Indiscriminate Use of Medication During Dashain Festivities Can Worsen Health

 Indiscriminate Use of Medication During Dashain Festivities Can Worsen Health

Warnings have been issued that health risks may increase during Dashain due to careless dietary habits, the use of medication without medical advice, and the skipping of regular doses of prescribed medicine.

Dashain is a major festival for the Nepali people. Family reunions, delicious food, joyful gatherings, and long journeys make this festival special. However, the excitement of the festive season can lead to health risks—stemming from poor dietary choices, irregularities in taking regular medications, and the tendency to use drugs without consulting a doctor.

Often, when people experience a headache, fever, cold, or indigestion, they immediately purchase medication from a pharmacy. It is also common for people to use old medicines that have been lying around at home for a long time, or to recommend such medications to others.

Such habits are risky from a health perspective.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified the inappropriate use of medication as a significant public health challenge. According to the WHO, the misuse of medicine not only increases health risks but also leads to the wastage of resources intended for medical treatment.

Indiscriminate Use of Medication for Pain and Fever

During Dashain, factors such as long-distance travel, fatigue, lack of sleep, and an unbalanced diet can lead to issues like headaches, body aches, or fever. It is unwise to take medication the moment such symptoms appear without first understanding the underlying cause.

Consuming medications like paracetamol in doses exceeding the recommended amount can cause severe damage to the liver. Since many combination medicines used for colds and flu contain paracetamol, taking different medications simultaneously can lead to an excessive dosage of the same active ingredient.

Similarly, the indiscriminate use of pain relievers like ibuprofen and diclofenac can cause stomach ulcers, internal bleeding, or kidney damage. Extra caution is required, especially for the elderly, individuals with pre-existing kidney or heart conditions, and those who are already taking regular medication.

**The Misuse of Antibiotics: Another Challenge**

The tendency to take antibiotics immediately upon experiencing a sore throat, cold, flu, or fever is a major public health concern. Since most colds and flu are caused by viruses, antibiotics are ineffective in treating such infections.

Taking antibiotics when they are not needed can lead to side effects such as allergies, diarrhea, and other adverse reactions. Furthermore, their improper use can contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance. In such cases, medications become less effective against the bacteria causing the infection, making treatment significantly more difficult.

Therefore, one should avoid taking antibiotics without medical advice, using leftover medication from previous illnesses, or consuming medicine prescribed for someone else. Medications prescribed by a doctor must be taken in the exact dosage and for the duration specified. If any adverse effects occur, consult a healthcare professional rather than changing the medication on your own. Missing Regular Medication Can Increase Risks

During the Dashain festival—whether traveling home, staying with relatives, or embarking on long-distance journeys—individuals with conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, asthma, or other chronic illnesses may inadvertently miss their regular medications. Changes in diet and daily routines during the festive season can also lead to irregularities in taking prescribed medication.

Discontinuing medications used to manage chronic conditions—simply because one feels "fine"—is dangerous. It is particularly critical for individuals using insulin, anti-epileptic drugs, blood thinners, or steroids to strictly follow their doctor's instructions.

Before setting out on a journey, ensure you carry an adequate supply of your necessary medications. Keep a record of the names of your medicines and the scheduled times for taking them, and make arrangements to ensure you take them on time. If a dose is missed, do not take it upon yourself to compensate by doubling the dose.

What precautions should individuals with high uric acid levels take during Dashain?

 What precautions should individuals with high uric acid levels take during Dashain?

Since uric acid levels tend to rise during Dashain, it is advised to limit the consumption of purine-rich meats—such as goat, buffalo, liver, and kidneys—and instead incorporate vegetables and salads into one's diet.

The very mention of Dashain brings to mind meat dishes, delicious food, and gatherings with relatives. Many people believe that regardless of what they eat throughout the rest of the year, Dashain is a time to indulge in tasty food and enjoy themselves.

During this period, some people also consume more meat, often accompanied by beer or other alcoholic beverages. Even those who are usually very mindful of their diet tend to overindulge during Dashain.

After all, festivals are meant for eating and having a good time!

