ARTICLES ON General Health

Take a walk down the pharmacy aisle, and the fish oil supplements seem to go on forever, each one promising something different. Figuring out which suits you is a challenge in itself. And the bigger question remains: are they worth paying for?  This is a valid question and needs a truthful response. Over time, these little golden pills earned quite a reputation, some of it well-deserved and some of it exaggerated. Let’s look at what fish oil actually does, what it’s good for, and how to take it without wasting your money. What Is Fish Oil? Fish oil is one of the good sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. Your body needs this fat to carry out routine functions like movement and cell growth. Omega-3 cannot be produced by your body naturally and can be consumed only through your diet. Omega-3s are found mostly in seafood. Two kinds of Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oil: DHA and EPA. You can discuss with your healthcare professional about the right dose of fish oil and the pros and cons of taking it. There is a third one, called ALA, which is found in some nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. And when fish doesn’t make it onto your plate, that’s where fish oil capsules come in. Most people who take these capsules are hoping to bring down inflammation, but the benefits of fish oil capsules reach a little further than that. It’s also worth knowing where they genuinely help and where they don’t. The Health Benefits of Fish Oil Supplements This is where Omega-3 capsules have really earned their reputation in the medical world. Fish oil supplements provide numerous researched benefits for heart and blood vessel health. They usually lower triglyceride levels in the blood. Help in maintaining proper heart rhythm and reduce the chances of arrhythmia. Prevents formation of plaque, composed of fats, cholesterol, and calcium deposits in the arteries. Helps lower blood pressure. The dip is not large, but it can still be beneficial. High Blood Pressure There are plenty of studies suggesting that a daily Omega-3 fish oil capsule may help lower blood pressure to some extent. But there’s an important nuance: the benefit tends to be greater for people with moderately to severely elevated blood pressure and much smaller for those whose levels are only slightly high.   So, in conclusion, this supplement can help, but it certainly cannot substitute for the medicine your doctor has prescribed. You can view it as one part of the puzzle that fits with others: your diet, physical activity, and existing treatment. Beyond the Heart But that’s not the whole story. Research suggests Omega-3s may help with a couple of other things too: High cholesterol and high triglycerides. The evidence here is fairly solid. Omega-3s can lower triglycerides quite a bit and give your HDL, the “good” cholesterol, a small lift. Rheumatoid arthritis. Omega-3 pills can relieve pain, stiffness, and inflammation. The effect is modest. Even so, it’s sometimes enough to rely a little less on anti-inflammatory medication. There have been numerous studies conducted to understand the effects of Fish oil in diseases such as cancer, depression, chronic inflammation, and ADHD. Research in this area is ongoing, and scientists are still learning which of these benefits truly hold up. What Are The Best Food Sources of Omega-3s You might not even need a supplement. Whole foods bring fiber, protein, and other nutrients a capsule simply can’t match, so a well-planned plate does a lot of the work. Some decent sources are: Food Omega-3 Content Linseed (flaxseed) oil 7.3 g / 1 tbsp Chia seed 5.1 g / 1 oz Cooked wild Atlantic salmon 1.8 g / 3 oz Sardines (canned, in oil) 0.8 g / 3 oz Tuna, water-packed, albacore 0.7 g / 3 oz Wild oysters, cooked 0.6 g / 3 oz Rainbow trout (wild) 0.5 g / 3 oz Doctors highly recommend eating oily fish twice a week. If you continue doing that, you may not need to take fish oil. How to Take Fish Oil Capsules It is important to take fish oil properly to maximize its effectiveness. There are several suggestions that may prove useful for you: Before starting your treatment, carefully review the directions printed on the packaging, or consult your doctor or pharmacist about the amount of fish oil to take. This may seem like a trivial point, but it is definitely worth your attention. Split your dose if you are sensitive to fish oil. Taking fish oil may make some people experience nausea. To solve the problem, split your dose into morning and evening parts. Consider an enteric-coated version. These are made to slip past your stomach and dissolve further along, in your small intestine. Many people find they’re gentler and easier to tolerate. Look for added lipase. This enzyme helps break down fats and may aid the digestion of fatty acids. Check the label for any mention of additional lipase content. The oil spoils much earlier than the expiry date on the bottle label. Be careful with those that have a citrus flavor. They smell nice, but this nice smell can cover the unpleasant odor of bad oil.  How Much Do You Need? For proper health care, take 250-500 mg of EPA and DHA per day. The main thing here is to see how much EPA and DHA are present in one serving. Matching Your Dose to What You Need For General Good Health: 250 to 500 mg of EPA and DHA combined each day. One typical 1,000 mg capsule is usually enough to hit this. To look after your heart: about 1,000 mg of EPA and DHA daily, or two servings of oily fish across the week. If Your Triglycerides Are High: 2 to 4 grams per day, preferably under a physician’s guidance or in prescribed supplements. In Case You Are Pregnant: an additional 100 to 200 mg of DHA along with regular daily consumption. When Should Omega-3s Be Recommended by Doctors Here’s

