Indigestion What is Indigestion? The improper functioning of digestive system causes indigestion or stomach upset, which results in chest burns followed by an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Indigestion can also be accompanied by nausea, tendency of vomiting, heaviness in the abdomen and discomfort. Indigestion is also known as dyspepsia and is associated with the burning or pain in the upper abdomen. The symptoms of indigestion There are a lot of people who suffer from indigestion and they also experience the symptoms like fullness during a meal and are unable to finish the meal. The person feels that the food is staying too long in the stomach and this can be accompanied by a feeling of fullness before a meal. The pain in the epigastric area, which is between the lower end of the chest bone and the navel, is also a symptom of indigestion. Apart from this the person may experience epigastric pain ranging from mild to severe and burning in these areas too. The other symptoms of indigestion are nausea and bloating along with an unpleasant tightness in the stomach. Causes of indigestion There are various causes for indigestion and these included conditions in the digestive tract like gastro esophageal reflux disease or GERD, cancer, peptic ulcer disease, and abnormality of the pancreas or bile ducts. It has been seen that if these conditions are treated then the symptoms of indigestion also improve. There are often times when there is no cause for indigestion found and this kind of indigestion is called functional dyspepsia, which occurs in the area where the stomach meets the small intestine. Often indigestion has been associated with abnormal motility or the squeezing of the stomach muscle as it receives, digests and proceeds food into the small intestine. Often the causes of indigestion have been associated with the symptoms of heartburn but these are two different conditions which have different treatments. There are various psychological causes of indigestion too and stress or worries have been diagnosed as the main causes for indigestion. Also the consumption of excess allopathic medicines causes indigestion and there are temporary traces of indigestion during pregnancy also. It has been seen that excess smoking habit also leads to indigestion along with the consumption of caffeine on empty stomach. Alcohol has been considered as one of the major causes of indigestion along with diseases like ulcer. Prevention and treatment for indigestion Home remedies: Indigestion can be prevented through regularly exercise as it keeps your body in shape. You should also drink lots of water and have green and fibrous vegetables. You should try and get rid of smoking and alcohol habit and relax yourself by doing meditation and yoga. You should eat small and low fat meals and chew food slowly. Natural and ayurvedic: Apart from this you should try and maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid eating and sleeping late. Remember that most digestion problems can be treated by over the counter medicines but in severe cases hospitalization may also be required along with intense treatment for the same. Insomnia What is Insomnia? The term insomnia has been used to define the symptom of a sleeping disorder. This disorder is characterized by persistent difficulty falling asleep or trying to get sound sleep in spite of having the opportunity. Insomnia is a symptom but it cannot be stated as a stand-alone diagnosis or a disease. Basically the term insomnia means difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep or even both. There are various reasons or causes of insomnia and this is usually due to inadequate quality or quantity of sleep. Insomnia is also followed by functional impairment while awake and there are many patients who complain that they are unable to close their eyes and rest their eyes for more than a few minutes. Different types of insomnia and their symptoms There are three main types of insomnia and these include transient insomnia, which lasts from days to weeks. This is usually caused by another disorder or due to the changes in the sleep environment or the timing of sleep. It may also be caused due to severe depression or due to stress and results in sleepiness and impaired psychomotor performance due to sleep deprivation. The acute insomnia can be defined as the inability to consistently sleep well and exists for a period of between three weeks to six months. The chronic insomnia usually lasts for years at a time and this is caused by other disorders or it can also be the primary disorder. Basically this form of insomnia leads to sleepiness, muscular fatigue, hallucinations and even double vision. Causes of insomnia It has been seen that many kinds of psychoactive drugs or stimulants like herbs, medications, caffeine, cocaine, ephedrine, amphetamines, methylphenidate, MDMA, methamphetamine are the causes of insomnia. There are many fluoroquinolone antibiotic drugs, which have been associated with the causes of insomnia. Insomnia can also be caused due to hormone shifts that precede menstruation and those during menopause. The mental problems like stress, fear, anxiety, emotional or mental tension, work problems, financial stress and unsatisfactory sex life. There are mental disorders like clinical depression, bipolar disorder, general anxiety disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia and even obsessive compulsive disorder that lead to insomnia. There are many instances where insomnia is caused by another disease or as a result of side effects from medications or a psychological problem. Treatment for insomnia Before treating insomnia it is vital to identify or rule out medical and psychological aspects, before deciding on the treatment for the insomnia. The attention to sleep hygiene is vital and treatment strategy should be tried before any pharmacological approach is considered. Some of the best places to treat the diseases are at the clinic of a psychologist or psychiatrist and the treatments can be availed at Apollo hospitals. The treatment of insomnia would require equal contribution from the patient’s side, especially if the cause of the disease is psychological and the treatment should not be discontinued till the disease is eliminated completely. However use of sleeping pills without consultation from the doctor is not advised. Intestinal What are Intestinal Worms? The term intestinal worms have been used to define the parasites, which infect human beings as well as animals like cats and dogs. Basically these intestinal worms can lead to added problems and many other symptoms which are troublesome and these could also lead to severe complications. It has been seen that these worms have the ability to hatch and multiply again and again, especially if there is dirt and filth in the area. It has been seen that these worms are a very common occurrence and occur mostly in the tropic countries. These worms mostly affect children, but they can affect the adults too. These intestinal worms or parasites feed on nutritious bowel content as well as the blood of its host. It has been seen that these parasites generally enter in the body through food and water, transmitting agents like the mosquito, sexual contact or even through the nose and skin. Most of the humans continue to suffer from this problem because of the presence of intestinal worms which are transmitted through different ways. Some of the most common parasites found in human intestines include pin worms, round worms, book worms, and whip worms, thread worms, Giardia, hook worms and even tape worms. Symptoms of the Intestinal There are various kinds of worms that may survive in the intestine and it has been seen that these worms or intestinal parasites may not cause any symptoms in some people. However in some people these symptoms may come and go and the greater the number of worms involved, the worse are the symptoms of the disease. Some of the most common symptoms of these intestinal worms include a voracious appetite, worms in the stool, loss of appetite, fever, coughing up of worms, vomiting, foul breath, dark circles under the eyes, anemia or a pale face, headaches, bloating, abdominal cramps, itching, intestinal blockage, nausea and various other related symptoms. Some of the more serious symptoms of the presence of intestinal worms in the stomach include loss of weight, skin itching and stools with blood. Diagnosis of intestinal worms and their causes The intestinal parasite infection may cause the above symptoms, but there are various other factors that may cause these symptoms too. Hence laboratory tests are necessary to determine their causes. These causes include visiting a tropic country, eating contaminated food, poor eating habits and hygiene and even AIDS. The treatments for Intestinal Worms The herbal treatment for these worms includes consumption of 250 gm's of krimighan rasa with juice of moosa-karnior or nagannotha kwath thrice a day. There are various other medications which are also given for treating the problems of intestinal worms but prevention is better than cure in these cases and you should maintain healthy hygiene habits or these infections may be repeated. Some of the best treatments for these infections can be availed at the Tata Memorial hospital, Mumbai, but there is no requirement for hospitalization in most of the cases. Itching What is Itching? The term itch has been taken from the Latin word pruritus, which means an unpleasant sensation that leads to a desire or reflex to scratch. Basically itching has been resisted classified as any one type of sensory experience and according to recent studies; itch has many similarities to pain since they both are unpleasant sensory experiences. But the behavioral response patterns of both the symptoms are different as a pain creates a reflex withdrawal but an itch leads to a scratch reflex. However sensations of both itch and pain had not been considered to be independent of each. But recently it has been found that itch has several features in common with pain along with many differences. The itching stimuli lead to the same reactions as noxious stimuli in experimental animals and both humans and animals have this tendency of itching. Symptoms of itching The only and most common symptom of itching is to scratch the area as a reflex. However in most cases the doctors advise not to scratch the area as it can lead to wounds or make the infection worse. Itching, the area should be avoiding and the use of ice or lotion should be considered instead. Causes of itching It has been seen that itching can be caused by many conditions and some of the most common causes of itch are psychological reasons. Most of the times itching is caused due to stress, anxiety, etc, and this can aggravate itch from other causes. The other reason for itching is dry skin and there are some people who experience sunburn itch due to the prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun. Some other causes of itching include metabolic and endocrine disorders that are related to the liver or kidney disease. Itching can also be caused due hyperthyroidism, cancers, reactions to drugs and diseases of the blood. There are many instances when itching can also result from insect stings and bites like flea bites or mosquitoes. It has been seen that both infections and infestations of the skin are causes of itch. Hence the common infectious like fungal infection of the crotch or the jock itch along with vaginal itching are caused due to the same. The itching from sexually transmitted diseases or STDs is also a major cause of itching. Parasitic infection leads to itching and is also known as swimmer's itch. Rash of the skin caused by an allergic reaction to infection with certain parasites can also lead to sever itching. Treatments for itching Understanding the cause of the itching is vital to provide the treatment for the same and it has been seen that antihistamines are used to treat itch. Some forms of medicines like diphenydramine and chlorpheniramine can induce drowsiness in many people and thus you should consult a doctor before using these medicines. Itching can be treated through home treatments like application of neem or turmeric on the area along with some ice, but if the problems persist then you should consult a doctor. Jaundice What is Jaundice? The term jaundice is used to define a sign or symptom that occurs due to many different diseases. Hence jaundice is not a disease but is the yellowish staining of the skin and sclerae or the whites of the eyes. This is caused due by high levels in blood of the chemical bilirubin. When jaundice occurs the color of the skin and sclerae vary and this depends on the level of bilirubin. It has been seen that if the bilirubin level is mildly elevated then it turns yellowish and often turns brown when the bilirubin level is high. Symptoms of jaundice Basically jaundice can turn the skin and sclerae yellow along with changes in the color of the stool, which can become light in color. The stool may also become clay-colored in color due to the absence of bilirubin, which normally gives stool its brown color. Also the color of the urine may turn dark or brownish and occurs when the bilirubin is building up in the blood. This leads to excretion of the bilirubin from the body in the urine. Jaundice or cholestasis is also accompanied by a lot of itching, which is medically known as pruritus. What causes jaundice? The Bilirubin is derived from red blood cells but as the red blood cells gets old, they are destroyed. Hence the hemoglobin, which is the iron-containing chemical in red blood cells and carries oxygen, is released from these red blood cells. But this happens only after the iron that it contains is removed and the chemical that remains in the blood after the iron is removed turn into bilirubin. Our liver has many functions but to produce and secrete bile into the intestines for helping the digestion process is the most important function. The removal of toxic chemicals or waste products from the blood, and formation of the bilirubin is also a vital function. It has been seen that jaundice occurs where there is too much bilirubin being produced for the liver and it cannot remove the same from the blood. It can also occur as a defect in the liver and this may stop the bilirubin from being removed from the blood getting secreted to bile. The blockage of the bile ducts, which help to reduce the flow of bile and bilirubin from the liver into the intestines, is also a cause of jaundice. Treatments for jaundice Jaundice is a very common occurrence but it should be remembered that there are various kinds of jaundices and they have different levels, based on how they affect the body. Hence you should ensure that you get medical help for the treatment of jaundice which can be easily availed at hospitals like Apollo, Lilavati, Tata Memorial, AIIMS and other such hospitals. You can also have a lot of coconut water and sugarcane juice at home to enhance the healing process and also make sure that you take a lot of rest as the chances of relapse are very high. Kidney Stones What are Kidney Stones? The term kidney stones have been used to define the solid concretions or crystal aggregations of dissolved minerals in urine and they are also called renal calculi. These calculi typically form inside the kidneys or bladder and they are also known as nephrolithiasis and urolithiasis, which means having the presence of calculi in the kidneys and urinary tract, respectively and this can cause a lot of pain and inconvenience to people who suffer from the same. The symptoms of kidney stones The most common symptoms of kidney stones include the localization of kidney stone pain. This has been associated with the colicky pain in the groin area, which is often described as the worst pain experienced by most people. Along with this the symptoms of kidney pain include hematuria or blood in the urine, which is caused due to minor damage to inside wall of kidney. Pyuria or pus in the white blood cells found in the urine is also symptoms of kidney stones. Dysuria or burning on urination during the passage of stones is another sign of this infection. Reduced urinary volume or oliguria, which is caused by obstruction of the bladder or