HEALTH

Health - Prevention is better than treatment

Saturday, February 15, 2025

Symptoms, Causes, and How to Prevent Stunting

  February 15, 2025    

 


Symptoms, Causes, and How to Prevent Stunting,
Stunting is a condition where a child has a height lower than the age standard due to chronic malnutrition during growth.

This problem is a serious concern, especially in developing countries, because of its impact which can hamper children's long-term physical and cognitive development. To overcome this, it is important to understand the symptoms, causes and how to prevent it.


Know what the symptoms of stunting are
Stunting is often not detected in the early stages, but the following symptoms can be an indication :

1. Delayed Height Growth
Stunted children have a much shorter height than children their age, based on the WHO growth curve.

2. Stunted Physical Development 
Apart from height, stunting also affects the muscle mass and physical strength of children, who appear weak compared to other children.

3. Learning and Concentration Difficulties 
Stunted children tend to have lower cognitive abilities due to a lack of important nutritional intake for the brain.

4. Susceptible to Disease 
Stunting can weaken a child's immune system, making them sick more often and requiring a longer recovery time.

5. Face Looks Younger 
Children who are stunted often have a facial appearance that is younger than their age.


What are the causes of stunting?
Stunting is caused by a combination of nutritional, environmental and parenting factors, including :

1. Malnutrition in the First 1,000 Days of Life 
The first 1,000 days, from pregnancy until the child is two years old, is a critical period for the child's growth. Malnutrition during this period has a major impact on physical growth and brain development.

2. Lack of Protein and Micronutrient Intake 
Lack of important nutrients such as protein, iron, zinc and vitamin A can inhibit growth.

3. Recurrent Infections 
Children who frequently have diarrhea or other infections, especially during infancy, tend to have impaired nutrient absorption, which affects their growth.

4. Poor Access to Sanitation and Clean Water 
Unhealthy environments, such as lack of access to clean water and proper sanitation, can increase the risk of infection and malnutrition.

5. Parenting Patterns and Parental Education 
Lack of parental knowledge about the importance of nutrition and healthy eating patterns also contributes to stunting.


How to Prevent Stunting?
Preventing stunting requires a holistic approach involving various aspects, such as nutrition, health and the environment. Here are the preventative steps :

1. Fulfill Nutrition During Pregnancy
Pregnant women must consume a balanced nutritious diet, including protein, iron, folic acid and calcium, to support fetal growth.

2. Provide exclusive breast milk
Exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life is very important to ensure the baby gets optimal nutrition. After that, add nutritious complementary foods to breast milk.

3. Provide a Balanced Meal
After the breastfeeding period, make sure your child gets food rich in protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals.

4. Prevent and Treat Infections
Immunization, environmental cleanliness, and access to health services help prevent infections that can stunt children's growth.

5. Improve Sanitation and Access to Clean Water
A clean and healthy environment reduces the risk of infectious diseases that affect nutrient absorption.

6. Parent Education
It is important for parents to understand the importance of good nutrition and parenting for children. Education or outreach programs at the community level can help increase this awareness.

7. Monitor Child Growth
Carry out regular check-ups at posyandu or health facilities to monitor your child's growth and development, so that problems can be detected and resolved early.

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Saturday, February 8, 2025

Get to know several causes of vomiting bile fluid and ways to overcome them

  February 08, 2025    

 


Get to know several causes of vomiting bile fluid and ways to overcome them,
Vomiting bile is a condition that can cause concern. Bile, which is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, plays an important role in the digestion of fats. When a person vomits bile, this often indicates an underlying health problem.

Causes of Vomiting Bile

1. Gastritis and Gastric Ulcers
Gastritis and stomach ulcers can cause vomiting. When this stomach lining has become irritated or injured, the digestive process can be disrupted, causing vomiting that contains bile.
    • Symptoms of Gastritis : Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness in the stomach.
    • Symptoms of Gastric Ulcers : Heartburn, nausea, vomiting blood, and weight loss.

