KIDNEY DISEASE Better Than Smoking?

Free Health Guide! Autumn 2017 | Issue 26

YOUR BODY ALL ABOUT BLOOD

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR HOSPITAL

take control of VAPING KIDNEY DISEASE better than smoking?

FEVER SPOT A STROKE Friend or foe to your child? AND ACT FAST

First Aid: Fall-Proofing The latest health Recipe: Jacket Sweet Your Home |24| news and views |2| Potato Sides |32|

Published in the interest of your health by MELOMED | UPFRONT | GIVE-AWAY! Melomag is giving away a SOUNDBOOSTER to one lucky reader! See page 3 for details! c o n t e n t s

2 Snippets: Health News & Views

3 Give-away! WIN a Soundbooster!

4 Melonews

6 Infographic: All About Blood

8 Know it All: Vaping vs Smoking

12 Health Advice: How to prepare your child for Hospital

14 Health IQ: Act FAST when dealing with a Stroke

18 All About: Fever - Friend or Foe?

20 T ravelground: Spa Retreats for Mom

24 First Aid: Fall-Proofing Your Home

28 Renal Care: Take Control of Kidney Disease

31 Housecall: Dr Aneeqah Hendricks

32 Recipe: Jacket Sweet Potatoes with Follow us on our Cottage Cheese Facebook page, Melocares!

Publisher: Health Bytes CC It ndemni y: The information contained in M elomag is intended for general informational and educational purposes only, and not to replace professional medical advice. Persons requiring any medical advice or treatment should Contact: [email protected] consult their relevant qualified healthcare professional. The publisher cannot accept any responsibility for any Tel: 021 913 0504 act, omission, loss, damage, or the consequences thereof caused by reliance by any person upon the information contained in the publication. The information included in M elomag is subject to copyright and all rights are reserved. Proofing: Albert Buhr The information may not be sold, resold, transmitted or otherwise made available or disseminated in any manner Printing: Kadimah Print via any media to third parties unless the prior written consent of the publisher has been obtained. | SNIPPETS | health news & views

Caffeine is the most commonly consumed Should adults stimulant. It provides an increase in mental with ADHD have focus (we like to believe) – like the cup of A coffee before work for a boost of alertness ? or to fight fatigue during the day. caffeine Children who share their JUNK FOOD Caffeine, whether it’s in coffee, tea, like decaf coffee, ice-cream, sunflower seeds, home with a pet before chocolate or energy drinks can increase instant oats and even some pain medications. the age of three are less alertness and energy. It stimulates the Monitor what happens to your body and DIET sympathetic nervous system which affects brain after you do, and manage caffeine likely to develop pet the body and brain. It also increases the depending on the effects. People taking both allergies – even if they brain’s levels of dopamine and ADHD medication and caffeine might get are allergy prone. can cause norepinephrine. These two chemicals a greater stimulant effect. Adults with either are important for focus and diagnosed or undiagnosed ADHD can osteoarthritis concentration which can be lacking in have adverse health implications like rapid people with ADHD – so it can assist to heartbeat or muscle shakes or tremors with HEALTH some degree. But, it can also aggravate even small amounts of caffeine. Osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects ADHD symptoms. For example, it can TIPS millions of people a year. It is a disorder that comes reduce sleep or disrupt sleep patterns. If caffeine has a negative effect, try and along with injuries, wear and tear, or degeneration In turn, sleep deprivation worsens replace it with an alternative. If you in the joints. It causes swelling, stiffness and pain, ADHD-like symptoms like irritability, grapple with afternoon slumps, perhaps and can be caused by a variety of factors. forgetfulness, lack of concentration and replace big lunches with smaller meals difficulty controlling emotions. and snack throughout the day. Go for Researchers have now found that saturated a walk to refresh your body and brain fat may be a cause, and not because of If you have ADHD, have a minimal and drink more water when tempted weight gain, but because it changes the dose of caffeine in the morning and to have caffeine. Caffeine is composition of cartilage, a critical part of avoid caffeine consumption in the a diuretic (causes fluid loss) joints. This problem seems to be worse in evenings – or even after midday. and when we’re fully Dark chocolate and cocoa the hip and knee. The researchers believe this It’s important to track how many highly hydrated, our bodies consumption has been proven to work, published in Scientific Reports is one of the caffeinated drinks and foods you have crave less caffeine. reduce LDL and total cholesterol. first to study the link between osteoarthritis and each day. Be aware the sneaky stimulant fatty acids that are commonly found in the diet. For more information around the symptoms, Look for more real cocoa and is present in unexpected foods and impact and treatment of ADHD, visit Some examples of those foods are butter, palm drinks. There’s hidden caffeine in foods MyADHD.co.za or My ADHD on Facebook less sugar. oil, coconut oil, animal fats and carbohydrates. Basically, the researchers are looking at what junk food consumption can do to the body. KEEP YOUR BRAIN OUR GIVE-AWAY TO YOU ENTER There, they found that the fatty acids ' I Z ' TODAY & themselves are causing disease. "Our FROM GOING F Z y We are giving away a Melomed WIN findings suggest that it's not wear and tear but diet that has a lot to Soundbooster to one lucky reader! do with the onset of osteoarthritis," Ditch the diet fizzy drinks! than those who did not consume To stand a chance to qualify, email your name, contact number and Professor Yin Xiao explained. artificially-sweetened soft drinks. According to a recent observational answer to the following question to: [email protected] study involving more than 4,000 Although this association is certainly with Melomag26 in the subject line. Competition closes 15 July 2017. “The main function of cartilage is to seal the participants, a higher consumption of interesting, the study authors concede bone ends in a joint and absorb pressure on the artificially sweetened soft drinks may their research does not prove sugar What is the normal body temperature in a human? bones during weight-bearing movement such as lead to an increased risk of stroke substitutes cause stroke or dementia. (See our 'All About' article, page 19.) walking. We found that a diet containing simple and dementia. The study was based carbohydrates together with 20 per cent saturated on an analysis of the Framingham This study had several limitations. For fats produced osteoarthritic-like changes in the Heart Study Offspring cohort and example, it did not distinguish between knee. was published in the American Heart different types of artificial sweeteners. Association’s journal Stroke. Also, some of the association "Saturated fatty acid deposits in the cartilage between sugar substitutes and stroke change its metabolism and weaken the cartilage, Study participants who drank at and dementia risk decreased when making it more prone to damage. This would, in least one diet soda per day were adjustments for other cardiovascular Prize sponsored by Melomed. Give-away terms and conditions: The winner will be the first correct entry turn, lead to osteoarthritic pain from the loss of almost three times more likely risk factors – such as body mass drawn after the closing date. In the event of the judges not being able to get hold of the winner on details supplied, the cushioning effect of cartilage,” Xiao continued. an alternative winner will be selected. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. to suffer a stroke and 2.9 times index (BMI), physical activity level, The winner must be prepared to be photographed for publicity purposes. The prize is not transferable and may not “We also found changes in the bone under the more likely to develop Alzheimer’s and smoking status – were made. be converted into cash. Prize may differ from picture. Image is for visual purposes only. cartilage on a diet rich in saturated fat." disease over a 10-year period Source: MedPage Today Source: Labroots.com | 2 | MELOMAG MELOMAG | 3 | | MELONEWS | International Nurses Day on 12 May 2017 Career Expo at BElgravia High School Melomed TOKAI

