Health Simplified

A healthy Life is the only one worth living

[prasanthvarma]

People who were diagnosed with cancer: what symptoms made you go to the doctor?

I am a Lung cancer survivor. I avoided going to the doctor till it was almost very late because I do not smoke or drink and some previous consultations yielded results that showed that I had an infection in my lungs. I took some medicine whenever I had chest pain thinking it is normal for people who have a lung infection (also mentioned by the doctor). Before I got diagnosed with cancer, I had a very sharp, throbbing pain in my chest that was not going away despite taking painkillers, I had problems breathing, I used to get tired very easily and found myself struggling to catch my breath just after walking to the fridge and back. After so much time I thought it should be something else and not a simple lung infection. When I insisted that my doctor take another look at my lungs I was diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer. I got an accurate diagnosis after I visited a multi-speciality hospital. I had tremendous help from the staff while I was battling my cancer. My cancer is now in remission for a solid 6 months and I hope this continues.

[prasanthvarma]

How does one live with lupus?

I am a rheumatologist and I think I am qualified enough to answer your question. First things first, losing the will to live is not the answer and neither is dying. Once you get that out of your system you can focus on your lupus treatment. I can’t give you an accurate diagnosis because I don't have your test results and more importantly, I am not your consulting doctor and I can not recommend random drugs to strangers online. You must concentrate on having an accurate diagnosis first and then think of getting the drugs required for your treatment. Avoid excessive stress, limit your exposure to the sun, eat healthily, get enough sleep and consult your doctor if you want to exercise and seek advice from them, these are some of the tips I give my patients with lupus. I hope this is a good start in your life for living with lupus.

I understand your frustration, trust me I really do but please don’t lose hope. Life is worth living and I am sure you will find your reason to live too. You just need to give it time. I don’t know where you are from but I am from India and have worked in this hospital. Feel free to visit the hospital if you live nearby.

[prasanthvarma]

Sometimes, the symptoms can be due to other reasons. Make sure you consult a specialist before you rest with ease.

Stay Ahead of Breast Cancer

Visit: www.RegencyHealthcare.in

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Most neglected heart diseases

With rapidly advancing medicine, we can diagnose and treat many serious diseases. Many of the neglected heart diseases are seeing the light, and doctors are working on a cure for them. Most of these heart diseases are genetic. Most of the patients with these diseases lack medical knowledge and awareness. Hence, they suffer from late diagnosis, negligence, social and financial burdens. Some of the most neglected heart diseases are -

Chagas Disease

Chagas Disease has two phases, acute and chronic. If the infection is untreated, it can last for life. The body gets infected with the feces of blood-sucking bugs called triatomine bugs. Acute phase infection may last up to a couple of weeks or months. Acute infection rarely results in severe inflammation of the heart muscle or the brain and the lining around the brain. 

When untreated, patients enter the chronic phase of the disease. Approximately 20-30% of people with Chagas Disease develop chronic symptoms. If left untreated, it can last decades or even the whole lifetimes of patients. Cardiac complications, including Enlarged Heart, Heart Failure, Altered Heart Rate or Rhythm, and Cardiac Arrest (sudden death), can occur in patients with Chagas Disease.

Rheumatic Heart Disease 

Rheumatic Heart Disease is caused by Rheumatic Fever. Rheumatic Fever starts as a sore throat when the body is infected by bacteria. The infection is called Strep Infection. It is a contagious disease that can spread just like other upper respiratory tract infections. Rheumatic Fever is an inflammatory disease that affects connective tissues in the heart. It also affects the joints, brain, and skin. The heart valves get inflamed and get scarred over time. It can affect any age group, but it is most prevalent in kids from 5 to 15.

Untreated Strep Infection and Scarlet Fever can develop into Rheumatic Heart Disease. Children who get repeated Strep Infections are at a higher risk of getting Rheumatic Heart Disease.

Kawasaki Disease

Kawasaki Disease is caused due to the inflammation of the walls of blood vessels (coronary arteries) that help carry oxygen-rich blood to the heart. It is most commonly observed in children below the age of 5. Children with Kawasaki Disease may develop swollen arms and legs, high fever, red eyes, dry and cracked lips, with an extremely red tongue. The symptoms may also include rashes in the genital area. They may also have swollen lymph nodes, swollen red skin in the palm of their hands, and later develop peeling of skin on fingers and toes. Children who have a high fever (generally higher than 102) or children who have at least 4 of the above symptoms are tested for Kawasaki Disease. 

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome, caused by Covid-19 in children worldwide, also has the same symptoms as Kawasaki Disease. Children exhibiting these symptoms are likely to be tested for Covid-19 too.

