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Blocked Tear Duct in Babies
From yellow discharge to eye infections, blocked tear ducts cause discomfort to babies and worry to parents. Tears cannot drain properly when the duct is blocked, and the duct ends up swelling or getting infected. Keep reading to learn more about blocked tear duct in babies.
What is a Blocked Tear Duct?
A blocked tear duct is a condition when the tear duct (where tears drain through a small tube in the eyes) gets blocked or doesn't open up properly. Blocked tear ducts usually reveal themselves during the first two weeks after the baby is born, when the baby starts getting "watery" eyes. A yellow or white discharge often accompanies them, and sometimes this discharge ends up sealing the eyelids shut too.
How Common is it in Babies?
Almost 6 out of 100 newborns are affected by blocked tear ducts after birth. They may occur during the baby's birth year and may not cause any eye problems when they first appear as well.
Causes of Blocked Tear Duct
The common causes of a blocked tear duct in infants are-
When the tissue at the end of the tear duct is not able to open up
Eye infections
When the nasal bone grows abnormally, thus putting pressure on the tear duct and sealing it off
Partial or underdeveloped openings near the corners of the eyes where the tears drain out
Signs and Symptoms of Baby Blocked Tear Duct
Symptoms of a blocked tear duct usually appear during the first few days to weeks after being born.
Yellow or white discharge from the corners of the eyes
Redness and swelling of the eyes
"Watery" eyes
Tears streaming down the cheek
Epiphora (excessive tearing)
Tenderness or a bump near the side of the nose
Swollen blue bump near the inside corner of the eyes (also known as dacryocystocele)
Eye infections accompanied by fever, mucus or pus in the eyes
Diagnosis and Tests
Most blocked tear duct conditions in babies resolve naturally with time. However, sometimes a little bit of testing and diagnosis never hurts to cross-check if it spurs from underlying causes. The following three tests are used for diagnosing a blocked tear duct -
Tear Drainage Test- A special dye is applied to your child's eyes to check whether or not tears drain correctly. If the duct has anything that is blocking its path, then the dye remains on the eye's surface even after 5 minutes pass.
X-Ray Exam - An X-ray or CT scan of the dacryocystogram (tear duct area) is done to check for blocked tear ducts. It is followed up with an MRI to image the location of the blockage and identify its causes.
Medical Evaluation - Your doctor may evaluate your medical history to ascertain whether tear duct blockages run in the family. A physical examination and an ophthalmic examination are done to check for other plausible reasons for blockage.
How to Treat a Blocked Tear Duct in Your Child?
Blocked tear ducts usually open up on their own. Meanwhile, here are 6 treatments you can try to help them open up and get those tears draining-
1. Surgical Probing - Surgical probing is a procedure done at the hospital to manually open up the tear ducts through surgery. It's done on an outpatient basis, and your ophthalmologist will recommend it if your baby has a severe infection and must be admitted to the hospital. The procedure lasts for about 10 minutes.
2. Silicone Tube Intubation - Silicon tubes are inserted into tear ducts to stretch and open them up. The tubes are kept in place for 6 months and surgically removed afterwards.
3. Balloon Catheter Dilation (DCP) - A balloon is placed into the tear duct by insertion through the corner of the eyes and inflated using a sterile solution to expand the tear duct openings. It is afterwards deflated and removed from the eyes.
4. Antibiotic Eye Drops - If an infection spreads, your baby's paediatrician may prescribe your little one some antibiotic eye drops or eye ointment. These drops or ointments aid in clearing up infections and eliminate harmful bacteria from blocked tear ducts.
5. Chinese Medicine - Chinese medicines are useful and effective for treating conjunctivitis or "pink eye" conditions. Herbs like Ju Hua also treat allergy-related tear duct conditions.
6. Aloe - Use a little amount of aloe from the inside of an aloe leaf and rub that gently on both the eyelids to reduce swelling and redness.
Home Remedies for Baby's Blocked Tear Duct
Home remedies work just as well as surgical treatment. Try these before you consider surgical procedures for your little one-
1. Breast Milk - Apply a few drops of breast milk to treat blocked tear ducts in your little one's eyes and watch them recover gradually.
