Allergies During Pregnancy — Prevention and Cure

Pregnancy is one of life’s many phases when your body undergoes different changes. These changes occur mainly due to hormones which influence to a great extent your immune system and your susceptibility to allergies.

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Causes of allergies in pregnant women

Allergies are the most problems that occur during pregnancy due to various reasons. Fungus, dust, pollen etc. are some of the environmental allergens that lead to sniffling, sneezing, and watery eyes. Most pregnant women suffer from food allergies and have rashes or itching on skin. The allergic reactions may also occur due to medicines, chemicals, animal dander or insect bites. Some of the allergies go away quickly while some persist for long. This depends solely if you have taken these allergies seriously or not.

If you have asthma before conceiving, then you must take proper care so that it doesn’t worsen during pregnancy. You can take certain measures to prevent occurrence of allergies during this period.

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Follow these preventive measures:

  • Quit smoking during pregnancy. Moreover, stay away from people who smoke. It will not only help in preventing allergies but also help in the healthy development of your baby.
  • Avoid food causing allergies: When you get pregnant, make a note of those foods that you have already been allergic to. Some of the common food allergens are peanut, soy, wheat, sesame, egg, milk, fish, shellfish etc.  Such allergens have a tendency to trigger the immune system.  Once you have identified them and avoid them, then take expert opinion for confirming how your nutritional requirements are to be met.  Maintain a food diary before meeting the nutritionist.

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  • Stop alcohol intake: In order to avoid allergies during pregnancy, you should avoid taking alcohol which is dangerous to your baby, as well.
  • Stay indoors: If you are allergic to pollen, try to stay inside your house where there is filtered air conditioning. And if you go out, you can wear sunglasses and remove your shoes outside the door. Don’t forget to wash your face and hands immediately after coming from outside.
  • Stay away from dust: Use vacuum cleaners and wet mops to clean your house in order to avoid dust allergies during pregnancy. Keeping clean will help you avoid dust allergies.
  • Keep your pets away: During pregnancy, you may have allergic infections due to animal dander. If you have a pet at home, make sure to have a separate room in your house in which your pet doesn’t enter.
  • Avoid chemicals: During your pregnancy, stay away from household chemicals like paint thinner as it may worsen your allergies.

Treatment for allergies during pregnancy

If you are suffering from allergies before pregnancy and having regular medications, then you should consult your doctor if they can be continued or not after you get pregnant. While you should always consult your doctor before taking any type of medications, here are a few medications to treat allergies:

  • Antihistamines: Generally, over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines are considered to be safe during pregnancy. They help in treating seasonal allergies and perennial allergies. But they have side effects like drowsiness etc.
  • Allergy shots: If you are having allergy shots before pregnancy, then only allergy shots are considered to be safe. But many allergists feel that it not a good idea to start allergy shots during pregnancy as they may cause reactions to the already changing immune system due to pregnancy.

 

Images Courtesy:

http://www.allergy-clinic.co.uk/more-about-allergy/pregnancy/

www.consumerhealthdigest.com

www.babymed.com

How to protect yourself from the Summer heat during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, it is quite normal to feel hotter than usual. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, increased flow of blood and the heat produced by the placenta are factors responsible for high body temperature in pregnant women. But getting too hot is not good at all for the pregnant woman and the developing baby. Heat and humidity during summer makes you more uncomfortable when you are pregnant. The high body temperature added to the summer heat makes life more miserable. So, it is very necessary for you to remain cool during summer.

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Some tips for a cool and healthy pregnancy during summer:

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  • Staying hydrated is very important during pregnancy. Drink lots of fluids so that it will replace the fluids you lose in the form of sweat.
  • Remain indoors as much as possible and avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
  • Carry a water bottle along with you when you go out of your house.
  • Keep a small water-filled spray bottle with you to mist yourself whenever you feel warm.
  • Place a damp cloth on the back of your neck and forehead to keep yourself cool during summer.
  • Do your outdoor work in the morning or evening hours when the heat is low.
  • In order to prevent your rooms from heating up from direct sunlight, keep the curtains closed.
  • Take quick showers frequently during summer; it will help you to keep cool.
  • Wear loose fitting cotton clothes which will help avoid skin rashes under the breasts, abdomen etc. during pregnancy and keep you cool and comfortable.
  • Wear a light headscarf when you go out; it will help reduce direct sunlight.
  • Wear flip flops to keep your feet cool.
  • Avoid alcoholic beverages, caffeine and street food during summer.
  • You can refresh yourself by having cold fruit or vegetable salad; it is not only refreshing but healthy, as well.

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  • Minimise intake of salt; it will help in combating water retention, making you stay more comfortable during summer.
  • You can exercise during the cooler time of the day and avoid doing it till the point of exhaustion.
  • Stay in cool places as much as possible at the time of your pregnancy during summer.

Images Courtesy:

https://www.pinterest.com/explore/pregnancy-must-haves/

http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/drink-enough-water/

https://www.pinterest.com/explore/being-pregnant/

https://www.pinterest.com/explore/being-pregnant/

https://www.pinterest.com/explore/being-pregnant/

Back pain during pregnancy — How to overcome it

Back pain is one of the common problems that occur during pregnancy. Most pregnant women suffer from back pain mainly due to weight gain. But this doesn’t mean you have to suffer throughout the pregnancy. Besides consulting your doctor, there are several ways (read further below) you can overcome back pain during pregnancy.

