PharmEasy Blog

Common Menstrual Disorders You Need To Know About!

It’s time that we talk about menstruation and discuss it as a function of a healthy female body!  Many women are still unsure about what is normal and what is unusual when it comes to their menstrual cycle. While they endure it, they do not realize when it is time to visit a doctor.Below are some common menstrual disorders that every woman should know about.

Amenorrhea:

The absence of one or more menstrual periods is known as Amenorrhea. Women with at least three missed menstrual periods consecutively or girls who haven’t started menstruation by age 15 are said to have Amenorrhea. The main symptom of Amenorrhea is a lack of menstruation. Other symptoms include milky nipple discharge, hair loss, headache, vision changes and additional facial hair.Can this be treated? Yes! Treatment options vary based on the cause of Amenorrhea. Some women may need to make lifestyle changes, such as a change in diet, regular exercise or yoga and reducing stress. Certain hormonal medicines and birth control pills can help balance hormones, trigger periods or ovulation, such as for PCOS. 

Dysmenorrhea:

Having painful periods or menstrual cramps are called Dysmenorrhea. These cramps are triggered by uterine contractions which are caused due to hormone-like substances called Prostaglandins. Primary dysmenorrhea refers to common menstrual cramps, while secondary dysmenorrhea is mild to severe pain that results from a disorder in the reproductive organs such as endometriosis, fibroids or adenomyosis. Both types are treatable.How do you know if you have dysmenorrhea? The most common symptoms are: In-Blog-01Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower back or abdomen for pain relief. Rest when needed. Avoid caffeine, smoking and alcohol. Avoid popping pain medications without doctor’s advice as these medicines may have side effects in some cases.  If you find that none of these self-care measures are providing relief, it is recommended to seek medical advice from your doctor. They will be able to provide proper guidance and may consider prescribing appropriate medication to help alleviate your pain and other symptoms effectively.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):

PMS is a group of symptoms that affects a woman’s physical and emotional health and behaviour between ovulation and a period, generally starting 5-11 days before menstruation and typically ending once menstruation begins. What does PMS feel like? PMS has a wide variety of symptoms, including mood swings, depression and irritability, fluid retention, acne, bloating, diminished libido, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue, headaches and vertigo. It’s estimated that almost 3 of every 4 menstruating women have experienced some form of PMS. Treatment:
  1. Antidepressants such as SSRIs successfully reduce mood symptoms.
  2. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  3. Diuretics.
  4. Hormonal contraceptives.
Also Read: How To Increase Female Libido Rapidly

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD):

PMDD is an endocrine disorder in which a woman has symptoms such as severe depression, irritability and tension before menstruation. PMDD symptoms are usually more severe than those that occur during PMS. In addition to physical symptoms, women with PMDD also experience a variety of mental health symptoms such as depression and suicidal thoughts.Symptoms include: In-Blog-02Can PMDD be treated? Yes! Treatments for PMDD include-  If you have irregular periods, painful cramps, excessive facial hair growth or mood swings, don’t ignore it. It may help to visit a doctor and discuss your symptoms with them. Also Read: Quick Tips: How to Get Your Period Faster and SafelyDisclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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World Mental Health Day – Discover The Factors That Can Induce Self-Harm!

The focus of this year’s World Mental Health Day on 10th October is on suicide prevention. The incident rate of suicides is on the rise. People across age, gender and the socio-economic spectrum are ending their lives. That is why the World Health Organisation has decided that we have to terminate this trend. If people around us might be harbouring thoughts of self-harm then it is our duty to help them. And the best way to do that is to educate ourselves on the risk factors of suicide.

What is meant by risk factors of suicide?

Risk factors are actually situations or factors in a person’s life that deprive them of the will to carry on with life. If a person is unable to cope with these challenges then it will make him/her want to commit suicide. The more the risk factors, the greater the likelihood of an individual attempting self-destruction.

In other words, risk factors are stressors or long-term triggers. If someone you know is facing these risk factors, then you have to keep a close eye on that person for signs of suicidal thoughts or actions.

What are the chief risk factors of self-destruction?

Here are some factors that can lead to self-harm or self-destruction:

How to recognise the early warning signs of self-harming behaviour?

A person is likely to exhibit a few signs that all is not well with life and if you can identify these changes in behaviour, you can help your loved one:

If someone you know is exhibiting these signs then you can take help from a suicide helpline. People who are on the verge of taking their own lives need immediate help. Therapy and support from loved ones can help them find their way back to the will to survive. 

Also Read: Does Masturbation Cause Weight Loss? Debunking Sexual Health Misconceptions

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.

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Do You Know The Fascinating Link Between Room Colours And Moods!

Not many of us put much thought into the colour with which we paint our homes. We simply choose a colour that captures our fancy or a colour that we love. But, room colours and moods are connected. Colours have a deep psychological impact on you. The hue of the paint will affect your mood, your behaviour and your sleep. Since your health is influenced by your mood and sleep quality, your paint will also affect it.

Decide how you want your room to look –

Colour can create optical illusions regarding the dimension of your room. Light pastel colours make a small room look airy and more spacious. If your room is tiny and it makes you feel claustrophobic, you can paint it in powder blue, butter yellow, pastel pink or gentle brown. 