2. Tear Duct Massage - Ask your doctor to demonstrate how to do a massage to help your baby's blocked tear duct and be gentle. Basically, you apply gentle pressure between the tear ducts along the upper nose area to aid in clearing up the ducts. This can be done up to two times a day, every day.
3. Warm Compress - Take a soft, clean washcloth and dip it in warm water. Gently wipe the insides of the duct and work your way outward so that particles don't enter the eye. If both your baby's ducts are blocked, you must use another clean washcloth or a cotton ball to repeat the process.
Prevention
Prevention is better than cure. Here are some ways you can prevent your baby's tear duct from facing blockage in the first place-
Wash your hands- Before and after cleaning their eyes, make sure to wash your hands and maintain hygiene.
Massage regularly - You don't need to massage your baby's tear ducts only when there's a blocked tear duct. By massaging from the start, you'll prevent those tear ducts from clogging beforehand.
Environmental Factors - Reduce exposure to sunlight, cold, and wind for your infant to prevent tear duct blockage.
Wipe Their Eyes - Use small cotton balls or a clean cloth to wipe away any excess drainage from your baby's eyes regularly, especially the outer parts.
A blocked tear duct is nothing serious or extreme to worry about. It happens to many babies and the above remedies will certainly come in handy. Try these out and watch them heal soon!
Also Read: Remedies for Pink Eyes in Babies Read more
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Birth Control Sponge - Use, Effectiveness, Benefits and More
Sometimes the common methods of birth control may not work for some women because of certain unpredicted side-effects. In such a case, one can opt for the Vaginal sponge or the Contraceptive sponge. The vaginal sponge is a means of birth control which is reversible. Some women may prefer using a vaginal sponge to avoid pregnancy as it is easily available at most pharmacies without a prescription and is fairly easy to use as well. However, a vaginal sponge when compared to a male condom may not be able to provide any protection against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) like HIV.
What is a Contraceptive Sponge?
Contraceptive sponge or the birth control sponge is a doughnut-shaped sponge, about two inches in size. This soft, round vaginal sponge is made from polyurethane foam. The female sponge helps in preventing pregnancy through the blockade and spermicidal methods.
The contraceptive sponge may be inserted deep into the vagina before sex. The sponge forms a protective cover over the cervix and stops the sperm from passing into the uterus. Every cervical sponge has an attached cloth loop which makes it convenient to pull it out. The sponge is not reusable and should be discarded after use.
How Does it Work
The working of the sponge may be similar to that of a diaphragm. The sponge birth control method works in two ways. The sponge has an indentation which allows it to fit tightly against the cervix, creating a protective barrier and obstructing the entry of the sperms into the uterus. The sponge absorbs the semen before it can enter the cervix, the connecting passage between the vagina and uterus.
The vaginal sponge also has spermicide, a sperm-killing substance which prevents sperm from gaining access to an egg. It is essential for women to follow the correct method of using the sponge before sex. The sponge has to moisten with water before being inserted deeply into the vagina. You can keep the sponge inserted into the vagina for about 24 hrs before intercourse.
After use, you can pull it out with the help of the loop fastened to the sponge. The sponge can be used either in addition to a condom or all by itself. However, using it along with a condom may offer better protection against pregnancy.
Contraceptive Sponge's Effectiveness
Here is how using a sponge helps avert pregnancy
1.The Effectiveness of Sponge for Preventing Pregnancy
When we talk about birth control, the contraceptive sponge may not be the best method available in the market especially if a woman has given birth once. However, it is vital to use the sponge properly before sex for it to be most effective. Following the product instructions correctly and using it each time before sex may increase its efficiency. But realistically speaking, it may not be entirely possible to use it correctly every time.
If a woman who has not borne a child and accurately uses the sponge, the efficiency rate can be as high as 91%. But realistically it may not be more than 88% effective. But in the case of a woman who has given birth before, the success rate may be less than 80% even if we talk realistically. Therefore, rendering it an unlikely choice of contraception for women with kids.
So, it can safely be assumed that 9 to 11 women out of 100 on an average who use the contraceptive sponge may still get pregnant in a year.
