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World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day

Nov 13th, 2020

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World Diabetes Day

Friday, November 13th, 2020

Diabetes is a chronic disease, which occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. This leads to an increased concentration of glucose in the blood (hyperglycaemia). As per a report by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the prevalence of diabetes in India has been recorded at 11.8%. India is home to an estimated 72.96 million diabetic adults. Also called the diabetes capital of the world, this sugar disease is posing an enormous health challenge for our country. Medical experts suggest that awareness, timely detection, and right management can help patients lead a normal life.

Types of Diabetes

There are mainly three types of diabetes:

  • Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Certain uncontrollable factors like genetics and some viruses may contribute to type 1 diabetes. Although type 1 diabetes usually appears during childhood or adolescence, it can develop in adults too.
  • Type 2 diabetes is caused by the body’s ineffective use of insulin. It often results from excess body weight and physical inactivity. This is the most common form of diabetes and is largely preventable. 9 in 10 cases of type 2 diabetes could be avoided by following simple lifestyle changes. Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes can lead to chronically high blood glucose levels, causing several symptoms and potentially leading to serious complications.
  • Gestational diabetes is hyperglycaemia that is first recognized during pregnancy. It can lead to serious health risks for both the mother and child and needs close monitoring by a health expert.

Symptoms of Diabetes
The most common symptoms used to identify diabetes include:

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Excessive hunger
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Blurred vision
  • Dry mouth

If you see any of the above symptoms, get your blood sugar levels checked or consult a doctor for further assessment.

Diabetes complications
Uncontrolled blood sugar levels may lead to serious long-term problems affecting the eyes, kidneys, heart, brain, feet, and nerves. These include:

  • Eyes – It is recommended that people with diabetes see an eye doctor every year for an eye exam. Eye problems that can occur with diabetes include cataract, glaucoma, retinopathy. Left untreated it may also lead to vision loss.
  • Kidneys – It is important to get your urine tested for protein at least once a year. Protein in the urine is a sign of kidney disease. Prompt treatment may slow the changes with kidney disease.
  • Heart and brain – All people with diabetes have an increased chance of heart disease and strokes. Heart disease is the major cause of death in people with diabetes. It is important to control other risks such as high blood pressure and high fats (cholesterol), as well as blood sugar.
  • Feet – High blood sugar levels can cause skin infections in the foot and leads to slow healing of sores. You can experience severe pain, itching, or experience numbness too. Left untreated, diabetic foot infections may lead to amputation of the toes, foot, or leg.
  • Neuropathy – Diabetic neuropathy is a complication of diabetes that results in damage to the nervous system. It is a progressive disease, and symptoms get worse over time.

Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes

Healthy eating and physical activity could help prevent 90% of Type 2 Diabetes cases. Here is what you can do to reduce your risk of getting type 2 diabetes:

  • Cut sugar and refined carbohydrates
  • Watch your portion size
  • Include fibre in your diet
  • Exercise regularly
  • Drink enough water
  • Quit smoking
  • Sleep well
  • Manage stress levels
  • Be regular with health checkups

Diabetes care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Worried about your fluctuating blood sugar levels? Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle are the most important risk factors responsible for diabetes. It is possible to reduce the burden of type 2 diabetes by lifestyle changes that favour a healthy diet and regular physical activity. Specialists from our Department of Nutrition Therapy can help you with a personalised diet plan. However, certain medical conditions make weight loss difficult and require further intervention.

The Centre for Diabetes and Obesity is equipped with advanced technology and a talented team of experts to help fight obesity and manage diabetes better. For more information, please visit:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_diabetesbariatricsurgery.html

Stay Healthy and Safe this Diwali

Thursday, November 12th, 2020

One of the most celebrated Indian festivals, Diwali is just around the corner. It symbolizes the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. 2020 has been a challenging year for many people in different ways. It has taught people to be grateful for their health, family, friends, and to never take anything for granted. Everyone is looking forward to the festive and joyous Diwali season to light up a smile and celebrate with family and friends, aren’t you?

