In todays Health Alert, with the clocks springing forward, its nice to have longer days. But the downside is that children can have difficulty adjusting. Some parents are turning to melatonin to help their kids sleep, but how safe is it?

Im a parent, so I get it. Kids are wide awake at bedtime and struggle to get up in the morning. That lost hour of sleep can make them cranky and groggy, so its no surprise that some parents turn to melatonin.

Now, our bodies naturally produce melatonin to regulate sleep, but taking it as a supplement can have unintended effectsespecially in kids. Giving the wrong dose could lead to agitation, grogginess, fatigue, headaches, mood swings, and even vivid dreams or nightmares.

Another big concern? The supplement industry isnt well regulated, so the actual dose in melatonin products may not always match whats on the label. And with melatonin gummies becoming more popular, were seeing a sharp rise in accidental ingestions among young children. One report found that calls to poison control centers jumped more than 530% over the past decade. Unfortunately, more than 4,000 children were hospitalized, five needed ventilators to breathe, and sadly, two died.

Melatonin might seem like a quick fix, but its not a long-term sleep solution. If youre considering melatonin, please know that the American Academy of Pediatrics doesnt recommend using it regularly. And always check with your childs doctor first.

My advice for parents whose kids are having trouble with the time change is this:

First, get them moving. Playing and exercising outside helps kids adjust to the longer daylight hours and leads to better sleep. Also, in the morning, open the blinds and let in sunlight. Natural light signals the body that its time to wake up. And as always, stick to good sleep habits: Keep bedtime consistent. Turn off screens about an hour before bed. Keep the bedroom dark, cool, and quiet. Wind down with a book or soft music.

The good news is that most kids will adjust within a week. But if sleep problems continue, please talk to a pediatrician to rule out other issues, like iron deficiency or sleep apnea.

This Week on the Dr. Nandi ShowMany veterans face injuries while serving, but do they receive the care they deserve upon returning home? Despite promises of support, many are left without the medical attention they need. In this episode, Dr. Partha Nandi examines the critical issue of veteran healthcare, featuring testimonials from veterans and advocates fighting to ensure that those who served are not forgotten. Tune in Monday, March 17th at 2:30 AM.

In todays Health Alert, March 10 marks five years since the first confirmed COVID-19 cases were reported in Michigan. At that time, only 28 people in the U.S. had died from the virus. Since then, it has claimed more than 46,000 lives in Michigan and over 1.2 million nationwide. But many have asked, should we still be keeping up with COVID boosters?

The answer? Absolutely. My family and I stay up to date on our COVID-19 shots. I think its very important for several reasons.

First of all, immunity fades over time, whether from a past infection or a previous shot. The virus also keeps mutating and continues to circulate. And while deaths have dropped, COVID-19 still causes more than 1% of all deaths in the U.S. Those most at risk are older adults. In fact, more than 81% of COVID-19 deaths happen in people 65 and older.

That said, its not just age. People with weakened immune systems or certain underlying health conditions also have a higher risk of severe illness. The CDC lists conditions like diabetes, obesity, cancer, dementia, lung disease, heart conditions, and chronic kidney or liver disease - to name a few.

We also know that unvaccinated people are more likely to catch COVID-19. And they have a much higher risk of being hospitalized or dying than those who are up to date on their vaccines.

Is the COVID-19 vaccine still a safer, more reliable way to build protection than getting sick with COVID-19? 

When it comes to building immunity, getting vaccinated is a much safer and more reliable way to protect yourself than getting infected. The vaccine triggers a more predictable, controlled immune response, so your body learns to recognize and fight the viruswithout the risks of severe illness.

I know some people are still wary of them. But the vaccines have undergone rigorous testing, and hundreds of millions of people have received them safely. They give you the best protection against the latest strains.

Thats why everyone six months and older should get the 20242025 COVID-19 vaccine. It doesnt matter if youve had a previous shot, had COVID before, or have long COVID. So, if you havent yet rolled up your sleeve for the latest vaccine, I recommend itespecially if youre at higher risk or just want to lower your chances of complications.

In todays Health Alert, this Sunday, we spring forward at 2 a.m., moving the clocks forward by one hour.  While many love the extra evening sunlight, daylight saving time can throw off your sleep and impact your health. 

