hospital - Best Private Hospital in Dubai Al Mankhool | IMH Dubai

Reconstructive Plastic Surgery

The incidence of Cancer both benign and malignant is on the rise worldwide. Cancer treatment especially for malignancy can damage or disfigure the body parts function and or appearance. Reconstructive Plastic Surgery helps to repair the damage and restore near normal appearance.

Plastic Surgery Dubai
Anti aging treatment and plastic surgery concept. Beautiful faces of young woman with arrows isolated on white

Unlike Cosmetic Surgery, most insurance companies cover Reconstructive Plastic surgery.

Reconstructive surgery is usually needed after a tumour is removed and there is a defect which needs to be covered. E.g. after Mastectomy ( surgical removal of breast) for cancer- the patient may choose to have the breast volume restored . Or after a jaw tumour when the onco-surgeon has removed one side of the jaw bone and cheek completely and there is a huge open defect.

Plastic Surgery In Dubai
Portrait collage of young, healthy and beautiful woman

Reconstructive Surgery can be performed immediately after removal of the tumour (Immediate reconstruction) or can be performed after completion of other cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy (Delayed Reconstruction).

Reconstructive surgery can make use of several body parts solely or in combination to facilitate good reconstruction. Options of reconstruction may include use of only skin (skin graft) or flap surgery ( combination of skin, fat , muscle or bone).

With the advancement in Microsurgery and techniques, single stage reconstruction with good cosmesis is possible.  It works by taking tissue and blood vessels from one part of the patient’s body and placing it over the damaged part and joining the vessels under the operating microscope.

All options of reconstruction are to be discussed with the reconstructive plastic surgeon before surgery.

Reconstructive Surgery is no longer a social taboo, but a way forward to a better quality of life and better future.

How to help my toddler (between 3-4 years of age)?

What does (s) he understand?help my toddler

  • His or her complexity of understanding keeps extending. He / She now understands simple WHO? WHAT? And WHERE? Questions and hears you when you call from another room.
  • This is the crucial age where hearing difficulties may become evident. If you are in a doubt of his/her hearing, it’s wise to consult an audiologist.

how to help my toddlerWhat does (s) he speak?

  • (S)he talks about many things to you, what happened in preschools, what type of play they did, how is teacher to him/her, what are his/her friends, what funny, and new (s)he experiences, and also his imaginations.
  • His/her sentences are becoming longer and longer as (s) he combines four, five or more words. His /her speech is usually clear and fluent and easily understood by the strangers most of the time.
  • They become very loud and unstoppable.

How can I help my child?

  • Mix categories e.g. mix animals with picture of baby, cookies, ice cream. And make the child to sort them out and show what doesn’t belong to the category. Tell him/her that he is correct baby doesn’t belong to cat, dog, category because baby is not an animal.
  • Draw, glue a car without wheels, favorite cartoon with a mistake, glue a dog in driving seat and talk about how silly the pictures and encourage him/her to talk about what is missing, and what is correct.
  • Act out typical scenarios with the child like going to doctor with the pet, teacher and student, acting like the mother at home, cooking food, making baby dress up, superman. Allow her/him to guide you in acting. Be the student and let your child teach a lesson. Ask the child questions; make him repeat if you have not understood completely.
  • Expand the child’s vocabulary by acting, storytelling, singing, filling the blanks. Talk about new games, new ideas you and your child can do and have fun.How can I help my child?
  • Find out a simple and interesting story book read line by line, ask simple WH questions (what, Where, Who, Why).Talk about favorite part in the story, in the cartoon. This is the best time to talk about favorite things with the child talk about his/her favorite game, food, rhymes and tell him/her also your choices.
  • Bring your family album to the bed. Talk about the photo and ask the child can you remember this photo. Help him to explain what happened.
  • Do silly mistakes in game, apologize for your mistakes, and ask his/her help to play correctly.

Leave interesting books and materials lying around for your child to explore.

Minimally Invasive Therapy (Lasers) in Treatment of Anorectal Disorders

Anorectal disorders are a group of medical disorders that occur at the junction of the anal canal and rectum. These disorders are very common in the UAE population due to the local climatic changes and lifestyle choices. Almost 50% of  all people experience this problem at least once in their lives by the age of 50. 75% of these disorders will worsen and progress if not treated at the right time.