Let us welcome Diwali this year with festive cheer and love while ensuring the health and safety of your loved ones. Celebrate responsibly while following the required health precautions. Protect the vulnerable members of your family – the elderly, pregnant women, children below 10 years, and people with co-morbidities.

Here are a few health tips to keep in mind to celebrate a healthy and safe Diwali this year:

  • Avoid large gatherings
    While you might get tempted to organize or attend Diwali dinners with family and friends, it is best to keep the guest list small. It is recommended to celebrate Diwali at home with your family. However, if you are meeting others do not forget to maintain physical distancing, continue the use of face masks and wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Plan virtual celebrations
    Cannot meet your extended family due to health restrictions and travel limitations? Organise a zoom call with your family and friends. Plan a  virtual dinner by deciding a mutual time in advance and dressing up to feel festive. This Diwali, celebrate differently and connect with your loved ones safely.
  • Lamp/ Diya safety
    Make sure you keep the lamps away from curtains, electrical wires, and other inflammable objects. Always keep babies and pets away from diyas. Refrain from using hand sanitizers which are alcohol-based before lighting candles, and diyas. This is because hand sanitizers are inflammable and may cause fire accidents.
  • Boost your immunity
    Have a diet that is rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, vitamin C, magnesium, zinc, and omega 3 fatty acids. These nutrients help to strengthen the overall immunity of your body and fight off infections. Stay away from processed foods as they lower your immunity.
  • Stay hydrated 
    Keep your body hydrated by sipping water throughout the day. This helps prevent indigestion and acidity and detoxifies your body. Stay away from aerated drinks, packaged juices, and alcohol as it is dehydrating. Adequate intake of water hydrates your skin and keeps it radiant and glowing for the festive season.
  • Limit your sugar intake
    It is difficult to avoid sweets during this season but you must choose naturally sweetened mithais made from healthy sugar substitutes like dates, jaggery, raisins, honey, etc. This will prevent weight gain, avoid spike in blood sugar levels, and other lifestyle diseases. Relish your Diwali sweets guilt-free.
  • Stay active
    Start your day with some simple exercises like yoga, running, cycling, take the stairs when possible to keep yourself energized and to help maintain your weight. Regular exercise helps boost your immune system.
  • Say “No” to crackers
    The toxic smoke from crackers increases the incidence of respiratory symptoms like cough, wheezing, or burning sensation in the eyes. The increased air pollution poses a high risk for people suffering from asthma, COPD, or other respiratory ailments. Noisy crackers disturb the elderly and infants and may also cause hearing loss or high blood pressure.

Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital wishes you and your family a happy and safe Diwali. We are committed to keeping you and your family safe. Our Accident and Emergency team is available 24/7 for any medical emergencies and provides the fastest response time. Call us on 022 42699999 for emergency services. Please find the below link for our Centre for Accident & Emergency:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_accidentemergency.html

Brain tumour: Myths & Facts

Tuesday, October 27th, 2020

A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of tissue in the brain or central spine that can disrupt proper brain function. There are two main types of tumours namely, malignant and benign(non-malignant) tumours. Benign brain tumours are non-cancerous, while malignant primary brain tumours are cancerous, globally less than one-third of brain tumours are cancerous. This disease can occur at any age. The incidence of this neurological disorder in India ranges from 5 to 10 per 100,000 population with an increasing trend. Twenty percent of these cases are seen in children. Increasing the awareness, busting the many myths, early diagnosis and timely treatment is the right way to fight brain tumour.

