# Dr. Barbara Karin Vela, Dubai > Dr. Barbara Karin Vela is a well-rounded family physician with expertise in different medical fields. In 2007, she joined Dubai London Clinic and has been working as a family doctor ever since. ## Main ### FAMILY MEDICINE Source: [https://drbarbara.ae/family-medicine/](https://drbarbara.ae/family-medicine/) Family medicine is the medical specialty which provides continuing and complete health care for the single patient and family. Family physicians are personal doctors for people of all ages, all genders and health conditions. They are reliable first contact for health concerns and directly address most health care needs. Family physicians adapt their care to the unique needs of their patients and communities. They use data to monitor and manage their patient population, and use best science to prioritize services most likely to benefit health. ### ANEMIA Source: [https://drbarbara.ae/patient-care/anemia/](https://drbarbara.ae/patient-care/anemia/) Anemia is a prevalent blood disorder characterized by a deficiency in red blood cells (RBCs) or hemoglobin, resulting in a decreased ability of the blood to carry oxygen to the body’s tissues. It affects millions of people worldwide, and prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to managing this condition effectively. In this article, we will explore the various types of anemia, their causes, symptoms, and the available treatment options. ## Types of Anemia: 1. Iron-deficiency anemia: This is the most common type of anemia, often caused by inadequate iron intake or absorption, blood loss (such as from menstruation or gastrointestinal bleeding), or increased iron requirements (during pregnancy or growth spurts). 2. Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia: Insufficient intake or impaired absorption of vitamin B12 can lead to this type of anemia. It commonly results from malabsorption disorders or a lack of intrinsic factor, a protein necessary for vitamin B12 absorption. 3. Folate deficiency anemia: Similar to vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, inadequate intake or absorption of folate can cause anemia. It is commonly associated with poor diet, malabsorption disorders, or alcoholism. 4. Hemolytic anemia: This type of anemia occurs when the body destroys red blood cells prematurely, leading to a deficiency. It can be inherited or acquired and may result from autoimmune disorders, infections, certain medications, or other underlying conditions. 5. Aplastic anemia: A rare and potentially life-threatening condition, aplastic anemia occurs when the bone marrow fails to produce sufficient RBCs. Causes can include certain medications, radiation, chemotherapy, viral infections, or autoimmune disorders. 6. Sickle cell anemia: A genetic disorder characterized by abnormal hemoglobin, sickle cell anemia leads to the production of crescent-shaped red blood cells. These cells can block blood flow, causing severe pain, organ damage, and anemia. ## Symptoms and Diagnosis: The symptoms of anemia can vary depending on its type and severity. However, common signs may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty concentrating. In some cases, additional symptoms like headaches, cold hands and feet, chest pain, and leg cramps may also be present. Proper diagnosis involves a thorough medical history assessment, physical examination, and specific blood tests such as a complete blood count (CBC), iron studies, vitamin B12 and folate levels, and additional specialized tests based on clinical suspicion. ## Treatment Options: The [treatment of anemia](https://drbarbara.ae/blog/anemia-feeling-tired-and-weak/) primarily depends on its underlying cause and severity. The following options are commonly used: 1. Iron supplementation: In cases of iron-deficiency anemia, oral or intravenous iron supplements may be prescribed to replenish iron stores in the body. 2. Vitamin B12 or folate supplementation: For deficiencies in these vitamins, oral or injectable supplements are administered to correct the imbalance. 3. Blood transfusions: In severe cases of anemia or acute blood loss, a blood transfusion may be necessary to quickly restore RBC levels and improve oxygen-carrying capacity. 4. Medications: In certain types of anemia, medications may be used to treat underlying conditions or manage symptoms, such as immunosuppressants for autoimmune hemolytic anemia. 