Tag: health

ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE

8 Economic benefits of universal health care

chibueze uchegbu | November 15th, 2020


The economic benefits of universal health care coverage impact a country’s economic prospects in several aspects.

Universal healthcare improves health outcomes by ensuring that everyone has continuous access to care regardless of pre-existing conditions, ability to pay, or any other factors. This continuity is particularly important for the management of chronic conditions.

Universal health care is the action that a government takes to provide health care to as many people as possible at cheaper or more affordable.

Some governments do this by setting minimum standards and regulations and some by implementing programs that cover the entire population.

Introduction to the economic benefits of the universal health care system

There are many economic benefits of the health care system, however; the cardinal aim of a universal health care system remains to cover medical bills for the citizens.

Although, lower-income or those diagnosed with specific serious health conditions would have access to government-funded care. Essentially, it would be an expansion of the current Medicaid system with a few additional caveats.

Universal health care is a system that provides quality medical services to all citizens. The federal government offers it to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Universal health care allows everybody the opportunity to access a full range of health services including promotion, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care.

These services should be of good quality. Because the emphasis here is on everybody getting the treatment they need, the objective includes an important equity dimension.

From a reliable source, evidence suggests that the implementation of a universal health care system benefits a country’s economy.

economic benefits of universal health care

Is no doubt that the progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC) involves complicated challenges, it is easy to lose sight of the fact that moving toward UHC is a political process that involves negotiation between different interest groups in society over the allocation of health benefits and who should bear the costs.

A study, carried out by the consultancy firm KPMG, looks at the effects of UHC on the economy of South Africa. The results show the economic benefits of introducing UHC in 2011 have so far outweighed the costs associated with introducing the system and funding it with increased taxes.

In this vein, for the past few decades, civil society organizations (CSOs) have frequently played a crucial role in representing the views of the poor and the vulnerable in these negotiations, pushing for a more equitable distribution of both the responsibility for funding the system and the benefits received.

CSOs have been working vehemently in remodeling the health systems at the national level, increasing grass root’ involvement in the decision-making process, and in creating accountability mechanisms.

Also, CSOs have achieved most when they have been able to develop robust positions based on solid arguments and compelling examples.

Economic benefits of universal health care

Below are some of the economic benefits of a universal health care system

  • Creation of productive and healthier workforce
  • Lower mortality rates
  • Promotes health care equality and rights
  • A right to health care could stop medical bankruptcies
  • Lowers overall health care costs
  • Standardizes service
  • Early childhood care prevents future social costs
  • Providing a right to health care could benefit private businesses.

Creation of productive and healthier workforce

A healthier workforce is productive and raises healthy families; thus, healthy workers are a key strategy, for a better health system.

economic benefits of universal health care

This contributes to sustainable development, which is the key to poverty reduction and is fundamental to public health, for it is increasingly clear that major diseases (e.g. AIDS, heart disease) need a healthier and more productive workforce to control the diseases.

Studies show that preventive care reduces the need for expensive emergency room usage.

Without access to preventive care, 46% of emergency room patients went because they had no other place to go.

They used the emergency room as their primary care physician. This health care inequality is a big reason for the rising cost of medical care.

This, in turn, is one of the economic benefits of universal health care

Lower mortality rates

Lower mortality rates are also one of the economic benefits of universal health care. Its effects could be either directly or indirectly.

Low mortality also has important implications for the process of economic growth.

Recently there has been an increase in the number of research studies that examine how reduced mortality affected economic decisions.

Another study focuses on two of these decisions, namely fertility and human capital investment, given the importance of these for economic growth and given the fact that the most significant component of mortality decline has been a reduction in infant and child deaths.

Increased life expectancy implies a higher rate of return on human capital investment and hence, declining child and youth mortality provide an important incentive to increase investment in the education of each child.

Researchers have emphasized the role of human capital investment as the prime engine for economic growth.

Promotes health care equality and rights

A promoted health care equality and rights benefits cannot be over-emphasized.

“The right to the highest attainable standard of health” implies a clear set of legal obligations on states to ensure appropriate conditions for the enjoyment of health for all people without discrimination.

The right to health is one of a set of internationally agreed human rights standards and is inseparable or ‘indivisible’ from these other rights.

This means achieving the right to health is both central to, and dependent upon, the realization of other human rights, to food, housing, work, education, information, and participation.

A right to health care could stop medical bankruptcies

According to the National Bankruptcy Forum, medical debt is the #1 reason people file for bankruptcy in the United States.

Medicare-for-All would end medical bankruptcy. People would no longer have to pay outrageous amounts or go into debt in order to receive treatment.

In 2017, about 33% of all Americans with medical bills reported that they “were unable to pay for basic necessities like food, heat, or housing.”

If all US citizens were provided health care under a single-payer system medical bankruptcy would no longer exist, because the government, not private citizens, would pay all medical bills.

Lowers overall health care costs

Lower health care cost is of economic benefits because many people both inside and outside the sphere of health policy take it for granted that cutting health care costs is an admirable even necessary pursuit.

Nearly everyone has gone on record in support of health care cost containment. The burgeoning managed care sector is based on the premise that a large part of managing care is managing its costs.

Improvements in health status may have a positive economic impact on households through increased productivity, and reduced absenteeism. Although there have been numerous debates on the economic benefits of universal health care on the ground that it lowers the overall health care cost.

Standardizes service

A standard health service is of economic importance because health is an important determinant of economic development; a healthy population means higher productivity.

In a competitive nation like the United States, health care providers must also focus on profit. They do this by offering the newest technology.

They offer expensive services and pay doctors more. They try to compete by targeting the wealthy people thereby neglecting the poor.

A study suggests that a standardized health service facilitates healthy labor, their incentive to develop new knowledge is higher because they expect to benefit in the long run.

Early childhood care prevents future social costs

Early childhood care, prevents future social cost and equally improve economic growth.

This is because high-quality early childhood programs can increase the number of skilled workers in the future, which then magnetizes investments and jobs in the local economy, increasing local earnings, and such can be considered one of the economic benefits of universal health care.

Providing a right to health care could benefit private businesses.

Providing the right to health care is one of the economic benefits of universal health care because the private sector is the engine of the growth of any economy.

Private businesses drive economic growth, create jobs, and pay the taxes that finance the services and investments of the nation.

Is no doubt that in developing countries, is the private sector creates 90 percent of jobs, funds 60 percent of all investments, and generates more than 80 percent of the revenues of the government.

