While Covid-19 did not cause much harm to children, yet those affected are likely to suffer from Long Covid which is affecting their daily life with dizziness, fatigue, and brain fog, according to a study. The study from the Kennedy Krieger Institute, in the US, showed that the majority of children with Long Covid are likely to experience orthostatic intolerance (OI) -- a condition that causes the body to struggle with regulating blood pressure and heart rate when standing up. As a result, children often feel dizzy, lightheaded, fatigued, and may experience “brain fog” or cognitive difficulties. The team examined nearly 100 children and found that dizziness (67 per cent), fatigue (25 per cent), and body pain (23 per cent) were the common symptoms, which used to worsen while standing but improved when lying down. These symptoms can make it difficult to perform everyday activities like exercising, attending school, and socialising, severely impacting their quality of life. Further, the research reveals that OI is prevalent among children dealing with the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for Covid-19. The team found 71 per cent of the patients studied at the Institute experienced at least one orthostatic condition. The findings explain the relevance of screening paediatric long Covid patients for OI, as many have symptoms that could be missed without proper testing, said Dr. Laura Malone, Director of the Pediatric Post-Covid-19 Rehabilitation Clinic at Kennedy Krieger. “Research proves this condition is common,” she said, urging for “early diagnosis and treatment” which will help the children to recover and return to their normal routines. While calling for a multi-faceted approach to treatment, the researchers stressed the need to increase salt and fluid intake, exercise training, and physical therapy among children, in addition to medications that manage heart rate and blood pressure. However, Malone says more research is needed to fully understand OI. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
18 September,2024 02:00 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSResearchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras have developed an indigenous and portable Point-of-Care-Ultrasound (POCUS) scanner that can diagnose sports injuries on-field. The POCUS, powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) can potentially allow for on-field diagnosis of injuries, with immediate assessment of the extent of injury that will allow for medical professionals to take a call on whether to permit the sportsperson to continue playing. The novel scanner has a wide range of applications in sports medicine, and it has the benefits of safety (no radiation) and sufficient resolution compared to other modalities, said the team. “We observed a current technological gap and a need for a point-of-care device for injury management and rehabilitation of elite athletes within routine training premises. A quick assessment for musculoskeletal on the field will help sports players get immediate attention and focus on recovery,” said Prof. Arun K. Thittai, Department of Applied Mechanics and Biomedical Engineering, IIT Madras. With POCUS, ultrasound technology will be leveraged beyond the hospital setting, in sports medicine. “We are currently exploring all options to take up POCUS for MSK imaging for commercial translation,” added Thittai, also a faculty member at the varsity’s Center of Excellence in Sports Science and Analytics (CESSA). Established in 2019 with support from the government’s Institute of Eminence initiative, CESSA aims to become a global platform for fostering innovation in sports technology and delivering products and solutions to enhance athlete performance. The centre will also serve general fitness and health consumers. Meanwhile, Thittai and the team aim to complete the product prototype development by 2024. They have also planned subsequent testing and collection of pilot data from the field in coordination with Sports Authorities. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
18 September,2024 01:18 PM IST | Chennai | IANSWhile a good night’s sleep is known to be crucial for overall health, a new study showed it can also prevent cirrhosis among individuals with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Cirrhosis occurs when the liver is damaged for over a long duration and is replaced by scar tissue. The scarring prevents the liver from working properly, and can eventually lead to liver failure The study led by researchers from the Huazhong University of Science and Technology in China showed an association between a healthy sleep pattern and a decreased risk of cirrhosis among NAFLD patients. The study on 112,196 NAFLD patients found that poor sleep patterns were associated with an increased risk of progression to cirrhosis. The benefits of good sleep were observed in participants, regardless of low or high genetic risk, according to the journal Hepatology International. The study provides “more evidence that sleep is really underrated,” said Dr Abby Phillips, popularly known as LiverDoc, on social media platform X. “You can’t change your genetic profile and neither can everyone check their genetic profile. But what can be done is get some good sleep every night,” he advised. The human body requires an optimum sleep duration of 7-8 hours per night. “Having a good night's sleep (at least 7-8 hours) has innumerable benefits on liver health and this is something not many are aware of,” Phillips said. Poor sleep is also known to be harmful to health and can lead to problems with memory and focus. It can also raise the risk of headaches, anxiety, and stress. Another recent study, published in the journal Sleep shows that sleeping late may also raise the risk of early-onset type 2 diabetes. In the study, people who went to bed after midnight had a 1.46-fold increased risk of developing early-onset diabetes -- under the age of 40. “Each one hour later in bedtime was associated with a 52 per cent increase in the risk of early-onset diabetes,” the study showed. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