5. Bone marrow transplant: A potential treatment option for severe aplastic anemia, a bone marrow transplant aims to replace damaged bone marrow cells with healthy ones. Prevention of anemia involves maintaining a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folate. Regular physical activity, reducing alcohol consumption, and managing chronic conditions that may contribute to anemia are also key factors. ### FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE IN DUBAI Source: [https://drbarbara.ae/patient-care/functional-medicine/](https://drbarbara.ae/patient-care/functional-medicine/) Functional medicine is a patient-centered, science-based approach to healthcare that focuses on addressing the root causes of disease and supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms. It recognizes that each person is unique and seeks to understand the underlying imbalances and interactions of various bodily systems. In this article, we will explore the principles of functional medicine, its benefits, and how it differs from conventional medicine. ## Understanding Functional Medicine: Functional medicine views the body as an interconnected web of systems, where imbalances in one area can affect other areas and contribute to the development of chronic diseases. It goes beyond simply managing symptoms and aims to identify and address the underlying causes of illness. By treating the whole person rather than just isolated symptoms, functional medicine aims to optimize health and prevent future health issues. ## Principles of Functional Medicine: 1. Patient-centered approach: Functional medicine practitioners take the time to listen to patients, understand their health concerns, and create personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. The focus is on treating the individual, not just the disease. 2. Systems-based approach: Rather than looking at individual symptoms in isolation, functional medicine examines how different systems in the body interact and impact overall health. It considers factors such as genetics, lifestyle, environment, and emotional well-being. 3. Identifying root causes: Functional medicine seeks to uncover the underlying factors contributing to a patient’s health issues. This may involve comprehensive lab testing, analyzing medical history, and assessing lifestyle factors to determine the root causes of dysfunction. 4. Promoting self-healing: Functional medicine emphasizes empowering patients to take an active role in their healing process. By providing education, support, and tools to make lifestyle changes, patients can optimize their health and well-being. 5. Integrative approach: Functional medicine combines the best of conventional medicine with evidence-based complementary therapies, such as nutrition, stress management, herbal medicine, and mind-body techniques. It embraces a wide range of treatment modalities to support the body’s natural healing capacity. ## Benefits of Functional Medicine: 1. Personalized care: Functional medicine recognizes that no two individuals are the same and tailors treatment plans to address the unique needs of each patient. This personalized approach can lead to more effective and targeted interventions. 2. Holistic view of health: By considering the interconnectedness of various bodily systems, functional medicine can provide a more comprehensive understanding of health and disease. This approach helps identify underlying imbalances that may have been overlooked in conventional medicine. 3. Focus on prevention: Functional medicine places a strong emphasis on preventive care and early intervention. By identifying and addressing imbalances before they manifest as disease, functional medicine aims to optimize health and reduce the risk of chronic conditions. 4. Improved long-term outcomes: By addressing the root causes of disease, functional medicine can provide long-lasting results. Instead of relying solely on symptom management, patients are empowered to make sustainable lifestyle changes that promote overall well-being. ## Functional Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine: While conventional medicine excels at acute care and managing emergencies, functional medicine offers a different approach to chronic disease management. Functional medicine seeks to understand the complex web of factors contributing to health issues and aims to support the body’s innate healing capacity. It complements conventional medicine by providing a more holistic and individualized perspective. Functional medicine represents a paradigm shift in healthcare, focusing on personalized, root-cause-oriented approaches to wellness. By integrating the best of conventional medicine with evidence-based complementary therapies, functional medicine aims to optimize health, promote self-healing, and empower individuals to take control of their well-being. Consider exploring functional medicine as a pathway to achieving and maintaining vibrant health for a lifetime. ### HIGH CHOLESTEROLEMIA DUBAI Source: [https://drbarbara.ae/patient-care/high-cholesterolemia-dubai/](https://drbarbara.ae/patient-care/high-cholesterolemia-dubai/) High Cholesterolemia Dubai or high blood cholesterol is condition when cholesterol is measured higher than a reference range. Cholesterol and triglycerides are two types of fat (lipids) that are necessary for life. Cholesterol is important for building cell membranes and for making several essential hormones and triglycerides provide much of the energy needed for cells to function.Cholesterol and triglycerides are made by the body and obtained from the diet, particularly from animal products and saturated fat. These dietary fats (lipids) travel through the blood to the liver where