Health-&-Fitness
Photographing the birth of a nation and its architect
Renowned French photographer Anne de Henning, who documented Bangladesh during its birth and infancy, said she found Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to be “very charismatic”.
Talking about her photo of Bangabandhu’s speech at the first council of Awami League in independent Bangladesh, she said it was a strong testimony to the victory of freedom over oppression.
An exhibition titled ‘Witnessing History in the Making: Photographs by Anne de Henning’ is being held at Guimet Museum of Asian Art in Paris. The exhibition has been produced by Samdani Art Foundation and Centre for Research and Information (CRI).
Radwan Mujib Siddiq, grandson of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and trustee of CRI made a visit to the exhibition.
He said, “There was a leader from the subcontinent who led his country to independence based on very progressive ideals. He wanted a country that was secular and equal for all. And the whole of Bangladesh got behind him, fought a war against all odds and Bangladesh emerged independent.”
Radwan said Bangabandhu had a connection with the people and he could represent them the way that politicians are supposed to.
Read more: Radwan Mujib visits Paris photo exhibit on Bangladesh’s birth, Bangabandhu
Henning said she was shocked to learn that three years after she photographed Bangabandhu, he was assassinated with most of his family members.
The exhibition is being held from October 19, 2022 to January 23, 2023 in partnership with Asia Now Paris Art Fair and Guimet Museum of Asian Art, according to a press release.
“The whole art world is in Paris right now and we're so honoured that this exhibition has been invited by the Guimet Museum,” said Nadia Samdani MBE, President and Co-founder of Samdani Art Foundation
Reminiscing the days of Bangladesh’s Liberation War, Anne De Henning said, “You just had to walk through the streets and you would see the people gearing up, poorly equipped, but they expressed such a will and determination of achieving freedom for their country that it was extremely moving.”
Henning said the images at the exhibition should inspire the feeling that courage and determination can get you a long way.
The first iteration of the exhibition was held in Dhaka from December 10, 2021 to March 31, 2022 to celebrate 50 years of Bangladesh’s independence.
Henning’s photographs from 1972 feature Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. She captured Bangabandhu giving a speech at the first Council Meeting of Awami League after the independence of Bangladesh. “I came specifically from Calcutta to photograph the event,” she said. Although at the time she favoured shooting in black and white, she chose to capture this event in colour because of the vibrant blue, white and red stripes of the shamiyana — ceremonial tent — that housed the event.
7 Homemade Drinks for Sore Throat
As winter is approaching, many people are experiencing conditions like sore throat and scratchy throat. It causes constant itchy feelings, irritation, and difficulty in swallowing. Don’t worry! Some drinks can relieve the scratchy, and painful feelings. Let’s take a look at home remedies that kills a sore throat fast.
7 Healthy Drinks to Treat Sore Throat
Warm honey-lemon water
Warm water can help settle a sore throat. Hot water is special to soothe a sore throat and can help provide relief for cough, and runny nose.
However, warm water with lemon may be especially useful as it can add a small extra dose of vitamin C to pacify your sore throat. Vitamin C is great to boost the immune system and help you overcome colds.
Read Food, Drinks during Dengue: What to consume, what to avoid.
Additionally, you can add honey with your warm lemon water to treat a sore throat and cough. A small 2017 study found that honey helps to speed up the recovery of a sore throat as honey has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Ginger tea
Traditionally, people use ginger tea to calm a sore throat. A 2013 study has shown that fresh ginger tea might help protect you from the respiratory syncytial virus — a highly infectious virus that commonly affects young children.
Besides, ginger is loaded with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. If you drink ginger tea in the morning and before going to sleep, it soothes your sore throat.
Read Masala Tea Health Benefits: How Can It Improve Your Immunity
Moreover, ginger tea provides relief from motion sickness and alleviates nausea from morning sickness or chemotherapy. Ginger tea can also manage blood pressure and support heart health. It is also excellent to manage weight and blood sugar levels. The properties of ginger can fight against pain, inflammation, and cancer.
Chamomile tea
If you don’t like ginger tea, you can take chamomile tea, which is made from dried Matricaria flowers and is loaded with various healing properties. Research shows that chamomile tea can reduce inflammation in the throat.
Additionally, Chamomile tea is generally caffeine-free and so it is excellent to promote relaxation and help you sleep. Proper and adequate sleep boost your immune system and help you quick recovery from illness.
Read Health benefits of Chamomile Tea
Plus, chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties which minimize swelling and also repair tissues and reduce a cough.
Peppermint tea
You can also take peppermint tea which is another warm beverage to ease sore throat symptoms. Peppermint tea contains spearmint which has anti-inflammatory effects to reduce swelling and soothe a sore throat.
Besides, if you can inhale the steam from peppermint tea, it can treat other symptoms such as nasal congestion, and help you to breathe better.
Read 7 Yummy Coffee Recipes to Try at Home without Coffee Maker
Warm soup
You can take chicken noodle warm soup which is considered as is a classic home remedy for common illnesses.
Any kind of warm soup can be a great way to soothe your sore throat and get some key nutrients when you're feeling sick. Chicken broth has fatty acids and protein. Protein and fatty acids help your body build and repair healthy muscle, bone, skin, and blood cells.
Selenium that is available in chicken broth helps prevent and manage cardiovascular diseases and complications, including strokes, and high cholesterol.
Read Healthy Winter Soup Ideas and Recipes to Help You Get Through the Cold Weather
Moreover, chicken broth is enriched with vitamins and minerals, which are useful against common ailments like the common cold, the flu, and food poisoning.
Smoothie
When you're sick, you might experience a decreased appetite that can make it more difficult to get all the nutrients your body needs to fight off an illness.
So, you need a nutrient-packed smoothie as it is made with fruits and vegetables that are loaded with antioxidants — molecules to boost our immune system.