Symptoms of Brain tumour
The following is a list of common symptoms which, alone or combined, can be caused by a brain tumour (malignant or non-malignant):

  • Headaches-early morning headache
  • Morning nausea and vomiting
  • Behavioural changes
  • Cognitive changes
  • Dizziness or unsteadiness
  • Speech disturbances
  • Double or blurred vision
  • Hearing impairment
  • Seizures
  • Weakness or Paralysis

Myths and facts of Brain tumour
Brain tumour is one of the most challenging and complex cancers and needs a multidisciplinary approach for treatment and recovery. Myths and misconceptions about brain tumour, its risk factors, how it spreads, and treatment options are widespread. Let us break down some of the most common myths and misconceptions about brain tumours:

  • Myth 1:  All brain tumours are cancerous.
    Fact: Only one-third of brain tumours are cancerous. Most of the non-cancerous brain tumours can be treated completely.
  • Myth 2: Brain tumour always originates in the brain.
    Fact: A brain tumour can originate in the brain and can also be a result of metastasis of cancer from other parts of the body like kidney, breast, lungs, intestine etc. The former is called primary tumours whereas the second type of brain tumour is called the secondary tumour which is quite frequent than the first one.
  • Myth 3: Brain cancer doesn’t affect young people.
    Fact: Brain tumours can occur at any age. Newborns have also been found to have a brain tumour. Brain tumour is the second most common cancer among children in our country.
  • Myth 4: Brain tumour runs in families.
    Fact: There is no evidence to suggest that people who have family members with brain tumors are more likely to get brain tumour.
  • Myth 5: Using Mobile phones causes brain tumour.
    Fact: There is no research evidence to suggest that mobile phone or any other type of radiation causes brain tumour but long exposures to radiation can have severe negative effects on the overall health and hence, should not be taken lightly.
  • Myth 6: Brain Cancer is a very common condition.
    Fact: Overall, the chance that a person will develop a malignant tumor of the brain in his or her lifetime is less than 1%.
  • Myth 7: Lifestyle modification can prevent Brain Tumors.
    Fact: An individual’s lifestyle does not lead to brain tumours and hence lifestyle modifications cannot prevent brain tumours. However, making healthy lifestyle choices help benefit your overall health.  Daily exercise, a balanced diet that is high in fibre, staying away from chewing tobacco, smoking and alcohol is good for health.
  • Myth 8: All brain tumour patients have the same signs and symptoms.
    Fact: Every person diagnosed with a brain tumour will have different symptoms depending on the size, site and grade of tumour. While some people do not develop symptoms other may have symptoms that worsen over time eventually leading to a diagnosis.
  • Myth 9: Treatment for a brain tumour is standard and accessible to anyone affected.
    Fact: Treatment of Brain tumours depends on the site, size and type of tumor. It includes Surgery, Radiation and Chemotherapy. These are available only in Tertiary centers.
  • Myth 10: Frequent headaches and blurred vision indicate brain tumour.
    Fact: Not all patients with headaches and blurred vision have brain tumour. There are hundreds of causes of headaches which needs proper investigation.

At Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital we have a dedicated team of neurosurgeons, medical oncologists, paediatric oncologists and radiation oncologist specialised in Neurooncolgy to diagnose and treat brain tumours. Our Centre for Neurosciences is equipped with the latest in world class technology that assists the doctors to achieve maximal safe resection of all tumours. Our highly experienced team of specialists performs over 1373 brain tumour surgeries successfully . The team uses the latest operative advances with navigation, awake surgery techniques, neurophysiology monitoring with MEP and SSEP. Please find below our website link for further details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_neurosciences/braintumor.html

This blog is written by Dr. Abhaya Kumar, Head, Neurosurgery and Consultant, Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. For more information about Dr. Kumar please click here

World Stroke Day

Tuesday, October 27th, 2020

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds, or when there’s a blockage in the blood supply to the brain. The rupture or blockage prevents blood and oxygen from reaching the brain’s tissues. Without oxygen, brain cells and tissue become damaged and begin to die within minutes. Every year, approximately 1.8 million people suffer from stroke, which is the second most common cause of death after coronary artery disease (CAD) globally. Stroke is the second commonest cause of death in India. Nearly one stroke case is reported every 40 seconds and one stroke death every four minutes in India. Amongst survivors, stroke is also the most prevalent cause of chronic adult disability.

