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If there is a simple, safe and swift path to recovery of health then it has to be homoeopathy. Founded more than two centuries ago by Dr.Samuel Hahnemann, a German Physician, pained with the therapy of the times was on search for an alternative and discovered Homoeopathy.
One of the commonest complaints is an abdominal pain at some time or the other, but the causes are myriads. It would be useful to identify the usual ones and those that require you to call your healthcare professional. If the pain is more a sort of pressure in the upper abdomen at the pit of the stomach and gets worse after eating it could be gastritis or an inflammation of the layer of the stomach wall either due to increased secretion of acid or increase in intake of foods that trigger its production. This could also cause the upper end of the stomach where the oesophagus ends, to be more irritated by the gastric juices. The oesophagus does not have a protecting layer to face this acid. R...
Medically it is called Pica but it can give householders trouble An innocent exploration of surroundings and the environment by a two-year-old child makes him keep things in this mouth. But if an abnormal appetite for non-nutritive substances like chalk, sand and paper happens for a persistent period of time either in children of more than three years of age or even adults, the condition is termed as Pica. In other words it is an eating disorder. Certain individuals develop a large and indiscriminate appetite for indigestible foods or non-edible foods usually considered abnormal for their age. This eating disorder appears as a sort of a compulsive craving to eat things like clay, dirt, sand, paint chips, plaster...
Accumulation of pus at the tip of tooth root or below the root or in the gums. Severe pain with swelling of jaw is usually seen. Bleeding from gums is associated with pus. Symptoms Pain in the jaws radiating to earsSwelling of gumsOozing of blood occasionally from the gumsSoreness of gums with increased sensitivityBad breathFoul smell in mouthDifficulty in chewing and bitingPain radiating to ears Headache Causes Bacterial infection usually lead to abscessed tooth. It can be due to infection caused by caries of tooth. Any foreign body pricking the gums can also lead to abscess. Jarda and tobacco chewing can also increase the risk of infection to gums when the substances are stuck in the gums, this increases the formation of pus in the gums due to poor hygiene. ...
It is disorder where the food or liquid passing from the oesophagus entering in to the stomach is difficult. This is due to failure of lower oesophageal sphincter to open completely leading to choking feeling in the pit of stomach. Symptoms include Difficulty in swallowing even liquidsChoking feeling Breathlessness and bloating sensation of stomachBurning in the chest region with pain due to obstruction of foodPain and discomfort after eatingFeels something is stuck in the chestReflux of food back in to the throatSour eructations Causes It can occur due to failure of lower oesophageal sphincter to open completely. Function of valve gets affected due to damage of nerves of oesophagus. Sometimes it may be autoimmune disorder where the cells attack own body. It...
People usually experience rupture or tear of the Achilles tendon, heel pain while exercising or due to Achilles tendonitis. Achilles tendonitis Achilles tendon is the tendon which attaches the calf muscles to the heel. This tendon help in walking, balance, posture and jumping. Tendon gets inflamed due to physical exertion or injury, this leads to Achilles tendonitis. Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis Pain and discomfort in the back of heel which is worse with first step and early morning Swelling is usually seen with tightening of calf muscles Movement restriction Pain on slightest touch Causes Walking and vigorous exercise causes inflammation of the tendon. Athletes are more prone for Achilles tendonitis because of repeated injury and excessive phys...
Hormonal havoc can hurt self esteem and leave scars. Teenage is also a time when any minor comment can have an effect on the self esteem. It is under these circumstances that acne vulgaris or pimples can create a sense of insecurity for the adolescent. The skin lining all over the body is filled with sebaceous glands or something similar to sweat glands and are usually referred to as hair follicles or pores. These are fine sac like structures which give the smooth texture to the skin by producing an oily substance on to the surface of the skin. But under certain circumstances especially during adolescence when the production of testosterone is at its peak, this hormone tends to block ...
As a parent it is a disturbing time for me with my kid snoring at night and every now and then having to rush in the middle of the night to the nearby hospice with a earache”. Well this is the usual refrain from a parent of a less than seven year old child and more so in the cold winter months as the blocking of the nose and earache are common symptoms which disturb the child and the parent’s peace at night which are more often due to the condition of Adenoids. Adenoids are soft, bulgy tissues which lie hanging in the nasal passage, above the throat and are called as lymphoid tissues which answer the clarion call to fight or neutralize any bacteria, virus or any other infective agent seeking its way into the child’s system. As this happens the gland...
It is anxiety or fear of feeling that being trapped and unable to get out. There is a fear of being stuck in areas and unable get out of that place without any external stimuli. For example Fear of being in public places and unable to leave the place Fear of escaping from the line Fear could be so overwhelming that they tend to be at home and avoid going out. Fear of large open places like parking lots, playground, malls, etc.Fear of closed places like movie theatres, cabin with less ventilation.Fear of escaping in from standing line or crowd.Fear of public transportation like buses, cabs, trains, ships or planes.Fear going outside.Needs company when at home or any other places. These situation can cause anxiety because of fear of being unable to escape an...
Help Paramount Homoeopathic medicine plays a role in every stage of AIDS If there is one syndrome apart from terror which is bleeding humanity for the past two decades it is probably AIDS or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome caused by HIV or Human Immunodeficiency Virus. But that does not mean that there is no solution to any of these issues. It is problem’s identification and addressing the issue that is the need of the hour, which is tenable for the citizens in general and medicine in particular as far as the scourge of this disease is concerned. The human body is a bunch of amazing organs which work in tremendous harmony and have an immune system which wards of any external agents attempting to interfere wit...
Shifting scene Be ready for the climatic change The World Health Organisation, a branch of the United Nations advising on the health issues, has called the ‘World Health Day 2008’ on April 07 to concentrate on ailments arising out of the imminent climate changes occurring all over. Whe ther it is the prolonged untimely rain in our city or the undue heat wave in our neighbouring states in the past few years, the extreme weather changes may not be dismissed as aberrations. Even if done so it is imperative that the climate changes which are happening frequently that will have an impact on the health need to be considered. For a Third World country like ours where the nutritional levels are less than desired, poverty levels are daunting, climate sensitiv...
Airsickness is a specific form of motion sickness affecting the balance and equilibrium. It is combination of spatial disorientation, nausea and vomiting. One feels difficulty while flying in air transports. Signs and symptomsNausea and vomiting.Giddiness and light headedness.Cold perspirationHeadache with fatigueConfusionDrowsinessHeadacheCausesBody has the balance due to the sense organs. For example, standing erect closing eyes is difficult, there is co-ordination between the senses. In the same way inner ear contains the sensors for rotational and linear motion which help in the maintenance of balance and equilibrium. Airsickness is felt when this gets affected.Homeopathic ApproachSensation of imbalance felt by some while flying can be addressed with Homeopathic medicine. Remedies...
Alcohol Abuse is increased consumption of alcohol everyday leading to addiction. It is termed as alcoholism, alcohol dependence or alcohol use disorder.Dependency is usually seen in these individuals so much that they cannot stop from drinking.SymptomsDrinking more and more quantity in order to satisfy their urgeLoss of appetiteSocially do not maintain any contact, losing their job due to misbehaviourpoor personal hygieneAlcohol cravings, withdrawal symptoms like nausea and vomiting, shaking or trembling of handsDehydrationDizziness and sometimes unconsciousnessComplications include cirrhosis of liver.Causative factorsChemical changes in the brain are seen when there is alcohol use. Due to this pleasurable feelings arouse which when taken more often may lead to addiction or alcohol abuse.E...
