उन्हाळ्यात मूत्रमार्गामध्ये संसर्ग होण्यापासून स्वतःचा बचाव करा.

डॉ वैशाली जोशी,
कन्सल्टन्ट, ओब्स्टेट्रीशियन आणि गायनॅकोलॉजिस्ट,
कोकिलाबेन धीरूभाई अंबानी हॉस्पिटल, मुंबई 

मूत्रमार्गामध्ये संसर्ग होणे ही सर्रास आढळून येणारी आणि अतिशय वेदनादायक समस्या आहे. हा त्रास कोणालाही होऊ शकतो, उन्हाळ्यात याचे प्रमाण खूप जास्त वाढते. उन्हाळ्यातील उष्ण व आर्द्र हवामानामुळे हा त्रास होण्याचा धोका वाढतो.

मूत्रमार्गामध्ये संसर्ग झाल्याची लक्षणे व यामागची कारणे 

मूत्रमार्गामध्ये जेव्हा जिवाणूंचा शिरकाव होतो आणि त्यांची अनेक पटींनी वाढ होते तेव्हा तिथे संसर्ग होतो. परत-परत लघवीला जावेसे वाटणे, लघवी करतेवेळी जळजळ होणे, थोडीथोडी लघवी होणे, लाल रंगाची, ढगाळ किंवा उग्र वासाची लघवी होणे, पोटाच्या खालच्या भागात, हिप बोनच्या मध्ये वेदना होणे ही मूत्रमार्गामध्ये संसर्ग झाल्याची लक्षणे आहेत. जर तुम्हाला यापैकी कोणतीही लक्षणे जाणवत असतील तर पुढील गुंतागुंत टाळण्यासाठी लवकरात लवकर मल्टी-डिसिप्लिनरी दृष्टिकोन व पूर्णकालीन डेडिकेटेड डॉक्टरकडे जाणे गरजेचे आहे. हा संसर्ग किडनीपर्यंत पोहोचला तर भरपूर ताप, थंडी वाजून येणे, मळमळणे, उलट्या होणे असे त्रास होऊ शकतात.

मूत्रमार्गातील संसर्ग कोणत्या वयोगटाला सर्वात जास्त प्रमाणात होतो?

मूत्रमार्गातील संसर्गाची समस्या पुरुषांपेक्षा स्त्रियांमध्ये जास्त प्रमाणात आढळून येते, याचे कारण म्हणजे महिलांची शरीररचनाच अशी असते की, जिवाणूंचा मूत्रमार्गात प्रवेश अगदी सहजपणे होऊ शकतो. लैंगिकदृष्ट्या सक्रिय असणे, काही प्रकारची गर्भनिरोधके, शरीराची रोगप्रतिकार क्षमता कमजोर असणे, मधुमेहासारखे आजार असणे यासारख्या काही बाबींमुळे धोका वाढू शकतो.

मूत्रमार्गातील संसर्ग सर्व वयोगटातील व्यक्तींना होऊ शकतो. वृद्ध आणि महिलांमध्ये ही समस्या सर्रास आढळून येते. रजोनिवृत्तीनंतर महिलांच्या एस्ट्रोजेन स्तरांमध्ये घट होऊन मूत्रमार्गामध्ये बदल होत असल्याने हा त्रास होण्याची शक्यता वाढते.

