Burna Boy earns the highest-grossing arena concert by an African artist in the United States.
Burna Boy sets new African record for highest-grossing venue in the United States
Nigerian megastar Burna Boy continues to record historic feats that push the boundaries of the global commercial success of African music.
n another monumental feat, Burna Boy becomes the African artist with the highest grossing venue in the United States. In a post by Touring Data on X, it was revealed that Burna Boy’s 2024 concert at the TD Garden Arena in Boston grossed$1.593 million thereby surpassing the previous African record he set at Madison Square Garden in 2022.
In his history-making concert, Burna Boy sold out the 19,000-capacity TD Arena Garden in Boston as part of the stops for his ‘I Told Them’ Tour that has already grossed $11,659,531 from 11 reported shows of the 22 stops.
Burna Boy history history-making feat is a testament to his status as the leading African artist globally. Since breaking into the international scene in 2018 with his hit single ‘YE’, Burna Boy has achieved unprecedented success for an African artist.
The African Giant as he’s fondly called is the only Nigerian artist to have two Diamond songs in France with ‘On The Low’ and ‘Last Last’. His Grammy-nominated fourth album ‘African Giant’ is also the first Nigerian album to received a platinum plaque in France.
Burna Boy boasts of the most Grammy nominations for a Nigerian artist with 10. He also made history in February 2024 at the 66th Grammys when he became the first African artist to perform at the main ceremony.
For those that have been following my blog for a while, you would know that I claim not to be able to bake to save my life. Well this banana bread post is breaking that myth and it’s giving me confidence to try my hands at baking more often. I really had fun with fingers crossed hoping it would work out and it did. It came out super delicious and moist which is what I guess it is supposed to be. Either way I really enjoyed it. You can add several things to this basic recipe like walnuts, currants, or even chocolate chips. Have fun with it. Post a picture on your social media and tag afrolems so we can re-share your posts Enjoy!
Recipe for Banana Bread
Ingredients
4.5 tablespoons of butter, softened
2 ripe bananas
2 eggs
2/3 cup of sugar
a pinch of salt
1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Method
Mash the bananas till it’s smooth.
Whisk the eggs and set aside.
Mix all your dry ingredients except the sugar and set aside
Mix the butter, egg and sugar and cream it. Add the mashed bananas to this mixture and mix till smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients to the bowl of the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly till smooth incorporating air as you mix.
Pre-Heat the oven to 375F, grease the pan and pour in your mixture and place in the oven. It should take roughly 25-30 minutes to bake fully. To make sure it’s ready, stick a toothpick in it and if the toothpick comes out clear you are good to go. Allow to cool for a bit and serve
P.S: If you would be adding walnuts, currants or chocolate chips, add it to the mixture before pouring it into the pan while you are incorporating air.
The velvety smooth Ncha also known as Nkwobi Sauce is the rich palm oil based emulsion that coats the gelatinous cowlegs, goat meat or “biscuit bone” that is enjoyed at beer parlor chill times.
While I did not personally grow up eating Nkwobi; as both my parents are south south but when I moved to Canada, I tried Nkwobi for the first time at a lady’s restaurant called ID Love in Toronto. She served it with piping hot boiled yam. I found myself dreaming about that sauce every now and again and I always considered it a treat every time my friends and I would drive down to pick up a hot plate of Nkwobi.
Fast forward in me delving a lot deeper into how to make Nkwobi, I realized the name of the sauce was Ncha. Ncha is the base for a number of south eastern dishes. Another popular use case of the Ncha sauce is the use of the sauce as a dressing for African Salad.
The Ncha sauce is typically made with potash to help with the emulsification. Some people use the charred skin of plantain, or even baking soda. I like to think about Ncha as a salad dressing even though it is served with hot/warm food. However applying direct heat, breaks the consistency of the sauce. Enjoy the simple recipe of the Ncha Sauce and feel free to use it creatively.
RECIPE FOR NCHA SAUCE
Ingredients
1/2 cup Palmoil 2 tsps Potash (Mix with 1/4 cup Water, Dissolve and Sieve) 1 tsp Ehuru Powder 1 tsp Seasoning powder 2.25 tsps Crayfish Powder Scotch Bonnet – To your liking 1 tablespoon Ugba 1 tablespoon chopped scent leaf 1 Tablespoon of chopped Onions Salt to your taste as well
Method
In a bowl, add your palm oil, ehuru powder, crayfish powder, seasoning powder, scotch bonnet and onions to the bowl.
Mix your potash with water, dissolve it and sieve.
Pour in the potash mix slowly into the palm oil mix and keep stirring until your sauce is emulsified.
Add your ugba and scent leaf or basil at this point and you are good to go.
Serve with your cooked meats, as a salad dressing or as a sauce for a sandwich.