urethra, and abdominal distension are other symptoms of this ailment. Common symptoms that may be related to kidney stones include nausea and vomiting, fever and chills, hydronephrosis and Postrenal azotemia. The causes of kidney stones The causes of kidney stones vary and these can be due to underlying metabolic conditions like renal tubular acidosis. The other regular causes of kidney stones include Dent's disease, Hyperparathyroidism and even medullar sponge kidney. In most of the health facilities patients are screened for such disorders and this is typically done with a 24 hour urine collection. This sample is chemically analyzed for deficiencies factors that cause stone formation. It has been seen that these kidney stones are common in patients with Crohn's disease. There are various external factors that may lead to the formation of these kidney stones also and water fluoridation may increase the risk of the same. There are also studies on the consumption of vitamin C and its relation with kidney stones. Prevention of kidney stones It has also been noticed that a person who has had more than one kidney stone would be likely to form another. Hence it is better to implement measures to prevent these stones instead of treating them. The doctor orders laboratory tests for determining these stones and these include urine and blood tests. How are kidney stones treated? There are various methods of treating kidney stones and surgery is not required all the time. Methods like passing the kidney stones through the urinary system with plenty of water or drinking fluids can be done. The options of taking pain medication as needed are also there. Some of the best places to get laser surgery for these treatments include Tata Memorial hospital and Lilavati hospital, though doctors first use the natural methods for removing them instead of surgery. Leg cramps What are leg cramps? The term leg cramps have been used to define the pain that comes from a leg muscle and is caused due to a muscle spasm. This occurs when a muscle contracts too hard and these cramps usually take place in a calf muscle, which is below and behind a knee. There are also times when the small muscles of the feet are affected by these cramps. It has been seen that these cramp pain typically lasts a few minutes and there are some cases where it lasts just seconds. However the duration for the camp may increase and it can last up to 10 minutes. Also the severity of the pain varies and there are some people who experience tender muscles for up to 24 hours after a leg cramp. It has been seen that these leg cramps usually occur when you are resting and usually occurs at night when in bed. Most of the times, all people get some sort of leg cramps but usually people over the age of 60 get these cramps. The most common symptoms of these leg cramps are pain in the muscles and the inability of the person to move that part of the leg. This is accompanied by difficulty in movements and standing or walking. The causes of leg cramps There are two main causes of leg cramps and these include the unknown causes and the others are the secondary causes. The unknown causes include if a muscle, which is already in a shortened position, is enthused to contract. Since this is an already shortened muscle further contraction may cause the muscle to go into spasm. Usually this happens at night when the person is sleeping with knees slightly flexed. The secondary causes of these pains include other ailments and diseases. Some of these include drugs or medicines that lead to these problems, over-exertion of muscles, dehydration and pregnancy. The other causes of this may also be imbalance of salts in the blood stream and untreated under-active thyroid gland. The treatments for leg cramps Most of the times stretching and massaging the affected muscle helps to relieve an attack of cramp. Hence these cramps ease off soon and painkillers are not suggested here because they do not act quickly enough. There are some painkillers like paracetamol that helps in easing the muscle discomfort and tenderness, which lasts up to 24 hours after a cramp has gone. There are many ways through which these leg cramps can be prevented and these include regular exercises and sleeping in a posture that would not cause the leg to cramp. There are various alternative drugs available to treat these cramps and people who have symptoms apart from cramps should consult their doctors to determine the cause of the same. Usually the need for treatment is restricted to exercises and therapy which can be availed at home. These can be availed at hospitals like Lethargy What is lethargy and what are its symptoms? The term lethargy has been used to define fatigue, exhaustion, languidness, languor, lassitude, and listlessness, which are all conditions caused by weariness. Lethargy can describe a range of afflictions and this range from general state of lethargy to a specific burning sensation within the muscles, which can be induced due to work stress. Lethargy can be both physical and mental and it has been seen that physical lethargy is the inability of the body to continue functioning at the level of one's normal abilities. The mental lethargy manifests in somnolence and can lead to both physical and mental side effects for the person. Lethargy has been considered as a symptom of a medical disease instead of medical disease itself as it is reported by the patient instead of being observed by others. Different types of lethargy Basically there are two kinds of lethargy and these are the mental and physical forms of lethargy. It has been seen that physical lethargy is the weakness in the muscles along with lack of strength. The term has been used to define the inability to exert force in one's muscles, which is given by general physical fitness. Lethargy can be caused as a side effect of certain ailments or illnesses or even medicines in a lot of cases. The mental lethargy can be defined as the tiredness of the mind which can manifest itself both as decreased wakefulness or a general decrease of attention. But it should be remembered that lethargy is not always leading to sleepiness and can be described as decreased level of consciousness. This mental lethargy also leads to various kinds of physical symptoms and thus causes similar side effects. Causes of lethargy Lethargy is usually the result of excess working, mental stress, over stimulation and under stimulation. Temporary lethargy can also be caused due to depression, jet lag or active recreation, and boredom, along with lack of sleep. There are some chemical causes of lethargy and these include poisoning or mineral or vitamin deficiencies. Even massive blood loss frequently results in lethargy and it usually originates in the reticular activating system of the lower brain. Diseases and conditions related to lethargy The temporary lethargy, which is caused due to common cold or fever, goes away with ample rest, medications and healthy eating. But chronic lethargy can be caused due to a number of other symptoms and problems. There are various methods of dealing with lethargy and these include non medical options like eating healthier food, leading an active lifestyle, interacting with friends and staying busy. The medical solutions for the disease include diagnosis of the causes and treatments for the same. But these treatments may be therapeutic in nature or may include the use of various kinds of medicines. These treatments are available at all regular hospitals across the country and these include AIIMS. But homemade methods along with altering personal habits are suggested as preventive and curative treatments for dealing with lethargy. Leucoderma What is Leucoderma? The term leucoderma is not a medical term but it has become on of the most commonly used terms to define white or light colored skin patch. The medical term for leucoderma is vitiligo and this is known as the disease caused by destruction of cells called melanocyte in skin. In these cases there is production of the pigment melanin which is responsible for our skin color. Due to the loss of this pigment there are white patches in different parts of the body. These are also some of the most common symptoms associated with it and these can occur at any age. These white patches can be acquired or may be present at birth and they can also be acquired and congenital skin patches, which are the result of various reasons. The congenital patches are not of much importance but the acquired patches can lead to this disorder. Symptoms of Leucoderma Some of the most common symptoms of Leucoderma are the loss of skin-pigment or melanin that gives rise to white patches, which are also called vitiligo. These patches are more common in women and they occur on the hands, neck, back and wrist. Usually a small white spot is seen initially on the body and this gradually develops into patches. These patches get whiter with time and they enlarge and merge together and form a broad patch. Causes of Leucoderma There are various causes of leucoderma and these include excessive mental worry, ailments like typhoid, burn injuries, defective perspiration mechanism, and problems of the gastro-intestinal tract, acute or chronic gastric disorder, worms or parasites and even impaired hepatic function. Treatment of Leucoderma The treatments for leucoderma include both medical and homemade solutions and these include the cleansing of the internal systems from accumulated toxins. The patients are also advised to drink fruit or vegetable juice for a week and they are given a different diet to ensure that they are getting adequate nourishment. These include fresh fruits, steamed vegetables and whole meal bread so that the bowels are cleansed daily and the use of warm water enema is also suggested. The seeds of Psoralea are beneficial in the treatment of Leucoderma and they can be soaked in juice of ginger for 3 days. Then they should be dried and powdered and 1 gram of the powder should be taken with fresh milk for 40 days. The treatments for leucoderma can be availed easily at most of the hospitals like Apollo and Sri Ganga Ram hospital. Stigma associated with leucoderma There is a lot of social stigma about the disease in the Indian subcontinent and it is wrongly assumed that these patches are infectious and that it is always hereditary and thus all members of the family would get it. However this is not true and the disease is not infectious and certainly does not affect people due to heredity reasons, but the stigma associated with the same continues to exist in spite of modern medicinal facilities. Leucorrhoea What is Leucorrhoea? The term leucorrhoea has been commonly associated with whites and this refers to a whitish discharge from the female genitals. It has been seen that leucorrhoea is an abnormal condition where the reproductive organs of women produce this discharge. But if this problem is not treated properly in the initial stages then it may become chronic. Various studies have proven that secretions from the uterus and upper part of the vagina are reabsorbed, as they flow down to the lower parts of the vagina. With this constant flow within the female organs the risks of the problem getting chronic are very high. It has been seen that the condition may continue for weeks or months at a time. Symptoms associated with Leucorrhoea Along with the whitish discharge from the vagina there are a number of other symptoms associated with leucorrhoea and here the patient feels weak and tired. The patient also suffers from pain in the lumbar region and there is also pain in the calves along with a dragging sensation in the abdomen. Some of the regular symptoms of the disease include constipation, frequent headaches and even intense itching in the vaginal area. As the problem gets chronic the patient feels irritable and develops black patches under the eyes. Causes of Leucorrhoea It has been proven that leucorrhoea does not develop suddenly in an acute form and hence treatment at initial stages is vital. The condition denotes a devitalized and toxic condition where one or many parts of the reproductive organs are loaded with toxins. This happens due to wrong dietary habits and reactions of the eliminative organs like the bowels, skin, lungs, and kidneys, when they are unable to eliminate the toxins. The body also discharges or eliminates through the mucous membrane of the uterus and vagina and this happens in the form of leucorrhoea. In chronic inflammatory conditions of these organs there is also discharge with pus, which is offensive in odor and the color varies from yellow or light green. Most of the times, leucorrhoea occurs in young girls during the few years before and after the start of the menstrual flow. This leads to genital organs having a lot of itching due to intestinal worms, dirt, soiled under garments and excessive mental stimulation of sex or masturbation. Treatment and Cure of Leucorrhoea There is a complete package for getting a cure for leucorrhoea and this consists of correct dietary habits, proper sleep, exercise and lots of sunshine. The patient is asked to fast for three or four days on lemon water or fruit juices to eliminate the harmful toxins and the consumption of Okra or Lady Fingers is suggested. The medicines for this disease vary largely and these are given considering the age of the girl also. Some of the best treatments for this ailment can be availed at Low Blood Pressure What is Low Blood Pressure? The term low blood pressure has been used in physiology and medicine and is also known as hypotension. This also refers to an abnormally low blood pressure and this is understood as the physiologic state of the body instead of a disease. Hypotension has been associated with shock but is not necessarily indicative of it. Low blood pressure is the opposite of hypertension, which is high blood pressure. It has been seen that low blood pressure can be life-threatening in a number of cases. Basically blood pressure is the force, which is exerted due to circulation of blood on the walls of blood vessels. This also constitutes one of the principal vital signs of life and is responsible for the heart beat and rate of breathing along with the temperature. Here the blood pressure is generated as the heart pumps the blood into the arteries. Symptoms of low blood pressure It has been proven that if the blood pressure is not sufficient to deliver enough blood to the organs of the body then the organs fail to function properly. In such cases the organs are not able to work properly and they may also be permanently damaged. With insufficient blood flow to the brain the cells in the brain don’t receive enough oxygen and nutrients. Hence feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or even faint are the symptoms of low blood pressure. The causes of low blood pressure Basically medications are frequent causes of low blood pressure along with dehydration. This can also be caused due to vomiting, prolonged nausea and diarrhea or even when large amounts of water are lost. Some of the other regular causes of low blood pressure include too much exercise, sweating, fever, and heat exhaustion. Cases of protracted and severe dehydration may also lead to low blood pressure, which is the result of a shock, kidney failure, confusion and other related symptoms. It has been seen that severe or moderate bleeding can quickly can lead to low blood pressure or orthostatic hypotension. Along with this severe inflammation of organs inside the body may also lead to low blood pressure. The treatment for low blood pressure There are various kinds of treatments available for low blood pressure and medications are usually not given unless the damage is serious. But the low blood pressure should be evaluated by a doctor so that the cause for the same can be understood. There are instances when patients have a major drop in blood pressure from their usual levels due to some medications. Here the dose of medication may have to be reduced or stopped all together. Self medication is not advised and you should get yourself checked from a reputed hospital like Apollo or other private clinics. Eating healthy and drinking water with salt and sugar or even glucose is suggested. Fresh fruits and vegetables should be eaten and the body