उन्हाळ्यामध्ये मूत्रमार्गातील संसर्ग होणे टाळण्यासाठी टिप्स 

• भरपूर पाणी प्या:  शरीर हायड्रेटेड असेल तर मूत्रमार्गामधून जिवाणू बाहेर पडण्यास मदत होते व मूत्रमार्गात संसर्ग होणे टाळले जाते. दर दिवशी कमीत कमी ८ ते १० ग्लास पाणी प्या.  साखरयुक्त किंवा कॅफिन असलेली पेये घेणे टाळा, त्यामुळे मुत्राशयाला त्रास होऊ शकतो.
• सैलसर कपडे वापरा: घट्ट कपड्यांमध्ये मॉइश्चर व उष्णता धरून ठेवली जाते, जिवाणूंच्या वाढीसाठी हे दोन्ही अनुकूल ठरतात. उष्ण व आर्द्र हवामानात सैलसर, हवा खेळती राहील असे कपडे वापरा, त्यामुळे संसर्ग टाळण्यात मदत होईल.
• जेव्हा जेव्हा लघवीची भावना होईल तेव्हा प्रत्येकवेळी वॉशरूमला जा: लघवी खूप काळ रोखून धरल्यास मूत्रमार्गात जिवाणूंची संख्या अनेक पटींनी वाढू शकते. वारंवार, खासकरून संभोग किंवा व्यायाम केल्यानंतर लघवीला जा.
• योग्य स्वच्छता राखा: लघवी केल्यानंतर पुढून पाठपर्यंत सर्व भाग स्वच्छ करा, असे केल्यास गुद्द्वारातील जिवाणू मूत्रमार्गात पसरणे टाळता येईल. संभोग करण्याच्या आधी आणि नंतर जननेंद्रिये स्वच्छ करा.  योनीमधील जिवाणूंचे नैसर्गिक संतुलन बिघडेल अशी कोणतीही स्वच्छता उत्पादने वापरणे टाळा.

मूत्रमार्गात संसर्ग होणे टाळण्यासाठी या सवयींचे पालन रोज करा:

• आरोग्याला पोषक आहार घ्या: फळे, भाज्या, संपूर्ण धान्ये यांचा समावेश असलेला संतुलित आहार घेतल्यास शरीराची रोगप्रतिकार क्षमता वाढते, मूत्रमार्गात आरोग्यदायक जिवाणूंच्या वाढीस प्रोत्साहन मिळते आणि त्यामुळे मूत्रमार्गात संसर्ग होणे टाळता येऊ शकते. 
• नियमितपणे व्यायाम करा: नियमितपणे व्यायाम केल्यास तुमच्या एकंदरीत आरोग्यात सुधारणा होऊ शकते तसेच रक्ताभिसरणामध्ये सुधारणा होऊन शरीराची रोगप्रतिकार क्षमता मजबूत होते . यामुळे मूत्रमार्गात संसर्ग होणे टाळता येते.
• ताणतणावांचे व्यवस्थापन: ताणतणावांमुळे शरीराची रोगप्रतिकार क्षमता कमजोर होऊ शकते आणि संसर्ग होण्याची शक्यता वाढते. दीर्घ श्वसन, ध्यानधारणा, योगसाधना यासारख्या तंत्रांचा वापर करून ताणतणाव कमी करण्याचा प्रयत्न करा. 

धूम्रपान करू नका: धुम्रपानामुळे मूत्रमार्गाचे नुकसान होऊ शकते तसेच शरीराची रोगप्रतिकार क्षमता कमजोर होते.  त्यामुळे मूत्रमार्गात संसर्ग होण्याचा धोका वाढतो. 

Are you a busy parent balancing your child’s academic performance, nutrition, and extracurricular activities? Have you recently noticed any changes in your daughter – physical and emotional health? Many parents are concerned about early puberty in their children and are seeking paediatric consultations. While the normal puberty age is between 8 to 13, statistics suggest that about 10 to 15% of girls get their periods at age 7 or younger, a phenomenon known as precocious puberty.  While puberty is a natural developmental phase, in cases when it starts early, especially before 8 years, it may lead to questions and emotional stress for both the child and parents.

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What is Early Puberty?

Early puberty, also known as precocious puberty, is when a child’s body begins showing the signs of puberty too soon – before age 8 in girls. It can involve changes such as pubic hair, breast development, rapid height increase, and sometimes the onset of menstruation. This may occur due to early hormonal changes that triggers this phase prematurely.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Though the precise reason for precocious puberty is still not understood, evidence indicates that it begins when the hypothalamus of the brain tells the pituitary gland to begin releasing sex hormones prematurely.

