Physiological Changes in Pregnancy

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Physiological changes occur in pregnancy to nurture the developing fetus and prepare the mother for labor and delivery. Some of these changes influence normal biochemical values while others may mimic symptoms of medical disease. It is important to differentiate between normal physiological changes and disease pathology.

What are Physiological changes?

Pregnancy causes physiologic changes in all maternal organ systems; most return to normal after delivery. These changes happen in response to many factors; hormonal changes, increase in the total blood volume, weight gain, and increase in fetus size as the pregnancy progresses. All these factors have a physiological impact on the pregnant woman: the musculoskeletal, endocrine, reproductive, cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, urinary, gastrointestinal, and immune systems are affected, along with changes to the skin and breasts. The full gestation period is 39-40 weeks, and pre-term birth is classed as delivery before 37 weeks gestation, although there is variation internationally and it is thought that the length of human pregnancies also varies naturally.

The primary function of pregnancy is to allow for the growth and development of the fetus. All changes that occur within the mother’s body are intended to allow for this growth, as well as for the development of the placenta to nourish the fetus and sustain the pregnancy. 

A pregnant woman will also become hypercoagulable, leading to an increased risk of developing blood clots and embolisms, such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Women are 4-5 times more likely to develop a clot during pregnancy and in the postpartum period than when they are not pregnant. Hypercoagulability in pregnancy likely evolved to protect women from hemorrhage at the time of miscarriage or childbirth. In third-world countries, the leading cause of maternal death is still hemorrhage. In the United States 2011-2013, hemorrhage made up 11.4% and pulmonary embolisms made up 9.2% of all pregnancy-related deaths.

The increased risk of clots can be attributed to several things. Plasma levels of pro-coagulation factors increased markedly in pregnancy, including von Willebrand Factor, fibrinogen, factor VII, factor VIII, and factor X. Both the production of prostacyclin (an inhibitor of platelet aggregation) and thromboxane (an inducer of platelet aggregation and a vasoconstrictor) are increased, but overall there is an increase in platelet reactivity which can lead to a predisposition to clots. There is also increased blood stasis due to the compression of the vena cava by the enlargening uterus. Many factors have been shown to increase the risk of clots in pregnancy, including baseline thrombophilia, cesarean section, preeclampsia, etc. Clots usually develop in the left leg or the left iliac/ femoral venous system. Recently, there have been several case reports of May-Thurner Syndrome in pregnancy, where the right common iliac artery compresses the below left common iliac vein.

In general, the changes are more dramatic in multifetal than in single pregnancies. These physiologic changes allow the parturient to support the growing uterus and fetus and to withstand labor and the postpartum course. Because the gravida may require surgery while pregnant, it is important to have an appreciation of these physiologic changes. 

Disclaimer

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Pregnancy

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What is Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is the term used to describe the period in which a fetus develops inside a woman’s womb or uterus. Pregnancy occurs when a sperm fertilizes an egg after it’s released from the ovary during ovulation. It is the term used to describe the period in which a fetus develops inside a woman’s womb or uterus. 

Symptoms of Pregnancy

You may notice some signs and symptoms before you even take a pregnancy test. Others will appear weeks later, as your hormone levels change. Many people notice symptoms early in their pregnancy, but others may not have any symptoms at all. Some early pregnancy symptoms can sometimes feel like other common conditions (like PMS). So the only way to know for sure if you’re pregnant is to take a pregnancy test. You can either take a home pregnancy test (the kind you buy at the drug or grocery store), or get a pregnancy test at your doctor’s office or local Planned Parenthood Health Center.

Pregnancy week by week

Pregnancy weeks are grouped into three trimesters, each one with medical milestones for both you and the baby. A baby grows rapidly during the first trimester (weeks 1 to 12). The fetus begins developing its brain, spinal cord, and organs. The baby’s heart will also begin to beat. During the second trimester of pregnancy (weeks 13 to 27), your healthcare provider will likely perform an anatomy scan ultrasound. During the third trimester (weeks 28 to 40), your weight gain will accelerate, and you may feel more tired. Every pregnancy is different, but developments will most likely occur within this general time frame. Find out more about the changes you and your baby will undergo throughout the trimesters and sign up for our I’m Expecting newsletter to receive week-by-week pregnancy guidance.

Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy

During pregnancy, some common infections that may occur are the flu, vaginal yeast infections, uterine infections, group B streptococcus, bacterial vaginosis, and listeria. Changes in immune function may cause this increased risk of infection, and if left untreated, may lead to serious complications. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common complications women experience during pregnancy. Bacteria can get inside a woman’s urethra, or urinary tract, and can move up into the bladder. The fetus puts added pressure on the bladder, which can cause the bacteria to be trapped, causing an infection. Infection can be dangerous during pregnancy as it can cause problems for unborn babies, such as hearing loss, visual impairment or blindness, learning difficulties, and epilepsy.

The first trimester of pregnancy is an exciting time and often comes with lots of questions about how you should care for yourself and your growing baby. Generally speaking, focus on taking good care of your changing body. Eat healthy foods, stay active, drink plenty of water, and get as much rest as you need. If you stay away from alcohol, smoking, drugs, and risky activities, you’ll set yourself up for a healthy pregnancy and a thriving baby. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor any questions you have about what you should or shouldn’t do while you’re pregnant.

Disclaimer

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

References:

https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/how-pregnancy-happens

https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy#symptoms https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancy/conditioninfo

https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancy/conditioninfo

Understanding Blood Oxygen Levels

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What is Blood Oxygen Level?

Blood oxygen level is the amount of oxygen circulating in the blood. Red blood cells carry most of the oxygen, collecting it from the lungs and delivering it to all parts of the body. A person’s blood oxygen level is an indicator of how well the body distributes oxygen from the lungs to the cells, and it can be important for people’s health.

Ways in measuring your blood oxygen level

There are two ways in measuring your blood oxygen level, arterial blood gas and a pulse oximeter. An arterial blood gas test is a blood test. It measures your blood’s oxygen level. The test also checks the balance of acids and bases, known as the pH balance, in your blood. An ABG is very accurate, but it’s invasive while the pulse oximeter is a noninvasive device that estimates the amount of oxygen in your blood. It does so by sending infrared light into capillaries in your finger, toe, or earlobe. Then it measures how much light is reflected off the gases. A reading indicates what percentage of your blood is saturated, known as the SpO2 level. This test has a 2 percent error window. That means the reading may be as much as 2 percent higher or lower than your actual blood oxygen level. This test may be slightly less accurate, but it’s very easy for doctors to perform. So doctors rely on it for fast readings.

How blood becomes oxygenated

Understanding how blood is saturated with oxygen begins with the alveoli or air sacs. There are millions of these microscopic air sacs in the lungs. They serve an important function to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide molecules to and from the bloodstream. When oxygen molecules pass through the alveoli, they bind to hemoglobin which is a substance in the blood. As the hemoglobin circulates, oxygen essentially hitches a ride and gets dropped off to the body’s tissues. With this, hemoglobin picks up carbon dioxide from the tissues and transports it back to the alveoli so the cycle can begin all over again. The level of oxygen in your blood depends on several key factors, how much oxygen you breathe in, how well the alveoli swap carbon dioxide for oxygen, how much hemoglobin is concentrated in red blood cells, and how well hemoglobin attracts oxygen. Most of the time, hemoglobin contains enough oxygen to meet the body’s needs. But some diseases reduce their ability to bind to oxygen.

Measuring your blood oxygen levels

Generally speaking, an oxygen saturation level below 95% is considered abnormal and anything below 90% is an emergency. When this happens, oxygen therapy is needed, sometimes urgently. The brain is the most susceptible organ to hypoxia, and brain cells can begin to die within five minutes of oxygen deprivation. Should hypoxia last longer, coma, seizures, and brain death can occur. It is very important to determine the cause of low oxygen saturation in order to correct the problem. With chronic conditions, such as COPD and asthma, the root cause is usually low air exchange in the lungs and alveoli. In addition to oxygen therapy, steroids or bronchodilators may be needed to open the airways. 

