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Medical Equipments Medicine & Health

World Heart Day 2023: Sudden cardiac arrest, heart attack, heart failure; what’s the difference? Cardiologist explains

World Heart Day 2023: Sudden cardiac arrest, heart attack, heart failure; what's the difference? Cardiologist explains

A cardiologist explains how the three CVD conditions – heart attacks, heart failure and sudden cardiac deaths, differ in condition, symptoms, and treatment.

Heart health has been one of the biggest casualties in the today’s fast-paced routine that leaves little time and space for developing healthy lifestyle habits which can go a long way in preventing onset of chronic diseases. Rise in heart attacks, sudden cardiac arrest and other cardiovascular conditions has become a cause of concern. Stress, alcohol, smoking, lack of exercise, poor diet are among the major factors that are affecting heart health of people of all age groups. While people are hitting gyms to stay in shape, they are hardly modifying their food habits and taking measures to control stress, which could be causing sudden cardiac events and deaths.

“India accounts for approximately a quarter of cardiovascular disease (CVDs) related deaths worldwide, with an estimated 17.9 million deaths annually. An equally disturbing number of hospitalizations supplement the alarming number of deaths due to multiple categories of cardiovascular conditions. A study published by the Asian Pacific Society of Cardiology (APSC) reports that this high number can be due to various factors, the most prominent being bad lifestyle choices and unhealthy diets. Despite trying to be physically fit, people suffer from poor health due to lifestyle behaviours such as food and drink choices, smoking, alcoholism, inadequate sleep and more,” says Dr H.N. Mishra, Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Apollo Hospital Bhubaneswar.

Unfortunately, most individuals do not take the onset of the conditions seriously until they become more critical, mainly due to the lack of understanding of the condition and their implications. Not only the public but also caregivers confuse the medical terms and use them interchangeably without understanding the repercussions.

“While heart complications and associated co-morbid conditions are interlinked, these conditions require distinct treatments based on a patient’s medical condition. Thus, it becomes essential to understand how the three most critical CVD conditions, heart attacks, heart failure and sudden cardiac deaths, differ in condition, symptoms, and treatment,” says Dr Mishra.

On the occasion of World Heart Day (September 29), let’s understand from Dr Mishra how heart attack, sudden cardiac arrest and heart failure are different from each other.

1. Heart attack

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is reduced or blocked. Blood clots, atherosclerosis, fat, or cholesterol deposits in the coronary arteries cause this blockage. During a heart attack, the heart continues to beat, but oxygen-rich blood can’t reach the organ for proper functioning. The longer the treatment is delayed, the more damage happens, causing a heart attack possibly leading to sudden cardiac arrest.

The three types of heart attacks are:

  • Unstable angina: Damage to the heart due to reduced blood flow to the heart occurring at rest or on minimal exertion in the absence of damage of heart muscle is an unstable angina. This could lead to heart attack.
  • Non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI): When the coronary artery is partially blocked, blood flow is reduced, causing damage to the heart. This condition is referred to as NSTEMI, which is a severe condition.
  • ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI): When a coronary artery becomes completely blocked, and a large portion of the muscle stops receiving blood, the condition is referred to as STEMI or a major heart attack.
  • MINOCA: When the patient of heart attack with signs and symptoms of heart damage, investigations suggesting damage to heart and blood vessel supplying the heart is < 50% blocked and not obstructing the blood flow, then the condition is referred to as MINOCA or Myocardial Infarction with Non-Obstructive Coronary Arteries.
Symptoms of heart attack

Heart attack symptoms might vary based on age, gender, and lifestyle. However, some common signs include chest pain, shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea, and vomiting, which usually develop slowly over time. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, an immediate visit to a cardiologist is recommended.

World Heart Day 2023: Sudden cardiac arrest, heart attack, heart failure; what's the difference? Cardiologist explains

2. Heart failure

When the heart cannot pump enough blood through the body, the condition is referred to as heart failure. The condition is caused by multiple underlying conditions such as coronary artery disease, high blood pressure or diabetes.