18 September,2024 12:55 PM IST | New Delhi | IANS
As more people become aware of how to take care of their mental health or are encouraged to talk more about it, there are new terms that take shape every other day on the Internet. The newest one is ‘emotional hangover’. While it may seem like a buzzword, the timing cannot be righter as it is one that addresses feelings that many people experience but cannot put a word to it. This may often lead to many people either denying the feelings or not taking it seriously enough to act upon it or seek professional medical advice. So, what is an ‘emotional hangover’? Narendra Kinger, clinical psychologist and psychotherapist, Holy Family Hospital in Bandra, explains, “An emotional hangover is the lingering persistent discomfort or psychological aftermath that can follow a particularly intense emotional experience. A heated disagreement, a significant life transition, or an intense personal breakthrough may trigger emotional upheavals. These are some of the causes for an ‘emotional hangover'." With more focus on mental health with each passing day, mid-day.com spoke to Dr Santosh Bangar, senior consultant psychiatrist, Gleneagles Hospitals Parel Mumbai, and Kinger, to understand the causes and effects. They also stress tips for recognising and dealing with it.Also Read: ‘8-10 lakhs could save your life’: Mumbai experts on building financial shieldsWhat is an emotional hangover, and how is it different from all other emotions that one experiences daily? Bangar: An emotional hangover is a heavy feeling after emotional distress due to various factors such as a breakup, the loss of a loved one, or even prolonged stress due to financial or personal problems. The fatigue after the hangover can dull the senses and cloud your mental clarity. It can impact one’s decision-making ability too.Kinger: It is not the same as our regular feelings or emotions. An emotional hangover is the result of an exceptionally strong or personally meaningful emotional experience, such as a significant life event or an intense personal breakthrough, as compared to ordinary everyday situations that arouse regular emotions, which are frequently temporary reactions to immediate conditions. This increased intensity may have a deeper and longer-lasting effect and can leave one feeling exhausted and uneasy.Emotional hangovers frequently take longer to analyse and recover from than normal emotions, which can be addressed more easily with techniques. An ‘emotional hangover’ is a different and more persistent emotional state because it can impact your functioning and general mood significantly.What are the signs that one is emotionally and physically drained, leading to them having an emotional hangover? Bangar: The signs are fatigue, headache, dizziness, nausea, upset stomach, chest pain, irritability, brain fog, sadness, stress, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, agitated, rapid heartbeat, procrastination, mood swings, inability to focus or make decisions, poor sleep, anger, and losing interest in activities that one likes.Kinger: Some signs of being emotionally and physically drained, often leading to an emotional hangover, ongoing feelings of emotional exhaustion, disconnection, or a feeling of overload. However, these signs can manifest in various ways for different individuals, and some people may also have trouble focusing. An overall feeling of physical exhaustion and irregular sleep patterns are other examples of physical symptoms. Some other indicators include a lack of motivation, a tendency to become easily overwhelmed by duties, or physical complaints like headaches or tense muscles. These signs point to a state of depletion in which your physical and emotional stamina are severely diminished even in response to minor concerns.How long can an emotional hangover possibly last in duration?Bangar: An emotional hangover can last for a day to several days during which one may feel sad, angry, tense, restless, and have tingling sensations that shouldn’t be ignored. Seek the help of an expert and go for counselling, if required. Emotional hangover is a common occurrence and should be managed without delay to improve one’s mental and physical well-being.Kinger: The length of an emotional hangover might vary greatly depending on the strength of the emotional experience and one’s personal coping strategies. It can generally have a duration of a few days to several weeks. Some people may experience short but acute symptoms of discomfort, while others may experience long-lasting symptoms, particularly if the emotional experience was very significant or traumatic.How soon an individual may recover depends on a number of factors: self-care routines, support systems and networks, and personal resilience. Whatever the situation, it is critical to practice self-compassion and give oneself adequate time to analyse and heal.How can emotional hangover affect people physically and mentally in the short-term?Kinger: There are the short-term physical effects:1. Fatigue: Emotional hangovers can lead to exhaustion. When you're emotionally drained, your body can and does feel more tired physically.2. Headaches: Stress and emotional strain can contribute to tension headaches or migraines.3. Muscle tension: Stress can cause muscle tension and soreness, often felt in the neck, shoulders, or back.4. Sleep disturbances: Emotional upheavals can interfere with your sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or restless sleep.These are the short-term mental effects:1. Difficulty concentrating: One might find it hard to focus or make decisions when one is emotionally overwhelmed.2. Irritability: Short-term emotional distress can make you more irritable or sensitive.3. Anxiety: Feelings of anxiety or nervousness can be heightened after an emotional upheaval.4. Mood swings: You may experience sudden changes in mood or heightened emotional responses.How can emotional hangover affect people physically and mentally in the long-term?Kinger: The long-term physical effects are: 1. Chronic fatigue: Prolonged emotional stress can contribute to long-term fatigue or chronic exhaustion. 