Rising Incidence of Fatty Liver Disease in India: Causes and Solutions

The increasing prevalence of fatty liver disease among Indians can be attributed to a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary habits, and genetic factors.

Dr. Shubha I. Vivekan, Consultant Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist, and Interventional Endoscopist, Apollo Clinic, Anna Nagar, Chennai shares the key contributors to this growing health concern:

• Dietary Changes and the Consumption of Processed FoodsShift towards unhealthy eating habits: Over recent years, the Indian diet has shifted towards higher consumption of refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and processed foods. These foods are often calorie-dense and nutritionally poor, contributing to weight gain and metabolic disturbances that increase the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).Decline of traditional diets: A traditional Indian diet, rich in vegetables, fiber, and natural spices, is becoming less common, especially in urban areas. The increasing availability of fast food, sugary snacks, and sugary drinks is driving this change.
• Sedentary LifestyleLack of physical activity: A significant rise in desk jobs and screen time has led to reduced physical activity, contributing to weight gain and insulin resistance. This sedentary lifestyle is a major risk factor for metabolic syndrome, a condition often linked with fatty liver disease.
• Obesity and OverweightGrowing obesity rates: Obesity is becoming more prevalent in India, particularly in urban areas. Excess weight, especially abdominal fat, is a key risk factor for NAFLD. Abdominal fat is strongly associated with insulin resistance, leading to the accumulation of fat in the liver.
• Genetic and Ethnic PredispositionGenetic factors: South Asians, including Indians, are genetically predisposed to store fat around the abdomen and internal organs, even at lower body weights. This predisposition increases the risk of metabolic disorders, making Indians more vulnerable to fatty liver disease compared to other ethnic groups.
• Rise in Type 2 Diabetes and Metabolic SyndromeDiabetes epidemic: India has one of the highest rates of type 2 diabetes globally. Both diabetes and insulin resistance are closely linked with the development of NAFLD. The increasing prevalence of these conditions in India is contributing to the rise in fatty liver disease.
• Alcohol ConsumptionIncreased alcohol-related liver issues: While NAFLD itself is not caused by alcohol, alcohol-related fatty liver disease is becoming more common due to the rising consumption of alcohol in some regions. Both NAFLD and alcohol-related fatty liver disease can lead to severe liver damage over time if left untreated.
• Lack of Awareness and Delayed DiagnosisSilent progression: Fatty liver disease often shows no symptoms in its early stages, leading many individuals to remain unaware of their condition. Without regular screening, the disease can progress to more serious stages, such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or even cirrhosis.

Addressing the Issue

1. To address the growing burden of fatty liver disease in India, there is an urgent need for public health initiatives that promote:
2. balanced diet rich in fiber, vegetables, and healthy fats.
3. Regular physical activity to combat sedentary lifestyles.
4. Increased awareness about the risks associated with obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease.
5. Routine screening to ensure early diagnosis and intervention.

With the right steps, it is possible to curb the rising incidence of fatty liver disease and its associated health complications in India.

Types Of Headaches: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatments

A headache is a pain or discomfort in the head or upper neck region, often arising from various factors such as tension, inflammation, or neurological issues. Headaches can range from mild to severe and may be localised or widespread. Different types of headaches exist, each with distinct causes, symptoms, and treatments. They can stem from stress, dehydration, lack of sleep, or underlying health conditions. Proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment, which may include lifestyle changes, medication, or specific therapies. Keep reading as we share different kinds of headaches, common causes and treatments for headaches.

Common kinds of headaches

1. Tension headache

Tension headaches are the most common type, often caused by stress, poor posture, or muscle strain. Symptoms include a dull, aching pain across the forehead, temples, or the back of the head and neck. Treatment involves over-the-counter pain relievers, relaxation techniques, and ergonomic adjustments to reduce muscle tension.

2. Migraine

Migraines are intense headaches accompanied by throbbing pain, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and sometimes visual disturbances (aura). Triggers include hormonal changes, certain foods, or environmental factors. Treatment includes prescription medications such as triptans, lifestyle changes, and avoiding known triggers.