Symptoms of heart failure

The most common symptoms of heart failure are swelling of feet, ankles and legs as the heart’s pumping ability weakens, and blood and fluid travel back into the lungs. Some people also experience weakness, lethargy, and shortness of breath. A cardiologist will determine the underlying cause of heart failure and then outline the treatment based on the cause.

3. Cardiac arrest

When there is a sudden loss of all heart activity due to an irregular heart rhythm, the condition is referred to as cardiac arrest. During a cardiac arrest, the person stops breathing and becomes unconscious, which could lead to death without immediate treatment. The underlying causes of cardiac arrest include coronary heart disease, physical stress, and hereditary disorders. However, cardiac arrest can also occur with no known cause. Emergency treatment with professional healthcare providers is required for sudden cardiac arrest. The line of treatment could include cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and shocks to the heart with an automated external defibrillator (AED).

“Any heart condition is serious and requires immediate medical intervention. Recognizing the warning signs early is crucial for timely intervention and preventing complications. Besides staying vigilant and seeking prompt medical attention when needed, people should go for regular check-ups with a cardiologist and maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” adds Dr Mishra.

Read more at-https://shorturl.at/nCG29

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Medical Equipments Medical Updates Medicine & Health

Tips to grow the growth mindset

Tips to grow the growth mindset

The growth mindset helps us to see the larger picture and takes us closer to our goals. Imbibing the growth mindset also involves making a lot of positive changes to ourselves, the lifestyle we lead and the perspectives we have. “It’s all about embracing challenges, adapting, and nurturing a belief in the potential for change,” wrote Therapist Diane. Here are a few ways to imbibe the growth mindset.

We should focus on practicing rather than trying once and giving up. When it comes to relationships, the growth mindset involves practicing effective communication and empathy

While the fear of failure or the fear of rejection may make us want to stay away from trying out new things, we should push ourselves to get out there and explore new things.

Tips to grow the growth mindset

Constantly working on building effective communication skills can come handy when we are trying out new things or building a healthy relationship.

We should reflect on the past patterns, and refrain from making the same mistakes. Developing attraction and selection skills helps in meeting the right kind of people.

We should see failures as stepping stones from which we learn and use the lessons in developing our own skills, thereby focusing on personal growth.

Read more at-https://shorturl.at/bjrIU

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Medical Equipments Medical Updates Medicine & Health

Tips to reduce your mental load

Tips to reduce your mental load

Sometimes we can feel extremely overwhelmed with the work at hand. When we are overburdened with work, the sense of feeling overwhelmed can make us feel more stressed. “Lightening the mental load is an ongoing process, and it’s important to find strategies that work best for your unique situation. A few tweaks can dial down the stress and make daily life feel less heavy,” wrote Therapist Carolyn Rubenstein. Here are a few ways to reduce the mental load.

We should filter the workload based on how immediately it needs to be done. Delegating and delaying the workload helps in diving the work.

Tips to reduce your mental load

Instead of taking up the whole work together, we should break it down into small and manageable steps.

We should refrain from taking up more work when we are already overburdened. We should learn to say no

To maintain a manageable workload, we should regularly assess our commitments and routine.

Read more at-https://shorturl.at/lmnJQ

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COVID-19 Government Guidelines Medical Equipments Medical Updates

Immune cells are critical to efficacy of coronavirus vaccinations: Study

Immune cells are critical to efficacy of coronavirus vaccinations: Study

The study shows that vital subset of immune system cells that are required for successful vaccination of covid.

A study has provided fresh information on a vital subset of immune system cells required for successful vaccination against the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic virus.

The study, led by researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and the New York Genome Centre, focused on T cells, which, along with B cells, form the human immune system’s response to invading viruses and bacteria. T lymphocytes labelled with the surface protein CD8 generate chemicals that kill infected cells directly. B cells secrete antibodies, which neutralise and mark contaminated cells for removal from the body.’

