Singer Jesy Nelson recently shared an emotional update regarding the complications she is experiencing in her pregnancy with twin babies. Former Little Mix singer Jesy, who is having twins with partner Zion Foster, announced that she has been diagnosed with pre-twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (pre-TTTS). The condition, which is present in pregnancies involving twins with a shared placenta, has serious risks involved and needs intense medical supervision. As Nelson embarks on this difficult journey, her story enlightens us about a rare but dangerous condition many expectant parents may not know much about.

Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome is a rare but dangerous condition that arises in monochorionic twin pregnancies, in which identical twins share a single placenta. The placenta supplies the developing babies with oxygen, nutrients, and blood flow, but in TTTS, there is an imbalance of blood vessels that interconnect the twins, and thus the vital resources are not evenly distributed. One twin, or the donor twin, shares excess blood with the other, referred to as the recipient twin. This leads to one baby becoming malnourished and possibly anemic, and the other in danger of heart problems due to too much blood.

Nelson described her diagnosis in a heartfelt Instagram video, explaining that she is currently in the pre-stage of TTTS and undergoing frequent monitoring. "I am being scanned twice a week, and each time, things have gotten a little worse," she shared, expressing her fears and hopes for the health of her babies.

Potential Risks of TTTS

If left untreated, TTTS can have devastating consequences. Medical research indicates that:

• 90% of the cases of untreated TTTS lead to loss of one or both twins.
• Despite treatment, only a 70% survival rate for both twins is assured.
• Severe forms can result in preterm labor, cardiac failure in the recipient twin, and organ failure in the donor twin.
• Complications in long-term survivors include neurological damage and developmental delay in surviving infants.

TTTS usually advances in stages, beginning with minimal changes in fluid levels and worsening as one twin continues to get an unequal share of blood. In extreme cases, fetal laser surgery, referred to as the Solomon technique, can be employed to divide the blood vessels and balance the twins.

Why Identical Twin Pregnancies Are More Complicated

Identical twins may develop differently, and their own unique form of placental sharing can have a dramatic effect on pregnancy risk. Jesy Nelson's twins are considered monochorionic diamniotic (mono/di), which means they share a placenta but have two amniotic sacs. This is the type of pregnancy in about 70% of identical twin pregnancies and carries an increased risk of complications like TTTS, umbilical cord entanglement, and growth restriction.

Conversely, dichorionic diamniotic (di/di) twins both have a separate placenta and amniotic sac, which greatly diminishes the threat of TTTS. Twin pregnancy type is normally identified by early ultrasound, with physicians being able to track future complications from inception.

Other Twin Pregnancy Health Risks

Twin pregnancies, even without the presence of TTTS, entail a variety of health risks to the mother as well as infants:

1. Premature Birth

Over 60% of twin pregnancies end in premature delivery, with birth usually taking place before 37 weeks. Premature infants can have immature organs and need neonatal intensive care (NICU) assistance to assist with breathing, feeding, and infection fighting.

2. Gestational Hypertension and Preeclampsia

Pregnant women with multiples are at increased risk of having high blood pressure during pregnancy. This, if left untreated, can result in preeclampsia, a serious complication of pregnancy that can result in damage to organs, preterm labor, and in some cases, maternal or fetal death.

3. Anemia

Pregnant women carrying multiples are twice as likely to experience anemia, a condition where the body does not produce enough healthy red blood cells. This can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and complications during delivery.

4. Birth Defects

According to John Hopkins Medicine, multiple birth babies are twice as likely to have congenital abnormalities compared to single births. These can include heart defects, neural tube defects, and gastrointestinal issues.

5. Amniotic Fluid Imbalances

When twins have to share a placenta, they are more likely to have polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid) or oligohydramnios (not enough amniotic fluid). Both result in distress to the babies during fetal development and can result in premature labor.