“Choo lene do naazuk hothon ko, kuch aur nahi hain jam hain yeh, kudrat ne hampe baksha hain, woh sabse badein enaam hain yeh” Alcohol in whichever form it is like wine, whisky etc. produces a chemical called dopamine in between the nerve cells which to start with produces a pleasurable sensation. It is a substance which is in vogue by the users as a social drink later takes the form of an abuse and finally drowns in the victim in the form of addiction. It is a matter of concern for the self, family and society if the drug in the liquid form transcends over the health, personal, financial, financial and work spheres affecting life adversely. A good number of people are used to alcohol a...
The problem with the liver is that it is a non-complainer and goes about its function as long as it can. That is why people who are used to alcohol, and who have a brewing complications in the tissues of the liver never seem to face any symptoms. Eve n when the liver revolts, all the symptoms produced are in other areas of the body except within the liver; this condition is called cirrhosis of the liver and one of the commonest reasons for the same is undue alcohol usage. The most sought-after answer as to why all people who consume alcohol do not have the same type of liver degeneration is that an individual metabolism reacts in a unique way, apart from being influenced by various factors. As such, women who imbibe very little alcohol ...
Homoeo call Skin ailments need to be taken seriously. Apart from glowing skin which most of us chase, occasionally we have to tackle symptoms like itching which can be irritating and call for attention. This is a symptom which can occur due to skin ailments but if it is associated with thickness, rough ness and scaly appearance of the affected area with a typical blackish-violet hue, it is most probably due to a condition called Lichen planus. It appears like moss on a tree bark as there are fine pimples of about 2-4 mm diameter like eruptions which gradually conglomerate into a dry patch. These eruptions cause violent itching and on scratching, there is a rawness of affected area but there is not much oozing of any substance. T...
It is called hair loss on scalp or entire body. Typically it is seen more often in women. Baldness is more seen in men which is patterned hair loss.It can be due to heredity, hormonal and other medical conditions.SymptomsGradual thinning of hair.Sudden hair loss with spilt ends.Hair loss associated with greying of hair.Circular round patchy hair loss also appear called alopecia areata.Hair loss associated with dandruff and itching.CausesMedical disorders like polycystic ovarian disease, hypothyroidism, vitamin deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia contribute hair loss.Family history of baldness is the most common in males.Stress could also be the leading cause of hair loss.Excessive hairstyling that damage the roots of hair and also repeated application of heat to the hair could damage th...
Hair loss can hurt your ego and give you sleepless nights but with a little insight things can change Loss of hair is a symptom which gives rise to a lot of stress and people try to find a cause and ways to prevent it. The common name for this condition is called as alopecia and if the loss of hair happens to be in a few spots on the scalp it is called as alopecia areata. Genetic factors Every individual loses hair diffusely every day but if it happens to be more than hundred strands a day and consistently over a period of time it needs to be addressed. The life of each hair follicle is around four and half to years to five years and after the tenure is replaced by another follicle on the scalp. But in genetic type of baldness the new follicle...
It is autoimmune disorder where in hair falls out in small patches. Bunch of hair falls off unnoticed in most of the cases. It is seen in any age group but mostly children and elderly are affected.Round circular patches are seen and there may be itching and burning in the areas. SymptomsCircular patches of hair begins to fall out mainly from scalp, rarely from beard and eyelashes.Itching rarely felt.No eruptions as such seen.Causes:In autoimmune disorder body attacks the own cells. It is unknown precisely what causes the body’s immune system to target the hair follicles. Homeopathic approachHair fall in patches is usually seen and can be treated best with Homoeopathic medicine. Remedies like Phosphorus and Sulphur help in reducing the hair fall in patches. Acid sulph and Ustila...
Homoeopathy can help contain Alzheimer’s disease. The path breaking developments in Medicine and Surgery have definitely led to longer life-spans. At the same time, diseases of the aged have increased due to the rise in the elderly population. One such disease, which can start as forgetfulness can rapidly progress to a stage where normal tasks of thinking get derailed. It can also be physically debilitating, confining one to the bed. For a growing population like ours, it is imperative that we have better knowledge about it. Alzheimer’s disease affects that part of the brain which controls thought, memory and language. This part of the nervous system consists of millions of nerve cells which communicate wit...
Absence of menses consecutively for a period of more than 3months. There are two types of amenorrhea. Primary Amenorrhea is seen in girls who haven’t attained menstruation (Menarche) below 15years of age. Secondary Amenorrhea is seen in those who already attained menstruation.Primary Amenorrhea is caused by due to underdeveloped ovaries or malfunctioning ovaries.Secondary amenorrhea is caused due to various factors like----Polycystic ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) - cysts in the ovaries develop due to hormonal imbalance.Hypothyroidism-when the T3 and T4 are not utilised properly by the body TSH increases, this may also cause amenorrheaDue to stress and depression Over consumption of oral contraceptive pillsObesity is also one of the leading cause for amenorrheaMalnutritionOvarian dis...
That feeling of tiredness is not something that can be ignoredEAT HEALTHY Include sprouts and leafy vegetables in your diet PHOTO: R.M. RAJARATHINAM If a middle-aged housewife with a history of good health feels tired before she completes her household chores or feels a shortness of breath and sensation of dizziness or fainting; one of the likely causes of such symptoms would anaemia. Anaemia or a reduction in the red blood cells and haemoglobin concentration in the blood is a common problem the world over and more in country like ours due to various food habits, lack of nutrition etc. Blood has a liquid component called plasma and the cellular component comprising red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. T...
That fatigue and thumping heart might be a sign of trouble with blood Take care Anaemia is debilitating but with the right diet it can be avoided If one is tired on least exertion, feels short of breath even on climbing a set of stairs or there is palpitation or a sense of their own heartbeat thumping in the chest during daily chores and a sort of dizziness the first thing your physician would do is not look for any organic disease but to check for the levels of haemoglobin and red blood cells. A check up for anaemia. In a third world country like ours it is not a surprise that it can affect about 30 per cent of the people. Needless to stay it is the poor and least educated who are the most vulnerable. ...
Defaecation or passing stool is the end process of digestion but may kickstart various activities of metabolism. It is imperative that this is free of any symptoms. But it can be otherwise in the sense that if there is a severe, excruciating pain while and after passing stool which could remains for a few hours into the day it could be due to condition called as anal fissures. Anal fissures are minor tear or cracks in the lining of the rectum which in turn could bleed and cause pain. There is an appearance of bleeding with stool or at the end of stool. Pain while and after stool could be so troublesome that the act of bowel movement becomes a forgettable ordeal. It can occur in ...
Typically angina is not a disease but is one of the symptoms of heart diseases. Angina is the pain or discomfort in the chest due to reduced blood supply to heart. Pressing and squeezing in the chest is usually felt.Types of anginaStable AnginaIt has a regular pattern and can be managed with rest or medication. It can occur during exercise, usually when the heart is working harder.Unstable AnginaIt has no regular pattern. Rest or Medication doesn’t relieve the symptoms. Variant AnginaIt occurs due to abnormal narrowing or relaxation of blood vessels. Also called Prinzmetal’s Angina or Microvascular Angina. It occurs without any underlying Coronary artery disease.SymptomsChest pain.Cough with breathlessness.Nausea and vomiting.Tightness of chest.Pain in the chest radiating to back,...
The immune system of the body can protest on intake of certain foods that is allergic and can show up on the face in the form of swelling. “Face is the index of the mind,” so goes a saying about how the expressions on the face reflects one’s thoughts. But then the appearance is probably given more importance than anything and any slight change is always a cause for worry. To also hasten the anxiety is the fact that the skin on the face is more prone to some sort of eruptions than the other parts of the body and it would help if one would know the usual causes. The immune system of the body can protest on intake of certain foods such as nuts, fish or something which is allergic to certain in...
