Essential Safety tips for New Parents

Diwali the festival of lights and celebrations is almost here! Diwali is the time of gatherings and feasting with family and friends. However it is important to keep your health in mind and celebrate wisely. This is especially important for people suffering from diabetes, heart disease, hypertension or other existing health conditions. Additionally, amidst the joy and festivities, it’s crucial to address the pressing concerns of rising pollution levels and delve into mindful celebrations for optimal health during diwali and after the festival.

The gleaming lights and crackling fireworks bring not only merriment but also an upsurge in air pollutants. Recognizing the potential hazards of this, it’s imperative to make the right choices to ensure a healthier and safe Diwali for everyone. Year after year, Diwali unfurls a distressing tale of escalating pollution levels. The air quality index (AQI) takes a nosedive due to the bursting of firecrackers, releasing an array of harmful gases and particulate matter. This surge in pollutants poses severe health risks, especially to those already vulnerable, such as individuals with respiratory issues, children, pregnant women and the elderly.

Impact of Air Pollution

Crackers contain substances like sulfur, nitrates, and metal salts, which upon combustion; result in the emission of gases such as NOX, CO, SO2, and harmful particles like PM2.5, PM10, and ultrafine particles. These pollutants can cause irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat, exacerbate conditions like asthma, COPD, and pneumonia, and significantly impact lung development, particularly in children. Long-term exposure may lead to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular abnormalities, reduced immunity, and even life-threatening conditions like cancer.

Tips for a Healthy Diwali

Protecting the health of your family and you is in your hands. Here are some expert recommended tips to celebrate a healthy and safe Diwali:

• Engage in regular exercise for at least 30 minutes daily to maintain overall health and balance weight gain.
• Stay well-hydrated with ample of water and refreshing beverages to flush out toxins.
• Enjoy traditional delicacies in moderation, focusing on a balanced diet rich in dietary fiber and proteins.
• Start your meal with a protein option as it helps in better satiety.
• Foods rich in dietary fiber should occupy the majority of your plate.
• Avoid overeating calorie-rich foods as it may lead to acidity.
• Avoid having any fizzy drinks or other sugar laden drinks. This will not only add unnecessary sugar, it will also interfere in digestion of heavy meals.
• Choose baked or steamed foods instead of fried foods.
• Avoid processed sweets and desserts.
• Incorporate immune-boosting foods rich in vitamin C, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids in your diet.
• Eat something healthy at home before heading out for a party. This will ensure limited food intake.
• Avoid alcohol intake as it dehydrates you and is harmful for your overall health.
• Always limit your intake when eating a mithaai such as laddoo, barfi, or another sweet made with refined sugar.
• Choose homemade sweets prepared using dry fruits, dates, jaggery,etc.
• Ensure that you get a good night’s sleep
• Children must be under strict supervision while around fire.
• Avoid bursting crackers and encourage others to follow the same.
• Always carry a face mask when venturing outside to shield yourself from pollutants.
• Opt for gentle skincare routines, remove your make-up before bedtime and keep your skin clean.

Embracing a health-conscious approach to Diwali not only ensures a safer and more enjoyable celebration but also contributes to the well-being of all. Let’s light up our lives while safeguarding our health this Diwali. Wishing everyone a safe, joyful, and healthy Festival of Lights! The team at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai is always available for any kind of medical requirements on all festive days. Reach out to our team at the below link: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com

Mumbai is choking with poor Air Quality Index (AQI) levels…

Air pollution has become an increasingly dangerous problem in many parts of the world including leading cities of India. Scientists have long been warning about the potential health effects that air pollutants such as ozone, particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide can have on humans – especially on young children who are still developing. Studies have shown that exposure to high levels of air pollutants can lead to developmental delays, respiratory issues, heart disease and even certain types of cancer.

Impact of Bad AQI

Doctors suggest that when AQI readings are between 200 and 300, it impacts vulnerable groups like senior citizens and children as well as people with co-morbidities. However, when the AQI readings cross 300 or 400, it affects a wider audience leading to various respiratory infections.

Particulate matter (PM) one of the most dangerous air pollutants is made up of tiny particles that get trapped in your lungs. When inhaled, PM particles can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems, and its effects on children are even more alarming. Medical statistics suggest that inhaling PM 2.5 (particles with a diameter of 2.5 microns) levels exceeding 120 is dangerous and may cause severe health consequences including detrimental effects on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Also, children exposed to air pollution have higher rates of childhood asthma, respiratory infections, and chronic bronchitis.

First and foremost, it is important to monitor levels of air pollutants in your area so you can be aware of any potential risks. Lastly, it’s important to remember that while air pollution can be dangerous for everyone, it has an even greater impact on children due to their weaker immune systems. Therefore, it is essential for parents to be extra vigilant when it comes to protecting their children from the risks posed by air pollution.

