All posts by Sumana Rao

Don't worry about the people in your past; There's a reason they didn't make it to your future.
Five Rare Conditions In Children: Symptoms, Diagnosis And Treatment

Five Rare Conditions In Children: Symptoms, Diagnosis And Treatment

Rare diseases in children encompass a wide array of disorders, often characterized by their low prevalence but high impact on affected individuals and their families. These diseases can be genetic, metabolic, or stem from other complex causes, and often present significant challenges in terms of diagnosis, treatment, and management. 


Common characteristics

  • Low prevalence: By definition, a rare disease affects fewer than 200,000 people in the U.S. or fewer than 1 in 2,000 people in Europe.
  • Genetic origin: A sizable proportion of rare diseases in children are genetic, caused by mutations in single genes, chromosomal abnormalities, or mitochondrial defects.
  • Chronic and serious: These conditions are often chronic, progressive, and life-threatening.

Examples of rare diseases in children

  1. Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder affecting the respiratory and digestive systems.
  2. Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness.
  3. Rett Syndrome: A neurodevelopmental disorder primarily affecting girls, leading to severe cognitive and physical impairment.
  4. Spinal Muscular Atrophy: A genetic disorder affecting the motor neurons of the spinal cord, leading to muscle wasting.
  5. Gaucher Disease: A genetic disorder resulting from a deficiency of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase. 
     

References; 
https://www.csl.com/ 
https://curegrin.org/ 
https://www.chp.edu/ 
https://www.ouhealth.com/ 
https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/


Image credit: Generated with AI ∙ July 2, 2024 at 6:10 AM

Challenges In Dealing Rare Diseases In Children : Read More

Challenges In Dealing Rare Diseases In Children

Cystic Fibrosis A Genetic Disorder In Children : Read More

Cystic Fibrosis A Genetic Disorder In Children

Cystic Fibrosis Diagnosis And Treatment : Read More

Cystic Fibrosis Diagnosis And Treatment

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Rapid Muscle Degeneration In Children : Read More

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Rapid Muscle Degeneration In Children

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Diagnosis, Treatment : Read More

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Diagnosis, Treatment

Rett Syndrome A Neurological Disorder In Children : Read More

Rett Syndrome A Neurological Disorder In Children

Rett Syndrome Diagnosis, Treatment And Management : Read More

Rett Syndrome Diagnosis, Treatment And Management

Spinal Muscular Atrophy A Genetic Disorder In Children : Read More

Spinal Muscular Atrophy A Genetic Disorder In Children

Spinal Muscular Atrophy Diagnosis, Treatment And Therapy : Read More

Spinal Muscular Atrophy Diagnosis, Treatment And Therapy

Gaucher Disease Is A Rare Genetic Disorder In Children : Read More

Gaucher Disease Is A Rare Genetic Disorder In Children

Gaucher Disease Diagnosis, Treatment And Management : Read More

Gaucher Disease Diagnosis, Treatment And Management
Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: July 2, 2024
« »
« »

Recommended for you

Farming is important

Why Farming Should Be Our Top Priority

We all are witnessing changes in our environment especially the way the farmland is converting to build buildings and infrastructures. In addition, the generation who love desk jobs are moving away from farming. Their visit to nature and farms is restricted to the weekend for fun and entertainment. We all need nutritious food and to get that food, it is important to focus on farming as it is critical for our survival. It is time to rethink our priorities and focus on how we can help our farmers and farming.

Farming is critical for following reasons, it is impacting various aspects of society and the environment  in different ways:

1. Food security:

Primary source of food: Farming is the backbone of food production, providing most of the world’s supply of fruits, vegetables, grains, and animal products.

Sustenance: Ensures that populations have access to a stable and sufficient supply of nutritious food, which is fundamental for survival and health.

2. Economic stability:

Employment: Provides jobs for millions of people worldwide, especially in developing countries where agriculture is a major source of employment.

Income generation: Farming and related industries contribute significantly to national economies through the production and export of agricultural products.

3. Rural development:

·        Infrastructure improvement: Farming encourages the development of rural areas by improving infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and irrigation systems.

·        Community building: Supports the establishment and maintenance of local communities, schools, and healthcare facilities in rural areas.

4. Environmental stewardship:

·        Land management: Responsible farming practices help maintain soil health, prevent erosion, and promote biodiversity.

