Coronavirus vaccine latest update: Moderna announced its experimental vaccine against COVID-19 almost 95% effective, marking it to be the first one in the quest to end the pandemic. This is the second good news this month after the announcement of Pfizer & BioNTech who announced 90 percent effectiveness of their vaccine. Moderna is now expected to apply for emergency authorization from the US FDA by the end of November
Moderna’s mRNA-1273 vaccine is co-developed by a biotechnology company – Moderna, Inc (Cambridge, Massachusetts.US) & the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).
It works by incorporating coronavirus’s genetic code into the human body. This leads to the generation of viral proteins, but not the whole virus, which is enough to train the immune system to attack. This would teach the body to make COVID-19 antibodies and develop another part of the immune system called T-cells to fight the coronavirus. This is one of the novel techniques of inserting RNA into human cells.
Moderna conducted a clinical trial involving 30,000 people in the US with half being given two doses of the coronavirus vaccine in a four-week gap & the rest had dummy injections. The analysis was based on the result of the first 95 volunteers to develop COVID-19 symptoms.
What was observed, was only five people tested positive for COVID-19 had been given the covid vaccine. The rest 90 were in those given the dummy treatment. The company thus concluded that the coronavirus vaccine 94.5% effective.
It also gave news of relief by confirming that there are no significant safety concerns. The basic side effects after administration of the covid 19 vaccine included short-lived fatigue, headache and pain.
Researchers are still studying the longevity of immunity for the volunteers who were administered the vaccine.
The preliminary data show very similar protection data which is around 90% for Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine and around 95% for Moderna vaccine. Since both the vaccines have the same mechanism of injecting part of the virus’s genetic code in order to provoke an immune response, we will have to wait for the final numbers in terms of safety & efficacy.
However, logistically Moderna’s coronavirus vaccine appears to be easier to store as it remains stable at minus 20’C for up to six months and can be kept in a standard fridge for up to a month. On the contrary, Pfizer’s covid-19 vaccine needs ultra-cold storage at around minus 75’C & it needs to be kept in the fridge for five days before administration. This gives an additional operational edge to Moderna over the Pfizer vaccine.
The Indian government is in negotiation terms with both domestic and international vaccine makers such as Moderna, Pfizer, Serum Institute, Bharat Biotech and Zydus Cadila for their Covid-19 vaccine.
Few Indian institutions such as Hyderabad-based Indian Immunologicals (IIL) are all geared up for a manufacturing collaboration with Moderna. The Indian government has also kept this possibility open with Moderna. They have also requested for direct purchase of the coronavirus vaccine and later internal distribution.
Global demand for covid 19 vaccines is expected to far exceed supplies despite significant efforts to increase the production ahead of time. Moderna has already signed a deal to supply 100 million doses to the U.S. and 80 million to the European Union. Other countries such as U.K & India are still in the negotiating phase.
This news from Moderna is very exciting & boosts optimism among people. This coronavirus vaccine news has definitely brought back hope in people across the world. But as responsible citizens, let’s aim to follow other precautionary measures till this vaccine finally comes to the market.
A heart attack can leave you with a traumatic experience along with strong mixed feelings of denial, anger, fear, anxiety or depression. These are normal reactions that can affect not only you but your family and co-workers too. This might not only make you concerned about your future but also raise questions about your present health condition – be it the lifestyle changes you would have to make or a new diet you would have to follow. You and your family would probably have a lot of questions.
Read More: Healthy diet for heart
All you need to do at this time is to be positive. It takes time to tackle depression after an attack, so be strong and talk to your family members and healthcare provider. Consider your mental health as a part of your overall treatment plan. Always control your stress levels.
Say ‘NO’ to Smoking. One of the major risk factors for heart disease is smoking. Smoking can elevate your chances of having heart disease and worsen your condition. It is very important to take care of your body, especially after an attack. If you are a smoker, it is advisable to quit smoking as it would reduce the risk of another heart attack by 50%.
