ARTICLES ON General Health

Cramps, bloating, puffiness in your belly area, constipation, and diarrhea – stomach problems are never fun. While a simple upset stomach won’t last forever, a condition called irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be ongoing. Knowing which one is cramping your style and killing your vibe is important. What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome? “Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a disease with a collection of symptoms like abdominal pain, abdominal cramps, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. It significantly reduces a patient’s quality of life. It is very common and is not life-threatening. There is no anatomical or structural problem in the gut in people suffering from IBS. It is a lifelong syndrome, a patient typically will have symptoms that will come and go and are exacerbated by stress, emotional changes, or certain food items,” says Dr.Ruchit B.Patel, consultant Gastroenterologist, Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central. Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome The main symptoms of IBS are belly pain along with a change in bowel habits. This can include constipation, diarrhea, or both. You may get cramps in your belly or feel like your bowel movement isn’t finished. Many people who have it feel gassy and notice that their abdomen is bloated. Persistent pain and frequent trips to the bathroom can make everyday life harder. “Bleeding in the rectum, night diarrhea, unexplainable weight loss, anemia, unusual vomiting, difficulty swallowing, pain in the stomach area that is not linked to gas or bowel movement are symptoms that warrant a doctor’s visit,” says Dr. Veerendra Sandur, Lead Consultant – Medical Gastroenterology, Aster RV Hospital, JP Nagar, Bengaluru. While there is no single cause for IBS, “There is no definite cause. It may be due to altered movement of the small and large intestine, hypersensitivity of the intestine, psychological factors like stress, coping with stress, depression, anxiety. Particularly childhood stress may be a more important cause. Intolerance to some type of food can also trigger IBS,” says Dr. Jayaraj SP, Consultant – Medical Gastroenterologist, Columbia Asia Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru (A unit of Manipal Hospitals). Dr. Purshottam Vashistha believes muscles contractions in the intestinal walls help to move food through the digestive tract and weaker contractions can lead to indigestion and dryer defecation causing IBS. Bacterial overgrowth or changes in the gut flora can also cause IBS. It’s also more likely to affect people who have a family history of IBS. Symptoms usually start before you’re 35 years old. It’s uncommon for people over 50 to get IBS for the first time. “In India, IBS is more common among women. Estrogen therapy before or after menopause also is a risk factor for IBS. Also, a family history of IBS may increase the chances. Genes may play a role, as may share factors in a family’s environment or a combination of genes and environment,” shares Dr. Waseem Ahmed. The treatment plan will depend on specific symptoms and triggers, but many people start with diet changes. It may help to eat smaller meals and foods that are lower in fat. Dr. Ahmed adds, “Many patients improve with proper counseling, motivation, and behavioral therapy which play a major role in treating functional bowel disorders because mental health is directly intertwined with the performance of the gastrointestinal system.” Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome 1. Elimination of dietary fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs) is considered to be helpful in IBS. The first stage is the substitution of foods with low FODMAP choices. “Low FODMAP foods include lettuces, carrots, chives, cucumber among others. The second stage is a gradual reintroduction of foods into the diet while assessing symptoms, and the third stage is the personalization of the diet to avoid foods that trigger symptoms,” says Dr. Lovekesh Anand. 2. “Include adopting healthy eating patterns, such as regular small volume meals and adequate fiber intake,” says Dr. Nripen Saikia. 3. “Limit alcohol and caffeine intake and reduce consumption of fatty and spicy foods. Avoiding milk in case of known lactose intolerance,” adds Dr. Saikia. 4. Physical activity can help with digestion, reduce stress, and improve your mood. Go for low-impact activities at first that won’t jar the digestive tract 5. “Foods that have been cooked and left out to cool – for example, cold potato/pasta salads, and ready to eat meals should be avoided,” adds Dr. Anand Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/coping-with-irritable-bowl-syndrome-101630690521280.html