2. Intestinal Obstruction
Intestinal obstruction very often occurs when this part of the intestine in the body is closed or obstructed, either due to a mass, tumor, or scar tissue. When the intestine cannot drain food and fluids very well, bile can also return to the stomach and cause vomiting of bile.
    • Symptoms of Intestinal Obstruction : Bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, and vomit that may contain bile.

3. Gastrointestinal Infections
Infections such as gastroenteritis are one of the conditions that cause vomiting containing bile. This infection often causes inflammation and disorders of the digestive system.
    • Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Tract Infection : Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps.

4. Postoperative Conditions
After undergoing stomach or digestive surgery, usually some of these patients may also immediately experience vomiting containing bile. This can also be caused by changes in digestive function or irritation of the digestive system due to this surgical procedure.
    • Postoperative Symptoms : Pain, and digestive disorders that appear after surgery.

5. Bile Reflux Disease
Bile reflux is a condition in which bile from the small intestine returns to the stomach. This can occur due to interference with the valve which should prevent bile from entering the stomach.
    • Symptoms of Bile Reflux Disease : Nausea, vomiting of bile, burning sensation in the upper abdomen, and heartburn.


How to Treat Vomiting of Bile
Treating vomiting of bile usually involves identifying and treating the underlying cause. The following are some steps and treatment methods that can help :

1. Treatment for Gastritis and Gastric Ulcers
    • Antacids and Acid Blockers : Medications such as antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), or H2 receptor antagonists can help reduce stomach acid production and relieve symptoms of gastritis or stomach ulcers.
    • Diet : Avoiding spicy or acidic foods can help reduce stomach irritation.

2. Intestinal Obstruction Treatment
    • Medical Treatment : Intestinal obstruction usually requires medical treatment that may include the use of intravenous fluids, a liquid diet, and in some cases, surgery to treat the cause of the obstruction.
    • Monitoring and Diagnostics: Examinations such as CT scans or x-rays to confirm the location and cause of the obstruction.

3. Treating Gastrointestinal Infections
    • Hydration : Maintaining adequate hydration is essential to replace fluids lost due to vomiting and diarrhea.
    • Antiviral or Antibiotic Drugs : If the infection is caused by a virus or bacteria, the doctor may prescribe antiviral or antibiotic drugs according to the type of infection.

4. Cancer Treatment
    • Cancer Therapy : Depending on the type and stage of cancer, treatment may involve chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery.
    • Supportive Care : Manage cancer symptoms and treatment side effects with appropriate medical support.

5. Postoperative Recovery
    • Symptomatic Treatment : Pain medication and diet monitoring post-surgery to ensure the digestive system recovers well.
    • Monitoring : Follow-up examinations to ensure there are no complications from the surgery.

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Sunday, February 2, 2025

Causes, Prevention and Treatment of ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) Injuries

  February 02, 2025    

 


Causes, Prevention and Treatment of ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) Injuries,
An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury is a condition that involves damage to the main ligament located on the inside of the knee. This ligament has an important role in maintaining knee stability and body balance, so that an ACL injury that occurs can affect a person's ability to move and physical activity.

Injury can occur when the knee joint bends backwards or twists. Individuals who experience this injury generally feel pain in their knee followed by swelling. The severity of ACL injuries varies from mild, such as a small tear, to severe, such as a complete tear of the ligament or a ligament and part of the bone separating from another bone.


ACL Injury Diagnosis
Before being diagnosed, the doctor will usually perform a physical examination to ensure there are no broken bones, then continue with a medical history to ask specific questions about knee pain.
    • X-ray examination: This test aims to detect fractures in the knee area.
    • MRI examination: The test is performed using radio waves and a magnetic field to display images of the hard and soft tissues in the knee on a monitor screen.
    • Ultrasound examination: The test is performed using sound waves to visualize the internal structures in the knee area.

ACL Injury Symptoms
To determine whether you have an ACL injury or not, you must undergo an examination at a health facility.

