In recent years, telemedicine has transformed the landscape of healthcare, offering patients greater access and convenience. At DRO Health, we are proud to be at the forefront of this revolution, utilizing cutting-edge technology to enhance patient care.

Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare practitioners from the comfort of their homes, breaking down geographical barriers and reducing the need for in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility challenges. DRO Health’s telehealth platform is designed with user experience in mind. Our intuitive interface ensures that scheduling appointments, accessing medical records, and communicating with healthcare professionals is seamless and efficient.

Our telemedicine platform allows virtual consultations with qualified practitioners, specialists and therapists via chat, audio, and video calls. Patients can select which doctor they want to consult with based on their profile and price. Prices are set very low and are a wide range so care is affordable for all. The app also has trackers for several health-related needs, such as blood pressure, blood sugar and weight tracking. This is part of our wellness programs to help manage chronic illness including Cardiovascular disease (Heart Health) and Mental Health.

Our commitment to personalized care remains strong. Each patient receives tailored treatment plans that consider their unique health needs. Our team of dedicated healthcare practitioners is just a click away, ready to provide guidance and support.

As we look to the future, DRO Health is excited about the potential of telehealth to improve outcomes. By continuing to innovate and adapt, we aim to make healthcare more accessible and effective for everyone. Join us on this journey as we redefine what healthcare can be!

The post The Future of Telemedicine: How DRO Health is improving Patient Care. appeared first on DRO Health.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects many women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the prevalence of PCOS globally is between 4% and 20% with 116 million affected. While in Nigeria, PCOS affects women of reproductive age as data shows 1 in 6 infertile women and has an estimated prevalence rate of 13.8% and 18.1%.

PCOS is a complex endocrine disorder that affects women of reproductive age. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it is thought to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. PCOS is more common in women who are overweight or obese, and it is also more common in women of certain ethnic groups, such as Hispanic and African American women.

PCOS is characterized by a combination of symptoms, including irregular periods, hormonal imbalances, weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth. While PCOS is a lifelong condition, various strategies, and treatments are available to help manage its related symptoms and improve the overall quality of life. Treatment options for PCOS include lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and eating a healthy diet, and medication, such as birth control pills and insulin sensitizers. In this blog post, we will explore effective approaches to managing PCOS-related symptoms, especially as a Nigerian woman.

5 Ways To Manage PCOS-Related Symptoms.

Regular monitoring and follow-up

Regular monitoring and follow-up with healthcare professionals are crucial in PCOS management. Routine check-ups with your preferred practitioner allow for the evaluation of symptom progression and adjustment of treatment plans when necessary. Monitoring hormone levels, lipid profiles, and glucose tolerance can help identify potential complications of PCOS, such as insulin resistance and dyslipidemia, allowing for early intervention and prevention of long-term health issues.

Lifestyle modifications

A significant aspect of PCOS management involves adopting a healthy lifestyle. Research has shown that weight loss through diet and exercise can have a positive impact on PCOS symptoms. Research also shows that losing just 5-10% of body weight can restore ovulation, regulate menstrual cycles, and improve insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS. Implementing a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, can help stabilize blood sugar levels and manage weight.

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits like oranges, strawberries, and raspberries, and vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, whole grains, and lean proteins while minimizing the consumption of processed foods and sugary snacks may help reduce the severity. Additionally, dermatological treatments such as topical retinoids, antibiotics, and hormonal therapies like oral contraceptives can be prescribed to target health-related issues.

Fertility treatments

Anovulatory infertility is a common consequence of PCOS, and the incidence of PCOS in women with anovulatory infertility is higher at 70% to 80%. PCOS affects 5-10% of women in their reproductive age, and most women who are affected often face challenges when trying to get pregnant. However, several fertility treatments can improve the chances of pregnancy. Ovulation induction with medications such as clomiphene citrate or letrozole are often administered for inducing ovulation in women with PCOS. In more complex cases, assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be considered.

