ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Serampore, West Bengal

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Santipur, West Bengal

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Ranigunj, West Bengal

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Purulia, West Bengal

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Purba Medinipur, West Bengal

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

Vitamin C is a nutrient that has a key role in maintaining your overall health. It supports your immune system, helps your body heal and protects your cells from damage. While you can also get vitamin C from supplements, it’s always best to get it naturally through your diet. Explore the vegetables that are rich in this important vitamin and get practical tips on how you can increase your intake.

Health benefits of vitamin C

Vitamin C offers several health benefits that enhance overall well-being:

Boosts your immune system

• Helps your body fight colds, flu and other infections
• Supports your immune system so you stay healthier

Helps you heal faster

• Makes the healing of cuts and wounds faster
• Helps in the production of collagen, which keeps your skin, bones and muscles strong

Improves iron absorption

• Helps the body absorb iron, particularly from plant-based foods
• Iron is very important for carrying oxygen in your blood
• Low iron can make you feel tired, weak or dizzy

Acts as an antioxidant

• Protects cells from damage by harmful molecules
• Reduces the chances of long-term health problems such as heart disease and some types of cancer

List of vegetables that are rich in vitamin C

Many vegetables are great sources of vitamin C. Below are some of the most nutritious options:

• Chili peppers

A single green chilli pepper possesses 121% of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin C, and a red pepper offers 72% DV, providing a substantial amount of this vitamin.

• Sweet yellow peppers

Resplendent in their vibrant hue, one sweet yellow pepper offers an impressive 380% DV of vitamin C in a single large pepper. They promote healthier eyesight and add colour to your plate.

• Mustard spinach

A cup of cooked raw mustard spinach offers a whopping 130% DV. These leaves help support optimal bone health, making them a valuable addition to your diet.

• Kale

Kale isn't just a fleeting trend; it's a nutritional powerhouse with 100g of raw leaves providing 103% DV of vitamin C.

• Broccoli

Half a cup of cooked broccoli may offer 57% DV of vitamin C. Its cancer-fighting properties and contribution to overall well-being make it beneficial against certain health risks.

• Brussels sprouts

Half a cup of cooked Brussels sprouts offer 54% DV of vitamin C. Their ability to maintain strong bones aligns with their nutritional prowess.

• Parsley

Parsley offers 11% DV with a mere two tablespoons. Beyond its use as a garnish, it affirms its status as a noteworthy nutrient contributor.

• Watercress

With a refreshing and peppery taste, a 100g of watercress provides around 43mg of vitamin C.

• Cabbage

Cabbage stands as a versatile cruciferous vegetable. When cooked, it offers around 36mg of vitamin C in a 100g serving.

• Tomatoes

Tomatoes, known for their juiciness and vibrancy, provide a moderate dose of vitamin C. A medium-sized tomato offers around 16mg of vitamin C.

• Potato

Potatoes can contribute to vitamin C intake, although in smaller quantities. A medium-sized potato provides approximately 20mg of vitamin C.

• Green bell pepper

Green bell peppers boast around 80mg of vitamin C per 100g. Their crispness makes them an ideal choice for salads, adding crunch and colour.

• Red bell pepper

With a 100g serving offering about 128mg of vitamin C, red bell peppers present a nutritious, sweet and juicy option.

• Sweet potato

Beyond their inherent sweetness, sweet potatoes contribute around 22mg of vitamin C in a medium-sized serving.

• Cauliflower

Cauliflower, a cruciferous veggie, combines low-calorie content with vitamin C richness, offering 48mg of vitamin C in a 100g serving.

• Kohlrabi

With 62 mg of vitamin C per 100g, kohlrabi's mild sweetness and crunchy texture make it versatile in salads and slaws, contributing to taste and nutrition.

• Asparagus

Asparagus provides about 5mg of vitamin C per 100g. A nutrient-packed option, it can be enjoyed using various cooking methods, from roasting to grilling.

• Bok choy

Bok choy stands out with its crisp stems and tender leaves. It offers 45mg of vitamin C per 100g and adds a unique dimension to stir-fries and soups.

