Vitamin D - Uses, Side Effects | Dr Ashwani Kansal

 

Vitamin D - Uses, Side Effects

 

 

Vitamin D is an essential vitamin that helps regulate calcium and phosphorus in the body. It also plays a role in maintaining proper bone structure.

 

There are different forms of vitamin D, including ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3). Vitamin D is found in fish, eggs, and fortified milk. It's also made in the skin when exposed to sunlight. During periods of sunlight, vitamin D is stored in fat and then released when sunlight is not available

 

Vitamin D supplements are commonly used to treat and prevent vitamin D deficiency. People who don't get enough sun and people who are 65 years or older are at risk for deficiency. People also use vitamin D for weak and brittle bones, heart disease, asthma, hay fever, and many other conditions, but there's no good scientific evidence to support many of these uses. There is also no strong evidence to support using vitamin D supplements for COVID-19. But it is important to maintain healthy levels of vitamin D. This can be done by taking 400-1000 IU of vitamin D daily or spending 15-30 minutes in the sun each day.

 

Uses & Effectiveness

Effective for

A rare, inherited bone disorder marked by low levels of phosphate in the blood (familial hypophosphatemia). Taking specific forms of vitamin D, called calcitriol or dihydrotachysterol, by mouth along with phosphate supplements is effective for treating bone disorders in people with low levels of phosphate in the blood.

Underactive parathyroid (hypoparathyroidism). Taking specific forms of vitamin D, called dihydrotachysterol, calcitriol, or ergocalciferol, by mouth is effective for increasing calcium blood levels in people with low parathyroid hormone levels.

Softening of the bones (osteomalacia). Taking vitamin D3 by mouth is effective for treating this condition.

A bone disorder that occurs in people with kidney disease (renal osteodystrophy). Taking a specific form of vitamin D, called calcitriol, by mouth helps to manage low calcium levels and prevent bone loss in people with kidney failure.

Rickets. Taking vitamin D by mouth is effective for preventing and treating rickets. A specific form of vitamin D, called calcitriol, should be used in people with kidney failure.

Vitamin D deficiency. Taking vitamin D by mouth is effective for preventing and treating vitamin D deficiency.

 

Likely Effective for

Bone loss in people taking drugs called corticosteroids. Taking vitamin D by mouth prevents bone loss in people taking drugs called corticosteroids. Also, taking vitamin D alone or with calcium seems to improve bone density in people with existing bone loss caused by using corticosteroids.

Weak and brittle bones (osteoporosis). Taking vitamin D3 by mouth along with calcium seems to help prevent bone loss and bone breaks in people with osteoporosis.

Psoriasis. Applying vitamin D in the form of calcitriol, calcipotriene, maxacalcitol, or paricalcitol to the skin can help treat plaque-type psoriasis. Applying vitamin D along with corticosteroids seems to work better than applying vitamin D or corticosteroids alone. But taking vitamin D by mouth doesn't seem to help.

 

Possibly Effective for

Hay fever. Taking vitamin D by mouth seems to reduce symptoms of hay fever in adults and children. But it isn't clear if taking vitamin D during pregnancy can help to prevent hay fever in the child after birth.

Cavities. Taking vitamin D2 or D3 by mouth reduces the risk of cavities by 36% to 49% in infants, children, and adolescents.

Heart failure. Taking vitamin D by mouth can help reduce the risk of developing heart failure in some people. But it doesn't seem to help patients who already have heart failure.

Bone loss in people with overactive parathyroid (hyperparathyroidism-related bone loss). Taking vitamin D3 by mouth seems to reduce parathyroid hormone levels and bone loss in people with a condition called hyperparathyroidism.

Infection of the airways. Taking vitamin D by mouth helps prevent respiratory infections in children. But taking vitamin D by mouth during pregnancy doesn't seem to reduce the risk of these infections in the child after birth. It also doesn't help prevent infections in adults.

Preventing tooth loss (tooth retention). Taking calcium and vitamin D3 by mouth appears to prevent tooth loss in elderly people.

 

Possibly Ineffective for

Heart disease. Taking a vitamin D supplement by mouth doesn't seem to prevent heart disease, heart attack, stroke, or other serious heart-related events in most people.

Critical illness (trauma). Giving vitamin D to people with low vitamin D levels who are in the hospital with a critical illness doesn't make them more likely to live.