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list of private hospitals in Qatar

Best 15 list of private hospitals in Qatar

chibueze uchegbu | November 12th, 2020


With regard to the list of Private hospitals in Qatar, there is a growing number of private clinics and practitioners in Qatar.

With a growing population and increasing costs, the Ministry of Public Health expects the private sector to lift some of the burdens off its shoulders.

Therefore, it is the intention of the top health ministry officials to encourage private sector facilities. In the private sector, there are up to 131 dental clinics, 128 medical clinics, and 23 polyclinics that offer consultancies in different specialties in Qatar.

list of private hospitals in Qatar

In all, for every 10,000 people in the country, there are 77.4 doctors, 118.7 nurses and midwives, and 0.3 psychiatrists, according to the WHO’s “World Health Statistics 2015.

WHO statistics for 2013 show that the number of hospital beds per 10,000 was about 12, while the number of dentists was 5.8 per 10,000 people.

In the list of the best hospitals in Qatar, the hospitals are listed with no fixed preference.  Some of the major private hospitals are taken into consideration.

List of private hospitals in Qatar

  • Al Ahli Hospital
  • Doha Clinic Hospital
  • KIMS Qatar Medical Centre (KQMC)
  • Al Esraa Medical Centre
  • Al Esraa Polyclinic
  • Aster Medical Centre
  • Turkish Hospital, Qatar
  • Al Shefa Polyclinic
  • Al-Emadi Hospital
  • American Hospital Clinics
  • Apollo Clinic
  • Atlas Polyclinic
  • DOC. Medical Centre
  • Dr. Hassan Al-Abdulla Medical Centre
  • Kims Medical Centre
  • Naseem Al Rabeeh Medical Centre
  • Sidra Medicine
  • Syrian American Medical Centre

Al Ahli Hospital is o the list of private hospitals in Qatar 

This is a renowned private medical institution established in 2004, it is a private general hospital that would provide five-star healthcare services in a relaxing environment.

It is a 250 beds tertiary care hospital providing treatment in all core specialties. The hospital is also equipped with ICU, CCU & NICU.

Contact: +974 4489 8888

Fax: +974 4489 8989

Email: [email protected]

Address: Al-Ahli Hospital Ahmed Bin Ali Street P.O.Box 6401 Doha, Qatar

Doha Clinic Hospital on the list of private hospitals in Qatar

Doha Clinic Hospital (DCH) the first fully integrated private hospital in Qatar established in 2001.

It started as a polyclinic in 1994, expanded, and renovated to become a fully integrated hospital. DCH is owned by Mohamed Bin Hamad Holding Company.

list of private hospitals in Qatar

Since December 2017, DCH is managed by Allegheny International Services ME (AISME), hospital management and international healthcare consulting firm based in the United States of America. DCH has obtained Platinum Accreditation from Accreditation Canada.

DCH has 57 inpatient beds and provides inpatient and outpatient care, and medical, surgical, and pediatric services 24 hours, 7 days a week. DCH’s medical staff consists of 84 full-time physicians and over 80 visiting physicians.

Contact: +974 4438 4333 E-mail: [email protected]

Address: P.O.Box: 9958 New Al Mirqab Street, Fereej Al Nasr, Doha-Qatar.

KIMS Qatar Medical Centre (KQMC) is among the list of private hospitals in Qatar

KIMS Qatar Medical Centre (KQMC) is the first private venture in the Wakra area, which began its operations in 2009.

KQMC, a multi-specialty outpatient center with diagnostic facilities and a pharmacy, gained instant popularity due to its accessibility, affordability, and quality of service, encouraging us to double the clinic space within just one year of operations.

We deliver quality medical care through a professional team of doctors, nurses, paramedics, and administrators with high-end facilities and equipment.

Their center is also equipped with a modern hospital information system that allows the operations to be almost paperless.

They have specialties such as – Internal Medicine, Gynecology, Pediatrics, ENT, General Surgery, Ophthalmology, Dental, and Dermatology.  Our services also include Physiotherapy, Laboratory, Radiology, and Pharmacy.

Contact+974 40 20 71 00

Address: Abdulrahman Bin Jassim Al Thani Street P.O Box:82125′

Al Esraa Medical Centre in the list of private hospitals in Qatar

Al Esraa Medical Center began functioning in 2010. Strategically located next to Landmark Mall, the Polyclinic offers consultations and treatments in all major medical and dental disciplines, lab investigations, X-Ray, and other diagnostics as well as Pharmacy.

The clinic has direct billing arrangements with all major Health Insurance providers, both local and international, thus enabling patients who are insured by various health insurance companies to avail cashless services at the clinic.

Contact: 4498 9811

Address: Al Gharafa  Near Landmark Mall Doha, Qatar

Aster Medical Centre in the list of private hospitals in Qatar

When the first Aster Clinic was established in 1987, little did we know that it would grow into one of the largest networks of clinics across the Middle East? 

We have spent the last 3 decades strengthening the scope and quality of our services while simultaneously evolving the brand, to ensure that all our patient’s healthcare needs are met.

Not only is Aster Clinic now one of the biggest integrated networks in the region, but we have also successfully reshaped the healthcare landscape across each of the neighborhoods that we operate in.

Placing our patients at the heart of our operations, we have developed robust quality standards, enhanced professional expertise, and built spacious infrastructures to render the most comfortable and satisfying experience for all our patients.

Contact: +974 4444 0499

Address: C Ring Rd, Doha, Qatar

Al Shefa Polyclinic in the list of private hospitals in Qatar

Al shefa polyclinic is one of the private hospitals in Qatar. They specialize in four specialties.

GENERAL PHYSICIAN

The General Physician services include: Care for Chronic Health Problems, Treatment of Acute Non-Life-Threatening Diseases, Early detection, and referral to the specialized care of patients with serious illness

ORTHODONTIC

The Orthodontic Services include Fixed, Removable, or Functional Appliances.

INTERNAL MEDICINE

The Internal Medicine services include Diagnosis & Treatment of Heart Diseases & Hypertension with ECG. Management of Respiratory Diseases Including Allergy and Asthma.

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

The Obstetrics & Gynecology services include: Contraceptive Counseling and Management, Diagnosis and Treatment of Sexually Transmitted Infections

Contact: +974 4466 0330 [email protected]

Address: Al Kharaitiyat Building 654, Zone 71, St.550

Al-Emadi Hospital in the list of private hospitals in Qatar

This is a multi-specialty hospital with all core specialties working every minute of the day.

Hospital services are designed to meet the needs and at the same time, exceed the expectations of the patients.

This is achieved by combining medical ethics with the latest medical technology available and is run by specialized, highly trained, and experienced physicians who constantly undergo the latest training programs and workshops to improve their skills and stay up to date with all new treatments and medicines available.