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Factors causing back pain during pregnancy:

  • Weight gain: Gaining weight during pregnancy is quite a normal phenomenon. But some women tend to gain more weight than required. The extra weight  puts a load on your spine resulting in lower backache and other complications. Moreover, the weight of the developing baby and the uterus puts pressure on the nerves and blood vessels of the pelvis and back.
  • Hormonal changes: This is another factor causing back pain in pregnant women. Due to the hormone called Relaxin, the ligaments in the pelvic area tend to relax and the joints loosen. It also loosens the ligaments supporting the spine that causes instability causing back pain.
  • Changes in posture: As you gain weight during pregnancy, the centre of gravity also changes. So, in order to be comfortable, you change your sitting postures, the way you walk etc. These changes in posture give rise to back pain.
  • Muscle separation: As time passes, the uterus starts expanding more and more. In the process, the two parallel stretches of muscle between the rib cage and pubic bone get separated along the centre seam. This process worsens backache if you are already suffering from it.
  • Emotional stress: During pregnancy, emotional stress causes tension in the back muscles which may result in back pain.

Back pain during pregnancy can lead to following:

  • Difficulty in getting up from a sitting posture
  • You may find it difficult to change positions on the bed
  • Uneasiness while walking for a longer period of time
  • Dressing and undressing may become a problem
  • Difficulty while taking a bath
  • Doing work with back pain becomes very painful

How to ease back pain during pregnancy?

Following these points can help you get rid of your back pain to a great extent:

  • Exercise: Exercising is one of the best ways to ease backache in pregnant women. Walking, cycling on stationary cycle and swimming are some of the safe exercises which you can do while pregnant. Exercising for at least 30 minutes five times a week will not only help you strengthen your body muscles but also increase your flexibility. Staying active by doing exercises and light work is the key to reducing back pain during pregnancy.

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  • Posture: Improving your posture helps in getting relief from backache. You should avoid staying in the same posture for a long period of time. While sitting you can use a cushion at the back and rest your feet on a stool. Using maternity pillows while sleeping also help to reduce backache.
  • Acupuncture: Acupuncture helps you to get rid of back pain. But it is very necessary to get it done by experienced professionals.
  • Heat and cold: To get relief from pain, you may apply cold packs or hot water bag according to your convenience. Even a warm bath can be helpful to reduce back pain.

 

Images Courtesy:

http://dmatxi.com/05/how-to-reduce-back-pain-during-pregnancy.html

www.feelingprettyremarkable.com

Intake of Ghee during pregnancy – good or bad?

Introduction

Maintaining a healthy diet is one of the key factors for a healthy pregnancy as the baby receives its nutrition from the food that the pregnant woman eats. During the nine months of pregnancy, you have to follow a strict diet and may have a variety of problems like uneasiness, nausea, mood swings etc. But all these seem nothing in comparison to the little bundle of joy that will arrive at the end of the third trimester. So, make the best of your pregnancy by having nutritious food that will help your baby develop in a healthy manner.

All through your pregnancy, you will get an array of advice regarding what food you must eat and what you should avoid. Ghee is one such item in the food list suggested by your relatives and other concerned people.

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Importance of ghee

An integral part of Indian cuisine, ghee is nothing but clarified butter. It has lots of nutritional benefits and contains Omega 9 fatty acids, Omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants etc. Though there are many health benefits of ghee for a normal person but whether the consumption of ghee during pregnancy is beneficial is not properly known.

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Some of the health benefits of ghee are:

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  • Maintains the cholesterol level of blood
  • Stimulates the digestive fibre of the body
  • Enhances metabolism
  • Boosts the immune system
  • Moisturises and nourishes skin
  • Nourishes scalp hair
  • Maintains healthy growth of brain and bones of the baby

Consumption of ghee during pregnancy

According to nutritionists, the consumption of ghee is not a good idea during pregnancy as ghee is said to be a saturated fat. Though the benefits of ghee for pregnant women is not proven, but in Indian culture it is believed that consuming ghee during this period has the following effects.

  • Helps in the development of the baby’s brain
  • Nourishes the baby
  • Helps in relieving constipation
  • Improves digestive function
  • Helps to induce labour by acting as a laxative
  • Helps in stimulating contractions naturally for smooth delivery

Conclusion

If you follow a diet that consists of fresh fruits and vegetables and other healthy options, adding ghee in a small proportion to your diet does not cause any harm. Homemade ghee is often supposed to be a healthy option and is considered stable for cooking in comparison to butter or oil. And if your weight gain is quite normal, it is safe to have ghee during this period. But if you have gained excess weight, it is advisable not to take ghee. No matter what, it is always good to consult your doctor regarding the inclusion of ghee in your diet and in what amount.

Images Courtesy:

www.momjunction.com

http://pregnant.sg/articles/pregnancy-myth-eat-ghee-for-easy-delivery/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SD1qrbaTUYM

Common Problems in Babies

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Why do babies cry?

Most parents nowadays expect babies to behave like adults from the time they are born! They think every cry has a medical reason, and most of them want a medicine to help the baby to stop crying!

Babies require timely attention and constant contact with their mothers. They try to convey their feelings through the only language they know. Crying is not always a call for food.

What can make a baby cry?