they are processed. During times when dietary fats (lipids) are not available, the liver produces cholesterol and triglycerides, then packages them along with special proteins into tiny spheres called lipoproteins. The lipoproteins are released into the circulation and are subsequently delivered to the cells of the body. The cells will remove the needed cholesterol and triglycerides from the lipoproteins, as they are needed. Elevated triglycerides may be a consequence of other diseases, such as untreated diabetes mellitus. When you have too much cholesterol in your blood, the excess cholesterol builds up on the walls of major arteries leading to the heart. This buildup is referred to as ‘atherosclerosis’,‘arteriosclerosis’, or ‘hardening of the arteries’. High Cholesterolemia Dubai narrows the arteries and can slow down or block blood flow to the heart and other arteries. With less blood, the heart gets less oxygen, and the reduced amount of oxygen to the heart can cause chest pain known as ‘angina’, as well as heart attack (myocardial infarction), and even death. Cholesterol buildup is the most common cause of heart disease, and because it happens so slowly, most people are not even aware of it. High Cholesterolemia Dubai – The effects of atherosclerosis can also be seen in the arteries to the brain and legs. Problems in the legs include claudication, or pain in the calves when you walk, while in the arteries to the brain, strokes and dementia can occur. The major risks for developing atherosclerosis are smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol levels. [Dr Barbara Karin Vela](https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/my-background/) is an International Member of [Royal College Of General Practitioners](https://www.rcgp.org.uk), UK Hypercholesterolemia or high blood cholesterol is condition when cholesterol is measured higher than a reference range. Cholesterol and triglycerides are two types of fat (lipids) that are necessary for life. Cholesterol is important for building cell membranes and for making several essential hormones and triglycerides provide much of the energy needed for cells to function.Cholesterol and triglycerides are made by the body and obtained from the diet, particularly from animal products and saturated fat. These dietary fats (lipids) travel through the blood to the liver where they are processed. During times when dietary fats (lipids) are not available, the liver produces cholesterol and triglycerides, then packages them along with special proteins into tiny spheres called lipoproteins. The lipoproteins are released into the circulation and are subsequently delivered to the cells of the body. The cells will remove the needed cholesterol and triglycerides from the lipoproteins, as they are needed. Elevated triglycerides may be a consequence of other diseases, such as untreated diabetes mellitus. When you have too much cholesterol in your blood, the excess cholesterol builds up on the walls of major arteries leading to the heart. This buildup is referred to as ‘atherosclerosis’,‘arteriosclerosis’, or ‘hardening of the arteries’. High Cholesterolemia Dubai narrows the arteries and can slow down or block blood flow to the heart and other arteries. With less blood, the heart gets less oxygen, and the reduced amount of oxygen to the heart can cause chest pain known as ‘angina’, as well as heart attack (myocardial infarction), and even death. Cholesterol buildup is the most common cause of heart disease, and because it happens so slowly, most people are not even aware of it. The effects of atherosclerosis can also be seen in the arteries to the brain and legs. Problems in the legs include claudication, or pain in the calves when you walk, while in the arteries to the brain, strokes and dementia can occur. The major risks for developing atherosclerosis are smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol levels. ## **WHAT IS CHOLESTEROL?** Cholesterol is a type of lipid. It’s a waxy, fat-like substance that your liver produces naturally. It’s vital for the formation of cell membranes, certain hormones, and vitamin D. Cholesterol doesn’t dissolve in water, so it can’t travel through your blood on its own. To help transport cholesterol, your liver produces lipoproteins. Lipoproteins are particles made from fat and protein. They carry cholesterol and triglycerides, another type of lipid, through your bloodstream. The two major forms of lipoprotein are low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL cholesterol is any cholesterol carried by low-density lipoproteins. If your blood contains too much LDL cholesterol, you may be diagnosed with high cholesterol. Without treatment, high cholesterol may lead to many health issues, including heart attack and stroke. High cholesterol rarely causes symptoms in the beginning. That’s why it’s important to get your cholesterol levels checked on a regular basis. ## **HIGH CHOLESTEROL SYMPTOMS** In most cases, high cholesterol is a “silent” condition. It typically doesn’t cause any symptoms. Many people