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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Cases of Victorian disease that causes bone deformities and seizures in kids soars 380% in hotspot

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YOU might assume that diseases which reigned during the Victorian era would have been wiped out by modern medicine But a few have made a worrying resurgence in recent years, one of those being the bone-deforming disease rickets

A surge in rickets, which causes bone deformities in children, has been recorded in certain parts of the country…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

Think of Charles Dickens’ character Tiny Tim, whose crippled legs may have been caused by the condition, according to modern medics.

Though the disease was common in the past, it mostly disappeared in the western world during the early 20th century after foods like margarine and cereal were fortified with vitamin D.

Now, regions in the UK have reported a startling surge in rickets, with cases in spots such as East Kent increasing sharply over the last five years.

Rickets, once synonymous with poverty and poor diets in Victorian Britain, affects bone development in children, causing bone pain, stunted growth and soft, weak bones that can lead to deformities.

A lack of vitamin D – derived from sunlight and some foods – or calcium is the most common cause of the disease, though in rare cases children can be born with a genetic form of rickets.

Left untreated, the condition can also lead to an abnormally curved spine, dental defects and seizures.

East Kent Hospitals University NHS Trust – one of the largest in England – recorded 122 cases in 2019.

But by 2023, that figure had swelled to more than 580 – a 380 per cent increase – according to a Freedom of Information request.

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Figures released earlier this year show that 28,379 Brits were diagnosed with rickets between 2019 and 2023.

Poverty and malnutrition could be factors fuelling the rise in scurvy cases in East Kent, as some parts of Thanet are among the poorest in England – more than 20 per cent of its population make up the bottom 10 per cent of most deprived Brits, according to KentOnline.

Cases of Victorian disease that causes ‘sandpaper rash and killer complications’ surge 42% in a week – is your area affected

But the surge in cases might also be down to medics getting better at spotting the Victorian disease.

East Kent’s Chief Medical Officer Des Holden said: “We interpret that part of the increase is due to increased recognition and more accurate recording of rickets.

“Our neo-natal teams are robust in recommending vitamin D for babies at risk, including mothers who have low vitamin D.

“There is also increased awareness in our team to screen for vitamin D levels.

“For example, vitamin D screening is now included in our guidance for children with obesity as this group is at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency.

“Children with rickets may previously have been recorded as having vitamin D deficiency and treated appropriately, but we have improved recording in our coding systems that they meet criteria to diagnose rickets.”

NHS England figures show a sharp increase in hospital admissions for a vitamin D deficiency – from 31,576 admissions in 2013/14 to 188,114 last year – which can lead to the skeletal disorder if left untreated.

Sarah Calcutt, chief executive of City Harvest, a charity which wants to reduce food insecurity, said “There is a whole Dickensian list of diseases that come around because key food groups are missing from people’s diets.”

Vitamin D comes from exposing the skin to sunlight but is also found in foods such as oily fish, eggs and some cereals.

The vitamin is essential for the formation of strong and healthy bones in children. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Any child who doesn’t get enough vitamin D or calcium – either through their diet, or from sunlight – can develop rickets.

But according to the NHS, it’s more common in children with dark skin, as they need more sunlight to get enough vitamin D, as well as children born prematurely or taking medication that interferes with vitamin D.

Previously, experts said the rising cost of living is likely to be behind the surge in rickets and scurvy – another Victorian era disease – as parents struggle to afford fruit and veg and are instead forced to buy cheaper junk food, which lacks vital vitamins and minerals.

PREVENTING RICKETS

Medway GP Dr Julian Spinks says people of all ages should follow the national guidance and take vitamin D supplements to avoid the entirely preventable condition.

“We thought we’d got rid of it. But it is now back,” he told KentOnline.

“There is a possibility if a pregnant woman is very deficient herself that the baby will be born with a relative lack of vitamin D.

“However in most cases it’s because they’re not actually getting enough vitamin D and the two main ways we get it in the UK are from sunlight – particularly from April to September – and from food.

“Definitely diet plays a part. If children are not eating things like oily fish or eggs or for example – breakfast cereals which are often supplemented with vitamin D – then this will have an effect.

“Whilst it’s a very small proportion of the population, it is worrying that this is making a comeback and it’s because it’s a very preventable condition.”

How to protect your child from rickets

YOU can help prevent rickets in your children by ensuring they:

  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in vitamin D, with foods like oily fish, red meat, eggs yolks and fortified cereals and spreads
  • Spend time in the sun between March and September (wearing sun cream prevents vitamin D absorption from the sun, but you should still apply it before skin starts to burn)
  • Take vitamin D supplements

Babies up to a year old need 8.5 to 10 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin D a day, unless they are fed 500ml or more of infant formula a day.

Children from the age of one to four should be given a daily supplement containing 10mcg of vitamin D.