The hospital has 4 major operation rooms and Intensive care units, offering the maximum level of sterilization service.

Contact: [email protected]

Address: Al Emadi Hospital D Ring Rd, Doha

American Hospital Clinics in the list of private hospitals in Qatar

American Hospital Clinics is one of the leading private health care providers in the State of Qatar.

Established in 1999 as the first Private hospital in Qatar.

American hospital clinics, high-quality medical service in an atmosphere of intimacy and affection.

Contacts: 44421999, 44079601

Address: C Ring Road, Al Munthaza St, Near Ministry of Labour, P.O.Box 22314, Doha – Qatar 0000 Doha, Qatar

Turkish Hospital, Qatar 

Established in 2017, the hospital has more than 20 outpatient clinics with different specialties.

The Turkish Hospital has five operating theatres, 14 beds in the Intensive Care Unit, two delivery rooms, angiography and radiology units, laboratories, and a pharmacy.

It has a total of 100 beds

Contact: [email protected]

Address: c ring room, new slata, Doha Qatar P.O Box 21377

Apollo clinic alsonin the list of private hospitals in Qatar

Apollo Clinics is a part of the renowned Apollo Hospital Group of India, which is currently rated as the largest corporate hospital group in Asia and the 3rd largest in the world. The Clinic started functioning in 2005 and with more than 40 accomplished doctors on board, it is today the largest Polyclinic in the State of Qatar.

The Apollo Clinic Qatar offers consultations and outpatient treatments in almost all major Medical & Dental Specialities.

It also boasts of state-of-the-art Medical laboratory where all kinds of pathological investigations are done. Other prime facilities include X-Ray, Ultrasound, ECG, PFT, Audiometry, OPG, etc, as well as Pharmacy.

The Clinic has direct billing arrangements with all major health insurance providers, both local and international, thus enabling patients who are insured by various Health Insurance companies to avail themselves of cashless services at the clinic.

Contact: 00974 4441 8441 Email: [email protected]

Address: P.O.BOX 23656, NEAR HAFZA TRAFFIC SIGNAL, DOHA, MUNTAZA STREET, DOHA, QATAR – 23656

 Atlas medical centre

Atlas Medical Center commenced operations in 2011. Atlas Medical Center offers consultations and treatments in all major medical and dental Specialties, Lab investigations/tests, Radiology ( X-ray, CT), and Pharmacy

The clinic has direct billing arrangements with all major Health Insurance providers, both local and international, thus enabling patients who are insured by various health insurance companies to avail cashless services at the clinic.

Contact: 44153222

Address: Barwa Village, Wakrah Road

Atlas Polyclinic 

Atlas Polyclinic is the largest medical center, located at Asian Town next to the Cricket Stadium Complex; this Polyclinic offers consultations and treatments in major medical and dental disciplines, lab investigation, X-ray, Ultrasound, Audiometry, vision tests, and other diagnostics as well as the pharmacy.

The clinic has direct billing arrangements with all major Health insurance providers, both local and international, thus enabling patients who are insured with various health insurance companies to avail cashless service at the clinic.

Contact: lab.dhcgroup.qa, 55015882

Address: West End Park, Above Grand Mall Asian Town industrial area

DOC. Medical Centre

DOC. Medical Center is a premier care destination for Orthopedics, Rheumatology, Neurology, Neurophysiology, Physiotherapy, Chiropractor, and Dental Services.

It is also recognized in the list of private hospitals in Qatar.

The ethos of DOC. is to provide exceptional healthcare services that have person-centered care as a core value.

Everyone at DOC. works together with one single goal; to deliver high-quality care to all, from childhood through to old age, Whether that be in restoring health and well-being after an accident or injury, or in maintaining a healthy body for our old age.

They pride themselves on caring for the whole family.

Contact:  +974 44 31 77 66

Email: [email protected]

Address: 27 Al Kinana Street Al-Saad, Qatar

Dr. Hassan Al-Abdulla Medical Centre

Dr. Hassan Al-Abdulla Medical Center is a comprehensive skin diagnosis and treatment center.

The board-certified physicians and highly trained physician assistants have many years of experience in all dermatological conditions and treat patients of all ages and skin types.

Besides, having well-trained manpower, They are at the top because we are the first dermatology center in Qatar holding the Licence No.1 registration.

Contact: +974 4432 3900

Address: 250 D ring Road, 45 Old Airport Area P.O. Box 23881, Doha, Qatar

Kims Medical Centre

Kims is recognized in the list of private hospitals in Qatar. KIMS Qatar Medical Centre (KQMC) is the first private venture in the Wakra area which began its operations in 2009.

KQMC, a multi-specialty outpatient center with diagnostic facilities and a pharmacy, gained instant popularity due to its accessibility, affordability, and quality of service, encouraging us to double the clinic space within just one year of operations.

We deliver quality medical care through a professional team of doctors, nurses, paramedics, and administrators with high-end facilities and equipment.

Their center is also equipped with a modern hospital information system that allows the operations to be almost paperless.

We have specialties such as – Internal Medicine, Gynecology, Pediatrics, ENT, General Surgery, Ophthalmology, Dental, and Dermatology.  Our services also include Physiotherapy, Laboratory, Radiology, and Pharmacy.

Contact: +974 40 20 71 00

Address: Abdulrahman Bin Jassim Al Thani Street P.O Box:82125′

Naseem al rabeeh medical centre

Naseem Al Rabeeh Medical Centre is the Largest JCI Accredited Private Medical Centre in Qatar, consisting of a team of medical experts who practice this noble profession with integrity and solicitude, keeping the sole goal in mind of providing the best quality health services along with the state of the art infrastructure.

Our Medical Centres in Qatar are infused with an artistic atmosphere designed to soothe and comfort.

Naseem Al Rabeeh Medical Centres has been making benchmarks in the rapidly changing healthcare scenario in Qatar! At Naseem Al Rabeeh, the personal bond between the patient and the doctor is of elemental importance and it’s our primary concern too.

The JCI Accredited Qatar Medical Centre, has ample syndication and ties up with all major Medical Insurance Companies in Qatar which enables us to offer appropriate and accessible services at adequate rates.

Our clinic accomplishes a broad scale of diagnostic, interventional, and surgical techniques, and in recognition of its expertise and commitment to quality is the faith that the people have.