Also Read: First Aid for Heart Attack
Also Read: Know The Difference Between Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest
Your heart attack is a warning that your present lifestyle must be modified to survive. Begin by starting a makeover journey for your heart by making your physical and mental health your priority.
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.
References
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/life-after-a-heart-attack
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/salt-reduction
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/changes-you-can-make-to-manage-high-blood-pressure/shaking-the-salt-habit-to-lower-high-blood-pressure
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we are pretty sure everyone around here is looking for ideas to spend the day with their loved ones in a uniquely healthy way. Our last blog tried to help you in some way to explore ideas to help you celebrate ”Valentine’s in a healthy way” and if you are still running around to explore a new idea, don’t worry we have got your back.
Modify the idea of chocolates: Ditch traditional chocolates for ”dark chocolates” this time. Dark chocolates have multiple health benefits as it acts as an antioxidant, helps burn fat and increases blood supply to the brain. Dark Chocolate Pancakes won’t leave you craving chocolates and cakes. Give your loved ones a newer concept of chocolates along with wishing them great health.
Ditch virtual for reality: Take a detox from social media this Valentine’s and gift your time to your loved ones. Choosing not to use social media will put you on a path to rediscover the value of your time and will make simplifying your digital life easier and always remember you can do things in life without posting on social media.
Throw a family party: It’s impossible being an Indian and not having a big fat family. Indulge in a party with them. Get close to family; plan for some family fun activities like puzzles or a treasure hunt and give your brain mental exercise in search of answers. Prepare Mini Home-Pizzas, Watermelon and Strawberry Valentine’s Kababs or Healthy Spelt Oat Cookies that are healthy fusion satisfying your taste buds and party needs.
Be a Galentine: A concept bought about by Amy Poehler’s character Leslie Knope on Parks and Recreation, ”Galentine’s Day” which gives women a chance to celebrate all the lovely ladies in their lives. Ideally, it is celebrated on the 13th of February however you still can go for an extension to celebrate the same. For men, there is no such official day, but you can pay tribute to your bromance on the same day.
Show your artistic skills: We are far more colorful, far more creative and far more charismatic than we know. Explore your inner artist and gift your loved ones some DIY gifts. Time spent on creating DIY gifts can be more relaxing for your mental health and creating something extremely valuable for your loved ones.
Outdoor activities: If you and your partner are someone who likes to go outdoor and enjoy then you have multiple options like playing tennis or golf at your nearest club or go swimming or plan a campfire night and enjoy the music amidst star gazing.
Plan a dinner date at home: Want to get romantic on Valentine’s day? Then go for traditional candlelight dinner time or cook together something healthy and spend candlelight dinner at home, which can be an option to be kind to your pockets and health.
Buy an insurance plan: What can be more useful to your loved ones than wishing them health and gifting them a health insurance policy. Buy health insurance plans and prepare for future medical bills smartly.
Quit Smoking: Gift your health to your loved ones this Valentine’s and quit smoking. There is no way smoking can be an excuse in the family as it not only puts you at risk but also people around you. This Valentine’s day say no to tobacco and choose a healthy life.
No plan is also a great plan: Still, if all these ideas don’t influence you and if you still feel you are running out of ideas, then just go with the flow. Don’t put up high expectations on Valentine’s day and consider it as an ordinary day and keep it just to relax and meditate.
It’s obvious to want nice, fancy things on V-day, but you shouldn’t expect your partner to spend money on insignificant things. It’s not the price of the gift that matters, it’s about what it represents. A gesture that means something special to the both of you is more valuable than any material item and what can be better if you consider your health too so procrastinate the traditional stereotypical valentine’s day gifts; yet go sappy with these alluring ideas!
Also Read: Vaginal Steaming: Research-Backed Insights on Benefits and Precautions
References:
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.
