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Health Risks of Tobacco Use

May 30th, 2022

Archive for May, 2022

Health Risks of Tobacco Use

Monday, May 30th, 2022

People who smoke die 10 years earlier than those who have never smoked. Smoking and tobacco use causes toxic substances to enter your lungs and spread throughout your body. Toxic chemicals in tobacco smoke reach your brain, heart, and other organs within 10 seconds after your first puff. Tobacco consumption is harmful to practically every part of your body and raises your risk of developing a variety of ailments. Quitting reduces your risk of tobacco induced diseases and can extend your life by several years.

Did you know?

Tobacco use is the one risk factor shared by 4 of the main categories of non-communicable disease. These include cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic lung disease and diabetes.Statistic suggest that tobacco smoke increases the risk for coronary heart disease by 2 to 4 times!Every year health organizations around the world celebrate World No Tobacco Day on 31st May and get together to raise awareness on the harmful effects of tobacco use and to discourage the use of all forms of tobacco.

Tobacco use and cancer

Smokeless tobacco increases the risk of oral cancer whereas smoking is the causebehind a majority of the lung cancer cases. Cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, beedi and pipes can all cause cancer. There is no safe form of tobacco. Additionally, tobacco use also increases the risk for cancers of the: 

  • Larynx (voice box).
  • Pharynx (throat).
  • Cervix.
  • Breast.
  • Esophagus.
  • Kidney.
  • Liver.
  • Bladder.
  • Pancreas.
  • Stomach.
  • Colon/rectum.

How smoking tobacco damages your lungs

Smoking harms your lung’s airways and little air sacs. The damage begins as soon as a person begins smoking, and it continues to deteriorate as long as the person continues to smoke. This can also lead to serious long-term lung disorders as COPD, pneumonia, TB, and asthma. Common respiratory disorders include:

  • COPD
    Damage to the tiny airways in the lungs causes Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), making it difficult for the lungs to provide oxygen to the rest of the body. The most common cause of COPD is smoking.
  • Chronic bronchitis
    Chronic bronchitis affects people who have been smoking for long periods of time. In this disease, the airways make too much mucus, eventually leading to inflammation and increases the risk of dangerous lung infections.
  • Emphysema
    The walls between the small air sacs in the lungs break down in emphysema, resulting in larger but fewer sacs. This reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches the bloodstream, causing poor lung function, including pneumonia.

Tobacco and heart disease

Smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco damages your heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular system), increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke. Here are the most common heart ailments:

  • It raises blood pressure, reduces exercise capacity, and increases the risk of blood clots. It also lowers the levels of HDL (good) cholesterol in the blood. All of these things increase your chances of having a heart attack or a stroke.
  • It also leads to other conditions that include peripheral arterial disease (PAD), aortic aneurysm and peripheral vascular disease or (PVD).

Tobacco and reproductive health

All forms of tobacco are made up of harmful chemicals that damage your blood vessels and DNA. Here is how it affects your reproductive health:

Women

  • Tobacco usage can have an adverse effect on a woman’s reproductive health. Women who smoke, for example, are more likely to have difficulty conceiving.
  • Women who smoke while pregnant have a higher risk of pregnancy complications, placenta problems, miscarriages and stillbirths, birth defects, premature births and low birth-weight babies.

Men

  • Smoking can cause damage to blood vessels throughout the body. Erectile dysfunction is more common among men who smoke.
  • Smoking can also affect the sperm quality, which can reduce fertility and increase the risk for birth defects.

Other health risks of tobacco use

Tobacco use of all forms can impact a person’s health in a variety of ways, wreaking havoc on practically every organ in the body. Here are some other ways that tobacco might harm your health:

  • Increased risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
  • Premature aging of the skin.
  • Bad breath and stained teeth.
  • Lowered immune system function.
  • Increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
  • Decreased sense of smell and taste.
  • Lower bone density (thinner bones).
  • Higher risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Increased risk for cataracts.
  • Increased risk for age-related macular degeneration.

Many of the health concerns associated with tobacco use can have a negative impact on a person’s quality of life. Quitting smoking and all other forms of tobacco particularly at an early age, can help to reduce smoking-related impairment.

