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Medical Conditions Affecting Seniors

Aug 20th, 2021

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Medical Conditions Affecting Seniors

Friday, August 20th, 2021

Have you noticed changes in your parents as they get older? Being forgetful, slow cognitive skills, reduced mobility as well as decreased hearing skills are some common conditions faced by the elderly. Physical as well as mental changes increase drastically with age and certain conditions are more commonly found in the elderly than the young. It is important to know if the differences you’re seeing are normal, or if they could be a sign of something more serious. As per the National Statistical Office (NSO)’s Elderly in India 2021 report, India’s elderly population (aged 60 and above) is projected to touch 194 million in 2031 from 138 million in 2021, a 41 per cent increase over a decade.

Common Age-related Diseases:

With the population of seniors rapidly increasing it is important to understand the challenges faced by people as they age. Increased awareness, early diagnosis and taking preventive measures can help you or a loved one on a path to healthy aging. Here are some common health disorders seen in seniors:

  • Bone & Joint problems
    Arthritis is the most common condition that people 65 or older suffer from. It can lead to pain and lower quality of life for some seniors. A large number of people over age 50 also suffer from low bone mass or osteoporosis, putting them at risk for a fracture or break that could lead to poor senior health and reduced quality of life.
  • Heart Disease
    For those over the age of 65, heart disease is the leading cause of mortality. High blood pressure and cholesterol must be managed properly and taking good care of your heart is essential to reduce your risk of getting heart disease.
  • Cancer
    Cancer is the second leading cause of death among people over age 65. If caught early through screenings, such as mammograms, colonoscopies, pap smear tests and skin checks, many types of cancer are treatable.
  • Respiratory Diseases
    Chronic lower respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pneumonia are the third most common cause of death among people 65 and older. Regular lung function testing, as well as taking the proper medicine or using oxygen as directed, will help you maintain your health.
  • Diabetes
    Statistics suggest that 25 percent of people aged 65 and older are living with diabetes, a significant senior health risk. With simple blood tests for blood sugar levels, diabetes can be detected and treated early. The sooner you realise you have diabetes or are at risk for it, the sooner you can take steps to manage it.
  • Falls
    With age, the number of accidental falls that result in disability, surgery, or fracture risk rises. Most of these falls occur in the home, where tripping hazards include area rugs, loose wires and slippery bathroom floors. Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, and maintaining your balance and mobility is key in fall prevention.
  • Vision or hearing loss
    Maintaining regular screenings for your vision and hearing is vital as you age. Millions of elderly people suffer from age-related eye problems such macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma, and a majority of people with hearing loss are 65 or older.
  • Mental Disorders
    Mental health, like physical health, deteriorates with age, which explains why about 15% of persons aged 60 and up suffer from at least one mental condition. Common conditions include Parkinson’s, depression, anxiety, and Alzheimer’s disease. Exercising, adopting a pet, socializing, taking up a hobby, playing puzzles or reading can help you cope better with mental health disorders.
  • Oral health problems
    As you age, your mouth tends to become dryer and cavities are more difficult to prevent. Practicing good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist for a cleaning every six months will help keep your teeth and gums in good shape.
  • Bladder and prostate disorders
    As men and women age, it is difficult to control bladder as it may be less able to store urine. This causes you to pass urine more frequently and even lead to incontinence. In men, the prostate gland tends to enlarge with aging, gradually blocking the flow of urine. If untreated, this may also lead to kidney damage.

Medical care for the elderly at Kokilaben Dhirubai Ambani Hospital

Your family history, age and lifestyle play a large role in your risk for certain medical conditions. Age gracefully with expert elderly health care at our Geriatric Clinic. Our senior healthcare team can help you learn how to live better with existing health conditions. Many health conditions in the elderly can be prevented or the progression slowed by making healthy lifestyle choices and being regular with your health checkups. To know more about our specialised health packages for senior citizens contact our Executive Health Checkup team. Please find below the link for further details: https://online.kokilabenhospital.com/health-checkup
https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicsatkh/geriatricclinic.html

Common Monsoon Diseases

Saturday, July 17th, 2021

Looking forward to get wet on a rainy day? Or are you afraid of contracting monsoon diseases? The monsoon season in India is lovely, but it brings with it a host of viral and bacterial infections and disorders. Infected bacteria and viruses produce monsoon diseases, which can be avoided by adopting safety measures. Individuals with a weakened immune system and poor digestive health are more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections. Certain monsoon illnesses may need hospitalization and may prove fatal too. It is important to be aware of common monsoon illnesses and take precautions to stay safe and protected.

