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Showing posts from March, 2023

NIGHT TERRORS

Night terrors , also known as sleep terrors, are a type of parasomnia that occur during non-REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. These episodes typically happen in the first few hours of sleep and can last from a few seconds to several minutes. Night terrors are more common in children but can also occur in adults. During a night terror episode, the person may suddenly sit up in bed , scream , and appear to be in a state of panic . They may also thrash about, sweat profusely , and have a rapid heart rate. However, unlike nightmares, they are not typically responsive to attempts to comfort them, and they may not even remember the episode the next day . Night terrors are caused by a disruption in the normal sleep cycle. They are more likely to occur if the person is sleep deprived or if they have an irregular sleep schedule. Other factors that may contribute to night terrors include stress, anxiety, and certain medications. While night terrors can be frightening to witness, they

TETANUS

Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that affects the nervous system and can lead to muscle stiffness, painful spasms, and even death.It is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani , which can enter the body through a wound or cut. The best way to prevent tetanus is through vaccination with the tetanus toxoid injection. Tetanus Toxoid Injection: The tetanus toxoid injection is a vaccine that provides immunity against tetanus. It is made from a toxin produced by the bacterium that causes tetanus, but the toxin is inactivated so it cannot cause disease. The vaccine works by stimulating the body's immune system to produce antibodies that can recognize and destroy the tetanus bacteria if it enters the body. The tetanus toxoid vaccine is usually given as part of the combination vaccine known as the DTaP or Tdap vaccine , which also protects against diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough). It is recommended that all children receive a series of DTaP vaccinations starting at 2 m

Junk Food

Junk food is a term used to describe foods that are high in calories, fat, sugar, and salt but low in nutritional value. These foods are often cheap, convenient, and easily accessible, making them a popular choice for many people.However, the consumption of junk food has been linked to a range of negative effects on our health, both in the short and long term. Obesity One of the most significant effects of eating junk food is obesity. Junk food is high in calories, and it’s easy to consume large amounts of it without realizing it.Over time, the excess calories can lead to weight gain, which can eventually lead to obesity. Obesity is a serious health condition that increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and many other chronic diseases. Poor Nutrition Another negative effect of junk food is that it is often low in essential nutrients. Junk food is typically high in calories, fat, and sugar, but low in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrien

Diarrhoea Treatment Guide

Diarrhoea is a common condition that affects people of all ages, and it is characterized by loose or watery bowel movements that occur frequently. In most cases, diarrhoea is a self-limiting condition that resolves within a few days without any specific treatment .However, if left untreated, diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and other complications, particularly in young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. Causes of Diarrhoea: Diarrhoea can be caused by a variety of factors, including: Viral infections : Rotavirus, norovirus, and other viral infections are a common cause of diarrhoea, particularly in children. Bacterial infections : Bacterial infections such as salmonella, campylobacter, and E. coli can also cause diarrhoea. Parasitic infections : Parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium can cause diarrhoea, particularly in developing countries where sanitation is poor. Food intolerance : Some people may experience diarrhoea as a result of food intolera

Steps for GOOD SLEEP

Are you struggling to get a good night's sleep? Do you wake up feeling tired and groggy, even after getting enough hours of rest? If so, you're not alone. Many people struggle with sleep-related issues, but the good news is that there are simple steps you can take to improve your sleep quality. Here are some tips for ensuring a sound sleep: Stick to a regular sleep schedule:  Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle and can help you fall asleep more easily at night. Create a sleep-friendly environment: Make sure your bedroom is quiet, cool, and dark. Invest in comfortable bedding and pillows, and consider using blackout curtains or a white noise machine to block out any distracting sounds or light. Limit screen time before bed: The blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with your body's production of the sleep hormone melatonin. Avoid using smartphones, tablets, a

