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Yoga A Journey Towards Good Health

Yoga – A Journey Towards Good Health

Jun 20th, 2022

Archive for June, 2022

Yoga – A Journey Towards Good Health

Monday, June 20th, 2022

Do you always feel lethargic without even doing any strenuous work? For many young adults, lower back pain and neck stiffness is an everyday complain. A predominantly sedentary lifestyle, increased dependence on technology, work from home and lack of physical activity is the main cause behind this and many other health issues.

A daily simple 10-minute yoga routine can help you feel more energetic, and help you regain body-mind balance. Yoga is an excellent form of exercise to incorporate into your schedule, whether you are just starting out your fitness journey, recovering or preventing injuries, fighting health concerns, or just trying to stay active. Regular practice of yoga is known to improve your mobility and make you feel less stiff. According to one study, people improved their flexibility by up to 35% after only 8 weeks of yoga.

While many people feel that yoga doesn’t match up to cardio exercises or heavy duty high-intensity interval training, research has shown that yoga can help you with everything from  weight loss, to lowering back ache, boosting heart health and ensuring smooth digestion. Additionally, you do not require special workout gear to do yoga poses.

Health benefits of Yoga

Your body needs to be physically active to stay healthy and fit. Yoga helps improve your physical and mental health and includes the below health benefits:

  • Improves your flexibility
    Yoga stretches your muscles. Standing poses help workout your lower body, and inversions, like downward dog and arm balances, strengthen the upper body.
  • Stand up straighter
    Many poses in yoga help strengthen the core muscles in your stomach and back. A strong core improves your posture and helps prevent back and neck problems.
  • Ease stress and anxiety levels
    Yoga involves deep breathing exercises that can help you relax and help relieve stress and anxiety.
  • Reduce back pain
    Practicing yoga diligently may ease chronic lower back pain, help you function better, and enrich your quality of life.
  • Improve sleep
    Yoga has been shown to be helpful for sleep and also improves the quality of your sleep.

Recommended yoga asanas for staying active

Here are a few recommended yoga asanas that will help you stay physically active and enhance your emotional and physical health:

  • Tadasana (Mountain Pose)
    In this pose, stand straight with your ankles apart and hang your arms behind your torso. Balance your body weight on your body after raising your ankles and putting them on the floor. As you inhale, lift your ankles and release your shoulder blades away from the head. This asana opens up your lungs and lets you breathe better.
  • Vrikshasana (Tree Pose)
    This pose starts with putting your right leg high up on your left thigh. After you maintain a steady balance, inhale slowly and join your palms together above your head, ensure your spine and left leg are straight. As you exhale, bring your hands down and put your right leg on the ground. This asana helps strengthen the feet and back.
  • Kursiasana (Chair Pose)
    Begin with your legs slightly apart and arms stretched. With every inhale, bend your knees and push your pelvis as if you are sitting on a chair. While doing this, keep your hands straight and take deep breaths. Withdraw slowly as you exhale. This asana is known for strengthening legs and arms.
  • Adho Mukha Svanasanav (Downward-facing dog Pose)
    Adho Mukha Svanasana relieves back pain, relieves stress and mild depression, and revitalises energy. It increases blood flow to the brain while also strengthening and lengthening the spine. This pose is known to improve your heart health too.
  • Sukhasana (Easy Pose)
    This is one of the simplest asanas and starts with sitting cross-legged. Keep your spine straight and put your hands on your knees. This is an asana which is ideal for meditation. It not only strengthens the spine but also relaxes the entire body.
  • Paschimottanasana (Seated forward bend)
    Sit up straight, with your back straight and your toes pointed outwards. As you breathe in, stretch your hands upwards; as you exhale, slowly bring your hands down and try to touch your toes. Place your hands wherever they can reach and try to hold the position for as long as you can. Release your grip slowly and stretch your spine. This pose also stimulates the liver, kidneys, ovaries, and uterus and helps improve digestion.

