Tag: treatment

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, medically termed as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where there is inflammation in the lining of the shoulder capsule, thereby restricting movement of the joints. There is stiffness, pain and difficulty in moving the shoulder.

Frozen Shoulder

The shoulder is a ball and socket joint made up of three bones: humerus (the upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade) and clavicle (collarbone). The three bones are encapsuled in a strong connective tissue called the shoulder capsule. To smoothen the movements of the shoulder, synovial fluid lubricates the shoulder capsule and the joints. In frozen shoulder, this capsule becomes thick and inflamed, and results in stiffness and tightness. Adhesions, thick bands of tissues, develop, and less synovial fluid flows through. This causes the shoulder to become stiff and painful, and ultimately the movement reduces.

The signs and symptoms of frozen shoulder begin gradually and worsen over time and then resolve. This may usually take one to three years depending upon the severity of the issue. There is a significant loss of the shoulder’s range of motion in all the directions. Frozen shoulder causes long term pain and restriction of movements.

There is an increased risk of frozen shoulder if you have recently undergone a surgery, medical condition or a treatment that restricts the movement of the shoulders, for example a stroke or a mastectomy. Various conditions like Parkinson’s, hyperadrenalism, pulmonary disorder, stroke etc., contribute to frozen shoulder. Thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder that is long lasting. Most commonly, frozen shoulder is seen among women in the age group 40-60 years. Women are more prone to developing a frozen shoulder than men.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

The most characteristic symptoms of frozen shoulder are severe pain and the inability to move the shoulder even with someone’s help. There is achy, diffused pain. The pain is felt over the shoulder and along the arm. It begins gradually and increases with the movement. It is severe in the early stages and decreases in the later stages.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Later, the tightness of the shoulder capsule results in a noticeable change in the range of motion of the shoulder. Since, even a slight moment of arm can cause tremendous pain, people tend to avoid any movement. This results in immobility and causes more stiffness and pain. Moving the shoulder as much as possible reduces the stiffness and increases mobility. There is also trouble sleeping since the pain travels further down the arm making it extremely uncomfortable to fall asleep.

Phases of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder develops gradually and there are three phases you will go through. They are:

1. Freezing phase: In this stage, the pain gradually increases and keeps on increasing. The shoulder movements become restricted. The excess pain makes it difficult to sleep since the pain worsens at night. This usually lasts for about 6-9 weeks.

Phases of Frozen Shoulder

2. Frozen phase: In this stage, there is an improvement from the painful symptoms. However, the stiffness increases and this makes it hard to carry out daily activities. The inflammation, scar tissue and collagen buildup increases, causing extreme pain and stiffness. This lasts for about 4-6 months.

3. Thawing phase: The pain decreases gradually and motion range increases at a similar pace. However, the patient is relatively inactive, allowing for slow yet complete recovery. The thawing phase can last from 6 months to 2 years.

Causes of Frozen Shoulder

What causes frozen shoulder is not yet fully understood, although there are several medical conditions that can contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.

1. Diabetes: About 20% of the people suffering from diabetes; both insulin dependent and non-insulin dependent, are at a risk of developing frozen shoulder. Although the link is not quite clear, it is thought that the changes in the connective tissues because of high glucose levels is what increases the risk of frozen shoulder.

2. Other diseases: Other health issues like Parkinson’s, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and cardiac diseases can also cause frozen shoulders.

3. Immobilization: Frozen shoulder can also result from immobilization of the shoulder for a long time; for example, if you’re recovering from a surgery, a fracture, or any other serious injury. Hence, doctors advise moving the shoulders as much as possible soon after the injuries, to avoid frozen shoulder.

People who have already suffered from frozen shoulder once are at an increased risk of developing frozen shoulder on the other side. Recurrence of frozen shoulder on the same side is rare and usually occurs on the other side. Although there’s a possibility of recurrence on the same side in people with health complications like diabetes.

Diagnosis of Frozen Shoulder

A physical examination is done to diagnose frozen shoulder. The examination is divided into two parts. The doctor will ask you to move your shoulder on your own. This is termed as active range of motion. The doctor might then advise you to relax while he/she moves your arm. This is termed as passive range of motion. Both the active and the passive range of motion are affected by frozen shoulder. In some cases, an anesthetic is injected by the doctor to check the passive and active range of motion.

Although frozen shoulder can be diagnosed by signs and symptoms alone, sometimes an X-ray or an MRI scan is suggested to rule out any other possibilities such as torn rotator cuff or osteoarthritis that can lead to pain and limited movements. But this is rarely done for frozen shoulder. It is mainly diagnosed on the basis of patient’s history and examination.

Treatment for Frozen Shoulder

There are several treatments for frozen shoulder.

