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A virus is a small, contagious organism that can only replicate inside living cells. They are the most prevalent class of biological organisms, present in practically every habitat on Earth.
NiV (Nipah virus) is a zoonotic virus (it is transmitted from animals to humans) and can also be transmitted directly between people or through contaminated food. In infected people, it causes a range of illnesses from subclinical (asymptomatic) infection to fatal encephalitis and acute respiratory illness.
Although the Nipah virus has caused only a few known outbreaks in India, it infects a wide range of animals and causes severe disease and death in people, making it a public health concern. Supportive care is the only current treatment for this viral infection, so meeting your healthcare provider for further guidance is of prime importance.
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Nipah virus infection is a zoonosis transferred by contact with a NiV-infected person or animal or their secretions that has a high fatality rate in infected humans.
The Nipah virus (NiV) is the origin of a Nipah virus infection. The virus can cause a variety of symptoms in people, and cases can range from mild to deadly. NiV is a zoonotic virus (a disease that animals can transmit to humans, known as a zoonosis); the virus often infects animals like fruit bats and pigs, but they might not show any symptoms (asymptomatic).
Infection with NiV (Nipah virus) can cause mild to severe disease, including swelling of the brain (encephalitis) and potentially death.
Symptoms often occur 4 to 14 days after viral contact. The illness initially presents as 3-14 days of headache and fever and often includes signs of respiratory illness, like difficulty breathing, sore throat and cough. A phase of brain swelling (encephalitis) might follow, where symptoms can include mental confusion, disorientation and drowsiness which can rapidly progress to coma within 24-48 hours.
Death might occur in 40-75% of cases. Long-term side effects in survivors of Nipah virus infection have been noted, including personality changes and persistent convulsions.
Infections that lead to symptoms and sometimes death much later after exposure (known as latent or dormant infections) have also been reported months and even years after exposure.
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NiV (Nipah virus) can Spread to People from:
People likely contracted the virus during the first recorded NiV epidemic through close contact with sick pigs. The NiV strain found in that epidemic appears to have been propagated first among bats before moving on to pigs and then pig populations. Then, those who had regular contact with the diseased pigs started becoming sick. In the epidemic, there was no information on person-to-person transmission.
However, the person-to-person spread of NiV is regularly reported in India. This is most commonly seen in the caregivers and families of NiV-infected patients and healthcare settings. Transmission may also occur as a result of exposure to food products contaminated by ill animals. Examples include eating fruit tainted with bat urine or saliva or raw date palm sap. Additionally, there have been some incidences of NiV infection among those who climb trees where bats frequently roost.
Currently, there are no licensed treatments available for NiV (Nipah virus) infection. Treatment is limited to supportive care, including hydration, rest and treatment of symptoms as they occur.
There are, however, immunotherapeutic treatments (monoclonal antibody therapies) that are currently under evaluation and development for the treatment of NiV infections. A phase 1 clinical trial for one of these monoclonal antibodies, m102.4, has been completed and it has been applied on a compassionate use basis.
In addition, the antiviral medicine remdesivir has been effective in nonhuman primates when given as post-exposure prophylaxis and might be complementary to immunotherapeutic treatments.
In areas where NiV (Nipah virus) Outbreaks have Occurred, People should:
Standard infection control procedures and effective barrier nursing methods are crucial in avoiding hospital-acquired infections (nosocomial transmission) in circumstances where a patient has a suspected or confirmed NiV infection since NiV can transmit from person to person.
In addition to steps that individuals can take to lower their risk for NiV infection, it will be critical for communities, researchers and scientists at risk to continue learning about NiV to prevent future outbreaks. Broader prevention efforts include:
Conclusion
NiV (Nipah virus) can be transmitted through various means, such as animals to humans, human to human and through contaminated food. It can cause a variety of illnesses which can either be asymptomatic or even severe, like acute respiratory illness and fatal encephalitis. It is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced general 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 general physician, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Rajeev Gupta at the CK Birla Hospital.
Nipah virus is a type of zoonotic disease, meaning it is mainly found in animals and can initially spread between animals and people. It was first discovered in 1999 after a disease affected both people and pigs in Singapore and Malaysia.
The virus can lead to severe symptoms, including seizures, drowsiness, disorientation or encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain. Within 24 to 48 hours, these can turn into comas. Deaths range anywhere between 40% and 75% among all cases.
In newborn babies, jaundice is usually common and harmless. It causes the skin and the white of the eyes to turn yellow. Neonatal jaundice is the medical term for jaundice in babies. In black or brown skin, the yellowing of the skin can be more difficult to see. It might be easier to see on the soles of the feet or the palms of the hands. Newborn jaundice has some other symptoms like pale-coloured poo and yellow, dark urine.