This International Day of Yoga, take a step towards health care by practicing yoga.

Monsoon Health Precautions

Monday, June 20th, 2022

With the rains and the cool breeze, the monsoon brings a refreshing change to the environment. However, the rainy season may also make you sick because of the high humidity levels, mosquito breeding, water logging and infectious bacteria and viruses in the environment. Some of the most common infectious monsoon diseases are malaria, dengue fever, influenza, chikungunya, and leptospirosis. You will be surprised to know that in the last six years in Mumbai, leptospirosis has killed more people than malaria and dengue. During this period, this disease has caused death in 70 people, while dengue fever has caused death in 55 people and malaria 38 people respectively. It is time to be cautious and take the necessary health precautions this season to protect yourself and your family.

Monsoon Precautions

Follow these health precautions to protect yourself from common monsoon diseases:

  • Keep mosquitoes away
    Keep your surroundings clean and clear any stagnant water to help discourage breeding grounds for mosquitoes that are carriers for several life-threatening diseases. Use insect repellents, fumigate your area, and wear full sleeved clothes to protect yourself from dengue and malaria.
  • Keep your hands clean
    Infectious diseases such as cold, cough and flu tend to spread easily from one person to another through contaminated hands. As a result, it is critical that you keep your hands clean at all times. Encourage children to practice good hand hygiene because they are at a higher risk of contracting monsoon-related illnesses.
  • Wear good quality footwear
    One of the most important precautions to take during the rainy season is to wear rain appropriate footwear that is comfortable, well-fitting and does not easily slip. This helps reduce the risk of accidental falls and injuries.
  • Avoid street foods
    Outside foods tend to be prepared in unhygienic conditions and are prone to various infestations. The vegetables and water used to make the roadside food might get exposed to constant humidity and can even be contaminated. It is recommended that you consume home-prepared foods to stay healthy this season.
  • Wash raw fruits and vegetables 
    Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water to remove the dirt and germs. It is also advisable to consume vegetables that have been thoroughly cooked or boiled.
  • Do not delay diagnostic tests
    Many diseases show common symptoms of fever, cold-like symptoms, joint and muscle pain. Avoid self-medications as this may delay the diagnosis and further treatment. Get the diagnostic tests done as recommended by your doctor on time.

Monsoon – Healthy eating tips

The right diet can help strengthen your immunity and reduces your risk of getting seasonal infections. Here are a few healthy eating tips for monsoon:

  • Drink boiled water
    The monsoon season sees an increase in cases of digestive disorders due to high chances of water contamination. It is safe to use a water purifier or drink boiled water at all times. When you step outdoors, carry your own bottle.
  • Keep yourself well-hydrated
    Dehydration is a risk during the monsoon season. As a result, staying hydrated during the monsoon is essential for maintaining good health and avoiding seasonal diseases. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water as well as nutritious beverages like nimbu paani or fruit smoothies.
  • Load up on probiotics
    It is recommended that you maintain a healthy gut flora at all times. Consume enough probiotics, such as curd, yoghurt, and other fermented foods. This maintains a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the stomach.
  • Eat in moderation
    Consuming excessive amounts of food during the rainy season is not suggested because the body takes a long time to digest the meal owing to the high humidity levels. It may also cause bloating, acidity, and indigestion. Eat smaller meals frequently during the day.
  • Sip warm drinks
    As the weather is pleasant, you may not be thirsty as much; but during the rainy season, remember to drink lots of water. A sufficient amount of water will aid in the removal of toxins from the body. Turmeric milk, herbal tea, soups are all hot drinks that will keep you warm and also soothe your throat.
  • Increase your vitamin C intake
    Vitamin C is known to strengthen your immunity and helps fight seasonal infections. Eat oranges, lemons, amla, fresh vegetables, and broccoli for a vitamin C-rich diet.