Read Child-friendly Winter Drinks to Keep Your Family Healthy, Warm, and Cozy
Some antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to make your smoothies: Blueberries, Strawberries, Mangoes, Kale, Spinach
Turmeric milk
Turmeric has powerful antioxidant properties to heal wounds. The properties of turmeric also fight off several infections like colds and sore throats. If you can drink hot turmeric tea or milk for a sore throat, you can cure your sore throat within 1-2 days.
Turmeric milk is anti-inflammatory also and contains the compound curcumin which boosts immunity. Turmeric also helps to reduce the risk of heart disease and improves digestion. It is also good for our skin and improves bone health.
Read 7 Healthy Warm Drinks to Stay Warm This Winter
Bottom Line
Sore throats are common and natural, especially during cold and flu season and winter season. While you are experiencing this condition, it is important to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to fight the infection. You can try homemade healing drinks to soothe your throat pain. So far, we have discussed 7 sore throat remedies to try at home. Hope it helps!
Food, Drinks during Dengue: What to consume, what to avoid
Every year a huge population is affected by Dengue fever. The main risk factor of dengue is the reduction of blood’s platelet level to a great extent that it could be fatal. The body requires sufficient vitamins, minerals, and protein to produce platelets. Patients diagnosed with dengue fever, need to consume the right diet for a fast recovery from dengue fever. Let’s take a look at the recommended foods and drinks during dengue fever.
Best Foods and Drinks for Dengue
Papaya leaves
Different studies have shown that the extract of the leaves of papaya is used as a complementary treatment for disorders of platelet function. Juice of Papaya leaves can help in increasing the platelet count in blood and boosts the immunity of your body.
Enzymes like papain and chymopapain are available in papaya extracts that prevent bloating and other digestive disorders. Papaya leaves juice is considered to be one of the best food items to increase platelets in the blood of patients suffering from dengue fever.
Read Dengue Fever: Symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prevention
Vegetables
Dengue patients should eat vegetables like spinach, pumpkin, paprika, carrot, watercress, celery, broccoli, and beetroot to trigger the platelet levels in the blood. These vegetables help you purify your body. Make sure the vegetables are properly washed and cleaned before eating or cooking.
Spinach is enriched with protein and Vitamin K. These vitamins participate in the metabolism of coagulation factors and help to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding.
Take pumpkin with seeds, as they have amino acids and vitamins essential for platelet formation. If you regularly eat pumpkin, including seeds, it improves the absorption of proteins and vitamin A. These nutrients participate in the production of these small cells.
Read Why do Mosquitoes bite me so much?
Beetroot is rich in antioxidants that help prevent platelet reduction due to the effects of free radicals. It has vitamins A, C, and K and essential minerals, that help prevent the deterioration of blood vessels and the development of circulatory problems. By drinking beetroot juice regularly Dengue patients can strengthen their body's immunity.
Fruits
To increase the platelet count in the blood Dengue patients need both Vitamin C and Vitamin K. So while recovering from Dengue, the patients need to eat citrus fruits like lemon, orange, kiwi, or tangerines, and other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes, or currants also.
Green Coconut water
Green coconut water is always best and it has huge health benefits. It is also a popular and effective drink to raise platelet levels. Coconut water bestows vitamins A, B, and C, and minerals, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus also.
Read Conjunctivitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
Besides, it is perfect for dengue patients as they experience dehydration as a result of high fever, diarrhea, anorexia, vomiting, and nausea during the febrile phase (days 4-6).
Nuts
As nuts and almonds are good sources of proteins and proteins are essential for normal platelet count, Dengue patients can take sufficient amounts of nuts during dengue fever.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is full of nutrients including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, sodium, copper, and vitamins C, E, and B.
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Therefore, aloe vera juice has huge medicinal applications and it is an excellent ally in taking care of cardiovascular health and promoting platelet production in blood. Dengue patients can keep this food in their diet.
Yogurt
Yogurt is known for having probiotics-active bacteria. These active bacteria are very useful for keeping the intestines free of harmful germs and bacteria that are capable of causing diseases.
Dengue patients need to take Yogurt regularly to keep their defenses high. But not more than 150 grams of yogurt a day to get its healing benefits.
Read How to entertain an unwell child without screen time
Chicken Soup
Scientific evidence is available that chicken soup is great to stop the symptoms of colds and flu. Chicken soup is rich in Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, Antioxidants, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, and Carnosine.
These nutrients are essential to stimulating the defenses so that healing is carried out quickly. It will also help Dengue patients stay hydrated and raise the temperature of the airways, which is very effective in loosening mucus.
Green tea
Green tea is called one of the most popular healing drinks. It has a high content of polyphenols, very valuable anti-oxidant compounds with immunostimulatory effects.
Read Best foods for expecting mothers
A scientific study shows that a particular type of phenolic compound, called catechins, has the ability to eliminate some types of influenza viruses.
So, green tea should be included in the Dengue fever diet.
Neem Leaves
Neem leaves are blessed with chemicals such as Nimbin and Nimbidin that have anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. Research shows that these leaves have positive results in treating dengue by increasing blood platelets and white blood cell count.
Read How to Apply for Indian Medical Visa from Bangladesh
Foods and Drinks to Avoid while Recovering from Dengue Fever
Patients need to avoid certain foods that contain salicylates when infected with dengue fever. These types of food make blood thinner and slow clotting.
Non-vegetarian Foods
During the infection of dengue fever the human body becomes weak, the digestive system slows down, and non-vegetarian food does not easily digest. Therefore, while recovering from dengue fever, patients must strictly avoid non-vegetarian food.
Fried or Oily Foods
Dengue patients should also avoid oily foods burgers, pizza, potato chips, fried chicken, doughnuts, etc as these foods contain an increased amount of fat and can lead to high blood pressure and cholesterol.
Read How to Stay Physically Active during Pregnancy
Spicy Foods
Don’t take spicy foods at all during dengue fever as they can cause acid accumulation in the stomach and result in ulcers and damage to the wall. Eating these types of food during dengue infection may hinder the recovery process.