Two days after the baby’s birth, the symptoms of newborn jaundice appear and by the time the baby is about two weeks old, they start getting better without treatment. While jaundice is not normally a cause for concern, it’s important to ascertain whether your baby needs treatment.
As part of the newborn physical examination, your baby will be examined for signs of jaundice within 72 hours of the birth. Reach out to your paediatrician for advice if your baby develops signs of jaundice after this time. If the baby becomes very reluctant to feed or the symptoms quickly get worse, then it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
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When a baby has a high level of bilirubin in the blood, it leads to newborn jaundice. Bilirubin is a yellow substance that the body creates when the old red blood cells are replaced by it. A baby’s skin and the whites of the eyes look yellow with a high level of bilirubin. This is called jaundice.
The liver of a newborn baby does not remove bilirubin as well as an adult’s does. When the bilirubin builds up faster than the liver can break it down and pass it from the body, then it results in jaundice. Only some babies need treatment to lower bilirubin levels as for most, the jaundice goes away on its own.
Too much bilirubin in the blood (also known as hyperbilirubinaemia) causes jaundice. When red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body, are broken down, then a yellow substance is produced called bilirubin.
Bilirubin travels in the bloodstream to the liver. The liver changes bilirubin’s form so that it can be passed out of the body in poo. The excess bilirubin causes jaundice if there is too much bilirubin in the blood or the liver cannot get rid of it. A newborn baby’s liver is less effective at processing bilirubin and removing it from the blood as it is not fully developed.
The chances of developing jaundice can also increase during breastfeeding. The symptoms normally pass in a few weeks, so there is no need to stop breastfeeding if your baby develops conditions of jaundice.
However, the potential risks associated with breastfeeding are outweighed by its benefits. The baby may need more frequent feeds and extra fluids during treatment if they need to be treated for jaundice. Few breastfed babies can have jaundice for as long as twelve weeks, however, this must be checked by a GP or a health visitor so that other more serious causes of jaundice can be ruled out.
Sometimes jaundice may be caused by another health problem, known as pathological jaundice. Some causes of pathological jaundice are:
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As mentioned before, some degree of jaundice is normal and probably not preventable in newborns. Feeding babies at least eight to twelve times a day for the first several days and carefully monitoring infants at a higher risk, can considerably reduce the risk for serious jaundice.
Testing for unusual antibodies and blood type should be done for all pregnant women. Follow-up testing on the infant’s cord is recommended if the mother is Rh-negative. This can also be done if the mother’s blood type is O positive.
Most complications of jaundice can be prevented by carefully monitoring all babies during the first 5 days of life. This includes:
The level of bilirubin in the blood of most babies with jaundice is found to be low, so they do not need treatment. The condition normally gets better within ten to fourteen days and will not cause any harm to your baby in these cases.
Subsequently, if your baby’s jaundice does not improve over time, then they need to be treated with an exchange transfusion or phototherapy to reduce the risk of a serious complication like kernicterus, which can severely damage brain development.
It is a treatment with a special type of light (not sunlight). The baby’s skin is exposed to as much light as possible in an incubator or cot with their eyes covered. It makes it easier for the baby’s liver to break down and remove the bilirubin from the baby’s blood. In a day or two usually, the bilirubin levels fall to a safe level and then the phototherapy is stopped.
If the phototherapy has not been effective, then they may need a complete blood transfusion called an exchange transfusion. During this process, the baby’s blood will be removed through a thin plastic tube placed in the blood vessels of the legs, arms or umbilical cord. The blood is then replaced with blood from a donor with the same blood group.
IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) may be used if the jaundice is caused by rhesus disease (when the baby has rhesus-positive blood and the mother has rhesus-negative blood)
Jaundice is quite common in most newborns, causing their eyes and skin to turn yellow. Normally the jaundice goes away on its own in some time but if it doesn’t or the bilirubin levels are still high, then it is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced pediatrician. Timely care and help can ensure the gradual stabilisation of the bilirubin levels in your baby.
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 paediatrician doctor, do reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Virendra Sekhon the CK Birla Hospital. (Booking Link)
Jaundice is usually harmless in most cases and the baby gets better on their own in about two weeks. Treatment is only required in cases when the baby still has jaundice after two weeks or the bilirubin levels are still high and in rare cases like kernicterus.
The baby’s condition usually gets better within ten to fourteen days. Recovery can take longer than two weeks if the baby is solely breastfed or was born prematurely.
Babies with jaundice may be sleepier than usual because their body is fatigued from resisting the condition.
TB (Tuberculosis) is a highly infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs. It is the 13th leading cause of death worldwide; 1.5 million people died from this disease in 2020 as per WHO (World Health Organization). However, TB is normally curable and preventable under the right conditions.
