Category Archives: Health

Hiccups: Why it occurs and how to treat it

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Hic! Hic! All of us have had the hiccups many times in life. Sometimes it causes laughter, other times despair and, when it happens to our children, I am positive you have tried several home remedies to try to calm it down.

But, have you ever wondered where that peculiar noise comes from? How is it produced? How can we treat it? Is it normal? When should we go to the doctor?

What is hiccups?

Hiccups is very common in babies, but also in older children and adults. It is very common and normal.

“It is a response of the organism to a spasm or irritation suffered by the diaphragm, a muscle located between the abdomen and the thorax used for breathing”, says Dr. Mónica Soto, a general practitioner, graduated from the Faculty of Medicine of the National Autonomous University of Mexico.

“The stomach is placed just below the diaphragm. When it is distended, it irritates nerves that produce some discharges that cause the diaphragm to contract suddenly, abruptly and involuntarily. The glottis closes and therefore the vocal cords close, too”.

“This process happens really quickly; produces the noise we all know as hiccups, the classic ‘hic’. Is self-limited, benign, and usually does not express any symptoms of serious illness”, adds the physician.

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What causes the hiccups?

  • In the case of babies, it is very common after a milk intake. It could be because he ate too fast, too eagerly, or swallowed too much air. Another cause is that he was full and the stomach distends. Other cause is that he has cried a lot and swallowed a lot of air.
  • Older children or adults it is also due to having a very full stomach, or drinking very hot or very cold drinks. The gas in soft drinks can also cause the hiccups. Sometimes there is no specific cause for the stimulation of this organ.
According to the Mayo Clinic

In its article, Hipo: síntomas y causas, otros detonantes (Hiccups: Symptoms and Causes, other triggers) includes, “Drinking fizzy drinks, drinking too much alcohol, eating too much, sudden changes in temperature, eating too much, having a large meal, alcoholic beverages, or a sudden emotion”.

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What to do to treat the hiccups?

“Actually, nothing, just wait until it disappears after a few minutes. There are a lot of parents who worry about their babies having the hiccups.

In general…

All the methods used to eliminate hiccups basically consist of stretching and relaxing the diaphragm.

You can lay the baby on his right side. If he is very young, the mother can breastfeed him so he can drink milk and stimulate gastric emptying.

“Surely, many know the homemade hacks for older children or adults: taking a teaspoon of honey, holding your breath, covering your nose and mouth as if you were going to unblock your ears, blowing in a paper bag, putting sugar on your tongue, taking sips of plain water”, says Dr. Soto.

Many moms would add what is perhaps the most famous remedy: someone scaring you! Boo!

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Should we worry about the hiccups?

Most of the time there is nothing to worry about, it usually lasts a short time and just goes away.

Baby cases:

“You should see a doctor when the hiccups lasts more than three hours or when there are also other symptoms such as crying, irritability and fever. In those cases, the doctor should evaluate the baby in case there is an injury that manifests itself through the hiccups”.

Rest of the cases:

The most usual thing is that it disappears between three and five minutes without doing any unnecessary things. Very rarely, the hiccups lasts for days, even months. You should go to the doctor when the hiccups lasts more than 20 days.

“The expert will determine if studies are necessary or what therapeutic measures are convenient according to each case”, concludes the expert.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Here: Spanish version

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How to integrate healthy routines into the family

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All children, and adults, need routines. Routines help organize our days, constantly integrate healthy habits, and define our tasks and responsibilities.

The importance of healthy routines

When a child knows what he has to do, he begins to feel much more secure in his environment. And just as healthy habits are created through routine, it is also possible to have unhealthy routines,

“Some moms come to the office and tell me that they find it hard to have specific routines in the week. I have the case of a mother who told me that she is nocturnal. She is more active at night and, therefore, she has a hard time putting her daughter to sleep. The four-year-old girl could be playing until 12 or one in the morning depending on what time her parents fall asleep. The next day, this girl’s mood is irritable, she has a hard time waking up, she doesn’t pay attention”, explains Paloms, psychologist and mother, author of the blog Hola Mi Tribu.

Especially in the early years of children’s development, the kind of routine they have is very important. Think about it, they are beginning to create the habits that they will carry for a lifetime. Good and bad habits, so it’s critical that as a family you establish routines that are positive. And not only that, remember that children learn by imitation: you must also lead by example.

What healthy routines can we apply as a family?

1. Mealtime

Establishing a meal schedule is useful for your children to learn to eat well. The food routine helps them to know when their stomach is full, they are not snacking and snacking, not knowing the quality and quantity of what they are eating. In addition, if they all eat together as a family, ties are strengthened, and the moment becomes more enjoyable.

Integrate the most suitable foods for each meal, make sure they are varied, and that they belong to different groups. Do not forget to include fruits, vegetables, and freshwater every day. Hydration is also very important. At least two liters throughout the day, prefer plain water, without sugar.

2. Personal hygiene

How difficult bath time is for some children! You should not be flexible on this subject. Personal hygiene habits are essential because they are related to our health. Brushing their teeth after every meal, bathe daily (or at least every other day), make sure their clothes are clean, and tidy up their room. Set specific days and times when you must do each thing.

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3. Homework time

Just as you have your job, your child must understand that he also has responsibilities, and that homework is one of them. You decide the time he does his homework, but a great tip is that when he gets home, before anything else, he does his homework. Problems will be avoided.