Regency Health makes sure that Advanced Diagnosis and Complex Cardiology Treatments are executed with utmost precision. The expertise of Our Doctors is backed by the Well-Trained Staff and the Latest Technology required for Best Treatments and Patient Care. To know more about Our Cardiology Department, Visit https://regencyhealthcare.in/specialities/cardiology/. 

[prasanthvarma]

Most common self medications for period cramps and why they are bad

The pain in the abdomen area, generally observed one or two days before or during menstruation, is called menstrual cramps, period cramps, or dysmenorrhea. Almost all women experience period cramps, but some have it more severely than others. Most of the time, there is nothing serious about menstrual cramps. But in some cases, the cramps are so severe that women can not focus on day-to-day functional things due to the severity of the pain they experience. Here are some signs of period cramps that indicate you might want to visit a doctor

Period cramps when not on period

Pain medication is ineffective against the cramps

Pain starts spreading to your back and your legs

Period getting heavier than the previous couple of months

Symptoms getting worse or sudden sharp pain in the abdomen

When severe pain in the abdomen appears in combination with excessive bleeding, moderate to high fever, or if you feel worse, I would recommend you go to the doctor. 

Although self-medication can help you with the pain, there are many side effects associated with it when taken frequently or even for two days in a row. Problems like acid reflux, stomach ulcers, constipation, and diarrhoea may occur. Women who smoke and drink have a higher risk when it comes to self-prescribed pain medication. Simple pain relief medicines like paracetamols, which are available in almost all pharmacies, can have side effects if used for a prolonged time. 

Drugs like paracetamols are classified as NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs). They are good medicines for handling pain by targeting the pain receptors in the womb. They also have the property of clotting blood, which reduces menstrual blood flow. They may seem an ideal option to go for as they reduce the blood flow and relieve pain but, using the NSAIDs for a prolonged time can result in Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). DVT is caused when there is a blood clot in a deep vein. These clots develop in the lower leg generally, but they can also occur in the pelvis area, or in the arm. 

It is always recommended to seek Expert Medical Advice for any type of pain medication because of these reasons. Regency Health brings the Best Gynecologists when it comes to the reproductive health of females. With Experienced Gynecologists and Well-Trained Staff, You are Guaranteed to Get the Best Care for Your Reproductive Health. To know more about Our Gynaecology Department, Visit https://regencyhealthcare.in/specialities/gynaecology/

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Right from treating your gastrointestinal, liver, pancreatic, biliary diseases and digestive issues diligently, to providing world-class treatment for it – our experts work towards attaining the best for you.

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Having the best pool of doctors blend their knowledge and expertise with the latest technology, Regency’s division of Gynecology aims at providing supreme care and treatment for the reproductive health and gynecological needs of women.

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Right from advanced diagnoses to complex treatments, our experts’ work is based on ethics, quality care, and professional learning, backed by the latest technology. For any Cardiac Emergencies call us at our dedicated number: 9511197086

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Our nephrology specialists provide a complete range of consultative, diagnostic and treatment based services to patients suffering from mild to acute to end-stage renal infection or disease. Our patients benefit from the expertise of our well-known specialists, who using advanced methods and state-of-the-art therapies extend world-class care to the patients while helping them to get back on the road to recovery in no time.

[prasanthvarma]

Why do stomach ulcers form?

Stomach ulcers are also known as peptic ulcers. Peptic ulcers are sores that are found in the lining of the stomach, the upper portion of the small intestine, or the lining of the esophagus. A variety of factors individually or collaboratively can be the cause of peptic ulcers. Many people believe spicy foods or stressful jobs cause ulcers, but this is no more than a myth. 

The Hydrochloric acid present in our stomach for breaking down the food we consume is quite harsh for supporting food digestion. In order to protect the linings of our stomach and small intestine, our body creates a protective layer of mucus to shield these linings. When the mucus layer is worn away or does not function properly, the acid begins to damage the linings of the stomach or small intestine, creating an ulcer. While the type of food you consume does not hand you ulcers, spicy food and stress can worsen existing ulcers. 

Now that we know how ulcers form, let us look at the reasons that wear out the inner linings, creating ulcers. One of the primary causes of peptic ulcers is a bacterium known as Helicobacter pylori. It is usually present in the mucus layer that protects the tissues that line the stomach and small intestine. An infection from Helicobacter pylori causes ulcers to develop. These bacteria disrupt the mucus layer. It triggers the release of certain enzymes and toxins that injure the cells of the stomach or duodenum, causing small sores. Once a small sore develops, the tissue becomes more vulnerable to damage. Digestive juices now have the potential to worsen these sores into ulcers. Helicobacter pylori can spread from person to person or through food and water. Therefore, watch out for contaminated food and water. Also, avoid dump sites.