Symptoms of Stroke
If you or a loved one is having a stroke, seek immediate medical help. When it comes to a stroke, time lost is brain lost. The more time that passes between the onset of a stroke and treatment, the more likely that brain functions are permanently lost. 

Remember FAST if you spot a stroke:

  • Face drooping
  • Arm weakness
  • Speech difficulty
  • Time to call emergency services

Some of the additional signs and symptoms of a stroke may include:

  • Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech.
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.
  • Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

The prognosis and recovery for a person that has suffered a stroke depend upon the location of the injury to the brain.

Types of Stroke
The type of stroke you have affects your treatment and recovery. The three main types of stroke are:

  • Ischemic stroke – An ischemic stroke happens when blood flow through the artery that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the brain becomes blocked.
  • Hemorrhagic stroke – A hemorrhagic stroke happens when an artery in the brain leaks blood or ruptures. The leaked blood puts too much pressure on brain cells, which damages them.
  • Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) – A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is sometimes called a “mini-stroke.” The blood flow to the brain is blocked for only a short time—usually no more than 5 minutes.Recognizing and treating TIAs can lower the risk of a major stroke.

Stroke prevention
Some stroke risk factors can’t be controlled. These include gender, age, and family history. However, up to 80 percent of strokes can be prevented with healthy lifestyle changes and controlling your health conditions. Here is what you must do to:

  • High blood pressure: High blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke and almost half of adults suffer from it. Get yours checked regularly.
  • Diabetes: High blood sugar damages your blood vessels, control your diabetes levels with medicine and lifestyle changes.
  • Heart disease: Coronary artery disease or atrial fibrillation could contribute to stroke. Get treated for your heart condition.
  • Abnormal cholesterol: When you take in more cholesterol than your body can use, it builds up, clogging arteries—including those in your brain. Control your cholesterol levels.
  • Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases your risk for stroke as obesity is linked to high cholesterol and blood pressure.
  • Unhealthy diet: Choosing healthy foods can help prevent stroke. Eat foods that are low in saturated fats, trans fat, and cholesterol. Have plenty of fruits and vegetables to increase your fibre intake.
  • Not exercising: Regular exercise helps you stay at a healthy weight and can lower your cholesterol and blood pressure.
  • Smoking: Cigarette contains toxic chemicals that damage your heart and blood vessels, which increases your risk for stroke. Quit smoking.
  • Drinking alcohol:  Drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure, stay away from alcohol.
  • Stress: Stress can contribute to high blood pressure. Learn to manage your stress better by practicing meditation, staying positive, listening to music or taking up a hobby you enjoy.

Advanced Stroke care
Stroke is one of the largest contributors to increasing health loss in India over the last 30 years. India needs a comprehensive approach for awareness amongst the masses, timely diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation using advanced technologies and expertise.

Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital has established a comprehensive stroke care programme for the management of acute and chronic stroke patients. The Code Stroke Plan includes a stroke ambulance, emergency care services, neuro-imaging, neurological intensive care unit, neuro-intervention services, neurosurgical services, and a dedicated stroke unit. Our team offers comprehensive acute neurointervention services under a single roof. The Centre for Neurosciences has conducted over 875 brain surgeries for stroke in the past.