4. Exercise, at least 30 minutes daily

Many parents make the mistake of believing that because children are playing and running, that counts as exercise. No, children need vigorous physical activity or the specific practice of a sport. Find your time to move and exercise as a family. Drink water to stay hydrated!

5. Time to watch TV or have fun

If you think that leisure time should not be in the routine, you are wrong. Children also need to play, have fun, and get away from stress. Obviously, you also have to set schedules. They can’t spend all evening watching TV, but they can set aside one hour a day to enjoy their favorite show or go out to play.

6. Family moments

Set aside some time each day to spend time with your children. They can do some puzzles, play a board game or read a little, but these moments are the ones that will stay etched in their memory. Take advantage of the weekend to break the routine and make plans together. Go for a bike ride, a swim, to the park, or skating. Not only is it worth it, but they are also very important.

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7. Time to go to bed

Sleeping hours should be a priority in the family. Children between the ages of five and 12 should get about 10 to 12 hours of sleep. Adults and adolescents need about 7 to 8 hours. The whole family should have their bedtime, not necessarily the same, especially if you have small children and adolescents, but sleep is essential to get through the day. Set schedules and establish a suitable environment: no screens and no toys on the bed.

As parents, it is a great challenge to establish comfortable, effective, and healthy routines that maintain balance. But beware, our children are not robots, we must also be flexible and be aware that, if from time to time the family gets out of the routine, nothing happens.

“Remember the 80 20 rule. If 80% of the time your kids have a routine to follow, that’s fine. It is also very nice to be able to get out of the routine, go on vacation, have a party, and eat outside the house. Routines help us have a clear idea of what our days are like and what we have to do in the week or month, but it’s not like something will happen if we sometimes break that routine”, concludes Paloms.

No matter what routine you are talking about, the important thing is that at least from Monday to Friday you try to follow schedules. This is going to make it a lot easier for our kids and you will also know what’s next so you can guide them.

We all need routines; they help us organize ourselves. Photo: Shutterstock
We all need routines; they help us organize ourselves. Photo: Shutterstock

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver

Spanish version

Symptoms of childhood cancer: detection is life

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Every February 15 marks the International Day of Childhood Cancer, a solemn campaign that seeks to raise awareness in child caregivers so that they are attentive to the symptoms. Another goal is to recognize and express support for survivors of this disease and their families.

What is childhood cancer?

Childhood cancer encompasses numerous diseases characterized by the abnormal development of cells that grow, divide, and multiply without control.

“Cancer is the uncontrolled and anarchic growth of a cell lineage. This can be in blood cells or a solid organ such as the kidney, liver, or bone”, says Dr. José Manuel Ruano, an oncologist specializing in pediatric surgery.

According to the specialist, the main difference between cancer in adults and children is that the former is from the superficial part of the tissues and is called carcinoma, “That’s why you hear about breast carcinoma, stomach carcinoma. In children, they are more embryonic-type tumors coded practically since the egg and sperm join and may be due to a genetic fault”.

Although physical, chemical, and biological factors influence cancer, both in adults and children, it is much more inclined towards the genetic part, “There are hereditary tumors and can be seen in the chromosomes. A small part is missing in the chromosome, which causes the protective genes against cancer to be lost”.

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What type of cancer is the most common in children?

Dr. Ruano explains that the most common cause of childhood cancer, with just over 50%, is leukemia or blood cancer. “It is usually in white blood cells, which grow disorderly and do not allow other cell lines such as red blood cells and platelets to develop, and only white cells grow”.

There are other common types of cancer in children, such as lymphomas and tumors of the Central Nervous System (CNS). “In school children, CNS tumors or brain tumors are prevalent. Then you can mention bone tumors or kidney cancer in children, which is called Wilms tumor. There are many types of cancer and sarcomas, but basically, the first three causes are leukemia, tumors of the Central Nervous System, and lymphomas”.

Symptoms of childhood cancer

Depending on the type of cancer, the symptoms are different. “If we talk about cancer in general, almost all of them are accompanied by weight loss and lack of appetite. It is very common in children. This does not mean that it is always cancer, but when a child who does not want to eat presents weight loss, you see haggard eyes, has an unexplained fever, has already been given antibiotics, and does not recover… That child must have a biometry done and study his blood to see if he doesn’t have some cancer”.

You can also read: Premature newborn care

Symptoms of leukemia in children

Many of the symptoms of childhood leukemia can also be due to other causes. However, if your child has any of them, a doctor must examine him.

  • Feeling tired
  • Weakness
  • Cold
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Difficulty for breathing
  • Paler skin
  • Feeling tired

“Leukemias are almost always accompanied by anemia, very low red blood cells. The kid may have unexplained bruises on his body (he didn’t hit himself), have a bloody nose, have bleeding from his digestive tract, maybe poo, and have bleeding there. When you put all these symptoms together, there could be a problem in the blood, and leukemia could be one of those problems”, says Dr. Ruano.