should not be allowed to starve as this can make the problem worse and reduce the pressure even more. Malaria What is malaria? The term malaria has been used to define the vector-borne infectious disease which occurs due to protozoan parasites. Malaria is a commonly occurring disease, which is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in the parts of Symptoms of malaria The most common symptoms of malaria are shivering, fever, joint pain, vomiting, anemia, hemoglobinuria, retinal damage along with convulsions. But the most classic symptom of malaria is the cyclical occurrence of sudden coldness, which is followed by rigor and then fever. Even sweating can occur, which lasts for about four to six hours and happens every two days in P. vivax and P. ovale infections. These symptoms can be seen every three for P. malariae and about 2 days for P. falciparum. It has also been seen that high intracranial pressure is caused in children with malaria and they also exhibit abnormal posturing. There are chances of brain damage in the disease and it can lead to cognitive impairment in children. Causes of malaria The causes of malaria are the protozoan parasites of the genus Plasmodium, which include the species like P. falciparum, P. malariae, P. ovale, P. vivax and P. knowlesi. Parasitic Plasmodium has been known to affect animals and bird species like birds, reptiles, monkeys, chimpanzees and rodents. There are various kinds of malaria also and it has been seen that malaria can lead to severe problems of the liver due to weakness in the body. Treatment for malaria The treatments for malaria vary and it has been seen that the active malaria infection, occurring due to P. falciparum, requires medical emergency treatment and hospitalization. The P. vivax, P. ovale or P. malariae does not require any hospitalization and can be treated through regular medical treatment. The best hospitals in Measles What is measles? Measles has been defined as the infection of the respiratory system that occurs due to a virus named paramyxovirus of the genus Morbillivirus. Like the other paramyxoviruses, even the traits of this virus are enveloped and single-stranded with negative sense RNA viruses. Some of the most common symptoms occurring due to this virus include cough, fever, runny nose, red eyes and a generalized erythematous rash. Basically measles spreads through respiration and occurs when people come in contact with fluids from an infected person. This can be through direct contact or even through aerosol transmission and is regarded highly contagious. It has been seen that almost 90% of people get affected from measles without immunity due to sharing a house with an infected person. The average incubation period and infectivity time for measles is 14 days, but this can range from Symptoms and causes of measles The most common symptoms of measles include runny nose, conjunctivitis or the redness of the eye and cough. It has been seen that fever can go up to 104° Fahrenheit. Apart from this Koplik spots can also been seen inside the mouth but they are transient and may disappear within a day. The other symptoms of measles include rashes, which are generalized but the maculopapular and erythematous rash usually starts several days after the fever. There are cases where it may also occur before the fever and spreads in most of the body causing itching. This rash is diagnosed as the stain and it changes color from red to dark brown before disappearing totally. Basically measles is caused due to a virus and hence there are no specific courses prescribed for it and the doctor usually gives the medicine after evaluating the situation. Diagnosis and treatment of measles Usually the clinical diagnosis of measles needs the history of fever of at least three days along with observation of the other symptoms of the disease. It has been seen that the laboratory diagnosis of measles is done with the confirmation of positive measles. Here the antibodies or isolation of measles virus RNA are taken for the tests. There are cases where the secondary vaccine failure happens and the antibody may not be present. But the common symptoms like nausea and headaches may occur. Measles occurs mostly in children but can also happen to adults. Any contact of semen, saliva or even mucus with the infected person can cause measles. There are no specific treatments or antiviral therapy available for measles and hospitalization may be required in serious cases. Some of the best hospitals for treating measles in Measles can be prevented in infants till 6 months after birth because of the immunity passed on from their mothers. The kids older than 6 months can take the measles-mumps-rubella immunizations or MMR, which includes the vaccination for measles. Scurvy What are scurvy and its symptoms? The term scurvy has been used to define a disease, which results from a deficiency of vitamin C. This vitamin is required for the synthesis of collagen in humans and hence ascorbic acid, the chemical name for vitamin C has been derived from the Latin name of scurvy, called scorbutus. Basically scurvy leads to the formation of spots on the skin and also leads to spongy gums and bleeding from the mucous membranes, which are also the main symptoms of the disease. It has been seen that in some extreme cases, these spots are abundant on the thighs and legs. Other related symptoms of scurvy include a pale look on the face of the patient along with the feeling of depression. The patient would also be partially immobilized in cases of advanced scurvy, which are followed by open wounds and loss of teeth. History of scurvy The disease had been common among sailors, pirates and others workers on ships, who would be at sea for a very long time. These workers would be deprived of fruits and vegetables and were separated from these foods for extended periods. This ailment does not occur in most animals since they are able to synthesize their own vitamin C. However humans and other primates along with guinea pigs lack the enzyme necessary for such synthesis. Hence such organisms need to obtain vitamin C through their diet, which is available in high concentrations occurring in citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, and tomatoes, potatoes, cabbages, and green peppers. The causes of scurvy Basically the main cause of scurvy is the total abstinence from fresh vegetable food, and greens. This has often been termed as the primary cause of the disease and the cure for the same is consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables as a cure. Earlier citrus juices like lemon or lime juice would be added to the recipe of the traditional daily ration to ensure the avoidance of this disease. Prevention and treatment of scurvy The best prevention and treatment for scurvy is the inclusion of ascorbic acid or Vitamin C in the food. This is the only food substance needed by humans for preventing this disease, which occurs in the gums, bones, and blood vessels. Through these fruits the body’s resistance to infection can be increased and the disease can be avoided all together. Basically the ascorbic acid acts as an antioxidant and neutralizes the tissue-damaging effects of substances in the environment. These damaging tissues are known as free radicals and lead to scurvy. The best treatments for this disease can be availed at the Apollo hospital along with NIHAMS. But it should be remembered that prevention of this disease is better than cure and hence you should ensure consumption of ample citrus fruits along with vegetables that contain vitamin C. This will ensure that you have a balanced diet and would also help you to improve your overall immunity level and capacity to fight against different diseases. Sexual Impotence What is sexual impotence? The term sexual impotence has also been defined as erectile dysfunction and this is one of the most common problems, which affects most men. It has been seen that this problem affects all men at least once during their lifetime and the occurrence of erectile dysfunction varies with age. It has been seen that this ailment increases in the proportion of affected men and the largest increase is seen in men in the range of 60-69 years. Most men suffer from severe forms of erectile dysfunction, which has been largely associated to age, chronic health problems or psychological problems. It has been seen that in earlier times sexual impotence had been regarded as being caused due to psychic causes, but it has been proven that almost 90 % of all cases of erectile dysfunction have organic causes. Symptoms of sexual impotence The only symptom of sexual impotence is the lack of sexual performance, which is also known as erectile dysfunction, or the non capability to perform sexually. Causes of erectile dysfunction There are basically two kinds of causes for sexual impotency and these include physiological causes and psychological causes. The physiological causes include diabetes, peripheral vascular diseases, imbalances in the sexual hormones and also the impact of medications on the body. Also the impact of these causes can range from the easily avoidable or curable causes to very severe causes where no cure for the ailment can be found. Some of the most common causes for the problem include lack of blood supply to the penis, the side effect of medicines and drugs, hormonal disorders, disorders of the nervous system, physical damage to the penis and various other complex or multi-systemic diseases. Apart from this the psychological causes of the ailment include lack of self esteem, depression and other related problems. Treatments for sexual impotence Basically there are two kinds of treatments for sexual impotence and these include homemade treatments and medications. The homemade treatments include options like us of garlic, which is considered as on of the most remarkable home remedies since it is natural and harmless aphrodisiac. The other treatment at home can be done through the use of onion, which is also another important aphrodisiac food and it comes second only to garlic. Both these foods increase libido and strengthens the reproductive organs. The other treatments for this problem include the consumption of oral tablets and vasoactive drugs that are injected into the penis. Treatments for sexual impotence also include vacuum pumps and implantable penis prostheses along with use of Viagra. Basically these are some of the most common treatments available for dealing with this problem but there are cases where surgeries are required to treat the same. The best treatments for sexual impotency can be availed at the Leelavati hospital, Mumbai and AIIMS, Sinusitis What is sinusitis or sinus? Basically the term sinusitis has been associated with the feeling of lousiness and a heavy head, which persists through out the day and wants the person suffering from the same to sleep all the time. Sinus also results in coughing and sneezing and feeling of lethargy. The term sinus has been associated with the hollow air spaces in the human body. The term, having a sinus attack has been referred to one or more of four pairs of sinuses, which are also known as Different types of sinuses There are different kinds of sinuses which exist and hence they also affect different areas of the body. Basically these cavities are located within the skull or bones of the head, which surround the nose. These sinus areas include the frontal sinuses over the eyes in the brow area. Then there are the maxillary sinuses, which occur inside each cheekbone. The Ethmoid sinusitis occurs right behind the bridge of the nose and between the eyes and the sphenoid sinusitis occurs behind the ethmoids in the upper region of the nose and also behind the eyes. Causes of sinusitis It has been seen that every sinusitis has an opening into the nose, which allows free exchange of air and mucus, and also joins the nasal passages through a continuous mucous membrane lining. Therefore, anything that causes or leads to swelling in the nose can trigger of sinus problems and these include infections, allergic reactions and immune reactions also. The air trapped within a blocked sinus may also result in pus or other secretions and this leads to a pressure on the sinus wall. Hence this causes a sinus attack and if air is prevented from entering a para-nasal sinus, through the swollen membrane, then a vacuum can be created that causes pain. What are the symptoms of sinus? The most common symptom of the sinusitis is headache when you wake up in the morning. In most cases there is pain in the forehead over the frontal sinuses along with heaviness while bending the head. Often infections in the maxillary sinuses can lead to upper jaw and teeth to ache along with tenderness of the cheek. The ethmoid sinuses are near the tear ducts and inflammation of these cavities leads to swelling of the eyelids and tissues around the eyes. The sphenoid sinuses are less frequent and they cause earaches, neck pain, and headaches. There are various other symptoms, which are associated with sinusitis and these include fever, weakness, tiredness, coughing and even a running nose. Treatments for sinusitis Basically the treatments for sinusitis include the self help relieving treatments, homemade treatments and medications. The self-help relieving treatments include steam inhalation and application of gentle heat over the affected area. Then there are homeopathic treatment for sinusitis like Hepar sulph and Silicea. Regular medications are required in advanced cases or frequently occurring cases and the best treatments for the problem of sinuses can be availed at Apollo hospitals and PGIMER, Skin Abrasion Dealing with Skin Abrasion The term skin abrasions have been commonly used for sports injuries and other similar kinds of injuries, which result in deep wounds and cuts on the skin. These injuries are usually caused by a fall on a hard surface. For instance, if an athlete falls or slides on the ground then the friction leads to layers of the skin to rub off. Since the skin is made of an outer layer called the epidermis, it is also provided protection by the same. Then there are also other layers in the skin like a deep inner layer called the dermis, which helps the skin by giving it firmness and flexibility of the skin. Hence these skin abrasions can be referred to as injuries that remove these layers of skin. Athletes are most prone to these injuries and often the cyclists and runners are getting these problems. Symptoms of skin abrasion In skin abrasion there is a painful and severe abrasion of the skin. Usually the skin scrapes do not extend into the dermis in regular injuries and hence they don't cause a great deal of bleeding. But with skin abrasions there may be no blood loss or little blood loss, which can be followed by a great deal of pain and the nerve endings are exposed. Causes of skin abrasion The most common causes of skin abrasion are injuries or sudden falls in which the person loses his or her balance. The other causes of skin abrasion can be the severe rubbing of the skin against a hard surface along with other related symptoms. Treatment for skin abrasions One of the most conventional treatments for skin abrasions is cleaning the wound with mild soap and water or a mild antiseptic wash. These include washes that contain hydrogen peroxide, and the entire affected area should be covered with an antibiotic ointment and a dry dressing. But it has been seen that using too much of hydrogen peroxide may actually cause harm to the tissue and delay the healing process. If there is a severe abrasion on the skin then a doctor should be consulted and there are some factors that should be implemented to promote healing. Since skin abrasions can be easily infected, you should clean the area thoroughly and ensure that you remove any dirt and debris. You should apply a nontoxic surfactant such as the 0.9 sodium chloride, with a bit of pressure on the area and use clean gauze to gently scrub the area. The area should not be rubbed vigorously as this can lead to added problems. The other option here is using a semi-permeable dressing so that you can cover the wound and attach the dressing with adhesive tape, which should be changed every few days. At times taking tetanus is required and though most skin