Melomed Gatesville A Career Expo at Belgravia High School was attended by Melomed Private Hospital of which about eight schools attended. Melomed had Sr Y. Pedro, the Group Training Clinical Facilitator, to promote our nursing aspect to all the children.

Discovery EXCELLENCE Awards 2017 Discovery Health hosts the Discovery Excellence Awards for Nurses (DEAN), which take place on a quarterly and an annual basis. Nurses are nominated by the members post hospital discharge, for their caring and excellent attention, resilience and commitment to their profession. We are thrilled to announce that Asanda Tisani is the recipient of the 6th Melomed Mitchells Plain DEAN. Asanda Joined Melomed Mitchells Plain on the 1st of August 2014 and is working as an enrolled nursing assistant in one of the busiest maternity units in the Melomed Hospital Group. Congratulations Asanda!

NEW UNIFORMS Cansa Relay TRIPLETS!

Melomed BELLville MITchells plain thank you for your dedication and commitment!

Melomed Mitchells Plain took T he directors, management and staff of Melomed Private Our photoshoot of Melomed part in Cancer Relay again this Mitchells Plain's staff year. What an amazing event. Hospitals take this opportunity Melomed Mitchells Plain to thank our nursing team acknowledging their new celebrated a memorable uniform, which is absolutely for their hard work and Easter when it helped deliver dedication. Your kindness gorgeous. All staff conveyed its first ever set of triplets, their heartfelt appreciation to since the hospital's inception. and compassion and “True our Executives and Mr E Bhorat Florence Nightingale Values” for their spectacular uniform. are an essential part of the patients’ recovery process. EN Ntuthuzelo We salute your Philasande Sangqu is commitment the 2017 top to quality Follow us on achiever for health care Facebook: 2nd Year for all our MeloCares Nursing. patients.

Liezl Russell, Freelance Journalist to burn and inhale to experience health risks too that may be heart. However, a recent study Liezl Russel is a freelance journalist with a special interest its stimulating and relaxing effects. just as harmful as the ones in the journal JAMA Cardiology in health and beauty topics. posed by traditional cigarettes. has found that people who vape E-cigarettes, on the other hand, may not be better off than their are battery-operated devices that tobacco-smoking counterparts. also contain nicotine but in a liquid How vaping may harm form that is heated and released your health During the study, researchers as a vapour. Some e-cigarettes compared people who had don’t contain nicotine, but they 1. It may increase YOUR been regularly vaping for a year do contain other chemicals and risk for cardiovascular to healthy non-smokers, and flavours. Because e-cigarettes are disease found that vapers had increased smokeless and they often taste nice levels of adrenaline in the heart due to flavours, many people believe It’s common knowledge that and increased oxidative stress, ING that it’s a healthier alternative to smoking can increase your risk which are the same biological SMOK cigarettes, as research has shown for cardiovascular diseases like markers that increase the risk that tobacco smoke has a strong heart attacks and strokes. Up until of heart disease in tobacco VS VAPING link to the development of cancer. recently, experts weren’t sure if or users. Because e-cigarettes are smokeless and they taste nice due G BETTER? to flavours, people believe that it’s a healthier alternative. IS VAPIN But vaping may have health risks too that may be just as harmful as the ones posed by traditional cigarettes.