Fractures. Taking vitamin D by mouth doesn't seem to prevent fractures in older people who do NOT have osteoporosis.

High blood pressure. Taking vitamin D by mouth doesn't seem to lower blood pressure in most people with high blood pressure. But it might help people who have very low blood levels of vitamin D.

A mental disorder marked by hallucinations and delusion (psychosis). Taking vitamin D by mouth doesn't seem to improve symptoms of psychosis in adults.

Prostate cancer.  Taking vitamin D by mouth doesn't seem to reduce cancer progression or death from prostate cancer.

Tuberculosis.  Most research shows that taking vitamin D by mouth doesn't help to cure tuberculosis or make it less severe.

There is interest in using vitamin D for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

 

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Vitamin D is likely safe when taken in recommended amounts. Most people don't experience side effects with vitamin D, unless too much is taken. Some side effects of taking too much vitamin D include weakness, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, and others. Taking vitamin D for long periods of time in doses higher than 4000 IU (100 mcg) daily is possibly unsafe and may cause very high levels of calcium in the blood.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Vitamin D is likely safe when taken in recommended amounts. Most people don't experience side effects with vitamin D, unless too much is taken. Some side effects of taking too much vitamin D include weakness, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, and others. Taking vitamin D for long periods of time in doses higher than 4000 IU (100 mcg) daily is possibly unsafe and may cause very high levels of calcium in the blood. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Vitamin D is likely safe during pregnancy and breast-feeding when used in daily amounts below 4000 IU (100 mcg). Do not use higher doses unless instructed by your healthcare provider. Vitamin D is possibly unsafe when used in higher amounts during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Using higher doses might cause harm to the infant.

 

Children: Vitamin D is likely safe in children when taken by mouth in recommended amounts. But it is possibly unsafe to take vitamin D in higher doses, long-term. Infants from 0-6 months should not take more than 1000 IU (25 mcg) daily. Infants aged 6-12 months should not take more than 1500 IU (37.5 mcg) daily. Children aged 1-3 years should not take more than 2500 IU (62.5 mcg) daily. Children aged 4-8 years should not take more than 3000 IU (75 mcg) daily. Children aged 9 years and older should not take more than 4000 IU (100 mcg) daily.

Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis): Taking vitamin D could make this condition worse, especially in people with kidney disease.

A type of fungal infection called histoplasmosis: Vitamin D might increase calcium levels in people with histoplasmosis. This could lead to kidney stones and other problems. Use vitamin D cautiously.

High levels of calcium in the blood: Taking vitamin D could make this condition worse.

 

Over-active parathyroid gland (hyperparathyroidism): Vitamin D might increase calcium levels in people with hyperparathyroidism. Use vitamin D cautiously.

Lymphoma: Vitamin D might increase calcium levels in people with lymphoma. This could lead to kidney stones and other problems. Use vitamin D cautiously.

Kidney disease: Vitamin D might increase calcium levels and increase the risk of "hardening of the arteries" in people with serious kidney disease. Calcium levels should be monitored carefully in people with kidney disease.

A disease that causes swelling (inflammation) in body organs, usually the lungs or lymph nodes (sarcoidosis): Vitamin D might increase calcium levels in people with sarcoidosis. This could lead to kidney stones and other problems. Use vitamin D cautiously.

Tuberculosis: Vitamin D might increase calcium levels in people with tuberculosis. This could lead to kidney stones and other problems. Use vitamin D cautiously.

 

Vitamin B12 Rich Foods – Benefits, Sources and Vitamin B12 Deficiency

 

Vitamin B12 Rich Foods – Benefits, Sources and Vitamin B12 Deficiency

 

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin essential for brain function, heart health, red blood cells and DNA formation. Some research states that vitamin B12 levels in the blood are related to reduced obesity in children and adults. Furthermore, animal studies show that it may impact body fat and metabolism

 

What is Vitamin B Complex?

The vitamin B complex contains eight B vitamins:

      B1 is also known as thiamine

      B2 is known as riboflavin

      B3 or niacin

      B5 is known as pantothenic acid

      B6 or pyridoxine

      B7 or biotin

      B9 is also known as folic acid

      B12 is also called cobalamin

Each of these essential vitamins helps your body function properly.

