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Your gonads (sex organs) primarily manufacture the hormone testosterone. Specifically, the ovaries in persons assigned female at birth (AFAB) and the testicles in those designated male at birth (AMAB) generate testosterone.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which your body converts into testosterone and oestrogen, is another hormone that your adrenal glands make.
The primary androgen, testosterone, is responsible for promoting the development of masculine traits. In comparison to AFAB individuals, testosterone levels in AMAB individuals are naturally substantially greater.
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Both humans and other animals contain the hormone testosterone. The primary source of testosterone in males is the testicles. While in far lesser quantities, the ovaries of women also produce testosterone.
During puberty, testosterone production starts to rise dramatically and then starts to decline around the age of thirty.
Testosterone is essential for the development of sperm and is most commonly linked to sex drive. It also has an impact on red blood cell formation, bone and muscle mass, and how men store fat in their bodies.
The amount of testosterone a man has might also impact his mood.
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Depending on the period of life, testosterone plays various functions. These responsibilities include:
Testosterone increases libido in adults allocated to the feminine gender at birth. But most of the testosterone generated by the ovaries is transformed into estradiol, the main hormone involved in female sex.
Testosterone is essential for the production of sperm. It also:
Many of the changes observed in children designated male at birth during puberty are caused by testosterone and include:
The Y chromosome’s sex-related gene starts the development of the testicles in male newborns at around week seven in gestation. Testicles generate testosterone.
Testosterone triggers the development of the male internal and external reproductive organs during foetal development.
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Based on age and gender, the two charts below show the typical normal ranges of testosterone. Nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) is the unit of measurement for this level.
It’s crucial to remember that the typical ranges for testosterone levels might change depending on the kind of blood test performed and the laboratory that does it. When interpreting your results, your provider will always refer to the typical ranges of your laboratory.
Normal testosterone levels for people assigned male at birth:
| Age range | Normal testosterone range |
| Under 1 year old | Less than 12 ng/dL. |
| 1 to 5 years old. | Less than 12 ng/dL. |
| 6 to 10 years old. | Less than 25 ng/dL. |
| 11 to 15 years old. | Less than 830 ng/dL. |
| 16 to 17 years old. | 102 to 1010 ng/dL. |
| 18 to 99 years old. | 193 to 824 ng/dL. |
For individuals designated female at birth, normal testosterone levels are:
| Age range | Normal testosterone range |
| Under 1 year old. | Less than 21 ng/dL. |
| 1 to 5 years old. | Less than 12 ng/dL. |
| 6 to 10 years old. | Less than 25 ng/dL. |
| 11 to 17 years old. | Less than 79 ng/dL. |
| 18 to 99 years old. | Less than 40 ng/dL. |
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Your body may overproduce testosterone for many reasons, such as:
Sex-hormone-producing adrenal tumours are rare tumours that make too much androgen (testosterone), oestrogen or both.
Androgen-producing ovarian and testicular tumours can release excess testosterone.
The adrenal gland experiences an insufficiency of enzymes due to genetic abnormalities in CAH. Normally, the body uses these enzymes to aid in the production of cortisol, a hormone necessary for responding to stress. The adrenal glands overproduce other hormones, such as testosterone, in place of cortisol when the enzymes aren’t functioning properly.
Those with ovaries are susceptible to this hormonal imbalance. It takes place when the ovaries produce too much testosterone or androgens. Weight gain and excessive body hair are some of the physical signs brought on by this hormonal imbalance in reproduction.
Depending on your age and sex, too much testosterone has varied effects on your body.
It is improbable, and challenging to determine, that an adult designated male at birth has higher-than-normal testosterone levels.
An overabundance of testosterone in male-assigned newborns can cause (early) puberty or the onset of puberty before the age of nine.
Infants designated female at birth (AFAB) may have clitoris elongation, which might resemble a penis, due to high testosterone levels. Additionally, it may result in precocious puberty, or the onset of puberty before the age of eight.
In adults assigned to females at birth, high levels of testosterone may be a sign of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This condition is very common — up to 15% of people AFAB of reproductive age have it.
PCOS causes certain symptoms, including:
Your body controls the level of testosterone in your blood. Generally speaking, levels peak in the morning and fall during the day.
Your gonads, or testicles or ovaries, generate and release testosterone under the direction of your hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
The production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) by your hypothalamus sets off the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) by your pituitary gland. After arriving in your gonads, LH causes the release and synthesis of testosterone. (LH more often causes the ovaries to produce more progesterone and oestrogen.)
A rise in blood testosterone levels inhibits the synthesis of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, assisting in the maintenance of normal testosterone levels.
Anomalies in your hypothalamus, pituitary gland, or gonads might result in abnormally high amounts of testosterone.
For those who are designated male at birth, testosterone plays a crucial role in both reproductive health and general health. You could feel uncomfortable if they are always high or low. It is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced endocrinologist. Timely care and help can ensure an appropriate diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
At the CK Birla Hospital, we ensure patients get holistic medical support which includes treatment in a compassionate environment. This patient-centric approach not only helps patients heal better but also ensures they are aware of the preventive measures as well. In case you need to consult an endocrinologist, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Kumar Saurav at the CK Birla Hospital.
The body uses the sex hormone testosterone for essential purposes. It’s believed to control men’s libido, or sex drive, as well as their bone mass, fat distribution, muscle mass, and sperm and red blood cell production. Converted from circulating testosterone to the oestrogen estradiol, very little testosterone remains in the body.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is the most often used treatment. Usually, a doctor will only recommend TRT in cases when the patient exhibits several low testosterone symptoms and has blood test results that support the diagnosis. There are other ways to administer TRT, such as using skin patches.
Certain foods help in treating low testosterone levels, such as pomegranate, green leafy vegetables, ginger, onions, egg yolk, fatty fish, bananas and red meat.