Black fungus is a rare but serious infection caused by a group of molds that you can usually find inside soil, plants, and rotting foods. If a healthy person brushes against these molds, it mostly does nothing at all, however, for a small group of people with weak immune systems, this same mold can become harmful. Fear around the fungus grew during the COVID-19 pandemic, when hospitals in some countries suddenly started flooding with black fungus cases. The news reports barely explained: Who is most at risk? How does it spread? And should you worry about it? In this blog, we’ll answer the top questions people have and see whether black fungus is harmful or not. The sections below cover what the infection is, how dangerous it really is, and what the early signs to watch for are. What is Black Fungus, Really? Black fungus is the common name for mucormycosis, an infection caused by molds known as mucormycetes. You can find these molds everywhere, from the soil to dead leaves, in compost heaps, and even the black spots that appear on spoiled bread or fruits. Most people breathe in tiny mold spores every day but never notice, because a healthy body clears them out easily. The word “black” comes from what the fungal infection does to living tissue. As the mold spreads, it blocks blood flow, and the starved tissue dies and turns dark. In advanced cases, it shows up as dead skin, black crusts inside the nose, or a blackened patch on the face. The mold itself is not truly black; the color comes from the damage it creates to the cells. How To Identify Black Fungus? Many people get confused with the name, because a lot of fungi and molds are referred to as black fungus.  The first one is a type of edible mushroom, often called wood ear. It is also sold as black fungus and used in soups and stir-fries. This fungus is safe for most people to eat and has nothing to do with the infection we are talking about here. The second one is black mold, which you can find in damp houses. It is mostly linked to allergies and breathing problems rather than this harmful disease. The rest of this article is only about mucormycosis, also referred to as black fungus. So is Black Fungus Dangerous To Humans? Yes, black fungus can be very dangerous, but the risk is not spread evenly across people. For someone healthy, the odds of getting sick from these molds are very low. For someone whose immune system is weak, the infection can move quickly through the sinuses, lungs, or skin and reach the brain or the blood. The disease becomes serious once it becomes stronger. Studies by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that nearly half of all reported cases die even with treatment. The sooner the black fungus infection is caught and treated, the better the chance of survival. If there are delays, the mold can reach hard-to-treat areas. So the honest answer is that black fungus is harmful and a real danger to a specific group of people and poses little to no threat to healthy ones. How Does a Person Catch Black Fungus? A person can catch black fungus from the following sources:  Breathing in spores is the most common route, which is why the sinuses and lungs are often the first areas to get affected.  Spores can settle into a cut, scrape, burn, or surgical wound on the skin.  In some rare cases, swallowing contaminated food can cause the mold to reach the gut. Black fungus is a non-communicable disease and cannot pass from one person to another, so you cannot catch it from a cough, a handshake, or sharing a room with a patient.  Who is Most at Risk of Getting Black Fungus? Black fungus targets people whose defenses are already down. A strong immune system treats the mold as a minor nuisance and clears it. People at risk of getting it include: Health Conditions  Uncontrolled diabetes is one of the strongest indicators of a weak immune system, as this causes the blood sugar to run very high and the blood to turn acidic. Other conditions like cancer, organ or stem cell transplants, and HIV/AIDS also lower the body’s fighting response. This can make them at risk of catching the disease.  If someone has too much iron in the body, this too can put them at risk, as the fungus can feed on the iron and grow. Medicines and Injuries That Open the Door Long-term use of steroids, which are taken to calm the immune system, can raise the risk. Medicines given after a transplant to stop the body from rejecting a new organ can also pose a risk.  If someone has burns, deep wounds, and other skin damage, this can give the mold an open entry into the body. This is often how a case of black fungus on skin begins. The common cause across every group is a body that cannot fight back due to a compromised or weakened immune response. What Are the Warning Signs of Black Fungus? The symptoms of black fungus depend on where the mold settles inside the body. If you see any of the following signs, it is advised to get a checkup done to rule out anything serious. Signs in the Face, Nose, and Eyes The most common signs start from the sinus and move towards the eye and the brain. Some warning signs include swelling on one side of the face, a blocked or bleeding nose, black crusts inside the nose, headache, fever, and pain around the cheeks or eyes.  If you suddenly experience blurred vision, a drooping eyelid, or one bulging eye, it can point to a spreading black fungus infection. Signs in the Lungs If the mold targets the lungs, the illness can look like a stubborn chest infection. The person can also experience fever,