2. Immune system impact: Persistent emotional stress can weaken our immune system, making you more susceptible to different illnesses. 3. Cardiovascular issues: Long-term stress can lead to high blood pressure or increased risk of heart disease. 4. Digestive problems: Chronic stress may contribute to digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or stomach ulcers.Long-term effects mental effects: 1. Depression: Prolonged emotional strain can lead to or increase depressive symptoms, such as persistent sadness or loss of interest in activities. 2. Chronic anxiety: Long-term emotional stress can contribute to chronic anxiety or panic disorders.3. Cognitive decline: Over time, ongoing stress may affect our cognitive (mental) functions such as memory and learning.4. Relationship strain: Persistent emotional difficulties can strain our relationships with others, leading to either social withdrawal or conflict.Also Read: How Mumbai's daily commute is quietly impacting your healthHow can one deal with people who drain their emotional and physical health? Bangar: If you are dealing with emotional distress, remaining patient and venting out emotions is crucial. Try to engage in pleasurable activities; socialising with family and friends can be beneficial. One must not hesitate to seek professional advice from an expert to help regulate emotions and improve mental and physical well-being.Kinger: You can deal with people who drain your emotional and physical health with the following steps:1. Define your limits: Clearly establish what behaviours you will and will not tolerate from significant others and people in your environment. Try to communicate these boundaries assertively but respectfully. 2. Use “I” statements: Express your feelings and needs without placing blame on others or circumstances. For example, you can say “I feel overwhelmed when...” rather than “You always…”3. Be honest but compassionate: Share your concerns in a way that’s honest yet considerate of the other person’s feelings.4. Stay calm: Practice mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and deep breathing to remain centred during your interactions with others.5. Detach emotionally: Try to separate your emotions from the other person’s behaviour. Recognise that their actions are a reflection of their issues and challenges, and do not determine your worth.6. Therapy or counselling: A mental health professional can provide strategies for coping with difficult relationships and help you develop effective communication skills.7. Understand your triggers: Reflect on why certain interactions particularly affect you strongly and work on strategies that can help you manage these specific triggers.8. Self-compassion: Always be kind to yourself. Acknowledge that it’s okay to prioritise your own well-being and that setting boundaries is a form of self-care.What are the different ways in which one can get emotionally and physically drained, respectively? Bangar: Emotional exhaustion is seen when someone experiences excessive stress in their work or personal life. One can get physically drained due to lack of sleep, illness, hormonal changes, medication, a hectic lifestyle, and stress. One will be continuously tired due to being physically drained.Can emotional hangovers be more severe in romantic relationships? Highlight situations that can give people an emotional hangover. Bangar: An argument with the loved one or spouse can cause an emotional hangover. Even getting cheated in a relationship or going through a breakup can also lead to an emotional hangover. If one is getting separated from the husband or wife, then that can also cause an emotional hangover. What are the effects of emotional hangovers on people? Does it vary according to gender and age group? Bangar: The effects of emotional hangover are generally similar for everyone. It doesn’t usually vary based on gender or age group.Kinger: Here are some ways that emotional hangovers can affect people differently:Socialisation and coping: Gender roles and socialisation experiences can affect how people express and cope with emotional distress. For example, women might be more likely to seek social support, while men might internalise feelings or engage in problem-solving approaches.Stress response: Some studies suggest that women may experience higher levels of anxiety and stress response compared to men, which could influence the intensity and duration of emotional hangovers.Youth and adolescents: Young people might be more susceptible to emotional hangovers due to high levels of social and academic stress, peer pressure, and possible inadequate development of emotional regulation skills.Adults: For adults, the impact of emotional hangovers might intersect with work-related stress, family responsibilities, and life transitions. Adults often juggle multiple stressors, which can exacerbate the effects.Older adults: Ageing can bring about changes in one’s emotional resilience, with some older adults experiencing more pronounced effects from emotional stress due to life changes, health issues, or loss of loved ones. Are people with pre-existing mental health issues more vulnerable to an ‘emotional hangover’ than others? Bangar: A person with pre-existing mental health issues is more susceptible to the effects of emotional hangover as it can