Smoking cessation clinic at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Do you know someone who is a chain smoker? Are you trying to quit smoking but cannot? The Smoking cessation clinic at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital helps diagnose and manage tobacco addictions. Our team of experts that include chest physicians, psychologists and psychiatrists provide a personalised plan to help you give up tobacco. To learn more about quitting tobacco, click here: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicsatkh/smokingcessationclinic.html

Heart Disease: Know Your Risk

Tuesday, May 24th, 2022

Do you have a history of heart disease in your family? Do you lead a sedentary lifestyle or follow unhealthy eating habits? Being aware of your risk factors is important to take essential precautions and protect your heart health.According to the World Heart Federation, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 18.6 million deaths per year. According to the Global Burden of Disease, CVDs account for over a quarter (24.8%) of all fatalities in India.

Heart disease is caused by a variety of factors. Certain risk factors increase your chance of developing it. Heart disease is more likely to occur if you have multiple risk factors.Speak to your family doctor about your family’s medical background and consult a cardiologist for further assistance.

Risk factors for Heart disease

Knowing your risk factors and implementing positive lifestyle changes to minimise your risk are the first steps in preventing heart disease. The majority of heart ailments can be avoided by making healthy decisions. There are certain heart disease risk factors that you can control and others that you can’t. The following are uncontrollable risk factors for heart disease:

  • Being male.
  • Older age.
  • Family history
  • Ethnicity.

Heart disease risk factors that are controllable include:

  • Smoking.
  • Unhealthy cholesterol numbers.
  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure.
  • Physical inactivity.
  • Obesity.
  • Uncontrolled diabetes.
  • Uncontrolled stress, depression, and anger.
  • Poor diet.
  • Alcohol use.

Preventing Heart disease

According to research, heart disease can be prevented in more than half of the cases by making simple lifestyle adjustments. These modifications can typically enhance your entire physical and mental health in addition to lowering your risk of heart attack and stroke. Take these precautions to reduce your risk of heart disease:

  • Quit smoking
    Smokers have more than twice the risk of heart attack as non-smokers and are much more likely to die from them. Quit smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
  • Control your cholesterol
    Your risk for heart disease increases with unhealthy cholesterol numbers. A diet low in cholesterol, saturated and trans fats, and simple sugars, and high in complex carbohydrates can help lower cholesterol levels in some people. Regular exercise and medication will also help lower “bad” cholesterol and raise “good” cholesterol in some cases.
  • Control high blood pressure
    Nearly 1 in 3 adults suffer from high blood pressure. Your doctor will assess your blood pressure numbers in light of your overall health, lifestyle, and other risk factors and suggest a treatment plan.
  • Manage your blood sugar levels
    If not properly controlled, diabetes can lead to heart disease and heart damage, including heart attacks. Control diabetes through a healthy diet, exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and medication as prescribed by your doctor.
  • Stay active
    Most people should exercise 30 minutes a day, at moderate intensity, on most days. Aerobic activities that raise your heart rate include brisk walking, cycling, swimming, jumping rope, and jogging. Weight training is also recommended.
  • Eat right
    Eat a heart-healthy diet low in sodium, saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, and refined sugars. Try to increase your intake of foods rich in vitamins and other nutrients, especially antioxidants, eat more fruits and vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.
  • Say “No” to alcohol
    Excessive alcohol intake increases your risk of getting a heart disease. Avoid all forms of alcohol.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
    Obesity by itself could raise your risk for heart disease. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight.
  • Manage stress
    Poorly controlled stress and anger can worsen heart disease. Here are a few ways to reduce your stress levels:
    • Yoga and meditation.
    • Listen to music.
    • Read a book.
    • Take up a hobby you enjoy.
    • Manage your time better.
    • Set realistic goals.
  • Be regular with heart health check-ups
    Preventive health check-ups are often ignored and delayed by people. Discuss your lifestyle as well as your family’s medical history with your doctor and schedule health checkups to protect your heart health

Cardiac care at KokilabenDhirubhaiAmbani Hospital

The Centre for Cardiac Sciences is equipped with cutting-edge technology, world-class infrastructure, and a highly experienced team of cardiologists and cardiac surgeons. We offer a comprehensive programme for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of heart disease in people of all ages. The team has successfully performed over 8500 cardiac surgeries in the past. Visit our hospital website for further information: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_cardiacsciences.html

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Hypertension

Monday, May 16th, 2022

High blood pressure, often known as hypertension, is a serious medical condition that can be easily detected at a doctor’s clinic and controlled with low-cost treatment. Despite this, India ranks 193rd for women and 170th for men among 200 countries in terms of hypertension diagnosis. Surprisingly, 60–70% of Indians with hypertension are completely unaware of their disease. Because of the lack of diagnosis, extremely low rates of hypertension treatment exist, putting people at the risk of developing life-threatening diseases like heart attack and stroke.

