What should you do about the red, dry and itchy skin in newborns?

Eczema aka atopic dermatitis is a common and chronic skin condition in which the skin becomes red, itchy and dry. This is seen more commonly among children than adults. It is the most common group of skin disease witnessed in India. 

It is said that about 20% of children develop atopic dermatitis and 60% of children develop eczema within the first year of their life. It is more prevalent during the winter than any other season. 
  What are the triggers of AD?Atopic dermatitis is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some children suffering from atopic dermatitis may have specific triggers that increase the itchiness and rash. External factors like cold, heat and sweating can increase the itching. Other common triggers are bathing for more time, not applying moisturizing creams as it can caused dry skin, low humidity, stress, friction, synthetic/woollen clothes, harsh soaps and detergents, fragrances, bubble bath and soft toys. Pollen, dust, pillows and parthenium (congress grass) can trigger atopic dermatitis. Some foods like milk, milk products, egg, peanuts, soy, wheat and sea foods can trigger atopic dermatitis, but it is seen only in few patients. The above foods should not be stopped in children unnecessarily without proper tests as it can cause nutritional deficiency. Sometimes infection can increase the rash. 

What is the scope of treatment?Atopic dermatitis is a nicely controllable disease and there are many treatments that can help manage the skin problems. Treatment includes gentle skin care like bathing daily with warm water, use of moisturizing soaps, giving bath for short time (5-10 minutes) and applying regular moisturizing creams (e.g. Cetaphil Baby Restoraderm) to whole body after bath. Rash can be treated with topical steroid. There are many topical steroids that are available in different strengths (e.g. Desowen 0.5% cream / lotion). Choosing a proper steroid is important to prevent side effects. Therefore, it should be applied with consultation with your doctor. Newer medications are available like tacrolimus ointment that is very useful. For severe cases, oral therapy (systemic drugs) is necessary. They can cause serious side effects, hence should be monitored regularly with blood counts with consultation with your doctor. For itching oral antihistamines can be given. Avoidance of triggers is necessary

What can parents do to prevent AD?Yes there are many things that can be done to prevent atopic dermatitis. Specific triggers mentioned above can be avoided. Avoid contact with any substance that can cause or increase the allergy. Recently, it is seen that regular application of moisturizers to skin from birth can prevent atopic dermatitis, especially if there is someone in the family affected with allergic rhinitis or asthma.

How does AD impact the quality of life?Atopic dermatitis affects the quality of life in children and parents (care givers). Skin is so itchy that children spend their time in scratching, which increases the rash giving rise to sleep problems. Children do not sleep due to itching and hence parents also lose their sleep taking care of their child. Loss of sleep and stress of rash and itching can cause anxiety and depression in children. This can affect their school performance. They try to avoid going to school as they are bullied by their friends. Growth of the child can be affected if the child does not have proper food due to itching. Children may not mingle with others due to visible skin lesions. Social life of parents is also affected. As atopic dermatitis involves regular application of creams there is a huge financial burden on the family.

How should parents decide on skincare products for babies? Babies skin is gentle and different from adult skin hence skin care products that are used should not be harsh on baby skin. Parents should take extra care of their babies skin. There are lots of baby skin care products available in the market. Parents are always in a confusion of which skin care products to be used. They are advised by family members, relatives and friends of different products available in the market. Parents should use skin care products which are mild, almost near to the PH of the skin, fragrance and preservative free products. Parents should not use multiple brands for their child. Ideally they should go for the baby care products manufactured and marketed by well known pharmaceutical companies. 

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                    PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/    

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10 Signs Of Kidney Disease That You Must Never Ignore

On the occasion of World Kidney Day which falls on March 14, we make an effort to raise awareness about kidney problems - which is the 6th fastest growing cause of death, with 2.4 million deaths per year. People who suffer from kidney problems do not get to know until it reaches a very late stage. Kidneys fail to perform properly when there is too much protein in your urine. While there are a number of physical signs and symptoms that indicate a kidney disease, people often attribute them to other conditions. If you are above the age of 60, have family history kidney disease or are suffering from high blood pressure and diabetes, you must get tests to check your kidneys as well.

