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Protect yourself from common winter diseases

Protect Yourself From winter Diseases

Dec 23rd, 2021

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Protect Yourself From winter Diseases

Thursday, December 23rd, 2021

Enjoying the winter chills as you sip your warm cup of masala chai? While the festive season brings a smile to many faces and gives you a chance to adorn your favourite winter jacket, it may also lead to health complications for some. People tend to get sick with changing seasons as the shift in temperature causes viruses to flourish and spread diseases. This season makes you feel sluggish and lethargic and also lowers your immunity. If you are feeling under the weather, or suffer from symptoms of wheezing or high fever do not delay in seeking medical attention.

Common Winter Diseases

Let’s take a look at some of the most common winter ailments. Take the required precautions to help prevent them:

  • Common Cold
    During winter, the common cold is a very frequent illness. Symptoms include runny noses, sneezing, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and even headache. It usually goes away in a few days and doesn’t require any serious medical attention. Increase your fluid intake and rest to recover. Additionally, over-the-counter medications and nasal sprays can help alleviate the symptoms.
  • Influenza
    Influenza or the common flu is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. Symptoms of the flu include a fever, cough, chest congestion, muscle aches, chills, and fatigue, often developing rapidly within a few hours. Rest and self-care will help with the recovery. However, sometimes serious complications may arise in high-risk patients that include young children and adults over 65 years of age.
  • Strep Throat
    Strep throat is a severe and painful sore throat infection that causes much discomfort. It is caused primarily by bacterial infection and is extremely common among young children. Fever, headaches, difficulty swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck are all common symptoms. Use antibiotics only if prescribed.
  • Bronchitis
    Acute bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which connect the mouth, nose, and lungs. It is more common in the winter months. Consistent cough, which may throw up mucus after a few days, is the most typical sign of bronchitis. Most patients will feel better in seven to ten days with over-the-counter medications, steam inhalation, and rest.
  • Pneumonia
    A common infection of the lungs, Pneumonia can lead to symptoms of coughing, sneezing, and even problems in breathing. If you are suffering from breathlessness or have a prolonged cold and high fever, consult a doctor for further investigation and treatment. This lung infection is caused by a virus or bacteria that can range from mild to severe, depending on factors such as age, overall health, and the type of infection. It is more likely to affect severely to children below two years and to those over 65 years.
  • Acute Ear Infection
    An acute ear infection is a common winter ailment in which bacteria cause inflammation and fluid build-up in the middle ear. Other causes of acute ear infections are cold, smoking, sinus infection, and changes in climatic conditions. The symptoms include severe pain, hearing loss, discomfort in the ear, etc. Consult an ENT specialist for further care.
  • Gastroenteritis and norovirus
    Gastroenteritis and norovirus are acute stomach illnesses characterized by nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. They are highly contagious and are common during winters. The main sources of transmission are person-to-person contact and contaminated foods. Eat hygienically prepared food, and maintain high personal hygiene.

Winter Health Precautions

The cold weather and shorter days during the winter can make you lose the motivation to exercise and stay healthy and fit. This could lead to a weak immune system posing a greater risk of contracting the disease. Here are some precautions to stay healthy and safe this winter:

  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Have more immunity-boosting foods.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Drink more warm fluids during the season.

Take these precautions, stay active and eat seasonal fruits and vegetables to stay healthy this winter. It is important to seek timely medical care to manage winter ailments and lead a healthy life.

Winter Health Tips

Monday, December 13th, 2021

Feel like curling up in your blanket every morning and sleeping for some extra time? With the nip in the air and the pleasant winds, the most awaited season of the year is finally here. Though the unseasonal rains have been playing havoc since the last few days, everyone is looking forward to enjoying the cool winters, the delicious winter foods and the festive season. While the change in temperature is enjoyable for some it may also bring along some seasonal infections for young children, the elderly and for those with low immunity. Keep yourself warm and strengthen your immunity to help ward off these infections.

Winter Health Precautions

The cold and chilling weather can make you feel lethargic and depressed. It may also lead to dry skin, joint pain as well as seasonal infections of cough, cold and flu. It is important to safeguard yourself from the cold weather and stay healthy throughout the season. Here are a few health precautions for winter:

  • Exercise regularly.
  • Get enough sunlight.
  • Wear extra layers of clothes to keep yourself warm.
  • Protect your joints.
  • Take your medications.
  • Maintain hygiene.
  • Moisturize frequently.
  • Stay hydrated.