African yams have so much diversity. One minute, they are chocolate yam cookies, the next minute, they are pounded yam. Whatever the case is, I find this delicious ingredient is a serious sleep inducer. It must be the high carbohydrate content that sends little sleep fairies to your eyes. As much as you try, you can never win the sleep battle with yam.
That little detail however was not present in this recipe. I wonder;
“Is the format of consumption responsible for the sleep inducing factor?”
If you are new to West African or Nigerian Cuisine, African yams are typically consumed in a few acceptable formats. These are; boiled yam, fried yam, pounded yam, roasted yam and occasionally a battered version called Yamarita. So far these other versions leave you feeling heavy and fulfilled which translates to sleep. However, when I baked these cookies, the reverse was the case. if you are a food scientist and can explain, please leave a comment down below and let’s learn from you.
RECIPE FOR CHOCOLATE YAM COOKIES
Ingredients
1/2 Cup of Mashed Yam
2 Tbsp Butter
1/2 Cup All Purpose Flour
1/4 Cup Brown Sugar
2 Tsp Baking Powder
1/4 Tsp Salt
2 Tbsp Sweetened Cocoa Powder
Method
Mash your yam with the melted butter and salt.
Mix together, then add baking powder and brown sugar and mix.
Then add cocoa powder and flour and mix till a dough is formed.
Roll out the dough and cut cookies into desired shapes.
In a preheated oven of 350F, place your cookies in a greased baking pan and bake for 10 – 12 minutes.
Take out cookies and allow to cool.
You may drizzle extra chocolate on your chocolate yam cookies and grate some orange zest over them.
The concept of Egusi cream pasta has lingered in my mind for some time. Reflecting on my culinary philosophy, I’ve always emphasized that my recipes should be rooted in locally available ingredients. While foreign influences may inspire, as long as the components are abundant on Nigerian soil, I’m inclined to experiment and innovate. This ethos was particularly sparked by the growing demand for dairy alternatives, driven by increasing allergies among children to dairy, gluten, and other elements not as prevalent in my own childhood.
Observing the rise of oat milk, almond milk, and soy milk as household staples, I noted their exorbitant prices in Lagos, making it challenging for many to afford. This prompted me to explore the idea of Egusi cream as a viable alternative. While initially hesitant about the outcome, I realized that perhaps we underestimate the versatility of our local ingredients beyond their conventional uses.
After much contemplation on various approaches, I decided to boil the egusi with ample water and strain the milk from it, concerned that simply blending and sieving might yield a texture too thick for my liking. In retrospect, thickening with cornstarch may have been unnecessary had I opted for the simpler method. Nevertheless, I invite you to experiment with both techniques and share your feedback on this Egusi Cream Pasta recipe.
EGUSI CREAM PASTA RECIPE
Ingredients: 90g Penne Pasta 52g Diced Prawns 50g Egusi Powder 10g Stockfish 2 Pieces of Habanero Pepper (Yellow & Red) 25g Onions 10g Garlic 2 Sprigs of Basil 5g Seasoning Powder 1 tsp Black Pepper 1/2 tsp White Pepper 1 tsp Italian Seasoning 1/4 Cup White Wine 10g Butter 10ml Olive Oil 200ml Water (for Egusi) 1 L Water (for Boiling Pasta) 2g Cornstarch
Method: 1. Boil the pasta halfway with the stockfish. Remove the stockfish and reserve the pasta water for later use. 2. In a pan, heat butter and olive oil, then sauté onions and garlic. Add diced prawns and season with seasoning powder, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and white pepper. Deglaze with white wine. 3. Pour in the reserved pasta water and simmer. Add the pasta and continue cooking. 4. Toast the egusi powder, then boil with 200ml water for 5 minutes and strain. 5. Incorporate the strained egusi liquid into the pasta. 6. Add habanero pepper and basil, then stir in dissolved cornstarch. 7. Stir well and serve hot.
Not all Swallows are Fufu. Nigerian cuisine is gradually gaining the recognition it deserves, as evidenced by the recent surge in popularity of the “fufu and egusi” challenge on the internet. However, with increased visibility comes the responsibility of accurate information dissemination. Therefore, I am here to clarify that not all carbohydrate accompaniments for soups and stews are fufu. Let me elaborate.
Swallows, also known as morsels or by various compound names depending on regional variations, are carbohydrate accompaniments commonly served with soups and stews across many African countries. Think of them as the equivalent of mashed potatoes served with gravy and a lamb shank. We prefer our carbohydrates to be molded into a cohesive ball on our plates, making it easier to scoop up our soups and stews.
There is a debate surrounding the origin of the name “swallow.” Some people simply swallow the morsel and soup without chewing, while others, like myself, prefer to chew the morsel before swallowing. This difference in eating habits has led to the term “swallow.”
