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Every parent’s heart sinks when they receive the dreaded note from school warning about head lice. Don’t worry – Jane Brennan from Brennan’s Life Pharmacy in Donabate is here to to give us advice and tips. The first thing to do is to check the child’s head. You will need some tea tree conditioner, a... Read more >

Are You SunSmart?

We ask Jane Brennan from Brennan’s Life Pharmacy Donabate how to make the most of great sunny summer days whilst protecting our skin from harmful rays. Jane says “The Irish Cancer Society SunSmart program has great guidelines to keep us safe. See below for some useful tips and advice” Ways to protect your skin: Shade... Read more >

Pollen Highs & Watery Eyes

Pollen Highs & Watery Eyes… Talk to Jane Brennan, your Hay Fever Expert in Donabate Are your eyes itchy, red or watery? Is your throat scratchy? Are you sneezing? Do you have itchy ears, nose or mouth? Do you have a blocked or runny nose? Do you wake up feeling exhausted? Hay fever can cause... Read more >

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NHS Choices - Preventing congenital heart disease

(15/09/2014)

As so little is known about the causes of congenital heart disease, there is no guaranteed way of avoiding having a baby with the condition.

However, if you are pregnant, the following advice can help to reduce the risk:

ensure you are vaccinated against rubella and flu
avoid drinking alcohol or taking drugs
take 400 micrograms of folic acid supplement a day during the first trimester (first 12 weeks) of your pregnancy – this lowers your risk of giving birth to a child with congenital heart disease, as well as several other types of birth defect
check with your GP or pharmacist before you take any medication during pregnancy, including herbal remedies and medication that is available over the counter
avoid contact with people who are known to have an infection
if you have diabetes, make sure the condition is controlled
avoid exposure to organic solvents, such as those used in dry cleaning, paint thinners and nail polish remover

See vitamins and nutrition in pregnancy, infections in pregnancy and your antenatal care for more information and advice.

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NHS Choices - Preventing congenital heart disease