Dr. Prathap Kumar Pani

Menstrual Migraine can be termed as an extremely persistent headache that can happen just before, during or right after menstruation. Often, the feeling of nausea also keeps on lingering. The cause which triggers this type of migraine can be the fluctuating levels of oestrogen that a woman’s body experiences when she is on her periods.

What can be the possible treatment?

1. Application of ice pack or simply rubbing ice on your forehead can help lessen the pain a bit.

2. Relaxation exercises can be practiced to reduce the tension of the muscles.

3. Acupuncture therapy can also be done to improve the headache and it can further aid in relaxation of the muscles.

4. Over the counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can be taken for immediate relief.

5. Your doctor can also administer TRIPTAN (specific drugs used to treat the symptoms of migraine which work on the chemical receptors within the brain) if the pain is unbearable.

6. Do not experiment much with hormonal contraception methods after unsafe sexual intercourse. It just might worsen the pain.

7. NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) can also be administered, only if they have been prescribed by the doctor, as the harmful effects of those drugs are aplenty.

8. Magnesium deficiency in the body is one of the most important causes for menstrual migraines. Thus, eating foods rich in magnesium such as dark leafy greens, nuts, whole grains, avocados, bananas, etc. and taking magnesium supplements or vitamins are advisable.

9. There are certain foods which can even trigger such attacks. They include foods packed with monosodium glutamate (MSG), aged cheese and caffeine. Such foods should be strictly avoided. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a Gynaecologist.

You may find out that your child is suffering from hearing loss when he is born or he may be diagnosed with the condition later in life. Hearing loss in children is commonly caused by otitis media, birth problems and on the account of certain injuries or illnesses.

Signs and symptoms

The early stage symptoms of hearing loss in children are as follows:

1. No reaction to extremely loud noises

2. No response or reaction to your voice

3. The child makes some sounds, which taper off

The other symptoms which follow include:

1. He may pull and rub his ears.

2. He may act cranky constantly without any proper reason.

3. He might stop paying attention.

4. Low energy levels are indicated.

5. He may find it hard to follow directions.

6. He may ask you to increase the volume of the radio or TV.

7. Fever and ear pain are also likely symptoms.

Treatment

Early hearing loss can affect your child’s language learning skills. If the problem is diagnosed and treated soon, the problem with language can be avoided. The method of treatment depends on the cause of hearing loss in your child and the severity of hearing loss.

There are certain medicines for hearing---prescribed by your ENT Surgeon. Pleas take the point watchful waiting. Even if you have slightest doubt of hearing loss contact ENT immediately.

The primary treatment methods of hearing loss in children include the following:

1. Watchful waiting: Sometimes, the condition may resolve on its own and the treatment involves simple monitoring of your child for positive changes.

2. Medicines: There are certain medicines for hearing loss in children, which may be prescribed by your pediatrician.

3. Ear tubes: Ear tubes may be recommended if medicines and monitoring do not work. The tubes allow fluid to drain and help in preventing infections. A minor surgery has to be undertaken on your child for getting the ear tubes placed. This will solve the hearing loss and other related issues.

4. Hearing aids: Hearing aids may be used to allow your child hear better. It is safe for children to use ear tubes after the age of one month. For the right hearing aid for your child, you need to consult a hearing specialist.

5. Implants: Cochlear implants are used to treat hearing loss in many children. These are electronic devices which are put in the inner ear to benefit hearing. These should be used only if hearing aids did not succeed and these are meant to be used only in case of children with serious hearing problems.

There are several other devices, which can help your child with hearing loss. For suggestions and recommendations, you must take your child to a hearing specialist.

Sleep is one such time when people usually are expected to lie down still and get rest. However, we have all heard of sleepwalking, a condition where a person walks during the sleep. Though it may sound strange, there is a deeper explanation for it both from a causative point of view and from managing it.

Things you should know?

1. Sleepwalking happens when a person moves back from a deep sleep to a light sleep or awakening state.
2. The person who is sleepwalking is usually not aware of it.
3. Activities may range from simply getting up and sitting up in bed to walking around the room. They could also open the door and walk out to the neighbourhood. Moving furniture, changing dresses or driving a car, may also be some of the actions Most of these activities happens completely without their knowledge.
4. Mostly happens in children up to the age of 12, but can be seen in adults also, where it assumes a more severe form.
5. The person who is sleepwalking has a fixed stare with glassy eyes. They may appear dazed and lost when they are awakened.
6. They may not respond when they are actually sleepwalking, or respond very slowly
7. They can be brought back to bed and put back to sleep without being disturbed. Most children would go back to sleeping when this is done
8. Though the parents can be very worried when they see children sleepwalking, reassurance is required, as it usually disappears as they cross teenage.
9. There could be chances of small injury like tripping or fall during the sleepwalking episode
10. Sleepwalkers may be more restless compared to other children during their waking hours
11. Bedwetting is also quite common in children who sleepwalk

Causes

1. Inappropriate sleep pattern with lack of sleep for prolonged periods is one of the main reasons for sleepwalking
2. Stress
3. Excessive drinking
4. Medical conditions like heart rhythm problems, acidity, gastric reflux, and seizures
5. Psychiatric conditions like panic attacks and post-traumatic stress disorder can also lead to sleepwalking

Management

1. For a parent to see their child walking around in their sleep can be quite disturbing.
2. Reassurance is required stating that it is just a temporary phase and will not stay beyond the teenage years
3. Most people do not require any intervention unless accompanied by severe symptoms like going out of the house or driving
4. Once established, it is advisable to avoid by not drinking too much alcohol, avoiding stress and anxiety and taking precautions like extra-secure locks to prevent sleepwalking and/or other side effects. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a psychiatrist.