Bodylanguage Issue 12 Winter 2017

Issue 12 | winter 2017

SMOKING VS VAPING

Is vaping better?

Bullying

AND YOUR CHILD

Hospital stay HEALTH ADVICE

Ask our experts

BUSTING

flu myths

FIRST-AID Fall-proofing YOUR HOME

Do you suffer from ADULT ADHD?

6

contents

Issue 12 | winter 2017

Be personal 2

CEO Message

31

your experts Your questions

12

14

Interact 3

Intercare News & events

4

SNIPPETS Latest health news

32

8

18

follow on sociauls media!

From the experts 6

Health Strategy Flu Myths Busted

18

ALL ABOUT Bullying and your Child

25

TRAVELGROUND Off the Grid

28

First Aid Fall-proofing your home

Your health

Recipe Delicious Cajun prawn Alfredo

10

HOW TO Prepare your child for hospital stay

Your body

14

HEALTH IQ Adult ADHD

INFOGRAPHIC All About Blood

21

KNOW IT ALL Vaping vs Smoking

yo u. ..

W e wa nt to hentsarandfrcusom to air their ers tom

21

32

ite all patie We would like to inv ing this magazine. us with input regard e vid views and pro will then be able remain relevant and In doing so, we can at healthcare gre a e eat “cr and to make a difference Please email us at er” on a daily basis. experience altogeth intercare.co.za ce@ en eri OR myexp info@intercare.co.za ideas and topics you with any suggestions, d about. rea would like to rial Enquiries Advertising & Edito ng: Health-B ytes Publishi health-b ytes.co.za 021 913 0504 | christa@ ista Grobler Publishing editor Chr : Bernette Becker Design – Health-B ytes t | Printing BusinessPrin Proofing Albert Buhr

Advertising: Language FREE copies of Bod y rcare are distributed at Inte tres.

Medical and Dental Cen act cont se To advertise, plea ent. our advertising departm

CEO message

CEO

message

All of this was made possible by the dedication and tenacity of men and women in clinical, management and administrative positions and for that I would like to thank every one of you. healthcare, the Intercare Group is committed to create value for all our patients and stakeholders, while earning everyone’s confidence and trust as we build the future.

We value all our patients and would like to thank you for believing in us and trusting us with your healthcare.

On Saturday, 27 May 2017, Intercare celebrated its 15th anniversary, and more than ever we reaffirm our commitment to create a better healthcare experience.

Together we’ve built a business that we can be proud of. We’ve created a home for nearly 1000 health professionals and other team members and we provide care to more than a million patients per year. All of this was made possible by the dedication and tenacity of men and women in clinical, management and administrative positions and for that I would like to thank every one of you.

Faithful to our original ambition to become the provider of choice in

The digital revolution opens up a whole new era for healthcare and a great opportunity to revolutionise the patient experience in our industry. We’re biased towards safer, traditional care models since healthcare is essentially about people’s lives. However, innovation should be part of our DNA. We should look at new ways of working together while caring for patients the Intercare way.

I mentioned ambition, innovation and dedication – I would like to end with confidence. I have witnessed the shared determination at all levels of the organisation, and that inspires me with confidence that we are ready for the next 15 years.

Warmest Regards Dr Hendrik Hanekom Chief Executive – Intercare Group

news and events Fltr back: Elsa Swanepoel, Dr Siebert van Onselen, Dr Arno Weber, Dr Corné van Geer, Dr Hendrik Hanekom (Chief Executive), Amanda Hanekom, Dr Wiek Labuschagne and Dr Naudé van Niekerk.

Front: Bettie Havenga, Johanna Ntsele and Jacobyn vd Merwe.

ye ar s of ca ri ng I nt er ca re ce le br at es 15 Intercare is privileged to have a handful of health professionals and other team members in our midst since the opening of the first Medical and Dental Centre at Glenfair in 2000. These members were recently honoured for their loyalty and dedication.

INTERCARE CELEBRATES 15 YEARS! Fltr: Liani Wenhold, Melattie and Lou van Vuuren (CFO), Erna Wenhold, Amanda Hanekom, Dr Hendrik Hanekom (Chief Executive), Dr Ammie Brummer (dentist at Woodhill), Cornelia Naudé, Conrad Knoetze, Marié Schouwstra and Charmaine van den Berg

Ra ce fo r fr ie nd sh ip As part of Intercare’s 15th birthday celebrations, a number of health professionals and employees participated in the Race 4 Friendship Fun Run/Walk on 24 June 2017. Intercare also sponsored the water table at the finishing line, whilst Lamar International (a pharmaceutical company) sponsored the T- shirts for the team.

All proceeds went to the Sungardens Hospice.

page 03

snippets

tHhEAeLTlaHtNeEsWSt EXERCISE WHEN YOU ARE TIRED After a long, exhausting workday, exercising sounds like the last thing you'd want to do, but getting your sweat on will actually energize you.

Fatigue along with mood and depression improved after a single 30-minute moderate intensity exercise session, according to a study published in Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise.

Sunday Blues?

TRY NEW THINGS

It’s Sunday evening… where did the weekend go? If this is your lament as you head back to work each week, there’s something you can do about it. According to neuroscientist David Eagleman, a professor at Stanford University and author of The Brain: The Story of You, the trick to prolonging your days off is to try new activities and/or a new setting.

Time spent doing something unfamiliar seems to last longer because your brain is focused on gathering new information and creating new memories. That’s the same reason time seems to go by more slowly when we’re young and faster when we get older. Remember endless summer vacations when you were a kid? As we age, we’ve seen most of the patterns of daily life before. But time really does fly when you’re having fun (seemingly).

Therefore, a weekend spent on a new adventure will only seem to have lasted longer in hindsight – at the time, it will fly by much faster than a weekend spent on your couch binge-watching your favorite television shows.

Source: CNN

WHY IS

osteoarthritis

MORE COMMON IN

women?

Osteoarthritis – the wear-and-tear form of degenerative joint disease – is the most common joint condition.

It affects more women than men, and a new study suggests the reasons for this gender-related disparity: differences in the composition of synovial fluid between men and women.

