Introduction
Humidity is defined as the amount of moisture or water content present in the air around us, and it is measured as a percentage. Too much is also an issue, and too less can also cause problems. The most appropriate levels are around 40-60%. Humidity can have a profound effect on multiple levels in our body- most notably the respiratory system, brain, skin, kidneys and the eyes respectively. Let us see how varying levels of humidity can mean different sets of health problems.
Air borne pathogen growth depends mostly on humidity- and high humidity means more of these microbes which have a better chance of infecting us. High humidity can do a number on your lungs especially, and if you have asthma or COPD, your symptoms may worsen. Staying safe and cool at home needs to be a priority instead. Some other prominent health conditions common in the summer include heatstroke, cramps, dermatological problems, fatigue and allergies. Mold spores and dust mites residing in our houses and bedding can increase flare ups too. The digestive system is also not spared- you have greater chances of dealing with influx, indigestion, dehydration or heartburn as the whole process of digestion is much slower now.
Lower humidity means drier air- which can also cause other issues like soreness of eyes, itchy skin and other skin related problems. Humidity levels are much lower during winters, and dry air can mean that air borne viruses do not die and stay around, leading to the dreaded winter flu outbreaks. Your eyes can feel very dry and look red, so you may be prescribed drops. Itchy and dry skin can also affect your daily life. So, be prepared to moisturise generously. Low humidity can affect the tummy by causing more bloating, constipation and you may not feel as hungry too.
Our body temperature is regulated by using very delicate machinery. Any change in temperature and humidity will mean that our body will need to expend more energy to stay within the normal range. Humidifiers and dehumidifiers may hence be used judiciously. Keeping a close watch on temperatures, air quality indices and humidity levels before deciding to go out is also a plus.
FAQs
Yes. Too much can cause heat related illnesses like dehydration, heatstroke, skin infections or rashes and indigestion. Low levels can lead to itchy eyes and skin, constipation and allergies too.
Yes, anything below 0% and above 60% is bad for health. So ensure that humidity stays within this range only.
Yes, high humidity means more moisture and higher growth of mold spores and bacteria- meaning more allergies.
Two- the elderly and very young children can both get affected. So, ensure that you take special care of them all.
Use a humidifier in cold and dry winters, and a dehumidifier in the summer.
Introduction
The atmosphere around us can feel much heavier than usual, and that is due to increased air pressure. The high humidity associated with the monsoon, along with these pressure changes, can cause issues with our joints and worsen inflammation-related symptoms. It makes sense to keep moving, but in a controlled manner, ensuring that our quality of life doesn’t worsen.
Let us look at different ways to prevent joint pain this monsoon:
Joint pain is often chronic, and effective management can be challenging. Humidity and air pressure changes impact our bodies, especially bones and joints. Small routine changes, proper nutrition, hydration, and gentle movement can improve mood and reduce pain. Managing pain requires both physical and mental strategies, so consult your doctor for personalized advice.
FAQs
It is mostly arthritic pains like the back, the wrist, knees and shoulders which get inflamed and range of motion gets limited.
Aerobic exercise routines like walking, swimming and yoga can really help a lot.
A good diet can help offset any persistent pains due to the presence of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances. These can all promote cellular health and reduce the magnitude of symptoms. Since digestion is also impacted, eating certain groups of foodstuffs could cause more bloating and increase pain.
Yes, a deficiency is bad and could potentially worsen joint aches.
Good quality sleep is a necessity in the war against chronic pain. Sleeping soundly becomes a challenge, but lack of sleep can make you feel worse by influencing your mood negatively. Using the appropriate medication is one way to ensure that you can sleep, and recover enough to face the next day. Other techniques like meditation, yoga, reiki or CBT can also be used.
Introduction
The main question is this – why do we tend to have digestive issues in the monsoon? The answer is pretty simple, and is actually a combination of factors like the warm temperatures and high humidity. Due to the high moisture content in the air, bacteria and fungal spores tend to survive for longer, and have higher chances of contaminating food and water.