The early treatment includes taking care of the shoulder and preventing it from being immobile. Physical therapy helps in regaining mobility in the shoulder. Physiotherapist can help in the recovery from frozen shoulder by teaching you a range of motion exercises to help you move the shoulder as much as possible. Strengthening and stretching exercises help deal with the stiffness and improve the range of motion. These exercises should be followed regularly to optimize recovery from the frozen shoulder.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, can help in reducing inflammation and pain. In cases of severe pain, doctors may also suggest stronger pain killers and anti-inflammatory drugs to help you relieve the pain.

Treatment for Frozen Shoulder

Corticosteroid injection is another treatment for frozen shoulder. This is usually recommended in the frozen phase, which is 3-6 months long. This injection is made up of two parts. One part is a corticosteroid, that temporarily reduces inflammation and improves the range of motion. Another part consists of an anesthetic called lidocaine that reduces pain.

Before the injection is administered, a local anesthesia is given to numb the area of administration. The radiologists use X-ray as a guide to make sure the injection is administered at the exact location in the shoulder joint. The procedure requires less than 30 minutes. Since corticosteroids have a tendency to increase blood glucose levels, it is important to administer the injection into the joint directly to avoid the risk of elevation.

Joint distention is yet another treatment. In this procedure, doctor injects sterile water into the shoulder capsule directly, which helps in stretching of the tissue and makes it easier to move.

Shoulder manipulation is a treatment procedure in which the doctor gives you an anesthetic and he/she will move the shoulder to ease the movements. Since you are under anesthesia and unconscious, you will feel no pain during the procedure.

Around 90-95% of the people suffering from frozen shoulder recover with non-surgical treatments like corticosteroid injections, NSAIDs, heat, and physical therapy. Undergoing surgery for frozen shoulder is rare and is only suggested when none of the non-surgical treatments work. In surgery, the scar tissue and adhesions are removed from the inner side of the shoulder joint.

Management of Frozen Shoulder

Most of the time, frozen shoulders recover on their own in a period of 6 months to a year. However, the pain and stiffness of the shoulder require regular exercise and movement. Stretching and strengthening exercises can help you manage a frozen shoulder more easily. It can help you maintain and regain mobility efficiently. Painkillers can also help in the management of inflammation and pain experienced. Trying to move the shoulder within the range of pain can also help in reducing the stiffness.

Contacting your physiotherapist or general practitioner can help you gain more support and insight in managing a frozen shoulder.

How to Treat Insomnia

The word insomnia originates from the Latin ‘in’ meaning no and ‘somnus’ meaning sleep. Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. It causes sleeplessness and is characterized by the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep. This leads to unrefreshing and non-restoring sleep and can have devastating effects on the mind and body.

Insomnia

Insomnia, more often than not, occurs as a result of some other problem. It can occur independently; however, it is usually the symptom of some other problem or disorder. Insomnia occurs generally due to psychological stress, chronic pain, restless leg syndrome, hyperthyroidism, and several other medical conditions.

Insomnia is usually diagnosed by physical examinations, medical history, and sleep history. Sleep studies using polysomnography are also done to determine insomnia. Sometimes insomnia is present for a short period of time and goes away on its own. Insomnia that lasts for a longer period of time may need treatments and solutions. Treatment largely depends upon the cause of insomnia and may include medications, therapy, sleeping pills, cognitive behavioural therapy, sleep disorder treatment, etc.

Types of Insomnia

Insomnia can be acute or chronic. Acute insomnia is a short term insomnia that occurs due to certain changes in lifestyle such as stress of a new job, examinations, etc. That usually lasts for a few days or a few weeks. Chronic insomnia is a long term insomnia lasting from a few months to a few years. There are two types of chronic insomnia; primary and secondary insomnia. Primary insomnia is not a result of any underlying disease or condition and affects the daytime functioning. Secondary insomnia is a symptom or a side effect of some other disorders like depression, anxiety, chronic illness, etc.

Treatment of insomnia has a pharmaceutical as well as non-pharmaceutical approach. Insomnia can be treated by inducing certain lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine intake, avoiding exercise close to the bed time, increasing exposure to sunlight, etc. to name a few.

Treatment for Insomnia

Suggested treatment and changes include home remedies as well as medical therapies and may include the following:

Good Sleep Hygiene:

Having a good sleep hygiene is the most important aspect in overcoming difficulties faced regarding sleep. Good sleep habits can promote good sleep and help beat insomnia. Going to bed at the same time every night can help you sleep well. Avoid using gadgets that give off light before bed. It can make it harder to fall asleep. Increase exposure to sunlight. This regulates the melatonin production which in turn regulates the sleep-wake cycle of the body.