When was the last time you finished your meal without having something sweet? A gulab jamun. A biscuit with the evening chai. One bite of chocolate that somehow became four. We are a nation that loves its mithai, and honestly, it is fine in moderation or in joy. What tips the scale is when the odd treat quietly turns into a daily fixture, day after day, without you clocking it. And somewhere at the back of your mind, you already sense it is too much. A review by the Nature Communications noted that diets high in added sugar can disrupt immune system regulation. Once your defenses weaken, opportunistic bugs can easily take hold. Fortunately, long before that happens, your body can start showing some subtle warning signs. This guide helps you understand them. So Is Sugar Good for Health, or Not? Depends entirely on the sugar. Sugar in an apple or a vegetable plate comes with fiber, vitamins, and water. Milk contains natural sugars alongside protein and calcium. That’s why your body can cope without much fuss. Glucose is fuel, after all. You need some. Added sugar is the real problem. It is found in things like tea with sugar, soda, processed snacks, and sauces. These foods don’t have fiber or nutrients to help your body process them slowly. They are just empty calories that your body stores as fat. What Happens When You Consume Too Much Sugar? Rather than causing sudden harm, excessive sugar gradually triggers a cascade of health issues over months and years. Dr. Pritam Moon, Consultant Physician at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, Mumbai, is completely straightforward about it. Consuming too much sugar leads to the collection of fat, fatty liver, and an increased chance of getting type 2 diabetes. Once that happens, the odds of heart trouble roughly double. And obesity, he points out, drags cancer risk up with it. There is more, unfortunately. Sugar spikes your blood pressure higher and keeps a slow fire of inflammation burning inside you. Your face pays too. Wrinkles arrive through a process called glycation, where sugar binds to and damages proteins like collagen and elastin.  Without healthy collagen, your skin starts sagging and slackens. Energy levels dip. Teeth rot, cavities, and sore gums follow after that. After a certain time, it fogs the mind, thinning out your focus and eroding your memory. 20 Symptoms That Show You Are Consuming Too Much Sugar These are the 20 signs you are eating too much sugar, the sugar symptoms worth spotting sooner rather than later: Sign What you might notice 1 High blood pressure Readings reaching 130/80 mmHg or higher 2 Weight gain Changes in body composition, often around the midsection 3 Fatigue and brain fog Mental exhaustion, trouble focusing, and energy slumps 4 Acne and skin trouble Frequent breakouts and premature skin aging 5 Constant sweet cravings A persistent cycle of wanting more sugar after eating it 6 Irritability Mood swings related to blood sugar spikes and crashes 7 Joint pain Achy, stiff joints linked to systemic inflammation 8 Poor sleep Difficulty staying asleep, especially after late snacks 9 Tooth decay Developing cavities or experiencing gum inflammation 10 Frequent colds Weakened immune response to common bugs 11 Digestive issues Bloating and changes in gut regularity 12 Dry skin Skin dehydration despite adequate water intake 13 Hormonal imbalances Possible exacerbation of symptoms like PCOS 14 Racing heart Heart palpitations occurring after a high-sugar meal If two or three items here ring a bell, it might be a good moment to take a closer look at your daily diet. Why Do These Sugar Symptoms Even Happen? While a few of these are self-explanatory, a couple of them need a quick explanation, so let’s break them down. Blood Pressure Salt constantly receives all the blame, yet sugar quietly contributes to the same effect. A review in the journal Open Heart (DiNicolantonio & Lucan, 2014) suggested that added sugars may be more strongly associated with hypertension than sodium. If your readings consistently reach 130/80 mmHg or higher, your sugar intake could be a significant factor. Weight Gain Think of sugar as calories that give nothing back. No protein, no fiber, so your stomach never gets the memo that you are full. And then insulin spikes, and insulin has a favourite parking spot for spare fat, right around your middle. The Cravings That Will Not Quit This is the challenging bit. Once you take that first bite, your brain may start craving more, locking you into an endless loop. Getting out of this cycle might require some effort, so forgive yourself for failing, because it’s just how your brain works. Mood, Sleep, and Energy Those unexpected slumps that happen in the middle of the afternoon? Sugar is probably responsible for these. It spikes your blood glucose levels, and shortly afterward, causes them to drop rapidly. This drop causes you to feel exhausted, irritable, and unable to focus. Consuming sugary snacks right before going to bed might be the worst decision you could make. How Much Sugar Should You Consume Per Day? The WHO strongly recommends reducing free sugar intake to less than 10% of daily calories, with a conditional recommendation of under 5% for additional benefits. According to the AHA, this translates to about 25 grams for women and 36 grams for men. Here is what stings. Drink one can of cola, and you have consumed a whole day’s allowance before finishing the glass. That is the trap. It gets stored while you are least paying attention. How Do You Cut Back Without Feeling Miserable? Take a breath, you do not need to give up sweets entirely. The key lies in small, manageable adjustments you can stick with every day, rather than an ambitious overhaul that falls apart. Dr. Moon offers these practical, realistic strategies: Slow down and taste your food. When a craving hits, ask yourself first, “Am I really hungry, or is it simply my habit speaking” Flip the package and read it.

