An article written by Dr. Mohammad Abbass, consultant Pediatrician

Indeed, we need to differentiate between Allergy and  Atopy : In both forms, there is a genetic predisposition and we may encounter different types of allergies or atopies within the same family.

Allergy is an abnormal immune reaction or response to a substance or substances from outside the body called allergens . This reaction may be mild, in the form of simple itching, or it may be severe and life-threatening.

We can divide allergens into three groups

The first are allergens that are transmitted through the air which can includes dust , mold, pollen, domestic animal dander , the remains of some insects such as cockroaches, and other materials.

An article written by Dr. Mohammad Abbass, consultant Pediatrician

We notice many wrong and sometimes harmful habits Parents may use it due to lack of knowledge when using compresses to reduce a child’s temperature, and here I will explain the correct ways to use compresses to reduce a child’s temperature.

First , it must be emphasized that the temperature of the water used in the compresses is moderate, so that if we put our hand in the water we do not feel cold or hot, as the temperature is approximately between 30 - 33 C, and certainly we should not use ice water at all.

Secondly, where to put compresses, the best places are around the neck, forearms, under the armpits, and between the thighs. They can be placed on the forehead, but using compresses on the forehead only gives relief from the headache and pain associated with fever, but their effect on reducing the temperature is limited, so we should not be satisfied with applying compresses only on the forehead.

Flying is not harmful to you or your baby, but discuss any health issues or pregnancy complications with your doctor before you fly.

The likelihood of going into labour is naturally higher after 37 weeks (around 32 weeks if you're carrying twins), and some airlines will not let you fly towards the end of your pregnancy. Check with the airline for their policy on this.

After week 28 of pregnancy, the airline may ask for a letter from your doctor confirming your due date, and that you aren't at risk of complications.

Long-distance travel (longer than five hours) carries a small risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT). If you fly, drink plenty of water and move about regularly – every 30 minutes or so. You can buy a pair of graduated compression or support stockings from the pharmacy, which will help reduce leg swelling.

Smoking during pregnancy is associated with an increase incidence of miscarriage, preterm delivery, placenta praevia , placenta abruption, low birth weight , congenital malformation, sudden unexplained neonatal death .....

What is premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?

Many women feel physical or mood changes during the days before menstruation. When these symptoms happen month after month, and they affect a woman’s normal life, they are known as PMS.

What are some common symptoms of PMS?

Emotional symptoms include the following:

• Depression
• Angry outbursts
• Irritability
• Crying spells
•  Anxiety
•  Confusion
• Social withdrawal
• Poor concentration
• Insomnia
• Increased nap taking
• Changes in sexual desirePhysical symptoms include the following:A
• Thirst and appetite changes (food cravings)
• Breast tenderness
• Bloating and weight gain
• Headache
• Swelling of the hands or feet
• Aches and pains
• Fatigue
• Skin problems
• Gastrointestinal symptoms
• Abdominal pain

Your body is experiencing many changes. One of the most prominent changes is your shape and weight.

Maintaining an active lifestyle with regular exercise will help you stay healthy and flexible.

Exercise helps in stress management and goes a long way in helping you curb the demands of labour and motherhood.

You can take up any form of physical activity after consulting your doctor. Some activities include walking, swimming and yoga.

During pregnancy, the volume of the blood increases, thereby increasing the strain on your heart. A 45-minute workout schedule will boost circulation and strengthen your heart, and your baby will receive oxygen-rich blood for healthy development.

Could exercise lead to a miscarriage?

In fact, most experts agree that exercise during pregnancy, with your doctor’s approval, can lower miscarriage risk and make mom and baby healthier.

That’s because exercise reduces stress, relieves aches and pains, lowers your gestational diabetes risk, and even builds up stamina for labor.

 How Much Calcium Does A Pregnant Woman Need?

the calcium intake requirements are:

19 years and older, including pregnant women – 1,000mg (1g) a day

14 to 18 years – 1300mg (1.3g) a day.

To reduce heartburn during pregnancy without hurting your baby, you should try the following:

• Eat several small meals each day instead of three large ones.
• Eat slowly.
• Avoid fried, spicy, or rich (fatty) foods or any foods that seem to cause relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and increase the risk of heartburn.
• Drink less while eating. Drinking large amounts while eating may increase the risk of acid reflux and heartburn.
• Don't lie down directly after eating.
• Keep the head of your bed higher than the foot of your bed. Or place pillows under your shoulders to help prevent stomach acids from rising into your esophagus.
• Ask your doctor about using over-the-counter medications such as Tums or Maalox, which are generally safe to use during pregnancy. You may find that liquid heartburn relievers are more effective in treating heartburn because they coat the esophagus.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing. Tight-fitting clothes can increase the pressure on your stomach and abdomen.
• Avoid constipation.

When you're pregnant, you may develop anemia. When you have anemia, your blood doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to your tissues and to your baby.

During pregnancy, your body produces more blood to support the growth of your baby. If you're not getting enough iron or certain other nutrients, your body might not be able to produce the amount of red blood cells it needs to make this additional blood.

It's normal to have mild anemia when you are pregnant. But you may have more severe anemia from low iron or vitamin levels or from other reasons.

Anemia can leave you feeling tired and weak. If it is severe but goes untreated, it can increase your risk of serious complications like preterm delivery.