Various types of swallows or morsels are available across the continent, typically made from root vegetables, with modern variations incorporating different ingredients for health reasons. The primary sources of swallows include cassava, yam, plantain, and maize. Let me share a few types of swallows I am familiar with, and please feel free to add any I may have missed in the comments section.
Types of Swallows:
1. Fufu: Made from cassava, fufu may vary in appearance, smell, and taste depending on the region or country. Some varieties may be whiter, smellier, and have a stronger tart taste due to the fermentation process. Others may be blander and take on the flavor of the soup or stew. The texture may also differ, with some varieties being less stretchy than others.
2. Pounded Yam: This is made from African yams, boiled and pounded into a smooth dough-like consistency.
3. Garri: Another cassava-based swallow, garri is grated, fermented, and dry fried before being mixed with hot water to form a cohesive dough. It comes in different variations, including yellow (fried with palm oil), white, and tart (known as Ijebu Garri in Nigeria).
4. Amala (Elubo): Made from dried yams, cassava, or plantain, which are then blended into a powder and mixed with water over fire until a stretchy light dough is formed.
5. Semo: Typically made from semolina flour, water is added to the flour in a pot over heat to form a cohesive dough.
African Swallows:
1. Kenkey: A native swallow to Ghana, kenkey is made from fermented and milled maize cooked into a dough. It has a tart taste due to fermentation and is often consumed with grilled fish and pepper salsa.
2. Sadza/Ugali: Similar to kenkey, sadza/ugali is native to Eastern Africa and is made from maize, but the fermentation process differs.
Newer Swallows:
In recent times, swallows have evolved to incorporate high-fiber, low-glycemic options for health reasons. Swallows made from oat flour, wheat flour, coconut flour mixed with psyllium husk, dehydrated cabbage blended into powder and mixed with psyllium husk, among others, have become popular.
Now that you are informed, I hope we will make an effort to inquire about the specific swallow we are consuming as we delve into Nigerian, West African, or African cuisine, treating it with the respect it deserves.
Now that everyone is adequately educated, I do hope we make the effort to ask what swallow exactly we are consuming as we get our introduction to Nigerian, West African or even generally African Cooking so we treat it with the appropriate respect.
Concerns about breastfeeding are common among new mothers, but you’re not alone. Many moms worry about feeling inadequate or fear that breastfeeding will be too difficult. However, there’s plenty of support and assistance available to help you through it.
At Madison Women’s Health, we prioritize sharing the evidence behind the benefits of breastfeeding while fully supporting the mother and her family’s decision. Our aim is to assist you in successfully feeding your baby in whatever way we can.
Preparing for breastfeeding before your baby arrives is essential. Hopefully, this blog post can address any concerns you may have, providing you with the confidence you need when your little one arrives.
Breastfeeding Concerns and Solutions:
1. **Insufficient Milk Production**: Colostrum, the nutrient-rich “pre-milk,” is produced as early as 24 weeks into pregnancy and continues until regular breast milk is produced. It’s vital to understand that colostrum is all about quality rather than quantity. Your body will begin producing mature milk 3-5 days post-delivery, which can be increased by frequent nursing or pumping.
2. **Difficulty in Breastfeeding**: While breastfeeding may be challenging initially, with patience and support, it can become easier over time. Madison Women’s Health provides various support services, including lactation consultants, to assist you throughout your journey. It’s crucial to seek help early on rather than waiting until you feel overwhelmed.
3. **Partner Support**: Partners can play a significant role in breastfeeding support by assisting with tasks like positioning, tracking feeding times, and bottle feeding. Encouraging your partner to be involved can ease some of the burdens associated with breastfeeding.
4. **Changes in Breast Appearance**: Embracing the changes in your breasts post-pregnancy, whether you breastfeed or not, is essential. Wearing supportive bras during pregnancy and breastfeeding can provide comfort and alleviate stress on breast tissue.
5. **Flat or Inverted Nipples**: While flat or inverted nipples may present initial challenges, techniques like using a suction cup before breastfeeding can help your baby latch on more easily.
6. **Breastfeeding Twins or Multiples**: Nursing twins or multiples is feasible with proper support and techniques, such as using nursing pillows and being patient and flexible with feeding schedules.
7. **Balancing Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding**: Introducing bottle feeding, whether with pumped breast milk or formula, is possible, but it’s essential to wait a few weeks to avoid nipple confusion. Patience and persistence may be needed to help your baby transition between breast and bottle.
8. **Breastfeeding Challenges with Subsequent Babies**: Breastfeeding challenges with subsequent babies are common, but experience from previous breastfeeding can be beneficial. Involving your pediatrician early on can help address any issues more efficiently.
Common Breastfeeding Problems:
1. **Sore Nipples**: Lanolin, olive oil, or nipple butter can help alleviate soreness, along with allowing your nipples to air dry between feedings.
2. **Engorgement**: Emptying your breasts by hand, applying heat, and gentle massage can help relieve engorgement, along with proper positioning during feeding.