don’t even realize they have high cholesterol until they develop serious complications, such as a heart attack or stroke. That’s why routine cholesterol screening is important. If you’re 20 years or older, ask your doctor if you should have routine cholesterol screening. Learn how this screening could potentially save your life. ## **CAUSES OF HIGH CHOLESTEROL** Eating too many foods that are high in cholesterol, saturated fats, and trans fats may increase your risk of developing high cholesterol. Living with obesity can also increase your risk. Other lifestyle factors that can contribute to high cholesterol include inactivity and smoking. Your genetics can also affect your chances of developing high cholesterol. Genes are passed down from parents to children. Certain genes instruct your body on how to process cholesterol and fats. If your parents have high cholesterol, you may be at a greater risk of having it too. In rare cases, high cholesterol is caused by familial hypercholesterolemia. This genetic disorder prevents your body from removing LDL. According to the National Human Genome Research Institute, most adults with this condition have total cholesterol levels above 300 milligrams per deciliter and LDL levels above 200 milligrams per deciliter. Other health conditions, such as diabetes and hypothyroidism, may also increase your risk of developing high cholesterol and related complications. ## **LDL CHOLESTEROL, OR “BAD CHOLESTEROL”** LDL cholesterol is often called “bad cholesterol.” It carries cholesterol to your arteries. If your levels of LDL cholesterol are too high, it can build up on the walls of your arteries. High Cholesterolemia Dubai This buildup is also known as cholesterol plaque. This plaque can narrow your arteries, limit your blood flow, and raise your risk of blood clots. If a blood clot blocks an artery in your heart or brain, it can cause a heart attack or stroke. ## **HDL CHOLESTEROL, OR “GOOD CHOLESTEROL”** HDL cholesterol is sometimes called “good cholesterol.” It helps return LDL cholesterol to your liver to be removed from your body. This helps prevent cholesterol plaque from building up in your arteries. When you have healthy levels of HDL cholesterol, it can help lower your risk of blood clots, heart disease, and stroke. ## **TRIGLYCERIDES, A DIFFERENT TYPE OF LIPID** Triglycerides are another type of lipid. They’re different from cholesterol. While your body uses cholesterol to build cells and certain hormones, it uses triglycerides as a source of energy. When you eat more calories than your body can use right away, it converts those calories into triglycerides. It stores triglycerides in your fat cells. It also uses lipoproteins to circulate triglycerides through your bloodstream. If you regularly eat more calories than your body can use, your triglyceride levels may become too high. This can raise your risk of several health problems, including heart disease and stroke. High Cholesterolemia Dubai Your doctor can use a simple blood test to measure your triglyceride level, as well as your cholesterol levels. ## **GETTING YOUR CHOLESTEROL LEVELS CHECKED** If you’re 20 years or older, Dr Barbara Karin Vela recommends getting your cholesterol levels checked at least once every 4 to 6 years. If you have a history of high cholesterol or other risk factors for cardiovascular disease, your doctor may encourage you to get your cholesterol levels tested more often. Dr Barbara Karin Vela can use a lipid panel to measure your total cholesterol level, as well your LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Your total cholesterol level is the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood. It includes LDL and HDL cholesterol. If your levels of total cholesterol or LDL cholesterol are too high, your doctor may diagnose you with high cholesterol. High cholesterol can be dangerous when your LDL levels are too high and your HDL levels are too low. ### **RISK FACTORS FOR HIGH CHOLESTEROL** You may be at a higher risk of developing high cholesterol if you: * Are living with obesity. * Consume a lot of saturated and trans fats, like those found in fast food. * Have limited physical activity. * Smoke tobacco products. * Have a family history of high cholesterol. * Have diabetes, kidney disease, or hypothyroidism. People of all ages, genders, and ethnicities can have high cholesterol. ## **COMPLICATIONS OF HIGH CHOLESTEROL** Without treatment, high cholesterol can cause plaque to build up in your arteries. Over time, this plaque can narrow your arteries. This condition is known as atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a serious condition. It can limit the flow of blood through your arteries. It also raises your risk of developing dangerous blood clots. High Cholesterolemia Dubai ### **Atherosclerosis can result in many life threatening complications, such as:** * Stroke. * Heart attack. * Angina, or chest pain. * High blood pressure. * Peripheral vascular disease. * Chronic kidney disease. High cholesterol can also create a bile imbalance, raising your risk of