Common Monsoon Diseases

During the monsoon, your chances of contracting various viruses, germs, and other diseases are two times higher than during any other season. The high moisture content in the air encourages the growth of harmful microorganisms, resulting in the spread of a variety of diseases. Many of these monsoon diseases go undiagnosed and untreated until they have a major impact on your health. Early diagnosis and basic preventive and hygiene measures can keep you safe and healthy during the monsoon. Some of the most common monsoon diseases include:

  • Cold and Flu
    The drastic fluctuation of temperature which happens during this rainy season makes the body susceptible to bacterial and viral attacks, resulting in cold and flu. This is the most common form of viral infection, consumption of a healthy and nutritious diet and staying hydrated helps strengthen your immunity.
  • Viral fever
    Viral fever is another common monsoon disease that may cause the body temperature to rise as high as 104 °F and trigger many related problems such as constant sneezing, sore throat and even breathing problems.
  • Malaria
    Malaria, caused by a single-celled parasite called Plasmodium, is one of the major health concerns in India during monsoons. It is the breeding season for mosquitoes Anopheles minimus that is a host to this malaria-causing parasite. It is accompanied by a high fever and shivering.
  • Dengue
    Dengue causing Aedes aegypti mosquito breeds in stagnant water (such as in buckets, drums, flower pots). Dengue symptoms are high fever, low platelet count, rashes, hypersensitivity amongst other things. The incubation period of dengue fever is four to seven days after being bitten.
  • Chikungunya
    Chikungunya, caused by the Aedes albopictus mosquito, is a non-fatal viral disease. The disease is known to show distinct arthritic symptoms that include pain in the joints and bones, and stiffness.
  • Cholera
    This is a water-borne infection, caused by many strains of bacteria called Vibrio cholera. Cholera affects the gastrointestinal tract causing severe dehydration and diarrhoea. Follow high standards of hygiene, drink boiled water and eat homemade food.
  • Diarrhoea
    This widespread bowel disease is caused due to the consumption of unhygienic foods and water. Diarrhoea is a highly preventable and treatable disease if the required health precautions are followed.
  • Typhoid
    Typhoid fever is a result of contaminated food and water. This is yet another bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi. Maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation and at the same time using clean water is recommended. Fever, headache, weakness, pain and sore throat are some symptoms of typhoid. Stay away from street food and drink boiled water.
  • Leptospirosis
    This is caused due to contact with dirty water or mud during the monsoons. It is spread from the urine or faces of infected animals when you walk through flooded areas.
  • Jaundice
    Jaundice, a water-borne disease is contracted through contaminated food and water, and poor sanitation. It causes liver dysfunction, along with symptoms like weakness and fatigue, yellow urine, yellowing of eyes, and vomiting. Consume only boiled drinking water to avoid stomach infections

Monsoon Diseases – Preventive Measures

1. Here are a few tips to stay safe from mosquito-borne diseases:

  • Use mosquito nets in your house.
  • Don’t allow water to stagnate or collect anywhere in and around the house.
  • Maintain high personal hygiene.
  • Keep your surroundings clean.
  • Use mosquito repellents if required.
  • Wear clothes with full sleeves while stepping outdoors.

2. Here are a few tips to stay safe from water-borne and food-borne diseases:

  • Boil your drinking water regularly.
  • Wash you fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption.
  • Keep your foods covered at all times and avoid consumption of street food.
  • Make sure food is prepared in a safe manner.
  • Ensure high levels of personal hygiene.
  • Get your children vaccinated as per schedule.

3. Here are a few tips to stay safe from air-borne diseases:

  • Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water frequently.
  • Use a hand sanitizer when outdoors.
  • Stay away from sick individuals.
  • Ensure your homes are well-ventilated at all times.

