregnancy is a form of an ectopic pregnancy (where the embryo is not attached to the uterus). The symptoms of an abdominal pregnancy and normal uterine pregnancy do not vary a lot, but it is important to identify the details so that it can be diagnosed.
What Is Abdominal Pregnancy?
An abdominal pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg implants itself on the tissues or an organ in the abdomen of the woman. This condition is extremely rare but can possess many health risks if occurs.
Primary Abdominal Pregnancy
Primary attachment of the embryo is when the embryo is attached and implanted directly in the abdomen. The chance of this happening is extremely rare.
Secondary Abdominal Pregnancy
Secondary abdominal pregnancy is when the foetus starts to grow in the ovaries or the fallopian tube, but because of a small rupture, the embryo gets implanted in the abdominal cavity. In abdominal cavity pregnancy, the pain that is experienced by the woman is similar to the pain experienced during tubal pregnancy. If the foetus continues to grow, abdominal pains start after 26-28 weeks into the pregnancy.
The fallopian tube may rupture in the first trimester of the pregnancy. The skin becomes pale because of the resultant bleeding that is accumulated in the abdominal cavity.
What Are the Symptoms of Abdominal Pregnancy?
A woman who has abdominal pregnancy will have the same symptoms and signs that pregnant women experience in general.
Breast tenderness
Nausea and vomiting (occasionally)
Fatigue
Abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding
Vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain should be checked out by a doctor as this is not normal.
How Is Abdominal Pregnancy Diagnosed?
Until the late stage, many abdominal pregnancies are left undiagnosed. A doctor might suspect it to be an abdominal pregnancy when the woman reports pain when the foetus moves, or if the growing foetus is not at the right place in a woman's body.
This condition can also be indicated by the blood tests that measure human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels if the levels of the hormone are not rising normally as it should be when the pregnancy progresses.
Usually, an abdominal pregnancy is diagnosed through an ultrasound. To create images of the internal structures, ultrasound uses sound waves. The location of the gestational sac is confirmed using ultrasound. Some cases also include the use of laparoscopy to confirm the diagnosis, which is the insertion of a very tiny instrument into the abdomen.
What Are the Risks of Abdominal Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy can be dangerous for the mother and the child. Following things may happen in case of abdominal pregnancy:
1. Heavy Internal Bleeding
If the placenta detaches from the tissue or abdominal organ to which it was attached to, then the pregnant woman may experience heavy internal bleeding. This could lead to a serious outcome if the mother does not receive timely diagnosis and treatment.
2. Inadequate Supply of Nutrients
In the case of abdominal pregnancy, the foetus may not receive enough nutrients and blood for his proper growth. The foetus may also not be protected by the amniotic sac and fluid which it usually is when growing in the uterus.
3. Increased Foetal Movement
In the case of abdominal pregnancy, the foetal movements are likely to be more than normal and also very painful. Moreover, in the normal areas of the body, the foetal movements would not be felt. The reason for this is the foetus lying sideways across the abdomen. It might also be in the oblique position in the abdomen.
4. Depression
If there is pregnancy loss, the woman might end up grieving over the loss of the foetus and might start worrying about future pregnancies.
Treatment for Abdominal Pregnancy
There are some rare cases where abdominal pregnancy has resulted in live births. However, most abdominal pregnancies are terminated surgically or medically. If the doctor figures out a case of abdominal pregnancy early, a dose of methotrexate will be given to end the abdominal pregnancy. This is a drug that stops the cells from dividing, and it is toxic to the placenta. When the abdominal pregnancy is ended through surgery, the surgeon will have to take certain steps to prevent heavy bleeding at the place of the implantation. In many cases, the placenta is left in the mother’s body, and it is treated with methotrexate, as it prevents heavy bleeding and may allow the body to reabsorb the placenta.
The causes of abdominal pregnancy cannot be prevented. Other serious complications might also occur because of abdominal pregnancy like intestinal obstruction symptoms which might also cause a high fever. It is important that this form of pregnancy is detected as soon as possible.
Also Read:
Heterotopic Pregnancy: Symptoms and Treatment
What is a Chemical Pregnancy?
Overdue Pregnancy: Causes & Tips to Survive Read more
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Contribution – M For MotherhoodThis post is for all the new mommy’s out there!!
This is a tribute cum life experience for all the lovely ladies or more particular to be “Mothers” who have been verge of life altering experience post giving birth. As newly crowned mother, we are new to almost everything. By the time we ready to cope with up physical changes in our body, our relative or friends will usually come up with weird parameter of judging motherhood.
We then being weep that how can someone judge us when they may not even know, what we went through or are still going through as everyone body is different. We then continuously reflect on their belief and judgement, which make our heads churn. The inverse is when we start getting conscious to such weird advices of our society.