Medications

Medications are an important part of managing PCOS-related symptoms, and in certain cases, medications may be prescribed to manage specific PCOS symptoms. Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) are medications used to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels, which can help manage PCOS symptoms like acne and hirsutism (excessive hair growth). OCPs can also help to manage bone density, heavy bleeding, and other related challenges. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable medication and dosage for individual needs. You can reach out to a medical professional anywhere and at any time in Nigeria on the DRO Health app here.

Psychological support

PCOS can have a significant impact on a woman’s emotional and mental health due to the hormonal imbalances and physical symptoms associated with the condition. Research shows that women with PCOS found that psychological interventions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, resulted in significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and body dissatisfaction. However, psychological support, such as counseling or therapy, can help individuals cope with the emotional challenges that affect them. For psychological support, we have professional therapists you can speak to at any time when you download the DRO Health app on your mobile device.

Our final words,

Ready to take control of your PCOS symptoms? Speak to an experienced Gynecologist today on the DRO Health app. Get personalized guidance and treatment options for effective PCOS management. Download the app now and start your journey toward better health! Visit our website for more information.

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As a result of the ‘need-to’ behavior exhibited by many adults, it has become important to bring the hospital closer to people, thereby making healthcare and medical related issues affordable and convenient. With the presence of telehealth companies like DRO Health, getting immediate access to a healthcare professional’s opinion is easier than it was 10 years ago. With the DRO Health app, all you need to do is download the app and speak to medical professionals and book diagnostic tests at anywhere and anytime in Nigeria, it’s that convenient. So, stop delaying on getting a medical check-up and visit our website once you understand why regular medical check-ups are important.

This post will discuss why regular medical check-ups are necessary and very important for your well-being.

1. Early detection of health issues.

When you embark on regular medical check-ups, you give room for early detection of health problems before they deteriorate to more severe conditions. For example, issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels are best detected in their early stages, thus preventing complications that arise when they reach an advanced stage. Likewise, with heart diseases, regular check-ups help to reduce the risks significantly, and statements by the American Heart Association back this.

2. Management of chronic conditions.

For persons with chronic conditions such as hypertension or diabetes, regular medical check-ups are crucial to help monitor and manage the situation effectively. These regular check-ups help your doctor or healthcare providers evaluate your present condition, adjust your medication or treatment plan, and detect and prevent any potential or oncoming complications. According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), regular check-ups can help persons with chronic conditions better manage their health and improve their quality of life.

3. Prevention of health issues.

With preventive healthcare practice, early identification of risk factors would enable you and your doctor to embark on preventive measures. For example, regular screenings for a type of cancer, such as breast and colon cancer, can help detect the presence of cancerous growth in its earliest stages. This then makes it much easier to treat. In addition, according to the American Cancer Society, regular screening can help detect certain cancers before symptoms develop, leading to better treatment outcomes. Regular blood pressure checks can also help prevent heart diseases, and cholesterol screenings can help prevent the occurrence of strokes and this is backed by statements from the American Heart Association.

4. Building long-term relationships with Healthcare providers.

Regular medical check-ups help build a relationship with your healthcare provider, which is crucial for your long-term health. A good relationship with your healthcare provider can help ensure that you receive personalized care that meets your unique needs. It also lets your healthcare provider know your medical history, family history, and lifestyle factors that may affect your health.

In the cases of emergencies, there would already be an established relationship and history that would make treatment easier and faster. Also, accessibility is better when there is an already-established relationship between the patient and the healthcare provider.

5. Improvement of mental health conditions.

Regular medical check-ups benefit not only physical health but also improves one’s mental health. For example, regular medical check-ups can help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in patients. In addition, regular check-ups can provide reassurance that you are in good health and reduce any worry or anxiety you may have about your health.

6. Cost-Effectiveness.

You can save the cost of healthcare by carrying out regular medical check-ups. This is because early detection helps prevent health issues from becoming severe and thus requires expensive medical treatments. Therefore, regular check-ups can lead to cost savings by reducing the need for hospitalizations and emergency room visits. In addition, by simply prescribing medication for more minor conditions, you save yourself the cost of spending on drugs for more severe conditions.