abrasions can be dealt with through home treatments, there are some serious cases, which require medication and professional dressing. The treatments for these skin abrasions are available at all hospitals across the country. Snoring What is snoring? The term snoring has been used to define the vibration of respiratory structures and the resulting sound, which occurs mostly when people are asleep. The snoring sound is caused due to obstructed air movement during breathing while sleeping. It has been seen that the level of snoring varies largely from person to person and in some cases the sound may be soft but there are some cases where snoring can be rather loud and quite unpleasant. Basically snoring is the result of the structures of the uvula and soft palate and irregular airflow, which may be caused by a blockage. Symptoms of snoring The most common symptom of snoring is the sound which most people make while they are sleeping. It has been seen that many people snore softly and hence their snores are almost unheard, but if the person is snoring too loudly then it can lead to added trouble for the partner and also for the person who snores. Causes of snoring It has been proven that snoring is caused by a narrowing of the airway, which can be caused due to poor sleep posture or abnormalities of the soft tissues in the throat. If the narrow airway gets in between the path of smooth breathing then it creates the sound of snoring. Usually people who snore have throat and nasal tissue, which is more prone to vibration and in this reference even the tongue can also get in the way of smooth breathing. The most common causes of snoring include weakness of the throat which causes the throat to close during sleep. Then there is the problem of a poorly positioned jaw that is caused by tension in the muscles along with a fat gathering in and around the throat. Any kind of obstruction in the nasal passageway also leads to snoring. Treatment for snoring There are various kinds of treatments for snoring and these include physical treatments, medication, surgeries and even homemade treatments. It has been seen that treatments for snoring revolve around clearing the blockage for the breathing passage. Snorers are advised to lose weight as it has been seen prevention of fat in the throat. The other factors that can help to prevent or stop snoring include reducing smoking as it chokes the throat. The other methods of preventing snoring include sleeping on the side as this stops the tongue from blocking the throat. There are various other medicines available over the counter for treating snoring and these include nose clips, lubricating sprays and even anti-snore pillows. Apart from these methods there are also surgical procedures to get rid of snoring problems, but these are advised only in extreme cases. It should be remembered that snoring has been recognized as a medical problem and the people who snore should always seek professional medical advice before they start implementing these techniques. Some of the best treatments for snoring can be availed at hospitals like Lilavati hospital Mumbai along with other general hospitals around the country. Sore throat What is sore throat? The term sore throat or Pharyngitis has been defined as the inflammation of the throat or pharynx. It has been seen in most cases that sore throat is painful, and is often referred to as Pharyngitis. In most of the cases the inflammation of the tonsil or the tonsillitis occurs here along with larynx or laryngitis, which makes the problem worse. The entire ordeal can make eating difficult or painful and often results in very large tonsils that lead to trouble in swallowing and breathing. There are some severe forms of sore throats that are accompanied by a cough or fever. Symptoms of sore throat It has been seen that some of the most common symptoms of sore throat are trouble while eating and swallowing along with pain in the area. The neck and the throat hurt internally and in most cases these are caused by viral infections. However the pain in the throat can also be due to various other reasons and hence you should always consult a professional to ensure that your problem of sore throat is not misunderstood for another throat problem. Causes of sore throat It has been seen that some of the most common causes of sore throat include viral infections, which are the major source of this problem. The other causes of sore throat include bacterial infections, fungal infections, or irritants of the environment like pollutants or chemical substances. The pharynx in the throat is the common site of infection as the viruses and bacteria settle in this part of the body immediately. When a person inhales dust or water vapor containing the microorganisms, then the pharynx is the first part, where these particles and bacteria settle. It has been seen that the infection can also arise if an infected person touches the nose or mouth of another person. Sharing the infected object can also lead to sore throat and hence personal hygiene should be maintained. Different kinds of treatments for sore throat Basically there are various kinds of treatments for sore throat and these include- a) Symptomatic treatments In these forms of treatments analgesics and acetaminophen are used to reduce the pain associated with a sore throat. Use of steroids in a single dose reduces symptoms and this can be given by mouth or intra-muscularly to cure a sore throat. Then the use of viscous lidocaine also helps to relieve pain by numbing the mucus membranes of the throat. b) Remedial treatments In most cases remedial treatments like antibiotics are useful to treat bacterial infection that cause sore throat. But these are not affective in treating viral sore throats and hence antiviral treatments are required. Then there are alternative and home made treatments also available for treating these problems, which include use of lemon juice. It has been proven that lemon and honey taken hot at night helps to treat sore throats. Sore throats can be treated at most of the hospitals and centers across the country, with medication required in extreme cases. Sprain What is sprain and what are its causes? The term sprain has been derived from the French espraindre, which means to wring. Basically the sprain can be defined as an injury which occurs to ligaments. This is caused by the muscles being stretched beyond their normal capacity and there are also risks of them getting torn. It has been seen that muscular tears caused in the same manner are known as strains. There are instances where a muscle tissue is torn and thus immobilization and surgical repair may be required. The main causes of sprain are physical activities that stretch the muscles beyond their capacity and hence strenuous exercises, sudden and jerky movements, lifting of heavy weights and other similar reasons which lead to this problem. The symptoms of sprain It has been seen that some signs and symptoms are used for assessing the severity of a sprain but the most definitive method in this regard is the use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, also known as MRI. The symptoms of pain are different and hence a mild second-degree sprained ankle could rotate inwards but not outwards. The most common signs and symptoms associated with them are the cardinal signs. The inflammation of a particular muscle or body part, pain that is localized and swelling is the most common symptoms of pain. The loss of function and inability to perform normal limb functions along with decrease in elasticity of ligament are the most common symptoms of pain. Different degrees of pain Basically the sprains are graded in five degrees and these vary upon the intensity of damage to the muscle. In the first degree sprain there is only a minor tear or stretch of a ligament. However in the second degree the tear of a ligament is usually followed by pain or swelling while in the third there is a complete rupture. In the fourth degree the ligament breaks along with some small bones, depending on the injuries. And in the fifth degree there are tears in all the ligaments and surrounding bones also break. Usually the only solution here is amputation and surgery does not help. Treatments for sprain Some of the best treatments for sprain can be availed at the Lilavati hospital in Mumbai and AIIMS New Delhi. The four fold method of ‘RICE’ is used here which is the acronym for rest, ice, compression and elevation. Here the sprain should be rested and the patient should ensure that no additional force is applied on site of the sprain. Immediate application of ice on the affected area would help to minimize swelling and ease pain. Dressings and bandages help in compression and maintaining the balance of the joints. Apart from this keeping the sprained joint elevated and above the heart level would help to minimize swelling. These methods can be done at home also but professional advice should be sought if there is intense swelling or inflammation of the region as the chances of fractures are very high with sprains. Stomach Ache What is stomach ache and associated symptoms? Stomach ache or abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms that have been associated with transient disorders and other serious diseases. Hence making a definitive diagnosis about the causes of abdominal pain can be difficult since there are various kinds of diseases that may result in this symptom. There are dual factors that cause these pains and these are the regular pains, which don’t need any serious medical intervention and then there are the more serious causes, which need serious medical intervention. The symptoms of Stomach ache include pain in the area between the groin and the chest. In most cases it has been seen that this pain can continue for hours, while in other cases the pain comes and goes in intervals. Hence understanding these symptoms are vital for determining the cause of stomach pain. There are various kinds of temporary and permanent causes of these ailments and understanding the symptoms for the same is one of the most vital aspects of treating this disease. Causes of stomach pain There are various kinds of causes of stomach pain and these are associated with the different parts of the body and related organs. These include gastrointestinal pain and inflammatory stomach aches, which are caused due to gastroenteritis, appendicitis, gastritis, and esophagitis and other related diseases. Then there are obstruction stomach pains, which are caused by tumors, hernia, intussusceptions, volvulus, post-surgical adhesions, superior mesenteric artery syndrome, severe constipation and even hemorrhoids. The vascular causes of stomach pain include sickle cell disease, embolism, thrombosis, hemorrhage, abdominal angina, blood vessel compression and other related causes. Then there are digestive causes of stomach pain that include peptic ulcer, lactose intolerance and other related causes. However in most cases indigestion, menstrual cramps, food poisoning, kidney stones, urinary infections and other related symptoms are the causes of stomach pain. Treatments for stomach pains There are two kinds of treatments for stomach aches and these include the natural treatments and the medicinal treatments. The natural treatments for stomach include consumption of lemon tea with some honey. You can also mix 1 tsp each of mint juice and limejuice along with ginger juice and black salt and drink this mixture. A grated piece of ginger can be squeezed for its juice and this can be applied on the bottom of the belly with a gentle massage gently. Other remedies include drinking lots of water, eating fibrous fruits and vegetables for smooth bowel movements, avoiding spicy foods and regular exercises. There are various kinds of serious problems associated with stomach and these include pain due to appendix and hernia, which can be treated through surgery. Hence if the home made remedies don’t work, then professional help should be taken to get a solution for the problem of stomach ache and perform the required tests too. Some of the best treatments for these stomach ache problems can be availed at the Apollo hospitals along with other general hospitals across the country. Stress What is stress? The term stress has been defined as the state in which there is a demand on physical or mental energy and this is actually a condition or circumstance that disturbs the normal physical and mental health of an individual. The perturbation of the body's homeostasis can be defined as stress and the demand occurs on the mind and the body when it tries to cope with incessant changes in life. Basically stress can affect both the mind and the body, unlike depression, which only affects the mind. The problem of stress is relative in nature and in extreme stress conditions this can have a negative impact on life. In many cases stress can have a positive impact as it motivates the body and the mind to function faster and smoothly. Causes of stress The demands of relationship, mental health problems, pressure at workplaces, meeting deadlines, growing-up tensions and other related mind problems are the main causes of stress. There are different causes of stress and these include Biological factors, Psychological factors and even Social factors. The biological causes of stress include exertion on the nerve impulses in our brain and nerves along with genetic factors. This also includes physical and mental features along with the genes in the cells and hormonal imbalances in the body, which are leading to stress of various kinds, especially in women. Often menopause and the menstrual cycles have been associated with stress. Symptoms of stress Symptoms of stress include intense pressure on the mind and the body along with lack of interest in pleasure and normal activities. People with stress can suffer from sleep disturbances or oversleeping, then there are alterations in appetite and decreased energy level. Most of the people suffering from these symptoms feel helpless and thoughts of suicide are also caused due to stress and this is also associated with depression. The people suffering from stress feel low or may become very aggressive even when they are given a lot of advice by friends and relatives Feelings of lethargy, low energy and drastic mood swings indicate that the person may be suffering from stress. Treatments for stress The treatments for stress include both psychological and physical factors and hence medicines and therapy. It should be remembered that along with treatments the body and the mind also need to relax and unwind and hence in most cases doctors advise the patients to take a break from their regular routines and take a vacation. Anti depressants, which include adequate dosage, can be given to the patients who suffer from stress and depression. Some hospitals for treating stress include NIMHANS, Stretch Marks Removal What are stretch marks? The term stretch marks or striae have been used in dermatology to define a form of scarring on the skin with an off-color hue. Basically these stretch marks are caused by tearing of the dermis and the may diminish but not disappear completely over time. There is a general misconception about stretch marks and them being a result of the rapid stretching of the skin, which is associated with rapid growth or weight gain, especially during pregnancy or muscle building. Due to these factors the skin overcomes the dermis's elasticity but it has been seen that stretch marks are influenced by hormonal changes. These changes are mostly associated with puberty, pregnancy, muscle building and rapid muscle growth. Appearance of the stretch marks on the skin is like a reddish or purple line that tends fade gradually and the areas that were affected appear empty and are soft to the touch. These stretch marks occur in the dermis and they cannot form support within the dermis. These marks can appear anywhere on the body but they occur mostly in places where fat is stored like breasts, upper arms, underarms, thighs and the butts. The causes of stretch marks The causes of stretch marks are the glucocorticoid hormones that affect the epidermis by preventing the fibroblasts in forming collagen and elastin fibers. Both of these are required to keep rapidly growing