Take these health precautions to protect yourself and your family from common monsoon illnesses. In case of any medical assistance or diagnostic tests, feel free to consult our doctors. Call 022 42696969 for appointments or visit the below link for further details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/

Crucial Health Screenings for Men

Saturday, June 18th, 2022

Do your demanding work schedules and social commitments leave little time to care for your health? Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and prioritizing healthcare are essential aspects of life. While it is critical for people of all ages to pay attention to their bodies, studies show that men are less likely than women to visit doctors and seek medical care. Many men who are in good health may not believe it is necessary to get regular health checks. However, it is required that men of every decade get preventive screenings done.

Getting checked for health problems at the appropriate age and time can aid in early detection and timely treatment. Preventive care must be viewed as a long-term investment because it can help avert many serious health problems. Routine screenings can aid in the early detection of diseases such as prostate cancer, diabetes, cholesterol, colon cancer, heart disease, and hypertension.

Essential health tests for Men

You doctor will suggest appropriate health screenings based on your age, lifestyle, family history and eating habits. Here are some of the diagnostic tests that should be an essential part of health checkups for men:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)
    This is a painless, non-invasive medical test that detects cardiac (heart) abnormalities by measuring the electrical activity produced by the heart as it contracts. Depending on your health and medical history, an ECG test is recommended every two to five years if you are over the age of 50.
  • PSA Screening
    Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men and develops in the prostate gland. This can cause significant damage if it spreads to nearby organs and tissues. Your prostate health can be evaluated through a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test.
  • Liver enzyme test
    This is a simple diagnostic test for liver damage. Under normal conditions, these enzymes are found in the liver cells. When the liver is damaged, these enzymes are released into the blood stream, signaling a liver disease. It is critical to have these enzymes tested because they may be elevated as a result of over-the-counter medications, alcohol consumption, obesity, and exposure to other toxins.
  • Blood pressure test
    This simple and painless test uses a sphygmomanometer, also known as a blood pressure cuff, to measure your blood pressure. It only takes a few seconds to determine if you have hypertension. High blood pressure has been linked to a number of health problems, including heart disease, liver and kidney problems, making it an important test. At any stage or age, early detection can help manage hypertension through diet recommendations, lifestyle changes, and/or medications.
  • Cholesterol screening
    Cholesterol accumulates as a result of a poor diet, genetics, or a sedentary lifestyle. High cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease in both men and women. A blood test will be required by your doctor to obtain an accurate cholesterol profile. This test is highly recommended to understand your risk of heart disease and take appropriate action.
  • Diabetes screening
    High blood sugar has been linked to nerve damage, stomach and intestinal issues, as well as damage to your blood vessels, kidneys, and eyes, so it’s critical to get tested even if you’re young. It can cause erectile dysfunction, low testosterone, and decreased sexual drive in men. Early diagnosis of diabetes can help you get appropriate treatment and lower the risk of diabetes-related complications.
  • Lung health check-up
    Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer and other chronic lung diseases. People who have been exposed to secondhand smoke for an extended period of time can also develop it. A persistent cough or other respiratory discomfort should be evaluated by a specialist. Consult a pulmonologist for further screenings.

Remember, screening tests are the foundation of good health. We recommend all men to take regular preventive health checkups, seek medical care without delay and consulting the right health specialists to maintain a healthy body and mind for men. Consult our experienced and trained team of doctors at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital for Executive Health Checkups. You can reach us on 022 42696969 for appointments or visit the below website link for further details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/

Give The Gift of Life, Donate Blood

Monday, June 13th, 2022

Every Indian has a moral obligation to donate blood and participate in voluntary blood donation camps. Statistics suggest that India is in requirement of blood transfusion every two seconds. Blood should be waiting for the patient rather than the patient waiting for blood, as it is often too late to find a donor. It is the responsibility of the entire community to keep blood banks full all the time.