When a tuberculous infection spreads to the spine, it is called tuberculous spondylitis. It is a rare but serious infection that is fatal without medical treatment. Bacterial damage to the spine can cause paralysis, abnormal back curvature and severe pain.
Although this condition is serious, it is treatable. The treatment first addresses the infection. Additional treatments can include surgery to correct any damage to the backbone and spine, and attending to any underlying conditions that could be weakening your immune system.
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TB (tuberculous) spondylitis is also called Pott’s disease, spinal TB and TB of the spine. The same microorganisms that cause TB are responsible for this disorder.
It happens when the bacteria travel to the spine and then invade the backbone. Over time, the disease can cause the bones to collapse, leading to a curve in the back and spinal abnormalities.
Initially, tuberculous spondylitis causes the symptoms usually associated with TB, including:
It can cause many additional symptoms once the infection progresses to the spine. The full extent of symptoms can depend on – if the bacteria affect the nerves that run through the spinal cord and how far the bacteria spread.
The bacteria that causes TB (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) is the same one which causes tuberculous spondylitis as well. This bacterium spreads among people who’ve been exposed and is contagious.
If your immune system is weakened from any medications or health conditions, such as tuberculous spondylitis, then you are more likely to experience severe complications of the bacteria. People with weakened immune systems are at higher risk in certain locations, such as:
A medical appointment is the first step in diagnosing tuberculous spondylitis. During your appointment, your doctor and you will discuss your medical history and symptoms.
Your doctor will order a TB test if they suspect you have tuberculous spondylitis. This examination searches for TB bacterial infection.
TB Diagnostic Test has Two Versions, which are:
Blood tests can look for TB. This test is more often done for people who are suspected of having active TB infections, but it is more expensive to do than a PPD test.
A PPD test is a two-step TB test. This test is done by injecting a protein under your skin that reacts to the TB bacteria and causes a visible bump at the injection site if TB is present.
Your doctor will likely perform further tests to search for indications of tuberculous spondylitis if TB is shown to be present. This usually includes imaging tests, like MRI and X-rays.
These tests are done to look at your spine and check for abnormalities or degeneration. MRIs can also detect epidural abscesses (collections of bacteria in the spine) that can happen with tuberculous spondylitis.
You may also have a biopsy in some cases. Your doctor may order a biopsy if there is a mass in your spine that could be caused by some conditions like spinal cancer or by tuberculous spondylitis.
A biopsy will be used to determine whether there are TB bacteria in your spine as imaging can’t always detect the difference. A small sample of the mass will be removed during the biopsy. After that, it will undergo TB testing in a lab.
A treatment plan for tuberculous spondylitis usually has multiple parts. Treating the TB infection is always the first part. TB is treated for most people with a combination of medications taken over several months.
Additional steps will depend on the extent of spinal damage and any co-occurring conditions. This can include treatment for conditions that may be weakening your immune system, such as HIV. You can lessen your chance of developing further serious infections by starting treatment for these illnesses.
Surgery might be needed to treat spinal damage. Surgical options can help correct decompression of the spinal cord and severe curvature. This can help reduce symptoms such as limb paralysis and pain and help relieve pressure on the nerves.
Tuberculosis of the spine is a serious condition which can lead to death if not treated, so it is advisable to seek medical help from an experienced spine surgeon. Timely care and help can ensure you receive appropriate treatment for a successful cure.
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 spine surgeon, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Ashwani Maichand at the CK Birla Hospital.
If detected early and provided with proper medicinal compliance, spinal TB is curable. It might take up to 20 to 24 months of different antibiotics treatment along with therapy to get rid of spinal TB.
It is a very dangerous type of skeletal TB as it can be associated with neurologic deficits due to significant spinal deformity and compression of adjacent neural structures.
An untreated spinal TB can be fatal. Early detection is key for improved prognosis.
Robotic surgery or robot-assisted surgery is any type of surgical procedure that is performed using robotic systems. It allows the surgeon superior control over the surgical tools and a better view of the operative site than existing minimally invasive surgery techniques. Additionally, since they are not required to stand during the whole procedure, surgeons are spared the physical fatigue of long surgeries.
The robot’s computer program filters out vibrations that occur naturally and has better control over the laparoscopic camera placement, which in this case is also noticeably steadier with fewer unintentional movements than human help. The best part is that the same robot can be used for different rotational surgical teams without burning out.
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Robotic surgery uses specialised technology that enhances the capabilities of your surgeon’s hands. Tiny incisions enable surgeons to execute surgeries in difficult-to-reach places. The specialised technology also enables enhanced magnification and precise movements.