 

B vitamins are essential for sustaining excellent health and happiness. B vitamins directly influence our energy levels, cognitive function, and cell metabolism. Thus, they are the building blocks of a healthy body. In addition, they contribute to many of the essential functions of our body.

 

Vitamin B12 Rich Foods List

Various animal products, including fish, meat, eggs, and dairy, are rich in vitamin B12. Plant-based sources are relatively scarce. Notable vitamin B12 rich foods are:

o   Milk

o   Cheese

o   Yoghurt

o   Beef

o   Pork

o   Ham

o   Poultry

o   Lamb

o   Fish, like haddock and tuna

A few nutritious yeast items

o   Eggs

o   Several varieties of soy milk and morning cereals.

Vitamin B12 supplements are available in pills, capsules,liquids, and tablet forms. It’s also often found in multivitamin products. Those who may not consume vitamin B12-rich animal products daily may think about adding fortified foods to their menu. They can take a supplement to meet their nutritional needs.

 

Vitamin B12 Rich Food Sources

1. Clams Rich in Vitamin B12

Clams are one of the most excellent sources of vitamin B12, whether steamed or eaten raw on the half shell with a spritz of lemon juice. They’re also high in protein, low in fat, and a good source of iron and other B vitamins.

A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of clams contains up to 99 mcg of vitamin B12, which is 4,120% of the DV.

Clams are one of the most excellent sources of vitamin B12, whether steamed or eaten raw on the half shell with a spritz of lemon juice. They’re also high in protein, low in fat, and a good source of iron and other B vitamins.

A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of clams contains up to 99 mcg of vitamin B12, which is 4,120% of the DV.

 

2. Shiitake Mushrooms Rich in Vitamin B12

Shiitake Mushrooms are abundant in this vitamin. However, you need 50-60 grams of dried mushrooms daily to fulfil your vitamin B12 requirement.

Mushrooms and other vegetarian options like whey powder and paneer may work as an excellent combination to meet your target.

Dried shiitake mushrooms contain the highest amount of vitamin B12 at 5.6 micrograms per 100 grams.

 

3. Breakfast Cereals (Fortified) Rich in Vitamin B12

Breakfast cereals are a great source of vitamin B12 for vegans. Depending on the brand, varying quantities may be present. Look for types that deliver 100% of the daily value in a single serving.

One cup (59 grams) of Malt-O-Meal Raisin Bran provides 62% of the DV.

 

4. Salmon fish Rich in Vitamin B12

This fatty fish’s nutritional advantages are exceptional. Other than being a source of this vitamin, salmon is also extremely high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for our body. A half fillet (178 grams) of cooked salmon offers more than 200% of the DV for vitamin B12.

 

5. Trout Rich in Vitamin B12

Trout is a nutrient-dense fish. A typical fillet provides more than 100% of the daily vitamin B12. Trout also contains a lot of protein, other B vitamins, and minerals.

A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of trout contains 7.5 mcg of vitamin B12. That’s 312% of the DV.

 

6. Milk Rich in Vitamin B12

A cup of milk is an excellent source of vitamin B12. In addition, it is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, essential nutrients for our body’s functioning. Stick to low-fat or skim dairy products if you’re attempting to cut calories and fat.

One cup (240 ml) of soy milk contains 2.1 mcg of vitamin B12, or 86% of the DV.

 

7. Yoghurt Rich in Vitamin B12

If you consume a cup of yoghurt every day, you’ll receive vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin D, and healthy bacteria.

Choose types that don’t have any added sugar.

 

8. Ham Rich in Vitamin B12

Except for folate, ham includes all of the B vitamins.

As a result, it has fewer calories, fat, and cholesterol than many other types of meat, but it has a lot more salt.

 

9. Eggs Rich in Vitamin B12

Although eggs don’t include as much vitamin B12 as meat and fish, they’re still a good source. They’re also a good source of protein. Before scrambling your eggs, mix them with low-fat milk for an added vitamin B12 dose.

Two large eggs (100 grams) contain 1.1 mcg of vitamin B12. That’s 46% of the DV.

 

10. Chicken Breast Rich in Vitamin B12

Chicken is simple to get by, cheap, and easy to prepare.

 

It also contains vitamin B12 and is rich in niacin, a B vitamin known to help decrease cholesterol.