High blood pressure (HBP, or hypertension) shows no symptoms and is a “silent killer” that quietly damages blood vessels and leads to serious health disorders. Using medications as prescribed and making lifestyle changes can enhance your quality of life and reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and more. This World Hypertension Day, let us understand the key lifestyle changes to manage hypertension and raise awareness about the same.

Know your numbers

Is your blood pressure in the normal or dangerous range? Getting your blood pressure checked is the best method to find out the same. High blood pressure is defined when one or both of your blood pressure readings are higher than 130/80 mm Hg most of the time. If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you should keep a track of it on a regular basis and seek medical help.

How to manage your blood pressure?

Your daily habits can affect your blood pressure (BP). The right lifestyle choices can help control your blood pressure. Here are a few expert recommended suggestions:

  • Eat a heart healthy diet
    Include more fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet which are high in magnesium, potassium, and fiber. Reduce your intake of saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol, which may harm your heart health. They can increase plaque buildup on blood vessels, increasing your blood pressure levels and thus your risk of heart disease. Replace them with healthy fats.
  • Limit your salt intake
    Salt causes your body to retain fluids. Extra fluid in the body can raise blood pressure. The majority of the salt people consume comes from processed foods rather than table salt. Avoid processed foods, ready-to-eat meals, ready sauces, condiments, and other similar food items.
  • Lose excess weight
    Extra weight makes it more difficult for your heart to circulate blood throughout your body. This raises your blood pressure. Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight and keep your blood pressure in check.
  • Quit smoking
    Your blood pressure rises every time you smoke. Smoking causes blood arteries to narrow and your heart rate to rise. When you have high blood pressure, these symptoms are exacerbated. Quit smoking today.
  • Manage existing health conditions
    Preexisting health conditions could worsen your hypertension. Take the required medicine as advised by your doctor. It is also important to inform the doctor about all your medications including over-the-counter treatments and herbal supplements.
  • Limit alcohol intake
    Excessive use of alcohol can increase your blood pressure. Alcohol may also react with certain medicines. Stay “No” to alcohol.
  • Exercise regularly
    Exercise can help you lower your blood pressure. It can facilitate blood flow and strengthen your heart. On most days of the week, try to obtain at least 30 minutes of exercise.
  • Manage your stress
    Certain hormones released during stressful situations can make blood pressure higher. Take some time to exercise, pursue a hobby, listen to music and find other ways to unwind and cope better with your stress levels.

Managing blood pressure is a lifelong commitment. Work closely with your doctor to learn about high blood pressure and how to manage it effectively.

Hypertension care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Worried about your fluctuating blood pressure levels? It is important to ask questions and monitor your blood pressure readings. If you’ve already been diagnosed with high blood pressure, work with our team of doctors to come up with an individualized plan to control your blood pressure. Consult our doctors for further medical assistance, call 022 42696969 for appointments or visit the below website link: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com

Motherhood and Mental Health

Friday, May 6th, 2022

Motherhood is an enriching and fulfilling journey. Multitasking is an often necessary part of motherhood but it can be stressful at times. According to a 2019 Oxfam poll, Indian women spend 312 minutes per day performing housework and childcare. This has been accelerated by the pandemic, with women trying to multitask various responsibilities. According to a survey of working women in India, 47 percent suffered from increased stress and anxiety in the pandemic.The stigma around mental illnesses, along with maternal health issues, discourages women from seeking medical help.

Many mothers manage various responsibilities. Our culture expects mothers to raise families as if they don’t have careers and work as if they don’t have children. As working mothers strive hard to balance their day, they are often left exhausted by these conflicting expectations. Sleep deprivation is another common problem faced by mothers that contributes to sadness, anxiety, tension, panic attacks, and other illnesses. Mom guilt begins during pregnancy and intensifies as friends, family, and the media focus on perceived defects in parenting. It is time to talk about the importance of mental health in mothers, support them, and encourage them to speak up and seek professional help.

How mothers can support their mental health?

