Category Archives: Health is Wealth

Malaria is considered one of the world’s deadliest diseases that primarily affect children. Although most countries affected by malaria are more prepared for the illness in the past several years, lack of information and limited access to healthcare are often the cause of fatal malaria incidents. Although Singapore has better healthcare programs than most affected countries, families still need to be aware how the disease affects the body and how it can be prevented, especially when traveling to other affected regions.

These are some of the things you need to remember about malaria.

Primary Transmission of Malaria
Malaria is transmitted from the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito which carries any one of the five Plasmodium parasites. When an individual is bit by a carrier mosquito, the parasite is released into the person’s bloodstream and travels to the liver. After 2 to 4 days, the Plasmodium matures in the liver and infects the red blood cells, causing them to multiply uncontrollably and burst.

There are Other Ways to Get Infected
However, getting bitten by a carrier mosquito isn’t the only way to contract malaria. An affected mother can pass on the disease to the child at birth, which is called congenital malaria; and an individual can also get infected after an organ transplant, transfusion, and the sharing of syringes or needles. Why is this possible? The Plasmodium parasite primarily resides in the bloodstream, that is why it can also be transmitted through infected blood.

Symptoms Similar to Other Mosquito-Borne Illnesses
The symptoms of malaria are similar to other mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue, yellow fever, and chikungunya. However, some symptoms might show up after several months instead of the one- to four-week period after the initial infection. Some of the symptoms include high fever, chills, headache and nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, convulsions, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and sweating.

Malaria has No Vaccines
Travelers are advised to observe caution when traveling to countries that are affected by malaria. Unfortunately, there is no effective way to prevent malaria, although medications might be prescribed to provide some sort of protection. Those who live in areas where the disease is common are advised to use bug sprays with DEET and to keep their home free from mosquitoes.

Treatment Can Be Tricky
Treatment of malaria is based on the type of parasite that has infected the individual. However, there are cases where a resistance develops, that is why doctors must be careful when prescribing medication. Although early treatment is successful in most cases, those who have developed complications from the disease are more likely to suffer from long-term health problems, such as brain damage from cerebral malaria. Drug-resistance can also create problems in some patients, because they are at risk of malaria recurrence.

On your next appointment with your cardiologist, it is important to know how to maximize the time and make the most out of your visit. Have your heart-related questions answered during your visit to the cardiology center, and at the same time ensure you’ll be receiving nothing but the best care possible in Singapore.

If you’re still clueless as to how you can prepare for your appointment, having a list of necessary questions is a good starting point. This serves as your guide to maximize the consultation period given by your heart specialist. It is also important to establish clear and open communication lines with your heart doctor to avoid any misunderstandings in the long run.

Knowing what to do first is one thing, but knowing what to ask is another. For you to figure out which questions are necessary to ask, you must first consider your personal circumstance.

Personal medical history

To get the conversation started, make sure you provide the necessary information regarding your personal medical history. The discussion you’ll be having with your cardiologist will largely depend on the information you’ll be providing them. It is also encouraged to bring a list of the medications you are currently taking (if there are any), as well as have a thorough knowledge on the family’s history of heart diseases or other similar conditions.

The best cardiologist is ideally well-versed in asking you the crucial questions, but you are also entitled to raise some concerns of your own. Your heart doctor can’t do all the talking all by themselves. Ask relevant questions every once in a while. Keep in mind that knowing your options and the risks or benefits entailed can help you avail the best treatment possible.

Getting screened by Singapore www.harleystreet.sg/blog/heart-health-get-screened-by-a-good-cardiologist-in-singapore/ and raising your concerns to your heart doctor are the best ways to understand the heart screening process and your overall condition better. Here are some of the key questions you can raise during your next appointment with your heart specialist:

1. What type of heart condition do I have?

If you are found to have an existing heart disease, it is crucial to find out the name of the condition. Heart diseases can be varied – from Acute Coronary Syndrome to Ventricular Tachycardia. Having a professional explain your case to you would be vital in understanding the condition better.

