Here’s how vaccination helps prevent rotavirus

Here’s how vaccination helps prevent rotavirus

A rotavirus infection triggers diarrhea and vomiting in children. In fact, before the vaccine for this virus was developed, most children would be affected at least once by the age of 5. Doctors usually recommend giving children rehydration fluids to replenish all the water lost due to diarrhea. Other than that, there are no major treatments unless the infection triggers health complications linked to rotavirus. Herein, we discuss how getting a vaccine helps prevent rotavirus. Prevention of rotavirus Rotavirus is ranked among the top infectious diseases that majorly affects children under the age of 5. It remained the leading cause of diarrhea among infants up until 2006, when the first vaccine was introduced. Rotavirus is highly contagious infection that mostly spreads through hand and mouth contact. Along with a vaccination, good handwashing habits and overall hygiene will ensure that this disease doesn’t not rapidly spread. Adults must also ensure commonly touched surfaces are disinfected on a regular basis so that the child is not infected by contaminants on surfaces. Vaccination for rotavirus There are two approved vaccines that are given at a gap of two months. The first dose of the oral-drop vaccine is given to the child at the age of 15 weeks and both doses are completed before the child is 8 months old. The two approved vaccines for use are RotaTeq® The RotaTeq® vaccine is given three times: starting first at the age of 2 months, then at 4 months, and then 6 months Rotarix® Starting first at the age of 2 months and once at 4 months, the Rotarix® vaccine is given only twice. Note that the number of doses varies with these two approved brands. Statistics and studies indicate that vaccination protects almost 9 out of 10 children from severe form of the rotavirus disease.
5 household factors that may affect lung health

5 household factors that may affect lung health

Lungs, an integral part of the respiratory system, hold oxygen which is then supplied to the rest of the body through the bloodstream. It is essential to keep the lungs healthy to maintain optimum oxygen intake. However, there can be things in the environment that can trigger lung damage. This article lists five such household factors that can trigger lung damage, which can, in turn, cause diseases. Let’s check them out. Mold Mold is a type of fungus that grows on damp surfaces and corners. It is common in houses with issues of leaking pipes. The fungus releases spores in the air and can trigger a severe reaction in those allergic to mold. The response is relatively severe in people with lung damage and diseases like asthma and COPD. Carpet Carpets add to the allure and warmth of our homes. But there are some other harmful things that they add. Carpets can act as a storage space for dust mites, cockroach droppings, mold, dander, pet hair, and other allergens. These are released back into the air often. As a result, it is advisable to clean and vacuum carpets multiple times a week to ensure they do not work as carriers for lung-damaging components. Flour Baker’s asthma is a common condition among bakery workers. It is caused by the dust and flour particles that saturate the air and are transported with humans as vectors. Those who suffer from this have a difficult time breathing. Baker’s asthma can also be detected in people who live close to bakers, including their family and friends. Candles Candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum-based product. When lit, candles release chemical-fueled fumes into the environment that can trigger allergic reactions in people. This reaction is enhanced in people with pre-existing conditions like COPD, asthma, allergies, and low immunity.
7 foods to avoid with respiratory conditions

7 foods to avoid with respiratory conditions

Asthma is a respiratory condition where the airways narrow, swell, and produce extra mucus. These factors make it difficult for the person to breathe and trigger wheezing and coughing. Apart from treatment and home remedies, people with asthma tend to eat foods that can boost their recovery. But not all foods are suitable, and some may even worsen the condition. Here are seven such foods that may trigger severe respiratory symptoms. Eggs Eggs contain healthy nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, and minerals. However, asthma patients prone to egg allergies should avoid them. Egg allergies generally lead to reactions on the skin, such as hives. Eating eggs can also cause inflammation in the respiratory tract and lead to an asthma attack. Soda Soda produces gas, which may apply pressure on the diaphragm. The excessive pressure may make it difficult to breathe, worsening the symptoms of asthma and other respiratory disorders. Bread Bread is a wheat-based product that may also cause allergic reactions because of its gluten content. Those allergic to gluten are likely sensitive to albumin and globulin. These are amino acids that lead to inflammation in the respiratory tract and subsequently cause an asthma attack. Dried fruits Despite their healthy nature, people with asthma must avoid dried fruits. They contain sulfites that keep the food fresh. However, such preservatives may worsen respiratory symptoms in people with asthma. Milk People with asthma should avoid milk or milk-based products. Studies show that milk increases mucus production in the body. Since people with asthma already produce excess mucus in the lungs, milk will only increase their chances of severe respiratory symptoms. Shrimp Shellfish are likely to increase the risk of asthma attacks in people allergic to seafood. Shrimp contains sulfites, a property to which many asthma patients are sensitive. Other seafood options people with asthma should stay away from include clams and oysters.
RSV in babies – Symptoms and preventive measures