Symptoms of brain tumors

According to the Mayo Clinic, the signs and symptoms of a brain tumor in children vary widely and depend on the type, size, location, and rate of tumor growth. Some include:

  • Headaches, which may become more frequent and severe
  • Sensation of increased pressure in the head
  • Nausea or vomiting for no apparent reason
  • Sudden onset of vision problems, such as double vision
  • Seizures
  • Babbling
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Difficulty maintaining balance
  • Memory problems
  • Disorientation or irritability
  • Changes in personality or behavior
  • Hearing problems

“Children with brain tumors almost always have strabismus. A child who suddenly turns cross-eyed is very likely to have affected part in the back of his brain. A child suddenly has facial paralysis; one eye goes crooked, and he loses balance… You have to suspect that he may have a tumor”, adds the doctor.

Symptoms of lymphomas in children

Lymphoma is any cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, a network of organs (spleen, tonsils, thymus, lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, stomach, and groin) that carry a clear fluid, which is essential in the body’s immune system.

Not all children with lymphoma have symptoms. Those who do may have:

  • Lumps in the neck, armpits, stomach, testicles, or groin (sometimes called “swollen glands”)
  • Fever
  • Night sweats
  • Feeling tired
  • Weightloss
  • Skin itch
  • Feeling short of breath
  • Cough
  • Chest pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Swollen abdomen

“Most children are hyperreactors, so when they have an infection in their throat, in the respiratory tract generally, their lymph nodes grow, but it is a small growth, they are mobile, you touch them, and they move easily. But when you have a tumor node, they are generally like rubber, with a hard, firm consistency; they do not move easily. A child who has lymph nodes and blames it for having had an infection, they gave him treatment, it is not removed, so he should be checked because it can be a tumor called Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin”.

On the other hand, the doctor calls on mothers to pay attention to the presence of lumps in the children’s body, “It is essential that the child goes to his check-up and that they touch his tummy and see that he does not have an organ that is grown to detect a tumor of the kidney, adrenal glands, or liver. These are tumors that do not give any symptoms until you go for a check-up or the mother is bathing him and notices a small ball in the tummy, so that is a fact that the child may have a tumor in the abdomen.

Other warning signs of childhood cancer

Dr. Ruano comments that a child who says that his bones hurt, especially when it is one, in particular, it could be the femur or the humerus, has already been treated, and the pain does not go away; he also has to be evaluated. “Do not be confused with growing pains. A child who repeatedly has pain in the same bone should have an X-ray taken because he may have a bone tumor”.

We also have to be very aware of the eyes of our children. “There are other types of tumors, for example, retinal tumors, specifically retinoblastoma, where the first sign you see is an abnormal reflection of the eye. Sometimes they see it when they take a photo or when the child turns at a certain angle, and the mother notices that a shine is reflected in the eye as if it had its own light. So that is something wrong with the child’s eye, and it could be a cataract or maybe cancer. He has to be checked by an ophthalmologist and a pediatrician. It looks like a cat’s eye, a white reflection. It can be in one eye or both”.

The probability of cure in children is high

The survival of a child diagnosed with cancer depends a lot on the stage of the disease. If it is detected in time, he will likely win the battle with the appropriate treatment.

“Fortunately, today, seven out of 10 children, 70% of children diagnosed with cancer, are cured. When detected early, the probability of cure is very high. Just as children’s tumors grow quickly, so is the treatment efficient. The most encouraging thing is that when he is cured, his chance of life is equal to that of the general population”.

Treatment for childhood cancer is based on surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. “Some tumors need all three weapons that we have, some only two and others one, depending on the tumor and its stage. The more advanced cancer, the more exposure to chemotherapy or radiotherapy”, concludes the expert.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

Kangaroo Mother Care Method: What is it, and what is it for?

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One way to bond with our babies is through skin-to-skin contact. In the case of premature babies, the closeness of their parents is essential for their well-being, both physical and emotional. The kangaroo method encourages this contact. We’ll tell you what it is.

Premature newborns are those born before 37 weeks of gestation. They spend their first days in an incubator because they are born with low weight, and their respiratory system is not well developed. It is essential for these little ones to know their parents and feel them.

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What is the Kangaroo Mother Care Method?

It is skin-to-skin contact with his mother or father and consists of holding the baby, dressed only in a diaper, on the bare torso of the parents. It is part of the care that a premature baby should receive and is the most effective way to promote the health of these little ones, says the World Health Organization (WHO).

The kangaroo mother care method was developed in South America, in the late 1970s, as a way to keep premature babies warm and be able to discharge them earlier, as hospitals were overcrowded.

Warmth, exclusive breastfeeding, and the kangaroo position are the basic principles of this method, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). The most important thing is the loving and close relationship established with the baby.

“The important and definitive stimulation, both affective and organic, will improve and guarantee the respiratory and cardiac pattern”.

This method allows a better quality of life for these little ones since it strengthens the mother or father and child relationship and provides support and emotional balance.

Moms and dads can do the kangaroo method. Photo: Pixabay
Moms and dads can do the kangaroo method. Photo: Pixabay

How is the kangaroo method done?

  • Sit comfortably: Sit down on a comfortable chair.
  • Quiet environment: Whether in the hospital or at home, find a quiet place with dim lighting and little noise.
  • Kangaroo position: Place the baby, wearing just his diaper, in an upright position, on the bare chest of the mother or father, with the head on one side and the ear close to the parents’ heart. The baby’s arms and legs should be bent and one hand near the mouth.
  • Clothing: It should be elastic to allow you to cover your little one.