Music jump rope is a special type of jump rope and is among the group of exercises that is performed with background music, where the participants must move their hands and feet to match the beat and tempo of the music The Department of Physical Therapy, Korea Nazarene University, Republic of Korea (South Korea) in 2017 carried out an interesting study, titled “The effects of dance music jump rope exercise on pulmonary function and body mass index after music jump rope exercise in overweight adults in 20’s” and the purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a dance music jump rope exercise on changes Pulmonary Function and body mass index in female overweight subjects in their 20’s. Music jump rope is a special type of jump rope and is among the group of exercises that is performed with background music, where the participants must move their hands and feet to match the beat and tempo of the music. This is a type of exercise that enhances our body to control agility, endurance, quickness, and flexibility. Four weeks after the experiment concluded pulmonary function and BMI measurements were conducted. The experimental group and control group showed significant differences in VC and BMI. The music jump rope exercise showed the improved circulation of the cardiovascular system through dynamic movements and strengthened deep breathing by activating the movement of the respiratory muscles to improve the circulation of breathing. Diet and exercise therapies have been the main recommended treatments for obesity. Exercise becomes the more tedious part as gyms and trainers are not always available or affordable. How about a rope that you could jump? Jumping rope can definitely work miracles on and with your body, said Dr. Sumita Yadhav, Physiotherapist, Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai. Here’s what she explains: It helps in: Different types of skipping should be used to give your body variety like one foot hope But you have to be careful when u plan to use skipping as your daily fitness routine if you have arthritis, heart ailments, or lung problems. Few things to keep in mind are: Source: https://www.healthwire.co/know-how-jumping-rope-can-help-you-shed-kilos-try-skipping-for-a-low-cost-no-fuss-way-to-lose-weight/

Underestimating dehydration can cost you big time. That’s why you MUST keep an eye on these tell-tale signs of dehydration. Be it weight loss or maintaining overall health and well-being, nothing can beat water. During the summer season, we sweat a lot and that makes it mandatory to replenish your body with a glass or two of H20, every few hours. Not just that, but fluids like lemonade, buttermilk, etc also help to keep your hydration levels in check. Just in case your body doesn’t have enough water to sustain, it gives signs that you are dehydrated. Dehydration signs that you should know about  Do you often feel thirsty? Are constant headaches forcing you to miss those important online meetings? Then, let’s just break it to you — you may be dehydrated. Yes, you heard it right! You are going to get dehydrated if the body doesn’t have as much water as it needs. Without enough water, you will not be able to function properly. You will be shocked to know that even low levels of dehydration can make you feel lethargic and constipated. Here are some common causes of dehydration  Having diabetes, vomiting or diarrhea, being in the sun for a long time, too much alcohol consumption, sweating a lot after exercising, having fever, and taking diuretics can invite dehydration. Moreover, young children, older people, and infants get dehydrated often. It is the need of the hour to evaluate the underlying cause of dehydration and then seek immediate help. Many people end up in the hospital, owing to dehydration. So, don’t forget to opt for timely treatment. Some signs of dehydration  Why dehydration is horrible “Loss of both water and electrolytes in sweat can lead to muscle pain that often can be seen in the calves.  Such cramps can keep you up at night and you will not be able to do your daily activities with ease. Dehydration can affect your physical health like mood and concentration. It also takes a toll on your kidneys. When you are dehydrated, the body holds onto available water and then you tend to produce less urine that is dark in color. This is because the metabolic waste is more concentrated,” suggests consultant physician at  Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai. This can be dangerous for the kidneys. Are you aware? In most serious cases, dehydration can even lead to seizures, loss of consciousness, or blackouts. This is due to hypovolemia, or low blood volume, which reduces blood flow to one’s brain. Dehydration tends to make the humidification process less effective, and breathing in dry air can cause throat irritation and even dry cough. “If you are not drinking enough water then stop doing that right away! You will have to drink at least three liters of water every day in order to stay hydrated. Moreover, you will have to increase your water intake after consulting an expert. Do not over hydrate yourself as that can also be problematic and cause pressure on the kidneys,” recommends Dr. Moon. The last word There are a few things that you can do to prevent dehydration. Rehydrate yourself quickly once you are dehydrated. A homemade rehydration solution can do the trick. Take half a teaspoon of salt, some sugar and mix it into a glass of water. Drink as per the suggestion of the expert. Try to avoid sugary drinks, colas, and caffeine. Stay away from alcohol and do not smoke. Drink water at regular intervals. Eat foods like watermelons, oranges, strawberries, lettuce, cucumber, and peaches to reduce dehydration. Source: https://www.healthshots.com/preventive-care/self-care/common-signs-of-dehydration-that-you-need-to-watch-out-for/