Treatment

The treatment options for low blood oxygen levels include supplemental oxygen. Doctors can administer oxygen therapy in an office, or they can prescribe or recommend the use of home oxygen therapy. A range of devices is available for delivering and monitoring home oxygen therapy, but some require a prescription. People can make lifestyle adjustments to reduce the symptoms of low oxygen levels, as well as improve their general health and quality of life. Eating a healthy and balanced diet can also help improve blood oxygen saturation. Since iron deficiency is one of the major causes of low oxygen saturation, eating foods that are rich in iron, such as meat, fish, kidney beans, lentils, and cashew nuts, can be helpful.

Disclaimer

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/normal-blood-oxygen-level?fbclid=IwAR2tm66BtteLIJxtsWO-wSdlPskRkyMm8eexDCWwM4Cb7vJqnbBq-6lJNHY

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321044?fbclid=IwAR2HNjiORsJFrMem4CtlSf_CQyqwubEdMCGg5Js7D2MsWAPmUrjVoI38Hcw

https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Oxygen-Saturation.aspx?fbclid=IwAR3DxB_BMOxHo5-bkw3P4V5QfeQ3tATQpUdvPyYPlL0AA85gueIEhzF4gtQ

A Guide to Healthy Living for Seniors

A Guide to Healthy Living for Seniors

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What is Healthy Living for Seniors

As you grow older, you go through many changes, and you may need to adjust your lifestyle for healthy aging. Our minds and bodies undergo a wide variety of mental, emotional, and physical changes. While some aspects of life may become more difficult, active living for older adults is still well within reach. In this guide to healthy living for seniors, we’ll explore the many ways you can live a full, satisfying life well into your golden years. Healthy eating and regular physical activity can be keys to good health at any age. Making suitable lifestyle choices may also prevent some health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers.

What foods should seniors avoid?

Food plays a central role in all of our lives. Eating is both a way to sustain ourselves and an important part of our culture. People often mark major life events with a large feast from wedding cakes to birthday cakes, beautiful holiday spreads with family to casual lunches with friends. As adults age, they need fewer total calories, but higher amounts of some nutrients, especially calcium and vitamin D. In terms of nutrition, you need to focus on quality, not quantity. For both optimal physical and mental health, older adults truly need to make every calorie count. 

Here are foods that you should cut down on (or avoid eating altogether) as you get older, and why: 

  • Raw or undercooked eggs, meat, and poultry.

Undercooked foods such as eggs, meat, poultry, and sushi can cause food poisoning, which can trigger sepsis and septic shock. Although anyone can develop infection and sepsis, seniors are at higher risk.

  • High-sodium foods.

Too much salt can be a problem for older adults, especially if you have a history of hypertension. If your food is lacking flavor, try adding different types of herbs and spices rather than loading up with table salt. Additionally, always review the sodium content on nutritional labels.

  • Caffeine.

Caffeine not only keeps many people from getting a good night’s sleep, but it may also increase anxiety and make your heart beat more quickly or irregularly. This could be dangerous if you have a heart condition. Caffeine can also be found in many teas, some sodas, chocolate, and even some medications, including over-the-counter pain killers.

  • Sodas and sugary drinks.

Excess sugar also leads to obesity and other health issues. An ice-cold cola may seem tempting if you’re hot and thirsty, but sodas and many sports drinks contain a large amount of sugar. A cola can contain 39 grams of sugar in one 12-ounce serving, the equivalent of almost 10 teaspoons of sugar! If you have prediabetes, regular consumption of these types of drinks may raise your blood sugar to a diagnosis of diabetes.

  •  Alcoholic beverages.

Enjoying an occasional alcoholic beverage is harmless for many people. However, if you live with a chronic illness, such as diabetes, or you take certain types of medications, such as antihistamines, painkillers (analgesics), and medications for hypertension (high blood pressure), alcohol should be avoided.

Why is keeping a healthy weight important?

Aim for a stable weight as you get older. People of all ages need protein for strong, healthy bodies. Some older adults do not get the protein they need to maintain muscle mass, fight infection and recover from an accident or surgery. Keeping a healthy weight may help improve your health. The weight that is healthiest for you may be higher than that of a younger person. Ask your health care professional what a healthy weight for you may be.

Sometimes older adults feel lonely, sad, low, or stressed because of life changes, loss of loved ones, health problems, caring for other family members, or financial issues. Being good to yourself may help you improve your lifestyle habits, your “get up and go,” and your ability to cope with the demands of daily living.

