Odyssey Medical Mag | Issue 04

Editor's Note

Dear readers,

The month of May is officially upon us! It’s surreal to think that we are five months into 2023 already They say that time flies when you’re having fun, and we believe that the best way to ensure true happiness is to love what you do At Summit Marketing, we are passionate about storytelling, and we are proud to bring you real life anecdotes and trusted advice from respected leaders in our local medical community

In this issue, we had the privilege of chatting with Dr Ashleigh Bhanjan, a Specialist Neurologist at the Odyssey Medical Centre Get the inside scoop from our exclusive interview on page 4

Struggling to catch some zzz’s? We unpack the science of sleep and provide helpful tips to improve your sleep health on page 6.

We would like to wish all the wonderful mums a very Happy Mother's Day! Your unwavering love, strength, and support inspires us every day. Check out page 8 for our favourite Mother’s Day brunch spots in Ballito.

Did you know that May is International Mental Health Awareness Month? Broaching the topic of mental health with your kids can be quite daunting, so we’ve put together a helpful guide for all the parents out there. Check it out on page 16.

Odyssey Medical Centre is proud to house Flowpath Laboratories. Learn more about this world-class Pathology lab on page 23.

We’ve got loads more fascinating health and lifestyle pieces waiting for you in this issue. We hope you enjoy reading it as much as we do! Happy reading

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Medi Response

087 330 3911

RHEUMATOLOGY

Dr Sanvir Sirriram 079 235 8969

NEUROLOGY

Dr. Siddi Ganie 031 539 3233

Dr. Ashleigh Bhanjan 069 714 1617

CARDIOLOGY

Dr Kevin Michaels 069 714 1617

DENTAL

Dr Kevin Naidoo 067 321 3214

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Shubnum Gowrisunkar The Hydroderm and Body Clinic 066 274 7993

Dr. Justin Henry Chiropractor 032 946 2829

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Sian Scheepers 032 946 2829

Michelle van Dyk 032 946 2829

AESTHETICS

PathCare Laboratory 032 946 6505

Flowpath Laboratory 032 586 1206

GENERAL PRACTITIONERS

Dr Sanesha Moodley

Dr Shalin Moodley

Dr Poobalan Pillay 032 943 1111

Dr. Harisha Karpath 032 586 3318

GYNAECOLOGY

Dr. PG Karimi

083 389 6474

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

DR. ASHLEIGH BHANJAN Specialist Neurologist

ired you to pursue medicine?

as always been my ultimate goal never a second option I’m very or nothing” type of person There’s e with me, which is ironic because I ey matter on a daily basis!

ou choose to specialise in Neurology?

is one of the most difficult o pursue, but at the same time, it’s ost interesting! Neurologists think ngs very differently Our brains are d differently too It’s an evereciality because brain function is so cate and complex Back when I was doing internal medicine at Grey's Pietermaritzburg, my mentor at the me whether I had ever considered a Neurology It had actually never me until that moment, but when he mething clicked in my brain and I pursue it I applied for the registrar and never looked back!

ce would you give to students wishing urology?

p g , at Durban Neuro Laser Clinic

Q) Tell us a little bit about yourself and your practice

I have been practising as a Specialist Neurologist since 2008, and I currently have two Durban Neuro Laser Clinic practices at the Odyssey Medical Centre and at Life Entabeni Hospital The Durban Neuro Laser Clinic was established in 2018, and it has been growing steadily for the past 5 years We expanded into Odyssey Medical Centre to increase our patient cover and to reach a larger population Although we specialise in treating neurological conditions, we also treat patients with non-neurological conditions, for example: chronic pain, arthritis, sporting injuries, concussions, chronic neuropathic pain etc

Neurology involves a lot of intricacy, networking and commitment, so it’s definitely not for the faint-hearted If you want to pursue something truly challenging, both mentally and physically, Neurology is a wonderful field to get into because it’s dynamic and always evolving

Q) Where did you complete your tertiary education?

I completed my Bachelor of Medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand, and I also completed my internship in Johannesburg I did my community service at Ladysmith Provincial Hospital, and I completed my post graduate degree by rotating between Grey’s Hospital and Albert Luthuli Hospital respectively

Q) How do you stay up to date with industry developments?