Peptic ulcers can also form due to the regular use of certain pain medications. Understanding this might require us to learn a little more about our bodies. Painkillers with NSAIDs work by inhibiting the body's production of prostaglandins. But, certain prostaglandins are also necessary for protecting the stomach lining from the corrosive effects of stomach acid. By disrupting the production of prostaglandins in the stomach, NSAIDs can cause ulcers and bleeding. Also, medications prescribed for osteoporosis like bisphosphonates, and potassium supplements can lead to ulcers.

Dropping down to symptoms, you need to know that it depends from person to person. While someone can experience no symptoms of peptic ulcers, there might be cases that can develop life-threatening complications like bleeding heavily through these sores. One of the most common symptoms of ulcers is a dull, burning pain in your stomach. This pain can amplify as you get hungry, leading to stomach contractions. Also, it can be a recurring pain. It usually feels relieved for a while after you eat but hits back soon. Another evident symptom of stomach ulcers is indigestion and heartburn followed by loss of appetite.

While some cases may get serious, the symptoms for those would be nausea followed by vomiting. For critical patients, vomiting can be of black and red-colored blood. These blood patches can also be seen in the stool if the ulcers grow too big. If you're experiencing any of such, you need to get immediate medical attention. 

If you think you have peptic ulcers, or suffering from peptic ulcer related symptoms and complications, without any delay consult the expert Gastroenterologists at Regency. Visit Regency Hospitals now for availing the right treatments at the right time.

[prasanthvarma]

When to see a neurologist for dizziness?

While dizziness may be a minor issue for some, it demands major importance and care. It rings the warning bell for something ‘not so good’ that is developing. It's a matter of concern that we should be careful about, yet not too tense. Hence, here's some important information to help you understand when it is necessary to consult a neurologist, your regular physician, or visit the emergency ward when you are facing recurring dizziness. 

Before beginning, we would again advise you to be calm and refrain from panicking. For, not being calm brings a lot more trouble than expected. Now, neither us nor you would want that. 

Coming back, it's significant that we fundamentally understand that dizziness can be due to various reasons. Many parts of your body, including your eyes, brain, inner ear, and nerves in your feet and spine, work together to keep you balanced. When a part of that system is off, you can feel dizzy. It can be a sign of something serious, and it can be dangerous if it makes you fall.

Hence, we categorize dizziness into a critical or not-so-serious category. It defines whether we need to schedule a visit with our regular physician or a neurologist or dial an emergency number.

If any of the following causes dizziness, then it might not be a matter of major concern. 

A new medication

Changed medication

Improper blood circulation

Dehydration

Low blood sugar

If you experience dizziness due to any of these conditions, a check-up with your regular physician would be satisfactory.

Getting ahead, we need to understand vertigo. Dizziness and vertigo aren't the same, but vertigo is a type of dizziness. Vertigo is the sensation that you are moving, even when you are not. It is similar to motion sickness and characterizes dizziness or the feeling that the room is spinning. While many people believe that vertigo is a medical condition, it is a symptom of medical conditions.

Now, if you experience vertigo, know that it is a symptom that there is an issue in the inner ear or part of the brainstem governing balance. But if you experience any below-mentioned sensations along with vertigo, please dial an emergency number immediately.

Confusion or trouble speaking/understanding speech

Slurred speech or hoarseness of voice

Numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg

Clumsiness or tremor (shaking) of the arms or legs

Trouble seeing out of one or both eyes, or to one side

Double vision or inability to move one or both eyes

Unequal pupils or drooping eyelids on one side

Inability to stand even when holding onto something firm

Sudden severe vomiting with no known cause

Sudden severe headache or neck pain with no known cause

But if vertigo does not accompany any of these symptoms, then you may need to visit a neurologist. Yes, it's much better than going to the emergency ward.

Vertigo can be due to two reasons:

Peripheral vertigo, caused by a problem with the inner ear or vestibular nerve that connects the ear to the brain. (93% cases)

Central vertigo, caused by an issue in the cerebellum, which is in charge of balance and movement. (7% cases) 

These two types of vertigo make up what is called vertigo-associated disease. Generally, vestibular blocking agents or VBAs treat vertigo-associated diseases. However, specific causes of vertigo may also require additional treatment to help alleviate it. Therefore, your neurologist will need to determine what is causing your vertigo.