Healthy Winter Foods

Fill your plate with seasonal vegetables, citrus fruits and leafy green vegetables. Additionally, herbs like ginger, tulsi, garlic in the diet also help to keep the body warm and prevent inflammation. Make these winter superfoods a part of your diet:

  • Amla
    The sour-tasting fruit is abundantly available in winters. It is one of the richest sources of Vitamin C which helps enhance your immunity and improves your digestion. It is also known to improve your skin and hair health.
  • Sesame seeds
    One of the most popular ways to have sesame seeds is to make chikkis. Sesame seeds are high in fibre, plant protein, vitamins, and other nutrients and help keep you warm in the winters. It aids in the development of blood cells, reduces inflammation, lowers blood pressure, and supports bone health.
  • Root vegetables
    Root vegetables are those that grow below the surface, like radish, purple yam, carrot, turnip and sweet potatoes. They are known to give warmth to the body as their digestion is slower and helps generates more heat.
  • Jaggery
    Do you have a sweet tooth after lunch? All you need is a mouthful of jaggery to satisfy your sugar cravings. When had with a teaspoon of ghee, the combination not only keeps your body warm, but it also helps to prevent winter diseases.
  • Dates
    Dates have a lower fat level, which helps you maintain a healthy weight. They’re a nutrient-dense powerhouse and should be consumed on a regular basis to keep your body warm during the winter.
  • Bajra
    This small, millet variety is rich in fat, protein, and fibre. The high iron concentration aids in the treatment of anaemia. Millets like bajra are known to help strengthen your bones if consumed on a regular basis.
  • Ghee
    Did you know? Desi Ghee is the most easily digestible fat which gives the body the much-needed warmth in the winter season. Don’t shy away from traditional homemade ghee laden mithais.
  • Ginger
    Ginger has thermogenic qualities, which help you stay warm in the winter. It also helps boost your metabolism and increase your blood flow. Start your winter mornings with a cup of hot ginger tea to keep you going strong throughout the day.
  • Dry Fruits
    Dry fruits like almonds, walnuts, raisins and cashews are filled with nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids. They also help in curing anaemia and other disorders that are caused due to vitamin deficiencies.
  • Tulsi
    Tulsi leaves are high in antioxidants and micronutrients that that help boost your immunity. The medicinal properties of tulsi help the body to fight cold-borne diseases like cough, cold, sinus, and other respiratory problems.

Enjoy this winter season by eating seasonal healthy foods and taking the above health precautions. Stay healthy, Stay safe!

Antibiotics Awareness

Tuesday, November 23rd, 2021

According to the State of the World’s Antibiotics 2021 study antibiotic use in India has increased dramatically, with a 30 percent increase in per capita use over the last decade, raising worries about widespread and growing antibiotic resistance.

Spread awareness, stop resistance

Every year, between November 18 and 24 the world observes World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW). It helps raise awareness about global antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and encourages best practises among the general public, health workers, farmers, animal health professionals, and policymakers to prevent the spread of drug-resistant infections.

What is antibiotic resistance?

Antibiotics are medicines used to kill bacteria. Over time, certain groups of these germs may adapt to these medicines and change in such a way that antibiotics can′t kill them. This is called antibiotic resistance. Bacteria are very small organisms and some of them are harmless and may be helpful. But some of these germs can be harmful, they multiply inside your body, and can cause disease. Before antibiotics were introduced, people often got very sick from bacterial infections. With these medicines, it is now easy to treat many infections and save lives too.

Antibiotic resistance is increasing at an alarming rate across the world. New resistance mechanisms are arising and spreading throughout the world, posing a danger to our ability to treat common infectious diseases. As antibiotics become less efficient, an increasing variety of infections — including pneumonia, tuberculosis, blood poisoning, gonorrhoea, and foodborne diseases – are becoming more difficult, if not impossible, to cure. Antibiotic resistance is jeopardising contemporary medicine’s gains. Without appropriate antibiotics for prophylaxis and treatment, organ transplantation, chemotherapy, and procedures such as caesarean sections may become substantially more risky.

How to Prevent Antibiotic Resistance?