Caffeinated Beverages
Dengue fever causes dehydration and hence Dengue patients must drink plenty of fluids. Remember, caffeine, i.e. caffeinated beverages can revive the gastronomical tract, leading to nausea and diarrhea.
Besides, this type of beverage can increase the symptoms and production of stomach acid and cause rapid heart rate, and muscle breakdown which can hinder the dengue recovery process.
Read Should You See a Therapist? 8 Surefire Signs You Need Help
Bottom Line
Dengue is a curable disease but a little carelessness can cause serious issues and lead to death also. Hence, you need to be conscious about taking food and drinks. We have discussed here the foods and drinks to eat and avoid during dengue fever for quick recovery. Hope it helps!
Dengue Fever: Symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prevention
The Aedes mosquito causes dengue fever. If you are bitten by a mosquito that carries the dengue virus, you will get dengue fever. The infection should not be neglected. If Dengue fever progresses to a severe stage, it can threaten life. This article will discuss the symptoms, treatments, home remedies, and preventions for dengue fever.
What is Dengue?
Dengue is a viral infection that is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito. The disease is found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, and it is estimated that there are over 400 million cases of Dengue each year. The virus that causes Dengue is called DENV, and there are four DENV serotypes. It is possible to be infected four times with the virus.
However, there is no specific treatment for Dengue, but it can be prevented by protecting against mosquito bites. The Aedes mosquito typically lays its eggs in standing water, so removing sources of standing water can help to reduce the risk of dengue transmission.
Read Conjunctivitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
Signs of Dengue Fever
There are some symptoms to look for to know whether it is dengue fever or not. Such as feeling cold, loss of appetite, body aches, headache, pain in the eyes, lower back pain, muscle pain, joint pain, rash, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and skin-eye redness.
In the first few hours of dengue infection, pain is felt in the legs and joints. Fever can rise very quickly to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Heart rate and blood pressure are low during this time. A red or pink rash may appear on the face, which then disappears.
High fever and other dengue symptoms last for 2-4 days, and then the body temperature drops rapidly with sweating. Body temperature remains normal for about a day before the second rapid rise in fever, and feels healthy. Later, an itchy rash appears all over the body except the face. The palms of the hands and soles of the feet may be bright red and swollen.
Read How to entertain an unwell child without screen time
Severe Symptoms of Dengue
Sometimes dengue infection is very serious or fatal. It is called severe Dengue. Symptoms of severe Dengue appear 3-7 days after the initial symptoms of Dengue. People who have been infected with Dengue before are at higher risk of severe Dengue.
The main symptoms of severe Dengue are severe abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, vomiting blood, bleeding from the gums, bleeding under the skin, difficulty or rapid breathing, feeling cold or sweating, rapid pulse, and drowsiness/loss of consciousness. If you see the symptoms of severe Dengue, you should go to the emergency department of the hospital without a moment's delay.
How to Diagnose Dengue Fever
If you see any dengue symptoms or have a serious fever, you should consult a registered doctor for further investigations. Not every fever is Dengue. Self-diagnosed for Dengue leaves other common causes of fever, such as pneumonia, urinary tract infection, typhoid, flu, etc., undiagnosed.
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Patient's signs, symptoms, and physical examination data can help to diagnose the disease. However, results may vary from the first day to the next 10 days of dengue fever in different tests. So, self-testing can be confusing. Therefore, it would be wise to let the doctor understand first.
Doctors initially diagnose Dengue through NS1, CBC, IgG, and IgM. A maximum of Tk. 500 can be charged for the dengue NS1 Antigen test. A maximum of Tk. 400 can be taken for CBC (RBC + WBC + Hematocrit) test. Apart from this, IgG and IgM tests should be done within 500 Takas.
Treatment and Home Remedies of Dengue Fever
There is no specific treatment for dengue fever, but there are ways to ease the symptoms. Pain relievers, rest, and fluids can help to reduce fever and pain. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary in order to receive intravenous fluids and close monitoring.
Read Why do Mosquitoes bite me so much?
At the initial stage, take rest and drink plenty of water or liquid food. If the body is hydrated, headaches and muscle pain will be reduced. Drink coconut water, lemon juice, fruit juice, and saline at home.
Paracetamol can be taken to reduce the fever. However, a doctor's consultancy is needed if the patient has heart, liver, and kidney-related complications.
Aspirin, Clofenac, and Ibuprofen-like medicines should not be taken for body pain when suffering from dengue fever. Taking such medicines during Dengue can cause bleeding.
Read How to Apply for Indian Medical Visa from Bangladesh
What not to do
Platelets are no longer a key factor in dengue fever. There is no need to worry about the platelet count. If the platelet count falls below 10,000 or if there is bleeding from any part of the body, platelets or fresh blood can be given if necessary. However, such situations are very rare.
Many people say that eating papaya leaf juice etc. increases platelets. Actually, these have no role. After the fever subsides, platelets begin to grow by themselves after the crisis period has passed. At the end of the fever, the blood pressure may drop, or there may be bleeding from the gums, nose, or rectum. If this is the case, intravenous saline may be needed. In these cases, hospital admission is required.
When to go to the hospital
In the case of Dengue, what kind of treatment to take, staying at home or in a hospital, depends on its type or category. There are three types or categories of dengue fever - 'A,' 'B,' and 'C.' Patients in the first category are normal. They only have a fever. Most dengue patients are in the 'A' category. They do not require hospitalization. Resting at home is enough.
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Category 'B' dengue patients may require hospitalization. Certain symptoms, such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diabetes, obesity, pregnancy, congenital problems, and kidney or liver problems, are recommended for hospitalization.
Category 'C' dengue fever is the worst. It can damage the liver, kidneys, and brain. In some cases, an intensive care unit or ICU may be required.
So, you have to follow the doctor's instructions.
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Dengue Fever Season in Bangladesh
Generally, the dengue outbreak occurs from July to October in Bangladesh, as the Aedes mosquito spreads during this period. But we have to be careful throughout the year as in some years; Dengue started in June.