 

 

 

Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency | Dr Ashwani Kansal

 

 

 

Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

 

It can cause irreparable and severe harm over time, particularly to the neurological system and brain.

Deficiency symptoms such as sadness, disorientation, memory issues, and weariness are symptoms of slightly lower-than-normal vitamin B12 levels. These symptoms, however, are insufficient to identify B12 insufficiency.

      Constipation, lack of appetite, and weight loss are further signs of vitamin B12 insufficiency.

      Neurological abnormalities, such as numbness and tingling in the limbs, might occur.

      In addition, some people may have trouble keeping their equilibrium.

      Infants deficient in vitamin B12 may exhibit strange movements such as facial tremors and reflex issues, feeding difficulty, irritability, and development problems.

      Vitamin B12 deficiency puts your nerves and brain in danger of severe harm.

      People who don’t get enough vitamin B12 are more likely to develop psychosis, mania, and dementia.

      Anaemia is another symptom that a lack of vitamin B12 can also cause.

      Fatigue, shortness of breath, and an irregular heartbeat are the most frequent signs of anaemia.

      A painful mouth or tongue, weight loss, pale or yellowish skin, diarrhoea, and menstruation issues are all symptoms of anaemia.

In addition, vitamin B12 deficiency makes people more prone to illness.

 

Conclusion

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble B complex vitamin found in a range of foods such as meat, fish, and dairy. You can take vitamin B12 orally. Injections can treat Pernicious anaemia and vitamin B12 deficiency.

 

In addition, several weight-loss clinics include vitamin B12 as part of their weight-loss regimens. Vitamin B12 injections, on the other hand, are unlikely to provide you with an energy boost unless you have a vitamin B12 shortage.

 

Metformin is a medicine that can help persons with type 2 diabetes lose weight. However, this medication may cause vitamin B12 deficiency as a side effect. If you’re on metformin, talk to your doctor about ways to keep your vitamin B12 levels stable.

 

Getting significant doses of vitamin B12 via injections is unlikely to be harmful. However, vitamin B12 can interfere with the effectiveness of some drugs. So tell your doctor if you get vitamin B12injections.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the B12 vitamin good for?

A. Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that assists in keeping your body’s blood and nerve cells strong and aids in making DNA. Vitamin B12 also aids in preventing megaloblastic anaemia. In addition, this can decrease the chances of obesity in children and adults.

 

Q2. Which fruit is rich in vitamin B12?

A. Bananas, oranges and peaches are excellent sources of vitamin B12. Along with this, they also supply other essential vitamins and minerals and are great as a snack throughout the day

 

Q3. How can I raise my B12 levels fast?

A. Increasing the amount of B12 in your diet by eating vitamin B12 rich foods like chicken, fish, and eggs. If you are vegetarian, add low-fat milk, fortified cereal and low-fat yoghurt to your diet.

 

Q4. What happens if your B12 is too high?

A. Excessive levels of this vitamin can have some adverse side effects. For example, high vitamin intake can cause outbreaks of acne and rosacea, a skin ailment that creates redness and pus-filled swellings on the face.

 

Q5. How much B12 do you need a day?

A. Adults from 19 to 64 years require around 1.5 mcg of vitamin B12 a day. Toddlers from 1 to 3 years need 0.9 mcg of B12 per day. Kids from the age of 4 to 8 years need 1.2 mcg of B12 per day. Kids from 9 to 13 need 1.8 mcg of B12 per day. And the ones from the age of 14 to 19 need 2.4 mcg/day.

 

Q6. Which medicine is best for B12?

A. There are a lot of medicines to help you fight vitamin B12 deficiency. Like any other medicine, the supplements of this vitamin should also be consumed after consulting your doctor.

 

Q7. What happens if your B12 is low?

A. Not having enough B12 in your system can cause anaemia, which indicates your body does not have sufficient red blood cells. It can cause weakness and tiredness. In addition, vitamin B12 deficiency can induce harm to your nerve tissues and can impair memory and thinking.

 

Q8. What are the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency?

A. Weakness, disorientation, memory issues, constipation and lack of appetite are the most common symptoms. B12 deficiency can also cause anaemia, leading to fatigue, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, pale or yellowish skin, diarrhoea, and menstrual issues. In addition, it can predispose you to mania, psychosis and dementia.

 

Q9. How serious is a B12 deficiency?