gallstones. ## **LOWERING CHOLESTEROL THROUGH DIET** To help you achieve and maintain healthy cholesterol levels, [Dr Barbara Karin Vela](https://drbarbara.ae/) may recommend changes to your diet. For example, she may advise you to: * Limit your intake of foods that are high in cholesterol, saturated fats, and trans fats. * Choose lean sources of protein, such as chicken, fish, and legumes. * Eat a wide variety of high fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. * Opt for baked, broiled, steamed, grilled, and roasted foods instead of fried foods. * Avoid fast food and sugary, pre-packaged options when possible ### **Foods that are high in cholesterol, saturated fats, or trans fats include:** * Red meat, organ meats, egg yolks, and high fat dairy products. * Processed foods made with cocoa butter or palm oil. * Deep-fried foods, such as potato chips, onion rings, and fried chicken. * Certain baked goods, such as some cookies and muffins Eating fish and other foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids may also help lower your LDL levels. For example, salmon, mackerel, and herring are rich sources of omega-3s. Walnuts, almonds, ground flaxseeds, and avocados also contain omega-3s. High Cholesterolemia Dubai ## **High Cholesterolemia Dubai – CHOLESTEROL MEDICATIONS** In some cases, Dr Barbara Karin Vela might prescribe medications to help lower your cholesterol levels. Statins are the most commonly prescribed medications for high cholesterol. They block your liver from producing more cholesterol. **Examples of statins include:** * Atorvastatin (Lipitor) * Fluvastatin (Lescol) * Rosuvastatin (Crestor) * Simvastatin (Zocor) * May also prescribe other medications for high cholesterol, such as: * Niacin * Bile acid resins or sequestrants, such as colesevalam (Welchol), colestipol (Colestid), or cholestyramine (Prevalite) * Cholesterol absorption inhibitors, such as ezetimibe (Zetia) * PCSK9 inhibitors, such as alirocumab (Praluent) and evolocumab (Repatha) Some products contain a combination of drugs to help decrease your body’s absorption of cholesterol from foods and reduce your liver’s production of cholesterol. One example is a combination of ezetimibe and simvastatin (Vytorin). Learn more about the drugs used to treat high cholesterol. ## **High Cholesterolemia Dubai -FINAL NOTE** In most cases, high cholesterol has no symptoms. But without treatment, high cholesterol can cause serious health issues. The good news is that Dr Barbara Karin Vela can help you manage this condition, and in many cases, can help you avoid complications. To learn if you have high cholesterol, ask your doctor to test your cholesterol levels, especially if you’re 20 years or older. If they diagnose you with high cholesterol, ask her about your treatment options. To lower your risk of complications from high cholesterol, practice healthy lifestyle habits and follow Dr Barbara Karin Vela’s recommended treatment plan. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco products may help you achieve and maintain healthy cholesterol levels. It could also help lower your risk of complications from high cholesterol. ### HYPERTENSION DUBAI Source: [https://drbarbara.ae/patient-care/hypertension-dubai/](https://drbarbara.ae/patient-care/hypertension-dubai/) Hypertension Dubai or a high blood pressure is a very common condition that is easily diagnosed. The old maxim of “100 plus your age” is not a safe way to measure what your blood pressure should be. Hypertension exists when the blood High blood pressure, or hypertension, rarely has noticeable symptoms. But if untreated, it increases your risk of serious problems such as heart attacks and strokes. The only way to find out if your blood pressure is high is to have your blood pressure checked. Blood pressure is recorded with 2 numbers. The systolic pressure (higher number) is the force at which your heart pumps blood around your body. The diastolic pressure (lower number) is the resistance to the blood flow in the blood vessels. They’re both measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). As a general guide: * High blood pressure is considered to be 140/90mmHg or higher (or 150/90mmHg or higher if you’re over the age of 80) * Ideal blood pressure is usually considered to be between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg Blood pressure readings between 120/80mmHg and 140/90mmHg could mean you’re at risk of developing high blood pressure if you do not take steps to keep your blood pressure under control. Everyone’s blood pressure will be slightly different. What’s considered low or high for you may be normal for someone else. ## **RISKS OF HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE** If your blood pressure is too high, it puts extra strain on your blood vessels, heart and other organs, such as the brain, kidneys and eyes. Persistent high blood pressure can increase your risk of a number of serious and potentially life-threatening health conditions, such as: * Heart disease. * Heart attacks. * Strokes. * Heart failure. * Peripheral