Synovial fluid surrounds the joints and protects cartilage that covers the ends of bones where they meet in the joints. Researchers at the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University analysed the synovial fluid of men and women with and without osteoarthritis.

They found differences that may be influenced by the female hormone estrogen, which plays an important role in the development of osteoarthritis.

Hormone levels typically decrease with age and in postmenopausal women, lower estrogen levels appear to increase osteoarthritis risk.

Source: MNT

MEDICINE AND GRAPEFRUIT If you like grapefruit – fresh or juiced – note that it can interfere with a large number of medicines and warnings aren't always on the box. Check with your pharmacist.

Source: abc.net.au

Men at work...

No phone zone Your cognitive capacity is significantly reduced when your smartphone is within reach – even if it's off. The mere presence of your smartphone reduces brain power. That's the takeaway finding from a new study from the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin.

The researchers found that participants with their phones in another room significantly outperformed those with their phones on the desk.

Experiments with nearly 800 smartphone users were conducted in an attempt to measure, for the first time, how well people can complete tasks when they have their smartphones nearby even when they're not using them.

The researchers found that participants with their phones in another room significantly outperformed those with their phones on the desk, and they also slightly outperformed those participants who had kept their phones in a pocket or bag.

The researchers also found that participants who were the most dependent on their smartphones performed worse compared with their less-dependent peers, but only when they kept their smartphones on the desk or in their pocket or bag.

The findings suggest that the mere presence of one's smartphone reduces available cognitive capacity and impairs cognitive functioning, even though people feel they're giving their full attention and focus to the task at hand.

Ward and his colleagues also found that it didn't matter whether a person's smartphone was turned on or off, or whether it was lying face up or face down on a desk.

Having a smartphone within sight or within easy reach reduces a person's ability to focus and perform tasks because part of their brain is actively working to not pick up or use the phone.

Source: University of Texas at Austin

GOT A COLD? HOW TO GET UN-SICK We've been told a million times there's no cure for the common cold. But is there a way to at least speed up recovery when we're sick? As a matter of fact, there is. Certain foods can help you kick that crummy feeling quicker. For example: • Garlic: It acts as an antibiotic and lessens the severity of colds and other infections.

• Chicken soup: Yep, chicken soup actually works.

It provides fluids and electrolytes and may contain antiinflammatory properties that decrease cold symptoms. You have to eat

real chicken soup though – the kind you make from simmering a chicken carcass – not the kind from a can.

• Green tea: It boosts the production of B cell antibodies, helping us rid ourselves of invading pathogens.

• Honey: It has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties and helps

suppress coughs.

A few teaspoons in a cup of green tea are all you need.

• Elderberries: They have antiviral properties and are loaded with phytonutrients.

Elderberry extract may reduce the duration of colds and other upper respiratory tract infections.

page 05

health strategy We are heading INTO this year’s flu season. This time of the year is filled with great myths and mystery (or rather misery) caused by flu. Quite a number of people belieVE in home remedies, a post on Facebook, or something they read on a blog, rather than solid, evidence-based medicine. Let’s clarify a few myths about flu or influenza.

Myth 1:

Flu is just a bad cold

Myth 2:

Antibiotics can cure flu

Myth 3:

I don’t get the flu vaccine, because it makes you sick

The words “Doctor, I have

Antibiotics receive a lot of

the flu”, is often heard in the

undue credit. Unfortunately,

doctor’s consultation room,

many people believe that if

This is the oldest complaint

but when asked when the

you feel sick an antibiotic

in the book, and also the

fever started, the patient

will kill the culprits.

main reason why patients

often doesn’t have an idea.

decline flu vaccines. The

Influenza is an acute and

The fact is that antibiotics

flu vaccine can cause a

possibly deadly viral disease

only kill bacteria and not

mild immune response

that almost always presents

viruses. As flu is caused

(mild fever, headache and

with a fever. It may also be

by the influenza virus,

body pains for 2 days),

accompanied with an airway

it is therefore a major

but definitely can’t let a

infection or even diarrhoea.

disappointing medical fact

patient become sick. It

The clue here is acute onset,

that antibiotics will not cure

doesn’t break down your

i.e. within hours.

your flu or cold.

immunity, or cause you to

A cold usually develops

We know that flu is

infections. The vaccine can’t

over the course of a few

sometimes complicated

lead to a patient getting

days and progressively gets

by secondary bacterial

the flu because it’s a dead

worse. In the words of Prof.

infections, but taking an

vaccine. No live viruses here!

Robert Green, paediatric

antibiotic when you start

It’s so safe, in fact, we also

pulmonologist at the Steve

with acute fever and body

give it to pregnant women

Biko Academic Hospital,

aches will not prevent a

and babies older than 6

“Call a cold a cold!”

possible secondary infection.

months.

be more susceptible to other

Myth 6:

I can boost my immunity by taking supplements A popular myth! Despite spending exuberant amounts on supplements, disappointed souls that still get sick may ask: “But doctor, I don’t understand!

I take a high dose of vitamin C every day! Why am I sick?”

Myth 4:

You don’t need a flu shot every year

Myth 5:

There is no such thing as man flu

Harvard Medical School published an article on this subject: “How to boost your immunity during flu

Flu vaccination leads to an

This is a highly controversial

season”. Their conclusion was that

immune response, which

subject - it’s long been

you can’t boost your immunity,

is unfortunately a waning

suggested that males

you can only maintain the one

immunity. In other words,

do get affected by flu

you have! You can achieve this

as time goes by, you lose

symptoms more than the

by sleeping enough, not smoking,

the ability to react to

fairer sex. Interestingly,

regular exercise, lowering your

viruses well enough to

this might not be a myth

stress levels, drinking enough

prevent infection.

after all!

water and by following a healthy

Another reason for getting

Studies done and published

take a supplement if you feel that

a vaccine every year is

by Stanford University

you’re not getting enough vitamins

because the strains or types

in 2013 found that men

and minerals through your diet.

