MARCH, 2019 | The Health
issue: superbug
DIABETICS BE WARNED: The condition makes some more prone to MRSA infections.
The threat of MRSA
in people with diabetes
F
or the past two decades, hospitals around the
globe have been battling an epidemic called
methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or
MRSA. Unfortunately, many of those hospitalised
include diabetics, who may be at an increased risk for
contracting the disease. As numb extremities often lead
to unnoticed sores, ulcers, and scrapes, MRSA is ready
to take advantage of the situation.
Why diabetics?
Diabetes can heighten the risks of infection. This likely
is due to decreased circulation and changes in blood ves-
sels. Over time, excess sugar can damage blood vessels
and cause neuropathy, a loss of sensation in the feet,
which can make them feel numb.
A lot of the time, some aren’t even aware that they
have a wound on their feet. Anytime there is a break
in the skin, germs can get in and cause an infection.
Diabetes increases your chances of getting MRSA
because sores and ulcers can happen without you even
being aware of it.
MRSA is common within the confines of hospitals,
yet the community-acquired cases (CA-MRSA) has
been reported to occur too. The ulcers and open sores
that can occur in diabetic feet can put you at risk for
contracting MRSA in addition to other infections.
Pregnant mothers
According to the results of a study published in
the July 2013 issue of the American Journal of
Infection Control, women with type 1 or type 2 dia-
betes, but not gestational, are at a heightened but
still small risk of being infected with MRSA after
delivering a baby. The odds of a MRSA infection were
3.4 times higher in women with pre-pregnancy
diabetes than in those with gestational diabetes or
without the disease. Women with diabetes compli-
cations may have additional risk, the authors say,
suggesting that blood glucose control may help ward
off infections. — The Health
Knowing when not to get a massage
You have been having a really stressful week, and have
been looking forward to a weekend massage session.
With today’s list of massage options being long and
varied, you might be spoilt for choices when it comes
to massages.
But there are times however, when a massage can
be a bad idea. Here are instances where you shouldn’t
go for massages:
When you are stressed out
When you are stressed out, your body’s immunity level
will naturally get affected, and you will be at greater risk
of getting infection.
That is why you will some time get a fever or the cold
when you’re stressed. Combining that with going to a
massage, where skin-to-skin contact is inevitable, you
might just be better off without it.
When you have a fever
Similar to when you are stressed out, and have your
immunity level drop. Having a fever means your body
is fighting off whatever that is infecting you. Going to
a massage at this time will not only put yourself at risk
of getting worse, but also putting the masseuse at risk
as well.
Those with high blood pressure
People with high blood pressure who are not on medica-
tion should rethink this hands-on therapy method.
Getting a massage will increase blood flow – which will
cause problems with a person who already have high
blood pressure.
Those with osteoporosis
This condition is common among the elderly, in which
the bones degrades and become porous, brittle, and
fragile. Certain massages may be too intense for osteo-
porosis patients.
When you recently took pain killers
Massages are all about admitting pressure. If you have
taken pain medication, it can alter the way you receive
pressure, and you are likely not going to be as aware
if something is wrong. If you have any injury or ill-
ness that requires the use of pain medications, it is
best to schedule your massage just before you take a
dose so that you are able to feel touch in an unaltered
way. Even over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications
like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alter sensation
enough to interfere with your massage. Just wait to
take them until after your session.
13
Hot stone massage uses smooth, flat, and
heated rocks placed at key points on the
body.
Which massage
is right for me?
You have a headache, your back is killing you
and your neck cracks every time you look up
from the computer. Boy, do you need a little
pampering. A massage may be just the thing
to knock out the kinks and get your muscles
feeling supple and relaxed again.
But if you’re a newbie at this, which massage
should you choose? Here are some of the more
common massages available out there.
Swedish massage
Swedish massage is a gentle type of full-body
massage that’s ideal for people who are new to
massage, have a lot of tension and are sensitive
to touch. It can help release muscle knots, and
it’s also a good choice for when you want to fully
relax during a massage.
Aromatherapy massages
Aromatherapy massages are best for people
who want to have an emotional healing
component to their massage. This type
of massage can help boost your mood,
reduce stress and anxiety, reduce symptoms
of depression, relieve muscle tension and
relieve pain. Aromatherapy massages combine
soft, gentle pressure with the use of essential
oils.
Thai massage
Thai massage is best for people who want
a more active form of massage and want to
reduce and relieve pain and stress. It can also
help improve flexibility, circulation and energy
levels. Your therapist will use their palms and
fingers to apply firm pressure to your body.
Hot Stone Massage
A hot stone massage combines massage
techniques that employ heat and pressure. The
hot stone massage utilizes smooth stones in
varying sizes to relax muscles and stimulate the
body’s natural healing energies. Stones for this
one can get as hot as 54 degrees Celsius so be
prepared.
Or if you’re unsure, just ask your friendly
therapist! Remember to always communicate
your expectations and intentions with your
massage therapist and speak up if there is
something with which you aren’t comfortable.