·        Sustainability: Sustainable agriculture practices aim to reduce environmental impact, conserve water, and reduce the use of harmful chemicals, contributing to the overall health of the planet.

5. Cultural significance:

·        Tradition and heritage: Farming practices and crops often have deep cultural and historical significance, preserving traditions and heritage.

·        Diet and cuisine: Shapes local and national diets, influencing culinary practices and food culture.

6. Raw materials for industry:

·        Non-Food products: Provides raw materials for varieties of industries, including textiles (cotton, wool), biofuels (corn, sugarcane), pharmaceuticals, and more.

·        Secondary products: By-products from farming, such as crop residues and animal manure, are used in various industrial processes and for bioenergy production.

7. Health and nutrition:

·        Nutrient Supply: Farming is crucial to produce diverse foods that provide essential nutrients required for human health and development.

·        Food Quality: Quality farming practices ensure the availability of fresh, nutritious, and safe food.

8. Global stability:

·        Reducing hunger and poverty: Effective farming practices can significantly reduce hunger and poverty, particularly in developing regions, fostering global stability.

·        Trade and diplomacy: Agricultural trade is a major component of international relations and economic agreements.

Farming is essential not just for providing food, but for fostering economic growth, ensuring environmental sustainability, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting global stability. Its multifaceted impact underscores the need for continued support, innovation, and sustainable practices in agriculture.

Image credentials: Generated with AI ∙ June 24, 2024, at 7:59 PM

 

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: June 26, 2024
« »
« »

Recommended for you

Bird flu in India

Four Year Old Infected With Bird Flu In India

Recently, the International Health Regulations (IHR) National Focal Point (NFP) for India reported to WHO a case of human infection with avian influenza A(H9N2) virus detected in a child resident of West Bengal in India. Child has been recovered and sent home.

WHO expressed deep concern regarding the increasing transmission of H5N1 bird flu to other species, including humans.

This is the second human infection of avian influenza A(H9N2) notified to WHO from India, with the first in 2019. The child has recovered and was discharged from hospital.

According to the IHR (2005), a human infection caused by a novel influenza A virus subtype is an event that has the potential for high public health impact and must be notified to the WHO. Most human cases of infection with avian influenza A(H9N2) viruses are exposed to the virus through contact with infected poultry or contaminated environments.

Avian influenza A (H9N2) is a subtype of influenza A virus that primarily affects birds, including poultry like chickens and turkeys. Occasionally, it can infect humans and other mammals. Here is a general overview of Avian Influenza A (H9N2) and its situation in India:

Avian Influenza A (H9N2) Overview:

· Virus Type: Avian influenza A (H9N2) is a type of influenza A virus commonly found in birds, particularly poultry.

· Transmission: It primarily spreads among birds through respiratory secretions and fecal contamination. Human infections are rare and usually occur after direct contact with infected birds.

· Symptoms in Birds: Infected birds may show symptoms like reduced egg production, respiratory issues, and sometimes mortality, although many infected birds show no symptoms.

· Human Infections: Human infections with H9N2 are generally mild, causing symptoms like seasonal flu -fever, cough, sore throat, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and conjunctivitis and rarely severe during which breathing can be hard and pneumonia can occur.

· Detection: Swabs of throat and nose followed by series of tests including RT-PCR will help to identify the virus. Serological studies including blood tests will help to identify the antibodies against the virus is essential for determining immune responses and any verifying prior infections of bird flu.

Avian Influenza A (H9N2) in India:

As stated by WHO this is the 2nd bird flu case in India, the first one was reported in 2019. According to Dr. Saurabh Khanna, Lead Consultant, Pediatrics and Neonatology at CK Birla Hospital – “While  H9N2 virus primarily infects birds, it can occasionally infect humans, including children”. The risk of getting bird flu is comparatively low unless children come in contact with a contaminated environment, infected birds, animals, or their secretions. Children are more susceptible to this virus as their immune system will be in development stage unlike adults who have more resistance to the infection. Both in adults and children symptoms remain same, severity of infection will be different.

· Occurrence: H9N2 has been detected in poultry in India, but human cases are uncommon.

· Surveillance: The Indian government conducts surveillance and monitoring of influenza viruses in poultry populations to detect any potential outbreaks or transmissions to humans.

· Prevention and Control: Measures such as vaccination of poultry, biosecurity measures on farms, and restrictions on poultry movement are implemented to control the spread of H9N2 and other avian influenza viruses.