We all know that smoking tobacco is bad for your health and that it can lead to lung cancer and other diseases. That is why many people have swapped their 2. It may contain cancer- chemicals are emitted. 3. It may damage your regular cigarettes for electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) instead. But, is vaping causing chemicals mouth and gums (the use of e-cigarettes) better for your health? In a reaction to e-cigarette E-cigarettes may also contain advocates who claim that A study in the journal Oncotarget, chemicals that can cause cancer, e-cigarettes’ emissions are found that e-cigarettes may be Although there hasn’t been in some countries, including could be less harmful to your according to a study in the still much lower compared to just as damaging to your mouth sufficient research carried out the largest market in the world, health, but according to CANSA, journal Environmental Science traditional cigarettes, study and gums as traditional to show the current trend of the USA. In fact, a projection further studies are necessary to & Technology. During the study co-author and Berkeley Lab cigarettes. e-cigarettes in South Africa, there by research company determine all the risks. researchers analysed the vapour researcher Hugo Destaillats said in When is a rapid increase in the number Bloomberg Industries, shows of two different e-cigarettes. a statement: researchers of people who use e-cigarettes that e-cigarette sales could The difference between exposed across the globe, according surpass traditional tobacco e-cigarettes and They found that e-cigarettes That may be true for the cells to the Cancer Organisation of sales by as early as 2023. regular cigarettes release 31 harmful chemicals, certain users, for example, of human South Africa (CANSA). including two that can be linked long time smokers that oral tissue Since e-cigarettes are a fairly Both regular cigarettes and to cancer. The number of chemicals cannot quit, but the problem to the According to a World Health new technology, it’s not yet been e-cigarettes expose people to that is released varies, based is, it doesn’t mean that they’re vapour of Organisation report from possible to determine its long- the addictive drug, nicotine. on the temperature at which the healthy. Regular cigarettes are e-cigarettes, August 2016 the prevalence of term effects. It may seem that liquids are vaporised. The higher super unhealthy. E-cigarettes the cells produced e-cigarette is rapidly increasing vaping compared to smoking Tobacco in regular cigarettes the temperature, the more are just unhealthy. inflammatory proteins,

which cause a stress response smoking. Given the scarcity and Children and teenagers who within the cell. This stress low quality of scientific evidence, are exposed to nicotine may response can have a damaging it cannot be determined whether also suffer long-term brain effect on the cells that can lead e-cigarettes may help most development consequences that to several oral diseases. What’s smokers quit or prevent them from can potentially lead to learning more, some of the flavours doing so, according to CANSA. and anxiety disorders. added to the nicotine liquid can further increase the risk of cellular Nicotine can also negatively damage, said study contributor Who should avoid affect the development of a Fawad Javed. vaping? foetus during pregnancy.

At the moment, there is Can vaping help you strong scientific evidence that What to consider if quit smoking? warns children, teenagers, you vape pregnant women, and women The original purpose of the of reproductive age against If you choose to vape, make sure first commercially successful e-cigarette and nicotine use, says you choose a product that fully e-cigarette, invented in 2003, CANSA. discloses the chemicals used, so was to help people quit smoking. that you can educate yourself on Although nicotine itself is not a their potential harmful effects. However, research has so carcinogen, it may function as a far been unable to find a ‘tumour promoter’ and seems to However, the best thing you strong link between vaping play a role in the development of can do for your health is to and helping people to quit serious diseases, like cancer. quit smoking altogether.

References: http://casaa.org/historical-timeline-of-electronic-cigarettes/ | https://www.theverge.com/2016/7/27/12299784/electronic-cigarettes-e-cigs-chemicals-cancer-fda http://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamacardiology/article-abstract/2600166 | http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/electronic-cigarettes-good-news-bad-news-2016072510010 https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-02-06/e-cigarettes-fda-regulation-looms-for-1-dot-5-billion-industry | https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4363846/ Harmful effects of nicotine | Interview with CANSA representative Lorraine Govender [email protected]