• Turnip greens

A 100g serving of turnip greens delivers 30mg of vitamin C. Their slightly peppery taste offers a tangy contrast, ideal for incorporating into salads.

• Collard greens

With approximately 35mg of vitamin C in a 100g serving, collard greens showcase a hearty texture and earthy flavour, while elevating your meals with their nutritious profile.

How can I increase my vitamin C?

There are many easy ways to get more vitamin C into your diet:

• Eat more fruit and vegetables: Try to have at least five portions each day. Include foods that have higher vitamin C, like oranges, strawberries and peppers.
• Have a smoothie: Blend fruits like kiwi, mango and berries into a tasty drink.
• Add raw veg to meals: Have a salad with lunch or dinner, or eat carrot sticks and peppers.
• Take a supplement if needed: If your doctor suggests it, you can take a vitamin C tablet. Getting vitamin C from food is usually the best way. It's natural and gives you other nutrients too.

How can I get vitamin C naturally?

Here are some good tips:

• Eat more citrus fruits: Oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruits are all full of vitamin C.
• Snack on fruit: Keep apples, strawberries or kiwis nearby for a healthy snack.
• Cook smart: Steam or stir-fry vegetables instead of boiling them to keep more vitamins in.
• Use fresh ingredients: The fresher the fruit or veg, the more vitamin C it will have.
• Include colourful food: The brighter the colour, the more likely it is to have vitamin C.

Conclusion

Vitamin C is a key part of staying healthy. Eating a healthy, colourful diet is the best way to get enough vitamin C every day. Having a healthy diet with plenty of vitamin C is important, but it’s also wise to think about your health. Health insurance plans help you get the medical care you need when you need it. It’s worth looking into medical insurance for parents, as it can help with costs if any health problems come up in your family.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

Want to feel fit but facing a time crunch? Welcome to the world of Surya Namaskar – a traditional morning practice honouring the sun. Surya Namaskar, also known as Sun Salutation, includes various yoga postures that contribute to positive physical and mental health.

But, is Surya Namaskar good for weight loss too? Indeed. Surya Namaskar is made up of a sequence of 12 yoga poses and stretches, to be done preferably at sunrise. They help us achieve muscle definition and core strength, and allow us to enjoy the stretch and feel the body getting flexible, relaxing and meditative. Read on to learn more about this amazing morning practice.

Surya Namaskar for weight loss

Surya Namaskar is a fantastic workout that involves the oldest yoga techniques. It comprises 12 sets of salutations to the Sun God, which are very effective in toning the body and managing weight. One set of Surya Namaskar burns around 14 calories. So, 7 sets of Surya Namaskar can help us lose around 98 calories daily. This makes it a suitable solution to lose weight.

Research shows that yoga is a way of life, combining mindfulness, asanas, mudras and breathing. It is more than just physical activity which leaves a positive impact on the mind and soul. It helps the whole body, including the heart, intestines, liver, stomach, throat, chest and legs.

Are you looking for ways to improve your diet but need to know if certain vegetables cause a spike in uric acid? If yes, then this article is a must-read for you! Uric acid is produced inside the body by the breakdown of purines. Purines are nitrogen-containing compounds that are found naturally in the body as well as in certain food products. Though almost all fruits and most of the vegetables are low in purine content, there are some vegetables that are high in these substances. High levels of uric acid present in the body can cause uric acid to form sharp crystal clusters. These crystals can then settle in the joints, resulting in gout, a type of arthritis that causes severe pain. Let us now explore the vegetables that contain high levels of purines, leading to an increase in uric acid.