Traumas and negative emotions such as low self-esteem or exaggerated perfectionism, can lead to anorexia. With the advent of the Indian beauties on the world stage by conquering the Miss Universe and Miss World titles from the mid-nineties, there has been a surge of interest among young girls for maintaining good figures and by compromising on regular me als in the name of dieting. To maintain a lean figure is high on the agenda of every young woman, but feelings of distress and extreme concern about body weight to the extent of skipping meals borders on an eating disorder. October 10 is observed as a mental health day. Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder classed under a mental health illness which can play havoc with the fab...
It is an eating disorder characterised by abnormal low body weight and an intense fear of gaining weight. Obsession may become and leads to this disorder.They put extreme efforts on reducing weight even though with normal weight and shape. May also try to lose weight by exercising excessively. There is constant fear of gaining weight, and to prevent this they may severely restrict food.Due to this unhealthy habits, people with anorexia easily fall sick which may become life threatening.SymptomsExtreme weight lossWeak and thin bodyInsomniaAnxiety Fainting and dizzinessAnaemia, low blood pressure and abnormal blood countsDehydrationThinning of hairSwelling of hands and feetUnhealthy dry cracked skinCalluses on knuckles from induced vomitingBehavioural symptomsRestricted food intake thro...
Diseases of the nervous system such as Alzheimer’s can affect sense of smell. “Ever since I am suffering from this cold, my food doesn’t taste good at all” is a common refrain. Well, that is because tasting is actually smelling. The act of smell has various advantages and loss of smell can be very disturbing too. Anosmia means loss of smell and if a person has to go through this predicament there could be some reasons for it. The exact mechanism behind the sense of smell as such is a mystery but the way it is transmitted to the brain is thus. The odour molecules from the environment are breathed into the nasal cavity and on to the lining of the sensitive portion of the nose where the thin hair-like structures cilia trap ...
It is the inflammation of appendix. It is a blind pouch like structure originated from colon, at the right lower side of abdomen.SymptomsPain in the lower right abdominal region which is unbearable making the individual to toss in painPain radiating to the umbilical regionVomiting and nauseaConstipationLoss of appetiteFever with uneasiness in abdomenFlatulence with difficulty to pass gasRarely burning micturitionComplicationsAppendicitis left untreated may burst and causes sepsis, and also associated with lymph node enlargement (lymphadenitis).CausesThe exact cause is unknown, but constipated stool, enlarged lymph nodes, intestinal worms and trauma could worsen the pain.Homeopathic approachHomeopathic medicine come to aid in inflammatory conditions, remedies like Belladonna, aconite and Ir...
Read on to find out remedies for those recurring mouth ulcers. If you have a tongue-in-cheek expression and are surreptitiously refraining from partaking the better part of the dinner at the party, despite being the guest of honour, most probably you are suffering from a mouth sore. Aphthous or stomatitis as it is usually termed is an appearance of a few, small ulcers in the mouth, usually inside of the lips, cheeks and on the tongue. These fine ulcers tend to have a yellow crust and a deep red base and are painful, which is the only troublesome symptom. This can cause difficulty in speech, swallowing, etc. It could take about two weeks to resolve but in cases where it is recurrent, there would be a new ulcer, which frustrates t...
It is the irregular heartbeat. It could be a skipped beat or an added beat, increased in heart rate (Tachycardia) or decreased in heart rate (bradycardia).Arrhythmias are harmless and some could be dangerous.Types of arrhythmia:Atrial fibrillation: It is the rapid heart rate caused by electrical impulses in atria which is due to electrical signals bombarding the AV node. These are non- rhythmic.Atrial Flutter: this is due to added heartbeat. These are more-organised and rhythmic.Supraventricular tachycardia: Arrhythmia originating from AV node. These may lead to palpitations.Ventricular tachycardia: Regular heart rate with abnormal electrical impulses that originates from the ventricles. Due to this abnormal electrical impulses the ventricles doesn’t properly fill and leads to reduced bl...
Arthritis is often debilitating disease triggered by many causes from metabolic changes to injuries. The human body consists of joints, muscles, ligaments, cartilage, tendons and bones which give the shape and structure and the means of motion and it is these structures which are affected in condition of arthritis. October 13 is dedicated as the 216;World Arthritis Day’ and the significant limiting factor due to this condition is pain. If pain can be relieved, arthritis will never be a complaint! Arthritis is varied and is usually due to the degenerative changes that happen in the joints due to loss of calcium from the bones termed as osteoporosis and is classed under Osteoarthritis. Certain disease involving the other systems a...
A multi-pronged approach can help tackle the breathing disorder. "I have difficulty in breathing." "My sleep is disturbed with cough and breathlessness." "My child snores at night with wheezing sound from chest." Well these are the few symptoms of asthma, a respiratory illness, the awareness day of which was held on May 1. Our airways carry the oxygen into the lungs and predominantly carbon-dioxide on exhalation during breathing. The exchange of gases takes place in the bronchioles or the functional unit of the lung tissue, which retains the necessary oxygen to bind with haemoglobin to carry on the combustion necessary to produce the e...
The back to school regimen is incomplete without the usual groan about the pain in the stomach that disappears as soon as the school bus passes by . It is that time of the year when the summer vacation ends and the showers of monsoon herald the onset of another academic year. It is a time of anxiety, stress, nervousness and restlessness for the child seeing the mountain of books to be studied. Th e same pressures can create a lot of vague bodily and mental symptoms and one of the common expressions is the belly-ache. Any illness which occurs due to the impact of the mind on the body is termed as psycho-somatic. Though the anxiety in a child at the doorstep of the school is wished away by parents with a pa...
Bleeding can be a cause for concern Any loss of blood through the rectum evident while passing stool could just be annoying or a cause for concern and medical help is necessary to ascertain the probable cause for the same. Rectal bleeding is the one which passes out of the last part of the gastrointestinal tract, the rectum, and could originate from any part of the system. Depending on the origin and the course the colour could be red, maroon or even black. Moderate or severe bleeding can lead to weakness, dizziness, fainting, signs of low blood pressure among other symptoms immediately and if it is mild and over a period of time, symptoms of anaemia can predominate. One of the usual causes would be haemorrhoids, commonly called piles, ...
That heavy feeling that refuses to go away A sensation of abdomen feeling full and tight is something everyone might experience now and then and definitely after a heavy meal. But if that occurs in spite and happens often or the bloating persists one would like to know the cause and if it nee ds to be brought to the notice of a physician. There are two contents of abdominal bloating i.e. gas or fluid. If it is water the collection is called as ascites. But the more common of the reasons is collection of air or gas. l To begin with nervous swallowing of air called as aerophagia and over eating are the common causes of bloating. l It could be due to intolerance to...
Homoeo call One should be wary of infections that come through food too. Apart from the oxygen we inhale , water we drink and the physical touch through which we feel the surroundings there is one more way an infection can reach and it is through food. As the immunity is compromised in the aged due to either chronic illne ss or medication or even otherwise to avoid sickness further, certain steps need to be taken. Raw foods contain the most pathogenic material and since the ability to fight infections in this age is less it is better to reduce the intake of such foods. Raw fish, raw meat, eggs which are not fried completely, unpasteurised milk or juices and cheese are better avoided by these individuals. At the other end of the...