of virus in the vaccine differ

usually don’t have the same

from year to year. Scientists

response to the flu vaccine

Although vitamin C is the most

do extensive research to

than women, making them

commonly used supplement,

determine which strains are

more prone to contracting

studies have shown that the

xpected to have the biggest

flu. Due to a reaction with

only people who really benefit

impact in the coming

testosterone, they might

from vitamin C supplements, in

flu season. A lot of the

also get worse symptoms

preventing and even curing a

southern hemisphere’s data

if they do get influenza.

cold or flu a few days sooner, are

balanced diet. You only need to

endurance athletes. Unless you

gets corrected following the flu season in the northern

In other words, ladies:

are training for the Comrades

hemisphere and vice versa.

your big baby lying on

or Iron Man, don’t waste your

In South Africa, we only

the couch, moaning and

money. And no, going to the gym

have three different strains

groaning, feeling very sorry

five times per week doesn’t make

in our vaccines, but some

for himself, might actually

you an endurance athlete!

of the northern hemisphere

feel that way due to his very

vaccines contain four

manly high testosterone

The best way to prevent influenza

different strains.

levels!

is still to get a yearly flu jab.

Written by: Dr Yolande Louw (General Practitioner, Intercare Silver Lakes)

page 07

how to...

how to

PREPARE YOUR CHILD

for hospital

Going to the hospital can be a frightening, anxious time for kids and stressful for parents and families. Here are ideas and information to help you and your child before, during and after a hospital visit.

At Home

going to the hospital for an

is under six years of age, tell

operation, test, or procedure,

them a few days beforehand.

Before you leave for the

and let them know that you

You can tell older children a

hospital, you should explain

feel this is the right thing

week or two beforehand, so

to your child where they will

to do. Use simple, age-

that they have time to think

be going, and why.

appropriate words they can

of any questions or issues

understand. Children can

that might be relevant to

usually sense how a parent

them. Write questions down

Tell your child honestly and

feels about a hospitalisation

as a family so that you can ask

truthfully that they’ll be

or a procedure. If your child

them to the nurse or doctor.

• Set the stage.

• Get to know the hospital.

At the Hospital

Read books or watch a

After arriving at the hospital,

Encourage your child to

story with younger children

help keep your child calm and

ask you and the doctors

about going to hospital;

relaxed before, during, and

and nurses a lot of

for older children you can

after tests and treatments.

questions. If your child is

find interesting information

In general, it’s important to

uneasy about it, you can

on the internet to explore.

inform children what they’re

ask on their behalf.

Familiarise your child with

about to experience.

the hospital through a visit or look at a virtual

• Avoid surprises.

• Encourage questions.

• Take breaks and look after yourself too.

tour and photographs on

Let your child know

the hospital’s website.

in advance if a test or

This will help you to

Depending on the age of

procedure is about

cope better and provide

your child, give them plenty

to happen, even if it’s

support and care for your

of time for ‘hospital play’.

something uncomfortable,

child. Remember, this can

You can get them to do

like a needle. It’ll give them

also be a scary and tiring

things like bandaging a

a feeling of trust. Use honest

experience for a parent.

teddy, listening to family

and simple explanations

members’ heartbeats, or

that fit your child’s age

practising taking medicine.

and level of understanding,

• GIVE Reassurance.

Reassure your child that

and ask them questions to

Try to choose words

make sure they understand

that are neutral when

what you’ve said.

describing procedures and tests to your child. For

you, a parent or a family member will be coming with and staying through the

• Use reassuring language.

• Explain what's happening.

example, you might say, ”The nurse will ’slide‘ a

whole hospital visit. Usually,

Tell your child how

needle into your arm,“

you will be able to stay with

they might feel before,

rather than ”’stick‘ or ’poke‘

your child until they are

during,and after a

a needle into your arm.“

asleep (have an anaesthetic)

procedure or test. For

before their surgery.

example, you may want to explain that they won’t

• Pack some favourite things.

hear, see, or feel anything during an operation,

Plan with your child in

because the doctor will

organizing and packing

give them a special sleep

a few things they would

medicine called aneasthesia

like to take to hospital e.g.

beforehand. Try not to

new pajamas and toiletries.

make promises you can't

Encourage your child to

keep. Don’t tell your child

bring along their favourite

that nothing will hurt or

possessions, like a stuffed

that there won’t be any

animal, pillow, or books.

blood tests, for instance.

Source: www.rch.org.au www. childrenshospital.org.za

page 11

how to...

Returning Home

behaviours, (like sucking

more information and

their thumb) which they

experience now, and

had previously grown out

need to play out these

A visit to hospital is a

of.

experiences to make sense of and cope with them.

big event in a child’s life, even if it is only for a day procedure. Allow plenty of

• Stick to your usual routines.

Key points to remember

time for readjustment when

Give them some

your child returns home

time, patience and

again. NEVER threaten

understanding. Your

your child with a return to

child will soon return to

children information

hospital as a punishment for

their normal self. Siblings

simply and truthfully, in

behaviours you do not like.

may also be clingy or

words they understand.

• It is important to give

show attention-seeking

• Expect “abnormal” behaviour.

behaviours. It has been

• They need to be told that

different for them too,

they will be going to

It is not unusual for a child

so allow time for their

hospital and what they

to show some behaviours

questions and also

may expect to happen

that are different to

try to involve them in

there.

normal when they leave

events. Again, allow

hospital. For example, they

your child plenty of

might be clingy, attention

time to ’play‘ being

it easier to cope with their

seeking or have ’babyish‘

in hospital. They have

hospital experience.

• A prepared child will find

health IQ

Are you suffering from

ADULT ADHD?

The majority of adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) don’t realise that they have it. This can have dire consequences for your relationships, career, and your happiness. However, with an accurate diagnosis and the correct treatment, you can live a happy and normal life.

It's often viewed as a childhood disorder, but Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), often persists into adulthood.

In fact, as many as 70% of children with ADHD will also

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is caused by neurotransmitters in the brain that don’t function properly in the areas that control activity and attention.

have it as adults, according to clinical psychiatrist and ADHD expert, Dr Shabeer Jeeva.

Hyperactiveimpulsive type About 15% of people with ADHD suffer from hyperactiveimpulsive ADHD. They are often blamed for being

The difference between ADHD in children and adults.

disruptive and find it difficult to sit still and keep quiet.