Here are some ideas for being good to yourself

  • Stay in touch with family, friends, or former coworkers to stay engaged and to keep your spirits up.
  • See your health care professional regularly and share any concerns.
  • Get enough sleep.
  • Join a walking group or another social group.
  • If you are retired, pursue a new hobby or volunteer to help keep you active and social.
  • Surround yourself with people you enjoy.

Remember, it’s never too late to improve your eating habits, become more physically active, and be good to yourself for a healthier life. Strengthening your immune system and staying active can keep you healthier and make you less susceptible to illnesses throughout the year. You are never too old to enjoy the benefits of improved nutrition and fitness. With nutrient-rich foods and activities with friends, you can feel an immediate difference in your energy levels and enjoyment of life. In fact, as we get older, our food and activity choices become even more important to our health. 

Disclaimer

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/flu/boost-immune-system-over-65#quit-smoking

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/healthy-eating-physical-activity-for-life/health-tips-for-older-adults

Blood Oxygen Level: What It Is & How To Increase It

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What is Blood Oxygen Level?

The Blood oxygen level is the amount of oxygen circulating in the blood. Red blood cells carry most of the oxygen, collecting it from the lungs and delivering it to all parts of the body. There can be serious consequences if the oxygen level is too little or too much. Low blood oxygen levels can be a warning sign that immediate medical care is required. Maintaining the right oxygen level in the blood is crucial to maintaining good health. Similar to our blood pressure or blood sugar level, our blood oxygen level plays a significant role in maintaining good health.

What should your oxygen level be?

The oxygen saturation level is considered normal if it is between 95% to 100%. If the oxygen levels fall below this range, the person must seek medical advice. Oxygen levels between 91% and 95% may indicate an underlying medical issue. People with oxygen levels below 95% must take medical advice immediately.

Oxygen level below 90% is very concerning, indicating a medical emergency. The state is termed hypoxemia. Immediate medical help must be given to the person. If the oxygen saturation drops below 85%, the severe lack of oxygen affects the brain. The person may experience vision changes and lose consciousness.

When the blood oxygen levels drop below 80%, the brain, liver, and other vital body organs get affected.

Cyanosis develops when the blood oxygen saturation falls below 67%. It is a condition characterized by a bluish tinge on the skin or mucous membranes due to a lack of oxygen.

What are the symptoms of low oxygen levels?

Hypoxemia refers to a condition when the oxygen concentration in the blood gets abnormally low. Depending on how low the blood oxygen level is, the symptoms of hypoxemia may vary from person to person. Some of the symptoms of low oxygen levels in the blood include shortness of breath, headaches, restlessness, dizziness, rapid breathing, chest pain, confusion, high blood pressure, lack of coordination, visual disorders, sense of euphoria, and rapid heartbeat. When the oxygen level gets very low, it leads to cyanosis. The person experiences bluish discoloration of the skin around lips, fingernails, etc., due to inadequate oxygenation in the blood.

Ways to prevent low oxygen levels

With appropriate medical advice combined with changes in lifestyle and food habits, we can maintain appropriate blood oxygen levels and prevent them from getting low. Healthcare workers recommend the following to increase the oxygen saturation in the blood.

  • Eat a healthy and nutritious diet
  • Consider doing yoga and breathing exercises
  • Exercising regularly
  • Preventive medications such as inhalers
  • Avoid triggers that may cause breathing difficulty, Be aware of your body
  • Keep yourself hydrated
  • Stop smoking
  • Avoiding secondhand smoke

Many conditions can cause low blood oxygen levels. Treating the underlying condition responsible will generally improve blood oxygen levels. People living with chronic lung diseases, such as COPD, and those who catch COVID-19 may need regular blood oxygen monitoring. A person with low blood oxygen can also make lifestyle changes, such as adjusting their dietary and exercise habits. In conjunction with oxygen therapy, these changes could help a person raise their oxygen saturation levels. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are the keys to avoiding complications and ensuring good health. Book an Appointment with specialists in the field to get the right medical advice.