6. Postpartum Hemorrhage

Twins are at increased risk of excessive postpartum hemorrhage because their uterus is larger and there are greater blood supply needs.

Jesy Nelson's openness about her challenging experience is raising awareness for TTTS, a condition that few individuals—let alone expectant mothers and fathers—might be aware of. Through her tearful video, Nelson stressed the significance of knowing about twin pregnancies aside from the thrill of having multiples. "We had no idea that this type of thing occurs when you're having twins. We just desperately want to make people aware of this because there are so many people who aren't aware."

Her case reminds us of the intricacies involved in twin pregnancy and the significance of early identification and medical management. For mothers carrying twins, frequent ultrasounds and vigilance can become a life-and-death issue for early detection and better outcomes of both babies.

Through constant medical attention and care, she and her partner Zion Foster remain positive and get ready for their babies to be born. In other parents whose situations are no different, the story of Nelson highlights awareness, medical progress, and emotional encouragement in handling complicated pregnancies.

The expecting parents of twin siblings are advised to discuss TTTS screening and possible interventions with their physicians to give their babies the best chance.

AlsAs the UK is going through its fifth heatwave this summer, even corporate employees working in air-conditioned offices are facing its brunt.

Many look forward to leaving the sweltering confines of their homes for some much-needed respite in air-conditioned workplaces. But not everyone is able to find relief.

AC Becomes Must-Have For Overheated London Offices

Temperatures reached 38.1°C at Kew Gardens in west London on August 13, making it the hottest day of the year so far and one of the hottest temperatures ever recorded in the UK.

The continually high mercury has exposed a bigger problem for office workers. While some older properties do not have air conditioning, others have systems that cannot withstand high temperatures and have broken down.

Those built in the last 20 to 30 years, as most of the buildings in Mayfair, might offer only cooling units and lack adequate mechanical cooling.

But those equipped with functioning air conditioners may get comfortable inside the office, cooler air does not remove the need to stay hydrated.

Also read: US July Heat Breaks 132-Year Record: UK, France Brace For 5th Heat Wave Of 2026

Sitting In Air-Conditioned Spaces For Long Hours Raises Dehydration Risk

Dehydration is often associated with excessive sweating and not drinking enough fluids. One may never comprehend how an office worker sitting inside a cool office could ever be at the risk of getting dehydrated.

But here's a grim truth: An office worker is at a much higher risk of dehydration due to various reasons. Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. During hot weather, sweating is one of the body's main ways of getting rid of excess heat.

Air conditioning lowers the surrounding temperature, which can affect how intensely you feel the heat. But if you have already been sweating during your commute, sitting in a cool room does not automatically replace what your body has lost.

Also read: UK, France Brace for Another Heatwave: How Hot Weather Can Affect Medicines

Additionally, not drinking enough fluids could further raise the risk as thirt is not always a reliable signal.

The UK Health Security Agency advises people to drink regularly throughout hot weather rather than waiting until they feel thirsty. It also recommends replacing fluids and electrolytes when sweating heavily.

The signs and symptoms of dehydration are also easy to miss as they don't present in traditional ways with sweating, dry mouth, dizziness, and more.

In an office, it shows up in a subtle manner. For example, a dull headache that gets dismissed as a side effect of prolonged gazing at screens, trouble concentrating that gets addressed with more caffeine and fatigue that is most likely to be neglected.

How To Stay Hydrated During A Heatwave?

One of the most straightforward ways to stay hydrated in an office during heatwaves is to drink water and other fluids regularly throughout the day.

UKHSA recommends drinking more fluids than usual in hot weather and considering rehydration drinks if you are sweating heavily.

The urge to gulp down multiple cups of coffee while working is persistent. But limiting excessive caffeine and alcohol can also help as they may contribute to fluid loss.

With repeated heatwaves becoming the top highlight of British summers, staying cool and staying hydrated need to go hand in hand in order to avoid getting dehydrated.