2. Ways to Increase the Effectiveness of a Sponge
One of the ways to increase the effectiveness of sponge can be to use it properly each time before you have sex. Using the sponge consistently every single time before sex may also enhance its efficiency. But a definite way to boost its effectiveness is by using it in combination with another method of contraception like oral contraceptives or the male condom.
Another way can be if your partner does not ejaculate semen inside and pulls out before secreting the semen inside the vagina. Nevertheless, using both the sponge and the male condom together may be the most effective way as condoms can prevent STD’s as well.
3. Do the Sponges Protect Against STD's
The sponge cannot offer any protection against STD’s. On the contrary, the use of sponge may put you at a greater risk of STD’s like HIV. The spermicide sponge effectiveness is considerably reduced because the spermicide which coats the sponge has Nonoxynol-9, a chemical compound that can irritate the vaginal walls and make it more vulnerable to STD germs for them to easily enter the body through the vagina. Therefore it is better to get yourself tested on a regular basis to prevent STDs.
How to Use the Sponge
The correct usage of sponge for effective birth control cannot be stressed enough. The sponge can be fairly easy to use once you get enough practice with it. Inserting a sponge is quite like pushing in a tampon.
1. Contraceptive Sponge Insertion
The following things may be kept in mind while using the sponge:
It is important to wash the hands properly with water and soap before putting in the sponge
After removing the wrapper of the sponge, moisten it with a little water
Squeeze the sponge lightly a few times or until it is foamy. The sponge should be entirely wet for the spermicides to get activated
Take care not to squeeze the sponge dry
Keeping the indented side of the sponge facing upwards, turn the sides up (like you fold something in half) so that the sponge is long and narrow. The indented side of the sponge should be facing the body’s front side whereas the loop of the sponge should be facing the body’s backside
Try sitting in a comfortable position like you can balance yourself on a chair’s edge or squat. You can also insert the sponge while lying down or standing with one of your foot placed on a chair
Push the sponge deep into the vagina with the help of your fingers. Try and slide it as far up as possible. Upon letting go, the sponge will on its own unfold and tightly fit covering the cervix
Make sure that the sponge is covering the cervix properly by moving your fingers all over and along the edges of the sponge. Also, ensure that the loop is at the sponge’s bottom
You need not stress over remembering every single detail. All products come with a detailed set of instructions. Following the given directions will help you use the sponge correctly.
2. When Can One Insert the Sponge?
You can put in the sponge for about 24 hours before intercourse. The sponge is ready to use as soon as the spermicide is activated with water and inserted into the vagina. Therefore, the birth control can be in place much before you have sex. After the sponge is inside the vagina you can indulge in intercourse any number of times as you may want without any interruptions for the next 24 hours. You need not replace the sponge for that period.
3. How Long Can You Leave a Sponge inside
You need to leave the sponge in for a minimum of 6 hours after intercourse. But be careful not to leave it inside for beyond 30 hours in total. There is no compulsion, however, to leave the sponge inside for total 30 hours but 6 hours after sex must be abided by to be on the safer side.
4. Removal of Sponge
After washing your hands carefully, glide a finger into your vagina and fasten it around the loop of the sponge. Then very gently and steadily with the help of the loop pull the sponge out of the vagina. In case you are not able to find the loop of the sponge, you can grasp the sponge itself and slowly slide it out. If you experience difficulty reaching the sponge, push or thrust down with the help of your vaginal muscles while trying to reach for it. Carefully dispose of the used sponge by throwing it in the trash bin and not by flushing it down a toilet.
How Safe is the Contraceptive Sponge
The use of the birth control sponge is normally considered safe, but some women can experience certain side-effects
Some women may not be comfortable with the idea of putting fingers in their vagina.
In some cases, women may find it difficult to insert the sponge inside the vagina properly.
Avoid using the sponge during menstruation.
In case of any doubt regarding its safe usage, it is always advisable to consult your doctor first before using the contraceptive sponge
What are the Risks of the Sponge
If you have the following medical conditions, then the use of the sponge may be avoided:
If you are sensitive or allergic to polyurethane, spermicide, sulfites.
If you have a medical history of TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome)
In case of a recent miscarriage, abortion or birth of a child.
If you are suffering from a vaginal infection.
If there is any sort of vaginal bleeding.