3. **Yeast Infections**: Keeping the skin around your breasts dry can prevent yeast infections, and antifungal ointments can treat them effectively.
4. **Clogged Ducts**: Gentle heat, breast massage, and nursing in the “dangle position” can help relieve clogged ducts.
5. **Mastitis**: Proper latch and frequent breastfeeding can prevent mastitis, but if symptoms persist, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Breastfeeding Positions:
Various breastfeeding positions, such as football, cradle, cross cradle, side lying, and dangling, can help improve latch and relieve nipple soreness. Experimenting with different positions can help find what works best for you and your baby.
Weaning:
Weaning is a personal decision that varies for each family and baby. Night weaning and introducing solid foods can be gradual processes, and involving your healthcare provider can help address any concerns or challenges you may encounter.
Tips for Pumping Breast Milk:
Pumping breast milk allows you to continue providing its benefits while being away from your baby. It’s essential to establish a routine and ensure proper hygiene when pumping. Utilizing recommended breast pumps and involving your partner in the process can make pumping more manageable.
Ultimately, successful breastfeeding often hinges on seeking assistance and being willing to learn and adapt. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when needed, as support is readily available to guide you through your breastfeeding journey.
Many experts advocate that breastfeeding should continue for as long as necessary for both the mother and the baby
An online confession from a mother revealed that she is still nursing her 9-year-old daughter, as the child shows no inclination to stop breastfeeding. Despite the mother’s comfort with the situation, she described facing significant backlash online due to her choice.
As awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding grows, many mothers opt to breastfeed their children until they reach their second birthday. However, some mothers choose to prolong this practice, often facing social criticism and negative comments as a result.
The mother’s revelation on Quora ignited a contentious debate among internet users, with some expressing understanding and support, while others questioned the appropriateness of extended breastfeeding. Ultimately, the decision to continue breastfeeding is a personal one, influenced by various factors, and should not be subject to judgment from outsiders.
Night leg cramps, also known as leg cramps, are a common occurrence, often happening during the night hours. These cramps involve sudden contractions of leg muscles, causing intense and involuntary pain. Typically, they endure from a few seconds to a few minutes. While the precise cause of leg cramps remains unknown, factors such as low levels of certain minerals like electrolytes and certain medications have been associated with their occurrence. Unfortunately, chronic leg cramps persist in some individuals without a definitive cure, though long-term use of Cramp can help alleviate these symptoms.
Symptoms of muscle cramps include abrupt, uncontrollable spasms in the muscle, muscle twitching, intense pain deep within the calf muscle, and muscle tightness and hardening. These cramps may recur multiple times before subsiding, with calf muscles and feet being the common sites of occurrence, particularly at night.
Various factors contribute to the onset of leg cramps, including muscle injury, fatigue, poor dietary and lifestyle habits, low magnesium levels or deficiency, dehydration, physical overexertion, exposure of cold muscles to physical exertion, certain medications, and excessive perspiration.
Several lifestyle adjustments can be made to reduce the frequency of nighttime leg cramps:
1. Stay hydrated throughout the day. 2. Engage in daily calf stretches. 3. Avoid sitting with legs crossed. 4. Take a warm bath before bedtime. 5. Receive regular massages. 6. Modify diet to incorporate more potassium and magnesium-rich foods.
FOODS RICH IN MAGNESIUM
Foods abundant in magnesium can help bolster your diet. These include:
1. Leafy green vegetables like spinach. 2. Nuts and seeds such as pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, brazil nuts, almonds, cashews, pine nuts, peanuts, pecans, and walnuts. 3. Mackerel fish. 4. Beans and lentils like soybeans, white beans, French beans, black-eyed peas, kidney beans, chickpeas, lentils, and pinto beans. 5. Grains such as brown rice, quinoa, bulgur, wheat germ, buckwheat, millet, whole wheat pasta, barley, and oats. 6. Dried fruits like figs, prunes, apricots, dates, and raisins. 7. Other foods like avocados, bananas, dark chocolate, seaweeds, and tofu.
Keeping track of your menstrual cycles can assist you in detecting irregularities.
We’re all familiar with the signs: cramps, bloating, mood swings – the less enjoyable indicators that your period is on its way.
But what if you experience the discomfort of cramps without the actual onset of your monthly cycle? It can be perplexing and frustrating, leaving you questioning what’s happening.
Experiencing cramps without a period is quite common. While it may initially cause concern, there are several potential reasons for this occurrence, with some being more prevalent than others. Before delving into the causes behind cramps sans menstruation, let’s briefly examine what triggers cramps initially.
Menstrual cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea, arise when the muscles in your uterus contract. These contractions aid in shedding the lining of your uterus (known as the endometrium) during your period. Prostaglandins, hormone-like substances, play a pivotal role in these contractions, with higher levels often leading to more intense cramps.