7. Peace of mind.

Regular medical check-ups can provide peace of mind by ensuring that you are in good health and addressing any concerns you may have. According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, regular medical check-ups are associated with lower stress and anxiety levels. In addition, a certain level of confidence exists when you are fully aware of your health condition due to a recent check-up. It puts you in control of your health and more in charge of how to conduct your life and nutrition with respect to the state of your health.

Our final words,

Regular medical check-ups are essential to preventive healthcare and are crucial for maintaining good health and preventing health issues from becoming severe. In addition, frequent check-ups allow healthcare providers to detect health issues early, manage chronic conditions, prevent health issues, build relationships with patients, and improve mental health. The importance of regular medical check-ups cannot be overstated, and everyone should make them a part of their healthcare routine. Therefore, it is essential to schedule regular medical check-ups to ensure that you are taking care of your overall health and well-being.

With the DRO Health mobile app, you get access to healthcare that is affordable, fast and convenient. Visit www.drohealth.com today.

The post The Importance and Need For Regular Medical Checkups. appeared first on DRO Health.

July 28th every year is a day set aside to raise awareness and encourage action about the virus called hepatitis. It is also a day to celebrate millions of people worldwide living with hepatitis and still surviving. For July 28th 2022, the World Health Organization tagged the theme as ‘Bringing Hepatitis Care Closer To You.’

According to research, 20 million Nigerians currently live with hepatitis. However, this years theme aims to raise more awareness about the virus and also to bring testing centers closer to rural communities worldwide.

What Is Hepatitis?

According to World Health Organization, hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that is caused by a variety of infectious viruses and non-infectious agents leading to a range of health problems, some of which can be fatal.

Hepatitis virus has 5 different types, A, B, C, D, E. All of these types affect the liver in the human body, however hepatitis B and C lead to chronic liver diseases and cause more deaths around the world.

Key statistics according to World Health Organization.

• 345 million people globally live with hepatitis B or C infection.

• Almost 3,000 people die from hepatitis B or C everyday.

• 90% of people living with viral hepatitis are unaware that they have it.

• Over 3,000 people die everyday from liver diseases caused by hepatitis.

• 5 million Nigerians lose their lives yearly from hepatitis related complications.

How To Protect Yourself From Hepatitis.

Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver in the human body. Viral hepatitis can be acute (lasts less than 6 months) or chronic (lasts longer). Viral hepatitis is a communicable virus and it is mostly gotten through sexual intercourse with an infected partner.

Most people recover from hepatitis, but more people die from its complications, as it:

• Destroys the liver tissue

• Weakens the body immune system

• Causes liver disease or cancer

• Leads to death

To protect yourself against getting infected with hepatitis, you should take these precautionary measures:

Avoid having sex with an infected person

Hepatitis B can be transmitted through sexual intercourse. It is transmitted through contact with vaginal fluid, semen or blood. However, using a condom can help protect against it. The best way to protect yourself from getting infected is to avoid having sex with anyone who has any strain of hepatitis.

Always use sterile injections or needles

Sharing unsterilized injections or needles can widen the spread of hepatitis C. To avoid this, it is best to always ensure than only sterilized objects are used to touch your skin in a hospital, clinic or laboratory. Hospitals should also also avoid reusing injections or needles for any reason.

Vaccinating a newborn child against hepatitis

An infected pregnant woman can infect her child with hepatitis if the baby isn’t vaccinated. The best way vaccination works with a newborn is to ensure your child is given the shots 12 hours immediately after he or she is born. The HBIG or hepatitis B vaccine shots can be given up to 4 times to a new born baby to protect them.

Get tested for hepatitis

A major way to protect yourself is to always get tested for hepatitis. If you suspect that you have been exposed to the virus, get tested immediately. You can book a test with us at DRO Health or you can go to a hospital nearest to you to get tested.