Palliative care is a type of specialised medicine that aims to relieve pain and other severe sickness symptoms. Additionally, it might help you deal with the unfavourable effects of medical procedures. Palliative treatment is accessible regardless of whether your ailment is curable.
Palliative care teams aim to improve the quality of life and provide comfort for people and their families. This form of care is offered alongside other treatments a person might be receiving. Palliative care is provided by a team of healthcare providers, including nurses, doctors, social workers and other trained specialists. The team collaborates with you, your loved ones, and your other healthcare professionals to give additional support and respite to go along with your continuing treatment.
If you or someone in your family has a serious illness, palliative care might be an option you want to consider. Talk with a doctor to find out more about palliative care and how to get this type of care.
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The goal of palliative care is to enhance the general health of patients with life-threatening diseases. It addresses both the stress of living and the symptoms of a chronic illness. It might also involve support for caregivers or loved ones.
Since it is based on individual needs, palliative care can be quite different from one person to the next. A care plan may involve one or more of the following goals:
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Numerous disorders may be candidates for palliative care. The following are a few of the most typical illnesses where palliative care might be extremely beneficial:
As both symptoms and therapy can significantly affect your quality of life, cancer is one of the most prevalent diseases connected with palliative care.
Palliative cancer care varies depending on:
Someone with a recent cancer diagnosis may receive palliative care to manage the side effects of radiation or chemotherapy or to help them recover after surgery.
Palliative care for cancer often includes treatments for anxiety or depression and tools to help family members plan for the future.
Cardiovascular diseases can affect a person’s ability to care for themselves and their quality of life. Cardiovascular diseases include:
Palliative care might be underutilised globally for people with cardiovascular diseases.
Early palliative care might help increase the likelihood that people with these diseases will experience their desired end-of-life outcomes. Increasing early palliative care might also increase referrals to hospice care.
Palliative care for cardiovascular disease might help in decision-making for people with these diseases and their families, mental health support and symptom relief. It might also include help with end-of-life planning, should that be needed.
Dementia is associated with deteriorating brain function. It greatly impacts a person’s:
Treatment for dementia-related anxiety may be part of palliative care. As the illness progresses, it may involve helping family members make difficult decisions about caring or feeding for their loved one. Support for family caregivers might also be a part of it.
Palliative care can help people manage COPD, a respiratory illness that causes shortness of breath and coughing.
For this condition, palliative care may include treatments for anxiety, discomfort, or insomnia associated with difficulty breathing. You may receive education on lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking, that can slow the progress of your illness and improve your activity level.
Palliative care aims to enhance the quality of life for those dealing with serious or terminal illnesses while also providing support for their families. Some of the benefits can include:
If you have a life-threatening or serious illness, you can ask about palliative care at any time.
There is a widespread misperception that receiving palliative care requires you to wait until your disease is advanced or fatal. Several studies suggest that palliative care is most effective when started early, closer to diagnosis.
Early use of palliative care improves both overall survival and the quality of life. There is evidence that palliative care can help people with depression and other mental health issues.
Your loved ones are also likely to benefit if you receive palliative care, which can help them access support and resources to cope with your illness.
It depends on where you live. Palliative care has become more accessible in recent years, but it is still not available everywhere.
Depending on where you live, you may have more than 1 option as to where you can receive palliative care. Some options might include:
Find out more about the palliative care choices you have and where you may get treatment in your region by speaking with your doctor.
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The first step in receiving palliative care is to ask a healthcare professional or doctor about it. Your treating physician should suggest that you seek out a palliative care professional.
By establishing a list of your symptoms and how they affect your daily activities, you can be ready for your meeting with a palliative care provider. You will also want to bring a list of medications you take and any relevant medical history.
It is a good idea to ask a family member or friend to accompany you to your appointment. After the consultation, you will work with your palliative care team to develop a plan. The plan will be based on your symptoms and any treatments you are currently undergoing, as well as how your illness is affecting your family members, everyday activities and mental health.
The plan will be carried out in cooperation with any additional medical care you are getting. As your needs vary over time, they should alter as well. If it becomes needed, your plan can also involve advanced care and end-of-life planning.
Palliative care helps in providing relief from pain and other symptoms of a serious illness. It also gives comfort to people and their families and aims to improve their quality of life. Palliative care can be quite different from one person to the next, so it is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced palliative care physician. Timely care and help can ensure an appropriate diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
At the CK Birla Hospital, we ensure patients get holistic medical support which includes treatment in a compassionate environment. This patient-centric approach not only helps patients heal better but also ensures they are aware of the preventive measures as well. In case you need to consult a palliative care physician, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Rajiva Gupta at the CK Birla Hospital.
The 3 main forms of palliative care are spiritual care, emotional support and symptom management. The primary purpose of palliative care is symptom management. It includes monitoring and treating symptoms that might include anxiety, depression, difficulty breathing, fatigue, nausea or pain.
While the length of palliative care can differ, it typically begins when a serious illness is diagnosed and could last until the end of life. It is important to note that palliative care can begin at any stage of an illness and can be provided alongside other treatments.
The circulatory system’s blood arteries are used by the heart, a muscular organ, to pump blood. The pumped blood carries nutrients and oxygen to the body while carrying metabolic waste such as carbon dioxide to the lungs.
Diseases in the heart valve can affect any of the valves in your heart. The cause can be a narrowing of the valve opening (stenosis), a leakage of blood (regurgitation), or a combination of the two.
Some people with a heart valve (valvular) disorder might not have any symptoms. However, it can lead to heart failure if left untreated, with symptoms that get worse over time. This may result in a fatal ventricular arrhythmia, depending on how poorly your heart is working. Talk with your doctor about any symptoms you have that you are concerned about, and make sure you schedule routine checkups with your doctor. This will increase the likelihood that your doctor will identify any potentially dangerous issues early on.