Take regular breaks while working on a computer to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome. AN ECONOMIST notes that the jobs created in the software sector for the past five years is almost equal to the number of jobs in the public sector since Independence. So amazing is the effect of technology on the burgeoning economy. We are second to none in adapting and upgrading to new demands but sometimes our body could be affected in the bargain. One of the common complaints of people working on computers is carpal tunnel syndrome. Seven hours a day of bent wrists and repetitive motion of the hands takes its toll, causing strain, pain, numbness and a tingling sensation down the wrist and into the palm, affecting the fingers, especially the th...
Winter is a time when our immunity happens to take a dip and compared to the other times. It is that time of the year when the chill breeze of winter insists you bring out the sweaters and pullovers. It is also the time for sniffles and irritated throat always on the verge of an acute infection. But then it is not just the usual suspects: bacteria and viruses that need to be blamed, but also our lifestyle that predisposes us to these conditions. Winter is the time when the growth of the bacteria and the viruses is unhampered. It is also a time when our immunity takes a dip.In individuals whose immunity is good but tends to over react to situations of presence of viruses or allergens too, the opportunity o...
Celiac disease is characterised by digestive disorder (abdominal pain, diarrhoea, vomiting and weight loss) due to abnormal reaction to gluten food found in wheat, barley and rye. This disease is also called as sprue or non-tropical sprue or gluten-sensitive enteropathy. Eating gluten triggers or the individual has sensitivity which causes inability to digest or break down gluten. This gluten intolerance is mostly autoimmune disorder. Due to autoimmune reaction gluten produces toxins that destroys the villi (villi are tiny projections in the intestines). These villi absorbs nutrients from the small intestine. This can lead to malnutrition and also the food is easily dumped further without digestion. Symptoms includeIn childrenPoor absorption can lead to weight loss.Less nutr...
Cellulitis should be controlled before the infection spreads to other organs A cut, burn or an insect bite is a common occurrence in day-to-day life and would pass away with time. It is only when the cut becomes an access for the bacteria to find way into tissues underneath the skin and cause a secondary infection it becomes a cause of concern and is usually called as Cellulitis. Our skin is an excellent barrier and keeps at bay all the harmful organisms either trying to break through or utilise an opportunity like an injury to seep through. But in certain conditions such as diabetes where the blood supply to the extremities is compromised or in those suffering from peripheral venous disease when the stagn...
Cervicitis can be effectively dealt with by knowing the cause WHETHER IT was the path breaking ascendancy to the Prime Ministership of a conservative country by Benazir Bhutto; the resolute leadership of Indira Gandhi in guiding the largest democracy of the world or the firm equanimity of Margaret Thatcher to keep the cold war countries at bay, they have all performed an unenviable job, effectively second to none. Through ages and civilisations - social, political and economic transitions, a woman has waded through all odds only to come out more resolute and graceful, to prove that she can adapt to changes adeptly. However, the modern day lifestyle changes have an impact on her health at times. ...
OH THAT PAIN! Long hours in front of a computer is not good for your neck. Photo: G.R. N. Somashekar Cervical Spondylosis is a result of sedentary occupations like working in front of a computer, or in a call center, or doing desk jobs, teachers, drivers, (pilots, and couch potatoes are all prone to it. Individuals suffering from this condition complain of pain in the nape of the neck radiating into shoulders, chest or dorsal region and sometimes associated with numbness of the fingers or hands. Our spine consists of vertebrae starting with atlas holding above the skull and down till the sacrum. The vertebrae below the atlas bone in the region of the neck are called Cervical vertebrae. Also this is the most mobile portion of the whole of the spin...
Check out for infection when there are other symptoms. One of the commonest complaints every woman would have at some point in their lives is a backache. But, if that comes along with other symptoms like a vaginal discharge and a lower abdominal pain which seems to recur too often with varying intensity, then she needs to be investigated. A woman’s pelvis contains uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes connecting through them. The mouth of the uterus enters into the cervix downwards and is capable of resisting and blocking any infection to get through with a production of protective cells lining the area. But certain infective agents spreading through sexual transmission like gonorrhea, Chlamydia and certain other bacteria have the potential to...
Chalazion is a small swelling on eyelids which is due to blocked glands. These are lumps or swelling on eyelids which are sometimes painless and most commonly seen on upper eyelid than lower eyelid.SymptomsSwelling or lumps of eyelid.Pain while blinking or on touch.Redness of conjunctiva.Watering of eyes.Irritation and discomfort in the eyes.Sometimes occur with blurred vision.Chalazia go away without treatment, but may appear at another area. CausesThere are Meibomian glands which help and protect the eyes by secreting oil that mix up with tears to moisten. So that dryness of eyes doesn’t exist if the eyes are opened. But the oil secreted gets thicken and plugged up due to inflammation. In this way chalazion is formed. And also common in people who have recurring inflammatory ...
Children need ample care when down with chicken pox "Mom, look at this bubble on my belly," said seven-year-old Snigdha rushing to her mother. "I feel itchy though," she continued. That was enough to make alarm bells ringing and a consultation with the family doctor confirmed the fears of chicken pox. The mandatory one-week rest and isolation were uncalled for when examinations were round the corner. But then, chicken pox is rampant during the onset of summer when the virus multiplies rapidly. Varicella zoster is a contagious virus that spreads through touch or air, while sneezing or coughing. The virus expresses itself in about seven to14 days of entering the body. To start with it, the ...
The oft called for answer at the Homoeopath’s office is whether there is any preventive medicine for chikungunya. Well, the best way to prevent this viral fever is to see that the mosquitoes do not thrive near the households. The public health authorities have a huge role to play in controlling the mosquitoes but the prime duty remains with the individuals because it is only within their control to see that water does not stagnate in the junk items of the household like the flower pots, old tires, unused buckets, puddles in the pathways etc. This is exactly where the Aedes aegypti mosquito thrives by multiplying with larvae and the enough population is the vector of the transmitting agent of the virus of chikungunya to the human being...
The oft called for answer at the Homoeopath’s office is whether there is any preventive medicine for chikungunya. Well, the best way to prevent this viral fever is to see that the mosquitoes do not thrive near the households. The public health authorities have a huge role to play in controlling the mosquitoes but the prime duty remains with the individuals because it is only within their control to see that water does not stagnate in the junk items of the household like the flower pots, old tires, unused buckets, puddles in the pathways etc. This is exactly where the Aedes aegypti mosquito thrives by multiplying with larvae and the enough population is the vector of the transmitting agent of the virus of chikungunya to the human being...
The viral fever can be contained with timely treatment and help Drying up, contorted, "that which bends up" are some of the meanings of Chikungunya. This viral fever was prevalent in some countries of Africa in the 1950s and the consequent pain of the joints and the back compelled one to bend down and hence the name. In Chikungunya, the virus spreads from one person to the other through the Aedes aegypti mosquito while feeding on the host i.e man. This has become an epidemic of sorts in the last six to seven months. The mosquito breeds in stagnant water and unhygienic surroundings and carries the virus from the affected to the other whenever it bites. So it is imperative to clear stagnant water and maint...
The right diet and timely medical help can relieve gallstone infection. Women in their forties, particularly those who are obese, are prone to gallstones. The stones are not always detrimental but can be a cause for concern when they get entangled in the ducts. Gall bladder is a pear-shaped organ in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen below the liver, and acts as a reservoir for bile juice. Since fat is not easily digested by water, our body produces the bile juice from the liver that helps in breakdown of the fats. Bile juice stored in the gall bladder is called on through the common bile duct into the duodenum or the latter part of the stomach when fatty food is ingested. In certain cases, the bile retained in the gall ...
