Health
Pakistan hospital overwhelmed as flood-borne illnesses spread
The emergency ward on the major authorities hospital in Sehwan, a small city in southern Pakistan, is overwhelmed.
On a current go to, Reuters witnessed tons of of individuals crammed into rooms and corridors, desperately in search of remedy for malaria and different diseases which can be spreading quick after the nation’s worst floods in a long time.
Amid the crush, Naveed Ahmed, a younger physician within the emergency response division of the Abdullah Shah Institute of Well being Sciences, is surrounded by 5 or 6 folks attempting to get his consideration.
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The 30-year-old retains his cool as stretched emergency providers wrestle to deal with hundreds of sufferers arriving from miles round after their properties have been submerged beneath water when heavy rains fell in August and September.
“We change into so overworked at occasions that I really feel like collapsing and occurring an intravenous drip,” a smiling Ahmed advised Reuters as he sipped a cup of tea within the hospital’s canteen throughout a brief break.
“But it surely’s due to the prayers of those sufferers that we hold going.”
Ahmed is on the frontline of the battle to restrict illness and loss of life throughout southern Pakistan, the place tons of of cities and villages have been minimize off by rising waters. The deluge has affected round 33 million folks in a rustic of 220 million.
Many of the estimated 300-400 sufferers arriving at his clinic every morning, lots of them kids, are affected by malaria and diarrhoea, though with winter approaching, Ahmed fears different diseases will change into extra widespread.
“I hope folks displaced by the floods can get again to their properties earlier than winter; (if not) they are going to be uncovered to respiratory diseases and pneumonia residing in tents,” he stated.
Lots of of hundreds of Pakistanis who fled their properties live in authorities camps set as much as accommodate them, or just out within the open.
Stagnant floodwaters, unfold over tons of of sq. kilometres, could take two to 6 months to recede in some locations, and have already led to widespread circumstances of pores and skin and eye infections, diarrhoea, malaria, typhoid and dengue fever.
The disaster hits Pakistan at a very dangerous time. With its financial system in disaster, propped up by loans from the Worldwide Financial Fund, it doesn’t have the assets to deal with the long term results of the flooding.
Practically 1,700 folks have been killed within the floods brought on by heavy monsoon rains and melting glaciers. Pakistan estimates the price of the harm at $30 billion, and the federal government and United Nations have blamed the disaster on local weather change.
Over 340 folks have died of ailments brought on by the floods, authorities have stated.
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‘Second Catastrophe’
In accordance with the well being division of Sindh province, the worst-affected area, 17,285 circumstances of malaria have been confirmed since July 1.
Anticipating the chance of illness outbreaks after the rescue and aid part of the floods, the Sindh authorities is attempting to rent greater than 5,000 well being professionals on a short lived foundation in districts most in danger.
“We’re in need of human assets contemplating the magnitude of the burden of illness following the unprecedented rains and floods,” Qasim Soomro, provincial lawmaker and parliamentary well being secretary of the Sindh authorities, advised Reuters.
The World Well being Group (WHO) has raised concern about an impending “second catastrophe” of water-borne ailments spreading throughout the nation, notably in Sindh.
Within the hospital ward in Sehwan, a younger man with a excessive fever was having suits on a mattress outdoors the principle emergency room. His mom ran to Ahmed, who attended the affected person and requested a male nurse to position chilly pads on his brow.
The air was heavy with humidity, and there weren’t sufficient air conditioners to chill temperatures in overcrowded corridors lined with beds. The wards have been stuffed to capability and a handful of beds had a couple of affected person on them.
Ahmed, a graduate of a college in China, described the stress he and different medics have been beneath.
“With such inflow, we … can’t watch for take a look at outcomes for every affected person to begin the remedy,” he stated, including he beginsadministering drugs for malaria as quickly as he sees some signs.
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The institute in Sehwan serves folks from neighbouring cities and districts, together with these residing in camps whereas the waters recede and rebuilding can start.
Jagan Shahani’s daughter fell unconscious after getting a fever round every week in the past. He used a ship to get out of his flooded village of Bhajara and flagged down a automobile on the close by street that took them to Sehwan.
“Medical doctors stated she had malaria,” he stated late final week. “That is our fourth night time right here. There’s nothing right here to eat however Allah has been very type to supply all the pieces,” added Shahani, whose 15-year-old daughter Hameeda is now recovering.
On the outskirts of city, tons of of displaced folks queued up for rations being distributed at Lal Bagah, a tent settlement the place displaced households ready tea and breakfast on open fires.
The Indus Freeway that runs previous Sehwan is dotted with tent camps for displaced folks.
Some are starting to return residence the place waters have retreated far sufficient, however not all are so fortunate.
“There is no such thing as a one right here to assist me however Allah. I pray to Allah that the waters recede in my village and I can return to my residence,” stated Madad Ali Bozdar.
Bozdar, 52, is from Bubak, a city positioned on the north-eastern financial institution of Manchar Lake. Talking on Friday, he stated his village was nonetheless beneath 10 to 12 toes (3-4 metres) of water. He anticipated to have the ability to return in round two months’ time.