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Kangaroo mother care method benefits

The American Academy of Pediatrics explains that this method dramatically improves the health of premature babies; some of its advantages are:

  • It makes it easy for the little ones to get warm.
  • There is more excellent stability in heartbeat and breathing.
  • They spend more time in deep sleep and are calmer when awake.
  • Less crying.
  • Greater weight gain.
  • More breastfeeding.
The kangaroo mother care method has many benefits for the baby and mother. Photo: Shutterstock
The kangaroo mother care method has many benefits for the baby and mother. Photo: Shutterstock

Rodrigo Osegueda Mayén, an expert in pediatrics and neonatology at Hospital Ángeles, comments, “The benefits of this method are for both the parents and the baby. In the mother, it lowers blood pressure and improves her mood; babies’ oxygenation increases and their respiratory rate is of better quality”.

“It is recommended that this method is practiced for about three hours per day while hospitalized. Already at home, as long as possible. Being in contact with her mother’s chest, they smell it, touch it, and can start looking to eat directly from the breast”.

Practice this method with your little one. Enjoy it!

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version

Related Notes: How can you put a newborn to sleep?

Newborn: basic care

Breastfeeding against Covid-19: this is what scientists say

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The pandemic has made us feel vulnerable. But the idea of being in the same space with many people makes us anxious, especially if we have babies. But did you know that the best way to protect them against Covid-19 is by breastfeeding?

María del Pilar Velázquez Sánchez, a specialist in gynecology at Hospital Ángeles, points out that breastfeeding is essential for the lives of our children, since it influences their physical, emotional and mental development.

“Breastfeeding makes it possible to have, not only a healthy child, but also a healthy adult. We recommend that it be exclusive for the first six months of life, and if possible, extend to the first two years”.

By breastfeeding our children we provide them with defenses against many infections, even against SARS-CoV-2.

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Shield against Covid-19

Studies have shown the existence of antibodies in the breast milk of vaccinated women against this virus.

Studies

Research carried out by the Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, the Higher Council for Scientific Research (CSIC), and the Sant Joan de Déu Research Institute in Spain, have found the presence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in women who were vaccinated against Covid-19.

“We were not able to detect the RNA of the virus in any breast milk, and we found that antibodies were present in the majority of infected women, suggesting that breast milk is a protective shield”, said María Carmen Collado, a CSIC researcher.

In the research, carried out on 75 lactating women who received AztraZeneca, Moderna and Pfizer vaccines, the presence of antibodies was detected.

In all the analyzed cases, there was a response to vaccination with an increase in antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, much more intense after the second dose.

“Breastfeeding is a priority, and we still need more targeted research to confirm the potential protective role of these antibodies present in breast milk against COVID-19 in children”.

María Carmen Collado, researcher at the Higher Council for Scientific Research

Breast milk provides protection against diseases, including Covid-19 .
Breast milk provides protection against diseases, including Covid-19 Photo: Pixabay

Defenses against Covid-19 in babies

In another investigation carried out by the University of Massachusetts Amherst, in the United States, the presence of antibodies against Covid-19 in breastfed babies was also revealed. The research involved 30 women in the lactating stage with their respective children.

The finding of these defenses was in the stool of the babies.

A research, published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology, involved taking several samples of breast milk at different times:

  • Before and after the mothers received the vaccine.
  • Two to three weeks after receiving the first dose.
  • Three weeks after they received the second dose.
Mothers vaccinated against Covid-19 can transmit antibodies to their children Photo: Shutterstock

Blood samples from the mothers were used after three weeks of receiving each dose of the vaccine; in addition, stool samples from the babies were studied 21 days after the application of the complete vaccination schedule for the mothers.

In the investigation, antibodies were discovered in breast milk, which neutralize the Spike protein (the one that contributes to the infection of Covid-19 in the respiratory system) of SARS-CoV-2, as well as four of its variants.

Antibodies against Covid-19 were also detected in stool samples from breastfed babies.

Breastfeeding without interruption

Unicef recommends not stopping breastfeeding during the pandemic, since there is no scientific evidence that Covid-19 is transmitted through breast milk.

The American Academy of Pediatrics explains that breastfeeding should not be interrupted, since the mother can breastfeed even if she has COVID-19 or if she has not been fully vaccinated, as long as she takes additional safety precautions to protect her baby.

All these results support the importance of recommending breastfeeding systematically in all cases in which the mother has few or no symptoms. It is the best protection.

Breastfeeding should not be interrupted during the Covid-19 pandemic Photo: Shutterstock

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version

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6 tips for the treatment of Covid-19 in children

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The dreaded fourth wave of Covid-19 is arriving in Mexico. Infections increase, and with it, our concern for the health of our children. If your little one tested positive, don’t panic because these tips for the treatment of Covid-19 in children will help you.

The images of long lines of people waiting to be tested for this disease do nothing but anguish us, and when we see the positive result in our children, fear invades us because the idea that it could get worse terrifies us. However, we must remain calm to support our little ones during their treatment.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has indicated that children have “a much lower risk” of seriously developing the disease commonly known as Coronavirus than older adults. However, minors with chronic conditions have a higher risk of getting worse.