To start with let us realize that cholesterol is not a bad word. As such this soft, waxy substance running through the blood stream is required for the body to make bile juice for digestion, aid in production of hormones and also Vitamin D. It is just that along with other lipids or fats in the body like low density lipoproteins and triglycerides it can stick to the lining of the blood vessels and the clumping over a period of time can cause obstruction in the flow to the vital organs like the heart and the brain and leading to unsavoury situations like a heart attack or a stroke. But on the other side we have the high density lipoproteins or HDL which is the good cholesterol and the levels need to be good so that it aids in keeping the effects of the other ...
Avoid irritants and use moisturiser before taking medication for eczema. “Daad, Daag, Khujli, Jalan” screams a TV commercial, inviting attention to the part of the skin that is dry, discoloured and initiating itching, prompting one to reach out to the ointment over the counter on their next visit to the supermarket. How well it works is measured directly in proportion to the itching it can bring down. The itch, which is a characteristic part of the skin condition, eczema, is the irritating part of the disease and that is when a patient reaches to the physician, seeking solace from it. Eczema is inflammation of the skin layer in a few portions of the body. A layer called stratum corneum which acts as a barrier...
Chronic fatigue syndrome is characterised by extreme fatigue or tiredness which is not relieved even after rest without any underlying medical condition. Combination of factors like psychological stress, anxiety, etc. could constitute chronic fatigue syndrome.SymptomsReduced ability to perform one’s own daily activities with tiredness on least exertion. This can last up to 24hours persisting for about 6months or more. Due to this there may be reduced concentration, cannot stand or walk or sit for longer duration and poor memory.Associated complaints like muscle pain, joint pains, headache, giddiness and sleeplessness persist in some individuals. Symptoms disappear for a particular duration and then relapse again.CausesCause of chronic fatigue syndrome is still unknown. But Hormonal imbal...
Headaches occur in cluster or patterns. Intense one sided headache with pain around the eye. Episodes of headache occur in cluster periods, can last from weeks to month followed by remission. Headache actually doesn’t occur for months or even years.SymptomsPain in and around the eye which radiate to face, head, behind the ear and neck.Cluster headaches are usually one-sided.Nausea and aura before an episode of headache may persist.Redness and tearing pain in the eyes.Sometimes there may be swelling around the eye of affected side.Drooping of eyelids.Sensitivity to light during headache.Restless and agitation persist due to intense painUsually these headaches start two-three hours after going to bed. May last for about 15mins to 3hours. These headaches usually occur at same time each day....
Homoeo call A change in the lifestyle could be effective in dealing with ‘coccydynia’ . Evolution has spared homo sapiens of the antenna at the hind i.e the tail but not definitely the tail bone and thereby man is equally prone to afflictions of the area. Ever since this species has chosen to walk erect, the balance of weight has shifted more on to the low back too and the incidence of pain or other symptoms related to it have only increased. All seems to be well till one day it just seems difficult to sit down for work and even turn or twist easily from a given posture. It could be due to the afflictions of the coccyx or the tail bone at the end of the vertebral column usually termed as coccydynia. As such pain in the area b...
Cold is the viral infection of upper respiratory tract. Symptoms of cold may last up to a week.SymptomsRunny nose with whitish to yellowish discharge.Sneezing. Blocked and stuffy nose with difficulty to breath during sleep or lying down.Post nasal drip usually persists.Congestion.Sore throat, can also be associated with cough.Headache and mild body aches.Drowsiness with low energy.These symptoms can be associated with low fever, cough, wheeze, ear pain and lack of appetite.CausesRhinovirus is the most common cold virus. This virus is spread through droplets in the air. Also spreads by hand-to-hand contact with someone who has cold.Children are more likely to get recurrent bouts of cold due to high susceptibility. Exposure to cold temperature, drinking cold drinks can trigger this...
Normally babies cry a lot that’s the way they give clues to the caregiver that they are hungry, wet or tired. But in colic the baby is not relieved after the needs are met. Colic is common in infants of first three months where the infants become irritable, fussiness and crying. This is observed in frequent episodes usually in the evening. Distress of baby increases with no relief even after consoling. Nothing helps in calming the baby.SymptomsIntense crying with no apparent reason.Screaming and irritability.Even after carrying infant doesn’t get relieved.Tightened stomach muscles and have bloated abdomen.Red flushed face with shedding tears.Bends arm and legs towards belly.CausesThe cause is unknown but many associated factors are seen like----Overfeeding or underfeeding the baby...
Read on to find out certain remedies that can relieve the symptoms of colon cancer. The basic units of life, our cells grow in an orderly way to keep the body function and metabolism normal but sometimes the cell growth goes out of control to form pre-cancerous polyps. It could happen in the lining of the intestine too to form colon cancer. The large intestine absorbs water and mineral nutrients as the last part of digestion, besides being the storage place for the waste matter before it is expelled through the rectum. Any cancerous lesion affecting this part of the intestine can cause certain symptoms. The aim of any system of medicine would be to remove, burn or freeze the lesion so that it does not incr...
If it was the heart related ailments which took a toll on health and life in the 1960’s in the developed countries and a decade later the cancers of the rectum and colon; a couple of decades later as a developing country we are not far behind in matching the same incidence of these diseases in our population. Western lifestyle and diets have been known to cause a preponderance of such ailments and more so our populace when they happen to take up such diets. A change in the bowel habits either diarrhea or constipation, mucus in the stool, bleeding per rectum while at stool, constant urge to pass stool and over a period of time, loss of weight are the usual symptoms that may be obvious in the case of a person who may have develope...
With the World Kidney Day just behind us, it’s time to protect the kidneys by keeping blood pressure and sugar levels under check. Kidneys are wonderful organs in the sense that they are the body’s compact tissues that help rid of the effluents of metabolism so that the harmony of functions of all other organs is maintained sans toxic wastes. The seat of action is the neph ron, a million of which are found in the kidney; nephrons separate water and toxins in the tubules from the blood; only those constituents necessary for metabolism are retained. Proteins and red blood cells are too big to pass through the holes of the filter and remain in the blood. The tubules connect into the urethra and thereby the bladder where ...
With the World Kidney Day just behind us, it’s time to protect the kidneys by keeping blood pressure and sugar levels under check. Kidneys are wonderful organs in the sense that they are the body’s compact tissues that help rid of the effluents of metabolism so that the harmony of functions of all other organs is maintained sans toxic wastes. The seat of action is the neph ron, a million of which are found in the kidney; nephrons separate water and toxins in the tubules from the blood; only those constituents necessary for metabolism are retained. Proteins and red blood cells are too big to pass through the holes of the filter and remain in the blood. The tubules connect into the urethra and thereby the bladder where ...
Degeneration in diabetics can be checked for a quality life Diabetes may just mean elevated levels of glucose levels in our blood but they can be a source of various degenerative changes in the organs of the body if left uncontrolled. Our body suffers in silence even as the organs give away when we understand the deleterious effects of diabetes that can take years or even decades to develop. Therefore, it is imperative to keep the glucose levels under check. One of the areas of concern, which can lead to a chronic, disturbing and debilitating effects, is on the joints. It is not uncommon to find diabetics having deformed toes that lead to uneven pressure on the sole and thereby making the person prone...
Fight psoriatic arthritis with a healthy diet and exercises. It is a well known fact that Psoriasis is a skin condition that involves excessive formation of skin cells over some areas of the body and can cause itching and peeling off of the skin. It can appear as rough patches during certain seasons of the year and also by environmental factors apart from stress. But the lesser known facet of Psoriasis is that it can also lead to pain, swelling and stiffness of joints of the body in about 30 per cent of patients suffering with this problem. This condition usually occurs in people in the 30-50 age group. No particular reason can be cited as the cause of arthritis; it does appe...