On the other hand, if your expansive room makes you feel lonely and uncomfortable, you can make it appear smaller and cosier by painting it in dark but muted shades such as solid blues, greens and dark brown.

So, here are some tips on colour schemes that will uplift your mood.

 1. Colours for your bedroom:

This is a mellow and vibrant colour that will cheer you up the moment you enter the room. Yellow walls emit a vitality that energizes you and your family and you will all be happy and enthusiastic.

But, too much yellow can overstimulate you. So, you can counter that by painting one wall in a shade of blue or by dimming the lights long before you go to bed.

This is a soft colour that can calm your mind and relax your muscles. It is the colour of renewal. A pale blue bedroom is a delight to step into after the rigours of the day. It can help you unwind and even lower your blood pressure.

Blue is a cool colour, so you can contrast it with a warm colour like a bit of a yellow-hued pattern on one wall.

Your mind associates green with life and rejuvenation and that is the impact a green coloured bedroom will have on you. It will revitalize you, soothe your nerves and boost the production of endorphins or happy hormones. For people struggling to conceive, this colour can be particularly helpful as it can boost fertility.

Orange bedrooms evoke optimism. It is such a vibrant and cheerful colour, that it instantly infuses positivity and hope in you. It can increase your energy levels so that you wake up feeling completely recharged and ready to tackle the day ahead.

A light but bright lilac colour on your walls will make you feel alert and in harmony with your inner self. This colour can help you with self-introspection and come up with solutions to your problems. Lilac too breeds optimism and fosters confidence.

Lilac on all walls can be a little overwhelming, so you can actually add texture to your walls with other similar shades like violet and purple.

 2. Colours for your living room:

The living room is another space where you bond with family and friends. Research has revealed that particular colours are very suitable for living rooms. These colours promote happiness and bring people closer together.

  3. Colours for your kitchen:

This is one of the most important rooms in your home. Cooking can sometimes be quite a challenge and you need to paint your kitchen in colours that help you be patient and calm.

Since these are all light shades, we suggest you paint the kitchen furniture in bright warm colours like red and orange to make the kitchen look happy and welcoming.

The effect of colour on your mood cannot be disputed. With these tips, you can be cheerful and in a peaceful state of mind. So don’t delay, implement these ideas and turn your house into a source of happiness and fulfilment. 

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.

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6 Foods That Boost Your Mood!

It’s not unusual to find yourself down in the dumps now and then. It happens to all of us. But, people are tempted to reach out for comfort food when they are in the doldrums. The sad truth is, comfort food is rarely healthy. They tend to make you obese and make you susceptible to heart ailments and diabetes.

6 Foods to Improve Mood

 1. Leafy Green Veggies

These super vegetables are packed with fibres that cleanse your digestive tract, regularize bowel movement and keep you full for a long time, which means you won’t be inclined to eat anything for a long time. Vitamin B in them improves your brain function. But most importantly they contain loads of iron. Iron deficiency is the root cause of alteration of behaviour and feelings of stress, worry and anxiety. A paucity of iron disrupts the activity of neurotransmitters.

Iron replenishes lost energy stores and prompts a sensation of optimism and positivity.

 2. Salmon

Salmon is famously the most reliable source of omega 3 fatty acids. That means it cements the health of your heart by keeping bad cholesterol levels under check. This property of salmon is also crucial for a healthy brain and nervous system. Omega 3 fatty acids have been proven to fight off depression. And they can give you a positive outlook and even help you curb your impulsiveness.

Vitamin B12, which is also present in salmon converts amino acids to neurotransmitters, which will trigger a pleasant sensation in your mind.

 3. Lentils

These unassuming pulses are loaded with folates, which keep your nervous system going strong. If there isn’t enough of this nutrient in your system, you would become susceptible to depression. 

Not to fall behind other superfoods, lentils too contain fibres that help curb a spike in blood sugar and Vitamin B6 that helps in producing neurotransmitters that promote a feel-good factor.

Also read: Boost Your Mood: Methods To How To Increase Serotonin Levels

 4. Chia Seeds

A salmon substitute for vegetarians (non-vegetarians aren’t barred from consuming them!). Chia seeds are packed with omega 3 fatty acids, fibres, proteins, calcium, magnesium and lots of iron. Most of these are mood boosters. They can help you deal with stress and anxiety.

 5. Avocado

This fruit contains healthy fats and plenty of Vitamins B6, C and E- all of which are responsible for producing neurotransmitters that elevate your mood.

Also Read: What Is Serotonin Syndrome: A Comprehensive, Research-Based Explanation

 6. Almonds

These nuts are your go-to source for anti-oxidants. They keep your body safe from free radicals and improve your brain functions and cognitive performance. The presence of Vitamin C ensures that the balance of hormones in women is maintained. This vitamin is also very effective in mellowing the symptoms of depression or anxiety.

Foods can lift your spirits and help you weather the storm by triggering an apt chemical reaction in you. But only the right foods have a sustainable positive impact on your mind and body. Junk food may give you the impression of satiation, but its long-term effects can be horrific.

Also Read: 5 Best Brain Food To Include In Your Diet

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.

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