In case you experience any of the below-listed symptoms while using the sponge, discontinue its use and contact a doctor immediately. The signs can be:
An unexpected high fever
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
A red and itchy rash which feels and looks like a sunburn
Pain or irritation in the throat
Sore joints and muscles
Dizziness and weakness
Advantages of the Birth Control Sponge
Many women may like to opt for the birth control sponge because of the following advantages:
Birth control sponge is inexpensive and convenient to carry along because of its small size. It can simply fit into any purse or pocket.
When correctly inserted, you or your partner may hardly feel it.
It may not have any effect on the woman’s natural hormones.
You can use it during breastfeeding.
It can easily be purchased without a prescription from most drugstores.
You can buy it online as well with no difficulty.
The use of the birth control sponge may not require a doctor’s intervention as no invasive surgery or fitting is needed. The user can insert it on her own.
It can offer you pregnancy protection for up to 24 hours.
Birth control sponge provides you with the control because you can place it inside your vagina hours before sex and may leave it until 30 hours after
The sponge is easy to use and may not cause any inconvenience to either you or your partner
It is just as easy to discontinue its use. If you wish to get pregnant, then you may not insert the sponge in before intercourse
After placing the sponge inside your vagina, you can have sex many times for the ensuing 24 hours without replacing the sponge or any other disruptions
Disadvantages
Like all other methods of birth control, the sponge may also have some disadvantages. Though commonly considered safe to use by most women, a few women have reported contraceptive sponge side effects as well. Some of the disadvantages may be:
Some women may experience inconvenience or difficulty while inserting the sponge into the vagina. It may take considerable practice to learn the skill of correctly using the sponge.
It may happen at times that the loop of the sponge can break midway during the process of pulling it out of the vagina. In such a case, medical intervention becomes necessary to remove the remnants
The spermicide in the sponge can result in vaginal irritation in some cases
Sometimes if you are using the sponge, the sex can turn messy or wet because the sponge has to be foamy before you can insert it into your vagina
The effectiveness of the sponge largely depends on its correct and proper usage every time you have intercourse. In reality, to use the sponge correctly every single time may not be easy. Therefore, one cannot be sure of the effectiveness of the sponge as an efficient method of birth control
Occasionally the repeated and constant use of the sponge may cause some women to experience certain dryness in the vagina while having sex as the sponge may absorb the vaginal lubricants
The sponge cannot be used again after having used it once
You need to use the sponge each time you plan to have Not done so may adversely affect its effectiveness
The sponge can be removed only after 6 hours after you have had sex. It cannot be inside your vagina for longer than total 30 hours.
The sponge does not offer you any protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
The consistent use of the sponge can expose you to a heightened risk for HIV and other such infections as the spermicide in the sponge may irritate the walls of the vagina making it more susceptible to STD germs to invade the body.
Some women may be allergic to Nonoxynol-9, the chemical in the spermicide of the sponge which can result in discomfort and irritation.
Women who use the sponge as a method of birth control are somewhat at risk of getting a rare but dangerous disease called TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome).
The sponge’s spermicide may feel unpleasant if you happen to taste it.
Where Can You Buy It
The spermicide sponge can be purchased over-the-counter without any prescription from most pharmacies or chemists. The birth control sponge is also available online.
The cost of the contraceptive sponge can differ depending on your place of residence and from where you are purchasing it. For example, the prevalent brand of birth control sponge in the US is The Today Sponge which costs about $15 for a pack of three. But free sponges or low-priced sponges may be available at community health centres or clinics.
It is imperative to use contraceptive sponges correctly and consistently. It is the only way to ascertain its effectiveness as a reliable birth control method. Adhering to the product instructions will help in using the sponge correctly. With practice, one can attain the ease to use it properly. If unsure about using the sponge consistently, you can always choose other methods of birth control which are comparatively easier to use and more dependable like implants or IUDs. In any case, using a male condom along with the sponge will provide you with the best protection against pregnancy and also STDs.
Also Read: Natural Birth Control Method Read more
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Chickenpox during Pregnancy
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and eating a balanced diet are very important during pregnancy. However, doing this does not always protect you and the little one inside from diseases and infections. One of the viral diseases that you need to be concerned about during this time is chickenpox. So, is chicken pox dangerous during pregnancy?