However, before the examination, you will also experience symptoms that indicate signs of an ACL injury. Some of the symptoms you will experience include the following :
    • Pain accompanied by swelling around the knee
    • The swelling will subside on its own, but when you return to exercise, the knee will be unbalanced and there is a risk of worsening the injury
    • Difficulty moving the legs normally
    • Uncomfortable when walking
    • Feeling pain when carrying weights and resting on the feet

Causes of ACL Injuries
In general, the cause of ACL injuries is any movement or condition that increases stress on the knee. Some conditions or activities that can cause excessive pressure on the knees are as follows :
    • Movement slows down or changes direction suddenly when running or walking.
    • Turning the knee with the foot firmly on the ground, for example landing after jumping and turning the body in the opposite direction.
    • Stop suddenly while running fast
    • Turn your body with the soles of your feet still on the floor
    • Jumping and landing with the wrong foot position
    • Experiencing a blow to the knee
    • Doing movements that cause excessive stretching of the knees

Treatment and Management of ACL Injuries
Treatment of ACL injuries varies depending on the severity of the injury, patient age, activity level, and individual functional goals. Treatment approaches can be divided into two main categories: conservative (non-operative) and operative. Here is a detailed explanation of the various treatment options :

1. Conservative (Non-Operative) Treatment
Conservative treatment is usually recommended for partial ACL injuries or for patients who have a low activity level. These methods include :
    • Rest: Reduce activities that put stress on the knees.
    • Ice: Application of ice to reduce swelling and pain.
    • Compress: Use of an elastic bandage to reduce swelling.
    • Elevation: Elevating the leg to help reduce swelling.

Physiotherapy :
    • Muscle strengthening exercises, especially quadriceps and hamstrings.
    • Balance and proprioception exercises.
    • Stretch to increase flexibility.
    • Manual therapy to improve joint mobility.
    • Use of Assistive Equipment:
    • Knee brace to provide additional stability to the knee.
    • Crutches or a cane to reduce the load on the injured knee.

Pain Management :
    • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and swelling.
    • Other analgesics according to doctor's prescription.

Activity Modification :
    • Avoid activities that put excessive stress on the knees.
    • Switch to a sport with a lower risk of injury.

2. Operative Treatment
ACL reconstruction surgery is generally recommended for athletes, active individuals, or those with significant knee instability. This procedure includes :
ACL Reconstruction :
    • Using a graft (graft) to replace the damaged ACL.
    • The graft can be taken from the patient's own tendon (autograft) or from a donor (allograft).
    • Commonly used types of autograft include patellar tendon, hamstring tendon, or quadriceps tendon.

Arthroscopy Procedure :
    • The operation is performed through small incisions using an arthroscopic camera.
    • Allows visualization and repair of other knee structures if necessary.

Postoperative Rehabilitation :
    • Intensive rehabilitation program that usually lasts 6-12 months.
    • Involves progressive physiotherapy to restore knee strength, stability and function.

3. Current Treatment Approaches
    • Stem Cell Therapy: Still in the research phase, but shows potential to speed ligament healing.
    • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): PRP injections may help speed the healing process, although their effectiveness is debated.
    • New Surgical Techniques: Such as “all-inside” reconstruction that minimizes tissue damage.

ACL Injury Prevention
Proper exercise and exercise can help reduce the risk of ACL injury. You can ask a physical therapist or athletic trainer to provide some ACL injury prevention exercises such as :
    • Exercises to strengthen core muscles, including the hips, pelvis and lower abdomen.
    • Exercises to strengthen the leg muscles, especially hamstring exercises to ensure a balanced overall leg muscle strength
    • Exercises that emphasize proper knee position when jumping and landing from a jump;
    • Exercises to improve technique when performing twisting movements

This injury can occur suddenly, so you must pay attention to the things you need to do before, during and after exercising. The following include :
    • Wear proper protective equipment.
    • Stretch and warm up before exercising or physical activity.
    • Give the body time to rest and recover after physical activity.
    • Cool down and stretch after exercise or physical activity.

