by admin | Apr 15, 2025 | children, health, health advice, infectious diseases, medicine and healthcare
Child
health experts have warned parents against using harmful practices to treat ear infections in children, cautioning that these actions could worsen the condition, leading to permanent hearing loss or other severe complications.
Otitis media, frequently observed in youngsters, may lead to discomfort, drainage, and diminished auditory function.
If not properly treated or controlled, these infections may result in severe complications including meningitis, sepsis, and irreversible hearing damage.
Speaking exclusively with
PUNCH Healthwise
Pediatricians emphasized that methods like applying traditional remedies, cotton swabs, or even fingertips to address ear infections can worsen the condition and lead to considerable harm.
These unverified treatments frequently comprising herbs, spices, and various ingredients can be ineffectual and might drive the infection further into the ear, potentially leading to a ruptured eardrum and exacerbating the spread of the infection.
Even with these dangers, numerous parents still depend on such methods, potentially leading to severe consequences like irreversible hearing damage, meningitis, or worse, fatalities.
The specialists emphasized the crucial need for prompt medical care to avoid complications and foster recovery.
A professor of paediatrics from the University of Ilorin, Professor Omotoyo Adesiyun, stated that ear infections happen when bacteria or viruses get into the ear via the ear canal or the Eustachian tube, which links the middle ear to the throat.
She pointed out that children are more prone to ear infections because their Eustachian tubes are shorter and positioned more horizontally, making it simpler for germs like bacteria and viruses to reach the ears.
Moreover, kids who go to daycare centers or schools have a higher chance of getting ear infections due to greater contact with pathogens.
Adesiyun highlighted that ear infections can lead to significant discomfort, especially when the eardrum ruptures.
She recommended that parents avoid trying to treat ear infections at home because this approach might contribute to antibiotic resistance and cause additional health issues.
Prompt medical care is essential for ear infections to avoid complications,” warned Adesiyun. “Parents should refrain from attempting to treat them using antibiotics or other drugs at home.
She likewise cautioned against putting items such as cotton swabs or fingers inside the ear, since doing so might drive the infection deeper into the ear, leading to greater harm.
Adesiyun suggested that parents should consult a doctor for their children if they exhibit signs like earache, high temperature, or fluid leakage.
Prompt intervention can aid in avoiding complications and promote recovery, she highlighted.
“Healthcare professionals should handle ear discharges. This is particularly crucial when dealing with children because their ear structures are more fragile. If a child has an ear discharge, they should be brought to a hospital for antibiotic treatment. For more serious cases, an otolaryngologist might be required,” Adesiyun noted.
The Paediatric Surgeon and President of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, Professor Aminu Mohammad, emphasized the significance of timely medical consultation.
He mentioned that ear infections may stem from bacterial, viral, or fungal sources, along with injuries to the ear.
As he stated, if not treated, these infections could result in issues like meningitis, sepsis, and irreversible hearing damage.
“The consequences of ignoring ear discharge are serious. Ongoing infections may lead to irreversible hearing damage, excruciating pain, and issues with equilibrium if they impact the inner ear. In the most severe scenarios, should the infection spread to the brain, it could result in sepsis and potentially be fatal,” cautioned Mohammad.
He emphasized again that parents should avoid trying to treat ear infections themselves at home and must go for prompt professional care instead.
Mohammad likewise highlighted the significance of adhering to proper hygiene routines, like frequent hand washing, to aid in preventing infections.
He suggested that parents should consult a healthcare provider for their kids if they exhibit signs of ear infections.
“Prompt treatment is essential to avoid additional complications and promote healing,” emphasized the pediatric surgeon.
Concerning treatment methods, Mohammad clarified that antibiotics are generally prescribed for bacterial infections, whereas antifungal drugs might be required for cases involving fungi.
He mentioned that for issues such as swimmer’s ear, which is medically referred to as otitis externa, using ear drops can alleviate symptoms and eliminate the infection. In more serious instances, however, surgical intervention might be necessary to mend the eardrum or address problems including cholesteatoma and mastoiditis.
Mohammad additionally pointed out that specialized attention from an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor might be required for more complicated situations.
In the meantime, Dr. Leo Odudu, who serves as both a Consultant Paediatrician and the Medical Director at Emel Hospital, cautioned that failing to treat ear infections might result in severe complications.
He mentioned that the most frequent reason for ear discharge is an infection, typically occurring after a respiratory tract infection.
Odudu pointed out that poor nutrition and compromised immune systems, like those found in children with sickle cell disease or HIV, can elevate the chances of developing ear infections.