Contact: +974 4431 6633, +974 3314 3735

Address: Al Nuaija – Hilal, D Ring Road, Doha Qatar. P.O.Box:22368

Sidra Medicine in the list of private hospitals in Qatar

Sidra Medicine is a 400-bed women’s and children’s hospital, medical education, and biomedical research center in Doha, Qatar. It is a member of the Qatar Foundation.

The hospital first opened its outpatient facility in 2016, followed by its inpatient hospital in January 2018.

Contact: +974 4003 3333

Address: Al Gharrafa St, Ar-Rayyan, Qatar

Syrian American Medical Centre

Syrian American Medical Center aims to make the time you spend on health care inquiries rewarding and valuable by introducing you to their many clinics and various sections in a way that provides you with a clear and real idea of all the benefits and services you gain by visiting us.

At SAC you will find an exceptional combination of highly specialized medical staff equipped with the latest in medical technology under the supervision and care of experienced and renowned doctors.

In addition to our primary concerns of Service Excellence, Quality Control, Patient Safety, and Satisfaction, we aim to establish a continuous and long-lasting relationship with our clients based on trust and confidentiality, by welcoming all comments and feedback. May good health, be yours.

Contact: +974 4019 1919

Address: Al Luqta St, Doha, Qatar

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benefits of aloev era, aloe vera

Best benefits of aloe vera

chibueze uchegbu | June 1st, 2020


What are the benefits of aloe vera? This question has been a trending question for over a century. But today, idealmedhealth brings the ideal answer to this question and the essentials you need to know.

Carefully read through and equip yourself with the knowledge you can’t get elsewhere.

Introduction on the benefits of aloe vera

Aloe vera belongs to the kingdom Plantae, family Asphodelaceae, genus, and species Aloe vera respectively.

Although, there are different aloe plants vera is unique because of its gel and latex which are of high medical importance.

Related: Benefits of unripe plantain

Vera originates from the Arabian peninsula but has spread all over the world with its projected leaves from where some active bioactive ingredients like emodins, mannons, lectins, and anthraquinone c-glycosides can be found.

It had been popularly grown as an ornamental plant and gained the Royal Horticultural Society‘s Award of Garden Merit.

How to harvest aloe vera in the benefits of aloe vera

Aloe vera can be simply harvested following this uncomplicated procedure once the plant is mature after a few years.

Firstly, you remove 4-5 leaves at a time, choosing thick leaves from the outer sections of the plant, and equally consider healthy leaves for a better result after extraction.

Secondly, cut the leaves close to the stem where most of the beneficial nutrients are found.

Thirdly, wash and dry the leaves thoroughly for a few minutes after which you trim the edges separating the interior gel from outside of the leaf.

This is where you have to be more careful, the interior gel is equally useful after the separation. Allow the yellow sap to drain from the leaf into a container if you intend to use the latex. Finally cut the plant into slices or when you want a smooth aloe gel.

After the separation of the aloe from the exterior part of the leaf, you can put the aloe into a blender or use a pestle and mortar after which you strain the substance to remove the pulp and proceed to what you intend to do.

benefits of aloe vera

benefits of aloe vera

6 benefits of aloe vera

This is where that big question [WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ALOE VERA?] is answered. So give it undivided attention as you read through.

Aloe vera has many uses although there has been no well-known scientific backup of the medicinal uses of Aloe vera in traditional medicine, it has gone a long way in alleviating the medical challenges of people who use it rightly. Let us look at some of the uses

1] As ornamental plant:

Because of the greenish color, stemless nature of the plant, and the wonderful arrangement of the leaves, different households use it for beautification.

In the benefits of aloe vera, having it as a flower in your household is worthwhile.

2] As burn treatment:

Due to its soothing, moisturizing, and cooling properties, aloe vera is often used to treat burns of lower degrees. This is among the amazing benefits of aloe vera everyone is expected to know.

2013 study, showed that out of fifty participants there was a significant improvement in those who used aloe vera gel to treat burns compared to those that used %1 silver sulfadiazine cream than people who used aloe vera gel to treat superficial and partial thickness burns showed better results than the group that used a %1 silver sulfadiazine cream.

3] Improvement of the digestive system:

Aloe vera consumption may benefit your digestive tract and help to alleviate stomach ailments, including irritable bowel syndrome. equally, aloe vera can inhibit the growth of H. pylori bacteria which is an ulcer pathogen.

benefits of aloe vera

Its effect on improving the digestive system is among the benefits of aloe vera.

4] Promotes oral health:

Aloe vera toothpaste and mouthwash, are natural options for improving oral hygiene and reducing plaque that can lead to halitosis.

5] Helps in acne removal: 

Fresh aloe vera helps to reduce the effect of acne vulgaris when applied to the face. Acne or pimple can be managed and cured using aloe vera the right and applying it at the right time.

benefits of aloe vera

6] Relieves anal fissures:

There is a high chance of recovery from anal fissures. when applying an aloe vera cream to the affected area several times throughout the day.

According to a 2014 study, using a cream containing aloe vera juice powder was effective in treating chronic anal fissures. People used the aloe cream three times a day for six weeks.

Improvements were shown in pain and wound healing. 

Equally, Aloe latex contains aloin, which is an anthraquinone that gives aloe vera its laxative properties and may help in the alleviation of constipation.

FAQs on the benefits of aloe vera

See below;

What is aloe vera juice?

Aloe vera juice is a soft and sticky liquid made from the flesh of the aloe vera plant leaf by crushing the entire leaf of the aloe vera plant, followed by various steps to purify and filter the liquid. It’s commonly known to treat sunburns. But drinking this healthy in juice form provides you with a number of other health benefits.

What are the side effects of drinking aloe vera juice?

On a general note, topical usage of aloe vera is safe, and there are many health benefits associated with taking aloe vera juice, however one can experience some side effects while using it. Although the side effects are mild and withdrawal would likely ease the situation; The side effects include but are not limited to: Allergies, diarrhea, redness of the skin, and irritation.

Is it good to drink aloe vera juice every day?

The answer to this question is dependent on your physiological state. If you have problems with frequent constipation, taking aloe vera juice would help a lot. It can also help normalize the healthy bacteria in your gut, keeping your healthy intestinal flora balanced.

Conclusion

The benefits of aloe vera can not be over-emphasized. You stand to get the best out of it when you use it in the proper way.

As earlier stated there has not been any scientific backup on some of the benefits of aloe vera but the local traditional doctors have confirmed its medicinal importance.

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health benefits of alcohol

Best health benefits of alcohol for people above 50

Pharm. Somtochukwu | February 6th, 2020


The Health benefits of alcohol for people over 50 years of age were investigated in a recent study.

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, “moderate alcohol consumption is defined as having up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.