Vegetables that increase uric acid levels

We’ve listed the different vegetables that are high in purines and can lead to elevated uric acid levels:

1. Spinach: Though spinach has many health benefits, it has high purine levels that get converted into uric acid once metabolised. So, its intake should be limited to avoid elevated uric acid levels.
2. Tomatoes: Even with low purine content, tomatoes have been found to cause gout flares in people with high uric acid levels. This is known to be associated with a high glutamate content, which can, in turn, increase uric acid levels.
3. Dried lentils: While dried lentils have many health benefits, they also contain some amount of purines, which can increase uric acid levels.
4. Broccoli and cauliflower: These cruciferous vegetables are rich sources of vitamins and minerals, but they also have high purine levels that can increase uric acid levels in the blood.
5. Mushrooms: Mushrooms contain a moderate amount of purines, but their intake should be limited for gout patients.
6. Beetroot: Beetroots may not have a lot of purines, but they do have a high oxalate level, which can in turn increase uric acid levels in the blood. Thus, they should be consumed in limitation by gout patients.
7. Turnips: Turnips, like beetroot, contain a lot of oxalates. The higher the oxalate level, the higher the uric acid generated in the body.
8. Ladyfinger: Okra or ladyfinger is also known to have high oxalate levels, which boost uric acid levels.

Managing Gout: Dietary Tips

When uric acid levels in the blood increase considerably, it causes the formation of crystals. These crystals eventually settle down around one or more joints, causing severe pain.  Gout can be easily managed if you take good care of your diet.

Here are a few dietary tips you can follow to manage gout effectively:

1. Drink lots of water and other healthy fluids to stay hydrated.
2. Include fruits and vegetables in your diet, as they are rich in nutrients and purines. These can help prevent gout symptoms.
3. Try to include different varieties of protein in your daily diet. These include lean meats, dairy products, poultry, beans and the like.
4. Avoid the consumption of cold and processed foods, red meat and alcohol, as these can increase the uric acid levels in your blood.
5. Include foods like cherries and avocados.
6. Limit the intake of baked foods, foods rich in sugars and other sugary beverages.

Nuchal translucency (NT) scan is a common ultrasound test that is done to measure the amount of fluid behind the baby’s neck, called the nuchal fold, in the first trimester of pregnancy. This test assesses if a baby is at risk for genetic conditions by measuring the size of the clear tissue, called the nuchal translucency, at the back of the baby’s neck. Excessive clear space at the back of the neck indicates Down syndrome, or a chromosome abnormality like Patau syndrome or Edwards' syndrome. The advanced NT measurement may also indicate an increased risk for congenital heart conditions and also screens for basic anatomical structures of the unborn baby (foetus). The NT scan is performed when the baby is between 11-13 weeks of gestation and measures 45-84 millimetres in size from the crown to the rump. Read on to learn more about what an NT scan is during pregnancy.

What is nuchal translucency in pregnancy?

A nuchal translucency (NT) test is a type of ultrasound screening test that is performed in the first trimester of pregnancy because the clear space in the back of a developing baby’s neck disappears by 15 weeks. At 11 weeks of pregnancy, the skin folds at the back of the neck measure up to 2 mm and at 13 weeks it grows up to 2.8 mm in size. The results from this screening test do not offer 100% surety of whether the baby will have a chromosomal abnormality or not. If the result shows a high risk for the developing foetus, then a doctor may recommend a diagnostic procedure like chorionic villus sampling, which provides a definitive result.

So, what is an NT scan during pregnancy going to result in? The results are usually reported as either of the two risks:

• Low risk: The result is said to be low risk when fewer than 1 in 300 tests indicates a risk of chromosomal abnormality
• High risk: The result is said to be high risk when more than 1 in 300 indicates a risk of abnormality.

The nuchal translucency scan results can be combined with a blood test performed within 10 to 12 weeks of pregnancy, to form a ‘combined first-trimester screen’, or CFTS that provides a more accurate estimate of the risk.

A chemical pregnancy refers to an extremely early miscarriage occurring within the initial five weeks of pregnancy. An embryo has formed and is even embedded in the uterus lining but then doesn’t develop further and the woman even starts menstruating after this. Chemical pregnancies occur so early on, that many people who miscarry don’t realise it and later get diagnosed by a doctor when they perform a pregnancy test, which shows a positive pregnancy but no fetus on the ultrasound. The doctor can confirm a chemical pregnancy with a simple urine or blood test and by checking the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in the blood. Read on to learn more about what a chemical pregnancy is.

