Measles
Measles is a highly infectious disease caused by the rubeola virus.
- Basically, Measles is a highly contagious viral disease.
- It remains an important cause of death among young children globally, despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine.
- Under the Global Vaccine Action Plan, measles also rubella are targeted for elimination in five WHO Regions by 2020.
- In detail, WHO is the lead technical agency responsible for coordination of immunization and surveillance activities supporting all countries to achieve this goal.
Measles is transmitted via droplets from the nose, mouth or throat of infected persons.
- Initial symptoms, which usually appear 10–12 days after infection, include high fever, a runny nose, bloodshot eyes, also tiny white spots on the inside of the mouth.
- Furthermore, Several days later, a rash develops, starting on the face and upper neck and gradually spreading downwards.
Worldwide Death Ratio
- While global measles deaths have decreased by 84 percent worldwide in recent years from 550,100 deaths in 2000 to 89,780 in 2016 measles is still common in many developing countries, especially in parts of Africa and Asia.
Measles is a serious disease in the malnourished, vitamin-deficient or immunocompromised, in whom the typical rash may be missing and persistent infection with a giant cell pneumonitis or encephalitis may occur.
- Besides this, In tuberculosis infection, measles suppresses cell mediated immunity and may exacerbate disease; for this reason, measles vaccination should be deferred until after commencing anti tuberculous treatment.
Measles does not cause congenital malformation but may be more severe in pregnant women.
- Mortality clusters at the extremes of age, averaging 1:1000 in developed countries also up to 1:4 in developing countries.
- Death usually results from a bacterial superinfection, occurring as a complication of measles, most often pneumonia, diarrheic disease or Noma/ centrum oris, a gangrenous stomatitis.
- Lastly, Death may also result from complications of measles encephalitis.
Measles is caused by infection with the rubeola virus.
The virus lives in the mucus of the nose and throat of an infected either child or adult.
The disease is contagious for 4 days before the rash appears, and it continues to be contagious for about 4 to 5 days after.
Infection spreads through:
- Physical contact with an infected person
- Being near infected people if they cough or sneeze
- Touching a surface that has infected droplets of mucus and then putting fingers into the mouth, or rubbing the nose or eyes.
The virus remains active on an object for 2 hours.
Development of infection:
- As soon as the virus enters the body, it multiplies in the back of the throat, lungs, and the lymphatic system.
- It later infects and replicates in the urinary tract, eyes, blood vessels, and central nervous system.
- The virus takes 1 to 3 weeks to establish itself, but symptoms appear between 9 and 11 days after initial infection.
- Anyone who has never been infected or vaccinated is likely to become ill if they breathe in infected droplets or are in close physical contact with an infected person.
- Approximately 90 percent of people who are not immune will develop measles if they share a house with an infected person.
When it comes to meal types for menopause, it’s essential to focus on meals that support overall health, manage menopausal symptoms, and meet nutritional needs, such as bone health, heart health, hormonal balance, and managing weight. Below are types of meals that can be beneficial during menopause, along with their key characteristics:
1. Balanced Meals (General Nutrition)
Characteristics:
These meals aim to provide a balance of macronutrients (protein, carbs, and fats) while including a variety of micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) to support overall health.
Key Focus:
Lean proteins: Chicken, turkey, fish, tofu, beans, and legumes.
Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, oats, whole wheat bread, and barley.
Healthy fats: Olive oil, avocado, nuts, and seeds.
Colorful vegetables: Leafy greens, bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and sweet potatoes.
Example:
Grilled salmon with quinoa and steamed broccoli.
Whole-grain toast with scrambled eggs and avocado, served with a side of fresh fruit.
2. Bone-Boosting Meals
Characteristics:
These meals are rich in calcium and vitamin D to help prevent bone density loss, a common concern for women after menopause.
Key Focus:
Calcium-rich foods: Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), leafy greens (kale, bok choy), fortified plant-based milks (almond, soy), tofu, and sesame seeds.
Vitamin D: Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), fortified foods, egg yolks, and mushrooms.