“Poor hygiene and viral infections like measles can also make children more vulnerable to ear problems,” Odudu said. He cautioned against using unverified home remedies, such as native concoctions or inserting cotton into the ear, which can lead to serious complications.
“When foreign items such as cotton are introduced into the ear, they may obstruct the ear canal and drive the infection further inward, resulting in more serious outcomes,” he clarified.
Odudu stressed the importance of seeking professional medical care for ear infections, adding, “Ear infections should always be treated by trained healthcare professionals. Whether bacterial, viral, or fungal, a healthcare provider can accurately diagnose the issue and prescribe the right treatment.”
He finished his talk by encouraging parents to promptly consult a doctor when their children show symptoms such as earache or fluid drainage. He stressed that early treatment helps avoid serious issues including potential hearing impairment or persistent infections that could necessitate surgical procedures.
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by admin | Apr 14, 2025 | controversies, diplomacy and diplomats, news, politics, politics and government
The Iranian President, Masoud Pezeshkian, has removed his vice president for parliamentary affairs, Shahram Dabiri, after facing significant public criticism stemming from an extravagant Antarctic journey taken during the Nowruz festivities.
The presidential office characterized Dabiri’s trip accompanied by his spouse as “indefensible and inappropriate considering the prevailing economic difficulties” within the nation.
An image of the pair standing in front of the MV Plancius, a Dutch ship bound for Antarctica, went viral on social media, inciting anger among Iranians.
On Saturday, Pezeshkian affirmed in an announcement that Dabiri was dismissed from his position due to “unjustifiable” conduct, regardless of whether the journey had been personally financed.
“In a administration aiming to adhere to the principles set forth by the first Shia Imam (Imam Ali) and faced with considerable financial strain on our citizens, the extravagant trips made by governmental officials, even if they fund themselves, cannot be justified,” stated Pezeshkian.
Widespread protests erupt throughout the U.S. opposing Trump’s policies. In the UK, MP Dan Norris gets arrested for suspected involvement in child sex offenses and rape. Large demonstrations against both Trump and Elon Musk take place in key European urban centers.
The president, who took office last year with pledges to fix Iran’s struggling economy and enhance everyday living conditions, stressed that such behavior “severely contradicts the principle of simplicity that is crucial for individuals in leadership roles.”
Iran’s economy continues to face significant pressure primarily because of Western sanctions tied to its backing of organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah, which have been labeled as terrorist entities by the U.S., UK, and EU.
As reported by the International Monetary Fund, Iran had an unemployment rate of 8.4% in October 2024, accompanied by an annual inflation rate of 29.5%.
Reports suggest that the initial expense for an Antarctic journey aboard the MV Plancius stands at approximately $6,685 (£5,187). This price point has faced additional scrutiny considering Iran’s current financial situation. Although expeditions to Antarctica were once exclusive to researchers and experienced adventurers, cruise tours to this remote continent have become increasingly popular among tourists over the past few years.
The ship seen in the widely shared image was formerly utilized by the Royal Netherlands Navy for research activities between 1976 and 2004. The specifics of Dabiri’s travel arrangements remain uncertain, including both his chosen tour plan and mode of transportation from Iran to Antarctica. Certain cruise paths necessitate passengers departing from Ushuaia in southwestern Argentina, over 3,000 kilometers away from Buenos Aires.
As per the BBC, Iranian news outlets highlighted growing pressure on Pezeshkian from his backers to remove Dabiri, amid escalating public discontent over the festive trip.
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by admin | Apr 14, 2025 | air travel, insurance, personal finance insurance, shopping, Travel
Forty percent buy insurance between zero to four days before they depart.
Indonesians
Often, people buy travel insurance at the last minute, with 40% getting coverage between zero to four days before their departure and one in ten waiting until the day before they leave, as per an Igloo report.
Although not as common as for international trips, many domestic travelers opt to buy travel insurance just before their journey, with 22% purchasing it between zero to four days prior to departure and another 8% buying it within the final 24 hours.
Furthermore, Indonesians exhibit a preference for traveling abroad, with 80% of male customers buying insurance for international trips and 90% of female customers doing the same.
Traveling alone has gained significant popularity as well, particularly among women, who make up 57% of all individual travel insurance buys, whereas men constitute only 53%.
Japan, Singapore, Thailand, and South Korea continue to be the top choices for travelers.
by admin | Apr 14, 2025 | gastrointestinal disease, health, healthcare and medicine, illness, medical conditions and diseases
-
READ MORE: As a physician specializing in colorectal cancer, here’s why diagnoses are increasing among young people
A colorectal
cancer
An expert has cautioned that thousands might be enduring an obscure symptom associated with the lethal illness, which remains largely unrecognized by most people.