Homeo call Just looking into the infected person’s eyes does not spread infection. Whether eyes have the potential to influence others or not one can be sure that in case of epidemic conjunctivitis mere looking at the eyes of those affected will not spread the infection. The infection spreads from the affected to others only by tou ch or using things or getting in touch with objects around which have been used by the infected. Shaking hands, getting in touch with handkerchiefs, towels, doorknobs used by the infected sometimes can cause the virus spread to the unaffected if they happen to again rub their eyes. Conjunctiva is a thin, transparent layer over the eye which shields the se...
One of the signs of the body machine being in fine condition is through the fact that the evacuation of end products of digestion is not a deterrent issue in the day to day life. If the bowel movement is not regular, one has to strain at stool, the consistency of stool is hard and lumpy with a sensation of incomplete evacuation, feeling of obstruction at the anal verge and the movement is confined to three or even lesser number of times in a week it is very likely that the person is suffering from constipation. The colon or the large intestine is where the last part of the digestion takes place and most of the water and remnant nutrients are absorbed even as the stool is formed and if the bulk remains for a longer time in the colon...
For those suffering from COPD, it’s tough to breathe easy. The progressive condition calls for immediate care. Any person who gradually growing symptoms such as shortness of breath, difficulty in breathing and cough followed by expectoration of a thin mucus is very likely to be suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The lungs are like the inverted branches of a tree which help us breathe through terminals called alveoli, wherein the exchange of carbon dioxide and oxygen takes place. In individuals suffering with conditions like bronchitis, exchange is affected. In conditions like asthma, the alveoli can relax again and exchange improves. But in conditions like COP...
It is easy to overlook the unsettling aspect of migration but medicines can help. When one grows up in a society there are a set of codes of conduct and culture to which one becomes acclimatised but once they reach another country these reference points are different and individuals get a cultural shock as they are forced to understand and anticipate events differently and have to adapt. When one moves away from the home country there is a loss of identity, lack of touch with traditions and values with which they have lived, loss of support network as they are away from family, friends and familiar community. They are away from the environs of home and in some cases there is a loss of job, career and position in the society. As they ...
Repetitive pressure on one particular spot can cause corns. Corn or a callus is nothing but thickened skin which is formed due to sustained or repetitive pressure in certain areas of the skin. It is in fact the body’s natural and normal way to protect itself. When there is regular pressure on the skin over an area, the thickened skin protects the inner more delicate structures from injury. The problem starts when the skin gets thicker and eventually the stimulation becomes painful. The corn so gets the name because it appears cone shaped with the sharper end jutting into the skin which is the reason for the pain. Pain is the only reason why corns and callus are cause of concern and the second unimportant reason probably w...
Transport has been the revolution of the previous century but with its wake has brought out a civilization wherein sedentary habits are the rule of everyday. Kids are equally involved in the bargain and the sad part of it is many ailments that precipitate due to inactivity strike them young and worse still become a harbinger of many diseases of adulthood, early in life. Couch potatoes as they are called are the ones who stick on to their sofas just watching the idiot box that has caused many such unwarranted developments in health. Probably a long vacation could be a precipitating factor for inactivity while the unexpected strife in the country’s developments has brought with it some unexpected holidays. This is the time when childr...
It is the crust formation on baby’s scalp with oily scaly patches. Infants are affected mostly. In this condition usually the skin doesn’t itch or be painful. Thick scaly patches are formed. This is also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis. It usually affects scalp but can also affect eyebrows, ears and nose. These scaly patches are difficult to remove and are thick yellow or white in colour.Usually these patches clear up in few days on its own but can persists for a while.SymptomsScaly patches on scalp.Oily skin with yellow or white flakes.Skin flakes.Thick crust formation which are difficult to remove.Itching of the scalp is usually absent.Prevention and ManagementMassaging the baby’s scalp with oil regularly with gentle hands as the crusts are difficult to remove.Regular sham...
It is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Inflammation of digestive tract which include most part of small intestine (ileum) and colon. Symptoms vary widely from person to person.Crohn’s disease is painful depending on the tissue affected in the digestive tract.Symptoms Diarrhoea associated with blood in stool. Urge to pass stool even soon after passing stool. Feels as if the bowels are not completely cleared.Recurring feverAbdominal cramps which makes the individual debilitated.FatigueWeight loss and reduced appetiteSore mouthComplications like perianal fistula, ulcers in the mouth or anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract, inflammation of skin and joints and anaemia. When left untreated there are more chances of intestinal infections.CausesThe cause of Crohn’s disease is unknow...
Cough characterised by breathlessness which is caused by viruses which causes the vocal cords to swell producing a barking cough. It occurs mainly in children under the age of five. And affects mostly in the winter and rainy seasons.SymptomsSymptoms include barking cough with heavy breathing or difficulty in breathing is observed. Hoarseness of voice is seen when the symptoms get even worse. Cold persists in some cases with running nose, blocked nasal passages at times. Cough is sometimes associated with fever. Besides this high- pitched sounds while breathing is heard. Children get affected with recurring cold and cough within short intervals.CausesCroup is caused by virus, most commonly is parainfluenza virus. Some rare cases are also caused by bacterial infections.Children are most...
Cushing’s syndrome also called hypercortisolism caused by excess of production of hormone called cortisol. Symptoms include Fat deposition in the midsection especially on the back of neck (buffalo hump). Usually affected individuals have a moon shaped face.Obesity Acne on face, back and chest.Pink or purple stretch marks on abdomen, arms, breast and thighs.Increased abdominal fat.Fragile skin gets easily bruised and reddish cheeks.Individuals have very sensitive skin and slow in healing.These individuals may also experience facial hair and irregular or absent menstruation.Muscle weakness, lethargic throughout the day.Skin pigmentation is also seen.Short stunted structure due to impairment of growth.Decreased libido, infertility and erectile dysfunction are seen in males wh...
Cystic fibrosis is inherited genetic disorder that causes damage to lungs, digestive system and other organs. It affect the cells which results in the damage and collection of mucus in the organs. This affects the airways where the secretion which had to work as lubricant forms thick fluid forming blockages. Not only the airways but the ducts, tubes in the body are affected.Symptoms include Respiratory affections: Due to sticky mucus the airway passages i.e. alveoli, bronchioles are blocked where the air goes in and out of lungs. This causes mild to severe cough with thick expectoration, shortness of breath, breathlessness and recurrent infections of lungs.Besides this there is stuffy nose and stuffed sinuses with heaviness of head.Digestive system: There is loss of appetite, delayed ...
Also called polycystic ovarian syndrome. It is a hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age. It is the condition where in the ovaries develop cysts due to abnormal hormonal changes.Normally ovaries produce oestrogen and progesterone hormones which help in regulating the menstrual cycle. But the levels of oestrogen, progesterone, FSH and LH levels are altered and hence ovulation is difficult. Due to this immature follicles developed forming cysts.Symptoms includes:PCOS is the combination of set of symptoms like cysts in ovaries, irregular periods and increase in male hormones. Dysmenorrhea (Crampy pain in abdomen and thighs) also persists.Sometimes menses are scanty with dark clots.Besides this there are various symptoms like increase in body weight, Acne on face, chest and back, increa...