trigger their mental health issues. It can potentially lead to a relapse and pose challenges to their future recovery. Kinger: When someone has a pre-existing mental health issue, such as anxiety or depression, their emotional state is often more fragile. Imagine their emotional well-being as a cup that's already half full of stress or sadness. When they face additional stress or intense emotions, it can easily overflow, leading to what feels like an emotional hangover.For someone with anxiety, even minor stressors can feel overwhelming because their baseline level of anxiety is already high. The emotional impact of a difficult day or a challenging event can be more severe and take longer to recover from.Similarly, someone with depression might experience emotional hangovers more intensely because their mood regulation is already compromised. What might be a temporary setback for someone without these conditions can feel like a major ordeal for them. Hence, these individuals find that their emotional recovery is slower and more taxing. They might dwell more on negative experiences or struggle more with feelings of fatigue and sadness. The emotional hangover, in their case, isn't just a brief period of discomfort but can be a prolonged struggle that affects their daily functioning and overall well-being.Understanding this vulnerability is crucial for providing appropriate support and empathy. Recognising that their emotional responses are heightened, and recovery can be more challenging helps in offering compassion and support tailored to their needs.If an emotional hangover gets serious, will people have to visit a doctor? Bangar: It is very important for people with emotional hangovers to consult an expert for help to avoid further emotional and physical problems. Until then, practice yoga or meditation, eat a healthy diet, avoid smoking or drinking alcohol, exercise regularly, and keep in touch with family and friends.Suggest tips on steps people can take to deal with an emotional hangover. Bangar: Get active and exercise daily, eat a well-balanced diet inclusive of all the vital nutrients, do journaling regularly, opt for relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation, open up to your loved ones and seek support from them, de-stress by practicing self-care, relax, and sleep well.
18 September,2024 12:53 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoVarious factors such as high work-related stress, extended working hours, and a lack of physical activity, can affect the fertility of women and men. People need to improve fertility by managing work-related stress, eating healthily despite irregular schedules and late shifts, and doing at least 30 minutes of daily exercise to get rid of sedentary habits. Prioritising careers can cause delays in marriage and family planning for both, women and men. Many women and men are choosing to postpone marriage and parenthood because of career aspirations and goals. While many tend t to give importance to professional life which is also important, doing so can impact fertility for females and males. Dr Rupali Tambe, fertility consultant Nova IVF Pune, explains, “In today's fast-paced world, there is cut-throat competition and pressure to succeed in the particular profession that one is a part of. If stress is not effectively managed, it can impact sleep patterns, and eating habits, and lead to reliance on substances like caffeine, alcohol, and drugs - all of which can hinder fertility. High stress levels raise the risk of hormonal imbalances, disrupt the ovulation cycle, and pregnancy issues that can be concerning. Irregular work schedules, late hours at the office, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy diet choices are certain factors that can impact a woman’s chance of conceiving. Postponing marriage for a career may result in reduced quantity and quality of eggs, necessitating assisted reproductive technologies for conception." Dr Padma Srivastava, consultant obstetrician & gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Lullanagar, Pune adds, "The mounting stress, long working hours, and sedentary lifestyles among today's working population are significantly impacting male fertility. High stress can diminish sperm quality and lower testosterone levels, hindering conception. Irregular sleep patterns and hormone disruptions caused by late working hours can exacerbate these issues. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity and low sperm count, further contributing to fertility problems. Approximately 20-30 per cent of infertility cases are attributed to abnormal sperm counts, a trend that seems to be escalating alongside associated medical conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension. These health issues are often the result of unhealthy lifestyles. However, adopting a healthier diet, incorporating regular exercise, and effective stress management techniques can help improve sperm count and overall fertility outcomes. Relaxation practices like meditation and yoga, and adequate sleep are essential for maintaining reproductive health." “Both, females and males will have to be ahead of time by ensuring pregnancy planning with the guidance of a fertility consultant. The couple can choose the option of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment and egg freezing after discussing with the expert. Stay stress-free by doing yoga and meditation to help combat work-related stress, open up about your feelings with your family members and friends, practice self-care, and take counseling if required. It will also be imperative for females and males to exercise daily for at least 30 minutes and eat a nutritious diet as the work schedule is hectic and long. The working population should adhere to a healthy lifestyle to be able to conceive without any trouble in later life,” concludes Dr Rupali.