Losing an hour of sleep might not seem like a big deal, but the darker mornings and later sunsets can knock your sleep-wake cycle out of sync. And adjusting to these changes takes time.

Now, morning sunlight plays a role in resetting your internal rhythm. You see, as daylight increases, melatonin, the hormone that makes you sleepy, shuts down. Your body temperature rises, helping you wake up. Then, in the evening, melatonin starts to kick in, triggering drowsiness. But with the time change, that process gets delayed because of the extra hour of daylight. On top of that, losing an hour of sleep can make it even harder on your body.

And lets be honestmany of us dont get enough sleep as it is. I know I can struggle with it! As a result, you might feel cranky, moody, or just plain exhausted. But sleep deprivation isnt just about feeling tired. Its linked to heart disease, obesity, and cognitive decline. In addition, fatigue can be dangerous behind the wheel studies show fatal car crashes spike in the days after the time change.

But thats not all. Research suggests that heart attacks increase on the Monday after we spring forward, and strokes also rise in the first couple of days.

Do we know why strokes and heart attacks rise on that Monday?  And how can people adjust to the time change?

Were not exactly sure why this happens. But your circadian clock also affects heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormones. Its possible that a sudden disruption to your body clock could worsen issues like high blood pressure in people, especially those already at risk. Heart attacks also tend to be more common on Monday mornings, when blood is more prone to clotting.

So, how can you make the transition easier?

Try going to bed 1530 minutes earlier a few nights before the time change. Shift your daily routineslike dinner or evening activitiesa little earlier to help your body adjust. Avoid heavy exercise before bedtime, as it can be too stimulating. Get plenty of morning sunlight to help reset your internal clock. Use caffeine wisely - stick to the morning, not later in the day. Avoid naps, alcohol, and screens before bed to improve sleep quality. Keep a steady bedtime routine

These small adjustments can make a big difference. Most people adjust to the change within a week. But if youre still struggling after several weeks, its a good idea to check in with your doctor.

In todays Health Alert, winter isnt over yet, but spring weather is on the way. As temperatures rise, pollen will fill the air, triggering seasonal allergies for millions.

This time of year, my patients start asking for advice. If you have spring allergies, you know how tough they can be. Pollen triggers your immune system to overreact, leading to sneezing, watery eyes, congestion, a scratchy throat, wheezing, and coughing. The good news is that there are steps you can take to help manage symptoms.

First, get your home ready by spring cleaning now. Dust, mold, and pollen love to hide in places like ceiling fans, vents, and clutter. So, clean thoroughly - dust everywhere, vacuum the floors, and scrub kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

Next, use HEPA filters. These high-efficiency filters trap tiny particles like pollen, pet dander, and dust. You can install them in your homes air system or consider using portable air purifiers. And since pollen and mold can build up in air filters, be sure to clean or replace them before and during allergy season.

Now, with warmer temperatures on the way, its tempting to open the windows. But that lets pollen in. So, keep your windows and doors closed to keep allergens out.

Also, start watching pollen levels. Pollen counts are usually highest in the early morning and evening. If you can, try to stay indoors during those times. If not, wearing an N95 face mask can help. And since pollen can stick to your clothes, hair, and skin, change into clean clothes and take a quick shower once youre back home to help avoid spreading allergens around your house.

If medication is needed, there are a few options.

First, over-the-counter options like antihistamines, nasal sprays, and decongestants can help manage symptoms. If those dont help enough, it may be time to see an allergist. They can create a tailored treatment plan and also prescribe stronger medications, such as prescription antihistamines, nasal sprays, or oral corticosteroids.

Now, if youre looking for long-term relief, allergy shots and sublingual immunotherapy can help train your immune system to react less. Allergy shots are the most common option, but they can take a few years to fully work. Sublingual immunotherapy uses allergen tablets that dissolve under your tongue. This treatment starts several months before allergy season and can continue for up to three years.

The key is to prepare your home and consider starting your medication at least two weeks before those annoying symptoms hit. Taking action early can help keep symptoms from becoming harder to manage.

UPDATE: After this story was written, MDHHS announced 2 Kent County children had died of the flu, raising the state's total to 5.

In todays Health Alert - another tragic flu-related death in Michigan. Health officials say a third child has died, this time in Macomb County.

Just two weeks ago, two other children died - one from Wayne County, the other from Genesee County.