Many people, usually in the afternoon, might experience getting slouchy and tired. A major reason for this is a lack of high-protein-rich foods in their daily diet. If your lunch was mostly rice or bread, the carbohydrates from these meals can be digested quickly and cause energy dips. This can bring the hunger back far too soon.  Protein is the nutrient that keeps a body full, steady, and strong for longer hours. If you skip it, you can feel hungry much faster, while your muscles can slowly start weakening over the years. Plenty of people eat enough food each day yet still fall short on protein. The guide below walks through 7 high protein rich foods that are cheap, common, and simple to cook even for beginners.  Why Does High Protein Matter So Much? Protein works like building material for the body. Our whole body, be it the muscles, the skin, the hair, the nails, and even the tiny machines inside cells that keep living things alive, is made from it. The body also leans on protein to repair muscle wear and tear caused by physical exertion. The protein from food is broken down into small parts that contain amino acids. These parts work as building blocks for the body and help with repair wherever needed. The body can produce around 11 non-essential amino acids, but for muscle protein synthesis it needs an additional 9 essential amino acids, which must come through daily meals. Foods that carry the full set are often called “complete” proteins, and they help the body to repair faster.  Protein also helps in keeping the body fuller longer than fat or carbohydrates can. The body even burns a little more energy digesting protein than it does breaking down carbs or fat. A breakfast built around eggs or yogurt usually leads to less snacking before lunch, which is one reason why people trying to manage their weight are often advised to add protein to their diet.  How Much Protein Does a Body Need Each Day? Most health groups suggest daily protein intake according to the recommended dietary allowance (RDA). For protein, the RDA sits at about 0.8 grams for every kilogram of body weight per day. So for a person weighing 60 kilograms, they need to consume 48 grams of protein per day, and this is the minimum threshold.  People who exercise, lift weights, or have passed age 60 are often recommended to consume more protein, roughly around 1.2 to 1.6 grams per kilogram of weight. As muscle naturally fades with age, this extra protein can help slow down that loss. Consulting a doctor or a registered dietitian can help you find the right number for any health condition. What Are the 7 High Protein Rich Foods? The 7 foods given below earn their spot in the high protein rich food list for two reasons. First is that each one carries a lot of protein per gram compared to the size you need to consume per day, and second is that each one is quite easy to buy and cook.  The numbers mentioned per gram are rough averages, since the brands you use and your cooking style can shift them a bit. High Protein Rich Food Chart This quick high non-veg and veg protein rich food chart puts the seven foods side by side. The values given are according to common serving sizes. Food Serving Protein (grams) Egg 1 large egg About 6 g Chicken breast 100 g, cooked About 31 g Fish 100 g About 20 to 25 g Lentils (dal) 1 cooked cup About 18 g Greek yogurt 100 g About 10 g Paneer 100 g About 18 g Soybeans 100 g, boiled About 16 to 18 g Eggs One whole egg holds about 6 grams of protein, with the white part having the most of it. Eggs are cheap, fast, and loaded with vitamins. They are a source of complete protein and provide the body every amino acid it cannot make on its own.  Having two boiled or scrambled eggs every day can add close to 12 grams of protein to your diet. Chicken Breast Chicken breast is one of the leanest ways to load up on your protein intake. A 100 gram of cooked chicken breast carries around 31 grams of protein while still staying very low on the fat content. For anyone whose focus is building muscle and losing weight or trying to feel full on fewer calories, chicken breast is the best option. Fish Fish offers both protein and fats and is a good source for your heart and brain. A 100-gram serving of fish holds about 20 to 25 grams of protein. Some oily kinds of fish like salmon and sardines also contain omega-3 fats, a type of healthy fat the body cannot produce on its own and has to get from outside.  Lentils or Dal Lentils, commonly known as dal in many kitchens, are a strong plant source of protein. One cooked cup of dal has around 18 grams of protein. It is also packed with fiber, which helps a lot with digestion and keeping the body fuller for longer. Dal has around 8 of the essential amino acids, but if you serve it with rice or roti, this just fills the gap and turns the meal into a complete, protein-rich one. As they are quite cheap, filling, and easy to store, lentils are an essential part of a lot of cuisines. Greek Yogurt Greek yogurt is just strained yogurt left to remove the extra liquid to increase the protein content. A 100-gram serving of Greek yogurt offers about 10 grams of protein, which is double what plain yogurt gives from a single scoop. It can be consumed as a side with any of the three main meals, or like a snack in the evening.  Paneer and Cottage Cheese Paneer, a soft cheese very common to Indian cooking, carries close to 18 grams of protein per 100 grams.