Magnesium: Dark leafy greens, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
Example:
Greek yogurt with chia seeds, almonds, and berries.
Baked salmon with a side of sautéed spinach and quinoa.
3. Heart-Healthy Meals
Characteristics:
These meals focus on protecting cardiovascular health, which is important during menopause due to the increased risk of heart disease after estrogen levels decline.
Key Focus:
Omega-3 fatty acids: Fatty fish (salmon, sardines), chia seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts.
Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, nuts.
Whole grains and fiber: Oats, quinoa, barley, brown rice, legumes.
Antioxidants: Berries, leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts), and tomatoes.
Example:
Quinoa salad with spinach, avocado, walnuts, and grilled chicken.
Grilled salmon with roasted sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli.
4. Hormone-Balancing Meals (Phytoestrogen-Rich)
Characteristics:
These meals incorporate foods rich in phytoestrogens, plant compounds that can help balance estrogen levels during menopause, potentially alleviating symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.
Key Focus:
Soy products: Tofu, tempeh, edamame, soy milk.
Flaxseeds and sesame seeds: High in lignans, a type of phytoestrogen.
Chickpeas, lentils, and beans: Rich in plant-based estrogens.
Fruits and vegetables: Especially those with a high water content like cucumbers and bell peppers.
Example:
Tofu stir-fry with broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas, served with brown rice.
Whole-wheat pita stuffed with hummus, avocado, and chickpeas.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Meals
Characteristics:
These meals focus on reducing inflammation, which can help manage menopause symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, and mood swings.
Key Focus:
Anti-inflammatory foods: Berries, leafy greens, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and green tea.
Omega-3s: Fatty fish, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Healthy fats: Olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds.
Example:
Grilled chicken with turmeric-roasted vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, bell peppers).
Salmon with a side of steamed broccoli and a spinach salad with a turmeric-olive oil dressing.
6. Weight Management Meals
Characteristics:
During menopause, many women may experience weight gain, especially around the abdomen. These meals focus on controlling portion sizes, managing blood sugar levels, and increasing metabolism.
Key Focus:
High protein: Lean meats, fish, legumes, and low-fat dairy.
Fiber-rich foods: Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
Healthy fats: Small portions of nuts, seeds, and avocado.
Low glycemic index (GI) foods: Foods that help prevent rapid spikes in blood sugar.
Example:
Grilled turkey or chicken breast with a mixed green salad (leafy greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes) and a vinaigrette dressing.
Lentil soup with vegetables, served with a side of whole-grain crackers.
7. Menopause-Specific Meals for Mood and Sleep Support
Characteristics:
These meals are designed to support mood stability and promote restful sleep, both of which can be affected during menopause due to hormonal fluctuations.
Key Focus:
Magnesium-rich foods: Dark leafy greens, seeds, nuts, and whole grains to promote relaxation and improve sleep.
B Vitamins: Whole grains, leafy greens, eggs, and legumes to support brain health and reduce anxiety.
Tryptophan-rich foods: Turkey, eggs, dairy, and nuts, as tryptophan is an amino acid that helps produce serotonin, which can support mood.
Example:
Quinoa bowl with chickpeas, spinach, pumpkin seeds, and a lemon-tahini dressing.
Baked chicken with roasted sweet potatoes and a side of steamed broccoli.
8. Hydrating Meals (for Hot Flashes and Night Sweats)
Characteristics:
Staying hydrated is essential for managing hot flashes and night sweats during menopause. These meals include foods with high water content and those that help maintain hydration.
Key Focus:
Water-rich foods: Cucumbers, watermelon, celery, and tomatoes.
Electrolyte balance: Coconut water, leafy greens, avocados, and bananas.
Example:
Watermelon and cucumber salad with feta cheese and mint.
Grilled chicken with a side of roasted vegetables and a cucumber-tomato salad.
9. Low-Glycemic Meals (Blood Sugar Control)
Characteristics:
Women going through menopause may experience changes in blood sugar regulation, leading to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. These meals focus on stabilizing blood sugar and reducing the risk of diabetes.