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One or more of your heart’s valves may not function correctly if you have heart valve disease.
Your heart has 4 valves that keep blood flowing in the correct direction. In some cases, one or more of the valves do not open or close properly. This may interrupt the blood flow from your heart to the rest of your body.
Your heart valve disease treatment depends on the severity and type of the disease and the heart valve affected. Sometimes heart valve disease requires surgery to replace or repair the heart valve.
It is common for people with heart valve disease to be without symptoms. But when the issue with your heart valve gets worse, your heart has to work harder to compensate for the decreased blood flow. Over time, heart valve disease might get bad enough that these symptoms begin to appear:
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There are several causes of heart valve disease, including degenerative conditions (wearing out with age), infections, congenital conditions (being born with it) and conditions linked to other types of heart disease.
If you are experiencing symptoms of heart valve disease, your doctor will begin by listening to your heart with a stethoscope. They will listen for any heart rate abnormalities that may indicate a problem with your heart valves.
Your doctor might also listen to your lungs to determine if there is fluid buildup and check your body for signs of water retention. These are both signs of heart valve problems.
Other tests that might be used to diagnose heart valve disorders include the following:
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Treatments for heart valve disease depend on the symptoms and severity of the disorder. Most doctors suggest beginning with conservative treatments, which include:
Medications that are typically prescribed are:
You might need surgery if your symptoms increase in severity. This might include a heart valve repair using one of the following:
Valvuloplasty might also be used to treat stenosis. During valvuloplasty, your Heart Valve Surgeon inserts a small balloon into your heart, where it is inflated slightly. The inflation increases the size of the opening in the valve, and then the balloon is removed.
Another less invasive option is TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement), in which the surgeon replaces the blocked or narrowed heart valve through a catheter.
Heart valve disease affects the valves in your heart and may not display any symptoms. In case of no treatment, it can lead to heart failure with symptoms becoming worse over time. It is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced cardiologist. Timely care and help can ensure an appropriate diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
At the CK Birla Hospital, we ensure patients get holistic medical support which includes treatment in a compassionate environment. This patient-centric approach not only helps patients heal better but also ensures they are aware of the preventive measures as well. In case you need to consult a cardiologist, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Sanjeeva Kumar Gupta at the CK Birla Hospital.
Most heart valve conditions are treatable. Medicine might treat symptoms or prevent the condition from getting worse. Your doctor might also suggest surgery or another procedure to replace or repair a faulty heart valve.
You will need to book regular follow-up appointments with your cardiologist to make sure your heart valves work as they should. Contact your provider sooner if your symptoms become more frequent or severe.
A family history of early coronary heart disease can raise your risk of developing a heart valve disease. Risk factors for other types of heart disease might put you at risk for heart valve diseases too, like obesity, smoking, unhealthy eating patterns and a lack of physical activity.
Cancer is one of the most widely known and common diseases worldwide. The diseases that cause the most deaths in the world include cancer; it disrupts your body’s regular function due to the rapidly growing cells which may cause tumours. It can also affect and spread to other organs and tissues in your body.
Cancer which forms in the cells of the breasts (the cells develop mutations and begin to divide and multiply) is known as breast cancer. People might first notice a lump in the breast, texture changes, discolouration or other symptoms. Breast cancer can occur in both women and men, but it is far more common in women.
The stage of your breast cancer, the extent of its invasion (if any), and the size of the tumour all have a significant impact on the type of treatment you will require. You may then talk with a doctor about your treatment choices after that.
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Mutations in the genes that control cell development are what lead to cancer. Cells can proliferate and divide in an uncontrolled manner because of the mutations.
Breast cancer is a kind of cancer that starts in breast tissue. Usually, the cancer forms in either the ducts or the lobules of the breast.
The milk-producing lobules and the ducts that carry it to the nipple are two different types of glands. Additionally, cancer can develop in your breast’s fatty tissue or fibrous connective tissue.
Unchecked cancer cells can travel to the lymph nodes under the arms and commonly invade nearby healthy breast tissue. The lymph nodes provide cancer with a pathway to other parts of the body.
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In its early stages, breast cancer might not cause any symptoms. In many cases, a tumour might be too small to be felt, but an abnormality can still be seen on a mammogram.
If a tumour can be felt, the first sign is typically a new lump in the breast that was not there before. However, not all lumps are cancer.
There are several symptoms that each form of breast cancer might produce. While many of these symptoms are comparable, others might differ. The most typical breast cancer symptoms are as follows:
If you have any of these symptoms, it does not necessarily mean you have breast cancer. For instance, a benign cyst may be the reason behind a breast soreness or a lump.
Still, if you find a lump in your breast or have other symptoms, contact your doctor for further testing and examination.
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Various risk factors increase your chances of getting breast cancer. However, having any of these does not mean you will develop the disease.
Some risk factors can not be avoided, like family history. You can change other risk factors, like smoking. Risk factors for breast cancer include:
If you have had breast cancer in 1 breast, you have an increased risk of developing breast cancer in your other breast or a different area of the previously affected breast.
People who have never carried a pregnancy to full term or become pregnant are more likely to develop breast cancer.
People who start menopause after they are 55 years old are more likely to develop breast cancer.
You run a higher chance of getting breast cancer if you have a close female relative who has. This includes your daughter, sister, grandmother or mother. If you do not have a family history of breast cancer, you can still develop breast cancer. The majority of those who contract it don’t have any relatives who have the condition.
People who are taking or took postmenopausal progesterone and oestrogen medications to help reduce their signs of menopause symptoms have a higher risk of breast cancer.
Breast cancer risk is higher in people who have their first child after age 35.
You have a higher chance of developing breast cancer if you start your periods before becoming 12 years old.
People who have the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are more likely to develop breast cancer than people who do not. Other gene mutations might also affect your risk.
