Flu, or influenza, can become a severe ailment if not treated at the right time. A useful tool to prevent it is the flu shot. Have you taken yours this flu season? It’s proven to help many stay safe from the hard hits of flu.
Up next, we’ll dig into the flu vaccine, its types, and why it’s important. We will arm you with tips on after-vaccination care. We’ll also discuss side effects and what not to eat or drink after flu shot. Aftercare is also on our list, and it’s crucial for quick recovery.
The flu vaccine is key to protect us from flu and its complications. But what is it?
A flu vaccine is a jab that lowers the risk of severe illness due to flu. A vaccine does not necessarily cut off your chances of getting infected hence it is also recommended to follow the preventive measures to reduce the risk of exposure to flu viruses.
There are many flu vaccines. The often-used ones include Quadrivalent, High-dose vaccines, Adjuvanted flu vaccine, and Cell-based flu vaccines.
Here’s a bit about each flu vaccine type:
| Types of Flue Vaccines | Description |
|---|---|
| Quadrivalent | Guards us against four types of flu viruses. |
| High-dose vaccines | Has four times the antigen. Good for adults age 65 and older. |
| Adjuvanted flu vaccine | Made with an additive for a stronger immune response. Again, good for adults age 65 and older. |
| Cell-based flu vaccines | These vaccines grow flu viruses in cells, not in chicken eggs. |
Did you know ?
The flu vaccine plays a crucial role in safeguarding individuals and communities against the seasonal influenza virus. Its benefits extend beyond personal well-being, contributing to broader public health outcomes.
Now, let’s learn what to do after your flu shot. We’ll discuss steps for a smooth recovery too.
Watching your health post-shot is key. If something seems off, call up your healthcare provider.
Age matters. Kids and older folks may face different side effects.
With conditions like diabetes or heart disease, you need to be careful post-shot. Closer checks may be needed and you may also consult your doctor. Don’t forget to inform your doctor about your ongoing medicines.
Feeling comfortable post-shot gives peace of mind. So, rest well and listen to your body.
A few drugs may not suit you post-flu shot.
Some medications, like antivirals and immune suppressants, may upset the immune reaction caused by the flu shot. Do not take any pain killer unless your doctor prescribes them.
Such drugs may cut down the vaccine’s effect or trigger more side effects.
Do tone down your tasks in the days post-flu shot.
Intense workouts right after taking the shot may increase pain or cause more soreness in your arm.
.A common question often asked is, can you drink after flu shot? It’s generally recommended to refrain from alcohol consumption for a brief period after receiving the vaccine to ensure optimal effectiveness. Alcohol may leave you dehydrated and increase your headache and tiredness.
Posts-shot, keep a close eye on how your body reacts. Ignoring side effects may cause unwanted problems.
Pregnancy calls for careful health considerations, and one crucial aspect is getting vaccinated against the flu. Let’s understand the importance of receiving a flu shot during pregnancy and address common concerns associated with the vaccination process.
Getting a flu shot during pregnancy is crucial for safeguarding both the mother and the developing baby. Pregnant women face an increased risk of severe flu-related complications, and the vaccine passes protective antibodies to newborns, offering early immunity.
Extensive research supports the safety of flu vaccines during pregnancy. Recommended by health organizations like the CDC and WHO, the flu vaccine is proven to be a safe and effective measure to prevent influenza-related complications during pregnancy.
Healthcare providers recommend flu vaccination at any trimester, providing crucial protection during flu season. The vaccine helps the immune system build protection against the influenza virus, reducing the risk of flu-related complications.
Despite concerns, the flu shot does not pose harm to the developing fetus. It is a safe and vital preventive measure for expectant mothers, with no increased risk of birth defects or adverse outcomes.
You should always consult your healthcare provider before planning for a flu shot during pregnancy
Look through this table for a better understanding:
| Factors to Consider | Reason |
|---|---|
| Health Status | Watching your health after the shot may help detect unwanted changes. |
| Age | Different age groups may face different after-effects. |
| Preexisting Conditions | If you have an existing condition, talk to your doctor first. |
| Personal Comfort and Preferences | Comfort post-shot is key. Rest and self-care should be your first steps. |
There is nothing necessarily to avoid be it food, weather after flu shot but people with egg allergy should avoid flu shot.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka – MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)
Post flu shot, you could face some side effects. Knowing them can lead to faster help.