3. Cluster headache

Cluster headaches are severe, recurring headaches that occur in cyclical patterns or "clusters." They cause intense, burning pain around one eye and may be accompanied by redness, tearing, or nasal congestion. Treatments include oxygen therapy, triptans, or preventive medications like verapamil.

4. Sinus headache

Sinus headaches occur due to sinus infections or inflammation, causing pain in the forehead, cheeks, or around the nose. Symptoms often include nasal congestion and a feeling of pressure. Treating the underlying sinus condition, such as with decongestants or antibiotics, typically alleviates the headache.

5. Rebound headache

Rebound headaches result from overuse of pain medications, leading to a cycle of worsening headaches. Symptoms mimic tension or migraine headaches. Treatment involves discontinuing the overused medication under medical supervision and adopting preventive strategies.

Causes

1. Stress and Anxiety: Tension headaches often result from prolonged stress or anxiety.
2. Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can trigger headaches.
3. Poor Sleep: Sleep deprivation or irregular sleep patterns can cause migraines or tension headaches.
4. Dietary Triggers: Caffeine, alcohol, processed foods, or skipping meals can provoke headaches.
5. Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, such as during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can lead to migraines.
6. Environmental Factors: Bright lights, strong odours, or loud noises may trigger headaches, especially migraines.

Treatments

• Medication: Over-the-counter drugs (ibuprofen, acetaminophen) for mild headaches, and prescription medications (triptans, ergotamines) for migraines or cluster headaches.
• Hydration: Drinking adequate water to prevent dehydration-induced headaches.
• Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises to alleviate tension headaches.
• Dietary Adjustments: Identifying and avoiding triggers like caffeine, alcohol, or certain foods.
• Therapies: Physical therapy, acupuncture, or chiropractic adjustments for tension-related headaches.
• Preventive Medications: Beta-blockers, antidepressants, or anti-seizure drugs for chronic headaches.

Understanding the type and cause of a headache is crucial for effective treatment, as the approach can vary significantly based on its nature.

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उंगलियां देखकर भी बीमारियों का लग जाता है पता, बस करना होता है ये काम

 Finger Clubbing Test : उंगलियां हमारे शरीर का अहम हिस्सा हैं. इनका रोल काफी महत्वपूर्ण होता है. हाथों को मजबूती देने के साथ ही उंगलियां शरीर के अंदर का हाल भी बताती हैं. घर पर ही एक सिंपल फिंगर टेस्ट कर आप आसानी से पता लगा सकते हैं कि शरीर में कोई गंभीर बीमारी तो नहीं है. टिकटॉक पर @dra_says नाम से फेमस डॉ. अहमद ने इस टेस्ट के बारें में बताया है, जिसका नाम शेमरोथ विंडो टेस्ट है, जो फिंगर क्लबिंग (Finger Clubbing) का पता लगाता है। इससे आसानी से पता चल जाता है कि आपकी सेहत कैसी है. शरीर के अलग-अलग अंग कितने हेल्दी हैं. आइए जानते हैं इस टेस्ट के बारें में...

फिंगर क्लबिंग क्या है

'क्लब्ड फिंगर्स' का मतलब उंगलियों के सिरे यानी ऊपरी हिस्से के दिखने के तरीके. अगर उंगलियां आपस में जुड़ी हैं या उनके सिरे उभरे हुए होते हैं या गर्म हैं या फिर उनका रंग उतर गया है या फिर नाखून भी नीचे की ओर मुड़ गए हैं तो सावधान हो जाना चाहिए. क्योंकि ये बदलाव फेफड़ों या हार्ट की गंभीर बीमारियों का संकेत दे सकता है. इसलिए इसे नजरअंदाज नहीं करना चाहिए.