Health
Supercharge your immune system with these 10 foods
Did you know that some foods can help boost your immune system naturally and work to keep you healthy? In this article, learn how to incorporate the best immunity-boosting foods into your diet – and why these foods in particular help protect your health.
Nature’s best illness fighters
Many foods you’ll find at your local grocery store can help keep you healthy throughout the year. These 10 common foods top the list.
1. Mushrooms
Mushrooms contain selenium, deficiency of which may cause increased susceptibility to contracting a virus, as found in a study published in Nutrients journal. The riboflavin and niacin found in mushrooms are also important for a healthy immune system.
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Try adding a handful of mushrooms to your pasta sauce, scrambled eggs and omelets, or throw them on top of a homemade pizza. Mushrooms are also delicious, simply sautéed or roasted with a little olive oil and salt and pepper.
2. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes and other orange foods like carrots, squash and pumpkin contain the antioxidant beta-carotene. This is a form of vitamin A that is essential for keeping your skin strong and able to fight off bacteria and viruses.
“Vitamin A helps regulate the immune system and protects you from infections by supporting immune system cells and barriers that keep the bad stuff out,” said Kara Lydon, a dietitian, certified intuitive eating counselor, and author of the e-book Nourish Your Namaste: How Nutrition and Yoga Can Support Digestion, Immunity, Energy and Relaxation. “One sweet potato has over 380% of the daily value for vitamin A.”
Try cutting sweet potatoes into strips and baking them coated in a little olive oil, salt and pepper to make a healthy homemade version of French fries.
Or, for a major time-saving hack, learn how to cook a sweet potato in the microwave, then simply top it with a little butter and cinnamon for an easy side dish.
3. Almonds
Almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E, another antioxidant responsible for supporting the immune system. Grab a handful – 1/4 cup – to get 50% of your daily recommended amount of vitamin E.
4. Yogurt
Yogurt contains live and active cultures called probiotics. These can help stimulate the immune system and keep our gut and intestinal tract healthy and free of disease-causing bacteria.
Any yogurt with a Live and Active Cultures seal contains some beneficial bugs. You can see them in the ingredients list as well.
Dairy products, like yogurt, also tend to be good sources of vitamin D; a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found vitamin D deficiency is linked to an increased risk of contracting a cold or the flu.
5. Leafy greens
Leafy greens like spinach and kale are rich in a whole host of nutrients, including fiber, antioxidants and folate, which is especially important for immune function, as per a study in The Journal of Immunology.
Both spinach and kale leaves are great tossed into a salad with another lighter, crunchier green, like romaine, for texture variance. Spinach leaves are also an excellent replacement for less nutrient-dense iceberg lettuce on a sandwich.
You can also use spinach and kale in fruit smoothies – just be sure to use only the leaves of the kale, not the bitter stems.
If you’re more a fan of savory, crunchy snacks, give a baked kale chips recipe a try – they are easy to make and surprisingly delicious.
6. Tea
Green and black tea contain polyphenols and flavonoids, which are antioxidants that help fight disease. In addition, an amino acid that’s responsible for an immune boost, L-theanine, is abundant in both black and green tea. Decaf versions have it, too.
Drink several unsweetened cups per day to reap the benefits. To get more antioxidants from your tea bags, bob them up and down while they brew.
7. Cabbage
This inexpensive winter vegetable is a source of glutamine, which has been noted by many studies, including one in Nutrients journal, to strengthen the immune system. Try it in your winter soups and stews, or throw shredded raw cabbage into your wraps or salads to add a nice crunch that won’t change the flavor profile of the meal.
8. Garlic
In addition to warding off vampires, garlic also contains the active ingredient allicin, which fights infection and bacteria with its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Minced garlic is great sautéed with spinach and a little olive oil for a simple side dish, and minced garlic is also a delicious addition to homemade salsa. Tip: buy garlic pre-minced to save time and mess.
9. Barley and oats
These grains contain beta-glucan, a type of fiber with antimicrobial and antioxidant capabilities that have been found to stimulate the immune system. According to a study published in Physiology & Behavior, beta-glucan can help prime the immune system and support resistance against invading pathogens.
Barley is a great addition to soups and salads thanks to its wonderfully chewy texture, and oats can make an easy and nutritious breakfast.
If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s ready for you when you wake up, give overnight oats with almond milk a try – a few minutes of quick prep the night before will have breakfast ready and waiting by morning.
10. Fish
Selenium, which is especially plentiful in shellfish such as oysters, lobsters, crabs and clams, helps white blood cells produce cytokines-proteins that help clear flu viruses out of the body.
In addition, salmon, mackerel and herring are rich in omega-3 fats, which reduce inflammation and increase airflow, protecting lungs from colds and respiratory infections.
Mix canned salmon with half a mashed avocado, a spoonful of Dijon mustard, and a spoonful of mayonnaise to make a flavorful and nutrient-dense salmon salad that’s great in a wrap, on a sandwich or simply with crackers.