Precautions for safeguarding against poor Air Quality Index (AQI):

• Stay informed
  Stay informed about local AQI conditions, specifically identifying days and times to avoid outdoor activities in your neighborhood. Protect individuals with breathing problems and young children from exposure.
• Use Masks
  Regularly change masks during heavy pollution to prevent clogging. Consistent use of inhalers is crucial, especially for asthmatic individuals, particularly children, during outdoor activities.
• Respiratory Infections
  Refrain from exposure to poor air quality during respiratory infections, as it may exacerbate symptoms. Consider the trade-off between exercise benefits and harm from polluted air, especially for vulnerable individuals.
• Reduce Exposure
  Minimize outdoor activities, especially during early mornings and late evenings. Keep your windows closed to reduce exposure to polluted air.
• Choose organic
  Finally, try to choose natural or organic products for cleaning and household maintenance – many conventional cleaners can contain harmful chemicals which can contribute to indoor air pollution.
• Control indoor air
  Utilize air purifiers, ensure good indoor ventilation for better air quality.

It’s important to stay informed and take action when it comes to protecting your family from air pollution. We need to work together to ensure that we protect our children’s future by reducing air pollution and taking measures to improve air quality. By monitoring the levels of air pollutants in your area, taking precautionary measures, and educating yourself on the risks posed by air pollution, you can ensure that your family stays safe. Start now to create a better future for your family.

If you or someone you know is facing a breathing difficulty, chest discomfort or wheezing reach out to doctors at our Department of Pulmonary Medicine. Meet our pulmonologists to help manage your symptoms with prompt diagnosis. Call 022 42696969 for appointments or find more details on our website: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/pulmonarymedicine.html

Around 1,85,000 stroke cases are reported every year in India with nearly one stroke every 40 seconds. Stroke is the second most common cause of death in India, as per experts at the All India Institute Of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Stroke, often referred to as a “brain attack,” occurs when there is a sudden interruption in the blood supply to the brain. This can happen when a blood vessel in the brain bursts (hemorrhagic stroke) or when a clot obstructs the blood flow (ischemic stroke). A stroke is a medical emergency that can happen when blood flow to the brain is blocked or when there is bleeding in the brain. This can cause brain damage, long-term disability or even death, so it’s crucial to seek immediate medical help. A healthy lifestyle is the key to help reduce the risk of stroke.

Lifestyle Changes for Stroke Prevention

By making conscious choices and adopting healthier lifestyle habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing a stroke. Recent studies suggest that nine in 10 strokes could be prevented by modifying 10 primary risk factors. These include:

• Maintain a Healthy Diet
  Choosing the right types of food is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular health, which, in turn, is vital for reducing stroke risk. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help you control your weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Here are some dietary tips to consider:
  • Reduce Sodium Intake
  • Embrace the Mediterranean Diet
  • Increase Fibre
• Manage Weight
  A person who is overweight and suffering from obesity has a high stroke risk. To understand whether the weight is in a healthy range you must know your body mass index (BMI). Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and regular exercise is crucial for stroke prevention.
• Exercise Regularly
  Physical activity not only helps with weight management but also improves overall cardiovascular health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise every week. This can include brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing.
• Control Blood Pressure
  One in three adults suffer from high blood pressure. High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke. If yours is elevated, have it checked frequently and monitor it regularly. Lowering salt consumption, staying away from foods rich in cholesterol, increasing physical activity, and quitting smoking can all help lower high blood pressure.
• Manage Diabetes
  Diabetics have a 1.5-fold increased risk of stroke compared with those without the disease. Consult your physician to control your blood sugar levels.
• Stop Smoking
  Smoking is a major risk factor for stroke. All forms of tobacco can cause blockages in the artery leading to the brain. The harmful chemicals in tobacco damage blood vessels and increase the risk of blood clots. Quit smoking to improve your brain health and reduce your risk of stroke.
• Say No to Alcohol
  Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation, a heart condition that can result in blood clots and stroke. Quit alcohol.
• Stay Hydrated
  Dehydration can increase the risk of blood clots and thickening of the blood, both of which can lead to stroke. Make sure you drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to stay properly hydrated.
• Get Sufficient Sleep
  Quality sleep is essential for brain health. Lack of sleep can contribute to high blood pressure, obesity, and other stroke risk factors.
• Manage Stress
  Chronic stress can greatly impact your cardiovascular system negatively. Take up stress-relieving activities like yoga, meditation, deep breathing, or enjoyable hobbies. Managing stress effectively can help reduce your risk of stroke.

Stroke Treatment at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai

Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai has established a comprehensive stroke care programme for the management of acute and chronic stroke patients. A dedicated stroke unit, neuro-imaging, emergency care, neuro-intervention, neurosurgical, and neurological intensive care unit services are all included in the Code Stroke Plan. Under the direction of highly skilled professionals, our team provides complete acute neurointervention services. Over 1500 successful brain operations for stroke have been performed by the Centre for Neurosciences. We are the only private hospital in Mumbai and in Western India to offer a comprehensive Level-1 Accident & Emergency Department (A&E) for patient care, training and research. Our Trauma Centre is reputed to respond the fastest in times of a stroke, which ensures higher recovery chances. If you or someone around you is having a stroke – reach out to our Centre for Accident & Emergency team on 022 42699999. Please find below our website details:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_neurosciences/stroke.html

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_accidentemergency.html