Healthy Valentine’s Day
”Your flaws are perfect for the heart that’s meant to love you”- but it is equally important to keep that heart healthy to spend your life together. The month of February marks the start of the celebration for Valentine’s Day. We look for unique ways to spend our time with our loved ones. This Year why not consider ”Valentine’s- the healthy way!”. Love comes in various forms and every kind of it wishes only the best for you. To love someone starts with wishing them great health and if you want to make this Valentine’s Day special for that one person who has not only brought love in your life but also a plethora of happiness but confused about how to go about it, then don’t fret. Here are a few suggestions you can consider:
How to Keep Your Heart Healthy This Valentine’s Day
A non-traditional and healthy gift and plan can show that you truly care and that you have put thought into your partner’s enjoyment, health and happiness. You don’t even have to spend a huge amount of money. Imagine how thrilled they’ll be when you pack them their favorite lunch with a heartfelt note or cook food together. That joy is certainly irreplaceable.
Have questions about Diabetes? Click here to ask Anya!
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.
Epilepsy is more common than most people realize. In the general population, approximately one person in a hundred has epilepsy. Although epilepsy is often considered a disorder of childhood, it can begin at any age, and in some people, it persists from childhood to old age. Epilepsy can affect people of all ages and all nationalities. The causes of epilepsy vary according to the age of the onset of epilepsy.
The rate of newly diagnosed epilepsy is higher in elderly people than in middle-aged adults. The elderly are more sensitive than younger people to a variety of mental, physical and environmental stressors. They are also more likely to develop many medical, neurological and psychiatric disorders, some of which can make seizures more likely to occur. Such disorders include metabolic changes such as very high or very low blood sugar, very low sodium levels and endocrine disorders (for example, diabetes, thyroid or parathyroid disorders).
Caring for a person with epilepsy requires knowledge on a variety of topics. For example, it is important that you know the type of seizure the person you are caring for has so that you are knowledgeable on the proper first aid for that seizure. It is also important that you understand the treatments they are receiving and are aware of the other treatment options. The support and care of a caregiver can be invaluable in helping the individual to make informed decisions, to maintain a positive attitude, to adhere to medical advice, and live a full and rewarding life.
Caregivers can be of great assistance in managing seizures and in ensuring the safety of the individual during and after the seizure. Most seizures last from seconds to minutes. This period results in the person temporarily experiencing fatigue, confusion, and/or a headache. Often the person will want to sleep. Talking reassuringly and staying with the person until he or she is re-oriented is important.
Also Read: What Can Happen If Epilepsy Medicine Doses Are Missed: A Guide to Understanding the Risks
A person who has been diagnosed with epilepsy may experience a range of emotions such as anger, frustration and depression. Concern for the future and negative responses from friends and family can leave a person feeling vulnerable and alone. Depression is more common in individuals with epilepsy than it is in the general population. This could be due to psychosocial factors, the seizures themselves, and/or to seizure medication. As a caregiver, it is important to realize that mood changes can be a side effect of seizure medication or that a person who is distressed or is experiencing isolation may act out negatively as the result of frustration or anger. Being patient, encouraging the person to talk about his or her feelings with someone, and recording behaviour changes to provide to the doctor, are all helpful ways to promote well-being. If a person with epilepsy seems uncharacteristically depressed, encourage a visit to the doctor to discuss these feelings. The doctor may make adjustments in the seizure medication in order to determine whether these issues are due to medication side effects.
Caregivers can assist the individual in complying with medical direction and can be actively involved in communicating with health care professionals.
While some people are not able to identify specific events or circumstances that affect seizures, others are able to recognize definite seizure triggers. It is useful to monitor seizure triggers so that seizures can be avoided. Caregivers can assist an individual with epilepsy by helping to assess what triggers seizures and by helping the individual to avoid them.