  • When it is hungry
  • If it is uncomfortable
  • If it is feeling hot or cold
  • If it is ill
  • The baby may just want to go out, as it is bored with the same environment
  • If the baby has colic – this problem is so exaggerated that most babies are on anti-colic medications nowadays
  • Evening colic is very common between 6 pm and 11 pm

Your exclusively breastfed baby will not require medicine for the following during the neonatal period (first 6 months)

  1. Breast engorgement in newborns – Don’t squeeze it
  2. Bleeding per vagina – It will stop in 4 days
  3. Constipation – Common to pass stool even once in 3-5 days
  4. Frequent passage of stools – Stool of babies who are breastfed are sticky golden yellow
  5. Indigestion and vomiting – Requires only proper positioning and burping
  6. Crying before and after passing urine and stool


Jaundice in Newborns

Jaundice in newborn babies is normal and often not very serious. Majority of babies can have Jaundice at birth. When your baby’s skin turns yellow it’s called Jaundice. The whites of your baby’s eyes may also turn yellow. This is due to excess amount of a pigment called bilirubin. The bilirubin comes from the breakdown of old red blood cells.

This type of Jaundice starts when the baby is 2 to 3 days old. It goes away by the time your baby is 2 to 3 weeks old. Jaundice progresses from head to toes; and it regresses from below upwards. White part of eyes may remain yellow for a longer period of up to 2 to 3 weeks.

 Rh or ABO problems

Jaundice can happen if the mother and baby have different blood group types. There are two different types of blood group incompatibility that can cause Jaundice. When the mother’s blood group is O positive and the baby’s group is A, B or AB positive; or when the mother’s blood type is negative and the baby’s blood type is positive. This type of Jaundice more often starts from the first day of the baby’s life. Please ask your Pediatrician for further information. Your baby can also get Jaundice by being born too early, or from infection and diseases like neonatal hepatitis syndrome.

Breast Milk Jaundice (BMJ)

It is normal for breastfeeding babies to have Jaundice. It usually occurs at 10 to 21 days of age, and can last for 2 to 3 months. As long as the baby is gaining weight, passing lots of clear yellow urine and yellow or green stools, and having bowel movements, there is no need to be worried. It is not harmful, therefore do not stop breastfeeding.

Diarrhoea

  • Thirst is the earliest indicator of dehydration. Look for it.
  • Sunken eyeballs and fontanelle indicate dehydration.
  • Replace the amount of water lost in diarrhoea.
  • Like flowers, children also droop without water.
  • A child suffering from diarrhoea loses lot of fluid from the body. Hence, it is important for the child to be hydrated enough at regular intervals to compensate the loss of fluid.
  • A child who dies from diarrhea, dies from dehydration.
  • Use salt sugar solution (SSS) to prevent dehydration. A glass of water mixed with a pinch of salt and a spoon of sugar in small quantity should be given to the baby suffering from diarrhoea.
  • A right way of administering salt, sugar solution is 5 teaspoon every 10 minutes.
  • Too much salt and sugar in the rehydration fluid is dangerous.
  • Let the parents make oral rehydration solution (ORS) and feed the baby before they leave from home – 50 to 100cc/kg every 4 hours.
  • Use medicines for diarrhoea only on doctor’s advice (Zinc is needed).
  • Other drugs for diarrhea may do more harm than good.
  • Continue breastfeeding during diarrhoea.
  • Diarrhoea is not worsened by giving food.
  • The worst treatment for diarrhoea is to stop food and fluids.
  • Give one extra feed for one week after diarrhoea.
  • Wet mopping of floor twice a day prevents diarrhoea.
  • Everything that goes in his mouth, must be clean.
  • Malnutrition can also be a cause for diarrhoea, so avoid malnutrition. Diarrhoea, in turn, leads to malnutrition.
  • To prevent diarrhoea: continue breastfeeds, give measles vaccine, use proper sanitation, keep food and water clean, wash hands before touching food, control houseflies, give vitamin A.

Common respiratory infections and wheezing

There are different reasons why your child may cough or wheeze. Possible causes include:

  • Colds or other viruses – this is a very common cause of coughing.
  • Choking – the coughing is sudden and the child has not been unwell.
  • Croup – this tends to cause a barking, hoarse cough.
  • Bronchiolitis – this is a chest infection, which can cause coughing and wheezing.
  • Smoke – smoking around babies can cause them to cough and should be avoided.
  • Allergy – this can cause coughing after exposure to specific substances.
  • Asthma – coughing tends to be worse at night or after exercise. The child may also wheeze.
  • Whooping cough – a contagious infection, which can be prevented by immunization.
  • Pneumonia – this causes a sudden onset of cough, high fever and fast breathing; it can be prevented by immunization.

 When to seek immediate medical help

Children can stop breathing during a severe respiratory attack. If the coughing and wheezing don’t settle, or if your baby becomes more distressed or unwell, take the baby to your doctor or children’s hospital straight away.

Seek immediate medical help in these situations

  • Breathing problems – if your child is having difficulty breathing or its breathing becomes rapid or irregular.
  • Breathing is noisy – if your baby’s breathing is noisy when they are not crying.
  • Skin colour changes – if the skin turns blue or the baby becomes very pale.
  • Tired – if baby seem unusually tired.
  • Choking – if your baby suddenly starts to cough and has not been unwell, they may be choking. They may have breathed something into their airways. Choking requires immediate emergency treatment.
  • Something stuck in the nose – a child with a one sided runny or blocked nose may have something stuck in their nose and should be seen by a doctor.
  • Refuses food or drink — this should always be a cause for concern.
  • Fever – if baby has a temperature over 37°C

Proper Exercises During Pregnancy

Being pregnant does not mean that it is time for you to rest and relax throughout this period. While you do need rest and relaxation, you have to keep yourself active during pregnancy. Exercising is one of the best ways to keep healthy and fit.