Adults – including pregnant and breastfeeding women – also need 10mcg of vitamin D a day, at least between October and March.

How do I know id my child has rickets

The signs and symptoms of rickets can include:

  • Pain – the bones affected by rickets can be sore and painful, so the child may be reluctant to walk or may tire easily; the child’s walk may look different (waddling)
  • Skeletal deformities – thickening of the ankles, wrists and knees, bowed legs, soft skull bones and, rarely, bending of the spine
  • Dental problems – including weak tooth enamel, delay in teeth coming through and increased risk of cavities
  • Poor growth and development – if the skeleton doesn’t grow and develop properly, the child will be shorter than average
  • Fragile bones – in severe cases, the bones become weaker and more prone to fractures

Source: NHS

For most children, rickets can be successfully treated by ensuring they eat foods that contain calcium and vitamin D, or by taking vitamin supplements.

Some families are eligible for free vitamin supplements from the government’s Healthy Start scheme.

The scheme can also support cash-strapped households with buying healthy food and milk.

For those who are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under four, and are eligible, a benefit card is topped up every four weeks to help with the purchase of fresh food.

The card can also be used to collect Healthy Start vitamins for pregnant and breastfeeding mums, as well as vitamin drops for babies and young children up to four years old.

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

3 Reasons Why People Die In Their Sleep: Please Do Not Ignore

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Getting adequate shut-eye is crucial to your health, and that much should go without saying. However, it could be unhealthy to sleep too little. When you lay your head down for the night, a lot of bad things can happen to you.

Have you ever wondered what causes individuals to pass away peacefully during their sleep? It is a phenomenon that has intrigued scientists, doctors, and the general public alike. In this blog post, we delve into the five most common reasons why people may unfortunately die in their sleep…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

While this topic may seem morbid, understanding these causes can help shed light on certain health risks, encourage awareness, and encourage proactive measures to prevent such circumstances. So, let’s explore the various factors that can lead to these unexpected occurrences.

5 Reasons Why People Die in Their Sleep

1. Cardiac Arrest: A Silent Culprit

Cardiac arrest is one of the most prevalent causes of sudden death during sleep. It occurs when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, resulting in a sudden loss of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Factors like age, family history, lifestyle choices, such as smoking and unhealthy diets, and underlying medical conditions can all contribute to an increased risk of cardiac arrest during sleep.
Factors Leading to Cardiac Arrest

a. Age and Genetics: The Silent Influencers

As individuals age, the risk of cardiac arrest, especially during sleep, increases. Family history also plays a role, as genetic predispositions can make some individuals more susceptible to experiencing cardiac issues. It is crucial to be aware of these factors, as prevention and early detection can significantly reduce the risk.

b. Lifestyle Choices: Pushing the Boundaries

Poor lifestyle choices, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, and an unhealthy diet, can heighten the risk of cardiac arrest during sleep. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly minimize the occurrence of such incidents. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Breathing Troubles

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder characterized by breathing difficulty during sleep. People with OSA experience temporary blockages in their airways, leading to frequent interruptions in their breathing patterns. Severe cases of OSA can result in a decrease in oxygen levels, causing stress on the heart and an increased likelihood of heart-related health issues.
Contributing Factors to Obstructive Sleep Apnea

a. Obesity: A Weighty Matter

Obesity is a major contributing factor to OSA. Excess weight, particularly around the neck and throat area, narrows the airways and can lead to frequent breathing disruptions during sleep. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise is essential in reducing the risk of OSA-related fatalities during sleep.

b. Untreated Snoring: A Warning Sign

Persistent snoring can be an indicator of an underlying health issue, including OSA. Failing to address chronic snoring can lead to severe complications and fatal outcomes during sleep. Seeking medical advice and undergoing necessary diagnostic tests can facilitate early detection and appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

While passing away peacefully during sleep is relatively rare, understanding the potential causes can help safeguard against potential health risks. By acknowledging the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle, being aware of our family history, and heeding warning signs like chronic snoring, we can take proactive measures to minimize the possibility of experiencing these unfortunate circumstances. Remember, prevention and early detection are key in maintaining overall well-being and longevity. Stay informed, take care of your health, and give yourself the best chance of a restful night’s sleep!

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

When You Drink Hot Water Every Day, This Is What Happens To Your Body

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Have you ever given any thought to what would happen to your body if you continually subjected it to the effects of drinking hot water? When everything is taken into account, we are aware that water is important for the body to keep adequately hydrated and that it accounts for sixty percent of the human adult body (via USGS). Water makes up sixty percent of the human adult body. Who would have thought, though, that the temperature at which you consume it plays a role in the kinds of health benefits you gain from it…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

As a result of the fact that Tom Cruise’s relationship with Suri has been lately brought to light in a variety of different ways.