World Kidney Day: Here are some signs and symptoms of kidney disease you must take note of:

1. Fatigue, lack of energy and finding it difficult to concentrate
When your kidneys are not performing as they should, you will feel all these symptoms. Weakness and anaemia are also signs of kidney disease.
2. Dry and itchy skin
Kidneys perform the function of removing excess waste and extra fluid from your body. They also help in formation of red blood cells and maintaining the strength of bones. Kidneys are the ones responsible for sufficient supply of minerals in the blood. If your kidneys are not working properly, you will have a dry and itchy skin.
3. Frequent urination
A telltale symptom of kidney problems is an increase in frequency of urination. A person with kidney problems will specially feel the need to urinate more often at night. However, frequent urination can also be a sign of urinary tract infection and an enlarge prostate in men.
4. Difficult sleep
When your kidneys are unable to filter properly, toxins stay in the blood rather than being flushed out in urine. This can make it difficult to get a good night's sleep at night. Chronic kidney disease is common in people with obesity. Sleep apnea is common in obese people.
5. Blood in urine
While filtering waste from the blood to create urine, healthy kidneys keep blood cells in the body. But, when kidney filters have damaged, these blood cells begin to leak in the urine. Blood in urine is sign of kidney disease, infection and kidney stones.

6. Swollen feet and ankles
Poorly functioning kidneys can cause sodium retention which causes swelling in feet and hands. Swelling in lower extremities of the body can also be a sign of heart disease and liver disease.
7. Muscle cramps
Poorly functioning kidneys can result in electrolyte imbalances. For instance, poorly controlled phosphorus and low calcium levels can cause muscle cramps.
8. Foamy urine
If your urine has excessive bubbles, or takes several flushes to go away, it may be a sign of kidney disease. Protein in urine causes foamy urine.
9. Poor appetite
Build-up of toxins in the body can reduce your appetite. Get a blood test to check kidney functions in this case.
10. Puffy eyes
Puffy eyes may be a sign of kidneys leaking large amounts of protein in urine rather than keeping it in the body. Foamy urine is a sign of excessive protein in the urine.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                    PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/                                                                                                                                                         FOR INFO ABOUT KNEE REPLACEMENT, YOU CAN VIEW MY BLOG-                                                  https:// kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com/           

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HOW TO OVERCOME DRY SKIN PROBELMS

When winter arrives, the air is dry, most people complain of dry skin. It becomes worse for those who normally have dry skin. Dry skin look older than oily skin, as they show fine lines and wrinkles faster. They also flake, crack and bleed easily. Read on for 10 super easy steps recommended by dermatologists to soothe dry skin
Avoid hot baths and showers which dehydrate skin further. Try these for dry skin

1. Use warm water
2. Don’t shower for more than 5 minutes
3. Wash with a gentle and fragrance-free soap
4. Don’t apply too much soap so that it whips up a thick lather
5. Don’t rub your skin dry with a towel