The 4 most common problems encountered by people are hemorrhoids,anal fistula,anal fissure and pilonidal sinus.Almost 50% or more of patients seen by a Surgeon in his daily practice constitute these problems.Most of these disorders occur due to wrong diet ( lack of fibre and fluids), wrong lifestyle( less physical activity),constipation,laxative misuse, weak connective tissues and other causes. Of these, hemorrhoids are the most common and constitute around 60 to 65% of cases.

People who suffer from these problems present with bleeding while passing stools,painful stools,discharge,itching,swelling and at times fever.

Minimally Invasive Therapy (Lasers)It is important for these people to see a Surgeon at the earliest to enable an accurate diagnosis and initiate early treatment to prevent further complications. Over the counter medications  and creams are of limited use as almost all of these conditions present with more or less the same complaints, however the treatment is completely different for each one of them.

A proper history,physical examination by a Surgeon and relevant lab and other radiological tests may be required for a proper diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.

Till now, only traditional methods of surgery were available to treat these conditions causing a lot of pain, bleeding,large wounds and prolonged healing times for the patient. This prevented a lot of patients from seeking medical advice and undergoing treatment at the right stage.

However, with new developments in the field of surgery and  rapid advances in technology, new minimally invasive modalities are now available for treating these conditions. Of these, Lasers offer the most effective, safe and reliable method for treatment.Lasers have a tremendous benefit over an open operation in that they are painless, almost bloodless, have a short operative time of 15 to 20 minutes, cause no anal narrowing or loss of stool control,have no muscle or skin damage, no need for insertion of stitches or other foreign bodies and subsequently have much faster healing time. Patients can return to their normal work and activities in 4 to 5 days time.

Treatment Of Anorectal DisordersThese however, need to be performed by experienced Surgeons who have undergone extensive training in this specialty and have the know how and technical expertise.

Patients who suffer from these disorders should take full advantage of this new option available  to them with the host of benefits it offers. So, my advice to those with these problems is “ Act now ,don’t suffer in silence!”

Not paying attention to your nasal symptoms may turn your sinusitis chronic

Headache disorders Info Graphics in circle.Vector illustrationsApproximately 20% of the UAE population suffers from Chronic Sinusitis. Symptoms range from stuffy nose, nasal blockage, headache, facial pain, postnasal discharge, cough and bad breath. These are all symptoms of chronic sinusitis. The weather in UAE plays a significant role in the development of these symptoms. Fine sand in the air, humidity, allergies, sudden temperature changes too trigger it. Deviation of the nasal septum and nasal polyps too can lead to chronic sinusitis.

KNOW YOUR SYMPTOMS

When you have chronic sinusitis, the mucous membrane of the nose, sinuses and throat get inflamed, possibly from a pre-existing upper respiratory tract infection or allergies. Swelling obstructs the sinus opening and prevents normal mucous drainage, causes mucous and pressure to buildup.

Symptoms include – thick greenish post nasal discharge, nasal stuffiness, and pain around the eyes, cheeks, nose and forehead. There could be an associated reduced sense of smell and or taste.This condition if not treated on time can lead to Bronchitis, asthma or other respiratory diseases,

Many people with sinusitis either silently suffer or opt for self medication, making the problem worse leading to a chronic ailment. A common cold is usually caused by a viral infection and it gets better in approximately a week’s time. If it lasts for more than that, you need to see a Doctor.

HOW TO GET WELL

sinus-1Visual inspection, nasal endoscopy and CT scan, paranasal sinuses can help screen for chronic sinusitis. A CT scan can accurately diagnose chronic sinusitis. Once diagnosed, it is treated with nasal decongestants, steroid nasal sprays, antihistamines, antibiotics etc.
Sinus surgery may be required when conservative treatment fails. Endoscopic sinus surgery is done under local or general anesthesia. The main aim of the surgery is to enlarge the natural opening of the sinuses and to restore the normal sino-nasal ventilation and drainage.

HOME REMEDIES THAT CAN HELP

  • Steam inhalation
  • Saline spray
  • Pain in the nose and sinuses can be relieved by warm compress.