Some common seizure triggers include:
Also Read: Importance of Diet for Epilepsy: A Closer Look at Research-Based Findings
People with epilepsy can participate in most recreational activities and sports. These activities can enhance well-being and maintain health. There is some evidence that regular exercise may improve seizure control. Some activities are considered too dangerous and others pose some risk due to the possibility of head injury. Participation in recreational activities and sports should be discussed with the doctor.
Also Read: Foods to Avoid When Taking Lamotrigine: A Detailed Guide for Safe Consumption
Caregivers can also facilitate the development of a support system for the individual within the community that involves family, friends, neighbours and professionals.
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.
Nearly 62 million Indians have diabetes, a disease that makes the body less able to convert sugar into energy. Most people with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes have too much sugar left in the blood. Over time, this can damage organs, including the brain.
Alzheimer’s disease, on the other hand, is a progressive and fatal brain disorder that gradually destroys a person’s memory and ability to learn, reason, make judgments, communicate and carry out daily activities. As Alzheimer’s progresses, individuals may have changes in personality and behaviour, such as anxiety, suspiciousness or agitation, as well as delusions.
Type 3 diabetes is a term used when Alzheimer’s disease is triggered by insulin resistance in the brain. This condition is most often used to describe people who have type 2 diabetes and are also diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Type 3 diabetes occurs when neurons in the brain become unable to respond to insulin, which is essential for basic tasks, including memory and learning. Some researchers believe insulin deficiency is central to the cognitive decline of Alzheimer’s disease.
People who have type 2 diabetes may be up to 60 per cent more likely to develop Alzheimer’s or dementia. One study of over 100,000 subjects with dementia pointed out that women with type 2 diabetes had a higher probability of developing vascular dementia than men.
Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of ageing. Memory problems are typically one of the first warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, decreased or poor judgment, misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps to find them are very early telltale signs to suspect Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Doctors don’t know yet what causes Alzheimer’s disease or exactly how Alzheimer’s and diabetes are connected. But they do know that high blood sugar or insulin can harm the brain in several ways:
The symptoms of type 3 diabetes are the same as symptoms of dementia or early Alzheimer’s. These symptoms include:
There’s no specific test for Alzheimer’s or type 3 diabetes. Your doctor will ask several questions about your family history and your symptoms along with relevant tests of High Blood Sugar. Brain imaging, like MRIs and CT scans, can give your doctor a picture of how your brain is working. Cerebrospinal fluid tests can also look for indicators of Alzheimer’s.
Also Read: “Diet Alert: Foods To Avoid While Taking Metformin”
There are specific treatment options for people who have type 2 diabetes as well as Alzheimer’s.
Lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, maybe a big part of your treatment. If you have both type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s, treatment for your type 2 diabetes is important to stop the progression of Alzheimer’s.
Metformin is an anti-diabetic drug that may also help to treat symptoms of dementia. Other symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia, like mood swings and depression, may be treated with psychotropic drugs. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are part of treatment in some cases.
Type 3 diabetes is a way of describing Alzheimer’s that may occur due to insulin resistance inside the brain. Your outlook can vary according to several factors, including how well your diabetes is managed and the severity of your dementia.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
If you can treat your diabetes with diet, exercise and medication, you may be able to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s or dementia. Your outlook will also vary according to how soon your symptoms were discovered, and what your doctor thinks about your specific case. The sooner the treatment begins, the better your outlook will be.
If you already have type 2 diabetes, there are ways that you can lower your risk of developing type 3. Here are some of the proven methods for controlling type 2 diabetes and minimizing organ damage:
Read More About: Different Types of Diabetes
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.
Severe obesity is one of the most serious stages of obesity. You may often find yourself struggling with your weight and essentially feeling as if you’re trapped in a weight gain cycle. In addition, you most likely have attempted numerous diets – only in the end, to see your weight continue to increase. Exercise and diet alone often fail to effectively treat people with extreme and excessive obesity.
