Mind your (body) language

It isn’t only ‘what’ you do; it’s ‘how’ you do it that helps doctors reach verdicts about your health. Read on, to know how many of your pains and ailments may be related to your body language
Body language can be a very accurate indicator of your health — most people don't realise how much they give away, just by the way they hold their body or move. As a doctor, I'm trained to look for external signs of health problems that even the patient isn't aware of. Here are some signs to look out for...

CRADLING BABY ON YOUR RIGHT

Health issue: Post-natal depression How a mum holds her baby gives clues to her mental health. Mums cradling with their right arm — whether they're right or left-handed — can mean they are more likely to suffer from stress, which could develop into postnatal depression.

WHAT YOU CAN DO? Watch out for difficulty coping, crying, anxiety, guilt, inadequacy, irritability and panic attacks. If at all worried, see a doctor.

SLEEPING ON YOUR BACK

Hidden issue: Indigestion How you sleep is a good indicator of hidden digestive problems. He says people who sleep on their front tend to have good digestion, but people who lie on their back often suffer from indigestion, heartburn and disturbed sleep.

WHAT YOU CAN DO? The best position for sleep is on your front or your left side. These positions help digestion as they encourage undigested food and acids to stay in your stomach and not travel back up your oesophagus. Sleeping on the right side can make it worse.

WALKING WITH A WIGGLE

Hidden issue: Twisted pelvis Sure it might look sexy to walk with a Marilyn Monroe-style swing, but it can be a sign that your pelvis is twisted. The pelvis is the foundation of the whole skeleton. When out of proper alignment it can trigger knee and ankle problems and lower back pain. And, because more weight is placed on one hip, it causes greater 'wear and tear', and could result in the need for a hip replacement later in life.

WHAT YOU CAN DO? A twisted pelvis can be caused during birth, in an accident or simply by sitting or sleeping in a 'bad' position for a long time. The most effective way to treat a twisted pelvis is to see an osteopath or chiropractor. To prevent the problem returning, try yoga, Pilates or Alexander technique classes to keep your joints supple and properly aligned. HUNCHING

YOUR SHOULDERS

Hidden issue: Osteoporosis If a woman has even a mild shoulder hunch check for osteoporosis — it's a telltale sign. Osteoporosis reduces bone density, leading to hip, spine and wrist fractures. WHAT YOU CAN DO? Weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, and tennis may prevent or slow osteoporosis. Reduce salt (it's linked to weaker bones) and increase calcium by eating more dairy, dried apricots, nuts and seeds, spinach and tinned salmon. A calcium supplement is also good.

LICKING YOUR LIPS

Hidden health issue: Candida Constant lip licking can be a sign of infection —candida, also known as oral thrush, is by far the most common. This yeast infection often takes hold at the edges of the mouth, causing cracks in the corners, which feel dry and itchy and make you want to lick your lips more often.

WHAT YOU CAN DO? It's the same bug that causes vaginal thrush and is treated with similar anti-fungal medication — usually by tablet or mouthwash. To stop it returning, experts suggest eating live yoghurt daily, as its active bacteria can help restore your mouth's natural balance.

CROSSING YOUR LEGS

Hidden issue: Constipation Constant leg crossing can indicate stomach problems, especially in kids. If a child came into my surgery and was crossing his or her legs a lot, then it is constipation. WHAT YOU CAN DO? It's normal to suffer sometimes and it's usually caused by poor diet. Increase your intake of high-fibre foods such as wholegrain bread, bran, fruit and veg, and drink plenty of water all day. Exercise is also key - a daily 30-minute brisk walk should banish the problem.

FROWNING

Hidden issue: Eye problems Not only does constant frowning or squinting make you look stressed and create wrinkles, it's often the first sign your eyes aren't functioning as well as they should. This may indicate an underlying sight problem or eye infection and can lead to eyestrain, headaches and cause problems driving.

WHAT YOU CAN DO? Get your eyes tested by an optician. If you use a computer at work, your company is obliged to pay for a yearly eye test. Always wear sunglasses in bright sunlight and if you have prescription lenses, don't let vanity stop you wearing them.

YOU CAN'T KEEP STILL

Hidden issue: Restless leg syndrome RLS causes uncomfortable sensations in your legs and an overwhelming urge to move them. It tends to be worse at night, disturbing sleep and putting a strain on relationships by preventing your partner from sleeping, too.

WHAT YOU CAN DO? Avoid stimulants such as caffeine, cigarettes and alcohol for three hours before bedtime and exercise regularly, but only in the morning. Lack of iron can cause RLS. Iron is essential for the production of dopamine — the chemical that relaxes the body and brain. — Daily Mirror

(Source: Mumbai Mirror, 19th Sept,Page 34)