What is Cataract Surgery? Cataract surgery is a medical procedure performed to remove the affected cloudy lens in your eyes. The lens is affected by protein breakdown in the eyes, causing the lens to become cloudy and blurred. Cataracts increase glare by preventing light from passing through the lens, which might affect your daily activities. When a cataract interferes with your normal life, the highly experienced doctors and eye surgeons at Wockhardt Hospitals might suggest cataract surgery. A cataract surgery procedure is the only sure-shot way to treat this condition in adults. Cataract surgery in India is done on an outpatient basis by a certified ophthalmologist and is a very common and safe procedure. We at Wockhardt Hospitals have performed a large number of successful cataract surgeries giving patients their vision back. Our ophthalmologists and surgeons are board certified and are backed by world-class medical facilities and well-trained staff to give the desired surgical results. Signs & Symptoms of Cataracts Typically, a cataract condition develops slowly. A person might not even be aware of their presence until they begin to block the light. As the symptoms start to surface, they might experience – Once these symptoms start interfering with the regular lives of a person, they immediately need a cataract treatment. Causes of Cataracts Cataract surgery in India is done to treat cataracts that cause a variety of symptoms, including blurry vision, floaters, itching, etc. The majority of cataracts occur when the tissue of the eye’s lens changes due to aging or trauma. The lens’s proteins and fibers start to degrade, clouding or obscuring the vision. The risk of cataracts may be increased by hereditary and/or genetic abnormalities resulting in other health issues. Other eye diseases, previous eye surgery, or medical conditions, especially Diabetes, might also lead to cataracts. Also, the long-term use of steroid medicines can also result in cataract development. Cataract Surgery – Dos & Don’ts Usually, the doctors advise the patients regarding dos and don’t during the final consultation before the surgery. However, even after the surgery, the doctors will reiterate the precautions that must be taken after cataract treatment. Some of the most important dos & don’ts are mentioned below – Dos Don’ts What Tests are Done to Diagnose Cataracts for their Effective Treatment? To determine if you have a cataract, the doctor will physically examine your eyes, and to rule out other eye conditions, they will order the following cataract diagnostic tests – Treatment of Cataracts The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery; however, you might not require it immediately. You might be able to get by with a fresh prescription for your glasses if you identify the issue early. However, the need for surgery depends on how critical the condition is. If the cataract is diagnosed at the early stage, cataract can be taken care of by prescription glasses with stronger lenses to help the patient see clearly.  Though there are several types of cataract treatment procedures, all of them have one thing in common – the doctor replaces the cloudy and blurry lens with an artificial lens. It is a very common procedure and is generally safe. Doctors use local anesthesia to numb the eyes before the operation. Hence, the patient will not feel anything. The surgery usually takes less than 60 minutes, and the patient will be discharged on the same day. Also, if the cataract is in both eyes, the doctors will first perform the cataract operation procedure in one eye, and after it heals, they will continue with the other one.  Here’s a detailed process of the surgery performed at Wockhardt Hospitals- The lens is then divided into several tiny fragments by the surgeon using ultrasonic waves, and the pieces are vacuumed out. Also, the cataract surgery procedure does not require sutures.  The patient’s vision starts to improve a few days after cataract treatment. As the eye adjusts to the injury and heals, the vision may initially be blurry. After the cataract operation procedure, they may notice a bright and clearer view. This is because of the fresh and new lenses. After having a cataract surgery procedure, the majority of people use glasses, at least occasionally. When the eyes have recovered sufficiently to receive a final prescription for glasses, the doctor will let you know. This often occurs one to three months following surgery. To manage inflammation, reduce eye pressure, and prevent infection, the doctor may advise eye drops or other medications. These drugs may occasionally be administered into the eye during surgery. How Long Does it Take to Heal after Cataract Surgery? Every individual’s body is different, which means the amount of time it will take to recover also varies. At first, you might have a blurry vision as your eyes are in their healing process. Take time to recover, and try giving your eyes the maximum amount of rest. Usually, the eyes start to get better within 1 to 2 days, but it is advisable not to perform any heavy task which might cause stress to your eyes. Also, it is prohibited not to lift heavy objects or bend. Talk to your doctor when you can return back to work. They will tell you an estimated time when you can resume work. Most patients fully recover and heal in around eight weeks after the surgery. After the procedure, your doctor will schedule a few follow-up visits to check on your recovery and to ensure you are healing well.  Risk Factors for Cataracts The surgery performed at Wockhardt Hospitals under the supervision of highly experienced eye surgeons usually does not cause any serious complications. It is done under topical anesthesia with eye drops. But, just like any other surgery, it also has some risk factors which increase the chance of complications. Below are some of the risk factors for your reference- FAQs on Cataracts Q. Which surgery is best for cataracts? FLACS, or Femto Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery, is a new innovative technique and is considered the best.