Vaccines expose patients to a bit of an invading bacterium in order to generate responses such as B and T cell activation so that the system is ready for the invader if it is met again. The COVID-19 mRNA vaccines were based on RNA, a genetic material utilised to encode the spike protein required by the virus to adhere to human cells. When mRNA instructions are injected, the spike is generated, and the immune response is activated.

In the rush to create vaccines against SARS-CoV-2, clinical trials relied mostly on antibody levels, when efficient diagnostics were available, to determine whether patients’ immune responses to mRNA vaccine candidates were protective. However, clinical protection was observed as early as ten days following the initial vaccine dose, well before neutralising antibodies could be produced. T cells were thought to be at least as significant in this protection, but normal methods for tracking them were too sluggish, so careful examinations of CD8 T cell responses were put on hold.

Immune cells are critical to efficacy of coronavirus vaccinations: Study

The study published in Nature Immunology describes a quick (high-throughput) approach for tracking T cell responses, demonstrates that they are critical to the early protection afforded by mRNA vaccines against COVID-19, and identifies the T cell subsets most responsible for it.

Our study identified markers for the CD8 T cells that arise from mRNA vaccination and that track closely with successful vaccination, which had previously been difficult to quantify on the population level,” said co-first study author Rabi Upadhyay, MD, assistant professor in the Department of Medicine at NYU Langone Health, and faculty in its Perlmutter Cancer Center.

“Although our study looks at mRNA vaccination against coronavirus, the antigen-specific CD8 T cell subpopulations we uncover represent key features of immune responses more broadly, and may help us to study T cells in other disease settings.”

For the current study, the research team analyzed gene expression over time in single T cells collected before and after immunization with the mRNA vaccine produced by BioNTech and Pfizer against SARS-CoV-2.

The researchers found distinct subsets of CD8 T cells that reliably multiplied (proliferated) 21 days after the original vaccination, specifically targeting and attacking key proteins (antigens) that make up the pandemic virus.

In looking at the genetic makeup of the most effective T cells, the researchers observed that cells lacking a surface protein called KLRG1, which stands for co-inhibitory receptor killer-cell lectin-like receptor G1, were the most likely to multiply quickly after mRNA vaccination and specifically attack.

When study authors checked for these profiles in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, those with the most “properly programmed” T cells – lacking KLRG1 but expressing other markers such as CD38 and HLA-DR – were the most likely to successfully recover from their infections.

In the years since the pandemic began, mRNA vaccines, first used against the virus, are now in clinical trials wherein they direct the body’s immune system to attack cancerous cells.

By clarifying T cell markers (e.g. KLRG1, CD38, HLA-DR), and the timeline for when CD8 T cells arise in the blood after vaccination, the new work may enable clinical teams to tell which patients are responding to the vaccines within days or weeks, say the authors.

That compares to the more than two months that oncologists must currently wait after mRNA vaccination to perform CT scans and assess whether their lung, breast, or prostate cancer patients responded to an mRNA vaccine.

If they are validated in this setting and dramatically shorten such wait times, the new profiling methods promise to help patients pivot more quickly to other treatments if necessary, the researchers say.

Furthermore, the study authors refer to a recent study led by a different research team which found that T cells with very similar attributes, again involving KLRG1, CD38, and HLA-DR, were the most effective at attacking cancer cells after treatment with an immune system-triggering drug (immunotherapy), just as they were the most effective at attacking the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the current study.

“It is remarkable that T cell attributes found after treatment with an effective immunotherapy mirrored those that we found to track with patient recovery from COVID-19,” said co-corresponding author Dan Littman, MD, PhD, the Helen L. and Martin S. Kimmel Professor of Molecular Immunology in the Department of Cell Biology at NYU Langone. “This pattern suggests that the close monitoring of antigen-specific CD8 T cell subpopulations will be central to future efforts to design treatments and vaccines against either viruses or tumours.”