उंगलियां कब क्या संकेत देती हैं

डॉ. अहमद कहते हैं कि कई हार्ट कंडीशन की वजह से उंगलियां आपस में जुड़ी हुई दिखाई देती हैं. इसके कुछ कुछ गंभीर कारण भी हो सकते हैं. इनमें लंग्स कैंसर, ब्रोन्किइक्टेसिस, सिस्टिक फाइब्रोसिस या फेफड़े का फोड़ा हो सकता है. इसलिए सावधान हो जाना चाहिए. ऐसे संकेत दिखते ही तुरंत किसी अच्छे डॉक्टर के पास जाकर जांच करानी चाहिए.

आपस में जुड़ी उंगलियों का टेस्ट कैसे करें

डॉ. अहमद कहते हैं कि अपनी दोनों तर्जनी उंगलियों (Index Fingers) को एक साथ इस तरह लाएं कि दोनों नाखून छू रहे हों. यह वैसा ही है जैसे आप अपनी उंगलियों से हार्ट का साइन बना रहे हैं. दोनों नाखूनों के आधार पर एक छोटी सी विंडो होनी चाहिए.  डॉ. अहमद कहते हैं कि अगर ापको लगता है कि आपकी फिंगर्स क्लब हो गई हैं तो आपको डॉक्टर के पास जाकर जांच करानी चाहिए. ताकि किसी भी गंभीर समस्या का समय से पहले ही पता लगाया जा सके.

Disclaimer: खबर में दी गई कुछ जानकारी मीडिया रिपोर्ट्स पर आधारित है. आप किसी भी सुझाव को अमल में लाने से पहले संबंधित विशेषज्ञ से सलाह जरूर लें.

The Growing Concern of Glaucoma in Children: WHY Early Detection is Crucial

In recent times, there has been a noticeable uptick in glaucoma cases among children. Glaucoma, traditionally associated with adults, is a serious eye condition that damages the optic nerve. It occurs when fluid accumulates in the front part of the eye, leading to increased pressure. Glaucoma can affect one or both eyes, and if not diagnosed early, it can lead to permanent vision impairment.

Understanding the importance of early detection, potential interventions, and preventive measures can help mitigate the impact of this condition on young lives. This helps us diagnose congenital glaucoma, which could be present at birth, infantile glaucoma occurring in the first year of life, and juvenile glaucoma occurring in children older than three years. Unlike adult glaucoma, which is often related to aging and other health conditions, pediatric glaucoma is frequently associated with genetic mutations, developmental anomalies, or secondary conditions affecting the eyes or the entire body. Glaucoma can also occur in children as a result of eye injuries. Dr Meena Menon, Consultant, Glaucoma Services, Sankara Eye Hospital shares the growing concern of glaucoma in children.

Why Awareness is Crucial?

Research reports suggest that more than 90% of glaucoma cases in the country go undetected, resulting in irreversible blindness annually. Therefore, it is critical to underline the significance of routine eye examinations, which can result in early detection and preservation of vision. Parents should be educated to conduct regular eye examinations for their children to detect any changes in their vision patterns. Many parents and caregivers are unaware that children can develop glaucoma. This lack of knowledge can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, resulting in irreversible vision loss.

Early Detection Can Prevent Permanent Blindness

Parents should take their child to an ophthalmologist if they notice any of the following symptoms:

1. Excessive and frequent unexplained tearing
2. Light sensitivity; children with glaucoma may exhibit discomfort in bright light
3. Enlarged eyes
4. Cloudy corneas; a hazy or cloudy appearance of the cornea
5. Behavioral changes; reluctance to engage in visual activities
6. Persistent eye rubbingRegular eye examinations, particularly for children with a family history of glaucoma or other risk factors, are essential.

   Managing glaucoma in children involves a combination of medical and surgical approaches tailored to the individual needs of the patient. Key strategies include medication such as eye drops or oral medications to reduce intraocular pressure, with consistent administration and monitoring crucial for effectiveness. Various surgical options like trabeculotomy or goniotomy may be necessary to relieve pressure and preserve vision, and advances in surgical techniques have improved outcomes for pediatric glaucoma.