Did you know that India had the highest number of typhoid cases in the year 2021 in the world? Yep, about 12.9 million cases! Pretty sure you did not. The disease burden is only getting higher with every passing year. Typhoid is just one of the many tummy-related ailments that can strike us all this rainy season. As mentioned above, typhoid is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium *Salmonella typhi*. Symptoms include nausea, fatigue, severe abdominal pain, and diarrhoea. Since it is a bacterial infection, antibiotics are normally used to treat it. But, if the symptoms are very severe, then managing the condition may be more challenging than usual.
The liver can get affected with parasitic worms like *Ascaris*, and result in jaundice and related symptoms. Jaundice may be mild or severe, and the problem is this – symptoms don’t get resolved quickly. So, you may have jaundice for a few months or even years, and this can lead to further liver damage.
Diarrhoea or loose stools is a symptom that is characteristic of many kinds of infections or conditions. So, diagnosing the underlying condition (like infection due to *E. coli*, *Shigella*, *Salmonella* etc.) becomes more important than ever. Dehydration is a major hallmark, and hence resting and replenishing or increasing fluid intake is a sure-fire way to treat it. That, and also making sure to eat bland or comfortable foods like kanji, curd rice, etc., will all help you feel better soon.
Viral gastroenteritis can cause many symptoms like diarrhoea, fever, extreme emesis (aka projectile vomiting), and just general lethargy. You can get the rotavirus or norovirus from anywhere, so make sure to eat at home, and not touch unclean surfaces. Try to be a little more mindful of keeping your surroundings cleaner than usual, if you have someone at home with these symptoms.
Let us look at some practical tips to stay safe now
It is pretty simple – taking good care of your health must take precedence in the monsoon, as it is easy to fall ill. There are many bugs out there ready to wage war on us, so being prepared is the only way we can stay disease-free. So, good luck, and don’t forget to enjoy the rains with some good masala chai and pakoras in hand.
FAQs
Greater humidity = more bugs in the air and standing water around. That’s all you need to remember. So, sticking to a healthy diet, and drinking boiled or filtered water help greatly.
Try to stay away from raw food, and eat well cooked and hot foods only. Increasing your intake of curd, buttermilk and fermented foods will help fortify your gut.
Spices like turmeric, pepper, and other condiments like garlic and ginger have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin C is very important now-so, citrus fruits like oranges,lemons, gooseberries, tomatoes, potatoes, fortified cereals and grains and fresh greens and mushrooms for essential nutrients.
Dehydration can cause other health issues, and if you have problems like diarrhoea or vomiting, then you can feel great malaise. So, drinking tender coconut water, fresh fruit juices, water, and buttermilk in multiple servings per day are good options. The quality of water you drink also matters.
Absolutely. You may feel very tempted to stay in bed and pull your blanket around you, but regular exercise and movement can help improve your mood and digestion too.
Introduction
National Sports Day is celebrated mainly to honour Major Dhyan Chand’s achievements in hockey- he won 3 gold medals at the Olympics for India! Now, isn’t that splendid? What’s more, he won them in 3 consecutive Olympic games held in 1928, 1932 and 1936 respectively. This day was celebrated for the very first time in 2012, and the Indian Government uses this occasion to roll out important sports schemes. There is a particular theme every year too. Dhyan Chand was also called the ‘wizard’ on the hockey field because of his extraordinary prowess and skill.
The story behind why he was called ‘Chand’ is also interesting. He would practice hockey after his duty was done for the day. He was a prolific player- he represented India in 185 matches all over the world, and scored over 400 goals. The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award was renamed the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021, and is awarded to outstanding athletes for their achievements, every year by the President of India.
The theme for this year is ‘Sport for the Promotion of Peaceful and Inclusive Societies’. This initiative is a great way to unify communities and to break down barriers because we all love our sports and a competitive match, don’t we?