A recent report by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) found E. coli bacteria in drinking water from water coolers at several major railway stations across the country.

The report also flagged unhygienic conditions in railway washrooms and other passenger amenities. The audit found that 458 of the 512 stations examined — more than 89 per cent — did not meet prescribed standards for minimum essential amenities.

"Bacteriological analysis of drinking water was not carried out at 59 stations over six zones," the CAG said in its report, Passenger Amenities and Sanitation at Non-Suburban Railway Stations in Indian Railways, tabled in Parliament on August 12.

Water samples from coolers tested positive for E. coli at two stations in Southern Railway, one in South Central Railway, four in Central Railway and one in Eastern Railway.

The report also found total coliform bacteria, including E. coli, in tap water samples collected from platforms at several stations during 2022-23 and 2023-24.

Following the findings, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has directed immediate steps to improve the safety of drinking water at stations.

The Railway Ministry said a new "tank-to-tap" filtration system would be installed at around 20,000 locations, including water coolers. The measures include replacing water tanks, regular water-quality testing at source and outlet points, centralized monitoring, accountability, and scheduled cleaning and maintenance of storage tanks.

Also read: Does Sunscreen Really Raise Skin Cancer Risk? What The 470,000-Person Study Found

What Is E. Coli?

Escherichia coli, commonly known as E. coli, is a group of bacteria that normally lives in the intestines of humans and animals.

HealthandMe spoke to Dr. Pawan Kumar Goyal, Senior Director - Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, about E. Coli infection, its symptoms and how to prevent it.

Dr. Pawan Kumar Goyal explains, "Most E. coli strains are harmless and are part of the normal bacteria present in the gut. However, some strains can cause infections, particularly when they enter the body through contaminated food or water."

What Happens During an E. Coli Infection?

Dr. Goyal says, "The presence of E. coli in drinking water is an important indication of faecal contamination. It suggests that the water may have come into contact with human or animal waste and may contain other disease causing organisms as well."

Harmful E. coli strains most commonly affect the digestive system, causing diarrhea, abdominal pain, and gastroenteritis. Some strains can also cause urinary tract infections.

Certain strains produce Shiga toxin, which can cause serious complications, including kidney damage, particularly in children and older adults.

Common Signs of E. Coli Infection

Symptoms can vary depending on the strain and the part of the body affected. Dr. Goyal says the common gastrointestinal symptoms include:

• Diarrhoea, which may sometimes be severe or contain blood
• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and weakness
• Reduced appetite

Watery diarrhea is often one of the earliest symptoms of E. coli infection of the gastrointestinal tract.

Read More: Amid Cyclospora, Salmonella Outbreaks, US FDA Issues Guidance on Ready-to-Eat Produce

Treatment For E. Coli

Talking about the treatment for E. Coli infection, Dr. Goyal explains, "Treatment depends on the strain of E. coli and the severity of infection. Adequate fluids and electrolytes are important in most cases. Antibiotics are not appropriate for every E. coli infection and should only be taken following medical assessment, as certain infections may worsen with inappropriate antibiotic use."

Not every E. Coli infection turns severe. However, certain symptoms must be addressed clinically as they could lead to complications.

Dr. Goyal says, "For most healthy adults, the infection may settle with appropriate fluid replacement and supportive care. However, severe diarrhoea can cause dehydration, which can become dangerous if not treated in time."

The expert also spoke about serious complications from E. Coli infection that could lead to renal damage.

He says, "Certain E. coli strains can also cause haemolytic uraemic syndrome, a serious complication that can affect the kidneys.

The expert also said that young children, older adults and people with weakened immunity may be at greater risk of complications.

He adds, "Persistent diarrhoea, blood in stools, high fever, reduced urination, dizziness or signs of significant dehydration require prompt medical attention. Early recognition and appropriate treatment can prevent complications."

How To Protect Yourself From E. Coli?

E. coli can spread through contaminated food, water and fecal matter. Basic hygiene and safe food practices can help reduce the risk.