Now, let’s explore why you might be experiencing cramps without your period:
1. Ovulation Cramps:
Ovulation marks the release of an egg from your ovary. Occasionally, this process can trigger mild cramping or a dull ache in your lower abdomen. Termed mittelschmerz (German for “middle pain”), these cramps typically occur around the middle of your menstrual cycle, roughly 14-16 days before your expected period. Ovulation cramps are usually brief and shouldn’t be severe.
2. Implantation Cramps:
For those attempting to conceive, implantation cramps may occur. This occurs when a fertilized egg attaches itself to the lining of your uterus. While similar to period cramps, implantation cramps usually arise earlier in your cycle, approximately 6-12 days post-ovulation. They tend to be mild and fleeting, though they may occasionally be accompanied by light spotting.
3. Stress:
Stress can disrupt various bodily functions, including your menstrual cycle. Elevated stress levels prompt the release of hormones like cortisol, which can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance involved in ovulation and menstruation. This disruption can result in irregular periods, missed periods, or even cramps without a period.
4. Sudden Weight Changes:
Significant fluctuations in weight can impact your menstrual cycle. Rapid weight loss can lead to hormonal imbalances, causing irregular or missed periods alongside occasional cramping. Similarly, sudden weight gain can disrupt your cycle and produce similar symptoms.
5. Underlying Medical Conditions:
Certain medical conditions can induce cramping and irregular periods, including endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and uterine fibroids.
6. Birth Control:
Commencing, discontinuing, or changing birth control methods can sometimes induce temporary alterations in your menstrual cycle, including cramping without a period. This is particularly common with hormonal birth control methods such as the pill or the implant. Typically, your cycle should normalize after a few months of using a new birth control method.
7. Early Pregnancy:
In some cases, early pregnancy can prompt cramping, which may be mistaken for a period. This cramping occurs as the fertilized egg implants itself in the uterine lining. If you’re sexually active and experiencing cramps without a period, alongside other early pregnancy symptoms like nausea or breast tenderness, it’s essential to take a pregnancy test.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
While cramps without a period are often benign, there are instances where it’s advisable to consult a doctor. Red flags include:
Severe and persistent cramps. Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge. Additional concerning symptoms like fever, nausea, or vomiting. Multiple missed periods in succession (particularly if not pregnant or on birth control).
If you’re experiencing cramps without a period and are apprehensive, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your doctor. They can conduct a physical examination, order tests if necessary, and assist in determining the cause of your symptoms while recommending an appropriate course of action.
Engaging in regular reading helps expand your knowledge base.
Most of us can relate to the experience: settling in with a captivating book, losing track of time within its pages, and emerging later feeling inspired and transported.
Yet, the advantages of reading surpass mere enjoyment. Establishing a daily reading habit can profoundly impact your mind, body, and even your relationships.
So, what exactly occurs when you make a commitment to read daily?
1. Heightened mental acuity and memory improvement
Consider your brain akin to a muscle. The more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes. Daily reading presents your brain with a challenge, encouraging it to digest new information, retain details, and follow intricate narratives.
This mental workout bolsters cognitive function, enhances memory retention, and maintains your mental acuity over time.
2. Enriched vocabulary and communication proficiency
Diverse books introduce you to a vast array of words. Authors employ language creatively, exposing you to fresh vocabulary and sentence structures. This exposure expands your lexicon, enabling more eloquent and precise expression.
Your written communication flourishes, while your spoken vocabulary thrives. Daily reading exposes you to various writing styles and dialogues, subtly shaping your conversational skills. You may find yourself employing richer vocabulary and vivid descriptions in everyday discussions.
3. Expanded knowledge and worldly understanding
Books serve as gateways to different realms, cultures, and historical epochs. Whether delving into a captivating historical fiction or a scientific exploration, each book offers a glimpse into a distinct facet of human existence.
By integrating reading into your daily routine, you continually broaden your knowledge base. Insights into diverse cultures, historical events, and scientific breakthroughs abound. This newfound knowledge ignites curiosity, fosters meaningful discourse, and inspires exploration of new interests.
4. Enhanced focus and concentration
In a world teeming with distractions, maintaining focus poses a challenge. Yet, daily reading acts as a mental gym for concentration muscles. Delving into a book hones your ability to filter out diversions and stay engrossed.
This heightened focus extends to other spheres of life, enhancing productivity at work, presence during studies, and overall concentration.
5. Stress alleviation and relaxation
Life’s demands can induce stress, necessitating occasional respite. Reading offers a temporary escape from daily concerns, transporting you to another realm. Immersing yourself in a captivating narrative serves as a potent stress-reliever.
Reading also fosters tranquility. It prompts you to slow down, dwell in the present, and quiet your mind. This mindful immersion can significantly reduce stress levels, fostering feelings of calmness and serenity.