This would also allow you to do your own research about your own circumstance. Accordingly, doing so will also allow you garner relevant information that’ll make you handle the case better in the future.

2. Do I need to undergo further tests?

Sometimes, undergoing a simple heart screening procedure might not be enough. There are complicated cases which require patients to take further tests for your cardiologist to pinpoint and diagnose the problem accurately. That said, there is a possibility that you may be referred to additional tests other than the initial examination.

The tests would largely depend on your current condition, but some of the most common further cardio examinations include an: echocardiogram, EKG, chest X-ray, CT scan, and a stress test.

3. What lifestyle changes can I make to improve my condition?

An unhealthy lifestyle can be notorious for triggering and causing certain heart conditions in some. For instance, people who are obese and heavily smokes on the daily are found to be more at risk with certain heart diseases.

While a poor heart health might spring from several poor lifestyle factors, it’s better to be honest with your cardiologist in Singapore about it to gain accurate advice for necessary improvements. While it depends on your personal circumstances, you are likely to be encouraged to: reduce stress, lose some weight, stop smoking, or avoid overeating.

4. Are there signs and symptoms to look out for?

Ask your cardiologist if you are at risk of a heart attack. Whether it is of mild or acute nature, it is crucial to be aware of the warning signs at all costs. This would allow you to prepare for the worst and get some immediate help ready in times of distress. The signs and symptoms largely vary between genders and your own personal history, but your cardiologist can brief you with that necessary information.

Knowing the signs you could experience in the long run helps you learn how to react and deal with your condition.

5. What are the risks linked with my condition?

Each heart condition poses certain risk factors you must crucially take into account. While some of them involve inconveniences such as migraine and fatigue, other serious heart conditions may be lethal. Be sure to ask your heart doctor about the risks pertaining to your own condition and have him/her explain it to you thoroughly. It is important that you fully understand the severity of the risks involved.

You can also ask about the things you can do on your part to minimize those risks – this might involve making necessary lifestyle changes and visiting your cardiologist frequently for regular assessment.

6. What can I expect for future visits?

Depending on the severity of your heart condition, you might need to keep in touch with your cardiologist often to closely monitor the state of your heart. In certain serious heart diseases, patients are asked to visit their cardiologists at least once or twice a month. Ask your doctor about how often you need to drop by the clinic and how long the appointments generally take, so you can make appropriate changes in your schedule.

Also, inquire about the tests and procedures that’ll be likely performed on you during your future visits. This will prepare you and give you an idea on what you can expect.

*This list is compiled in no particular order.*

Most of the common sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) do not show symptoms that is why they are left untreated in most cases. There is also the stigma that comes with being infected despite the rise in number of victims. STDs should never be ignored because you’re ashamed of getting the right diagnosis and treatment.

It’s important to get treated as soon as possible to avoid possible complications such as cancer, HIV/AIDS and infertility. Fortunately, STD screening in Singapore is available for anyone who wants to get tested.

STD Symptoms in Women

Most women will not see symptoms at all and even flu-like signs can be mistaken for another illness. However, you should still look out for the following and get an STD screening as soon as possible:

1. Unusual discharge or leakage
2. Itching, tenderness or pain in the genital area
3. Appearance of blisters, rashes, ulcers and warts in the genital area
4. Painful urination, intercourse and menstruation
5. Changes in urination
6. Swelling of joints
7. Pain in the rectum or surrounding area
8. Rectal discharge, bleeding and pain
9. Persistent sore throat
10. Pain in the pelvic and lower back areas
11. Irregular menstrual cycle and spotting or bleeding between periods

Common STDs in Women

1. Chlamydia

Women with chlamydia are infected with the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. A lot of people confuse this condition with gonorrhea because they exhibit the same symptoms, if there are any symptoms at all. Chlamydia is not to be confused with another sexually transmitted disease called lymphogranuloma venereum which is caused by one of the three strains of Chlamydia trachomatis.