· Public Health Response: Public health authorities in India, like in other countries, emphasize monitoring and rapid response to potential outbreaks to prevent human infections and ensure food safety.

While Avian Influenza A (H9N2) is present in poultry in India, human infections are rare and typically mild. H9N2 is not easily transmitted between humans. However, surveillance and control measures are crucial in managing the virus and minimizing its impact on both animal and human health.

References:

·        Avian Influenza A (H9N2)- India (who.int)

·        https://indianexpress.com/

·        https://www.businesstoday.in/

·        Image credit: Copilot: Generated with AI ∙ June 24, 2024 at 7:32 & 7:39 pm

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: June 25, 2024
« »
« »

Recommended for you

DIY Safe Homemade Sunscreen

DIY Homemade sunscreen recipe
Sunscreen image credit: Image by carolinaca1995 from Pixabay  , Free for use under the Pixabay Content License
Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: June 24, 2024
« »
« »

Recommended for you

Roasted mango juice

Roasted Mango Juice

Roasted mango juice has a rich, caramelized flavor that is perfect for a refreshing summer drink. Adjust the sweetness and tartness by adding honey and lime juice according to your taste. The process of roasting or charring the mango skin adds a unique flavor and mango juice tastes delightful!

Roasted mango juice recipe

Ingredients:

1.        Ripe mangoes – 2 to 4

2.        Honey (optional, adjust to taste): 2 Tbsp.

3.        Lime juice – 1 Tbsp

4.        Icy water – 1 cup

5.        Ice cubes – few (Optional)

6.        Pepper powder – little

7.        Mint leaves (optional for garnish)

8.        Black salt – little

Preparation:

1.        Char mango skin:

·        If you are using an oven, then,

1)        Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2)        Prepare the Mangoes: Wash the mangoes thoroughly. Cut the mangoes in half, avoiding the seed. Remove the seed and place the mango halves on a baking sheet with the cut side facing up.

3)        Roast the Mangoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the mangoes for about 20-25 minutes or until they are caramelized and slightly charred around the edges.

·        If you are using flame to roast mangoes: Wash mangoes and on low or medium flame hold the mangoes and slowly turn over to churn the skin.

2.        After cooling peel, the charred skin and extract the pulp.

3.        Transfer pulp to blender. Blend roasted mango pulp, honey, lime juice, black salt, pepper, and icy water. Add more water depending on your desired consistency.

4.        If you prefer to have smooth juice then, you can strain the juice. Otherwise transfer the juice into glasses, garnish with mint leaves and serve.

Serve immediately or refrigerate the juice for few minutes. Enjoy your refreshing roasted mango juice!

Image credit: www.werindia.com: Generated with AI ∙ June 20, 2024, at 6:53 PM

 

 

 

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: June 21, 2024
« »
« »

Recommended for you

How to prevent mold at home

Mold Prevention Tips

Mold can cause severe damage to the house. Having mold infection also means inviting infection inside home.  A small spot of mold that you notice at home, must not be neglected. Act today before it grows and cause problem to house. Why mold grows at home and how to prevent mold growth?

To control mold damage, one has to control the moisture and if any signs of mold growth is there, immediately work on to get rid of the mold.

Where and when can we expect mold?

  1. Humidity: Sometimes depending on location where your live, mold appears in and outside the house walls. Humid conditions can lead to mold growth outside the house.
  2. Leaks: Any type of leaks on and behind wall, water dripping under the sink, water leak from roof can damage the area and mold develops
  3. No air circulation: Fresh air is critical for house as well as for people live inside the house. No airflow leads to stagnant, damp air that supports mold.
  4. If you find water mark on roof, wall paper or feel musty odor – it could be due to hidden leaks from the poor plumbing.
  5. Steam in bathroom: Humidity accumulation in bathroom due to hot shower promotes mold growth. Dampness of wall and curtain causes this issue.
  6. Vents and duct: Moisture in vents an duct support mold growth.
  7. Basement: Having basement is great. In some places basement is used for vehicle parking, and many countries basement is an extra place. Basement is generally the wettest place and one will feel dampness.  If the air is not circulating or not kept dry, if downspouts are not fixed properly it could lead to severe mold.
  8. Water standing: When there is stagnant water and does not drain for long time, mold starts to grow and drainage pipe will turn black. Similarly if the water is sitting in a bottle, vessel or even coffee pot it could lead to mold development
  9. Wet floor and carpets: Dampness in floor and carpet leads to mold. If you are coming inside house in rain or snow boots, step onto floor or carpet or leave shoes on the floor or carpet- small water pool that is created could lead to mold development.
  10. Wet clothes: During rainy seasons drying cloth could be problem. And if the clothes are not dried properly, mold easily grows not only causing dots on cloths also, it gives musty, mildew odor and wearing such clothes could cause itchiness.