We keep up with our CPD programmes, attend weekly online webinars, as well as regular meetings with the KZN Specialists Network Social media also plays a massive role in staying up to date with industry trends - I follow universities to keep up with clinical and scientific research both nationally and internationally Our practice has developed a culture of lifelong learning I am proud to say that I learn something new every single day

Q) What sets you apart from others in your field?

I am the only integrated neurologist in South Africa Integrated Neurology involves the use of non-conventional therapies to assist patients in healing holistically

Q) What do you wish you could change about the medical landscape in South Africa?

I believe that we need to start looking into alternative therapies as soon as possible Although we have big Pharmaceutical companies pumping billions of dollars into clinical research, we aren’t seeing progression or improvements in our patients’ care What we know now, and what we learned 40-50 years ago, remains almost exactly the same We haven’t progressed to find disease modifying agents, which is why more and more patients are looking elsewhere and turning to holistic healers, traditional healers and integrative specialists in an attempt to get better There has been a recent boom in non-conventional therapeutic methods The more we invest in research, the better equipped we will be to treat our patients

Q) How do you manage to stay fit and active in between work?

Brain health is body health If you exercise regularly, maintain a consistent sleeping pattern, and eat a balanced diet, you will be able to achieve an optimal work-life balance. You have to prioritise your sleep and have a cut-off for work, because brain health is essential for maintaining synchronicity and overall equilibrium. .

Q) What are your top tips for improving brain health?

Prioritise your sleep, try intermittent fasting and eat foods that are high in antioxidants, for example: goji berries, blueberries, strawberries etc In the last decade or so, we discovered a link between the power of thought and the concept of oxidative stress (which seems to be a precursor for both neurological and neuropsychiatric problems like depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic fatigue syndrome, mood disorders, as well as conditions such as dementia, Parkinson's disease and cognitive impairment) You can actually reduce oxidative stress and induce chemical changes in the brain just by changing the way you think The power of your thoughts should never be underestimated

Q) Why did you choose to position your practice at the Odyssey Medical Centre?

I wanted to get out of the hospital setting During the Covid pandemic, a lot of patients were fearful about leaving their homes and entering high-risk environments like hospitals. We wanted a cleaner, safer setting and we wanted to cover a different population. The Odyssey Medical Centre fulfilled all our needs.

FUN FACTS

Q) What are you currently reading?

I’m always empowering myself with knowledge by reading up on industry developments and scientific research A lot of people say “time is money”, but we believe that “time is brain” The more time I spend trying to empower and educate myself, the better doctor and neurologist I can be for my patients

Q) What is your favourite local restaurant? Beira Alta at the Lifestyle Centre in Ballito

Q) What advice would you give to your younger self?

We all have a dream, and we all have ambitions in life The universe will always guide you with signals to let you know whether you’re on the right path or not It’s up to you to be receptive to those signals, and to open the door and take the leap of faith Always believe in yourself

The Science of Sleep

Sleep is an essential aspect of our lives, yet it is often undervalued and overlooked Getting good quality sleep is critical for maintaining our physical and mental health, and is essential for our overall well being. During sleep, our bodies work to repair and rejuvenate themselves, ensuring that we wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day

Due to the prevalence of technology and the increasing demands of our modern-day lifestyle, getting good quality sleep can be challenging However, it is essential to create equilibrium and maintain a consistent sleep routine. We've rounded up our top tips to help you improve your sleep health

DEVELOP A CONSISTENT SLEEP SCHEDULE

Our bodies have an internal clock, also known as the circadian rhythm, that regulates our sleep-wake cycle Disrupting this cycle can cause several health issues, including fatigue, irritability, poor concentration, and even depression When we go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, we help our bodies to maintain its circadian rhythm This consistency allows our bodies to develop healthy sleep habits and prepare for sleep and wakefulness, making it easier to fall asleep, stay asleep and wake up feeling refreshed