So, if your dizziness (or vertigo) troubles you often and makes your life tough, you should visit our specialized Neurology department at Regency Hospital. Consult today and find the treatment you've been looking for.

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Manned by highly skilled and experienced team of ophthalmologists, the Ophthalmology Department at Regency Healthcare provides expertise to treat all kind of eye-related problems ranging from routine eye examination to state of the art diagnostic and therapeutic equipment for treating glaucoma, cataracts, corneal diseases, aesthetics, paediatric ophthalmic diseases and disorders.

[prasanthvarma]

Right from advanced diagnoses to complex treatments, skin doctors at Regency routinely provide skin solutions to patients with acute and chronic dermatological disorders, sexually transmitted diseases and melanoma(skin cancer).

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Best corrective eye surgery

Wearing contacts and glasses can be cumbersome for some people, and can have a negative effect on their active lifestyles. Many people are choosing to take charge of their vision in a more permanent way. 

Eye specialists have made incredible advancements in vision correction surgery, also known as refractive and laser eye surgery, in recent years. Today, several types of effective surgical procedures are available, but LASIK surgery is the most popular one.

LASIK, or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis surgery, has gained popularity over the last several years. It has proven to be an effective way to permanently improve your eyesight by correcting defects. Patients who have undergone LASIK surgery have no longer needed to wear glasses and contact lenses. It is a type of eye surgery that uses lasers to fix vision problems, specifically those caused by refractive errors. A refractive error is where your eye fails to bend light properly, distorting your vision. It can cause, for example, blurry vision, nearsightedness, and farsightedness.

The Benefits of LASIK Eye Surgery

1. Quick results

The procedure takes just 15 minutes and within 24 hours of the surgery, your vision will improve. But it takes 15 days for complete restoration. During this time you might have some restrictions like avoiding direct sunlight and avoiding swimming, but otherwise, you can go about your daily life as usual. 

2. Saves money in the long run

Another great thing about LASIK is that it's a one-time investment that will save you thousands of rupees.

3. Hassle-free lifestyle and self-confidence

Wearing glasses and contacts can be more of a burden than just a mere nuisance. You have to remember to bring them along with you every time you leave the house. If you misplace them, you can't just go on living your life normally. LASIK can be a great way to enhance your quality of life by giving you the freedom to do the things you love.

4. Pain-free procedure

LASIK is a painless surgery, and most patients can return to their day-to-day lives within 24 hours.

5. Low risk, high satisfaction

99% of people who go through LASIK surgery are happy with the results, and they consider their primary goal to be achieved. Up to 79% say they now have less difficulty driving at night. The chances of complications are also very less and any complications that do occur are minor and can be fixed easily. 

Here's what to expect during LASIK surgery:

Step 1: Your eyelids are held open with a tool so the eye surgeon can work. First, your eye doctor places eye drops that contain a numbing agent in your eyes.

Step 2: The surgeon uses a small blade or special laser to cut a thin flap in your cornea. This is the part that may cause some discomfort for the patient. Many people report feeling "a sensation of pressure" during this part of the surgery.

Step 3: The excimer laser gently reshapes your cornea. It is guided by a computer that has a map of your eye preloaded into it.

Step 4: After the excimer laser finishes, the surgeon smooths the corneal flap back into place.

Step 5: If you are getting both eyes operated on, this process will immediately be repeated on the other eye.

Step 6: That's it, your LASIK eye surgery is complete! Once you're finished, your eye surgeon, or a team member, will provide you with an eye shield, along with detailed instructions for recovery.

An ophthalmologist performs LASIK eye surgeries. These specialists diagnose and treat vision problems. Consult with an expert Ophthalmologist at Regency Hospital, Kanpur to get effective LASIK surgery.

[prasanthvarma]

Why should I visit an Endocrinologist?

It's a pity that a lot of people with diabetes, thyroid disease, and other endocrine disorders don't understand disease or their treatment. Most people with these conditions never get a second opinion. While most family physicians are fully equipped to treat patients with diabetes and thyroid and other endocrine disorders and may be able to manage the condition just fine, patients may benefit from specialized attention beyond that typically offered from a comprehensive, routine exam. 

Because many thyroid conditions are lifelong and require a more focused approach that incorporates the ever-changing world of medicine and treatment options, many primary care providers refer patients to endocrinologists.

Endocrinologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating health conditions related to problems with the body’s hormones, hormonal glands, and related issues. They have specialized training in the endocrine system and can help diagnose, treat, and manage the illnesses that can arise when hormone imbalances or endocrine gland problems occur.