RSV in babies – Symptoms and preventive measures

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) spreads like a cold virus from individual to individual. Virtually all children develop an RSV infection by the time they are two years old. While symptoms for this infection can vary by age, RSV seems to hit babies, especially those under the age of one, the hardest, making it a leading cause of infant hospitalization. It can also give rise to complications such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and asthma. Recognizing RSV in babies – Symptoms to watch for RSV symptoms look similar to the common cold in babies under one. They may include fever, which is 100.4°F or higher, wet or dry cough, runny nose, congestion, and sneezing. Some babies may also lose their appetite or become more fussy. In some cases, RSV can lead to complications like bronchiolitis, where the baby might experience swelling in their airways. This could cause symptoms such as rapid and shallow breathing, nostril flaring, wheezing, chest caving, and grunting while breathing. It is advisable to call 911 or visit an emergency room immediately if the baby’s breathing patterns change. Preventing RSV infections RSV is a highly contagious infection. So, protecting babies from it is crucial, as exposure to this virus and its potential complications could also put the baby’s life at risk. Taking basic preventative measures can help parents and guardians keep their babies safe. 1. Parents and caregivers should ensure their babies avoid any form of close contact, such as being hugged or kissed by individuals who may be sick. 2. It is crucial to not share personal items with others, especially if they are contaminated. These include bottles, toys, and cups, as they may carry the virus from one child to another. 3. Those in close proximity to the baby should wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer before touching the baby.
6 common mistakes to avoid while buying mattresses

6 common mistakes to avoid while buying mattresses

Buying a mattress can be confusing due to the sheer number of options available. It is a product that you use daily but cannot purchase frequently. So, you have to make the right choice on the first go. Options only increase the odds of an impulse buy and could land you in potential sales traps. To help you, here are some common mattress buying mistakes you should avoid to get the best deal. Skimping on research There are four types of mattresses, namely memory foam, latex, coil springs with padding, and hybrid. Each bedding style offers a unique comfort level for different sleeping positions. Some are also designed to provide supportive orthopedic comfort. You must compare available options to check what type of bedding is suitable for your sleeping needs. Buying the cheapest one While price is a major deciding factor, consider spending a little more to get a decent product. For example, single foam mattresses with minimal design elements are the most affordable ones to buy. But these mattresses lack the quality and necessary lumbar support for a good night’s sleep. Not trying out the product Go for brands that offer a free trial period. This way, you get to take the mattress home and try it out for a couple of nights before buying. Don’t buy furnishings that you have not personally checked and tested for long-term use. Buying the wrong size Mattresses come in standard, double, queen, and king-size options that are available with most brands. And the measurements for these variants are available online, so it pays to double-check if the mattress will fit your existing bed frame. This won’t matter if you plan to overhaul your bedroom. But, always check to see what size works best for the family bedroom. Not discussing it with your partner Discuss firmness levels, sleeping positions, and most importantly, the type of materials with your partner.
7 best foods and drinks for a healthy liver

7 best foods and drinks for a healthy liver

Liver functioning is an essential process of the human body. The liver is required to help detox your body, break down carbohydrates, make glucose, store all the nutrients and produce bile. Bile liquid is required to absorb all the nutrients and digest them by giving a proper metabolism to the body. Taking care of your liver is part of a holistic nutrition hence you should be aware of what destroys your liver and what helps its healthy functioning. For your overall health functioning the ability of the liver to do all the above is a necessity. Any kind of liver dysfunction can lead to bodily disorders like type 2 diabetes, metabolism issues, and other liver diseases which could also lead to death. It is possible to manage the risk factors once the liver dysfunction starts by making sure you have a healthy intake of food and drinks that are good for the liver. Plant foods A large number of plant foods like avocado, bananas, barley, broccoli, beetroots, carrots, figs, lemons, papayas, chard, kale, celery, and watermelons are foods that are good for the liver. Grapefruit Naringenin and naringin are the two main antioxidants present in grapefruit which is one of the foods that are good for the liver. Grapefruit reduces the toxic build up in the liver. This helps protect the liver cells and reduces inflammation. Garlic Reducing body weight is a great index to a healthy liver. Garlic helps in reducing the fat content near the liver. Coffee Studies have found that around 50 percent of the population consumes coffee. Coffee is one of the drinks that are good for the liver. It protects the liver’s protective tissues. Coffee definitely has other potential hazards but it reduces chronic liver problems to a good extent. Oatmeal Oatmeal has fiber and beta glucans that are essential for protecting fatty liver tissues.
8 healthy and cholesterol-lowering snacks