CREATE A COMFORTABLE SLEEP ENVIRONMENT

The quality of your sleep environment can significantly affect your sleep Ensure your bedroom is cool, quiet, and dark Your body temperature drops when you sleep, and a cooler room can help facilitate this process Similarly, keeping your bedroom dark can help signal to your body that it's time to sleep You can also invest in comfortable bedding and pillows to enhance your sleeping experience

AVOID HIGH-ENERGY SUBSTANCES BEFORE BEDTIME

Substances such as caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol can all disrupt your sleep It is best to avoid consuming these substances at least four hours before bedtime

LIMIT SCREENTIME BEFORE BED

The blue light emitted by electronic devices can disrupt the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep Try to avoid using your phone, tablet, or computer at least an hour before bedtime

PRACTICE RELAXATION TECHNIQUES

Engaging in relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga before bedtime can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep

EXERCISE REGULARLY

Regular exercise can help improve the quality of your sleep However, it is best to avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime as it can make it harder to fall asleep.

AVOID DAYTIME NAPS

While napping can be tempting, especially when you're feeling tired, it can make it harder to fall asleep at night. If you must nap, keep it short and limit it to early in the afternoon

AVOID LARGE MEALS CLOSE TO BEDTIME

Eating a heavy meal close to bedtime can make it difficult to fall asleep as your body works to digest the food. It is best to eat dinner at least two to three hours before bedtime

CHOOSE TRANQUIL COLOURS

The colours in your bedroom can impact your mood and sleep quality Consider using calming colours like blue, green, or lavender to create a peaceful atmosphere

USE A WHITE NOISE MACHINE

Noise can be a significant disruptor to sleep White noise machines produce a consistent sound that can help mask other noises They can be especially helpful for parents of newborns, particularly if you live in a noisy area or if you're sensitive to sounds while you sleep

Mother's Day is the ideal opportunity to show your mum just how much you appreciate her selfless love, unwavering dedication and immeasurable sacrifices. Whether it's a simple hug, a handwritten note, a thoughtful gift, or spending quality time together indulging in your favourite foods, expressing gratitude on Mother's Day holds profound significance.

To help make her day extra special, we've rounded up our top 3 picks for a celebratory Mother’s Day brunch in Ballito

From an enchanted tea and cake experience, to brunch classics like french toast, pancakes and waffles, we’re sharing the most delicious ways to spoil mum on her special day!

Toast Ballito

Located at the bustling Lifestyle Centre, Toast Ballito is the ultimate brunch spot, and the perfect place to spoil your mum this Mother’s Day! From its cosy interiors and friendly staff, to its delicious caféstyle cuisine, Toast is sure to sweeten up mum’s special day

We love the café’s breakfast classics! From eggs benedict smothered in creamy hollandaise sauce, to fluffy flapjacks with maple syrup, Toast has something for everyone to love

The eatery also boasts an exquisite shopping selection - from locally produced leather handbags and purses, to gourmet confectionaries and luxury candles - securing the perfect Mother’s Day gift will be an absolute breeze!

info@toastballito.co.za

032 648 0030

www.toastballito.co.za

Yoli's Artisan Bakery

Spoil mum with the feeling of wanderlust this Mother’s Day at Yoli’s Artisan Bakery! Located in the heart of The Market at Ballito’s Lifestyle Centre, this idyllic café combines the nostalgia of old-fashioned baking with a sophisticated Parisian atmosphere

We love the panoramic view into Yoli’s kitchen and prep area - a gorgeous display in a beautiful French-inspired setting! Yoli’s is a celebration of Parisian artisan baker techniques, prioritising quality ingredients like real butter and stone ground flour

From its delectable array of breads, pastries and sensational savouries, to its vibrant atmosphere, central location and perfectly brewed cappuccinos, Yolis is truly a feast for the senses

info@yolis.co.za

032 648 0031

www.yolis.co.za

The Waterberry Coffee Shoppe

A hidden gem in the heart of Ballito, The Waterberry Coffee Shoppe is an absolute must this Mother’s Day! From its picturesque interiors overlooking an enchanted garden and lush coastal forest, to its decadent selection of freshly baked cakes, pastries and savoury delights, this quaint café is sure to earn you extra brownie points with mum!