In India, access to safe blood has been a persistent issue for many years. Every year, around 11 million blood donations are collected in India, compared to the required 13.5 million for the country’s 1.35 billion population (1%), leaving a shortfall of nearly 2 million. Blood shortages may prove detrimental to those who need an urgent supply of blood such as those with thalassaemia, victims of road accidents, and bleeding during pregnancy and childbirth. With increased awareness and participation together we can increase the blood donation numbers.

Why Blood Donation is important?

There is a constant need for a regular supply of blood as it can be stored only for a limited period of time before use. A sufficient number of healthy people must donate blood on a regular basis to ensure that blood is always available whenever and wherever it is required. Apart from road accidents, patients also require blood for cancer treatment, orthopaedic surgery, cardiovascular surgeries, childbirth and for inherited blood disorders.

Who is eligible to Donate Blood?

Adults who are in good health can donate blood on a regular basis — once every three months. Speak to your doctor if you have any doubts about blood donation. To become a blood donor, there are a few basic standards that must be met, these include:

  • Weight should not be less than 45 kgs.
  • Age should be between 18 and 65.
  • Blood pressure, pulse and temperature should be normal.
  • Haemoglobin should be not less than 12.5 grams.
  • The donor should not have had any immunization in 15 days preceding the blood donation.
  • No tattoos should have been done anywhere on the body for 1 year.
  • The donor should not be having any form of cancer.
  • The donor must not be suffering from any infectious diseases
  • Some medications may prevent a person from donating blood.
  • Breastfeeding women cannot donate blood.

Facts about Blood Donation

Here are a few important things to note about blood donations:

  • A single pint of blood can help save up to 3 patients.
  • Donating blood is a safe process and a new sterile needle is used for each donor.
  • The average adult has about 10 units of blood in his body and about 1 unit is given during a donation.

Precautions before a Blood Donation  

Have you signed up to make a blood donation? Follow these healthy tips for a comfortable and healthy experience:

  • Eat iron-rich foods that include red meat, eggs, whole grains, and dark green vegetables like spinach starting a week or two before you donate.
  • Get plenty of sleep the night before you plan to donate.
  • Eat a healthy meal before your donation.
  • Increase your fluid intake not only on the day of your donation, but also on the day before and the day after. This will help you stay hydrated.
  • Check to see if any medications you are taking or recently took would prevent you from donating.
  • Wear a shirt or a top with short sleeves.

Precautions after a Blood Donation   

A person can resume daily activities within a few hours of donating blood. Here are a few additional tips for better recovery:

  • Keep your bandage on for a minimum of 4 hours.
  • Make sure that you eat or drink something before you leave the Blood donation camp.
  • You must drink extra fluids in the first 4 hours following a blood donation and continue it for the next few days.
  • For the next 12 hours after a blood donation, avoid lifting of heavy objects and performing any kind of strenuous exercises.
  • If you experience any kind of dizziness, please sit down and place your head between your knees or lie down with your legs elevated. Remain in this position till you feel better.
  • If you notice any swelling, consult your doctor for further assistance.
  • Avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol after giving blood.

Blood Donation at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

This “World Blood Donor Day” be a part of this noble deed and visit our Blood Bank for making a blood donation. The Blood Bank at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment that uses advanced techniques for processing and screening of blood and its components. All the donated units are screened for infectious diseases before the transfusion. Feel free to visit us or call us on +91-22-30937293 for any blood donation queries. Refer the below link for further details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/transfusionmedicine.html

5 Things You Must Know About Brain Tumours

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

There has been an increase in the incidence of brain tumours in India over the years. About 50,000 new cases are reported each year, out of which 20% occur in children. There are over 120 different types of brain and central nervous system tumours all showing different symptoms and requiring different treatment options. This #WorldBrainTumourDay let us understand and spread awareness about some important things about Brain tumours:

1. What is a Brain Tumour?

A brain tumour is a growth or mass of cells that has grown abnormally in or around your brain. The spinal tumours and brain tumours together are called central nervous system (CNS) tumours. Some tumours grow quickly, while others take their time to develop. Brain tumours, whether malignant or not, can have an influence on your health and brain function if they grow large enough to push on surrounding nerves, blood vessels, and tissue.