Good Sleep Hygiene

A proper environment to fall asleep includes a room that is dark, set at right temperature, and is quiet. Earplugs and sleeping masks can help drown out the lights and sounds, if they are a problem. Avoid associating other activities with bed. Use your bed only for sleeping and relaxing. A good sleep hygiene promotes healthy living.

Reduce Caffeine, Nicotine, and Alcohol Intake:

Caffeine stimulates the body into hyper active mode and makes it harder to fall asleep. This can hinder with the normal sleep routine. Avoiding caffeine and caffeinated drinks a few hours before bed is suggested as caffeine can have disruptive effects on your sleep. This is because it blocks the adenosine receptor, a substance that promotes sleepiness, and keeps you from feeling sleepy.

Reduce Alcohol

Nicotine and alcohol before bedtime have a negative impact on the sleep schedule of a person. This is because they are stimulants and hence disrupt the sleep cycle. Nicotine levels decrease in the morning and may cause a person to wake up at ungodly hours to satisfy the craving. This disrupts the sleep leading to insufficient amount of sleep for an individual. Similarly, alcohol may help fall asleep quickly but its breaking down has a stimulant effect. This can cause a person to wake up early or several times during the night.

Hence, avoiding these stimulants is the best way to treat insomnia at home. This does not necessarily mean you have to stop smoking or drinking. But, limiting yourself to a glass of wine at dinner or smoking 4-5 hours before bedtime, can ensure you will have a satisfying sleep at night.

Meditation:

Meditation is a mind calming practice that has shown to promote sleep by focusing on breathing and awareness. It helps in breaking the train of stressful thoughts and worries, and evokes a relaxation response. As the mind calms, you begin to feel the effects of sleep. Meditation is the best treatment for people who want to treat their insomnia with no medications.

Meditation

This technique increases the sleep time, reduces measures of arousal in the brain, helps reduce the intake of sleeping pills, and reduces stress and anxiety. This ultimately helps in falling asleep faster and staying asleep for a longer period of time.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy:

Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is a treatment technique for insomnia that works with or without medications. CBT-I aims at improving the sleep habits by bringing about a change in the behavioural patterns and thoughts that may affect a person’s ability to sleep. It focuses on treatment of underlying causes. Once the causes have been identified, steps towards generating a better sleep schedule are taken.

These steps involve:

1. Stimulus Control
2. Sleep Hygiene
3. Sleep Restriction
4. Relaxation Training, and
5. Cognitive Therapy

Stimulus control aims to associate the bed with sleeping and guides people with insomnia to limit their activities in bed to sleep and sex, get out of the bed at the same time every day, and go to bed only when they are tired.

Sleep hygiene maximizes the hours of sleeping and ensures a peaceful and restful sleep. It mainly focuses on controlling the bed time rituals and sleeping environment to provide a good night’s sleep.

Restful Sleep

Sleep restriction aims at limiting the amount of time a person is asleep for. Insomniacs spend a lot of time in bed wide awake, leading to frustration and anxiety. This leads to the brain forming a negative connection between the bed and sleep. So, restricting the amount of time a person spends in bed is beneficial. Sleep restriction therapy is the most difficult step of CBT-I as it works by restricting the sleep time but causes an increase in the depth of sleep.

Relaxation therapy utilizes a number of techniques that help a person relax throughout the day and especially close to bedtime. These techniques help sort out thoughts and worries and help insomniacs relax. Meditation, guided imagery, etc. are some of the techniques that are used.

Cognitive therapy in CBT-I often aims at dispelling the beliefs and attitudes regarding sleep. It offers education regarding these thoughts and beliefs and how they affect the sleep cycle. Therapists often point out flaws in the beliefs, or subject the patient to situations that compel them to test their own beliefs. Therapists work to control the worry of patients by writing down their concerns, and approaching and solving them together, one at a time.

Medications:

There is a wide range of medications that are helpful in treating insomnia. These sleeping pills are often termed as hypnotics. Antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is an example of one of the most commonly used over-the-counter medications to treat insomnia. These medications can have side effects and hence consulting a doctor is often advised.

MedicationsPrescription medications include anti-depressants, sedatives, antihistamines, and melatonin receptor agonists. These medications have a variety of therapeutic effects and are often used to treat sleep disorders.

Certain medicinal herbs like Valerian roots, chamomile extracts, lavender, etc. are used as natural remedies to treat insomnia as they have natural medicinal and sedative properties. Some other herbs such as passionflower, lemon balm, and hops, are also promoted as effective sleep remedies. Some essential oils also improve sleep quality, decrease stress, relax the body, and promote better sleep.

