#medicento

[medicento]

Every #doodle has a #story to #tell , so @medicento #doodle has its #own ! So, #Medicento #doodle is a #story #looking at the #bigger #pictures of #life & #healthcare , as long as it's not #through a #smaller #screen of #challenge #sketch #newindia #changinglives #wednesdaywisdom #pharmacy #pharmtech https://www.instagram.com/p/BssPILqlODU/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1gk2u1dy1yzd

[medicento]

Enemy of great is good, not bad and we at medicento strive to be GREAT!!!

Customer satisfaction forms the core value of our company, medicento, and we try to take every step in order to strengthen our core value. We are new hence we rely on our customers to provide us their valuable feedback. We try to incorporate as much suggestions as possible and provide a better experience every time.

Here is a list of few feedback that we got from our customers and also what medicento is planning to do to encounter the problems.

1) Not very sure of your dosage

These are more connected times than ever. Use the power of Internet to find out the correct dosage of your required medicines. Not able to do it, no worries, let us find it out for you.

2)  Whatsapp prescription picture not clear

We know your camera is better than this, click one more and send a clear picture; otherwise we will follow up (Jab Tak hain Jaan).

3)  Don’t have a prescription with you

We understand that sometimes you might not have a prescription with you. Not to worry place your order and show us the prescription at time of delivery.

4)  Pharmacist, not able to understand your requirements

Now we have more qualified pharmacists under our umbrella and we will make sure that all your requirements are met.

We have increased our inventory of pharmacy and we make sure that all your medical needs are met on time, every time.

[medicento]

Help me ... help you!

Help me ... help you. Help me, help you."

This famous line from the film Jerry Maguire may be the best advice that doctors could give to their patient.

"Some patients have the attitude, 'I'm putting myself in the hands of a professional,'" says a doctor. "They want you to make all their decisions for them."

Patients need to get involved in their own care and engage the doctor in a cooperative effort to determine the best course of action.

So if you want to help your doctor help you, you need to help your doctor. Here's how.

1. Prepare for your doctor visit in advance.

A recent review of 33 studies showed that patients who filled out a detailed checklist before an office visit, or received in-office coaching that focused on their health status, asked more questions during their doctor visit and got more satisfaction from the visit.

"Keep a symptom diary," advises Terrie Wurzbacher, MD, a Navy physician for more than three decades and author of a book titled Your Doctor Said What? Exposing the Communication Gap.

"You may think you can remember everything," says Wurzbacher, "but by the time you get to see the doctor you will have forgotten the majority of what you wanted to tell the doctor, and it's important for the doctor to know the progression of the problem. Be specific. Explain that it all began with belly pain, and then you developed diarrhea, and so on."

Write down all of your medical problems, and also the names and the dosages of the medications you're taking. Once you've written it all down, make a copy and give it to the nurse when you arrive for your doctor visit. He/She'll add it to your medical records.

"You know the doctor is going to look at that before seeing you," says a doctor.

2. Explain how you're feeling.

You know better than anyone else how you feel, and that information is vital to your doctor. That's why doctors prefer to take their patients' medical history themselves.

According to a doctor – “Most patients I see are surprised to find out that there’s something they should have brought to their doctor’s visit.” Granted, many patients come in emergency situations that they can’t plan for before their visit. However, most people have some heads-up for going to their doctor. Certainly if you’re going to your annual check-up or a routine appointment, you should bring these items with you.

Keep this checklist readily accessible; even if you’re going to the hospital for an emergency appointment, aim to take the following 10 items with you:

1. A medical card. It would be ideal for every doctor to have a full list of your medical history, but our country is not even close to having a nationally accessible medical record system. To make sure your doctor has your information available, carry a card with you. You can find many cards that are easily downloadable on the Internet where you list your medical problems, surgeries, doctor’s names, insurance, and allergies. Especially if you are seeing a coverage doctor or visiting the E.R., he or she may not have your medical record. This makes sure that your doctor can see your most critical medical information.

2. Changes to your medical record. If you have had recent test results since you last saw your doctor, bring these with you. Even if it was your doctor that you’re going to see who sent you to get the test, bringing the results will make sure that they are discussed during the visit.

3. Your medications. Very often, patients come in and say that they can’t remember what they’re taking. “I think I stopped taking the pink tiny pill, but I’m still taking the white one and the blue one,” is not as helpful as actually seeing the actual bottles with the labels on them. Take all your medications, put them in a bag, and bring them with you. Tell your doctor if you’ve stopped taking any of your medications, and be honest if you haven’t been taking them as much as you were supposed to. Otherwise, your doctor may assume they’re not working, and prescribe you even more!

4. A list of alternative therapies. The majority of our patients use some type of alternative therapy. It is better for your doctor to know about it. Most doctors are not experts in herbal therapies, but it’s useful for them to know what you're taking in case there are some interactions with your other medications. Keep a list of fish oil, vitamins, and supplements that you’re using, and a record of any visits to chiropractors, naturopaths, or other practitioners.