Remember those summer holidays when you would come home to freshly served slices of cool and sweet watermelon after a game of hide and seek with your friends? Watermelons are not just good for replenishing fluids; they have several health benefits and provide great nutritional value to prevent various health problems. It can even help manage diabetes and help in your weight loss journey while preventing the risk of developing heart disease and asthma.  Did you know that watermelon contains a whopping 92% water content with each bite you take? Not only does it give you a boost of freshness and hydration, but it also helps avoid overeating by giving you a feeling of fullness. Containing less than 45 calories, it is a super healthy fruit that everyone can enjoy. Nutritional Benefits of Watermelon for Your Health Watermelon is a hydrating, micronutrient-rich fruit containing a host of nutrients that do good to your health.  Apart from being an excellent hydrating agent, it imparts numerous health benefits while supporting weight loss. Watermelon is mostly water and due to its property of giving you a feeling of fullness, it helps to avoid unhealthy snacking while still providing the essential nutrients and just enough calories. Watermelons are also helpful in fighting inflammation, thereby preventing many serious diseases. Not just that, you can say bye to your gum problems if you just add some watermelon to your diet!  Delicious and Healthy Watermelon Recipes to Try Today Consuming watermelon every day may not be exactly a party situation for your taste buds, but incorporating this nutrient-dense fruit in various delicious recipes can surely leave your taste buds craving for more! Before we move on, did you know that watermelon is a cent percent edible? Sounds pretty interesting, right? The tough rind contains low levels of calories, but high concentrations of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Potassium attributing to improving heart and skin health and enhanced immune function. It’s also nutrient-dense, containing high amounts of citrulline, lycopene, amino acids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds that reduce oxidation and inflammation.  Watermelon seeds — dried or raw — are rich in magnesium and folate. Seeds also have the types of fatty acids that lower bad cholesterol in the blood and help avoid heart attack and stroke. Now that you know, save those pulps, rinds, and seeds for a perfectly healthy recipe. Oh, you’re here for one? Let’s get cooking, then! What comes to mind when you hear about healthy food? Salad, leafy greens, perhaps some fruits (watermelon, anyone?) But how do you make salad appetizing? Well, of course, cheese makes everything better! The best kind of cheese that goes with salad is feta cheese. Here’s how to make a delicious feta salad with watermelon. Ingredients: How to Make Water Melon Feta Salad Step 1: Whisk the vinegar, oil, and salt together in a bowl. Step 2: Add the watermelon and cucumber slices, and mix them with mint, onions, and feta cheese. Step 3: Garnish with more mint and salt, and enjoy! Make your childhood favorite homemade watermelon popsicles now and relive your days of childhood!  Ingredients: Steps to Make Step 1: Blend the strawberries and watermelon slices in a blender by adding lime juice, sugar, and salt it. Step 2: After blending it nicely, take out the mixture put it in a freezer mold, and put it in the deep freezer for 6 hours. Step 3: Take out the mold, thaw a little, and your watermelon popsicle is ready! To step up your foodie A-game with watermelons, add a little Mexican twist and make a healthy salsa with watermelon to devour those crispy chips. Ingredients  Making salsa is pretty easy. Simply take all the ingredients and mix them in a bowl, and it’s ready to serve! You can also keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days by covering the bowl with a wrap. Watermelon rind can be used in numerous ways and adjusted to make your favorite South Indian food. Watermelon rind is easy to grind and easy to store. So you can have it ready to mix and whip up a curry or dosa/idli/rice in just a few minutes! How to make watermelon rind: After using the watermelon, scrap the fruit part completely, and then cut it into small wedges. Put all the slices in a blender or keep them refrigerated as it is for future use. Ingredients How to Make Watermelon Rind Curry/ Stir fry/ Dosa Step 1: Wash and soak the rice for 3 hours. Grind it in ice water until smooth. Step 2: Blend the watermelon rind without water. Step 3: Transfer the blended rind and rice and set aside for fermentation for 8 hours. If you want to make curry, keep some watermelon rind aside. Step 4: Use the batter for making dosa or idli. Add the remaining watermelon rind to any curry you wish to make.  Watermelon seeds are an excellent source of essential nutrients that can be directly consumed or mixed in smoothies and breakfast cereals. Roasted watermelon seeds taste like caramel and add a salty crunch to your food.  Now that you know how to use watermelon with zero waste, use the MVP of summer fruit to add a twist to your diet and pair perfectly with basically every summer meal!