Read more at-https://shorturl.at/HKRY1

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COVID-19 Medical Equipments Medical Updates Medicine & Health

Older adults with COPD had depression during COVID pandemic: Study

Older adults with COPD had depression during COVID pandemic: Study

According to a new longitudinal study published online in the International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), older persons with COPD were at a higher risk of depression during the early phases of the COVID-19 epidemic

The study looked at 875 people with COPD from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Ageing, a national study of Canadian seniors. Using longitudinal data, researchers were able to distinguish between 369 COPD patients who had a history of depression previous to the pandemic and 506 patients who had never experienced depression prior to the pandemic.

Researchers discovered that 1 in 6 people with COPD who had no prior history of depression experienced depression for the first time during the early phases of the pandemic. These findings show the toll that the epidemic inflicted on many people who had previously been depression-free.

“Our findings highlight the substantial burden of COVID-19 on those who were mentally healthy prior to the pandemic,” said first author Aneisha Taunque, research assistant at the Institute for Life Course and Aging at the University of Toronto. “It is evident that the pandemic has had a detrimental impact on the mental health of many individuals, even those who had no lifetime history of depression.”

When the analysis was restricted to those who had a history of depression prior to the pandemic, the prevalence of depression was substantially higher, with approximately one-half of these individuals experiencing a recurrence or persistence of depression during the autumn of 2020.

Older adults with COPD had depression during COVID pandemic: Study

“Older adults who have a history of depressive episodes are a highly vulnerable subset of the population, particularly those who faced numerous challenges with managing their chronic health conditions during the pandemic when access to regular health care was severely disrupted,” said co-author Grace Li, PhD candidate in the Sociology Department at the University of Victoria.

“The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the risk of depression among those with COPD,” says co-author Ishnaa Gulati, a Master of Public Health Student at the University of Toronto’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health. “There was already an established higher risk of depression among individuals with COPD when compared to those without COPD prior to the pandemic,” Gulati said. “When considering the mental health stressors during the pandemic, such as extended periods of lockdown, economic precarity, and concerns about contracting or spreading COVID-19, it is unsurprising that this group experienced major mental health challenges during this period.”

Although there is a burgeoning body of research examining depression during the pandemic, very little research has specifically examined the vulnerabilities among those with COPD. Understanding the risk factors for depression in subpopulations of older adults can aid health professionals in more effectively targeting treatment.

The study’s researchers highlighted several risk factors for both incident and recurrent depression among those with COPD, including loneliness, family conflict, and functional limitations.

“We found that experiencing functional limitations approximately doubled the risk of depression among older adults with COPD,” said co-author Ying Jiang, Senior Epidemiologist at the Public Health Agency of Canada.

“Physical activity is integral for maintaining functional status and reducing functional limitations among COPD patients, however many individuals with COPD are hesitant to engage in physical activity. Increases in time spent sedentary during periods of lockdown may have further ramifications for this population, potentially contributing to increases in depression.”

Women with COPD also had nearly double the risk of recurrent depression when compared to their male counterparts.

“During the pandemic, many women experienced an exacerbation of gendered roles, such as increased time spent caregiving and doing household labour, which may have contributed to declines in their mental health,” said co-author Margaret de Groh, Scientific Manager at the Public Health Agency of Canada.

Among individuals with no history of depression, experiencing disruptions to healthcare access was associated with approximately double the risk of incident depression.

“Many people with COPD encountered difficulties accessing pulmonary rehabilitation services during the pandemic, which are essential for supporting both the physical and mental health of COPD patients,” said co-author Andie MacNeil, research assistant at the University of Toronto’s Factor Inwentash Faculty of Social Work (FIFSW).

“Our finding that disruptions to healthcare access were associated with incident depression highlights the reverberating consequences when healthcare is inaccessible.”

Senior author, Esme Fuller-Thomson, a Professor at FIFSW and Director of the Institute for Life Course & Aging says she hopes the study’s findings can help inform healthcare workers and social service providers about the pandemic’s impact on the mental health of people with COPD. “Future research should continue to examine depression among older adults with COPD to better understand the pandemic’s cascading impact, even in the post-COVID era,” Fuller-Thomson said.