If chlamydia is not treated at http://www.kensingtonfamilyclinic.com/std-hiv/std-testing in Singapore there is an increased risk of infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, cervicitis, Bartholinitis or blockage of the Bartholin’s glands, and ectopic pregnancy. A pregnant woman with chlamydia is at risk of having a preterm labor and an unhealthy and possibly infected newborn. Look out for the following symptoms: abnormal discharges, painful urination, bleeding between periods, pain in the lower back or pelvic area, painful intercourse, and fever and nausea. Chlamydia STD screening uses the nucleic acid amplification tests.

2. Gonorrhea

The symptoms in gonorrhea don’t often appear in most cases. If there are any, the signs are not visible until three weeks after getting infected. The symptoms are almost similar to those experienced by women with chlamydia such as painful and frequent urination, irregular periods and bleeding between menstrual cycles, abnormal discharges, and itching, irritation or pain in the genital area.

Rectal and oral gonorrhea could cause throat infection or sore throat and rectal pain, irritation and discharge. STD testing for gonorrhea involves a swab test. The doctor will get a sample from the infected site such as the cervix, rectum or throat then the sample is sent to a laboratory in Singapore for culture and identification of the bacteria. Another STD test is called polymerase chain reaction or PCR which uses DNA probes and amplification.

3. Human Papillomavirus

Human papillomavirus or HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease among women all over the world. Currently, there are over 100 known types of the virus. Some of these can lead to cancer while the others cause warts to appear on some parts of the body. The most commonly affected areas are the vagina, vulva, cervix, anus, and rectum among women. Most HPV infections disappear after a year or so and are harmless. Nevertheless, you should still get an STD testing to determine if you have high-risk HPV infection.

In women, the most common form of cancer caused by HPV is cervical cancer. There are no visible symptoms even for high-risk HPV that is why it’s important for women to have a Pap test and a follow-up HPV screening if there are findings in the Pap test result. A Pap test is done to determine if there is a development of abnormal cells or changes in the cells in the cervix. The HPV test on the other hand is done to find the virus that is causing the said changes.

4. Herpes

There are 8 types of human herpes simplex viruses currently known today. Two of the most common are herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1) or herpes of the mouth and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV2) or genital herpes. An infected person will see lesions on the infected areas. Some of these sores are not visible to the eye, however, especially if they appear inside the genitals.

The person will also experience the following symptoms: flu-like symptoms such as fever and body pain and swollen lymph nodes. The lesions will disappear after a while although they can still recur if the condition is not treated. There are also cases where the HSV2 has remained dormant for years in the body.

5. Syphilis

The infection is caused by the Treponema pallidum bacteria. Although the number of cases have gone down in recent years, the infection is still present among sexually-active persons. Even the use of contraception cannot stop an infected person from passing on the infection. Syphilis is described in four stages. In the early stage, a chancre or ulcer appears on the infected area. In later stages, the following symptoms might appear: rashes, sore throat, headaches, alopecia or hair loss, and heart and brain damage. You can get an STD testing for syphilis through blood testing.

Diagnosing STDs

One complication of chlamydia and gonorrhea is pelvic inflammatory disease or PID. This condition refers to the infection of the fallopian tubes and/or womb. Some STDs if not treated early can increase the chance of infertility, ectopic pregnancy, infection of newborns, cervical cancer, and heart and brain disease (caused by untreated syphilis). Doctors in Singapore recommend that women should get a Pap smear once every 3 or 5 years especially those who are sexually active. There are also cases where women get STDs as a result of sexual assault. If this is the case, the doctor will take steps to prevent infections such as prescription of antibiotics, an HPV and hepatitis vaccine, and HIV antiviral medication.

Since the demand for alkaline has grown over the years, finding a retail establishment that sell this specific type of water has become quite difficult. In fact, this has forced a good number of consumers in Singapore to start producing the water in their own homes. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to transform your regular drink into alkalized water. Investing on a reverse osmosis system or an alkaline water ionizer are two of the most effective ways to get alkaline water flowing in your home, but these are not the only options. Here, we listed down some techniques on how you could possibly acquire alkaline water, along with a few tips to effectively perform your chosen method.