What Is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a caused by a virus called varicella-zoster, and it can be highly contagious. It is not a dangerous disease and lasts only for a short time in healthy kids. However, it can be dangerous for adults, including pregnant women, and can lead to serious complications.
Chickenpox And Pregnancy
During pregnancy, your body’s immune system gets suppressed to avoid foetal rejection. This lowers overall immunity and makes you prone to infections. This means you are more susceptible to contagious diseases during pregnancy.
The possibility of serious complications from chickenpox is low, but it is important that you are aware of them. One such complication is getting pneumonia along with chickenpox when you are pregnant. Maternal pneumonia can result in foetal morbidity. Other complications include preterm labour, premature birth, and retarded growth of the baby.
As far as your baby is concerned, the risk depends on the time of contraction of the disease. If you develop chickenpox in early pregnancy between the eighth and twentieth week (first and second trimester), your baby is at a risk of congenital varicella syndrome, a rare birth defect. It might lead to underdeveloped legs and arms, scarring of their skin, incomplete development of the brain, and eye inflammation. The baby may suffer from mental and physical disabilities along with seizures. The risk of stillbirth and miscarriage also increases. However, the risk of your baby developing this syndrome is very less.
If you contract the virus during the third trimester, your baby is most likely going to be fine. Your body starts producing antibodies after around five days of you contracting the disease. These antibodies reach the baby through the placenta.
If chickenpox develops a few days before delivery, your baby might be born with neonatal varicella, a life-threatening infection.
Causes Of Chickenpox
Chickenpox is caused by the virus varicella-zoster. It is a highly contagious disease, and it might affect your baby in your womb. If you already have taken vaccination against it, the chances of you contracting chickenpox are less.
It’s the weaker immune system of a pregnant woman that aggravates the risk of contracting this infection, even if you have taken the vaccination earlier in life.
Symptoms Of Chickenpox In Pregnant Women
The symptoms will take anywhere from 10 days to 21 days to develop. You will get to see the symptoms after the second week of being exposed to the virus. Initially, you will experience a mild fever followed by itchy rashes.
These rashes start as tiny red bumps and later grow. Eventually, the rashes dry up and the crusts fall out.
The first rash might appear on your face, abdomen or chest and will eventually start appearing on the rest of your body. You will also experience fever, chills, and body ache.
Women Who Are Most Likely To Get Varicella
Chickenpox as a disease is highly contagious. If you have already had chickenpox earlier, then the chances of your contracting the virus are less. However, if you are not immune and you get in contact with a person carrying the virus, chances of you contracting the disease are high.
Complication Of Chickenpox In Pregnancy
Chickenpox can cause a few complications to the baby as well as the mother. While the mother could develop pneumonia, the baby could be in danger of having its skin, arm, brain and other parts harmed.
Risks for Mothers
Getting the virus as an adult is riskier than getting it as a child. Also, the risks of varicella during pregnancy is higher if you suffer from lung conditions like emphysema or bronchitis.
You can develop a secondary condition known as varicella pneumonia and this can be life-threatening. The risk of developing this condition is higher in the case of smokers especially if you get the virus during your third trimester
Encephalitis that leads to the inflammation of brain could also be one of the effects of varicella on pregnancy
Hepatitis or inflammation of liver is yet another potential risk for the mother
Risks for Unborn Baby
Complications affecting the unborn baby depend on the duration you have been pregnant. Let’s look at the risks involved:
If you contract the virus before 28 weeks of pregnancy, there is a small risk of your baby developing foetal varicella syndrome. This can damage the baby’s skin, arm, brain, eyes, and affect their bowel movements.
If you get the virus between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, the virus is going to stay inside the baby’s body and but not do any harm. However, the virus can become active once the baby is born or during their first year and cause shingles. In shingles, the chickenpox virus gets reactivated causing red and painful rashes.
After 36 weeks, it is likely that the baby will get the virus and be born with chickenpox.
Risks for Newborn Baby
If you develop chickenpox around the time of the delivery or if your baby is born within a week of the development of the rash, he/she may develop the disease as well. Your baby may contract chickenpox even if you get it within the first seven days of giving birth. Treatment for the baby needs to be started immediately.