Exercising not only helps in improving your strength and muscle tone but also to adapt to the changes that occur due to pregnancy. You can join classes or consult your doctor regarding the same. In case of any pregnancy related complications, it is better not to do exercises.

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Benefits of exercising:

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  • It will provide you strength and energy to keep yourself active
  • As it is normal to gain weight in pregnancy, exercising will help you carry this weight
  • It will help you during labour and childbirth, as it prepares you for the physical challenges associated with them
  • It will allow you to have proper sleep
  • It will help to deal with mood swings which is very common in pregnant women
  • It will help you to get back in shape after childbirth

Some exercises you can do during pregnancy:

  • Walking: Brisk walking is one of the best ways to remain fit and healthy during pregnancy. This is one of the safe cardio-vascular workouts possible without putting stress on your ankles and knees. If you can walk 30 minutes daily, five times a week, it is perfectly good for your health.
  • Swimming: One of the best exercises with little risk of injury, swimming is safe during pregnancy. Swimming lets your legs, arms, heart and lungs to work out. Moreover, it helps reduce swollen feet and backaches. But if you don’t know swimming, it is not the best time to start this exercise.
  • Yoga: Yoga during pregnancy helps you improve your posture, flexibility, muscle tone, blood circulation and to relax. It may help you in maintaining blood pressure, as well. You can even learn methods to stay calm and relaxed during labour.

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  • Aerobics: Low impact aerobics can be done by pregnant women. It is better to join classes if you are planning to do aerobics during pregnancy. It will help you to strengthen your muscle tone as well as your heart and lungs.
  • Cycling: Cycling on stationary cycle is absolutely safe during pregnancy. This is the best way to strengthen your heart without putting much strain on your knees. Stationary cycles also reduce the risk of falling down.


Tips to follow while exercising:

  • Drink plenty of fluids and remain hydrated while exercising
  • Don’ t indulge in exercises that involve lying flat on the back or on the stomach
  • Avoid exercises that include heavy weights and straining
  • Don’t exercise to the point of exhaustion
  • Have healthy meals

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Images Courtesy:

http://kidshealth.org/en/parents/exercising-pregnancy.html

http://www.wikihow.com/Get-Better-Sleep-During-Pregnancy

http://www.momjunction.com/articles/steps-to-do-butterfly-exercise-during-pregnancy_00123123/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LTj7FZ520k

Post Delivery Exercises

Introduction

Pregnancy makes you gain lots of weight which changes the whole structure of your body. But getting back to your normal size and shape is not that tough. Exercise is the best way to do this. If you have exercised regularly before and during pregnancy, it allows you to have normal delivery without any complications. Exercising is also helpful in getting back to shape faster and getting back your energy.

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Benefits of Exercises Post Delivery

Though you may not feel like exercising soon after delivery, but it will help you in various ways. Regular exercise post delivery has the following advantages:

  • It lets you stay healthy and active
  • Helps in getting back to the shape you had before pregnancy
  • Reduces the risk of postpartum depression
  • Helps in cutting weight with a combination of low calorie diet
  • Improves the condition of abdominal muscle
  • Cardiovascular fitness gets improved
  • Helps in relieving stress
  • Helps to improve your level of energy
  • Gives a boost to your mood

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If you are a new mom, then you can do the following exercises which will benefit you in various ways:

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  • Walking: Walking is one of the best exercises for everyone. After childbirth, you can do this simple form of exercise which will let you regain your fitness and energy.
  • Deep belly breathing: Deep belly breathing with abdominal contraction is one of the easy exercises which you can do post delivery. It not only helps in relaxing your muscles but also helps in toning and strengthening your belly and abs.
  • Shoulder lifts and head lifts: Head lifts, shoulder lifts and curl-ups are very effective physical exercises that help to burn calories, strengthen your back muscles and tone your belly and abs.
  • Pelvic exercise: Pelvic floor exercise is a must in post delivery exercises. After childbirth, doing this exercise will help you to control leaking urine and tone your muscles.
  • Kegel exercise: Kegel is a wonderful exercise for new mothers after childbirth. It reduces the risk of leaking urine or incontinence. It will have better control of leaks while you laugh, sneeze etc. It also helps in toning your bladder muscles.

Conclusion

Exercising is one the best things you can do for yourself. If you had a normal delivery, you can start these exercises a few days after childbirth. But if you had caesarean delivery, it is better to consult your doctor before doing the exercises.

Images Courtesy:

www.pregnanthouse.com

www.youtube.com

www.momjunction.com

Staying Hydrated During Pregnancy

Everyone needs to stay hydrated for healthy living. For the body and vital organs to function properly, you need to have lots of water. And if you are pregnant, the amount of water to be taken increases to a great extent.

During pregnancy, your body needs more water to meet the demanding needs of your changing body. So, it becomes very essential for the mom-to-be to remain adequately hydrated. Moreover, water is one of the key components for breast milk and essential for proper lactation.

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How much water do you need during pregnancy?