Chemical pregnancy explained

A chemical pregnancy is also known as a biochemical pregnancy, which is quite common today. It happens when an egg is fertilised but doesn’t fully implant in the uterus, resulting in an early miscarriage within the fifth week of pregnancy. What’s more, research has found that many such cases are reported with a ratio of one in four pregnancies lost even before a woman misses her period or has any symptoms related to pregnancy.

Chemical pregnancy may occur when a woman is trying to conceive a child through a process called in vitro fertilisation (IVF). These pregnancies are monitored closely by the doctor, which helps them to detect early miscarriages that occur due to chemical pregnancies. However, IVF alone isn’t a risk factor for a chemical pregnancy.

The chances of chemical pregnancy increase if:

• The woman is aged 35 years or older
• The woman has an atypically shaped uterus
• Hormone levels are too high or too low
• The woman is infected with a sexually transmitted infection/disease
• The woman thyroid disorders and/or polycystic ovarian disorder (PCOD).

Jaundice is an illness resulting from the accumulation of bilirubin (a yellow pigment) in the body. Bilirubin is a waste material that gets accumulated in the blood if the liver is not properly functioning. The accumulation of 2 to 3 mg/dL bilirubin in the blood causes the skin, nails, gums and eyes to become yellow. Although jaundice can affect people of all ages, newborns and older adults are most susceptible to it. The liver plays an important role in the digestion of fats, nutrient uptake, detoxification, and processing of medication. As jaundice occurs mainly due to liver dysfunction, people with jaundice are advised which foods to avoid and which foods to include. Let’s look at some of the foods to avoid when recovering from jaundice. 

List of foods to include in the diet during Jaundice

When you are recovering from jaundice, here is a list of foods you should include in your daily diet for a quick and easy recovery:

1. Water – Keeping yourself hydrated with plenty of water at all times is important. Water will ease the digestion process, and also help to flush out all the toxins from your body easily.
2. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables – The antioxidants and fibre found in fresh fruits and vegetables help to improve the overall health of your liver and digestive system. These foods can prevent any damage to the liver. Foods highly recommended under this category for people recovering from jaundice are papaya, melons, berries, grapes, lemons, olives, avocados, carrot, broccoli, pumpkin, yam, cauliflower and sprouts.
3. Whole Grains – Whole grains, such as oats, are good sources of fibre and healthy fats. They also contain beta-glucan, which is essential for the overall smooth functioning of the liver.
4. Healthy Fats – Including foods rich in healthy fats is a must for people recovering from jaundice. This is because healthy fats such as polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats help improve liver function considerably.
5. Lean Proteins – Some fish, like salmon and mackerel, are excellent sources of lean proteins.  They contain Vitamin E, healthy fats, phenolic acid and other nutrients that are good for the liver.  Some other lean proteins that you can try when recovering from jaundice are tofu, legumes and nuts.

Infertility has become a prevalent problem in recent times and affects many couples. Infertility is medically defined as not being able to conceive even after one year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. When this happens, couples often turn to infertility treatments, which help women get pregnant using a medical procedure. However, the costs for these procedures are quite high. That’s when health insurance comes into play. The most obvious question arises, ‘Will my health insurance cover this?’ Fortunately, many new insurers have developed or are starting to develop plans that cover fertility treatment, mainly as an add-on, which we will discuss in detail. From health insurance that covers IVF to things you can do to ensure you make the right decision, we cover it all in this article.

What are the Causes of Infertility?

In men and women, infertility is caused by health issues, bad lifestyle choices, and environmental factors.

The reasons for infertility in women can be:

• PCOS or polycystic ovarian syndrome, PCOD or polycystic ovarian disorder, and hormonal issues
• Blocked fallopian tubes or endometriosis
• Reduced fertility caused by advanced age
• Fibroids or issues with uterine walls

The reason for infertility in men can be:

• Reduction in sperm quality or quantity due to hormonal issues, environmental factors, or lifestyle choices.
• Erectile dysfunction

Lifestyle choices like regularly drinking alcoholic drinks and smoking can also be the reasons affecting fertility.

Are Infertility Treatments Covered Under Health Insurance? 