Bariatric surgeries are done when diet and exercise haven’t worked or when you have serious health problems because of your weight. Weight loss is achieved by reducing the size of the stomach with a gastric band or through the removal of a portion of the stomach (sleeve gastrectomy or biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch) or by resecting and re-routing the small intestine to a small stomach pouch (gastric bypass surgery).
Bariatric surgery is designed to alter or interrupt the digestion process so that food is not broken down and absorbed in the usual way. A reduction in the number of nutrients and calories absorbed enables patients to lose weight and decrease their risk for obesity-related health risks or disorders.
Each of these types has its own advantages and disadvantages. Various patient factors affect which procedure is chosen including BMI, eating habits, health problems related to obesity and the number of previous stomach surgeries. The patient and provider should discuss the most suitable option by considering the benefits and risks of each type of surgery.
Apart from long and sustained weight loss, bariatric surgery provides the following benefits:
The benefits of bariatric surgery must be weighed against its potential risks. In addition to the risks of the surgery itself (such as death, bleeding, infection and blood clots), bariatric surgery may cause nutritional deficiencies in protein, vitamins and minerals. Bone mineral density loss may develop from inadequate intestinal calcium absorption. Low blood glucose levels (hypoglycemia) after eating carbohydrates and inadequate vitamin B-12 absorption causing nerve damage to the feet, legs, or hands (peripheral neuropathy), may occur over time.
Also Read: How To Get Rid Of A Muffin Top: Effective Strategies Backed By Fitness Experts
Bariatric surgery may be an option for adults who have:
However, consult your doctor who may suggest some extensive screenings to undergo these weight-loss surgeries.
Also Read: What Causes Hip Dips: A Scientific Approach to Understanding Body Shape
Also Read: Chymoral Forte
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.
A healthy pregnancy is a priority for every mother-to-be, but for women who have diabetes, including those who are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, their health care can become more complex. You have a challenging road ahead of you, but the good news is that there’s a lot you can do to increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Women with diabetes who are diagnosed prior to pregnancy have a higher risk of complications, including miscarriage and birth defects. The good news is that with a plan, healthy strategies, and support, you can control your diabetes, have a healthy pregnancy, and deliver a healthy baby.
If you have diabetes and plan to conceive, you should talk to your doctor to make sure your A1C levels are normal, talk about medication if it’s necessary or ask to be referred to a nutritionist.
Get your HB A1C levels tested regularly. Book Test here.
One of the best ways to ensure you will have a healthy pregnancy is to make sure you start out at a normal weight. Eat a primarily plant-based diet, avoid excessive added sugars, preservatives, processed foods, and those high in saturated fats.
Read More About 5 Diet Tips for Diabetes Management
Women who have diabetes can have a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby, but it’s important to monitor diabetes complications that could worsen throughout pregnancy, such as high blood pressure, vision loss, and kidney disease.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Exercise will help you metabolize food better, control blood glucose and help to control your weight during and after pregnancy. The CDC recommends pregnant women get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week.
Read More About 7 Health Benefits of Regular Exercise
When planning your meals, know how many carbohydrates are in each food and limit the amount you eat because it will raise your blood sugar.
Vegetables are filled with phytonutrients and fill-you-up fibre, plus they aid digestion and prevent excess weight gain. They also are low calorie and low in carbohydrates, so they won’t affect your blood sugar. Non-starchy vegetables like lettuce, carrots, cucumber, and broccoli are all good choices.
Make sure you eat every two to three hours during the day to keep nausea at bay. If you take insulin or pills, eat a few saltine crackers before getting out of bed in the morning and then take your medication to make sure you can keep food down. A small source of fast-acting carbohydrates such as glucose tablets, honey, or juice can help if your blood glucose levels are low. Then have breakfast that includes a healthy protein source like eggs or plain Greek yoghurt.
Try a fresh green vegetable juice, which is a good source of folate and calcium. This can control your appetite and prevent sugar cravings. Avoid juices with a lot of fruit because it can spike your blood sugar.