6. Strengthened empathy and emotional intelligence
Books enable you to inhabit diverse characters’ perspectives, experiencing their joys and sorrows. This cultivates empathy and emotional intelligence, enhancing your capacity to comprehend others’ thoughts and feelings.
Through reading, you develop deeper connections with people, navigate complex emotions adeptly, and forge stronger bonds.
7. Enhanced sleep quality
Pre-bedtime screen exposure disrupts sleep patterns. However, transitioning from screens to books before sleep can enhance sleep quality. Reading induces relaxation, unwinds your mind, and primes your body for restful slumber.
Awakening refreshed and invigorated empowers you to approach each day with renewed vigor and efficiency – a positive cycle fueled by the simple act of reading.
The transformative power of daily reading transcends the confines of a book. By embracing daily reading, you invest in mental well-being, hone cognitive abilities, and enrich your life manifold. So, seize a book, find a cozy nook, and embark on a daily odyssey that reshapes you from within.
Gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection (STI), can also manifest in the eyes, a condition referred to as gonococcal conjunctivitis
This less frequent but serious occurrence of gonorrhea arises when Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria come into direct contact with the eye area.
Understanding the risks, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for preventing and managing this infectious eye condition.
Transmission of gonorrhea to the eyes can occur through several means:
1. Direct contact with contaminated hands touching the eyes. 2. Exposure to infected bodily fluids, such as semen or vaginal fluids, splashing or transferring to the eye area. 3. Sharing contaminated towels or personal items.
This mode of infection is more common among newborns, who may contract the bacteria during childbirth, and among sexually active adults.
Symptoms of gonococcal conjunctivitis usually emerge within 2 to 5 days after exposure and may include:
1. Severe redness and irritation in one or both eyes. 2. Pain and discomfort in the affected eye(s). 3. Pus-like discharge from the eyes, often copious and causing eyelids to stick together, especially after sleep. 4. Swelling of the eyelids. 5. Sensitivity to light (photophobia).
Prompt medical attention is necessary to prevent complications such as corneal perforation and blindness.
Treatment typically involves:
1. Antibiotic therapy: Immediate administration of antibiotics, typically starting with an intramuscular injection of ceftriaxone, followed by oral antibiotics as needed. 2. Topical antibiotics: Eye drops or ointments containing antibiotics may also be prescribed in addition to systemic treatment. 3. Supportive care: Gently cleaning the infected eyes with sterile saline and avoiding the use of contact lenses until fully healed is advised.
Prevention of gonococcal conjunctivitis involves general measures against gonorrhea and other STIs:
1. Practicing safe sex using condoms or dental dams. 2. Regular STI screenings, especially for individuals with multiple partners or at higher risk. 3. Avoiding touching the eyes with unwashed hands, particularly for sexually active individuals with known or suspected gonorrhea infection.
While gonococcal conjunctivitis is rare, its potential for causing severe eye damage underscores the importance of awareness, understanding transmission routes, recognizing symptoms, and seeking immediate medical care if symptoms arise.
Chickenpox, typically considered a childhood illness, can also affect adults due to its highly contagious nature
In fact, the manifestation of chickenpox in adults may be more severe and pose greater health risks compared to children. Therefore, it’s essential not to underestimate its symptoms, particularly the characteristic rash. Knowing when to seek medical attention and how to manage chickenpox in adults is crucial.
It’s important to note that although chickenpox is treatable, it can be dangerous for certain groups of individuals. Hence, it’s imperative not to ignore any initial symptoms. However, achieving infection with the chickenpox virus as adults requires specific conditions to be met.
Firstly, individuals must belong to the group who did not contract the infection during childhood. Secondly, prolonged contact with an infected person is necessary for transmission. If individuals have previously had chickenpox during childhood, they develop immunity, reducing their susceptibility to the virus. Transmission occurs primarily through droplets and direct contact, which should be avoided, especially for those at risk. Additionally, the airborne route is possible, with the virus traveling via respiratory secretions over considerable distances. It’s noteworthy that contagiousness begins two days before the rash appears, with an incubation period of 10 to 21 days. On average, around 90% of susceptible adults become infected, with transmission also possible through contact with the vesicle secretions of an infected individual.
Symptoms of chickenpox in adults resemble those in children but are often more severe and pose greater health risks. Prodromal symptoms, signaling the onset of the disease, persist for up to two days and include decreased appetite, nausea, fatigue, headache, malaise, and occasionally, high fever. Subsequently, the characteristic rash emerges, starting as spots that progress to blisters over six days. The rash typically appears in multiple waves, with up to 500 spots at the peak, covering most areas of the body. The blisters eventually dry up and disappear, accompanied by itching, fever, and significant weakness lasting several days.