skin taut and this leads to lack of supportive material. Hence the skin is stretched and there is dermal and epidermal tearing. Often the epidermis and the dermis may be penetrated and thus the laser surgeries also don’t help to remove the stretch marks. Since the skin is subjected to more stretching force the hormonal changes and genetics influences, along with diet and exercises are the major causes of this problem. Prevention and removal of stretch marks It has been seen that a lot of women develop stretch marks to some degree during pregnancy with the stretch marks appearing during the sixth or seventh month or the 3rd trimester. At this time the skin is subjected to higher levels of stretching forces. In this reference the use of oils or creams can prevent the development of stretch marks. The creams that contain Centella asiatica extract, vitamin E, and collagen-elastin hydrolysates result in fewer stretch marks during pregnancy. Even the use of cocoa butter has been suggested in preventing these marks. In this reference prevention of these marks is easier than trying to treat them. There are various kinds of laser treatments and prescription retinoid that can be used for treating this problem. Surgical removals of stretch marks have also been suggested in this reference and they have proven to be effective in many cases. It should be remembered that professional help should be taken if these stretch marks don’t fade away with creams and oils. Treatments and remedial solutions for these stretch marks are available over the counter and through renowned physicians across the country. Sunburn What is sunburn? The term sunburn has been used to define the burn to living tissue such as skin, which is caused due to overexposure to ultraviolet radiation or sun's rays. Usually the most common symptoms of sunburn are reddish skin along with fatigue and mild dizziness. But there are chances where excess of UV-radiation can be dangerous and should be treated immediately. The exposure of the skin to lesser amounts of UV radiation is also known as suntan. Sunburn can happen to anyone and those who are out in the sun for a major part of the day are the most prone to this problem. Also people who spend too much time on the beach or bathe without sunscreen can get sunburn due to prolonged exposure. Sunburn and its symptoms Some of the most common symptoms of sunburn include mild and minor skin redness and irritation. But if this left untreated then this can become painful and in extreme conditions this can also lead to death. The skin turns red about 2-6 hours after exposure and there is constant irritation of the skin too. In many severe cases complicated and severe skin burning and blistering along with massive fluid loss and dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and infection can be followed. The other common symptoms are getting chills, fever, vomiting and nausea, and symptoms similar to the flu. The symptoms of sunburn can also be fine blisters that peel off to reveal red and raw skin underneath Sunburn and its causes Sunburn is caused due to excess exposure from ultraviolet or UV radiation. Traveling in certain parts of the world, where the impact of the sun is felt most can also lead to sunburn. Then some light-skinned people are at greater risk of sunburn injury and those who had recent sun exposure are prone to suffering from this problem again. Treatment for sun burn The best treatments for sunburn can be done at home where you can implement preventive measures for avoiding too much sun and also avoid unduly exposure. The other options of treating sunburn are avoiding going out too much in the sun, covering the skin and other related measures. Then there are various medications like aspirin that help to relieve the pain caused due to sunburn. For milder burns you can apply a cool compress with equal parts of milk and water and change your clothing every few hours. There are various aloe-based lotions that are commercially available and these help to relieve sunburn. Also the ice baths can help to reduce the pain and problems caused by sunburn but you should avoid bath salts, oils, and perfumes along with scrubbing the skin or shaving the skin. There are various treatment centers across the country like Tata Memorial hospital Mumbai, where you can avail treatments for these problems, especially for those who have been suffering from severe cases of sunburn. You should always consult a physician if the sunburn gets worse or if you are not getting relief from home treatments. Tinnitus What are Tinnitus and its related symptoms? The term tinnitus has been used to define the ringing, swishing and other similar kinds of noise that seems to originate in the ear or head. It has been seen that in most cases this noise is not a serious problem but there are some cases where the problem may emerge as a nuisance and causes hazards to the person. Basically tinnitus is not a single disease but is actually the symptom of an underlying condition. This is a very common condition from which a lot of people suffer and most of them are able to hear the noise which occurs in the head or the ear. The most common symptoms of tinnitus are the swishing and ringing noise, which occurs in the ear or the head and continues over a period of time. What are the causes of tinnitus? Tinnitus can be caused due to various factors and it can affect any of the four sections of the ear. These include the outer ear, the middle ear, inner ear, and finally the brain. It has been seen that in some cases tinnitus or head noise is normal and is most commonly heard when one goes into a sound proof booth. In such places the normal outside noise is diminished and the person is aware of these normal sounds, which most people are not aware of, as the outside noise masks them. The causes of these noises can vary from wax or a foreign body in the external ear to more serious causes. The external bodies block these background sounds and thus make the person more aware about the head sounds. Also the other causes of tinnitus include fluid, infection, or disease of the middle ear bones. Some of the most common causes of tinnitus are the damage to the microscopic endings of the hearing nerve, which is located in the inner ear. With advancing age hearing nerve impairment and tinnitus are a common occurrence. But these days even loud noise exposure is a common cause of tinnitus and it can also damage. But most people are unconcerned about the harmful effects of excessively loud noise that are caused by loud music, traffic, crackers, etc. What are the treatments of tinnitus? There are various ENT or ear nose specialists located in different hospitals across the world, which can help you to deal with this problem. It has been seen that a careful evaluation of the problem is required so that the doctor may find an identifiable cause of tinnitus. Once these causes are determined the doctor can prescribe medicines for the same. However there is no specific treatment for tinnitus and at times it just goes away on its own. But there are some people who live with the problem for life. There are a lot of ways to prevent this problem and avoiding hearing loud music, use of cotton rolls for blocking out loud noises and regular cleansing of the ears are the best methods for the same. Tired Eyes What are the symptoms of Tired Eyes? These days there has been an increasing demand of pressures at workplace along with pressure at home and hence people today frequently experience tired eyes. However the problem of tired eyes is not a very serious ailment but it should be treated on time, to avoid damages to the vision and avoiding other related problems. Remember that if the tired eyes are left untreated then they can result in blurred or double vision. It has also been seen that stressful lifestyle are one of the major causes of tired eyes and the symptoms of tired eyes include heaviness in the eyes and head. In this condition the patient suffers from puffiness around the eyes along with heaviness in the head. Some of the major causes related to it are the lack of sleep, eyestrain, fatigue, conjunctivitis, excessive crying and other related reasons. The symptoms of tired eyes include heaviness in the eyes, irritation in the eyes, redness of the eyes, burning sensation, sore eyes, itchiness, watery eyes and increased sensitivity to light. The causes of tired eyes There are various kinds of factors that cause tired eyes and these include biological and physical factors along with slight strain on the mind also. The most common causes of tired eyes are fatigue, lack of sleep, allergy, strain on the eyes, conjunctivitis, excessive crying, inadequate oxygen supply to the cornea, pollution, over use of computer or video monitor, extended reading periods, excess exposure to bright light or glare and strain on the eye due to dim light. Remedies and treatment for tired eyes There are various kinds of treatments for tired eyes available and usually the home made treatments are suffice to deal with the problem, with medication not required in most cases. You can place two spoons in the freezer and take them out when they are cold and place them on the eyes. The other suggestion here is dip cotton balls in tea water and leave them on the eye lid for a while. You can do the same with slices of potatoes and cucumber to get relief from the puffiness. Other suggestions here include washing the eyes regularly with cold water as this helps the eyes relax and also remove any kind of tiredness. You can also dip cotton balls in cold milk and place it over the eyelids. A few drops of lavender oil can be added to the solution for reducing puffiness. You can place a cold strawberry on each eye to reduce the symptoms of puffy and tired eyes. Apart from this you should implement preventive measures like avoiding strain on the eyes or giving the eyes a break from constant work. This would help to reduce the pressure on the eyes and medication can also be taken if the tired eyes are leading to blurry vision or other related symptoms. Regular washing of the eyes and avoid itching the eye or scratching the eye is essential to reduce the impact of tired eyes. Toe Nail Fungus What is the Toe Nail Fungus? The term Toenail fungus has been also known as Onychomycosis, which affects a lot of people. Basically this ailment is rare in children, but the incidence increases with age. It has been seen that fungus infections occur when microscopic fungi enter the toe through a small trauma in the nail. They grow with time and spread in the warm, moist environment, especially in people who wear socks and shoes. Symptoms of toenail fungus The most common symptoms of toenail fungus are swelling, yellowing, thickening or crumbling of the nail. Apart from this the toenails can have streaks or spots down the side of the nail and there can also be complete loss of the nail. In most of the cases the toenail color can vary from brown or yellow to white with the changing condition of the ailment. A lot of fungal infections can affect the fingernails and the toenails but it has been seen that toenail fungus is more difficult to treat since the toenails grow more slowly. This infection can occur anywhere in the toe and spread to other fingers. Causes of toenail fungus The toenail fungus can be caused due to exposure to damp areas such as public gyms, shower stalls or swimming pools. In many cases the infection can also be passed among family members. It has been seen that athletes and people who wear tight-fitting shoes and work out, are more prone to this ailment. This happens because the feet are prevented from drying and gradually the condition spreads. Apart from these causes, abnormal PH level of the skin also leads to this infection as it does not allow drying off the feet. Also not drying the feet and the toenails thoroughly after bathing or exercise can lead to this ailment. The people who have diabetics have an increased risk of contracting a toenail fungus since their immune system is weak and such people should get their nails cut by a podiatrist. Treatment and prevention of toenail fungus The treatment of the toenail fungus is difficult and hence you should try to prevent it all together. For this you should wear protective shoes or sandals in public showers, especially the pool areas and gyms. Also avoid borrowing somebody else’s shoes or socks to avoid toenail fungus. Apart from this you should wash your feet regularly and also dry them thoroughly when they get wet. People suffering from this infection should avoid wearing nail polish on the toes as this can seal in the fungus and allow it to grow. Try and keep toenails trimmed and ensure that your beautician disinfects the pedicure tools before using them. You should always consult a doctor for finding methods of trimming, filing or dissolving the fungus. You can use medicated nail polish and other suggested medicines given by the doctor. Some of the best treatments for such ailments can be availed at general hospitals and treatment centers along with specialized units like AIIMS. Tonsillitis What is tonsillitis? The term Tonsillitis has been used to define the infection of the tonsils, which often causes a sore throat and fever and this ailment is caused due to the inflammation of the tonsils, which are the fleshy clusters of tissue on both sides of the back of the throat. The initial function of the tonsils had been to fight off germs that enter the body through the mouth but as the tonsils become enlarged and red, they tend to get coated with a yellow, gray, or white substance. There are some types of tonsillitis that are contagious and they spread person to person via throat or nasal fluids, of the person who is infected. Most people with tonsillitis have a sore throat which is accompanied by fever, swollen glands in the neck and also trouble in swallowing. Types of tonsillitis There are various kinds of tonsillitis found today and these include acute, sub-acute and chronic forms of tonsillitis. It has been seen that acute tonsillitis can either be bacterial or viral while the sub-acute tonsillitis is caused by the bacterium Actinomyces. The cause of the chronic tonsillitis, which lasts for very long periods if not treated, is caused by bacterial infection. Symptoms of tonsillitis The symptoms of tonsillitis include a severe sore throat that occurs with pain in the area and trouble in swallowing. This is followed by crouch coughing, headache, fever and chills. Most of the times, tonsillitis is characterized by signs of red and swollen tonsils, along with tender neck cervical lymph nodes. There are chances that there may also be a yellowish and whitish patch on the tonsils. Causes of tonsillitis The causes of tonsillitis are many and they are mainly caused by streptococcal bacteria that result in throat infections. Viral tonsillitis can be due to numerous viruses like Epstein-Barr virus or Adenovirus. There are also times when tonsillitis is caused by a superior infection of spirochaeta and treponema. It should be kept in mind that although tonsillitis are associated with infection, it is still not known if the swelling and other symptoms are caused by the infectious agents or because of the host immune response towards these agents. The causes of tonsillitis may also be aberrant immune responses to the normal bacterial flora. Treatments for tonsillitis Some of the best treatments for tonsillitis are doing gargles with warm water with salt and turmeric. The turmeric acts as an antiseptic and helps to heal the infection caused due to tonsillitis. The other treatments for tonsillitis include pain management medications, lozenges and other homeopathy treatments. The tonsillitis is caused by bacteria at times and in such cases even antibiotics are prescribed with penicillin. In some cases operation of the tonsillitis may be suggested to get rid of a severe complication. Treatments for this problem can be availed at Tata memorial hospital, Apollo hospitals and other clinics. Tonsillitis is not a complicated problem but leaving it untreated can lead to serious ailments and trouble for the person suffering from the same. Toothache What is a toothache and what are its causes? As the name suggests, toothaches are the pain caused in the teeth and the gums and