Tag: Children

Uncategorized • By Dr. Shailesh Yadav 0 Comments

Antibiotics in Infancy: What Every Parent Should Know

Antibiotics are life-saving medicines. But when given too early or too often in babies, they may create long-term health issues. Recent large studies from the UK and South Korea have shown that antibiotic use in the first two years of life may increase the risk of asthma, allergies, and even early puberty in girls.

As a parent, it’s natural to worry about infections and want quick relief for your child. But knowing when antibiotics are truly needed can make a big difference in their long-term health.

 

What the Studies Found

1. Risk of Allergies and Asthma

A UK study of 1.1 million infants followed up to age 12 found:

  • Children given antibiotics before age 2 had a 24% higher risk of asthma. 
  • A 33% higher risk of food allergies. 
  • A 6% higher risk of seasonal allergies (hay fever). 
  • Children who received 5 or more antibiotic courses had 1.5 times higher risk compared to those with fewer courses. 

The reason? Antibiotics may disturb the gut microbiome – the community of good bacteria that helps train a child’s immune system.

2. Risk of Early Puberty in Girls

A South Korean study tracking over 3 lakh children found:

  • Girls exposed to antibiotics in the first 3 months of life were 33% more likely to start puberty early. 
  • If given antibiotics within the first 2 weeks of life, the risk rose to 40% higher. 
  • The risk increased with the number of antibiotic types prescribed. 
  • No similar link was found in boys. 

Researchers suspect this too is linked to microbiome changes and hormonal pathways.

 

Why This Matters in India

In India, antibiotic misuse is common. Many parents buy antibiotics without a prescription or pressure doctors for quick fixes. Studies show:

  • 64% of Indian adults self-medicate with antibiotics. 
  • Between 20–68% of children are given antibiotics without proper medical advice. 

Legally, antibiotics are prescription-only (Schedule H drugs), but enforcement is weak. This makes awareness and education for parents extremely important.

 

What Parents Should Do

  1. Use antibiotics only when needed – They work only for bacterial infections, not viral fevers, colds, or coughs. 
  2. Ask your doctor questions – “Is this antibiotic really necessary?” “Can we wait and watch?” 
  3. Complete the full course – If prescribed, finish the medicine as advised. Stopping midway can cause resistance. 
  4. Support gut health – After antibiotics, include curd, buttermilk, or fermented foods to restore healthy bacteria. 
  5. Prevent infections naturally – Keep vaccinations up to date, ensure handwashing, balanced diet, and good sleep for your child. 

How Homeopathy Can Help

At Caitanya Clinic, Vasai-Virar, we often meet parents worried about frequent infections in their young children. Many times, these are viral illnesses where antibiotics aren’t needed. Homeopathy can strengthen a child’s immunity, reduce the frequency of infections, and support long-term health without disturbing the gut microbiome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Do all fevers in children need antibiotics?
 No. Most childhood fevers are viral and settle on their own. Antibiotics are only useful when there is a proven bacterial infection

Q2. Can antibiotics cause side effects in babies?
 Yes. Apart from short-term stomach upset, studies now show they may increase risks of allergies, asthma, and early puberty if overused in infancy.

Q3. How do I know if my child’s infection is viral or bacterial?
 This can only be decided by a qualified doctor after examining the child. Parents should avoid guessing or self-medicating.

Q4. What are safer alternatives?
 For mild viral illnesses, supportive care (hydration, rest, nutrition, homeopathy) is often enough. Antibiotics are reserved for confirmed bacterial infections.

Q5. How does homeopathy fit in?
 Homeopathy works by improving your child’s natural immunity, reducing dependency on repeated antibiotic courses.

Final Takeaway

Antibiotics save lives when used correctly, but in infancy, unnecessary use can raise future health risks. Parents in India need to be especially careful, as antibiotic misuse is widespread.

At Caitanya Clinic, Vasai-Virar, our focus is on holistic child health – supporting immunity, guiding parents wisely about antibiotic use, and offering safe, effective homeopathic care where appropriate.

If you are worried about your child’s repeated infections or want guidance on safe antibiotic use, book a consultation with us.

 

Allergy Autism children GIT • By Dr. Rajeshwari Yadav 0 Comments

Embracing a Gentle Path: Homeopathy for Gut and Skin Health in Autism

Introduction:

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can bring about various challenges like trouble with social interactions and communication. Lately, researchers have been looking into the link between ASD, tummy issues, and heightened sensitivities. Homeopathy, known for its personal touch, is becoming a promising avenue to support children with ASD.

