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Motherhood and mental health

Motherhood and Mental Health

May 6th, 2022

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Motherhood and Mental Health

Friday, May 6th, 2022

Motherhood is an enriching and fulfilling journey. Multitasking is an often necessary part of motherhood but it can be stressful at times. According to a 2019 Oxfam poll, Indian women spend 312 minutes per day performing housework and childcare. This has been accelerated by the pandemic, with women trying to multitask various responsibilities. According to a survey of working women in India, 47 percent suffered from increased stress and anxiety in the pandemic.The stigma around mental illnesses, along with maternal health issues, discourages women from seeking medical help.

Many mothers manage various responsibilities. Our culture expects mothers to raise families as if they don’t have careers and work as if they don’t have children. As working mothers strive hard to balance their day, they are often left exhausted by these conflicting expectations. Sleep deprivation is another common problem faced by mothers that contributes to sadness, anxiety, tension, panic attacks, and other illnesses. Mom guilt begins during pregnancy and intensifies as friends, family, and the media focus on perceived defects in parenting. It is time to talk about the importance of mental health in mothers, support them, and encourage them to speak up and seek professional help.

How mothers can support their mental health?

Mothers go through a massive change in their identity when they have children. Many experience significant changes in their career, hobbies, interests, social connections, and overall lifestyle. Society sets unrealistic standards of perfection for mothers which may lead to mental health concerns. It is time for mothers to take care of themselves and prioritize their mental health. Follow these health tips to support your mental health better:

  • Reset your expectations
    The influence of social media pressurizes many mothers to be best at everything. It is important to set your own standards of what a “good mother” is and work towards that each day. Don’t set unreal expectations for yourself.
  • Exercise regularly
    Even 15 minutes can do wonders in terms of how you feel about yourself and helps boost your mental health. Include a meditation routine also.
  • Don’t try to do it all
    It is essential to learn to say no and set your priorities right. One cannot please everyone and that is true for mothers too.
  • Connect with other moms
    Networking with other moms and joining social media communities is really helpful. It helps with immense emotional support and makes you realize that you are not alone.
  • Rediscover your hobbies
    Immerse yourself in creative activities. Pursue a hobby that you enjoy or learn something new.
  • Spend me-time
    Dedicate a time for yourself every day. Allow yourself to take 30 minutes to sip tea or coffee, watch a TV show you love, or read a book.
  • Start journaling
    Express yourself in a gratitude journal and acknowledge all the good things in your life. Write down about all the things that are positive and give you resilience.
    Self-care is essential for mothers for themselves and their family. Researchers suggest that emotionally strong and secure moms are more likely to raise children who are less aggressive, more self-controlled, and more likely to do well academically.

Mental health care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Women are routinely screened for postpartum depression after childbirth, but as life continues mental health matters often tend to be ignored. Timely therapy and counselling can help empower mothers to cope better with stress and manage their life. Mental health is a building block of women’s overall health. Consult our highly experienced doctors at the Department of Psychiatry for specialist care. This Mother’s Day, make a difference to your life. Discuss your mental health issues and seek medical time medical help from our experts: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/psychiatry.html

Common Asthma Triggers

Monday, May 2nd, 2022

Asthma is caused by inflammation or swelling of the airways. The lining of the airways expands and the muscles surrounding the airways tighten during an asthma attack. The volume of air that may move through the airway is reduced as a result. India accounts for 11.1 percent of the global asthma burden and over 42% of asthma-related deaths, making it the world’s asthma capital. Respiratory viral infections are the primary cause of asthma aggravations. The causes behind asthma can vary from person to person. However, one thing is certain: when airways come into contact with a trigger, they become irritated, narrowed, and mucus-filled.

Asthma triggers

When you experience an asthma attack, your airways narrow, making breathing difficult. Your body may experience shortness of breath, wheezing or cough as it tries to expel mucus. It’s critical to know your asthma triggers if you or a loved one suffers from the condition. You can take appropriate action to avoid them once you have identified them. As a result, your asthma attacks will be less frequent and less severe. Some of the most common asthma triggers include:

  • Animals (pet hair or dander).
  • Dust mites.
  • Certain medicines.
  • Changes in weather.
  • Chemicals in the air or in food.
  • Physical activity.
  • Food and food additives.
  • Pollen.
  • Respiratory infections or allergies.
  • Stress.
  • Tobacco smoke.