After bath care-

1. Apply a rich moisturiser after drying your skin: Moisturisers trap extra moisture in your skin so the right time to use them is immediately after drying yourself. It’s better to use ointments and creams as these are more effective than lotions. Creams with olive and jojoba oil, Shea butter, lactic acid, urea, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone, glycerin, lanolin, mineral oil, and petrolatum jelly all are good. If the skin on your hand is extra dry and feels stretched then it’s a good idea to carry a non-greasy hand cream with you. Apply it to each washing hands immediately to relieve dry skin.
2. Use only unscented skin care products: Shun harsh skin products which strip natural oils from skin like-Deodorant soaps
   • Skin care products that contain fragrances, alcohol, retinoids, or alpha-hydroxy acid
3. Wear gloves when washing utensils: This will prevent dry skin on hands. All you have to do is wear latex gloves before you start washing clothes and utensils.
4. Choose laundry detergent with care: Laundry detergents should be chosen with care as they can irritate skin. Go for detergents labelled “hypoallergenic”.
5. Avoid sitting by the fireplace or other heat sources in winters: Remember heat is drying. So limit your time in front of a hot stove or fireplace.
6. Use humidifiers to add moisture to indoor air: Use of humidifier will help prevent excessive drying of skin.
7. Use milk on skin: Milk is packed with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can fight dry and itchy skin. The lactic acid in milk also exfoliates dead skin cells and increases the capacity of your skin to retain moisture.
8. Honey: Honey is one of the best natural moisturisers. It comes loaded with antioxidants and anti-microbials.
9. Yogurt: Yogurt is a skin-hydrating agent par excellence. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe dry and itchy skin.
10.  Baking Soda Bath : Soaking in a bath of baking soda for 30-60 minutes can make all the difference. Add one cup baking soda to a tub of warm water. After the bath, it is important to gently pat your skin dry with a towel (or air-dry). For more localized itching you can make a paste of one part water to three parts baking soda.
11.  Oatmeal : Mixing oatmeal in water and spreading it on irritated skin can also be cooling and soothing. Add 2 cups of colloidal oatmeal to a lukewarm bath and soak to soothe itchy skin. Avoid using very hot water, as it can irritate the skin and cause it to itch more.
12.  Lemon Juice: Lemon juice can be directly applied on itchy skin to relieve the irritation. 
13.  Essential Oils : There are many good essential oils with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that have the ability to give relief to itchy skin and alleviate irritations. You can add them to your bath water or apply directly on your skin. Just make sure to follow the dosage recommendations exactly as directed on the package.
    The following are some of the best essential oils for itchy skin: Agrimony oil, Basil oil, Bay leaf oil, Calendula oil, Chamomile oil, Chickweed oil, Clove oil, Geranium oil, Jewelweed oil, Lavender oil, Neem oil, Nettle oil, Peppermint oil, Rosemary oil, Thyme oil.
14.  Coconut Oil: The driest of the dry itchy skin in winter usually occurs on the heels, hands and elbows. An overnight spot treatment on these skin areas with coconut oil can result in much improvement by the next morning. Soak in a lukewarm bath until your fingers shrivel, this indicates that the skin is full hydrated. Pat skin dry, but leave slightly damp. Put a thick layer of coconut oil on heels, hands and elbows, covering the greased areas with socks, gloves and long sleeved pajama top, and go to bed. You should have a restful itch-free night of sleep and improved skin in the morning.
15.  Cold Water : Because cold and itch travel along the same nerve fibers, the use of cold can “jam the circuits” and deaden itch. Cool showers or baths or even ice packs can be an instant remedy for itchy skin.
16. Coconut Milk: Coconut milk not only reduces skin dryness, but also helps combat dark spots and blemishes. Rub it onto your face and body, and leave it overnight.
17.  Apple Cider Vinegar: If you have a small patch of dry, itchy skin, dot vinegar on the spot with a cotton ball. If you’re experiencing all-over itching and dryness, add two or three cups of vinegar to your bath water and soak for 15 to 30 minutes.
18. Aloe Vera: Slice a piece of aloe, squeeze all the gel out and apply to itchy skin. It will not only moisturise your skin, it will also form a protective layer that will keep impurities from entering your pores. Although aloe is a good skin hydrant, it can leave your skin feeling tight. So you might want to also put on moisturizer..
    19. Beeswax : A combination of honey, olive oil, and beeswax can provide significant benefit to people suffering from eczema or psoriasis. Combining equal parts of raw (unprocessed) honey, beeswax, and olive oil. Melt the beeswax in a small pan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Once melted, remove it from the heat and mix in the honey, then the olive oil, stirring the mixture until well blended. While the mixture is still warm, pour it into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The mixture should keep for up to three months. A few drops of vitamin E oil (from a gel cap) may be added to each batch for longer shelf life, and to enhance its healing properties.
    20.  Herbs:Like cloves, BASIL contains high amounts of eugenol, a topical anesthetic. Place 1/2 ounce dried basil leaves in a 1-pint jar of boiling water. Keep it covered to prevent the escape of the aromatic eugenol from the tea. Allow to cool. Dip a clean cloth into the tea and apply to itchy skin as often as necessary.
    MINT contains significant amounts of menthol, which has anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically. To make a mint tea rinse, place 1 ounce dried mint leaves in 1 pint boiling water. Cover and allow to cool. Strain, dip a clean cloth in the tea, and apply to the itchy area when necessary.
    THYME contains large amounts of the volatile constituent thymol, which also has anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties. It numbs the itch while reducing inflammation caused by scratching. To make a thyme rinse, place 1/2 ounce dried thyme leaves in a 1-pint jar of boiling water. Cover and allow to cool. Strain and dip a clean cloth into the tea, then apply to affected areas.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.   
 