The Gut-Brain Connection:

The “gut-brain axis” is like a two-way street connecting our tummy and brain. For kids with ASD, studies show they might have tummy troubles, hinting at a connection between gut health and ASD.

The intricate relationship between the gut and the brain, often referred to as the “gut-brain axis,” is a fascinating and complex interplay that significantly influences overall health. This communication network operates bidirectionally, meaning that signals travel back and forth between the gut and the brain, impacting various physiological and psychological processes.

In the context of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), researchers have been particularly intrigued by the potential implications of the gut-brain axis. Studies have consistently shown that individuals with ASD often experience gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms or, more colloquially, “tummy troubles.” These symptoms may manifest as issues such as abdominal pain, irregular bowel movements, or digestive discomfort.

The presence of these gastrointestinal symptoms suggests a possible connection between gut health and the manifestation of ASD. The bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain involves intricate pathways, including neural, hormonal, and immunological components. Disruptions or imbalances in these pathways could potentially contribute to both the gastrointestinal symptoms and the characteristic features of ASD.

Understanding and exploring the gut-brain axis in the context of ASD opens up avenues for more targeted and holistic approaches to intervention. It highlights the importance of considering not only the neurological aspects of ASD but also the potential influence of gastrointestinal health on the overall well-being of individuals with ASD. This comprehensive perspective can guide healthcare professionals in developing more tailored and effective strategies to address the diverse challenges associated with ASD.

Leaky Gut and Sensitivities:

Some experts think there’s a link between “leaky gut” (when the gut lining gets a bit too permeable) and ASD symptoms. This might influence sensitivities, like skin problems and sensory issues, through a mix of brain, hormone, and immune factors.

let’s simplify this for a better understanding:

Think of the gut like a barrier, kind of like a protective wall in your child’s tummy. Now, sometimes, this wall can become a bit too permeable, almost like having tiny holes. We call this “leaky gut.” When this happens, things that shouldn’t normally pass through easily can sneak through these tiny holes.

Now, imagine these sneaky things creating a bit of chaos in the body’s team (the brain, hormones, and immune system). This team is usually great at working together, but when the gut is a bit leaky, it can throw things off.

So, what’s the result? This mix-up can sometimes show up in things like skin problems and sensory issues. Picture it as a ripple effect – the leaky gut might send signals that affect how the brain, hormones, and immune factors interact. This can influence how your child reacts to things around them, like certain textures or sounds.

Understanding this link helps us see that by addressing the “leaky gut” and helping the team work together better, we might also see improvements in things like skin and sensory sensitivities. It’s like fixing the wall to create a smoother and more comfortable environment for your child.

Gut Bugs and Homeopathic Help:

Changes in the gut’s tiny organisms, called microbiota, could be linked to ASD. Homeopathy aims to bring balance to the body’s vital force, possibly helping the gut bugs in a good way. Tailored homeopathic remedies can be designed to support each child’s unique needs and address tummy concerns.

Skin Hurdles and Sensory Sensitivities:

Kids with ASD often face sensory challenges, especially with clothes and skin contact. Homeopathy can step in to help with skin issues, considering individual sensitivities and reactions. Natural remedies, gentle and kind, can work alongside other approaches for overall well-being.

Homeopathy’s Personal Touch:

Homeopathy isn’t just about symptoms; it’s about treating the whole person—body, feelings, and thoughts. This way of working aligns perfectly with what each child with ASD needs. Homeopathic practitioners, like myself, look at everything, aiming to get to the root of the challenges.

Meet Dr. Rajeshwari Yadav, a skilled homeopath with almost more than a decade of experience in classical homeopathy. Beyond the basics, she specializes in tailoring unique homeopathic treatments for both children and adults, delving into the complexities of human psychology.

Dr. Rajeshwari earned her degree from Mumbai’s CCMP Medical College, later advancing her skills at the International Academy of Homeopathy in Mumbai and Allen College, England. With a master’s in clinical psychology and significant experience in special child cases at Sion Hospital, she brings a compassionate and well-rounded approach to healthcare.

Her commitment to excellence shines through collaborations with renowned doctors, offering comprehensive services for various health issues. Dr. Rajeshwari’s blend of classical homeopathy and deep psychology knowledge makes her a dedicated and impactful healthcare professional.

Conclusion:

Understanding the link between ASD, gut health, and skin issues can be complex, but homeopathy offers a gentle, personalized approach. As a qualified homeopath with 15 years of experience and additional qualifications in clinical psychology, I’ve had immense experience working with special children. I invite you to consider this path and consult with professionals, like me, who can offer personalized guidance. Bringing a holistic perspective into your child’s care may pave the way for a more tailored approach to meet their unique needs.