Allergies and Asthma

Pollens from trees, grass, and weeds; mould; animal dander; dust mites; and cockroach droppings cause allergies in 80% of patients with asthma. Children with high amounts of cockroach droppings in their homes were four times more likely than children with low levels to develop childhood asthma, according to one study.

Food Additives and Asthma

Food allergies can range from minor to severe and even life-threatening asthma attacks. If you have food allergies, asthma can trigger anaphylaxis, a severe, life-threatening reaction. Eggs, peanuts, soy, wheat, fish and seafood, food preservatives, and other foods are commonly linked to allergic asthma.

Exercise and Asthma

A rigorous workout can cause airways to constrict in a majority of asthma patients. Exercising is a common asthma trigger. Exercise-induced asthma causes chest tightness, coughing, and difficulty breathing within the first 5 to 15 minutes of an aerobic workout, and can last for hours.  

Smoking and Asthma

People who smoke cigarettes have a higher risk of developing asthma. If you have asthma, smoking can aggravate symptoms like coughing and wheezing. Smoking during pregnancy increases the chance of wheezing in the baby. If you have asthma and smoke, the most important thing you can do to protect your lungs is to quit.

Asthma care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Do you suffer from asthma? People with severe asthma are more likely to have life-threatening and chronic symptoms. Severe asthma negatively impacts the health and quality of life for individuals and their families. Although not curable, asthma is treatable. Consult highly trained best pulmonologists at our Department of Pulmonary Medicine for managing your asthma symptoms. Our team works with each patient and provides them with a personalised asthma management plan. When asthma symptoms are appropriately treated and an emergency action plan is in place, patients can lead a regular, healthy lifestyle. Below is our website link for further information on Asthma care: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/pulmonarymedicine/asthma.html

Liver Health – How to Keep Your Liver Healthy?

Tuesday, April 19th, 2022

Every year, roughly 10 lakh new individuals with liver cirrhosis are diagnosed in India. As per the World Health Organization, liver disease is the tenth leading cause of mortality in India. Statistics suggest that the number of people with liver problems has doubled in the last decade, leading to a requirement of more 50,000 livers for transplantation each year.

The liver is the body’s largest solid organ. It eliminates pollutants from the bloodstream, regulates blood clotting, and conducts other vital functions. Hepatitis, fatty liver disease, autoimmune conditions, genetic conditions, liver cirrhosis, liver failure, liver cancer are some of the common liver ailments that needs medical attention.

Symptoms of Liver Disease
Liver disease may not always show prominent signs and symptoms. If you notice any of the below signs and symptoms of liver disease do seek further medical care:

  • Skin and eyes that appear yellowish (jaundice).
  • Dark urine colour.
  • Pale stool colour.
  • Swelling in the legs and ankles.
  • Itchy skin.
  • Chronic fatigue.
  • Abdominal pain and swelling.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Tendency to bruise easily.

Speak to your family doctor if you notice persistent signs of a liver disease.

Functions of the Liver
The liver is a critical organ that performs over 500 important functions in the body. Here are some of its most important functions:

  • Albumin production: This is a protein that keeps fluids in the bloodstream from leaking into surrounding tissue. It also carries hormones, vitamins, and enzymes through the body.
  • Bile production: This fluid is critical to the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine.
  • Filters blood: The liver filters all blood leaving the stomach and intestines, removing toxins, by products, and other dangerous compounds.
  • Regulates amino acids: The liver maintains a healthy level of amino acids in the bloodstream that is required for production of proteins.
  • Prevents infections: The liver filters blood and removes bacteria from the bloodstream. 
  • Stores nutrients: The liver stores significant amounts of vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12, as well as iron and copper.
  • Processes glucose: The liver removes excess glucose from the bloodstream and stores it as glycogen.