8 healthy and cholesterol-lowering snacks

Those with high cholesterol should ideally opt for healthy snacks rather than empty calories or artery-clogging foods. Snacks with excessive fats or sugar can adversely affect cholesterol levels, so every calorie counts here. Moreover, skipping snacks is not an option. This is where healthy snacks come into the picture; they can help maintain metabolism, blood sugar, and even cholesterol levels. Here are eight easy snacks that will help lower cholesterol. Avocado on toast Avocado contains unsaturated fats, which keep cholesterol levels in check. This fruit contains about 10 grams of fiber. Pair it with whole grain, pumpernickel, or rye toast to make the snack even more fibrous. Popcorn According to the American Heart Association, popcorn lowers cholesterol levels since they are high in fiber content. In fact, popcorn contains more fiber than whole-wheat bread or brown rice. Although it has low calories, it should be eaten in moderation. Nuts Studies have concluded that bad cholesterol can be controlled by replacing fatty foods with healthy monosaturated foods, like nuts, almonds, and walnuts. But be sure to eat only a handful. Tuna nori wraps Tuna helps lower cholesterol since it contains omega-3 fatty acids. Make a tuna salad by adding olive oil, onions, or celery. Then, make a wrap by using nori, a thin sheet made of edible seaweed or lettuce leaves. Roasted chickpeas To make this snack, spread cooked chickpeas on a baking tray. Add salt and olive oil to taste and roast them for about 30 minutes. Lastly, sprinkle some black pepper powder, paprika, lemon zest, or dried spices to enhance the flavor. Edamame Edamame is loaded with fiber and good fats that help control cholesterol levels. To prepare this snack, steam frozen edamame and sprinkle minimal salt for taste. You can also add dry herbs, curry powder, or a dash of lemon juice for more flavor.
5 ways to get rid of under-eye wrinkles naturally

5 ways to get rid of under-eye wrinkles naturally

As we age, the body naturally begins to develop wrinkles on most parts of the body including the hands, face, and neck. The process is much likely to be noticed in areas that are exposed to the sun. Wrinkles are most seen post the age of 40 years as the skin loses its moisture and becomes thinner. Most people are highly concerned about wrinkles in the area around the eye. The most apparent cause of this development is sun exposure, however, several other factors such as smoking, and an unbalanced diet too can be contributors. There are several forms of medical treatments that can be employed to combat the development and reduce the appearance of under-eye wrinkles. However, you can also resort to several home remedies that have been found to be effective for this reason. Here are some effective natural ways that you must try before you arrive at which one works best for you: Consume probiotics Probiotics have been found to have the best effect on the reduction of wrinkles and boosting the health of the skin, overall. Probiotics are abundantly found in yogurt. However, they can also be consumed through formulated supplements. Some studies prove the good effects of probiotics when it is regularly applied to the skin as it reduces the level of sun damage. Consumption of vitamin C Vitamin C is one of the most important antioxidants and helps in the creation of collagen in the skin. There are numerous foods that are abundant in Vitamin C and they include rosehips, chili peppers, fruits, vegetables, kale and more. Vitamin C can also be applied topically through gels that are only formulated with nutrient and no additional ingredients. Olive oil massage Massage is believed to be one of the best ways to reduce under-eye wrinkles naturally.
6 Ways to Naturally Control Diabetes

6 Ways to Naturally Control Diabetes

Diabetes is recorded to affect millions of people around the world. Unfortunately, the widespread of this condition doesn’t seem to show any signs of slowing, and the only way to deal with it is through effective control. Diabetes occurs when the body cannot effectively transport sugar from the blood to the cells. If left unchecked, it can turn deleterious over the years, leading to the development of several other conditions. It is essential to seek medical help and undergo the right treatment when affected by diabetes. This includes the use of medications like metformin and insulin injections. While medical intervention is usually necessary for diabetes, there are several natural home remedies and measures that can be used to show promise in treating the same. Stay well-hydrated Water plays a key role when keeping blood sugar levels under control. It prevents dehydration and aids in flushing out excess blood sugar from the urine. There are some studies that point at how people who drank more amount of water daily had a reduced risk of developing unhealthy blood sugar levels. Regular consumption of water effectively hydrates the blood and keeps blood sugar levels in check. Keep stress levels in check Stress has a highly negative impact on the levels of blood sugar. In times of excessive stress, hormones such as glucagon and cortisol can cause an immediate spike in the blood sugar levels. Stress can be reduced using several measures such as mindful meditation and daily relaxation. Quality sleep Today, most people lead a lifestyle that has a direct effect on sleep quality. Poor sleeping habits, late sleeping hours, and not getting enough rest can affect blood sugar levels and trigger diabetes. Additionally, improper sleeping habits can increase appetite and bring about unhealthy weight gain. One must get enough quality sleep every night to ensure optimum health.
5 natural treatment options for amyloidosis