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EXERCISES AND CARE FOR HAND PROBLEMS AS WE AGE

1)  Grip strength-One of the things elders often notice is the grip gets weaker. It could be due to various reasons, if it happens suddenly, it could be due to heart problems, diabetes or high blood pressure. Over time, when grip weakens, it could be due to brittle bones, arthritis or muscle loss. Simple exercise that can be done at home is to hold a tennis ball and squeeze as hard as possible from 3-15 seconds, relax and to repeat this 10 times daily with each hand. Or do 5 times in the morning with each hand and repeat in the evening. doing it regularly will help to improve your grip.

2) Tremors- Hands shaking is common for some after 50, but it could also be the effect of some medications- for mood stabilizers, seizures, migraine. Anxiety, stress, low blood sugar, exhaustion, too much caffeine can also cause hand tremors. An " active" tremor happens when you use both hands and " passive" tremor happens when hands are at rest.
An active tremor is usually harmless. Changing diet- less caffeine and changing life-style can help. A passive tremor is a more serious problem- brain tumour, or brain disease or Parkinson's. Consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

3) Arthritis- inflames joints and is common in places where we had some sprains or fractures, even if they're treated. It may get worse as we age- with pain, swelling and loss of movements.
Your physician seeing your condition will recommend anti-inflammatory drugs or steroids which can ease pain and swelling for a long time. In some cases, splints to restrict the movement of the joints may help, but wearing them too long can lead to muscle loss.

4) Skin- as we age, we can see " liver spots"  or " age spots" due to exposure to Sun. Your skin ages and wrinkles, has less moisture, hence dry and itchy skin. Due to loss of loss tissues, veins are conspicuous. Protect your hands from harsh Sun's rays, by wearing cotton gloves, moisturizing lotions. Eat a healthy diet with plenty of vitamins, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids also can help keep your skin and nails healthy.

5) Bruising- When it’s on the back of your hands and arms, it  is known as “purpura.” A light knock can cause it, and it’s more common on thin, wrinkled, or sun-damaged older skin. You’re also more likely to bruise if you take drugs like aspirin or other blood thinners, or drink alcohol often. It starts as blotches of red that turn purple, then darken and fade. It doesn’t usually hurt, but it can last longer than a normal bruise, often a few weeks.

 6)Dupuytren's Contracture-This is when the tissue just under the skin of your hand gets unusually thick. It can cause your fingers -- most often the ring and pinky fingers -- to bend into your palm. You may get lumps or thick cords (like string) in your palm as well. It sometimes affects the top of your knuckles or the soles of your feet, too.

 For many people, a mild case doesn’t cause major problems or pain, and it may not get worse, so your doctor might take a wait-and-see approach. If it is causing problems, she may suggest a type of stimulation with needles, shots, or possibly surgery to give you more movement in your hands. Treatment doesn’t always fix it completely, though, and it sometimes comes back.

 this is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on. 
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