Common flu shot side effects may include mild reaction at the jab site, body aches, dizziness, fainting, or slight fever.
In rare cases, the flu shot may cause severe side effects like high fever, extreme allergic reactions, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
Have a look at this table for a snap review:
| Type of Side Effect | Examples |
|---|---|
| Common Side Effects | Soreness where shot was given, Body aches, Dizziness or fainting, Slight fever |
| Serious Side Effects | High Fever, Intense allergic reactions, Guillain-Barré syndrome |
International guidelines recommend that everyone six months of age and older should get the influenza (flu) vaccine every season, with rare exceptions. Different influenza vaccines are approved for different age groups. Consulting your physician is essential to determine which flu vaccine is appropriate for you. There aren’t any foods that are necessarily off-limits after getting a flu shot.
Dr Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
Staying healthy and hydrated after the shot aids recovery. We’ve listed out the good and bad foods.
| Foods and Drinks | Reason to Avoid/Consume |
|---|---|
| Fried, Processed, and Sugary Foods & Alcohol | Dodge these: Can cause inflammation and dehydration, adding to flu shot side effects like headaches and fatigue. |
| Fruits, Vegetables, Whole grains, Lean Proteins, and Water | Chow down on these: Nutrient-rich, hydrating foods aid recovery and fight off any side effects. |
Before we end, let’s look back at the main point – aftercare. It’s central to a successful flu shot.
Aftercare after the shot prevents issues. Monitor yourself closely, rest enough, and eat balanced meals.
Good aftercare speeds up recovery post flu shot. It lets your body get used to the shot and eases common side effects.
Our ultimate aim is to stay safe from the flu. Proper aftercare ensures the shot works the best.
This table sums it up:
| Aftercare Aspect | Importance |
|---|---|
| Prevention of Complications | Prevents possible issues post flu shot. |
| Speedy Recovery | Helps recover faster post flu shot. |
| Efficacy of the Vaccine | Bolsters the shot’s fight against the flu virus. |
Guarding ourselves from flu is key to our health, more so in the flu season. Vaccines and good care before and after them vastly cut down our risk of getting the flu and the issues it brings. In this blog, we gave you a compact guide to the flu shot, its aftercare, and more.
We dived deep into aftercare. We touched upon factors to think about, likely side effects, and what food and drinks to have. We hope this info helps you make better choices about your flu shots and manage your health well.
Private firms make flu shots. When they’re ready to ship depends on production. But usually, the shots start reaching the US in August. It’s best to get your shot in September or October.
No. The flu shot doesn’t have live flu viruses, so it can’t give you the flu.
Flu viruses change super-fast. So, last year’s shot may not shield you this year.
We’ve listed some steps in this post to lower your risk of getting the flu.
Yes, you should take a break from some tasks post flu shot, like heavy workouts, and not drink alcohol.
Certain medications, like antivirals, might be best to avoid unless prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Potential side effects include pain at the jab site, body pain, sometimes dizziness, fainting, or mild fever.
Yes, people with minor egg allergies can get the flu shot. Those with severe symptoms should get the shot under a trained healthcare worker.
If you face severe side effects like trouble breathing or high fever, you should seek medical help fast.
People with a severe allergy to a past flu shot or any of its parts, including egg protein, should check with a healthcare worker before getting the flu shot. Folks who had Guillain-Barre Syndrome within six weeks of a past flu shot should also check with their healthcare provider.
Fatigue can be a common side effect of the flu shot, as the body’s immune response may lead to temporary tiredness. This reaction is typically mild and short-lived, resolving within a day or two.
The flu shot is designed to protect against influenza viruses and does not prevent allergies. While it may help reduce the risk of respiratory infections, its focus is on influenza, not allergic reactions to environmental factors like pollen or pet dander.
No, the flu shot does not lower immunity; it boosts the immune system by prompting the body to produce antibodies against specific influenza strains. It enhances the ability to fight the flu without compromising overall immunity.
While the flu shot is primarily designed to prevent influenza, it may indirectly reduce the risk of sinus infections by minimizing the chances of a respiratory illness that can lead to sinus complications. However, it does not provide direct protection against all types of sinus infections.
Yes, the flu shot, which is updated annually to target specific influenza strains, includes protection against the H1N1 virus, commonly known as swine flu. Getting vaccinated is a key preventive measure against swine flu and other influenza variants.