Some causes and risk factors include:

• Brain abnormalities: Tumors, cysts, or previous radiation treatment.
• Genetic syndromes: Like McCune-Albright syndrome or congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
• Obesity: Increased body fat can contribute to hormonal imbalances.
• Hormone exposure: From outside sources such as creams with estrogen or testosterone.

Early Warning Signs

As a parent, paying attention to your daughter’s emotional and physical changes can go a long way. Some of the common early signs of puberty in girls are:

• Development of breasts at an age younger than 8
• Development of underarm or pubic hair
• Apparent height growth suddenly
• Menstruation
• Mood swings and heightened emotional sensitivity
• Adult body odour

If you observe any of these symptoms, it is essential that you talk to your pediatrician or endocrinologist for further advice.

Possible Health Complications

Without timely intervention, early puberty can lead to certain health and emotional challenges:

• Shorter adult height
  Although initial growth is rapid, bones may mature faster, reducing final height potential.
• Psychosocial stress
  The hormonal surges and psychosocial stress of looking different from peers may cause mood disorders, social anxiety, or eating disorders.
• Breast Cancer risk
  Earlier and longer exposure to estrogen may increase the risk of girls with early menarche having a higher risk of breast cancer later in life.
• Behavioural problems
  Such as anxiety, low self-esteem, and academic challenges.

Treatment Options

Treatment varies with the cause. In the majority of instances of central precocious puberty, the treatment of choice includes GnRH analogue therapy. These drugs stop the release of the hormones and delay the development of puberty until the right age. With this treatment comes counselling and therapy as well to assist the child in coping with the emotional changes more effectively. For expert care, consider consulting the best pediatricians in Mumbai at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital.

How Can Parents Support Their Daughter?

Parents must support their child conscientiously during this phase with utmost sensitivity and care.  Here are some tips:

• Use simple language to explain the changes.
• Reassure your daughter that these changes are natural.
• Avoid teasing or passing comments at home and give her space and privacy.
• If your daughter is experiencing signs of anxiety or mood swings seek therapy.
• Educate her on menstrual hygiene.
• Promote a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and good sleep.

When Should You Consult a Doctor?

Consult your pediatrician or a pediatric endocrinologist if your daughter:

• Shows any signs of puberty before 8
• Displays rapid growth spurts
• Experiences immense mood changes
• Complains of breast pain or vaginal bleeding

The best paediatric hospitals in India offer multidisciplinary support, including pediatricians, endocrinologists, and child psychologists, to guide you through this phase with empathy and medical care.

Early Puberty Care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Premature puberty among girls is increasingly common in urban areas and may be linked to genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Although the diagnosis may be distressing, early intervention and empathetic parenting can help. Consult specialists at our Centre for Paediatrics for prompt medical care and emotional guidance to help your daughter grow into a confident, healthy young adult. If you suspect early puberty or have questions, don’t hesitate to consult the best paediatricians in Mumbai at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital for further assistance.

Aging is a natural process that every woman experiences, but how you age largely depends on the lifestyle choices you make. While genetic factors play a role, your diet, physical activity, and overall lifestyle choices significantly impact your well-being in later years. Women often experience unique health challenges with age, including hormonal shifts, loss of bone density, and changes in metabolism. By adopting the right nutrition and exercise habits, women can maintain vitality, prevent chronic diseases, and improve overall quality of life.

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Healthy Aging in Women

It is not just about living longer but also about maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being. As women age, their bodies undergo significant changes, including muscle mass decline, bone density reduction, and joint stiffness. Without proper attention to nutrition and an active lifestyle, these changes can lead to osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, and mobility issues.

