IDENTIFYING AND MANAGING ASTHMA TRIGGERS (PART 1)

by | Aug/Thu/2023 | Health Tips

One of the best ways to identify asthma triggers is to pay careful attention to how your asthma symptom occurs, the environment in which it occurs and, if possible, the time/season.

Once asthma triggers have been identified, you have many options: 

  1. Avoid the trigger entirely.
  2. Limit exposure to the trigger if it can not be completely avoided.
  3. If exposure to the trigger can be predicted, consult with your health care professional to know if you need to take an extra dose of your asthma medicine before exposure to the trigger.

It is important that we discuss what allergens are at this point. 

Allergens are substances that can cause allergic reactions, and are the major asthma triggers in people living with asthma.

Highlighted below are some common facts about allergens and how they can be avoided:

  1. Dust and Dust Mites: Dust mites are microscopic, insect-like pests that commonly live in house dust. They grow very rapidly in dark, humid (warm and moist) places with low temperatures and in places where the house dust has accumulated over a long period.

           How to avoid the trigger

  • Remove rugs from the bedroom. Minimize the number of stuffed toys (teddy bears and the likes) that collect dust in the bedroom and wash them weekly.
  • Wash bed linens and blankets regularly (every week) with hot water and dry in the sun.
  • Encase pillows and mattresses in air-tight covers to make a barrier between dust mites and yourself.
  • Ventilate the house sufficiently to decrease humidity and avoid damp housing conditions.
  1. Pollens and molds: Pollens are fine powders produced by certain plants when they reproduce. They are blown into the air at certain times of the year, like during summer. Mold is a type of fungus that lives on plants and animal matter and grows best in damp and poorly ventilated places.

           How to avoid the trigger

  • Keep windows and doors closed at peak pollen seasons.
  • Mold thrives on film that covers tiles, sinks, and tubs.
  • Regular cleaning of all surfaces and repairing areas with water leaks can prevent molds from growing indoors.
  1. Cigarette/Tobacco smoke: Cigarettes contain chemicals that are destructive to the lungs.

           How to avoid the trigger

  • Anyone living with asthma should never smoke. Smoking should not be allowed in the person’s home, and second-hand smoke should be avoided whenever possible.
  1. Cockroaches 
  • Cockroaches can shed or excrete particles that contain allergens that have been shown to trigger asthma in sensitive individuals. Cockroaches thrive in warm environments with easily accessible food and water.

           How to avoid the trigger

  • Seal cracks and holes.
  • Store trash in containers with lids that close securely and remove them daily.
  • Practice good hygiene; Wash dishes and cooking utensils immediately after use.
  • Remove cockroach debris quickly.
  • Eliminate any standing water from leaking faucets or drains.
  • Eradicate cockroaches with appropriate insecticide (be careful with insecticide if you react to it)

Reference: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/trigger-avoidance-in-asthma-beyond-the-basics#H10.

You can find products that can help with asthmatic conditions here:https://victorydrugs.com.ng/page/1/?s=nebulizer&post_type=product

Lastly, drop a comment, share your experience and let us know what you think!

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Disclaimer: Kindly remember that as much as we ensure we provide sound information or advice, the information or advice given here is not intended to replace your doctor’s advice and Victory Drugs is not liable for any decision you make based on the information or advice provided here.

4 REASONS YOU SHOULD EXERCISE REGULARLY THIS YEAR

4 REASONS YOU SHOULD EXERCISE REGULARLY THIS YEAR

by | Dec/Sat/2021 | Health Tips

Written by Pharm. Juliana Ariri

Exercise is often described as an activity requiring physical effort, carried out to sustain or improve health and fitness. Being active has been shown to have many health benefits, both physically and mentally. It may even help you live longer. Aerobic exercises including jogging, swimming, cycling, dancing and walking have been proved to reduce anxiety and depression. The health benefits of regular exercise cannot be ignored, and they are beneficial to everyone regardless of age, sex or physical disability. God did not create man to be inactive!