Yes, the flu shot is crucial for babies as it helps protect them from severe illness and complications associated with influenza. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends vaccination for infants aged six months and older.
The flu shot does not typically lower platelet counts. While mild side effects like soreness or fatigue may occur, severe complications affecting platelet levels are rare. Individuals with concerns about specific health conditions should consult with a healthcare professional.
Diarrhea is not a common side effect of the flu shot. The vaccine may cause mild reactions like soreness or fatigue, but gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea are unusual. If someone experiences unusual or severe reactions, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable.
While headaches can be a side effect of the flu shot, they are generally mild and temporary. The immune response triggered by the vaccine may cause minor discomfort, including headaches, but severe reactions are rare.
Yes, the flu shot can cause a low-grade fever in some toddlers as a normal immune response to the vaccine. This reaction is usually mild and short-lived, and it indicates the body is building protection against the flu.
Yes, it’s generally safe to exercise after a flu shot. Mild side effects like soreness or fatigue are possible, but engaging in light to moderate physical activity is usually well-tolerated and may even help alleviate any discomfort.
It’s generally advisable to wait until you have recovered from an illness before getting a flu shot. However, for mild illnesses like a common cold without fever, getting vaccinated may be considered, but consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended for personalized advice.
The effectiveness of a flu shot typically lasts for about six months, offering protection throughout a single flu season. It is recommended to get a flu shot annually to ensure continued immunity against the prevalent strains of the virus.
To alleviate flu shot side effects, individuals can apply a cold compress to the injection site, take over-the-counter pain relievers, and stay well-hydrated. Resting and engaging in light physical activity may also help ease any temporary discomfort associated with the flu shot.
While the flu shot primarily targets influenza viruses, it may indirectly reduce the risk of complications such as bronchitis, which can result from flu infections. Getting vaccinated lowers the chances of contracting the flu, minimizing the likelihood of developing respiratory conditions like bronchitis.
Yes, it is generally safe to receive a flu shot while taking antibiotics. The flu vaccine is a viral vaccine and does not interfere with antibiotic treatment for bacterial infections. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice based on individual health conditions.
The flu shot itself is unlikely to cause a runny nose in babies. Common side effects may include mild reactions like low-grade fever or soreness at the injection site, but a runny nose is not a typical response to the vaccine. If a baby develops a runny nose after a flu shot, it is more likely coincidental or related to a separate respiratory infection.
There is no conclusive evidence linking flu shots to insomnia. Insomnia is not a common side effect of flu vaccinations, and any reported sleep disturbances are likely coincidental or due to other factors.
After receiving a flu shot, it is advisable to avoid strenuous physical activity for the rest of the day and to refrain from consuming alcohol excessively. Additionally, individuals should be cautious about taking antiviral medications without consulting a healthcare professional.
Yes, the flu shot is effective in reducing the risk of contracting influenza and minimizing the severity of symptoms if one does get infected. However, its effectiveness may vary each flu season based on the match between the vaccine and circulating flu strains.
The flu shot may cause a brief, mild discomfort or pain at the injection site, but it is generally well-tolerated. Any discomfort is temporary, and the potential benefits in preventing influenza outweigh the minor pain associated with the vaccination.
Most flu vaccines are produced using chicken eggs in the manufacturing process, but the final vaccine contains only trace amounts of egg protein. People with egg allergies can often still receive the flu shot, but consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended.
No, the majority of flu shots use inactivated viruses, meaning the viruses are no longer infectious. However, there are some flu vaccines that use live attenuated viruses, but these are weakened and not capable of causing the flu in healthy individuals.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Ever felt a burn in your chest or throat after eating? That’s acid reflux. It becomes severe and turns into Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). All of us feel heartburn at times. But too often means trouble. GERD, perhaps?
Let’s dive in. We’ll explore acid reflux and GERD. We’ll talk about symptoms, treatments. We’ll also see how diet can control these conditions. You’ll find out why avoiding some foods is crucial. And how lifestyle changes can cut down risks of acid reflux and GERD.
Your body needs nutrients to work right. Multiple organs break food down for this. One key spot is the esophagus. It connects your mouth to your stomach. There are muscles at the lower end called the esophageal sphincter. They play a vital role. They work like a door to let food into your stomach. Then they shut it to keep stomach acids from flowing back.
What if this door doesn’t shut tight? Or opens too much? The acid from the stomach can flow back up. This causes a ‘burning’ feeling known as heartburn. This is what we call acid reflux.