Normally the symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive

“The first symptoms of ADHD typically appear when you are

“There are differences

disorder subside when

about five and a half years

between ADHD symptoms in

patients hit their twenties.

old, and the disorder is usually

adults and children. Through

diagnosed by the age of 12,”

the course of your life, you

Symptoms include:

says Dr Jeeva.

may experience different

• Fidgeting.

symptoms that are caused by

• Squirming.

Although the disorder does

the three types of ADHD,” says

• Unable to sit for long

not develop in adulthood,

Dr Jeeva. They are:

many childhood cases go undiagnosed or are

periods.

• Running or climbing at

Inattentive type:

misdiagnosed, which means

inappropriate times.

• Struggling to do activities

that many adults may not be

About 23% of school children,

aware that they have been

mainly girls, suffer from

• Can’t stop talking.

suffering from the disorder

inattentive ADHD. Sufferers

• Interrupting people while

most of their life.

are often called lazy or stupid due to their low energy levels.

About 2% to 5% of adults

Inattentive ADHD symptoms

have ADHD, but currently only

also become more prominent

25% of them are adequately

among patients after the age

diagnosed. That means that

of 20.

more than 70% of adults with

quietly.

talking.

• Constantly on the go.

Combined type The most common type of ADHD is combined ADHD

ADHD are unaware of what’s

Symptoms include:

that affects about 62% of

causing their symptoms

• Being easily distracted.

patients. People with this

that may keep them from

• Being forgetful.

type will have a combination

flourishing in their careers

• Not paying attention to

of symptoms that include

and relationships, and

detail.

inattentiveness, hyperactivity,

they may be more prone

• Avoiding difficult tasks.

and impulsiveness.

to depression, anxiety, or

• Making careless mistakes.

However, as patients age,

substance abuse, according

• Struggling to pay attention

they may experience fewer

to Dr Jeeva. ADHD that is not

and to remain focused.

symptoms of hyperactivity

diagnosed or treated can

• Struggling to listen.

and impulsiveness, while

keep people from living a

• Struggling to follow or

symptoms of inattentive

normal and happy life.

understand instructions.

ADHD may become worse.

page 15

health IQ How ADHD affects adults

the non-ADHD spouse who

What causes ADHD?

has to deal with a partner who doesn’t follow through

Experts aren’t exactly sure

Adults with ADHD may act

on promises, forgets to pay

what causes ADHD, but

in a way that others deem

the bills, and makes impulsive

people with a family history

inappropriate, reckless,

decisions, and ultimately

of ADHD have a greater risk

or careless. This can lead

these behaviours may lead

of developing the disorder, as

to conflict in personal

to divorce.

studies of twins have shown

relationships and at work.

that it is 76% inheritable.

People with ADHD are also

Parents with ADHD are also

Studies in the Health and

often underachievers.

more likely to have a child

Quality of Life Outcomes

a study in the Journal

that suffers from the disorder.

journal and the Journal of

of Clinical Psychiatry

Attention Disorders have

found that adults with

Environmental factors that

found that adults with ADHD

self-reported ADHD

include birth complications,

face unique challenges

compared to healthy

low birth weight, and brain

including difficulty managing

adults were less likely

injuries may also increase

their time and impaired

to have achieved

your risk for ADHD.

social skills that may impact

a college degree.

their productivity and their

Reasons for this may be

Other possible causes may

reputation at work. They are

inattention, disorganisation,

include smoking, or using

also more likely to struggle

making careless mistakes,

alcohol or drugs during

with retaining a job and may

and battling to get through

pregnancy that may harm the

be frequently unemployed.

large workloads.

development of the foetus.

They also struggle in their

All of the above challenges

According to Dr Jeeva,

personal lives. The divorce

increase ADHD patients’ risk

lifestyle factors like stress,

rate is nearly twice as high for

for depression, anxiety, and

technological distractions,

adults with ADHD compared

substance abuse. According

and bad eating habits are

to healthy couples, according

to clinical psychiatrist

unlikely to cause ADHD, but

to Dr A. J. Marsden, an

Dr Renata Schoeman, about

they should be considered in

assistant professor of human

80% of adults with ADHD

the management of ADHD.

services and psychology

suffer from psychiatric

at the Beacon College in

disorders. About 40% of them

Although lifestyle factors

America. In an article in

have symptoms of anxiety

don’t cause ADHD, Dr

Health Journal he says that

and 35% have symptoms of

Schoeman says that it may

people with ADHD are more

ma jor depressive disorder.

produce symptoms that

likely to get divorced due to

These psychiatric disorders

are similar to ADHD. “For

their increased distractibility,

can disrupt their lives further,

example, many people will

forgetfulness, and impulsivity.

which can eventually lead to

read their emails, browse

There is normally a lot of

them seeking treatment and

the internet, and check their

anger and resentment from

being diagnosed with ADHD.

phone at the same time.”

References: www.webmd.com/add-adhd | www.thehealthjournals.com/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder www.myadhd.co.za/about-adhd | www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov | Biederman J, Faraone SV, Spencer TJ, et al. Functional impairments in adults with self-reports of diagnosed ADHD: A controlled study of 1001 adults in the community. J Clin Psychiatry 2006; 67: 524-540 Interviews with: Shabeer Jeeva <jeeva786@rogers.com> | Dr Renata Schoeman oudewesthof@renataschoeman.co.za

Being constantly

Managing ADHD

distracted from your task at hand may

An unhealthy lifestyle can

interfere with your

aggravate the symptoms

ability to concentrate

of ADHD, according to Dr

AND finish tasks, and

Jeeva. “It’s important to

you may become more

follow a healthy diet that is

forgetful and find

high in protein. A diet high in

yourself forgetting

carbohydrates and junk food

important meetings or

can make symptoms worse.

deadlines. It’s therefore

Avoid stimulating foods like

important to limit your

chocolate, sweets, sugar,

daily distractions and

coffee, fizzy drinks, and

to focus on one task at

energy drinks.”

Adults with ADHD face unique challenges, including difficulty managing their time and impaired social skills that may impact their productivity and their reputation at work.

a time to prevent these symptoms.