If alcohol does have benefits, they are not equally distributed. There are age variations.

Introduction to the health benefits of alcohol

Heavy alcohol drinking is associated with a range of serious health disorders ranging from certain cancers, liver disorders, cardiovascular disorders, and damage to the nervous system, including the brain.

However, as has been exhaustively covered in the popular press, drinking in moderation might have certain health benefits.

Health benefits of alcohol experience in moderate alcohol consumption

One study, for instance, found that moderate drinking protected against all-cause mortality, as well as mortality related to cardiovascular disorders.

A recent study led by Dr. Timothy Naimi, of the Boston Medical Center in Massachusetts, adds further fuel to an already rampant blaze.

The authors take aim at the methodology used in earlier studies, and they published their findings in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs.

health benefits of alcohol

After the research on the difference in age, the analysis showed that the level of an individual’s alcohol-related risk was heavily influenced by age.

In total, 35.8 percent of alcohol-related deaths occurred in people aged 20–49. When looking at deaths that were prevented by alcohol consumption, the scientists found only 4.5 percent in this age group.

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When they looked at individuals aged 65 or over, it was a different story: Although a similar 35 percent of alcohol-related deaths occurred in this group, the authors found a huge 80 percent of the deaths prevented by alcohol in this demographic.

The researchers also saw this stark difference between age groups when they looked at the number of potential years lost to alcohol.

Conversely, the over-65 group accounted for 15 percent of the overall years of life lost, but 50 percent of the years of life saved.

The authors conclude that younger people “are more likely to die from alcohol consumption than they are to die from a lack of drinking,” but older people are more likely to experience the health benefits of moderate drinking.

Although the conclusions are not explosive, they bring us a more complete understanding of alcohol’s impact on health: Moderate drinking may benefit people of a certain age group, but heavy drinking is harmful to all.

Equally, the health benefits of alcohol can be found in alleviating other health conditions.

Libido for instance, Contrary to prior beliefs, newer research has found that moderate drinking of alcohol might actually protect men against erectile dysfunction.

In a 2009 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, researchers found that the chances of erectile dysfunction were reduced by 25 to 30 percent among alcohol drinkers.

The lead researcher, Kew-Kim Chew, an epidemiologist at the University of West Australia, conducted the study with 1,770 Australian men.

In his study, Chew cautiously noted that he and his team in no way are advising men to take the bottle and that further research is needed, to accurately connect impotence and alcohol consumption.

Moderate alcohol consumption has an effect on diabetes mellitus, mostly type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Results of a Dutch study showed that healthy adults who drink one to two glasses per day have a decreased chance of developing type 2 diabetes, in comparison to those who don’t drink at all.

“The results of the investigation show that moderate alcohol consumption can play a part in a healthy lifestyle to help reduce the risk of developing diabetes type 2,” researchers said in a statement to Reuters.

It Helps Prevent Against the Common Cold according to the Department of Psychology at Carnegie Mellon University found that while susceptibility to the common cold was increased by smoking, moderate alcohol consumption led to a decrease in common cold cases for people that do not smoke.

This study was conducted in 1993 with 391 adults.

In 2002, according to the New York Times, Spanish researchers found that by drinking eight to 14 glasses of wine per week, particularly red wine, one could see a 60-percent reduction in the risk of developing a cold. The scientists suspected that this had something to do with the antioxidant properties of wine.

Harmful effects of alcohol

Below are some of the effects of alcohol on the body;

  • Alcohol can be addictive 
  • Hormonal imbalance
  • Irregularities of the digestive system
  • Cardiological issues
  • Immune system deterioration
  • Inflammatory damage 
  • Low sugar levels may result

Conclusion on the health benefits of alcohol

In the above-mentioned health benefits of alcohol, one the cardinal point remains to take alcohol in moderation.

As there advantages, we cannot deny the fact that alcohol has also taken many to an early grave when taken in excess.

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female genital mutilation

Female genital mutilation, over 20 things to learn

chibueze uchegbu | February 6th, 2020


Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), the fate of the young girl is decided by tradition.

FGM involves partial or total removal of the female external genitalia or injuries to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons as defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

A lot had been said about this yet the plague still strives in many communities of the world. Different organizations have been striving toward putting an end to female genital mutilation through bills and outreaches but is quite unfortunate some people still embrace this old way.

Types of Female Genital Mutilation

Female genital mutilation is classified into four types:

  • Type 1
  • Type 11
  • Type 111
  • Type 1v

Type I:

Also known as clitoridectomy, this type consists of partial or total removal of the clitoris and/or its prepuce.

Type II:

Also known as excision, the clitoris and labia minora are partially or totally removed, with or without excision of the labia majora.

Type III:

The most severe form is also known as infibulation or pharaonic type.

The procedure consists of narrowing the vaginal orifice with the creation of a covering seal by cutting and positioning the labia minora and/or labia majora, with or without removal of the clitoris.

The apposition of the wound edges consists of stitching or holding the cut areas together for a certain period of time (for example, girls’ legs are bound together), to create the covering seal.

A small opening is left for urine and menstrual blood to escape. Infibulation must be opened either through penetrative sexual intercourse or surgery.

Type IV:

This type consists of all other procedures to the genitalia of women for non-medical purposes, such as pricking, piercing, incising, scraping, and cauterization.

The procedure can result in death through severe bleeding leading to hemorrhagic shock, neurogenic shock as a result of pain and trauma, and overwhelming infection and septicemia.

Immediate consequences of Female Genital Mutilation include severe pain and bleeding, shock, difficulty in passing urine, infections, injury to nearby genital tissue, and sometimes death. Almost all women who have undergone FGM experience pain and bleeding as a consequence of the procedure. The event itself is traumatic as girls are held down during the procedure.

Risk and complications increase with the type of FGM and are more severe and prevalent with infibulations.

“The pain inflicted by FGM does not stop with the initial procedure, but often continues as ongoing torture throughout a woman’s life ”, says Manfred Nowak, UN Special Rapporteur on Torture.

In addition to the severe pain during and in the weeks following the cutting, women who have undergone Female Genital Mutilation experience various long-term effects – physical, sexual, and psychological.

Women may experience chronic pain, chronic pelvic infections, the development of cysts, abscesses and genital ulcers, excessive scar tissue formation, infection of the reproductive system, decreased sexual enjoyment, and psychological consequences, such as post-traumatic stress disorder.

Additional risks for complications from infibulations include urinary and menstrual problems, infertility, laser surgery (defibulation and reinfibulation), and painful sexual intercourse.