Potential complications of adult chickenpox include pneumonia, occurring in approximately one out of ten patients, along with rare conditions such as acute cerebellar ataxia, meningitis, and encephalitis. Additional complications may include arthritis, glomerulonephritis, myocarditis, pancreatitis, and hepatitis, with pregnant women facing the highest risk, including the possibility of miscarriage. Individuals with compromised immunity or underlying health conditions such as skin disorders, chronic heart or lung diseases, are also susceptible to complications.
Preventive measures include self-isolation, avoiding contact with infected individuals, and vaccination. Vaccines, administered in two doses, are available for both children and adults, with individuals over 60 years old eligible for a one-time vaccination to reduce the risk of shingles, a reactivated form of chickenpox.
As temperatures rise, body odor tends to become more pronounced. What measures can be taken to avoid unpleasant body odor in hot weather?
As temperatures rise, body odor can become more pronounced. Combatting this issue in hot weather is essential for personal comfort and hygiene. Here are some strategies to prevent bad body odor:
1. Shower frequently: Aim to shower at least twice a day to remove sweat and bacteria that contribute to odor buildup.
2. Trim body hair: Consider shaving or trimming body hair in areas prone to sweating, such as the underarms and pubic region, to reduce the trapping of sweat and bacteria.
3. Choose breathable clothing: Opt for loose-fitting garments made from natural fibers like cotton, which allow the skin to breathe and facilitate sweat evaporation. Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester that can trap moisture.
4. Use antibacterial soap: Washing with antibacterial soap can help reduce the presence of odor-causing bacteria on the skin.
5. Thoroughly dry your body: After showering, ensure to dry your body completely with a towel, paying special attention to areas prone to sweating, such as the armpits, groin, and feet.
6. Incorporate essential oils: Essential oils like lavender, peppermint, or tea tree oil offer a pleasant natural fragrance and may possess mild antibacterial properties that combat body odor.
7. Try lemons and limes: Lemons and limes have natural antibacterial properties. Rubbing them on sweaty areas or adding a squeeze to your bathwater can help keep you smelling fresh.
8. Maintain a healthy diet: Avoiding oily, fried, and spicy foods can help reduce sweating and subsequently minimize body odor.
9. Use deodorant and antiperspirant: Deodorants mask odor, while antiperspirants control sweat production. Using both can effectively reduce body odor in hot weather.
10. Consider apple cider vinegar: Diluted apple cider vinegar can help regulate skin pH, creating a less favorable environment for odor-causing bacteria. Apply it to areas prone to sweating for potential odor control benefits.
A recent study suggests that addressing anxiety and depression may play a crucial role in preventing hospitalizations and reducing emergency room visits among individuals with heart disease.
Published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, the study examined the impact of mental health treatment, including antidepressant medication or psychotherapy (commonly known as talk therapy or a combination of both), on emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and mortality rates in patients with blocked arteries or heart failure and a diagnosed anxiety or depression.
Results indicated that individuals who received a combination of medication and talk therapy experienced a significant reduction in hospitalizations (68-75%) and emergency room visits (67-74%). Furthermore, the risk of death from any cause decreased by 65-67%.
Patients who underwent psychotherapy alone also saw positive outcomes, with a 46-49% decrease in the risk of hospital readmission and a 48-53% decrease in emergency room visits.
Lead author Philip Binkley emphasized the substantial benefits of psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, or a combination for heart disease patients with anxiety or depression, with reductions in hospitalizations and emergency room visits of up to 75%.
Binkley highlighted the intricate relationship between heart disease and mental health, noting that both conditions can exacerbate each other. He pointed out the role of the sympathetic nervous system in this interaction, which influences heart rate, blood pressure, and mental well-being.
Echoing the study’s findings, mental health expert Dr. Goke Adeola emphasized the significant impact of anxiety and depression on heart health. Elevated cortisol levels associated with anxiety and depression can lead to inflammation and cardiovascular complications.
Adeola stressed the importance of addressing mental health concerns to safeguard physical health, urging heart patients to collaborate with healthcare providers to manage underlying mental health issues. This may involve medication, therapy, or lifestyle changes.
He emphasized the importance of self-care practices such as adequate sleep, healthy eating, and regular exercise for heart patients to prioritize their overall well-being. Early recognition of signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression is crucial for seeking timely intervention and support.
Children experiencing prolonged periods of sadness or persistent changes in behavior may be exhibiting signs of depression, caution health experts. Although occasional mood swings are normal, extended durations of such feelings, particularly when accompanied by other behavioral shifts, could indicate depression, according to physicians.
Physicians emphasize the importance of seeking appropriate treatment for children battling persistent depression, as untreated cases may negatively impact both physical and mental development.
Evidence suggests that depression affects one to three percent of children before puberty, affecting their thoughts, emotions, and actions.
Early-onset depression is a treatable condition, and urgent treatment is necessary for several reasons, caution senior health professionals. Ignoring early-onset depression can lead to lifelong challenges and is associated with later issues such as criminal behavior, substance abuse, and suicidal tendencies.