Insomnia may be one of the most debilitating, exhausting, and chronic sleep disorder but it is not incurable. Figuring out the reasons and causes for insomnia can help people treat and overcome the disorder. Most of the cases of insomnia are related to stress, anxiety, depression, lifestyle choices, lack of exercise, poor sleep hygiene, chronic illness, or side effects of certain medications.

Insomnia can be treated with behavioural therapies, improving sleep habits, and identifying and treating the underlying causes. It is important to consult a sleep specialist to help cope with insomnia. Lifestyle changes and behavioural treatment can help people who do not want to treat insomnia with medications. And, medications are available for those who need it.

A good night’s sleep equals a good day and vice versa. Taking care of yourself day and night can ensure you get the best sleep. Make sure your daytime activities consist of healthy habits such as exercise, meditation, etc. Healthy lifestyle promotes a better sleep routine. A good night’s sleep is essential for providing rest and restoration to mind and body, and promotes healthy living.

Everything About a Migraine

Migraine, often considered a neurological disorder or condition, is a recurring, throbbing pain on one side of the head. Usually associated or preceded with signs and symptoms, these headaches last from a few hours to a few days. Migraine mainly affects people in the age group 15-55 years.

Migraine

The exact cause of migraine is unclear but it is thought to be an unusual activity and imbalance of certain chemicals in the brain. Usually triggered by a variety of factors, it is experienced differently by everyone. These factors are often a combination of environmental and genetic conditions and three of these main factors are gender, family history, and other medical conditions.

The onset of migraine is usually associated with an aura that causes a flash of light and blurred vision. Migraine headache, often worsened by physical movements, and lights and sound, is often debilitating.

Causes of Migraine

Migraine is a neurovascular condition in which certain specific nerves are activated during a headache that send pain signals to the brain. What causes this activation of the nerves is yet unknown but it is thought to be caused due to unusual brain activity and some chemical imbalance.

Causes of Migraine

The migraine pain-centre or generator area in the mid-brain is activated when overactive nerve cells send impulses to blood vessels in the brain which releases prostaglandins, serotonin, and other chemicals. This causes inflammation of blood vessels in the area surrounding the nerves, which subsequently causes extreme pain.

Genes also make you more susceptible to migraine and many reports have suggested a positive family history. Women experience migraine during menstrual period and are three times more prone than men.

Symptoms of Migraine

The onset of a migraine is characterized by a number of symptoms from mild to severe. The principle symptom of migraine is a throbbing, sharp pain on one side of the head. The pain is moderate to severe and worsens when there is rapid movement. The most common symptoms associated are:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Extreme sensitivity to light and sound
  • Severe pain on movement

Symptoms of Migraine

Few other symptoms that manifest during the attack include:

  • Sweating
  • Feeling very hot or cold
  • Diarrhea
  • Lack of concentration
  • Vertigo
  • Stomach ache
  • Fatigue

These symptoms usually last from 3 hours to 3 days and this often tires and weakens the individual. These additional symptoms are not experienced by everyone and sometimes people may experience migraines without being sick.

Phases of a Migraine Attack:

Migraine manifests in well defined phases divided into prodrome, aura, attack, and postdrome. Each of these phases have numerous potential symptoms and their severity varies immensely.

  • Prodrome Phase:

Also called the early warning phase, it usually occurs several hours or upto two days before the headache begins. It is generally experienced by 60% of the people suffering from migraine.

The symptoms of this phase include anxiety, unusual excitement and energy or irritability, fatigue, constant yawning, poor concentration, sensitivity to odour or noises, and food cravings. Aphasia, difficulty in speaking, also manifests during this. Constipation, diarrhea, constant urge of urination, mood changes, neck pain, and hyperactivity, often accompany.

  • Aura Phase:

This phase occurs an hour before the headache strikes. About 20% people experience this phase but not during every attack. There are several symptoms, visual or otherwise, associated with this phase and can typically last from 5 to 60 minutes.

Aura is usually a visual disturbance but can also be sensory or motor disturbance. The major symptoms associated are blind or coloured spots, flashes of lights, tunnel vision, and zig zag lines. Sometimes there can be temporary blindness. Other symptoms include pins and needles sensations in arms and legs, numbness, and weakness in one side of the body.

Aura often serves as a warning sign and can help manage migraine at the early stage by using painkillers or abortive medications.

  • Headache Phase:

This phase is characterized by the unilateral or bilateral pain in the head. This phase can last from a few hours upto 3 days. The pain during this phase varies from person to person and from incident to incident. Some attacks may be mildly painful while some may be excruciatingly painful.

Headache Phase

Symptoms associated with this phase are nausea, anxiety, heightened sensitivity to lights, sounds, smells and movements, severe neck pain, dizziness, confusion, dehydration, aphasia, and vertigo. The inflammation of trigeminal nerve in this phase causes pain around the eyes, nose, teeth and jaw. Since there is increased sensitivity, even a simple touch causes tremendous pain.