According to Morgan Guerra Gea, epidemiologist and Medical Director of Previta, we must be very aware of the evolution of our little one’s condition, especially if he has a chronic disease or suffers from obesity, and maintain contact with the pediatrician from the diagnosis.

Tips for the treatment of Covid-19 in children

Do not self-medicate

Dr. Guerra Gea asserts that the Omicron variant produces symptoms very similar to those of a common cold or flu; therefore, it is essential not to self-medicate and go to the doctor if you have any signs of the respiratory disease so that the specialist can rule out or confirm a suspicion of contagion.

“Avoid self-medication in the face of any sign of respiratory disease or cold. It is better to go and make an assessment with the doctor. We recommend performing an antigen or PCR test. Do not leave it to chance; let’s see if it is or is not”.

Before any symptom, we must go to the doctor do not self-medicate. Photo: Pixabay
Before any symptom, we must go to the doctor do not self-medicate. Photo: Pixabay

Take care of food

Food is essential to get through the disease as it strengthens our immune system helping it to better combat the disease.

“Do not give up healthy food, avoid everything that has added sugars, search for natural foods”.

To help the body fight Covid-19, we must have healthy food. Photo: Pixabay
To help the body fight Covid-19, we must have healthy food. Photo: Pixabay

Make confinement bearable

Dr. Guerra Gea recommended “using an area of ​​the house to go through isolation. It can be the child’s bedroom, trying to keep him there most of the time, but not restricting the common areas as long as everybody wears face masks to avoid completely isolating the little one since he could be affected emotionally”.

To make confinement more enjoyable, we can organize some games or activities so that our children do not despair during this stage and establish routines to avoid boredom.

“You have to suggest fun activities or games and do not let them watch television all the time. Keep them active, so they are not desperate. It is necessary to maintain a routine as much as possible so that children can go through this stage”.

During treatment, it is essential to maintain the routine. Photo: Shutterstock
During treatment, it is essential to maintain the routine. Photo: Shutterstock

Appoint a caregiver

Once we receive our child’s Covid-19 diagnosis, choosing a family member to care for the little one is essential. The caregiver must be vaccinated against this condition and does not have chronic diseases.

“There should be a caregiver; the best is someone already vaccinated, with strong defenses and no health risks. If the caregiver is the mother and she is sick, there is no problem; they should only use a face mask in closed places”.

Warning symptoms

Although most cases of Covid-19 recover at home, proof of this is that from the start of the pandemic until January 9 of this year, 6,720 hospitalizations have been registered in children between 0 and 9 years of age. According to the Ministry of Health, we must be very aware of how the condition develops in our children.

If you have the following symptoms, see a doctor immediately:

  • The fever does not subside despite the use of medication
  • Heavy breathing
  • There is space between ribs
  • The chest sinks
  • Change of color in lips, fingers, or extremities
We must be attentive to the warning signs. Photo: Pixabay
We must be attentive to the warning signs. Photo: Pixabay

It may interest you: When should I vaccinate my baby against influenza?

Vaccine vs. influenza to avoid co-infection

It is essential to vaccinate your little ones and the whole family against influenza to avoid co-infection; they can get Covid-19 and influenza simultaneously. This combination has been called Fluorona, which has been found in various parts of the world, for example, in Israel, while in Mexico, it was detected on January 8th  in Nayarit.

“Before any viral disease, there is always the opportunist: the virus or the opportunistic bacteria that can co-infect the child with low defenses. The seasonal influenza is circulating at this time, so it is necessary to do it as soon as possible if you have not been vaccinated against it”.

Dr. Guerra Gea

Let’s not let our guard down against Covid-19; let’s keep taking care of ourselves.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

Omicron in children: 5 frequently asked questions

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The increase in cases of Covid-19 and the Omicron variant have generated a lot of concern and doubts about how to care for our little ones. Here we answer the five frequently asked questions about this variant in children.

In the last week we have seen how Covid-19 infections have increased, only on January 6th, the Ministry of Health reported 25 thousand 821 new cases. This type of news alarms us; however, we must remain calm and not disregard preventive measures.

Dr. Rafael Bojalil, a researcher at the Department of Health Care of the Autonomous Metropolitan University (UAM) Xochimilco Unit, explained that Omicron, unlike other variants, is concentrated in the upper respiratory tract: nose, throat and larynx. Therefore, it is more contagious and the symptoms are very similar to those of a common cold.

“Omicron does not settle in the lungs, it settles in the nose and throughout the upper respiratory tract up to the bronchi; that is why it is more contagious, the virus is closer to the exit, to the breath”.

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Are the symptoms of Omicron the same in children?

Dr. Bojalil commented that the symptoms of Covid-19, in its Omicron variant, are the same in adults and children.

  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Cough
  • Fever (not always)
Mom taking care of child
The Omicron symptoms are the same in adults and children. Photo: Shutterstock

When should I see a doctor?

Due to the similarity of the symptoms with a common cold, in case of any flu symptoms we should go to the doctor, so that he can evaluate us and, if necessary, have the test.

“Today, anyone who has symptoms of respiratory infection should be considered a Covid suspect”.

Dr. Rafael Bojalil

Are the tests for all ages?

Although it can be annoying for children to have the test to detect Covid-19, it can be done at any age. Dr. Bojalil pointed out that it has been observed that there is little sensitivity of the antigen tests to the Omicron variant; he recommends having the PCR test.