Its absolutely heartbreaking when a child dies. As a parent, I cant even imagine the pain their families are going through.

Health officials say this latest case involved a child infected with influenza A. We dont have many details, like age or vaccine status, as they have not been released.

As for the possibility of more flu-related deaths, sadly, thats still a real concern. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says theyre looking into several more suspected cases.

Unfortunately, flu vaccination rates in our state have not been great. About 2.7 million Michigandersaround 25%have gotten their flu shot. But only 15% of those are children thats the lowest rate weve had in years.

Now, its been an unusually intense flu season. Flu-related outpatient hospital visits are at their highest in Michigan in 15 years. Adding to the concern, the CDC recently warned that this winter, the flu is surpassing COVID-19 as the deadlier virus.

Unfortunately, the agency estimates more than 16,000 flu-related deaths across all ages since October 2024 including 86 children.

The good news is that we might have already reached the peak. According to Michigans latest weekly disease report ending February 22nd, flu cases dropped from over 8,300 to about 5,700 in just one week. And flu-like illnesses fell dramaticallyfrom nearly 22,000 cases down to just over 7,200.

But don't get too excited, as were not out of the woods yet. Thats why I still recommend getting the flu shot if you havent already, especially for those at high risk, like adults aged 65 years and up and children under five. Most people 6 months and older are eligible.

Now, if you or your child start feeling sickfever, chills, muscle aches, even vomiting or diarrhea in kids I recommend testing. Its important because flu symptoms can look a lot like other respiratory illnesses. Also, if the test is positive, consider antiviral medications. They can help shorten the illness and reduce complications.

Unfortunately, the flu is still out there, even though we are seeing signs of improvement. But we can all do our part to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

This Week on the Dr. Nandi Show

PTSD is an anxiety disorder triggered by traumatic events, but what is it really like to live with? Guest Nadine shares her powerful journey with Dr. Partha Nandi, MD, revealing how PTSD led to deep-seated fear, isolation, and struggles with depression. She opens up about the darkest moments of her lifeand how she found strength in helping others heal. Plus, psychologist Dr. Michelle Golland joins the conversation to discuss symptoms, warning signs, and treatment options for this challenging condition. Tune in on Sunday, March 2nd at 2:30 am.

In todays Health Alert, measles cases are climbing across the U.S., with Texas seeing the largest outbreak. Health officials have confirmed 124 cases in the South Plains and Panhandle regions.

As a parent, I get why moms and dads are concerned. For anyone not protected, it can cause pneumonia, blindness, seizures, brain swelling, and even death.

So, what should parents know about the measles vaccine? First off, its part of two vaccinesMMR and MMRV. MMR protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, while MMRV also includes varicella, better known as chickenpox. However, MMRV is only for kids between 1 and 12 years old.

As for when to get the vaccine, the CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine for kids one at 12 to 15 months and another at 4 to 6 years. However, its never too late to get vaccinated.

Now, my patients often ask me what to do if they dont know if they were vaccinated.

Heres the general rule:

If you were born before 1957, youre likely immune. If you were born in 1957 or later, the CDC recommends at least one dose of MMR if you dont have proof of immunity.

In most cases, getting another MMR dose is safe and can help protect you. But it is best to check with your doctor first.

My own kids are vaccinated because I know how effective it is. Two doses provide over 97% protection, so the risk of infection is very low. If they do get infected, they tend to have a milder illness and are less likely to spread the disease.

Measles is wildly contagious and can survive in the air for up to two hours. In fact, 9 out of 10 people who aren't vaccinated will get it if theyre near someone infected. People can spread it before they even know theyre sick, starting four days before the telltale rash appears and up to four days after. Thats why the first line of defense is to be vaccinated.

As for babies under 12 months old, its very important to take precautionary steps. Heres what parents can do:

If youre in an outbreak area, talk to your pediatricianyour baby may be able to get an early dose at 6 months. Limit exposureavoid big crowds and sick people, or consider masking up Breastfeed if you canit helps provide antibodies to fight infections. Practice good hygienewash hands often and keep your babys environment clean.

Remember, vaccination and precautions can help protect your family. And always talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

In todays Health Alert, with all the snow weve had and more on the way, many people are bundling up and heading outside for some winter fun.

But for those with asthma, cold weather can be a challenge. And for kids, all that fluffy white snow can mean wet, freezing hands in no time.