Diagnosing Chicken Pox
You do not need medical tests to diagnose chickenpox. Given the fact that you will be going for regular health check-ups during pregnancy, your doctor will be able to look at you and say if you have chickenpox.
Mild fever followed by rashes and blisters are some obvious signs of chickenpox.
Chickenpox In Pregnancy Treatment & Management
The treatment depends on the severity of the infection. Early diagnosis is important for a speedy treatment. Your doctor might prescribe you OTC anti-virus medications to bring the severity of the ailment down. This will also reduce the complications.
If infected with chickenpox at the time of delivery, the doctor will give your baby an immunoglobulin medicine after their birth to reduce the severity of the infection. If your child is born with the chickenpox virus, remedial action in the form of antiviral drugs is taken.
If you are planning to conceive, you can consider getting a chickenpox prevention vaccination. This vaccination is safe for adults. However, you will need to wait for at least three months after the second dose of this vaccine before trying to conceive.
Sometimes, you may be exposed to chickenpox during pregnancy. In such cases, call your doctor who might prescribe an immunoglobulin injection. This contains antibodies for the varicella virus. If it is injected within ten days of exposure, the chances of you contracting the virus as well as the severity get reduced. However, whether this protects the baby inside is yet to be known, as congenital varicella syndrome is rare.
Is It Safe To Take Chickenpox Vaccine During Pregnancy?
No. As already mentioned above, it is recommended that you wait for three months after taking the vaccine before trying to conceive. Do not take the vaccine while you are pregnant, and wait to deliver instead. Get the first dose right after you deliver your baby and the second dose six to eight weeks later. In this way, you do not have to worry about the infection during your next pregnancy.
What are the Chances of Getting Chickenpox
Here are some factors that might make you vulnerable to the infection during pregnancy:
If you are not immune and you come in contact with an infected person, you can get the infection too
You can get the infection from a person having shingles if you have never had chickenpox before
Prevention
Make sure that you do not come near anyone who has chickenpox or is carrying the virus. This includes individuals who have come in contact with persons with chickenpox in the past three weeks. Avoid anyone who has flu-like symptoms as rashes develop later.
Avoid people who have shingles. Shingles affect people who have already had chickenpox in the past. The varicella virus gets reactivated and causes itchy and painful rashes on the skin. Try and get everybody above the age of 12 months in your family vaccinated.
Possibility To Develop Shingles
Shingles do not affect everyone. It develops in people with a weakened immune system like older adults. The risk of your developing shingles is minuscule, but even if you do, you do not need to worry about your baby. Shingles is harmless for your unborn baby. However, it can be harmful for your newborn. Exposure to shingles can cause chickenpox in your newborn baby.
Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease and can cause health complications in pregnant women. Though the disease isn’t fatal, pregnancy can aggravate the extent of damage caused. The best alternative is to either get a vaccine three-months prior to conceiving a child or immediately after delivery. For those who are already pregnant, it is crucial to remain vigilant and stay away from people showing the symptoms of chickenpox. Read more
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Headaches in Women: Causes & Home Remedies
If you're troubled by unexplained headaches, it's time to give up popping those painkillers and find out the reason behind them. Did you know that there are different types of headaches and symptoms? What's causing yours?
It is intriguing to see how a little body discomfort can actually throw you from being a 10 on an efficiency level to perhaps a 4! Headaches are a very common can instantly turn from being irritating to simply crippling. It comes in the way of every activity. Sleep, eat or exercise, this stubborn problem is always sitting on your head (quite literally too!)
When you have a headache, you either ignore it and hope it goes away or pop a pill. But there are many causes for headaches- some mundane but others that demand attention! But often, we tend to think that it may just go away on its own, but that’s not the correct path to take. Some headaches can actually be a your body’s way of telling you that something clearly isn’t right. But often, these headaches are primary in nature, which typically means that they are mostly caused due to over activity or changes in your pain-sensitive structures in your head.
Why Do Women Experience Frequent Headaches?
According to a recent survey conducted by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, it was observed that women of reproductive age are the most likely to be affected by headaches, with one in four ladies under the age of 45 years report experiencing severe headaches!
Apart from regular insomnia and lifestyle changes, headaches are also largely a function of lifestyle and there are different causative factors through which it may be triggered.