Depression in children requires special attention as it can disrupt normal learning and development processes, impede education, relationships, and family life, experts affirm.
Dr. Paul Agboola, a Psychiatrist and Medical Director of the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, Ogun State, warns that untreated depression in children could affect the functioning of vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, liver, lungs, and blood vessels. He advises parents of children with clinical depression to seek treatment promptly.
Depression can manifest in children through signs such as reduced interest in school, bedwetting, appetite loss, weight loss, and disinterest in activities.
Contributing factors to childhood depression include child abuse, family history of mental illness, environmental influences, traumatic events, war, and parental loss.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) states that depression in children can result from various stressors such as abuse, school violence, loss of a loved one, or family issues like domestic violence or separation.
Dr. Agboola underscores the comprehensive impact of depression on bodily functions, emphasizing that untreated depression can affect hormone production and disrupt various bodily systems.
Depression in children, although less common than in adults, can be detected by mental health professionals even if symptoms differ from those in adults.
Treatment for childhood depression involves multidisciplinary approaches, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nutritionists, and speech therapists, according to Dr. Agboola.
Professor Edamisan Temiye, a Consultant Paediatric Haematologist and Oncologist at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, cautions against using food deprivation as punishment for children, as it may lead to depression. He advises against associating rewards or punishments with food and warns against harsh disciplinary measures that could contribute to depression and violent behavior in children.
Nigerian music sensations, Daniel Anidugbe, known as Kizz Daniel, and Miles Kelechi, known as Tekno, found themselves entangled in a public dispute following a social media post alleging that Kizz Daniel had been sharing the revenue from their hit song “Buga” with Tekno.
The controversy stemmed from a post on X attributed to an anonymous account on April 14, which claimed that Tekno had spoken about Kizz Daniel in an interview.
The contentious post read, “I got on Kizz Daniel’s Buga with no sort of legal agreement. I wasn’t expecting anything from him. Wanted to be silent about this but I think some levels of gratitude deserve to be spoken of.
“Do y’all know Kizz Daniel sends me 50% of every revenue he generates from that song? After his buga tour he sent me close to a billion naira and I was already shocked enough by that move. He didn’t end just there. Every month, I receive millions as my own share of the revenue generated by Buga on streaming platforms… Kizz is a great guy I can’t lie” ~ Tekno Reveals…”
Responding to the post on the same day, Tekno refuted the claims, stating, “Him money no reach. anybody wey put out that fake interview, thunder fire your mama…”
However, almost two weeks later, on Monday, Kizz Daniel replied to Tekno’s statement with a sarcastic retort, remarking, “Dem mention money, you sef dey talk. Spewing shit like an*s. See ekuke way we rescue with BUGA !! Oloribu omo ale.”
In response, Tekno fired back, “Hope you are trending now fool! Careful o, breeze blow, fowl nyash dey open. I’m not the one to be played with before I Kattwilliams yours Ass #insecurenarcissist.”
“God blessed me with 3 boys a while back 🙏🏽 JAMAL, JALIL and JELANI (triplets). 4 days after I lost JAMAL. Nevertheless, I made a promise to him that I’ll be the best father in the whole galaxy to his brothers,” he wrote.
He went on to share documents of the properties he bought for his kids, Jelani and Jalil.
“Congrats to the latest Homeowners owners in town, Jelani and Jalil ❤️ My first gift to my sons 🥰 #Okunrinmeta.”
Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe, better known by his stage name Kizz Daniel, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter.
He is best known for his singles “Woju” and “Yeba”.
He went by the stage name Kiss Daniel prior to changing it in May 2018.
She asserted that many individuals who felt provoked by the viral video are bullies themselves.
Reality TV personality Tacha has directed criticism towards Nigerians on social media, pointing out what she perceives as a double standard in response to bullying incidents.
Following the circulation of a video depicting the bullying of a student by her peers at Lead British International School in Abuja and the ensuing public outcry, Tacha expressed her thoughts on her X account on April 23, 2024.
In her posted video, she rebuked social media users and emphasized that many of those demanding justice in the highly publicized bullying case may have themselves engaged in bullying behavior during their own time in secondary school.
“This thing with Nigerians and selective outrage is something that I would never understand. All of a sudden everyone is acting brand new screaming ‘justice for…’ since yesterday and today, as if you guys were not bullies back in secondary school. Or as if you guys did not watch your friend bully junior students for doing absolutely nothing or seizing their food.”
She added, “You people wake up and bully celebrities unprovoked and insult them and nobody says anything. Is that not bullying? Are you not bullies yourselves? Justice for you! Justice for Tacha too that you people would insult unprovoked. Even the person that they are owing over a million naira, no outrage because it’s someone that you don’t like. Hypocrites! Don’t come and be disturbing this timeline with justice for…'” she concluded.
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