   Regular monitoring through continuous follow-up appointments is essential to track progression and customize treatment plans, including regular eye pressure measurements, visual field tests, and optic nerve evaluations.

   Protective measures, such as encouraging the use of protective eyewear during activities that pose a risk of eye injury, can prevent trauma-related glaucoma.

   Additionally, providing supportive resources like vision therapy, educational support, and counseling can help children with glaucoma adapt to their visual challenges and succeed academically and socially.

   Glaucoma in children is a serious but often overlooked condition. Heightened awareness, early detection, and proactive management are critical to preventing blindness and ensuring a better quality of life for affected children. Parents, healthcare providers, and educators must work together to recognize the signs, seek timely medical advice, and implement appropriate treatments. By prioritizing the eye health of children, we can ensure a colorful future for our children.

How Far Could Our Blood Vessels Stretch If Laid Out End to End?

Many of you might have travelled to various corners of earth which might be from Tokyo to New York, Kashmir to Kanyakumari or from CSMT to Lonavla.

Dr Vijay Surase, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Jupiter Hospital, Thane asks, “But have you ever stopped to wonder about the journey that takes place within your body every second of the day? The incredible network of blood vessels that lies within each of us—arteries, veins, and capillaries is a masterpiece of nature, a system that quietly sustains life as it delivers blood to every corner of our body." And also here’s a fact that may astonish you: if all our blood vessels were laid out end to end, they would stretch for about 60,000 miles (1 lakh Km) more than twice the circumference of the Earth. Isn’t it an amazing fact!

“We cardiologists dedicate our life guiding the care of this vast and essential system…the roadways of life or roadways to life!"

How the small cricket ball seems like a football to the focused Master blaster Sachin Tendulkar, similarly Blood vessels in our body seems like big Atal Tunnel for we cardiologists who are focused and we navigate through this complex network and provide guidance that is essential to maintaining its health.

There are no toll booths but roads are topsy turvy but safe. Speed breakers in these vascular roadways are the unwanted elements which God never intended to give us but our faulty lifestyle invites them and major accidents like heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and gangrene of organ happen because of those.

Every pulse, every heartbeat, sends blood through this network, delivering oxygen and nutrients to sustain life. But this network can be fragile-vulnerable to damage from our habits, stress, and even genetic factors.

In a world prevalent with busy people lost in the race of fulfilling their dreams often neglecting their heart and health , the next time you feel your pulse or heart beat think about this incredible journey of life as Marvel movie and the Cardiologists as Guardian of your System dedicating their lives help safeguard this delicate balance, providing care and keeping this system functioning optimally.

Unveiling the Korean 15-Step Stem Cell Scalp Treatment for Ultimate Hair Health

The Korean 15-step stem cell scalp treatment is a groundbreaking approach to achieving optimal hair health, blending advanced science with meticulous care. This innovative regimen focuses on revitalizing the scalp, the foundation for vibrant and resilient hair. By integrating stem cell technology, the treatment stimulates cellular regeneration, promoting healthier follicles and combating issues such as thinning and hair loss. Each step is carefully designed to cleanse, nourish, and rejuvenate, addressing both aesthetic and structural concerns. Popular for its comprehensive and transformative results, this method represents the pinnacle of modern haircare, offering a luxurious and effective solution for individuals seeking lasting hair vitality.

Dr Shrilekha Shringarpure, Aesthetic Doctor & Trichologist and co-founder & Head, The Preserve Clinic, Mumbai shares all you need to know.

This 15-step stem cell treatment is one of most comprehensive scalp treatments as it treats various scalp issues ranging from oily, dry and flaky scalp, which in most cases is the root cause of acute hair fall and hair loss. The treatment focuses on removing accumulated dirt, excess sebum and keratin and product build-up from the scalp to create the perfect foundation for healthy hair growth, and produce a clean, healthy scalp.