Mold prevention tips and preparation of mold removal solutions: First use methods to remove the mold and mold mark. If you don’t know how to remove mold, call professionals to address mold issues. You can also prevent mold growth using following tips.

  1. Check for visible as well as hidden leaks. Call plumbers if you notice any water mark and mildew growth. Any hidden leaks should be fixed properly.
  2. Run exhaust fan in bathroom or if it is safe, open the windows to allow fresh air and sun light to enter.
  3. Run humidifier in basement and if there is dampness in basement, use heater to dry the area.
  4. Remove stagnat water on the floor. Allow it to dry.
  5. Dry wet floor and carpets: Use paper towel or dry towel to suck the water from floor and carpet. Run a room heater to dry the area.
  6. Use wet vacuum and dehumidifier to clean the house and to remove dampness.
  7. Clean house plant trays. Standing water in the trays should be taken out and clean the tray.
  8. Open house windows whenever you can. Daily opening windows is a great idea. This allows fresh air to come in.
  9. Investigate the house from outside. Look at wooden structure, windows, pipes, gutter for mold signs.
  10. Use dehumidifier inside house to remove humidity and moisture.
  11. Clean vent and duct – call professional at least once in two years. Clean vent covers using vinegar and dry it off.
  12. Dry clothes properly. Don’t leave damp clothes anywhere in the house. Use dryer to dry clothes or dry clothes by properly hanging them.

Mold removal solutions: Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands while working with chemicals and other cleaning products. And, Do not mix ammonia and bleach solution ever as it causes toxic fumes breathing of which cause severe sickness.

Here are three mold removal solutions:

  • For kitchen and baths: Use undiluted white vinegar on hard surfaces. 
  • Bleach solution kills mold. To one gallon of water mix one cup of bleach and apply on surface. Leave it for 15 mins and wash using hot water. 
  • Mix ammonia and water at 1:1 solution. Spray on the surface, wait two to three hours, then rinse. 

Having mold infection can cause breathing issue. Those who have low immunity or moderate immunity should not be exposed to mold spores as inhaling mold spores could cause breathing problem. Take all necessary preventive measures to prevent mold growth.

Image credit: Photo by Peter Herrmann on Unsplash (Free for commercial use)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: June 20, 2024
« »
« »

Recommended for you

multifidus muscle improvement by yoga

Improve Your Spine Health By Strengthening Multifidus Muscles Through Yoga

The multifidus muscles are a series of small but crucial muscles along the spine that provide stability and support. They run from the sacrum at the base of the spine up to the cervical region, attaching to the vertebrae. Strong and functional multifidus muscles are essential for maintaining proper posture, spinal alignment, and overall back health.

Importance of multifidus muscles:

  • Spinal Stability: They help stabilize the spine during movement.
  • Posture: They support the vertebrae, aiding in maintaining an upright posture.
  • Injury Prevention: A strong multifidus reduces the risk of back injuries and pain.
  • Movement Efficiency: They assist with controlled and efficient movement, especially in the lower back.

Yoga poses to strengthen and engage the multifidus muscles:

Yoga can be particularly effective in strengthening and engaging the multifidus muscles. Here are some poses that can help:

Bird-dog pose (Parsva Balasana):

  1. Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position.
  2. Extend your right arm forward and your left leg back, keeping your spine neutral.
  3. Hold for a few breaths, then switch sides.

This pose engages multifidus by requiring stability and balance.

Locust pose (Salabhasana):

  1. Lie on your stomach with your arms alongside your body, palms facing up.
  2. Lift your chest, arms, and legs off the ground, engaging your back muscles.
  3. Hold for several breaths before lowering back down.

This pose strengthens the entire back, including the multifidus muscles.

Bridge pose (Setu Bandhasana):

  1. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart.
  2. Lift your hips towards the ceiling while pressing your feet into the ground.
  3. Engage your core and glutes to maintain stability.