1. Alkaline Water Ionizer

Investing on an alkaline water ioniser machine is one of the most cost-effective way to transform your tap water into alkaline water. This kitchen appliance is capable of changing the water’s pH level by using electrolysis. Water ionizers work by separating the water into acidic and alkaline components, until the water meets the appropriate pH level.

These machines were first made available in Japan, Singapore and other Asian countries. After the consumers began experiencing the health benefits associated with ionized water, the trend started hitting Europe and United States market. Alkaline water ionizers are fairly easy to use, compact and budget-friendly, making them a good option for someone who wants to have an endless supply of ionized water, sans spending too much.

2. Reverse Osmosis System

Reverse osmosis (RO) is another purification method that’s widely used in the water filtration industry. This method implements the use of semipermeable membrane by an alkaline water provider in Singapore to strop certain ions, molecules and particles from tap water. Applied pressure is also used in this method to eliminate osmotic pressure. In fact, RO became popular that it’s widely used even by some of the biggest bottled water manufacturers in Singapore.

Unlike an alkaline water ionizer, however, this purification method can be very costly. Nonetheless, you have the option to instantly install it on your plumbing pipes or directly into your refrigerator. Just remember that the specifics may vary from one model to another.

3. Alkaline Water Pitcher

If you want to conveniently have a good supply of alkaline water, then you might want to opt for an alkaline water pitcher instead. The water pitcher looks the same as any regular pitcher; the only difference is it has a built-in water filter. Water is added to the top, as it slowly flows to the bottom. During the process, the water filter alkalizes your drinking water.

Initially, it’s touted as one of the cost-effective way to have alkaline water, but the filters should be replaced from time to time as repeated use tend to reduce their efficiency. Also, the water pitcher is only capable of holding a specific amount of water, which could not be enough for certain households. But despite all that drawbacks, a good number of consumers prefer this method because of its cost effectiveness and convenience.

4. Alkaline Water Drops

Finally, you can alter the pH level of your water through using water drops. These water drops can transform your water’s pH level in just a matter of seconds, and a small bottle of it is very affordable. The only problem with this method is it only produces a limited amount of ionized water. Once you run out of drops, you also run out of alkaline water, and that will force you to consistently purchase more bottles of it – and the long-term cost of purchasing water drops is what will surpass the expenses of the aforementioned alternatives.

Nevertheless, the drops can still be a great option especially for households who don’t want another pitcher or kitchen appliance. Also, they are perfect for individuals who want to enjoy the benefits of alkaline water even when on-the-go. If you will be travelling abroad and don’t want to bring a pitcher with you, then a bottle of alkaline water drops can do the trick.

Tips before Alkalizing Your Drinking Water

• Check the Water’s pH Level. This is a crucial step to follow before and after you ionize your water. This will tell you how much adjustment needs to be made to your regular water. Tap water is naturally a seven on the scale, and the ideal pH level to achieve a pure drinking water is an eight or nine – which can be done through ionizing your water.

• Use a pH Strip to Test Your Water. To check your water’s pH level, be sure to purchase a pH kit with pH strips and colour chart. Once you already have your kit, allow your strip to sit in the water for a moment and then compare its colour with those indicated in the pH chart. Take note of the water’s current pH level, then ionize it using your chosen method.

• Understand the Water’s pH Level. After testing the water’s pH level, it’s now time to understand its pH level. Keep in mind that water that’s above the pH scale of seven is considered basic, while water with a pH level below that is already considered acidic. You would want your drinking water to be somewhere between 7 to 9 for it be healthy and filtered of any impurities.

Learning how to acquire your own alkaline water is one way of enjoying the benefits of this specific type of water without spending too much. Any of the aforementioned methods will help you get just that, so ensure that you choose the method that best suits your needs and budget.

Singapore is on the move now to a happier and healthier life. With many programs on its way, leading a happy and healthy life is possible. But despite this, there are still illness lurking everywhere. For sure you are aware that stroke is one of them. Stroke is actually one of the leading causes of death in the world. With this scale, it is difficult to fight it.