  • Postdrome Phase:

The final phase of the migraine attack, the postdrome phase, often leaves people feeling a little hungover after the attack is over. A majority of people suffering from migraine experience it. The shift from the headache to postdrome phase is often difficult to distinguish since some people often experience the same pain as an attack. Symptoms include dizziness, sluggishness, fatigue, sharp pain when bending, anxiety, and poor concentration.

  • Triggers of Migraine

Plenty of factors contribute in triggering the onset of migraine. Lifestyle, environment, and habits, have a great impact on the frequency of migraine attacks. Common triggers include:

Stress:

Stress and migraine are closely linked. Depression, pain, anxiety, and excitement can lead to a migraine attack.

Hormonal changes:

Due to changes in the hormone levels during menstruation, a lot of women experience migraine attacks during periods.

Physical Causes:

Insufficient sleep, fatigue, physical overexertion, poor posture, and shoulder and neck pain, all contribute to migraine. Hypoglycemia and jet lag are also contributing factors.

Dietary Content:

Additives like tyramine, monosodium glutamate (MSG), and aspartame, trigger migraine. Other food products like cheese, yogurt, broad or fava beans, and citrus fruits, are also triggers.

Skipping Meals:

Lack of food or irregular meals are a potent trigger of migraine. Balanced meal and small snacks at regular intervals reduce the frequency of migraine.

Environmental Conditions:

Environmental factors such as extreme cold, high humidity, altitudes, loud noises, and exposure to flickering lights can induce migraine.

Caffeine and Alcohol:

Tremendous caffeine consumption can trigger the onset of migraine. However, cutting down caffeine suddenly can also be a trigger. So, gradually decreasing the intake may be beneficial. Alcohol, especially red wine because it contains tyramine, is a potent trigger.

Sedentary Lifestyle:

Limited movement may cause stiffness and muscle tension in neck and shoulders and this muscle tension is a trigger.

  • Dealing With Migraines

Taking prescribed painkillers or over-the-counter medications in the early phases, can help prevent a full blown migraine attack. Frequent painkillers or over-the-counter medications can cause a medicine induced headache, so limiting the intake is often advisable.

Dealing With Migraines

Dietary changes are a very essential preventive measure. Avoiding consumption of foods containing tyramine, aspartame, and MSGs, can help reduce the frequency of headaches. 5-6 small meals instead of one large meal a day are beneficial. Regular and complete meals are the most important aspect of preventive cure. Limited intake of alcohol and caffeine will prevent headaches. Dehydration is one of the major triggers of migraine and staying hydrated will avoid it.

Maintaining a diary to note down the signs and symptoms experienced, can be helpful in future. You can track the foods you eat to know if they are a trigger. This can help in cutting down one triggering food at a time. Managing stress by exercise and getting enough sleep can reduce migraines.

There is no exact cure for migraine but taking precautions and prescribed medicines may make dealing with the severity of migraine a little easier.

The unpredictability of migraine attacks can often make it difficult to participate in any kind of activities. It impacts social life, relationships, careers, and often affects the quality of life, making one feel isolated. So, it is important to see a specialist or join a support group to get better by their support and tips.

10 Things You Need to Know Before a Blood Test

Your blood is responsible to carry nutrients, minerals, body fluids and most importantly, oxygen to different parts of your body. Whenever your body is attacked or affected with infection, inflammation or any other disease state, it produces chemicals that notify your system that something is wrong. This is why, for most types of disorders, a blood test is carried out to diagnose a health condition.

Types of blood test

Blood tests can say a lot about your system functionality. Therefore, they are divided into varied types that serve a specific medical purpose. As a patient who is undergoing such a test, there are some things that must be known before you take a blood test.

Here are 10 things that you need to know before a blood test

1. Type of Test you are taking

You must know which type of blood test you will undergo as there are minute changes in two similar types too. A basic understanding is therefore necessary.

As mentioned before, there are “n” number of health problems that can be studied with the help of a blood test. As a result, blood tests have different types, and aim towards learning each problem individually.

Blood test can be in a form of a singular test or group tests (also known as a profile). A profile contains more than one type of blood test or more than one type of diagnosis in a single test. For example, in a thyroid profile, blood is sampled to learn about levels of T3, T4, T3RU and TSH.

Blood test

Other types of blood tests include blood culture test, smear test and other types. Blood culture test is performed to study specific types of infections. Blood in such test is cultured and kept under observation to learn about the nature of infectious microorganisms in your blood. A smear blood test is a microscopic examination of your blood for variety of medical reasons. Other types of blood tests usually include learning about the measurement of a specific component that is present in your bloodstream.