17 September,2024 04:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Pakistan confirmed its third case of the Mpox variant last week. It is the third in a series of cases being reported from around the world after Sweden, the Democratic Republic of Congo and other African countries in the last month. The rising number has even led the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare Mpox, formerly called Monkeypox, as a public health emergency of global concern. In India, experts have come out to suggest screening at the airports. The rising number of cases is especially concerning because even India has seen rising cases of Mpox in the past, particularly in 2022. Ever since then, the WHO has reported 27 cases in India and one death from the disease. Keeping the rising cases in mind, mid-day.com spoke to Dr Chhaya Vaja, internal medicine expert, Apollo Spectra Mumbai, and Dr Honey Savla, internal medicine, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central to know more about the disease and how it affects people. They not only delve into the causes but also the effects, treatment and severity. What is Monkeypox and how is it caused?Vaja: The Monkeypox virus was discovered in 1958. Even though this disease was named Monkeypox, till that time the main reason behind its occurrence was not known. The first human case of monkeypox was seen in 1970. However, the World Health Organization changed the name of this disease in 2022, following the modern guidelines regarding the naming of diseases. That guideline suggests disease names should avoid offending cultural, social, national, regional, professional, or ethnic groups and was created to minimise unnecessary negative impacts on trade, travel, tourism, or animal welfare. However, the virus that causes the disease still has its historical name. Savla: Mpox (previously referred to as monkeypox) is a viral zoonotic infection that is caused by monkeypox virus and results in a rash similar to that of smallpox. However, historically, person-to-person spread outside the household and mortality from mpox are significantly less than for smallpox. The rash of mpox can also be similar in appearance to more common infectious rashes, such as those observed in secondary syphilis, herpes simplex infection, and varicella-zoster virus infection. The WHO has declared it a public health emergency of global concern. Why is the viral infection so deadly?Vaja: There are two types of mumps viruses, Clade 1 and Clade 2. Clade 1 is a more serious disease than the others and can also cause death. Despite this, considering its seriousness it is not right to ignore it. Clade 2 is the cause of the outbreak that started in 2022. However, the symptoms in patients of this Clade 2 are indeed mild and 99 percent of people recover from this disease. Savla: The mortality associated with mpox varies. In the 2023 outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where it is prevalent, the estimated case fatality rate is 4 per cent overall, but is 11 per cent in children under five years of age. In earlier studies, the fatality rate in Central Africa was reported as approximately 10 percent, with deaths generally occurring in the second week of illness. Hence, it's a global emergency. Who is most likely to suffer from the disease and why? Is it seen more in males and females?Vaja: Mpox is seen in children and adults. Savla: Most patients diagnosed with mpox reported high-risk sexual behaviour (for example: sex with multiple partners) as a potential risk factor. It is commonly seen in men having sex with men. Direct exposure to animals (including exposure to ill prairie dogs' urine and faeces) without personal protection equipment (PPE) was felt to be the likely source of transmission, although person-to-person transmission could not be entirely excluded. What are the symptoms of Monkeypox and when should people visit the doctor?Vaja: The symptoms include fever, feeling cold, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, muscle and back pain, headache respiratory problems such as sore throat, nasal congestion and cough.Also Read: ‘Chikungunya can be confused with malaria and dengue’: Mumbai doctors highlight symptoms, treatment What are the short-term and long-term effects of Monkeypox?Vaja: The effects of monkeypox include painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes, and fever in the short term and severe complications like bacterial infection from skin lesions, mpox affecting the brain (encephalitis), and heart (myocarditis). Savla: Long-term effects will be known in the coming years. Can Monkeypox be treated? If not, how can people take care?Vaja: Antiviral drugs are used to treat monkeypox. Savla: Most immunocompetent patients with mpox have mild disease and will recover without medical intervention. However, some patients may require pain relief medication for pain related to proctitis or tonsillitis. In addition, for conditions like proctitis, stool softeners and sometimes sitz baths may need to be used. Tecovirimat was the agent most commonly used since it was available through an expanded access investigational new drug (EA-IND) protocol held by the CDC. However, data supporting the efficacy of antiviral therapy for patients with mpox are limited. How can people prevent the disease? What are the precautions that people take?Vaja: To prevent Mpox, it is important to get vaccinated. It is necessary to take both its recommended dosages within four weeks. If for some reason there is a delay in getting the vaccine, then it would be better to stay away from infected people. Avoid coming in skin-to-skin contact with people. Especially, do not touch people who are seeing Mpox-like rashes on their hands, face, chest, mouth, etc. Avoid kissing or having sex with people infected with mumps. If you belong to a place where this disease is spreading, avoid touching animals in such places, which carry the mumps virus. Savla: Here are some of the precautions that people can take:1. Skin lesions should be covered with long sleeves, long pants to minimise risk of contact with mpox lesions2. Patients should avoid sharing their used clothes, towels, food, utensils, or face masks with others and should not allow animals to access them.3. Individuals with mpox should wear a well-fitting facemask when around others, even if respiratory symptoms are not present. Ideally, household members should wear a facemask when in the presence of a person with mpox as well.4. Household members providing care to patients with mpox should use disposable gloves for direct contact with lesions.Also Read: 'Rawdogging' travel trend raises alarms: Health experts warn of serious risks Why are there increasing cases in African countries, Sweden and Pakistan? What is the prevalence in India and is there a possibility of it affecting people here?Vaja: From Africa to Sweden and now Pakistan, mpox is spreading across the globe. It is a concerning viral infection that spreads through close contact with the infected person. At least 27 confirmed cases and one death due to Monkeypox have been reported in India since 2022, according to the WHO data. How has monkeypox as a disease of concern evolved since it was first declared a health concern in 2022 by WHO?Vaja: According to WHO data, at least 99,176 cases and 208 deaths from Mpox have been reported in 116 countries since 2022. Can the symptoms of monkeypox be confused with any other disease in India?Vaja: The mpox rash may be similar to chickenpox. Savla: Mpox can be confused with smallpox or chicken pox or shingles. During the 2022 global outbreak, even India reported cases of mpox, albeit of the less deadly Clade 2 type. Initially, infections were reported among some people from Kerala who had a history of international travel. However, later even those without a history of international travel got infected in Delhi.