Mothers go through a massive change in their identity when they have children. Many experience significant changes in their career, hobbies, interests, social connections, and overall lifestyle. Society sets unrealistic standards of perfection for mothers which may lead to mental health concerns. It is time for mothers to take care of themselves and prioritize their mental health. Follow these health tips to support your mental health better:

  • Reset your expectations
    The influence of social media pressurizes many mothers to be best at everything. It is important to set your own standards of what a “good mother” is and work towards that each day. Don’t set unreal expectations for yourself.
  • Exercise regularly
    Even 15 minutes can do wonders in terms of how you feel about yourself and helps boost your mental health. Include a meditation routine also.
  • Don’t try to do it all
    It is essential to learn to say no and set your priorities right. One cannot please everyone and that is true for mothers too.
  • Connect with other moms
    Networking with other moms and joining social media communities is really helpful. It helps with immense emotional support and makes you realize that you are not alone.
  • Rediscover your hobbies
    Immerse yourself in creative activities. Pursue a hobby that you enjoy or learn something new.
  • Spend me-time
    Dedicate a time for yourself every day. Allow yourself to take 30 minutes to sip tea or coffee, watch a TV show you love, or read a book.
  • Start journaling
    Express yourself in a gratitude journal and acknowledge all the good things in your life. Write down about all the things that are positive and give you resilience.
    Self-care is essential for mothers for themselves and their family. Researchers suggest that emotionally strong and secure moms are more likely to raise children who are less aggressive, more self-controlled, and more likely to do well academically.

Mental health care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Women are routinely screened for postpartum depression after childbirth, but as life continues mental health matters often tend to be ignored. Timely therapy and counselling can help empower mothers to cope better with stress and manage their life. Mental health is a building block of women’s overall health. Consult our highly experienced doctors at the Department of Psychiatry for specialist care. This Mother’s Day, make a difference to your life. Discuss your mental health issues and seek medical time medical help from our experts: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/psychiatry.html

Common Asthma Triggers

Monday, May 2nd, 2022

Asthma is caused by inflammation or swelling of the airways. The lining of the airways expands and the muscles surrounding the airways tighten during an asthma attack. The volume of air that may move through the airway is reduced as a result. India accounts for 11.1 percent of the global asthma burden and over 42% of asthma-related deaths, making it the world’s asthma capital. Respiratory viral infections are the primary cause of asthma aggravations. The causes behind asthma can vary from person to person. However, one thing is certain: when airways come into contact with a trigger, they become irritated, narrowed, and mucus-filled.

Asthma triggers

When you experience an asthma attack, your airways narrow, making breathing difficult. Your body may experience shortness of breath, wheezing or cough as it tries to expel mucus. It’s critical to know your asthma triggers if you or a loved one suffers from the condition. You can take appropriate action to avoid them once you have identified them. As a result, your asthma attacks will be less frequent and less severe. Some of the most common asthma triggers include:

  • Animals (pet hair or dander).
  • Dust mites.
  • Certain medicines.
  • Changes in weather.
  • Chemicals in the air or in food.
  • Physical activity.
  • Food and food additives.
  • Pollen.
  • Respiratory infections or allergies.
  • Stress.
  • Tobacco smoke.

Allergies and Asthma

Pollens from trees, grass, and weeds; mould; animal dander; dust mites; and cockroach droppings cause allergies in 80% of patients with asthma. Children with high amounts of cockroach droppings in their homes were four times more likely than children with low levels to develop childhood asthma, according to one study.

Food Additives and Asthma

Food allergies can range from minor to severe and even life-threatening asthma attacks. If you have food allergies, asthma can trigger anaphylaxis, a severe, life-threatening reaction. Eggs, peanuts, soy, wheat, fish and seafood, food preservatives, and other foods are commonly linked to allergic asthma.

Exercise and Asthma

A rigorous workout can cause airways to constrict in a majority of asthma patients. Exercising is a common asthma trigger. Exercise-induced asthma causes chest tightness, coughing, and difficulty breathing within the first 5 to 15 minutes of an aerobic workout, and can last for hours.  

Smoking and Asthma

People who smoke cigarettes have a higher risk of developing asthma. If you have asthma, smoking can aggravate symptoms like coughing and wheezing. Smoking during pregnancy increases the chance of wheezing in the baby. If you have asthma and smoke, the most important thing you can do to protect your lungs is to quit.

Asthma care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Do you suffer from asthma? People with severe asthma are more likely to have life-threatening and chronic symptoms. Severe asthma negatively impacts the health and quality of life for individuals and their families. Although not curable, asthma is treatable. Consult highly trained best pulmonologists at our Department of Pulmonary Medicine for managing your asthma symptoms. Our team works with each patient and provides them with a personalised asthma management plan. When asthma symptoms are appropriately treated and an emergency action plan is in place, patients can lead a regular, healthy lifestyle. Below is our website link for further information on Asthma care: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/pulmonarymedicine/asthma.html