TIPS TO AVOID SINUSITIS

  • Keep yourself hydrated – Drinking water prevents mucus from thickening and blocking the sinuses.
  • Avoid smoking – Smokers are more prone to suffer from sinusitis.
  • Consult a Doctor if a cold persists for more than 10 days.
  • Complete prescribed course of antibiotics. When indicatedHeadache disorders Info Graphics in circle.Vector illustrations

Pain Management Clinic

Pain is defined by International Association for study of Pain as an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience with actual or potential tissue damage.

Conquering pain has been a major limitation for the more evolved human race. Pain imposes a burden on those who suffer from it and impairs quality of life. Most often, it is the common symptom that brings the patient to see a Physician. Pain most commonly presents as a warning sign for any pathological process in the body nevertheless may also cause agony without a specific purpose. The most common forms of pain encountered in daily medical practice are musculoskeletal pain 30-40 %, neck and back pain 30%, headaches less than 10%, and cancer pain 1-2 %.

            Pain Clinic at International Modern HospitalPain may be classified into different types based on the origin, duration, periodicity and nature of pain. Accordingly, Pain management can broadly be classified as acute and chronic pain management. While acute pain deals with perioperative pain, pain in labour, trauma, burns etc., and the latter includes a diverse group of patients in the outpatient setting. The management of acute pain is primarily therapeutic. Chronic pain management requires various pharmacological and non pharmacological approaches to tackle the multidimensional components of pain. At International Modern Hospital we take a holistic approach so as to not only treat the underlying cause but also provide psychological support and rehabilitation to ailing patient.

Pain Clinic at International Modern HospitalPain management largely comprises of pharmacological and non-pharmacological modalities, commonly being medication, counselling, relaxation techniques, electrical stimulation and local anaesthetics. Few Prescribed medications include anti-depressants and systemic local anaesthetics.

Pain Clinic at International Modern HospitalAt International Modern Hospital we undertake Interventional modalities which include diagnostic and therapeutic nerve blocks, facet blocks, epidural steroids, intra articular injections, trigger point injections for myofacial syndromesetc. Therapeutic adjuvants include Psychiatric counselling, physiotherapy and electrical stimulation. Unrelieved and inadequate relief of pain is continuing to be a global health problem and serious efforts have to be taken to provide pain treatment as it is definitely a basic human right.

Alzheimer’s Disease

anigif_sub-buzz-22090-1465935906-25Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.

Symptoms

The most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is difficulty remembering newly learned information.

Just like the rest of our bodies, our brains change as we age . Most of us eventually notice some slowed thinking and occasional problems with remembering certain things. However, serious memory loss, confusion and other major changes in the way our minds work may be a sign that brain cells are failing.

The most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is difficulty remembering newly learned information because Alzheimer’s changes typically begin in the part of the brain that affects learning. As Alzheimer’s advances through the brain it leads to increasingly severe symptoms, including disorientation, mood and behavior changes; deepening confusion about events, time and place; unfounded suspicions about family, friends and professional caregivers; more serious memory loss and behavior changes; and difficulty speaking, swallowing and walking.

imagesPeople with memory loss or other possible signs of Alzheimer’s may find it hard to recognize they have a problem. Signs of dementia may be more obvious to family members or friends. Anyone experiencing dementia-like symptoms should see a doctor as soon as possible. At International Modern Hospital, we offer specialised care for such patients under the guidance of our psychiatrist, Dr. Shaju George

 alzprogress

Alzheimer’s is not the only cause of memory loss.

Many people have trouble with memory — this does NOT mean they have Alzheimer’s. There are many different causes of memory loss. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of dementia, it is best to visit a doctor so the cause can be determined.

The role of plaques and tangles

 Plaques and tangles tend to spread through the cortex as Alzheimer’s progresses.

Two abnormal structures called plaques and tangles are prime suspects in damaging and killing nerve cells.

healthyvsadPlaques are deposits of a protein fragment called beta-amyloid (BAY-tuh AM-uh-loyd) that build up in the spaces between nerve cells.

Tangles are twisted fibers of another protein called tau (rhymes with “wow”) that build up inside cells.