It is very common to encounter patients presenting with dizziness or ‘chakkar’ in Neurology OPD but what patients perceive or mean by dizziness varies from patient to patient. It can be a manifestation of innocuous condition such as transient low sugars or may signal something as sinister as a brain stroke or a cardiac problem. Common underlying conditions that can result in dizziness: Considering the varied perceptions of dizziness in different patients and the underlying causes varying from relatively benign to grave, it is important that patients having the above symptoms should seek consultation from Neurologist at the earliest. Timely evaluation and treatment can not only relieve the patient of disabling symptoms but can also result in improved prognosis in patients with severe underlying causes. Dr. Prashant MakhijaMBBS, MD (Medicine)DM (Neurology), PDF Epilepsy & Sleep MedicineConsultant Neurologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower part of the neck that produces thyroid hormones that help the body regulate its metabolism. What Are Thyroid Nodules? Thyroid nodules are lumps or growths on the thyroid gland. They can vary in size – from small (the size of a chana) to large (the size of a lemon or larger) and can be single or multiple. These nodules are extremely common and in one study about 19% of people in India were noted to have thyroid nodules. Additionally, the number keeps rising as we age – approximately half of the people above the age of 60 years will have thyroid nodules.  While most of the thyroid nodules are benign (not cancerous), approximately 5-10% of nodules are found to be cancerous. What are the Causes of Thyroid Nodules? The cause of thyroid nodules is not always clear. However, there are some factors that increase the risk of developing nodules, including: 1. Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop thyroid nodules 2. Age: The risk of developing nodules increases with age 3. Family history: A family history of thyroid nodules or thyroid cancer increases the risk 4. Radiation exposure: Exposure to radiation, particularly in childhood (e.g. for treatment of cancer) increases the risk of developing thyroid nodules. What are the Symptoms of Thyroid Nodules? In the past 2 decades, thyroid nodules have been increasingly discovered on CT/MRI/PET scans done for other reasons and do not cause symptoms in these cases. However, occasionally these nodules may cause swelling/lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, hoarseness or other voice changes, and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. How are Thyroid Nodules Diagnosed? Thyroid nodules are often discovered during a physical exam or imaging test such as a CT/MRI/PET scan. If a nodule is discovered, the following tests may be required: 1. Thyroid Ultrasound/Sonogram: High-frequency: sound waves are used to take a picture of the thyroid gland and nodule. It can quickly determine if a nodule is solid or fluid-filled (cystic) and it can choose the size of the nodule.  2. Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB): A small sample of tissue is removed from the nodule using a thin needle and analyzed for cancer cells 3. Thyroid function tests: Blood tests are used to measure the levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) 4. Nuclear thyroid scan: Not routinely needed nowadays with the use of ultrasound. It involves giving a very small dose of radioactive iodine and taking pictures with a special camera What is the Treatment of Thyroid Nodules? The treatment of thyroid nodules depends on whether the nodule is cancerous or not. Benign [Non-cancerous] nodules usually do not need treatment and may be monitored over time to ensure they are not growing or causing symptoms. Occasionally, overactive, or large nodules may require treatment with radioactive iodine therapy or surgery.   If the nodule is cancerous, treatment options may include surgery, radioactive iodine, and very rarely chemotherapy. In conclusion, thyroid nodules are common and are usually benign, but in rare cases, they can be cancerous. Most of the nodules do not cause any symptoms, but if you notice a lump in your neck or have trouble swallowing or breathing, it is essential to see your family doctor or an endocrinologist. 