Steps to QUIT SMOKING

Quitting smoking is a challenging but rewarding process that can significantly improve a person's health and well-being. Here are some steps that can help individuals quit smoking: Set a quit date: Choose a specific date to quit smoking, and stick to it. Identify triggers: Identify the situations, people, or activities that make you want to smoke, and try to avoid them or develop coping strategies. Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a healthcare provider about quitting smoking. Consider joining a support group or seeking counseling. Use nicotine replacement therapy (NRT): Nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, or inhalers can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Consider medication: Prescription medications such as bupropion or varenicline can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Develop healthy habits: Engage in regular exercise, eat a healthy diet, and get enough sleep to improve overall health and reduce stress. Stay motivated: Remind yourself of the be

Smoking & Its Effects

Smoking is one of the most prevalent and deadly habits in the world today. Despite significant efforts to educate people about the dangers of smoking, millions of people still smoke and are at risk of serious health complications. The negative effects of smoking are numerous, ranging from respiratory issues to heart disease and cancer. In this blog, we will explore the dangers of smoking and its effects on the human body. Firstly, smoking causes respiratory issues . When a person smokes, they inhale a mixture of harmful chemicals and gases into their lungs. These substances can damage the delicate tissues in the lungs, leading to a host of respiratory issues such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma. Chronic bronchitis causes inflammation and irritation of the bronchial tubes, leading to a persistent cough, mucus production, and shortness of breath. Emphysema causes damage to the air sacs in the lungs, leading to a loss of lung function and shortness of breath. Asthma is a c

Artificial Insulin vs Natural Insulin

Artificial insulin and natural insulin are both types of hormones that regulate blood sugar levels in the body. However, there are some key differences between these two types of insulin. In this blog, we will explore the similarities and differences between artificial insulin and natural insulin. Similarities between Artificial Insulin and Natural Insulin Both artificial insulin and natural insulin have the same basic function, which is to regulate blood sugar levels. They work by helping glucose, a type of sugar that is the body's primary source of energy, to enter the cells where it can be used for energy or stored for later use. They also regulate the production and release of glucose by the liver. Differences between Artificial Insulin and Natural Insulin Artificial insulin is produced in a laboratory using recombinant DNA technology, while natural insulin is produced by the beta cells of the pancreas . The chemical structure of artificial insulin is slightly different from

Artificial Insulin

Artificial insulin, also known as synthetic insulin, is a type of insulin that is chemically synthesized to replicate the natural insulin produced by the human body. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels . It plays a vital role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. In this blog, we will explore the history of artificial insulin, how it works, and its importance for individuals with diabetes. History of Artificial Insulin Before the discovery of insulin, diabetes was a life-threatening condition with no known cure. In 1921, Canadian scientists Frederick Banting and Charles Best discovered insulin by isolating it from the pancreas of dogs. Shortly after, they were able to produce insulin from the pancreas of cows and pigs, which was then used to treat people with diabetes.This marked a significant breakthrough in the treatment of diabetes, and Banting and Best were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1923 for t

Fasting & Its Effects

Fasting, the act of abstaining from food and/or drink for a certain period of time , has been a practice for centuries. It has been associated with spiritual and religious practices, but it has also gained popularity as a health trend in recent years. Many people choose to fast for various reasons, including weight loss, detoxification, and improved overall health. In this blog, we will explore the effects of fasting on the body and mind. Weight loss  Fasting has been found to be an effective way to lose weight. When the body is in a fasted state, it has no choice but to burn stored fat for energy. This can lead to a significant reduction in body weight, especially if combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Improved insulin sensitivity Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. When we eat, our body produces insulin to help move glucose into our cells for energy. However, too much insulin production can lead to insulin resistance, a condition where the body’s c

MALARIA

Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite that is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female mosquitoes. It is a life-threatening disease that affects millions of people worldwide every year, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2020 , there were an estimated 229 million cases of malaria worldwide, resulting in approximately 409,000 deaths. In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of malaria. Causes of Malaria: Malaria is caused by a parasite called Plasmodium , which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes . There are five different species of Plasmodium that can infect humans, with Plasmodium falciparum being the most deadly. Symptoms of Malaria: The symptoms of malaria typically appear 10 to 15 days after the mosquito bite. The most common symptoms include fever , chills , headache , muscle pain , and fatigue