The technology consists of:
Robotic surgery is fantastic for intricate treatments that need a lot of accuracy (like knee replacement or urological surgery). There are situations where conventional methods often add to the complexity of the surgery and reduce the chances of good clinical outcomes. In such cases, robotic surgery becomes the preferred option, since it provides the flexibility that is required for the surgery to be completed.
With the aid of robotic technology, doctors may carefully inspect the region they are operating in. Since some things are not visible to the naked eye, this technology offers surgeons a clearer perspective, which is quite helpful for them to carry out the procedure accurately, while ensuring they have more control over their actions.
The advantages of robotic surgery are present for patients and surgeons. For the surgeon, it increases the feasibility of carrying out the procedure precisely. This would be the primary reason why this approach is gaining popularity for carrying out delicate surgeries. Among its various advantages, one significant advantage is that the surgeon need not stand throughout the operation for hours. They may sit comfortably and use their hands to direct the robot to replicate their motion throughout the procedure. Therefore the physical fatigue of the surgery is almost eliminated with robotic surgery.
Robotic surgery is superior in terms of dexterity. The robotic arms provide the surgeon access to spaces that are tough to access using hands in traditional methods. Therefore, it eliminates any untoward complication that might have occurred in a traditional approach in an attempt to reach the narrow and delicate but hard-to-reach areas.
For patients, robotic surgery also has several benefits. When compared to traditional surgery, robotic surgery has a quicker recovery period, allowing patients to return to work much sooner. Robotic surgery is also regarded as far less painful than open surgery and has a substantially lower risk of infection. The scars are less and there is less harm because the operation is minimally intrusive.
Robotic surgery is appropriate for a wide range of surgeries. It is frequently used by colorectal surgeons, cardiothoracic surgeons, general surgeons, gynecologic surgeons and urologists.
There are Numerous Advantages of Robotic Surgery:
While the surgical approach has amazing clinical outcomes, the success of the approach will depend upon the patient’s condition. This approach is making it easier to approach complex high-risk surgeries to help the patient recover faster and better.
Typically, most people are ideal candidates for robotic surgeries. The particular person and their suitable treatment will need to be thoroughly assessed by the surgeon who will operate. Patient profiling is vital in the case of all complex surgical procedures. You and your doctor need to discuss in detail whether robotic surgery is the right approach for your current condition or not. Since the surgeon will also be aware of your medical history, it will help them profile you better to ascertain your eligibility for robotic surgery. This is common practice for all surgical procedures as some health problems need a set of conditions to be met by the patient to be eligible for robotic surgery.
Robotic surgery and its safety depend on the surgeon who is performing it. People misunderstand the robotic surgical system because they believe a robot makes all the decisions. However, that is untrue. Every single time, it’s the surgeon. Robotic surgery is safe when the surgeon has received comprehensive training on how to use the robotic surgical system.
With a host of benefits for both the surgeon and the patient, robotic or robot-assisted surgery is advancing minimum access surgery in India. It is now a staple of most surgical procedures and has improved the safety and accuracy of both routine and intricate operations. Both the patient and the surgeon have found the results to be advantageous.
We make sure patients receive comprehensive medical care at the CK Birla Hospital, including compassionate care. This patient-centred approach not only promotes faster healing but also makes sure that patients are informed of the precautions to take. More than 6,000 operations have been performed by our team of highly competent surgeons, and they are adept at performing life-saving operations.
Robotic surgeries come with inherent benefits; this technology is usually safe and effective compared with traditional surgical approaches, although it involves some risks which might be similar to risks of conventional open surgery.
Compared to open operations, the discomfort and physical scars are minimal. Robotic-assisted surgery brings more benefits to the table than traditional surgeries and offers cancer patients an experience which is quicker to recover from, less risky, less painful and better.
Robotic surgical technology can not move on its own. Surgeons are in control at all times. There are safety mechanisms in place to ensure the robot does not move without the surgeon controlling it.
With robot-assisted technology, surgeons get benefits like an enhanced view, clinical precision and reduced fatigue. Patients also gain through lesser recovery time and few or no scars.
Since every patient is unique, you should talk to your doctor about your recovery. In general, patients might stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 nights and then return home. Most patients find they have recovered fully within 6 weeks of surgery.
Hair is essentially protein filaments that grow from follicles in the dermis. It is one of the primary characteristics of all mammals. Hair removal and hairstyles vary widely across different historical periods and cultures, but it is often used to indicate a person’s social position or personal beliefs, like their religion, sex or age.
Promoting faster and healthier hair growth can be achieved by doing certain things such as reducing your stress, avoiding chemical dyes, using products made with caffeine and eating more protein. Dialling back on heat treatments can help too.
Although genetics play a role in hair growth, there are various other factors which also come into play. There is no magic formula for instant hair growth, however, there are steps you can take to boost the growth and health of your hair. If you are having trouble getting your hair to grow or are concerned about hair loss, you might want to talk with a doctor about why this may be happening.