Though most people develop some plaques and tangles as they age, those with Alzheimer’s tend to develop far more. They also tend to develop them in a predictable pattern, beginning in areas important for memory before spreading to other regions.

Scientists do not know exactly what role plaques and tangles play in Alzheimer’s disease. Most experts believe they somehow play a critical role in blocking communication among nerve cells and disrupting processes that cells need to survive.

It’s the destruction and death of nerve cells that causes memory failure, personality changes, problems carrying out daily activities and other symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

 Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

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Doctors use several methods and tools to help determine whether a person who is having memory problems has “possible Alzheimer’s dementia” (dementia may be due to another cause) or “probable Alzheimer’s dementia” (no other cause for dementia can be found).

To diagnose Alzheimer’s, doctors may:

  • Ask the person and a family member or friend questions about overall health, past medical problems, ability to carry out daily activities, and changes in behavior and personality
  • Conduct tests of memory, problem solving, attention, counting, and language
  • Carry out standard medical tests, such as blood and urine tests, to identify other possible causes of the problem
  • Perform brain scans, such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or positron emission tomography (PET), to rule out other possible causes for symptoms.

These tests may be repeated to give doctors information about how the person’s memory and other cognitive functions are changing over time.

Alzheimer’s disease can be definitely diagnosed only after death, by linking clinical measures with an examination of brain tissue in an autopsy.

Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is complex, and it is unlikely that any one drug or other intervention can successfully treat it. Current approaches focus on helping people maintain mental function, manage behavioral symptoms, and slow or delay the symptoms of disease. Researchers hope to develop therapies targeting specific genetic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms so that the actual underlying cause of the disease can be stopped or prevented.blog-alz

ANAESTHESIA – AWARENESS ABOUT “NO AWARENESS”

anaesthetist

A visit to the doctor confirms your worst fear: SURGERY. Suddenly you cease to think about the disease that is plaguing your body and it all becomes about the upcoming and seriously daunting surgery. You get anxious and scared and seek people who can answer some questions that are running through your mind. Will I be seeing the surgery? Will I wake up of the Anaesthesia? When will I wake up? What if I wake up in the middle of the surgery? Will there be pain? If yes, how much pain? What can be done to have no pain during and after surgery? What will happen if the said surgery doesn’t go well, or as predicted? Will I come out of the surgery alive? But often these questions are not directed to the right person who can give us the right information. Have you ever consulted an Anaesthetist before you go to the operation theatre for the surgery and have your queries been addressed to? After practicing Anaesthesia for close to a decade now, I have realized that most patients go into surgery scared and with many of these questions still unanswered. Let me try to solve this mystery for you by answering some of the frequent questions that plague a person’s mind before surgery:

 1. What is Anaesthesia? Anaesthesia literally means insensitivity to pain temporarily induced by drugs. It is a speciality of medicine which deals with temporary induced state with one or more of the following: Analgesia (relief from or prevention of pain), Amnesia (loss of memory), Paralysis (extreme muscle relaxation) and/or Unconsciousness. It is a temporary state where you are completely unaware of the surroundings controlled by various drugs given to you by a qualified Anaesthetist, who also take care of your vitals (heart beat, blood pressure, oxygen concentration, temperature, respiration or breathing and status of other organs like kidney, liver, etc.) while you are unaware of these experiences. Anaesthesia is science being researched and developed by medical science and is an important aspect of a successful surgery today.
2. Who is an Anaesthetist or Anaesthesiologist? An Anaesthetist (or Anaesthesiologist) is a highly trained specialist in the subject, (who has done specialisation/post graduation in Anaesthesia for 3 years, after 5 and half years of graduation i.e. M.B.B.S.), who makes all the decisions during surgery. She/he is responsible for the administration of anaesthesia and patients well being while under anesthesia and also the immediate post-operative care. Anaesthetists play a vital role in various areas of healthcare and hospitals these days. They are your perioperative physicians who take care of your illnesses prior to the surgery and also after the surgery. Anaesthetists are a vital team member of the Intensive care units or the critical care units. Some Anaesthetists also run pain clinics to take care of your long standing pain. Anaesthetists also take up the role of emergency physicians in trauma care and acute pain management. Anaesthetists are also key member of the hospital administration and management who can connect all the departments with ease.
3. What are the side effects of the anaesthesia that will be given to me? The medications given to you during anaesthesia are chosen as per your physical condition, and your pre-existing ailments. These medications are used in combination and the dosages are well calculated before administration and are associated with very minimal or negligible side effects. However, in some patients may experience reactions to the medications given, in the event of which the Anaesthetist will address to it immediately.
4. Does the Anaesthetist makes patients sleep during surgery and leaves the theatre? An Anaesthetist makes you sleep, takes care of your vitals throughout the surgery, awakens you, accompanies you to the recovery ward and takes care of you in the immediate postoperative period. She/he is mandatorily required to be present with the patient from the time the patient enters the operating room till the time the patient reaches the recovery room.
5. I am afraid of being in the operation theatre. Can you make me sleep before going in to the operation theatre? All patients are anaesthetised only after attachment of the standard monitoring and after securing an intravenous access. But for patients who are over anxious of the theatre they may be given some sedative or anti-anxiety medication in the preoperative ward, before going into the theatre. Usually your anaesthetist prescribes you some medications to be given in the ward which also helps you relieve anxiety and when you come to the theatre you might be in a light sleep.
6. I fear the needles. Is there any other way of making me sleep? Usually the anaesthetic medications are given to you through an intravenous cannula, secured in a vein in one of your hands which needs just one needle prick. It is mandatory for administration of anaesthesia. In children, they are either sedated with gases or an intramuscular injection and then intravenous access is secured. Same can be done for adults who have severe phobia for needle prick, as a special case.
7. Will I be seeing the surgery? Usually you will be completely unaware of the surgery; that means you will be under anaesthesia. In some cases where only part of your body is anaesthetised, either your lower half of the body or your any of your limbs, you may opt to see the surgery. Certain centres also record the surgeries to be seen later.
8. Will I wake up of the Anaesthesia? When will I wake up? Will I come out alive after the surgery? With the advancement of this medical speciality there are various medications whose combination is used for administration of safe anaesthesia and patients can be awakened within minutes of completion of the surgery. You will awaken, and very much alive, immediately after the surgery.
9. What if I wake up in the middle of the surgery? The Anaesthetised patient is closely monitored by the Anaesthetist who makes sure you don’t awaken in between surgery. The depth of anaesthesia can be well maintained safely with the advanced drugs available these days. Despite all the efforts, in certain cases where due to some genetic illnesses some patients awaken in between there is a very low chance of them knowing or remembering the said instance.
10. Will there be pain? If yes, how much pain? The patient undergoing anaesthesia is given Analgesia (pain killer) prior to the surgery and maintained throughout the surgery. You might wake up with a little burning sensation in the operated site but usually there is no pain or very minimal pain of the surgery for which your Anaesthetist will give you pain medication in the recovery ward. . Along with that, there are various techniques to block the pain mechanism of the surgery site which are done. This technique is also called Regional Anaesthesia. These injections are usually given while you are still asleep and when you awaken you are pain free.
11. What will happen if the said surgery doesn’t go well, or as predicted? Anaesthetists take all precautions for conduct of safe surgery. Despite all the efforts some patients might have complications during or after the surgery. All patients are monitored for such scenarios. Any patient who encounters such complication is taken to the intensive care units (I.C.U.) or critical care units for observation and further management.
12. What are the various Anaesthetic options I have? Anesthesia is broadly divided into General anaesthesia and Regional Anaesthesia. General anaesthesia is the one where you are completely unconscious and unaware of the surgery. Regional anaesthesia is again divided in various forms where a part of your body is anaesthetised during the surgery and can be combined with some sedation or even general anaesthesia. Spinal or epidural anaesthesia is one where lower half of your body is anaesthetised. Local anaesthesia is done in superficial surgeries where only the surgical part in anaesthetised. Nerve blocks are done, where the nerves supplying the surgical area are selectively anaesthetised and you feel no pain during the surgery and these can also be used for postoperative pain management. These are also combined in a surgery for better comfort and outcome.
13. I have heard from my relatives that Spinal anaesthesia causes backache. Is it true? Backache is predominant in mankind as a punishment for our standing posture. In pregnancy because of poor back care patients experience backache. Rather these days various types of epidural medications and treatment are given for various types of backache. In pregnancy the back pain is due to inadequate exercise, and back care. The spinal anaesthesia is safer option for you and your baby during a caesarean section (unless contraindicated for some coexisting illness). These days epidural Anaesthesia is being given for painless normal deliveries, which are also safe for you and your baby.
14. Minor surgery involves no risk. Is it true? The severity of surgery is not the only factor that determines the risk involved. Your coexisting diseases also play a major factor in risk assessment. For example – a patient with severe cardiac problem is very high risk for surgery even for a small biopsy.
15. The risk involved is due to Anaesthesia. Is this true? Some patients think that the risk involved in a surgery is only due to Anaesthesia, which is not true. The anaesthetists are well trained to administer you anaesthesia with your coexisting diseases safely, it is rather the stress of surgery (especially without anaesthesia) that is more risky than undergoing surgery under anaesthesia. The anaesthetists just want to correct the coexisting problems as much as possible and then take you for surgery so that the surgery is done more safely, medically optimise your health condition prior to surgery.