Sexual intercourse can only take place after opening the infibulation, through surgery or penetrative sexual intercourse. Consequently, sexual intercourse is frequently painful during the first weeks after sexual initiation, and the male partner can also experience pain and complications.

When giving birth, the scar tissue might tear, or the opening needs to be cut to allow the baby to come out.

After childbirth, women from some ethnic communities are often sown up again to make them “tight” for their husbands (reinfibulation). Such cutting and restitching of a woman’s genitalia result in painful scar tissue.

A multi-country study by WHO in six African countries showed that women who had undergone FGM, had significantly increased risks for adverse events during childbirth, and that genital mutilation in mothers has negative effects on their newborn babies. According to the study, an additional one to two babies per 100 deliveries die as a result of FGM.

Female genital mutilation in Nigeria

Nigeria, due to its large population, has the highest absolute number of female genital mutilation (FGM) worldwide, accounting for about one-quarter of the estimated 115–130 million circumcised women in the world.

The objective of this review is to ascertain the current status of FGM in Nigeria.

Pertinent literature on FGM retrieved from internet services FGM in Nigeria the national prevalence rate of FGM is 41% among adult women. Evidence abounds that the prevalence of FGM is declining.

The ongoing drive to eradicate FGM is tackled by World Health Organization, United Nations International Children Emergency Fund, Federation of International Obstetrics and Gynecology (FIGO), African Union, The economic commission for Africa, and many women organizations. However, there is no federal law banning FGM in Nigeria. There is a need to eradicate FGM in Nigeria.

Approaches in curbing female genital mutilation in Nigeria

Education of the general public at all levels with an emphasis on the dangers and undesirability of FGM is paramount.

Though FGM is practiced in more than 28 countries in Africa and a few scattered communities worldwide, its burden is seen in Nigeria, Egypt, Mali, Eritrea, Sudan, Central African Republic, and the northern part of Ghana where it has been an old traditional and cultural practice of various ethnic groups.

female genital mutilation

The highest prevalence rates are found in Somalia and Djibouti where FGM is virtually universal.
FGM is widely practiced in Nigeria, and with its large population, Nigeria has the highest absolute number of cases of FGM in the world, accounting for about one-quarter of the estimated 115–130 million circumcised women worldwide.

In Nigeria, FGM has the highest prevalence in the south-south (77%) (among adult women), followed by the southeast (68%) and southwest (65%), but practiced on a smaller scale in the north, paradoxically tending to in a more extreme form.

Nigeria has a population of 150 million people with the women population forming 52%. The national prevalence rate of FGM is 41% among adult women.

Prevalence rates progressively decline in the young age groups and 37% of circumcised women do not want FGM to continue. 61% of women who do not want FGM said it was a bad harmful tradition and 22% said it was against religion.

Other reasons cited were medical complications (22%), painful personal experience (10%), and the view that FGM is against the dignity of women (10%).

However, there is still considerable support for the practice in areas where it is deeply rooted in local tradition. The aim of this review was to ascertain the current status of FGM in Nigeria.

Origin and significance

FGM is a practice whose origin and significance are shrouded in secrecy, uncertainty, and confusion. The origin of FGM is fraught with controversy either as an initiation ceremony of young girls into womanhood or to ensure virginity and curb promiscuity or to protect female modesty and chastity.

The ritual has been so widespread that it could not have risen from a single origin


Types/variation of Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria


FGM practiced in Nigeria is classified into four types as follows. Clitoridectomy or Type I (the least severe form of the practice).

Type II or “sunna” is a more severe practice that involves the removal of the clitoris along with partial or total excision of the labia minora.

female genital mutilation

Type IV or other unclassified types recognized include intrucision and gishiri cuts, pricking, piercing, or incision of the clitoris and/or labia, scraping and/or cutting of the vagina (angrya cuts), stretching the clitoris and/or labia, cauterization, the introduction of corrosive substances and herbs in the vagina, and other forms.

In Nigeria, of the six largest ethnic groups, the Yoruba, Hausa, Fulani, Ibo, Ijaw, and Kanuri, only the Fulani do not practice any form.

In most parts of Nigeria, it is carried out at a very young age (minors) and there is no possibility of the individual’s consent.

Reasons to justify Female Genital Mutilation

The respondents gave reasons for FGM. They regarded FGM as a tribal traditional practice as a superstitious belief practiced for the preservation of chastity and purification, family honor, hygiene, esthetic reasons, protection of virginity and prevention of promiscuity, modification of sociosexual attitudes (countering failure of a woman to attain orgasm), increasing the sexual pleasure of husband, enhancing fertility and increasing matrimonial opportunities.

Other reasons are to prevent mother and child from dying during childbirth and for legal reasons (one cannot inherit property if not circumcised).

In some parts of Nigeria, the cut edges of the external genitalia are smeared with secretions from a snail footpad with the belief that the snail being a slow animal would influence the circumcised girl to “go slow” with sexual activities in the future.

However, FGM is often routinely performed as an integral part of social conformity and in line with community identity.

Health consequences of Female Genital Mutilation


An estimated 100–140 million girls and women worldwide are currently living with the consequences of FGM.

In Africa, about 3 million girls are at risk for FGM annually. Despite the increased international and little national attention, the prevalence of FGM overall has declined very little.

The procedure has no health benefits for girls and women.

Adverse consequences of FGM are shocked from pain and hemorrhage, infection, acute urinary retention following such trauma, damage to the urethra or anus in the struggle of the victim during the procedure making the extent of the operation dictated in many cases by chance, chronic pelvic infection, acquired gynatresia resulting in hematocolpos, vulval adhesions, dysmenorrhea, retention cysts, and sexual difficulties with anorgasmia.

Other complications are implantation dermoid cysts and keloids, and sexual dysfunction.

Obstetric complications include perineal lacerations and the inevitable need for episiotomy in infibulated parturients. Others are defibulation with bleeding, injury to the urethra and bladder, injury to the rectum, and puerperal sepsis.

Prolonged labor, delayed 2 stage and obstructed labor leading to fistulae formation, and increased perinatal morbidity and mortality have been associated with FGM

The mental and psychological agony attached with FGM is deemed the most serious complication because the problem does not manifest outwardly for help to be offered.

The young girl is in constant fear of the procedure and after the ritual, she dreads sex because of anticipated pain and dreads childbirth because of complications caused by FGM.

Such girls may not complain but end up becoming frigid and withdrawn resulting in marital disharmony.


Current situation of Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria


FGM is widespread in Nigeria. Some sociocultural determinants have been identified as supporting this avoidable practice. FGM is still deeply entrenched in Nigerian society where critical decision-makers are grandmothers, mothers, women, opinion leaders, men, and age groups.