A pregnant woman is required to have approximately three litres of fluid every day. Fluids include water, milk, fruit and vegetable juices, and other non-alcoholic refreshments. Apart from having water directly, your body receives water indirectly from fruits, vegetables, yogurt etc. So, you can have water according to the intake of other fluids, fruits and vegetables.

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Benefits of water during pregnancy:

  • As water is one of the main sources for carrying nutrients and oxygen to your organs, cells and tissues, staying hydrated during pregnancy ensures that your baby is receiving the required nutrients for proper growth.
  • It helps in preserving the required amount of amniotic fluid and helps in the kidney function of the foetus by facilitating the waste your baby’s kidney filters.
  • Drinking enough water lets you keep hydrated as dehydration during pregnancy leads to headaches, dizziness, cramps and nausea.
  • Water can help prevent constipation and haemorrhoids.
  • Drinking adequate water helps in preventing morning sickness, indigestion, acidity and heartburn.
  • Keeping hydrated means it keeps your urine diluted which not only helps in keeping all things in order but also keeps Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) at bay.
  • During the third trimester, hydration becomes especially important as dehydration can cause contractions leading to preterm labour.

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How to know that you are hydrated?

During pregnancy, the best way to know that you are hydrated is to check the colour of your urine. If the colour is pale or straw-coloured, then you are adequately hydrated. But if it is dark, it means you need to have more water. So, keep a water bottle handy which will remind you to keep hydrated.

Images Courtesy:

http://www.pregnancyexercise.co.nz

https://www.pureitwater.com

https://www.pureitwater.com

Summer Tips During Pregnancy

Introduction:

If you are pregnant and the arrival of summer is making you anxious, there is nothing to be worried about. With the advent of summer and your belly becoming bigger and bigger, at times you may wonder — will you be able to pass this phase comfortably.

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Normally, pregnant women feel hot due to the extra flow of blood raising the body temperature higher than normal. In addition, the extra weight you gain adds to the discomfort. Though pregnancy during summer is not easy and pleasant, there are several ways to cope with the heat and stay comfortable. 

Healthy Tips to Beat the Summer Heat During Pregnancy:

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Here are some awesome ways to beat the summer heat.

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  • Consume a large quantity of fluids — be it water, vegetable and fruit juices — throughout the day. Drinks containing electrolytes can help in replacing the lost salt. Staying hydrated during summer will let you feel good and fresh.
  • During summer, do your outdoor work during the morning hours or in the evening time when the heat of the sun is low.
  • Stay indoors or in the shade or under the fan when the temperature goes up.
  • Wear loose fitting and light-coloured clothes during summer. The fabric should be breathable, so that it will help you to keep cool and prevent rashes due to heat under the breasts and abdomen. Heat rash in such areas is a common problem for pregnant women.
  • Wear flip-flops to keep your feet cool.
  • To keep yourself cool, take quick baths frequently during the day.
  • Use a damp cloth on the head, forehead and back of the neck to lower your body temperature.
  • Exercise at a time when the heat is low and avoid doing exercises to the point of overheating.
  • Always carry a water-filled spray bottle with you; when you feel hot, you can mist yourself with the spray.
  • Indulge in swimming which will not only help you keep cool but also lose some excess weight.
  • During summer, to reduce swelling of your feet which is common during pregnancy, place them on a chair or table.
  • Take frequent naps to keep yourself fresh and active.
  • To prevent stretched skin and itchiness which increases during summer, use moisturising lotion immediately after taking a shower.

Conclusion:

If you follow these health tips and consult your doctor regarding any issues, remaining cool during pregnancy in the summer months will become very easy. In fact, if you deliver during the summer months, you and your baby will have good health as you will get fresh air.

Images Courtesy:

http://www.yabibo.com/important-tips-avoid-cough-cold-pregnancy/

http://www.small-batchstudio.com/2013/07/top-summer-pregnancy-comfort-tips-5-best-ways-to-beat-the-heat-when-pregnant/

http://www.babycenter.in/a1015418/why-is-it-important-to-drink-water-during-pregnancy

Allergies and Intolerances during Pregnancy – How to avoid them?

Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful stages of a woman’s life. But being pregnant doesn’t only mean taking care of the baby, but taking care of self, as well. Taking care of self is one of the vital things during pregnancy. And, if you have allergies, you should consult your doctor regarding the same. Because when you stay fit and healthy, only then will the baby receive all the vital nutrients required for proper development.

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Image Courtesy:  http://www.livestrong.com/article/351157-lactose-intolerance-in-pregnancy/

 

What is an allergy?

An allergy is a response by the body’s immune system to allergen, which may not be very harmful. Some people are sensitive to the allergens and get affected when exposed to them. Though most of the allergies are mild and don’t do much harm, some are severe and life-threatening. The life-threatening ones are known as Anaphylaxis. Food allergies are the most common form of allergy which occur during pregnancy.

Food Allergies and Food Intolerances

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Food allergies are not to be mistaken with food intolerances. Though seemingly similar, each has different signs and symptoms. But it is very difficult to differentiate between the two. The following will help you know the difference:

  • Food allergies occur when the immune system of the body reacts abnormally to certain foods. Food intolerances, however, don’t have an allergic reaction.
  • Allergic reactions happen quickly while the symptoms of food intolerance usually manifest a few hours after having food.
  • In case of food allergy, even a small amount of the food can cause allergic reaction. But the case is not same for food intolerance.