The various sports schemes that our government has rolled out include the following-
This celebration is very much relevant now because we need to use sports as a way to improve our lifestyle. Our high work pressure environments and sedentary lifestyle increase our likelihoods of having metabolic issues like diabetes or hormonal disorders. It is also a good platform to recognise our national athletes, and ensure that they continue to get the resources they require to perform at their peak. This is an opportunity to understand more about the sports schemes that our government may initiate.
FAQs
It is celebrated on 29 August every year, and the Indian Govt encourages schools and other establishments to hold seminars, sporting events, and awareness campaigns.
To commemorate Major Dhyn Chand’s birthday, and to recognise his achievements in hockey.
It is important because we can teach young children crucial values like team building, leadership, confidence and stir their competitive streak. It also teaches us why regular physical activity is important to stay healthy- both physically and mentally.
3 awards are given out- the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, Dronacharya Award and Arjuna Awards are conferred on deserving athletes and trainers.
Women face inequality everywhere, and so encouraging them to take part in sporting activities can level the playing field and challenge stereotypes too. It also encourages young minds to never give up and work hard for what needs to be done.
Introduction
Pain is a universal feeling that we all deal with at one point of time or another when we deal with life. It could be acute or chronic, depending on how often you get it. Some common examples of bothersome pain include migraines, stomach aches, menstrual cramps, or even daily body aches we associate with ageing or wear and tear of joints and bones. Most of us are fortunate enough to deal with pain for just a few days or weeks and then we get better. But, when pain lasts for longer than 3 months, it is classified as chronic pain, which leads to the need for expensive palliative care, physical therapy, and can even affect general productivity. Let us look at some well-known and burdensome examples like arthritis, neuropathy, and chronic migraines in greater detail.
The thing about chronic pain is that it comes and goes or may be there all the time. This means you cannot participate in daily activities or stick to your favourite routine, without this constant nagging in the background. Chronic pain disorders can cause what is called the ‘terrible triad’ – physical pain leading to mental depression and high levels of irritability. This is like the beginning of a terrible movie with a bad ending – it just gets worse, and you don’t have the strength or wherewithal to understand how to feel better. Some people will do anything to be pain-free – from unnecessary surgeries to high drug dependency or going on a quest to ‘get normal.’
Arthritis is one such example, but there are many others, including pain from cancer, scar tissue-associated pain, fibromyalgia, neurological disorders, or idiopathic pain, meaning the cause remains unknown. You could describe your pain with various terms such as shooting, burning, sharp, sting-like, or throbbing, and rate its intensity on a scale of 0-10. This can affect sleep quality, your ability to finish chores or work, and lead to severe mood swings.
Diagnosing the cause of chronic pain involves multiple methods such as blood work, imaging, nerve conduction studies, urine tests, reflex or balance tests, and spinal taps. Medications depend on the type, severity, and frequency of the pain. While there are many treatment options, excessive reliance on drugs can cause drug insensitivity and even lead to liver and kidney failure. Additionally, some pain medications may alter your mood.
The good news is that there are now many different kinds of therapies available. Here are some:
Chronic pain must be managed as there is no definite cure at present. Many factors contribute to chronic pain – genetic predisposition, age, physically demanding jobs, stress, or even smoking. Making long-lasting changes to your lifestyle is essential to reduce the intensity of the pain, as physical pain can worsen if you are also experiencing depression.
FAQs
Acute pain is new and is something you have recently had to deal with, but chronic pain can last for weeks, months or even years, and even after the underlying condition has been diagnosed.
Some examples include multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease (PD), fibromyalgia, diabetic neuropathy, phantom limb pain etc.
The goals include proper diagnosis, improving functional mobility, dealing with and minimising side effects, taking care of mental health and improving general quality of life.
Therapy can help develop better coping mechanisms, emotional regulation, relaxation techniques, better self-understanding and even cognitive restructuring.
Drugs like anticonvulsants, antidepressants, topical creams, and similar interventions are available.