Read more at-https://shorturl.at/lmEJV

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Medical Updates Medicine & Health

World Alzheimer’s Day: 7 things you should do every day to cut Alzheimer’s disease risk

World Alzheimer's Day: 7 things you should do every day to cut Alzheimer's disease risk

World Alzheimer’s Day: While there is no cure of Alzheimer’s the disease can be avoided by following certain lifestyle habits.

Alzheimer’s disease can have a devastating impact on one’s life. The neurological disease shrinks the brain and over a course of time diminishes thinking, memory, and social skills. In advanced stage, people with Alzheimer’s are completely dependent on their caretakers and eventually with severe loss of brain function, people can suffer from dehydration, malnutrition or infection. This can even turn fatal and cause death. Studies prove that chances of Alzheimer’s can be reduced with lifestyle modifications be it regular physical activity, good diet, managing stress and chronic conditions. (Also read: World Alzheimer’s Day 2023: Date, history, significance)

As per researchers, compared to people with no or one healthy lifestyle factors, the risk of Alzheimer’s was 37% lower in those with two to three, and 60% lower in those with four to five healthy lifestyle factors. The lifestyle factors in this study include at least 150 minutes per week of moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity, not smoking, light-to-moderate alcohol consumption, a high-quality, mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet and engagement in late-life cognitive activities.

“Alzheimer’s disease poses a devastating global challenge, impacting millions of individuals. While a definitive cure remains elusive, mounting evidence suggests that adopting specific lifestyle choices can mitigate the likelihood of developing this debilitating ailment. By integrating the following seven habits into your daily regimen, you can proactively safeguard your brain health and diminish the risk of Alzheimer’s,” says Dr Neha Kapoor, Associate Director & Head-Neurology, Asian Hospital Faridabad.

On the occasion of World Alzheimer’s Day (September 21), here are factors that can help reduce risk of the disease.

World Alzheimer's Day: 7 things you should do every day to cut Alzheimer's disease risk

Lifestyle habits that can help cut Alzheimer’s risk

1. Embrace a heart-healthy diet

Cultivate a diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to bolster brain health. Prioritize foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens, which combat brain inflammation and oxidative stress. Additionally, incorporate omega-3 fatty acids from sources like salmon and walnuts to further reduce Alzheimer’s risk.

2. Engage in regular physical activity

Establish a consistent exercise routine to enhance overall health and decrease Alzheimer’s susceptibility. Strive for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity weekly. Exercise stimulates improved cerebral blood circulation, fosters the release of brain-protective compounds, and maintains optimal brain tissue health.

3. Foster mental stimulation

Keep your cognitive faculties engaged through regular challenges. Activities like reading, puzzles, acquiring new skills, and participating in intellectually stimulating conversations fortify cognitive reserves, potentially delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms.

4. Prioritize quality sleep

Give your brain the restorative sleep it needs by aiming for 7-9 hours of nightly rest. Inadequate sleep patterns and sleep-related disorders are associated with heightened cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s risk.

5. Manage stress

Chronic stress can detrimentally impact brain health. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine, such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or enjoyable hobbies. Reducing stress levels can safeguard your brain against harm caused by excessive cortisol production.

6. Cultivate social connections

Social engagement is a cornerstone of brain health. Regular interaction with friends and family, participating in group activities, and nurturing social ties can preserve cognitive function. Loneliness and isolation are linked to an increased Alzheimer’s risk.

7. Monitor chronic health conditions

Maintain vigilance over your overall health, particularly conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, as they elevate Alzheimer’s risk. Collaborate closely with your healthcare provider to effectively manage these conditions.

“Adopting these habits into your daily life can significantly diminish your Alzheimer’s risk. Consistent, long-term practice is crucial for their effectiveness. Additionally, consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance in crafting a brain-healthy lifestyle tailored to your specific needs and risk factors. Proactive care for your brain enhances the prospect of enjoying a vibrant and cognitively sound life as you age,” says Dr Kapoor.