Disclaimer

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

References:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/

https://www.thehindu.com\

Insomnia During Pregnancy

Insomnia During Pregnancy

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It’s normal to have trouble sleeping at any point during pregnancy, but many expectant women experience insomnia starting in the second to third trimesters, as other pregnancy symptoms increase, and a burgeoning baby belly makes it harder than ever to get comfortable in bed. 

Still, first trimester woes can force you from your cozy bed and disturb precious sleep too, including morning sickness, which can happen any time of the day or night, and a constant need to pee. But if you’re worried that a case of insomnia may harm your baby, rest assured it won’t. So do your best not to fret and sometimes, just letting go of these feelings is all it takes to help you sleep. 

What is Insomnia?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that makes it hard to drift off to sleep or stay asleep at night. This common sleep problem can also cause you to wake up too early and not be able to head back to dreamland, and it may make you feel as if the sleep you did manage to get wasn’t refreshing or restorative.

What Causes Insomnia During Pregnancy?

Insomnia during early pregnancy is usually due to factors such as hormonal changes. Many people experience insomnia at some point, during pregnancy. Better sleep hygiene, relaxation techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy can help. Levels of the hormone progesterone are high during the first trimester, and this can cause sleepiness and napping during the day.

Aside from hormonal changes, factors that may make insomnia worse includes hunger, spicy foods, which may cause digestion issues, especially if eaten near bedtime, nausea, anxiety or depression, physical discomfort, and frequent bathroom trips. Other less obvious causes include difficulty breathing, with this difficulty sometimes affecting a person’s breathing at night when they are pregnant. This can cause snoring and brief pauses in breathing called apnea. Breathing problems during sleep at the end of the second and during the third trimester are more common.

Will Insomnia During Pregnancy Harm The Baby?

It’s understandable to assume that if you aren’t sleeping well, your baby isn’t either. But relax, your baby sleeps even when you’re wide awake. Your baby’s health is at risk, however, if your insomnia during pregnancy affects your ability to function. If you fall asleep while driving, or exhaustion leads you to stumble or fall, your baby could pay the price. Furthermore, research has found that women who have chronically disturbed sleep during pregnancy are at greater risk of gestational diabetes, preterm birth, depression, longer labor, and cesarean section. So it’s well worth doing what you can to sleep well.

What Can You Do To Improve Sleep During Pregnancy? 

  • Consider using a pregnancy pillow
  • Diet and exercise
  • Eat a healthy dinner
  • Get a massage
  • Establish good sleep habits. 
  • Create the ideal sleeping space
  • Try to relax

Feeling exhausted is a common pregnancy symptom, particularly at the beginning and end of your pregnancy. However, if you always feel like you are finding yourself needing to sleep at all hours of the day, it may be time to speak with your doctor. They can make sure that no underlying medical conditions are causing this.

Disclaimer

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/excessive-sleeping-during-pregnancy#sleep-tips

https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/early-insomnia#comfortis-key

Anxiety During Pregnancy

Anxiety During Pregnancy

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What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is feelings of worry, stress, or fear, and is a normal part of life. Anxiety is not only part of being pregnant, it’s part of being human. We all worry, and pregnancy can often amplify those worries. Antenatal anxiety is a very common experience. More than 1 in 10 women experience anxiety at some point during their pregnancy.

Pregnancy can be an incredibly wonderful time in your life, as well as a very scary time in your life. Pregnancy brings a mix of feelings, and not all of them are good. Your whole life as well as your body is going through a number of changes. These changes can be especially anxiety-provoking if this is your first pregnancy. You want everything to go perfectly, but you find yourself struggling with an array of worries and fears about every possible thing that could go wrong. If you’re feeling worried, you’re not alone. Worry is common, especially during a woman’s first pregnancy or an unplanned one. It can be even harder if you’re dealing with depression or anxiety. The more you think about those things, the worse your anxiety becomes.

What causes anxiety during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is also a time of tremendous change and hormonal changes during pregnancy may affect the chemicals in your brain. This can cause anxiety. After all, not everything that makes you feel anxious is under your control. Some of these feelings and sensations are welcomed, while others are downright uncomfortable and scary. You may even have complications or other issues that arise that keep you up at night. 

What Are Some Symptoms of Anxiety During Pregnancy?