If you get acid reflux more than twice a week, it could be GERD. Especially if it inflames the esophagus. GERD is a chronic condition. If left unchecked, it can harm the lining of the esophagus severely.
Based on my experience, I advise considering the pH levels of foods when managing reflux or excess secretion of stomach acid. Foods with a low pH that are acidic can potentially worsen reflux symptoms. On the other hand, foods with a higher pH, which are alkaline, may help counterbalance the acidity in the stomach. Including alkaline foods such as bananas, melons, cauliflower, fennel and nuts in your diet can be beneficial in reducing reflux.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
Did you know :
Acid reflux commonly causes heartburn. It isn’t worrisome if not frequent. But if it takes place often, it leads to GERD. If untreated, GERD can cause complications. Watch out for these symptoms:
There’s no one-size-fits-all cure for acid reflux or GERD. Lifestyle changes and over-the-counter meds are usually used first. Antacids give quick heartburn relief. But they can’t heal an acid-damaged esophagus.
I recommend being cautious about consuming citrus fruits daily if you are at risk of or have been diagnosed with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits, can increase the risk of acid reflux due to their acidic nature.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Diet has a key role in managing acid reflux and GERD. Some foods work off the lower esophageal sphincter and acidity in the stomach to start acid reflux.
Fatty foods, spicy things or alcohol make digestion slow. This leads to a build-up of stomach acids. Some drinks like tea, coffee, sodas and alcohol boost the production of stomach acids. They can irritate the esophagus lining too.
Your diet can help or harm you in handling acid reflux. Know what triggers it and plan your meals around those triggers. This can help manage your condition. Noting each food and how it impacts your symptoms is a great first step towards making a diet that suits you.
High-fat foods can relax your lower esophageal sphincter. This allows stomach acids to flow back up into your esophagus, causing heartburn. It increases the pressure in the stomach leading to acid reflux. Fried foods, fatty meats and full-fat dairy products seem to be especially troublesome for many people.
Managing acid reflux and GERD is easier if we pick our food carefully. Some foods can trigger or worsen the condition. They can cause discomfort and potential complications if often consumed.
High-fat diets can be a problem. Fatty foods stay in the stomach longer. They slow down gastric emptying. This increases volume in the stomach and slows down emptying. This puts more pressure on the LES, making reflux likely. High-fat dairy like cheese and cream, fried foods and dishes high in butter or oil are some culprits.
Here are some high-fat foods that often start or make symptoms of acid reflux worse:
Acidity is another cause for acid reflux. High-acid foods can add to symptoms. They irritate the lining of the esophagus and up stomach acid production.
Here are some acidic foods that can start symptoms of acid reflux:
Coffee, tea and some sodas hold caffeine. This can weaken the LES, thus causing acid reflux symptoms.
Caffeine weakens the lower esophageal sphincter. It also bumps up acid production in the stomach. This raises the chance of reflux. Coffee and some teas, with their acidic pH, can also cause pain. Even decaffeinated coffees and teas hold enough leftover caffeine to possibly start acid reflux.
Some specific foods can cause heartburn in people who seem prone to it. Each person’s trigger foods may vary a bit but there are some usual suspects.
Sorry chocolate lovers! This sweet treat can cause acid reflux. Chocolate has been found to lower the pressure on your esophageal sphincter. This lets stomach contents to travel back into your esophagus.
Spicy foods, along with onions and garlic, often start the symptoms of heartburn. They can make your body produce more acid.
Mint may soothe otherwise, but it can worsen acid reflux. It relaxes the muscle between the stomach and esophagus. This lets stomach acid splash up into the esophagus.
Drinking alcohol can lead to acid reflux. It’s even among those who don’t feel heartburn right after a drink. Alcohol has shown to hike stomach acid. It can also relax the lower esophageal sphincter. Both of these can start heartburn.
Sodas, including diet options, are bad for acid reflux. They’re acidic. They’re often fizzy too, which can cause extra bloating and discomfort.
Now, let’s take a look at this table. It shows trigger foods to avoid under four categories.
| Category of Trigger Foods | Example Foods |
|---|---|
| High-fat foods | Fried foods, fatty meats, High-fat dairy |
| Acidic foods | Tomatoes, citrus fruits |
| Foods with caffeine | Coffee, tea, some sodas |
| Specific foods known as common triggers | Chocolate, Mint, Garlic, Onions, Spicy foods, Alcohol |
I highly recommend incorporating whole grains into your diet, especially if you have underlying conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or cancer and are at risk of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Whole grains have been found to have a significant correlation with a reduced incidence of GERD.