He also recommends 30–45 minutes of exercise five

Diagnosing ADHD

times a week to improve your overall health.

If you suspect that you are suffering from ADHD, it’s

It’s also important to limit

important to seek help.

your daily distractions

Dr Jeeva recommends

and to avoid spending

consulting a doctor or

too much time playing

therapist that specialises in

computer games and using

ADHD, as most doctors aren’t

technological devices. Dr

equipped to diagnose and

Jeeva recommends no more

treat adult ADHD.

than three hours a day.

“Your doctor will also

Cognitive-behavioural

determine if anxiety and

therapy can make a positive

depression as a comorbidity,

difference in your personal

meaning an effect of

and work relationships.

untreated ADHD, has set in.

If so, they will recommend

In severe cases, your doctor

medication that helps to

will recommend medication

increase the neurotransmitter

and mood enhancers to

brain chemicals, dopamine

relieve your symptoms.

for focus and attention, and norepinephrine for impulisivity

For further advice, please

and hyperactivity,” says Dr

consult your doctor or

Jeeva.

therapist.

Written by: Liezl Russell, Freelance Journalist

page 17

all about

Bullying and your child

beginning For most children the fill ed with is ar ye l oo of a new sch ent, but em cit expectation and ex ool sch to ck ba for some, going g tin lia mi hu a d an l is stressfu tless children experience as coun , harassment ing lly bu fall victim to ls. and abuse at schoo

Research found that 57% of South African school children claim to have been bullied at school.

What is school bullying?

+ In some cases, bullies are

form of bullying needs

being abused at home and

to be noted as a distinct

they take out their anger on

phenomenon impacting the

one or more children they

lives of many young people,

deem most likely to “take

families and communities.

it” and not stand up for themselves. They might also

Researchers note that there

Bullying in school occurs

bully children from healthy

are differences in school

when one student or a group

homes out of their envy for

bullying patterns between

of students intentionally hurt

their normal and happy lives.

boys and girls. Boys tend to be

another student. Bullying

more physical while girls are

has two key components: repeated harmful acts and an imbalance of power. It involves

verbal and use social bullying

Types of school bullying + Verbal: excessive and

methods to hurt others. This passive-aggressive type of

repeated physical, verbal or

malicious teasing, insulting

bullying may be harder for

psychological attacks or

remarks, name calling,

adults to detect.

intimidation directed against

embarrassing jokes

a victim who cannot properly

and revealing intimate

defend him- or herself because

information, cursing, crude

of size or strength, or because

and inappropriate sexual

the victim is outnumbered or

comments, threats and

less psychologically resilient.

taunting.

peers at school, in the

kicking, pushing and shoving. + Social: ignoring a certain

community, or in social

person, casting them out of

groups. There are even cases

a group, making them feel

of teachers bullying students.

left out, spreading rumours about them and telling other

Who is the bully?

+ The bully (or bullies) may

kids not to be friends with

consequences beyond + Some victims experience psychological and/or physical distress. + They are frequently absent and cannot concentrate on schoolwork. + Threaten students’ physical and emotional safety. + They generally have a low

them. + Cyber bullying: when

have self-esteem issues and

a child is tormented,

would only feel better about

threatened, harassed,

themselves by picking on

humiliated, embarrassed

someone who is weaker and

or otherwise targeted

less powerful.

by another child, using

+ The bully/bullies may

+ Victims of bullying suffer embarrassment.

+ Physical: hitting, tripping, Bullying can occur between

Consequences of bullying

the Internet, interactive

self-esteem. + Their victimisation can lead to depression that can last for years after the victimisation. + Children stay at home to avoid being bullied. + Some children who are

develop a herd mentality

and digital technologies

bullied experience poorer

and pick on a child who

or mobile phones. It is

health, more frequently

does not conform to what

usually not a one-time

contemplate suicide, and

they view as normal.

communication act but

suffer from depression,

+ Children bully other children

extends over a period of

social dysfunction, anxiety,

to be seen as “cool” to avoid

time. The emergence of

and insomnia.

being bullied themselves.

cyber bullying as a new Written by: Prof Eldrie Gouws (Ph.D, Psychology of Education)

page 19

all about

How do you know if your child is a victim of bullying?

Guidelines for parents to prevent bullying The best way to address

bullying behaviour, let that

A child may display the

bullying is to stop it

person talk about his or

following signs:

before it starts.

her experiences, and offer

+ Withdrawal, loss of appetite

+ Listen to children. If someone

support in a non-judgmental

or having trouble sleeping. + Poor self-esteem.

tells you bullying is taking place, take action.

+ Having suicidal thoughts or

+ Seek counselling for your

attempts to commit suicide.

child if he/she shows signs of

+ A sudden decrease in academic performance. + Fear of going to school, riding the bus or taxi, walking to school, or taking

being bullied. + Teach your children to report

not their fault. + If someone is exhibiting

way. + Be a positive role model.

Set a good example. + Take a leadership position in preventing bullying by developing and

bullying safely yet

implementing a bullying-

immediately.

prevention initiative at

+ Ask open-ended questions

part in organised activities

about their relationships with

with peers.

their teachers and their peers.

+ Frequent complaints of

being bullied that bullying is

+ Let children know you are

home. Set consequences.

Make bullying unacceptable. + Monitor cell phone and Internet usage of children. + If you are worried that

headaches and stomach-

there to support them and

aches.

you will do all you can to help

your child might be bullied,

them feel safe.

you should discuss your

+ Unexplained physical marks, cuts, bruises and scrapes.

Advice to children who are BEING bullied + Tell your parents or teachers. + When bullied, stay calm and don't fight back. + Avoid vulnerable situations.

+ Reassure children who are

concerns with the school.

+ Don't be alone in hallways,

info also includes pictures

restrooms or empty

of yourself and your email

classrooms.

address. Never tell anyone

+ Never give out or share personal information online, including your name, the

your passwords. + Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t reply to messages from cyberbullies. + Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t erase or delete

Walk to school earlier or

names of friends or family,

later in the day, or walk with

your address, phone number

messages from cyberbullies

siblings or friends.

and school name. Personal

but keep them as evidence.