anaesthesia

Safe and successful surgery is a result of many factors involved in surgery including a good and responsible anaesthetist. It is very important to meet your Anaesthetist before any surgery, as your Anaesthetist evaluates your health status, your coexisting illness or diseases, status of your vital organs like the heart, kidneys, liver, etc and co-relates with the surgery involved and accordingly decides the Anaesthesia best for your surgery in your own health condition. This is also the best time to ask the questions you want to ask your Anaesthetist about the unawareness and postoperative care.

Preventing Dry, Irritated Winter Skin

Hydrate: 

Low humidity paired with artificial heating is the perfect recipe for parched skin. Protecting your skin should start with adequate water intake, so keep your bottle with you and stay hydrated during the day, even if you aren’t sweating. In addition, you can use a hydrating mist or toner on skin before applying a moisturizer. If you’re feeling extra dry, this step can go a long way to soothing irritation and helping your moisturizer do its work.

freshed face beauty

Moisturize:

Your skin’s protective layer can be damaged during winter, which prevents it from maintaining a normal amount of oil and protecting itself from water loss. Pair hydration with a good-quality natural moisturizer for both your face and body. For face, look for a serum, which offers the most concentrated source of protective oils. Don’t worry, serums won’t make your skin oily!. When paired with a hydrator like the Hydrating Accelerator, you’ve got a wrinkle-fighting, skin-plumping, winter-protective duo to keep your skin glowing throughout the season. For body, look for a balm or body oil that is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants. With a high concentration of camellia seed oil, this organic body serum absorbs deeply and helps restore skin’s moisture balance.

Be Gentle:

Are you combating acne and oily skin with harsh soaps? Are you using scented shower gel to wash your face? If so, now’s the time to nix cleansing products with alcohol, fragrance, preservatives, and dyes. For many, these kinds of products can exacerbate underlying skin problems, especially in winter. Instead, try a soap-free cleanser, a gentle soap-based cleanser, or an oil cleanser. By protecting your skin from harsh detergents, it will maintain its balance and be better able to protect itself from water-sucking conditions. Making the switch early on means less irritation and less reparative work on your end.

Treat: 

You can’t moisturize dead skin. If you’re looking flaky or lackluster, on a weekly basis use a gentle buffing exfoliant or antioxidant mask to gently reveal soft, glowing skin. Make sure to follow up with a hydrator and moisturizer! Also, be sure to keep a treatment balm for hands and lips with you at all times. Travel-size products are ideal for stashing in a purse, briefcase, or desk, and can be a simple skin-saving solution.

caucasian smiling woman applies moisturizer onto face

Nourish:

Oh, winter, how you toy with us. With sweaters and blankets keeping us cozy, cookies and cocoa add to our winter warmth, but they also contribute to dull skin, breakouts, and more generally, a sluggish demeanor punctuated by thoughts of regret. No one wants that, so indulge responsibly and try noshing on natural and whole-food snacks that are packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Staying hydrated and nourished will help your skin from the inside out.

Could It Be COPD ?

Do you know what COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is? This chronic lung disease is a major cause of illness, yet many people have it and don’t know it. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. “Progressive” means that the disease gets worse over time.

