Common Winter Ailments and Precautionary Measures

Indulging in the winter breezes while savoring a hot cup of coffee? While the festive vibes bring joy and an opportunity to showcase your winter jacket, they can also bring health challenges for some. Seasonal transitions often coincide with an increase in illnesses, as the fluctuating temperatures provide an environment for viruses to thrive and spread. This time of the year may leave you feeling sluggish, lethargic, and more susceptible to illnesses due to a dip in immunity. If you’re experiencing discomfort or showing signs of wheezing or high fever, don’t hesitate to promptly seek medical assistance.

Common Winter Ailments

Let’s take a look at some of the most common winter conditions:

• Flu
  Winters and flu often go hand in hand. The season witnesses a surge in flu viruses circulating in the air, and your immune systems may need an extra boost. Combat the flu by maintaining a nutrient-rich diet, staying hydrated, and incorporating regular exercise into your routine.
• Dry Skin
  The biting cold can leave your skin parched and vulnerable. Combat dry skin by indulging in moisturizers, opting for mild soaps, and using hand lotions or petroleum jelly. These simple steps can shield your skin from cracks, pain, and infections associated with winter dryness.
• Joint Pain
  Arthritis patients, in particular, may experience intensified joint pain during the winter. The plummeting temperature can trigger discomfort and reduced mobility. Keep joints warm with layered clothing and engage in regular exercises tailored for winter, ensuring your body stays warm and flexible.
• Cold Sores
  Dry and cold air creates an environment conducive to cold sores. To ward off these unwelcome guests, prioritize proper nutrition, regular exercise, and ample rest. Home remedies can also play a role in preventing and managing cold sores.
• Asthma
  Winter brings not just the chill but also airborne allergens, a trigger for asthma attacks. Protect yourself by wearing air-purifying masks outdoors and staying vigilant about indoor air quality.
• Pneumonia
  Pneumonia is a life-threatening disease in which viral and bacterial infections (commonly the Streptococcus or pneumococcus bacteria) spread out in the alveoli or tiny sacs of the lungs clogging them with fluids. Hence, individuals affected by pneumonia experience shortness of breath. The microbes responsible for pneumonia transmission can be disseminated through coughing, sneezing, or contact with contaminated surfaces, subsequently leading to infection when touching the mouth or nose.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
  The winter blues are real, manifesting as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) for some. Combat this by fostering connections, joining support groups, and ensuring your mental well-being remains a priority.

Winter Health Precautions

Follow these helpful tips to protect your body in winter season:

• Eat a nutrient-rich diet and fortify your immune system with a diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Include seasonal fruits and vegetables for an extra boost.
• Keep those joints moving and your body warm with winter-specific exercises. Indoor activities like yoga can also be beneficial.
• Engage in winter-specific exercises to keep your body warm and flexible.
• Dressing in layers not only keeps you warm but allows you to adjust to fluctuating temperatures.
• Combat the winter blues by maintaining social connections, seeking sunlight exposure, and prioritizing mental health.
• Wash your hands frequently to reduce the spread of infections.
• Drink more warm fluids during the season to keep your body hydrated.

Chilly temperatures and cozy blankets define the winter months for many, but along with the season’s charm also come a wave of illnesses for some. By understanding common winter health challenges and adopting proactive measures, you can ensure a season of happiness and good health. Stay warm, stay well! Reach out to our team of experts for any health concerns. Call us on 022 42696969 or visit https://kokilabenhospital.com for more information.

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

Medical research statistics conducted by India’s National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) found that nearly 15 crore Indians are in need of mental health care services, but fewer than 3 crore are seeking care. With unhealthy lifestyles, hectic work schedules, increased social media use, and loneliness taking care of your mental health is important in today’s times than ever before. Getting timely medical advice for mental health disorders is not a luxury but a necessity.

Physical activity can play an important role in improving your mental well-being and can even reduce symptoms of serious mental health conditions. Exercise isn’t just about building muscles or shedding pounds; it also has a profound impact on your mental health. The connection between physical activity and mental well-being is well-documented, with numerous studies showing that regular exercise can alleviate the symptoms of many existing mental illness.

How Exercise Promotes Positive Well-Being

Exercise can also be used to enhance well-being in already healthy people. Here is how regular exercise benefits your health:

• Exercise decreases stress hormones
• Keeps you away from negative thoughts
• Exercise promotes confidence
• Exercise provides a buffer against stress

Mental Health Benefits of Exercise

Exercise is not just about improving your fitness levels. People who exercise regularly are motivated to do so as it gives them a great sense of emotional satisfaction. Here are some benefits:

• Exercise and Depression
  Medical research suggests that that exercise can treat mild to moderate depression effectively. Research suggests that running for 15 minutes a day or walking for an hour reduces the risk of major depression by 26%. Exercise is known to be a powerful depression fighter. Most significantly, it encourages a variety of changes in the brain, including a neuronal development, decreased inflammation, and new activity patterns that foster emotions of peace and wellbeing.
• Exercise and Anxiety
  Exercise is a natural and effective anti-anxiety treatment. Through the release of endorphins, exercise reduces anxiety and stress, increases physical and mental vitality, and improves wellbeing.
• Exercise and Stress
  Another mental benefit of exercise is reduced stress levels—something that can make everyone happier. Increasing your heart rate with exercise can actually reverse stress-induced brain damage by stimulating the production of neurohormones like norepinephrine, which not only enhance cognition and mood but also clear thinking muddled by stressful experiences.
• Exercise and ADHD
  Regular exercise is one of the simplest and most efficient strategies to lessen ADHD symptoms and enhance focus, motivation, memory, and mood. The levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin levels in the brain rapidly increase with physical exercise, which improves your focus and attention.
• Exercise and PTSD and trauma
  There is evidence to support the idea that paying close attention to your body and how it feels when exercising might really assist your nervous system get “unstuck” and start to emerge from the immobilization stress response that characterises PTSD or trauma. Exercises that involve cross movement and that engage both arms and legs—such as walking, running, weight training, swimming, or dancing—are some of your best choices.

Other Mental Health Benefits of Exercise

Regular physical activity plays a huge role in improving your mood and helps maintain a positive outlook in life. Regular exercise can help provide:

• Increased energy levels
• Sharper memory and thinking
• Higher self-esteem
• Better sleep
• Stronger resilience
• Fosters discipline

Mental health care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Incorporating regular exercise into your life is a powerful tool for improving your mental health. From releasing feel-good chemicals to reducing stress and enhancing cognitive function, the benefits are wide-ranging and well-documented.

Are you or a loved one suffering from any mental health concerns such as anxiety, mood swings, sleep difficulties, depression or some phobia? Do not delay seeking help to address your mental health needs. Consult highly trained and compassionate counselors and mental health specialists at our Department of Psychiatry for further assistance. Please visit the below link for more information: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/psychiatry.html