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Image Courtesy:  http://www.ladiesfirstcup.eu/images/air-purifier-for-allergies-do-they-work-baby-zyrtec-78152.jpg

Symptoms of Food Allergy:

  • Vomiting
  • Itching and tingling
  • Swelling of mouth, lips and throat
  • Constipation
  • Atopic eczema
  • Loose motion
  • Blood or mucus in stool
  • Tiredness
  • Poor growth


Symptoms of Food Intolerance:

  • Diarrhoea or loose stool
  • Bloating and tummy pain
  • Skin rashes and itching

How to Avoid Allergies and Intolerances?

Change in the hormonal level during pregnancy leads to change in allergy symptoms. Pregnant women should note the following to help avoid allergies and intolerances.

  • Avoid food that causes allergy and intolerance
  • Consult your doctor if you are allergic to certain foods
  • Take medications for allergy and intolerance as per your doctor’s advice
  • Check the medication information if it is suitable for use or not during pregnancy
  • Make a list of your allergic and intolerance factors
  • Inform emergency staff about your allergies
  • Ensure all your medicines are easily accessible
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking

Remember, it is very essential for pregnant women to take care of their own health along with the baby in the womb.

References:

http://patient.info/health/food-allergy-and-intolerance

http://www.babble.com/pregnancy/food-allergies-2/

http://www.allergyuk.org/causes-and-risks-of-allergy/allergies-during-pregnancy?cookieaccept=true

 

Infant Skin Care

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The skin is the largest organ in the human body. Besides serving as a protective barrier, it has the function of thermoregulation, UV protection, protection from invasion of microbes and external antigens, repair and regeneration of wounds and synthesis of nutrients. It also has immunological  and sensory autonomic functions. We must remember that the skin of the neonate is not the miniature of the adult skin.

Differences between adult and term or preterm neonate skin

  1. The skin of the newborn is 20 to 30% thinner than the adult skin.
  2. Newborn skin is less hydrated and has reduced natural moisturization factor compared to adult.
  3. Ratio of body surface area to weight of a term neonate is up to 5 times that of an adult and that of preterm is 7 times than of an adult.
  4. Stratum corneum or the outermost layer of skin of a preterm baby is thinner than that of a term baby.
  5. At birth, the pH of newborn skin is slightly acidic whereas the adult skin has acidic pH from 5 to 5.5. Alkaline pH predisposes to diaper dermatitis and favours colonisation of Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans.

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The skin of the newborn undergoes structural and functional modifications from the first few days of life up to almost the first year to adapt to the transition from the utero wet world to the extrauterine environment. The structural and functional immaturity of the skin of a preterm baby results in increased transepidermal water loss, susceptibility to mechanical trauma, microbial invasion and percutaneous absorption of toxins. In order to reduce the morbidity associated with immature skin barrier, optimum care for the skin of a newborn is essential.

 Cleansing and cleansers

Cleansing is a process of removing dirt, sebum, micro-organisms, exfoliated corneum cells from the skin surface by a complex interaction between the skin barrier, dirt, body secretions and a surfactant. Water is a good cleanser which removes the water soluble dirt but not the fat soluble particles.

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Cleansers are surface active substances that emulsify the fat soluble particles and convert them into water soluble matter which can be washed off with water. Today a wide variety of soaps, special soaps and liquid cleansers are available in the market.

Cleansers are classified into three categories, namely true soaps, syndet bars and combars. Soaps are fatty acids derived from animal fat or vegetable fat processed with sodium or potassium hydroxide by saponification.

True soaps are composed of long chain fatty acid-alkali salts with a pH between 9 and 10. The high alkaline nature causes dissolution of lipids from the skin surface, disruption of acid mantle and stratum corneum barrier and raises the pH of the skin, Soap precipitates in hard water producing insoluble calcium or magnesium salts that prevent foam formation. Use of soap particularly in diseases of the skin may cause dryness and irritation of the skin resulting in redness and itching.

Special additives added to the soaps have resulted in the various subsets of soaps such as superfatted soaps, transparent soaps, medicated antibacterial soaps. Superfatted soaps contain increased oil and fat which help in minimizing the dryness of skin. Transparent soaps contain glycerine and sucrose. Antibacterial soaps contain antibacterial agents such as triclosan, triclocarban. These soaps reduce the skin biofilm bacterial count by blocking the lipid synthesis in the bacterial cell wall.

Syndets or synthetic detergents are synthetically derived organic quarternary ammonium compounds or polymerized or sulfonated fatty acids. They have a pH of 5.5 to 7. They are less likely to produce dryness and irritation of the skin.

Combars are composed of alkaline soaps to which surface active agents with a pH of 9 and 10 are added. They are milder cleansers than true soaps.

Other variants of cleansers

Soapless cleansers are lotions that are primarily composed of either glycerine or propylene glycol and cetyl/steryl alcohols and they can be wiped off without using water.

Liquid cleansers with appropriate blend of anionic, non-ionic and amphoteric surfactants are available. They are milder in nature and do not disrupt the skin barrier or acid mantle.

An ideal skin cleanser is one that is mild and has minimal interaction with skin and removes all unwanted materials from the skin. It should not affect the acid mantle of skin surface. It should be colourless and fragrance free and should not irritate the skin or eyes.

Shampoos

 

Shampoos that are available in the market are soapless and consists of a principal surfactant for detergent and foaming power, secondary surfactants to improve and condition the hair and additives to complete the formulation and special effects. Formaldehyde is the most common preservative used in shampoos and does not cause any side effects due to the short contact.

