10 Simple Steps To Reduce Anxiety/stress

10 Simple Steps to reduce anxiety/stress in the current situation when there are a lot of uncertainties in our world right now. Being slightly anxious even enables people to be cautious, which in turn keeps them safe. Obviously, if the stress rises too much, it can become an issue.

• Even with the current restrictions, a range of things can be done to reduce anxiety:

1. Adding more structure to the day (doesn’t have to be a rigid routine) and keeping one occupied e.g. waking up at same time, exercise, breakfast etc.

2. Breathing exercises, slow breathing ( 10-15min) in particular is very effective.

3. Yoga- stretching relieves muscle tension that builds up with anxiety/ stress!

4. Indoor exercises/ outdoor walks if possible

5. Staying in touch with family/ friends on phone improves mood as well.

6. Restrict time on social media, particularly at night. It has some debilitating effects.

7. Good sleep- can try calming apps, reading books, favorite tv series

8. Reduce coffee/ other caffeinated drinks as these can worsen anxiety. Healthy diet helps!

9. Talk to local counsellor/ psychiatrist if above aren’t working. There are many medications that can help reduce anxiety!

10. Stay positive

Dr Shweta Sharma

Speciality: Psychiatry / Mental Health/Dementia/Memory loss

Qualification: MBBS, MRCPsych (UK), FRANZCP (Australia), Cert. Forensic Psych.

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Measles: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects children but can occur in adults as well. It is caused by the measles virus and can lead to severe complications if not managed properly. Understanding measles causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention is crucial in reducing the spread of this disease.

What Causes Measles?

Measles is caused by the measles virus, which belongs to the paramyxovirus family. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Measles is highly contagious, with a 90% transmission rate among unvaccinated individuals exposed to an infected person.

Symptoms of Measles

The early signs of measles in children and adults typically appear 7-14 days after exposure to the virus. Common measles symptoms include:

High fever (up to 104°F)
Cough, runny nose, and red eyes
Koplik spots (tiny white spots inside the mouth)
Red rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body
Fatigue and body aches

If left untreated, measles can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), and blindness.

How Is Measles Treated in Adults and Children?

There is no specific antiviral measles treatment, but supportive care can help manage symptoms. Treatment includes:

Fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
Hydration and rest to help the body recover
Vitamin A supplementation, especially in malnourished children, to reduce complications
Hospitalization, in severe cases, to manage complications such as pneumonia

Measles Prevention Strategies

The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination. Other measles prevention strategies include:

Avoiding close contact with infected individuals
Regular hand washing to reduce viral transmission
Wearing masks in outbreak-prone areas
Ensuring proper ventilation in living and working spaces

Measles Vaccine Schedule

The measles vaccination schedule is part of routine immunization programs worldwide. The MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) is administered as follows:

First dose at 9-12 months (varies by country)
Second dose at 15-18 months or before school entry
Booster doses may be required in some cases

Vaccination provides lifelong immunity and significantly reduces the risk of outbreaks.

Conclusion

Measles is a preventable yet serious disease. Understanding measles causes and symptoms, knowing how measles is treated in adults and children, and following measles prevention strategies can help control its spread. The measles vaccine schedule plays a crucial role in protecting individuals and communities from this contagious infection.