Mammograms are challenging to read when breast tissue is dense. It also raises your chance of developing breast cancer.
An alcohol use problem increases your risk.
As you become older, your chance of getting breast cancer rises. Women over the age of 55 are most commonly diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.
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The stage of your breast cancer, the extent of its invasion (if any), and the size of the tumour all have a significant impact on the type of therapy you will require.
To start, your doctor will determine your cancer’s grade, stage and size. The grade of your cancer indicates how probable it is to advance and spread. You may then talk about your therapy choices after that.
Surgery is the most often used treatment for breast cancer. Many people have additional treatments, like hormone therapy, radiation, targeted therapy or chemotherapy.
Various types of surgery might be used to remove breast cancer, including:
High-powered beams of radiation are used to target and kill cancer cells in radiation therapy. Most radiation treatments use external beam radiation, in which a large machine is used on the outside of the body.
A treatment called brachytherapy enables doctors to irradiate cancer from inside the body. The surgeons place radioactive pellets or seeds inside the body near the tumour site. The seeds stay there for a while and start to get rid of cancer cells.
A medication therapy called chemotherapy is used to kill cancer cells. It is often used along with other treatments, especially surgery.
Some individuals will need further treatments like radiation or chemotherapy after their surgery. This is called adjuvant therapy. Others may get neoadjuvant treatment, or chemotherapy, to shrink the malignancy before surgery.
Before beginning chemotherapy, talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have as there are several undesirable side effects.
Your doctor might start you on hormone therapy if your type of breast cancer is sensitive to hormones. Progesterone and Oestrogen, 2 female hormones, can stimulate the growth of breast cancer tumours.
Hormone therapy works by blocking your body’s production of these hormones or by blocking the hormone receptors on the cancer cells. By taking this measure, you may be able to reduce or even halt the spread of your cancer.
Any specific therapy they suggest for you will be further explained by your doctor.
Breast cancer develops in the breast cells and is more common in women. People may see some symptoms like discolouration, texture changes and lump in the breast; the treatment is ascertained by the cancer’s size, stage and grade. It is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced oncologist. Timely care and help can ensure an appropriate diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
At the CK Birla Hospital, we ensure patients get holistic medical support which includes treatment in a compassionate environment. This patient-centric approach not only helps patients heal better but also ensures they are aware of the preventive measures as well. In case you need to consult an oncologist, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Rohan Khandelwal at the CK Birla Hospital.
For most people, a lump in their breast or some thickening is the initial sign of breast cancer. There may also be a change in the shape, size or feel of your breast.
Breast cancer frequently begins as a tiny, unnoticeable lump. As it develops, it has the potential to spread outside of the breast or to other body regions. This causes serious health problems and can result in death.
In your body, the intestine is the segment of the gastrointestinal tract extending from the pyloric sphincter of the stomach to the anus. There are 2 types of intestines – the small intestine and the large intestine.
A series of intestinal illnesses known together as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) result in persistent inflammation of the digestive system. The digestive tract comprises the large intestine, small intestine, stomach, oesophagus and mouth.
IBD can be disruptive and very painful. In certain rare instances, it might even be fatal. You can manage the disease and live an active, healthy lifestyle by actively following your doctor-advised treatment plan.
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IBD (Inflammatory bowel disease) is a term that describes disorders involving chronic (long-standing) inflammation of tissues in your digestive tract.
Types of IBD include:
This type of IBD is characterised by inflammation of the lining of your digestive tract, which often can involve the deeper layers of the digestive tract. Small intestine damage from Crohn’s disease is rather prevalent. However, it can also harm the large intestine and, less frequently, the upper gastrointestinal tract.
This condition involves ulcers (sores) and inflammation along the lining of your rectum and colon (large intestine).
Both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis typically are characterised by weight loss, fatigue, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding and diarrhoea.
For some people, IBD is only a mild illness. For others, it is a debilitating condition that can lead to life-threatening complications.
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Symptoms of IBD vary depending on the severity and location of inflammation, but they might include:
People with Crohn’s disease might also get canker sores in their mouths. Sometimes fissures and ulcers also appear around the anus or genital area.
IBD can also be associated with problems outside of the digestive system, like:
The exact cause of IBD is unknown, however, several factors can increase your risk of developing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
People who have a child, sibling or parent with IBD are at a much higher risk of developing it themselves. This is why scientists believe IBD might have a genetic component.
The immune system might also play a role in IBD. The immune system usually defends the body from pathogens, which are organisms that cause infections and diseases.
The immune system may react to a bacterial or viral illness of the digestive tract. The digestive tract swells with inflammation as the body attempts to create an immunological defence against the invaders. When an immune system is functioning properly, the inflammation subsides once the infection is treated.
However, individuals with IBD might have digestive tract inflammation even without an infection. The immune system attacks the body’s cells instead, which is known as an autoimmune response.
IBD can also occur when the inflammation does not go away after the infection is cured. The inflammation might continue for months or even years.
Smoking is one of the main risk factors for developing Crohn’s disease. Smoking exacerbates the discomfort and other symptoms of Crohn’s disease. It also raises the possibility of complications.
However, ulcerative colitis mainly affects former smokers and nonsmokers.
IBD is present in all populations. However, according to research, certain ethnic groups have a higher risk of developing the condition.
IBD can occur at any age, however, it often manifests before the age of 35.
People who live in industrialised countries and urban areas have a higher risk of developing IBD. Residents of industrialised countries also tend to eat more processed food and fat, which is connected to the development of IBD.
IBD is also more common among people living in northern climates, where it is often cold.
Having a sedentary job or lifestyle increases the risk of IBD. The likelihood of developing IBD was lowered by physical exercise before getting sick.
IBD tends to affect women and men equally.
Ulcerative colitis is generally more common among men over 45 years old than it is among women of the same age range. On the other hand, Crohn’s disease is more common among women and girls over the age of 14.