Every 30 seconds someone loses their life from an illness related to hepatitis. This years’ theme ‘ Bringing Hepatitis Care Closer To You’ is a wake-up call for people, health agencies, government bodies to bring testing centers and vaccines closer to the people who have no access to basic healthcare.

At DRO Health we are contributing our quota to ensure that we bring care closer to people. To book a test for hepatitis, simply download our app at www.drohealth.com . Click on ‘book a test’ and you have your test done conveniently and at an affordable rate.

Stay safe, get tested, stay healthy.

The post How To Protect Yourself From Hepatitis. appeared first on DRO Health.

In this post, we will explain who a mental health therapist is, why you should consider therapy and 5 signs to show that you need to talk to a therapist. At DRO Health, we have expert mental health therapists waiting to talk to you.

Who Is A Mental Health Therapist?

Some people call them Shrinks, others call them Psychotherapists, however they mean the same thing. A mental health therapist helps to treat patients dealing with mental health issues or behavioural disorders.

A mental health therapist is specialized in dealing with issues like grief, trauma, mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, addictions). Mental health therapists help to evaluate patients’ behavior and mental issues. They talk to them professionally about their thought, feelings and experiences. Doing this helps them to recommend treatment and rehabilitation plans for patients.

Why Should You Consider Mental Health Therapy?

Mental health therapy benefits people who are struggling with life issues, emotional challenges, behavioral disorders and mental health stressors. Seeing a Psychotherapist can help improve greatly mental health challenges.

With therapy you get to share your experience with a professional friend whose duty is to help you get better. Sometimes they recommend medications but constant therapy works more wonders than drugs. As with many mental health issues, sharing a problem can help the symptoms reduce overtime. Therapy teaches people to cope with and manage their symptoms on a long-term. These coping mechanisms last even after therapy ends.

5 Signs You Should See A Mental Health Therapist.

Deciding when to see a mental health therapist can be a challenge. You might be having a bad day or a slow week or even feeling a unmotivated to do anything, does that call for seeing a therapist?

We have highlighted 5 signs you should pick up on to know when you should book to speak to a mental health therapist. There are other signs you should look out for but these 5 are primary signs. They are:

You keep having anxiety or panic attacks.

As humans, it’s in our DNA to get worried sometimes. From work, family, friends, food choices, certain issues are beyond our control. But when anxiety or panic turns into a recurring cycle that affects your body and how you relate with people, it’s a sign that you need to speak with a mental health therapist immediately.

Constant mental or physical fatigue.

A constant physical or mental fatigue is a symptom of early stage depression. It’s normal to feel tired on some days and unmotivated to go about your daily activities. However, when it goes on from days to weeks and even months, it might be time to book a session with a mental health therapist.

Losing interest in things you love.

Losing interest in activities you used to love is a sign of depression or anxiety. Maybe you used to love reading novels, playing football, cooking or traveling, but you’ve lost interest in these activities. It’s a major sign that you should talk to a professional to know if it’s a symptom of anxiety or depression.

Being constantly overwhelmed

Do you always feel like you have too many things to do at once, and you end up doing none? Constantly feeling overwhelmed is a sign of anxiety, which is a also a mental health issue. If you feel like you’re always tired from thinking about too many things, and your mind is always reeling; you should talk to a therapist.

A feeling of constant anger or resentment

Getting angry over certain events is a normal part of human existence. However, when anger or resentment becomes a constant occurrence it might be a sign to see a therapist. Anger or resentment might be as a result of a suppressed feeling or event. Take this as a sign to schedule a session with a mental health therapist today.

At DRO Health, we care about your total wellbeing inclusive of your mental health. In Nigeria, not many people are confident with sharing their mental health struggles with a stranger. However, talking to a professional mental health therapist goes a long way in eliminating symptoms. If you’ve ever questioned the need to see a Therapist, this post is the sign that you need to. If you’re also experiencing any sign listed above, you should speak to a mental health therapist on the DRO Health app. On the app, there are experts waiting to get you to a better place mentally. You’ve got this.