However, drinking water that has been brought to a boil on a frequent basis offers a variety of additional health benefits, which your body may be prevented from taking advantage of if you drink cold water instead of water that has been brought to a boil. People have a propensity, when they think about drinking water, to picture themselves in a position in which they are sipping some water that is really cold while basking in the warmth of the late spring sun or relishing in the virus-like sensation of it after a particularly tough twisting class. This is because people have a tendency to picture themselves in scenarios in which they are partaking in activities that involve extreme temperatures. Drinking warm water first thing in the morning is recommended by medical professionals, as stated by Stella Metsovas, a professional nutritionist, who explains why this is the case. Medical Daily has been provided with this information. In point of fact, and to some degree one is taken aback by this revelation, access to this kind of information has been available for a significant amount of time now. According to Reader’s Digest, both Chinese and Indian physicians encourage drinking this steaming hot beverage first thing in the morning to get the most out of the day due to the many excellent benefits it has on one’s health. This is because traditional Chinese medicine and Indian medicine both believe that drinking this beverage in the morning helps one get the most out of the day.

Therefore, would you be so kind as to elaborate on what you mean by that? If you drink hot water on a regular basis, your body will experience these effects, which are something that may be expected.

There is some evidence that lowering your blood pressure can be accomplished by drinking hot water on a regular basis. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

In this difficult environment, there is a clear approach for being able to stretch less, and it all starts with establishing a daily appreciation for water. This is the first step in the process. Dietitian Amanda Carlson, who is also a qualified dietitian, is of the opinion that individuals can benefit from keeping an adequate level of hydration in order to experience reduced levels of anxiety. If you don’t give your body the liquids it needs, you’re adding extra weight to it, and your body will react to this by acting erratically.

According to Healthline, consuming hot water reduces the activity of your focus sensory system, which is responsible for determining how your brain reacts when it is subjected to pressure. According to the American Psychological Association, not getting enough water can cause confusion in the central nervous system, which can trigger a vicious loop that never comes to an end. It is actually easier to become dehydrated when you are under pressure, as your pulse will be higher than normal, and you will be breathing more actively than usual, says Renee Melton, MS, RD, LD, who is the head of nutrition at Sensei. This is because your pulse will be higher when you are under strain. WebMD received this information from another source. Therefore, if you truly want to get rid of the problem the next time it comes up, you might want to consider the alternative of continuously drinking hot water.

Regularly consuming water that has been heated to a boil has the ability to reduce the amount of physical pain and suffering that individual is experiencing

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Place this leaf in every corner of your house and you will not see cockroaches again

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Cockroaches are notorious and unsightly pests that are commonly associated with waste and dirt. However, they can also be found in homes, making their way into the closets and bedrooms.

Their ability to adapt and survive is remarkable, allowing them to thrive in various environments around the world. Cockroaches are incredibly resilient creatures, capable of withstanding high levels of radiation and surviving for over a month without food. As omnivores, they can consume both plant-based foods and other animals, which explains their ubiquitous presence as they scavenge for sustenance…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

In addition to feeding on garbage, cockroaches leave chemical trails through their feces. This serves as a form of communication, enabling them to locate sources of water and food. It is this behavior that leads to their establishment in specific areas. Despite their ability to squeeze through tiny openings and endure long periods without sustenance, they often enter homes through bags, boxes, and even gaps under doors.

If you’re looking to eliminate cockroaches that have invaded your home, I recommend a highly effective method that is safe, especially if you have young children or pets. Bay leaves serve as an excellent natural repellent for cockroaches. While they may not kill the pests, the strong odor emitted by the leaves is unbearable for them, driving them away quickly. Placing bay leaf branches in every corner of the house is recommended.

Specifically, putting ten bay leaves in the kitchen will prevent cockroaches from roaming around. Bay leaves are particularly suitable for areas where food is stored, such as the kitchen or pantry, as they are safe and non-toxic. Additionally, I suggest placing bay leaves in your garden, especially if you have pets. This way, you can eliminate cockroaches without worrying about the safety of your children or pets. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Whether you use fresh or dried bay leaves, the most effective way to utilize them is to crush the dry leaves into a powder. This intensifies the fragrance they release. To use bay leaves as a cockroach deterrent, place whole leaves behind appliances, near entry points, in closets, and in various corners of your home. Open containers and bowls can also be filled with bay leaves and strategically placed. Furthermore, burning a bay leaf in your home not only adds a pleasant natural aroma but also provides additional cockroach protection.

In conclusion, by ensuring you have ten bay leaves in the kitchen, you can effectively prevent cockroaches from roaming around. Bay leaves are a safe and non-toxic option for areas where food is stored, such as the kitchen or pantry. By following this method, you can eliminate cockroaches without worrying about the safety of your children.

 

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