Dandruff is a skin condition where scalp shows small flakes to appear on skin associated with itching. Also called as seborrheic dermatitis.Individuals have dandruff issue only in particular seasons. Some have this frequently.Usually seen on scalp but rarely can be seen on eyelashes and eyebrows with infection. In males beard and moustache can be affected.SymptomsSkin Flakes Itching of scalpCausesDry skin is one of major cause for dandruff. Poor hygiene of scalp (brushing the hair, oiling the scalp and proper head bath) likely to cause dandruff.Yeast infections.Dry eczema, psoriasis of scalp and ringworm can also cause dandruff.Scented shampoos and some hair products irritates the skin and likely to cause dandruff.Care and ManagementProper hygiene, brushing of hair, oiling the sc...
Decubitus ulcers are formation of ulcers on skin and the underlying tissue due to prolonged pressure on skin. Hence also called pressure ulcers or pressure sores or bedsores. These ulcers are mostly develop on the skin that covers the bony area like tailbone, heels, ankles on lateral sides and hips.Mostly these ulcers can be healed completely but in individuals who are diabetic, ulcers may not be easy to heal. This is due to poor blood supply to the areas. SymptomsIn very early stage the skin becomes discoloured. Skin is swollen and warm to touch. Pain in the affected areas.Later stages skin breaks off showing erosion or the ulcer affecting the deeper layers from muscles to bones. Oozing of fluid is seen with rawness.Infection with pus may be seen on the affected areas.Tenderness on t...
Firstly thrombus means blood clot forming in the vessels. When the blood clot forms in the deep veins in the body like thighs, legs, arms, etc. Such condition is called deep vein thrombosis. Usually lower limbs are mostly affected.SymptomsDue to obstruction caused by the blood clot, pain in the affected limb persists.Swelling of ankle, foot or leg is seen.Redness and soreness of the legs.Feeling of warmth in the affected area than other parts.If the affected part is arm, then there will be pain in the arm, shoulder, hand. Swelling of the arm and weakness persists. Neck and shoulder are also affected sometimes.CausesBlood clot in the veins preventing circulation to the parts leads to deep vein thrombosis. But blood clot is caused due to several reasons like-Reduced movement of parts both up...
Arthritis could lead to joint deformity if neglected. When a housewife finds that opening a jar or a doorknob is difficult, a number-crunching banker finds his fingers stiff at the cash and a teacher finds writing an arduous task, very likely it is rheumatoid arthritis. A fine layer of synovium, rich in white blood cells, lines our joints. Sometimes our body identifies it as an invading pathogen causing an inflammation to destroy the lining. This leads to swelling of the joint and pain. Since the inflammation could get chronic or prolonged, it tends to spread along the soft tissues and there is loss of cartilage, erosion and destruction of muscles and bones. The gradual degeneratio...
As the name suggests it is a degenerative and progressive condition that occurs over a period of time due to wear and tear. Vertebral disc of the back loses strength, as the age progresses losing the cushion affect which acts like a shock absorbers. This causes difficultly in bending and twisting over time if left untreated.SymptomsPain in the back with slightest movement.Movement is severely restricted. Stiffness of back.Movement like bending or raising from sitting position or twisting are affected.Posture may also be affected.Numbness of lower limbs may be seen rarely.CausesAs it is a degenerative process it is caused due to wear and tear spinal column. Poor calcium absorption or poor diet could be a cause. Vigorous exercise over a period of time can also degenerative disc disease....
Dehydration occurs due to loss of fluid from the body or when the body doesn’t get enough amount of water and other fluids to maintain the normal functions. CausesExcessive diarrhoea and vomiting.Excessive sweating.Fevers like viral, bacterial, dengue, etc. there may be loss of fluid.Diabetic individuals loose lot of fluids in the form of polyuria, this is mostly neglected in the elderly people.Athletes loose fluids in the form of sweat, this should be balanced by drinking adequate quantities of water. If not there may be high risk of leading to shock and death.SymptomsExcessive thirst.Dry mouthWeakness and lethargyDecreased urinationDark concentrated urinationDizziness and confusionLess frequent urinationSunken eyes and faceIn infants, anterior fontanelle becomes sunken or deep set...
When things are not shiny and bright and there is foul odour. If one has the confidence to speak, smile, laugh and kiss, the usual mode of expressions of human beings without much fuss it also reflects on the impeccable oral health of the person. Just as the eyes are the windows to our soul, probably the mouth is the window to the person’s health as any illness is bound to reflect here in some symptom or the other. The salivary glands produce saliva which has an innate capacity to fight bacteria and viruses. But occasionally there is an infection which can affect the tissues of the oral cavity i.e. the gums, teeth and supporting tissues which can be a channel for the infection to reach the other vital organs of the body. ...
Depression is an illness that is made worse in case of physical problems “T>um itna jo muskuraa rahe hon, kya gham hain jo mujhse chhupa rahein ho” is an evergreen ghazal good enough to evoke a response in a depressed individual to come out with their emotions and feelings. Like any illness depression is also a state of mind probably everyone goes through at some point of his life for a certain amount of time. Unfortunately either due to circumstances which cannot be changed or in situations wherein there is no considerable importance given to the condition of depression, people seem to sulk and sink in the same state of mind unattended to only worsening the situation. It is al...
Contact Dermatitis is the usual condition in which due to irritation of the skin with chemicals, water, detergents there is a horny change in the layer of the skin No, it is not just stress that one picks up at the workplace. Apart from injuries, skin diseases are the second commonest ones that one manages to get entangled as an occupational hazard. It is nothing but the skin of an individual getting in touch w ith a hazardous agent either physical, biological, chemical or a mechanical force which is inimical to the health and integrity of the skin. As such a person already suffering from a skin condition is prone to aggravation of existing complaints but do get classed under occupational skin diseases. Whether it is ...
There are some factors that are in our control for preventing diabetes. For the powerhouses of the human body, the cells, tissues and muscles need to work at their best. The cells need glucose for this job to be done which reaches them through the blood after enough churning by the digestive system. But if the glucose levels in the blood circulation are above normal limits, yet not enough to be called as diabetes, there is a condition prior to it called as prediabetes that needs to be addressed so that the ultimate scourge of metabolism, diabetes, does not raise its hood. A wonderful gland in the human body, the pancreas produces insulin from the belly that maintains the levels of blood sugar in the human...
Diabetes not just affects the internal organs but cause excruciating pain. “I do not need to check my blood sugar levels; I will never get diabetes,” was the reaction of the techie when told by his physician to undergo a check up while looking for a cause of small blister on the sole not yielding to treatment. Well, diabetes is such a disease where the increased blood sugar levels do not cause or hardly show any symptoms that appear as a cause for concern. It is complications of the disease and its effects on various organs of the body over a period of time that are a cause for concern. Our body is endowed with energy requisite for various functions by the nutrition reaching ...
Diaper rash is the inflammation of skin with a reddish eruption on baby’s skin as the babies are worn to wear diaper regularly. Frequently changing diapers or keeping diapers for a longer time cause diaper rash.SymptomsSkin becomes chaffed, tender and red. Buttocks, genitals and thighs are usually affected.Irritability, excessive crying and fussiness is seen.Bleeding and soreness is seen if the rash gets worse.CausesIn babies due to wetness of diaper and tightness these rashes are developed. Due to moistness and warm in the diaper rashes are developed.Care and managementCare should be taken that the diapers are changed before they get heavy.Genitals and buttock region should be cleaned and air drying should be done.Make sure that the diaper isn’t wrapped tightly.During the day if ...
Loose, watery stools often due to viral and bacterial infection. Diarrhea can be acute or chronic.Acute diarrhea lasts for about three to four days. This can also be due to food poisoning. Chronic diarrhea can last about two to three weeks. It could be mostly due to intestinal diseases like crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.Traveller’s diarrhea is most common after a vacation due to exposure to bacteria or parasites.SymptomsAbdominal pain, cramping, bloating abdomen persists.And can be associated with fever and dehydration due to excess loss of fluids.Large watery stools with much mucus.Fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and excessive thirst can be seen.If left untreated there can be severe dehydration with loss of electrolytes and increased heart ...