Dr. Smita barode, BAMS
Changes in eating habits and lifestyle choices can heavily impact how often and how strong acid reflux hits.
Identify personal food triggers to bring down instances of acid reflux. Keep a food diary. Note what you eat and any symptoms after. In time, trends will show up. Avoiding these foods can give a big boost.
A holistic diet approach bank on low-fat nutrient-rich foods. Whole grains, lean meats and low-fat dairy products are good options. Also, having smaller meals across the day and not lying down right after eating can lessen heartburn episodes.
Some extra therapies can back traditional GERD treatments. Stress-reducing methods can help many. Herbal remedies like ginger, chamomile tea and slippery elm are often used. They soothe inflamed tissues and encourage healing. But not everyone finds them useful.
If symptoms persist despite diet and lifestyle changes, book an appointment with your healthcare provider. Make a list of your symptoms. Write down their frequency and any triggers you’ve noted. More detail will help your doctor give a better diagnosis.
We have looked deep into acid reflux and GERD. We have seen how diet plays a key role in its control. It shows that we can do something to control symptoms. Changes in our diet can help. We can manage and perhaps prevent bouts of heartburn and acid reflux.
We have seen how marking our personal trigger foods can cut down acid reflux incidents. We have seen both foods and lifestyle habits that can start symptoms. We know how to deal with acid reflux and GERD effectively. A path of self-awareness and conscious choices about diet and lifestyle can make living with these conditions easier.
Let’s sum up which foods to steer clear of for managing acid reflux. High-fat foods, caffeinated drinks, chocolates, alcohol, sodas, some veggies and some fruits.
Changes to lifestyle are as important as diet changes. To manage and reduce how often and how strongly acid reflux symptoms hit. This includes adopting a holistic dietary strategy. Also, identifying personal trigger foods is key.
Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider are critical. Talk to a doctor if you have constant acid reflux symptoms. Regardless of diet and lifestyle changes. Other health issues might be overlooked.
Bananas, melons, oats, bread, rice and root veggies help balance stomach acids. This can ease acid reflux.
Keep away from coffee, alcohol, chocolate, greasy, spicy and fatty foods, peppermint, strawberries, cheeses and tomatoes if you have GERD.
Lean proteins, green leafy veggies, non-citrus fruits, ginger, whole grains, egg whites and avocados are good for people with GERD.
Yes, many 7-day meal plans for GERD are available. A GERD diet has foods low in fat and acid and void of food that starts symptoms.
Whole grain bread can be a good source of fibre. It aids digestion and is good for acid reflux.
Generally, peanut butter doesn’t start acid reflux. It isn’t particularly acidic, spicy or fatty. However, how it affects people may vary.
Opt for lean meals when eating out. Choose dishes made with lean proteins, cooked using healthy methods. Steamed veggies, potatoes and rice are safe options. Stay away from spicy food, citrus-based dishes and eat smaller portions.
Rat fever or Leptospirosis is a rare bacterial infection caused by contact with an infected rodent’s urine, faeces or mucous secretions. The disease spreads as the person comes in connection with the secretions from the mouth, eyes, nose of the animal but in most cases, it is due to being bitten or scratched by the rodents. Household pets like cats and dogs can become carriers of the disease after being exposed to the infected animals. Humans can get this after eating food contaminated by rat faeces. Rat fever does not transmit from one infected person to another. Read on to learn more about rat fever and how you can prevent it.
Rat fever is similar to those of dengue fever in the earlier stages and this leads to misdiagnosis. Typically, the rat fever symptoms appear within three days to three weeks after exposure to the bacteria. Be watchful of the signs so you can get proper treatment.
Rat bite fever usually requires a treatment because the saliva of rats carries some viruses like hantavirus or Lepto viruses. Humans bitten by rodents may also encounter tetanus infections. Care should always be taken. Under the supervision of a physician.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
Two kinds of bacteria are responsible for causing rat fever. They are:
If the case of rat fever is misdiagnosed or is left untreated, it can lead to severe complications and can even prove to be fatal. Permanent kidney damage, liver failure, pneumonia, meningitis (painful inflammation of the membrane that covers the spinal cord and the brain), myocarditis and endocarditis (infections of the heart), sepsis (infection of the blood) are some of the complications of untreated rat-bite fever. Death is also possible if the condition is not diagnosed in time. However, if the rat fever is diagnosed in time, the prognosis is excellent.