FGM is an extreme example of discrimination based on sex.

Often used as a way to control women’s sexuality, the practice is closely associated with girls’ marriageability. Mothers chose to subject their daughters to the practice to protect them from being ostracized, beaten, shunned, or disgraced.

There is a need for legislation in Nigeria with health education and female emancipation in society.

The process of social change in the community with a collective, coordinated agreement to abandon the practice of “community-led action” is therefore essential.

female genital mutilation

With improvement in education and social status of women and increased awareness of complications of FGM, most women who underwent FGM disapprove of the practice and only very few are prepared to subject their daughters to such harmful procedures.


According to a study in 1994, Nigeria joined other members of the 47 World Health Assembly to resolve to eliminate FGM.

Steps were taken so far to achieve this include establishment of a multisectoral technical working group on harmful traditional practices (HTPs), the conduct of various studies and national surveys on HTPs, launching of a regional plan of action, and formulation of a national policy and plan of action, which was approved by the Federal Executive Council for the elimination of FGM in Nigeria.

However, there is no federal law prohibiting the practice of FGM in Nigeria. This is the main reason for the slow progress on declining the prevalence of FGM.

Despite the increased international and little national attention, the prevalence of FGM overall has declined very little. The prevalence depends on the level of education and the geographic location.

At the grassroots, efforts should be taken to join in the crusade to say “NO” to FGM anywhere it is practiced among our people.

It is crude, dangerous, wicked, and unhealthy. FGM is not required by any religion and there is no scientific evidence that women who have been mutilated are more faithful or better wives than those who have not undergone the procedure. It is very clear that there is no single benefit derived from FGM.

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case of convulsion

What to do after someone has a seizure; 7 best approaches

chibueze uchegbu | February 5th, 2020


Have you ever wondered what to do after someone has a seizure? This article will equip you with more on the relevant actions to take.

Is no doubt that millions of persons worldwide are affected by convulsion as a result of fever, seizure, and other medical conditions. Which in most cases are characterized by spasms.

Convulsion is a general term that people use to describe uncontrollable muscle contractions.
Some people interchangeably use the word ‘Seizure’ but they have differences.

Introduction to what to do after someone has a seizure

what to do after someone has a seizure
A seizure is an electrical disturbance in the brain and can as well cause someone to have a convulsion, but this is not always the case.

It can either affect a part of a person’s body or affect the whole body therefore, is important to know what to do after someone has a seizure.

Causes of seizure

It is a common symptom of an epileptic seizure. Epilepsy According to Epilepsy foundation is a condition that causes a person to experience many seizures. In a few cases, epileptic seizures result in convulsions.
The most common type of seizure is a Tonic-Clonic seizure. Tonic means being firm and still while Clonic means sudden short and sharp movement.

When air forcefully passes through a person’s vocal cord, the person may make a groaning sound. While some epileptic seizures result in Convulsion others don’t.
For instance, ‘Absence seizure’ is when a person remains motionless without response during an electrical disturbance in the brain.

Febrile seizures

what to do after someone has a seizure


According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), febrile seizures can affect children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years who are experiencing a fever.
Febrile seizures cause convulsions that typically last up to 5 minutes.
The majority of febrile seizures do not have any lasting negative impact on a child. They are generally harmless and do not require treatment.

However, if the seizure goes on for more than 5 minutes, or the child does not recover quickly, it is essential to call an ambulance.

Non-epileptic seizures

Emotional stress lead to seizures. According to the NINDS, non-epileptic seizures are seizures that appear to be epilepsy but are not due to electrical disturbances in a person’s brain.

Doctors believe non-epileptic seizures are “psychogenic” illnesses. This means they occur due to mental or emotional stress. For this reason, doctors sometimes refer to them as “psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.”
Doctors often recommend psychological therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, to help treat non-epileptic seizures. These treatments help a person manage the underlying stress causing the seizures.

Paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia


The National Centre for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia (PKD) is a rare condition that causes convulsions. PKD seizures typically happen after a person experiences a sudden motion, such as being startled or standing up.


Convulsions typically last less than 5 minutes but can last longer in some cases. A person will usually experience fewer episodes as they get older.
It is a genetic condition, which means a parent can pass it on to their children.
Research has found that anticonvulsant drugs, such as carbamazepine are an effective treatment for PKD.

Medication reactions

In rare cases, certain medications can cause epileptic seizures with convulsions. The Epilepsy Foundation provides an extensive list of toxins and drugs that could trigger epileptic seizures.

Migraines


There is some evidence that migraines may lead to epileptic seizures. This is called migralepsy.
However, other research disputes this understanding of migralepsy. More research is necessary to help determine whether migralepsy is a distinct condition.

what to do after someone has a seizure

let’s take it gradually to understand the dos and don’ts during a convulsive episode
Placing a person experiencing convulsions on their side can assist their breathing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if a person is experiencing convulsions over most of their body, there are various first-aid practices someone can do to help them.
These include:

  1. placing them on the floor so they do not fall and hurt themselves
  2. putting them onto their side so they can breathe easily and equally clearing the area of hard or sharp objects
  3. placing something soft and flat under their head
  4. removing their glasses
  5. loosening or removing anything around their neck, such as a tie or a necklace
  6. calling an ambulance if the seizure continues for more than 5 minutes
  7. Outlook


If a person is experiencing convulsions, the first thing to do is to make sure they are safe. If the convulsions do not stop after 5 minutes, call an ambulance.
If convulsions happen regularly, it is vital to speak to a doctor to determine the underlying cause.
Some conditions that cause convulsions will pass with age, while others require medication to reduce their occurrence.

In either case, a doctor will work with someone to develop an individualized treatment plan for your episode.

conclusion on What to do after someone has a seizure

knowing the right things to do during a seizure would go a long way in preventing further health conditions.

seizures can be embarrassing sometimes but when the proper actions are taken, things can get better. The 7 approaches on what to do when someone has a seizure are essential pieces for everyone.

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asthma cause

Cause of asthma; A must read

Pharm. Somtochukwu | February 2nd, 2020


Let’s take a deep look at the cause of asthma. There is no doubt that asthma affects people of all ages, races, and classes.

Asthma is a respiratory disorder, characterized by the narrowing of the airways which causes difficulty in breathing.

Introduction to the cause of asthma

Asthma is a terror to some persons because of the mode of the onset and the disgrace attached to it.