Key Focus:
Low-glycemic index foods: Non-starchy vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and fruits like berries.
Healthy fats and proteins: Avocados, olive oil, lean meats, tofu, and fish.
Fiber-rich foods: To slow down the absorption of sugar and keep blood sugar levels steady.
Example:
Grilled salmon with roasted Brussels sprouts and quinoa.
Stir-fried tofu with broccoli, bell peppers, and cauliflower rice.
10. Smoothies (Quick, Nutrient-Dense Meals)
Characteristics:
Smoothies are a great option for a quick, nutrient-dense meal that supports overall health during menopause. You can pack them with a variety of ingredients to meet specific needs like hormone balance, bone health, or weight management.
Key Focus:
Protein: Greek yogurt, protein powder, or tofu.
Fiber: Berries, spinach, flaxseeds, or chia seeds.
Healthy fats: Avocado or nuts.
Calcium: Fortified almond milk, yogurt, or chia seeds.
Example:
A green smoothie made with spinach, banana, chia seeds, almond milk, and a scoop of protein powder.
Berry smoothie with Greek yogurt, flaxseeds, and a handful of mixed berries.
Measles signs and symptoms appear around 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus.
Signs and symptoms of measles typically include i.e.:
- Dry cough
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Inflamed eyes (in other words, conjunctivitis)
- Tiny white spots with bluish-white centers on a red background found inside the mouth on the inner lining of the cheek also called Koplik’s spots.
- A skin rash made up of large, flat blotches that often flow into one another
The infection occurs in sequential stages over a period of two to three weeks.
Infection and incubation i.e.:
- For the first 10 to 14 days after you’re infected, the measles virus incubates.
- You have no either signs or symptoms of measles during this time.
Nonspecific signs and symptoms i.e.:
Measles typically begins with a mild to moderate fever, often accompanied by a persistent cough, runny nose, inflamed eyes (in other words, conjunctivitis) and sore throat.
- This relatively mild illness may last two or three days.
Acute illness and rash i.e.:
- Generally, The rash consists of small red spots, some of which are slightly raised.
- Moreover, Spots and bumps in tight clusters give the skin a splotchy red appearance.
- Additionally, The face breaks out first.
- Besides this, Over the next few days, the rash spreads down the arms and trunk, then over the thighs, lower legs and feet.
- At the same time, the fever rises sharply, often as high as 104 to 105.8 F (in other words; 40 to 41 C).
- All in all, The measles rash gradually recedes, fading first from the face and last from the thighs and feet.
Communicable period i.e.:
- A person with measles can spread the virus to others for about 8 days, starting 4 days before the rash appears and ending when the rash has been present for four days.
When it comes to meals for menopause, focusing on nutrient-dense foods can help manage common symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, weight gain, and sleep disturbances. Here’s a guide on what to eat for meals that are supportive of your overall health during this phase:
Breakfast Options
Oatmeal with Flaxseeds and Berries
Why: Oats are high in fiber, which helps with digestion and weight management. Flaxseeds provide phytoestrogens, which can help balance hormones, and berries offer antioxidants to fight inflammation.
What to Add: A spoonful of ground flaxseeds, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Greek Yogurt Parfait with Nuts and Seeds
Why: Greek yogurt is rich in calcium for bone health and protein for satiety. Adding nuts and seeds gives you healthy fats and magnesium for better sleep.
What to Add: Greek yogurt, chia seeds, almonds, walnuts, and a handful of berries or granola.
Avocado Toast with Whole-Grain Bread and a Poached Egg
Why: Avocados provide healthy fats for hormone balance, while eggs give you protein to keep you full. Whole grains are rich in fiber and essential nutrients.
What to Add: 1/2 avocado, 1 poached egg, and a sprinkle of chili flakes or herbs on whole-grain toast.
When managing measles, a viral infection, a well-balanced diet and proper regimen can help support the immune system, alleviate symptoms, and promote recovery. Measles typically causes symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, and a characteristic rash. Since measles can weaken the immune system, focusing on nutrition and hydration is essential.