A. Vitamin B12 deficiency is pretty serious. The longer you leave it untreated, the worse its symptoms get. It can lead to anaemia, psychosis, dementia, nerve and brain damage, and memory loss.

 

Q10. Which vegetable is rich in vitamin B12?

A. Normally, almost all vegetables contain some measure of Vitamin B12. But vegetables like spinach, beetroot, potatoes and mushrooms hold an exceptionally high amount of Vitamin B12.

 

Q11. Do almonds have B12?

A. Although almonds don’t naturally have B12, they are fortified with this vitamin, making them excellent sources of vitamin B12.

 

Q12. Is curd rich in Vitamin B12?

A. Yes, curd is a rich source of Vitamin B12. For example, 3/4th of a cup of Greek yoghurt gives you 0.6 mcg of vitamin B12, while the same quantity of plain yoghurt gives you 0.5 mcg of vitamin B12.

 

Q13. Does paneer have Vitamin B12?

A. Yes, paneer is an excellent source of Vitamin B12, especially for vegetarians. A cup of paneer gives you a whopping 1.1 mcg of vitamin B12 along with calcium and protein.

 

Q14. How many eggs is enough for B12?

A. 2 large eggs contain 1.1 mcg of vitamin B12, making half of the daily requirement. So if your only source of B12 is eggs, then four eggs are enough.

 

Q15. Which Indian foods are rich in vitamin B12?

A. Paneer, fortified poha and shrikhand, made from concentrated yoghurt, are packed with vitamin B12. These are good options for vegetarians.

 

Relieving Seasonal Allergies With Ayurveda | Dr Ashwani Kansal

 

 

Relieving Seasonal Allergies With Ayurveda

Conventional seasonal allergies are seen as an adverse reaction to food, medicine, environment and cosmetics. Common recommendation for the best method of relieving seasonal allergies is to provide immediate relief with antihistamines and avoid the allergens that cause the reaction.

 

Ayurveda has a diverse view and believes that allergies originate from an imbalance of the doshas or bio-energetic principles that govern the function of our body and mind. As with all Ayurvedic treatment, treating the origin as opposed to the symptom is the key in achieving long term benefits and relief. Besides avoiding the external causes of allergy, it is essential to boost internal immunity by measures like a healthier diet, life style, some common herbs and certain rejuvenating treatments.

 

Balancing the Doshas

A person’s primary dosha, or mind-body constitution, can often predict which allergy symptoms will manifest, so it’s important to understand your dosha type as well as your current imbalances.

 

In addition to understanding our primary dosha and individual tendencies, it is important to understand that each of us has all of the doshas within us and can therefore experience imbalances in of any of the doshas. Different types of allergy symptoms represent imbalances in different doshas. By recognizing this, we can more specifically guide the treatment of relieving seasonal allergies.

 

Kapha Allergy Symptoms

In Ayurveda, the typical allergy symptoms in the spring season – congestion, runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing – are described as an accumulation of the Kapha dosha, which is made up of earth and water elements. This leads to the feeling of “heaviness” and excessive mucus in the head and sinuses. Other symptoms are sluggishness and feeling tired. For the classic Kapha-type allergy symptoms, there are several simple and effective therapies that will relieve acute symptoms.

 

You can try the traditional yogic nasal cleansing system known as Jalneti. This self-practice involves clearing the nasal passages with salt water with a Neti Pot, which looks like a miniature teapot with a particularly long spout. This helps to regulate pressure in the head and although it may seem not easy or uncomfortable at first, with a little practice it’s easy to do, and highly effective.

 

Other treatments that help relieve acute Kapha allergy symptoms include the use of pungent and bitter (astringent) herbs and spices to reduce Kapha, including ginger, cayenne, pepper, basil, cumin, cardamom, sage, turmeric, and cinnamon. An easy remedy is drinking hot honey water, or ginger lemon tea. A classical Ayurvedic herbal treatment to reduce Kapha is trikatu, which can be taken daily. In addition, treatment should be geared toward lightening the body in other ways, such as daily exercise and use of a dry sauna.

 

Pitta Allergy Symptoms

When allergy symptoms occur in the summertime, the underlying source is often an out-of-balance Pitta dosha. Pitta is governed by the elements of water and fire, and in the summer, excess heat can produce inflammation in the respiratory tract or skin. These symptoms are usually rash, headache, burning or red eyes, and inflammation in the sinuses and airway (sinusitis, bronchitis).