Introduction
The World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) campaign was begun in 1992, and since 2016 is a part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as outlined by the UN. The main point of action is to come up with innovative and sustainable ways to ensure that women feel comfortable and confident enough to be able to breastfeed their babies without any restrictions. This initiative is duly supported by the WHO, Ministries of Health of various nations, and UNICEF, along with local partners who work at the grassroots level to ensure better outreach. Let us see why this is such a crucial campaign to begin with.
Breast milk has been called liquid gold (colostrum, early stages of lactation) or complete baby food and serves one main purpose- to provide complete nutrition to infants as soon as they are born. Mothers can choose how long they would like to breastfeed, but the ideal time period is to breastfeed on demand for the first 6 months of their life. Then, breastfeeding can be supplemented with solids till they turn 2 years of age. Breast milk is chock full of nutrients- water, carbohydrates, good fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals. The cool part- it is customised almost every day, to meet your baby’s growing nutritional demands! The quality of milk changes based on the foods the mother consumes. The amounts of milk depend on how often your baby feeds. So, the more often they feed, the more quantities of milk you make.
The benefits of breastfeeding stay long after the baby has been weaned, for years actually- and provides them with immunity, and lowers their susceptibility to certain conditions like diabetes, respiratory disorders, ear infections, obesity, certain kinds of cancers, etc. It also helps in reducing the overall caretaking costs associated with healthcare later on. While all this sounds fascinating, let us look at why some women may not prefer to breastfeed-
The Indian government came up with the Indian Maternity Benefit Act in 1961. This Act outlines the importance of paid maternity leave (26 weeks or 6 months), a creche facility if the organization has more than 50 employees, and that the mother can visit the child up to 4 times a day in the designated creche area. Adoption also works similarly- up to 12 weeks of maternity leave is provided for new mothers.
The theme this year outlines how the community as a whole can help new and lactating mothers by providing them with the help they deserve. Giving birth to a baby and taking care of them is no small feat. It takes a village to raise a child well. There is a lot of stigma associated with lactation and new mothers- and there are feelings of inadequacy which show up- like am I making enough milk for my baby? Why is my baby crying constantly? Am I doing something wrong? Why is my baby not gaining weight? Etc., etc., etc. The constant worrying can place great physical and mental stress on the mother. We as a community need to establish a no-judgement safe space for them. What are you waiting for? See a new mother, give her a hurrah!
They include spreading awareness about the advantages of breastfeeding, and coming up with measures to help women do just that!
Workshops, talks, online campaigns on social media can all help greatly!
Offer to do household chores for them, offer to take care of the baby for a while, offer them nutritious meals, and let them rest as much as possible.
Celebrated from August 1-7, every year, this annual global campaign plays a great role in emphasising the importance of breastfeeding to society as a whole.
The World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) is instrumental in organising the WBW, while working with the WHO, UNICEF and governments of various nations worldwide.
Organ donation is a critical process that saves thousands of lives each year.
As we approach National Organ Donor Day on August 13th, it’s essential to understand the significance of this selfless act and its profound impact on individuals, families, and communities.
Becoming an organ donor is a simple process:
Organ Donation Registration Process in India
Complete the Online Pledge Form
Receive Your Donor Card
Carry Your Donor Card
Inform Your Family and Friends
Understand the Legal Aspect
Regular Family Discussions
Stay Informed
Remember: Registration is a statement of intent. The most critical step is ensuring your family is aware of and supports your decision to be an organ donor. Their consent at the time of your passing is what will ultimately allow your wish to be fulfilled.
Several myths surround organ donation that may deter potential donors:
Organ donation is a powerful way to leave a lasting, positive impact on the world. By choosing to become an organ donor, you’re offering hope to those in desperate need of a second chance at life. This August 13th, consider registering as an organ donor and discuss your decision with your loved ones. Your choice today could save multiple lives tomorrow.