they are also known as odontalgia or odontalgy. This is basically an aching pain in or around a tooth and these is caused by problems in the tooth or jaw. Some of the most common reasons for toothaches include cavities and gum diseases along with occurrence of the wisdom teeth. The toothache can also be caused due to a cracked tooth, infected dental pulp, which is due to a root canal treatment or extraction of the tooth, exposure of the teeth to very hot or cold foods and jaw diseases. There are some other causes of toothache and in some cases this toothache has been associated as a symptom of diseases of the heart like angina or a myocardial infarction, which is because of the referred pain. In most cases extraction of one or more teeth leads to the development of a dry socket that leads to extreme pain. Hence the severity of a toothache also varies depending on its causes and ranges from a mild discomfort to excruciating pain. Toothaches can be experienced either chronically or sporadically and most of the times the pain is aggravated by chewing or by hot or cold temperatures. To understand the cause of the toothache an oral examination with X-rays can help. There are cases where severe pain can also lead to dental emergency. There are special conditions known as barodontalgia, where a dental pain is evoked due to changes in barometric pressure and occurs in otherwise asymptomatic but diseased teeth causing toothache. The atypical odontalgia is a form of toothache present in normal teeth and results in dull pain, which moves from one tooth to another. This pain can range for a period of 4 months to several years and usually happens in middle-aged women. Symptoms of toothaches The most common symptoms of toothaches are pain in the affected area, which can range from dull to severe pains. It has been seen that these toothaches are sometimes caused due to irritation of the pulp, known as pulpitis. Some toothaches are reversible while others are irreversible. Usually in the irreversible pulpitis the sensitivity and pain lasts longer than fifteen seconds and the teeth affected by irreversible pulpitis would require surgery or extraction. These toothaches are the symptoms of tooth decay and a dentist should be consulted to find the root cause of this problem. Treatments for toothache If you are suffering from toothaches, then it is best to consult the dentist and understand the underlying problem. These services can also be availed across hospitals in the country, where dentists have chambers. Some home treatments for toothaches include gargles with warm water, application of alcohol or clove oil or nutmeg oil to the effected tooth or area and the consumption of pain killers to soothe the pain. However if the affected area is not getting relief you should seek professional help immediately as teeth are prone to decay. Tuberculosis What is Tuberculosis and its causes? TB is the abbreviation for tubercle bacillus or Tuberculosis, which has been a common and deadly infectious disease. This disease is caused by mycobacterium and occurs mainly in humans mainly and this ailment usually attacks the lungs, which is referred to as pulmonary TB. However this ailment can also affect the central nervous system along with the circulatory system, lymphatic system, genitourinary system, the gastrointestinal system, bones, joints, and the skin too. There are various other mycobacterium’s that cause Tuberculosis and these include Mycobacterium bovis, Mycobacterium africanum, Mycobacterium canetti, and Mycobacterium microti. However these species are less common in human and affects animals. Even though Tuberculosis has been diagnosed as one of the most deadly forms of diseases, early diagnosis can help in reducing these traits and would help to treat the disease completely. Symptoms of Tuberculosis Some of the most common symptoms of tuberculosis are chronic cough with blood-tinged sputum. This can be followed by fever, night sweats, and drastic weight loss. It should be remembered that the infection of other organs causes a wide range of symptoms and hence the diagnosis for Tuberculosis should rely on radiology, which includes common chest X-rays, followed by a tuberculin skin test, blood tests and other microscopic examination and microbiological culture of bodily fluids. These tests would help in determining the nature of the Tuberculosis and also find the required treatment for the same. The fact that Tuberculosis is spread through the air makes people more prone to getting this disease and hence if people suffering from the disease cough, sneeze, or spit, then others can get it. Almost one third of the world's current population is affected with some form of TB, and most of these cases don’t develop the full-blown disease. This is also known as asymptomatic, latent infection, which is very common. However it should be remembered that at least one in ten of these latent infections would progress to active disease. If this disease is left untreated, then it usually kills more than half of its victims. Treatment of Tuberculosis The proper treatment ensures full recovery in most cases and there are several treatment protocols for active TB. These are in wide use by specialist and this change from time to time due to advances in understanding of optimal therapy. The three principles involved in treatment of TB include inclusion of several drugs to which the organisms are susceptible. Along with this the patient should be taking the medication on a regular basis and the therapy must continue for a sufficient time. Remember that along with these factors the treatment recommendations are subject to change as this largely depends on characteristics of the particular organism being treated and newer advances in therapeutic agents. Here the Isoniazid or the INH, is considered as one of the most common drugs used for TB and is an inexpensive, effective measure to prevent most cases of TB. Some of the best hospitals for treating TB in Urinary Tract Infection What is Urinary Tract Infection? The term Urinary Tract Infection has been also known as UTI and is defined as a bacterial infection, which can affect any part of the urinary tract. It should be remembered that even though urine contains a variety of fluids, salts, and waste products, there is no bacteria in it. But when the bacteria get into the bladder or kidney, it can multiply in the urine and lead to UTI. Some of the most common types of UTI are bladder infection, also often called cystitis. Another form of UTI is a kidney infection, which is known as pyelonephritis and is a more serious form. The all forms of UTI cause discomfort; they can be quickly and easily treated with a short course of antibiotics. Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection The symptoms for the two kinds of Urinary Tract Infection are different. The bladder infections symptoms include frequent urination and feeling of having to urinate but very little urine passes. This can be followed by nocturia, which is the need to urinate during the night and urethritis or the discomfort or pain at the urethral meatus. There can also be pain in the midline suprapubic region along with pus in the urine or discharge from the urethra. There are some people who also experience blood in urine accompanied by mild fever, cloudy and foul-smelling urine and protein found in the urine. The symptoms for kidney urinary infections include most of the above symptoms accompanied by vomiting, side flank or groin pain, abdominal pain or pressure and night sweats and very high fever, followed by extreme fatigue. Causes of Urinary Tract Infections UTI is caused due to bacteria from the bowel, which survives on the skin near the rectum or in the vagina and spread and enters the urinary tract through the urethra. If these bacteria enter the urethra, then they can move up causing infection in the bladder and other parts of the urinary tract. Some common causes of this disease include sexual intercourse as female anatomy can make women more prone to urinary tract infections. Frequent changing of partners is also one of the causes of this infection. Treatment for UTI One of the best treatments for UTI is antibiotics, which have been used to treat bladder infections and other urinary tract infections. Usually the treatment period ranges from seven to ten days and some infections may require only a single dose of antibiotics. Remember that you should take all antibiotics as prescribed and these should not be discontinued before the full course of antibiotic treatment is complete. Remember that even though symptoms may disappear soon after beginning antibiotic treatment, the infection is still not gone and can repeat. Some of the best treatments for these diseases can be availed at Lilavati hospital Mumbai and Apollo. Along with these medicines you should have a lot of water and fluids like coconut water and juices to heal the infection and ensure faster recovery from the same. Varicose Veins What are Varicose Veins? The term varicose veins have been used to define the veins that have become enlarged and twisted and commonly refer to the veins on the leg, but these can also occur elsewhere. Here the veins have leaflet valves, which prevent blood from flowing backwards and the leg muscles pump the veins to return blood to the heart. But as these veins become enlarged, the leaflets of the valves are unable to meet properly, and hence these valves don't work. Remember that as the blood collects in the veins they enlarge even more leading to further complications. The varicose veins are also known as superficial veins of the legs and these are prone to high pressure when standing. These varicose veins are often painful and cause the most trouble when a person is walking or standing. These veins usually itch, and scratching these veins can cause ulcers. The symptoms of varicose veins The most common symptoms of varicose veins include aching, heavy legs, which usually gets worse at night and after exercise. Along with this there is also the appearance of spider veins in the affected leg, which are followed by ankle swelling and a brownish-blue shiny skin discoloration. There is also redness, dryness, and itchiness in these areas, which is known as stasis dermatitis or venous eczema due to the waste products building up in the leg. Along with this there may be minor injuries to the area followed by bleeding. There are cases where skin above the ankle may shrink, also known as lipodermatosclerosis, and this occurs due to the fat underneath the skin becoming hard. The restless legs and scar like appearances on the legs are other common symptoms of these diseases. Causes of Varicose Veins The causes of varicose veins include weakened vein walls, which lose their elasticity as you age and this causes them to balloon-out or stretch. Valve failure, due to stretching prevents blood flowing from your legs and arms back to your heart and thus blood stagnates in the veins. Then there is also damage to the vein which can lead to this ailment and this can occur due to injury, blood clot or inflammation. Treatment of Varicose Veins The simple treatments for the people with mild varicose veins include compressing the leg veins through the support of stockings. This helps to squeeze the blood out of the engorged vein and thus reduce its size. There are some products that are specifically designed to meet these needs and they provide greater support around the ankles and lower legs as the varicose veins tend to be the longest and the most painful in these areas. There are various surgical procedures along with physiotherapy and other similar measures implemented to treat this problem. The Vomiting What is Vomiting? Vomiting has been commonly referred to as throwing up, emesis, and barfing. These are the terms used to define the forceful expulsion of the contents of one's stomach, which is done through the mouth and at times through the nose. The undesired vomiting has many causes and hence vomiting should not always be considered lightly. There are a lot of factors that may cause vomiting and these include gastritis or poisoning, brain tumors, or elevated intracranial pressure. The feeling of vomiting is termed as nausea and this is the most common symptom of vomiting. This condition precedes vomiting but may not always lead to vomiting. The uses of medicines are often necessary to suppress nausea and vomiting, especially if dehydration develops and the intravenous fluid requires medicinal supervision. It should be remembered that vomiting is different from regurgitation even though these are two terms which have been often used interchangeably. Basically regurgitation is the return of undigested food, which has not reached the stomach, and hence it comes back up the esophagus to the mouth. Both these problems have different causes and thus required different solutions. The concept of vomiting occurs in two phases and these are known as retching phase, where the abdominal muscles go through a few rounds of coordinated contractions, combined with the diaphragm and the muscles used in respiratory inspiration. In the next phase or the expulsive phase, there is an intense pressure formed in the stomach due to enormous shifts in both the diaphragm and the abdomen. Influenza What is Influenza? The term Influenza has been commonly known as the flu and this is an infectious and fatal disease. Influenza can affect birds and mammals caused by RNA viruses of the family of the influenza viruses also known as Orthomyxoviridae. The name influenza has been derived from the Italian name influenza, which means to influence and is known as influentia in Latin. The humans are affected largely by this disease and it can lead to some severe side effects and adverse health reactions. Some of the common symptoms of influenza include fever, chills, muscle pains, etc. Influenza can be fatal, particularly in young children and the aged and this is often confused with the common cold. However it should be remembered that influenza is a much more severe disease and is caused by a different type of virus. Some symptoms of the disease are also mistaken for the stomach flu. Types of influenza virus There are various kinds of influenza virus is an RNA virus of the family orthomyxoviridae and these include Influenza-virus A, Influenza-virus B, Influenza-virus C, Isavirus and Thogotovirus. The symptoms of influenza Some of the most common symptoms of influenza start quite suddenly and usually occur one to two days after infection. It has been seen that these symptoms include chills or a chilly sensation accompanied with fever early in the infection. At such times the body temperatures ranging from 38-39 °C or 100-103 °F, and most of the people fall so ill because of the flu that they are confined to bed for several days. The other regular symptoms of influenza fatigue, body aches, especially joints and throat aches, extreme coldness and fever, headaches, watering of the eyes, reddened skin and pain in the abdominal area. Most of the times, it can be difficult to distinguish between the common cold and influenza, especially in the early stages. The prevention of influenza Influenza vaccines have been discovered which are recommended for high-risk groups, like the children and the elderly. Also you should try and avoid using personal things of people infected with the flu as this disease is airborne. Try and eat healthier foods as a good immune system can fight back these diseases. Treatment for influenza Usually the people with the flu are advised to get plenty of rest and they should also drink plenty of liquids. The use of alcohol and tobacco should be avoided all together. Along with this professional help and medication is required and paracetamol or acetaminophen is given to relieve the fever and muscle aches associated with the flu. Hospitalization is required in a lot of cases and some of the best treatments for the flu can be availed at AIIMS, Lilavati hospital, Apollo and other such hospitals. No anti biotic medicines should be taken for the flu without consulting the doctor as the children and elderly can have adverse reactions to certain medicines. But along with medication you should give your body complete rest to ensure that the symptoms of the flu go away completely.