Ways to Keep your Liver Healthy
The liver is one of the body’s largest and most vital organs. Having an unhealthy liver can lead to various liver ailments and metabolic disorders. Follow these tips in your daily life to maintain your liver health:

  • Avoid alcohol intake. Excessive alcohol intake can damage the liver cells and lead to inflammation and scarring (cirrhosis).
  • Exercise regularly. Exercise decreases stress on the liver, increases energy levels and helps to prevent obesity – a risk factor for liver disease.
  • Eat healthy meals. High levels of fat in the blood and high levels of cholesterol are common causes of fatty liver disease. Reduce the amount of saturated fats, trans fats and hydrogenated fats in your diet.
  • Fight obesity. Obesity, particularly, abdominal or central obesity, is a major risk factor for developing fatty liver disease. Aim for the ideal body mass index (BMI) target.
  • Protect yourself against Hepatitis B or C. Practice safe sex and avoid unnecessary sharing of personal items to prevent the spread of hepatitis B or C.
  • Quit smoking. Exposure to tobacco smoke can have toxic effects on your liver.
  • Get vaccinated. If you’re at increased risk of contracting hepatitis talk to your doctor about getting the hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines.
  • Use medications wisely. Take medicines only when prescribed and as per the recommended doses.
  • Protect yourself from toxins. Use a mask or gloves while handling insecticides, fungicides, paint and other toxic chemicals. Keep the area well-ventilated to avoid inhaling the fumes.

Treatment for Liver Disease at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
Liver diseases can affect your ability to filter out toxins, break down fat and make vital proteins. The Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary surgery specialises in a wide range of acute and chronic conditions affecting the liver, pancreas and the associated biliary system and is supported by the latest technology for the diagnosis and treatment of liver disease.

Consult our team of hepatologists who are skilled at diagnosing and treating all conditions that affect your liver. Please find below website for further details:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/hepatopancreatobiliary.html

Managing Parkinson’s Disease

Saturday, April 9th, 2022

Research suggests that roughly 0.58 million people in India have Parkinson’s disease, with a significant increase in prevalence projected in the following years. Parkinson’s disease is a neurological movement disorder that affects the brain. Tremor, sluggishness of movement, stiff muscles, and difficulty with balance and coordination are all common symptoms. While the disease has no permanent cure, medications can help most patients maintain a good quality of life. Together we spread awareness about Parkinson’s disease, its symptoms and ways to manage it better.

Early signs of Parkinson’s disease

No two people have the same exact symptoms of this condition. It you or a loved one is showing these common signs, you must consult a neurologist for further investigation and diagnosis. The early signs of Parkinson’s disease may include:

  • Tremors.
  • Small handwriting.
  • Loss of smell.
  • Trouble sleeping.
  • Trouble moving.
  • Constipation.
  • A soft or low voice
  • Dizziness or fainting.
  • Stooping or hunching over.

In addition to movement symptoms, from tremor to balance issues, some people may also show certain non-movement symptoms. These include:

  • Problems with attention, language or memory.
  • Mood disorders, such as depression, anxiety and irritability.
  • Light-headedness.
  • Fatigue.
  • Hallucinations and delusions.

Managing Parkinson’s disease

Remaining healthy and strong is the key for everyone with Parkinson’s disease. Certain lifestyle changes can help Parkinson’s patients and help them control their symptoms and slow the progression of the condition. Here are a few tips to help live better with Parkinson’s disease:

  • Regular exercise helps patients with Parkinson’s get more flexibility, better balance, less anxiety and improved coordination.
  • Walk carefully, plant your heel first, keep your posture straight, change directions slowly.
  • Use a cane, walker, or other device to help you move safely.
  • Prioritize good quality sleep.
  • Eat a healthy and nutritious diet.
  • Don’t delay seeking medical therapy.
  • Find ways to manage your stress better.
  • Join a Parkinson’s support group.

The most important step you can take to manage parkinson’s disease is to seek help right from the beginning and consult a mental health professional.

Home safety measure for Parkinson’s patients

Home adaptations for people with Parkinson’s range from small changes to major building changes. Here are a few tips to consider to make your home safe for Parkinson’s patients:

  • Adding rails to doorways or stairs.
  • Lighting up dark passages.
  • Removing threshold strips between rooms.
  • Adding shower chairs.
  • Mounting handrails in tubs, showers or near the toilet.
  • Placing non-skid rubber bath mats in the bathroom.
  • Installing a raised toilet seat.
  • Adding a handle or bed rail for getting out of bed.