They are qualified to diagnose and treat conditions like

- Diabetes

- Thyroid diseases

- Infertility

- Growth issues

- Metabolic disorders

- Osteoporosis

- Some cancers

- Disorders in the hormone-producing adrenal glands and pituitary glands

The endocrine system interacts with many other systems in your body. If you have thyroid issues, the problem might be metabolic, not thyroid-related. Hence, Endocrinologists look at the entire body, not just one part of it. If you're suffering from an endocrine disorder, they will treat your entire body.

Endocrinologists are able to offer patients lifestyle recommendations that result in a more balanced and enhanced quality of life.  Because they spend so much time studying human hormones, endocrinologists tend to be very familiar with the latest clinical data and medication options. They also know about different types of medications and their effects, as well as how to monitor the status of patients.

Getting an early consultation with an endocrinologist, you can treat endocrine disorders early and avoid expensive treatments later. There is no doubt that if mismanaged or left untreated, endocrine disorders can cause many problems such as chronic fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, depression, weight changes, and generalized aches and pains. There is no reason that anyone should suffer from these or any other problems associated with the endocrine system.

If you are ready to take charge of your health, you should ask your doctor about an endocrinology referral.

Regency Hospital, Govind Nagar, Kanpur has a dedicated Endocrinology department backed by expert and experienced Endocrinologists. Visit today for a consultation. 

[prasanthvarma]

When you come to Regency Healthcare for any urological condition, you are promised optimal results with minimal damage to the healthy tissue. How do we achieve such high levels of precision? With the use of latest surgical procedures that are performed under the expert eyes of our specialists who are committed to improving your experience & health while you are under their expert care.

[prasanthvarma]

Most common Urology infections

The most common urological infection is UTI or Urinary Tract Infection. They are one of the most common types of infection and account for around 8.1 million visits to a doctor every year.

Urinary tract infections typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. Although the urinary system is designed to keep out such microscopic invaders, these defenses sometimes fail. When that happens, bacteria may take hold and grow into a full-blown infection in the urinary tract.

The most common UTIs occur mainly in women and affect the bladder and urethra.

If the infection stays just in the bladder, it is called a bladder infection, or "simple cystitis." If the infection travels up past the bladder and into the kidneys, it is called a kidney infection, or "pyelonephritis." Bladder and kidney infections are both types of UTI.

What are the signs?

Symptoms of a bladder infection can include:

Pain or burning while urinating

Frequent urination

Feeling the need to urinate despite having an empty bladder

Bloody urine

Pressure or cramping in the groin or lower abdomen

Symptoms of a kidney infection can include:

Fever

Chills

Lower back pain or pain in the side of your back

Nausea or vomiting

What can cause UTIs?

Factors that increase the risk of developing a UTI include:

Having sex frequently

Having diabetes

Having a bladder or kidney infection in the past 12 months

Using a spermicide for birth control

For men, not being circumcised or having insertive anal sex

In men and women, having a condition (such as kidney stones or ureteral reflux) that blocks or changes the flow of urine in the kidneys increases the risk of a kidney infection.

There is also increasing evidence that there is a genetic predisposition to UTIs; that is, some people might just be more likely to get them regardless of their behaviors or other health conditions.

What is the treatment?

When treated promptly and properly, lower urinary tract infections rarely lead to complications. But left untreated, a urinary tract infection can have serious consequences.

If you are a healthy adult man or a woman who is not pregnant, a few days of antibiotic pills will usually cure your urinary tract infection. If you are pregnant, your doctor will prescribe a medicine that is safe for you and the baby. Usually, symptoms of the infection go away 1 to 2 days after you start taking the medicine. It’s important that you follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the medicine, even if you start to feel better. Skipping pills could make the treatment less effective.

If you are looking for treatment Regency Superspeciality Hospital in Lucknow offers personalized, sensitive care for common women's health problems, including urinary tract infections. My personal recommendation would be Dr. Siddharth Singh who is a Urologist with a great experience. 

Now, How to prevent UTIs?

There are several measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing a UTI:

Drink lots of water and urinate frequently.

Avoid fluids such as alcohol and caffeine that can irritate the bladder.

Urinate shortly after sex.

Wipe from front to back after urinating and bowel movement.

Keep the genital area clean.

Showers are preferred to baths and avoid using oils.

Sanitary pads or menstrual cups are preferred to tampons. If you want to buy menstrual cups, then there is an excellent selection on Amazon with thousands of customer reviews.

Avoid using a diaphragm or spermicide for birth control.

Avoid using any perfumed products in the genital area.

Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing to keep the area around the urethra dry