2. Normal and abnormal measurements

Blood analysis for counting the amount of a particular substance should be within its normal range. If the count exceeds or becomes less than its normal range, body tasks begin to alter. This causes minor to major problems with respect to the substance we are addressing.

Blood analysis

Note that the normal range of measurements for blood tests differs in men and women.

3. Diet

Few types of tests need a proper follow-up of diet, 1-2 days prior to the day of test. Some are asked to avoid specific food items or beverages (alcoholic/non-alcoholic) 2-3 days prior to the test, whereas others are asked to fast, hours before the test. The change in diet depends on the type of test you are taking.

4. Medication

MedicationIf you are taking a routine check-up that doesn’t usually need a prescription, you must note down this point. Before going for few tests, you may require to discontinue medicines that can alter your test reports. If you do not have any idea about the same, talk to the lab technician in advance.

5. Pregnancy

While taking a blood test it is important to inform your doctor if you are in your gestational period. During pregnancy, a lot of hormonal changes occur that will be reflected in the blood reports of that woman. As a result of which, sugar levels may increase. Test reports will be considered according to a pregnant state of that patient.

6. Previously diagnosed disorder

Nothing is ever completely cured. If you are previously diagnosed with a disorder, there can be a possibility that the micro-organisms associated with it still remain inside your body. Even though the disorder is treated, patients experience risks and complications after the cure. You should inform the lab assistant about your previously diagnosed disorder which may be one of the problems that reflects on your test results. risks and complications, even after a cure.

7. Health history (hereditary)

The study on your blood samples will be done with respect to certain points. One of them is your family’s health history. A hereditary health issue can be seen in your blood reports. This is why you should keep your physician informed in advance about the same.

8. Disorder that may spread through body fluids

HIVIf you are suffering from a serious disorder like HIV, you should let your lab technician know. This is because such diseases can spread through body fluids. Lab analysts must be extra careful with the blood samples of such individuals.

9. Number of samples required for your blood test

For some tests, it is important that blood samples are collected by lab assistants on more than one occasions. This step depends on the type of examination you will undergo. So be well prepared. Carry a packet of biscuits containing glucose or juice to keep you energetic after you have provided your blood.

10. Immediate precaution

Some patients show sudden reaction on their skin or body area from where blood is collected. On the other hand, few cases may require an immediate precautionary measure, right after the test is conducted. For example, the point of injection can lead to swelling or any other issue after the test is done. Using an ice pack can help reduce it.

Remember all the above points. They can be useful for you in some way. Apart from the mentioned ones, there are general points that every patient must consider. If you have symptoms like weakness, fatigue, or any thing associated with a low energy, carry an energy drink or ORS supplement. Take at-least one glass of it after you have given blood.

Apart from all this, rest is the most important thing that patients with ill health must take. Drink plenty of water and keep your body hydrated enough. Eat healthy to stay healthy.

What is Salt Room Therapy?

Salt room therapy is one of the newer alternative therapies that is rapidly gaining popularity for all the right reasons. It is based on the principle that direct exposure to the right amount of salt helps in rejuvenating all the body tissues. It is part of dry salt therapy and has been used successfully to treat several disorders.

Salt room

Salt room therapy is inspired by an ancient form of therapy that originated in Poland. People used to visit caves that were known to have a good amount of salt deposits. Exposure to salt helped them get rid of several ailments. There are several spas and health resorts all over Europe, America and Asia offering salt room therapy.

Health Benefits of Salt Room Therapy for Patients

Some of the health benefits of salt room therapy are mentioned below:

Respiratory System:

Salt room therapy is said to be the most beneficial, for treatment of respiratory disorders. Patients suffering from asthma, COPD, asbestosis, experienced considerable improvement in their symptoms after regular sessions of salt room therapy.

Respiratory System

Exposure to dry air laced with salt helps in drying up the unhealthy secretions of lungs and bronchial tubes. This is one of the major benefits of salt room therapy for lung ailments.

Nervous System:

Salt room therapy is known to have a rejuvenating effect on tired and fatigue ridden nerves. Many people who need a break from their daily grind opt for a session of salt room therapy and come back refreshed.

Nervous System

Salt particles help in stimulating nerves to conduct electrical impulses better and leave the patient feeling energetic. Salt room therapy is also known to have beneficial effects in curbing headaches of nervous origin, migraine, spinal nerve disorders etc.

Mental Health:

Exposure to salt and minerals stimulates energy levels and also enhances blood circulation to all body tissues. This helps in improving cerebral circulation and helps in maintaining healthier brain cells.