Here’s a guide for diet and regimen recommendations for someone with measles:
Diet Recommendations for Measles
Hydration is Key:
Fluids: Dehydration can occur due to fever, sweating, and other symptoms. It’s vital to stay well-hydrated. Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and clear broths.
Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS): If dehydration is a concern, ORS can help restore electrolytes. This is especially useful if the person has diarrhea or vomiting, which may occur with the infection.
Vitamin A:
Measles can lead to vitamin A deficiency, which can worsen the disease and impair recovery. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends vitamin A supplementation for children with measles.
Foods rich in vitamin A include sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, kale, apricots, mangoes, and egg yolks.
Immune-Boosting Foods:
Measles affects the immune system, so including immune-boosting foods is essential. Foods rich in vitamin C and zinc can help improve immune function:
Vitamin C-rich foods: Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits), strawberries, bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli.
Zinc-rich foods: Meat, shellfish, beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains.
Easily Digestible, Nutritious Foods:
Measles can cause a sore throat, making swallowing difficult. Soft, easy-to-eat foods will be more comfortable. Focus on soft foods like:
Pureed fruits and vegetables: Applesauce, mashed potatoes, avocado, cooked carrots, and peas.
Oatmeal or porridge: Rich in fiber and gentle on the stomach.
Soups: Warm (not hot) soups and broths can help soothe a sore throat and provide hydration.
Yogurt: Provides probiotics to support gut health, which is important for immunity.
Protein:
Adequate protein intake is crucial for recovery. Include easy-to-digest sources like:
Chicken soup with soft chicken pieces.
Scrambled eggs or boiled eggs.
Tofu or lentils for vegetarians or vegans.
Avoid Irritants:
Spicy, acidic, or very hot foods can irritate a sore throat, so it’s best to avoid them.
Limit processed sugars and junk food as they can weaken the immune system.
Sample Daily Meal Plan for Measles:
Breakfast:
Warm oatmeal with sliced bananas and a drizzle of honey.
A glass of fresh orange juice or a citrus fruit to boost vitamin C.
Mid-Morning Snack:
A smoothie made with yogurt, mango, and spinach (blended for easy swallowing).
Lunch:
Chicken or vegetable soup (with soft vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and zucchini).
A slice of whole-grain bread (if tolerable) or crackers.
Afternoon Snack:
Carrot sticks or applesauce.
A small handful of almonds or walnuts for zinc and healthy fats.
Dinner:
Baked sweet potatoes (rich in vitamin A) with a side of steamed broccoli or cooked spinach.
Scrambled eggs or tofu for protein.
Evening Snack:
A banana or a bowl of yogurt with some ground flaxseeds.
General Tips for Managing Measles at Home:
Rest:
Ensure plenty of rest and sleep. The body needs time and energy to fight the infection.
Monitor Temperature:
Measles often causes high fever. Use fever-reducing medications (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen) as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Stay cool and comfortable to avoid overheating, as high fevers can be dangerous.
Maintain a Humid Environment:
If coughing or a sore throat is bothersome, using a humidifier can help keep the air moist and soothe respiratory discomfort.
Avoid Contact:
Measles is highly contagious. Isolate the infected person from others to prevent the spread of the virus.
Wash Hands:
Wash hands frequently to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.
Vitamin A Supplementation:
In many cases, children with measles may be given vitamin A supplements. Consult with a healthcare provider for the right dosage based on age.
Foods to Avoid During Measles:
Very hot foods: These can irritate the sore throat.
Highly acidic foods: Citrus fruits like lemon or lime, and tomatoes might irritate the throat.
Spicy foods: They can further aggravate the throat discomfort.
Sugary snacks: Excess sugar can weaken the immune response and potentially worsen inflammation.
When to Seek Medical Help:
If the person with measles experiences severe symptoms like high fever, difficulty breathing, or dehydration, seek medical attention immediately.
If a child with measles shows signs of severe illness, such as irritability, confusion, or seizures, contact a healthcare provider.