Baby shampoos should be ideally fragrance free and should not cause eye irritation. Medicated shampoos with ketoconazole, tar, zinc pyrithione, salicyclic acid are available for special hair conditions.

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Vernix Caseosa

 

It is a naturally occurring complex, lipid rich substance coating the skin surface of the fetus. It is a chalky white material with shed epithelial cells, sebum and sometimes lanugo hair.

Preterm babies have very little vernix compared to the term babies and post term babies may not have vernix.

Vernix is highly beneficial. It is a natural cleanser and moisturizer with anti-infective, antioxidant and wound healing properties. It helps in the development of acid mantle and supports the normal bacterial colonization. WHO guidelines mention that vernix should not be removed at the time of birth.

Bathing the newborn

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WHO guidelines mention that the initial bath for term newborn should be given 6 hours after birth. Any baby who is term and weighs more than 2.5 kgs could be given bath 6 hours after birth. In term IUGR babies only sponge bath is to be given until the baby’s weight crosses 2.5 kgs. There are some studies which have advocated bath after fall of the umbilical cord. Bathing makes the baby calmer and quieter than washing with cloth or sponge. The tactile stimulation that occurs during bathing provides a pleasurable experience for the baby and promotes the bonding between the baby and the parent or the caregiver.

How to give a bath:

  • Should be given in a warm room
  • Temperature of the bathwater should not exceed 37°C
  • Check the temperature of the water before placing the baby in the bath
  • If tub bath is given, the depth of the water should be 5cm up to the hip of the baby
  • Bathtubs may be a potential source of infection hence they must always be disinfected
  • Bath duration should not exceed 5 minutes in order to prevent overhydration of the skin which may lead to easy fragility of the skin and decrease threshold for injury


Routine bathing

Routine bathing of newborns and infants does not cause any harm. Daily baths are more preferable but during winter and in the hilly regions babies may be given bath twice or thrice in a week. 

Cleansers

Use of alkaline soaps during the neonatal period is to be avoided. If possible, liquid cleansers with acidic or neutral pH may be used which will not affect the skin barrier function or acid mantle. Syndets and mild soaps may be used in infants.

Care of the diaper area

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Diaper area is exposed to excessive hydration, occlusion, friction and maceration. Faecal ureases catalyze the breakdown of urea to ammonia, which increases the pH of the skin surface. The pH increase will contribute to the activity of faecal enzymes, proteases, ureases and lipases which are highly irritant to the skin. Water and wet cloth are the gold standards for cleansing the nappy area. Mother should be advised to use only cloth napkins which should be changed frequently. It is important to keep the area dry. After defecation, moistened cloths or cotton balls soaked in lukewarm water can be used for cleaning the area. In case diapers are used, barrier creams containing zinc oxide and petrolatum based preparation could be used. Cloth napkins are to be washed with a mild detergent in warm water and dried in sunlight. Use of antiseptics to be avoided as a routine.

Care of the umbilical cord

Umbilicus should be kept dry and clean. Lukewarm water should be used for cleaning and cord should be kept exposed to air.

Care of the scalp

Cradle cap of the scalp is common in newborns. Mineral oil can be applied to the crusts and removed after two to three hours. Baby shampoos which are free from fragrance could be useful in removal of crusts and scales. The pH of the shampoos should be close to that of tears and should not cause irritation to the eyes.

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Baby’s hair wash is to be given after the cord falls with a frequency of twice a week after that.

Use of baby powders

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Mothers should be advised to smear the powder on the hands and then gently apply on the baby’s skin. Accidental inhalation of powders could happen if applied with puffs.

Care of the skin of preterm baby

Preterm babies have immature barrier function which results in increased transepidermal water loss, increased skin permeability, impaired thermoregulation, increased percutaneous absorption and susceptibility to trauma.

There is acceleration of permeability barrier maturation following birth hence within 2 to 3 weeks post-natally, babies develop competent barriers. But in preterm born at 22 to 25 weeks it takes 8 weeks to mature. In these preterm babies acid mantle develops over 2 to 8 weeks after birth. Gentle and minimal handling of the preterm babies is to be practiced. Hand hygiene measures are to be strictly followed by the mother or health care workers.

Sponge bath with water is to be given until the baby weighs 2.5 kgs after which regular bath is advised with mild cleanser. Micropore adhesives may be used to secure IV cannulas and while removing the adhesives use guaze piece soaked with warm water. Gentle application of emollients will help reduce the dryness and maintain the barrier function. Emollients also decrease the risk for invasive infections in preterms by preventing access to deeper tissues and the bloodstream through skin portals of entry.

Emollients

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Emollients are lipid containing substances that soften the skin and prevent transepidermal water loss. They help in restoration of skin barrier and thus retard further damage. Emollients contain hydrocarbon oils like petrolatum, mineral oils, paraffin and squalene. Fatty acids like lanolin acid, stearic acid and fatty alcohol like lanolin alcohol and cetyl alcohol are also used as emollients. Regular use of emollients is indicated in preterm babies. Emollients could be used in term babies with cleansers induced dryness.

Massage – Touch therapy

Touch is considered absolutely essential for growth and development of a neonate.

Lack of appropriate touch results in poor growth of the infant, delayed attachment to parent and psychological disturbances. Systematic application of touch is termed as massage. Massage promotes circulation, suppleness and relaxation of the different areas of the body and tones up the muscles. Massage results in promotion of mother-infant bonding.