Infertility treatment can be quite expensive, with costs ranging from 100,000 to 400,000 INR per cycle. Most insurance companies do not offer any coverage for this treatment. However, a few companies may offer partial coverage based on the severity of the issue, in their basic or additional health policies. For those with maternity insurance coverage, IVF insurance may be added at an extra cost.

Additionally, various health insurance providers offer coverage for specific aspects of infertility treatment rather than providing coverage for the whole procedure. It is thus important for people to compare the many available options from different health insurance companies and then plan accordingly based on their future needs. Usually, health insurance companies cover around 50-70% of the cost of infertility treatment, which excludes the cost of in vitro fertilisation (IVF). However, more expensive procedures, like laparoscopic surgeries are typically included in health insurance policies for infertility treatment.

Procedures for Infertility Treatment Covered Under Health Insurance

While infertility treatments include a considerable range of different procedures, there are some procedures that are included by many health insurance policies while some are not. We’ve mentioned them below: 

• IUI (Intra-uterine insemination): This is one of the most affordable treatment options for infertility. Many health insurance policies fully cover this procedure as part of infertility treatment. With proper research, you’ll find an insurance that covers IVF suited to your needs.
• IVF (In vitro fertilisation): IVF is an infertility treatment that comes with higher costs and involves multiple procedures, all of which are not always covered by health insurance policies. However, some companies offer add-ons for IVF coverage, so it is important to properly check and compare different policies.
• GIFT (Gamete intrafallopian transfer): This procedure is nearly similar to IVF, just a little less technical, as it does not require embryo implantation. In many cases, a health insurance company provides full/partial coverage of this procedure.
• ICSI (Intracytoplasmic sperm injection): This procedure is also subjected to partial or full coverage, depending upon the company or particular insurance policy.

Things to Check Before Buying Health Insurance for Infertility Treatment 

As different infertility treatment procedures have different rates and not all health insurance policies cover all of them, it is important to keep certain factors in mind before buying health insurance.

• Check the eligibility criteria. You may need to opt for a sum insured above a specific amount, such as 5 lakhs, to avail of this benefit.
• Verify whether the cost of diagnosing infertility is covered or not.
• Check what procedures of IVF or other techniques are covered by the health insurance policy.
• Check the limitations of the policy for those covered procedures. For example, they may or may not provide full coverage or may cover only a limited number of cycles.
• Determine the waiting period before you can make a claim through the policy (that might range up to 6 years).
• Check if the cost of medicines is covered under that policy. Infertility treatments require a lot of medications, which come with hefty charges.
• Determine what add-ons are provided by that particular insurance policy that might be useful when you need to opt for several treatment procedures.

FAQs

1. Is infertility treatment expensive?

Yes, infertility treatments like IVF are expensive and can cost anywhere between one lakh to five lakh or more.

2. Can health insurance cover the entire cost of infertility treatment?

Most policies do not cover 100% of the cost. Partial coverages and limitations are applied to infertility treatment.

3. Does maternity insurance cover infertility treatments?

No, maternity insurance covers delivery and postnatal costs and does not include infertility treatments.

4. Are infertility medications covered under insurance?

It differs from policy to policy. While some plans include medications and hormonal therapies, others do not offer any coverage.

Conclusion

There are so many resources out there that can help you get the necessary treatments when working with financial constraints. Discussing these treatments and potential issues with friends, family, or other members of the community can provide support and guidance as you navigate this complex process. At the end of the day, it’s important to remember there is always hope in beginning or continuing your parenthood journey, despite any obstacles that come along with it.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical or nutrition professional before making any significant changes in your daily diet. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any impact or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

Dengue fever, a viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes, can rapidly decline our platelet count. It can cause a condition known as thrombocytopenia. In this condition, individuals experience bruising, fatigue, and bleeding gums. Thus, maintaining a healthy platelet count is essential to prevent complications during dengue.

Platelets are blood components that help prevent excessive bleeding by forming clots. Now, if you are wondering how to increase platelet count in dengue, we’re here to help. Here, we'll explore some of the simplest and most effective ways to boost platelet count naturally.