This pose targets the lower back and engages the multifidus muscles.

Side plank (Vasisthasana):

  1. Begin in a plank position.
  2. Shift your weight onto your right hand and the outer edge of your right foot.
  3. Stack your left foot on top of your right and lift your left arm towards the ceiling.
  4. Hold for a few breaths, then switch sides.

This pose challenges the multifidus to stabilize the spine laterally.

Cat-cow pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana):

  1. Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position.
  2. Inhale, arch your back (cow pose), lifting your head and tailbone towards the ceiling.
  3. Exhale, round your spine (cat pose), tucking your chin to your chest.

This dynamic movement helps to mobilize and strengthen the multifidus muscles through flexion and extension of the spine.

Warrior III (Virabhadrasana III):

  1. Stand on one leg, extend the other leg back, and lean your torso forward.
  2. Extend your arms forward or out to the sides for balance.
  3. Keep your spine neutral and engage your core.

This pose requires balance and strength, engaging the multifidus to maintain stability.

Tips for practicing yoga to engage multifidus muscles:

  • Focus on alignment: Proper alignment ensures that you are engaging the correct muscles and not straining other parts of the body.
  • Engage the core: A strong core supports the spine and helps engage the multifidus muscles effectively.
  • Breathe deeply: Deep, controlled breathing helps to stabilize the core and maintain focus.
  • Move mindfully: Slow and controlled movements ensure that you are using the multifidus muscles rather than relying on momentum.

By incorporating these yoga poses into your routine, you can help strengthen and engage the multifidus muscles, contributing to better spinal health, improved posture, and reduced risk of back pain.

Image credit: All 3 images – pxhere.com (CC0 Public Domain)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: June 19, 2024
« »
« »

Recommended for you

Gluteal tendinopathy hip pain

Lateral Hip Pain Gluteal Tendinopathy Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

Gluteal tendinopathy, also known as gluteal tendinitis or lateral hip pain, is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation of the tendons in the gluteal muscles, particularly the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus. These muscles are located on the outer side of the hip and are important for stabilizing the pelvis during walking, running, and other activities.

Causes: Gluteal tendinopathy is often caused by overuse or repetitive stress, but it can also result from acute injury or trauma. Contributing factors include:

  • Overtraining or sudden increase in physical activity
  • Poor biomechanics, such as excessive hip adduction or internal rotation
  • Weakness in the hip abductor muscles.
  • Prolonged periods of sitting or standing
  • Previous hip or lower limb injuries

Symptoms: The primary symptoms of gluteal tendinopathy include:

  • Pain and tenderness on the outside of the hip
  • Pain that worsens with activities such as walking, running, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side
  • Stiffness and reduced range of motion in the hip
  • Swelling or warmth over the affected area

Diagnosis: Diagnosis of gluteal tendinopathy typically involves a combination of:

  1. Clinical evaluation, including a physical examination and assessment of symptoms.
  2. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, visualize tendon inflammation or damage.
  3. Functional assessments to evaluate hip strength and biomechanics.

Treatment: Treatment for gluteal tendinopathy often includes a combination of conservative measures aimed at reducing pain and inflammation, improving tendon healing, and correcting contributing factors.

  1. Rest and activity modification: Avoiding activities that aggravate the condition and incorporating rest periods.
  2. Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen the hip abductor muscles, improve flexibility, and correct biomechanics. This may include specific exercises like clamshells, side-lying leg lifts, and hip bridges.
  3. Pain management: Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.
  4. Ice therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain.
  5. Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
  6. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive treatment that uses shockwaves to promote tendon healing.
  7. Surgery: In severe or refractory cases, surgical intervention may be considered to repair damaged tendons or correct underlying structural issues.

Prevention: Preventing gluteal tendinopathy involves maintaining good hip strength and flexibility, avoiding overtraining, and addressing any biomechanical issues. Regular exercise, proper warm-up and cool-down routines, and attention to proper technique during physical activities can help reduce the risk of developing this condition.

With appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, most individuals with gluteal tendinopathy can recover fully and return to their normal activities. However, recovery times can vary, and it is important to follow a tailored treatment plan to ensure optimal healing and prevent recurrence.

Image credit: Image by Milius007 from Pixabay (Free for use under the Pixabay Content License)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: June 14, 2024
« »
« »

Recommended for you