The post When Should You See A Mental Health Therapist? appeared first on DRO Health.

Choosing a suitable birth control method can be difficult, but it works best if you understand your body to know what works best for you. If you are sexually active and want to prevent getting pregnant, you must consider the available birth control options.

The most important thing to note is that birth control options only help to prevent pregnancies; they do not prevent STDs and are mostly 99.9% safe.

What Is a Birth Control?

Birth control or contraceptive is a method, medicine or device used to prevent pregnancy. There are different types of birth control options, and you can decide to learn which one works best for you. If you’re sexually active, the best advice would be to use a birth control once you start having sex. This helps prevent unwanted pregnancy when you have unprotected sex with your partner.

The best type of birth control to use depends on your medical history, your desire to have a child, and your need to prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

What Are The Best Types of Birth Control Options?

You can choose your preferred birth control type from a wide range of options. Some birth control options are long-acting while some others are short-acting. There are also some birth control options called barrier method like emergency pills and condoms. The best birth control options widely available in Nigeria are:

Abstinence

Almost all birth control options are 99.9% trusted, abstinence method is an option that is 100% safe, trusted and guaranteed. Abstinence is also the best way to get secured against sexually transmitted diseases. The decision to have sex is one you should take for yourself as an adult. You have total control over your body, and you should never allow anyone pressure you into having sex when you’re not ready. Sexual intercourse is best enjoyed when it is consensual and you are ready.

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped device inserted into a woman’s uterus or womb. After a thorough pelvic examination, the IUD is inserted into the uterus through the cervix by a medical expert. They are safe to remove, easy to insert and 99.9% reliable. The two types of IUDs are:

An IUD made of copper

A copper IUD can last up to 10 years. It can also serve as an emergency contraceptive if it is inserted into a woman’s womb 5 days after having unprotected sex. The most common brand of an IUD copper is ParaGard. The copper prevents the sperm from getting to the uterus, where the egg is thereby preventing fertilization. However, copper IUDs maybe painful and can cause painful menstrual periods in some women.

An IUD made of plastic

Plastic IUDs are made of polyethylene. Plastic IUDs can stay implanted in a woman’s uterus for 3-10 years while still working effectively. The T-shaped plastic frame is inserted into the uterus where it releases a type of hormone progestine. Kyleena and Mirena are two popular brands that produce plastic IUDs. Kyleena stays 98.5% effective even after 5 years, while Mirena works up to 99% the same years.

Vasectomy or Male Sterilization

A vasectomy is a simple and permanent sterilization process for men. The process is performed in a medical professional’s office (an Urologist). The simple process involves cutting and sealing the vans deferens (the duct that conveys the sperm from the testicle to the urethra. Getting a vasectomy prevents sperm from leaving a man’s testes. However, the process does not stop a man from ejaculating or ‘cumming.’ The whitish fluid after orgasm will still come out, but it won’t contain any sperm.

The vasectomy procedure is usually painless (thanks to anesthesia), and the patient can also be awake during the process. The Urologist makes a small incision in the upper part of the scrotum; the vans deferens are then tied off and cut apart. The small incision is stitched close and the process is over.

Vasectomy is a long-acting birth control option, 99.9% effective and reversible; however it does not protect against STDs.

Condoms

Condoms are birth control options that men and women can use. They are 99.9% safe and can prevent you from contracting some sexually transmitted diseases.

A male condom is worn by carefully rolling it onto a fully erect penis, before sexual intercourse. The condom stops the semen from entering the female’s reproductive organ. Male condoms are made of latex, easy to use, affordable and can only be used once per intercourse.

Female condoms on the other hand can be used several times and are mostly made from non-latex- polyurethane.

Female Sterilization or Tubal Ligation

Tubal Ligation is a surgery to ‘tie’ a woman’s fallopian tubes. This process is long-acting, reversible and prevents the egg’s transport to the uterus. The process also prevents a man’s sperm from getting to the fallopian tube and to the ovary, where fertilization happens.