 

To pacify Pitta and the resulting allergy symptoms, Ayurveda recommends ingesting cooling herbs, such as coriander and cilantro. In addition, herbs such as guduchi, amalaki, and neem may be helpful. Ingestion of clarified butter, or ghee, as well as aloe, can calm the inflammatory reaction that is typical of Pitta imbalance. From a biochemical perspective, these herbs contain healthy anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support our immune system.

 

Vata Allergy Symptoms

When Vata is out of balance, the allergic symptoms include headache, wheezing, sneezing, and generalized muscle aches. These may be seen more typically in the fall as the air becomes cold and dry. This is due to the accumulation of the lighter elements of space and air in the mind-body physiology. Other manifestations of this Vata imbalance include dry cough, restlessness, and dry eyes.

 

To balance the excess space and air elements, it is important to stay hydrated and drink warm liquids, such ginger tea with honey. To bring Vata back into balance, use calming herbs such as ashwagandha, which is also an immune modulator that calms the immune system’s response to allergens. Another useful tool in calming Vata is performing a self-massage, or abhyhanga.

 

Natural Ways of Relieving Seasonal Allergies

Eat light, warm and cooked food

 

Warm, cooked vegetarian foods, made with a little bit of clarified butter (ghee) helps the body to bounce back. In Ayurveda, eating warm, cooked foods gives the digestive fire a chance to rest. When the digestion is low, it can’t access the nutrition stored in raw foods, and the poorly digested food creates toxins. When you know that your digestion is up to par (especially in summer), enjoy raw greens and salads.

 

Reduce or avoid dairy

Reducing or avoiding dairy will help to reduce the symptoms related to mucous and allows the body to get rid of the toxins naturally quickly.

 

Use a Neti pot

You can also try the traditional yogic nasal cleansing system also known as Jalneti. This self-practice involves clearing the nasal passages with salt water with a neti pot which looks like a miniature teapot with a particularly long spout. This helps to regulate pressure in the head and although it may seem not easy or uncomfortable at first, with a little practice it’s easy to do, and highly effective. It is best practiced in the morning prior to breathing exercises such as pranayama.

 

Do gentle exercise and practice Pranayama

 

Gentle exercise or yoga poses along with the practice of pranayama, or breath techniques will help. These simple practices can help not only on a physical level, but also on a mental and spiritual level, bringing calm, attention, and space.

 

Herbal supplements and spices

Use warming spices in cooking to support the digestive fire — particularly ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, cumin seeds, coriander, garlic and black pepper.

When our agni is restored, we avoid aggravating allergens and ama (toxicity) by making conscious choices, and we maintain balance of our internal energies, or doshas, we are less likely to experience ill health, such as seasonal allergies. Instead of seeing our environment as a threat, we can begin to calm the excitability of the immune system and, instead, experience our connection to the external world as nourishing. Ayurveda provides us with the tools to experience this connection and move closer to our natural state of health and balance.

Instant relief with Nasya Face and Head Massage ,

Nasya is a unique nasal treatment including the face and neck that helps relieve congestion and help allergy sufferers. Nasya involves a soothing pressure point face massage, a head and chest massage with a steam treatment. A few drops of specially formulated Ayurvedic herbal oils are dropped into each nostril that helps to provide relief for sinus problems and congestion. The oil forms a protective layer on the nasal tissues and prevents allergens from directly attaching themselves to nasal membranes.

 

 

Diabetes Foot Health Care At Home | Dr Ashwani Kansal Noida

 

 

Diabetes Foot Health Care At Home

 

Get your feet checked at every health care visit

If you have diabetes, here’s a way to keep standing on your own two feet: check them every day—even if they feel fine—and see your doctor if you have a cut or blister that won’t heal.

 

There’s a lot to manage if you have diabetes: checking your blood sugar, making healthy food, finding time to be active, taking medicines, going to doctor’s appointments. With all that, your feet might be the last thing on your mind. But daily care is one of the best ways to prevent foot complications.

About half of all people with diabetes have some kind of nerve damage. You can have nerve damage in any part of your body, but nerves in your feet and legs are most often affected. Nerve damage can cause you to lose feeling in your feet.