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Genetics plays a role in maintaining healthy hair growth, however, various other factors also come into play.
There is no remedy or magical potion which will result in instant growth, but you can take some steps to help prevent breakage and make your hair grow, such as:
1. Avoid Restrictive Dieting
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Specific fatty acids, minerals and vitamins are particularly important for your overall health and also play a key role in providing your body with the energy needed for hair growth. These nutrients are:
Some studies have found lower levels of zinc, folate and vitamin D in people with the autoimmune hair-loss condition alopecia areata; it is advisable to consult an Alopecia Areata Doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.
One study found that taking omega-6 and omega-3 supplements for six months may help prevent hair loss in people with female pattern baldness.
Also Read: Types of Skin Problems & Their Solutions
Applying antioxidants to your scalp might improve the condition of your scalp and significantly reduce hair loss as per some clinical studies.
Researchers accept that these ingredients guard and enhance the scalp barrier, resulting in much less hair loss.
Frizz, dryness and hair breakage can happen when the scales that hold the strands together in your inner hair cuticles fall apart.
Chronic stress can lead to hair loss as per research. It causes the follicles to go into a resting phase during which they shed hair instead of growing new strands.
Hair is one of the most easily visible parts of the body. If you are facing problems with the health and growth of your hair, then it is advisable to seek medical help from an experienced dermatologist. Timely care and help can ensure an accurate diagnosis and treatment of your hair issues.
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 dermatologist, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Seema Oberoi Lall at the CK Birla Hospital.
There can be numerous reasons for hair not growing or slow growth, including stress, hormones, genetics and age.
Some ways to thicken your hair include eating a balanced diet, maintaining hydration levels, taking care of your scalp and brushing techniques, avoiding overwashing and choosing the right hair-thickening products.
There are certain protective hairstyles such as box braids, cornrows and flat twists which prevent breakage and promote hair growth.
Glucose is a type of sugar and the most abundant monosaccharide, a subcategory of carbohydrates. It is the main source of energy for all living organisms and circulates in the blood of animals as blood sugar. Glucose occurs naturally and is found in its free state in fruits and other parts of plants.
The drinks and food you consume can make your glucose levels rise quickly or more gradually at times. People with diabetes need to check how much insulin they may need for beverages and food and they must juggle the fluctuations of glucose.
It can be tricky knowing what exactly is considered a normal glucose level, as differing clinical guidance and how so much diabetes management is individualised. This means that the target range or recommended glucose goal for one person might not be the same for someone else. It is best to talk to your healthcare provider for clinical guidance when it comes to glucose levels after eating, whether you have diabetes or not and whether you experience hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
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Your blood sugars after you start drinking and eating are an important measure of your overall health (also known as post-prandial), especially if you live with any type of diabetes.
As food raises blood sugar, so rather than the full range often seen before anything’s eaten, most guidelines focus on the higher end of a glucose level.
Your blood sugars should return to normal typically 2 hours after you finish eating. Depending on what you drink and eat and how much insulin’s dosed, that postprandial effect can vary dramatically.
The post-prandial glucose or more commonly referred as PP-sugar range may differ for teens and children, as well as for diabetic older adults who may live with higher glucose levels because of safety concerns such as falling.
In recent years, medical and diabetes organisations have encouraged individualised, personalised goals that might change based on many factors beyond just the food you eat. Those other factors include:
There is no textbook definition for what your blood sugars should be at any given time. It is best to discuss with your diabetes care team and doctors any target ranges or specific goals you may have, after eating or at other times. This is just one part of overall health and diabetes management, including the mental aspect of monitoring your blood sugar.
Also Read: Complications in Diabetes and How to Avoid Them
If you are diabetic, your doctor may ask you to track your blood sugar by testing it at home with a special device called a home blood sugar meter or a blood glucose monitor. It takes a small sample of blood normally from your fingertip and measures the amount of glucose in it. The best way to use your device is by following your doctor’s instructions.
Your doctor will tell you how and when to test your blood sugar. Each time you do it, log it in an app, online tool or notebook. Whether a reading will be of concern to your doctor or not can be affected by your last meal, recent activity and the time of day. Try to log relevant information such as:
That will help your doctor and you see how your treatment is working.
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Your body breaks down everything you drink and eat, absorbing that into your body and converting parts of that into energy and sugar for your body to use.
High glycemic index foods (starchy and sugary foods, white bread) are rapidly digested and can cause a quick rise in your blood sugar levels. Foods with a lower glycemic index and those with protein and fats are slowly digested and lead to a gradual rise in your blood sugar levels.