Introduction
August is celebrated as the national month for breastfeeding in the US, and the first week of the month (Aug 1-7) is regarded to be World Breastfeeding Week (WBW)- which is a great public health initiative that forces the general public to see how new mothers find life difficult, and the various ways in which we can actually help them overcome these difficulties. The United States Breastfeeding Committee (USBC) works with the Congress to help in this regard. The 1990 Innocenti Celebration proclaimed that all babies need to be breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months of their life, and to concentrate on improving maternal health and nutrition. This would definitively translate to better nutrition for the infant too.
This whole exercise is being done with the goal of not just bettering maternal healthcare prospects, but to also provide them with a judgement-free space for it all. Letting the mother rest and recover, giving her good quality food, and setting up a comfortable breastfeeding space in the house with all supplies can greatly help, as the mother may be feeding the baby 10-12 times a day. That seems like a lot, doesn’t it?
Let us look at a few handy tips you may appreciate, when you decide to breastfeed your baby-
Breastfeeding is no easy feat, and it needs to be celebrated. The very fact that a mother is able to give birth to a whole little human being and then make complete food needed by the baby- that is a miracle in itself! So, it is time we get rid of any ignorance or judgement associated with the act, and to be nice to yourself. Mothers are often the harshest self-critics- they are always wondering if they are making enough, if their baby is crying too much, if they should focus on their own mental health, if their feelings of inadequacy or helplessness or excessive anxiety will go away etc. This is a lot to process for anyone. So, let us try to make their lives a little easy- by helping them in any way we can. It is time we remember this tip- breastfeeding saves lives! Literally!
To rest, eat well and bond with the baby. Life will get better soon.
This is an annual event that is observed globally. It is done to ensure that breastfeeding mothers get all the support they deserve, with no judgment, and with great compassion too.
Employers can help establish a space for pumping. Asking someone to pump in the break room is not a solution. Allowing mothers to feed their babies or pump on a schedule without passing any unwanted comments will help a lot. You can be flexible with work timings, allow mothers to work from home, and educate peers about how to help generally.
Women don’t get the right kind of medical and family planning advice. They may be forced to entertain guests and people who wish to ‘hold the baby’ when they should actually be focusing on physical recovery. Women are judged for taking maternity leave. Life is not easy or is definitely NOT a holiday for those first 6 months. They may not be paid when they are away from work. If they choose to work, they may not have access to appropriate creche facilities.
Celebrities can use social media and talk about why the campaign is important. Doctors and health professionals can also educate the general public – with short and informative leaflets, skits, blogs or other relevant material. In fact, Neha Dhupia, Bipasha Basu, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Dia Mirza are all well-known ambassadors and advocate for this cause vociferously.
Introduction:
As the rainy season approaches, the threat of mini-vampires taking over our lives and bringing with them mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and malaria looms large. Understanding the risks and taking proactive measures to prevent mosquito breeding can significantly reduce your chances of contracting these potentially life-threatening illnesses.
In this blog, we’ll explore effective strategies to keep mosquitoes at bay and delve into the complications and risk factors associated with dengue fever.
Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. While many cases are mild, some can develop into severe dengue, which can be life-threatening. Understanding the risk factors is crucial for prevention and early intervention.
Severe dengue can lead to serious complications, including:
– Dengue hemorrhagic fever
– Organ damage
– Plasma leakage
– Severe bleeding
– Shock
Prevention is always the first line of defense when it comes to mosquitoes. So, follow the below tips to prevent breeding of mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water. Regularly check and empty:
– Flower pots and saucers
– Bird baths
– Buckets and containers
– Clogged gutters
– Old tires
– Keep grass short and bushes trimmed
– Remove fallen leaves and debris
– Fill in low-lying areas that collect water
– Install or repair screens on windows and doors
– Use mosquito nets while sleeping
– Consider using indoor insect light traps
Encourage your neighbors to take similar precautions. Mosquito control is most effective when everyone participates.
Apply repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Opt for long sleeves and pants, especially during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk).
Avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito times when possible.
Keep up with local health department advisories about mosquito-borne disease outbreaks in your area.