However, the dietary experience during Dashain is not the same for everyone. In particular, those prone to high uric acid levels need to be extra careful with their food choices; giving in to the temptation of taste could risk triggering a flare-up of their condition.

Does eating meat automatically raise uric acid levels? Could eating a bit too much cause complications? Such questions can leave many feeling uncertain. It is not the case that everyone with high uric acid must follow the exact same dietary restrictions. Some individuals may have elevated uric acid levels in their blood without showing any symptoms, while others may experience joint swelling, redness, and excruciating pain—a condition known as "gout." Uric acid is produced when a substance called 'purine' breaks down in the body. Typically, the kidneys excrete it through urine. If the body produces an excess of uric acid, or if the kidneys are unable to excrete a sufficient amount, the level of uric acid in the blood can rise.

When this accumulates and forms tiny crystals in the joints, it can lead to a condition known as gout.

Does the diet during Dashain increase uric acid levels?

During Dashain, people often consume large quantities of meat dishes, along with foods that are oily, spicy, or contain items like paneer (cottage cheese). Because these foods are tasty, there is a common tendency to overeat in a single sitting or to consume such dishes consistently over several days. However, those prone to high uric acid levels need to be extra mindful of their diet.

In particular, red meat—such as goat or buffalo—as well as dishes made from organ meats like liver and kidneys, contain high levels of purine.

Consequently, consuming large amounts of these foods can raise blood uric acid levels or trigger a flare-up of gout. Purine is also found in fish and chicken; therefore, one should not assume that 'white meat' can be consumed in unlimited quantities. Rather than avoiding meat entirely during Dashain, a more practical approach is to limit portion sizes and avoid the habit of including meat in every single meal.

Thus, instead of filling your plate exclusively with meat during Dashain, you can manage your intake by incorporating vegetables, salads, and other nutritious foods.

Is it okay to consume alcohol? Although it is common to consume alcohol with friends and family during Dashain, abstaining is the safest choice if you suffer from high uric acid levels. Even if you decide to drink, the general advice to "consume in moderation" does not define a universally "safe" amount for everyone.

If you are experiencing a gout flare-up or have other underlying health issues, you should avoid alcohol entirely. Similarly, you should limit the intake of soft drinks like Coke, Fanta, and other sugar-sweetened beverages; the fructose found in these drinks can increase uric acid levels.

**Legumes and Protein**

Legumes also contain purines. However, purines derived from plant-based foods do not necessarily pose the same level of risk as those found in meat or seafood. Therefore, foods such as lentils, chickpeas, beans, and soybeans can be consumed in balanced amounts.

It is better to focus on a varied diet that includes vegetables and fruits, ensuring your meals provide the necessary nutrition. During Dashain, rather than simply sitting around eating and resting, it is advisable to incorporate some walking or physical activity to help digest what you have consumed.

**Does high uric acid always require medication?**

Not everyone with elevated uric acid levels in their blood requires medication. A condition where no symptoms are present is known as "asymptomatic hyperuricemia." In such cases, medication to lower uric acid is generally not initiated.

However, a doctor may make a decision based on an individual's overall health, kidney function, and other risk factors. The situation is different when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, leading to a condition known as gout. The primary symptoms include sudden swelling, redness, and excruciating pain—most commonly in the joint of the big toe. The pain can be so intense that even placing the foot on the ground, putting on a sock, or having a blanket brush against it becomes difficult.

This pain may subside on its own after a few hours or days, and there might be no further issues for months or even years. However, the subsiding of pain does not mean the condition has been cured. Over time, the condition may flare up repeatedly; if left untreated, the accumulated uric acid crystals can form hard lumps in the joints, known as "tophi."

Therefore, it is not advisable to take medication only when pain occurs and stop once it subsides. If a doctor has prescribed medication to lower uric acid levels, you should not discontinue it on your own.

5 Things to Keep in Mind Regarding Diet and Lifestyle During Dashain

1. Stay active: Engage in regular walking, avoid sitting in one place for too long, and incorporate light exercise.

2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Be mindful of your diet, and adjust your fluid intake based on your specific health condition and bodily needs.