A Gynecologist performs tubal ligation in a Hospital while the patient is made to sleep from anesthesia. Two minor cuts are made in the abdomen, while a small telescope-like device on a flexible tube (laparoscope) is inserted in. The fallopian tubes are sealed through the laparoscope, and the skin cut is stitched back together.

Tubal Ligation is 100% safe and recommended; however it does not prevent women from contracting STDs.

Progestin Arm Implant

Progestin arm implant is a birth control option where a single rod of hormone is placed under the skin of the upper arm by an expert. This rod is usually the size of a matchstick and it is placed directly under the skin. It is highly recommended for women and can last effectively for up to 3 years.

It is a 99.9% effective procedure and also reversible. The most common side effects of this birth control option are irregular menstrual bleeding and weight gain for some women. An expert can remove the rod anytime the carrier wants it gone. The most common brand of this arm implant is Nexplanon, which has to be placed by a medical expert.

Hormonal Contraception (birth control pills, vaginal rings)

Hormonal contraception are called barrier methods, they are are also short-acting birth control options. They include birth control pills (Postinor or Post pill) , birth control patches or vaginal rings. The birth control pill is taken daily, the vaginal ring is used once in a month, while the patch is changed weekly.

The hormonal contraceptive options are only 99% safe and effective if used properly. However the most common type of hormonal contraceptive in Nigeria are birth control pills. You can order your birth control pills from our online pharmacy once you have our mobile app installed on your phone.

Some side effects of birth control pills are nausea, tender breasts, irregular menstrual periods, severe cramps and headaches.

Deciding to use a birth control option from the ones listed above is a personal choice. You need to decide what you want when it comes to preventing pregnancies, also it is best to consult your Doctor before using a method. You can buy some of the best birth control options from our in-app online pharmacy, by downloading our mobile app. You can also opt to speak to a medical expert concerning conceiving and contraceptives. Remember, that DRO Health cares for you.

The post The Best Birth Control Options appeared first on DRO Health.

During this period, you may gain or loose weight. Some women may have an enormous appetite while some others may have none at all. During pregnancy, what you eat is very important, so it is vital to learn some meal tips to have a healthy pregnancy.

Pregnancy for every woman is a unique journey that differs from person to person. Before going further, congratulations to you on embarking on this journey. Pregnancy period comes with many changes in a woman’s body and how she eats. Since you’re going to be eating for two, eating healthy cannot be over-emphasized.

A healthy and balanced diet during pregnancy helps with your baby’s brain development, an average birth weight and the absence of physical disabilities. As an intending mother, eating healthy reduces the risks of morning sickness, tiredness, drowsiness, miscarriage, and related symptoms. So, what are the meal tips for a healthy pregnancy?

Always have something to eat during breakfast

Breakfast is the day’s most important meal, and this holy grail still applies to pregnant women. What you eat for breakfast sets the tone for the day. Some healthy Nigerian breakfast ideas you can try are, scrambled or boiled eggs, oats, boiled ripe plantains and your sauce of choice, bean cakes (akara ), moimoi, pap, custard, pepper-soup and rice, etc. While eating breakfast, always have something that gives your body nutrients like calcium and protein, as your Doctor recommends.

Eat foods that contain a lot of mineral and vitamins

During your pregnancy journey, you may have weird cravings, which is normal. When deciding what to eat, choose foods rich in minerals and vitamins. A meal packed with lots of fruits and vegetables does the trick! Eat plenty of Goat meat, chicken, turkey, seafood like (catfish, salmon, crayfish, sardines), fish, Bambara nuts (okpa), cowpeas, avocados, yoghurts, cheese, milk, and beans in form of akara or porridge beans. Essentially eat foods or snacks that are nutrient-packed.