People with asthma have inflamed airways and produce extra mucus in the lungs. Unfortunately, cold weather can be a trigger, especially during activities like shoveling or hiking. When you exercise, you breathe faster and deeper - often through your mouth - because your body needs more oxygen.

Heres the problem: cold air is dry, and it can irritate your airways, leading to coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. If you have asthma, your airways are already swollen, and cold air can make it worse by thickening mucus, making it harder to breathe.

To minimize risk, wear a scarf or mask over your nose and mouth to warm the air before breathing it in. Also, pace yourself to avoid overexertion and carry your quick-relief inhaler if your doctor recommends it. However, on the coldest days, its best to stay indoors. And most importantly, consult with your doctor to create a plan that works for you.

Theres no set time limit for how long kids can stay outsideit depends on the weather, their age, and how well theyre dressed.

Now, my boys love playing in the snow. And like most kids, they dont always realize when theyre getting too cold. So, my wife and I make sure theyre dressed properly before they head out. We focus on layers because its the best way to stay warm. They wear wool instead of cotton because it holds heat better. Their gear includes waterproof pants, boots, and a jacket, plus mittens, a hat, and a scarf.

As for mittens getting wet, waterproof ones can last a couple of hours, while water-resistant ones might soak through in 20 to 30 minutes. If youre unsure, check them often to see if theyre getting damp or cold.

And lets be honesttweens and teens love to push limits and wear as little as possible outside. Thats why parents should keep an eye on all kids, no matter their age. Setting time limits and taking regular warm-up breaks helps prevent frostbite and hypothermia. Lastly, no one should be out in temperatures or wind chills below -15F, as thats when skin can freeze quickly.

This Week on the Dr. Nandi Show

Suicide has touched many lives in devastating ways. Dr. Partha Nandi, MD, brings together remarkable guests to shed light on this pressing issue. Two women share their personal experiences with loss, while clinical psychologists Dr. Polly Gipson and Dr. Julie Kaplow discuss causes, warning signs, ways to support those struggling, and coping strategies for those left behind. Tune in this Sunday, February 16th at 5 pm.

In todays Health Alert, the snow is piling up, and while driveways and sidewalks will need clearing, shoveling can take a serious toll on your health.

Shoveling snow is just part of winter life for many Michiganders. So, its easy to forget how much strain it puts on our bodies. Research shows that after just two minutes of shoveling, heart rates can jump above 85% of a persons maximum heart rate the same response youd expect from intense aerobic exercise.

Now, shoveling snow can be tough on anyone. But its especially risky for people who lead a sedentary lifestyle, have obesity, diabetes, or a history of smoking. Its even more dangerous for those with existing heart conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a history of heart disease. Thats because studies show shoveling can significantly increase the risk of a heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest.

Why is that? Well, for one, shoveling mostly works the arms, not the legs. Since your legs arent moving much, blood can pool in your lower body instead of returning to the heart, which adds extra strain. Plus, many of us unknowingly hold our breath while lifting heavy snow. And this can cause sudden spikes in heart rate and blood pressure. On top of that, cold air causes blood vesselsincluding the coronary arteriesto constrict, raising the risk of heart problems even more.

If you have heart disease or risk factors, you should consider asking someone else to do the shoveling. Luckily for me, I have young and healthy kids at home who help clear the snow! But if you dont have anyone to help, see if a neighbor or a local teen can help. Or you can use a snowblower but just be careful. Its usually less taxing on the heart, but it's still a workout.

Now, if you have to shovel, please take it slow pace yourself and push the snow instead of lifting it. Dont hold your breath, and be mindful of the wind because it increases the effects of the cold on your body. Also, be sure to dress in warm layers to hold in the heat, and dont forget boots with good traction, a hat, and gloves.

Most importantly, know the warning signs of a heart attack. If you feel chest pain, dizziness, or an irregular heartbeat, stop immediately and seek help. If you see someone collapse while shoveling, call 9-1-1 and start Hands-Only CPR if theyre unresponsive. Always remember that at the end of the day, no driveway is worth risking your life.

The colder, darker winter days can be tough for mental health. Those who suffer from seasonal affective disorder may be hit the hardest since symptoms tend to peak in January and February.

Right now, were spending more time inside because of the shorter days and colder temperatures. So, its not uncommon to feel a little sluggish or down.