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The different treatments for IBD include:
The initial stage of IBD treatment is anti-inflammatory medication. These medications aid in reducing digestive tract inflammation. However, they have many side effects.
Some biologics block TNF (tumour necrosis factor). The immune system generates TNF, a molecule that causes inflammation. Excess TNF in the blood is usually blocked, but in people with IBD, higher levels of TNF can lead to more inflammation
Biologics are not available as generic drugs. But for some of these medications, there exist biosimilars, which are less expensive and have been reverse-engineered to deliver the same outcomes as biologics.
With IBD, lifestyle decisions are crucial.
Supplemental vitamins and minerals can assist with dietary deficits. For example, iron supplements can help treat anaemia. Before including any new supplements in your diet, consult your doctor.
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Individuals with IBD may occasionally require surgery. Some IBD surgeries include:
Given that people with IBD have a higher chance of developing colorectal cancer, your doctor will likely advise doing a regular colonoscopy to check for the disease.
Inflammatory bowel disease comprises various intestinal disorders which cause prolonged inflammation of the digestive tract. This condition can be very painful and disruptive, even life-threatening in some cases. It is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced gastroenterologist. Timely care and help can ensure an appropriate diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
At the CK Birla Hospital, we ensure patients get holistic medical support which includes treatment in a compassionate environment. This patient-centric approach not only helps patients heal better but also ensures they are aware of the preventive measures as well. In case you need to consult a gastroenterologist, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment at the CK Birla Hospital.
FAQs
Inflammatory bowel disease cannot be cured. There will be times when the illness is dormant, or in remission. Medicines can reduce inflammation and increase the length and number of periods of remission.
Although inflammatory bowel disease normally is not fatal, it is a serious disease that, in some cases, might cause life-threatening complications. See your doctor if you experience a persistent change in your bowel habits or if you have any of the signs and symptoms of this disease.
The uterus is the organ in the reproductive system in females that accommodates the embryonic and foetal development of one or more embryos until birth. It is a hormone-responsive sex organ that contains glands in its lining that secrete uterine milk for embryonic nourishment.
Endometrial cancer is a kind of uterine cancer that develops from the inner lining of the uterus. This lining is called the endometrium. Experiencing abnormal vaginal bleeding is normally the main symptom of endometrial cancer, but this could be a sign of more benign health conditions as well.
If you have symptoms that could be a sign of endometrial cancer or another gynaecological condition, make an appointment with your doctor. Your chances of remission rise with early diagnosis and therapy.
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A proliferation of cells in the uterus is the precursor of endometrial cancer, a particular form of cancer. The uterus is the pear-shaped, hollow pelvic organ where foetal development happens.
The layer of cells that make up the endometrium, or uterine lining, is where endometrial cancer first appears. Endometrial cancer is sometimes called uterine cancer. One of the many malignancies that may arise in the uterus is uterine sarcoma, albeit it is far less common than endometrial cancer.
Due to its symptoms, endometrial cancer is frequently discovered at an early stage. Often the first symptom is irregular vaginal bleeding. Early detection of endometrial cancer generally results in a cure through uterus removal surgery.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding is one of endometrial cancer’s most prevalent symptoms. This can include:
Other potential symptoms of endometrial cancer include:
Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any of these signs. These symptoms are not necessarily a sign of a serious condition, but it is important to get them checked out.
Menopause or other noncancerous diseases can result in abnormal vaginal bleeding. But in some cases, it is a sign of endometrial cancer or other types of gynaecological cancer.
The cause of endometrial cancer is not known. What is known is that something happens to cells in the lining of the uterus that changes them into cancer cells.
When cells in the uterine lining (also known as the endometrium) experience DNA alterations, endometrial cancer develops. The DNA of a cell contains the instructions that inform the cell what to do. The adjustments instruct the cells to proliferate fast. When healthy cells would naturally expire as a part of their life cycle, the alterations instruct the cells to stay alive instead. There are a lot of additional cells as a result. Tumours, or masses made of cells, may result. The cells can penetrate and demolish healthy biological tissue. The cells may eventually separate and spread to other bodily regions.
Endometrial cancer is typically first treated with surgery to remove the cancer. This might include removing the ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus. Other treatment options might include radiation therapy or treatments using medicines to kill the cancer cells. Options for treating your endometrial cancer will depend on the characteristics of your cancer, such as your preferences, your general health and the stage.
Treatment for endometrial cancer normally involves an operation to remove the uterus, called a hysterectomy. Treatment also typically includes the removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries, called a salpingo-oophorectomy.
To check for evidence of cancer spread, your surgeon will also examine the regions around your uterus during surgery. Your surgeon also might remove lymph nodes for testing. This helps determine your cancer’s stage.
Radiation therapy uses powerful energy to kill cancer cells. The energy can come from protons, X-rays or other sources. In certain situations, radiation therapy might be recommended before surgery. Radiation therapy can shrink a tumour and make it easier to remove.
If you are not healthy enough to undergo surgery, you might opt for radiation therapy only.
Radiation therapy can involve:
Chemotherapy uses strong medicines to kill cancer cells. Some people receive 1 chemotherapy medicine. Others receive 2 or more medicines together. While some chemotherapy medications must be taken orally, the majority are administered intravenously. These medications destroy cancer cells by entering the bloodstream and then moving throughout the body.
Chemotherapy is sometimes used after surgery to lower the risk that the cancer may return. Chemotherapy also can be used before surgery to shrink the cancer. This increases the likelihood that the malignancy will be eliminated after surgery.
Chemotherapy might be recommended for treating advanced endometrial cancer that has spread beyond the uterus or to treat cancer that has come back.