5. A journal of your symptoms. If you have a chronic condition, or if you have a new symptom you’re concerned about, you should be keeping a journal that documents your symptoms and how it is through the following days and weeks. Your doctor may also ask you to keep track of your response to treatments you’re doing at home. Sometimes, there are objective measures that you need to write down, such as your blood sugar. Bringing the journal with you to your appointment can help remind you of your story, and allows for your doctor better understand what’s going on and how your symptoms affect your daily life.

6. A list of your questions. You should always come prepared with a list of questions to ask your doctor. Brainstorm the list well before your appointment, and have a concise list of questions, starting with the most urgent that you must get answered. Don’t leave your doctor’s office without asking them.

7. A notebook and pen. This may seem obvious, but your doctor may not always have writing equipment readily accessible, and it’s important to have a notebook and pen to take notes. Write down things that don’t make sense, and ask for clarification. If there are words mentioned that you’ve never heard of, ask your doctor to spell them. At the end of the visit, ask for a verbal summary. Make sure you write down and understand your plan.

8. A family member or a friend. Having someone with you will give you support and company during the appointment. And more importantly, they can help remind you of your questions and concerns, and is another measure to help ensure your doctor answers all the questions that you have.

9. A smartphone. Everyone seems to have some kind of smartphone device. There will be some free time when you’re waiting. Use this time to look up what your doctor has told you. The smartphone also keeps you busy if your wait is particularly long!

10. Some snacks. Often, there are limited food options at the doctor’s office, and you may be waiting for some time. Unless you’re told not to eat, or have a complaint that you’re not sure how it will go, having something on hand can help make you feel better.

 I hope this list is useful for you as you prepare for your next doctor’s visit.

[medicento]

Right Drugs  - Right Time !!

What is a drug-drug interaction?

Drug-drug interactions occur when a drug interacts or interferes with another drug. This can alter the way one or both of the drugs act in the body, or cause unexpected side effects. The drugs involved can be prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines and even vitamins and herbal products. It is an interaction between a drug and not just other drugs but some other substance, a certain type of food or alcohol, which prevents the drug from working correctly. An interaction can either increase or decrease the effectiveness and/or the side effects of a drug, or it can create a new side effect not previously seen before.

Are all drug-drug interactions the same?

Not all drug-drug interactions are equal. Sometimes when two drugs interact, the overall effect of one or both of the drugs may be greater than desired. For example, both aspirin and blood-thinners like warfarin Coumadin - used to protect against heart attack - help to prevent blood clots from forming. Using these medications together, however, may cause excessive bleeding.

Other times, the overall effect of one or both of the drugs may be less than the desired effect. For example, certain antacids can prevent many medicines (such as antibiotics, blood- thinners and heart medications) from being absorbed into the blood stream. If this happens, the medicine may not work at all.

Who is at Risk?

People who are taking multiple medications for extended periods of times (polypharmacy.) Patients with renal or hepatic impairments because their metabolism and excretion will be impaired. Determining who will experience an interaction is largely unpredictable because various factors (age, lifestyle, diet, underlying disease) of an individual can affect the likeliness that the drug will interact. Genetic factors: Genes synthesize enzymes that metabolize drugs. Some races have genotypic variations that could decrease or increase the activity of these enzymes.

What are some of the most common symptoms of a drug-drug interaction?

The worst feared is a potentially deadly drug-drug interaction, such as one which results in a dangerous drop in blood pressure, a fast-paced, irregular heart beat, a buildup of toxins that damage the heart or liver, etc. However, most drug-drug interactions are considerably less severe. Some of the more common symptoms of drug-drug interactions include nausea or stomach upset, headache, heartburn and dizziness. However, if you experience any reaction - after taking prescription or over-the-counter medicine - that seems out of the ordinary, you should consult your local pharmacist and make him or her aware of all of the medicines you're taking. In the case of a serious reaction, you should not hesitate to seek medical treatment. Drug-drug interactions can have serious consequences. Mechanisms by Which Drug Interactions Occur When there is an increase or decrease in: The absorption of a drug into the body. Distribution of the drug in body. Changes made to the drug through the body’s metabolism. Elimination of the drug from the body. It is also possible for interactions to occur outside an organism before administration of the drugs has taken place. This can occur when two drugs are mixed, for example, in a saline solution prior to intravenous injection. Drug interactions may also be the result of the pharmacodynamic properties of the drug. When two drugs that have either additive or canceling effects on the body are taken at the same time. When one drug alters the concentration of a substance that normally occurs in the body thus reducing or enhancing the desired effects of another drug.

Are drug-drug interactions limited to prescription medications?

No. A common misconception is that only prescription medications have the potential to interact with each other. The truth is over-the-counter medicines may also result in drug-drug interactions when combined with prescription medications or with other over-the-counter medicines, vitamins or herbal products. When taken as directed, over-the-counter medications are safe, cost-efficient and convenient.

What can I do to help avoid a drug-drug interaction?

