Health & hygiene

Archive for October, 2009

Altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness is a condition in which people, generally mountaineers develop a range of symptoms including headache and vomiting. This is caused due to reduced oxygen levels and changes in air pressure. It generally takes place when we make fast ascent. Our body does not get enough time to adjust to the changing pressure and oxygen levels. At about 2500 meters (8200 feet) the symptoms of altitude sickness become prominent. It cannot be clearly said who or when will someone get altitude sickness. Being young or fit does not necessarily reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Moreover, having once experienced it does not eliminate the chance of it happening again.

Symptoms:

ü  Loss of appetite.

ü  Dizziness

ü  Shortness of breath

ü  Headache

ü  Lethargy

ü  Nausea

ü  High altitude pulmonary edema or cerebral edema(HAPE or HACE)

ü  Insomnia

ü  Fatigue

Prevention and Treatment:

We can prevent altitude sickness by acclimatizing with the altitude. This means we need to climb slowly and steadily to give our body time to comply with the oxygen demands at that altitude. Acetazolamide is a drug that many mountaineers take before making an ascent which is helpful in minimizing effects of sickness. Meanwhile, oxygen cylinders are also carried to replenish the necessary amount of oxygen needed. Steroids can also be used in severe cases to prevent edema.

Amla, also called the Indian gooseberry is the most one of the most precious gift that Mother Nature has given to the humanity. It is the most effective and natural source of vitamin C which assimilates in our body as soon as we eat the berry. Vitamin C is a strong anti oxidant that fights the free radicals within the body that lead to ageing and cell degradation. It is widely used in herbal products. It has very high fiber content and has low sugar.

Health benefits:

• Amla can be taken in powder form and is known to treat ulcers, acidity and to wash out toxins within our system. It also increases the count of hemoglobin and red blood cells.
• Fresh Amla juice within meals strengthens the body and the mind. A drop or two in the nostrils can stop nose bleeding.
• Essential source of vitamin C. Improves eye sight too.
• Amla oil is useful for thick and strong hair and prevents premature graying of air.
• Helps to regulate body sugar level and reduce cholesterol level also.
• Cleans the mouth and strengthens the teeth.
• Cures bronchitis, cough and asthma.

With so many benefits, it should be rightly called the “DIVINE FRUIT”.