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Saturday, February 1, 2025

Some Kitchen Ingredients for Healthy and Relaxed Eyes

  February 01, 2025    

 


Some Kitchen Ingredients for Healthy and Relaxed Eyes,
The eyes are one of the most important organs in the human body that allows us to see the world around us. However, due to intensive use such as working at a computer or exposure to this pollution, the eyes often become tired and stressed. To maintain eye health naturally, you can use ingredients in your kitchen. In this article, we will explore useful kitchen ingredients to care for and relax your eyes.

Benefits of Kitchen Ingredients for the Eyes
    • Reduces eye fatigue : Certain ingredients can help reduce eye strain and fatigue after intensive activities such as working at a computer.
    • Maintains moisture : Some ingredients have natural moisturizing properties that help keep the eyes moist, reducing the sensation of dryness and irritation.
    • Reduces inflammation : Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances in some kitchen ingredients can help reduce inflammation around the eyes.
    • Improves blood circulation : Some ingredients can increase blood circulation to the area around the eyes, helping to reduce dark circles and puffiness.


Kitchen Ingredients for Caring for and Relaxing the Eyes
Cold Water Compress
Benefits : Compressing with cold water can help relieve swelling and reduce eye fatigue.
How to use :
    • Wet a clean cloth using cold water.
    • Place the cloth on your eyes for 10-15 minutes.
    • Repeat several times a day as needed.

Compress with Candlenut
Benefits : Candlenut is an ingredient that contains essential fatty acids and vitamin E which are good for hydrating and softening the skin around the eyes.
How to use :
    • Warm a little hazelnut oil.
    • Drop a few drops of hazelnut oil onto cotton wool.
    • Place cotton wool smeared with hazelnut oil on closed eyes for 10-15 minutes.

Compress with Green Tea
Benefits : Green tea contains powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and rejuvenate the skin around the eyes.
How to use :
    • Brew green tea bags in hot water, let cool.
    • Place the cooled tea bags on closed eyes for 10-15 minutes.

Cucumber Slices
Benefits : Cucumbers are high in water and have a calming effect that helps reduce eye fatigue.
How to use :
    • Cut the cucumber thinly.
    • Place cold cucumber slices on closed eyes for 10-15 minutes.

Potato Cutlets
Benefits : Potatoes contain starch to reduce dark circles around the eyes.
How to use :
    • Cut the potatoes thinly.
    • Place cold potato slices on closed eyes for 10-15 minutes.

Honey
Benefits : Natural honey contains good antibacterial and moisturizing properties to reduce irritation and keep the eyes moist.
How to use :
    • Mix one tablespoon of honey with a glass of warm water.
    • Use this mixture as a natural eye drop or drop it directly into the eyes to reduce irritation.

Coconut Oil
Benefits : Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids that help keep the skin around the eyes moist.
How to use :
    • Drop a little coconut oil on your fingertips.
    • Gently massage the area around the eyes using circular movements before going to bed.


Additional Tips for Caring for Your Eyes
    • Give Your Eyes a Break: Give your eyes a break every 20 minutes if you work at the computer for long periods of time.
    • Eat Healthy Foods : A balanced diet with lots of green vegetables, fruit, and foods containing omega-3s can support eye health.
    • Use Appropriate Glasses or Contact Lenses : Make sure your glasses or contact lenses are as prescribed by your doctor to reduce eye strain.
    • Avoid Direct Exposure to Sunlight : Wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes from UV rays.

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Saturday, January 25, 2025

Cellulitis - Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Prevention You Can Take

  January 25, 2025    

 


Cellulitis - Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Prevention You Can Take,
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the inner layers of the skin and the soft tissue beneath it. This disease can appear quickly and cause serious symptoms, especially if not treated properly. This infection is often caused by Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria which enter through small wounds or scratches on the skin. Cellulitis can attack anyone, but people with immune system disorders are usually more susceptible to this disease.

What Is Cellulitis?
Cellulitis is an inflammatory skin condition caused by bacterial infection, especially in the dermis layer and subcutaneous tissue. This disease causes redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes accompanied by fever. This infection also usually appears in areas of damaged skin, either due to wounds, insect bites, or scratches. If left untreated, the bacteria that cause cellulitis can spread to other parts of the body through the blood vessels or lymphatic system, and can be life-threatening if the infection spreads.