The diagnosis of rat bite fever requires an infection panel test which is a test of urine and blood to the immunological response to the bacteria by the body. Blood antibody tests and other tests are used depending on the kind of symptoms experienced. A bacterial culture may be done from the blood samples.
Treatment of the condition is done with antibiotics. Penicillin is the most favoured antibiotic. If someone is allergic to that then tetracycline or erythromycin are used.
Rat bite fever is very common in rainy season. Preventive measures include avoiding rodents, wash hands and face after contact and any scratches should be cleaned, and antiseptics applied.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Also Read: How to Get Rid of Ants: Top Methods from Pest Control Experts
There is much you can do to prevent rat bite fever. However, most cases of the condition occur due to floods situations where it might not be possible to avoid contact with rodents. In that case, take the following measures.
Try to avoid places that may carry the contagious rat urine or faeces. Prevention is better than cure but if you feel you are symptomatic of rat bite fever, consult a doctor immediately to get yourself tested for the disease.
Also Read: What Causes Roaches: An Insight into Infestation Sources and Prevention
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
With the second wave of COVID being much more contagious than the first wave, the need for testing has sky-rocketed because so many people are contracting the disease. Even if you are following all the safety measures, you should familiarize yourself with the different types of COVID test, their purposes, when they are necessary and how you can book such tests. In the time of emergency, the sooner you act, the more quickly you or your loved one will receive the medical care needed.
PharmEasy, India’s beloved and trusted online healthcare platform has jumped in at this time of crisis to help people in all possible ways, from safely delivering medicines at the doorstep, organizing vaccination drives to making the COVID test easily available. Read on to find out which tests can be booked on PharmEasy. This COVID test at home is made possible through the home collection of samples.
This test detects the presence of coronavirus RNA in the mucosal lining of your nose or throat. You can opt for this test the moment you notice the symptoms of COVID, such as fever, sore throat, body ache or headache, diarrhoea, nausea, conjunctivitis or loss of taste and smell.
You can book a test by filling out this form and you can also share it with your acquaintances who might need it in the future.
After the diagnosis of COVID, it is essential to monitor the patient because COVID can have many consequences on the person’s health. For this reason, PharmEasy has made provisions for the following tests for COVID patients:
This test detects the level of C-reactive proteins (produced by the liver) to determine how effectively the liver is functioning post injury or infection.
Lactate dehydrogenase is an essential enzyme that helps the body produce energy from glucose. It is formed in the cells of the body. But if the tissues of the body are damaged, then traces of lactate dehydrogenase can be found in the blood. This test can find LDH in blood.
Ferritin stores iron and is present in all our cells. This test can tell you if your ferritin levels are below normal which would indicate that your body is unable to store adequate iron in its cells.
The goal of the COVID vaccine is to induce immunity against COVID by generating antibodies in your blood. The COVID Spike S1 Antibody test can help determine how strong your immunogenic response is by checking for the presence of COVID S1 spike protein antibodies.
The Advanced Full Body Check-Up with COVID Antibody test is a comprehensive test that will check multiple parameters including the presence of COVID antibodies, lipid profile, liver function, thyroid profile, etc (66 parameters altogether).
You can book any of these tests through the PhamEasy app or by calling us directly. Share the information with your friends and family. Stay home, maintain the COVID safety protocol and get vaccinated as soon as you can.
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
Most of us are aware of what is first aid and use it as soon as required to nurse even the smallest bruise. But when we are hurt emotionally, do we make an effort to treat ourselves or seek emotional first aid? Does it need to be taken care of? Well, yes! It does.
We may be shattered emotionally for one or more reasons like loss of a dear one, work-related issues, peer pressures, societal concerns, humiliation, rejection, loneliness and depression, etc. If we are physically fit, but emotionally drained it does, in turn, may affect us physically.
Also Read: Physical and Mental Signs of Depression
It may also lead to loss of sleep, irritability, impulsiveness, loss of appetite, which in turn is going to affect your overall health and performance. This may become a vicious cycle worsening your ability to even think of coping with the problem. Most of the time you may end up making inappropriate decisions.