Diabetic people, their bodies don’t use or produce insulin properly to naturally regulate their blood sugar levels. As a result, their glucose levels might be much higher in comparison with someone without diabetes (whose body naturally makes insulin for the drinks and food they consume to keep glucose levels regulated).
Also Read- Diabetes: Morning to Night Routine of Diabetic Patient
You should consult your doctor whenever you are worried about your glucose levels.
You may want to discuss possible changes to your care plan if you are experiencing low or high blood sugar after eating or at any other time. This might include changing insulin correction amounts for the food you’re consuming as it may not be accurate. You may also be required to adjust your background insulin amounts if they are leading to out-of-range glucose levels after eating.
Do not make any immediate changes to your diabetes care plan or medication dosages without first talking with your doctor.
Glucose is a vital energy source present in our blood. The optimum glucose level may differ from person to person, so it is advisable to seek medical help from an experienced endocrinologist. Timely care and help can ensure your blood sugar levels are maintained through a care plan or dosage as prescribed by your doctor.
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 Our doctors at the CK Birla Hospital.
Generally, your glucose levels should be between 140 to 180 mg/dL after eating, however, they can rise higher depending on multiple factors, including what drink or food you have consumed and your age.
Yes, because after eating the normal blood sugar value is 120 – 140 mg/dl. You are pre-diabetic if your value is 160 mg/dl.
You can check your blood sugar level by doing a finger-prick test or by using a flash glucose monitor or CGM (an electronic blood sugar monitor). This can be done several times a day so that you can keep an eye on your levels during your daily routine and helps you work out how much medication to take and what to eat.
Cortisol is an important hormone for the human body as it helps break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats. It affects how your immune system works and also controls blood pressure. High levels of cortisol lead to some common issues like fatigue, acne, high blood pressure, headache and weight gain.
But, did you know that a fall in cortisol and aldosterone levels can also trigger fatal conditions. One of these is an uncommon illness known as Adrenal insufficiency or Addison’s disease.
Addison’s disease can be life-threatening and can affect anyone. This disease is categorised as primary, secondary, or tertiary. It can also affect your body’s ability to maintain essential life functions and respond to stress. It is treated by taking hormones to replace those that are missing.
Most people with adrenal insufficiency can have an active, normal life with treatment. If you are losing weight or feel weak and tired, ask your healthcare professional if you might have adrenal insufficiency as an early treatment can help avoid an acute adrenal crisis.
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It is a condition in which some of our body’s significant hormones are not produced in adequate amounts by the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands normally secrete androgens, mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids. These hormones are important for metabolism and in regulating electrolytes and blood pressure.
A life-threatening medical condition resulting from severe deficiency of cortisol in the body can arise if the body is subjected to stress, like severe infection, surgery, injury and accident and is referred to as an adrenal crisis.
The symptoms of Addison’s disease normally happen slowly, over a few months. People who have it may ignore the symptoms at first as the disease can move slowly. The symptoms become worse by stress such as injury or illness.
Your physician will assess your symptoms and past medical history. Based on which further investigative procedures will be prescribed, such as:
The adrenal glands are told to make cortisol by ACTH. A shot of human-made ACTH is administered and the cortisol levels in the blood are measured in this test before and after the shot
It is performed to check whether the pituitary gland is leading to secondary adrenal insufficiency or not. After a shot of insulin, the cortisol and blood sugar levels are checked in this test.
Also Read: How do You Manage Type 2 Diabetes?
The blood levels of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), cortisol, potassium and sodium are measured in this test. It can also measure antibodies related to autoimmune Addison’s disease.
CT scan of the stomach area is done to check the size of the adrenal glands and look for other issues. An MRI of the pituitary gland is done to check for secondary adrenal insufficiency.
Addison’s disease is treated by using medicines. Hormone replacement therapy helps in the correction of the levels of steroid hormones which the body is not making in sufficient amounts. Oral corticosteroids are included in some treatments like:
Plenty of salt should be included in your diet, especially if you have digestive upsets like diarrhoea when the weather is hot or during heavy exercise. If your body is stressed, then your healthcare provider may increase your medicine for a short time. A minor illness, infection or surgery can trigger such stress. You may need shots of corticosteroids if you are vomiting and can’t keep down your medicine.
This kit contains injectable corticosteroids, a syringe and a needle for emergencies.
It’s vital to keep a small supply with you when you travel and at work because it can be dangerous to miss even one day of medicine.
Your hormone levels can be monitored by your care provider. Your provider might need to change the doses or when you take them if you face problems with your medicine.
You should see your doctor or care provider who treats hormone problems at least once a year. Yearly screening for autoimmune diseases may also be recommended by your provider.
A person suffering from adrenal insufficiency is unable to make some specific hormones sufficiently, which can hamper basic life functions and the stress response. This disease can also be life-threatening, hence it is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced endocrinologist. Timely care and help can ensure the gradual stabilisation of a person’s hormone levels.