Since there are different types of anxiety disorders, the symptoms vary. Speak with your doctor about any symptoms you experience so he or she can accurately diagnose and treat you. Some common symptoms of anxiety disorders include: 

  • feeling an uncontrollable sense of anxiousness
  • worrying excessively about things, especially your health or baby
  • feeling irritable or agitated
  • having tense muscles
  • Feeling nervous, anxious or on edge frequently
  • Finding it difficult or impossible to relax
  • Feeling restless and hard to stay still
  • Feeling afraid, or thinking that bad things will happen
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Difficulty sleeping

Things You Can Do to Manage Your Anxiety

  • Avoid Scary Stories and Images
  • Stop Thinking of “What Ifs”
  • Meditate
  • Deep-breathing exercises
  • Avoid Stress
  • Find a release
  • Talk about it
  • Rest up

Treatment for Anxiety During Pregnancy

  • Counseling or therapy
  • Support groups
  • Medication
  • Other approaches
  • Exercise
  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Get enough sleep
  • Meditate and breathe

When to See a Doctor?

Even if you experience only mild symptoms of anxiety, it is important to inform your doctor. If your anxiety is affecting your daily life or if you’re having frequent panic attacks, you should call your doctor right away. Only they can diagnose you with an anxiety disorder and recommend the best, most effective treatment options for you. Seeking help is the best step you can take to ensure that you and your child stay safe and healthy. The sooner you get help, the sooner you’ll be able to gain peace of mind for your health and the health of your growing baby.

Always remember; Take care of yourself as much as you can, for your and your baby’s health.  Be sure to eat well, exercise, get enough sleep, and take your prenatal vitamins. Look for ways to reduce your stress. 

Disclaimer

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/anxiety-coping-tips#treatment

https://www.lifespan.org/centers-services/multidisciplinary-obstetric-medicine-service-moms/anxiety-pregnancy

Foods to Eat and Avoid During Pregnancy

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Foods to Eat and Avoid During Pregnancy

It’s well known that a mother’s diet during pregnancy is very important to the health of her baby. Expecting mothers need to consume more vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are helpful for a fetus’s growth and development. However, there are also some foods pregnant women should avoid. There are some foods you should not eat when you’re pregnant because they might make you ill or harm your baby. Certain foods should only be consumed rarely, while others should be avoided completely. Make sure you know the important facts about which foods you should avoid or take extra care with when you’re pregnant. The best foods to eat are freshly cooked or freshly prepared food.

foods to eat during pregnancy

5 foods to eat during pregnancy

  • Produce containing Vitamin C, like oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli, support the baby’s growth and improves iron absorption. Adding in servings of green veggies is an efficient way to pack in vitamins and fend off constipation due to all that fiber. Vegetables have also been linked to a reduced risk of low birth weight.
  • Foods that have iron, such as beans, lentils, green leafy vegetables, Lean beef, pork, chicken, and spinach are excellent sources of high-quality protein and all support the mother’s body in making more blood for both mom and baby. Iron is an essential mineral that is used by red blood cells as a part of hemoglobin.
  • Dairy products. During pregnancy, you need to consume extra protein and calcium to meet the needs of your growing little one. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt should be on the docket. Foods rich in calcium, including pasteurized dairy products (yogurt, cow’s milk, and hard cheeses) as well as almonds, broccoli, and garbanzo beans will help support the development of bones and teeth. Dairy products contain two types of high-quality protein: casein and whey. Dairy is the best dietary source of calcium and provides high amounts of phosphorus, B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc.
  • Foods containing Omega-3 fatty acids (EHA and DHA) such as sardines, salmon, trout, and canned light tuna. Or choose a prenatal supplement with Omega-3s if you don’t like fish.
  • Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated supports the proper delivery of nutrients through the blood to the baby. Increasing your water intake may also help relieve constipation and reduce your risk of urinary tract infections, which are common during pregnancy. We all have to stay hydrated and pregnant especially. During pregnancy, blood volume increases by about 45 percent. General guidelines recommend that pregnant women drink about 80 ounces (2.3 liters) of water daily. But the amount you really need varies. Check with your doctor for a recommendation based on your specific needs.