What Causes Headaches Even When We Feel Otherwise Okay?
1. Dehydration
A whopping 75 percent of the brain is made up of water. When there’s a lack of it, the brain produces histamines that try to hold on to more water. This in turn causes a headache.
2. Vitamin D Deficiency
Deficiency of vitamin D has been cited as one of the causes of headaches and even depression. Doctors recommend sufficient intake of vitamin D supplements to keep healthy. You can also get it from the sun. Just make sure you protect yourself.
3. Anaemia
Not only vitamin D, but a deficiency in iron levels can also cause those pounding headaches. Unless you are suffering from a drastic deficiency, this can be fixed by simply upping your daily iron intake. Include folate rich foods like spinach, beans, meat, tomatoes in your diet and consult your doctor about supplements as well.
4. Stress
Doctors believe that unresolved stress can actually contribute to headaches. Work, personal or any other form of stress that you may have on a regular basis and if left undealt with, can increase and worsen situation.
5. Change in Body Clock
Any lifestyle change can alter body functions. If you sleep late, get up early and have constantly changing day schedules due to work, you may experience headaches. Body changes may trigger stress and most of the times this is due to travel, change in time zones and routines.
6. High Blood Pressure
It is difficult to conclude unless you get your BP checked, however headaches may be indicative of a high blood pressure or hypertension. The extra pressure in your blood increases pressure on your brain which eventually leads to chronic headaches.
7. Increased Caffeine Intake
Caffeine narrows your blood vessels. If you drink coffee on a regular basis, chances are that the days you skip your cuppa, you will experience headaches. This is because your body is used to the effect caffeine has on your blood vessels and when it is deprived, it triggers headaches. Try and slowly reduce your caffeine intake by cutting your daily dose to two cups a day and slowly bring the number down.
8. Skipping Meals
If you’ve been skipping meals, don’t. It won’t help you lose weight but will just reduce the sugar level in your body and cause headaches. Eating a balanced diet will keep you healthier and when coupled with some exercise, it’ll certainly help you drop the pounds! Many foods also contain preservatives that can trigger allergies in people and lead to migraine headaches. Consult a doctor to understand triggers and chart out a diet that eliminates allergy-causing foods.
Types of Headaches and Symptoms
There are primarily four kinds of headaches that women commonly experience. Some of these are a result of biological functions while some may entirely be a function of lifestyle.
1. Tension Headache
This is the most common headache and is caused by contraction of brain muscles. It’s not a continuous pain that you get, but it comes and goes. The intensity can be mild to moderate.
2. Migraine
Though the exact cause of migraines has not yet been discovered, experts believe it could be caused by triggers that result in abnormal brain activities. The pain can be really intense and last for days. It can be accompanied by nausea, dizziness and loss of appetite.
3. Cluster Headache
This isn’t a very common kind of headache but can cause pain generally centred on one side and usually around the eye.Nasal congestion, swelling of the area around the eye, and watering of the eye may accompany it.
4. Hormone headacheH
This is caused due to reasons like menopause, pregnancy, use of birth control pills and menstruation.
Natural Remedies for Headaches
1. Ginger
Mix ginger juice and lemon juice in equal portions and drink it twice a day to get relief. You can also mix a teaspoon of dried ginger powder in water to make a paste and apply it to your forehead.
2.Mint
Apply the juice of mint leaves to your forehead for quick relief from headache.
3. Ice pack
In case of migraines, apply an ice pack to the back of your neck. You can dip a washcloth in cold water and place it on your forehead for a few minutes too.
4. Almonds
Nuts like almonds are known to have salicin which is an ingredient found in headache pain relievers. Consume a handful of almonds daily if you frequently experience headaches.
5. Peppermint oil
Known for its cooling property, peppermint oil helps open clogged blood vessels and and also enables blood flow. Mix 3 drops of peppermint oil with almond oil and gently massage all over your temples and back of your neck.
6. Stretches
A general thumb of rule to ease headache caused by fatigue is to practice basic neck stretches. It improves blood flow and helps your muscles relax. Bend your neck sideways and move your chin up and down.
7. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea has ingredients that help relieve pain and provide a soothing effect. Brew a warm cuppa daily and enjoy its goodness.