Make sure you protect yourself and your family from these dangerous diseases this monsoon season. In case you develop symptoms of any of the monsoon illnesses, do seek medical care at the earliest. Timely testing helps in early diagnosis and prompt treatment. Doctors at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital are available to assist you with simple as well as complex health concerns. Call 022 42696969 for appointments. Please find the below website link for further details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com

Monsoon Health Tips

Tuesday, June 29th, 2021

It’s that time of the year again! The cool breezy monsoon winds, the soft drizzle, the heavy rains are here to refresh you. It is the best time to relish a hot cup of masala chai from your window or balcony as you admire nature. However, rains also mean jumping over dirty muddy puddles, water-logging, an increase in mosquitoes, frequent seasonal infections as well as food-borne diseases. The monsoon season gives mixed feelings to many and people share a love-hate relationship with it. While this season gives a much-needed break after the sweltering summer it is also known to bring along viral infections like flu, malaria, and dengue. Additionally, the high humidity can contribute to numerous skin diseases and fungal infections and aggravate chronic skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis.

Stay Healthy this Monsoon

The monsoon season is known to spread many infectious diseases. Follow these health tips to stay healthy this monsoon:

  • Eat more vegetables
    Avoid eating raw vegetables as they may contain bacteria and viruses which can lead to severe stomach infections, food poisoning, or diarrhoea. Boiled and steamed veggies are the healthiest options since they are high in proteins, fibre, and other nutrients.
  • Drink safe water
    Drinking water, even if mildly contaminated can cause serious health problems such as jaundice, typhoid, etc. Make it a habit to regularly boil your drinking water at home. When traveling, carry your own mineral water bottle instead of drinking water from unknown sources.
  • Avoid street foods
    The rainy season can make you crave hot and spicy street foods like samosas,  pakodas, chaat among other things. However, roadside vendors use contaminated ingredients and follow poor standards of hygiene leading to a variety of food-borne diseases and gastrointestinal infections.
  • Keeping mosquitoes at bay
    During the rainy season, water may get collected in small pools on the streets, lawns, terrace, etc. These spots become the breeding grounds for the mosquitoes that carry the risk of many serious diseases like dengue and malaria. Keep your surroundings clean, screen your windows and use mosquito repellents if required.
  • Have bitter foods
    Food such as bitter gourd, neem, fenugreek, or methi seeds can remove toxins and are essential for an individual to become healthy and strong. These foods are also high in vitamins and minerals like calcium and iron, and help boost your immunity.
  • Have more probiotics
    Consume more yogurt, buttermilk, homemade pickles. Probiotics contain good bacteria that support your gut health and make your digestive system stronger supporting nutrition absorption too.
  • Eat in moderation
    High humidity reduces the body’s ability to digest to its bare minimum, which is why most health professionals suggest avoiding heavy and oily snacks as they could lead to an upset stomach. The gut serves many essential roles in sustaining and protecting the overall health and wellness of your body. Eat light to reduce the risk of bloating, acidity, and indigestion
  • Keep your feet dry
    Dry your feet whenever they get wet and avoid wearing wet socks or wet shoes. Use anti-fungal talc to prevent the accumulation of sweat and moisture in skin folds. Diabetics must be extra careful as their skin is sensitive to fungal infections.
  • Have herbal tea
    Herbal tea made using a variety of herbs and spices like tulsi, cinnamon, ginger, etc is comforting during the rainy season. High in antioxidants, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties this warm and refreshing tea helps boost your immunity, keeps seasonal infections away and soothe your digestion.
  • Exercise regularly
    Many people use rain as an excuse not to exercise. However, they need it most during the monsoon as rigorous physical activity strengthens the immune system. Fix a regular indoor workout regime and stick to it.

Follow these health tips to maintain good health and stay safe this monsoon. Do not ignore minor health symptoms and speak to a doctor for further assistance. Self-medication can delay the process of a correct diagnosis and treatment. Please find below our website details for further information: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/

Diet and Hypertension

Saturday, May 15th, 2021

Have you checked your blood pressure recently? One in five young adults in India suffer from high blood pressure. Hypertension is a silent killer that can lead to serious complications even before the symptoms appear. Regular health checkups, a healthy diet, and a strict exercise routine all help to control your blood pressure levels. Your diet has a strong influence on your blood pressure and starting early helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

Hypertension or high blood pressure is due to the high force exerted by blood against the walls of the artery and is usually defined by a level greater than 130/80 mmHg. Uncontrolled high blood pressure for a while can harm the Kidney (Chronic Kidney Disease, Nephropathy), Heart (Cardiovascular disease risk), Eye (Retinopathy), Brain (Stoke), Nerves (Neuropathy) and can be dangerous during Pregnancy (Pregnancy Induced Hypertension). 