Preventive Measures for Dengue Fever
The Aedes mosquito usually lays its eggs in clear water. So, make sure water does not stay for more than three to five days. This water can accumulate anywhere. Aedes mosquitoes breed in the water collected on the roof of the house or in the flower tub of the balcony, at various points of the building under construction, tires lying on the side of the road, or in other containers.
So, check if there is any stagnant water in any places around the house. Also, use mosquito nets and spray in the house. Additionally, use mosquito repellent cream while going out or staying at home.
Read Should You See a Therapist? 8 Surefire Signs You Need Help
Final Words
In Bangladesh, the Dengue death toll is rising every year. Especially in the cities and towns, many inhabitants are being affected by Dengue fever. Some prevention measures for Dengue can minimize the spread of the disease.
However, all fevers are not Dengue. So, make sure you know the sign and symptoms of Dengue Fever to determine if you have it or not. You may also get affected by viral fever too. So far, we have discussed the diagnosis process of Dengue fever. Proper consultations with doctors are essential to avoid serious medical conditions. If proper treatment for Dengue fever is provided the patient can be cured.
Scientists grow human brain tissue in rats to study diseases
Scientists have transplanted human brain cells into the brains of baby rats, where the cells grew and formed connections.
It’s part of an effort to better study human brain development and diseases affecting this most complex of organs, which makes us who we are but has long been shrouded in mystery.
“Many disorders such as autism and schizophrenia are likely uniquely human” but “the human brain certainly has not been very accessible,” said said Dr. Sergiu Pasca, senior author of a study describing the work, published Wednesday in the journal Nature.
Approaches that don’t involve taking tissue out of the human brain are “promising avenues in trying to tackle these conditions.”
The research builds upon the team’s previous work creating brain “organoids,” tiny structures resembling human organs that have also been made to represent others such as livers, kidneys, prostates, or key parts of them.
To make the brain organoids, Stanford University scientists transformed human skin cells into stem cells and then coaxed them to become several types of brain cells. Those cells then multiplied to form organoids resembling the cerebral cortex, the human brain’s outermost layer, which plays a key role in things like memory, thinking, learning, reasoning and emotions.
Scientists transplanted those organoids into rat pups 2 to 3 days old, a stage when brain connections are still forming. The organoids grew so that they eventually occupied a third of the hemisphere of the rat’s brain where they were implanted. Neurons from the organoids formed working connections with circuits in the brain.
Human neurons have been transplanted in rodents before, but generally in adult animals, usually mice. Pasca, a psychiatry professor at the Stanford School of Medicine, said this is the first time these organoids have been placed into early rat brains, creating “the most advanced human brain circuitry ever built from human skin cells and a demonstration that implanted human neurons can influence an animal’s behavior.”
To examine a practical use of this approach, scientists transplanted organoids into both sides of a rat’s brain: one generated from a healthy person’s cells and another from the cells of a person with Timothy syndrome, a rare genetic condition associated with heart problems and autism spectrum disorder.
Five to six months later, they saw effects of the disease related to the activity of the neurons. There were differences in the two sides’ electrical activity, and the neurons from the person with Timothy syndrome were much smaller and didn’t sprout as many extensions that pick up input from nearby neurons.
Researchers, whose study was funded partly by the National Institutes of Health, said they could do the same sorts of experiments using organoids made from the cells of people with disorders such as autism or schizophrenia — and potentially learn new things about how these conditions affect the brain, too.
Dr. Flora Vaccarino of Yale University – who previously grew lumps containing cerebral cortex that were made with DNA from people with autism – said the study moves the field forward.
“It’s extremely impressive what they do here in terms of what these cells can actually show us in terms of their advanced development … in the rat,” said Vaccarino, who wasn’t involved with the study.
Such experiments in animals raise ethical concerns. For example, Pasca said he and his team are cognizant of the rats’ well-being and whether they still behave normally with the organoids inside them, which he says they do. Still, Pasca does not believe this should be tried in primates. Ethicists also wonder about the possibility of brain organoids in the future attaining something like human consciousness, which experts say is extremely unlikely now.
Some scientists are studying human brain organoids outside of animals. For example, researchers at ETH Zurich in Switzerland published a study in Nature earlier this month describing how they are growing brain-like tissue from stem cells in the lab and then mapping the cell types in various brain regions and genes regulating their development. Some are using these structures to study autism.
Pasca said brain organoids could also be used to test new treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders, the largest cause of disability worldwide. Such research, he said, should help scientists make strides that have been extremely difficult until now because it’s so hard to get at the human brain – which is “the reason why we’re so much more behind in psychiatry compared to any other branch of medicine in terms of therapeutics.”
Conjunctivitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
The medical name of Pink Eye is Conjunctivitis. It is one of the most common eye infections in children and adults. Viruses, bacteria, or allergens are responsible for pink eye. If you or any of your family members experience such conditions, try to find out whether the pink eye is caused by allergies or infection; as each condition has different treatments. Let’s take a look at the causes, symptoms, treatments, and preventions of Conjunctivitis.
Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
Actually, pink eye is an inflammation of the conjunctiva that lines a human's eyelid and covers the white part of your eyeball. With pink eye, the white part becomes light pink to reddish.
Common signs of Conjunctivitis are as follows:
-Becomes red or pink in the white part of the eye
-Increased amount of tears
-Itchy eyes and nose
-Blurred vision
-Sneezing
-Swelling of the eyelid
Read Why do Mosquitoes bite me so much?
When you are affected by Conjunctivitis, you may experience these symptoms usually in both eyes but not always equally.
If you have any of these persistent symptoms, make sure you consult an ophthalmologist.
Causes of Conjunctivitis
-The main cause of the allergy to pink eye or conjunctivitis is the body's reaction to allergens including pollen from trees, plants, grasses, and weeds; dust mites; molds; dander from pets; medicines; or cosmetics.
-It happens often among people with other allergic conditions like hay fever, asthma, and eczema.