There are four key things to remember in avoiding drug-drug interactions: First, thoroughly read the labels of all over-the-counter and prescription medicines. Without reading the label, you may be taking the incorrect dosage or overlooking potential side effects. Second, make sure you know the benefits as well as the potential risks of both prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking. Look specifically for the section called "Warnings" on the labels of over-the-counter medicines. Third, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medication - prescription or over-the-counter. Ask whether it is safe to take the new medicine with other over-the-counter medicines, prescription medications, vitamins or herbal products you are already taking - regularly or even occasionally. Also, keep a record listing both your over-the-counter and prescription drugs and share it with your doctors and your pharmacist. Finally, use one pharmacy for all of your family's prescription and over-the-counter medication needs. Other precautions include: Pay attention and record time of day when medications are taken. Be aware, be comfortable, and be actively involved in the treatment/drug therapy process. A list of all medications that they are currently taking or have used in the last few weeks (3~4) to the healthcare providers. This list should include over-the-counter medications, vitamins, food supplements, and herbal remedies.

How serious can a drug-drug interaction become? What factors can increase the chances of one occurring?

Again, the worst feared is a potentially deadly drug-drug interaction, however, such occurrences are rare. Even drug interactions that aren't life-threatening can decrease one or both drugs' effectiveness - resulting in insufficient therapy, sometimes creating unnecessary costs and complications. Some people are at increased risk for significant - and sometimes serious - drug interactions involving over-the-counter medications. These groups include patients with chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure. Elderly patients - 75% of whom take prescription drugs and 82% of whom use over-the-counter products regularly are at a greater risk because they are combining more medications than the younger individuals.

What are some of the worst/most dangerous drug-drug interactions involving over-the-counter medications?

Combining aspirin with blood-thinners like warfarin (Coumadin) can lead to excessive bleeding. Certain antacids may prevent many medications, like antibiotics, blood-thinners and heart medications from being absorbed into the blood as they should. This may cause the medication to be less effective or not work at all. Decongestants, which are found in many cold remedies, may cause harmful increases in blood pressure for people taking anti-hypertension medications or MAO inhibitors, a type of antidepressant. While these are just a handful of examples, there are many potential drug-drug interactions involving over-the-counter medicines. With increased usage of over-the-counter drugs, the potential for drug interactions involving them also increases.

Are drug-drug interactions limited to prescription medications?

Herbal supplements, which have grown significantly in availability and popularity in recent years, can add to the risk of drug-drug interactions. No one knows precisely how many Americans regularly use herbal products, and they are not subject to the same requirements as over-the-counter medications. However, some of the popular remedies appear to interact with both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. For example, ginkgo - which inhibits blood clotting - may cause trouble if it's taken with anticoagulants or blood-thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin). Kava kava - a popular herbal taken to reduce stress - may have additive effects if taken with muscle relaxants, sedatives or antidepressants. Vitamins and minerals also have the potential to interact with medications you're taking. For example, ferrous sulphate - essentially iron - can negate the effects of tetracycline, a commonly used antibiotic.

Do certain foods have the potential to interact with over-the-counter medications?

Yes, certain foods and beverages can interact with medicines - potentially making them less effective or causing side effects. Changes in a medicine's effect due to an interaction can be significant, however, there are many individual factors that influence the potential for variations, such as dosage, age, weight, sex and overall health. Calcium-rich dairy products (such as milk, cheese and ice cream), antacids and vitamins containing iron can all lessen the effectiveness of antibiotics, particularly tetracycline. Mixing any of these with a prescription antibiotic can cause a much slower absorption rate of the antibiotic into the blood stream/body, causing it to have a decreased effect. Grapefruit juice blocks enzymes that normally metabolize certain drugs, leaving more of the compounds to be absorbed and thus increasing blood levels of the medications. For example, grapefruit juice should not be taken with certain blood pressure-lowering medications, the antihistamine terfenadine and cyclosporine, a drug taken to prevent organ transplant rejection. Top 10 Drug Interactions: Warfarin ~NSAIDs Warfarin ~ Sulfa Drugs Warfarin ~ Macrolides Warfarin ~ Quinolones Warfarin ~ Phenytoin ACE Inhibitors ~ Potassium Supplements ACE Inhibitors ~ Spironolactone Digoxin ~ Amiodarone Digoxin ~ Verapamil Theophylline ~ Quinolones

Consequences

Drug Interactions can: Reduce the desired effects of a drug (antagonism.) Increase the adverse effects of a drug. Result in unnecessary pain and suffering. Increase the beneficial effects of a drug (synergistic effect.) Decrease the adverse effects of a drug. organ transplant rejection.

Never Miss  Your Dose -

[medicento]

Lookout For Toddler’s Milk

Paediatrician – Your baby weighs less than normal because she can’t digest the diet, you give to her. Her dietary needs seem to be in the wanting because of your indecisiveness.

Mother – But doctor, she can’t digest it. I’ve changed her diets several times but nothing seems to work.

Paediatrician – It seems that you need to understand your baby’s nutritional needs to make her healthy.

TODDLERS AND THEIR NEEDS: HOW DO WE FALL SHORT?