SMOKING VS VAPING

? r e t t e b g in p a v s I

r health and that it can tobacco is bad for you ng oki e sm t tha w kno We all why many people hav other diseases. Th at is ttes) are cig (es tte lead to lung cancer and are cig c cigarettes for electroni swapped their regular ) better for your health? (the use of e-cigarettes ing vap instead. But, is Although there hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been

Organisation report from August

Since e-cigarettes are a

sufficient research carried

2016 the prevalence of e-cigarette

fairly new technology, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

out to show the current

is rapidly increasing in some

not yet been possible to

trend of e-cigarettes in

countries, including the largest

determine its long-term

South Africa, there is a rapid

market in the world, the USA.

effects. It may seem that vaping compared to

increase in the number of people who use e-cigarettes

In fact, a projection by research

smoking could be less

across the globe, according

company Bloomberg Industries,

harmful to your health, but

to the Cancer Organisation

shows that e-cigarette sales

according to CANSA, further

of South Africa (CANSA).

could surpass traditional tobacco

studies are necessary to

According to a World Health

sales by as early as 2023.

determine all the risks.

page 21

know it all The difference between regular cigarettes AND e-cigarettes

its stimulating and relaxing

are smokeless and they often

effects. E-cigarettes, on the

taste nice due to flavours, people

other hand, are battery-operated

believe that it is healthier than

devices that also contain nicotine

cigarettes, as research has shown

but in a liquid form that is

that tobacco smoke has a strong

heated and released as a vapour.

link to the development of cancer.

the addictive drug, nicotine.

Some e-cigarettes don’t

However, vaping may have

Tobacco in regular cigarettes

contain nicotine, but they do

health risks too that may be just

contains nicotine, which you have

contain other chemicals and

as harmful as the ones posed

to burn and inhale to experience

flavours. Because e-cigarettes

by traditional cigarettes.

Both regular cigarettes and e-cigarettes expose people to

Because e-cigarettes are smokeless and they often taste nice due to flavours, many people believe that it’s a healthier alternative to cigarettes, as research has shown that tobacco smoke has a strong link to the development of cancer.

How vaping may harm your health

2. It may contain cancercausing chemicals

in a statement: That may be true

1. It may increase your risk for cardiovascular disease

E-cigarettes may also contain

quit, but the problem is, it

chemicals that can cause cancer,

doesn’t mean that they’re

according to a study in the

healthy. Regular cigarettes are

It’s common knowledge that

journal Environmental Science

super unhealthy. E-cigarettes

smoking can increase your risk

& Technology. During the study

are just unhealthy.

for cardiovascular diseases like

researchers analysed the vapour

heart attacks and strokes. Until

of two different e-cigarettes.

recently, experts weren’t sure if

for certain users, for example, long time smokers that cannot

3. It may damage your mouth and gums

or how vaping would affect your

They found that e-cigarettes

heart. However, a recent study

release 31 harmful chemicals,

A study in the journal

in the journal JAMA Cardiology

including two that can be

Oncotarget, found that

has found that people who vape

linked to cancer. The number of

e-cigarettes may be just as

may not be better off than their

chemicals that is released varies,

damaging to your mouth and

tobacco-smoking counterparts.

based on the temperature at

gums as traditional cigarettes.

which the liquids are vaporised.

During the study, researchers

The higher the temperature, the

When researchers exposed the

compared people who had

more chemicals are emitted.

cells of human oral tissue to

been regularly vaping for a year

the vapour of e-cigarettes, the

to healthy non-smokers, and

In a reaction to e-cigarette

cells produced inflammatory

found that vapers had increased

advocates who claim that

proteins, which cause a stress

levels of adrenaline in the heart

e-cigarettes’ emissions are

response within the cell.

and increased oxidative stress,

still much lower compared to

which are the same biological

traditional cigarettes, study

This stress response can have a

markers that increase the risk of

co-author and Berkeley Lab

damaging effect on the cells that

heart disease in tobacco users.

researcher Hugo Destaillats said

can lead to several oral diseases.

What’s more, some of the flavours added to the nicotine liquid can further increase the risk of cellular damage, said study contributor Fawad Javed.

Research has so far been unable to find a strong link between vaping and helping people to quit smoking.

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

Can vaping help you quit smoking?

Who should avoid vaping?

can potentially lead to learning

The original purpose of the

At the moment, there is

Nicotine can also negatively

first commercially successful

strong scientific evidence that

affect the development of

e-cigarette, invented in 2003,

warns children, teenagers,

a foetus during pregnancy.

was to help people quit

pregnant women, and women

smoking.

of reproductive age against says CANSA.

What to consider if you vape

Although nicotine itself is not a

If you choose to vape, make

e-cigarette and nicotine use, However, research has so far

and anxiety disorders.

been unable to find a strong link between vaping and

helping people to quit smoking. carcinogen, it may function as a

sure you choose a product that

‘tumour promoter’ and seems to

fully discloses the chemicals

Given the scarcity and low

play a role in the development

used, so that you can educate

quality of scientific evidence, it

of serious diseases, like cancer.

yourself on their potential

cannot be determined whether

harmful effects.

e-cigarettes may help most

Children and teenagers who

smokers quit or prevent them

are exposed to nicotine may

However, the best thing you

from doing so, according to

also suffer long-term brain

can do for your health is to quit

CANSA.

development consequences that

smoking altogether.

Written by: Liezl Russell, Freelance Journalist

page 23

WE ARE GOING

!

D I R G E H T F F O How do you cut down on your environmental impact while enjoying a well-deserved holiday? Go off the grid! We compiled a list of eco-friendly stays where you can get close to nature and relax and help save the planet while youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at it.

Wolwekrans Eco Lodge, Schoemanskloof - mpumalanga From R1400 per night for 4 people This 100% eco-friendly lodge is located on an escarpment boasting panoramic views of the Lowveld Valley and the Schoemansberg Mountains.

Kurisa Moya, Magoebaskloof - LIMpOPO

From R1600 per night for 2 people Make your way to Kurisa Moya, an ecolodge nestled in unspoilt nature, peace and tranquillity. They offer walking and hiking trails, 4x4 drives, abseiling, guided bird walks and so much more.