Importance of Nutrition for Older Women

Nutrient requirements change as a woman ages, and deficiencies can accelerate age-related decline. Here’s why proper nutrition is crucial:

• Supports bone health
  Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D helps prevent osteoporosis.
• Maintains muscle mass
  Protein-rich foods support muscle strength and mobility.
• Boosts immunity
  A diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants can help the body fight infections.
• Enhances cognitive function
  Omega-3 fatty acids and other brain-boosting nutrients support mental clarity and memory.
• Promotes heart health
  A balanced diet with healthy fats and fiber lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Nutrition Tips to Follow for Healthy Aging

• Increase Protein Intake
  Women naturally lose muscle mass with age, but consuming enough protein can help slow this decline. Include lean meats, eggs, fish, dairy, legumes, and soy products in your diet.
• Prioritize Bone-Strengthening Nutrients
  Vitamin D and calcium are essential for bone health. Dairy products, leafy greens, fortified cereals, and fish like salmon are excellent sources.
• Incorporate Omega-3 Fatty Acids
  Found in fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds, omega-3s reduce inflammation and support heart and brain health.
• Stay Hydrated
  Dehydration becomes a bigger risk with age. Ensure adequate water intake and consume hydrating foods like cucumbers, melons, and oranges.
• Add Antioxidant-Rich Foods
  Berries, nuts, dark chocolate, and green tea help combat oxidative stress and support skin and immune health.
• Consume More Fiber
  Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables help regulate digestion and prevent cardiovascular issues.

If dietary intake is insufficient, discuss multivitamins, calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 supplements with your family doctor.

How Does Aging affect a Woman’s Body?

Aging brings several physiological changes in women, including:

• Loss of muscle mass
  Women lose 5-8% of muscle mass per decade after 30, leading to weakness and reduced mobility.
• Joint pain and stiffness
  Cartilage loss can cause discomfort and increase the risk of arthritis.
• Decreased bone density
  Estrogen declines during menopause, leading to osteoporosis risk.
• Slower metabolism
  Weight gain is common due to metabolic slowdown and hormonal changes.
• Changes in skin and hair
  Collagen loss leads to wrinkles and reduced skin elasticity.

Exercise Tips to Follow for Healthy Aging

Physical activity is one of the best ways to maintain health and prevent age-related conditions. Women should aim for a balanced workout routine that includes:

• Strength training is recommended 2-3 times per week.
• Cardiovascular exercises must be performed regularly.
• Balance and flexibility workouts help improve overall mobility.
• Low-Impact workouts like swimming and water aerobics are recommended.

Healthy Lifestyle Changes for Women to adapt for Healthy Aging

Apart from diet and exercise, making lifestyle modifications can significantly impact the aging process. These include:

• Preventive care, such as mammograms, bone density tests, and lipid profile checks are advised.
• Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
• Practice meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness to manage stress effectively.
• Engage in community activities, family gatherings, or hobbies to maintain emotional well-being.
• Quit smoking and avoid alcohol intake.
• Keep your mind sharp with reading, puzzles, or learning new skills.

Aging gracefully is about making conscious choices that prioritize physical, mental, and emotional health. A combination of a nutrient-rich diet, regular physical activity, proper health screenings, and a positive mindset can ensure women stay strong and independent in their later years.Follow these recommended lifestyle and dietary changes to enjoy a fulfilling, healthy life at every stage. If you have any medical concerns, reach out to specialists in the field of gynaecology, orthopaedics and endocrinology at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai for expert care. Please find below our website link for more details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinical.html

Yoga, an ancient practice with roots in Indian philosophy, has evolved over thousands of years and is now globally recognized not only as a form of exercise but also as a holistic approach to wellness. Particularly for women, yoga offers immense health benefits that cater to physical, emotional, and hormonal balance. Let us explore how yoga can be integrated into different stages of a woman’s life and discussyoga poses for the same.