 

Feeling No Pain

Some people with nerve damage have numbness, tingling, or pain, but others have no symptoms. Nerve damage can also lower your ability to feel pain, heat, or cold.

Living without pain sounds pretty good, but it comes at a high cost. Pain is the body’s way of telling you something’s wrong so you can take care of yourself. If you don’t feel pain in your feet, you may not notice a cut, blister, sore, or other problem. Small problems can become serious if they aren’t treated early.

 

Preventing Nerve Damage

What’s the most important thing you can do to prevent nerve damage or stop it from getting worse? Keep your blood sugar in your target range as much as possible. Other good diabetes management habits can help, too:

 

Don’t smoke

 Smoking reduces blood flow to the feet.

Follow a healthy eating plan, including eating more fruits and vegetables and less sugar and salt.

Get physically active —10 to 20 minutes a day is better than an hour once a week.

Take medicines regularly as prescribed by your doctor.

 

Could You Have Nerve Damage?

      Anyone with diabetes can develop nerve damage, but these factors increase your risk:

      Blood sugar levels that are hard to manage

      Having diabetes for a long time, especially if your blood sugar is often higher than your target levels

      Being overweight

      Being older than 40 years

      Having high blood pressure

      Having high cholesterol

Nerve damage, along with poor blood flow—another diabetes complication—puts you at risk for developing a foot ulcer (a sore or wound) that could get infected and not heal well. If an infection doesn’t get better with treatment, your toe, foot, or part of your leg may need to be amputated (removed by surgery) to prevent the infection from spreading and to save your life.

 

When you check your feet every day, you can catch problems early and get them treated right away. Early treatment greatly reduces your risk of amputation.

 

Tips for Healthy Feet

      Looking at the bottom of  feet in a mirror

      Get to the bottom of any foot problems by using a mirror or asking for help.

      Check your feet every day for cuts, redness, swelling, sores, blisters, corns, calluses, or any other change to the skin or nails. Use a mirror if you can’t see the bottom of your feet, or ask a family member to help.

      Wash your feet every day in warm (not hot) water*. Don’t soak your feet. Dry your feet completely and apply lotion to the top and bottom—but not between your toes, which could lead to infection.

      Never go barefoot Always wear shoes and socks or slippers, even inside, to avoid injury. Check that there aren’t any pebbles or other objects inside your shoes and that the lining is smooth.

      Wear shoes that fit well For the best fit, try on new shoes at the end of the day when your feet tend to be largest. Break in your new shoes slowly—wear them for an hour or two a day at first until they’re completely comfortable. Always wear socks with your shoes.

 

Trim your toenails

Trim straight across and gently smooth any sharp edges with a nail file. Have your foot doctor (podiatrist) trim your toenails if you can’t see or reach your feet.

 

Don’t remove corns or calluses yourself

 Especially don’t use over-the-counter products to remove them—they could burn your skin.

Get your feet checked at every health care visit. Also, visit your foot doctor every year (more often if you have nerve damage) for a complete exam, which will include checking for feeling and blood flow in your feet.

Keep the blood flowing. Put your feet up when you’re sitting, and wiggle your toes for a few minutes several times throughout the day.

 

Choose feet-friendly activities

 Like walking, riding a bike, or swimming. Check with your doctor about which activities are best for you and any you should avoid.

Be sure to ask your doctor what else you can do to keep your feet healthy.

 

When to See Your Doctor

If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait for your next appointment. See your regular doctor or foot doctor right away:

      Pain in your legs or cramping in your buttocks, thighs, or calves during physical activity.

      Tingling, burning, or pain in your feet.

      Loss of sense of touch or ability to feel heat or cold very well.

      A change in the shape of your feet over time.

      Loss of hair on your toes, feet, and lower legs.

      Dry, cracked skin on your feet.

      A change in the color and temperature of your feet.

      Thickened, yellow toenails.

      Fungus infections such as athlete’s foot between your toes.

      A blister, sore, ulcer, infected corn, or ingrown toenail.

Most people with diabetes can prevent serious foot complications. Regular care at home and going to all doctor’s appointments are your best bet for preventing foot problems (and stopping small problems from becoming serious ones)

 

Lifestyle and Home Remedies For Asthma Management | Dr Ashwani Kansal

 

 

Lifestyle and Home Remedies For Asthma Management

 

Although many people with asthma rely on medications to prevent and relieve symptoms, you can do several things on your own to maintain your health and lessen the possibility of asthma attacks.