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Home remedies for Pink Eye or Conjunctivitis:
Check here 6 effective home remedies that can help you treat allergic conjunctivitis:
Cold compress
A cold compress is a comfort measure you can take that can provide you instant relief. To apply this remedy take one or more small pieces of linen cloth and then dip the cloth in cold water. It would be better if you dip the cloth in ice-cold water. Remember, you have to remove the excess water from the cloth before applying it to your eyes.
This cold compress is so useful that it can help you reduce itchiness and swelling caused due to an unknown substance that has entered the eyes. You need to repeat this system several times for at least 5-10 minutes. To get good results it is recommended to use different cloth pieces for both eyes to avoid the infection from increasing.
Read How to Apply for Indian Medical Visa from Bangladesh.
Saline solution
Another effective home remedy against allergic pink eye or conjunctivitis is washing your eyes with saline solution. A saline solution is a concoction of common salt and water. So, you can use the saline solution as an eyewash as the saline solution helps decrease inflammation and irritation in the eyes. However, never use hot saline solution which can cause more harm to your eyes than good.
Rose water
Naturally, rose water is excellent as it has anti-inflammatory and soothing resources. Rose water is not only cool but soothing for the eyes also. It is great and helps to get rid of the dust particle that caused allergic conjunctivitis in the first place.
If you are suffering from allergic conjunctivitis, you can use a few drops of rose water a day in the infected eye. Uses of 2-3 days can help you treat allergic conjunctivitis. Besides, you can use cotton balls dipped in rose water over your eyes to minimize the irritation of your eyes.
Read Top 10 Bathroom Plants to grow in the humid environment of the shower
Aloe vera gel
Aloe vera has compounds namely aloin and emodin that have anti-bacterial and anti-viral effects. So, aloe vera gel is an important and effective home remedy for allergic conjunctivitis or pink eye.
Moreover, aloe vera helps to bring down inflammation and speeds up the healing process against the allergy caused due to dust particles. You can apply aloe vera gel around the infected area as soon as you notice the symptoms of allergic pink eye. Generally, aloe vera does not have any inauspicious effects on the cornea of the eye.
Turmeric
Usually, turmeric powder is famous for its many known healing properties. Besides, it is very effective and result-oriented against allergic conjunctivitis or pink eye. You can use turmeric to soothe your affected eye because it helps to reduce inflammation of the eyes. Because of its antibacterial properties, it can prevent any further infection of the eye.
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Take a piece of cotton or cloth and soak it in a pot of boiled turmeric water. Then use the soaked and warm cloth piece to treat allergic conjunctivitis. It will also work as a warm compress. But don’t use so much hot cloth.
Chamomile tea bag
Chamomile tea is another excellent cold compress or an eyewash. When you are suffering from swelling and itchiness in the eye, you can use this remedy. Take two tea bags of chamomile tea and dip them for 5 minutes in a cup of hot water.
When they become cool, put them in the refrigerator and apply them as a cold compress over the eyes. For better results, do this 3-4 times a day for 2-3 days. As chamomile tea has anti-microbial properties, it is an effective home remedy for allergic conjunctivitis.
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Preventive measures for Conjunctivitis
-Don't touch your eyes with your hands unnecessarily.
-Wash your hands frequently.
-Use a clean towel and washcloth always.
-Don't share towels or washcloths with others.
-Change your pillowcases when you feel they are not clean.
-Don’t use eye cosmetics like mascara.
-Don't share eye cosmetics or personal eye care items with other people.
Read 10 Healthy Bedtime Teas for Better Sleep, Relaxation
Bottom Line
Pink eye or Conjunctivitis can result from many causes. However, it is not highly contagious like infected pink eye. Home remedies are the most common and effective treatments for allergic pink eye, and in most cases, you can relief from it without prescription drugs. To prevent transmission, make sure you practice good hand washing and avoid touching the eyes and face every now and then. Of course, go to your doctor if you feel something serious.
National Mental Health Strategy 2020-2030: Towards ensuring quality mental healthcare
Mental health and treating mental health conditions involves not only treating an individual’s ability to manage their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and interactions with others, but also ensuring that the social, cultural, economic, political, and environmental conditions are in place through effective national policies, social protections, adequate living standards, working conditions, community social support, and a tiered system of care through a robust network of health services. In Bangladesh, the Mental Health Act 2018 and the National Mental Health Policy 2021 were developed with the above in mind.
The Act and the Policy have also directed the development of the National Mental Health Strategic Plan for the country. The Strategic Plan document has been developed at the request of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s Department of Non-Communicable Diseases. This document has been prepared with funding from the Department for International Development, and technical support from the World Health Organization’s Regional Office for South-East Asia and the Shuchona Foundation. It is envisaged that the strategic plan will allow the incorporation of required priorities of the Government within the broader framework of the policy including appropriate resource allocation with an effective monitoring and evaluation mechanism, write Saima Wazed and Nazish Arman.
The National Mental Health Strategy 2020-2030 embarks to establish a comprehensive, inter-sectorial, integrated, and responsive system to ensure access to and utilization of quality mental health and psychosocial wellbeing services and information. The mission of the strategic plan is to establish a sustainable, rights based, holistic, inclusive, multi-sectoral framework. This will ensure provision of information and quality services for promoting mental health and psychosocial wellbeing, prevention, treatment, as well as rehabilitation of mental health conditions throughout the life course of the people of Bangladesh.
The strategy development process included a series of reviews of program evaluation reports, literature search, evidence, strategy, and policy documents by consultants, focus group discussions with relevant professional societies, ministries and division, semi-structured interviews with experts, technical group meetings, field visits and stakeholder consultative workshops for consensus building on critical issues and finalization. The core values and principles in the strategic plan are guided by the National Mental Health Policy 2021 (currently pending final approval), the Mental Health Act 2018 and several global plans and charters including the WHO Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020, UN Principles for the Protection of Persons with Mental Illness and the Improvement of Mental Health Care, the Rights of Persons with Disabilities which have been ratified by the Government of Bangladesh.