World Tuberculosis Day is observed to indicate the progress made in the fight against the disease and to progress on the commitment to eradicate the epidemic. It is also a day to spread awareness about the fact that tuberculosis is not merely a health disorder but also a social issue since malnutrition and poverty also promote to spread of the ailment. Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, the virus is spread through the air. TB is more common in people with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, or diabetes. India has made significant efforts to tackle TB over the years, including through the implementation of the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP) in 1997. The RNTCP has since been replaced by the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) in 2017, which aims to eliminate TB in India by 2025. The Government of India has said it aims to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) by 2025. In a strict sense, TB elimination means there should be <1 case of TB for a population of 10 lacks. The World Health Organization (WHO) END TB Strategy adopted by World Health Assembly in 2014 aims to end the global TB epidemic with a target to reduce TB deaths by 95% and to cut new cases by 90% between 2015 and 2035 and to ensure that no family is burdened with catastrophic expense due to TB.  In a country like India, a huge population and overcrowding in multiple places leave us the biggest challenge to curb this disease. On this world TB day, we wish to create awareness and want to make leaders at the level of community or even at the household level. Every society should appoint a leader who assesses the symptoms of the sick and encourages them to take the tests as early as possible to start treatment. Under national programs, treatment is provided free of cost and additional financial help is also given by the government.  Each one should know about the symptoms of cough for more than two weeks, loss of appetite, and loss of weight as indicators of tuberculosis and should report to their doctor and get tested. Another challenge is the stigma related to this disease where people are not comfortable accepting the diagnosis or are isolated by the community once diagnosed. Such practices should be discouraged, and it should be considered an offense to stigmatize any patient. We need to ensure good ventilation in our houses and avoid overcrowded localities strictly to stop the spread. The government should aim to start more and more dedicated tuberculosis hospitals to serve the huge population. Schools and colleges should play an important role in creating awareness about tuberculosis among the youth of the society who can be the future leaders to devise better plans to eliminate tuberculosis. It is important that we understand that tuberculosis is a curable disease and if diagnosed at an early stage, ensures faster recovery. In this era of artificial intelligence, we should put the robot to our use to serve this huge population at a personalized level and ensure full treatment support to the needy. Let us pledge to play our role sincerely to “END TB”. We have a 102-year-old vaccine, BCG, against tuberculosis, which hardly protects against disease in adolescents and adults. Hence the need arises for a better and more effective vaccine for the future. Dr. Honey Savla Internal MedicineWockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central

Early diagnosis and treatment of sinusitis are important to avoid complications. A child with a deviated septum may also have enlarged adenoids. Learn more here. Sinusitis In Children If your child is having breathing difficulties, recurrent cold and cough attacks, or he/she is breathing through the mouth, it’s time to consult the ENT. These are signs and symptoms indicative of deviated septum, adenoiditis, and sinusitis. Read on to know more about these conditions from Dr. Sheetal Radia, ENT & Head Neck Surgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals in Mira Road said. Sinusitis Causes Sinusitis happens when the sinuses get filled with water and pus. It can occur due to recurrent cold attacks, bacterial and viral infections, structural abnormalities in the nose, turbinate bone enlargement leading to nasal obstruction, nasal secretions, dust, pollutants, pet, and environmental allergies. Sinusitis Symptoms A stuffy nose, runny nose, severe headaches, recurrent headaches, redness and swelling of eyes, pain in eyes, recurrent throat pain, throat irritation, change in voice, post nasal drip leading to foul breath, and snoring at night are symptoms associated with sinusitis. Sinusitis Complications If not treated at the right time, sinusitis can lead to blurry vision, redness of eyes, swelling of eyelids, recurrent throat infections that may invite tonsillitis, laryngitis (infection and inflammation of the larynx that is the voice box), chronic nasal obstruction and polyps in sinuses (swelling filled with water and infected pus). Polyps can cause chronic nasal obstruction leading to breathing problems. Sinusitis Diagnosis