3. Take medication consistently: Do not stop taking your uric acid-lowering medication just because your diet or eating habits have changed during the Dashain festival.

4. Avoid alcohol and an unbalanced diet: It is wise to exercise moderation regarding alcohol consumption and overeating, even during the festive season.

What should you keep in mind when consuming alcohol and medication together?

 What should you keep in mind when consuming alcohol and medication together?

Given the tradition of consuming alcohol during the Dashain festival, doctors advise those currently taking medication to be aware of potential interactions between alcohol and their drugs.

It is common to consume alcohol for enjoyment during Dashain. Alcohol, in itself, is not beneficial for health. Individuals who consume alcohol should be mindful of how it might interact with any medications they are taking.

Alcohol can amplify the effects of sleep-inducing medications and certain allergy drugs. For instance, consuming alcohol alongside medications like Diazepam or Alprazolam (used for sleep or anxiety) or Zolpidem (used as a sleep aid) can be harmful. Combining alcohol with such drugs carries risks, including excessive drowsiness, dizziness, impaired judgment, and a loss of physical balance.

Consuming alcohol while taking allergy medications—such as Chlorpheniramine or Diphenhydramine—can also intensify drowsiness and dizziness. Even with medications like Cetirizine, which are generally less sedating, some individuals may still experience these heightened effects. This increases the risk of falls or road accidents and, in severe cases, can even interfere with breathing.

Individuals taking antibiotics should also exercise particular caution regarding alcohol. Consuming alcohol while on Metronidazole, for example, can trigger reactions such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, facial flushing, and an increased heart rate. Since Tinidazole also carries this risk, one should not consume alcohol during the course of treatment or for a specified period after stopping the medication.

Therefore, the safest course of action is to avoid alcohol while taking the medication. You should follow the instructions provided on the medicine label and consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding potential interactions with alcohol.

12 Health Myths That Need to Be Debunked

 12 Health Myths That Need to Be Debunked

Superfoods are packed with nutrients but possess no magical properties; a balanced intake is essential.

Protein isn't just for young bodybuilders; older adults also need it for muscle repair.

You shouldn't cut back on water intake when dealing with water retention; doing so actually worsens the problem.

Few people likely still believe the literal saying that "an apple a day keeps the doctor away." However, when it comes to larger, more popular myths, it can be difficult to decide what to believe and what to dismiss.

The human body is incredibly complex, and many theories surrounding it lack any factual basis. Here, we shed light on the truth behind some of these unfounded theories.

1. Myth: Superfoods have "superpowers"

Fact: While they offer specific benefits, they possess no magical qualities. "Superfood" simply refers to a nutrient-dense food that provides a higher level of nutrition compared to others; however, relying solely on them is not enough. One must maintain a balanced intake based on the body's specific needs.

2. Myth: Protein is only for young bodybuilders

Fact: Protein is often misunderstood. It is essentially a source of amino acids that aids in muscle repair and is efficiently absorbed by the body. Protein supplements are not prescribed solely for the purpose of building muscle mass. It might also be provided to meet the body's protein requirements, given that Nepali meals are primarily carbohydrate-based.

As one ages, protein needs increase, and the rate of muscle loss accelerates. It is crucial for the elderly to include appropriate protein supplements in their diet, as these help with muscle repair and the maintenance of strength and stamina. This is not merely a post-workout supplement; it can be consumed with any meal to meet daily protein requirements.

3. Myth: Drinking water while eating destroys nutrients.

Fact: This is also a myth. Think of your stomach like a blender that mixes food and prepares it for absorption. If the meal consists of items like lentils (dal), vegetable broths, or buttermilk, you might manage without extra water. However, dry foods require fluids for digestion. Water is essential alongside food for proper digestion.

4. Myth: You should drink less water if you have water retention issues.

Fact: Water retention is caused by protein deficiency, electrolyte imbalance, or other medical conditions. If you drink less water, the body begins to hoard it because it needs water to transport nutrients throughout the body and perform vital processes. Consequently, the body conserves water, and the problem worsens.