If you answer these questions, it will help you find out if you could have COPD:

1. Do you cough several times most days?
         Yes                          No

2. Do you bring up phlegm or mucus most days?
         Yes                          No

3. Do you get out of breath more easily than others your age?
         Yes                          No

4. Are you older than 40 years?
         Yes                          No

5. Are you a current smoker or an ex-smoker?
         Yes                          No

If you answered “YES” to three or more of these questions, ask your doctor if you might have COPD.

Finding COPD early gives the best chance to prevent further lung damage. However, treatments are available to help people at all stages of disease feel better and live a more active life.

It’s not too late to get help for COPD!

COPD is a leading cause of death worldwide, ranking behind ischemic heart disease and stroke. It kills nearly 3 million people a year worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. And yet perhaps one-quarter to one-half of people with the disease don’t know they have it. It is COPD, which means Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, a life-threatening disease that progressively robs people of breath. Yet there is good news. There is help for COPD. COPD can be diagnosed with a quick, painless lung function test called spirometry—it’s almost as simple as blowing out the candles on a birthday cake.And for people diagnosed with COPD, there are medications and treatments available to help them feel better and live longer.

Today is World COPD Day!

So, if you are a current or ex-smoker, are over age 40, and you have symptoms like a chronic cough, bringing up phlegm, and breathlessness, it’s time for a checkup. It’s not too late to get help for COPD!

Prepare your kids for exams!!!

Exams are important milestones in your children’s education. Younger children need much more assistance than older children in preparing for exams. The guidance that you provide in the early stages will enable your children to study with discipline and dedication later on, on their own. If your children are still in kindergarten or primary classes, you will need to invest much more time. However, with older children, you may face problems of a different kind—disobedience and rebellion, which require greater tact.

Prepare your kids for exams Prepare kids for exams

• Never let your children postpone studying until a day before the exams. This will only increase their anxiety and stress levels. Preparation is the key to success. Don’t listen to any excuses and don’t be swayed by assurances. The best course is to have your children study for some time everyday. Even if this is not possible, ensure that they begin preparing for the exams at least two to three weeks in advance.

• Do not impose yourself on your children. Some children require more support while others are happier studying on their own. This depends on your children’s nature. However, let them know that you’re always there to help them.

• It is not enough to read up matter. Your children should be able to recall the same in the examination hall. Hold question and answer sessions where you ask them random questions on the subject once they have finished studying.

• Prepare a timetable for each child. You can cover subjects in the order of the examination schedule or you can tackle difficult subjects first. For younger children, two to three hours of study a day should suffice. Children in the secondary and higher secondary classes should study for four or five hours a day when the exams are due. Alternate languages and practical subjects like mathematics to minimise boredom.

• Especially for older children, access to question papers from previous years is a must. These may be available in the school library, with teachers or you can secure them from the senior students. Have them solve at least one or two papers in each subject, within the given time limit. This is like a rehearsal and helps in mitigating exam nerves. It will also give your child an idea of how much time to allot for each question.

• Don’t allow your children to stay up or wake up too early. Make sure that they get at least eight hours of sleep. Inadequate sleep affects the brain’s functioning and will reduce your children’s retention. Discourage use of caffeine or other stimulants to remain awake.

• Children these days suffer from as much stress as adults. Do not pressurise your child ever. Do not entertain negativity and empower them with confidence if they start moaning about previous performances.

• Create a study-ritual for your children. Encourage them to use the same place to study everyday, preferably somewhere quiet and pleasant. The outdoors is a great option as well. Let them be silent and make a resolve to study well before beginning the session. End every session with a revision of what has been covered. Set small goals–one or two chapters or even topics. If they are studying for long durations, schedule breaks every one or two hours. Let them do what they like such as go for a walk, meditate or solve a puzzle.

• Older children may benefit from group study, especially for subjects that they find difficult. It is preferable if your child can go to his friends’ houses rather than having them over. This way, he can leave if the session is proving to be a waste of time.

• On the D-Day, wake your children up well in time and serve them a light breakfast. Set aside time for a disciplined revision. Teach them relaxation exercises. Ensure that they have their pens and pencils, examination pad and other necessary items before leaving the house. Wish them luck and hope for the best!

 
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