Why Do Platelets Drop in Dengue?

Platelet count decreases in dengue fever due to the following reasons:

1. When the bone marrow, which produces platelets, is attacked by the dengue virus, it leads to a sudden and sometimes life-threatening drop in platelets.
2. The virus can cause abnormal immune system reactions, where the immune cells attack healthy platelets and destroy them.
3. The virus can cause the inner lining of the blood vessels to become sticky, leading to the adherence of platelets.  This reduces the number of platelets in circulation.

What is the Range of Platelet Count in Dengue Fever?

150,000 to 450,000 in every microliter of blood is the average platelet count in a healthy person. In an individual suffering from dengue, the range differs according to the severity of the condition:

• Mild Cases: From 50,000 to 100,000
• Sever Cases: Below 20,000, resulting in internal bleeding and other life-threatening conditions.

How to Increase Platelet Count in Dengue?

If you don't know how to increase platelets in dengue, you can try these methods:

Natural Ways

• Hydration and rest

Stay hydrated, as it helps support blood circulation and overall health. Proper hydration helps maintain the balance of bodily fluids and ensures nutrients are effectively transported to cells, including those responsible for platelet production. Additionally, getting sufficient rest aids the body in its recovery process and promotes healthy platelet production.

• Nutrient-rich diet

You should eat a well-balanced diet that is rich in essential nutrients. It will support platelet production. Focus on incorporating foods high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins B-12, C, D, and K, iron and folate.

• Iron-rich foods

You can incorporate lean meats, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals into your diet. They can provide the necessary iron for healthy platelet production. Iron is a vital component of haemoglobin and supports overall blood health.

• Folate-rich foods

Folate in spinach, black-eyed peas, and fortified cereals supports platelet health and division. Adding these foods to your diet can contribute to maintaining a healthy platelet count.

Medical Treatments for Increasing Platelet Count

 A person suffering from dengue is given the following medical treatments for boosting platelets:

1. Transfusions: In cases of severely low platelet count, transfusion of thrombocytes is advised to avoid complications.
2. Intravenous Fluids: IV fluids regulate hydration and enhance blood circulation, thus indirectly supporting platelet recovery.

Dietary Recommendations to Boost Platelet Count

• Vitamin B-12

This essential vitamin is found in sources such as eggs, fish, and fortified cereals. It supports red blood cell formation and platelet production. Ensuring an adequate intake of vitamin B-12 can contribute to healthy platelet levels.

• Vitamin C

You probably know that vitamin C is abundant in citrus fruits, strawberries, and various vegetables. It serves multiple bodily functions. It not only aids in proper platelet function but also provides immune support, which is particularly important during dengue fever.

• Vitamin D

Sunlight exposure and dietary sources like fish and fortified foods rich in vitamin D. It is crucial for bone marrow health and platelet synthesis. You should take this vitamin in moderation, as sufficient vitamin D intake can contribute to maintaining platelet count within a healthy range.

• Vitamin K

It is found in leafy greens and a variety of other vegetables. It plays an essential role in blood clotting and platelet activation. You can include foods rich in vitamin K in your diet as it can support platelet health.

Conclusion

Remember, prevention is better than cure. Preventing dengue fever starts with protecting yourself from mosquito bites. You can use a mosquito repellent or mosquito net, and wear appropriate clothing that covers your arms and legs. Having a health insurance plan can also be beneficial in managing any unforeseen medical expenses related to dengue or other illnesses. To protect yourself and your loved ones from the stress of costly treatments for any complication that may arise with diseases like dengue, obtaining critical illness insurance is advisable.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical or nutrition professional before making any significant changes in your daily diet. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any impact or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared. 

There are several benefits attributed to cashless hospitalization offered under health insurance. But before we delve into these benefits, it is important to know what cashless facility in health insurance is. Under cashless health insurance, the insurance company handles payment directly with the treating hospital. This eliminates the need for the policyholder to make upfront payments for medical services. Typically, insurance providers have affiliations with specific medical institutions, known as network hospitals. To take advantage of the cashless feature, policyholders must receive treatment at one of these affiliated facilities. Read on to learn more about the benefits of cashless facilities in health insurance.