Are you getting forgetful? Don’t keep in mind the place you stored your pockets, keys, or different essential paperwork? Forgetting issues stored on the range whereas cooking, discovering it troublesome to hold on along with your real-world actions like counting cash? Shedding means again residence and wandering? Then you definitely want fast medical consideration because it may very well be Alzheimer’s illness. Sure, you’ve got to learn it properly! Take your well-being significantly and search for well-timed remedies to forestall your situation from worsening additional. Thousands and thousands of individuals endure Alzheimer’s disease, and lots of circumstances go unreported, making it a worldwide disaster worldwide. In India, it’s estimated that over 5.3 million individuals have dementia (wherein reminiscence, considering, communication, and social talents are likely to deteriorate), of which the most common trigger is Alzheimer’s. This quantity is ready to rise to 7.6 million in 2030, in keeping with the Dementia in India Report 2020 printed by the Alzheimer’s and Associated Problems Society of India (ARDSI). An analysis of this illness is life-changing for the affected person in addition to his/her household and buddies. Dr. Pavan Pai, Neurologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Highway, tells us extra about this illness – remedy, signs, and prevention, in addition to widespread myths that individuals in India proceed to consider. Why or How Alzheimer’s illness Develops? “There are specific circumstances that may flip one’s world upside-down by taking a toll on the mind; Alzheimer’s illness is one in all them. Having this illness can produce a disturbance within the memory and considering a course of. Thus, the affected person will likely be unable to remember conditions or issues. For instance, an affected person won’t keep in mind the time of getting meals, the place he/she lives, the names of their relations, cellphone numbers, and a few essential incidents associated with life, concerning the medical circumstances, and even the passwords,” explains Dr. Pai. He continues, “Alzheimer’s illness is the commonest reason behind dementia. Scientists haven’t but decided precisely why or the way it develops. Nevertheless, they do know that Alzheimer’s illness produces particular changes in the brain. These adjustments embody deposits (plaques) of a protein referred to as “beta-amyloid,” lack of nerve cells (neurons) in essential elements of the mind, and disorganized plenty of protein fibers inside the mind cells (these are often called “neurofibrillary tangles”). Signs of Alzheimer’s illness If signs like confusion, temper swings, anxiousness, social withdrawal, lack of knowledge of issues, lack of ability to pronounce phrases correctly, and lack of ability to do real-world actions, and impaired reasoning come up, then the relations ought to get fast assistance. Keep away from delaying the remedy and search for acceptable care – the knowledgeable says. Challenges in Treating Alzheimer’s illness in India In response to Dr. Pai, the reason why sufferers with Alzheimer’s don’t obtain immediate care is as a result of a lack of know-how concerning the illness. “Not many individuals are conscious that this illness wants fast consideration. Consciousness must be created through drives, camps, or initiatives concerning the administration of the illness,” he suggests. Caregiver burnout is a recognized truth. The caregivers must be totally educated concerning the illness. Poor Alzheimer’s care also can make it troublesome for the sufferers, and challenges come up owing to insufficient remedy, poor data on the part of the caregivers, the mounting value of care, and points in the detection of the illness. It is, without doubt, one of the well-being challenges with important social and financial penalties. There may be a pressing want of motion with the intention to assist these sufferers to lead a wholesome life, the neurologist factors out. Myths about Alzheimer’s illness There are numerous myths concerning this illness: Listed here are some widespread myths that many individuals in India are likely to consider. Fable#1: Solely outdated individuals get Alzheimer’s Truth: Most individuals with Alzheimer’s are over the age of 65, however, there are some individuals who get it at the youthful age that’s of their 50s. It is named early-onset Alzheimer’s and might be genetic. Fable #2: Alzheimer’s might be simply handled Truth: There isn’t any remedy to halt the development of this illness, or gradually how briskly it spreads. There are therapies to handle the signs of the illness. Medicines may also help with reminiscence, language expertise, considering, and behavioral issues. Fable #3: Alzheimer’s is in no way critical Truth: This illness could make one neglect to drink and eat and in addition result in dangerous behaviors like wandering right into a life-threatening scenario. It could possibly additionally result in points like swallowing or respiratory issues that may result in pneumonia. Fable #4: These with Alzheimer’s don’t have any hope Truth: Early analysis and medicines might be useful for ones with this illness. The caregiver and individual with Alzheimer’s ought to take the assistance of the help teams and set targets. Present a protracted and care-free setting for those with the illness. How Cognitive Behavioral Remedy Helps Alzheimer’s Sufferers In response to Dr. Pai, treatment and cognitive-behavioral remedies are helpful for sufferers with Alzheimer’s illness. Choosing this remedy may also help these sufferers to know their ideas, understand how they really feel, and get to find out about their behavior. The remedy may even be helpful for these sufferers who’re depressed, anxious, panicky, and even annoyed. It gives a possibility for sufferers to vent out their anger, feelings, and emotions. Whereas there’s at the moment no remedy obtainable to cease the mind harm because of Alzheimer’s illness, a number of medicines can quickly mitigate its signs. Now, the newly USFDA authorized Alzheimer’s drug Aducanumab can decelerate mind degeneration too. Preventive Measures The physician’s recommendation – Give up smoking and alcohol, eat a well-balanced diet jam-packed with contemporary vegetables and fruit, minimize down on junk and processed meals, train each day, managing your diabetes and blood strain and monitor them now and again, play reminiscence video games, remedy puzzles and crosswords.