Rather than letting yourself pass through such an avoidable mental and subsequent physical harm, you can practice emotional first aid like you may be using home remedies to treat trivial ailments. Emotional first aid is simply a method of helping yourself to cope up emotionally to handle the situation positively instead of getting bogged down by it.
So how do you practice emotional first aid? Since each being has a different personality and temperament, the method would be highly individualistic. However, there are certain general means that may help you at some of the other time.
Read more to Debunk myths on mental health.
Thus, emotional resilience is a must and it needs to be practiced as soon as required to live life to the fullest.
Also Read: Pregnancy Fatigue: Unraveling Causes and Research-Backed Solutions
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
The very mention of Aids or HIV strikes fear in the hearts and minds of people.
According to NACO or National Aids Control Organisation, as of 2017, 2.14 million Indians are living with HIV of which 0.22% patients fall in the age group of 15-49 years. In 2017 itself, there were approximately 69110 Aids-related deaths in the country and about 87850 newly reported HIV Infections.
While the numbers are huge and daunting, recent reports highlight the fact that there is an 80% decline in the reported HIV Infections in the country since its peak in 1995. Also, the number of Aids-related deaths have dropped by 71% since 2015.
This is all possible due to the focus on HIV combination prevention, early detection and access to antiretroviral treatment have been identified as the key to end HIV transmission in coming years. To achieve these objectives, governments, health service providers, international organizations and common people come together on December 1st every year to celebrate World AIDS day and focus on the key facts about HIV and Aids.
It provides an opportunity to increase consciousness, education and a greater understanding of HIV as a global public health issue. As a part of the awareness program here are 10 key facts about HIV and Aids.
HIV has two known strains – HIV-1 and HIV-2. However, within these two strains, there are many other sub-strains. The deadliest of HIV strains is the HIV-1 and when did this strain make the leap to human beings is not yet known to experts. As per research, experts believe that HIV-1 made its appearance sometime before 1931 and it may have occurred as a consequence of the tribal taste for the meat of chimps. Experts also believe that the earliest HIV strains that infected human beings were milder in nature and hence, stopped or beaten by the human immune system.
HIV/AIDS is feared so much more than other diseases due to its ability to bypass the immune system and then destroy it. When the virus enters the system, it is cloaked in carbohydrate sugar molecules that cling to its surface, which fool our bodies into thinking the virus is a nutrient.
The virus can be transmitted through unprotected sex, transmission of infected blood, sharing infected needles and from a mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. HIV, however, cannot be transmitted through sweat, saliva or urine. Read more about HIV myths here.
AIDS is also known as advanced HIV infection or late-stage HIV. Someone with AIDS may develop other health conditions including pneumonia, thrush, fungal infections, and cytomegalovirus. Aids patients are also at the risk of developing life-threatening diseases like brain illnesses and various types of cancer.
In a few people, the T-cell decline and opportunistic infection that signal AIDS develop soon after infection with HIV. But most people do not develop symptoms for 10 to 12 years, and a few remain symptom-free for a great deal longer. As with the majority of diseases, early medical care can help prolong a person’s life. This is one of the least known key facts about HIV and Aids.
Women are twice more likely to contract HIV through vaginal sex with infected males than vice versa. This biological weakness is worsened by social and cultural factors that often challenge women’s ability to avoid sex with partners who are HIV-infected or to insist on condom use.
HIV mutates quickly. Even among those who do well on HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy), roughly half of patients experience treatment failure within a year or two, often because the virus develops resistance to existing drugs. As many as 10 to 20% of newly infected victims acquire viral strains that are already resistant to current drugs.
The first case of preventing mother to child transmission happened on March 3, 2013. Researchers announced that a baby born infected with HIV had been ”functionally cured.” The child, born in Mississippi, was given high doses of antiretroviral drugs within 30 hours of being born. Fortunately, for the child, even two years later, there was no trace of HIV in the blood.
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The only way to diagnose or find out if one has HIV is through a blood test. When the HIV virus enters the body, it takes a while before the virus can be detected. Today there are different HIV tests available which have different window period.
Individuals should speak to healthcare professionals before getting tested for HIV, STIs and Hepatitis C.
HIV/AIDS continues to spread in the rest of the world, particularly in countries where poverty, inequality, and conflict are prevalent. HIV has the fastest growth rate in Eastern Europe, Central Asia, followed by Asian countries, the Caribbean and Latin America.
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