For those looking to optimize their exercise routine further, paying attention to nutrition can significantly enhance performance and results. Consuming a balanced pre-workout meal can provide the necessary fuel for sustained energy during physical activity. By incorporating nutrient-rich foods like lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats, individuals can maximize their workouts while supporting overall health. Understanding the role of nutrition in exercise not only enhances performance but also promotes recovery and overall well-being. Thus, recognizing the symbiotic relationship between exercise and nutrition underscores the holistic approach to health and fitness.

Here are 4 reasons you should exercise regularly this year:

TO IMPROVE YOUR MOOD AND MENTAL HEALTH: 
Exercise promotes the release of chemicals like endorphins and serotonin throughout the body that help to improve mood and make the person more relaxed. It has been shown to improve mood and decrease feelings of depression, anxiety and stress. People who exercise regularly feel better about their appearance, which can boost their confidence and improve their self-esteem.

TO HELP MAINTAIN HEALTHY WEIGHT: 
Along with diet, exercise plays an important role in controlling your weight and preventing obesity. To maintain your weight, the calories you consume must equal the energy you burn. Regular exercise can help prevent excess weight gain and help maintain weight loss. For instance, ensuring you take at least 10,000 steps daily might help you to maintain a healthy weight. You may discuss with your healthcare professional.

TO REDUCE YOUR RISK OF CHRONIC DISEASES:
There is no secret to the fact that regular exercise is good for your health. Lack of physical activity is a primary risk factor for chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, arthritis etc. Regular exercise has been shown to improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin and improve cardiovascular health, decrease blood pressure and cholesterol levels.If you have any health condition like hypertension, arthritis etc, it is important to talk to your doctor about how long you should exercise for and what level of intensity is safe for you.

TO STRENGTHEN YOUR MUSCLES AND BONES: 
Exercise plays a vital role in building and maintaining strong muscles and bones. It helps to release hormones that promote the ability of your muscles to absorb amino acid. This helps them grow and reduces their break down. As people age they tend to lose muscle mass and function which can lead to injuries and disabilities. Practicing regular physical activity is essential to reducing muscle loss and maintaining strength with aging.

Exercise can be a real energy booster for healthy people as well as those suffering from various medical conditions. During exercise, oxygen gets delivered to tissues and organs. This helps the heart and lungs work more efficiently which translates to more energy. One study found that six weeks of regular exercise reduced feelings of fatigue for 36 healthy people who had reported persistent fatigue.

5 Fruits You Should Add to Your Diet in 2020.

5 Fruits You Should Add to Your Diet in 2020.

by | Jan/Sat/2020 | Uncategorized

Written by Pharm.Tope Taiwo

Fruits are generally part of the dietary intake that are essentially rich in minerals, nutrients and antioxidant activities (an antioxidant is a substance that may help to prevent formation of or remove free radicals which may harm the body severely).  Eating fruits daily, therefore, can boost health. Some fruits however are taken for specific health benefits. The work of fruits in the digestion of food (breaking down of food), and the supply of essential nutrients needed by the body cannot be overlooked.

Following the research done by the National Library of Medicine, ( University of Alabama, Birmingham), the percentage of people with atherosclerosis (the damage to vascular vessels that carry blood which may lead to total obstruction) and oxidative stress diseases increase as a result of lower amounts of Carotenoids, Vitamin C, Selenium compared to the people who have those elements in greater proportion. These various antioxidants are majorly derived from fruits and vegetables. From the research, the right intake of fruits on daily basis helped to prevent this damage and the diseases associated with those with lower intake.

Various diseases can be prevented, likewise many disease conditions can be improved upon by daily intake of fruits. Examples of such diseases are hypertension, cancers, diabetes, goiter, bowel diseases and arthritis. Eating fruits in right quantities may also help in delaying aging and promoting healthy skin.