 

Avoid your triggers

Taking steps to reduce your exposure to asthma triggers is a key part of asthma control. To reduce your exposure, you should:

 

Use your air conditioner. Air conditioning reduces the amount of airborne pollen from trees, grasses and weeds that finds its way indoors. Air conditioning also lowers indoor humidity and can reduce your exposure to dust mites. If you don't have air conditioning, try to keep your windows closed during pollen season.

Decontaminate your decor. Minimize dust that may worsen nighttime symptoms by replacing certain items in your bedroom. For example, encase pillows, mattresses and box springs in dustproof covers. Avoid using down-filled pillows and blankets. Throughout the house, remove carpeting and install hardwood or linoleum flooring. Use washable curtains and blinds.

Maintain optimal humidity. If you live in a damp climate, talk to your doctor about using a dehumidifier.

Prevent mold spores. Clean damp areas in the bathroom, kitchen and around the house to keep mold spores from developing. Get rid of moldy leaves or damp firewood in the yard.

Reduce pet dander. If you're allergic to dander, avoid pets with fur or feathers. Having pets regularly bathed or groomed may also reduce the amount of dander in your surroundings.

Clean regularly. Clean your home at least once a week. If you're likely to stir up dust, wear a mask or have someone else do the cleaning. Wash your bedding regularly.

Cover your nose and mouth if it's cold out. If your asthma is worsened by cold or dry air, wearing a face mask can help.

Stay healthy

Taking care of yourself can help keep your symptoms under control, including:

 

Get regular exercise. Having asthma doesn't mean you have to be less active. Treatment can prevent asthma attacks and control symptoms during activity.

Regular exercise can strengthen your heart and lungs, which helps relieve asthma symptoms. If you exercise in cold temperatures, wear a face mask to warm the air you breathe.

 

Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight can worsen asthma symptoms, and it puts you at higher risk of other health problems.

Control heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It's possible that the acid reflux that causes heartburn may damage lung airways and worsen asthma symptoms. If you have frequent or constant heartburn, talk to your doctor about treatment options. You may need treatment for GERD before your asthma symptoms improve

Diabetic Foot Screening | Dr Ashwani Kansal

 

 

Diabetic Foot Screening

 

​Screening of foot in diabetes is an essential part of the examination carried out . The aim of this examination is to determine as early as possible any risk factors for diabetic foot complications such as neuropathy and ischaemia amongst other things, and reduce amputations and ulcerations with timely referrals. Studies have shown that early detection and intervention may prevent up to 85% of amputations in diabetic patients.

 

It is important to inform the podologist if one is having any problems with their feet such as:

·         Burning Sensation.

·         Pins And Needles.

·         Problems with Corns And Nails.

 

The following should be reported immediately to your caring doctor/podologist:

·         Open Wounds And Any Ulcers.

·         Areas of Bluish/Black Skin.

·         In growing Toe Nail +/- With Discharge.

·         Color Change - Red Hot Skin Which May Also Be Swollen.

·         Increase in Skin Foot Temperature.

Patients will be risk categorized and if indicated referred for further assessment.

 

Patient care pathway for screening of patients for Diabetic foot complications

 

All patients attending the Diabetes clinics in all the health centers are obliged to have screening for the feet. The nurse leading the diabetes clinic will make sure that the screening actually takes place and the GP refers patient accordingly.

 

Initial Assessment (Level 1 screening)

All patients will undergo neurological and vascular assessment by the Podiatrists using the mono filament and Doppler ultrasound, The findings are recorded in the specified form DH 140. If initial assessment is certified to be normal then the patient is given a yearly appointment and referred back to the Diabetes

 

1. Comprehensive Diabetes Foot Screening

o   All Primary Care Health Centres

o   High risk are referred for further screening

 

2. Intensive Foot Screening

o   Floriana Health Centre by trained podiatrists

o   Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI), Neuropathy scores, Footwear, Biomechanical examination

o   Critical/rest pain/ low ABPIs referred for vascular assessment

 

3. Vascular Assessment

o   MDH by a trained podiatrist

o   ABPI, TBI, Doppler waveforms, segmental studies, venous PPG