Antibiotics operate by combating bacterial illnesses. They have the ability to kill germs or make it more difficult for bacteria to develop and multiply. Bacteria can adapt and create new structures that make them resistant to antibiotics when we abuse or overuse them. Viral infections, such as the common cold, flu, most sore throats, and ear infections, are the most prevalent causes of illness that are resistant to medications. These infections do not need antibiotics.

The process of antibiotic resistance is accelerated by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics, as well as poor infection prevention and control measures. It is important to use antibiotics responsibly and take steps at all levels of society to reduce the impact and limit the spread of resistance. Here are a few precautions to take:

  • Use antibiotics only when prescribed by a certified health professional.
  • Do not use antibiotics for viral infections.
  • Never demand antibiotics if your doctor says you don’t need them.
  • Always follow your doctor’s advice when using antibiotics.
  • Never share or use leftover antibiotics.
  • Prepare and store food hygienically, and choose foods that have been produced without the use of antibiotics for growth promotion or disease prevention in healthy animals.

Key facts

Antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest challenges to global health, food security, and development today. Anyone, of any age, in any country, can be affected. Antibiotic resistance occurs naturally, but human and animal overuse of antibiotics accelerates the process. Antimicrobial consumption in animals is nearly three times that of humans and is a primary driver of the scale-up in animal protein production. As antibiotics used to treat TB, pneumonia, gonorrhoea, and salmonellosis become less effective, these infections are becoming more difficult to cure.

Health Precautions

No one can completely avoid the risk of resistant infections, however people with a low immunity, or those suffering from existing health conditions are at a greater risk. We will lose the ability to treat illnesses and handle public health problems if antibiotics lose their effectiveness. Here are a few ways to help prevent the spread of all bacterial infections:

  • Always wash your hands with soap and water.
  • Don’t share food or beverages with others.
  • Practice safe sex.
  • Use tissues to cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
  • Don’t touch open wounds.
  • Stay away from sick people.
  • Don’t share personal items such as razors, towels, or brushes.

Use antibiotics responsibly for your and everyone’s safety.

COPD Awareness

Wednesday, November 17th, 2021

India has around 30 million Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients and it also contributes to the second-highest mortality from this disease. COPD claimed the lives of roughly 1 million people in 2017 in India. The rising pollution levels in the last two to three decades has contributed to this increased numbers. COPD is an incurable and progressive disease that causes inflammation in the lungs’ airways and the destruction of the air sacs that take oxygen from the air and discharge waste, such as carbon dioxide. COPD makes breathing more difficult with time. Although lung damage cannot be reversed, medication and lifestyle modifications can help you manage this condition.

Symptoms of COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, describes a group of lung conditions that make it difficult to empty air out of the lungs because the airways have become narrowed. It is caused over a period of time due to exposure to irritants that damage your lungs and airways. As COPD progresses gradually, it becomes increasingly difficult to breathe over time. The two most common conditions of COPD are chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The most common symptoms include:

  • Persistent cough with mucus.
  • Difficulty taking a deep breath.
  • Shortness of breath with mild exercise.
  • Becoming tired easily.
  • Wheezing.

If you experience any of these symptoms, see a specialist for further diagnosis and treatment. Do not delay seeking medical care or dismiss the symptoms as regular cough. COPD is a chronic lung disease that has no cure. The damage done to your lungs is irreversible but you can slow the disease’s progression by administering medications that improve quality of life and alleviate symptoms.

Risk factors of COPD

Long-term exposure to allergens and toxins in the air can lead to COPD. Smoking is the biggest risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The majority of COPD cases in western countries are caused by tobacco use, but most COPD cases in the developing world, including India, are caused by exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution, notably burning biomass, such as wood and cow dung. Here are the most common risk factors of this disease:

  • Smoking tobacco.
  • Breathing second-hand smoke.
  • Long-term exposure to air pollution.
  • Workplace exposure to chemicals, fumes and dust.
  • A genetic condition called Alpha-1 deficiency.
  • A history of childhood respiratory infection.

Living with COPD

This condition has no permanent cure. However, there are certain things you can do to maintain your health and alleviate your symptoms. COPD patients must make these positive lifestyle changes to help improve their quality of life:

  • Quit smoking.
  • Avoid smoke, fumes, dust, and air pollution as much as you can.
  • Practice breathing exercises.
  • Stay active.
  • Take your medications as prescribed.
  • Get regular checkups.
  • Eat a healthy diet.