Many people think the winter blues and seasonal affective disorder or SAD are the same thing. But theyre not. The winter blues arent a medical diagnosis. While its common, its usually mild and you can still go about your day. The winter blues also tend to go away on their own in a short amount of time.

SAD ,on the other hand, is a mental health condition. Its a form of depression that comes and goes around the same time each year. And it can significantly impact your daily life.

Symptoms can include persistent sadness, low energy, loss of interest in activities, excessive sleep, weight gain, difficulty concentrating and even feelings of hopelessness. SAD can interfere with work, relationships and overall well-being.

So why does this happen? The exact cause isnt clear, but lack of sunlight is believed to be a big factor. Less sun can affect serotonin and melatonin: two chemicals that regulate mood and sleep. Also, vitamin D is made in the skin when exposed to sunlight, which helps boost serotonin levels. So, when vitamin D levels drop in the winter, it can affect how we feel.

The good news is there are ways to manage SAD. Simple lifestyle changes like getting outside during daylight hours, staying active and even taking a vitamin D supplement can make a difference and help boost your mood.

As for treatment, light therapy is considered an effective option. It involves sitting near a special lamp that emits 10,000 lux of light to mimic natural sunlight.

Another great option is a type of talk therapy called cognitive behavioral therapy. Research shows it can have the longest-lasting benefits. It teaches people how to identify and cope with negative thoughts and symptoms.

In addition, there are medications that may help in some cases.

So, if youre struggling with symptoms that make daily life difficult, dont ignore them. Its important to take SAD seriously. If left untreated, it can get worse and lead to social withdrawal, substance abuse and other mental health issues like anxiety and even suicidal thoughts.

It's best to talk to your doctor to get the right diagnosis and treatment plan. You dont have to go through this alone help is available and there are ways to feel better.

THIS WEEK ON 'THE DR. NANDI SHOW'

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, yet it often goes unnoticed. Dr. Partha Nandi, MD, sits down with cardiologist Dr. Joel Kahn to uncover the unique risks and symptoms women face symptoms that differ from men and are frequently overlooked. Together, they explore the truths about heart disease, from risk factors to treatment options, empowering women with the knowledge to protect their hearts. Tune in on Sunday, Feb. 9 at 2:30 a.m.

February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about heart disease and how we can protect our hearts.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., but the good news is up to 80% of cases can be prevented.

I talk to my patients about heart health all the time because your heart keeps your body going. Its a powerful muscle that pumps blood throughout your body. And just like any other body part, it can wear down over time.

Now, heart disease is a general term for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It includes arrhythmias, congenital heart defects and coronary artery disease, the leading cause of death in the U.S.

With coronary artery disease, plaque made up of cholesterol builds up in the arteries, making them stiff and narrow. This reduces blood flow and can lead to serious problems like heart attacks.

Symptoms can vary, but common warning signs include:

Chest pain or tightness Shortness of breath Dizziness or weakness Irregular or fast heartbeat Nausea or sweating Pain or numbness in the arms or legs

I have six simple ways people can protect their hearts:

Know your numbers High blood pressure and high cholesterol are major risk factors. Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure and dont even know it. Seeing your doctor for a checkup is the best way to understand your risk. Manage your stress Stress raises blood pressure and increases your risk of heart attacks and other problems. Find ways to lower it consider deep breathing, meditation, yoga or even a short walk. Eat smart A heart-healthy diet focuses on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. Cut back on processed foods, added sugar and excess sodium. Read nutrition labels and cook more meals at home. Get moving Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your heart. Aim for at least 150 minutes of movement a week. Break it up however works for youit all adds up. Take the stairs, park farther away, or go for a quick walk. Quit smoking It can damage your heart and blood vessels. But the moment you quit, your heart starts to heal. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor or check out support programs. Watch your alcohol intake Too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure and total cholesterol level, putting extra strain on your heart. If you drink, do so in moderation one drink per day for women, two for men.

No matter your age, its never too early or too late to start taking care of your heart.

In todays Health Alert, the tuberculosis outbreak continues to infect dozens of people in Kansas. Two people lost their lives last year, and right now, 67 people are being treated for active TB. Another 79 have inactive infections.

Meanwhile, here in Michigan, a beef herd tested positive for bovine tuberculosis. While it primarily affects animals, it can spread to humans.