We love the café’s unique and tranquil setting, not to mention its friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere abuzz with jovial customers

Be sure to try The Waterberry’s famous “classic baked cheesecake” - an utterly dreamy dessert topped with lashings of Belgian white chocolate sauce, toasted almonds and nougat Simply sublime!

info@thewaterberry.co.za

032 946 2797

www.thewaterberry.co.za

Happy Mother's Day from the Odyssey Medical Centre

In honour of Mother's Day, the doctors of Odyssey have a few special messages they'd like to share with their mums...

DR. SANVIR SIRRIRAM Rheumatologist & Specialist Physician

"Happy Mothers day to all the mums My mother has always been an inspiration by leading by example. She had studied teaching while I was in primary school. She continued to pursue her passion for teaching and education while being a very hands-on mum. She has proven to us on many occasions that age does not limit a person's ability to learn. Education has always been a priority for my mum. Even today, she plays an integral part in teaching her grandchildren. She keeps highlighting the importance of education in order to have more opportunities and a better quality of life in the future. Happy Mother's Day mum!"

DR. HARISHA KARPATH Aesthetics & General Practice

"I am constantly inspired by my mother's unconditional love, kindness and patience. My mum taught me to always be positive, strive for your best, stay humble, be strong, work hard, be true to yourself and you will reap the benefits. My morals and ethics, perception of life, ambition and drive, empathy and care for the people who come into my life - I can attribute all of the above in part to my mother's influence "

Healthy Minds, Happy Lives: A Parent's Guide to Discussing Mental Health with Kids

As caregivers or adults in the lives of children, we hold an important responsibility in supporting their mental health. In the same way that we prioritise their physical health, discussing mental health with children can foster a healthy understanding of emotions, enhance resilience, and encourage seeking help when necessary.

Here are some helpful tips for discussing mental health with children...

1) CREATE A SAFE SPACE

Start by creating a safe and non-judgemental space where your child feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings Let them know that it's okay to feel a wide range of emotions and that their feelings are valid Avoid criticising or dismissing their emotions, and instead, show empathy and understanding

2) BE AVAILABLE AND LISTEN

Be available and attentive when your child wants to talk about their mental health Listen actively without interrupting or judging Show genuine interest and concern Let them know that their thoughts and feelings are valid and that you are there to support them.

3) NORMALISE EMOTIONS

Help your kids understand that it's normal to experience a wide range of emotions, including sadness, anger, fear, or frustration Let them know that it's okay to feel these emotions and that everyone experiences them at times. Emphasise that emotions are a natural part of being human and not something to be ashamed of

4) CHECK-IN REGULARLY

Make it a habit to check-in with your child regularly about their mental health Ask them how they are feeling and if they have any concerns or questions Keep the lines of communication open and encourage them to talk about their emotions as part of their overall well-being

Healthy Minds, Happy Lives: A Parent's Guide to Discussing Mental Health with Kids

Engaging in conversations about mental health can help to remove stigmas surrounding mental health and create a safe environment where children feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.

5) TEACH COPING STRATEGIES

Help your kids to develop healthy coping strategies to manage their emotions Teach them techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or talking to a trusted adult when they are feeling overwhelmed Encourage them to express their emotions in healthy ways, such as journalling, drawing, or talking to a friend

6) ENCOURAGE HELP-SEEKING

Teach your child that it's okay to seek help when they are struggling with their mental health. Let them know that talking to a trusted adult, such as a parent, teacher, or counsellor, is a brave and responsible thing to do Normalise the idea of seeking professional help, such as therapy or counselling, if needed

7) ADDRESS STIGMA

Discuss the topic of stigma with your child and explain that mental health challenges are not something to be ashamed of Encourage them to be understanding and empathetic towards others who may be struggling with mental health issues and to stand up against stigma if they encounter it

8) SHARE PERSONAL EXPERIENCES

If you have your own experiences with mental health challenges, sharing them with your child can help them understand that it's okay to talk about mental health and seek help when needed Be honest and open about your experiences, using age-appropriate language, and reassure them that it's okay to ask for help

Superfood Showcase: chia seeds

HEALTH BENEFITS HIGH IN NUTRIENTS

Chia seeds are an excellent source of nutrients, including fibre, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various micronutrients. Just two tablespoons of chia seeds provide 11 grams of fibre, 4 grams of protein, and a host of important vitamins and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

DIGESTIVE HEALTH

The high fibre content in chia seeds can help promote digestive health by regulating bowel movements and preventing constipation Chia seeds are also prebiotic, meaning they feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, which can improve overall digestive health

CHIA SEEDS

definition: tiny black or white seeds that come from the Salvia hispanica plant, native to Mexico and Guatemala.