Dealing with someone who has schizophrenia can be hard but it’s not impossible. Follow these expert-recommended tips to feel a little more confident. A person struggling with their mental health needs special attention and care. The support of their family as well as their caretaker can make a huge difference to their health and well-being. In fact, there have been several cases, where this strategy has helped mental health patients to lead a healthy and happy life.  Schizophrenia is one such mental health condition, in which a patient needs way more supervision than normal. There are many do’s and don’ts that must be kept in mind to keep the illness in check. And that’s why it is essential to know some tips to deal with someone who’s living with schizophrenia. But before we reveal it all, it’s important to understand all about the condition first. What is Schizophrenia? According to Dr. Sonal Anand, a psychiatrist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai, schizophrenia is a disorder of the brain that causes difficulties in interpreting reality. It affects the person’s ability to think and behave rationally, impacting his daily life. It is not a split personality or multiple personality issues. It is present in 1 percent of the world’s population. Causes of Schizophrenia “The exact cause is still not known. It is mostly a combination of genetics and the environment. Having a family member with schizophrenia is a risk factor, and having even one parent affected with schizophrenia increases the risk even further,” says Dr Anand. She adds, “Life stressors may play a role in the formation of initial symptoms.” According to a study published in the journal Psychological Medicine, it has been found that smokers have nearly double the risk of developing schizophrenia in comparison to those who don’t? That means our lifestyle also has a role to play. Symptoms of Schizophrenia Schizophrenia is characterized by delusions or hallucinations as well as abnormal speech/behavior/ emotions. Sometimes, all these symptoms could be there together. Delusions are a disorder of thought. Paranoid delusions are most common, where a person feels that someone is plotting against him/ her or trying to kill him/ her or the family.  Hallucinations are a disorder of perception, where the affected person can hear various voices in his/her ears, as if someone is talking. But in reality, no one is there. There can be visual, tactile and gustatory hallucinations. “Muttering to self, smiling inappropriately, and reduced self-care could be some of the problems. The inability to express one’s emotions may make the patient cut off from the outside world. He/ she may seem self-absorbed. Aggression may also be seen in some schizophrenics,” suggests Dr Anand. Tips that will Help you Deal with Schizophrenia Patients Source: https://www.healthshots.com/preventive-care/family-care/11-ways-to-deal-with-someone-who-is-living-with-schizophrenia/

Each lung is wrapped in a thin lining called the pleura, two layers with a little fluid between them that lets them slide smoothly as you breathe. Bilateral pleural effusion occurs when excessive fluid builds up in the pleural space on both sides of the chest.  While it may sound frightening, it is often a signal that another condition needs medical attention. What Is Bilateral Pleural Effusion? A thin lining surrounds each lung, called the pleura, and consists of two layers with fluid between them that helps breathing by making the process smooth. The presence of excessive fluid in this space is referred to as pleural effusion. If this condition occurs in both lungs, then it is called bilateral pleural effusion. It is sometimes referred to as fluid collection in the pleural space, which clarifies that the liquid is in the pleural space between those two layers. Dr. Sulaiman Ladhani, a chest physician at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai, explains: “It means the collection of fluid around the lungs. It is very common in our country and can occur in any age group.” That is the key point to grasp early. This is not one illness. It is a signal that some other problem in the body needs attention. Why Does the Fluid Build Up? In young individuals, infections or inflammation are usually the cause. Pneumonia and tuberculosis are common triggers in India, which explains why the condition is so frequently seen there. In older individuals, other causes may be involved. A failing heart is frequently at fault. A heart that pumps too weakly allows fluid to collect around the lungs.  Kidney trouble or liver disease (specifically hepatic hydrothorax) can bring about the same result, and in advanced cancer, ongoing fluid buildup sometimes develops as well. Age Group Usual Causes Younger adults Pneumonia, tuberculosis, infections Older adults Weak heart, kidney disease Any age Advanced cancer, low protein, chronic illness Certain factors push the risk higher. Dr. Preyas Vaidya, a consultant pulmonologist, points to several: high blood pressure that isn’t controlled, weak function on the left side of the heart, valve disease, kidney failure, low protein levels from prolonged illness, and overall physical frailty. What Does It Feel Like? Symptoms develop gradually, so people may not take them seriously. Pleural effusion symptoms may include: Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, often the first symptom people notice. Pleuritic chest pain (sharp pain that worsens on inspiration). A persistent dry cough. Fever, whenever an infection