Treatment of vomiting
Basically the symptomatic treatment are suggested when the underlying illness is being investigated as the symptoms of vomiting need to be understood to treat the disease. It should be remembered that nausea and vomiting can be made worse if the patient is dehydrated and this results in a vicious cycle, which makes it difficult to drink fluid. Hence the dehydration is made worse and this leads to further problems. You can avail of anti-nausea medications from professionals and these include promethazine, prochlorperazine and other related medicines. The homemade treatments for vomiting include chewing gum or mint, or keeping cardamom and clove in the mouth. Chewing on digestive ingredients like asafetida and oregano are suggested. Though medications are required in severe cases, hospitalization is required only if the condition of the patient does not improve through home made remedies.
Warts
What are Warts?
The term warts have been used to define a generally small, rough tumor, which is formed typically on hands and feet. This is also known as verruca and can occur in other locations also. These warts resemble a cauliflower or a solid blister and they are a very common occurrence in human beings. These warts are common and are caused by a viral infection in the humans. They are specifically caused by the human papillomavirus or the HPV, which is contagious when in contact with the skin of an infected person. The symptoms of warts include the eruptions of these blisters like growth, on the hand and feet and one can get warts from using towels or other objects used by an infected person. These warts can last a few weeks, months or even a few years.
Causes of warts
The causes of warts vary largely and these are caused by a virus called human papilloma virus or HPV. It has been seen that there are approximately 100 strains of human papilloma viruses and the type 1, 2, and 3 causes most of the common warts. The different types of warts are associated with different causes and these include type 1 being associated with deep plantar or the sole of the feet and the palmar warts being linked to the palm of the hand. The types 2 are include filiform warts, plantar warts and mosaic plantar warts. The type 3 factors are responsible for plane warts, or commonly known as flat warts. It has been seen that the HPV types 6 and 11 cause about 90% of genital warts while the HPV types 16 and 18 cause 70% of cervical cancer cases along with some forms of vaginal, penile and anal cancers.
Different kinds of warts
There are different kinds of warts, which are based on their shapes, causes and other related factors. These include the common wart, which is raised wart with roughened surface. The flat wart is a smooth flattened wart and is flesh colored and occurs on the face, neck, hands, wrists and knees. The Filiform or digitate wart occurs near the eyelids and lips while the plantar wart is found on pressure points on the soles of the feet.
Treatments for warts
The treatments prescribed by a medical professional for warts include application of podophyllum resin paint, removal of dead surface skin cells through the use of salicylic acid, cryosurgery or freezing the wart and the surgical curettage of the wart. The homemade treatments for these warts include garlic, which can be applied as a paste over the area and should be left for a while. The use of castor oil on the affected area has also been an affective remedy for treating this problem. Cloves are beneficial in curing wart and should be applied gently over the infected area. Wart can be treated at centers across the country like PD Hinduja National Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mumbai and
Wrinkles
What are Wrinkles?
The wrinkles can defined as the folds or ridges or event the crease in the skin, which mostly occur as a result of aging processes. These include temporary or permanent sagging of the skin and include glycation, which occurs as the result of prolonged immersion in water. The most common symptoms of wrinkles are the appearance of fine lines on the face and the body, which include wrinkles on the cheeks, crows feet around the eyes and sagging of the skin.
Causes of wrinkles
It has been seen that wrinkles are mostly caused due to wind, heat and chemicals, which accentuate the natural effects of aging and lead to some amount of wrinkling in everyone. However it has been seen that these wrinkles occur most commonly in people who spend too much time in the sun and as result of years of exposure to the sun, photo-aging occurs that leads to roughness of the skin freckles, yellowing, visible blood vessels, and dark spots and wrinkling. The supporting structures of the skin are damaged by the sun exposure and this mainly affects the collagen and elastin, which leads them to weaken and break down. Also as the person gets older their sweat and oil glands of the skin become less numerous and smaller, which results in the skin drying out and hence leads to wrinkles. Along with these factors smoking may contribute to the formation of wrinkles and this is also predetermined genetically from one's parents.
It has also been seen that wrinkling in the skin is caused by habitual facial expressions and this includes habits of laughing, smirking, frowning and other similar reasons. Other factors that lead to wrinkles are unhealthy food and drink habits and it is suggested that you should eat lots of healthy fruits and vegetables and also drink lots of water to maintain good health.
Treatment of Wrinkles
Basically the treatments for wrinkles are two fold and these include prevention and curative measures. The most critical preventive measures for avoiding wrinkles are sun avoidance and sunscreen use as more aggressive wrinkle treatments may be futile without these steps. The physicians recommend daily moisturizing creams containing hydroxy acids as well as sunscreen to avoid the wrinkles formation. Remember that it would be difficult to repair deeply furrowed skin but dark spots, and rough skin along with wrinkles can be improved if you take measures like application of sunscreen. Along with this there are various kinds of face exercises that can be done to treat wrinkles and its formation.
Basically over the counter creams containing retinol or glycolic acid help in aggressive treatment for wrinkles. The use of prescription acid creams or peels or other serious medications can be used and these days’ dermatologists use injections of Botox or botulinum toxin and other related products to reduce wrinkles. The treatments for wrinkle reduction can be availed from cosmetic surgeons and hospitals like Apollo and Sri Ganga Ram hospital
Yeast Infection
What is Yeast Infection?
The term yeast infection is also known as Candidiasis, which is also known as Candidosis, Moniliasis and Oidiomycosis. The yeast infection is basically a fungal infection or mycosis, which can be of any of the Candida species. The Candida albicans is the most common in these kinds of infections and they include superficial kinds like oral thrush and vaginitis. They may also occur as systemic and potentially life-threatening diseases and are usually confined to severely immuno-compromised persons like those suffering from cancer, transplant, and AIDS.
Symptoms and prevention of yeast infection
The common symptoms of candidiasis or yeast infection vary depending on the area affected. It has been seen that the infection of the vagina or vulva could lead to severe itching, burning, soreness, and irritation. There is also whitish or whitish-gray discharge, which has curd-like appearance and is the symptom of yeast infection. Most of the times these symptoms are also present in the more common bacterial vaginosis and hence the disease can often be confused for yeast infection.
There are various preventive measures that can be applied to avoid this disease and these include avoiding sharing towels and washcloths. You should also wash your under garments in hot water and avoid the clothing that is tight in the crotch. You should always change out of your exercise clothes or swimsuit after the workout and should change your sanitary pads frequently and avoid using ones that are scented. Along with this you should avoid heavily scented soaps, perfumes and talcum powder and don’t itch or scratch the area too much if you get infected. The use of antibiotics is suggested only when necessary and eating a diet high in vegetables, protein and grains is suggested.
Causes of yeast infection
The cause of the yeast infection largely depends on the type of infection also. Unhygienic sanitary conditions are the most common causes for vaginal yeast infections. Along with this a weakened or undeveloped immune system followed by metabolic illnesses could lead to this disease. HIV and AIDS, mononucleosis, steroids, stress, cancer treatments, and nutrient deficiency are linked to the causes of yeast infection. Sexual intercourse with an infected individual, having low immunity, antibiotics, and diabetes are some of the most common causes of yeast infection. It should be remembered that even though the infection is not deadly it can lead to problems in maintaining a regular and healthy lifestyle.
Treatment of yeast infection
The yeast infection species are usually a part of the human body's normal oral and intestinal flora. It has been seen that the treatment with antibiotics could eliminate the yeast's natural competitors for resources and also increase the severity of the condition. Antifungal drugs commonly used to treat this infection but sole medication treatments may not give desired results and these infections could be linked with other diseases. The treatment for yeast infection can be availed at most of the hospitals across the country and prevention and healthy sanitary habits are suggested to avoid these infections.
What is a blackhead?
A type of acne vulgaris, a blackhead is a small dark bump or plug in the opening of a pore on your skin. Blackheads occur because of excess oils that accumulate in the duct of the sebaceous gland. Also called comedones, blackheads are symptoms of acne, and usually appear on the face and shoulders. However, they can be found on the trunk, arms, legs, and buttocks as well. Blackheads are most common in young people, but even infants and elderly people can have them. The substance found in these bumps usually comprises keratin and modified sebum (an oily secretion of the sebaceous gland), which turns dark with the process of oxidization. Squeezing a blackhead is risky as it may create a permanent scar on your skin and lead to infection.
Symptoms of blackheads
There are various signs and symptoms of blackheads. The primary symptoms of blackheads are black spots, small bumps or blackish plugs that show up on your skin.
When the pores of your skin get clogged and enlarged, these are indications of blackheads. Scarring of skin or flaky and coarse skin is also among the symptoms of blackhead. In many cases, there are appearances of pustules or acne scars. Infected nodules are another symptom of blackheads. Oils, sebum and cellular fragments combine to form blackheads that are hard plugs within hair follicles. They are open to the surface of the skin and get darkened as a result of oxidation.
Causes of blackheads
Blackheads appear because of a number of reasons. They may be caused by the excess production of oily substance called sebum, which congests toxins through the skin. As sebum and congesting toxins combine with each other, the pres of the skin become clogged and blackheads appear. The excessive production of the skin oil, sebum and toxins takes place due to various reasons. Among them are poor cleansing, hormonal changes, depression, stress, genetic effect, oily skin, use of greasy and oil based cosmetics, consumption of certain drugs and medicines, excessive use of tobacco and alcohol, too much makeup, and environmental pollution which leads to accumulation of dirt on your skin and produces bacteria that subsequently causes the formation of blackheads. Dirt with oily skin is an even more deadly combination. Although there is no concrete evidence yet, some people believe that diet may have something to do with the appearance of blackheads also.