5 foods to avoid during pregnancy

  • Anything containing unpasteurized milk, however, is a no-no. These products could lead to foodborne illness. Avoid soft cheeses, such as brie, feta, and blue cheese, unless they are clearly labeled as being pasteurized or made with pasteurized milk. Also, avoid drinking unpasteurized juice.
  • Any food in a dented can increases the risk for botulism, a foodborne illness that can cause neuromuscular deficits for expecting mothers.
  • Avoid raw, undercooked, or contaminated seafood. Consuming raw seafood, like sushi or raw oysters, increases the risk of salmonella, a foodborne illness that can cause fever and nausea, vomiting, stomach cramping, and diarrhea for pregnant women, as well as intrauterine sepsis that can affect babies.
  • Avoid seafood high in mercury. Fish with a high mercury content, such as swordfish, shark, orange roughy, marlin, and king mackerel. Too much mercury could harm your baby’s developing nervous system
  • Alcohol should be avoided during pregnancy. No level of alcohol has been proved safe during pregnancy. The safest bet is to avoid alcohol entirely. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy leads to a higher risk of miscarriage and stillbirth. Drinking alcohol may also result in fetal alcohol syndrome, which can cause facial deformities and intellectual disability.
Disclaimer

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-foods-to-avoid-during-pregnancy?utm_source=ReadNext#1.-High-mercury-fish

https://www.webmd.com/baby/foods-avoid-pregnancy

Headaches During Pregnancy

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Headaches during pregnancy

If you’re pregnant, you’re no doubt experiencing new aches and pains. Headaches can be common in early pregnancy. They usually improve as your pregnancy goes on. Headaches in women can often be triggered by a change in hormones during pregnancy. Expectant mothers may experience an increase or decrease in the number of headaches. A headache can sometimes be a symptom of pre-eclampsia, which can lead to serious complications if it’s not monitored and treated. Pre-eclampsia usually starts after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Nearly all women have occasional headaches, but having a headache in pregnancy is not fun, especially tricky in the first trimester when you should avoid many medicines. Whether your headache is from tension or is a full-blown migraine, there are some things you should know.

What causes headaches during pregnancy?

The exact cause of a headache isn’t always clear. In the first trimester, changing hormone levels and blood volume may play a role. Hunger and low levels of blood sugar can trigger headaches, too. Researchers believe that overly excited brain cells stimulate a release of chemicals. These chemicals irritate blood vessels on the brain’s surface. That, in turn, causes blood vessels to swell and stimulate the pain response. Headaches during your second or third trimester of pregnancy may be a sign that you have high blood pressure. About 6 to 8 percent of pregnant women ages 20 to 44 in the United States have high blood pressure.

Other causes of headaches during pregnancy can include:

  • not getting enough sleep
  • hormonal changes
  • withdrawal from caffeine (e.g. in coffee, tea, or cola drinks)
  • low blood sugar
  • dehydration
  • feeling stressed
  • poor posture, particularly as your baby gets bigger
  • having depression or anxiety
  • weight changes
  • high blood pressure

Types of headaches

Most headaches during pregnancy are primary headaches. This means that the headache pain happens by itself. It’s not a sign or symptom of another disorder or a complication in the pregnancy. Primary headaches include:

  • Tension headaches: A tension-type headache (TTH) is generally a mild to moderate pain that’s often described as feeling like a tight band around the head. About 26 percent of headaches during pregnancy are tension headaches and are common in the first trimester of your pregnancy. 
  • Migraine attacks: Migraine headaches are a common type of headache in pregnancy. These painful, throbbing headaches are usually felt on one side of the head and result from the expansion of the blood vessels in the brain.
  • Cluster headaches: Cluster headaches are one of the most painful types of headaches. A cluster headache commonly awakens you in the middle of the night with intense pain in or around one eye on one side of your head.

What can I do about headaches?

Steps to manage headaches include the following:

  • Avoid any known headache triggers
  • Include physical activity in your daily routine. 
  • Reduce your stress level and relax
  • Practice relaxation techniques. 
  • Eat regularly
  • Follow a regular sleep schedule. 
  • drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
  • get enough sleep

Treatment for headaches during pregnancy

If you experience frequent headaches that don’t go away with paracetamol, it could be a sign of a more serious medical condition called pre-eclampsia. Most pregnant women can safely take acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) to treat occasional headaches. Talk to your doctor before taking your regular headache pain medication during pregnancy.