Most tuberculosis, or TB, cases in the US are caused by the germ Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It mainly attacks the lungs and spreads through the air when someone with an active infection coughs, sneezes, or sings. Thats what were seeing in Kansas now human-to-human transmission.

As for bovine tuberculosis, it's caused by a different germ called Mycobacterium bovis. With animals, it spreads through respiratory secretions like nose-to-nose contact or by sharing contaminated food or water.

Now, a lot of people think if youre exposed, youll automatically get infected. But not everyone exposed to TBwhether its from humans or animalsactually gets sick. And thats a key difference between active and inactive TB.

With active TB, the immune system cant keep the bacteria under control, so it multiplies and grows. People with active TB feel sick. They can develop symptoms like a cough that wont go away, chest pain, extreme fatigue, and coughing up blood. And most importantly, they can spread it to others.

Whereas inactive TB is different. The bacteria stays in the body without causing symptoms, and it cant spread. Some people never develop active TB, while others get sick months or even years later if their immune system can no longer fight it off.

The good news is that both types can almost always be treated. However, without treatment, TB can be deadly.

So, should residents be concerned with the beef herd in northeastern Michigan testing positive for bovine tuberculosis?

The infected herd is in Alcona County, and its the first case in Michigan cattle since 2022. But bovine TB has also been found in wild deerat least 13 cases last year in the same region.

For humans, infection is rare. Bovine tuberculosis usually happens after prolonged exposure to infected animals or by eating or drinking unpasteurized, contaminated dairy products.

The good news for Michigan residents is that our milk supply is strictly regulated and pasteurized, killing the bacteria.

But hunters in northeastern Michigan should take extra precautions. Wear gloves while handling wild game, avoid contact with animal fluids, and get harvested deer tested.

If you do get exposed, look for symptoms such as a persistent cough, fever, night sweats, or weight loss. And if youre concerned, see your doctor.

The bottom line - the risk is low for most people. So, while this is something to be aware of, theres no need for widespread concern.

In our Health Alert, today is Maternal Health Awareness Daya day dedicated to raising awareness about the maternal mortality crisis here in the U.S.

Maternal death rates in our country are among the highest in developed, high-income countries.

Today is all about raising awareness and hopefully improving outcomes for moms and their families. Maternal deaths in the U.S. have been rising for three decades, and the numbers are alarming.

In 2021, over 1,200 women died from pregnancy-related causes. Thats a huge jump from 754 deaths in 2019. Nearly half of the deaths didnt happen during delivery but in the weeks and months afterward. Whats even more heartbreaking is roughly 80% of these deaths could have been prevented.

So, what are some of the complications? Well, conditions like preeclampsia, postpartum hemorrhage, and infections are common causes. Chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity also increase the risks. But its not just about health conditions. There are other factors, like provider shortages, limited access to care, lack of mental health resources, and systemic racism.

Black women in the U.S. are especially impacted. Their chances of dying from pregnancy-related causes in 2022 were more than twiceand sometimes three timeshigher than those of women in other high-income countries. This shows just how important it is to provide better access to quality care and support for all women.

There are steps women can take to support a healthy pregnancy. First, focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyleeat nutritious foods, stay active, and avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs. If possible, work with your doctor to address any health issues before pregnancy.

Also, regular prenatal care is key. Schedule check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your babys growth and catch potential problems as soon as possible. Follow your doctors advice for tests and screenings, and dont ignore any new or unusual symptoms. Instead, track them and discuss them with your healthcare provider.

In addition, vaccines like the flu shot, COVID, and RSV are important for protecting both mom and baby.

Now, since many maternal deaths happen in the year after childbirth, postpartum care is just as important. Continue seeing your doctor, not just for physical health but for mental health, too. Postpartum depression is a real concern, and theres treatment and support available.

Remember, if something feels wrongwhether its during pregnancy, labor, or postpartumspeak up and advocate for yourself. With awareness and the right care, we can reduce risks and improve outcomes for mothers, families, and communities.

This Week on the Dr. Nandi Show

If youre dealing with unexplained fatigue, weight changes, or trouble swallowing, these symptoms could point to an underlying health concern, such as thyroid cancer. Affecting thousands of Americans each year, this condition often goes unnoticed until symptoms worsen. Dr. Partha Nandi, MD, explores the vital role of the thyroid gland, common symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. Plus, hear from Shari Burton, a thyroid cancer survivor, as she shares her inspiring journey and underscores the importance of being your own health advocate. Tune in this Sunday, January 26th at 5 pm.