In the present epoch of development, milestones have been achieved in medical science. One of the most important achievements is the knowledge of our own nutritional needs. We don’t need to depend solely on natural produce to meet our daily nutritional requirements. The conceited self-sufficiency that we exhibit with regard to food goes all the way to the birth of an infant. This raises a very interesting question with respect to the validity of our dependence on nature and its produce. For newborns, biological mother and mother nature are nearly equivalent. The warmth sought by infants in their mother’s touch is a memory that lingers in the core of their very existence. In this emotional connection and survival logistics, which is better – mother’s milk or a formula feeding with all the designated nutrients in it? The answer interestingly enough is something that needs the reader’s own discretion. Put your thinking caps on and enjoy the journey where science and nature coexist, co-evolve and compete for dominance.

OPTIONS ON A PLATE, WINNER ON THE SLATE:

Before endeavouring to tackle the merits and demerits of our nutritional components, it is important to give a fair introduction about all the players in the field.

The first player is the most ancient one, mother’s milk. It provides stiff competition to all the other players. Ma and cinema are the indispensable entities of an Indian community, which gives an upper hand to mother. Further, breast feeding is a pivotal bonding experience between the mother and her baby. Last but not the least, it is very healthy activity for both mothers and infants which will be discussed later.

The second player is cow’s milk. Dairy products are easily available which is a major advantage for families where mothers are unable to breast feed their babies and who can’t afford formula feeds.

The third player is soy milk which is a big call for the mothers who are keen to keep their infants on a strict vegetarian diet.

The fourth and last player is a game changer, that is, formula feed. Mothers are very fussy about their infants not getting all the required nutrients. Formula feeding is in a way their holy grail that they have found after centuries of chasing after it. Paediatricians and mothers discuss the nutritional needs of the new-born and choose the best formula feed depending on the new-born.

It would definitely be interesting to know how the competition between the players comes along especially between the first and the fourth player. Is it nature or nurture?  

SO MANY CHOICE, SO MANY VOICES – TOO MANY NOISES?

Let us first eliminate the weak players out of the field to level the ground for the two arch nemeses. Toddlers are infants in the age group of 0 to 3 years. Needless to say, toddlers need milk the most and it is the responsibility of families to ensure that they give the best and most affordable options to their toddlers.

COW’S MILK – Though, milk is considered a complete food but toddlers shouldn’t be given cow’s milk until they are older than 6 months as they can’t digest it. It is not the best substitute for mother’s milk but it is still good enough for toddlers provided that some additional food supplements are also given.

MERITS OF COW’S MILK:

1.    Contains adequate amount of calcium, fats (required for brain development) and vitamin D required for calcium absorption.

2.    One glass of cow’s milk is equivalent to 146 calories, 8g protein, 13g carbohydrates and 8g fats mostly saturated fats.

DEMERITS OF COW’S MILK:

1.    It doesn’t contain dietary iron.

2.    It contains lactose which poses a grave problem for toddlers with lactose intolerance (inability to digest lactose) which causes gas, bloating, abdominal cramping and diarrhea.

SOY MILK – Soy contains absolutely no animal product so it has a huge fan following among the devoted vegetarians. It contains both calcium and vitamin D. It is recommended to be given to toddlers along with vitamin C. One cup of soy milk contains 100 calories, 7g of protein, 4g of sugar and 4g of fat (mostly unsaturated).

It has a major disadvantage of containing phytates which interfere with calcium absorption of toddlers.

ALLERGIES – An important effect of cow’s milk and soy milk is their behavior as allergens. Dairy milk and soy are included in the 8 most common allergens list. Whenever either of the milk is given to a toddler for the first time, it is essential to keep a close watch on them. If any of the following symptoms is observed in the toddler, consult a paediatrician immediately. The symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, rashes, hives, and if the allergy is serious, wheezing, facial swelling or difficulty in breathing is observed.

THE SUPERIORITY OF NATURE OVER NURTURE:

MOTHER’S MILK – Mother’s milk enjoys undiminished popularity since time immemorial. First, we need to know what makes mother’s milk such a divine aspect in a toddler’s life and what makes formula feeding occupy a niche despite the unwavering importance of mother’s milk.

FACTS:

1) The highly esteemed WHO has stated that toddlers should be given mother’s milk for 6 months exclusively. Afterwards, solid food should be infused with mother’s milk according to the recommendation of the paediatrician.

2) Mothers are advised to eat a healthy diet, avoid alcohol (since traces of alcohol can be transferred to the toddler via mother’s milk), an adequate intake of fluids and proper rest are extremely essential.

3) Formula feeding should be avoided while providing mother’s milk as it can disrupt the breast feeding and affect milk supply.