After reading through this article, asthma will lose its terror, and that is the good news we bring to you, understanding the cause of asthma will give you a better insight into the disorder, making the solution crystal clear on your palms.

Types of asthma

Asthma is classified based on the precipitants so the types are usually

  • NON ALLERGIC OR INTRINSIC ASTHMA`
  • ALLERGIC OR EXTRINSIC ASTHMA
  • OCCUPATIONAL ASTHMA
  • EXERCISE-INDUCED BRONCHOCONSTRICTION

Allergic or Extrinsic Asthma

As it is always said, that asthma is a multi-factorial disorder, extrinsic asthma is the commonest diagnosis in children.

Over sixty percent of children between the ages of 2-8 diagnose has extrinsic asthma with a family history of allergies.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) gave a review that children experience more emergency visits and admissions for asthma than adults.

Allergens considered as precipitants may include Pollen of trees and grasses, weeds, and dust mites, these substances trigger allergic reactions which lead to the narrowing of the airways leading to an asthmatic episode.

Although intrinsic factors like drugs, food additives, and exercise could trigger allergies. Allergies and asthma are related in a broader scope although the cause of asthma or the general mechanism of the cause of asthma will be discussed later in this article.

Non-Allergic Or Intrinsic Asthma

The prevalence of Intrinsic asthma is low when compared with extrinsic asthma.

And it is mostly diagnosed in adults over 30 years of age mostly in females.

This type of asthma is caused by non-allergic factors such as drugs, respiratory infections, Exercise, weather conditions, and food additives.

Obesity had been considered as the most common asthma co-morbidity ranging from mechanical alteration to inflammation  of the airways

Occupational Asthma

This type of asthma occurs as a result of exposure to pollen grains in the place of work or as a result of one’s profession like in the case of marine divers.

cause of asthma

Occupational asthma is prevalent in some firms like flour mills, baking industries, cosmetic companies, and others.

Frequently asthmatic episodes are mostly observed when one is active in the working place and there is equally a relief when one stays out of work.

Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction

It results from rigorous physical activities which bring about a decrease in the extracellular fluid which triggers the heart rate and equally leads to tightening of the airways which is an asthmatic incidence. Although some people don’t classify it as a type of asthma because not everybody with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction has asthma.

Cardinal Symptoms Of Asthma

  • Wheezing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Coughing, most especially at night, or during exercise
  • A feel of Tightness of the thoracic cage
  • Shortness of breath brings about gasping for air
  • Sleep Apnea

Pathophysiology Or Cause Of Asthma

This is our focal point in this article and understanding this sector will equip you to tackle this disorder professionally and seamlessly, the cause of asthma is quite a complex one, but we have worked tirelessly to make it comprehensible in all stages.

In the pathophysiology of asthma two cardinal features are considered.

Firstly, is the constriction of the bronchus (bronchoconstriction), followed by inflammation of the bronchus (bronchoinflammation).

An ideal airway, {bronchi} is maintained by the autonomic nervous system which is a branch of the central nervous system.

The autonomic nervous system is made of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems which both function automatically.

The parasympathetic reflex loop initiates smooth muscle contraction when stimulated while the sympathetic nervous system relaxes smooth muscle when stimulated. 

The parasympathetic nervous system comprises sensory nerve endings which originate beneath the inner lining of the bronchus.

when an allergen gets into the airway, it stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system which causes the release of acetylcholine through the motor neuron, acetylcholine release brings about the excessive formation of inositol1,4,5-triphosphate {IP3} which triggers bronchoconstriction and bronchospasm.

Bronchoconstriction

This is precipitated by environmental factors such as pollen, the fragrance of some products, and others. When the airway is exposed to such factors, there is excessive production of mucus from the mucus membrane which brings about the difficulty in breathing.

In asthmatic patients, the airways are hypersensitive to these precipitants {type I hypersensitivity} in response to exposure to these precipitants, the bronchi contract into spasm {involuntary muscle contraction} which leads to further tightening or narrowing of the airways which bring about the whistling sound in asthma.

Bronchoinflammation

Here the walls of the bronchi inflame radically and are the foundation behind allergic asthma because it results from immune response to inhaled allergens.

When allergens {dust, pollen, Smoke, and others} find their ways into the inner airway, APCs {antigen-presenting cells} present these allergens to cells of the immune system, most especially the TH0 cells.

cause of asthma

In persons without the asthmatic disorder, these allergens are usually checked and ignored but in asthmatic patients when these allergens are presented by APC, to TH0 cells {T-helper 0 cells} there is the transformation of TH0 cells to TH2 cells, which further activate humoral Immune System.

The activation of the humoral immune system triggers the production of antibodies against the inhaled allergen and a memory of the allergen is kept by the antibodies.

when a patient is exposed to some allergen, a humoral response is initiated leading to inflammation of the bronchi which is associated with further thickening of the airways, increased mucus production, and equally bronchospasm.

Prevention Of Asthmatic Attacks

When clever approaches are taken towards asthma one can live comfortably without asthmatic assault. so we bring to you a few tips.

  • Always follow your asthma action plan
  • Vaccination against influenza and pneumonia is a clever approach
  • Always avoid asthma precipitants
  • Take your medications as prescribed by physicians
  • Always check and monitor your breathing

Treatments/Medications For Asthma

The stimulation of the sympathetic reflex loop initiates the dilation or relaxation of smooth muscles, {bronchi muscles}, most drugs for asthma are usually regarded as sympathomimetic drugs{mimic the action of the sympathetic nervous system}.

Below are some medications for asthma.

  • Short-acting bronchodilators like albuterol provide fast relief and can be used in conjunction for exercise-induced symptoms.
  • Long-acting bronchodilators like salmeterol  and formoterol
  • Inhaled steroids budesonide and fluticasone are first-line anti-inflammatory therapy
  • Leukotriene modifiers like montelukast and zafirlukast can also serve as anti-inflammatory agents.
  • Anticholinergic agents like ipratropium can help decrease sputum production.
  • Chromones like cromolyn and nedocromil stabilize mast cells (allergic cells).
  • Systemic steroids prednisone and prednisolone are potent anti-inflammatory agents that are routinely used to treat asthma exacerbations but pose numerous unwanted side effects if used repeatedly or chronically.
  • Immunotherapy or allergy shots have been shown to decrease medication reliance in allergic asthma.

A final thought on the Cause of Asthma

Asthma severity ranges from the cause, type, and general physiological state of an individual. knowing the precipitants and avoiding them is a clever approach to living better and having your inhaler would help overcome most asthmatic episodes.

always seek medical attention if you feel you are deteriorating in health or the situation gets worse each day.

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