Difficulty swallowing also called as dysphagia. It is the inability or difficulty to swallow food particles or liquid. This occurs when people try to swallow food without chewing properly. But sometimes difficulty is present even while swallowing liquids, which indicates medical condition.SymptomsPain while swallowing.Choking sensation in the throat, feeling that the food is stuck in the throat.Hoarseness of voice.Regurgitation of food back into throat.Acid reflux.CausesDifferent conditions cause difficulty or pain while swallowing. Oesophageal stricture: food particles get stuck in the oesophagus due to a stricture formation and oesophageal tube is narrowed. In oesophageal hernia food gets trapped in a pouch like structure and this causes pain and burning in the chest and throat lead...
It is important to protect your windows to the world - the eyes Our eyes are the windows to the world capturing all the visual impulses and conveying them to the brain to be stored as photographic memory. The pupil in the middle of the eyeball carries the light to fall on the retina, which is the sensitive portion even as the eyelids keep flapping away any harmful pathogens from the environment while lubricating the exterior of the eye to carry on the functions normally. The eyelids carry on unobtrusively as they blip without our knowledge. Sometimes eyelids could droop down partially obscuring the pupil, and thereby vision, which is termed as ptosis. The upper eyelids are lined by a tarsal plate which gives rigidit...
Saliva is helpful as it provides a mechanical cleansing action and removes debris from the oral cavity. The common reason for dry mouth remains to be intake of drugs for certain ailments. If one feels the need to moisten the mouth frequently or sip water often, feel dryness of mouth at mealtime, have difficulty in eating dry foods and one has bad breath, it is likely that person is suffering from a condition of dry mouth. Well, it does appear trivial that the lack of salivation is an issue as such but saliva, the clear, watery and sometimes viscous fluid produced by the glands around the tongue has digestive enzymes and lubricating fluids that moistens the area. Saliva is further helpful as it has selective antimi...
Scaling of skin, cracking and itching are the common complaints seen in many individuals. Dry skin can occur naturally to an individual or can develop over a period of time.Individuals can have oily skin as well as dry skin. Due to lifestyle changes and many skin care products, skin becomes rough, dry and lifeless. Skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, ringworm, etc. also cause dry skin with itching but with some underlying cause.Dry skin can be of different types like---contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis.Contact dermatitis: skin becomes irritant and inflamed on contact with substance like chemical agents, bleach, etc.Seborrheic dermatitis: is seen mostly on scalp. Red, scaly rashes appear on the scalp.Atopic dermatitis: also known as eczema. Dry scaly patche...
Duodenal ulcers are type of peptic ulcers that affects the lining of duodenum and lining of upper part of small intestines. Erosion of protective lining causes pain or burning and symptoms. Gastric ulcers are other type of peptic ulcers which affect the stomach lining.SymptomsHeartburn or burning in the chest.IndigestionDistension of abdomen or bloating sensation.Pain or burning in abdomen during empty stomach or in between the meals or at midnight. This is the main difference between duodenal and gastric ulcers. In gastric ulcers pain usually persists after eating.Regurgitation of food back is seen sometimes.Nausea and vomiting also persists.Blood in stool may be present if the condition becomes more severe. Vomiting of blood and difficulty in breathing persists if the condition becomes w...
Dupuytren’s contracture is a hand deformity where the skin develops thick tissue forming knots under the skin, thus creating thick cord that pulls one or more fingers inwards. The affected fingers cannot be straightened completely. Functions like holding objects, shaking hands and daily activities are restricted.It affects mostly two fingers i.e. ring and little fingers. The finger joints are bent and are difficult to straighten.SymptomsSkin in the palm becomes thickened.Stiffness of fingers.Lump or nodule in the palm that forms small pits in the palm.Straightening of fingers become difficult.Fine motor activities like writing, knitting, playing piano, etc. are difficult and much inconvenience is seen as the condition progresses.CausesThe exact cause is unknown. But repeated or overuse o...
A better informed woman can handle situations better. Except during the menstrual period, bleeding from the vagina can be disturbing for the woman. But not necessarily so all the time and a better-informed woman would be more confident in dealing with the situation. Bleeding apart from the cycle could occur due to the following reasons — if it occurs in a young girl below the age of 10 years it is called as precocious puberty; in a pregnant woman if it occurs as a spotting it is not necessarily a cause for concern. But if it is frank bleeding it could be a sign of miscarriage and calls for attention. If it is after 12 weeks of pregnancy it could be due to the placental position in the womb. Even ...
A better informed woman can handle situations better. Except during the menstrual period, bleeding from the vagina can be disturbing for the woman. But not necessarily so all the time and a better-informed woman would be more confident in dealing with the situation. Bleeding apart from the cycle could occur due to the following reasons — if it occurs in a young girl below the age of 10 years it is called as precocious puberty; in a pregnant woman if it occurs as a spotting it is not necessarily a cause for concern. But if it is frank bleeding it could be a sign of miscarriage and calls for attention. If it is after 12 weeks of pregnancy it could be due to the placental position in the womb. Even ...
Pain in the hips radiating down into the lower limbs is a common symptom of dysmenorrhoea Freedom to woman would be freedom to the country, Mahatma Gandhi had opined and it is all true today. Last Monday of May was dedicated to the Health of women and this article also salutes the same. Every woman on the planet is still troubled by the niggles and one of them is the painful periods or dysmenorrhoea which pegs pack her day-to-day life during the periods, diminishing her energy and productivity too. Some amount of pain or discomfort during the phase is supposed to be “normal” but only if the pain sort of pulls down a woman and inhibits her daily routine for a day or two every ...
Ear infections, if untreated, can affect the respiratory tract. The tympanic membrane is the receptive part of the ear which trembles at any acoustics and transfers it to the three small bones in the ear and through them to the auditory nerve for us to enjoy the pleasure of hearing. These pleasant changes could sometimes be interrupted due to some accumulation of fluid in the middle ear and also a thin, watery or thick, cream-coloured discharge from the ear due to an ear infection called otitis media. The onset of winter is an ideal time for the bacteria to spread and cause respiratory tract infections. Nasal catarrh with sneezing and nasal discharge, with mucus sometimes falling ...
If your child is less attentive, complains of ear ache and talks louder than usual, it’s time to pay attention. If an otherwise active child is listless, inattentive at school and cries at trifles or if a four-year-old child refers to his ear as the region of discomfort, is not alert to soft voices, tends to talk in a voice louder than his usual pitch, your physician would be concerned about a problem with the ear rather than a behavioural problem. No wonder that after the common cold, the issue which garners more attention in kids less than four years of age is earache. The human ear is a wonderful organ that gives us a sense of belonging to the world around with its conduction of sounds to the brain. As such there is the exte...
Pica is an eating disorder in which the individual tends to eat non- nutritional substances or substances which are indigestible. This is most often seen in children and pregnant women.If this condition becomes worse dangerous effects can be seen.People with this eating disorder tend to eat substances like soap, sand, ice, clay, dirt on floor, hair, cement, paint on wall, chalk, charcoal, glue, etc. which are indigestible. ComplicationsLead poisoning due to licking of walls which is mostly seen in children, intestinal blockages due to bizarre eating, choking, infections of gastrointestinal tract, internal injuries to viscera, etc. are some of complication caused due to Pica.CausesIron deficiency anaemia can be associated with Pica. Pregnant women tend to eat chalk due to iron deficien...
