The hair follicle consists of a protein called keratin, which is produced by the hair follicle in the skin layer. As the hair grows, the old cell exits to the surface of the skin connected to the newly formed cell inside the follicle, where the hair growth rate is estimated at 15 cm per year. Thus, the hair outside the body is dead hair cells. The number of scalp hair cells in adults is estimated at 100,000-150,000 hairs, and humans naturally lose about 50-100 hairs per day. However, this quantity does not cause a noticeable difference in the scalp because the growing hair is sufficient to compensate for the falling hair.

Hair grows naturally on all parts of the body except for the palms and soles, considering that hair differs from one place to another; some may be very thin or invisible.

Hair growth stages

Hair goes through several growth stages affected by various internal and external factors such as age, diet, and even the person’s psychological condition. These stages can be divided as follows:

• Growth phase: This is the stage where hair grows actively, lasting from 2 to 6 years.
• Transition or resting period: This is the transitional stage of hair growth, lasting two to three weeks.
• Resting phase: The resting phase lasts for about three to four months, during which hair falls out either naturally or is pushed out by the new growing hair, thus starting a new growth cycle.

During pregnancy, hair loss decreases due to the longer growth phase and the reduced resting or falling phase in general for mothers, which gives pregnant women thick hair due to the gradual rise in estrogen hormone levels. After childbirth, estrogen hormone levels begin to decline, reducing the growth phase and increasing the falling phase of hair. Hair density returns to its pre-pregnancy state within 6 months to a year after childbirth. However, not all women notice these changes. Mothers with long hair tend to notice this change more than others.

There are several other factors that can lead to hair loss, including:

• Family history
• Hormonal changes
• Medical and health reasons
• Some types of medications

Family history:

Hair loss is associated with family history and is more noticeable in males than females. Hair loss in males can start as early as 12 years old.

Medical and hormonal causes:

Hormonal changes and imbalances can lead to temporary hair loss, including during pregnancy and childbirth, or even during menopause. Disorders of the thyroid gland also affect hair loss and changes in the absorption of some essential nutrients for hair health. In addition, inflammation of the hair follicle or the presence of certain autoimmune diseases can lead to hair loss.

Medications:

Some medications that can lead to hair loss include joint medications, antidepressants, cancer treatments, as well as medications for heart disorders, blood pressure, and birth control pills, in addition to excessive intake of vitamin A.

Other causes:

1. Exposure to radiation therapy can lead to hair loss, which is temporary and hair regrows after the end of treatment, but the hair may differ from its previous state.
2. Psychological reasons (psychological trauma)
3. Sudden weight loss or surgical procedures.
4. Excessive pulling or styling of hair.

Solution:

To address the problem of hair loss, it is necessary to search for the causes of the loss by conducting medical tests to monitor the most important elements that affect hair loss, such as zinc and iron deficiencies, anemia, and thyroid gland disorders, as well as the impact of low levels of magnesium and vitamin B12 on hair health. In case of any deficiency in vitamin levels or other results, it is essential to consult a doctor for prescription, as there are several dietary supplements and medications available at pharmacies for hair health.

Since becoming a mother 11 years ago, I’ve noticed that allergies, especially asthma, have become more common among children these days compared to when I was a child. Additionally, allergy patterns have extended to adults, leaving many I know wondering why they are now allergic when they weren’t in their childhood.

Global Perspective on Allergies

Over the past few decades, the world has witnessed a significant increase in allergy and asthma cases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States, the number of Americans with asthma increased by 28% between 2001 and 2011. Studies outside the U.S. suggest that 30-35% of people will experience allergies at some point in their lives, especially in countries undergoing industrial development. In Jordan, Dr. Anan Al-Faqih, a member of the Jordanian Society of Chest Physicians, warns of the increasing risk of allergies and asthma, although specific statistics are lacking.

Allergies

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a usually harmless substance, such as certain foods, pollen, or dust. Children born into families with a history of allergies are more likely to develop allergies, with a 60-80% likelihood if both parents have allergies.

Why has the allergy incidence increased?

According to “Allergy UK,” the “American College of Allergy,” and “ACAAI,” which provide support for allergy sufferers, several theories can explain the rise in allergies:

• “Hygiene hypothesis”: Excessive cleanliness in a child’s environment may reduce disease resistance and increase susceptibility to allergies.
• Changes in our diet, with a tendency to consume less nutritious food and fewer fruits and vegetables.
• Increase in airborne pollen due to global climate changes.
• Air pollution.
• Overuse of antibiotics.

What can you do to create an allergy-free home?

• Dust surfaces with a damp cloth, especially when children are present.
• Avoid using cleaning products containing strong chemicals or fragrances.
• Avoid smoking around children and maintain a smoke-free home and car.
• Choose pets without fur or feathers.
• Be cautious of any allergic reactions your children may exhibit when consuming certain foods.

Tests for detecting allergies

If you suspect you have any type of allergy, whether to inhaled substances or food, consult a doctor for a simple allergy blood test measuring the level of IgE in the blood. An elevated IgE level indicates the presence of allergies in the body. The RAST test is recommended to identify the specific cause of the allergy for avoidance and symptom relief.

Three main allergy packages are offered by MadLabs, focusing on:

• Children’s allergies, including common food and inhalant allergens.
• Airborne pollutants allergy package.
• Food allergy package.

The test requires a simple blood sample, and results can be obtained within 48 hours at MadLabs laboratories. The customized package for children is suitable for those aged one and above.

The Reality of Colds

Why don’t antibiotics treat colds?

Sneezing, perhaps a sore throat, and annoying coughs—colds or the flu affect us all at this time of the year. Many people believe that antibiotics can treat colds, but here’s what you need to know about preventing and treating these viral infections.

Commonly known as the “Common Cold” for an obvious reason

• You and your children may suffer from colds more than any other illness in your lives. Colds are the most common, and a major cause of children’s absenteeism from school. Colds can quickly spread through schools or daycare centers, causing parents to miss work often due to infections from their children.

Antibiotics do not treat colds

• If you have a cold, of course, you want something to help you feel better. Many people turn to doctors for antibiotics, but antibiotics do not work for treating common colds, which are caused by exposure to certain types of viruses, not bacterial infections.

Antibiotics treat bacterial infections.

• Antibiotics treat infections and diseases caused by bacteria, such as bacterial bronchitis, pneumonia, throat bacterial infections, bacterial ear infections, and pink eye (conjunctivitis). Antibiotics can save lives when used correctly. Sometimes, bacterial infections follow a cold, and signs that you have a bacterial infection after catching a cold include pain around the face and eyes that may worsen when bending forward, and thick yellow or green mucus cough. These symptoms may also occur with a cold, but if they persist for more than a week or are severe, you may have a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics.

Antibiotic resistance

• Taking unnecessary antibiotics can be dangerous and increase the risk of antibiotic resistance, a widespread public health issue worldwide. Taking antibiotics for a cold or taking them frequently can change germs in your body, leading to their resistance when you urgently need them. Your illness may worsen, requiring emergency medical care, and taking multiple antibiotics intravenously. Additionally, you can transmit these resistant bacteria to those around you, causing them to suffer from a difficult-to-treat illness.

Taking antibiotics responsibly

• When taking antibiotics, remember:
  • Do not self-treat: Take antibiotics only when prescribed by a doctor; a pharmacist is not a substitute for a doctor.
  • Listen to your healthcare provider; your doctor will determine if you have a bacterial or viral infection and prescribe antibiotics if necessary.
  • Use antibiotics as prescribed; take all your prescribed medication for your illness at the specified times according to your doctor’s instructions. If you don’t complete the necessary antibiotic treatment period after starting it, it increases the chance of bacteria resistance, leading to their growth and multiplication later.
  • Do not share medication; do not give antibiotics to anyone, and do not take antibiotics from someone else. Antibiotics are not interchangeable; you should take the appropriate antibiotic for your condition.

Be cautious of doctors who prescribe antibiotics negligently.

• If your doctor is willing to give you antibiotics when you have a cold, consult another doctor to learn the facts about when to use antibiotics and when not to. Your doctor will help you make the right decision for yourself and your child.

Available tests to distinguish between the viral and bacterial causes of inflammation:

• There are several tests that can help you determine the cause of your illness, such as a complete blood count (CBC), which shows an increase in white blood cell count in the presence of bacterial inflammation. It takes only a few hours to perform in the laboratory. Additionally, throat swab tests and cell cultures, with results available within three days, can help confirm the cause of your illness.

Facts about the common cold (flu)

While it’s likely that you and your children will catch colds, you can avoid some possible causes and treatments:

Causes:

• The flu virus spreads through small airborne droplets when an infected person sneezes or coughs. This person is usually contagious within the first three days of the infection and is generally no longer contagious after a week of illness.

Symptoms:

• Colds usually cause a runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing. It may also cause throat inflammation, coughing, headaches, or other symptoms. Adults and older children often get colds with low or no fever, while young children often have a fever ranging from 37.5 to 38.5 degrees Celsius.

Treatment:

• The primary treatment is getting plenty of rest and drinking lots of fluids. Medications help alleviate symptoms in adults and children over the age of six but do not quickly cure colds. Alternative treatments, such as chicken soup, vitamin C, zinc, and echinacea herb, can help you avoid colds and feel better.

Vitamins are essential nutrients that the body needs in small amounts to sustain life. Since vitamins are absorbed by the body from our everyday food, we should receive our daily intake of vitamins through a well-balanced and healthy diet of milk and other dairy products like yoghurt and cheese, fresh fruits and vegetables, proteins such as chicken, fish, eggs and meat and whole grains like brown rice and oatmeal. Of course, the purer the source of all these food types the better, so if you can access organic, unprocessed or free-range food products, always opt for these choices. People with medical conditions related to the digestive system or asthma, active adults who play physically demanding sports and people who smoke or those who for years have consumed sugary carbonated drinks might also require vitamin supplements. However, you should always consult a qualified nutritionist or GP before starting any vitamin regimen.

Water-Soluble vs Fat-Soluble Vitamins There are two categories of vitamins: fat-soluble and water-soluble. Fat soluble vitamins (such as A, D, E and K) can be stored in the body while water soluble vitamins (like vitamins C and B) cannot. The body passes out excess water-soluble vitamins that it doesn’t use, making it important to replenish these vitamins.

Vitamin deficiency can lead to potential illness and health conditions. It’s important to know what benefits each vitamin possesses and what symptoms to look for if you suspect you have a vitamin deficiency:

Vitamin A

The benefits: Promotes tissue and bone repair,development and normal growth, immune responses and healthy eyes and skin.

Symptoms of deficiency: Tiredness, hair loss, weakness, weight loss, dry eyes, scaling of the skin and respiratory infections.

Vitamin B6

The benefits: Helps the body break down protein and maintain the health of red blood cells, the nervous system and parts of the immune system.

Symptoms of deficiency: Diarrhoea, anaemia, weakness, irritability and seizures. Vitamin B6 deficiency may also contribute to inattention, impulsiveness, hyperactivity and temper tantrums.

Vitamin B12

The benefits: Supports the body’s growth and development, blood cell production and brain and nervous system function.

Symptoms of deficiency: Abdominal pain, oedema,weakness, insomnia and, in some cases, loss of voice.

Vitamin C

The benefits: Serves as an anti-oxidant for the growth and repair of all body tissues and encourages healthy muscles and skin.

Symptoms of deficiency: Easy bruising, joint pain, dry skin and poor appetite. Frequent nose bleeds, infections and illness can also be traced back to a vitamin C deficiency.

Vitamin D

The benefits: Aids in bone health and formation of teeth by helping the body absorb calcium. Vitamin D deficiency is a common problem.

Symptoms of deficiency: Irritability, poor growth and muscle cramps. Poor immunity, breathing difficulties and even seizures can also be traced back to insufficient vitamin D.

Vitamin E

The benefits: Protects red blood cells and helps prevent destruction of vitamin A and C. It is most known for its antioxidant function but also helps enzymatic activities, gene expression and neurological function.

Symptoms of deficiency: Poor growth, nerve damage, chronic liver disease and muscle weakness. Generally, Vitamin E deficiency is rare.

Vitamin toxicity

If you suspect any of these signs point to a deficiency,check with your physician before administering extra vitamins to avoid an overdose. Taking large doses of certain vitamins can actually be harmful. For most people, it is best to get the vitamins the body needs from eating a variety of healthy, unprocessed foods rather than from supplements.

Vitamin Type and Sources

Vitamin A: Eggs, cheese, milk, sweet potatoes,carrots and squash

Vitamin B (B2, B3, B6, & B12): Meat, fish, chicken, milk, eggs, nuts, beans, cheese and soya beans

Vitamin C: Capsicums (sweet peppers), strawberries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, kiwi and green vegetables like broccoli

Vitamin D: Sunlight, yoghurt, milk, cheese,egg yolks, tofu and calcium-fortified orange juice

Vitamin E: Avocados, nuts, asparagus,vegetable oil, corn and leafy vegetables

Hair grows everywhere on the human skin except on the palms of our hands and the soles of our feet, but many hairs are so fine they’re virtually invisible. Hair is made up of a protein called keratin that is produced in hair follicles in the outer layer of skin. As follicles produce new hair cells, old cells are being pushed out through the surface of the skin at the rate of about 15 cm per year. The hair you can see is actually a string of dead keratin cells. The average adult head has about 100,000 to 150,000 hairs and loses around 50 to 100 of them a day. This usually doesn’t cause noticeable thinning of scalp hair because new hair is growing in at the same time.

Each follicle has its own life cycle that can be influenced by age, disease, and a wide variety of other factors. This life cycle is divided into three phases:

Anagen — active hair growth that lasts between 2 to 6 years

Catagen — transitional hair growth that lasts two to three weeks

Telogen — resting phase that lasts about two to three months; at the end of the resting phase the hair is shed and a new hair replaces it and the growing cycle starts again.

There are several factors that affect hair loss and these differ from females to males:

• Family history (hereditary)
• Hormonal changes
• Medical conditions
• Medications
• Dietary causes

Family history (hereditary)

The most common cause of hair loss in men is a hereditary condition called male-pattern baldness. There are some cases of female-pattern baldness as well. It usually occurs gradually and in predictable patterns and may start from as early as 12 years of age in males.

Hormonal changes and medical conditions

Hormonal changes and imbalances can cause temporary hair loss. This is more common in women and could be due to pregnancy, childbirth or the onset of menopause. Hormone levels are also affected by the thyroid gland, so thyroid problems may cause hair loss.

Medical Conditions

Malabsorption of essential nutrients for hair due to certain conditions or the presence of immune disease may lead to hair loss.

Medications

Hair loss can be caused by drugs used for cancer treatment, arthritis, depression, heart problems, high blood pressure and birth control. Intake of too much vitamin A may cause hair loss as well. Always check the side effects of your medications, as they may sometimes cause hair loss.

Dietary causes:

According to many medical studies, any deficiencies in vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, and vitamin B12, iron, zinc and magnesium, may lead to hair loss. This is especially true for women.

Other causes of hair loss:

• Radiation therapy to the head.The hair may not grow back to the same level it was before.
• Many people experience a general thinning of hair several months after a physical or emotional shock and even sudden or excessive weight loss
• Excessive hairstyling or hairstyles that pull hair too tight (these changes are more obvious for women with long hair).

The simplest way to identify the cause of hair loss is through a simple blood test that includes a complete blood count, Zinc, Vitamin D, Magnesium, Vitamin B12, Iron levels and Thyroid hormones.

Solutions:

To solve hair loss issues, look for the causes & factors that lead to hair loss. Perform a blood test to check your vitamin and other mineral levels, show them to your doctor who will ask for any further tests and may prescribe any necessary vitamins, minerals or thyroid medications if indicated. Furthermore, avoid pulling your hair too tightly, playing with it constantly, dying it with dyes that contain peroxide or ammonia and using hair relaxers frequently.

Foods that help prevent hair loss include:

1. Spinach is a great source of iron, vitamin A and C and protein. Iron deficiency is a main cause of hair fall and spinach is not only iron-rich, it also contains sebum which acts as a natural conditioner for hair. It also provides omega-3 acid, magnesium, potassium, calcium and iron.
2. Carrots and sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins A and C.
3. Eggs and dairy products are loaded with essential nutrients such as proteins, Vitamin B12, iron, zinc and Omega 6 fatty acids. Dairy products are also a great source of biotin (Vitamin B7) that is known to fight hair loss.
4. Oats are rich in fibre, zinc, iron, omega-6 fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that stimulate hair growth and make your hair thick and healthy.
5. Walnuts are the only known nut that contains biotin, B vitamins (B1, B6 and B9), Vitamin E, protein and magnesium, all of which strengthen hair cuticles and nourish the scalp.
6. Lentils are loaded with protein, iron, zinc, and biotin. Besides this, lentils are full of folic acid which is necessary for restoring the health of red blood cells that supply the skin and scalp with much-needed oxygen.
7. Poultry meat (e,g, chicken) is rich in high quality protein which strengthens fragile hair and prevents breakage.
8. Strawberries, rice, oats, onion, cabbage, cucumber and cauliflower contain high levels of silica. Silica is a trace mineral vital for hair strength and hair growth.
9. Yogurt is packed with Vitamin B5 and Vitamin D that are known to promote hair follicle health.
10. Vitamin C rich foods support the absorption of iron in our body and are also known for antioxidant properties which reduce damage caused by free radicals that may make hair brittle and weak.

Recognizing that hair loss is a common problem particularly for women, MedLabs laboratories after consulting with medical doctors and laboratory medicine specialists, launched “Sehtak bil Denia- Hair Loss” package to measure minerals and vitamin levels in addition to the levels of thyroid hormone in order to narrow the causes of hair loss. Any patient who suffers from severe hair loss should of course see a doctor.

MedLabs’ “Sehtak bil Denia- Hair Loss” package:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC Indices)
• Ferritin
• Zinc Level
• Vitamin B12
• Magnesium Level
• Vitamin D
• Thyroid Function Test (TSH)

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique differences and strengths. We now know that autism is caused by different combinations of genetic and environmental influences, hence the term ‘spectrum’ is used to highlight the wide variations in challenges and strengths exhibited by people with autism.

The most-obvious signs of autism tend to appear between 2 and 3 years of age, although some developmental delays associated with the condition may be diagnosed as early as 18 months or earlier. Symptoms of autism range in presentation and severity with many children exhibiting an intellectual disability, while others have normal intelligence. Children with autism may also exhibit other symptoms ranging from seizures, motor abnormalities, anxiety and sleep cycle disturbances, to gastrointestinal problems, immune dysfunction and sensory disturbances.

The difference between a food allergy (IgE) & a food intolerance (IgG)

Everything we eat can elicit a positive or negative reaction in the body. If you are intolerant to a certain food and you continue to eat it, your body will mount an inflammatory reaction that may manifest in a variety of conditions that affect your lifestyle such as severe headaches, chronic pain, digestive disorders and other issues. Food intolerance can be caused by several factors including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food poisoning, psychological factors and sensitivity to certain processed or natural food additives. Studies show that less than 2% of the population suffers from food allergies, however up to 45% of the population is estimated to suffer from some form of food intolerance. In the case of children with autism, food intolerances have been shown to affect mood, behavior and anxiety levels and once identified and removed from the diet, these children experience a healthier, calmer existence.

Following are some key differences between food allergies and food intolerance:

Food Allergies

• Usually come on suddenly
• A small amount of food can trigger a reaction
• Happen every time the food is eaten
• Can be life-threatening
• Are usually identified during childhood

Food Intolerance

• Occurs when a food irritates your stomach or your body can’t properly digest it
• Symptoms include: gas, cramps, bloating, heartburn, anxiety, migraines, joint pains, skin problems, fatigue, depression, irritability and an inability to lose weight on a diet.
• Symptoms may appear immediately or days after eating the type of food you’re intolerant to
• Usually develops gradually, with symptoms sometimes not appearing before turning 30 years-old
• May happen when you eat a lot of the food
• May happen if you eat the food often
• Is not life-threatening

Most food allergy tests that are performed look at the reaction of the body’s IgE immune cells to various food types. An IgE reaction is a true allergy.  This is something an allergist can test through a blood test to a food, pollen, dust, animal hair, etc.  They can also look for an IgE reaction through skin prick testing. An IgE reaction is usually quite obvious.  It can often happen within minutes of eating something.  We’ve all heard of cases where someone reacts to peanuts or strawberries or pineapples or shell fish.  In some types of reactions that are immediate after ingesting a food, hives may develop on the body, lips may swell, eyes may get runny or the throat may become very itchy.  In severe cases an allergic reaction can lead to anaphylactic reaction or anaphylactic shock. Someone who has a true allergy to bee stings for example can develop and anaphylactic reaction resulting in difficulty breathing and will need to be hospitalized to take medication to short circuit that reaction. It is important to know if and what your child is allergic to, but usually these can only be identified by skin tests or a blood test during or very close to the time a reaction is actually happening and there is enough IgE circulating in the blood stream to be picked up by the test.

Most reactions to foods we come in to contact with and are testing for are actually not IgE reactions but IgG reactions.  IgG is the most abundant immune chemical (antibody) in the body that can sometimes react with food quite adversely leading to low level inflammatory and immune reactions in the body.  These reactions are called IgG delayed hypersensitivity reactions.  They are not life threatening and often not immediate – making them different in that sense to allergic reactions – but in the digestive system they can quickly cause bloating, gas, diarrhea.  In the long run, these food ‘intolerances’ can lead to low level inflammation that in turn can lead to joint pain, muscle pain, fatigue, migraines, weight gain, insomnia, anxiety and depression and several other symptoms.

Thus, a food IgG reaction, even though sometimes it is called an allergic reaction, is truly not an allergy but rather a hypersensitivity or an intolerance to food proteins. When you perform a food intolerance test, depending on the lab and the test type, you can test your IgG response to a panel of over 200 different foods types or more that you or your child are eating.

The effect of food intolerances on autistic children

Gastrointestinal symptoms and inflammation are very common for children on the spectrum. The most common symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, bloating and gastrointestinal pain. Intestinal inflammation is typically caused by food sensitivities and an overabundance of unhealthy bacteria in the gut. Impaired digestion causes nutrient deficiencies and weakened cellular function, which exhibits as poor brain function and immune system deficiencies. When food is not broken down properly, as is the case with food sensitivities or a food intolerance, it leads to foggy thinking, insensitivity to pain, withdrawal and irritability.

Often children on the spectrum have elevated food IgG reactions that in addition to the above-mentioned symptoms, can weaken their immune systems over time making them more susceptible to viruses and bacteria that they are exposed to. A food intolerance lab result can help to minimize the physical symptoms through diet control thus reducing the severity of symptoms and increasing overall health and wellbeing.

References:

www.autismspeaks.org

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

http://iancommunity.org

http://autismrecoverytreatment.com

Preeclampsia is a condition during pregnancy that usually begins after 20 weeks, though in some cases it occurs even earlier. It only affects about 5 percent of pregnancies. Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure, protein in the urine and signs of damage to another organ system, most often the liver or kidneys during your pregnancy.

What causes preeclampsia?

The cause of Preeclampsia is likely involved with the lining of blood vessels in the placenta–the organ that nourishes the fetus throughout pregnancy. In women with preeclampsia, these blood vessels don’t seem to develop or function properly and are narrower than normal blood vessels. They also react differently to hormonal signaling, limiting the amount of blood that can flow through them.

What symptoms are associated with preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia sometimes develops without any symptoms or indications, but often high blood pressure develops either slowly or suddenly. Monitoring blood pressure is an important part of prenatal care as it is usually the first sign of preeclampsia.

Other signs and symptoms of preeclampsia may include:

persistent headache
abnormal swelling in the hands and face
sudden weight gain
changes in your vision

How is Preeclampsia treated?

Preeclampsia is not cured until the baby is delivered.

If the woman is far from the end of her pregnancy and her symptoms are mild, the doctor may advise her to rest in bed. Resting helps bring the blood pressure down, that in turn increases the flow of blood to the placenta, which benefits the baby.

On the other hand, if preeclampsia is diagnosed close to the end of the pregnancy, the doctors may advise delivering the baby as soon as possible.

What tests can be performed if the doctor suspects preeclampsia?

Blood tests. Your doctor will order liver function tests, kidney function tests and also measure your platelets — the cells that help blood clot.
Urine analysis. Your doctor will ask you to collect your urine for 24 hours, for measurement of the amount of protein in your urine. A single urine sample that measures the ratio of protein to creatinine — a chemical that’s always present in the urine — may also be used to make the diagnosis.
Fetal ultrasound. Your doctor may recommend close monitoring of your baby’s growth, typically through ultrasound. The images of your baby created during the ultrasound exam allow your doctor to estimate fetal weight and the amount of fluid in the uterus (amniotic fluid).
Nonstress test or biophysical profile. A nonstress test is a simple procedure that checks how your baby’s heart rate reacts when your baby moves. A biophysical profile uses an ultrasound to measure your baby’s breathing, muscle tone, movement and the volume of amniotic fluid in your uterus.

Takeaway

Make sure you attend your prenatal visits so that your doctor can monitor your blood pressure. Contact your doctor immediately or go to an emergency room if you have severe headaches, blurred vision or other visual disturbance, severe pain in your abdomen, or severe shortness of breath. All these symptoms are common pregnancy complaints, so you might not know if these symptoms indicate a serious problem or not.

Everything we eat can elicit a positive or negative reaction in the body. If you are intolerant to a certain food and you continue to eat it, your body will mount an inflammatory reaction that may manifest in a variety of conditions that affect your lifestyle such as severe headaches, chronic pain, digestive disorders and other issues. Food intolerance can be caused by several factors including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food poisoning, psychological factors and sensitivity to certain processed or natural food additives. Studies show that less than 2% of the population suffers from food allergies, however up to 45% of the population is estimated to suffer from some form of food intolerance. In the case of children with autism, food intolerances have been shown to affect mood, behavior and anxiety levels and once identified and removed from the diet, these children experience a healthier, calmer existence.   

Following are some key differences between food allergies and food intolerance:

Food Allergies

·       Usually come on suddenly

·       A small amount of food can trigger a reaction

·       Happen every time the food is eaten

·       Can be life-threatening

·       Are usually identified during childhood

Food Intolerance

·       Occurs when a food irritates your stomach or your body can’t properly digest it

·       Symptoms include: gas, cramps, bloating, heartburn, anxiety, migraines, joint pains, skin problems, fatigue, depression, irritability and an inability to lose weight on a diet.

·       Symptoms may appear immediately or days after eating the type of food you’re intolerant to

·       Usually develops gradually, with symptoms sometimes not appearing before turning 30 years-old

·       May happen when you eat a lot of the food

·       May happen if you eat the food often

·       Is not life-threatening

Most food allergy tests that are performed look at the reaction of the body’s IgE immune cells to various food types. An IgE reaction is a true allergy.  This is something an allergist can test through:

·       a blood test to a food, pollen, dust, animal hair, etc.  T

·       hey can also look for an IgE reaction through skin prick testing.

How does an IgE reaction look like?

An IgE reaction is usually quite obvious.  It can often happen within minutes of eating something.  We’ve all heard of cases where someone reacts to peanuts or strawberries or pineapples or shell fish.  In some types of reactions that are immediate after ingesting a food, hives may develop on the body, lips may swell, eyes may get runny or the throat may become very itchy.  In severe cases an allergic reaction can lead to anaphylactic reaction or anaphylactic shock. Someone who has a true allergy to bee stings for example can develop and anaphylactic reaction resulting in difficulty breathing and will need to be hospitalized to take medication to short circuit that reaction. It is important to know if and what your child is allergic to, but usually these can only be identified by skin tests or a blood test during or very close to the time a reaction is actually happening and there is enough IgE circulating in the blood stream to be picked up by the test.  

Most reactions to foods we come in to contact with and are testing for are actually not IgE reactions but IgG reactions.  IgG is the most abundant immune chemical (antibody) in the body that can sometimes react with food quite adversely leading to low level inflammatory and immune reactions in the body.  These reactions are called IgG delayed hypersensitivity reactions. They are not life threatening and often not immediate – making them different in that sense to allergic reactions – but in the digestive system they can quickly cause bloating, gas, diarrhea. In the long run, these food ‘intolerances’ can lead to low level inflammation that in turn can lead to joint pain, muscle pain, fatigue, migraines, weight gain, insomnia, anxiety and depression and several other symptoms.

Thus, a food IgG reaction, even though sometimes it is called an allergic reaction, is truly not an allergy but rather a hypersensitivity or an intolerance to food proteins. When you perform a food intolerance test, depending on the lab and the test type, you can test your IgG response to a panel of over 200 different foods types or more that you or your child are eating.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique differences and strengths. We now know that autism is caused by different combinations of genetic and environmental influences, hence the term ‘spectrum’ is used to highlight the wide variations in challenges and strengths exhibited by people with autism.

The most-obvious signs of autism tend to appear between 2 and 3 years of age, although some developmental delays associated with the condition may be diagnosed as early as 18 months or earlier. Symptoms of autism range in presentation and severity with many children exhibiting an intellectual disability, while others have normal intelligence. Children with autism may also exhibit other symptoms ranging from seizures, motor abnormalities, anxiety and sleep cycle disturbances, to gastrointestinal problems, immune dysfunction and sensory disturbances.

What is Food Intolerance?

Food Intolerance

·       Occurs when a food irritates your stomach or your body can’t properly digest it

·       Symptoms include: gas, cramps, bloating, heartburn, anxiety, migraines, joint pains, skin problems, fatigue, depression, irritability and an inability to lose weight on a diet.

·       Symptoms may appear immediately or days after eating the type of food you’re intolerant to

·       Usually develops gradually, with symptoms sometimes not appearing before turning 30 years-old

·       May happen when you eat a lot of the food

·       May happen if you eat the food often is not life-threatening

The effect of food intolerances on autistic children

Gastrointestinal symptoms and inflammation are very common for children on the spectrum. The most common symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, bloating and gastrointestinal pain. Intestinal inflammation is typically caused by food sensitivities and an overabundance of unhealthy bacteria in the gut. Impaired digestion causes nutrient deficiencies and weakened cellular function, which exhibits as poor brain function and immune system deficiencies. When food is not broken down properly, as is the case with food sensitivities or a food intolerance, it leads to foggy thinking, insensitivity to pain, withdrawal and irritability.

Often children on the spectrum have elevated food IgG reactions that in addition to the above-mentioned symptoms, can weaken their immune systems over time making them more susceptible to viruses and bacteria that they are exposed to. A food intolerance lab result can help to minimize the physical symptoms through diet control thus reducing the severity of symptoms and increasing overall health and wellbeing.

Antimicrobial Resistance occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change in ways that render medications ineffective. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change in response to the use of antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections making them ineffective. When microorganisms become resistant to most antimicrobial drugs they are often referred to as “superbugs”.

Antibiotics are prescription-only medications that fight bacteria in one of two ways: they either kill bacteria or stop bacteria from growing. Antibiotics don’t treat infections caused by viruses (like the common cold or flu) or fungi (like athlete’s foot or ringworm).

Antibiotic Resistance is one of the biggest threats to global health, food security, and development. It can affect anyone, of any age, in any country. Antibiotic resistance occurs naturally, but misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals is accelerating the process.

A growing number of infections are becoming harder to treat leading to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs and increased mortality.

Causes of Antibiotic Resistance

·       Over-prescribing of antibiotics

·       Patients not taking antibiotics as prescribed

·       Unnecessary antibiotics used in agriculture

·       Poor infection control in hospitals and clinics

·       Poor hygiene and sanitation practices

·       Lack of rapid laboratory tests

Deaths caused by antimicrobial resistance are increasing drastically as shown in the image.

By 2050 the estimated numbers of cancer related deaths is expected to be 8.2million per year, while the number of deaths caused by AMR is estimated to be 10million cases per year.

What is being done?

At the Sixty-eighth World Health Assembly in May 2015, the World Health Assembly endorsed a global action plan to tackle antimicrobial resistance, including antibiotic resistance, the most urgent drug resistance trend. The WHO and the MOH in Jordan have been working together since 2017 to raise awareness among doctors of this crisis.

What can you do to avoid Antibiotic resistance?

·       Only use antibiotics when prescribed by a certified health professional

·       Always take the full prescription, even if you feel better

·       Never use left-over antibiotics

·       Never share antibiotics with others

·       Prevent infections by regularly washing your hands, avoiding contact with sick people and keeping your vaccinations up to date

MedLabs Role

MedLabs has an AMR committee, whose role is to monitor and collect data about bacterial sensitivity and resistance to certain antibiotics through antibiogram reports.This report shows how susceptible strains of pathogens are to a variety antibiotics.

MedLabs also has adapted the role of spreading awareness about AMR and the proper use of antibiotics, through patient pamphlets and scientific workshops.

Finally, directors and lab technicians contribute to teaching and advising patients on how to seek professional advice and prescribed antibiotics only when needed.

To this end MedLabs recently launched the Strep ‘A’ rapid throat swab test to help patients and doctors confirm whether a throat infection is viral or bacterial before presenting antibiotics.