Hormone treatment involves taking medications to reduce the body’s hormone levels. As a result, cancer cells that rely on hormones to drive their development may perish. Hormone therapy might be an option if you have advanced endometrial cancer that has spread beyond the uterus.
Drugs that target certain chemicals in cancer cells are used in targeted treatment. Targeted therapies can make cancer cells perish by obstructing these substances. Targeted therapy is typically combined with chemotherapy for treating advanced endometrial cancer.
Immunotherapy makes use of drugs that boost the body’s natural defences against cancer cells. The immune system fights off diseases by attacking germs and other cells that should not be in the body. Cancer cells evade the immune system to live. Immunotherapy helps the immune system cells discover and kill the cancer cells. If the disease is advanced and previous therapies have failed for endometrial cancer, immunotherapy may be tried.
Palliative care is a special type of health care that helps you feel better when you have a serious illness. If you have cancer, palliative care can help relieve pain and other symptoms. Palliative care is done by a team of healthcare professionals. This can include nurses, doctors and other experts with specialised training. They want to make life better for you and your loved ones.
You can have palliative care at the same time as strong cancer treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which might lead to cancer patients feeling better and living longer.
The inner lining of the uterus is where endometrial cancer first manifests itself. Abnormal vaginal bleeding is the primary symptom of endometrial cancer, however, it could be a sign of more serious health conditions as well, so it is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced oncologist. Timely care and help can ensure an appropriate diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
At the CK Birla Hospital, we ensure patients get holistic medical support which includes treatment in a compassionate environment. This patient-centric approach not only helps patients heal better but also ensures they are aware of the preventive measures as well. In case you need to consult an oncologist, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Pooja Babbar at the CK Birla Hospital. (Booking Link).
The majority of endometrial cancer cases are caught early and treated surgically. If you have symptoms that could be a sign of endometrial cancer or another gynaecological condition, make an appointment with your doctor.
The most common symptom of endometrial cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding, ranging from a blood-streaked and watery flow to a flow that contains more blood. Vaginal bleeding before, during, or after menopause is frequently a warning indication.
A lot of people love enjoying big meals, however, this and certain foods may cause them to experience a condition known as heartburn.
Just behind your breastbone, a burning pain in your chest is known as heartburn. The pain is often worse when lying down or bending over, in the evening or after eating. Heartburn occurs often and is not a cause for concern. Most people can manage the discomfort of heartburn on their own with nonprescription medications and lifestyle changes.
Heartburn that interferes with your daily routine or is more frequent might be a symptom of a more serious condition that requires medical care. If you are especially worried it could be a heart attack, seek emergency medical attention.
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Heartburn is a burning sensation behind your breastbone in your chest. It occurs when stomach acid travels back up your oesophagus (the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach). You might also experience a bitter taste in your mouth or throat. The symptoms of heartburn might get worse when you are lying down or after you eat.
In general, home remedies for treating heartburn problems are effective. If frequent heartburn makes it difficult to swallow or eat, however, your symptoms might be a sign of a more serious medical condition.
Heartburn symptoms can range from minor discomfort to excruciating anguish. The most common symptom of heartburn is a burning feeling in your throat and chest.
Heartburn feels like a burning or uncomfortable pain in the middle of your chest. You might also experience:
Heartburn can affect people differently. Heartburn symptoms typically start soon after eating and linger for a few minutes to many hours, or even longer.
The underlying reason will determine how long you will have symptoms. It also depends on what you do at the first sign of symptoms. For instance, heartburn symptoms may persist as your body digests the triggering food. Other times, discomfort goes away if you get up after eating rather than lying down.
If you take prescription medications or antacids as part of a treatment plan, you might experience fewer or shorter-duration heartburn symptoms.
You Can Also Read: Foods to avoid to prevent acid reflux (GERD)
Heartburn usually occurs when contents from the stomach back up into the oesophagus. The oesophagus is a tube that carries fluids and food from the mouth into the stomach.
Your oesophagus connects to your stomach at a juncture known as the lower oesophagal sphincter. If the lower oesophagal sphincter is functioning properly, it closes when food leaves the oesophagus and enters the stomach.
In some people, the lower oesophagal sphincter becomes weakened or does not function properly. This leads to contents from the stomach leaking back into the oesophagus. Stomach acids can irritate the oesophagus and cause symptoms of heartburn. This condition is known as reflux.
Certain conditions and other factors might make it more likely for you to experience heartburn. Risk factors include:
If you have heartburn, you might find that certain drinks and foods can trigger your symptoms. These might include:
Additional factors that may cause heartburn include:
Heartburn that occurs sometimes seldom requires medical attention. However, frequent heartburn might be a symptom of GERD. This condition might require a cure with prescription medication or surgery.
If left untreated, GERD might lead to additional health problems, like an inflammation of the oesophagus (called esophagitis), or Barrett’s oesophagus. Barrett’s oesophagus causes changes in the lining of the oesophagus that can increase your risk of oesophagal cancer.
Long-term heartburn could reduce your quality of life. See your doctor to determine a course of treatment if you find it difficult to carry on your daily life or are severely limited in your activities due to heartburn.
You Can Also Read: Gas Problem – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
If your heartburn is not the symptom of an underlying condition, you should be able to successfully treat it with OTC (over-the-counter) medications.
You might also find relief from the following lifestyle changes:
If lifestyle changes or OTC medication do not help your heartburn or if you experience heartburn frequently, talk to your doctor. They can assist in determining the root reasons for your heartburn and the best course of action.
Heartburn causes a burning pain in your chest. Many people can manage the unease themselves at home, however, if it does not go away or is frequent, it can be an indicator of a more serious condition. It is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced gastroenterologist. Timely care and help can ensure an appropriate diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
At the CK Birla Hospital, we ensure patients get holistic medical support which includes treatment in a compassionate environment. This patient-centric approach not only helps patients heal better but also ensures they are aware of the preventive measures as well. In case you need to consult a gastroenterologist, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment at the CK Birla Hospital.