is behind the problem. The pattern of breathlessness offers a clue. “At first, it happens only with exertion,” says Dr. Ladhani. “But as the fluid increases, the person may feel breathless even at rest.” Struggling for breath after climbing stairs is ordinary enough. Feeling breathless while resting quietly, however, means you should be seen without delay. How Do Doctors Diagnose It? The diagnostic process is fairly swift, since the fluid is often visible on imaging studies. Fluid collection in the lungs can be easily noticed on a Chest X-ray. Thoracic ultrasound provides a detailed look at the fluid location. CT scans are used for further analysis. In other situations, the physician will perform a thoracentesis. This can be a diagnostic tap to test the fluid for causes like infections, or therapeutic drainage to relieve severe breathlessness. Transudate or Exudate: What Does the Fluid Type Reveal? First, the physician takes a sample of fluid and then decides whether it is transudate or exudate. Transudative fluid is clear and low in protein content.  This usually occurs when the heart, liver, or kidneys are not functioning optimally, and fluid leaks out passively rather than as a consequence of active disease. Exudative fluid is thicker and carries more protein and cells. Infections such as tuberculosis and pneumonia, along with cancer and inflammatory conditions, tend to produce this type. The distinction narrows down the list of likely causes. A transudate points first to the heart, liver, or kidneys. An exudate sends doctors looking for infection, tuberculosis, or a tumor instead.  A set of measurements called Light’s criteria, which compares protein and enzyme levels in the fluid against levels in the blood, is commonly used to sort a sample into one category or the other. How Is It Treated? This is where most patients feel relieved. Treatment rarely targets the fluid by itself. It targets whatever caused the fluid. “Bilateral pleural effusion usually involves treating the underlying systemic cause,” Dr. Vaidya explains. What that looks like depends entirely on the trigger. A heart problem calls for heart treatment. An infection is treated with antibiotics, or with anti-TB medicine when tuberculosis is involved. A kidney cause shifts the focus to kidney care. For transudative effusions caused by heart or kidney issues, diuretics are among the most commonly used medications. These drugs increase the frequency of urination, helping to remove extra fluid from the body. Therapeutic drainage is not needed very often. As Dr. Vaidya points out, the majority of patients need no procedure because the fluid recedes once the root problem is under control. Because TB is a major cause of this disease in India, addressing the infection directly allows the body to clear the fluid. Early and complete treatment is essential for a full recovery. Recovery and Follow-Up: What Happens After Treatment? Draining the fluid is often only a temporary measure. Doctors usually recommend a Chest X-ray a few weeks after treatment starts to ensure the fluid is reducing and not accumulating again. Breathing becomes easier after a few days, although full lung expansion requires more time. A few simple breathing exercises taught by a physiotherapist can help the lungs re-expand fully during recovery. Patients recovering from effusions related to the heart or kidneys need ongoing management of the initial disease. A major cause of relapse is neglecting follow-ups after breathing improves. Any patient recovering from a tuberculosis-induced effusion needs to finish the entire treatment cycle with anti-TB drugs even if the symptoms have disappeared. Otherwise, this would become the main reason for relapse

When all’s not well, surgeons often rely on voices in their head, where ideas and uplifting thoughts are sometimes replaced with self-questioning Wake up, Elizabeth, your operation is over; everything went off very well. Now, open your eyes,” I heard the anesthetist bellow as they went through the routine of reversing the anesthesia to awaken the patient and remove the breathing tube. It was an operation to clip an unruptured aneurysm arising from the bifurcation of the right internal carotid artery. I sat in one corner of the operating room writing down the post-op orders, feeling a kind of inner joy as I typed out my notes for having performed a masterful surgery. After I finished, I made a quick dash with my team to check on our admitted patients. When I returned to the ICU an hour later, I was informed that Elizabeth hadn’t been shifted yet. “That’s strange,” I said to myself, swiftly climbing the stairs that led to the operating room to hear four words from the anesthetist that no surgeon wants to ever hear: “She’s not waking up.” The anesthetist peered right into my eyes. “The muscle relaxant has been reversed, blood gas analysis is fine, but she’s just not opening her eyes,” she finished, looked at me with the finality of not having a plausible explanation for this from her end. This was also her polite way of saying, you’ve done something wrong inside, now fix it. I went through the steps of surgery in my mind, running my hands through my scanty hair. Could it be because we buzzed a surface vein? Have I taken a perforating artery supplying the hypothalamus in the clip? Did we retract the brain too much? Is the main artery kinked by the clip? The self-introspection then made way for chatter. Should I have operated on her in the first place? I should have just asked the interventional