Eyeview, Bonjala - NORTH WEST

From R300 per night for 2 people Surround yourself with peace and tranquillity on a hilltop at Eyeview.

You might even spot game from the balconies of some of the units.

page 25

TravelGround

Karoo Eco Reserve, Graaff-Reinet - EASTERN CAPE

From R750 per night for 2 people This amazing reserve is set high up in the Sneeuberg Mountains, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It is the ideal place to relax with friends and family in nature.

The Bush Camp at Welgedacht, Dinokeng - GAUTENG PROVINCE

From R3000 per night for 2 people The Welgedacht Private Game Reserve shares a border with the Dinokeng Big 5 Game Reserve. So, book a stay here for an authentic African experience while giving Mother Nature a break.

Satori Farm Lodge, Natal Midlands - kwazulu-natal

From R700 per night for 2 people Satori Farm Lodge is located in the magical Midlands and is surrounded by mountains and fresh mountain streams. This eco-friendly lodge is a piece of paradise waiting to be discovered.

Noup, Namaqualand - NORTHERN CAPE

From R1250 per night for 2 people Restful and seemingly deserted, Noup is quietly tucked away between the mining towns of Kleinsee and Koingnaas on the Diamond Coast.

You will be charmed by the unique character of this seaside village.

Pear Tree Cottage, Storms River - EASTERN CAPE

From R800 per night for 2 people Unwind and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life at this quaint cottage while you listen to the trees rustling in the breeze. Be on the lookout for a whole range of bird species by the pond.

The Travelling Tortoise Retreat, De Rust - WESTERN CAPE From R450 per night for 2 people This resort is set in natural Klein Karoo veld just 10km from the pretty town of De Rust. Imagine lazing the day away on one of those balconies overlooking the vast landscape.

Morung Glam Camp at Affi Lande Boetiek Guest Farm, Clarens - FREE STATE From R1000 per night for 2 people Sit back and relax in luxury at this unique bush camp. This log cabin is completely off the grid and equipped for self-catering, so you don’t have to see a single soul while you stay here.

Wild, off the grid, style and comfort, Suurbraak - WESTERN CAPE

From R1400 per night for 2 people This architectural marvel is set on the outskirts of Suurbraak, a historic village and old mission station established in 1812. You’ll be surrounded by mountains and wetlands while you’re relaxing at this beautiful home.

Source: All images found on Travelground.com

page 27

first aid

Your guide to:

ME

O H R U O Y G N I F O O R P L L FA 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.

There is a pattern to

be prevented. In addition to

falls among the elderly:

assessing your loved onesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

The fear of falling, then

fall risks and taking simple

the injury, followed

health steps to prevent falls,

by hospitalisation and

you can also help reduce

decreased independence

your risks of falling at home

and mobility.

by making simple changes.

Falls in seniors can be a

TIPS TO Fall-Proof Your Home

ma jor life-changing event with severe repercussions.

A fall leads to a greater fear

The bathroom is the area

of falling, which can lead to

you should focus on first

reduced physical activity

because thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where most

and fitness - thus increasing

senior falls occur. Grab bars

the actual risk of falls and

may need to be installed

worsening their quality of life.

in various places and rugs should cover areas where

Fortunately, many falls can

slipping might occur.

Here are recommendations to help YOU keep your elderly relative safe from falling in your OR THEIR home environment:

1. Remove anything that could cause tripping or slipping while walking.

6. Use caution at night.

Small furniture and

people are groggy and

attach rugs to the floor

everyday clutter, such

balance isn’t always the

with double-sided tape.

as bags, pet bowls, small

best. Place a lamp next to

decor, electrical and phone

the elderly person’s bed,

cords, or even throw rugs

along with night lights in

can cause falls.

the bathroom, hallway

Night time is one of the most dangerous times as

8. Make sure carpets are secured.

Use non-slip rugs, or

9. Use handrails.

Stairs are one of the most

and kitchen. Also keep a

dangerous places in the

flashlight by their bed in

home for seniors. Make

2. Avoid wet floors.

case the power goes out

sure your senior relative

It’s important to be

and they need to get up at

knows to use the handrails

cognizant of drips from the

night.

and avoid carrying items up and down the stairs

shower and faucets that

with both hands as it’s

can pose a tripping hazard.

Use only non-skid wax on waxed floors, to also help avoid slippery surfaces.

5. Create clear walking paths.

important they have

Arrange all furniture so

support to keep their

your elderly loved one has

balance.

plenty of room to walk freely. It’s also important

3. Wear suitable shoes.

to remove items from

Wearing unsuitable

stairs and hallways that

footwear increases the risk

may act as a tripping

of falling. Make sure your

hazard.

10. Make sure the house is well-lit.

Good lighting is one of

the most simple ways to

shoes have non-slip soles

avoid falls. Since eyesight

and heels of reasonable

diminishes with age, it’s

7. Keep up a regular health and exercise regime.

important to make sure

Preventative health is very

light to help seniors take

heel cup that goes around

important. By eating a

in their surroundings and

the back of the heel also

healthy diet and staying

avoid any obstacles in

stabilises the ankle.

physically active, seniors

their path. You should

can improve their balance,

have enough lighting at

coordination and health.

entrances, in each room,

4. Use non-slip items in the bathroom.

For exercises, help your

on the stairs, and on

elderly loved one focus

outdoor walkways. Use

Put non-slip strips or a

on balance exercises and

bulbs with the highest

rubber mat on the floor of

lower-body strength, which

wattage recommended for

your bathtub or shower.

can help prevent falls.

the fixture.

height, and are wide enough to prevent any twisting of the foot. A good

the living space has ample

Sources: www.aplaceformom.com, www.publichealth.gc.ca

page 29

first aid What to do after a fall…

the chair or object.

• Place your stronger leg in front, holding on to the

If you can get up:

chair or object.

Do not panic. The first

• Stand up.

thing to do is to catch your

• Very carefully, turn and

breath. Assess the situation

sit down.

where you will be heard.

• Make noise with your cane or another object to attract attention.

• Wait for help in the most comfortable position for you.