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Homeopathic Medicines for Measles:
Aconitum Napellus:
- First stage of any illness that starts suddenly.
- Homeopathic medicine for measles that has high fever; a runny nose; a hard, dry, croupy cough; red, sore eyes also sore throat.
- Rashes itchy and burning.
- Child is restless, anxious and fearful.
- Patient is generally thirsty for cold water.
- Feels worse for warmth and at night on the other hand better in fresh air and by uncovering.
Antimonium crudum:
- illnesses are accompanied by a tickling cough and nausea.
- Children are sulky and extremely irritable, they do not want to touch or examined, or even looked at.
- They have cracks at the corners of their mouth and/or nostrils.
- The tongue may white as if it has painted.
- Child is drowsy, thirst less, and worse in a hot room.
Apis mellifica:
- The rashes are slow to come out; when come up they itch and sting.
- Face and eyelids are puffy and red.
- Children are extremely restless, anxious, clingy, and cry out in their sleep.
- They are generally thirstless; cannot bear the heat or pressure of any sort they do not want to touch.
- They have a high fever with scanty urine, and feel better for cold and cool bathing.
- Urine is hot and there is burning during urination.
Arsenicum album:
- This remedy suits to restless, anxious, chilly children who want to cover.
- They are terribly weak but still cannot remain in one place (restless).
- Wants hot drink and drinks a sip at a time.
- They may have diarrhea with the fever.
- In mumps, the breasts and testes may be swollen.
Belladonna:
- Complaint starts suddenly and can be accompanied by bedwetting; a runny nose; a cough; sore throat; a throbbing headache and/or burning, dry, red eyes.
- The head is hot, the face red, and the extremities feel cold.
- The pupils dilate, and the tongue is red with white spots (like a strawberry).
- The rashes are red, hot, dry, burning, and very itchy.
- Children are restless and irritable, and delirious with a high, dry fever.
- With mumps the glands are hot and swollen and sensitive to touch.
- Children are generally thirstless (although they may ask for lemonade).
- They feel worse in the afternoon and cannot bear light, noise, or pressure.
- They like rest and warmth.
Gelsemium:
- For measles that comes on slowly in warm weather with cold or flu-like symptoms that are accompanied by a great weariness also heaviness.
- Homeopathic medicine for measles that often indicated where there is much chilliness, the fever is a prominent symptom, the child is dumpish, apathetic, does not want to disturb.
- There is watery coryza which excoriates the upper lip also nose.
- Moreover, There is harsh, barking, croupy cough, with chest soreness and hoarseness.
- Gelsemium, too, has an action on the skin and may continue with benefit after the eruption has appeared; there is an itching and redness of the skin, and a decidedly measly eruption produced by it.
- It has some aching in the limbs.
- The eyes swollen also watery.
- Lastly, They feel better after urinating.
Pulsatilla:
- A little later in the disease Pulsatilla symptoms may make their appearance.
- The fever has either subsided or entirely disappeared.
- There is coryza and profuse lachrymation.
- Symptoms are changeable and worse especially in the evenings.
- In mumps the breasts, ovaries, or testicles are painful.
- Children are weepy, whiny, pathetic, and clingy.
- Small children want to carry everywhere.
- They are generally thirstless; worse especially from warmth and when lying down at night; whereas better for fresh air.
- The cough is still dry at night, but loosens a little in the daytime.
- The child sits up to cough.
What is Measles?
It is a highly contagious viral disease.
Homeopathic Medicines for Measles
used by Homeopathic Doctors in treatment?
- Aconitum
- Apis mellifica
- Arsenicum album
- Belladonna
- Gelsemium
- Pulsatilla
What causes Measles?
- Rubeola virus
Give the symptoms of Measles?
- Dry cough
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Inflamed eyes (in other words, conjunctivitis)
- Tiny white spots
- Skin rash
Reference
- Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine (22nd edition) Ch. 13
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/measles/symptoms-causes/syc-20374857
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/37135.php
- https://www.who.int/immunization/diseases/measles/en/
- https://hpathy.com/cause-symptoms-treatment/measles/