Read more at-https://shorturl.at/aPW79

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Medical Updates Medicine & Health

Almonds with energy-restricted diets aid in weight loss, improve cardiometabolic health: Study

Almonds with energy-restricted diets aid in weight loss, improve cardiometabolic health: Study

When it comes to weight reduction, nuts often get a poor rap. However, recent research indicates that you can eat almonds and lose weight at the same time.

Researchers discovered that incorporating almonds into a low-energy diet not only helped participants lose weight but also improved their cardiometabolic health. The study was published in the journal Obesity.

When it comes to weight reduction, nuts often get a poor rap: while they’re high in protein, they’re also heavy in fat, which often puts people off. However, recent research from the University of South Australia indicates that you can eat almonds and lose weight at the same time.

Researchers showed that when energy-restricted diets were supplemented with Californian almonds or carbohydrate-rich snacks, both diets successfully lowered body weight by roughly 7kg.

More than 1.9 billion persons worldwide are overweight (650 million are obese). In Australia, two out of every three persons (about 12.5 million adults) are overweight or obese.

According to UniSA researcher Dr Sharayah Carter, the study shows how nuts can help with weight control and cardiometabolic health.

“Nuts, like almonds, are a great snack. They’re high in protein, and fibre, and packed with vitamins and minerals, but they also have a high fat content which people can associate with increased body weight,” Dr Carter said.

Almonds with energy-restricted diets aid in weight loss, improve cardiometabolic health: Study

“Nuts contain unsaturated fats – or healthy fats – which can improve blood cholesterol levels, ease inflammation, and contribute to a healthy heart.

“In this study, we examined the effects of an almond-supplemented diet with a nut-free diet to identify any influence on weight and cardiometabolic outcomes.

“Both the nut and nut-free diets resulted in approximately 9.3 per cent reduction in body weight over the trial.

“Yet the almond-supplemented diets also demonstrated statistically significant changes in some highly atherogenic lipoprotein subfractions, which may lead to improved cardiometabolic health in the longer term.

“Additionally, nuts have the added benefit of making you feel fuller for longer, which is always a pro when you’re trying to manage your weight.”

Read more at-https://shorturl.at/fikL5

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Government Guidelines Medical Updates Medicine & Health

Tips to maintain a healthy diet during office hours

Tips to maintain a healthy diet during office hours

Maintaining a healthy diet during office hours is crucial for your well-being and productivity. Here are some tips to help you stay on track.

Within the conventional 9-to-5 grind at workplace, challenges arise as the fast-paced work rhythm strains even the most resilient individuals. Individuals who work at a workstation while in a seated position are more inclined to have unhealthy eating habits.

According to the National Family Health Survey, roughly 10% of Indians, primarily women, consume deep-fried meals on a daily basis and 36% on a weekly basis. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Mukesh Batra, Founder and Chairman Emeritus at Dr. Batra’s Healthcare, shared, “The gravitational pull towards readily available, calorie-laden junk food becomes a tempting escape, subtly leading to weight gain and associated health concerns. Such dietary choices take a toll on both productivity and overall well-being. The crux lies in a pivotal choice – to choose sustenance that rejuvenates rather than incapacitates.”

He suggested, “A collection of nutrient-rich alternatives stands ready – nuts, seeds, Greek yogurt, vibrant vegetables, succulent fruits, and the nourishing embrace of whole-grain crackers, each bestowing sustained energy and vitality. Amid the bustling work hours, committing to consuming 3 to 4 liters of water daily can become transformative. By resisting sugary drinks, indulge in herbal teas’ comfort instead. Also, by balancing hunger’s pull, people can learn that satisfaction doesn’t equate to excess. Mindfully embracing smaller portion sizes, aided by smaller plates and bowls, orchestrates moderation’s symphony and curbs overindulgence. The intentional nourishment of human bodies can become a declaration of empowerment.”

Tips to maintain a healthy diet during office hours

According to Dr Diti Makhija, Director at QMS MAS, maintaining a healthy diet during office hours is crucial for your well-being and productivity. She recommended some tips to help you stay on track –

1. Drink Adequate Water: Start your day by drinking a glass of water, and aim to continue sipping water throughout the day. Staying hydrated aids in digestion, helps control appetite, and keeps you energised.

