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Dr. Ahmad Ismail K. Al-Dahshan, NMC Specialty hospital- Dubai, Dubai (2025)

23/01/2025

Childhood obesity rates have been steadily climbing for decades, and one major contributor is the pervasiveness of junk food. Filled with empty calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats, these readily available and heavily marketed options offer little nutritional value. Regular consumption of junk food leads to a host of health problems, including weight gain, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes, conditions that were once rare in children but are increasingly prevalent today.

The addictive nature of junk food plays a significant role in its impact on children. The high levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats trigger the brain's reward system, creating cravings and leading to overconsumption. This cycle of craving and consumption makes it challenging for children to develop healthy eating habits, especially when bombarded with advertising for these appealing yet unhealthy treats.

Combating childhood obesity requires a multi-pronged approach that includes education about healthy food choices, promoting physical activity, and limiting access to junk food. Parents, educators, and policymakers all have a role to play in creating an environment that supports the well-being of children and empowers them to make informed choices for a healthier future.

31/05/2024

Eating Out with Little Ones: Making it Healthy

Dining out with kids can be a fun experience for the whole family, but it can also raise concerns about their nutritional intake. While restaurant meals might not always be the picture of health, there are ways to make them work for your child's well-being.

Firstly, plan ahead! Many restaurants offer menus online, so you can browse options beforehand and choose a place with healthy selections for children. Look for kid-friendly options that prioritize protein and fiber, like grilled chicken or fish with whole-wheat buns and sides of vegetables or fruit. Milk and water are always the best drink choices to avoid sugary juices or sodas.

Remember, restaurants can be a great opportunity to expand your child's palate. Encourage them to try a bite of your meal, or ask the server for a small portion of a healthy item they might be curious about. With a little planning and encouragement, restaurant outings can be a fun way to introduce your child to a variety of nutritious foods.

16/05/2024

White Noise: A Lullaby for Your Little One?

Many bleary-eyed parents swear by white noise as a magic bullet for getting their babies to sleep. But what exactly is white noise, and how can it help (or hinder) your little one's slumber?

**What is White Noise?**

White noise refers to a constant sound that contains all audible frequencies at roughly equal intensity. Imagine the static you hear on an untuned TV – that's white noise in a nutshell.

**Why Might White Noise Help Babies Sleep?**

There are a few reasons why white noise might be a sleep savior for some babies:

* **Mimicking the Womb:** The constant shushing sounds in the womb can be quite calming for newborns. White noise creates a similar auditory environment, offering a sense of security and familiarity.
* **Blocking Distractions:** Household noises, barking dogs, or even a chatty sibling can disrupt a baby's sleep. White noise can mask these distractions, creating a more peaceful sleep environment.

**Is White Noise Always a Good Idea?**

While white noise can be a helpful sleep tool, it's not a guaranteed solution for every baby. Here are some things to consider:

* **Volume is Key:** Just like with any sound, volume matters. Keep the white noise level at a safe range, similar to a soft shower (around 50-60 decibels). Loud noises can damage a baby's hearing.
* **Not a Cure-All:** If your baby's waking is due to hunger, discomfort, or illness, white noise won't solve the problem. It's a sleep aid, not a replacement for addressing underlying needs.
* **Potential Dependence:** Some babies may become reliant on white noise to fall asleep, making it difficult to sleep without it. It's wise to pair white noise with other sleep routines to create healthy sleep habits.

**How to Use White Noise Safely:**

* **Use a dedicated white noise machine or app:** These offer a wider range of calming sounds than a fan, and some have timers for automatic shut-off.
* **Keep the source at least a few feet away from the crib.**
* **Monitor the volume regularly.**
* **Introduce white noise gradually.** Don't expect it to work like magic on the first try.

**The Takeaway**

White noise can be a valuable tool in your baby's sleep arsenal. However, it's important to use it safely and strategically. Remember, a consistent sleep routine, a calming bedtime environment, and addressing your baby's needs are all crucial for promoting healthy sleep patterns.

06/05/2024

Mosquitoes: More Than Just an Itch

Mosquitoes are often seen as a summertime nuisance, but they can also transmit a variety of dangerous diseases. These diseases, including dengue fever, Zika virus, malaria, and West Nile virus, can cause symptoms ranging from mild fever and flu-like illness to severe neurological problems and even death.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect yourself from mosquito bites and the diseases they carry. When spending time outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, wear long, loose-fitting clothing. Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin. Additionally, eliminate mosquito breeding grounds around your home by removing standing water in tires, buckets, and other containers. By following these simple precautions, you can help keep yourself and your family safe from mosquito-borne infections.

البعوض: أكثر من مجرد حكة

غالبًا ما يُنظر إلى البعوض على أنه مصدر إزعاج في فصل الصيف، لكنه يمكنه أيضًا نقل مجموعة متنوعة من الأمراض الخطيرة. يمكن لهذه الأمراض، بما في ذلك حمى الضنك وفيروس زيكا والملاريا وفيروس غرب النيل، أن تسبب أعراضًا تتراوح من الحمى الخفيفة والأمراض الشبيهة بالأنفلونزا إلى مشاكل عصبية حادة وحتى الموت.

