q I had a baby a month ago. It was a normal delivery. After I reached home, I was unable to control my emotions. I cry often for no reason.

These symptoms often start within the first two to three days after delivery and may last up to two weeks. If it lasts longer, it may be postpartum depression or even psychosis. It is a complication that occurs in some women after childbirth. Part of the problem may be due to hormonal and other changes during childbirth and delivery.

After two weeks, if you feel the same way, please consult a psychiatrist. They will start counselling and antidepressants, which will help.

Shots for pets q My daughter found a cat on the street and brought it home. She wants to keep it as a pet.

Cats can acquire many diseases, including rabies. Also, unlike dogs, they roam free; they do not remain confined to a house.

You need to consult a veterinary doctor and have the cat immunised. In addition, your daughter and other members of the household need to take pre-exposure (three injections) immunisation with rabies vaccine.

Panic attack q Gradually, I have started getting anxious about day-to-day activities. For the last two days, I have been unable to do my household work. I feel scared and get palpitations. I am not diabetic or hypertensive.

You may be suffering from anxiety and panic attacks. Consult a physician. He will do the necessary tests to diagnose your condition and then treat you.

Itchy scalp q I have used hair dye for years. My friends advised me to switch products, and now my scalp and forehead are itchy, scaly and bumpy.

Many hair dyes can cause all kinds of allergic reactions. Sometimes, they react with your hair oil and the shampoo you use to wash your hair. Even products advertised as “natural” can cause allergies. It would have been
better if you had continued using the old dye, which did not cause any allergy.

Stop the dye immediately. Take an OTC antihistamine at night. Consult a dermatologist as soon as possible.

Cancer history q I have a family history of cancer. My father had prostate cancer, my mother had uterine cancer and my sister had breast cancer. Are there any diet modifications I should follow to reduce my chances?

There are many foods which have a protective action in preventing the development of cancer. Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage contain isothiocyanates; tomatoes have lycopene, which reduces the risk of prostate, breast, lung and colorectal cancer. Beans and peas have high fibre, which is essential for healthy intestines. Nuts like walnuts contain ellagitannins, which help gut bacteria prevent the growth of cancer cells. Pomegranates contain flavonoids, which protect cells from stress and damage. Garlic is also protective. Also, reduce your intake of red meats, refined grains and sugar. You need to combine these diet changes with 40 minutes of aerobic activity like running or walking.

Energy drinks q I recently started working out and bought some energy drinks. My mother says they are dangerous.

Energy drinks typically contain high levels of caffeine, taurine and other chemicals, added sugars and stimulants. For most people, an occasional energy drink will not be harmful, but it poses significant risks to people with heart conditions. The person may not be aware about the heart condition. Also, if a person is sensitive to caffeine and is not in the habit of drinking coffee or tea, energy drinks can cause palpitations, heart arrhythmia and may even be fatal.

Listen to your mother; mothers are usually right.

The writer has a family practice at Vellore and is the author of Staying Healthy in Modern India. If you have any questions on health issues, please write to yourhealthgm@yahoo.co.in