17 September,2024 03:59 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoPrice sensitivity, quality, and environmental awareness play a significant role in shaping women's attitudes toward menstrual cup adoption in India, according to a study by researchers at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow, on Tuesday. The study, published in the esteemed Journal of Social Marketing, investigates the various factors influencing women's intentions to adopt menstrual cups. Focusing on how perceived values -- functional, emotional, conditional, epistemic, and environmental -- impact adoption decisions, the team surveyed 304 women. The findings reveal that emotional values had the most significant influence, “suggesting that respondents believe that they are making personal contributions towards sustainability and society by adopting menstrual cups”. This was followed by environmental factors. Previous studies showed that the environmental costs of menstrual cups are less than the conventional products, as sanitary pads produce substantial environmental waste, and therefore, result in high plastic pollution. The environmental factor regarding menstrual cups “forms a positive attitude towards behavioural intention; which resonates well with social marketing principles, where societal and environmental well-being is a central theme”, said the team. In addition, factors such as the desire for knowledge, price sensitivity, and quality considerations also greatly influence adoption intentions. “Adopting menstrual cups in India can revolutionise feminine hygiene by promoting health, comfort, and environmental sustainability, reducing waste and infection risks for millions of women. It is a vital step toward empowering women with safer, eco-friendly choices," said Prof. Priyanka Sharma, from IIM Lucknow “Prioritising menstrual health is key to fostering well-being and dignity for women across the nation,” she added. The insights gained from this research can be instrumental for social marketers and policymakers aiming to promote menstrual cup usage. By emphasising the emotional value of menstrual cups and showcasing their sustainable benefits, such as reducing environmental waste, marketing campaigns can be designed to encourage more women to make the switch, the researchers said. Also Read: Skincare and haircare products linked to hormonal disruptions in children: Study This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
17 September,2024 12:59 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSEven as injectable weight loss drugs have become a popular option for people struggling with obesity, 1 in 4 or 25 per cent consider using them without consulting their doctor, exposing themselves to several health risks, finds a study on Tuesday. Cost and lack of insurance coverage are some reasons for seeking prescription alternatives, said the team from The Ohio State University, US, who surveyed 1,006 adults in America. “Some people are skipping the doctor’s office and reaching out to potentially unreliable sources such as unlicensed online pharmacies or telehealth sites, which could expose patients to risks,” the team said. Cost (18 per cent) is the major reason identified in the survey, followed by not being covered by insurance (15 per cent), inability to get a prescription from their doctor (9 per cent), and lack of availability through a pharmacy (6 per cent). “It’s really important for those who want to lose weight to first discuss options with their doctor. It is not one size fits all, and every medication can have risks and side effects,” said Shengyi Mao, an Ohio State internal medicine physician. Mao said doctors will “go through a patient’s medical history” and prescribe medications by assessing “their particular risks and benefits”. Recently developed weight loss drugs called GLP1-RA (with brand names Ozempic and Wegovy) help in weight loss because they can curb appetite and slow emptying of the stomach. The medication which comes with Semaglutide salt has been approved by the US FDA for reducing cardiovascular risk in adults who are overweight or obese and have established cardiovascular disease. But the regulator also issued two warnings about compounded Semaglutide including reports of dosing errors resulting in hospitalisation and ineffective ingredients. Compounded drugs are custom-made alternatives to brand names and made in state-licensed pharmacies instead of by drug manufacturers when a drug is in short supply. Mao said “Obesity is a serious and complex chronic disease” and should be addressed by a “comprehensive weight management programme”. “These weight loss drugs may be effective for some people but they can cause serious side effects and the weight may return after they stop taking them.” This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