ولحسن الحظ، هناك خطوات يمكنك اتخاذها لحماية نفسك من لدغات البعوض والأمراض التي تحملها. عند قضاء الوقت في الخارج، خاصة عند الفجر والغسق عندما يكون البعوض أكثر نشاطًا، ارتدِ ملابس طويلة وفضفاضة. ضع طارد الحشرات الذي يحتوي على مادة DEET أو البيكاريدين أو زيت الليمون والأوكالبتوس على الجلد المكشوف. بالإضافة إلى ذلك، قم بإزالة أماكن تكاثر البعوض حول منزلك عن طريق إزالة المياه الراكدة في الإطارات والدلاء والحاويات الأخرى. باتباع هذه الاحتياطات البسيطة، يمكنك المساعدة في الحفاظ على نفسك وعائلتك في مأمن من العدوى التي ينقلها البعوض.

02/05/2024

Constipation in Children: A Common Concern

Constipation is a frequent issue among children, affecting many at some point. It simply means infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stool. While it might seem alarming, constipation in children is usually temporary and can be addressed with dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments.

Signs to watch for include infrequent bowel movements (less than three a week), hard and dry stools, straining during bowel movements, and stomach pain. If your child experiences these symptoms, talk to your doctor. They can help determine the cause and recommend the best course of action, which often involves increasing fiber intake, encouraging fluid intake, and establishing healthy toilet routines.

الإمساك عند الأطفال

الإمساك هو مشكلة شائعة تصيب العديد من الأطفال في مرحلة ما. ويعني ببساطة قلة حركة الأمعاء أو صعوبة إخراج البراز. وعلى الرغم من أنه قد يبدو نذيرًا للخطر ، إلا أن الإمساك عند الأطفال يكون عادةً مؤقتًا ويمكن علاجه عن طريق التغييرات الغذائية وتعديلات نمط الحياة.

علامات تدل على الإمساك

تشمل العلامات التي يجب الانتباه إليها قلة حركة الأمعاء (أقل من ثلاث مرات في الأسبوع) ، والبراز الصلب والجاف ، والبذل الكبير أثناء التبرز ، وآلام المعدة. إذا كان طفلك يعاني من هذه الأعراض ، فتحدث إلى طبيبك. يمكنهم المساعدة في تحديد السبب ويوصون بأفضل مسار للعمل ، والذي غالبًا ما يتضمن زيادة تناول الألياف ، وتشجيع تناول السوائل ، ووضع روتين صحي للذهاب إلى الحمام.

24/04/2024

Ditch the baby powder! While it may seem like a diaper rash and friction savior, talc-based powders pose a serious health risk, potentially causing breathing problems and even cancer with long-term use. Even cornstarch alternatives can irritate little lungs. Petroleum jelly offers a safer, gentler option for preventing diaper rash, and there are many talc-free, cornstarch-free options on the market if you need help managing moisture. It's time to say goodbye to baby powder for a healthier, happier baby.

16/04/2024

Anise Seed: Not Safe for Infants

Anise seed, sometimes used in teas, has been a traditional remedy for colic in infants. However, it is important to be aware that anise seed can be dangerous for babies. The culprit is a compound in anise called anethole, which can cause seizures and neurological problems. The American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against giving anise seed or anise tea to infants. If your infant is experiencing colic, consult a pediatrician for safe and effective remedies.

10/04/2024

Tics are sudden, repetitive movements or sounds that children sometimes experience. These might be eye blinking, shoulder shrugs, or even short vocalizations like sniffing or grunting. While they can be startling for parents, tics are usually harmless and quite common in childhood. Most tics go away on their own within a few weeks or months. However, if your child's tics are causing them distress, become severe, or last for more than a year, it's important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying conditions.

10/04/2024

كل عام و انتم بخير

03/04/2024

Polakiuria ( frequently urinating) in children refers to frequent urination during the daytime, often exceeding what's typical for their age. Imagine needing to go to the bathroom every half hour or even more! While it can be disruptive, the good news is polakiuria in children is usually temporary and harmless. It often occurs between ages 3 and 8 and doesn't involve any pain or nighttime wetting. The exact cause can be unclear, but stress or a recent life change might be a trigger. If your child experiences frequent urination, consult a doctor to rule out any underlying issues and discuss ways to manage the symptoms.

28/03/2024

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) can disrupt sleep in children just like it does in adults. It causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs, often described as tingling, burning, or crawling. This discomfort creates a strong urge to move, which can make it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. Children with RLS might toss and turn, fidget, or even get up and walk around to try to relieve the feeling. Because these symptoms often appear at night, they can be mistaken for growing pains or even attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). If you think your child might have RLS, it's important to talk to a doctor so they can get a proper diagnosis and treatment.

27/03/2024

Vitamin C is a superhero for kids' health! It helps their bodies build strong bones, teeth, and tissues. It's also a key player in keeping their immune system fighting fit, which means fewer colds and illnesses. Most fruits and vegetables are packed with this vitamin, especially citrus fruits, peppers, and broccoli. With a balanced diet, your child can get the vitamin C they need to stay healthy and strong.

Dr. Ahmad Ismail K. Al-Dahshan

23/01/2025

31/05/2024

16/05/2024

06/05/2024

02/05/2024

24/04/2024

16/04/2024

10/04/2024

10/04/2024

03/04/2024

28/03/2024

27/03/2024

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