ADVANTAGES OF MOTHER’S MILK:

a.     It provides natural antibodies that help your baby resist illnesses, such as ear infections.

b.    It's usually more easily digested than formula. So breastfed babies are often less constipated and gassy.

c.     It may lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome in the first year of your baby's life.

d.    It may raise your child's intelligence. Studies show breastfed babies have higher levels of cognitive function.

e.     Mother’s milk may even help your child in later years, by reducing the risk of being overweight, and of developing asthma, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, Hodgkin's disease, leukemia, and lymphoma

f.      Breastfeeding is good for moms, too. Women who breastfeed have a reduced risk of breast cancer, diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, and ovarian cancer.

g.     It is a wonderful bonding experience between mothers and toddlers

h.    Mother’s milk contains more fats mostly omega 3 fatty acids which is necessary for brain development

i.       It causes no allergy in a toddler

j.       It changes over time to adapt with the growing toddler’s nutritional needs. For instance, in the second year of nursing, mother’s milk meets 38% of the toddler’s protein needs.

FORMULA FEED – If a mother can’t breast feed due to some reason, she consults with her toddler’s paediatrician and prepares a formula feeding according to the dietary needs of her toddler.

ADVANTAGES OF FORMULA FEED:

1.    It's convenient. Formula-fed babies can be fed by anyone at any time.

2.    It's flexible. You can simply leave formula for your babysitter or day care centre.

3.    Your partner can help out with night time feedings and share that bonding experience with your baby.

4.    Scheduling feedings may be easier. Formula isn't digested as quickly as breast milk, so formula-fed babies don't need to eat as often, especially in the first few months.

5.    You don't have to worry about what you eat. Moms who breastfeed may have to avoid certain foods that her baby can't tolerate.

6.    You can have a glass of wine or a cocktail once in a while. Alcohol is a no-no for women who breastfeed because they pass on tiny amounts of it to their babies

7.    Mother’s milk doesn’t contain sufficient vitamin D which is required for bone formation but formula has sufficient vitamin D

FACTS:

1.    All formulas meet legal requirements to support growth and nutrition for toddlers

2.    Brand is not a major concern as all contain fat, protein, carbohydrates

3.    Don’t change formula unless the toddler is not gaining weight or is having recurrent sickness and diarrhoea

4.    Standard infant formula:

·       Whey dominant formula/Stage I

·       Casein dominant formula/Stage II

·       Follow on milk

·       Goodnight milk

·       Pre-term formula

·       Thickened formula

5.    There are specialized formula such as:

·       Lactose free

·       Lactose reduced

·       Probiotic and prebiotic infant formula

·       Soy formula

·       Protein hydrosylate

6.    Formulas are of 3 types: powder, concentrated liquid and ready to feed liquid. Powdered form is most preferable as:

·       Least costly

·       Low in BPA (Bisphenol A) – BPA is the protective lining in metal based food cans including infant formula which can cause ADHD, diabetes etc.

7.    Points to note while choosing a formula:

·       Check for the nutritive ingredients that are provided in your baby milk powder pack.

·       Observe the child whether he or she is able to digest the alternative source of milk efficiently.

·       Maintain same brand of milk powder for your infant.

·       It is advisable to consult your paediatrician to get suitable formulated baby milk powder for your child.

·       Choose Soy based baby formula milk powders for your baby.

·       If any allergy persists to your child consult paediatrician immediately.

·       Mix the milk powder and water as directed in the pack to get the good consistency of the milk

CLASH OF THE NUTRIENTS

Knowing the players of the game is more important than knowing the rules of the game as all players don’t always follow the rules. Depending on the financial as well as social situation of the family, a joint decision should be taken to decide what’s best for the baby. It is extremely important to ensure what the baby can digest and how much the baby can digest. The consequence of the aforementioned facts is simply to know what the baby needs, that is, the baby’s nutritional needs. Beyond that, it’s just a choice that needs to be taken irrespective of the family’s preferences. Another important point to be noted is that no single diet for the infant is 100% efficient and needs of every infant differs. Hence, an unbiased perspective is required while choosing the diet of a baby.

Notice your toddlers

[medicento]

New Year But Old Health Mnemonics

New Year is not about changing the dates but direction; it’s not about changing the calendar but commitment; it’s not about changing the actions but attitude. May each and every day of yours is renewed with lots of happiness and love.

It doesn’t take much time for the ‘new’ to change into the ‘same old,’ what does take time is to make our old routine the most beneficial plan and something to be proud of. With the beginning of a new era of innovations and fast paced precision, here’s a mnemonic to keep alive in our memory what really matters and how much it matters.

H - ealth

The first wealth is health." (Source: Ralph Waldo Emerson)

Make health a priority this year. Health should be more than the absence of disease — read on for ideas.

A - ttitude"Health and cheerfulness naturally beget each other." (Source: Joseph Addison)

A positive attitude may not cure a disease. However, thinking positive can help you deal with misfortune, make the most of your situation and enjoy life more.

P - hysical activity "A man's health can be judged by which he takes two at a time - pills or stairs." (Source: Joan Welsh)

The esteemed W.H.O. makes the following recommendation on the benefits of physical activities incorporated in our daily routines, ‘The concept of accumulation refers to meeting the goal of 60 minutes per day by performing activities in multiple shorter bouts spread throughout the day (e.g. 2 bouts of 30 minutes), then adding together the time spent during each of these bouts.

‘Whenever possible, children and youth with disabilities should meet these recommendations. However they should work with their health care provider to understand the types and amounts of physical activity appropriate for them considering their disability.