By implementing these preventive measures and understanding the risks associated with dengue fever, you can significantly reduce your chances of contracting mosquito-borne diseases. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to potentially severe illnesses like dengue fever.
FAQs:
Q1: Can dengue fever be transmitted from person to person?
A1: Dengue fever is not directly transmitted from person to person. It’s primarily spread through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. However, in rare cases, dengue can be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her fetus during pregnancy or at birth. It’s important to note that a mosquito can become infected when it bites a person who has dengue fever, and then it can spread the virus to other people it bites.
Q2: How long does it take for symptoms of dengue fever to appear after being bitten by an infected mosquito?
A2: The incubation period for dengue fever typically ranges from 3 to 14 days after the mosquito bite, with an average of 4 to 7 days. During this time, the virus replicates in the body. Once symptoms appear, they usually last for 2 to 7 days. It’s crucial to seek medical attention if you develop symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, or skin rash, especially if you’ve been in an area where dengue is common.
Q3: Are there any natural repellents that effectively deter mosquitoes?
A3: While DEET-based repellents are considered the most effective, some natural alternatives can help deter mosquitoes:
However, these natural repellents may need to be applied more frequently and may not be as long-lasting as chemical repellents. It’s important to note that their effectiveness can vary, and they should be used in conjunction with other preventive measures.
Q4: Can certain foods or supplements help prevent mosquito bites?
A4: While no food has been scientifically proven to prevent mosquito bites completely, some dietary choices may help make you less attractive to mosquitoes:
However, these dietary changes should not be relied upon as your sole method of mosquito prevention. They should be used in combination with proven methods like repellents and eliminating breeding sites.
Q5: How can I distinguish between dengue fever and other viral infections?
A5: Distinguishing dengue fever from other viral infections can be challenging, as symptoms can be similar. However, some key indicators of dengue include:
– Severe headache
– Pain behind the eyes
– Muscle and joint pains
– Nausea, vomiting
– Swollen glands
– Rash
If you experience these symptoms, especially after traveling to a dengue-endemic area, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A blood test can confirm a dengue diagnosis. Remember, early detection and proper medical care can significantly reduce the risk of complications from dengue fever.
Introduction
Monsoons mean heavy rains and an increase in humidity. This means you feel sweaty and sticky. Grime can get deposited in your skin, and this accumulation can cause those pesky zits to erupt out of nowhere. It becomes super important to understand how to balance your skin pH balance, for best results. So, let us look at what you can do, right away.
Skincare is NOT rocket science, but you do need to do it in an organised manner. There is no need to follow a 5 or 7 step daily regime, but if you have the patience and the time, then go right ahead. Following some basics can help you a lot, and remember- there is no need to invest in super expensive creams and brands. So, let’s get to it-
We Indians just know how to deal with any kind of weather- using easily available ingredients and making ingenious face masks, hair masks, hair oils for specific concerns with the right combination of herbs, hand and feet care and our multifaceted diet plays a major role in ensuring we get the right nutrients into our body. So, it is time we listen to our mothers and grandmas- they have always had the perfect skin and thick hair to back their advice.
FAQs
Q1. How can I get glowing skin in the monsoon?
Use the right products, cleanse and exfoliate properly. Use a light moisturiser. Try to invest in hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic creams this season.
Q2. Should I include any specific foods or supplements this season?
Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and fish- they are all full of antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and help prevent excessive ageing and oxidative stress.
Q3. How do I deal with oily skin this monsoon?
Cleanse regularly, and use watery serums or gels and not products which have a heavy cream base. You can look for some DIY multani mitti or yoghurt based masks.
Q4. Do I need sunscreen even if it looks all cloudy?
Yes, sunscreen with SPF 30 is a necessity. This is because UV rays can still penetrate your skin and cause long-term damage.
Q5. What should I avoid doing this monsoon season?
Oil-based and heavy cream based products, harsh cleansers, and shampoos are a complete no-no. Opt for products which have natural ingredients which are milder in nature.
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