17 September,2024 12:12 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSCovid seems to be rising again with a new and more contagious variant -- XEC -- spreading rapidly across 15 countries. First detected in Germany in June, XEC is a combination of the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 variants. According to reports, it has already overtaken the previously dominant FliRT strain of the deadly virus. The strain, belonging to the Omicron variant, is currently spreading "quite rapidly" across Europe, North America and Asia. About 550 samples have now been reported, from 27 countries, including Poland, Norway, Luxembourg, Ukraine, Portugal, the US and China have now reported samples. "At this juncture, the XEC variant appears to be the most likely one to get legs next," Eric Topol, Director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute in California, US, said in a recent post on X. As per experts, XEC comes with some new mutations that might help it spread this autumn. However, vaccines may help prevent severe cases. In a post on X, a Melbourne-based data expert Mike Honey stated that XEC strain is "a likely next challenger to the currently dominant variants". Honey noted that XEC has already charged ahead of other variants like the FLiRT, FLuQU and DEFLuQE strains. The strain reportedly causes symptoms that are similar to those experienced with common illnesses such as influenza and colds. While most people will get better within a few weeks, for some it may take longer to recover and some may even require hospitalisation. According to the UK NHS, the variant causes flu-like symptoms which includes a high temperature or shivering (chills), a new, continuous cough, a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste, shortness of breath, fatigue, body ache, loss of appetite, among others. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
17 September,2024 11:56 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSA team of researchers on Monday said that exposure to arsenic and other toxic metals may accelerate the progression toward diabetes. In a study of over 500 Mexican Americans living in southern Texas in the US, researchers from University of Illinois Chicago found that high levels of toxic metals in urine predicted faster increases in blood sugar over subsequent years. The study, published in Diabetes Care, highlights an underappreciated risk factor for diabetes. Environmental exposures have largely been neglected as drivers of the diabetes epidemic. “These data support using environmental policy as a new tool to mitigate the devastating burden of diabetes on individuals and society at large,” said Margaret Weiss, first author of the study. Based on these results, individuals with the highest levels of arsenic in their urine were projected to qualify as prediabetic 23 months earlier and diabetic 65 months earlier than those with the lowest exposure to the toxic metal. The study emphasised that this risk factor can be addressed by reducing exposure to contaminated food, water and other products. On average, blood sugar levels increased in all participants. But in those who initially exhibited higher urinary levels of arsenic, selenium, copper, molybdenum, nickel or tin, blood sugar increased at a faster rate over the three years. This acceleration puts those who started with normal blood sugar levels at risk of developing prediabetes and diabetes earlier than others in their population. In clinical medicine, time really matters. The earlier you develop diabetes, the worse the complications are. The longer you have diabetes, the worse the complications are. It underscores the need to engage these folks sooner in the clinic,” said Dr Robert Sargis, associate professor in the College of Medicine. How arsenic and other metals increase the risk of diabetes isn’t completely understood. Other metals, namely cobalt and zinc, were associated in the study with lower blood sugar in subsequent years, suggesting a potentially protective effect of some elements. However, the alarming results with arsenic and other toxic metals suggest they are environmental risk factors that could be new targets to prevent the disease. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
17 September,2024 11:54 AM IST | New York | IANS
The streets of Mumbai and many other cities are currently brimming with the excitement of Ganeshotsav 2024. There’s activity and vibrancy throughout the country. People are dressing up, preparing delicious treats, visiting friends and family and participating in community activities, and there’s a general atmosphere of joy and excitement. Festivals like Paryushan Parv, Onam and Eid also fall during this time. However, the curtains will soon be drawn on this festive season. As Ganpati Bappa bids the final farewell on September 17 and other festivals also draw to a close, the vibrant festive atmosphere will make way for normalcy. This shift can lead to some people experiencing an emotional phenomenon called the post-festival blues. Moreover, after the busyness of the festive season, which is characterised by indulging in sweets and other treats, a body detox may become essential to get your system back on track. Mid-day.com speaks to health experts who share tips to keep your mental and physical health on track after the festive season. Navigating post-festival blues Post-festival blues refers to a feeling of sadness or a sense of dullness upon returning to normalcy after the extravagance of a festival. Dr Kedar Tilwe, Consultant Psychiatrist, Fortis Hospital Mulund and Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi, says, “It is fairly common to experience low mood or slight anxiety, especially if you have had a great festive season.” Shruti Shah, a Mumbai-based psychologist and founder of Holistic Mind Therapy, further explains, “As the festive season wraps up, many people experience a drop in mood and energy, commonly referred to as ‘post-festival blues’. In Indian culture, where festivals like Ganeshotsav, Diwali, Navratri and Eid hold immense significance and are times of great joy and connection, the emotional shift post-festivities can be particularly noticeable.” She adds, “Post-festival blues can manifest as feelings of low mood, lack of energy, irritability, and a sense of emptiness once the excitement fades. From a psychological perspective, any intense experience, such as a festival, often brings with it a build-up of