Four general objectives have been envisioned in this strategic plan which are derived from the ‘WHO Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013 – 2020’:
1) To strengthen effective leadership and governance for mental health.
2) To provide comprehensive, integrated, and responsive mental health and social care services in community-based settings.
3) To implement strategies for promotion and prevention in mental health.
4) To strengthen information systems, evidence, and research for mental health.
The Strategic Plan has been organized in a manner such that, there is a breakdown of specific objectives indicated against each of the General Objectives of WHO’s Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020, along with global and Bangladesh’s country specific indicators and targets. The mental health strategic plan also outlines Core Responsibility, Collaborative Partners, Advised Activities, Resources, Output Indicators and Funding Allocation for each of the specific objectives.
How to entertain an unwell child without screen time
Every parent knows that kids might get sick occasionally. When a kid gets ill with the flu, pains, injuries, or viral diseases, s/he may miss going to school or playing outdoors with playmates. If the illness continues for several days, it can make the child unhappy, sad and bored. However, not many parents think about how to keep an unwell child cheerful.
Some parents tend to keep ill children busy with gadgets. During ailment, electric gadgets, like phones, tablets, or TVs can be more harmful to children. Now, except for allowing gadgets what can parents do to entertain an ill child at home? Here are some tips.
10 best tips to entertain an ailing child without screen time
New Toy
Your child could have many toys at any time during their growing time. But, a new toy can bring it joy, especially during sickness. Pick a toy that your kind would love the most to possess. It will make the child happy and give it a feeling of appreciation, which can aid in the recovery process. Besides, the small gift will rekindle your kid’s love for you.
Read Best foods for expecting mothers
Crafts
Seek out various options to entertain your unwell child. You can engage the kid in various crafts such as drawing origami, skill with clay, and creating crafts to decorate our rooms. It is a good idea to set up a table containing recycled paper, where you and your kid can draw or create origami together.
Such activities will not only help the child stay at home without getting bored; but also develop its imagination power. Thus, your kid can have a lot of fun. It will help the kid to overcome illnesses in a much more relaxing manner.
Indoor Games
When your child is sick, it is best to assist them in resting. When they feel bored staying at home for days due to illness, you can play different low-stress, indoor games with them. The types of games can vary depending on the age of your child.
Read How to deal with your demanding child?
If your child is below 5, you can play puzzle games with them or engage them in imaginary cooking games with their playing instruments. Children above 5 may like to play ludo or carom and you can accompany them.
Besides puzzles, baby cooking games, ludo, or carom, you can play traditional board or table games with your sick child to give him/her companionship and entertainment. You can also create board or table games to have a fun time.
These indoor games can provide an abundance of entertainment for a child who is too ill to go outside for playing with friends. Parents and other family members can also join the ailing child and play games together to enjoy a leisurely afternoon of fun at home.
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Reading
When a child is sick, s/he may feel lonely or helpless. To make the kid happy you can engage him/her in a creative task like reading. If your child is unable to read, you can read for him or her. When your child can read, you can lend him/her a book and inspire him/her to read.
Reading books helps children to spark their imagination and give the parents a chance to spend quality time with them in a fun way. You can pick colorful story books, a rhyme, or a novel so that your child feels an attraction to read or listen to stories from you. If you enjoy reading, they will be happy and relaxed. However, make sure you choose the books that they would love to read or hear from you.
Practice Language
If your child is not much tired and getting better, you can play with them with language. For instance, you can give your school-goer kid a list of phrases and ask them to draw the definition of each word.
Read How physical punishment affects children and alternative ways to discipline them
You can ask your under-five kid to sing his/her favorite songs to tell the names of different body parts or to express their favorite foods in English or other different languages. By engaging in these activities, your kids will have a great time without gadgets while staying at home.
Best foods for expecting mothers
Staying healthy and fit during the days of pregnancy can assist in the proper growth of the unborn child. By consuming a healthy diet, a pregnant mother can get the proper proteins, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients required by her body and the fetus. To support the health of a pregnant mother and baby's growth, the mother’s regular diet should include plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, protein, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products. Here are some of the best foods and drinks for women who are expecting.
13 super-nutritious foods and drinks for pregnant mothers
Whole grains
Nutrients:
In contrast to their refined counterparts, whole grains are brimming with vitamins, fiber, and plant-based chemical compounds.
Health Benefits:
Certain whole grains, such as oats and quinoa, have a good amount of protein. They also trigger missing points during pregnancy, such as B vitamins, fiber, and magnesium.
Required amount per day:
6-8 servings of grain during pregnancy.
Read How to Stay Physically Active during Pregnancy
Sweet potatoes
Nutrients:
Calories, Water, Protein, Carbs, Sugar, Fiber, Fat
Health Benefits:
Carotenoids from sweet potatoes may reduce your risk of getting cancer. Sweet potatoes contain compounds that can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Studies have shown that sweet potatoes may reduce cholesterol levels. LDL is "bad" cholesterol which could reduce your risk of developing heart issues.
They are abundant in beta carotene. It is a plant-based compound that converts into vitamin A by your body.
Vitamin A is vital for the growth of babies. Beware of high levels of animal-based sources of vitamins, including organ meats, that can cause toxic effects.
Required amount per day:
A pregnant woman's diet should contain about 90 milligrams of Vitamin C daily. A teaspoon of sweet potatoes will give at least a third of the amount.
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Legumes
The food group includes legumes, peas, lentils, chickpeas, soybeans, and peanuts.
Nutrients:
Legumes are surprisingly healthy. It includes B Vitamins, Iron folate, calcium, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron.
Health Benefits:
Folate is among the most important B vitamin (B9). It's essential for your baby and you, particularly during the first trimester.
Required amount per day:
A pregnant mother needs at least 600 milligrams (mcg) in folate.