5. Myth: Fats are always bad.

Fact: It is a mistake to completely avoid fats in an attempt to get very thin. Fats are not the enemy of the body. We need healthy fats—such as olive oil, almond oil, rice bran oil, extra virgin coconut oil, and ghee—as well as fruits that are good sources of Omega-3.

However, processed meats, processed foods, and high-sodium packaged foods are not good for health and should be eliminated from your diet.

6. Myth: Restaurant food is bad for those on a diet.

Fact: Following a diet is not a punishment; rather, it is about making improvements to your lifestyle. It does not mean you have to stop attending social gatherings that involve eating and drinking. There are many healthy options available to choose from when dining out. You can opt for green salads, clear soups, mixed vegetables, or other healthy dishes.

7. Myth: Fruit juice helps with weight loss.

Fact: Fruit juices are beverages packed with calories. It takes 4–5 oranges to make a single glass of orange juice, whereas one could simply eat a single orange. Furthermore, an important point to understand about fruit juice is that the fiber is separated during the juicing process, leaving a drink that is rich in fructose. For those dieting or trying to control calorie intake, eating the whole fruit—fiber and all—is a better choice than drinking juice.

8. Myth: To lose weight, you should cut out carbohydrates and eat only protein.

Fact: Even the healthiest diet can prove detrimental if you do not know the proper portions or balance. You cannot survive on eggs and sprouts alone, nor can you lose weight in a healthy manner by doing so. The body requires a balance of nutrients. Losing weight healthily and maintaining that state calls for a sensible, practical lifestyle and a healthy diet plan.

9. Myth: Bathing in hot water is relaxing.

Fact: From a skin health perspective, this habit can be quite harmful. Long, hot showers can strip the skin of its natural oils, making it dry and hypersensitive, and aggravating itching. Instead, it is better to take short showers using lukewarm water.

10. Myth: Bananas, rice, and potatoes cause weight gain.

Fact: These foods are part of a natural, healthy diet and should not be classified as junk food. Singling out potatoes and rice for criticism is misguided—especially if you are otherwise consuming high-sodium snacks and drinking beer. Fruits, vegetables, and carbohydrates provide a combination of vitamins and minerals that the body needs, even in small amounts. A balanced diet should include a variety of foods.

11. Myth: Drinking water before a workout makes you sick....can be done.

Fact: It is beneficial to drink water before, during, and after exercise because it keeps you hydrated. However, the amount of water to drink depends on age, gender, height, weight, and the intensity and duration of the workout.

12. Myth: Weight training makes women's bodies bulky.

Fact: Women have higher levels of estrogen, which prevents the body from bulking up quickly. Men build muscle faster because they have testosterone. Strength training helps women reduce body fat, increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories effectively.

10 Myths About Brain Strokes That Could Prove Costly

 10 Myths About Brain Strokes That Could Prove Costly

If speech suddenly slurs or limbs feel weak, many people dismiss it as mere fatigue. Some assume the condition will resolve with rest and avoid going to the hospital. In some instances, people even attempt to feed the stroke victim water, food, or medication at home. However, such seemingly minor errors can delay critical treatment.

A brain stroke is a medical emergency where every minute counts. It occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. The impact depends on the type of stroke, the area of ​​the brain affected, and the time elapsed before treatment begins.

Yet, many misconceptions about strokes persist in society. These myths can delay symptom recognition, the administration of proper first aid, and timely hospital transport.

Myth 1: Strokes only affect the elderly

While the risk of stroke increases with age, this does not mean young people are completely immune. Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and physical inactivity are increasingly appearing at younger ages; consequently, young people are also at risk. Additionally, smoking, tobacco use, certain heart conditions, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of stroke.

Myth 2: A stroke always results in the inability to move a part of the body

Weakness or loss of movement in a body part is indeed a symptom of a stroke. However, not every stroke results in the inability to move one's limbs. Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding others, blurred or double vision, loss of balance, and facial drooping on one side can also be signs of a stroke. Therefore, one should not rule out a stroke simply because there is no paralysis of the limbs. If any of these symptoms appear suddenly, they should not be dismissed as minor issues.