Treatment of blackheads
Natural and ayurvedic: If blackheads are of a mild variety, a person can treat him/herself over-the-counter (OTC) topical (applied to the skin) creams containing benzoyl peroxide. There are also various types of medications that your doctor might recommend which are available in the form of creams, ointments, and pills. It is better to apply the recommended cream or ointment at night to see how you react, and then increase the frequency of its use to twice a day. Pregnant women should avoid using some of the stronger medications for acne, and must inform the doctor of their condition.
Home remedies: Most acne or blackhead medications work by reducing the next “crop” of acne. So you don’t have any reason to lose all hopes if you do not get instant results. There are also several home remedies for blackheads that need easily available ingredients to prepare. Try this: mix a pinch of table salt with a pinch of soft portion of glycerin soap and apply it on the blackheads for a week.
HEALTH HAZARDS DUE TO CELL PHONE ANTENNAS
INTRODUCTION: -
When a call is received or dialled a large amount of electromagnetic waves get concentrated around the antenna. The problem
will be more if the internal antenna is placed within near he ear piece by the cell phone manufacturer.
CASE STUDY: -
The cell phones are more similar to radio sets and can be compared to them. Hence they emit radio waves which are very harmful for
the body because they can penetrate into the body.
There have been many researches done on the effect of cell phones on human. The most interesting study was named as the Stewart
effect which confirmed that the rays of cell phones often penetrate the human body and are most harmful for the children who have
a very light skull. The increased danger for children make them to use cell phones effectively. The study also made a report that
the children have a very light skull with undeveloped brain cells which are at the increased risk of absorbing the radiations
more than the adults who have fully developed brain cells and skull.
WAY TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM: -
Cell phones have become an integral part of aour life and we can not afford to avoid them. A life without cell phone is impossible
in this fast world and hence to solve the health hazards caused by the cell phone radiations alternate solutions must be sort out
than taking the way of avoiding cell phones.
Children must never use cell phones. They can be guided to use lanline phones to attend any calls so that the contact to the
radiations emitted from the cell phones may be avoided.
There are increased welcome for the low specific absorption rate(SAR) cell phones which have low risk for the radiation. Cell
phones may be avoided keeping intact to the body rather they can be kept in the bags or purses or specially designed cell phone
covers. They can be used only when a call is received or dialled.
The problem can also be sort out by making the conversations over cell phones short. SMS can be sent instead of calls so that the
contact with the body especially of the region of skull can be avoided.
Both the ears must be used while having the conversation so that both ears absorb the radiations equally without affecting any
one particular ear.
When the cell phone is trying to connect to a call the radiations are emitted at the maximum level. So avoid being in contact to the
cell phones while it connects. Take the cell phone only after the call is connected fully to avoid radiations.
When the signal is weaker the cell phone will emit its power to make the connection successful. This will in turn result in emission
of higher amount of radiation. Avoid having the conversation when the signal is weaker.
No body can afford to refuse the usuage of cellular phones. Rather everybody should adopt the newest technologies possible to avoid
the harmful effects of the radiations emitted from the cell phones.
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ECZEMA
What is eczema?
Basically eczema is defined as a form of dermatitis, which is kind of inflammation of the epidermis and this term can be broadly applied to a range of persistent skin conditions. It has been seen that eczema is involved with dryness and recurring skin rashes that can be identified with one or more symptoms like skin swelling, redness, itching and dryness, crusting, flaking, cracking, blistering, oozing, or bleeding. Some times these areas also suffer from temporary skin discolorations which are caused due to healed lesions but scarring is rare. In contrast to psoriasis, it has been seen that eczema is likely to be found on the flexor aspect of joints. There are various forms of this ailment also and there are some eczema forms, which are more common while others are very rare.
Symptoms of Eczema
There are various kinds of symptoms associated with eczema but often the most common ones are easily identified and help to diagnose the problem. The symptoms of eczema include itchy skin, inflamed skin, redness in the skin and swelling of the skin, weeping, skin cracking, crusting, scaling, blisters, red cheek rash, crusty rash on the cheek, arm rashes and crusty arm blisters.
Cause of eczema
There are some forms of eczema, which don’t have known causes but most forms of the ailment have been associated with genetic diseases. It has been seen that eczema rises due to interplay of multiple genes, where external environmental factors have a vital role. It has also been seen that atopic genes, which are present, are less environmental initiators that are required to produce eczema. Basically the cells, which are located at the centre of the inflammation are called T lymphocytes and are known for combating the immune reactions of the body. Some causes of eczema include rise in T-cell activity in response to various antigens. Along with this the excess stimulation of T-cells by genetically altered cells and genetic defects in the epidermal barrier are some of the known causes of the disease.
Prevention and treatment of eczema
Natural and ayurvedic: It has been seen that treatment of eczema mainly includes the prevention of itching, inflammation, and worsening of the condition. Hence various treatments of eczema can include alterations in lifestyle along with use of medications. Most of the times, treatment is always based on the individual's age and their overall health status is considered along with the kind and severity of the condition. It is necessary to keep your skin well nourished and hydrated during these times and hence application of creams or ointments is vital here.
Home remedies: Also some corticosteroid creams are prescribed to decrease the inflammatory reaction of the ailment and their intensity may be high or low. For controlling the itching some sedative type antihistamine drugs are also effective. The short course of oral corticosteroids can also be prescribed to control an acute outbreak of eczema along with other homemade treatments. Some of the best places to get this ailment treated include All India Institute of Medical Sciences and other reputable hospitals.
Flu is created by the flu virus. These viruses are classified into three main types, designated A, B, and C. The viruses A and B are the main causes for respiratory disease that comes around every winter and are is linked with increased rates of hospitalization and mostly death. The virus of type C differs from types A and B in some ways. Type C’s attack is either a very light respiratory illness or it may not even have symptoms at all; it does not cause epidemics and does not have the severe public health impact of flu types A and B.
These viruses repeatedly changes over time, usually due to mutation. This repeated change mostly enables the virus to escape the immune system of the host on which they live like humans, birds, etc.,. so that the host is vulnerable to changing flu virus attacks throughout it’s life. The process takes place as follows: a host infected with flu develops an antibody against that virus; when the virus changes, the antibody can not identify the modified virus and attack occurs as usual. But in some instance the first antibody may be able to limited protection against the attack with that virus.
SYMPTOMS:
* Fever - 101° F to 104° F in all adults and can be higher in children
* Respiratory problems as
* Cough
* Sore throat
* Running nose
* Severe headache
* Pain in the muscle, and
* Fatigue
Even if nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea appear along with flu, and that too mostly in the children, the gastrointestinal symptoms are not famous. The term "stomach flu" is an incorrect term that is occasionally used to describe gastrointestinal illnesses caused by some other microbes.
Some of the people who are infected by the flu may recover fully within few weeks, but some of them can go very serious and become life-threatening, like the pneumonia. In a year, flu can cause about 20,000 deaths nationwide and many more such hospitalizations. These flu related problems may occur at any age; but, the older people with unending health problems can develop such serious problems after the attack from flu than at younger age, or in healthier people.
Treatment:
Natural and ayurvedic: The death and illness caused by the flu virus can be treated by the use of vaccines. Flu vaccine is specifically suggested for those who are at high risk for developing problems as a result of the flu attack. These high-risk groups include all older people and people of any age with constant diseases of the heart, lung or kidneys, diabetes.
Home remedies: Children and teenagers who are receiving long-term aspirin may develop Reye syndrome after a flu attack. Flu vaccine is also suggested for people who are in frequent contact with anyone in the above conditions. These people can be taken under personnel for health care and other volunteers who are able to work with the above mentioned patients and people who are living a person who may develop flu.
It is advisable for the children of age group 6 to 59 months should receive a yearly flu vaccination.
Gaining weight
Facts about gaining weight
It has been seen that in spite of eating more than the require portions of food, many people are not able to gain weight. There are various factors that contribute to this and hence for gaining weight you need to understand these factors. It has been seen that some people gain weight very easily if they overeat or have a sedate lifestyle. But there are some people who are genetically thin and their hormones and metabolic rates contribute towards their leaner bodies. It should be remembered that being lean and trying to gain weight are different aspects of life but you should focus on gaining healthy weight instead of remaining skinny or anorexic.
Causes for gaining weight
There are various reasons for which people want to gain weight but you should understand the underlying problem, which is stopping you from gaining weight. For this you should consider factors like hyperthyroidism or other thyroid deficiencies that may be stopping you from gaining weight. Apart from this you should also consider factors like your anemia level or your physical fitness and these can be easily evaluated through a series of tests. Once the doctor analyses these results you would be able to understand why you are not able to gain weight.
Symptoms of not gaining weight
If you are eating a healthy and balanced meal, but in spite of eating a lot of healthy foods, you are not able to gain weight, then you are suffering from some kind of a problem. But no matter what the reason is, there are some solutions which can help you to gain weight. Being too skinny and being underweight are different things and there are people who are thin but are not underweight. Being underweight depicts malnutrition or threat of some disease, which prevents you from gaining weight.
Different methods of gaining weight
Natural: One of the best methods for gaining weight includes building muscle mass and for this it is essential to follow a regular routine of weight lifting and strength training. This can help the muscles can grow faster and improve the overall health of the body. Also, you should focus on a healthy diet along with the performance of these exercises because the diet of a person is one of the most important factors in this aspect. There are certain cautions that should be taken because while performing these exercises and these include exercising muscle groups on alternate days. Remember that if you are continuously exercising the same muscle groups then your muscles can suffer from injuries, which could be serious ones.
Home remedies: Gaining body mass cannot be done through exercise alone and hence diet, exercise, and supplements should be combined for adding weight. It should be remembered that through healthy diets you can target the growth of mass by giving the body enough calories for building muscle and with the help of exercises you would be able to tone up the body. The doctor can be consulted for issues of gaining weight and getting a diet chart.
Indigestion
What is Indigestion?
The improper functioning of digestive system causes indigestion or stomach upset, which results in chest burns followed by an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Indigestion can also be accompanied by nausea, tendency of vomiting, heaviness in the abdomen and discomfort. Indigestion is also known as dyspepsia and is associated with the burning or pain in the upper abdomen.
The symptoms of indigestion
There are a lot of people who suffer from indigestion and they also experience the symptoms like fullness during a meal and are unable to finish the meal. The person feels that the food is staying too long in the stomach and this can be accompanied by a feeling of fullness before a meal. The pain in the epigastric area, which is between the lower end of the chest bone and the navel, is also a symptom of indigestion. Apart from this the person may experience epigastric pain ranging from mild to severe and burning in these areas too. The other symptoms of indigestion are nausea and bloating along with an unpleasant tightness in the stomach.
Causes of indigestion
There are various causes for indigestion and these included conditions in the digestive tract like gastro esophageal reflux disease or GERD, cancer, peptic ulcer disease, and abnormality of the pancreas or bile ducts. It has been seen that if these conditions are treated then the symptoms of indigestion also improve. There are often times when there is no cause for indigestion found and this kind of indigestion is called functional dyspepsia, which occurs in the area where the stomach meets the small intestine. Often indigestion has been associated with abnormal motility or the squeezing of the stomach muscle as it receives, digests and proceeds food into the small intestine. Often the causes of indigestion have been associated with the symptoms of heartburn but these are two different conditions which have different treatments.
There are various psychological causes of indigestion too and stress or worries have been diagnosed as the main causes for indigestion. Also the consumption of excess allopathic medicines causes indigestion and there are temporary traces of indigestion during pregnancy also. It has been seen that excess smoking habit also leads to indigestion along with the consumption of caffeine on empty stomach. Alcohol has been considered as one of the major causes of indigestion along with diseases like ulcer.
Prevention and treatment for indigestion
Home remedies: Indigestion can be prevented through regularly exercise as it keeps your body in shape. You should also drink lots of water and have green and fibrous vegetables. You should try and get rid of smoking and alcohol habit and relax yourself by doing meditation and yoga. You should eat small and low fat meals and chew food slowly.
Natural and ayurvedic: Apart from this you should try and maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid eating and sleeping late. Remember that most digestion problems can be treated by over the counter medicines but in severe cases hospitalization may also be required along with intense treatment for the same.