There are two general groups of brain tumours:

  • Primary brain tumours start in the brain and tend to stay there.
  • Secondary brain tumours are more common and start somewhere else in your body and travel to the brain. Lung, breast, colon and kidney, cancers are among the most common cancers that spread to your brain.

Grades of Brain Tumours

Tumours are graded by how normal or abnormal the cells look. The grading also gives you an idea of how fast the tumour may grow and spread and helps oncologists determine your treatment plan. The grades of tumours include:

  • Grade 1.
    These cells look nearly normal and grow slowly. Long-term survival is likely.
  • Grade 2.
    These cells look slightly abnormal and grow slowly. The tumour may spread to nearby tissue and can come back, maybe at a more life-threatening grade.
  • Grade 3.
    These cells look abnormal and are actively growing into nearby brain tissue. These tumours tend to come back.
  • Grade 4.
    These cells look most abnormal and grow and spread quickly.

2. Malignant and benign brain tumors

Your doctor will conduct a thorough examination on your brain tumour to determine if it’s malignant or benign. This will help determine an appropriate treatment strategy. Some brain tumours are noncancerous (benign), while some brain tumours are cancerous (malignant). The term “malignant” refers to a tumour that is made up of cancer cells. These cells have the ability to infiltrate neighbouring tissues. Some cancer cells have the ability to travel via the circulation and lymph nodes. They can then spread to other organs and tissues in the body. The majority of dangerous tumours grow quickly, but the majority of benign tumours do not. There are, however, cases of both slow-growing malignant tumours and fast-growing noncancerous tumours. A benign tumour can grow to be fairly large, but it will not migrate to other parts of your body or invade neighbouring tissue.

3. Brain tumours in children 

Paediatric brain tumours are abnormal cell masses or growths that develop in a child’s brain or nearby tissue and structures. The type of tumour, its location within the brain, whether it has spread, and your child’s age and overall health all influence treatment and prognosis. If your child is showing any signs of a brain tumour, you must get it investigated. Treatment for brain tumours in children is typically quite different from treatment for adult brain tumours, so it’s very important to enlist the expertise and experience of paediatric oncology specialists.

4. How early detection helps?

The ability to detect a brain tumour earlier, when it is smaller, reduces the impact of surgery and treatment, improving the prognosis for all patients. Some early tumours may have signs and symptoms that can be noticed, but this is not always the case. Do not ignore any unusual signs of symptoms such as persistent headaches, seizures, balance problems or vision changes.

5. Treatment options available 

Your brain tumour treatment depends on the type of brain tumour you have, as well as its size and location. The standard treatment for brain tumour includes surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy. Generally, radiation and chemotherapy treatments are used as secondary treatments for tumours. However, in rare cases, radiation and chemotherapy may be used without surgery if the tumour is inoperable.

Do you know someone suffering from this condition? Meet our dedicated team of neurosurgeons, medical oncologists, paediatric oncologists and radiation oncologist specialised in Neurooncolgy at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. Our Centre for Neurosciences is best equipped to treat brain tumours with great surgical expertise and advanced technologies. Our team also uses the latest operative advances with navigation, awake surgery techniques, neurophysiology monitoring with MEP and SSEP, radiosurgery and stereotactic radiotherapy.

The Department of Neurosciences is headed by Dr. Abhaya Kumar who has great expertise in treating Brain Tumours and conducting minimally invasive spine surgeries. He has successfully preformed over 2000 brain tumour surgeries in the past. He is one of the few neurosurgeons who is skilled in both brain and spine surgery. His success rate in treating brain tumours is 90%, with residual tumour in only 10% of patients. This is in line with international standards. He has also performed over 300 Awake Neurosurgery procedures. For further assistance on brain tumour care, please visit our below website link: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_neurosciences/braintumor.html