Read Postpartum Weight Loss: How to lose baby weight fast after pregnancy
Eggs
Nutrients:
One egg is approximately the equivalent of 147 milligrams (mg). An egg contains a small number of calories, 7 grams of high-quality quality protein, 5 grams of fat, and 1.6 grams of saturated fat. It also comes with vitamins, iron, carotenoids, and minerals. Eggs are full of anti-inflammatory nutrients, such as zeaxanthin and lutein.
Health Benefits:
Eggs are an excellent source of choline, an essential nutrient for pregnant women. It's critical to the brain development of babies and can help to prevent the development of abnormalities in the spine and brain.
Required amount per day:
Consuming two eggs daily during pregnancy will help a pregnant mom gain the protein and nutrients required.
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Broccoli, leafy and greens
Nutrients:
Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Vitamin C Manganese, Vitamin B6 Calcium, Copper, Potassium Magnesium, Manganese
Health Benefits:
Broccoli and dark, green vegetables like Kale or spinach are rich in the nutrients you'll require. They're an abundance of goodness from the green.
Incorporating portions of green vegetables is an excellent method of absorbing vitamins and avoiding constipation because of the amount of fiber. Vegetables are also associated with a decreased chance of having a baby with low birth weight.
Required amount per day:
For pregnant women, experts recommend eating 2 cups of fruit.
Read Pregnancy Anxiety? How to reduce the stress of pregnant mothers?
Proteins and lean meats
Nutrients:
Lean meats like beef and chicken are excellent sources of high-quality protein. Beef is high in iron, choline, and other B vitamins, which are necessary for more significant amounts during your pregnancy.
Health Benefits:
Iron is a mineral essential utilized by the red blood cells as a component of hemoglobin. You'll require more iron because the volume of blood is growing. Iron is especially crucial in the third trimester of your pregnancy.
Low iron levels in early and mid-term pregnancy can cause anemia caused by iron deficiency. Iron deficiency can increase the chance of having a low birth weight.
Required amount per day:
Most pregnant women need to consume around 70g of protein daily to meet their daily requirements.
Read 10 Post- Pregnancy Skincare Tips: Get Your Glow Back
Berries
Nutrients:
Berries contain a wealth of goodness within their tiny packaging, including water and nutritious carbs, vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
Health Benefits:
Berries have a relatively low glycemic index and, therefore, should not trigger significant increases in blood sugar. They are also fantastic snacks packed with both fiber and water. The best fruits to consume during pregnancy include blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, goji berries, and Acai berries. Try this blueberry juice to get some ideas.
Required amount per day:
5 cups a day along with other fruits at the beginning of the pregnancy and 6 cups a day by the third trimester.
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Dried fruit
Nutrients:
Dried fruit is rich in nutrients, calories, and diverse minerals and vitamins, including folate, iron, folate, and potassium.
Health Benefits:
Dried fruit may serve as natural laxatives that can help relieve constipation. Potassium, fiber, iron, and other phytochemicals are available on dates. But dried fruits have high levels of sugar that are naturally produced.
Required amount per day:
Not more than 100 grams of dry fruits in a day.
Read Common Sleep Problems in Children: Causes, Symptoms, Ways to Help
Fish liver oil
Nutrients:
The oil of fish liver is made from the oily livers of fish, usually cod. It's high in omega-3 acid fatty acids EPA and DHA, which are crucial for the brain and eyes of a fetus. Development.
Health Benefits:
Fish oil supplementation may aid in preventing preterm birth and could benefit the fetus' eye development.
One serving (1 teaspoon of 15 milliliters) of fish liver oil is more than the daily consumption of omega-3, vitamin D as well as vitamin A.
Required amount per day:
However, it's not advised that you consume more than one serving daily because too much vitamin A in the form of preformed could be harmful to your child.
Read How physical punishment affects children and alternative ways to discipline them
Walnuts
Nutrients:
Walnuts are among the best sources of plant-based omega-3s. They are also rich sources of magnesium, fiber, and proteins.
Health Benefits:
Walnuts are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, which lower oxidative stress within the brain. It also helps improve neurogenesis, which is the process of creating neurons. Consuming walnuts during pregnancy is beneficial to your brain and the fetus. Foetus.
Required amount per day:
4 to 5 walnuts per day is enough.
Read How to deal with your demanding child?
Greek yogurt
Nutrients:
Greek yogurt typically doubles as much protein as regular yogurt does. It's also a good food source for probiotics, vitamin B, phosphorus, and calcium.
Health Benefits:
Calcium keeps your bones strong and can help your baby build a strong skeleton. Yogurt can be a great breakfast food item and a great ingredient to add to your savory meals.
Required amount per day:
Consuming at least two cups of yogurt daily.
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Healthiest drinks for pregnant mothers
Milk
Nutrients:
Milk is rich in calories, protein, fat, calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin (B2), vitamin B12, potassium
Health Benefits:
Soymilk or milk is an excellent source of protein and calcium and should be a part of a pregnant woman's diet. The calcium content during pregnancy is essential in helping build strong bones for the developing baby.
Required amount per day:
A pregnant woman needs to drink a minimum of 3 cups of milk (low-fat) milk.
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Water
Nutrients:
Drinking water has a variety of electrolytes (substances in a solution that carry electricity) comprising fluoride, calcium, chloride, potassium, magnesium, and sodium.
Health Benefits:
Water is essential for absorption and digestion functions and helps lubricate mucous membranes in the respiratory and digestive tract.
It is essential to drink plenty of water. Particularly pregnant women. The volume of blood rises by 45 percent. The body channels water to your infant; however, if you aren't attentive to your water intake, you may also be dehydrated.
More Benefits:
-Decreases constipation/hemorrhoids.
-Reduces swelling.
-Softens skin.
-It increases energy.
-Keeps you cooler.
-Lowers risks of Urinary tract infections.
-Reduces the chance of preterm labor and preterm birth.
Required amount per day:
During pregnancy, consuming 8-12 cups (64 to 96 inches) of water is recommended daily.