It is crucial that you know things about stroke especially its warning signs. Stroke happens when the blood’s supply to the brain is compromised – either reduced or interrupted. Because of this, the brain won’t get enough nutrients or oxygen which causes the cells to regress or worse, die. There are three kinds of stroke – ischemic, haemorrhagic and Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA).

There are different causes of stroke depending on the kind. For ischemic stroke, which is the most common kind, is caused by narrowing or blockages of the arteries leading to the brain. Haemorrhagic stroke is caused by bursting of blood in the brain’s arteries. TIA is less serious than previous kinds but it is still a medical emergency since it can be a sign for future strokes. TIA is caused by a blockage of the artery but is temporary.

Now that you know the stroke and its different kinds, the next thing that you should know is to know the warning signs and remember it. It is a possible stroke if:

• Face: When you observe that the person’s face droops on one side.

• Arms: If the face does not droop, you should check the arms. Try to raise both arms. Ideally it should be equal but if you notice the one arm is lower than the other, it can be a sign of stroke.

• Speech: This is another sign that can indicate a person is suffering from stroke. If you notice that the speech is slurred or strange, you should be alarmed.

• Time: Stroke is a serious one regardless of the kind so as soon as you notice the signs, you have to call an ambulance or emergency responders right away. Every minute counts.

To help you remember these signs easy, try to think of it as FAST. But there are also other signs that you have to consider like numbness or weakness on one side of his/her body, blurring or vision, severe headache and unexplained dizziness or unsteadiness.

Your risk of developing stroke increases as you grow old. It is therefore critical that you live a healthy lifestyle now. Do not delay it.

When you brush your tongue and it gets way too far, you notice there is an urge to vomit. That natural urge is called gag reflex. It is also called laryngeal spasm or pharyngeal reflex. This is actually one of the most uncomfortable feelings you can endure. If it is left unchecked, it will lead to laryngitis. If you have a sensitive case of involuntary gagging, you will have trouble swallowing food and visiting the dentist.

Gag reflex is actually the body’s defense against swallowing or choking large and foreign objects. Many Singaporean do not have this but there are some who have to ensure it. The good news is that there are ways on how to ease your gag reflex. Here are some tips on subduing your gag reflex:

1. Numb the soft palate: Soft palate is also called muscular palate. It is a soft tissue found in the back of the mouth’s roof. Soft palate is distinguished from hard palate because it does not contain any bone. If touched, the soft palate can trigger your gag reflex. The best way to numb it is to maximize numbing throat spray. This spray will desensitize the palate. If spray is unavailable, you can use gel that relieves tooth pain. The effect will last about an hour.

2. Completely desensitize soft palate: If your soft palate is accustomed to touching, it will be numb. To do this, you have to gradually minimize your gag reflex. It will take time, effort and patience but everything will pay off one of these days. The basic thing that you can do is maximize your toothbrush. Brush as far as you can and when you reach the point where you gag, that is where you should concentrate. Yes, you will gag but not for long. Spend maybe 10 seconds brushing the area then call it a day. Do the same on succeeding days and you will subdue your gag reflex.

3. Put dab of salt on your tongue: One way to help you ease gag reflex is to put dab of table salt on your tongue. You have to moisten the tip of your finger first before actually putting the salt. Make sure that it is on the tip of the tongue. Do not forget to spit it.

These may look easy but it is not. With the right tool and attitude, you can subdue it. Do not forget to relax too as it can trigger gag reflex. Breathe and concentrate on the task. Good luck!

Feeling anxious or stressed out lately? Are you finding yourself unable to cope with the daily stresses at work and at home? If so, then sniffing on certain essential oils might give you some stress relief. To help you, we’ve listed down some of essential oils that you can use to improve your mood, cognition and overall health.

1. Lavender

Lavender’s gentle aroma is what helps in calming an anxious mind. In fact, it’s considered as the best calming essence among essential oils. Its calming qualities are so exceptional that several researches are conducted to learn about its role in calming the mind and heart. Lavender oil is best used when you’re feeling extremely anxious or stressed out.