Takeaways
Boosting your immune system with the foods that you eat is more accessible than you might think – and more important, too.
“Research shows that various nutrient deficiencies – vitamins A, C, E, B, D, selenium, zinc, iron, copper and folic acid – can increase your susceptibility to disease,” said Lydon. “In fact, malnutrition is the most common cause of immune-deficiency in the world, so making sure you’re eating adequately is key for immune health.”
Stock up on these natural illness fighters – mushrooms, sweet potatoes, almonds, yogurt, leafy greens, green and black tea, cabbage, garlic, barley and oats and fish – on your next trip to the grocery store.
Health
These medications could make driving dangerous, the FDA warns
It’s become common knowledge that drinking and driving don’t mix — but should you get behind the wheel after popping a pill?
It depends on the type of medication, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
While most medicines are safe to take on the go, some may cause side effects that can interfere with the ability to operate a vehicle or heavy machinery, the agency warned in a notice on its website.
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These side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, fainting, lack of coordination, nausea, inability to focus or pay attention, and excitability, the FDA noted.
“Some medicines can affect your driving for a short time after you take them,” the notice stated. “For others, the effects can last for several hours and even into the next day.”
Some medicines come with a warning to not operate a vehicle or operate heavy machinery for a certain period of time after taking them.
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“Many different types of medications — such as antipsychotics, anti-epileptic medications, stimulants, muscle relaxants, opioids, benzodiazepines, sleeping pills, some antidepressants, and even over-the-counter medications like antihistamines — can cause side effects that impair mental and motor functions, including fatigue, headaches, nausea, blurred vision, delayed reaction times and visual impairment,” Katy Dubinsky, a New York pharmacist and the CEO and co-founder of Vitalize, a private supplement company, told Fox News Digital.
“These side effects significantly reduce alertness and clear vision, which are crucial for safely driving and performing everyday tasks,” she added.
Dr. Shana Johnson, a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician in Scottsdale, Arizona, noted that central nervous system depressants can be particularly dangerous for driving — as these medications exert their effects by calming the brain.
“Side effects associated with this calming include sleepiness, loss of focus and fuzzy thinking,” she told Fox News Digital.
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“Common examples of this class are medications for muscle spasms (muscle relaxants), pain (opioids), seizures (anti-seizure medications) and anxiety (benzodiazepines).”
Two other classes of medications that have sedating effects are antihistamines used for allergy control and anticholinergics used for bladder control and chronic pain, Johnson added.
Medications that don’t mix with driving
The FDA website includes the following list of medications that could make it dangerous to drive.
- Antipsychotic medicines
- Anti-seizure medicines (antiepileptic drugs)
- Diet pills, “stay awake” medicines and other stimulants, including caffeine, ephedrine and pseudoephedrine
- Medicines that treat or control symptoms of diarrhea and urine or bladder control
- Medicines that treat or prevent symptoms of motion sickness
- Muscle relaxants
- Opioids, including some cough suppressants containing codeine and hydrocodone
- Prescription medicines for anxiety (for example, benzodiazepines)
- Sleeping pills
- Some antidepressants
- Some prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) cold remedies and allergy medicines that contain antihistamines, nighttime sleep aids or cough medicines
- Products containing cannabis or cannabis-derived compounds, including CBD
Taking sleep medicines at night can sometimes cause impaired driving the next day, the FDA warned.
“If you take sleep drugs, talk with your health care professional about ways to take the lowest effective dose, when to take the medicines before bedtime, and when it would be safe to drive again after taking a sleep medicine,” the agency advised.
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Allergy medications may contain antihistamines that can also impede driving ability, the FDA added.
“Antihistamines can slow your reaction time, make it hard to focus or think clearly, and may cause mild confusion even if you don’t feel drowsy.”
Johnson said the impact of medications on driving abilities may vary from person to person.
“One person may feel no sleepiness with an antihistamine, while another may feel sleepy the whole day,” she told Fox News Digital.
“Seeing how a medication affects you is important to know before driving on it.”
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In her practice, Johnson said she tells her patients to try a new medication when they don’t have plans to drive — so they can see how it affects them and avoid a dangerous situation.
“The risk of medications impairing driving increases if you are on multiple medications with sedating side effects and with older adults,” she added.
Preventing impaired driving
For those who are taking medications, it’s recommended to consult with a health care professional for guidance related to driving.
For over-the-counter medicines, the agency recommends always following directions for use and reading the warnings on the Drug Facts label.
For prescription medications, the agency recommends following the directions and warnings on packaging, as well as reading the FDA-approved labeling.
“Your health care professional might be able to change your dose, adjust the timing of when you take the medicine, or switch the medicine to one that causes fewer side effects for you,” the FDA stated.
It’s also important to tell your doctor about other medicines, vitamins or supplements you are taking, as it’s possible that they could impact any side effects.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.
Health
Your Guide to Ozempic and the New Weight-Loss Drugs: Top Experts + Real Women Tell All
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