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, do reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Rajeev Gupta at the CK Birla Hospital. (Booking Link)
Unintentional weight loss is one of the symptoms of Addison’s disease, which is normally accompanied by loss of appetite due to insufficient adrenal levels in the body.
Adrenal insufficiency can be reversed by the use of medicines, hormone replacement therapy and oral corticosteroids.
Once patients with opioid-induced adrenal insufficiency are weaned off the drugs, then they can recover rapidly.
With the change in work patterns and increased time spent indoors a big lifestyle related vitamin deficiency prevalent in our society is the deficiency of Vitamin D. Which is why now more than ever it is vital to understand why this is important for us.
Vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble secosteroids responsible for increasing intestinal absorption of phosphate, magnesium and calcium and many other biological effects. The most important compounds in this group are vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 for humans.
Vitamin D impacts many functions related to the body, which includes bone health. When exposed to sunlight, our bodies produce vitamin D but getting it this way is hard. Vitamin D from supplements or food is best. Foods, including mushrooms, egg yolks and certain fish contain vitamin D.
Most people don’t get enough vitamin D and it is estimated that 80% of adults in India have vitamin D deficiency. Research suggests that low vitamin D levels might be a risk factor for autoimmune diseases. Changing your diet may help prevent or reduce vitamin D deficiency. Whether you need a vitamin D supplement in addition to sun exposure and food is a question to ask your doctor and they can also check if you are deficient or not.
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Vitamin D is both a hormone our bodies make and a nutrient we eat. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that has long been known to help the body retain and absorb phosphorus and calcium; both are critical for building bones.
Laboratory studies also show that vitamin D can reduce inflammation, help control infections and reduce cancer cell growth.
Few foods contain vitamin D naturally, but some foods are fortified with vitamin D. Because it’s difficult to get enough vitamin D from foods like vegetables, supplements are the best way to get enough vitamin D for most people.
Vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 are the 2 types of vitamin supplements. Both of these are natural forms that are produced in the presence of UVB (ultraviolet B) rays, hence the nickname “sun vitamins.” However, D2 is produced by plants and fungi, and D3 is produced by animals, including humans.
The predominant natural supply of vitamin D is its production inside the skin. However, many people are deficient in vitamin D, either because they live in areas where the sun doesn’t shine in the winter, or because they spend limited time in the sun because they’re indoors. Darker-skinned people also tend to have lower levels of vitamin D in their blood because the pigment (melanin) acts like a shadow and reduces vitamin D production (and reduces harmful effects on skin by sunlight, including skin cancer).
The daily amount needed to maintain normal calcium metabolism and healthy bones in healthy people is provided by the Recommended Dietary Allowance for vitamin D.
For adults who are 19 years of age and older, it is 15 mcg daily; for women and men who are older than 70 years of age, it is 20 mcg daily.
The maximum daily intake unlikely to cause harmful effects on health is known as Tolerable Upper Intake Level. It is 100 mcg of vitamin D for children and adults who are 9 years of age and above.
Also Read: What is cholesterol? Type, normal range, Diagnosis and Treatment
Vitamin D comes from two primary sources:
Certain foods are naturally rich in vitamin D3. The best sources are fish liver oils and the flesh of fatty fish. Smaller amounts are found in cheese and egg yolks. Certain mushrooms contain vitamin D2. Additionally, some commercially available mushrooms contain higher levels of D2 due to intentional exposure to high levels of UV light. Many supplements and foods are fortified with vitamin D like cereals and dairy products. Some other food sources are:
When the sun’s UVB radiation (tanning rays) breaks down the steroid 7-dehydrocholesterol, a chemical process occurs in human skin that produces vitamin D3. Vitamin intake varies greatly. The following conditions reduce exposure to UVB light and reduce vitamin D absorption:
Also Read: Benefits of Taking Fish Oil
Here are some healthy foods which are high in vitamin D:
Vitamin D has numerous functions and roles, which include the following:
Vitamin D is an essential element required for bone health. To include it in sufficient quantities in your daily diet list, it is advisable to seek medical help from an experienced dietitian. Timely care and help can ensure a vitamin D-rich diet which is appropriate to your body’s requirements.
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 dietitian, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Ms. Prachi Jain at the CK Birla Hospital.
The recommended daily amount of vitamin D is 800 IU (international units) for people over 70 years, 600 IU for people aged 1 to 70 years and 400 IU for children up to age 12 months.
Low vitamin D levels result in an increased risk of muscle weakness, muscle pain, bone fractures and bone pain. Severe vitamin D deficiency in older adults might also contribute to an increased risk of falls.