2. Rose Geranium

Aside from relaxing your body and mind, a sniff of rose geranium can also aid in boosting your mood. This particular plant is believed to help in balancing hormonal levels, while providing major relaxation to its user. Other than that, this essence also provides a soothing sensation to the central nervous system. So reach for a vial of rose geranium if you ever find yourself caught up in an endless cycle of anxiety and stress.

3. Roman Chamomile

Most of us might’ve heard of chamomile tea, but haven’t tried using it in aromatherapy to relieve anxiety. Roman chamomile has long been established as a substance that aids in relieving stress, and in some cases, has helped in treating muscle tension and insomnia. Aside from providing anxiety and stress relief, this oil is also known to help with various ailments, such as restlessness, vomiting and even attention deficit disorder (ADD). Although it won’t provide a permanent cure, chamomile is proven to help with various conditions.

4. Jasmine

Some health experts have touted jasmine essence to be as good as Valium, an anti-anxiety drug that helps in calming the nerves. This essential oil works by increasing the wave activity in the brain to regulate feelings of anxiety, stress and over-excitement. Although it shouldn’t be used as an alternative for Valium, jasmine oil can be your best option to ease your anxiousness through aromatherapy.

5. Clary Sage

Clary sage oil is another substance that proved to be beneficial for easing anxiety and stress. A group of health experts even conducted a study that involved inhaling clary sage essence with rosemary, lavender and peppermint – the combination of which resulted to less anxiety among individuals who took the stress test. That said, using this essential oil still won’t result in a cure, but it’ll give a temporary soothing effect on both your body and mind.

Aside from taking medicines to ease your anxiety attacks, using essentials also proved to be helpful in providing stress and anxiety relief. Just like with any form of treatment, however, understand that it’s all about individual preferences and what works best for you. So be sure to conduct some experimentation to figure out which essential would be most beneficial to you.

Are you currently thinking which among the countless online supplement store you should order your supplements from? You must consider those offering natural supplements. You already know how valuable your health is. You want to ensure that your body gets all the nutrients it needs. While the food you eat provide you with these nutrients, you will benefit more if you are taking in natural supplements. If you are in search of healthy food supplements, this post will certainly be of big help to you.

Here are a few more reasons to go natural for your choice of supplement supplier.

These supplements are made from natural food sources

Since the supplements are made from all natural ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, and plants, your body will be able to absorb them easily. Supplements that contain artificial ingredients will give your body a harder time identifying how to use them properly. If you have any allergies or is health conscious, you are safer with natural products such as those offered by LAC Singapore. No chemicals or additives are used. The outcome, hence, is a supplement with better quality.

Make sure to exercise caution when looking at supplement labels. Do not right away believe everything that claims to be natural. If you want to get the most out of a food supplement, it should be free from any preservatives. Take your time reading through the labels. You’d want to make sure that there is nothing too complex for you to understand. If there is anything you find unfamiliar, consider conducting some research work by asking your physician or searching online.

They’re more cost-effective

You don’t have to spend a fortune to stay healthy. Online supplement stores understand that people are also looking for high quality supplements that they can afford. Thus, they are offered at reasonable prices and you can even take advantage of free shipping. All you have to do is check the products if the prices offered fall within your budget.

On the other hand, if you find that the prices are still a bit higher than other supplements in the market, just think about what you’re getting in return. With natural supplements, you get to keep peace of mind knowing that the products are made of organic and quality ingredients. You can be healthier and happier with these natural supplements.

Natural supplements are more effective

The body responds better to natural supplements so these products are utilized and absorbed properly. You can know how effective they are by considering what past users can say about their experience with the supplements in question. As you choose an online supplement store, take time to go over client testimonials. Learn from customers themselves how the natural supplements have helped them.

Ultimately, make sure to purchase only from an online supplement store that is committed to delivering high quality products. Find out how long they have been in the business as chances are they’ve also spent a lot of time studying their products, sourcing only those that adhere to their strict quality standards. Don’t confine yourself to expensive options because you can find stores that offer all-natural supplements and vitamins at a competitive price.