Hypertension can be caused due to faulty dietary habits, poor lifestyle, or secondary to a disease, for example, diabetes. Adding extra salt to food preparations daily will lead to water retention in the body, thus increasing the pressure of blood. But one needs to understand that it’s not only the visible salt but also the invisible salt intake that matters and should keep a check on those foods as well like:

  • Pickles and papad
  • Frozen & ready to eat foods 
  • Bakery products like bread, biscuits, khari
  • Sauces, salted seasonings
  • Packaged chips, farsan like samosa, wada, gathia, sev, boondi etc. 

Similarly, foods high in saturated fats lead to the build-up of fat in the arteries due to which blood exerts higher pressure to pass through it. Hence it is important to limit the intake of oily & fried foods in the diet.

Healthy diet tips to prevent Hypertension

Including foods low in salt and cholesterol according to the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) such as: 

  • Whole grains (whole wheat, millets like ragi, jowar, bajra).
  • Fresh vegetables (like beetroot or green leafy vegetables) & fruits. 
  • Low-fat dairy products (toned, double toned, skimmed milk, low fat curd etc).
  • Reducing alcohol intake.
  • Including regular physical activity for 30-60min will help manage high blood pressure. (Moderate intensity aerobics: 5-7days/week, Resistance exercise: 2-3days /week, Flexibility exercise ≥ 2-3days/week). 
  • The European Society of Parenteral Enteral Nutrition Guidelines, recommends <5g of salt (<1Tsp/day) for people with high blood pressure. Also knowing the facts related to hypertension will help make a smart choice.

Myths and Facts of Hypertension

Here are some common myths and facts related to hypertension:

Myth 1: Using sea salt, black salt, pink salt other than table salt will help manage high BP.

Fact – Irrespective of the variety, chemically all salts are the same. They contain sodium which for hypertensives is the key to management.

Myth 2: Exercise increases BP.

Fact- Participation in regular exercise is a key modifiable determinant of HTN for the primary prevention, treatment, and control of high BP. On average, regular aerobic exercise lowers resting systolic BP 5-7 mmHg, while resistance exercise lowers resting systolic BP 2-3 mmHg among individuals with hypertension. (Recommended by ACSM).

Myth 3: Red wine is good for heart health.

Fact – Including red wine in moderation (<2 drinks for men, 1drink for women) can help, but it’s a choice to be given only to alcoholics. It is important to avoid excess alcohol in general as it affects blood pressure.

Myth 4: Complete elimination of salt in the diet.

Fact – Limitation and not elimination is important. It is important to check for sodium or salt in ready-to-eat packaged and processed food items.

Healthy lifestyle changes

Making a lifestyle change rather than using quick fixes will help control high blood pressure. Here are a few tips:

  1. Read food labels: It is important to be aware of the amount of sodium or salt present in the packaged food.
  2. Include fibre rich foods in the diet like whole grains, cereals, millets, fresh fruits & vegetables, pulses.
  3. Include foods like fish, egg, and poultry as they contain Vitamin B12 that helps reduce blood pressure.
  4. Have nuts like walnuts or almonds, ginger, beetroot, pomegranate, citrus fruits contain arginine (an amino acid) which are precursors for nitric oxide a potent vasodilator.
  5. Kalonji (Nigella Sativa), barley water, cranberry juice, coriander seeds act as natural diuretics by flushing out the excess water retained in the body.
  6. Reduce the amount of salt in the diet by using lemon juice, tamarind pulp, onion powder, garlic powder, and amchoor (dry mango powder) to flavour the food preparations.
  7. Include some form of physical activity daily (walking, running, swimming, dancing, aerobics etc.)