Heartburn can mostly be treated with OTC (over-the-counter) medications. If you still get heartburn, consult your doctor to determine the underlying causes and the best course of action.
Seek help right away if you have severe chest pressure or pain, especially when combined with pain in the jaw or arm or difficulty breathing. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider if your heartburn occurs more than twice a week. Symptoms persist despite the use of nonprescription medications.
The uterus is the organ in the reproductive system in females that accommodates the embryonic and foetal development of one or more embryos until birth. It is a hormone-responsive sex organ that contains glands in its lining that secrete uterine milk for embryonic nourishment.
When a tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it, it results in a disease known as endometriosis. In the pelvic area, this causes inflammation and the formation of scar tissue.
Endometriosis can cause severe pain in the pelvis and make it harder to get pregnant. There is no cure for endometriosis, but its symptoms can be treated with medicines or, in some cases, surgery. It is important to immediately contact an Endometriosis doctor if you feel you may have endometriosis to begin the process of getting an accurate diagnosis and eventually creating a plan based on your specific situation.
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When endometriosis occurs, a tissue that mimics the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. Your uterus’ lining is known as the endometrium.
Endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows on the tissues lining your pelvis, bowel and ovaries. It is rare for endometrial-like tissue to spread beyond your pelvic region, but it is not impossible. An endometrial implant is a growth of tissue that resembles endometrium outside of the uterus.
The hormonal changes of your menstrual cycle affect the misplaced endometrial-like tissue, causing the area to become painful and inflamed. This implies that the tissue will swell, harden, and degrade. Over time, the tissue that has broken down has nowhere to go and becomes trapped in your pelvis.
In your pelvis, the tissue that is stuck may cause:
Pelvic discomfort, frequently related to menstrual cycles, is the main symptom of endometriosis. Although many experience cramping during their menstrual periods, those with endometriosis usually describe menstrual pain that is far worse than usual. Pain also might increase over time.
Common symptoms and signs of endometriosis include:
Sometimes those seeking therapy for infertility are the ones who are initially diagnosed with endometriosis.
You might experience occasional bleeding between periods (intermenstrual bleeding) or heavy menstrual periods.
You are most likely to experience these symptoms during a menstrual period.
Pain after or during sex is common with endometriosis.
Cramping and pelvic pain might begin before and extend several days into a menstrual period. You might also have abdominal and lower back pain.
You might experience bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, fatigue or nausea, especially during menstrual periods.
The degree of your discomfort may not be an accurate measure of the severity of your ailment. Endometriosis can range from moderate and excruciatingly painful to advanced and hardly perceptible.
Endometriosis is sometimes mistaken for other conditions that can cause pelvic pain, such as ovarian cysts or PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease). It might be confused with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), a condition that causes bouts of abdominal cramping, constipation and diarrhoea. Endometriosis and IBS can coexist, which makes a diagnosis more difficult.
Although the precise reason for endometriosis is unknown, the following factors may contribute:
A problem with the immune system might make the body unable to recognize and destroy endometrial-like tissue that is growing outside the uterus.
The tissue fluid (lymphatic) system or blood vessels might transport endometrial cells to other parts of the body.
After surgery, like a C-section or hysterectomy, endometrial cells might attach to a surgical incision.
Hormones like oestrogen might transform embryonic cells – cells in the earliest stages of development – into endometrial-like cell implants during puberty.
According to the so-called “induction theory,” hormones or immunological factors may encourage the transition of peritoneal cells, which line the inside of your belly, into endometrial-like cells.
Menstrual blood with endometrial cells travels back through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity during retrograde menstruation as opposed to leaving the body. These endometrial cells stick to the surfaces of pelvic organs and pelvic walls, where they grow and continue to thicken and bleed throughout each menstrual cycle.
Treatments to manage endometriosis can vary based on whether pregnancy is desired and the severity of symptoms. No treatments cure the disease.
Many different drugs are available to treat endometriosis and its symptoms.
NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and Analgesics (painkillers) are often used to treat pain.
Contraceptive (birth control) techniques and hormone-based medications like GnRH analogues can both reduce discomfort. These methods include:
These methods might not be suitable for those wanting to get pregnant.
Fertility procedures and medicines are sometimes used for those having difficulty getting pregnant because of endometriosis.
Surgery is sometimes used to remove endometriosis scar tissues, adhesions and lesions. Laparoscopic surgery (using a small camera to visualise inside the body) allows doctors to keep incisions small.
Discuss your treatment options with a healthcare provider. Treatments are based on individual preferences and effectiveness, availability, costs, long-term safety and side effects.
Increasing awareness can aid in early diagnosis. Early treatment can halt or slow the natural progression of the disease and reduce the long-term symptoms.
In addition to talking to their doctor, people might find emotional assistance and additional advice in local patient support groups.
Endometriosis-related symptoms can occasionally return after therapy is over, and some therapies come with adverse effects. The choice of treatment depends on effectiveness in the individual, availability, costs, long-term safety and adverse side effects. Because they interfere with ovulation, the majority of current hormone treatments are not suited for endometriosis patients who want to become pregnant.
Success in increasing pregnancy rates and reducing pain symptoms through surgery are often dependent on the extent of the disease. In addition, anomalies in the pelvic floor muscles can cause chronic pelvic discomfort, and lesions may return even after effective eradication. Secondary changes of the pelvis, including the pelvic floor, and central sensitization might benefit from complementary treatments and physiotherapy in some patients. Treatment options for infertility due to endometriosis include laparoscopic surgical removal of endometriosis, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and ovarian stimulation with intrauterine insemination (IUI) but success rates vary.