ANKLE SPRAIN

Ankle sprains are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries, affecting millions of people worldwide every year. They occur when the ligaments that connect the bones in the ankle joint are stretched or torn, often due to a sudden twist or turn of the foot. While ankle sprains are typically not life-threatening, they can cause significant pain and discomfort, and in severe cases, they may lead to long-term complications such as chronic instability or joint damage. Causes of Ankle Sprains: Ankle sprains can occur in a variety of situations, including during sports or physical activity, or even during everyday activities such as walking on uneven surfaces. Some common causes of ankle sprains include: Sudden twisting or rolling of the foot, such as when landing awkwardly after a jump or changing direction quickly during sports Overuse or repetitive stress on the ankle joint, such as during long-distance running or walking on hard surfaces Walking or running on uneven or unstable surfa

BMI CALCULATION & CHART

The BMI (body mass index) calculation formula is: BMI = weight (in kilograms) / height (in meters) squared Or, using imperial units: BMI = (weight (in pounds) / height (in inches) squared) x 703 For example, if a person weighs 70 kilograms and is 1.75 meters tall, their BMI would be calculated as follows:BMI = 70 / (1.75 x 1.75) = 22.86 Alternatively, if a person weighs 150 pounds and is 5 feet 8 inches tall (68 inches), their BMI would be calculated as follows: BMI = (150 / (68 x 68)) x 703 = 22.80 It's important to note that BMI is just one tool used to assess body weight and health status, and it may not be accurate for all individuals. Therefore, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate measures to assess an individual's health status.

OBESITY

Obesity is a medical condition in which an individual's body mass index (BMI) exceeds a healthy range(Ideal 18-25). It is a complex condition that affects millions of people worldwide and has become a significant public health concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity has more than tripled worldwide since 1975, and in 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults were overweight, of which over 650 million were obese. Obesity is a result of an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure , where an individual consumes more calories than they burn through physical activity and daily living. This leads to the accumulation of excess fat in the body, which can have serious health consequences. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing several chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. It can also lead to other health problems such as sleep apnea , osteoarthritis, and liver disease. There are several f

Hypertension

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by an elevated level of pressure in the arteries(140/90 mmHg is labelled Hypertension according medical literature, Normal is 120/80 mmHg) , which can cause damage to the blood vessels and other organs in the body. Hypertension is a major risk factor for several life-threatening conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments of hypertension. Causes of Hypertension: There are several factors that can contribute to the development of hypertension, including: Genetics: Hypertension can run in families, and certain genetic factors may make some people more prone to developing high blood pressure. Lifestyle factors: Unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as a diet high in salt and saturated fat, lack of physical activity, and smoking, can increase the risk of developing hyper

Migraine: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Migraine is a neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a type of headache that can cause intense pain and other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can last for several hours or days, and they can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Symptoms of Migraine The symptoms of a migraine attack can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include: Intense pain on one or both sides of the head Throbbing or pulsating pain Nausea and vomiting Sensitivity to light and sound Blurred vision or visual disturbances, such as seeing flashing lights or zigzag lines Dizziness or lightheadedness Fatigue or weakness Difficulty concentrating Migraine attacks can be triggered by various factors, including stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, and changes in sleep patterns. Causes of Migraine The exact causes of migraine are not fully understood, but researchers believe that genetics and environmental

Heimlich Maneuver

Stand behind the person who is choking, and wrap your arms around their waist. Make a fist with one hand and place the thumb side of your fist against the person's upper abdomen, just below the ribcage and above the navel. Grasp your fist with your other hand, and press your fist upward and inward in a quick and forceful manner. Repeat thrusts until the object is expelled or the person becomes unconscious. If the person becomes unconscious, lower them gently to the ground and call for emergency medical services. Begin CPR if necessary, starting with chest compressions. Note: If you are performing the Heimlich maneuver on an infant or a pregnant woman, the technique will vary slightly. It is important to seek proper training and instruction before attempting the Heimlich maneuver in any situation.