Bhakti Samant – Chief Dietician at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital shares deep insights about the role of a healthy diet in maintaining your blood pressure levels in the above article. Starting early by modifying your lifestyle helps control your blood pressure levels and avoids complications of hypertension. Concerned about your fluctuating blood pressure levels? Consult our doctors for further medical assistance. Please find below our website details for more information:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/

How to keep your liver healthy

Monday, April 19th, 2021

According to the World Health Organization, liver disease is the tenth leading cause of death in India. It is the next big lifestyle condition that could affect one out of every five Indians. Did you know? Even a single episode of binge drinking can have serious consequences and may damage your liver cells. Alcohol is responsible for four out of every five deaths due to liver disease. Increases awareness, early detection and treatment helps stop the progression of a liver disease.

Functions of the Liver

The liver controls the majority of chemical levels in the blood and excretes bile. This aids in the removal of waste products from the liver. The liver filters all of the blood that leaves the stomach and intestines. The liver processes this blood and breaks down, balances, and creates the nutrients and also metabolizes drugs into forms that are easier to use for the rest of the body. The liver performs above 500 vital functions of the body, some include:

  • Regulates your supply of body fuel
  • Regulates the balance of hormones
  • Regulates your supply of essential vitamins and minerals
  • Production of cholesterol and special proteins
  • Processing of haemoglobin
  • Clearing the blood of drugs and other poisonous substances
  • Regulating blood clotting
  • Resisting infections by strengthening your immune system

Common Liver Diseases

Different things lead to serious liver conditions. Here are some of the most common liver infections that need awareness:

1. Hepatitis – This is an infectious disease that inflames your liver. Viral hepatitis is the most common cause, including:

  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Hepatitis C

2. Alcoholic liver disease – This disease is a result of overconsumption of alcohol that damages the liver, leading to a build-up of fats, inflammation, and scarring. It can be fatal.

3. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease  – This occurs when too much fat has built up inside your liver. The extra fat can inflame your liver, causing swelling and may damage your liver cells. Over time it may scar your liver and lead to cirrhosis.

4. Cirrhosis of the Liver – It is a late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by many forms of liver diseases and conditions, such as hepatitis and chronic alcoholism. Over time, this disorder inhibits the liver from working properly.

5. Liver Cancer – If cancer shows up in your liver, that’s most likely because it has spread from another part of your body, like your lungs, colon, or breasts or may have started in the liver.

6. Acute liver failure – This happens when you don’t have long-term liver disease but your liver quits working within a very short time – days or weeks. It may happen because of an overdose of certain medications, or drugs, or any other toxic infection.

Essential tips for a Healthy liver

Your liver can come under attack by viruses, toxic substances, contaminants, and diseases. Here are some healthcare tips to maintain a healthy liver:

1. Eat healthy – Eat a healthy diet that is low in refined sugars, processed foods, sweets, sodas, and refined carbohydrates. Choose fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber foods instead.

2. Exercise regularly – Exercise at least five times a week for at least 30 minutes each time as it helps to clear toxins from your system.

3. Say “No” to alcohol: Regular or heavy alcohol use can lead to permanent liver damage, as well as other health problems.

4. Practice safe sex – Unprotected sex or sex with multiple partners increases your risk of hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Practice safer sex by using a condom.

5. Avoid supplements – A well-balanced diet is much safer than adding additional nutrients into your system. Some dietary supplements and herbal medicines are linked to liver damage.

6. Avoid toxins – Toxins can injure liver cells by inhalation, ingestion, or physical contact. Use cleaning agents and aerosol products, insecticides, and other chemicals with caution. Quit smoking.

7. Get vaccinated – There are vaccines available for hepatitis A and hepatitis B.

8. Painkiller use: Overuse of over-the-counter pain relievers have potentially harmful side effects on your liver health. Always follow dosage instructions, never mix your medication with alcohol, and take medications under a doctor’s supervision.

Management of Liver diseases at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

The Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases with cutting-edge technology. Our various divisions provide prompt treatment and medical intervention as and when appropriate, from infectious hepatitis to fatty liver disease, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Our highly skilled surgeons are experienced in both open and minimally invasive procedures for complex liver disorders. For further information please visit:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/hepatopancreatobiliary.html

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