In today's Health Alert, the FDA has approved the first stand-alone nasal spray to treat drug-resistant depression.

It's called Spravato, made by Johnson and Johnson and it works faster than standard oral antidepressants.

Spravato was first approved back in 2019, but at that time, patients had to use it with an oral antidepressant. Now, its been approved to use on its own.

Its for adults with major depressive disorderor MDDwho haven't seen enough improvement after trying at least two different oral antidepressants.

MDD is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting about 21 million adults in the U.S. For about one in three people, regular antidepressants just dont work well enough. Thats where Spravato comes in.

Its a nasal spray with a key ingredient called esketamine, which is related to the anesthetic ketamine. What makes it different is how it works it targets glutamate, a neurotransmitter that helps brain cells communicate. Clinical trials have shown impressive results. Spravato can start improving symptoms within just 24 hours, and those effects can last up to a month. In one study, over 22% of patients taking Spravato went into remission after four weeks, compared to just 7.6% of those on a placebo.

Spravato does have some risks.

It can cause side effects like drowsiness, dissociation, or respiratory depression. Theres also the chance it could be misused. Because of this, Spravato is only available at certified treatment centers where patients are closely monitored. You wont be able to pick it up at your local pharmacy.

As for recognizing MDD, its more than just feeling sad. Everyone feels down sometimes, especially during tough times like losing a job or ending a relationship. But MDD is different - it lasts for at least two weeks, almost every day, and comes with other symptoms.

Here are some signs:

Feeling very sad, empty, or hopeless. Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed. Changes in appetite, leading to weight loss or gain. Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much. Low energy or feeling tired all the time. Feeling worthless or overly guilty. Difficulty concentrating. Thoughts of death or suicide.

If any of this sounds familiar, its important to see a doctor or mental health professional right away. Depression is serious, and can even be life-threatening.

While Spravato isnt perfect and does have risks, it offers new hope for people who havent found relief with other treatments. For many, it could mean a real chance to feel better and take back control of their lives.

In todays Health Alert, southeast Michigan is under a Cold Weather Advisory until noon Wednesday. Wind chills could drop as low as 20 below zero, posing serious health risks.

Frostbite and hypothermia are the biggest concerns when its this cold with strong winds.

Now, wind chill is how cold it feels when the wind combines with the air temperature. As the wind speeds up, it pulls heat away from your body faster. And this lowers both your skin temperature and your internal body temperature. So, at a wind chill of -20 Fahrenheit, frostbite can happen in as little as 30 minutes.

Frostbite occurs when your skin freezes from the cold. It often starts with that pins-and-needles feeling in places like your nose, ears, fingers, or toes. It can cause your skin to turn white or pale. If you feel numbness, get inside right away and warm up slowly. Use warmnot hotwater. And heres why: if your skin is numb and you cant feel anything, hot water can cause damage because you wont realize how hot it is.

Also concerning in this weather is hypothermia, which can kill. It happens when your body temperature drops below 95 degrees. Symptoms include uncontrollable shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and extreme drowsiness. If you notice these signs, call for help right away. Check the persons temperature if you can. If its below 95, they need immediate medical care.

The most vulnerable include infants, older adults, and anyone spending a lot of time outside. So, check on older loved ones and neighbors to make sure theyre staying warm. If there are heating issues, never use a generator indoorsit can be deadly. If portable heaters are being used, read the instructions carefully to avoid fire hazards.

If you or anyone you know is struggling to stay warm, many communities in Metro Detroit have warming centers. You can find more information by calling Detroit's Housing Resource helpline at 866-313-2520.

Now, if you do have to go outside, heres how to protect yourself:

Dress in layers of loose, lightweight clothing. The air between layers helps keep you warm. Avoid wearing cottonit holds moisture and makes you colder. Instead, use synthetic fabrics that dry quickly. Wear a water-resistant coat with a hood. And dont forget a hat, as up to 40% of your body heat can escape through your head. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs. And wear mittens instead of gloves to keep your hands warmer.

Please stay warm, keep an eye on local weather updates, and limit your time outdoors to stay safe.