2. Healthy Snacking: Instead of reaching for unhealthy snacks, keep a small box of nutritious options handy. Some good choices include a mix of almonds, dates, and raisins. These provide protein, fiber, and essential nutrients to keep you satisfied.

3. Limit Caffeine: While a cup of coffee or tea can provide a quick energy boost, excessive caffeine can lead to hyperacidity and jitters. Consider switching to healthier alternatives like herbal teas or fresh fruit juices.

4. Pack a Balanced Lunch: Prepare your lunch at home whenever possible. Include a variety of foods from different food groups: lean proteins, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. This balanced meal will provide sustained energy throughout the day.

5. Healthy Cravings: When you’re craving a snack, opt for healthier options. Carry small packets of flavored Makhana (fox nuts) or protein bars. These choices are low in unhealthy fats and sugars and can satisfy your cravings without derailing your diet.

Remember, maintaining a healthy diet during office hours is about making conscious choices and planning ahead. By staying hydrated, snacking wisely, and having a balanced lunch, you’ll not only boost your productivity but also promote your overall health.

Read more at-https://shorturl.at/arC38

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Medical Equipments Medical Updates Medicine & Health

New variant of chickenpox causing virus in India; know symptoms of Clade 9 and prevention tips

New variant of chickenpox causing virus in India; know symptoms of Clade 9 and prevention tips

Chickenpox strain Clade 9 which is usually common in countries like UK and US is detected in India. Know its common symptoms.

A new variant of chickenpox namely Clade 9 has been detected in the country. The National Institute of Virology (NIV) has found the presence of Clade 9 variant of chickenpox-causing varicella-zoster virus (VZV) for the first time in India; the said variant is more common in countries like Germany, UK and US. Varicella-zoster virus is one of the nine herpes viruses and causes chickenpox in children, teens and shingles in adults. In India, so far Clade 1 and Clade 5 have been found, but Clade 9 has been detected for the first time.

What is Clade 9?

Clade 9 is a variant of varicella zoster virus (VZV) that causes chickenpox, a common childhood illness, says Dr Vineeta Taneja – Director – Internal Medicine – Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh.

Common strains of Varicella zoster in India

“Varicella zoster is a virus which causes chickenpox in younger population and shingles in adults. Clade 1 and 5 were the variants of varicella zoster known to cause infection in Indian population. But in a recent survey, it was found that Clade 9 which is the dominant strain in western countries, has been found in circulation in the Indian subcontinent too,” says Dr Tushar Tayal, Consultant- Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram.

What are its symptoms?

Some of the symptoms of Clade 9 includes rash, fever, loss of appetite, headache, fatigue and an overall sense of ill health, adds Dr Taneja.

The chicken pox rash appears 2-3 weeks after exposure to the virus. Prior to appearance of rash, patient develops fever, body ache and headache. The rash appears in form of bumps called papules followed by small fluid-filled blisters called vesicles which eventually heal with formation of scabs. The fever settles 1-2 days after the appearance of rash. The entire process happens over a period of 2 weeks and the person is infective to others 2 days prior to onset of rash and the infectivity continue till scab formation,” says Dr Tayal.

Is clade 9 more severe than previous variants?

“Presently there is no difference in the severity of infection with Clade 9 as compared to the previous variants,” adds Dr Tayal.

New variant of chickenpox causing virus in India; know symptoms of Clade 9 and prevention tips

Prevention tips

Dr Vineeta Taneja says the most effective way to prevent chickenpox is getting vaccinated. One should also practice good hygiene and regular handwashing can also help.

“In many countries, including the United States and several European countries, the Varicella vaccine is routinely administered to children as part of the immunization schedule. If you’re in a region where this vaccine is available, make sure you and your children are up-to-date with their vaccinations,” says Dr Taneja.