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Bottom Line
To assure the healthy growth of the fetus, the pregnant mother needs to consume nutrient-rich foods that are part of an omnivorous diet of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, Lean proteins, and healthy fats.
So far, we have suggested 13 healthy foods and drinks for pregnant mothers. There is a myriad of healthy food options in different regions of the country. If you are expecting, make sure your healthcare provider is aware of your food choices and let them help you through a pregnancy diet plan. Stay safe and healthy!
Why do Mosquitoes bite me so much?
Do you ever wonder why mosquitoes bite you always while your partner or family members are sitting beside you without getting bitten?
Mosquito bites not only leave irritating itchings; but also threaten life. Some mosquitos may create life-threatening diseases such as malaria, dengue, zika, chikungunya, etc. While more than 3500 types of mosquitos are available worldwide, a few of those species bite people.
Interestingly, these insects don’t bite everyone continuously. Mosquitoes seem to love some people more than others. If you are often attacked by mosquitos, stay with us! This article will explore the reasons why mosquitoes bite you more than others.
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8 Reasons Why Mosquitoes Are Attracted to You So Much
Why do mosquitoes bite some people more than others? And is there anything we can do to stop them from biting? Here are the 8 commons reasons why some people are more like to be bitten by mosquitoes.
Body Odor
Mosquitoes are attracted to certain chemicals in the sweat of humans, and they use this to locate their victims. In fact, body odor is one of the main factors that determine how likely you are to be bitten. A person’s individual body chemistry plays a role in how attractive they are to mosquitoes.
Studies have found that some compounds, such as lactic acid and ammonia, attract mosquitoes. But there are some general guidelines that everyone can follow to minimise their risk of being bitten. Try to avoid scented products like perfumes or lotions, as these can actually attract mosquitoes.
Read Dengue vs. Severe Dengue: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention
Carbon Dioxide Emission
Carbon dioxide is a gas that is produced when humans and animals exhale. It is also produced when certain types of plants decay. Mosquitoes are attracted to the CO2 that a living being emits during the process of inhalation.
The mosquitoes use CO2 to locate humans. The amount of carbon-di-oxide a person emits may decide whether mosquitoes will be more attracted to him or not. In short, carbon dioxide is indirectly responsible for mosquito bites.
Heat and Water Vapor
Mosquitoes tend to home in on human bodies by following the heat signature that bodies give off. These insects are attracted to the vapor that we exhale as well as the heat that our bodies radiate.
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When a mosquito is close enough to sense these things, it will fly toward a human body and attempt to land on that individual’s skin. Once the mosquito is on human skin, it will insert its long, sharp proboscis into the person’s flesh in order to feed on our blood.
The amount of body heat and vapour that a human emits determines how attractive s/he is to mosquitoes. Those who emit more heat and vapor, such as pregnant women or people who exercise vigorously, are more likely to be bitten by mosquitoes.
However, there are ways to reduce the amount of heat and vapor that you emit, such as wearing light-colored clothing and staying cool and dry. By taking these measures, you can make yourself less attractive to mosquitoes and avoid being bitten.
Read Bug-free Home: How to get rid of insects indoors
Colors
A study has found that certain colors may be more likely to attract mosquitoes. The study found that mosquitoes were most attracted to dark colors such as black, likely because they contrast sharply with the color of the sky. The findings suggest that wearing clothing in black colors may increase your risk of being bitten by a mosquito.
Alcohol Consumption
The link between alcohol and mosquito bites may seem a bit counterintuitive, but there is actually a strong connection between the two. For one thing, alcohol consumption can cause changes in the body that make someone more attractive to mosquitoes.
For example, alcohol consumption can raise body temperature, making someone more likely to be bitten. In addition, alcohol consumption can cause dehydration, which makes the skin drier and more vulnerable to biting insects.
Read Climate change making dengue an annual affair in Bangladesh
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is related to a mosquito bite in a few ways. One way is that a pregnant woman’s blood is more ‘appetizing’ to a mosquito than that of a non-pregnant woman. A second way is that a pregnant woman’s body temperature is higher, making her more attractive to mosquitoes.
Body Size
The size of a person does not affect how often they get bitten by mosquitoes. Larger people simply have more surface area for mosquitoes to choose from. However, body fat percentage does play a role in how attractive you are to mosquitoes.
Studies have shown that people with higher levels of body fat are more likely to get bitten than those with lower levels of body fat. This is because mosquitoes are attracted to the lactic acid that is produced when fat is metabolized.
Read How to protect yourself and your family fron Dengue Fever
Blood Type
It’s long been known that different people react differently to mosquito bites. Some people’s skin may swell up and itch for days, while others seem to barely notice they have been bitten. Now, scientists have discovered that there may be a correlation between blood type and mosquito bites.
In a 2004 study, participants with type ‘O’ blood were found twice as likely to be bitten by mosquitoes than those with type ‘A’ blood. The reason for this difference is still unknown, but it’s possible that mosquitoes are attracted to the chemicals found in type O blood. Whatever the reason, you should keep in mind your blood type before heading outdoors into mosquito-prone areas.
How to Stay Safe from Mosquitoes?
Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of being bitten.
First, make sure to use mosquito repellent whenever you go outside, especially during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk).
Read Don't use pesticides, but destroy mosquito breeding places
You should also wear loose-fitting clothing that covers your arms and legs, as mosquitoes can bite through tight fabric. If possible, avoid standing water, as this is where mosquitoes lay their eggs.
Finally, be sure to keep your home or campsite clean and free of debris, as mosquitoes can breed in even small amounts of standing water.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about mosquito bites.
Read Keep houses clean to prevent dengue: Khokon - UNB
Final Words
So far, we have discussed why mosquitoes bite some people more than others. While there are many factors that contribute to some of the reasons may include skin sensitivity, an inability to fight off the mosquito, or simply being easier prey.
Mosquito bites can be more than just a nuisance. They can also transmit deadly diseases. However, following the above-mentioned preventive and control measures, you can be less attractive to mosquitoes, and thus minimise the risks of mosquito bites.