Myth 3: Headache is the only main symptom of a stroke

A sudden headache is a symptom that can occur in certain types of strokes. However, it is incorrect to associate stroke solely with headaches. Symptoms such as sudden facial drooping, weakness in an arm or leg, slurred speech, difficulty understanding others, changes in vision, or loss of balance while walking should be taken very seriously. Therefore, one should not ignore other sudden symptoms by assuming it is "just a headache."

Myth 4: Let's wait a while; it will get better on its own

Waiting and hoping the condition will resolve on its own after stroke symptoms appear can be fatal. For certain types of stroke, treatments to restore blood flow are available if the patient reaches the hospital in time. Therefore, instead of staying at home and wasting time after symptoms begin, one should seek medical help as quickly as possible. In stroke treatment, the concept that "time is brain" is crucial; every delay in treatment can lead to further damage to brain cells. Myth 5: If symptoms resolve on their own after a short while, the danger has passed

Sudden physical weakness, difficulty speaking, or vision problems should not be ignored, even if they resolve on their own after a brief period. Such symptoms can indicate a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA). A TIA is considered a warning sign of a potential future stroke. It is essential to consult a doctor even if the symptoms have disappeared. Timely identification of the cause and appropriate treatment can help reduce the risk of a serious stroke in the future.

Myth 6: A person suffering a stroke should be given water, food, or medication at home

A stroke can impair a person's ability to swallow. In such a situation, feeding them water, food, or other liquids carries the risk of the substance entering the airway. This is known as aspiration, which can lead to serious lung complications. Therefore, if a stroke is suspected, one should not administer water, food, or any medication on their own at home. The patient should be kept safe and medical assistance sought as quickly as possible.

Myth 7: Recovery from a stroke happens immediately

Not everyone who receives treatment after a stroke returns to a normal state immediately. The impact of a stroke varies depending on which part of the brain was damaged and the extent of that damage. Some individuals may experience persistent speech difficulties, while others may face issues with mobility, limb strength, vision, speaking, comprehension, or the ability to perform daily activities. Consequently, even after emergency treatment, therapies such as physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and other forms of rehabilitation may be required. Myth 8: There is no effective treatment for stroke

The belief that there is no effective treatment for stroke is incorrect. Particularly with certain types of ischemic stroke, if the patient reaches the hospital in time, treatments to restore blood flow can be administered. Tests such as CT scans or MRIs performed at the hospital help identify the specific type of stroke.

For some ischemic stroke patients, an attempt is made to dissolve blood clots in the vessels using thrombolysis. In suitable patients, a blocked large blood vessel can be opened through a neurointerventional procedure known as mechanical thrombectomy. However, getting the patient to the hospital promptly is crucial for these treatments. Therefore, treatment should not be delayed once stroke symptoms appear.

Myth 9: Once you have had a stroke, it won't happen again

The idea that a stroke will not recur after the first one is also a misconception. A previous stroke or... Individuals who have experienced a TIA remain at risk of a future stroke. Therefore, it is crucial to take prescribed medications regularly, keep blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol levels under control, and adopt necessary lifestyle changes. Those who have previously experienced a stroke should not stop taking their medication on their own or assume that treatment is unnecessary simply because symptoms have disappeared.

Myth 10: Stroke cannot be prevented

While it may not be possible to prevent every stroke, there is much that can be done to reduce the risk. Controlling blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels; avoiding tobacco products; engaging in regular physical activity; maintaining a balanced diet; and taking prescribed medications regularly can help lower the risk of stroke. In particular, controlling high blood pressure is one of the most important measures for reducing stroke risk.

Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur

Symptoms such as sudden drooping of one side of the face, weakness in an arm or leg, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, sudden changes in vision, loss of balance, or difficulty walking should not be dismissed as minor issues. Even if the symptoms disappear within a few minutes, they should not be ignored, as they could be signs of a TIA.

Time is of the essence when it comes to a stroke. Therefore, if such symptoms appear, it is essential to seek immediate medical help rather than attempting home treatment, offering food or water, or waiting to see if the condition improves.