• If able, place a pillow

and determine if you are

under your head and

hurt. Even if you think you’re OK, take your time

If you cannot get up:

cover yourself with a

before getting up again.

If you feel any discomfort

piece of clothing or a

or are unable to get up, try

Follow these five steps for getting up:

• Lie on your side, bend the

to get help.

blanket to stay warm.

• Slowly try to move your joints and muscles to

• Call out for help if you

leg that is on top and lift

think you can be heard.

yourself onto your elbows

• If you have an emergency

ease circulation and prevent stiffness.

call device or telephone

Practice these steps

• Pull yourself toward an

at hand, use it.

often and be prepared

armchair or a sturdy

• If you don’t, try to

or hands.

FOR in case you fall.

object, then kneel while

slide yourself towards

Most IMPORTANT of all,

placing both hands on

a telephone or a place

stay calm.

WhEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

• vision problems

Never underestimate the

Symptoms may appear in the days that follow a fall.

seriousness of a fall. Even if it appears no harm was

• drowsiness

If you fall, take note of your

done, there could be after-

condition. If you witness a

effects.

fall, take note of the person’s condition. In some cases, a

reasons for seeing

fall may be the sign of an

a doctor:

illness, or it may be caused

• loss of consciousness just

by medication.

before or after the fall • injuries • a strong or lingering pain • dizziness

It's always better to mention falls to your doctor.

He or she can then assess

• nausea

the situation and see if the

• overall weakness or

fall is linked to an illness,

unsteadiness • headaches

prescribed medication or over-the-counter drugs.

YOUR s to Email your question .za experts@intercare.co

Recurring kidney stones

I had kidney stones last year. What are the chances that I will get it again? Is there anything I can do to prevent kidney stones like drinking water with lemon?

The chance of a recurrence of kidney stones after a first episode is 70-80% or 50% over five years. This can increase with underlying genetic tendencies. Several years ago there was not much a patient could do to prevent a recurrence, but nowadays medical treatment can be tailor made to prevent a recurrence in 95% of sufferers. It's very important to be able to catch the stone, if at all possible, to analyse its content, which will help to select the most effective treatment.

Prevention is achieved through: 1. Hydration: Drinking lots of fluids is essential.

2. Diet: 73% of stones are made up of calcium oxalate. So by cutting down on oxalate-rich foods like beer, chocolate, cheese, cola, coffee and tea, your risk will diminish. High animal protein and sodium diets increase risk, whereas diets rich in potassium and magnesium decrease risk.

3. Medication: Once again, the composition of the stone will guide drug selection. Medication that increases the citrate content in the urine helps to stop the formation of calcium oxalate stones. The same effect can be achieved by drinking lemonade.

These questions were answered by Dr Lisa Lovell, a General Practitioner from Intercare Medical and Dental Centre Glenfair

Contact our Intercare experts at INTERCARE GLENFAIR Tel: 012 368 8800 | Fax: 012 368 8801 Email: glenfair@intercare.co.za Address: Glenfair Boulevard, Corner of Lynnwood and Daventry Roads, Lynnwood, Pretoria

Pre-diabetes diagnosis

I was diagnosed with pre-diabetes in January. Can you eat right and exercise enough for it to go away? What type of diet and exercise will help me?

'Pre-diabetes' is also referred to as impaired glucose tolerance. This means that your body is not responding to the insulin it produces as effectively as it did in the past. It can be detected using a fasting glucose blood test or OGTT (oral glucose tolerance test). Fortunately, the progression of the disease is relatively slow, and in the early stages lifestyle changes can decrease your risk to full diabetes by 58%. Contact a dietician or certified diabetes educator to organise a meal plan for you. At least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily will also aid your body to respond to the existing insulin and drop the glucose level.

Additional benefits of exercise include weight loss, mood enhancement, better sleep and a healthy heart.

Persistent sinuses

My two daughters (ages 8 and 11) both have persistent sinus trouble, and seem to have trouble after eating certain foods, especially fruit juice. Could this be a real problem, or am I just being a paranoid mom?

Sinuses are small hollow pockets found in the bones of the cheeks, nose and forehead. They produce mucus which drains out through the nasal passages.

Occasionally these outlets get blocked due to swelling which is caused by allergies or underlying infection (usually viral) and the pain that is felt is due to a pressure buildup. A secondary bacterial infection can then occur. People can have many allergies including to components in fruit juice. Luckily, food allergies can be easily detected by eliminating the food in your diet and observing any results. You can also make an appointment with a paediatrician or allergist to do skin prick tests or blood tests to pick up any existing allergies.

page 31

recipe SERVES FOUR

DELICIOUS ce. redible Cajun prawn sau minutes. re delicious with this inc Alfredo pasta just got mo with great flavours and can be on the table in 20 packed is ipe rec ta pas lthy hea This

Ingredients • 225g pasta (linguine or fettuccine works well) • 500g prawns (shelled) • 2 teaspoons olive oil • 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Prep time: 10 minutes tes Cook time: 15 minu tes Total time: 25 minu

Instructions 1. Cook the pasta according

butter. Add the garlic and cook, stirring for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Whisk in the flour, and cook, whisking constantly, until it is lightly browned, about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in

to the package directions in

the milk, stirring until it is

a large pot of boiling water.

incorporated and smooth.

Drain.

Add the thyme, oregano, salt,

2. Meanwhile, heat a non-stick

pepper and Parmesan and whisk continuously for 3–4

skillet over medium heat. Toss

minutes until the sauce has

the prawns with the olive oil

thickened slightly. Reduce

• 1 ¾ cup milk

and the Cajun seasoning. Add

the heat to a low simmer

• ½ teaspoon dried

the prawns to the skillet and

until the pasta is ready.

• 2 tablespoons allpurpose flour

thyme • ½ teaspoon dried oregano • ¼ teaspoon salt • ¼ teaspoon pepper • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

cook for about 4 minutes, flipping once, until they are

4. Toss together the pasta

completely pink. Set aside

and Alfredo sauce and serve

and keep warm.

with the Cajun prawns on

3. In a medium saucepan, over medium heat, melt the

top. Garnish with parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired.

page 33