Main Causes of Cellulitis
    • Streptococcus pyogenes (group A Streptococcus) : This bacteria is a common cause of throat infections and other skin infections, including cellulitis. Infection by this bacteria can spread quickly and cause swelling and redness.
    • Staphylococcus aureus : This type of bacteria often causes cellulitis, especially the methicillin-resistant variant of Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA. MRSA infections require intensive treatment because this bacteria is resistant to several types of antibiotics.

Risk Factors That Increase the Risk of Cellulitis
    • Open Wounds on the Skin : Wounds that are not cleaned or cared for promptly can provide an entry point for bacteria. Open wounds, insect bites, scratches and abrasions on the skin should always be kept clean to prevent infection.
    • Weakened Immune System : People with a weakened immune system, such as people with diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or patients on immunosuppressant therapy, have a higher risk of developing infections.
    • Chronic Skin Diseases : Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or athlete's foot (tinea pedis) often cause dry, cracked, and irritated skin, which can provide entry points for bacteria.
    • Leg Swelling (Edema) : Swelling from lymphedema or vein problems in the legs can increase the risk of cellulitis. This condition inhibits blood circulation and makes the skin more susceptible to infection.
    • Obesity : Excess body weight is often associated with decreased blood flow to certain areas of the body, such as the legs. This can increase the risk of wounds and skin infections.
    • History of Previous Cellulitis Infection : People who have had cellulitis before have a higher risk of developing the same infection in the future.

Cellulitis Symptoms to Watch Out for
    • Redness and Swelling : Areas affected by cellulitis will appear red, swollen, and feel hot to the touch.
    • Pain and Uncomfortable Sensations : Infected skin is painful and may cause a burning or itching sensation.
    • Fever and Chills : If the infection has started to spread, the body may respond with a high fever and chills. Fever is a sign that the infection is starting to affect the body systemically.
    • Wounds Excrete Fluid : In some cases, the infected area may ooze yellow fluid or pus as a sign of an active bacterial infection.
    • Appearance of Red Lines : Cellulitis bacterial infection can spread to the blood vessels, resulting in red lines appearing that spread from the infection site to the lymph nodes.

Cellulitis Diagnosis and Treatment
To confirm the diagnosis of cellulitis, the doctor will perform a physical examination of the infected area. In some cases, a blood test is needed to confirm the presence of a bacterial infection or to check whether the infection has spread. In complex cases, such as suspected MRSA infection, tissue culture or other tests may be necessary. Treatment for cellulitis is antibiotics. The use of antibiotics is carried out according to the type of bacteria identified as the cause.

Some types of antibiotics that are often prescribed to treat cellulitis include :
    • Oral antibiotics : In mild to moderate cases, doctors prescribe oral antibiotics such as amoxicillin or cefadroxil. This treatment can take up to two weeks.
    • Intravenous (IV) antibiotics : In more serious cases or if the infection has spread, treatment with intravenous antibiotics in the hospital may be necessary.
    • During the treatment period, it is important to follow the doctor's instructions and complete all prescribed antibiotics, even if symptoms begin to subside. This helps prevent recurrent infections or antibiotic resistance.

Cellulitis Prevention
    • Maintain Wound Cleanliness : Immediately clean open wounds with clean water and soap. Use antiseptic and bandage the wound if necessary to prevent infection.
    • Treat Existing Skin Conditions : If you have a skin condition such as eczema or athlete's foot, treat it immediately and prevent wounds or skin damage.
    • Maintaining Personal Hygiene : Frequent hand washing and maintaining body hygiene are important steps in preventing skin infections.
    • Wear Appropriate Footwear : Especially for people who often do outdoor activities, wearing footwear that protects their feet from cuts or injuries is very important.
    • Avoid Using Products That Cause Irritation : Unsuitable products can cause skin to become sensitive or dry, which increases the risk of injury and infection.
    • Controlling Chronic Diseases : For people with diabetes or other conditions that affect blood circulation, it is important to monitor blood sugar levels and stay healthy.

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