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Yoga to Manage Hormones

Hormonal balance is crucial for overall health, and yoga can play a significant role in maintaining this equilibrium. Here are three yoga poses that are particularly effective:

• Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)
  This pose helps regulate the thyroid gland, which in turn balances estrogen levels and supports reproductive health.
• Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana)
  By opening the chest and stimulating the thymus, this pose aids in the regulation of adrenal glands, enhancing mood and energy levels.
• Child’s Pose (Balasana)
  This gentle forward fold is soothing and helps reduce stress and fatigue, which can positively affect hormonal health.

These poses contribute to reducing stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, promoting a more balanced hormonal state.

Yoga for Better Flexibility

Flexibility is a key component of physical health, and yoga offers an excellent way to enhance this:

• Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)
  Excellent for opening up the hips and lower back, increasing flexibility and reducing stiffness.
• Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
  Stretches the spine, hamstrings, and shoulders, promoting flexibility throughout the body.
• Cat-Cow Stretch (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)
  Improves flexibility in the spine, and relieves tension in the torso and neck.

Regular practice of these poses not only improves flexibility but also helps prevent injuries and enhances mobility.

Yoga for Strength Training

Yoga isn’t typically associated with strength training, but several poses are excellent for building core, upper, and lower body strength:

• Plank Pose (Phalakasana)
  Builds endurance and strength in the core, shoulders, and arms.
• Chair Pose (Utkatasana)
  Strengthens the thighs and buttocks while also engaging the core muscles.
• Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II)
  Enhances the strength of the legs and arms, while opening the hips and chest.

These asanas challenge various muscle groups, ensuring a well-rounded strength-building workout.

Yoga for Back Health

Back pain is a common issue for many women, and yoga offers gentle, effective relief:

• Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
  Stretches and strengthens the entire back and leg muscles, enhancing spinal and pelvic alignment.
• Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)
  Strengthens the back and legs, stretches the muscles along the torso, and helps relieve back pain.
• Locust Pose (Salabhasana)
  Strengthens the muscles in the lower back, aiding in posture improvement and pain relief.

 Yoga for Menstrual Health

Yoga can alleviate some of the discomfort associated with menstrual cycles:

• Child’s Pose (Balasana)
  Relieves tension in the back and neck, and soothes cramping.
• Supine Twist (Supta Matsyendrasana)
  Helps in relieving symptoms of bloating and cramps.
• Camel Pose (Ustrasana)
  Opens up the front body, enhancing blood flow and reducing pain.

Yoga for Pregnancy

Prenatal yoga can be incredibly beneficial, helping to manage stress, build strength, and increase flexibility. Safe poses include:

• Cat-Cow Stretch (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)
  Promotes flexibility in the spine and helps relieve back pain during pregnancy.
• Butterfly Pose (Baddha Konasana)
  Opens the hips and pelvis, preparing the body for childbirth.
• Side Angle Pose (Parsvakonasana)
  Enhances stability and increases stamina.

These poses are safe for most pregnant women but should always be practiced with proper guidance.

Yoga for Menopause

Yoga during menopause can help manage symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and insomnia:

• Supported Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)
  Can help regulate hormonal activity and promote relaxation.
• Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I)
  Energizes the body and focuses the mind, helping to alleviate mood swings.
• Forward Fold (Uttanasana)
  Calms the nervous system and can aid in sleep quality.

Yoga for Pelvic Floor

Strengthening the pelvic floor is crucial for bladder control, sexual health, and recovery after childbirth:

• Mula Bandha (Pelvic Floor Lift)
  Directly engages and strengthens the pelvic floor muscles.
• Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)
  Strengthens the pelvic region and supports pelvic floor health.
• Squat Pose (Malasana)
  Increases elasticity and strength in the pelvic floor, hips, and thighs.

Yoga is a valuable practice for women at all stages of life. By integrating yoga into your daily routine, you can embrace a practice that nurtures not just the body but also the mind and spirit, leading to a more balanced and healthier lifestyle. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, yoga can be a nurturing and empowering journey for every woman.