Always stay hydrated

‘Water, e no get enemy.’ Water is life; you should always be hydrated if you’re giving birth to life. Staying hydrated helps you and your baby. The main benefit of staying hydrated during pregnancy is that it helps circulate nutrients in the body. Drinking lots of water also helps in giving you that pregnancy glow, a healthier skin, reduces swelling of body parts, reduces constipation, and helps in forming the amniotic fluid. To maintain hydration, the recommended water intake is between 8-12 cups of water per day.

Eat meals in smaller portions but regularly

During pregnancy, your eating style may change, but it is always important to prioritize you and your baby’s comfort. It is normal to experience discomforts during pregnancy, especially in your abdominal area, don’t fret. To minimize pain in your stomach, it is best to eat smaller portions so you don’t feel too full. As your baby grows in your tummy, eating smaller meals will help you become more comfortable. To balance it out, you can eat more healthy snacks.

Take your prenatal vitamins accordingly

Taking prenatal vitamins is crucial to ensuring you have a healthy baby. The prenatal vitamins your Doctor recommends will help you and your baby’s nutritional needs during pregnancy. You should not substitute your prenatal vitamins for food; they support your meal nutrient intake. Prenatal vitamins should contain iron, folic acid, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Avoid alcohol and reduce your caffeine intake

During pregnancy, it is widespread knowledge that expecting mothers should stay away from alcohol. Also, health practitioners advise that pregnant women should reduce their intake of alcohol or better still, avoid it. Consuming alcohol or caffeine during pregnancy increases the chances of a miscarriage. However, if you need some power, drink decaffeinated tea or coffee.

At DRO Health, we prioritize everybody and their health needs. We also understand that being pregnant is a different phase and you need the correct type of medical help. Whether in your diet, prescriptions, health, or diagnostics, we have professional Doctors ready to hold your hand on this fantastic journey. Download the Dro Health App today.

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Some of your most important vitals include your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and weight. These vital signs measure your body’s basic functions. Vitals display a snapshot of what’s going on inside your body. They provide crucial information about your organs.

Tracking Your Vitals – Your weight

Your weight is one of the easiest vitals to keep track of. All you need to do is get a bathroom scale and weigh yourself regularly. Weight increases or decreases indicate a wide range of problems, from an underlying medical problem (like thyroid disease) to poor lifestyle habits. Knowing the normal weight for your age and gender can help you make healthy changes and enhance your overall wellbeing.

Blood Pressure

Your blood pressure is another fairly easy vital to keep track of at home. You can get an easy-to-use blood pressure device and use that for regular checks. Abnormal blood pressure signals underlying problems (like heart disease) and can lead to a medical emergency (like a stroke). Keeping an eye on your blood pressure can determine if you need to make lifestyle adjustments or require medicinal treatment.

Cholesterol and Blood Sugar

Your cholesterol and blood sugar levels are a little harder to track, and they require pricking of your fingers to draw blood. You can get home test kits, and these will give you accurate results. High levels of either vital can be life-threatening.

General Benefits of Tracking your Vitals

• Tracking your vital signs provides medical professionals with concrete information that they use to assess your health and form a correct diagnosis. Without vital signs, misdiagnosis can occur and lead to incorrect treatment.
• Regularly checking your vital signs allows you to understand what “normal” means for your body. When there are fluctuations, you can take action immediately. Early action leads to more successful treatments.
• Keeping an eye on your vital signs can be the push you need to establish a healthier life. It’s easy to think your body is fine because it looks good in the mirror or you feel okay. But when you track your vitals, those numbers can motivate you to make healthy lifestyle changes to keep your vital signs in check.

By tracking your vitals regularly on the DRO Health App using the ‘Tracks and Vitals’ feature, you are one step closer to living a healthier life. Read more on how to use this feature on our knowledge base. These tracked vitals can then be shared with a doctor on the DRO Health App. Start tracking your vitals from the comfort of your home and embrace healthy living today. Download the DRO Health App on the Play Store (Android) or AppStore (iOS).