arterial disease. * Aortic aneurysms. * Kidney disease. * Vascular dementia. If you have high blood pressure, reducing it even a small amount can help lower your risk of these health conditions. ## **THINGS THAT CAN INCREASE YOUR RISK** It’s not always clear what causes high blood pressure, but there are things that can increase your risk. You might be more at risk if you: * Are overweight. * Eat too much salt and do not eat enough fruit and vegetables. * Do not do enough exercise. * Drink too much alcohol or coffee (or other caffeine-based drinks). * Smoke. * Do not get much sleep or have disturbed sleep. * Are over 65. * Have a relative with high blood pressure. * Are of black African or black Caribbean descent. Making healthy lifestyle changes can sometimes help reduce your chances of getting high blood pressure and help lower your blood pressure if it’s already high. ## **TREATMENT** Dr Barbara Karin Vela can help you keep your blood pressure to a safe level using: * Lifestyle changes. * Medicines. What works best is different for each person. Talk to her to help you decide about treatment. ### **LIFESTYLE CHANGES TO REDUCE BLOOD PRESSURE** These lifestyle changes can help prevent and lower high blood pressure: * Reduce the amount of salt you eat and have a generally healthy diet. * Cut back on alcohol. * Lose weight if you’re overweight. * Exercise regularly. * Cut down on caffeine. * Stop smoking. Some people with high blood pressure may also need to take 1 or more medicines to stop their blood pressure getting too high. ### **MEDICINES FOR HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE** If you’re diagnosed with high blood pressure, Dr Barbara Karin Vela may recommend taking 1 or more medicines to keep it under control. **These come as tablets and usually need to be taken once a day.** Common blood pressure medicines include: * ACE inhibitors – such as enalapril, lisinopril, perindopril and ramipril. * Angiotensin-2 receptor blockers (ARBs) – such as candesartan, irbesartan, losartan, valsartan and olmesartan. * Calcium channel blockers – such as amlodipine, felodipine and nifedipine or diltiazem and verapamil. * Diuretics – such as indapamide and bendroflumethiazide. * Beta blockers – such as atenolol and bisoprolol. * Alpha blockers – such as doxazosin. * Other diuretics – such as amiloride and spironolactone. The medicine recommended for you will depend on things like how high your blood pressure is, your age and your ethnicity. ## **KNOWN CAUSES** In about 1 in 20 cases, high blood pressure happens as the result of an underlying health condition or taking a certain medicine. Health conditions that can cause high blood pressure include: * Kidney disease * Diabetes * Long-term kidney infections * Obstructive sleep apnoea – where the walls of the throat relax and narrow during sleep, interrupting normal breathing. * Glomerulonephritis – damage to the tiny filters inside the kidneysNarrowing of the arteries supplying the kidneys. * Hormone problems – such as an underactive thyroid, an overactive thyroid, – Cushing’s syndrome, acromegaly, increased levels of the hormone aldosterone (hyperaldosteronism), and phaeochromocytoma. * Lupus – a condition in which the immune system attacks parts of the body, such as the skin, joints and organs. * Scleroderma – a condition that causes thickened skin, and sometimes problems with organs and blood vessels. ## **FINAL NOTE** Being active and taking regular exercise lowers blood pressure by keeping your heart and blood vessels in good condition. Regular exercise can also help you lose weight, which will also help lower your blood pressure. Adults should do at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as cycling or fast walking, every week. Physical activity can include anything from sport to walking and gardening. *8 more main links available on the website* ## Optional ### MY BACKGROUND Source: [https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/my-background/](https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/my-background/) *Additional content available at [https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/my-background/](https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/my-background/)* ### MY PHILOSOPHY Source: [https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/my-philosophy/](https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/my-philosophy/) *Additional content available at [https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/my-philosophy/](https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/my-philosophy/)* ### CERTIFICATIONS AND MEMBERSHIPS Source: [https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/certifications-and-memberships/](https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/certifications-and-memberships/) *Additional content available at [https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/certifications-and-memberships/](https://drbarbara.ae/about-dr-barbara/certifications-and-memberships/)* *3 more optional links available on the website*