There can be numerous causes of vitamin D levels being low, including insufficient exposure to sunlight, darker skin pigment, malnutrition, certain medications and genetics.
Scalp ringworm is a fungal infection on the scalp which can cause itchy bald spots. It is also called Tinea capitis and this infection affects the hair shafts and scalp, causing small patches of scaly, itchy skin. Some common symptoms include focal areas of scaling and itching, loss of hair, red papules and localised pustules.
It is a highly contagious infection which usually spreads through sharing pillows, hats, towels and combs or by person-to-person contact. Although it can infect a person of any age, it is most common in children than adults.
When the scalp ringworm appears on the face, extremities or trunk of a person, it causes a bright red ring-shaped rash. The other areas of the body that ringworm typically affects are the groin, feet, hands and toenails. Doctors can identify tinea capitis by running a fungal culture on a sample of the affected hair in the beginning, reviewing a person’s symptoms and performing a physical examination. Medicated shampoos may prevent a person-to-person spread of infection and the fungus that causes ringworm on the scalp can be killed by taking oral medication.
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Scalp ringworm is an infection which is the result of a fungus which develops on a person’s scalp. It isn’t caused by a worm, contrary to what the name might suggest and is contagious. It usually spreads from person to person, person to animal and person to object and occurs mostly during the summer months. The scalp ringworm leads to the formation of scaly, red and round rashes that may itch.
Clinical features vary according to the extent of the inflammatory host response, the type of hair invasion and the species of dermatophyte. Partial hair loss with some inflammation is a common characteristic of all types.
Tinea capitis clinical features are categorised into inflammatory and non-inflammatory variants, such as:
It is caused by a zoophilic species and may result in permanent alopecia. A delayed immune response to the fungus results in a severe inflammatory reaction.
T. schoenleinii causes this rare chronic inflammatory infection. It is characterised by yellow-crusted cup-shaped lesions (scutula) around the base of the hairs and matted hair.
It is a patchy alopecia with associated folliculitis or pustules.
Patches of alopecia with fine scaling which appear speckled with black dots. The dots are hair shafts which are broken, secondary to endothrix infection.
It resembles generalised dandruff; alopecia is absent or subtle.
Patches of alopecia and fine scaling of the scalp, which has spores coating the affected hairs making it appear grey.
Also Read- Suffering From Tinea Cruris Or Jock Itch: Treatment & Prevention
Dermatophytes are the fungi which cause ringworm on the scalp. Fungi are organisms that thrive on dead tissue, such as the outer layers of the skin, hair, and fingernails. Dermatophytes thrive on sweaty skin as they prefer moisture and warmth. Poor hygiene and overcrowding increase the spread of ringworm.
Scalp ringworm spreads easily among children especially. The other ways of transmission are:
Itchy patches on the scalp are the most common symptom of ringworm. The scalp will develop bald spots, red areas and a scaly texture as a result of sections of hair breaking off and black dots appearing where the hair breaks off. These areas can gradually spread and grow if left untreated.
Other symptoms include:
Medicated shampoo and fungi-killing oral medication are what a doctor will probably prescribe.
Terbinafine hydrochloride and griseofulvin are the leading antifungal medications for ringworm. Both oral medications are to be taken for approximately six weeks. Your doctor may recommend taking these medications with high-fat food such as ice cream or peanut butter.
To prevent the spread of infection and to remove fungus, your doctor may prescribe a medicated shampoo. The shampoo contains selenium sulfide or the active antifungal ingredient ketoconazole.
Medicated shampoo doesn’t kill ringworm but it helps prevent the fungus from spreading. This type of treatment must be combined with an oral medication. This shampoo may be prescribed by your doctor a couple of times per week for a month. Leave the shampoo on for five minutes, then rinse your hair.
Scalp ringworm is an infection which causes issues in the scalp which usually don’t disappear on their own. It is highly contagious and may easily spread to your friends, family, colleagues etc. So it is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced dermatologist. This is a disease that can leave a permanent emotional scar that can substantially reduce confidence levels.
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 dermatologist, do reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Seema Oberoi Lall at the CK Birla Hospital.
Scalp ringworm is an infection which is not fatal, however, if left untreated can grow and spread across the scalp of a person, resulting in loss of hair in some cases.
Tinea capitis or ringworm of the scalp doesn’t normally go away on its own and needs to be treated to remove the fungus and to stop the further spread of the infection.
Oral medications which contain griseofulvin and terbinafine hydrochloride are generally prescribed by doctors for about 6 weeks to get rid of the scalp ringworm.
Can coconut oil cure scalp ringworm?
Coconut oil is effective in treating mild cases of scalp ringworm due to its moisturising and antifungal qualities. It’s even better than prescription medications or OTC treatments as it normally has less risk of side effects.