Parkinson’s treatment at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

It’s critical to seek Parkinson’s disease treatment from a movement disorders specialist as soon as possible. Meet our team of physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and dietitians at our Parkinson’s clinic to manage the day-to-day challenges of this condition. Although there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, therapies can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Medication and surgical treatments are two options for treatment. Consult world-class experts at our clinic who help manage over 9300 Parkinson’s disease cases each year. We have a 3 Tesla MRI for high-end diagnostics, an advanced Gait and Balance Lab, dietary counselling, and a dedicated rehabilitation room with cutting-edge equipment for personalised and goal-directed physiotherapy. Know more about our “Total Parkinson care program” specially designed for Parkinson’s patients. Please find below our website for further details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicsatkh/parkinsonsclinic.html

Autism Awareness

Friday, April 1st, 2022

Autism affects around 3 million persons in India, and the number is rising day by day. According to the first thorough assessment of autism prevalence in India, almost 23 out of every 10,000 children have autism. This condition affects a child’s capacity to interact socially and has significant social, communication and behavioural challenges for the child. This can suppress social skills and make it difficult to form meaningful peer relationships. This World Autism Awareness Day, 2nd April let us understand this condition better and spread awareness about its care.

What is Autism?

Autism pertains to a group of developmental abnormalities that impair how children connect with others and communicate. Because of the great range of forms and symptoms of autism, they’re referred to as a spectrum and often called Autism spectrum disorders(ASD). Although there is no cure for autism, early intervention and therapy can have a significant impact. Every child with autism shows different symptoms. The number of symptoms and their severity may also vary to a great extent. Some autistic children may not show symptoms, while some children who do not have autism exhibit a couple of these behaviours. This makes professional evaluation critical.

Signs of Autism

Here are some of the signs that indicate your child is at risk for an autism spectrum disorder. If your child exhibits any of the following, consult your paediatrician for a complete evaluation:

  • Difficulty socializing with others and responding to social cues.
  • Delay in language development.
  • Unusual reactions to the way things smell, sound, taste, look, or feel.
  • Avoiding or resisting physical contact.
  • Avoidance of eye contact.
  • Difficulty understanding other people’s feelings.
  • Resistance to minor changes in routine or surroundings.
  • Repetitive behaviours (flapping, rocking, spinning, etc.)

Parenting a child with Autism

Autistic children can communicate in a variety of ways. They may use words, facial expressions, gestures, emotions, etc. Work with your doctor closely to understand autism better and understand the techniques of parenting an autistic child. Speak to a specialist to understand the importance of seeking timely medical help. Do not wait for your child to grow up to seek therapy. The sooner children with autism spectrum disorders receive therapy, the better their chances of recovery. The most effective strategy to accelerate your child’s development and lessen the symptoms of autism is to intervene early.

Ways to interact positively with your child

  • Be patient with your child.
  • Stay consistent and on schedule. 
  • Be kind and flexible.
  • Use gestures or other ways to communicate besides words.
  • Show affection in ways they like.
  • Use positive reinforcement.

How do speech therapists help Autistic children?

Speech-language therapists can assist autistic children in developing social and communication skills. They educate children how to get along with others, how to comprehend and use gestures and other nonverbal communication, how to follow directions, and how to ask and answer questions.

Misconceptions about Autism

Autism affects communication, interpersonal relationships, emotions, and social abilities in most people. Despite its widespread presence, many people have misconceptions regarding autism. Here are some of the most common myths:

Myth: Vaccines cause autism.
Truth: Vaccines do not cause autism. There is not enough evidence to support this.

Myth: Kids with autism don’t feel emotion.
Truth: Kids with autism feel emotions too, however they express it differently.

Myth: People with autism are violent.
Truth: Autism does not cause violence.

Myth: All people with ASD have “special gifts” or savant abilities.
Truth: People with ASD have varying skill sets and abilities.

Myth: We are in the midst of an autism epidemic.
Truth: No, increases awareness has now led to increases diagnosis.

Autism Care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Worried about how your child plays, learns, speaks, acts, or moves? Remember, you know your child best and your fears must be addressed. Don’t delay seeking care. Consult specialists at our Autism clinic for further evaluation and care. Early intervention can have a significant impact on your child’s development. Consult specialists at our Autism Clinic for further assistance and care: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicsatkh/autismclinic.html

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