“Practicing good hygiene can help reduce the risk of VZV transmission. Encourage regular handwashing with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching the face. Avoid close contact with individuals who have chickenpox or shingles,” she adds.

Here are other prevention tips to follow:

Isolation: If someone in your household has chickenpox, try to isolate them from others, especially individuals who are at high risk of severe complications, such as pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Cover coughs and sneezes: Teach proper cough and sneeze etiquette to minimize the spread of respiratory droplets that may contain the virus. Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

Avoid sharing personal items: Refrain from sharing personal items like towels, clothing, and utensils with someone who has chickenpox until they are no longer contagious.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: A strong immune system can help prevent infections. Ensure you and your family members maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.

Seek medical advice: If you or your child is exposed to chickenpox or develops symptoms, seek medical advice promptly. There may be specific recommendations from healthcare professionals to manage the situation, especially if you or your child are at higher risk of complications.

Post-exposure prophylaxis: In some cases, post-exposure prophylaxis with Varicella-Zoster Immune Globulin (VZIG) may be recommended for individuals at high risk of severe disease after exposure to chickenpox. Consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

Treatment

Antiviral medications: Antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, are commonly prescribed to manage VZV infections. These medications can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, as well as the risk of complications. Treatment should ideally start within 72 hours of the rash onset for maximal effectiveness.

Pain management: Pain, itching, and discomfort are common symptoms of VZV infections. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate these symptoms.

Calamine lotion: Applying calamine lotion to the skin can help relieve itching and discomfort associated with chickenpox or shingles rashes.

Cool baths: Taking cool baths or applying cool, damp compresses to the affected areas may provide relief from itching.

Rest: Rest is important to support the body’s immune response and help with the healing process.

Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed if a secondary bacterial infection occurs as a complication of scratching the rash.

Topical antivirals: In some cases, topical antiviral creams or ointments may be used to manage skin lesions, particularly in cases of herpes zoster.

Antiviral prophylaxis: High-risk individuals, such as those with weakened immune systems, may be given antiviral medications as prophylaxis if they are exposed to VZV to prevent severe disease. Consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

Eye care: If the eye is affected by herpes zoster (ophthalmic shingles), consult an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) for proper evaluation and treatment.

Pregnant women: Special precautions and management may be required for pregnant women who develop chickenpox or shingles, as these infections can pose risks to the foetus. Consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

“Treatment of chicken pox is primarily symptomatic. Antivirals may be added for reducing the severity of infection and duration of recovery. Self isolation is extremely important to prevent spread of u infection to unvaccinated population and elderly. Prevention of chicken pox is with help of varicella zoster vaccine which is to be taken in 2 doses 4 months apart,” says Dr Tayal.

Read more at-https://shorturl.at/koruL

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Medical Updates Medicine & Health

Growing pains in children are linked to migraines

Growing pains in children are linked to migraines: Study

The study states that headache and discomfort in lower limbs in children are often associated with the risk of migraines.

According to new research published in the journal Headache, discomfort in the lower limbs, which is commonly referred to as “growing pains” by physicians and is sometimes associated with rapid growth, may suggest the presence or risk of migraines in children and teenagers.

The study included 100 children and adolescents born to mothers with migraines seen at a headache clinic, with half of the youth experiencing growing pains.

“In families of children with growing pains, there is an increased prevalence of other pain syndromes, especially migraine among parents,” the authors wrote. “On the other hand, children with migraine have a higher prevalence of growing pains, suggesting a common pathogenesis; therefore, we hypothesized that growing pains in children are a precursor or comorbidity with migraine.”

Growing pains in children are linked to migraines: Study

After 5 years of follow-up, 78 patients completed the study, of which 42 were from the group that experienced growing pains and 36 were from the control group.

Headaches occurred in 76 per cent of participants who had growing pains and in 22 per cent of controls. Growing pains persisted in 14 per cent of participants who had growing pains at the start of the study and appeared in 39 per cent of participants who were previously asymptomatic.

“Pain in the lower limbs of children and adolescents may reflect a precursor or comorbidity with migraine,” the authors concluded.

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