Patients battling depression have experienced great benefits from regular salt room sessions. Anxiety, sleep disorders, mood disorders are also known to benefit from this therapy.

Skin and Hair:

It is said that salt helps in balancing the moisture levels of skin. People undergoing salt room therapy get their skin directly exposed to salt. This allows the salt particles to repair dead and damaged skin and help to retain the required amount of moisture.

Skin and Hair

Health conditions like psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis respond very well to salt room therapy. Salt has an anti bacterial effect which makes it an efficient cure for skin infections. Aside from skin disorders, salt therapy also helps in cleansing the skin and making it healthier. People who opted for salt room therapy as part of rejuvenation, developed healthy, glowing and soft skin.

Salt is also known to have a beneficial effect on one’s immune system. It helps to control levels of IgE and thus helps in battling allergic responses. Salt is a known anti inflammatory agent. Therefore, salt therapy is also helpful for patients suffering from joint disorders, auto immune disorders etc.

Salt Room Therapy for Healthy People

Other than helping to treat several health disorders, salt room therapy is also known to provide a rejuvenating and relaxing experience. Many people who want a break from their daily grind, indulge in salt room therapy regularly. People have reported feeling fresh and more energetic by spending time in a salt room on a regular basis. Salt room therapy helps to get rid of mental stress, tired nerves, muscular soreness, which has become part of the daily fast paced life most people lead.

What is a Salt Room?

Salt room therapy is conducted in artificially built salt caves. Temperature controlled rooms are built in an attempt to simulate a sea side experience, minus the humidity. Floor of these rooms is layered with salt and salt is also introduced in the room through air vents. Due to absence of humidity, patients can can experience the benefit of dry salt therapy. The salt is usually imported from ancient caves in Poland known for their rich salt deposits or from Himalayas. The salt is then processed and refined before using it for therapy sessions.

A halogenerator is used in most of the spas offering salt room therapy. This device filters and spreads salt evenly into the salt rooms during therapy sessions. People can enjoy a relaxing session of dry salt therapy in one of these rooms for a time span of anywhere between 25-45 minutes. Salt therapy does not make use of chemicals, steroids or any artificial preparations. This makes is 100% safe with little possibility of side effects.

Limitations of Salt Room Therapy

Salt room therapy has proven to be beneficial since ancient times. People have been benefiting from it since as early as the 1800s. However, no scientific or medical experiment has been conducted to prove its efficacy. Therefore, this therapy has not received adequate recognition.

There is no documented evidence of salt therapy proving to be beneficial in every patient. The therapy cannot replace medical or surgical treatment completely. It has to be used in conjunction with main stream treatment. While ancient proofs and documents exist about how salt therapy was discovered and used, there is no proof of any recent study being done for the same.

Contraindications of Salt Room Therapy

While salt room therapy is impressing one and all across the globe, it may not be helpful for everyone. Certain health conditions may contradict the use of salt room therapy.

Pregnant women should not undergo this therapy; especially if they have been battling blood pressure issues. It is also inadvisable for patients with cardiac disorders to opt for this therapy. While salt room therapy has proven to be beneficial in case of respiratory ailments, it should be avoided during acute exacerbations of symptoms. Patients who have recently suffered from burn injuries, should also refrain from undergoing salt room therapy as it may irritate the skin.

Salt room therapy should be chosen as a treatment method, only if it has been approved by a qualified physician. This form of therapy is widely available in Europe, America and parts of Asia.

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases – CROHN’S and Ulcerative Colitis

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases refer to a set of conditions that result in a troubled and inflamed digestive or gastrointestinal tract. Although, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases exist in different types; the two most common forms are – CROHN’S and Ulcerative Colitis.

Any inflammatory disorder arises when the body causes unnecessary inflammation, that destroys essential tissues and organs. Inflammation is otherwise necessary and exists as the body’s normal response against harmful foreign entities and external damage of tissues. Inflammation is necessary to administer body’s own healing mechanism. However, when the immune system wrongly identifies external threat and thus results in inflammatory actions, inflammatory disorders are said to develop.

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

Inflammatory bowel disorders (IBD) are also autoimmune conditions, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues of the gastrointestinal tract and cause severe pain, discomfort and even death. Inflammatory Bowel Diseases mostly affect small intestine and large intestine; however, serious cases even infect mouth, esophagus and other parts.

The following discussion entails causes, symptoms and treatment of the two most destructive forms of IBD: Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis. You may also get sufficient information regarding diet and lifestyle changes that can help you to deal and live with IBD disorders.

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Why you need to pay attention to your anger-anxiety issues

Are you always angry?