“We have been seeing that the antigen tests are very insensitive for this new variant, Omicron, and they give us many false negatives, so we would have to do PCR tests immediately after detecting contact with a positive case two or three days later. Doing two tests on a kid can be annoying and expensive. They can wait in lockdown for two to three days after knowing that he has been close to a person who has tested positive for Covid-19, then carry out the test”.

Tests to detect Covid-19 are for all ages Photo: Shutterstock
Tests to detect Covid-19 are for all ages. Photo: Shutterstock

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My child tested positive, what do I do?

If your child tested positive for Covid-19, it is very important that the pediatrician give him the proper follow-up and allocate an area of the house so that he can undergo his treatment.

The doctor commented that isolation can affect children emotionally, so he recommends that all the family follow preventive measures: assign an area of the home, but without keeping him isolated from other parts of the house.

He stressed that only one family member must care for the minor; the caregiver must be vaccinated against Covid-19 and not have comorbidities, so that he is not so vulnerable.

Isolating children can affect them emotionally Photo: Shutterstock
Isolating children can affect them emotionally Photo: Shutterstock

Cloth face masks: do they work against Omicron?

Because this variant focuses on the upper airways, cloth face coverings are not sufficiently protective because they are very thin. The UAM Xochimilco researcher recommended wearing the N95 and KN95 masks.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has indicated that to protect yourself from the Omicron variant, it is recommended to wear N95 masks, since they filter up to 95% of the particles in the air and fit perfectly.

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Preventive actions

Given this increase in infections, we must follow prevention measures, do not disregard them:

  • Frequent hand washing
  • Wear a face mask
  • Avoid crowded places and gatherings
  • At school, do not share food
  • Get vaccinated against Covid-19 (vaccine-approved population)

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

When should I vaccinate my baby against influenza?

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Winter is here, and one of the diseases with the highest circulation is influenza. Many moms wonder: When should I get my baby vaccinated against the flu?

Dr. Julissa Rodríguez Calderón, medical manager for the influenza vaccine at Sanofi Pasteur, highlighted the importance of vaccinating our little ones against influenza since children under five years of age are at greater risk of presenting complications since their immune system is not yet mature.

She specified that children between six months and eight years, who have never received the influenza vaccine, should receive two doses with four weeks between each one.

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At what age can I vaccinate my baby?

Dr. Rodríguez explained that the influenza vaccine is indicated from six months of age; for this reason, pregnant women must get vaccinated; in this way, they pass the antibodies to their babies; the vaccine can be applied in any trimester of pregnancy.

“Because we cannot vaccinate newborns, my recommendation is to vaccinate the pregnant woman; she can be vaccinated in any trimester of pregnancy. This would be the only opportunity that the baby has to be protected because the mother will pass antibodies to the little one who will not be able to receive the vaccine until he is six months old”.

The specialist also explained that due to the changes in pregnancy in the immune, cardiac, and respiratory systems, the risk of complications from influenza increases as pregnancy progresses.

“A pregnant woman has twice the risk of being hospitalized. If she has a problem such as asthma, she has ten times the risk of hospitalization, which will impact the little one. If we don’t vaccinate her, she’s two to four times more likely to have a stillbirth or have a low-weight baby born early”.

When does vaccination start?

The medical manager for the influenza vaccine at Sanofi Pasteur commented that it is advisable to apply the dose as soon as it is available to be well protected. This year, the vaccination campaign against influenza began on November 3.

“Ideally, it has to be as soon as possible. Right now, we still are on time, winter is just about to start, and that is when there is a greater circulation of the virus, we must protect the most vulnerable people, children under five years of age, patients over 60 years of age, and pregnant women”.

Preventive measures

Some measures to prevent getting the flu are frequent hand washing, avoiding closed places with little ventilation, keeping the little ones warm, and checking-ups with the pediatrician.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

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How can we prevent colds in children?

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The holiday season is known for its low temperatures; it is super important to prevent colds in children so that they are healthy and can enjoy this time.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, we can prevent colds with measures to start at home; they go from frequent hand washing to avoiding touching the eyes or nose with the hands.

We share some tips to prevent colds; these will protect them, even if they are not at home.

Measures to prevent colds in children:

• Wash your hands every time you arrive at a new place.

• Do not touch eyes, nose and mouth when you are outdoors.

• When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth or nose with the inside of your elbow.

• Don’t hug your friends when they are sick.

• Don’t drink from the same bottle as your friends.

• Stay away from people with colds

Since the beginning of winter, 82 positive cases of influenza have been registered in Mexico. In addition, with the emergence of a new variant of Covid-19, it is necessary not to lower our guard and continue taking care of ourselves, and especially of the little ones so that they can enjoy the Christmas holidays in good health.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

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How to take care of the heart of mom and dad: let’s anticipate trouble

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September 29th is World Heart Day, a reminder that seeks to raise awareness in people about making healthy decisions for our well-being and thus reduce the risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases. It is the ideal occasion to talk about how to take care of the heart of mom and dad.