See your doctor if you have any headache pain at all during pregnancy. Get urgent medical attention if you have a fever, severe pain, and blurred vision. Let your doctor know right away.

Disclaimer

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

References: 

https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/headache-during-pregnancy#treatment

https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/migraines-headaches-finding-help

Using Epidural Anesthesia During Labor: Benefits and Risks

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Using Epidural Anesthesia During Labor: Benefits and Risks

Epidural anesthesia is regional anesthesia that blocks pain in a particular region of the body and it’s the most popular method of pain relief during labor. Women request an epidural by name more than any other method of pain relief. The goal of an epidural is to provide analgesia, or pain relief, rather than anesthesia, which leads to a total lack of feeling. Epidurals block the nerve impulses from the lower spinal segments. More than 50% of women giving birth at hospitals use epidural anesthesia.

Types of epidurals?

Regular Epidural

After the catheter is in place, a combination of a narcotic and anesthesia is administered either by a pump or by periodic injections into the epidural space. A narcotic such as fentanyl or morphine is given to replace some of the higher doses of anesthetic.

Combined Spinal-Epidural (CSE) or “Walking Epidural”

An initial dose of narcotic, anesthetic, or a combination of the two is injected beneath the outermost membrane covering the spinal cord, and inward of the epidural space. This is the intrathecal area. The anesthesiologist will pull the needle back into the epidural space, thread a catheter through the needle, then withdraw the needle and leave the catheter in place. This allows more freedom to move while in the bed and a greater ability to change positions with assistance. With the catheter in place, you can request an epidural at any time if the initial intrathecal injection is inadequate. 

With the use of these drugs, muscle strength, balance, and reaction are reduced. CSE should provide pain relief for 4-8 hours.

Benefits  of Epidurals During Delivery

  • Potential for a painless delivery. 
  • Allows you to rest if your labor is prolonged.
  • By reducing the discomfort of childbirth, some women have a more positive birth experience.
  • Required in cesarean delivery. will allow you to stay awake and also provide effective pain relief during recovery. 

Risks of Epidurals During Delivery

  • Low blood pressure: About 14 percent of women who get an epidural block experience a drop in blood pressure. Although it’s usually not harmful. Your blood pressure will be closely monitored. If necessary, fluids and medication can be passed through a drip to keep your blood pressure normal.
  • Loss of bladder control: After having an epidural, you may not be able to feel when your bladder is full because the epidural affects the surrounding nerves. You may have a catheter inserted to empty your bladder for you. You should regain bladder control once the epidural wears off.
  • Nausea and vomiting: Opioid pain relievers can sometimes make you feel sick to your stomach, a ringing of the ears, backache, and soreness when the needle is inserted
  • Fever: Women who get an epidural sometimes run a fever. About 23 percent of women who get an epidural run a fever, compared to about 7 percent of women who don’t get an epidural. The exact reason for the spike in temperature is unknown.
  • Permanent nerve damage: In rare cases, an epidural can lead to permanent loss of feeling or movement in, for example, one or both legs.

Other complications

Other very rare complications of an epidural include:

  • fits (convulsions)
  • severe breathing difficulties
  • Death
  • Seizure

When can an epidural NOT be used?

  • You’re Taking Certain Medications
  • You’re Bleeding Heavily
  • Have low platelet counts
  • Are hemorrhaging or in shock
  • Have an infection on or in your back
  • Have a blood infection
  • If you are not at least 4 cm dilated
  • Epidural space cannot be located by the physician
  • If labor is moving too fast and there is not enough time to administer the drug
  • Your Blood Work Isn’t Just Right
  • Labor Restrictions

Before deciding to have an epidural, you should discuss the procedure with your anesthetist about the advantages and disadvantages of each technique. Medication provides the greatest pain relief, but it can cause side effects. Make the decision based on your personal preferences and ability to tolerate pain.

Disclaimer

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/natural-birth-vs-epidural

https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/pain-risks-epidurals