Dr Goyal recommends, "Prevention depends largely on maintaining good hygiene and ensuring access to safe drinking water. Hands should be washed thoroughly before eating and after using the toilet. Water from an uncertain source should be avoided, and properly treated or boiled water should be used where safety is in doubt."

Other preventive measures include:

Maintain Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before eating or cooking and after using the toilet, changing diapers or handling animals.

Practice Safe Food Handling: Keep raw meat separate from ready-to-eat foods. Use separate utensils and cutting boards, and clean kitchen surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meat.

Cook Food Thoroughly: Cook ground meat to at least 160°F (71°C) and poultry to 165°F (74°C). A food thermometer can help ensure food reaches a safe temperature.

Wash Fruits and Vegetables: Wash produce under running water before eating, even if you plan to peel it.

Choose Safe Drinking Water: Drink pasteurized milk and juices and use boiled or treated water. Avoid unpasteurised products and untreated water, which can carry harmful E. coli strains.

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has opened up about a longstanding health issue he has been dealing with for years.

At the Cincinnati Open, the Serbian, who holds the all-time men's record of 428 weeks as world No. 1 in singles, struggled physically throughout his second-round match.

The 39-year-old was seen crouching on all fours between points, required a medical timeout and appeared to vomit into towels as extreme heat and humidity took a toll.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion suffered a surprising second-round defeat, losing to Argentina's Thiago Agustín Tirante 2-6, 6-4, 6-4.

What Health Issue Does Novak Djokovic Have?

Following the defeat, Djokovic revealed that he has been dealing with a longstanding health condition that becomes particularly difficult to manage in hot and humid conditions.

"It's because of a health issue I have," Djokovic told reporters after the match. "I've been dealing with it for many years now. It causes me a lot of problems, especially when there's a lot of humidity and heat."

Djokovic said he had anticipated difficult conditions in Cincinnati, but the combination of heat, humidity, nerves and other factors ultimately made the situation worse during his match against Tirante.

His physical struggles also raised questions about his future at the Cincinnati Open. Asked whether he planned to return to the tournament in 2027, Djokovic gave an uncertain response.

"I certainly hope so, but unfortunately, at this point it seems more likely that I won't. However, we'll see what the future holds."

Novak Djokovic's Previous Health Issues and Injuries

Djokovic has dealt with several injuries and health challenges throughout his career.

• Respiratory issues: Before 2010, Djokovic faced heat exhaustion, breathing difficulties and physical collapses. He later changed his diet after identifying gluten and dairy intolerance.

• Elbow injury: Chronic right elbow problems led to surgery in 2018.

• Abdominal tear: He played through an abdominal tear to win the 2021 Australian Open.

• Hamstring injury: He battled a left hamstring injury during his 2023 Australian Open title run.

• Knee injury: A torn meniscus forced him to withdraw from the 2024 French Open.

Djokovic on the Physical Demands of Ageing

In 2023, Djokovic acknowledged that his body was beginning to feel the effects of a long career, although he still felt he had fuel left in the tank.

"I am being completely honest with you guys. I have asked this question also, but it's not like I think about it all the time.

The desire is still there, but things can change quickly – I am 36, I've been a pro for 20 years."

He said he did not view age as a decisive factor, instead focusing on his overall physical condition and whether he continued to enjoy playing.

Age can affect tennis performance through changes such as reduced muscle mass, slower recovery and lower aerobic capacity, which can also increase injury risk. However, modern sports science and tactics can help players remain competitive as they age.

Research suggests that people who regularly play tennis may add nearly 10 years to their lives, potentially outperforming the longevity gains associated with several other sports.

"Tennis is a sport that is unique because people of all ages play it, from age two to 92 or older, and that makes it accessible to a lot of people," Dr. Melissa Leber, director of emergency department sports medicine at Mount Sinai Health System, told the New York Post.