A doctor may do a physical checkup and ask about symptoms. Looking inside the nose and feeling for any soreness in the face and nose are possible parts of the evaluation. A physical examination, an evaluation of the medical history, and occasionally imaging tests are necessary for a sinusitis diagnosis. Here are some methods to rule out other illnesses and identify chronic sinusitis: Parents should watch out for sinusitis symptoms and consult the ENT on time to avoid complications. If nasal polyps are detected, surgery will be required to remove them. If the sinusitis is caused by deviated nasal septum, one needs septal correction surgery to straighten the nasal bone, and the surgery can take up to 2 hours. Sinusitis Treatment One with a deviated septum may suffer from adenoiditis (inflammation of the adenoid tissue) and sinusitis. Such patients may also have enlarged adenoids (type of tonsils behind the nose where the nose and throat meet or nasopharynx). Not only enlarged adenoids can cause breathing problems but they can also interfere with the normal growth of the child. Hence, treating adenoids at the right time is important for pediatric patients. Dr. Sheetal RadiaENT & Head Neck SurgeonWockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road said To book an appointment call: +918108101104 Source: https://www.thehealthsite.com/photo-gallery/deviated-septum-adenoiditis-sinusitis-in-children-symptoms-parents-should-look-out-for-963724/sinusitis-in-children-963725/ FAQs on Adenoids and Deviated Septum Q. Can a deviated septum cause sinusitis? Indeed, a deviated septum can exacerbate sinusitis by blocking the sinuses’ natural drainage, which causes swelling and congestion. The divergence may result in places where mucus collects, raising the possibility of infection. In some situations, it could be advised to surgically repair the deviated septum to relieve the symptoms of sinusitis. Q. How do you treat a deviated septum in a child? When treating a child with a deviated septum, conservative methods like nasal saline rinses and decongestants are usually used to treat symptoms like congestion. After a thorough examination by an ear, nose, and throat expert, surgical intervention, such as Septoplasty or turbinate reduction, may be considered in severe instances that result in breathing difficulties or recurrent sinus infections. Q. Can adenoids cause a deviated septum? While adenoids can not directly cause a deviated septum, they can aggravate pre-existing septal abnormalities by contributing to nasal obstruction and changed airflow patterns. Adenoids that are too big might block the nasal airway, causing mouth breathing and putting more pressure on the nasal septum, which over time may cause the septum to deviate. Certain symptoms related to a deviated septum may be relieved by treating adenoid enlargement. Q. What are the symptoms of inflamed adenoids in children? Children’s inflamed adenoids might cause the following symptoms: Congestion in the nose and trouble breathing through it Continuous mouth breathing Snoring while asleep Sleep apnea, in which a child’s breathing periodically pauses for a brief period of time while they’re asleep Persistent post-nasal drip or nasal discharge Middle ear fluid accumulation or recurrent infections Painful throat or trouble swallowing. Q. Is there a correlation between sinusitis, adenoids, and allergies? There is a connection between allergies, adenoids, and sinusitis. Because it obstructs nasal airflow, adenoid growth can aggravate sinusitis. The symptoms of sinusitis can be made worse by allergies that inflame the adenoids and nasal passages. Effective management of sinusitis may be aided by addressing adenoid problems and allergies. Q. Can sinusitis with adenoids be a chronic condition? Adenoidal sinusitis has the potential to progress. Chronic or recurring sinus infections can result from enlarged parotid glands that cause nasal congestion and poor sinus outflow. Treatment for sinusitis must be combined with the management of underlying adenoid problems in order to address and avoid persistent symptoms. Q. What are the common symptoms associated with adenoids and deviated septum? A deviated septum and adenoids are frequently accompanied by the following symptoms: Having trouble breathing through your nose and congestion in the nose. Mouth breathing, particularly during the night Disrupted sleep habits and snoring Recurring sinus infections Persistent post-nasal drip or cough Fluid accumulation in the middle ear or ear infections Q. What are the potential complications if deviated septum and adenoids are left untreated? It is not possible for a deviated septum to go away on its own. If treatment is not received in time, there’s a higher chance that things will get worse. A deviated septum and untreated adenoids can cause a number of issues, such as: Persistent sinus infections Unusual facial growth Hearing problems and recurring ear infections Breathing disorders while sleeping, such as sleep apnea Impaired quality of life owing to continuous nasal congestion and breathing issues.