Also Read: Can You Get Pregnant Without Having Sex? Debunking Pregnancy Myths
It’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during pregnancy. Be sure to avoid juice, soda, sports drinks and sweeteners in coffee and tea.
It’s OK to enjoy a slice of pie or holiday cookies but take stock of the total amount of carbohydrates you’ll be eating with dessert and if you will need to compensate with medication. If you want dessert, consider having a salad instead of a sandwich as your meal, for example.
Look for apps that help you log blood sugar, food or count carbs and sensors and continuous blood glucose monitors.
Studies show 35 to 60 per cent of women with gestational diabetes will develop Type 2 diabetes within 5 to 10 years. If you have gestational diabetes, it’s important to talk to your doctor about monitoring your blood glucose and making lifestyle changes after your pregnancy.
You might have misconceptions about diabetes in pregnancy, blame yourself or need advice. Seek out the help of a certified diabetes educator, a registered dietitian nutritionist who can help you create a realistic and delicious meal plan or a community of pregnant moms who have diabetes. It’s important to realize that you will need a plan, make healthy lifestyle choices for you and your baby and seek out information. But stick with it, and you can have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Also Read About: 10 Home Remedies For Diabetes
When suffering from diabetes in pregnancy, remember it’s important to work hard at achieving excellent control, remember that occasional blood sugar that is higher than you like is not going to do long-term damage to your child. And if you feel yourself getting frustrated and burnt out, try to keep in mind some of the long-term benefits of all the hard work you’re putting into your pregnancy.
Need more information on diabetes and its related diseases? Ask Anya! Chat with Anya Bot here via Facebook and get more information on diabetes management.
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.
COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This is the name used to describe a number of conditions including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Emphysema affects the air sacs in your lungs (alveoli), and chronic bronchitis affects your airways (bronchi). COPD is a condition where the airways become inflamed and the air sacs in your lungs are damaged. This causes your airways to become narrower, which makes it harder to breathe in and out. Therefore, people with COPD have breathing difficulties, and this can affect many aspects of your day-to-day life. Unfortunately, there is no cure for COPD, but there are lots of treatments available to help you to manage your condition, improve your symptoms and live an active life.
Unfortunately, you may not notice symptoms or tell-tale signs of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) until it is in the advanced stages. However, you need to pay attention to signs such as:
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should consult your doctor.
To treat COPD, just relying on treatment won’t work. There are lifestyle changes you need to adhere to as well. They are:
If you are addicted to smoking, then the single most important treatment for COPD is to quit it. Giving up will stop the ongoing damage to your airways caused by cigarette smoke. It is the most important treatment to reduce the chance of your condition becoming worse.
The main treatment of COPD involves inhalers which include a long or short-acting bronchodilator. If you experience sudden episodes of breathlessness or chest tightness your doctor might prescribe a short-acting bronchodilator inhaler. This relaxes the muscles in your airways to keep them as open as possible and relieves breathlessness. If your symptoms occur every day, you will be given a long-acting bronchodilator inhaler. This works in the same way as a short-acting inhaler, but the effects of the medication last for at least 12 hours. You may have to take inhaler medications daily for months as advised by the doctor which will help to keep your disease under control. Always adhere to the medication prescribed by your Doctor.
When you have a chronic breathing disease, it is important to eat well to prevent infections and keep your lungs healthy. It is also essential to make sure you are the correct weight.
When you have a lung condition, it is important to be as active as you can and to exercise safely. In some areas, you can attend pulmonary rehabilitation – a programme of exercise that helps with breathlessness by improving your muscle strength and lung fitness. This makes it easier for you to carry out everyday activities.
Make sure you get vaccinations against flu and pneumonia to avoid getting infections in winter.
If the level of oxygen in your blood is too low when you are resting, or if the level drops when you are active, you might need oxygen treatment. This is used to increase the amount of oxygen that flows into your lungs and bloodstream.
