Mrityunjoy Khound
Whenever we feel any unmanageable discomfort, we visit the physician, who then prescribes us medicines as per his or her varying vision and experience. Here, there is no option left for us but to go by the physician’s diagnosis. But, one must be lucky to get hold of a doctor with good diagnostic skill, as well as get an appointment with the same. Recently, I had to see a paediatrician in Guwahati for my daughter. I tried to get an appointment with one who is quite dependable, but unfortunately, failed to get one due to the overwhelming number of patients. Out of despair, I consulted another who advised a good number of tests and investigations for my eight-year-old. Given my daughter’s health condition, and also not bearing any ill-feeling towards the doctor for suggesting an extensive number of tests – a common trait of demonising doctors owing to a prejudicial belief that they mislead gullible patients, I went ahead with the prescribed tests.
I was rather worried about the diagnosis that was going to be done – whether it would be precise or a blind guess. However, finally, I managed an appointment with my trusted paediatrician. The specialist doctor, with his sharp diagnostic skills, was able to hit the target. Though he suggested medications for three months, my daughter felt better in just about two weeks. However, that may have been possible due to a change in food habits as advised by the doctor. The crux here is: a change in food habits (more veggies and fruits) worked better than medication, and that was possible because of the right diagnosis.
On and off, I fall prey to throat infection if I take chilled and cold foodstuff. The infection manifests itself in the form of a severe cough. This time, when I did not get any relief even after using an antiseptic mouthwash, cough syrup and Vitamin C supplements, I resorted to natural treatment. I collected some matured seeds of Acacia concinna (shikakai, or commonly known as monichal) and boiled its outer layer by peeling it off. Boiling it generates enough foam. When lukewarm, I gurgled with it and almost got instant relief.
In another incident, when my mother consulted a specialist doctor in Delhi for her diabetes, the doctor told her that in cases of diabetes, the patient himself or herself is the doctor, and, of course, it is no exaggeration. He suggested the mantra – no fasting and no feasting. Diabetics should have a balanced diet – small meals in larger instalments, and engage in regular physical activities, that can help control the blood sugar levels.
Last but not the least, rest is a great energiser and immunity booster. In today’s rat-race, people are more target-driven than they used to be. As a result, heart issues have become a common threat to life, that too at a young age. We must internalise that business has no meaning without health. It is better to go slow, for only the slow and steady wins the race.