Fruits and essential nutrients

From the research done on cardiovascular assessment for heart diseases and stroke on 469,551 people, it was found out that “the higher the average daily intake of fruits and vegetables, the lower the chances of developing cardiovascular disease compared to people who took less fruits and vegetables. This means that cultivating the habit of taking fruits as part of daily food intake reduces the risk of stroke, hypertension, and diabetes of every individual.

Just as nutrients and minerals are essentially needed for growth, development and body tissues replenishment,  fruits can serve as reservoir for the supply of minerals and nutrients like Iron, Manganese, Potassium, Calcium, Sodium, Folic acid, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12 etc

Eating the recommended minimum of 5-servings of fruits daily helps in strengthening the immune system.

This write-up focuses on 5 health-promoting fruits which, if taken on a daily basis are very beneficial to the body. They are readily available and relatively affordable.

They are:

Oranges:  Orange is one of the most popular and nutritious fruits in the citrus family. Orange is a very good source of Vitamins C, B and folic acid. It also contains some flavonoids, carotenoids and citric acid which make it to have health benefits. The vitamin C and citric acid content help the absorption of Iron, hence, help to prevent anaemia (low blood level).

Pineapples:Rich in Vitamin C, Manganese, Bromelain (an enzyme which digests protein and can be used for its anti-inflammatory activity i.e. swelling in the body). It has also been found to have activity related to reduction of tumor growth i.e. cancer-preventing activity.

 

Apples: Contain Potassium, Vitamin B, Vitamin K, Vitamin C. Apples are rich in fibre and have been found to help in the management of diabetes, cancer and Alzheimer disease because of their potent antioxidant activity. A small apple provides about 75 calories.

 

Bananas:Rich in Potassium, Magnesium, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Pectin and fibre which really improve the metabolism of sugar by helping to fill the stomach and prevent unnecessary intake of starch. A medium-sized banana has about 100 calories.

 

Watermelon: It has high content of vitamin A and C. It is rich in antioxidants like lycopene, carotenoids and cucurbitacin E. The Lycopene intake reduces the risk of cancer of the digestive system (e.g. colon, appendix), and cucurbitacin E inhibits tumor (cancer) growth. Lycopene can reduce cholesterol and blood pressure too. Watermelon is made of 92% water which helps to hydrate the body (to prevent dehydration or water loss).

Summary

  • Fruits and vegetables are generally highly nutritious and help protect the body against diseases especially through boosting the body’s immunity.
  • The daily requirements of minimum of 5 servings of fruits can be made up of any of the above fruits where one serving is a large-sized Banana, a small apple, a cup of chopped watermelon, a medium-sized orange and half cup diced pineapples.
  • Fruits may be taken as snacks in between meals or anytime of the day irrespective of meals. They can be taken before, with or after meals.
  • Trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight? There is a lot of evidence to show that people who eat lots of fruits and vegetables throughout the day are more likely to weigh less and less likely to gain weight.
  • Eat more fruits and vegetables this year than ever before and be ready for a healthier you!
  • For more information talk with your dietitian, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.

5 Resolutions That Will Keep You Healthy In 2020

5 Resolutions That Will Keep You Healthy In 2020

by | Jan/Wed/2020 | Health Tips, Uncategorized

Written by Pharm. Adebisi Ajibade

The new year comes with a lot of excitement and the appeal to start afresh or make some changes. However, these changes do not occur automatically because it is a new year, deliberate plans backed up with actions have to be put in place to bring about the change we so desire. Why do we make new resolutions? Probably, because we are tired of getting the same results or we need to do better in some areas of our lives so that we can fulfill our purpose in life. Whatever actions or decisions we take in our homes, at work, or wherever, it is wise to reflect on them ( asking ourselves these questions: what informed those actions, how did we perform that task, what was the result, what could we have done better?, etc.). Regular reflective practices help us to make sense of our experiences, learn from them and add to our knowledge in order to adopt better practices ( Cox, 2015). In this post, I am going to share with you 5 healthy resolutions to make in 2019.