‘Appropriate practice of physical activity assists young people to:

o   develop healthy musculoskeletal tissues (i.e. bones, muscles and joints);

o   develop a healthy cardiovascular system (i.e. heart and lungs);

o   develop neuromuscular awareness (i.e. coordination and movement control);

o   maintain a healthy body weight.’

 For more information and for guidelines for   children: http://www.who.int/dietphysicalactivity/factsheet_young_people/en/

P - eople  "Love cures people - both the ones who give it and the ones who receive it..."(Source: Dr. Karl Menninger)

Numerous studies indicate social networks, whether formal (such as a church or social club) or informal (such as meeting with friends), make people less vulnerable to ill health and premature death. Be wary, however, of social support that drains you through people being too demanding or encouraging you to engage in harmful behaviours.

Y- our body "Take care of your body. It's the only place you have to live." (Source: Jim Rohn)

Schedule physical checkups as needed: eyes, teeth, mammogram, colonoscopy, general physical, etc.

N - O! "Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly and not saying no soon enough." (Source: Josh Billings)

Rather than adding "take a time management class" to your "to do" list, consider starting a "don't do" list. You may discover doing LESS can bring MORE enjoyment to your life. Especially if doing less allows you to spend time doing more to contribute to your health and happiness and that of family and friends!

E - at healthy  "Rich, fatty foods are like destiny: they too, shape our ends." (Source: Author Unknown)

ChooseMyPlate.gov recommends: "Calories are the fuel you need to work and play. You even need calories to rest and sleep! Foods and beverages vary in how many calories and nutrients they contain. When choosing what to eat and drink, it's important to get the right mix - enough nutrients, but not too many calories."

For more information on planning healthy menus, visit ChooseMyPlate.gov

W - isdom

"A wise man makes his own decisions, an ignorant man follows public opinion."(Source: Chinese Proverb)

Take time to listen to your own body. Rather than set your goals based on how fast other people walk or jog, how little sleep others can get by on or how much someone else eats, concentrate on what makes YOU healthy.

Y - our hands "Keeping hands clean is one of the most important ways to prevent the spread of infection and illness."(Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Here's how to wash your hands from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

When washing your hands with soap and water:

o   Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.

o   Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.

o   Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song from beginning to end twice.

o   Rinse your hands well under clean, running water. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

E - nough sleep "A good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in the doctor's book." (Source: Irish Proverb)

According to a  December, 2013 Gallup Poll,  43% of Americans say they would feel better if they got more sleep. 

"Insufficient sleep is a public health epidemic," according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Insufficient sleep is linked to motor vehicle crashes, industrial disasters, and medical and other occupational disorders. People who don't get enough sleep also are more likely to suffer from chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, depression, and obesity, as well as from cancer.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers these tips to help you get a good night's sleep:

o   Follow a regular sleep schedule. Go to sleep and get up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Try to avoid napping in the late afternoon or evening, as it may keep you awake at night.

o   Develop a bedtime routine. Take time to relax before bedtime each night. Some people watch television, read a book, listen to soothing music, or soak in a warm bath.

o   Keep your bedroom dark, not too hot or too cold, and as quiet as possible.

o   Have a comfortable mattress, a pillow you like, and enough blankets for the season.

o   Exercise at regular times each day but not within 3 hours of your bedtime.

o   Make an effort to get outside in the sunlight each day.

o   Be careful about when and how much you eat. Large meals close to bedtime may keep you awake, but a light snack in the evening can help you get a good night's sleep.

o   Stay away from caffeine late in the day. Caffeine (found in coffee, tea, soda, and hot chocolate) can keep you awake.

o   Drink fewer beverages in the evening. Waking up to go to the bathroom and turning on a bright light break up your sleep.

o   Remember that alcohol won't help you sleep. Even small amounts make it harder to stay asleep.

o   Use your bedroom only for sleeping. After turning off the light, give yourself about 20 minutes to fall asleep. If you're still awake and not drowsy, get out of bed. When you feel sleepy, go back to bed.

(Image source: Indi Samarajiva, https://flic.kr/p/7B2Nqq )

 A - void portion distortion "Never eat more than you can lift." (Source: Miss Piggy, Muppet character)

Rather than worry so much about "what" you eat, consider "how much" you eat. Downsize your portion sizes. Serve food on smaller plates. Eat from plates and bowls rather than packages and bags, so you see how much you're eating.

R - eading materials "Be careful about reading health books. You may die of a misprint." (Source: Mark Twain)

Consider the source before starting a new drastic diet or exercise plan. Beware of plans that:

o   Promise quick, dramatic results

o   Charge large fees for consultations, equipment, supplements, etc.

o   Rely solely on testimonials and statements from "professionals" with unusual-sounding degrees.

A new year is all about starting afresh and realising your dreams. So, let’s raise a toast to a Happy New Year and even happier beginnings.

[medicento]

Lookout for fever Symptoms and remedies

Having a fever means having a body temperature over the normal range of 98 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Fevers can accompany many types of illness, and depending on the cause, fevers can be an indication that something benign or serious is going on. The most accurate way to measure a fever is with a thermometer, but in the absence of one, there are some ways to read symptoms to tell you if you need to seek medical attention.