To sound more commanding, the so called umpires of Motherhood have draw out unwritten norms for a lady to transform into a perfect mother. After careful analysis, I feel those norms no more then the fiction of their lopsided imagination. Let me quote some example or personal experience like – ‘oh the baby is not sleeping well’ she may not be having enough milk, she does not gaining much weight, she croes a lot, and the list goes on.
Being living in a society where in people always criticize a women if she is mother and a working women. No matter how much we try to manage everything but society will see the other side of the coin. Being mother is definitely not the end of road, but it is the start of new beginning.
While we gradually adapt and evolve to the new life, but the controversial point remains as to how can some of us be so insensitive in the grab of teaching others.
I am mother of 10 month old baby girl and transformation from a carefree girl to a growing mother. The moment i saw those two pink lines till today, while I am writing this blog, I clearly recall that evening, I freaked out. I am trying and trying level best like everyone else to be good mother.
Most of us have to assume the role of mother and homemaker at some point of time and its the beautiful part of human evolution.
In my point of view, My honest rant is that we just want some guidance and friendly advices. So all the experienced and traditional but judgemental ones, who are being sarcastic all the time, support us, guide us with warmth to be a good mothers and good human being. With load of hope , sincerely pray that in trying times, we accept and guide each other as pillar of support with open mind and spread positivity.
Listen to everyone advice, but do what your heart say!! As a mother you know what is right for child.
Read more
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Effects of Not Eating Enough During Pregnancy
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Appetite loss during pregnancy is a common concern with several pregnant women. Though they don’t wish for it voluntarily, they can’t just avoid it simply, too. Nutrition is one of the key factors involved in ensuring the well-being of a baby and a mother. And, if a pregnant woman does not eat well, the effects of not eating enough during pregnancy could be adverse, leading to several complications during delivery or after the baby’s birth. If you wish to understand why this happens, what are the risks associated with not eating properly during preganncy and how you should manage to get optimum nutrition when you do not eat properly, we recommend taking a look at this post.
Reasons You Might Not Feel Like Eating in Pregnancy
So, why during such a delicate time, some pregnant women act all funny and do not wish to eat? Well, scientifically speaking, it is actually not in their hands. Let us get a look at the following points and know why women don’t feel like eating:
The body becomes hypersensitive to taste and smell, thus making you dislike food.
Sometimes women may experience a metallic taste in their mouths that sticks to the palate, making you not want to eat.
Morning sickness and nausea can take a toll on the appetite, and you may fear that as soon as you eat, you will start feeling sick again.
Not eating too much is also the body’s mechanism for avoiding the possible consumption of any harmful food that may could affect the growing fetus.
The hormonal imbalance in the body may take a toll on your appetite, too.
Risks of Not Eating Enough While Pregnant
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If you do not eat well during pregnancy, there are many complications or problems that may crop up. Here are some known risks and effects of not eating enough during pregnancy:
1. It May Cause Neurological Disorders
Improper nutrition may lead to neurological disorders in unborn babies. Sometimes the spine or brain may not develop fully, which may lead to learning disabilities as babies grow. However, if vitamin B12 and folate supplements are consumed, such kinds of defects or complications can be evaded.
2. It May Lead to Foetal or Infant Death
A nightmare for a would-be-mother, but if pregnant women do not eat properly and get ample nutrition, it may lead to fetal death. There is also the possibility of fetal death after the birth. Severe malnutrition can cause complications that may cause infant or foetal deaths. However, general malnutrition may not lead to such dire consequences, but the baby may be born with neurological or physical defects or malnutritioned.
3. It May Lead to Slow Growth or Insufficient Growth
Mothers who do not eat well during pregnancy may have slower developing fetuses or insufficient growths. Growth issues may lead to further more complicated conditions after the birth of the baby.
4. It May Cause Low Birth Weight Infants
Babies who are born with low birth weight often results when mothers ate poorly during pregnancy or didn’t get proper nutrition.
Lack of proper nutrients in the body may lead to some of the above conditions in your unborn child. However, it also does not mean that you eat unhealthy food, such as potato chips or cola to gain weight. Well, gaining healthy weight and getting enough calories is important for your growing fetus, but that should come from a healthy source, such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, etc.
Tips to Get the Nutrients When You Under-Eat During Pregnancy
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Now that you are aware of the adverse effects of not eating enough during pregnancy, but are still struggling to eat food, here are some tips and tricks that may help you in getting important nutrients that are required for your unborn baby’s growth and development:
1. Check Your Portion Size
It is understood that you have to increase your calorie intake to meet up with your body’s increased needs to support baby’s growth and development, but that does not mean that you have to gobble down big portions in one go. It will be a better idea to keep your meal portions smaller and have them at frequent intervals. So, you can go for three small and nutritionally balanced meals along with about three-hour snacks in a day.