Frequent urges to defecate—a condition known as tenesmus—impact approximately 2,000 individuals diagnosed with bowel cancer annually, says Dr. Alasdair Scott, a colorectal surgeon and specialist in gastrointestinal health.
“It’s a sophisticated term for wanting to use the bathroom even though you’ve recently been,” he explained.
‘ persistent sensation that something might be amiss — which warrants consulting with your physician.’
Doctor Scott has advised individuals experiencing this issue to consult their general practitioner, particularly those below the age of 50.
The incidence of colorectal cancer is increasing among individuals younger than 50 years old, and I highly advise against waiting for an invitation to participate in the bowel cancer screening program when you reach your mid-50s,” stated Dr. Scott, who serves as Science Director at the medical diagnostics company Selph.
‘Take cues from nations such as the United States.’
Japan
Where they initiate bowel cancer screening in their 40s and experience significantly higher survival rates for bowel cancer compared to what we see in the UK.
Doctor Scott’s caution arises as the world faces a widespread outbreak of the illness among younger populations worldwide.
From the early 1990s through 2018, the United Kingdom saw a 22 percent increase in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer among adults between the ages of 25 and 49. This growth rate ranks as one of the quickest increases observed across various high-income nations.
Experts have not yet definitively determined the cause of this rise, but several theories propose it might result from alterations in dietary habits coupled with increased exposure to environmental elements such as pollutants.
Doctor Scott cautioned that over fifty percent of individuals diagnosed with bowel cancer receive their diagnosis at advanced stages, when the illness has begun to metastasize, making successful treatment significantly more challenging.
He stated this occurs due to an overwhelming number of patients who only look for assistance when it has become considerably late.
A recent poll indicates that one-third of individuals in the UK are unaware of the symptoms of the illness.
The YouGov survey revealed that 80 percent were not aware of the importance of being vigilant about changes in bowel movements such as tenesmus, and nearly 90 percent did not recognize rectal bleeding as a key symptom.
“As with many forms of cancer, detecting bowel cancer at an early stage significantly improves your odds of overcoming it,” stated Dr. Scott.
‘K
Recognizing the primary symptoms of bowel cancer to look out for is essential so you can undergo testing promptly and inform your General Practitioner without delay.
He also noted alterations in the regularity of bowel movements and the texture of the stools as warning signs.
‘If
If you’re someone who typically has one consistent bowel movement every day, and now you find yourself going two or three times daily with softer stools, this indicates a change in your usual pattern,” he explained.
‘If you experience a shift in your bowel habits lasting 2 or 3 weeks, it would be wise to consult your physician about it.’
‘Commonly, bowel cancer leads to softer and more frequent bowel movements; however, it may also cause difficulties that result in constipation.’
Noticing mucus in your stool is also considered a change, he mentioned.
Seeing blood in the stool or on the toilet paper after wiping is a symptom of bowel cancer that receives the most attention.
‘But
“Bleeding from the lower area is quite common and usually isn’t indicative of bowel cancer,” he stated.
‘Bleeding from a bowel cancer is often a dark red, painless and mixed in with the stool.
Approximately 60% of individuals exhibiting signs of colorectal cancer report experiencing rectal bleeding.
He additionally pointed out ‘persistent stomach pain that lasts for more than seven days.’
Most of the time, stomach pain is not due to bowel cancer.
It could potentially be irritable bowel syndrome, or it may involve issues such as gallstones or gastritis. However, these conditions are certainly worthy of further investigation.
‘Stomach pain is experienced by half of the patients exhibiting symptoms of bowel cancer.’
Ultimately, schedule a check-up if you begin ‘shedding pounds unintentionally.’ As he noted, ‘It’s possible you may not realize this at all if you do not regularly monitor your weight.’
Therefore, if your friends or relatives begin mentioning that you’ve shed some pounds or if you observe that your garments fit loosely or require tightening with your belt another loop, pay attention and consult a physician.
‘This symptom of bowel cancer is the most subtle and remains undetected for the longest time among all possible indicators.’
Multiple
heartbreaking stories
Recently, instances of young individuals in the peak of their life getting diagnosed with colorectal cancer have come to light.
One of the most notable victims of this trend is Deborah James, also referred to as ‘bowel babe,’ who was diagnosed at only 35 years old and managed to raise substantial funds for charity in her last days of 2022.
Read more
by admin | Apr 14, 2025 | body weight, health & fitness, news, obesity, weight loss
City desk journalist Oscar Liu recounts his journey of challenges and successes as he managed to reduce his weight from 98kg last September to 78kg this January.
I recall the day in July from last year when the anticipation for my upcoming three-week adventure across Europe rose within me as I purchased a new pair of running shoes and slipped them on.