Checking for the Symptoms of a Fever :

1) Feel the person's forehead or neck.

The most common way to check for a fever without a thermometer is to feel the person's forehead or neck to see if it feels hotter than usual.

Use either the back of your hand or your lips, since the skin on your palm isn't as sensitive as these other areas.

Do not feel their hands or feet to check for a fever, as these can feel cold when a person’s body temperature is in fact high.

Keep in mind this is the first step to figuring out if something might be wrong, but it can't accurately tell you if someone has a dangerously high fever. Sometimes a person's skin can feel cool and clammy when they have a high fever, and sometimes their skin might feel very hot even though they don't have a fever.

Make sure to check the person's skin temperature in a room that isn't too hot or cold, and don't check right after the person has been sweating due to exercise.

2) Check if the person’s skin is flush or red. A fever will usually cause the skin on the person’s cheeks and face to turn red. However, this may be more difficult to notice if the person has darker skin.

3) Notice if the person is lethargic.

A fever is often accompanied by lethargy or extreme fatigue, like moving or speaking slowly or a refusal to get out of bed.

Children with fever may complain of feeling weak or tired, refuse to go out and play or have a loss of appetite.

4) Ask the person if they feel achy.

Body aches in the muscles and joints also often happen at the same time as a fever.

Headaches are also commonly experienced by people along with fever.

5) Find out if the person is dehydrated.

When a person has a fever, it's easy for him or her to become dehydrated. Ask the person if they are very thirsty or if their mouth feels dry.

If the person has urine that is bright yellow, this could be an indication that he or she is dehydrated and may have a fever.

6) Ask the person if they feel nauseous.

Nausea is a key symptom of a fever and other maladies like the flu. Pay close attention if the person feels nauseated or is vomiting, and can't keep food down.

7) Notice if the person is shivering and sweating.

As the person’s body temperature goes up and down, its common for the person to shiver and feel cold, even when everyone else in the room feels comfortable.

The person may also alternate between feeling hot and cold as the result of a fever. As your temperature goes up and down it is common to shiver and feel very cold even when those around you are feeling comfortable.

8) Treat any febrile convulsions that last less than three minutes.

A febrile convulsion is a kind of shaking fit that happens either just before or while a child has a high temperature. About 1 in 20 children under 5 years old will have a febrile convulsion at some point. Although it can be upsetting to watch your child experience a febrile convulsion, it does not cause permanent damage to your child. To treat a febrile convulsion:

Place your child on their side in a clear space or area on the floor.

Do not try to hold your child during the fit and do not try to put anything in your child’s mouth during the fit, as they will not swallow their tongue.

Stay with your child under the convulsion stops after 1-2 minutes.

Lay your child on their side in a recovery position while they recover.

Determining if the Fever is Severe:

1) Seek immediate medical attention if your child’s febrile convulsions last longer than three minutes.

This may be a sign of a more serious condition. Call 108 for an ambulance and stay with your child, keeping them on their side in the recovery position.

You should also get immediate medical attention if the febrile convulsions are accompanied by:

Vomiting

A stiff neck

Breathing problems

Extreme sleepiness

2) Call a doctor if your child is under the age of 2 and their symptoms persist more than 1 day. Give the child lots of fluids and encourage them to try to rest.

3) Get medical care if the person experiences severe abdominal pain, chest pain, difficulty swallowing and a stiff neck. 

These could all be symptoms of Meningitis, a life threatening and highly contagious disease. Can follow this - http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/meningitis-indian-vaccine-will-protect-infants-also/article6789358.ece

4) Call a doctor if the person is agitated, confused, or experiencing hallucinations.These could all be signs of a virus or a bacterial infection like pneumonia.

5) Get medical care if there is blood in their stool, urine, or mucus. These are also signs of a more serious infection.

6) Seek medical care if the person’s immune system is already weakened by another disease like cancer or AIDS. The fever could be a sign their immune system is under attack or experiencing other complications or conditions.

7) Discuss other serious conditions that could cause a fever with your doctor.

Fevers are caused by a variety of different maladies.

Ask your doctor if the fever might be an indication of the following illnesses:

A virus

A bacterial infection

Heat exhaustion or sunburn

Arthritis

A tumor that's malignant

Certain antibiotics and blood pressure drugs

Immunizations like the diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis vaccines

Treating the Fever at Home:

1) Treat the fever at home if it is mild and you are over the age of 18.

The fever is your body way of trying to heal or recover and most fevers go away on their own after a few days.

A fever can be brought down by the right kind of treatment.

Drink plenty of fluids and rest. Taking medication is not necessary, but it may increase your comfort level. Use an over-the-counter fever reducer.

Call your doctor if your symptoms last more than 3 days and/or more severe symptoms develop.

2) Treat the fever with rest and fluids if your child does not display any severe symptoms.

Children and teens should not take aspirin as its linked to a condition called Reyes’ disease

As well, if your child has a temperature under 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Celsius), they can likely be treated at home.