Heart disease: the permanent pandemic

Did you know that cardiovascular diseases are the first cause of death in the world? According to the World Health Organization (WHO), myocardial infarctions and strokes claim more than 17 million lives a year and it is estimated that the figure will increase to 23.6 million by 2030. In Mexico, more than 150,000 people die from heart problems a year, “It is a true pandemic, but unlike COVID-19, which will eventually go away, like all infectious epidemics, arteriosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases remain”, said Dr. Enrique Gómez Álvarez, Postgraduate professor at the Faculty of Medicine of the National Autonomous University of Mexico.

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Men and women are equally affected

In past times, it was believed that men were affected to a greater extent, today according to WHO data, it is known that these conditions impact women almost equally. And there is more information: In our country, 19% of women and men between 30 and 69 years old die from cardiovascular diseases, indicates a paper published in the Mexican Journal of Cardiology.

It is estimated that 70.3% of the adult population lives with at least one cardiovascular risk factor such as hypertension (17 million), diabetes (6 million), obesity and overweight (35 million), smoking (15 million) and/or dyslipidemia or high concentration of lipids in the blood (14 million).

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Risk factors

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) indicates that the risk of suffering from cardiovascular disease (CVD) increases due to any of the following causes:

  1. An unhealthy diet: low consumption of fruits and vegetables and a high consumption of salt, sugar and fat.
  2. Overweight and obesity
  3. Sedentary lifestyle
  4. Exposure to tobacco

“So far in 2021, 326,892 Mexicans have been diagnosed with overweight. In other words, every week 9,080 people have been detected with one of these conditions. If only obesity, and therefore high cholesterol and high blood pressure, were controlled, 8 out of 10 deaths caused by diseases could be avoided”, says Dr. Laura Jessy Chávez Hernández, Medical Manager of the Cardiovascular Area of the Silanes Laboratories.

In addition to personal care, there is low investment by the State in Health; it is only 6% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), while in developed countries the figures are in two digits. The worst thing is that the biggest expense is in therapeutic care and not in prevention.

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How to take care of the heart of mom and dad

The best way to combat cardiovascular diseases is through prevention. These are some tips given by the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) to reduce risk factors:

  1. Go to preventive medical care, particularly people with family antecedents, obesity, hypertension and a sedentary lifestyle. Actions such as the follow-up of weight, height, Body Mass Index, blood glucose and fat levels, kidney function, blood pressure and heart rate are essential.
  2. Control your blood pressure. Check it up at least once a year and more often if you have high blood pressure.
  3. Make healthy changes in your lifestyle. Avoid hyper caloric diets and do physical activity.
  4. Monitor and keep your cholesterol and triglyceride levels low.
  5. Maintain a healthy weight.
  6. Limit alcohol consumption.
  7. Don’t smoke.
  8. Control your stress.
  9. Controls diabetes (it doubles the risk of diabetic heart disease).
  10. Make sure you get enough sleep.

Heart Day reminds us that we must take care of our health. It’s not too late, start now.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

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How to prepare a homemade oral saline solution

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You don’t have to be in the middle of the desert to get dehydrated. An intestinal infection with diarrhea, high fever, vomiting or loss of water is enough to cause a negative fluid balance, which can be very dangerous.

Why does a young child become dehydrated?

Dehydration means your little one has lost too much water and can’t drink enough fluids to replenish right away. The main cause of dehydration is diarrhea, although it can also be caused by high temperatures.

“When there is dehydration, the water rich in minerals, nutrients and alkalis that help us live is lost and we begin to present symptoms. In small children, the soft part of the head, called soft spot, sinks in, and his eyes and mouth become dry. In older children, who no longer have the soft spot, are also going to have sunken tearless eyes and a dry mouth”, says Dr. Bosco Alcívar Dueñas.

“The chest begins to breathe more deeply because it wants to get rid of the acids that are harming us. The abdomen sinks, little urine is passed and the limbs begin to lose strength”, adds the pediatrician.

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How to make homemade oral saline solution

To prevent dehydration, it is a good option to give your little one electrolytes. The Mexican Institute of Social Security offers Vida Suero Oral (oral saline solution) in its clinics, but you can also prepare your own version at home.

You will need:

  • 1 liter of water
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
  • 1 cup lemon juice.

Instructions:

Simply mix all the ingredients in a pitcher as if you were preparing lemonade. It should be drunk throughout the day.

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How homemade oral saline solution works

All ingredients are used for the recovery of lost fluids and electrolytes.

Water: It fills the body’s natural cistern and is the best solvent.

Sugar: It returns energy to our brain, which moves with a single fuel called glucose.

Salt: Here it is sodium chloride, common salt, electricity, electrolytes, this gives our limbs the ability to move.

Lemon: it is acid, but at the moment it is in contact with water, it becomes alkaline and counteracts the amount of acid that is being generated.

Always call your doctor

Babies and young children can become dehydrated quickly because they are very small. It is essential that if you notice signs of dehydration you call your pediatrician, because it can quickly become something very serious.

When the symptoms get worse, there may be tachycardia, very high fever, low blood pressure, impaired consciousness (the baby no longer cries) and in extreme cases a fatal outcome.

In young children (older than 6 months), older children and even adults, the homemade oral saline solution is very useful, but in breastfed babies, the pediatrician should advise you how to treat dehydration.

You might be told to increase his milk intake or breastfeeding. In case of severe dehydration, the baby will probably need treatment in a hospital. Always, always, always consult your doctor as soon as you notice the first symptoms to avoid complications.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version: Here

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Male Contraceptives: Will this finally be the new era in contraception?