Benefits of cashless facility in health insurance

The following are some of the benefits of cashless facilities in health insurance:

• If you or any of your family members face a medical emergency, paying for expensive treatments out of pocket may not be viable. However, having a cashless health insurance card in your wallet can provide you with a smooth path through such a crisis.

• Finding yourself in a medical emergency can be distressing. What's more, if you're in a situation where you have to arrange funds for medical treatment, it can turn into a deeply concerning scenario. However, suppose you're part of a health insurance plan, and your insurer has an extensive network of hospitals nationwide, even when you're exploring a new city. In that case, you can easily tap into the cashless health insurance feature at any of the affiliated hospitals.

• Paying for hospitalization treatment yourself and then raising a reimbursement claim may be a tedious procedure. On the other hand, cashless treatment is very convenient, and your bill is cleared at the time of discharge itself. This way, you can focus on your treatment instead of worrying about medical bills.

India is better equipped to battle swine flu this time as it has a stronger arsenal at its disposal. A descending winter, say experts, would be favorable to curb its spread. Besides, our country's Central and State Health Departments have been conducting multiple public awareness campaigns to educate the masses about swine flu.

In order to avoid contracting swine flu you need to stay aware of its symptoms, follow basic guidelines and be proactive. Read further to understand the disease and ways to tackle it.

What Is Swine Flu?

Just as we are affected by flu, animals are also susceptible to it. A respiratory disease that originated from pigs and got transmitted to humans in their close proximity is called as swine flu. As the human immune system is not built to tackle the flu affecting pigs, we find it difficult to cope up with swine flu when exposed to it.

A contagious illness, swine flu spreads rapidly if we inhale or intake virus droplets. People suffering from swine flu may cough or sneeze without any cover, inadvertently letting out airborne droplets containing germs.

Who Are Vulnerable To Swine Flu?

Infants, toddlers, young kids, adults above 60 years of age, people suffering from cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, pregnant women, and those that have a weak immune system are likely to get affected by this virus.

What Are The Symptoms Of Swine Flu?

Symptoms of swine flu are similar to that of a normal flu. These include:
- Nasal secretions
- Fever and cough
- Headache and fatigue
- Sore throat
- Nausea
- Vomiting and diarrhea

How Is Swine Flu Diagnosed?

If flu-like symptoms persist over a longer period than usual, it is suggested to undergo a check-up for swine flu. The disease is diagnosed by conducting a test called as a Polymerase Chain Reaction technique. It generally involves a procedure called as 'pronasopharyngeal swab'. This procedure is conducted to collect fluid samples from your nose, throat or mouth, which is then sent for testing.

How Is Swine Flu Treated?

Swine flu can be treated completely if it is diagnosed at an early stage. Two antiviral medicines, Tamiflu and Relenza are administered to stop the flu from spreading. You can opt for a vaccination or nasal spray depending upon your requirement, after consulting the doctor. Health insurance can cover the costs associated with the treatment and medications for swine flu. Swine flu can be treated completely if it is diagnosed at an early stage. Two antiviral medicines, Tamiflu and Relenza are administered to stop the flu from spreading. You can opt for a vaccination or nasal spray depending upon your requirement, after consulting the doctor.

Top Precautionary Measures
to Avoid Swine Flu:

Washing Hands

Swine Flu can be avoided by following simple measures like washing hands with soap on a regular basis. Keeping a hand sanitizer handy might prove extremely productive. Also, make sure to keep your surroundings clean.

Wearing a Mask

Wearing a mask may seem unfashionable but they score brownie points when it comes to saving lives. As the swine flu virus is airborne (carried through the air), wearing a mask to cover your nose and mouth while travelling can protect you from inhaling infected air.

Avoiding Crowded Places

Try your best to avoid crowded places. Social functions involving large gatherings can be skipped. Be cautious while using public transportation and public utility services. While greeting people, sticking to a traditional Namaste and avoiding the formal handshake can be adopted.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Paschim Midnapur, West Bengal

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