| 10 | MELOMAG | HEALTH ADVICE | • GIVE Reassurance. • Encourage questions. threaten your child with a return Reassure your child that you, a Encourage your child to ask you to hospital as a punishment for parent or family member will be and the doctors and nurses a behaviours you do not like. coming with and staying with lot of questions. If your child is them. Usually, you will be able uneasy about asking questions, • Expect “abnormal” to stay with your child until they you can ask on their behalf. behaviour. It is not unusual for are asleep (have an anaesthetic) a child to show some behaviours before their surgery. • Use reassuring that are different to normal when language. Try to choose words they leave hospital. For example, • Pack some favourite that are neutral when describing they might be clingy, attention things. Plan with your child procedures and tests to your seeking or have ’babyish‘ in packing a few things they child. For example, you might say, behaviours, (like sucking their would like to take to hospital ”The nurse will ’slide‘ a needle thumb) which they had previously e.g. new pajamas and toiletries. into your arm,“ rather than ”’stick‘ grown out of. Encourage your child to bring or ’poke‘ a needle into your arm.“ their favourite possessions, like a • Stick to your usual stuffed animal, pillow, or books. • Explain what's routines. Give them some time, happening. Tell your child how patience and understanding. they might feel before, during, Your child will soon return to their and after a procedure or test. For normal self. Siblings may also be example, you may want to explain clingy or show attention-seeking that they won’t hear, see, or feel behaviours. It has been different anything during an operation, for them too, so allow time for because the doctor will give them their questions and also try to HOW TO PREPARE YOUR a special sleep medicine called involve them in events. Again, aneasthesia beforehand. Try not allow your child plenty of time to HOSPITAL At the Hospital to make promises you can't keep. ’play‘ being in hospital. They have CHILD FOR After arriving at the hospital, you Don’t tell your child that nothing more information and experience can help keep your child calm will hurt or that there won’t be now, and need to play out these Going to the hospital can be a frightening, anxious time for kids and stressful for families. and relaxed before, during, and any blood tests, for instance. experiences to make sense of Here are ideas and information to help your child before, during and after a hospital visit. after tests and treatments. In and cope with them. general, it’s important to inform • Take breaks and look At Home feels about a hospitalisation or a younger children about going to children what they’re about to after yourself too. This Before you leave for the hospital, procedure. If your child is under hospital; for older children you can experience. will help you to cope better Key points to you should explain to your child six years of age, tell them a couple find interesting information on the and provide support and care remember where they will be going, and why. of days beforehand. You can internet to explore. Familiarise your • Avoid surprises. for your child. Remember, this • It is important to give children tell older children a week or two child with the hospital through a Let your child know in advance can also be a scary and tiring information simply and • Set the stage. beforehand, so that they have time visit or look at a virtual tour and if a test or procedure is about to experience for a parent. truthfully, in words they Tell your child honestly and to think of any questions or issues photographs on the hospital’s happen, even if it’s something understand. truthfully that they’ll be going to the that might be relevant to them. website. Depending on the age uncomfortable (like a needle). It’ll • They need to be told that they hospital for an operation, test, or Write questions down as a family of your child, give them plenty give them a feeling of trust. Use Returning Home will be going to hospital procedure, and let them know that so that you can ask them to the of time for ‘hospital play’. You honest and simple explanations A visit to hospital is a big event in and what they may expect to you feel this is the right thing to do. nurse or doctor. can get them to do things like that fit your child’s age and level a child’s life, even if it is only for happen there. Use simple, age-appropriate words bandaging a teddy, listening to of understanding, and ask them a day procedure. Allow plenty of • A prepared child will find it they can understand. Children • Get to know the hospital. family members’ heartbeats, or questions to make sure they time for readjustment when your easier to cope with their can usually sense how a parent Read books or watch a story with practising taking medicine. understand what you’ve said. child returns home again. NEVER hospital experience.

Sources: www.rch.org.au www. childrenshospital.org.za MELOMAG | 13 | | 12 | MELOMAG | HEALTH IQ | Signs and symptoms ‘T’ stands for time. Dr Ozayr Saleh Ameen FC NEUROL (SA) (2002), MB BCH Witwatersrand (1994) of a stroke – Time is critical in patients who Neurologist at Melomed Gatesville and Bellville remember 'FAST' have suffered an acute stroke. T: 021 633 8869 | F: 021 638 4024 If patients come to us quickly and Any brain function that is provided they meet certain strict potentially altered may be due criteria for treatment, we may be to a stroke. Common symptoms able to give them such treatment to Stroke is a significant and of a stroke include, but are not possibly reverse some of the effects leading cause of disability limited to: loss of vision in an eye, of stroke. face and death worldwide. In which may be transient and may some countries it represents return, alteration of language and The treatment, however, is the second leading cause speech, weakness, sensory loss, not guaranteed to work of death. imbalance, double vision, slurred in everyone, and does speech, difficulties with swallowing have some significant side The name ‘stroke’ arose from or feeling dizzy and off balance. effects. 17th-century England when people were noted to be normal one minute, and were said to People should get to The risk factors for have suffered ‘a stroke of recognise a stroke by stroke misfortune’ the next. remembering the ‘FAST’ system: It goes without saying that being The sudden and instantaneous an older person means that you ARMS nature of the illness meant that lives ‘F’ stands for face are predisposed to getting a stroke. would suddenly be devastated and If you think someone has had However, in practice it is not altered in an almost irrevocable way, a stroke, ask them to smile and uncommon for us to see patients in leading to the term ‘stroke of misfortune’. see if the smile is the same on their 30s and 40s who present to The misfortune bit has left the label but is both sides.If it is not i.e. if one us with stroke. felt by patients and their families to this day. side does not smile like the other, it is possible that the patient has The six big risk factors A better way of understanding suffered a stroke. for stroke include stroke would be to call it a diabetes mellitus, ‘brain attack’. ‘A’ stands for arm hypertension, ACT Ask the person to lift an arm hypercholesterolemia, The underlying problem in stroke is that and keep it up. smoking, being blood supply to the brain is disrupted. If there is weakness in an arm or overweight, and stress. SPEECH FAST This either occurs as a result of blockage leg, that person may have suffered of one of the major arteries to the brain, a stroke. Other common causes of stroke WHEN which occurs in about 80 per cent of include a rhythm disturbance of TIME people, or a rupture of one of the ‘S’ stands for speech the heart, called atrial fibrillation, DEALING arteries to the brain, which occurs Is the person able to produce or which results in clots forming in the in about 20 per cent of people. understand language? heart that break off and which may Is the way the person is speaking then shift to the brain and block an WITH A The latter is known as a brain confused or does it sound slurred? artery. Other causes include certain haemorrhage, while the former is These are possible signs of infections such astuberculous STROKE known as an ischaemic stroke. a stroke. meningitis and HIV.

| 14 | MELOMAG Other rare causes include Therefore it becomes very In conclusion illnesses in which there is a important to regularly check predisposition for the blood your blood pressure. Remember that prevention to clot. Young people, is better than cure, and especially those below the • Avoid substances implementing some of the age of 45, need a complete such as alcohol, as well as guidelines noted above may and thorough investigation drugs. These increase the risk help significantly reduce the to determine the causes of of stroke, with devastating chances of developing a stroke. consequences, especially in stroke. young people. If a person is suspected How to prevent • Exercise. It goes without to have suffered a stroke, stroke saying that exercise is one of which will be determined the cornerstones to stroke using the FAST system, The following steps should prevention, helping to lower remember that the quicker be taken by patients to try blood pressure, and aiding the stroke is diagnosed and reduce the chances of weight loss. We recommend and treated, the better a developing a stroke: that our patients exercise patient’s recovery will be. for 30 minutes five times • Quit smoking. Smoking a week.Find an exercise that Remember that there is hope results in narrowing of the you enjoy doing and continue for stroke sufferers, and that arteries, increasing the doing it on a regular basis. many people do return to an chances of a blood clot I recommend to my patients active life after a stroke. forming and also increasing that they should walk for at the chances of developing least 30 minutes at whatever hypertension. pace they can for at least five days a week. • Stock up on herbs and spices and make your own Gradually, the pace of the bread. Reduce your salt intake walking will increase, and the and lower your blood pressure. distance walked will increase, Get used to seasoning your and the benefits to the person food with herbs, spices and will be substantial. black pepper instead of salt. Be aware that bread is one of • Eat off smaller the biggest sources of salt in plates and don’t skip our diet. breakfast. Being overweight increases the chances of • Hypertension is the having a stroke-related blood single biggest risk factor for clot by more than 60 per stroke. Check your blood cent. Cutting down on high pressure. Hypertension is a fat foods, eating more fibre silent disease. It is hardly ever and getting your five fruits and symptomatic unless the blood vegetables a day can all help pressure is exceedingly high. reduce stroke.

| 16 | MELOMAG | ALL ABOUT | The normal body Fever is thus one of the For this reason, very high temperature in a human earliest signs to warn a parent temperatures can lead to Dr Leana van Dyk MbChb (UFS), FC Paed, MMED (US) being is 36.5 – 37,2 degrees that their child is not well. But febrile seizures. This most Paediatrician at Melomed Tokai celsius. It is maintained by it is a better friend than just commonly occurs in ages T: 021 712 1643 | F: 086 416 9102 the interaction between: a warning sign. An elevated 6 months to 6-years-old. body temperature optimises Although mostly innocent and - receptors that detect thermal the body’s response to uncomplicated, it can be changes (located in the skin, invading organisms, and limits very traumatic for the family spinal cord and brain), the viability of the causative and the aim is to avoid it by organisms themselves. Most reducing a child’s temperature. - the hypothalamus in the organisms causing infection If your child had a febrile brain (maintains the function optimally at normal seizure before, keeping the temperature set point) body temperatures, while temperature normal can raised temperatures are prevent it from re-occurring. - the effector channels that unfavourable for their either retain or release functioning. Fever is heat to maintain our thus one of temperature. (This is For the above reasons, the earliest signs done via vasodilation we should aim to find the to warn a parent that their child is not FEVER or constriction of your cause of the fever, and well. But it is a better skin vessels, sweating or treat the cause. In this friend than just shivering.) manner, the fever will a warning sign. respond and be controlled. Friend Fever can be caused by: At the end of the day, fever 1. Organisms from outside So why the big effort to reduce must not be seen as the enemy, oe the body (e.g. bacterial a fever? A fever cannot harm and should guide us to the oR F toxins, viruses, yeasts, your child. Guidelines as to real pathology. Treatment protozoa, spirochetes) when to treat are not clear, and antipyretics should be to your 2. One’s own defence system but generally aim to relieve aimed at keeping our children (immune reactions) discomfort. comfortable, as a low-grade fever might assist them in child Febrile seizures (convulsions fighting the real foe. For doctors, the severity, onset caused by fever) are a concern, A fever is a child’s friend, and pattern of a fever is often but this only occurs in 2 – 4% my a guideline as to what the of the population. The young but can become his ene possible cause is. But we do child’s brain is very sensitive ot careful. depend on additional signs to very high temperatures. if n and symptoms to find the cause of the fever. Very high temperatures might indicate a Fever is one of the most tried to “break” a child’s fever the fever is here to do. bacterial infection, while lower common presenting at all cost. Every household Before I explain this grade fever might indicate a symptoms in any child and and medical facility has their statement, let’s have a look mild viral infection. This is not the cause of up to 20% of “remedies” to break that at the origin of fever, and the the rule and one always has all consultations in children. fever, and very often too little benefits and disadvantages of to consider all the symptoms Through the years, we have emphasis is placed on what a raised bodily temperature. at hand.

FOR MOM SantÉ Hotel & Spa, Paarl Lanzerac Hotel & Spa, SPA RETREATS From R2599 per night for 2 people – Welcome drink Stellenbosch and breakfast included. Santé Hotel & Spa is set on From R3600 per night for 2 people – Breakfast, use of spa PECTACULAR SPA STAYS a wine estate in the Franschhoek Valley, surrounded facilities, wine tasting and cellar tour included. Lanzerac S by vineyards and views of the majestic Simonsberg is set on a 155 hectare wine estate in the Stellenbosch Mountains. Fine dining, health and wellness is what Winelands. All rooms boast en-suite bathrooms with Mother’s Day – they should be spoiled Appreciating our moms should not only happen on Santé is committed to. Accommodation comprises a luxurious Victorian baths and private patios overlooking choice between the stylish Manor House Suites or Spa the gorgeous gardens, lush vineyards and Helderberg So, why not make this year extra special with another getaway? the whole year round. Suites. The Bakwena Deluxe Spa offers a variety of Mountains. They have an on-site restaurant, numerous treatments and a wide selection of state-of-the-art spa swimming pools, a tasting room and of course spa We have rounded up 10 great places in the Western Cape with on-site spas where you can facilities which also includes a private sundeck. facilities, making Lanzerac an all-in-one R&R retreat. treat your mom to a well-deserved weekend of pampering and relaxation.

Rosendal Winery and Wellness Boulders Lodge & Spa, Oudtshoorn Retreat, Robertson From R1260 per night for 2 people – Buffet breakfast From R1300 per night for 2 people – Welcome drink, included. Breathe in the crisp Karoo air at this lodge en à-la-carte breakfast, wine tasting and WiFi included. route to the Cango Caves. You can choose between Rosendal is a calming oasis conveniently located poolside or garden-view suites that range from comfy near Robertson, amidst the many attractions of Route standard to honeymoon suites. Boulders Lodge & Spa 62. The Spa Suites are ideal for a relaxing getaway, will pamper your mom with unique, professional and boasting views of the pool and vineyards. simply marvellous treatments. Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa, Stillness Manor & Spa, Somerset West Constantia Valley From R1850 per night for 2 people – Breakfast included. From R1675 per night for 2 people – Breakfast included. This historic Cape Dutch hotel is set in peaceful Stay in one of 10 spacious suites set in beautiful gardens Somerset West which is surrounded by the majestic with a fantastic spa offering an indulgent environment Helderberg Mountains. Visit the three neighbouring in which to enjoy revitalising therapies and treatments wine estates after your time at the spa and enjoy the while enjoying the stunning views of False Bay, the unique views that you’ll find in this part of the world. Constantia Mountains and the back of Table Mountain.

| 20 | MELOMAG MELOMAG | 21 | WedgeView Country House & Spa, O on Kloof Boutique Hotel & Spa, Stellenbosch Sea Point From R1550 per night for 2 people – Breakfast included. From R1960 per night for 2 people – Breakfast, use of WedgeView Country House & Spa is situated just outside gym and pool included. O on Kloof is a sophisticated the picturesque and historic town of Stellenbosch, where city sanctuary overlooking Cape Town’s cosmopolitan the luxury of a 5-star hotel merges with the exclusivity Atlantic Seaboard. Take advantage of their outdoor of a private country residence. Breathtaking views of dining facilities with sensational views of the Atlantic the surrounding vineyards and Stellenbosch mountains Ocean. Experience a sense of tranquillity that will lift the make this the perfect Mother’s Day retreat. spirit in an unassuming way with a spa treatment or two.

Views Boutique Hotel and Spa, Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, Wilderness Cape Town From R2790 per night for 2 people – Breakfast, WiFi, From R6125 per night for 2 people – Breakfast included. use of the gym, sauna, hydrotherapy pool included. The award-winning Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is This hotel and spa is situated on a dune on Wilderness nestled in the natural beauty of the Table Mountain Beach offering panoramic beach and ocean views. National Park, poised above the Atlantic Ocean on Enjoy the spectacular views from the restaurant, the one of Cape Town’s most scenic routes. The spa is quite cocktail deck or the rooftop pool and find solace and something to behold with its seven equipped treatment relaxation in the award-winning Views Spa and Gym rooms and team of qualified therapists to oversee well- offering 5 treatment rooms, a tylarium herbal sauna, being and rejuvenation during your stay. The spa boasts vitality pool, a Moroccan-style rasul chamber and a hydrotherapy pools, a rasul chamber, rain-shower and wide range of cardiovascular equipment. tranquillity lounge.

| 22 | MELOMAG | FIRST AID | Your GUIDE TO: Compiled by Health Bytes FALL-PROOFING YOUR HOME Falls happen anytime and anywhere to people of any age. However, as people get older, the number of falls and severity of injury resulting from falls increases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries in people age 65 and older. Common injuries due to falls are head injuries, shoulder and forearm fractures, spine fractures, pelvic fractures, and hip fractures.

here is a pattern to and rugs should cover areas 4. AvOID wet floors. falls among the elderly: where slipping might occur. It’s important to be cognizant TThe fear of falling, Here are recommendations of drips from the shower and then the injury, followed to help keep your elderly faucets that can pose a tripping by hospitalisation and relative safe from falling in hazard. Use only non-skid wax decreased independence your home environment: on waxed floors, to also help and mobility. avoid slippery surfaces. 7. Use handrails. 9. Keep up a regular What to do after a fall… 1. Remove anything Stairs are one of the most health and exercise Falls in seniors can be a major that could cause 5. Use non-slip items dangerous places in the regime. IF YOU CAN GET UP: life-changing event with severe tripping or slipping in the bathroom. home for seniors. Make sure Preventative health is very Do not panic. The first thing to repercussions. A fall leads to a while walking. Put non-slip strips or a rubber your senior relative knows to important. By eating a healthy do is to catch your breath. Assess greater fear of falling, which Small furniture and everyday mat on the floor of your bathtub use the handrails and avoid diet and staying physically the situation and determine if can lead to reduced physical clutter, such as bags, pet bowls, or shower. carrying items up and down the active, seniors can improve you are hurt. Even if you think activity and fitness – thus small decor, electrical and stairs with both hands as it’s their balance, coordination you’re OK, take your time increasing the actual risk phone cords, or even throw 6. Make sure the important they have support to and health. For exercises, help before getting up again. of falls and worsening their rugs can cause falls. house is well-lit. keep their balance. your elderly loved one focus on quality of life. Fortunately, Good lighting is one of the balance exercises and lower- Follow these five steps many falls can be prevented. 2. Create clear most simple ways to avoid falls. 8. Use caution at body strength, which can help for getting up: In addition to assessing your walking paths. Since eyesight diminishes with night. prevent falls. • Lie on your side, bend the leg loved ones’ fall risks and taking Arrange all furniture so your age, it’s important to make Night time is one of the most that is on top and lift yourself simple health steps to prevent elderly loved one has plenty of sure the living space has ample dangerous times as people 10. Wear suitable onto your elbows or hands. falls, you can also help reduce room to walk freely. It’s also light to help seniors take in their are groggy and balance isn’t shoes. • Pull yourself toward an your risks of falling at home by important to remove items from surroundings and avoid any always the best. Place a lamp Wearing unsuitable footwear armchair or a sturdy object, making simple changes. stairs and hallways that may act obstacles in their path. next to the elderly person’s bed, increases the risk of falling. then kneel while placing both as a tripping hazard. along with night lights in the Make sure your shoes have hands on the chair or object. Tips to Fall-Proof Your Home You should have enough bathroom, hallway and kitchen. non-slip soles and heels of • Place your stronger leg in The bathroom is the area you 3. Make sure carpets lighting at entrances, in each reasonable height, and are wide front, holding on to the chair should focus on first because are secured. room, on the stairs, and on Also keep a flashlight by their enough to prevent any twisting or object. that’s where most senior falls Use non-slip rugs, or attach outdoor walkways. Use bulbs bed in case the power goes of the foot. A good heel cup that • Stand up. occur. Grab bars may need to rugs to the floor with double- with the highest wattage out and they need to get up goes around the back of the • Very carefully, turn and sit be installed in various places sided tape. recommended for the fixture. at night. heel also stabilises the ankle. down.

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What to do after a fall… with a piece of clothing or a • a strong or lingering pain blanket to stay warm. • dizziness IF YOU CANNOT GET UP: • Try to move your joints to • nausea If you feel any discomfort or ease circulation and prevent • overall weakness or are unable to get up, try to stiffness. unsteadiness get help. Practice these steps often • headaches and be prepared in case you • vision problems • Call out for help if you think fall. Most of all, stay calm. • drowsiness you can be heard. • If you have an emergency call WhEN TO SEE A DOCTOR Symptoms may appear in device or telephone at hand, the days that follow a fall. use it. Whether you’re the victim or If you fall, take note of your • If you don’t, try to slide the witness of a fall, never condition. If you witness a fall, yourself towards a telephone underestimate its seriousness. take note of the person’s or a place where you will be Even if it appears no harm was condition. In some cases, a fall heard. done, there could be after- may be the sign of an illness, or • Make noise with your cane effects. it may be caused by medication. or another object to attract It's always better to mention attention. Here are some of the falls to your doctor. He or she • Wait for help in the most reasons for seeing a doctor: can then assess the situation comfortable position for you. • loss of consciousness just and see if the fall is linked to an • If able, place a pillow under before or after the fall illness, prescribed medication your head and cover yourself • injuries or over-the-counter drugs.

| 26 | MELOMAG Sources: www.aplaceformom.com, www.publichealth.gc.ca | ADVERTORIAL |

your kidney disease down and and their serum creatinine is these two bad guys in their improve your long-term survival. used to calculate an estimated place while helping you achieve GFR known as the eGFR. a better quality of life. 5 Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease Albuminuria or Proteinuria Schedule a Kidney Knowing your stage of chronic Another method of detecting Screening kidney disease is important kidney disease is by measuring Could you or someone you for deciding your treatment if you have any protein leaking care about have chronic kidney and when you should see a from the kidneys and the amount disease? kidney doctor. CKD has five of protein. This is detected stages, ranging from nearly in the urine. The amount of Risk factors include: normal kidney function (stage proteinuria is another method • Diabetes 1) to kidney failure, which of determining the severity of • High blood pressure requires dialysis or transplant the kidney disease. Patients with • Cardio vascular disease (stage 5). Understanding your more proteinuria or albuminuria • Family history of kidney stage can help you learn how have more severe CKD. disease to take control and slow the • Kidney failure in the black progression of your condition. Other Detection Methods population is four times higher WORLDWIDE 1 IN 10 ADULTS HAS In urine one can also detect red than other groups – due to the ? The five stages of CKD and blood cells. Persistent red blood high incidence of hypertension ARE YOU THE ONE eGFR (calculated from blood cells detected in the urine is and diabetes, both of which KIDNEY DISEASE tests) for each stage: known as haematuria. When can be prevented and, if • Stage 1 CKD with normal or high present, this may also indicate diagnosed early, treated. Understanding your kidneys is body, controlling blood pressure your kidneys are no longer able eGFR (eGFR > 90 mL/min) the presence of chronic kidney • Age of 55 or older the first step in taking control and producing and balancing to remove waste effectively from • Stage 2 Mild CKD disease. If persistent, it may be a of your health. Following a chemicals that are necessary your body or to balance your (eGFR = 60-89 mL/min) disease affecting the filters known MELOMED RENAL CARE (MRC) kidney-friendly diet (which is the for your body to function, such fluids. The build-up of wastes • Stage 3 Moderate CKD as the glomeruli. This disease same as a heart friendly diet), as red blood cells and calcium can change the chemistry (eGFR = 30-59 mL/min)* is called glomerulonephritis. For more information on the taking good care of diabetes, balance and bone production. of your body, causing some • Stage 4 Severe CKD If suspected then referral to a services offered by Melomed hypertension and other health The kidneys and their function symptoms that you can feel, (eGFR = 15-29 mL/min)** kidney specialist is necessary. Renal Care please contact conditions and not smoking may are complex but the more you and others that you don’t. • Stage 5 End Stage CKD any one of our three dialysis help your kidneys function better know about how kidneys work, (eGFR <15 mL/min) Diabetes and High units: and longer, even when you have the less you’ll need to ask: Common problems include high *Possible referral to a kidney specialist. Blood Pressure **Definite referral to a kidney specialist. chronic kidney disease. Your blood pressure, anaemia and Note: Referral may also depend on Diabetes and high blood MRC Gatesville kidneys – two bean-shaped What is chronic weakening of bones. If you have other factors such as the amount of pressure can work together protein leaking into your urine. Telephone: +27 21 637 1702 organs located in your lower kidney disease? an advanced stage of CKD it is as silent partners that cause back – play a more important Understanding your chronic important to find a kidney doctor Glomerular Filtration Rate damage to the blood vessels MRC Mitchells Plain role in your overall health than kidney disease (CKD), or renal (also called a nephrologist). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in the kidneys. Early detection, Telephone: +27 21 392 3543 you may realise. They are your disease, is the first step in Partner closely with your doctor is the best measure of kidney education, keeping blood sugar body’s filtration system, cleaning taking control of your health. and your healthcare team as function. A math formula using levels under control, eating MRC Tokai wastes and extra fluids from your When you have kidney disease, early as possible as this can slow the person’s age, race, gender healthy and exercising can put Telephone: +27 21 712 3624

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House call Meet one of our Dedicated sPECIALISTS: Dr. Aneeqah Hendricks Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Melomed Tokai Private Hospital

1 What is your definition 4 What accomplishment my seat, and accidentally sat of happiness? are you most proud in a seat that was already Happiness is the feeling of of? occupied. inner peace and sweet content. I am most proud of achieving my degrees. It is 8 If you could possess 2 What is your most not easy being a one super-human memorable travel wife and mother power, what would it experience? and specialising at the be? I have a few: same time. I am grateful The ability to be invisible… • I enjoyed the hustle and for my supportive family. bustle of Cairo, Egypt and 9 What do you like to do all the history embedded 5 Who is your biggest in your spare time? in the pyramids and other fan? I very seldom have spare time ruins. My son and my niece, but I enjoy just resting, • I loved New York City and Anuscha (15). going for dinner and exploring all the places movies and spending one usually sees in the 6 Whose biggest fan are time with my family. movies. you? • Lake Como, My parents, but there are many 10 What is your greatest Italy was magical as well people I look up to and admire fear? and we were able to see for their perseverance and the I fear rodents and the Swiss Alps from there. ability to stay calm in stressful furry things like that. • The beaches in Bali. situations. Squirrels as well. • Turkey is definitely one of my favourites as well with its rich 7 What is your most 11 What is your greatest history and culture. embarrassing hope? moment? To be able to raise 3 What is your happiest I was late for a movie, my children to memory? it was very dark inside become great, The birth of my children, Zarar the cinema and I was dynamic , kind (5) and Zeeya (14 months), looking at the screen individuals with and passing my final exams. whilst trying to find integrity and humility.

MELOMAG | 31 | | RECIPE | STARCHY SIDE JACKET SWEET POTATOES WITH COTTAGE CHEESE As delicious as baked potatoes and sour cream – but without the guilt. Sweet potatoes are a better carb choice and the onions add a sweet flavour!

Diabetic- and Heart-friendly

d ServES: 6 What you will nee in: 1 hour 30 mins olive or canola oil • 2 onions, cut into wedges Ready • 4 tsp (20 ml) small sweet • ¼ cup (60 ml) lemon juice • 6-8 (± 800 g) • 2 Tbsp (30 ml) water potatoes, in the skin • 4 tsp (20 ml) finely grated fresh • black pepper to taste ginger • ¾ cup (180 ml) plain smooth • 1 small chilli, seeded and chopped low-fat cottage cheese (optional) • handful fresh coriander leaves • 1 clove of garlic, crushed

king From The Heart Method of preparation e book Coo 3 (www.co recip okingf e from romth 1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C. Recip ehea rt.co .za) 2. Mix oil, lemon juice, water, ginger, chilli and garlic in a large bowl. Add onions and sweet potatoes and toss to coat the veggies. Season with pepper.

3. Place in an oven dish, with all the liquid and seasonings. Roast for 45 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are soft.

4. Stir onions with the pan juices into the cottage cheese. Cut a deep slit into each sweet potato and fill with about 2 Tbsp (30 ml) of the mixture. Garnish with fresh coriander.

Serve with grilled or roasted fish or chicken and fill your plate with any green veggies, lightly cooked and seasoned with lemon juice and black pepper. A green salad will also be delicious. TIP 1. To make wedges: Cut sweet potatoes into wedges and coat in oil mixture as below. Roast for just 30 minutes and serve with the sauce as a dip. 2. Add fresh grated lemon rind to the cottage cheese for more flavour.

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