If the last time you let your anger get better of you and it took you by surprise, you need to take a more serious look at the problem. If you’ve raised your voice more than once at a dinner party, punched a wall after a fight, stormed out of a room in anger or more importantly, felt the increasing urge to do any of the aforementioned things, you’re probably angrier than you think you are.

Anger and anxiety are problems that can easily go undiagnosed and untreated. The issues may be boiling under layers of denial and ignorance years before they finally burst out. The more serious worry though is that people may not even be aware that they may be suffering from serious anger issues.

Even if you think you have your anger in control, here are some things you probably didn’t know your anger could lead to. No matter in what stage you think you are, inadvertently your anger is taking control of you with every temper tantrum. There is a list of scary and serious effects of anger including, mild to severe headaches, digestion problems, such as abdominal pain, stomach uneasiness, insomnia, depression, high blood pressure and skin problems. If you’ve been battling with anger for a while, you must have also been warned against the high level of stress it causes you, the risk to your heart .

Anger affects your health through migraines, depression and increases the risk of heart diseases
Anger affects your health through migraines, depression and increases the risk of heart diseases

To get you acclimatized to your issues, you need to identify your problem. Here are some quick pointers:

  • Admit to your problem:

    Notice your behavior carefully for a week. If you think your problem is not chronic, or not as serious, be vigilant with yourself. The next time you get angry, make a mental note. If your anger episodes are occurring more frequently than you thought, Houston, we have a problem.

    Aggressive or repressive: 

    Here’s the tricky part. Even if you’ve not yelled at the cashier, packed a punch at the punks who ticked you off or raised your voice in anger, you may still want to take a closer look at yourself. You may be repressing anger by keeping it bottled up. It is just harmful as aggressive anger, possibly even unhealthier.

  • Pay attention to physical symptoms:

    Usually when a person gets angry, the body reacts to that anger. If a colleague is inefficient, your employees have walked in late or your spouse is driving you up the wall, your body will react first. That pain in your neck will start acting up, your joints will probably call for attention or the throbbing pain in your temple will return. This is your body telling you that a storm is coming.

  • One or many:

    Once you’ve identified your issues, try and figure out if it is only one problem you’re stresses about or many. If it’s a one-situation only anger, then it is slightly easier to handle. For instance, if only work-related issues stress you out, then the problem is at work, and not at home. If this is not the case though and the problem is your temper and not the environment, then you need to work on yourself.hulk2The point of the matter is, don’t take your anger lightly. If not today, a year or five later, you will be left facing either physical or mental consequences of your anger. Treat it now when you can. Here are some simple DIY anger management tips:

  • Get help:

    A visit to a doctor is probably the smartest thing you will do all day. Not only will you know how serious your problem is, a therapist might help subdue the problem before it gets worse.

  • Find your exit activity:

    If you see the familiar symptoms of the imminent anger outburst, excuse yourself and walk away. Find an activity that will help you cool off. Take a walk or go for a run. Go talk to a more friendly voice or put on your favourite music playlist. Change the mood and return when you feel calmer.

    Find an activity that calms you down, change it monthly
    Find an activity that calms you down, change it monthly

  • Don’t get angry at the same thing twice:

    You can be better than that. If you’ve already realised you have no patience for incompetent drivers on the road, or your child’s messy bedroom, don’t return to the same issue. Accept some inevitable life truths, and try moving on from the small stuff.

  • Discover a new hobby:

    Distraction is the key here. People who have anger issues usually hate the Hulk monster they become once they turn green. So add an aspect to your personality that you really enjoy. Take up cooking, music or sports. Become a cinephile for a month. Change your activity monthly.The important positive to remember here is the amount of advancement medicine has made in terms of mental health. So today you have therapists, pain relievers and medication to help you pull through. The equipment is ready, so it’s now time to let go and breathe easy.

Why Do I Sweat Excessively?

Medically termed as ‘hyperhidrosis’, excessive sweating could be a medical condition more than physical inconvenience. Sweating heavily in a hot weather, warm atmosphere, circumstances involving physical exertion or during a heavy workout is normal. However, it could result due to an existing health problem in the body. It could also lead to other conditions such as fungal skin infection, eczema, etc. The good news is that it is possible to get rid of hyperhidrosis via proper treatment and medications.

excessive-sweating
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Depression: Types, Signs,Symptoms & Effects

Depression is counted among the major psychological illnesses which can affect the behavior, feelings, and overall health of an individual. Learn more about this illness as Dr. Chandra Shekhar puts some light on its types, symptoms, and effects.

The first thing you need to know about depression is – ‘it’s treatable’. It is more than just feeling sad all the time. This emotional illness causes one to lose interest in the things he finds pleasure. A depressed individual goes through an intense experience of despair, demotivation, and weakness. That’s why it is important to De-stress a Stressed Life.
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