1. Be mindful of what you eat:

Avoid taking junk foods. Junk foods can increase your risk of obesity and chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and even some cancers. Replace store-purchased (processed) snacks with unprocessed (natural) foods. Fruits, vegetables and nuts, help to save some calories. Whole grains are full of fiber and help to reduce the risk of heart diseases.

 

2. Practice personal hygiene:

Wash your hands regularly with soap and running water. Many illnesses can be prevented by simply washing your hands properly, before and after meals, after using the toilet, or even when you come home from a long day at work. Always make sure you maintain a clean environment to avoid diseases

3. Quit unhealthy habits:

Quit smoking and habits that can drain you emotionally. Have an attitude of gratitude.
Sometimes we need to make a list of our successes no matter how little they may be. Susan Lehmann, a psychiatrist at John Hopkins said, “ reminding ourselves of the small, everyday positive aspects of our lives helps to develop a sense of balance and perspective that can
enhance well-being.” Stress can occur as a result of the way we react to various conditions, changes and demands of life. If we do not regularly release the tension caused by stress, the risks for developing physical and mental illnesses will increase (Nwachukwu, 2003). Choose how you respond to situations and make time for rest. As simple as this sounds, It takes a deliberate effort to relax. We also need to tolerate people when they make mistakes, be accommodating and fill our minds with good thoughts (Philippians 4:8). Dr. Nwachukwu recommended that delegating duties, maintaining balance in different aspect of our lives, self management, exercise and sleep can help to prevent or reduce stress (2003).

4. Go for health-checks:

Visit your general practitioner if there is any health concern. Check your health status regularly. At Victory Drugs pharmacy, like other pharmacies, we offer health devices that will help to check your blood pressure values, sugar levels, etc. We also conduct point-of-care tests to check your blood pressure, blood sugar level, cholesterol level, and offer pharmaceutical care services

 

5. Exercise:


Exercise for about 30 minutes every day. Exercise helps to burn calories , keep your muscles and bones strong and helps to regulate our sleep patterns. It also reduces stress and anxiety. Exercise can be as simple as dancing or walking at least 10,000 steps daily.

 

Most importantly, draw close to God . At the beginning of a new year, you will need to get clarifications on what to pursue and which directions to take. God, who is wisdom
personified, can help guide us in the fulfillment of our dreams (James 4:8; Ecclesiastes 10:10; Jeremiah 10:12).

 

References
Cox, M. (2015) M5 Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle Framework, Available at:
https://m.YouTube.com/watch?v=Rp-gaV-uSlo (Accessed: 12 December 2018)
Ecclesiastes 10: 10; James 4:8; Jeremiah 10:12 ; Phil 4:8 [Online] Available at:
https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org
Fletcher, D. ( 2009) 5 Reasons Why God Wants Us Healthy, Well and Fit, Faith and Health
Connection [Online] Available at: https://www.faithandhealthconnection.org (Accessed: 05
January 2019)
John Hopkins Medicine (2018) 6 New Year’s Resolution for a Happy and Healthy 2018, Well-
Being, Articles and Answers, [Online] Available at: https://www.Hopkinsmedicine.org (
Accessed: 05 January 2019)
Kraft, S. (2018) 18 Ways to Up Your Health in 2018, Healthy Women,[Online] Available at :
https://www.healthywomen.org/content/article/how-eat-more-whole-grains ( Accessed : 08
January 2019)
Mana Medical Associates (2019) What’s The Healthiest New Year’s Resolution [Online]
Available at : https://www.mana.md (Accessed: 05 Jan 2019)
Nwachukwu, J.(2003) Preventive Management of Hypertension, Diabetes and Stress. Lagos:
Corporate Medicals
Restonic (2018) Health-Boosting New Year’s Resolutions for 2019, [Online] Available at:
https://restonic.com/blog/healthy-new-years-resolutions-2018 (Accessed: 08 January 2019)