2. Stay Well Hydrated
Keep a tab on your fluid intake because more than your calorie intake, it is the number of fluids that you take in a day that matters. Include pasteurised fruit juices, milk, vegetable juices, and other kinds of fluids along with water to compensate for your body’s requirements.
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3. Include Lighter Meal Options
Eating a heavy meal that is laden with fats such as oil, cream, or butter can make anyone feel uneasy. Therefore, you should aim to have lighter meals that are cooked with minimum fats. Roasted, grilled, stir-fried, etc., are better options than deep-fried or other calorie-laden dishes.
4. Refrain From Adding Too Many Spices
There is no doubt that spices add a lovely flavour and aroma to the dishes, but too many spices, such as pepper, chilli, etc., can make a pregnant woman sick by giving her heart burns or acidity. Try and avoid using spices, and if you need to use them, make sure that you add them in moderation.
5. Never Skip Meals
We understand that eating food can sometimes become a struggle for a pregnant woman. However, never go without your meals for long durations, as it can prove to be detrimental for you and your baby. A pregnant woman not eating enough will impact both the mom and the baby adversely. Therefore, try and eat smaller meals frequently and never skip your meals.
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6. Include Foods That Do Not Cause Nausea
It is understood that a pregnant woman needs different kinds of fruits, vegetables and other kinds of fruits in her daily diet for proper nutrition. However, if you are comfortable eating only a few, so then be it. Because getting some nutrition is better than getting none at all. If you like eating a banana while other fruits trigger nausea, then eat a banana until the feelings of nausea subside.
7. Include Foods at Different Temperatures
Because of changes in taste preferences during pregnancy, in some cases, pregnant women may start preferring cold foods and despise hot foods or vice versa. Please note it is totally normal for you to crave a food you despised before your pregnancy, and now you like it. So, include healthy food at whatever temperature suits you best by taking care of its shelf life and pasteurisation in the case of dairy products.
8. Make Sure You Take Your Supplements
In pregnancy, your doctor gives you some vitamins and other supplements to make up for your body’s increased demand for certain vitamins and minerals. Make sure you have these regularly to prevent any nutritional deficiency.
Your baby gets all his nutrition from you. So, your under-eating will impact not only you but also your baby. Make sure you replenish the reservoir of nutrients in your body by opting for the best possible eating options.
References:
1. Hyperemesis gravidarum; MedlinePlus; https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001499.htm
2. Diet During Pregnancy; American Pregnancy Association; https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/diet-during-pregnancy/#
3. Appetite changes and food aversions during pregnancy; Pregnancy, Birth & Baby; pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/appetite-changes-and-food-aversions-during-pregnancy; Last reviewed: July 2022
4. During pregnancy; Queensland Health; https://www.health.qld.gov.au/clinical-practice/guidelines-procedures/clinical-staff/maternity/nutrition/lifestyle/pregnancy
5. Morning Sickness: Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy; The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/morning-sickness-nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy
6. Am I Pregnant?; Cleveland Clinic; https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/9709-pregnancy-am-i-pregnant
Also Read:
Appetite Loss During Pregnancy
Not Gaining Enough Weight When Pregnant
A Pregnant Woman’s Daily Diet
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Father of a 6 yr 4 m old child
11 hours ago
Q. my son is now 7 yrs and and last 3 three days ,he is complaining that he had bad and negative thoughts and this is too hilarious that.
we r too worried ,pls suggest 🙏
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
10 hours ago
A. it is quite natural small babies will be having different moods different types of behaviour please continue to interact the baby engage activities like drawing painting even clay sculpture o k
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
8 hours ago
Q. Hi this is pooja I am 6 weeks 3 days pregnant n m 31 yrs old my doctor prescribed me this interjection called choriotec 5000 once a week for a month .. I have already took two times but now my lil scared so can u pls tell me anyone here is it safe to take more ??? It’s not harmful nah ??? Pls ans dr
Read moreRashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
8 hours ago
A. Your doctor must have given it to you for a particular reason so I’m just going to advise you to follow what she says yet if you have a doubt or you’re scared about anything then why don’t you just prospect with your Dr as to what what purpose are you taking this and what is meant to be done in case you do not take the injection or you do not want to take
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
5 hours ago
Q. Mam last perioda mujhe 10 april ko aye the aur aj mene pregnancy test kiya hai to 1 line light ayi h to mujhe kya krna chahiye
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
5 hours ago
A. beta HCG test kare 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
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
4 hours ago
Q. can I eat egg daily?
now I am in 1st trimester
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. yes you can eat egg daily even in first trimester. 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 Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts
Which are the safe sites to hire japas in New Delhi (EDD July)
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. you can always ask questions related to the health of child and mother in this section and it can bez either related to diet or food or vaccination or any type of medicine goingz on and given by your doctor.
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