Visit the doctor if the fever persists over 3 days and/or more severe symptoms develop.

Tips:

It’s important to note that the most accurate way to check for a fever at home is to take an accurate temperature reading with a thermometer. The best places to check for a temperature are the rectum and under the tongue, or with a tympanic (ear) thermometer. Armpit temperatures are less accurate.

If the child is under 3 months and has a fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius), see a doctor. 

[medicento]

Lookout for Acne

Its the time for marriages and people get cautious regarding their skin. Then, one day, acne rears its ugly head, and you suddenly hate your skin. What do you do then? Turn to harsh chemicals, and expensive scrubs?  Though not a critical condition, pimples makes you  feel miserable due to their appearance.

If your skin could talk it would say something along the lines of “patience, grasshopper. Treat me right and I shall repay you in kind.”      

That’s just a guess, anyways. The point is, natural acne remedies are a good way to get rid of it, or at least hold it at bay. They make you step back and really figure out what’s going on with your skin, and how to work with it. Chances are, your skin will repay you in kind for not simply ravaging it with strange chemicals-and your wallet will probably thank you too.

 A compiled list of 13 easy home remedies to get rid of acne which will avoid such situations with you.

1. The Ice Therapy

Ice can instantly reduce redness, swelling and inflammation of pimples. It improves the blood circulation in the affected area and tightens the pores. The dirt and oil accumulated on your skin are properly removed. All you have to do is wrap a piece of ice in a cloth and hold it on the pimple for a few seconds. Repeat the process in every few minutes.

2. White Toothpaste

This can follow the ice treatment for better results. Apply the toothpaste on the affected area and leave it for at least half an hour. Just make sure that the toothpaste you apply is not a gel one. Use white toothpaste. It will significantly improve your swelling.

3. The Steam Treatment

You should anyway steam your face at least once a month (irrespective of pimples) as it opens the skin pores and let your skin breathe. Fill a large container with hot water and let the steam touch your face for a few minutes. After that, wash your face with lukewarm water and apply an oil-free moisturiser.

4. The Garlic Magic

Garlic is extremely effective when it comes to healing pimples. It is antiviral, antifungal, antiseptic and antioxidant that heals the area quickly. It also has sulphur which adds to the healing. All you have to do is cut a garlic clove in half and rub it on your pimple. Wash your skin with lukewarm water after 5 to 7 minutes. Repeat the process in a few hours.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

Yes, it’s not a very common household element, but it acts like a powerhouse when it comes to healing pimples. It kills the bacteria and becomes alkaline which balances the Ph of your skin. Clean your face with water and pat dry. Then dip a cotton in a ratio of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water. Leave it for 10 minutes and wash with warm water.

6. Egg Whites

 Egg whites also make a great home remedy for getting rid of pimples. To use this method, simply separate the egg white from the yolk. Then, you can use a cotton swab, cotton ball, or simply your fingers to apply the egg white to your skin. Your skin will glow and begin to tighten.

7. Tomatoes FTW

Tomatoes eliminate excess oil from the face and have an antioxidant called lycopene that protects the skin and fights reddening and cellular damage. It also has antibacterial ingredients that reduce blackheads and tanning. All you have to do is put a face mask of fresh tomato juice and wash it after an hour.

8. Orange Peels Will Do The Trick

Wash your face with warm water to open up the pores first. Then, rub the peels on pimples and dab them with orange juice. Keep it on for at least one hour before you wash it off. The vitamin C in the orange will do the trick.

9. Papaya, Oh Yeah

After rinsing your face with warm water (and pat dry), apply papaya’s mashed up flesh until it’s evenly applied on your face. Rinse with warm water after 15-20 minutes and apply moisturiser afterwards. It will remove all the dead skin cells from your skin and reduce the inflammation and pus.

10. Don’t Throw That Banana Peel

Take a banana peel and rub it gently on your skin in a circular motion. When you feel that your face has been properly covered, leave it to dry for 30 minutes. Rinse and pat dry. These peels have something called lutein which reduces inflammation and encourages healthy cell growth.

11. Oatmeal Mask

Turns out oatmeal can be healthy in multiple ways. Make a regular batch of oatmeal following the packet instructions, and when it’s hot and ready, take out two tablespoons and mix some honey in it. Let it stay at room temperature or few minutes, and while it is still hot, put in gently on your skin. Rinse after 20-30 minutes. Your breakouts and pimples will vanish.

12. Put A Potato

Full of potassium, sulfur, phosphorus, chloride and components that can help reduce blemishes, potatoes are an excellent choice to get rid of acne. Wash your face and pat dry. After grating a potato, rub it on your face and leave it for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water and say hello to improved skin.

13. Hibiscus Works

Take 3-4 flowers and boil them in 2 cups of water. Strain it out and let them cool. Then, add some honey. Take a paper towel or a clean cloth to apply the mixture on your pimples and rinse after 10 minutes.

Taking the effort to really care for your skin will make all the difference in terms of your comfort, happiness, and confidence.

Do try and if useful then share it!!