Foreign Body in Trachea: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

The trachea, also known as the windpipe, is a vital part of the respiratory system that carries air from the nose and mouth to the lungs. A foreign body in the trachea is a medical emergency that occurs when an object becomes lodged in the windpipe, obstructing the flow of air and causing breathing difficulties. This can happen to people of all ages, but it is most common in children under the age of 5. Symptoms of Foreign Body in Trachea The symptoms of a foreign body in the trachea can vary depending on the size and location of the object. Common symptoms include: Sudden choking or coughing while eating or playing Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath Wheezing or noisy breathing Chest pain or discomfort Cyanosis, which is a bluish discoloration of the skin due to a lack of oxygen If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Causes of Foreign Body in Trachea Foreign bodies in the trachea can occur due to a variety of reasons,

COMMON COLD & REMEDY

The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, including the nose, throat, sinuses, and lungs. It is a prevalent condition that affects people of all ages, particularly during the winter months. In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for the common cold. Causes of the Common Cold The common cold is caused by a variety of viruses, including rhinovirus, coronavirus, and adenovirus. These viruses are highly contagious and can be spread through close contact with an infected person or contaminated objects, such as doorknobs, keyboards, or utensils. Cold viruses can also spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms of the Common Cold The symptoms of the common cold typically appear within 1-3 days of exposure to the virus and can last for 7-10 days. Common symptoms include: Runny or stuffy nose Sneezing Coughing Sore throat Headache Body aches Fatigue Mild fever Treatment Options for

Diabetes and its Management

  Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. The condition affects millions of people worldwide, and its prevalence is increasing rapidly. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, and nerve damage. However, with the right management, people with diabetes can live long, healthy lives. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the key aspects of diabetes management. Types of Diabetes There are three main types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. People with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin injections or use an insulin pump to manage their blood sugar. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for a

CHRONIC HEADACHES

  Chronic headaches are a common condition that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. They are defined as headaches that occur for at least 15 days per month for at least three months. Chronic headaches can be caused by a variety of factors, including medical conditions, lifestyle factors, and environmental factors. Types of Chronic Headaches: Chronic Migraine: Chronic migraine is characterized by headaches that last for at least four hours a day for at least 15 days a month. It is often associated with other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Chronic Tension Headache: Chronic tension headache is characterized by a dull, constant ache that affects both sides of the head. It may be accompanied by neck pain and muscle tension. New Daily Persistent Headache (NDPH): NDPH is characterized by sudden onset of headaches that occur for at least 15 days a month and last for more than three months. It is often associated with other symptoms s

Central Pain Syndrome

  Central Pain Syndrome (CPS) is a neurological condition that is characterized by chronic pain, which is often described as burning, tingling, or stabbing sensations. The pain can be constant or intermittent and can be localized or spread throughout the body. CPS is caused by damage to the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, and can be a result of trauma, stroke, or disease. Symptoms of Central Pain Syndrome: The symptoms of CPS can vary from person to person, but the most common symptom is chronic pain that is often described as burning or shooting. Other symptoms may include: Hyperalgesia: An increased sensitivity to pain. Allodynia: Pain from non-painful stimuli such as touch or cold. Hyperesthesia: An increased sensitivity to touch, sound, or light. Numbness or tingling in the affected area. Muscle weakness or spasms. Difficulty with balance and coordination. Causes of Central Pain Syndrome: Central Pain Syndrome can be caused by a variety of conditio

Understanding and Managing Musculoskeletal Pain

  Musculoskeletal pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by pain and discomfort in the muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and other structures that support the body's movement. This type of pain can be acute or chronic and may be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, overuse, or medical conditions such as arthritis. Acute musculoskeletal pain is usually caused by an injury or trauma to the body, such as a sprain, strain, or fracture. This type of pain usually comes on suddenly and can be severe, making it difficult to move or perform daily activities. Chronic musculoskeletal pain, on the other hand, is pain that lasts for more than three months and can be caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, or back pain. The symptoms of musculoskeletal pain vary depending on the location and severity of the pain. Some common symptoms of musculoskeletal pain include: Pain or discomfort in the