radiologist to coil the aneurysm. She’s a mother of two, have I destroyed her family? Do I really think I have the skill to do these complex cases? Who am I trying to impress? And at whose expense? Better do something before it’s too late. Or, is the damage already done? It’s a sickening feeling when someone you’ve operated on doesn’t wake up the way you expect them to. It is literally gut-wrenching; your intestines feel as though they are physically being squeezed. I looked at the numbers on the monitor and then at the anesthetist repeating the same words, over and over: “Wake up, Elizabeth, wake up—your surgery is over.” “Raise the blood pressure to 170-180,” I ordered, thinking that some crucial vessel might be in spasm. She transiently opened her eyes, but within a few seconds went back into a deep slumber. We got an urgent MRI done, but that was clean; no area of ischemia or infarction. No blood clots as well. The clip was positioned perfectly, and we ruled out her having subclinical seizures, too. We shifted her to the ICU on the breathing tube as my gaze vacillated between the monitor and her body lying motionless when it should have been sitting up in bed and talking to me instead. The chatter turned to a full-blown tirade. Am I missing something here? Should I call someone and ask for help? Should I just give this sometime? What would I do if someone else operated on this patient and I was called to opine on how to proceed? I use this last analogy a lot when I’m in distress. I try and distance myself from the problem at hand, and adopt the fly-on-the-wall approach. It’s easier said than done, of course, but all you have to do is zoom out. I remember reading somewhere, “The only people who see the whole picture, are the ones who step out of the frame.” There is a Chinese proverb that says, “He who blames others has a long way to go on his journey. He who blames himself is halfway there. He who blames no one has arrived.” I was halfway there. The countless permutations and combinations of the infinite possibilities of things that could have gone wrong kept buzzing in my head. We all have a voice in our heads. We tune into its incessant chatter to look for ideas, guidance, and wisdom.  Sometimes, these conversations uplift us and sometimes they sink us into the deep, dark hole of despair.  Ethan Kross, a renowned experimental psychologist, and neuroscientist, and one of the world’s leading experts on how to control the conscious mind, has written a book called Chatter: The Voice in Our Head, Why It Matters, and How to Harness. In that, he states, “In recent years, a robust body of new research has demonstrated that when we experience distress, engaging in introspection often does more harm than good. It undermines our performance at work, interferes with our ability to make good decisions, and negatively influences our relationships.” Instead, he reveals the tools you need, to harness that voice, so that you can be happier, healthier, and more productive. “Chatter doesn’t simply hurt people in an emotional sense, it has physical implications for our body as well, from the way we experience physical pain all the way down, to the way our genes operate in our cell,” he warns.  I hadn’t read the book at the time, and my head was spinning with thoughts as I stood at the edge of her bed for three hours, waiting for her to move just a little. I was following the old age adage of “just give it time” when dealing with this unsettling experience.  After a long, painful wait, Elizabeth moved a little. And then, a lot. She opened her eyes and made chewing movements and brought her arms to the tube as if to denote she wanted it out. We took it out once she was fully awake and briskly obeying commands, indicating to us that she was conscious,

On this occasion of Gudi Padwa, Senior Dietician Swati Awasthi, Wockhardt Hospitals in Nagpur explains the benefits of eating Neem and Jaggery as Prasad. Unlike most Indian festivals, where Prasad comprises something sweet, Gudi Padwa is one of the few festivals where people are treated to a unique preparation made from neem & jaggery. The significance of this mixture is the basic essence of life itself, which is a combination of bitter & sweet, neem is bitter while jaggery is sweet. So while consuming this mixture, people are reminded that life is a blend of good & bad experiences, both of which must be faced with equal vigor. Helps in Detoxification The enzyme in the neem leaves & jaggery has the power to flush out all the waste & toxins from the body. This mixture works as a natural detox solution for the body. Helps in Protecting Skin Applying a mixture of neem & jaggery on your skin can help improve your complexion as well as protect you from UV rays & other radical damage. Helps in Weight Loss Jaggery & neem mixture gives a boost to your metabolism and helps the body burn fat cells. Helps in Deworming Yes, we all need deworming, i.e., getting rid of the worms in our stomach. Neem leaves have the power to kill microorganisms that harm the human body & destroy the worms in the stomach. Helps in Boosting Immunity Neem is full of antioxidants and jaggery can boost immunity, Together they help strengthen the body and keep it safe from common ailments. Helps in Preventing Ulcers Eating a mix of neem & jaggery has powerful gastroprotective elements. This helps in keeping stomach ulcers at bay. Helps in Healing Wounds Neem & jaggery as a mixture have many anti-inflammatory properties, Therefore, they help wounds heal faster.