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Por Cristina O. Nava/LAVA

Last research in the field suggests that some effective contraceptive measures designed for men -pills, gels, monthly injections and non-permanent chemical vasectomies- could take their place on the shelves of pharmacies around the world by the end of this year.

Last research in the field suggests that some effective contraceptive measures designed fomen -pills, gels, monthly injections and non-permanent chemical vasectomies- could take their place on the shelves of pharmacies around the world by the end of this year.

The researchers believe that these new drugs will be a milestone for family planning and sexual health, and undoubtedly will be a further step towards gender equality.

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In 1979, Indian researchers first published that they were developing a form of male hormonal contraception: Reversible Inhibition of Sperm Under Guidance (RISUG). More than 40 years later, RISUG is only undergoing phase 3 of clinical trials.

In contrast –a very sharp contrast- the female combined oral contraceptive pill was researched, tested, and mass-produced in less than 4 years; and it has been widely available since 1960. 

Today, contraceptive measures for men are limited to condoms and permanent surgical vasectomies.

This could change in 2021 with new techniques that are being tested, some of which have efficacy rates up to 97%.

Currently, there are three potential methods of male contraception that are currently being formally developed: pills, gels and injections.

Gel NES/T

So far, the most prominent method, currently in phase 2 of clinical trials in a research led by Dr. Christina Wang. The gel is composed by segesterone acetate, a synthetic progestin, and it is used every day. It comes in a dispenser that provides a standard amount in each use and is rubbed on the shoulders.

The promising results suggest that it successfully blocks the natural production of testosterone in testicles and reduces sperm production; it also contains testosterone replacement to help maintain sex drive and other functions that depend on the hormone.

Pill and injection

The daily pill and monthly injection methods are developed with an experimental drug called dimethandrolone undecanoate (DMAU), which combines synthetic anabolic steroids (AAS) such as testosterone, with progestin. Stephanie Page, from Washington University, leads the first clinical trials of this method.

Page’s team has completed phase 1 testing of DMAU pills in 2020, and believes they could be introduced to the market by the end of the year.

Temporary Vasectomy

Vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure that prevents male reproductive function, but it is usually permanent, so it is not widely accepted. So, the researchers of the Medical Research Council of India are working on a temporary method that could last up to 13 years, based on the same premise as RISUG.

This reversible and non-surgical male contraceptive, injects a synthetic polymer called styrene maleic anhydride (SMA) into the vas deferens, which transport sperm from the testicle to the ejaculation ducts, and disables the channel function.

Dr. Radhey Shyam, principal investigator, believes it’s an exciting and effective breakthrough. “It has been thoroughly tested on more than 300 volunteers with superior efficacy, more than 97.3% without side effects”.

All this makes us think about two questions:
1 Why did it take fifty years for substantial research into male non-surgical contraceptives to begin, and why are there still no options available?

The lack of male contraceptive methods has real global impact on women. United Nations (UN) data show that 70% use female (hormonal) instead of male (condom, vasectomy) contraception; and even in surgical methods there is a gap: 23.7% of users have had a hysterectomy or tubal ligation, while only 2% of users have had a vasectomy.

Male methods have been rejected again and again in different stages for their significant side effects: headaches, weight gain, mood swings and decreased libido… Does that sound familiar to you, women? These are the side effects (the mildest, in fact) of most female birth control methods.

Historically, pharmaceutical companies have accepted side effects -in many cases severe- caused by female contraceptives, but not male ones.

2 Why the leaders of two of the three most promising male contraception projects are women?

It’s the limit… On the other hand, it is unfortunately obvious: women are more interested because we are the most affected. Women have been practically the only ones responsible for reproductive controls throughout human history.

Anyway… The research seems to have gained a new momentum, and it seems to be closer than ever to be a reality. We wait anxiously.

Globally, 85 million pregnancies (40% of all pregnancies) per year are unplanned. In 2005, a study of 9,000 men in 9 different countries found that 55% of men with stable sexual partners were willing to use some form of contraception, but in Mexico 58% of young people do not use contraception during their sexual relations (although 84% have some knowledge about it).

Pharmaceuticals’ argument about lack of demand can only be countered with men stepping forward and showing interest. Innovative and effective male contraception options may be easily available, but they will not be a real breakthrough unless apathy ends. It’s time for men to take over their part of responsibility, after a lifetime of women bearing the financial, medical and personal cost of birth control.

Are we on the eve of a new era of contraceptive justice? We will be looking forward to it.

(Well, at least about that part. Then we will have to continue fighting stigma, the economic gap, access…)

Sources
  • Male contraception clinical trial launches in Sacramento (2020) UCDavis Health
  • First Trial Launches to Test Effectiveness of Male Contraceptive Gel (2018) The Lundquist Institute
  • The Birth Control Pill A History (2015) Planned Parenthood Federation of America
  • Acceptability of contraception for men: a review (2010) Glasier, A.
  • Fundación México Vivo: Día del Condón (2021) Rodrigo Moheno
  • Attitudes toward male fertility control: results of a multinational survey on four continents (2005) Heinemann K, Saad F, Wiesemes M, White S, Heinemann L.
  • World Health Organization World Contraception Patterns (2015) 

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

This article was originally published on La-Lista. Check it here.