Chia seeds are often referred to as a superfood due to their high nutrient content and potential health benefits They are a rich source of fibre, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and micronutrients, and are often touted for their ability to aid in weight loss, improve heart health, and boost athletic performance. Chia seeds are also incredibly versatile and can be easily incorporated into a variety of meals, making them a convenient and nutritious addition to any diet

WEIGHT LOSS

Chia seeds are low in calories but high in fibre and protein, making them a filling and satisfying addition to your diet Studies have shown that adding chia seeds to your meals can help reduce appetite and calorie intake, potentially leading to weight loss.

BOOSTS ENERGY

Chia seeds are often used by athletes as a natural energy booster They are rich in carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, all of which can help provide sustained energy and improve athletic performance

Breathing new life into Asthma Awareness

Understanding the Basics of a Chronic Respiratory Condition

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people worldwide It is a disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to breathing difficulties, wheezing, and coughing Unfortunately, asthma remains a misunderstood and underestimated condition, with many misconceptions surrounding its causes and management.

One of the biggest misconceptions about asthma is that it is a minor condition that can be easily managed However, asthma is a chronic disease that requires ongoing medical attention and management Asthma can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life, causing disruptions in daily activities, and even leading to hospitalisations or emergency room visits if not properly managed

Another common misconception is that asthma is purely a physical condition caused by allergies or pollution. While these factors can trigger asthma symptoms in some individuals, asthma is a complex condition with multiple underlying factors These include genetic predisposition, environmental triggers such as smoke, dust, or strong odours, respiratory infections, stress, and even exercise

Furthermore, there is a misconception that asthma is a condition that can be outgrown or cured While some children may experience a decrease in asthma symptoms as they grow older, asthma is a chronic condition that usually persists into adulthood There is currently no known cure for asthma, and it requires ongoing management to keep symptoms under control and prevent complications

Asthma management involves several key components First and foremost, an accurate diagnosis is crucial, and individuals suspected of having asthma should undergo thorough evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional Once diagnosed, the next step is to develop an individualised asthma action plan in consultation with a healthcare provider This plan should outline the use of appropriate medications, such as inhalers or oral medications, as well as strategies to avoid triggers and manage symptoms during an asthma attack

Trigger avoidance is an essential aspect of asthma management, as exposure to allergens or irritants can worsen symptoms Common asthma triggers include pollen, dust mites, animal dander, smoke, and air pollution. Asthma sufferers should take steps to avoid exposure to these triggers, such as using air filters, washing bedding in hot water, and avoiding tobacco smoke.

Asthma sufferers should educate themselves about their condition and learn how to recognise and manage symptoms This includes understanding when to use rescue medications, how to monitor lung function, and when to seek emergency medical attention

Education and awareness are crucial in improving asthma management and reducing the burden of this chronic respiratory disease

By understanding the causes and triggers of asthma, developing individualised asthma action plans, and taking steps to avoid triggers and manage symptoms, asthma sufferers can take control of their condition and live a healthier, more active life

Odyssey Medical Centre is proud to house Flowpath Laboratories. Flowpath is an independent Pathology Laboratory providing an efficient and reliable service to doctors, hospitals and private healthcare providers who require a broad range of pathology testing for diagnostic purposes.

Operational across KZN for over 19 years, Flowpath is committed to providing high quality Pathology services at the most affordable rate. As KwaZulu Natal’s only dual accredited lab, Flowpath provides service of the highest quality in terms of generating timeous and reliable patient test reports using the latest technology in line with international standards.

Multiple laboratory sites

World class equipment

Internationally accredited

Multiple Disciplines

Quality of reagent

Fully automated interfaced lab