We offer a Stroke rehabilitation program that provides an optimal environment for recovery, functional improvement, and reduction in secondary complications and disability. The Multidisciplinary Team of specialists are equipped with these high-end technologies:

  • Gait & Motion Analysis Laboratory
  • Balance Assessment and Training System (BATS)
  • Body-Weight Support Treadmill Gait Training System (BWSTT)

Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital (KDAH) is one of the only private hospitals in Mumbai and more so in Western India to have a comprehensive Level-1 Accident & Emergency Department (A&E) for patient care, training and research. The Trauma Centre is reputed to respond the fastest in times of a stroke. that ensures higher recovery chances. Please find below the link to our website:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_neurosciences/stroke.html

World Spine Day

Friday, October 16th, 2020

Every fifth Indian in the age group 20-30 suffers from a spinal ailment, which until a decade ago was common among senior citizens. Statistics suggest that there has been a 60 percent rise in spinal problems among the youth. A survey also found that 50 percent of Indian children and teenagers are prone to spinal problems due to the high use of mobile phones. Prolonged sitting in the same posture can add a tremendous amount of pressure to the back muscles and spinal discs, a slouched posture further strains the spinal ligaments and causes major pain in the back and neck. Back pain has been a leading cause of absenteeism at the workplace and is also the leading cause of disability worldwide. It is also the second most common reason for visits to a primary care physician

World Spine Day highlights the importance of spinal health and well being. The day aims to spread awareness about healthy spine practices like physical activity, good posture, responsible lifting, and healthy working conditions for people.

Symptoms of spine disorders
Do you frequently find yourself uncomfortable and distracted by back or neck pain? Has your ability to work or participate in the activities you enjoy been diminished by an underlying spine problem? Here are some common signs and symptoms of a spinal cord disorder that need attention from a specialist:

  • Abnormally rounded shoulders or back
  • Back or neck pain that can be sharp and stabbing, dull and aching
  • Bladder or bowel dysfunction
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Pain radiating in the arms or legs
  • Stiffness or tightness
  • Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs

Risk factors for spine disorders
Spine disorders have a wide variety of causes depending on the particular condition. However, some factors increase the risk of developing a spine disorder:

  • Excess weight or obesity
  • Improper lifting techniques
  • A sedentary lifestyle
  • Low calcium intake
  • Conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disease
  • Overuse from exercise or occupational movement
  • Poor posture
  • Repetitive strenuous activities

Spine conditions

Your back or neck pain may be the result of one of the following common spine conditions. Here is a list of some common conditions that need help from a specialist:

  • Herniated Cervical Disc
  • Herniated Lumbar Disc
  • Spinal Cord Injuries
  • Spondylosis
  • Sciatica
  • Spinal fracture
  • Kyphosis
  • Spinal Infections
  • Spinal Osteoarthritis (Spondylosis)
  • Spinal Stenosis
  • Scoliosis and Spinal Deformities
  • Spinal Tumors

Keeping your spine healthy
As you get older, you may experience increased aches, pains, and joint stiffness. Start taking care of your spine early for preventive care. Here are a few tips to follow to protect your spine health and maintain its flexibility:

  • Strengthen your core muscles via targeted exercises including aerobics, flexion (bending forward), and extension (bending backward) stretches
  • Avoid putting undue stress on your spine by practicing proper posture
  • Make ergonomic adjustments to your work station
  • Avoid lifting objects that are heavier than 25% of your own body weight
  • Eat a balanced diet that includes anti-inflammatory foods and vitamin D
  • Quit smoking
  • Consider buying a better, more supportive mattress
  • Stretch regularly to relax your back and neck muscles
  • Get help for depression as it may lead to backache

Advanced Spine care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

A number of conditions and injuries can affect the spine, which can damage the vertebrae, cause pain, and limit mobility. Our team of neurosurgeons, orthopaedic surgeons, pain physicians, psychologists, and other specialists have extensive experience in treating even the most complex spinal conditions. We also offer minimally invasive, endoscopic spine surgery. Our experts have successfully conducted over 1902 spine surgeries in the past. The Centre for Neurosciences at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital boasts of world class doctors and is equipped with the latest in cutting edge technology to give you the best possible treatment and improve your quality of life. For more information please visit: www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_neurosciences/minimalinvasivespinesurgery.html


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