Benefits of massage

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  • Increases food absorption hormones such as insulin
  • Increased weight gain by increasing insulin and insulin like growth factor
  • Greater bone mineralisation and more optimal behavioural and motor responses
  • Babies become more active and alert

Oil massage

Oil massage is traditionally practiced in India. Oil enhances skin barrier function, acts as a source of warmth and nutrition and increases weight gain. Infants also showed less stress behaviour and lower cortisol levels following massage. Very low birth weight preterm neonates given oil massage showed better weight gain. Coconut oil, sunflower oil, mineral oil and synthetic oil are being used for massage. Mustard oil is recently been discouraged due to irritant and allergic contact dermatitis potential. Sunflower oil enhances the skin barrier function. Some studies have shown that olive oil can cause erythema and disruption of skin barrier function. During summer one has to avoid oil massage when baby has miliaria rubra. Oil massage should be given before bath during summer and after bath during winter.

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Massage is ideally given by mother, father, grandparents or caregivers. It could be started after the 10th day of life in a well baby. Massage is to be given to babies when they are alert and active, preferably 1 to 2 hours after feed. Massage is to be done in a warm room. Mother or the caregiver has to cut their nails, and remove rings and watch. Strokes should be gentle and firm and not jerky. These gentle strokes should be given from head to foot. As the baby may not lie still, one should work with and not against the movements. Full body massage will take 15 minutes.

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Comfortable signs of baby enjoying massage are happy vocal sounds like cooing, easy breathing pattern, bright-eyed look, ability to focus and take in surroundings comfortably and enjoying stretching, sucking, clasping own hands or feet.

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ZIKA Virus

Introduction:

The Zika virus, a mosquito-transmitted disease, was first identified in the Zika Forest of Uganda in 1947 in the rhesus monkey. Eventually, it got transmitted to humans in 1952. This illness is transmitted by two species of mosquito — Aedes Albopictus and Aedes Aegypti. The Zika virus is similar to yellow fever, dengue, West Nile and Japanese Encephalitis viruses.

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Signs & Symptoms:

The time from incubation to exposure is not so clear but it lasts for 2-7 days.

  • The symptoms are a bit similar to dengue, usually causing mild illness which appears after some days of being bitten by an infected mosquito.
  • Mild fever, skin rashes, headache, muscle and joint pain, and pain behind the eyes may occur in an infected person.
  • Conjunctivitis, vomiting and malaise are some other symptoms of Zika virus.

 Modes of Transmission:

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  • Primarily, the Zika virus gets transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, mainly Aedes Aegypti.
  • Unlike the Anopheles mosquito causing malaria which is active during night hours, the Aedes mosquito is extremely active during daytime; it can survive in both outdoor and indoor environment.
  • When a mosquito feeds on the blood of an infected person, it gets infected itself, transmitting the virus to other humans through bites.
  • Transmission through asymptomatic blood donors in whom RNA of Zika virus has been identified.
  • Possible transmission through sexual contact has also been reported.

Diagnosis:

A Zika virus infected person can be diagnosed through the following ways:

  • The presence of the Zika virus can be based on general symptoms such as mild fever, rash, conjunctivitis, pain, vomiting, uneasiness etc., Zika virus can be suspected through the patient’s place of living and history of travelling.
  • However, proper diagnosis is done by laboratory testing of blood, urine, saliva or other body fluids through the following tests:
  • PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) or by RT-PCR (Reverse-Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) for viral RNA
  • Serology Test


Treatment:

As the disease caused by Zika virus is usually mild, it does not require much medical attention. Those infected require proper rest, should drink plenty of fluids and take common medicines for fever and pain.

If the symptoms worsen, it is advisable to seek proper medical treatment. Currently, there is no vaccine or specific drugs available to fight the Zika virus.

Prevention:

To protect yourself from Zika virus, the following measures should help:

  • Avoiding mosquito bites is the best prevention.
  • Using insect repellent to kill mosquitoes.
  • Wearing light-coloured clothes that cover most parts of your body.
  • Sleeping under mosquito nets.
  • Covering water containers and emptying them from time to time


Microcephaly and Zika Virus:

Microcephaly is a neurodevelopmental disorder due to which babies are born with unusually small heads. The brains of these babies don’t develop properly during pregnancy or may stop growing in the first year of birth. Children infected with microcephaly experience problems like intellectual defects, developmental delays, hearing loss etc. It may also occur if a pregnant woman is malnourished, has diabetes or consumes alcohol.

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It is found that the rate of babies born with microcephaly in the virus-affected places is rising due to the possibility of pregnant women being infected by Zika virus.

Those travelling to infected areas should take all the preventive measures. Women planning to get pregnant or already pregnant and living in the affected areas should follow the measures strictly. Others should refrain from visiting these places so they don’t get infected.

Virus Affected Zone:

As per the update till 15 February, 2016, the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have warned about travel in the following areas with Zika virus transmission.

  • South and Central America: Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Mexico, Costa Rica, Paraguay, Panama, Venezuela Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guyana, Guatemala, Honduras, Suriname and Nicaragua
  • Caribbean: Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica, Barbados, Curacao, Saint Martin, Martinique and US Virgin Islands
  • Oceania: Samoa, American Samoa and Tonga
  • Africa: Cape Verde