5 natural treatment options for amyloidosis

5 natural treatment options for amyloidosis Those suffering from amyloidosis are impacted due to a build-up of excessive the protein amyloid. Amyloidosis can affect any of organ, including the heart, liver, kidneys, and spleen. If not treated immediately, amyloidosis can lead to organ failure. There is no known cure for this condition, but there are treatment options that control the spread of these abnormal proteins. One of the treatments is the administration of chemotherapy medication. In addition, patients can also use certain methods to naturally treat amyloidosis. Here are five natural ways in which patients can get relief from this disease and control their symptoms: Follow a light-to-moderate exercise regime Amyloidosis often takes away the motivation and physical drive required to exercise. Yet, movement is necessary to stay healthy and keep your joints and muscles in good shape. Strenuous gym sessions are never recommended, but you can opt for a light to moderate exercise pattern. Exercises that may help you include yoga, walking, jogging, or even weight training. Tai chi has also been proven to help relax the mind while working out the body. Practice meditation to de-stress. Patients suffering from amyloidosis often have a hard time following regular sleep patterns. Body ache may force them to take naps during the day which can leave them wide awake at night. This insomnia can then cause fatigue the following day. This is a vicious cycle indeed. Studies have shown that practicing meditation helps a great deal in fighting insomnia and stress that comes along with amyloidosis. Ask for prescription diuretics Amyloidosis often leads to fluid retention and swelling in the extremities. This can cause patients much discomfort. Prescription diuretics are known to be highly effective in dealing with curbing water retention in the body. Do check with your doctor for the diuretic pills that are best suited to your health needs, Eat a balanced diet Amyloidosis can upset the digestive tract and often make a patient lose their appetite.
5 natural remedies to treat hair loss in children

5 natural remedies to treat hair loss in children

5 natural remedies to treat hair loss in children We often associate hair loss only with adulthood. However, even young children can suffer from hair loss. The reasons for this can be many including alopecia areata, Tinea capitis or scalp ringworm, Trichotillomania, and vitamin deficiency, among others. Getting medical help is the best recourse. However, there are also supplementary hair care methods you can try at home to care for your kid’s mane. Here are some easy and natural remedies to treat hair loss in kids. Coconut oil massage Your child might complain about the messy feel of having coconut oil on their scalp. This might have stopped you from trying out this natural remedy. However, coconut oil works to fight hair loss in children. It is natural and free from side effects. It gently replenishes the lost hydration in the scalp and stimulates the growth of new hair strands. Onion juice pack Although the thought of having onion juice on the scalp might sound unappealing, studies have proven that it is highly effective in fighting hair loss and promoting the growth of new hair. In fact, a study on onion juice showed that people suffering from alopecia areata benefitted greatly from daily application of this juice to their scalp. Research indicates that sulfur present in the onion juice helps promote hair growth. Selenium supplements When it comes to hair loss supplements, many doctors recommend supplements that contain selenium. This nutrient helps keep the hair healthy and also strengthens hair follicles. If you don’t prefer giving supplements to your child, you could try making sure they get natural sources of selenium in their diet. Beans and peas, soy products, and Brazil nuts contain selenium. A healthy diet Any hair care specialist would stress on the fact that eating a nutritious diet is crucial for hair care.
5 easy natural remedies for hair loss in women

5 easy natural remedies for hair loss in women

5 easy natural remedies for hair loss in women Hair loss has become increasingly rampant among women of all ages. This could be due to several reasons such as heavy exposure to pollution, stress, chemicals in hair care products, or simply the result of genes. Natural remedies are often preferred to avoid the side effects of medicated treatments. So, here are some easy and natural remedies to treat hair loss in women. A green tea hair wash You might have heard of the myriad health benefits that green tea offers, but did you know that it also works wonders for your hair? All you need to do is take one large mug of warm water. Keep two green tea bags to brew in it for a few minutes. Let the water cool down. Now, after washing your hair, run this water through your hair as a final rinse. You can leave it in or rinse your hair one last time with cold water to seal and tighten the hair follicles. This remedy is quite simple and extremely effective. Aloe vera hair mask Aloe vera has many nutritional properties that make it perfect for hair care. The aloe vera gel is full of proteolytic enzymes and amino acids that help prevent hair loss and promote hair growth. You can grow an aloe vera plant at home and use the gel as a hair mask once a week. Alternatively, you can purchase a readymade aloe vera hair mask. Apart from reducing hair loss, aloe vera is also effective in fighting dandruff. Indian gooseberry powder hair pack The Indian gooseberry is beneficial for good hair health. The powder can be easily purchased from a grocery store or online. Mix the Indian gooseberry powder with freshly squeezed lime juice and apply the paste to your scalp.