Dealing with Measles

Dealing with Measles by Famhealth

Measles is a highly contagious infection caused by the measlesvirus. Initial signs and symptoms typically include fever, often greater than 40 °C (104.0 °F), cough, runny nose, and inflamed eyes. Two or three days after the start of symptoms, small white spots may form inside the mouth, known as Koplik’s spots.

  • A runny or blocked nose
  • Sneezing, watery eyes and swollen eyelids
  • Red eyes that may be sensitive to light
  • A high temperature which may lead to 40C (104F)
  • Small greyish white-spots in the mouth
  • Aches and pains
  • A cough and loss of appetite
  • Tiredness, irritability and general lack of energy.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for measles, but the condition usually improves within 7 to 10 days. Stay away from school or work for at least four days.

If the symptoms of measles are causing discomfort for you or your child, there are some things you can do to treat these while you wait for your body to fight off the virus.

Dr. May advise some medicine to reduce a high temperature (fever) and relieve any aches or pains if your child is uncomfortable.

If your child has a high temperature, make sure they drink plenty of fluids as they may be at risk of dehydration.

Vaccination

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is routinely given at 12 to 15 months of age, followed by a booster shot before entering school at the age of 4 to 6 years.

To read more on Baby care, click on the link below,

New Born

Constipation

Constipation by Famhealth

Constipation is a condition of the digestive system where an individual has hard faeces that are difficult to expel. The slower the food moves through the digestive tract, the more water the colon will absorb from it. Consequently, the faeces become dry and hard. When this happens, emptying the bowels can become very painful.

Symptoms

  • Increased difficulty and straining
  • Abdominal pain
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Feeling bloated and nauseous
  • Loss of appetite

Causes

  • Lack of fiber in the diet
  • Physical inactivity
  • Medications
  • Milk
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Pregnancy
  • Aging
  • Changes in routine
  • Overuse of laxatives
  • Not going to the toilet when needed
  • Not drinking enough water
  • Problems with the colon or rectum
  • Some disease conditions like neurological disorders, endocrine and metabolic conditions, systemic diseases and cancer

Treatment

In the majority of cases, constipation resolves itself without any treatment or risk to health. The treatment of recurring constipation can include lifestyle changes such as doing more exercise, eating more fiber, and drinking more water. Usually, laxatives will successfully treat most cases of constipation – but should be used with care and only when necessary. In more difficult cases, the person may need a prescription medication.

To read more on Patient Care, click on the link below.

Patient Care

Content Courtesy : Portea