COPD treatment at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

The Department of Pulmonary Medicine at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital provides the full spectrum of care and treatment for respiratory diseases like COPD. Our world-class multidisciplinary team of doctors, pulmonologists, nurses, lab technicians, and support staff provides cutting-edge treatment and exemplary care in a comforting ambience full of personalized attention. We are equipped with an Ultra Modern Pulmonary Function Lab for Spirometry, Lung Volumes, Diffusion Capacity, 6-minute walk test, and oxygen saturation. The right facilities and the right experts can help you breathe easier. We also have an advanced physical rehabilitation therapy department for assistance with chest physiotherapy and other rehabilitation therapy. Please find below our website link for further information: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/pulmonarymedicine/copd.html

Diabetes Care

Saturday, November 13th, 2021

Diabetes affects one out of every ten persons worldwide. India has 72.9 million adults affected by this silent epidemic, making it the country with the second most diabetes patients. With almost 116 million diabetics, China tops the list. If you have diabetes, your body is unable to properly digest and utilise glucose obtained from your diet. There are different types of diabetes, each with its own set of causes, but they all have one thing in common: too much glucose in the bloodstream. Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed, hence it is important to raise awareness about this disease and find ways to reduce your risk.

Types of Diabetes

Diabetes develops when your body’s cells are unable to absorb sugar (glucose) and utilise it for energy. Extra sugar builds up in your system as a result of this. Diabetes that is not well controlled can have serious health complications, including damage to a variety of organs and tissues in your body, including your heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. The different types of diabetes include:

  • Type 1 diabetes
    This condition is an autoimmune disease, meaning your body attacks itself. The insulin-producing cells in your pancreas are damaged in this situation. Type 1 diabetes affects up to 10% of patients with diabetes. It is most commonly diagnosed in children and young people, and it is also known as “juvenile” diabetes. People with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin on a daily basis.
  • Type 2 diabetes
    With this type, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or your body’s cells don’t respond normally to the insulin. It is the most common type of diabetes and up to 95% of people with diabetes have Type 2.
  • Prediabetes
    This type is the stage before Type 2 diabetes. Your blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be officially diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.
  • Gestational diabetes
    This type develops in some women during their pregnancy. Gestational diabetes usually goes away after pregnancy. However, for some women it may increase your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later on in life.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes symptoms often appear gradually over several years and are so minor that you may not even notice them. The following are the most prevalent symptoms of type 2 diabetes that should be investigated further:

  • Frequent urination
  • Feeling very thirst and hungry
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Having a blurry vision
  • Numbness or tingling of hands or feet
  • Feel very tired
  • Slow healing wounds

Risk factors for Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is known to have a substantial hereditary component, meaning it runs in families. Your chances of getting this disease increase considerably if you have a parent, brother, or sister who has it. Apart from your family history, the below factors highly increase your risk of getting type 2 diabetes:

  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol levels
  • Prediabetes
  • Unhealthy food habits
  • High alcohol intake
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Being obese or overweight
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Diabetes complications

Diabetics are at a higher risk of having a variety of major health conditions. High blood glucose levels over time can lead to significant disorders of the heart and blood vessels, as well as the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and teeth. In addition, people with diabetes are more likely to contract infections. Diabetes is a leading cause of cardiovascular illness, blindness, kidney failure, and lower limb amputation too. Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to help delay or prevent diabetic complications. Here are the most common health complications seen in diabetics:

  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Diabetic nephropathy
  • Pregnancy complications
  • Diabetic foot disease

Preventive Diabetes care

You may be able to avoid or delay the onset of diabetes if you are at risk. Making healthy lifestyle changes on time will help reduce your risk of getting type 2 diabetes. Here are some of the recommended preventive measures:

  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Follow a healthy diet plan
  • Exercise regularly
  • Quit smoking
  • Monitor your health numbers
  • Know your risk

Diabetes care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Diabetes is a chronic disease that can lead to serious complications if not treated effectively by a specialist. Consult highly trained and experienced doctors at our Centre for Diabetes and Bariatric Surgery for a multidisciplinary approach. Our team helps you learn everything you need to know about diabetes prevention, care, treatment, and management. From diagnosis to diet plan to obesity management our doctors look into everything. Although there is currently no treatment for diabetes, regulating your blood sugar levels can help you live a healthier life. Early diagnosis and treatment is the best way to reduce the risk of developing diabetes-related complications. Please find below our website details for further information: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_diabetesbariatricsurgery.html

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