If an infection is making your breathing too difficult, you might need the support of a breathing machine. This is usually provided in the hospital. It can also be given at home if your condition is very severe. It also takes some of the efforts out of breathing because your chest muscles don’t have to work as hard, so it helps to ease the feeling of breathlessness.
If you are struggling emotionally, talking to your family or a health care professional can help. It is very important to stay active and sociable and to learn more about COPD.
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.
Having a family member with depression necessitates that you know more about depression so that you can recognize the severity and arrange for help if required. Moreover, these patients need constant encouragement for compliance with medication. They also need to be heard and not judged. To achieve all this, the caregiver must endeavour a lot of patience with the family member.
It is a complex condition. Several risk factors have been identified namely genes, hormone levels, environmental triggers, some medicines, death of a loved one, physical or emotional abuse. A circumstantial nervousness or sadness is not depression. However, when it lasts longer than two weeks, and the person is not able to overcome it, medical help should be sought.
Typically, depression includes these symptoms – feelings of sadness, emptiness or hopelessness. At times, the person feels like crying profusely otherwise may keep getting angry and irritated over petty things. They may become restless and anxious or sluggish and feel lost. They often may complain of physical pains of some or the other kind. The person may be disinterested in any activity even the one which is of his or her interest. The person may frequently feel tired and fatigued. They either have problems falling asleep or sleep too much. Likewise, they overeat or don’t like eating at all which may lead to weight gain or weight loss. There is a deep-rooted feeling of being unimportant or good for nothing or some guilt for some incidents in the past that they are not accountable for. They find it difficult to concentrate, become indecisive and forgetful. They may have unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches.
If the condition remains untreated or neglected, it may worsen, and the patient may have suicidal thoughts or even attempt suicide. Since the condition has many faces to it, awareness and education regarding the disease are essential for the patients’ family members.
Also Read About: Different Types of Depression
Be there for your friend and let them do the talking. Encourage them to talk about their illness, but don’t try to offer any immediate solutions. Your support is the most important thing that you have to offer. If a person is very depressed, it is important that they seek professional advice.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Firstly, as soon as you become aware of the condition strike a conversation with the person. Listen to what he or she has to say. Don’t judge them or give negative opinions. Let them know your observations and that you are concerned. If the person is not aware, convince him or her that depression is a condition that needs expert advice and treatment and that it is vital to see one. The person should be assured that the condition may not go away on its own and needs treatment. Once he agrees to visit a doctor, get the person to jot down his feelings and status of mind so that it is easier for him to explain to the doctor. If possible accompany the person to the doctor. Most of the times doctors also need inputs from the family regarding their behavioural patterns.
When the treatment starts, keep a quiet tab on the use of medicines. Initially, you may have to give the medication yourself to the patient. Gradually as the patient feels better, he gets more convinced that he needs the medication. After that, you can rely on him for taking his medicines and appropriate, timely refills.
Engage the person in activities that he or she used to like normally. Experiment on activities that lift their mood and keep those that put them off away. Stay around or ensure someone is around always. Don’t keep brooding over their condition with your other family members, friends, and relatives that may worsen their feeling of guilt or further frustrate them. Help them to make certain decisions or complete certain tasks that they find difficult without them losing their confidence.
Also Read About: Treatment for Depression – Therapy, Medication & More
Sometimes the person’s condition may worsen, and he or she may have a suicidal tendency. They would generally start talking negative things and about their wish of living no longer. They may even make multiple calls to people and talk as their last. They may start giving away things even the ones they loved. Would be wanting to be left alone. You must pick these hints and seek medical help.
As a precautionary measure, get rid of all things that the person can use to inflict self-harm. Don’t leave the person alone. Whenever you are in such a situation, seek help from an emergency and have people around to help in case something goes out of your control. Seek medical help immediately. You may have to hospitalize the patient for further treatment and care.
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The condition does improve with appropriate treatment, though it may take time. So most importantly one needs to keep one’s spirits high and remain hopeful and calm.
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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