Endometriosis is caused by tissue lining growing outside the uterus. It is usually painful and forms scar tissue in the pelvic region, making it difficult to get pregnant. It is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced gynaecologist. Timely care and help can ensure an appropriate diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
At the CK Birla Hospital, we ensure patients get holistic medical support which includes treatment in a compassionate environment. This patient-centric approach not only helps patients heal better but also ensures they are aware of the preventive measures as well. In case you need to consult a gynaecologist, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Anjali Kumar at the CK Birla Hospital.
Endometriosis has significant economic, public health and social implications. It can decrease quality of life due to infertility, anxiety, depression, fatigue and severe pain.
There is no cure for endometriosis, but its symptoms can be treated with medicines or, in some cases, surgery. It causes a chronic inflammatory reaction that might result in the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis, adhesions) within the pelvis and other parts of the body.
Endometriosis is not a malignant condition, despite worries about how it affects cancer. The growth of abnormal tissues outside the uterine lining is not cancer. However, endometriosis can lead to several issues that can raise a person’s chance of developing cancer.
The stomach is a hollow, muscular organ in your gastrointestinal tract. It is situated between the small intestine and the oesophagus. The stomach secretes gastric acid and digestive enzymes to aid in food digestion.
Abdominal pain is pain that occurs between the pelvic regions and the chest. It can be sharp, intermittent, dull, achy or crampy. Parasitic, bacterial or viral infections that affect the intestines and stomach might also cause significant abdominal pain.
Consult your healthcare provider if the discomfort is persistent or getting worse. Make an appointment with your doctor if you experience significant acute stomach pain so that you can determine the cause and start the appropriate treatment.
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Any discomfort in the area of your abdomen between your ribs and pelvis is considered abdominal pain. Although stomach discomfort is commonly associated with the stomach, other organs might also be causing abdominal pain.
Your abdomen is home to your:
All of these are digestive system organs. However, the muscles and skin that make up your abdomen’s exterior might also hurt. This is known as your abdominal wall. Additionally, the discomfort you experience in your abdomen might occasionally originate from your back, pelvis, or chest.
There are several shapes and meanings that abdominal discomfort may have.
It may feel:
In the end, stomach discomfort is a personal experience that you are the only one who can explain. Since your healthcare provider cannot quantify it, it is what you say it is. Your doctor will always treat your stomach discomfort carefully.
There are several causes or reasons for discomfort in the abdomen. It might have anything to do with illness, injury, infection, or digestion. It might originate from an internal organ or the skin or muscles of your abdominal wall. Or it may have spread from a neighbouring location.
To find the source of your discomfort, your healthcare expert will probe you in-depth about your symptoms. The intensity of the feeling does not always translate into seriousness. Certain common, transitory diseases can feel overwhelming, while certain serious, life-threatening disorders might feel mild.
Abdominal discomfort often has transient, non-serious causes. These could be related to the menstrual cycle, digestion, or a transient illness. For example:
Following a meal, abdominal discomfort might result from:
Temporary inflammation can result from irritation or infection in your organs, including:
If you have a uterus, the following conditions may cause you occasional pain:
Abdominal discomfort can occasionally be a sign of a significant medical issue that needs to be treated. various locations of pain may suggest the involvement of various organs. For example:
Your liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts are located in your upper right abdomen. The right kidney is located at the rear. Your small and big intestines’ first segments also pass through.
Most likely, gallbladder or liver illness is the cause of upper right abdomen discomfort. Examples of such diseases include:
It could also be a localised problem in your duodenum, ascending colon or right kidney, such as a:
Your stomach, pancreas, and spleen are located in your upper left abdomen. Your heart and left lung lie directly above your left kidney, which is located at the rear of your abdominal cavity.
Upper left abdominal pain could mean:
If your chest is the source of the pain, it can originate from:
The majority of your small and large intestines are located in your lower belly. Gastrointestinal disorders are most often the cause of lower abdomen discomfort. It could also have anything to do with your uterus, ovaries, or ureters.
Abdominal causes include:
Pelvic organ pain may result from one of the following:
The most common causes of pain in the lower left abdomen are colon diverticulitis and diverticulosis. Although they can appear anywhere in your colon, diverticula—small outpouchings in the gut wall—usually start in the lower left section.
Your appendix might be the source of your lower right abdominal pain. Appendicitis, or inflammation, maybe the cause, or, less frequently, appendix cancer.
Other, general causes of stomach pain include:
Numerous factors can cause and cure abdominal discomfort. Surgery may be necessary for some illnesses, such as appendicitis or gallstones. Drugs may provide relief for other conditions including infections or ulcers. And occasionally, you might just need to endure a kidney stone or stomach flu episode until it reduces or goes away.
It’s critical to identify the cause of your stomach discomfort if you don’t already know it, particularly if it persists. Recall that situations can get dangerous even in mild cases. But if you believe with some certainty that your stomach discomfort is caused by digestion, you might start by taking:
Pain that is felt between the chest and pelvic areas is referred to as abdominal pain. It may feel crampy, achy, dull, acute, or sporadic. If the pain doesn’t go away or keeps getting worse, then it is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced gastroenterologist. Timely care and help can ensure an appropriate diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
At the CK Birla Hospital, we ensure patients get holistic medical support which includes treatment in a compassionate environment. This patient-centric approach not only helps patients heal better but also ensures they are aware of the preventive measures as well. In case you need to consult a gastroenterologist, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Anukalp Prakash at the CK Birla Hospital. (Booking Link).
Acute stomach discomfort often appears and stops in a few hours to several days. Chronic abdominal discomfort may come and go. Pain of this kind might last for several weeks, months, or even years. Certain long-term illnesses result in progressive pain, which progressively worsens over time.
Contact your healthcare provider if you have abdominal discomfort that lasts 1 week or longer, which does not improve in 24 to 48 hours, becomes more severe and frequent, and occurs with nausea and vomiting or bloating that persists for more than 2 days.