8. Supplement your Diet
Usually an addition of magnesium and B complex solves the problem of headaches. Magnesium reduces the frequency of headache attacks whereas B complex contains neurotransmitters like serotonin which helps deal with headaches better. Include foods rich in magnesium like legumes, tofu, dark chocolates and B complex rich foods like eggs, dairy and soy in your diet.
If headache treatments at home don’t help, set an appointment with your doctor. You don’t need to suffer in silence and hope you get better. Take action by trying to pinpoint the cause of your pain and remedy it. Read more
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DIY Origami Jumping Frogs
Ribbit ribbit! Frogs are such adorable and cool creatures. Introduce your child to these fun jumping frogs!
These cute little jumping frogs will keep your little one engaged for a long time – and they're not dangerous either! This might even encourage your kid to take an interest in nature and the various fascinating creatures found in it.
What you’ll need
A square piece of Origami paper
Googly eyes (optional)
Step by step instructions
1. Take the square sheet of Origami paper and fold and unfold it diagonally (both diagonals) to form creases
2. Fold and unfold the paper in half horizontally to form creases. Make sure that the creases of the folds meet at the center of the paper
3. Using the ends of the center fold, push in the sides so that the paper folds into a triangle with four points - two on each side
4. Fold two of the four points towards the top of the triangle so that it forms a diamond in the middle of the triangle
5. Fold the bottom corners of the diamond inward and crease it
6. Fold the top corners of the diamond outwards and line it with the botton edge of the diamond to form the frog's legs. (The end result should look similar to a paper airplane on a triangle)
7. Flip the paper over to start working on the top part of the frog
8. Fold the two corners of the triangle towards the center of the triangle to form a diamond shape
9. Fold the inner edges outwards in a way that the edges line up with the ends of the paper
10. With the long back legs facing you fold the paper in half where the frog is narrowest and crease it
11. With the frog still folded, flip the frog over again
12. Leaving a little space, create another fold near the crease to make the legs face backward and crease it
13. Flip it over and your jumping frog is ready!
14. You can stick googly eyes if you wish.
15. To make the frog jump - just press and release the back of the frog!
Level of difficulty - high, medium, low
Medium
Parental involvement - high medium low
High
Skills enhanced
Fine motor skills, curiosity and interest in the natural world, cause and effect relationship Read more
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
8 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
At which day should I take pregnancy test
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
6 hours ago
A. after 2 weeks. do ultrasound n necessary tests after consulting a specialist. without proper check up we can't advise or help you.. Avoid shirt cuts when it comes to health if mother n baby. ok.
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
8 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
when should I take pregnancy test?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
7 hours ago
A. after missed your periods you can wait for one week more ,then you can do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
8 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
but having regular cycles below 35 days. some time it will extended upto 40 days.
so when should I take pregnancy test at home?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
7 hours ago
A. If you have missed your periods you can wait for one week more or else you can do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication.
The best treatment to have Regular periods is by having a healthy lifestyle with regular daily walking or jogging along with mild exercise and meditation whenever possible. as medications will only act till you are taking them
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
5 hours ago
Q. Done my first routine blood test ..it shows thyroid border line.its my 6 week running as per USG.
but prior to that my thyroid level was always normal I did check up every year and got it normal .this time it shows borderline high in 6 week pregnancy.
is it something to worry.plz guide
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. it is better to follow your doctors advice for treating the thyroid deficiency. 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
33 mins ago
Q. #asktheexperts
Best activity toys for 15 month old baby
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
30 mins ago
A. Toys which have light and also sounds so that is going to be a good option for you to use apart from the different kids have different interest some kids like to play with cars some like to play with something else so just have to try to figure out what your child likes to eat just check what your child is more inclined towards
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
19 mins ago
Q. how to gain weight 32weeks
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
17 mins ago
A. You need to have a lot of good proteins and that is what is going to be helpful have a balanced diet and good have good amount of proteins as well which is what is going to be beneficial and good weight gain for your child as well
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seethal madhu
Mom of a 5 m old girl
5 mins ago
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0 Comment
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Sujata
Mom of a 1 yr 3 m old boy
9 mins ago
#babyonboard
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