How to Use Mustard Oil For Hair: Growing up in Indian homes, we do not have to offer mustard oil, aka Sarson’s Tale. From making our mango pickle to enhancing the taste of our mutton curry and fish fry, mustard oil has given us many memories. Recall those childhood days when your mother used to sit and massage your scalp with oil every Sunday during the winter as you watch your favorite TV show. To protect your body from cold and cough, mustard oil is rich in beneficial properties to enhance immunity and strengthen hair roots and nourish the skin. As we grow older, many of us follow the same Sunday hair care routine our mothers encourage. However, if you feel that city life and hectic schedules, pollution, and lack of proper care have reduced your beloved stress and become lifeless, Femina wellness experts would recommend using mustard oil.  Even mustard oil is used in many foods. Its thick consistency and pungent odor outperform some people. However, if you go away from these shortcomings, mustard oil is great for your shiny locks. “These properties of mustard oil make it a trendy and in-demand ingredient in hair care. You can safely use mustard oil on your hair for black hair, fighting dandruff. It can increase. It can help remove and prevent gray hair.’ Benefits Of Mustard Oil For Hair Confronting Child Issues? Then mustard oil is just the nectar you are waiting for. It has many benefits for the health of hair and scalp. “Mustard oil has omega 3 acids,  omega 6 fatty acids, and vitamin E and antioxidants, increasing its benefits manifold. Mustard oil is used as a sunscreen, treating chapped lips, a natural stimulant for the body, whitening teeth, fighting colds and flu, and reducing muscle tension, tan and black Removing spots and lightening skin tone, etc. 1. Natural Conditioner Enriched with alpha fatty acids, which help maintain your hair’s moisture, and keep your hair fresh and bouncy, mustard oil is a natural conditioner that makes your hair soft, smooth, silky, and supple. 2. Nourishes Hair Today, many people suffer hair loss and hair thinning, usually when our hair follicles are poorly nourished and not damaged. However, if you regularly massage your hair follicles with mustard oil, you can get your hair’s strength and shine. 3. Full Of Minerals, Vitamins And Antioxidants Do you know that mustard oil is an excellent source of antioxidants and iron, magnesium, calcium, and vitamins such as A, D, E, and K? This pungent hair oil is also made from the goodness of zinc beta-carotene. , And selenium. Stuffed, which encourages hair growth and helps maintain untimely gray hair. 4. Boosts Blood Circulation Many hair experts claim that the main reason for hair loss and thinning of hair is the nourishment of their roots. If you want your lame to regain life, use mustard oil for hair massage. Dietician and nutritionist Amrin Sheikh of Wockhardt Hospital Mumbai Central says, “It is a natural stimulant. When massaged on the scalp, it stimulates the circulatory system to improve blood circulation.” The best way to apply it is to heat the oil with some cloves and gently massage your hair using fingers.  5. Promotes Hair Growth Regular massage of hair using mustard oil will make your hair soft, shiny, and healthy. Since it is rich in antioxidants and many other nutrients, mustard oil stimulates rapid hair growth. 6. Anti-Fungal Properties Mustard oil has high uric acid content. It also contains ALA content, which helps cleanse your scalp and eliminate bacteria and fungi that block hair follicles and build upon the scalp. 7. Prevents Dandruff mustard oil has rich in antioxidants and anti-bacterial in nature, beneficial for dandruff Here’s What Mustard Oil Can Prevent How to Use Mustard Oil For Hair 1. Mustard Oil And Yogurt Pack Mix yogurt and mustard oil in a bowl. Apply this mixture to your scalp. Wrap your hair in a hot towel and leave it for about 30-40 minutes. Wash with a mild shampoo. This will soak the scalp and make the hair shiny and soft. 2. Mustard Oil And Aloe Vera Pack In a bowl, mix a little mustard oil and aloe vera. Apply this mixture on hair and scalp. Leave it for an hour and wash with normal shampoo and conditioner. This will prevent hair loss. 3. Mustard Oil And Lemon Juice Pack Take a small amount of mustard oil, lemon juice, and fenugreek powder in a bowl and mix all three well. Mix the same amount and apply it to the hair. Wash after one hour for soft, bouncy, and healthy hair. 4. Mustard Oil And Banana Pack Make a pack of ripe bananas and mustard oil. You can add some yogurt to the mixture to dilute the consistency. Apply it on your scalp to prevent dry hair. What are the precautions one should follow while Using Mustard Oil for Hair? While using mustard oil on the hair regularly has many advantages, one should take the following precautions: FAQs Q. Does mustard oil reduce hair fall? Yes, mustard oil serves as a shield for the hair and prevents problems such as breakage because it has an appropriate ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and is enriched with vitamin E and antioxidants. It strengthens your hair from the roots and reduces hair fall and thinning. Q. Can I apply mustard oil at night? Yes, mustard oil can be applied and left on all night. Additionally, after a thorough massage with the oil, its warmth may help in sleeping well. Q. Does mustard oil darken hair? Yes, because of its organic colouring and conditioning characteristics, mustard oil is a natural alternative to conventional hair colours. Regular use of the mixture of henna and mustard oil has components that colour your grey hair without doing any harm.