emotions and expectations. Once it's over, the abrupt drop in activity and stimulation can leave people feeling adrift.” Also Read: Grief, loneliness, fear of missing out: Experts share tips to navigate mental health challenges during the festive season But why does this occur? Shah states the following factors that can contribute to post-festival blues: Emotional highs and lows: The lead-up to festivals involves excitement, anticipation and participation in joyous activities like family gatherings, rituals and celebrations. Once this is over, the contrast between the high-energy festive atmosphere and the return to normal routine can feel stark. Unmet expectations: Festivals often come with emotional and social expectations—whether it’s reconnecting with family, enjoying certain traditions or simply having a "perfect" celebration. When these expectations aren’t met, it can result in disappointment and a feeling of loss. Financial and physical strain: In India, festivals often involve significant expenditures, from gifts to travel and elaborate celebrations. This can create financial stress afterward. Similarly, the physical toll of late nights, heavy food and travel may leave people exhausted and more prone to emotional fluctuations. Social withdrawal: Indian festivals are typically community-driven, full of interactions with friends, neighbours and extended family. Post-festivities, this sudden drop in social engagements can lead to feelings of loneliness. Tips to ensure mental well-being during the festive season While post-festival blues are real and a common occurrence, there are ways in which one can manage their emotions better during this time. Dr. Tilwe suggests the following: Talking about this with your immediate family would be helpful. If possible, reconnect with your cousins and friends whom you met after such a long time over the next week or a couple of weeks. Follow through on the plans that you made together. Gratitude journaling is a great way to handle the post-festival blues. If you want to add a twist to it, you could decide the activities that you plan to do in the coming festive season, which starts next month. Shah has the following tips: Embrace the transition mindfully: Acknowledge that it’s normal to feel a little down once the festivities are over. Be gentle with yourself and try to adopt a mindful approach to transitioning back into your routine. Grounding exercises, such as deep breathing or spending a few quiet moments in reflection, can help. Focus on small pleasures: Once the festival is over, shift your attention to smaller joys that can offer fulfillment, such as enjoying your morning coffee, reading a good book or even trying a new recipe. Keeping the joy alive in everyday activities helps prevent that sense of emptiness. Stay connected: While the festive season is over, continue to maintain social connections. Reach out to friends or relatives you enjoyed spending time with during the celebrations, even if just for a casual conversation. This sense of continuity can help bridge the emotional gap. Recovery plan: Festivities can be physically and emotionally draining. Schedule some rest days to allow your body and mind to recover. This helps avoid burnout and restores your energy levels gradually. Set new goals: Post-festivities can be a great time to set fresh intentions or goals. Whether it’s a health goal, a work project or even learning a new skill, giving yourself something to look forward to can ease the transition and create a positive focus for the coming weeks. Seek professional help if needed: If the post-festive blues persist or start affecting your daily functioning, consider speaking to a therapist or counsellor. Post-festive blues are a natural emotional response, but with awareness and some simple steps, one can navigate through this smoothly and maintain well-being. Tips for post-festival body detox Mental health might be affected after the festive season, and so might physical health. Due to constant activity, travelling, and eating sweets and fried foods, your body may get exhausted and need a detox. Khushboo Jain Tibrewala, nutritionist, diabetes educator and founder of The Health Pantry, explains, “The festive season is synonymous with sugar, fried and retried foods, refined oils, refined flours and random food colour, etc., that come in our diet by way of the foods we eat. For a lot of homes, there might also be more alcohol consumption.” “All of this puts a lot of pressure on your liver, which is the housekeeping unit of your body. These foods also impact digestion. Just one day of bad food can impact your gut microbiome. Add to that the fact that we tend to eat and sleep at odd hours during festivals. All of these make a week-long detox essential post-festive season,” she adds. Jain Tibrewala shares the following nutrition and lifestyle tips for body detox after the festive season: The best way to support the detoxification system of your body is fasting. Eat your last meal by sunset and then break the fast by 11-12 the next day. Have a glass of ginger, mint, coriander, celery, black pepper and ACV juice on an empty stomach. Add at least 1 fistful of fresh herbs of different types in each meal. Have a cup of Cumin Coriander Fennel Tea post-lunch. Boil 1/2 tsp each of the cumin, coriander and fennel seeds in 300 ml water for 4-5 minutes. Strain and drink. Stay off wheat completely. Sleep for 1 hour extra. Also Read: Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: Replace sugar with honey, churma for sattu, and other sweet hacks
16 September,2024 06:34 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainADVERTISEMENT
