Q Do men suffer from menopause like women?

The phase of life similar to menopause is called as andropause in men. It is marked by lethargy, sadness, weariness, lack of drive, irritability, poor concentration and sometimes loss of sexual desire in middle-aged men. This leads to boredom, lack of fitness, heavy drinking and lack of self-esteem.n Though, male menopause is controversial, as there isn~t any calculable fall in the levels of male hormones in middle age like females have fall in sex hormones drastically, yet it is advised that men experiencing the symptoms should exercise regularly and eat healthy, nurture a hobby, and have a peaceful mind and renew interest in life.

Q I am 43 year old man and my wife 41 year we have 4 year and 6 month daughter. We are very confused whether to go for second child as my only daughter feels very lonely. Can you advice?

First, determine whether you and your wife are physically, mentally and financially ready to have a second child. It is definitely possible to conceive at this age; however there are many factors that you should take into account before arriving at a decision. A womans fertility decreases drastically in her forties so there is a major possibility that your wife may have to use donor eggs to achieve pregnancy. The risk of complications during pregnancy such as diabetes and high blood pressure increases. Moreover, there are higher chances of premature and still births. You may need to use assisted reproductive techniques thus escalating costs. I am not trying to discourage you, but giving you the facts. On the other hand, some women do get pregnant well into their 40s, and many of them have complication-free pregnancies and healthy babies. Both of you should make an informed decision after knowing all the pros and cons. For any further clarification, visit a gynaecologist who will brief you about all available options. Do consider the possibility of adoption too.

Q What Psychological Factors Contribute to Mental Illness?

The reasons which cause mental illness- Significant interpersonal loss and family instability, such as death of loved one, misfortune, poor relationship with family, domestic partner violence, separation, and divorce, emotional detachment have all been identified as risk factors. Financial stress, unemployment, and a drop in socioeconomic status can also be triggers for mental illness. This is also the case for a range of acute and chronic health problems, such as pain syndromes, or diagnoses of conditions like HIV or cancer. Some mental illnesses have been linked to an abnormal balance of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters help nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other. If these chemicals are out of balance or are not working properly, messages may not make it through the brain correctly, leading to symptoms of mental illness. In addition, defects in or injury to certain areas of the brain also have been linked to some mental conditions.

Q Can i smoke while recovering from jaundice.

There is no co-relation between jaundice and smoking. However it is advisable that you avoid smoking while recovering from jaundice due to general health reasons.

Q Can local honey cure seasonal allergies?

Honey contains powerful antioxidants, antiseptic and antibacterial propertise. It is said to cure some allergies particularly localised honey to that area can cure seasonal allergy as the bees feed on pollens of that area which finally form honey. At the same time there are studies showing that its effect is nothing more than a placebo.

Q Body too thin...some diet tips

Weight gain depends upon your diet and exercise pattern. Include calorie and protein rich foods in your diet such as eggs, chicken, fish, milk and milk products, nuts, pulses etc. Every morning have a glass of milk with honey and 2 bananas. Consume handful of mixed nuts everyday. Weight gain should be healthy and hence you should limit your intake of junk food. Instead of 3 large meals have 5-7 small meals. Join a gym and practice weight training under supervision.

Q My son fears animals a lot and continuously cries. What can I do?

The fear for large animals is obvious but if the child has got it for smaller pets you need to put some positive efforts. You can help your child to overcome the fear of animals by gradually introducing your child to small animals. Show your child pictures of animals in which they are playful. Take small steps at a time and do not rush things or it may back fire.

Q Shall I give my baby rotavirus vaccination?

Rotavirus vaccination is included in Indian Immunization schedule. So it is safe to give it to your child. The recommended age for the vaccination is 2 months, 4 months and 6 months. It is contraindicated in cases where the child has allergic reaction to rotavirus vaccine, has intussuception or sever combined immunodeficiency.

Q is epilepsy treatable?

Rather to say curable, epilepsy is very well treatable with medication (anti-epileptic drugs). Epilepsy is the disorder of the brain and central nervous system where abnormal electrical impulse leads to uncontrolled, involuntary movement of the body. The balance between the factors that begin electrical activity and factors that restrict it is lost, resulting in the body jerking. Several reasons are cited for the cause of the disease like neurocysticercosis (worms from intestine reach brain), tuberculosis of brain, brain tumour, brain stroke and even genetic. In most of the cases, the cause of the fits remains unknown. Neurologist would be able to select the best medication depending on the type of epilepsy and also age and sex of patient. The medicines are required to be taken for long-term without any discontinuation. Avoid driving, swimming and hazardous activities, as occurrence of seizures during these activities can be dangerous. With all above simple management you can live normal life with Epilepsy.

Q Can toddlers have thrush?

yes, thrush can be present at any age and needs treatment too.