The post Here are Some Benefits of Regularly Tracking Your Vitals appeared first on DRO Health.

In general, the benefits of nutritional supplements are numerous, as they range from helping with fertility to aiding better blood flow. Keep reading to discover specific benefits of various ones.

Benefits of Nutritional Supplements – Garlic Oil

Garlic is very popular when it comes to cooking, and rightfully so. It is very nutritious and offers the body so many benefits. Garlic is known to combat illnesses like the common cold, and the active compounds in garlic can also reduce blood pressure. Garlic oil comes in many forms such as liquid (which can be applied topically) and tablet/soft gel (which is to be ingested). Garlic oil is also great for stress relief. 

We recommend: Emzor Garlic Oil 650mg Soft Gel 3*10

Evening Primrose

Evening primrose oil (EPO) is made from the seeds of the flowers of a plant native to North America.  Evening primrose oil contains an essential fatty acid called gamma-linolenic acid, said to help treat PMS, eczema, diabetes, and osteoporosis.  It can help improve overall skin health, as it can help clear up acne and it may help ease eczema. 

We recommend: Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg Soft Gel

Ascorbic Acid

Ascorbic acid is also known as Vitamin C. It has been linked to many impressive health benefits, such as boosting antioxidant levels, lowering blood pressure, and protecting against gout attacks. Vitamin C is vital to immune function and the maintenance of bone, skin, teeth, and joints. It may also help treat colds and eye problems.

We recommend: Em-Vit-C 100mg Tablets (White) *1000

Benefits of Nutritional Supplements – Folic Acid

Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, which is a naturally occurring B vitamin. Folate helps make DNA and other genetic material. It is especially important in prenatal health. 

We recommend: Folic Acid 5mg BP Tablets *1000

Cod Liver Oil

Cod liver oil is the oil extracted from the livers of Atlantic cod. It is commonly taken as a dietary supplement and is packed full of nutrients. Cod liver oil contains vitamin A, a vital nutrient for immune system function, cellular growth, eye health, and reproduction. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which decrease blood clot formation and reduce inflammation in the body. It also supports heart health and bone health. It is mood-boosting and may support improved memory.

We recommend: Fresh Seas 1000mg Cod Liver Oil

We always advise against self-medication and as such, it is best to consult with a doctor, especially before using multiple supplements at the same time. You can book a consultation from the comfort of your home on the DRO Health app. The DRO Health app also has a 24/7 online pharmacy where you can get all of the recommended nutritional supplements. We offer same day and next day delivery options in Lagos.

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Benefits of Fitness Boxing – Lowers blood pressure

Boxing and HIIT training, in general, have been shown to lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, helping decrease stress on the blood vessels.

Elevated blood pressure is a precursor to experiencing more serious events like heart attacks and strokes.

It can improve your coordination

Boxing is a great way to work on your hand-eye coordination, especially if the class involves hitting a target. This can have real-life implications like helping you feel more alert or making it easier to do everyday tasks like navigating around your busy kitchen, according to Harvard Health Publishing.

Benefits of Fitness Boxing – You’ll Burn Serious Calories

All of those heart-pumping jabs and uppercuts torch calories. How many you burn during a typical class depends on several individual factors, but women can expect to burn about 400 calories in an hour and men about 500. Duquette says professional boxers can burn upwards of 800 calories during an hour of training. And in case you’re wondering: Yes, boxing can lead to weight loss if that’s your goal, so long as you’re creating a calorie deficit at the end of the day.

Boosts whole-body strength

While most people may think punching power only comes from the shoulder, the act of throwing a punch involves the entire body.

A good punch involves the lower limbs pushing against the ground and the coordination of the rest of the body to deliver power through the strike. Therefore, the lower limbs, as well as the core muscles, are a significant part of the punching movement.

We have recently partnered with EliteBox, a boutique boxing company in Lagos, Nigeria. When you register with EliteBox, you can take as many classes as you want, and enjoy the many benefits of fitness boxing. The DRO Health App is available on the App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android).

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