However, when I looked down, I couldn’t spot my new shoes. My stomach was obstructing my view.
A few weeks later in Spain, as I ascended a gradual slope in Toledo, it started feeling akin to climbing a mountain. My lungs were afire, my heartbeat thundered, and I had to pause for breath.
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I had to acknowledge that after making inconsistent efforts to stay fit for eight years, I ended up being overweight, consuming excessive food and neglecting my health.
I had reached 98 kg (216 lbs), which was my highest weight ever and 23 kg over the desirable weight of 75 kg for someone of my stature.
It provided little comfort knowing that I belonged to the majority in Hong Kong, where 54.6 percent of adults were classified as overweight or obese, based on the Department of Health’s 2020-2022 Population Health Survey.
Men seldom confess their insecurities about their physical appearance, yet this battle had defined my existence.
Sei fei jai
, which literally translates to “deadly fat boy” in Cantonese, was a label that dogged me practically from the day I was born a robust 4kg and through a childhood of hurtful comments and being teased and bullied about my size.
While in college and seeking a rapid solution, I discovered a physician who provided me with weight-loss medication that I used for about nine months.
They were effective, yet they consistently made me feel restless and anxious. To steer clear of these side effects, I discontinued their use, and subsequently, all the weight I had shed came back.
Driven by desperation, I fell into a harmful pattern of binging and purging, which became a hidden source of deep embarrassment and erosion of my self-esteem over many years. It took me over ten years to confide in even my nearest companions about this struggle.
Until 2016, my parents didn’t appear worried about their youngest child’s weight. But once they were both diagnosed with diabetes that year, they started pressing me to make changes.
That year, I started a new fitness adventure by joining a CrossFit gym and diving into weightlifting, gymnastics, and intense metabolic conditioning workouts with great enthusiasm.
My trainers functioned more as life coaches, giving me a solid base in fitness for the very first time in my life.
I tried out more nutritious food options and various dietary approaches. As a result, the weight came off, my clothing became less snug, and I started feeling a sense of pride in these transformations. It was quite rewarding.
However, this situation also unraveled. The firm I was with shut down, which left me jobless for a year. Under stress, I reverted to my exercise routines, and previously abandoned habits resurfaced.
The weight came back. I was still stuck on that disheartening carousel, which served as an ongoing reminder of my failures.
I surrendered in the fight against weight gain and tried to wear a smile, yet deep down, I wasn’t truly content.
Next was the vacation last summer in Spain, struggling to see my feet as I huffed and puffed up that hill in Toledo.
It was time to attempt once more.
After coming back from Europe, I discovered a new fitness coach, began hitting the gym thrice weekly, focused on nutrition, and meticulously tracked and recorded everything I consumed.
The guiding principle of my trainer was that health is a way of life, which implied that beyond working out and monitoring my diet, I needed to focus on getting quality sleep and handling stress effectively.
Having empathetic coworkers who brought takeout lunches and stayed with me for these nutritious meals in the newsroom was quite beneficial.
It wasn’t simple, yet I successfully reduced my weight from 98kg last September to 78kg in January, and since then, I’ve kept myself under my targeted weight of 83kg.
Friends, family members, and coworkers have been giving me praise for the transformation they’ve observed. They mention that I seem more vibrant as well.
When I take time away from work, I prefer engaging in physical pursuits like jogging and trekking rather than lounging at home munching on potato chips and cheese while binging shows on Netflix.
On some days, I catch myself pondering whether this could be the authentic version of me, permanently in place.
Nevertheless, I remain acutely conscious that the allure of delicious cuisine and fine wines persists constantly. Additionally, nowadays, there’s considerable excitement surrounding novel diabetes medications like Ozempic, which can lead to significant weight reduction.
They are promoted as an easy solution for those dealing with excess weight. However, I still remember the episodes of anxiety I experienced from taking diet pills during my college days.
Should I admit that my life has been transformed? In the past, I looked for instant solutions, valuing an altered look more than making lasting changes to my way of living.
My current priority is achieving enduring wellness and a feeling of mastery over my life.
However, acquiring genuine confidence remains an ongoing endeavor. Acknowledging these uncertainties makes me feel exposed, particularly since societal norms demand that men should be resilient, even though this challenge isn’t exclusive to one gender.
Body image and eating problems impact numerous individuals, both women and men, yet perhaps discussing these matters candidly is an essential stride toward self-acceptance and collective assistance.
The difference this time around is that I am dedicated to constructing a healthier, more self-compassionate version of myself.
Fingers crossed as I attempt to avoid getting on the roller coaster.
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The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which is the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.
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