The treatment incorporates medical grade products containing plant-based ingredients alongside human stem cell culture extract, known for effective hair loss and hair fall prevention. This meticulous process takes 60-90 mins to complete treating various scalp issues such as dry and flaky scalp due dandruff and psoriasis, oily and inflamed scalp due to Seborrheic dermatitis, which is the leading cause of hair fall in young and old patients alike.

The treatment starts with a microscopic scalp analysis (in which an image of the patient’s hair follicles appears digitally enlarged on a screen) showing whether your scalp is too dry? Or too oily? Or perhaps there is excess keratin or product build-up that show the need for a deeper cleanse (using heavy hair styling products or dry shampoos or skipping a clarifying shampoo can lead to this issue). This is followed by various cervical trapezius & lymphatic massages using biocurrents on the neck, head and scalp.

Massage opens up the hair follicles, allowing the for the rest of the treatment’s steps to work at optimum level. It also reduces tightness and tension in the body, relaxes the muscles and improves blood circulation to the scalp promoting overall scalp and facial health.

One of the treatment’s distinguishing steps is the use of galvanic LED sealing brush, which emits a gentle continuous electric current to soften and emulsify sebum and keratin in the hair follicle. The brush also emits a combination of red and blue LED light on the scalp. Red light increases cell turnover, whereas blue light kills scalp-acne causing bacteria. Last but not the least, Steam and gentle water pressure through the use of the Japanese Yume headbath waterfall tool (another highlighting step that most patients wait for) known for its therapeutic effect, finally rinses the hair and scalp clean. The treatment concludes with a reanalysis of the scalp, a hair regrowth tonic containing stem cell culture fluid, and styling.

Here are all the steps for the Stem Cell Scalp Treatment:

• Scalp Diagnosis & CounsellingDiagnosing the patient’s scalp and pore condition, followed by customized treatment program introduction.
• Scalp Aroma TherapyApplication of aroma oil based serum on scalp type to relieve stress, remove accumulated dirt, and prevent hair loss.
• Bionic LED BrushingUsing an LED brush to absorb aroma serum, relax the scalp, improve blood circulation, and remove waste from the scalp.
• Pore Deep CleansingDeep pore cleansing using an acidic peeling agent with natural peppermint, rosemary, and fruit acid extracts.
• Scalp MistingApplication of low-temperature mist to warm the scalp and enhance the absorption of aromatic oils and cleansing agents.
• Cervical Trapezius MassageA massage using aromatic oil and biocurrent to relax the shoulders and neck, improving blood flow to the scalp.
• Derma Lymphatic MassageA lymphatic massage using warm biocurrents to relax muscles, release toxins, and promote scalp and facial health.
• Stem Cell ShampooCleansing with a scalp care shampoo containing human stem cell culture fluid, biotin, menthol, and panthenol.
• Y Stick MassageDeep cleansing of the scalp using a galvanic Y rod during shampoo application to remove dead skin cells and impurities.
• Yume Head Bath Scalp Healing SPA A healing spa with lukewarm water and aromatherapy to relieve stress and moisturize the scalp.
• Scalp Collagen Pack Application of a collagen and peppermint extract pack to soothe and hydrate the scalp.
• Hair Dryer Drying the scalp with a cold blow dryer to about 70%, maintaining nutrient absorption.
• Spray the Human NK Immune TonicApplication of a scalp tonic containing Kopexil, human stem cell culture fluid, and B vitamin complex for hair regrowth
• T-Stick InfusionUse of a galvanic T stick to increase nutrient absorption by approximately 189 times compared to normal application.
• FinishingTaking post-treatment scalp photos, reviewing the scalp’s condition with the patient , and finishing with styling.

Arthritis: Causes, Early Symptoms And Prevention

The umbrella term ‘arthritis’ refers to the joint conditions involving pain, inflammation and mobility restriction of one or more than one joint. This condition is no longer restricted to elderly, rather it affects millions of people globally belonging to all age groups. The most common types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Dr.Pulak Vatsya, M.B.B.S, M.S., DNB, Consultant sports orthopedics and robotic joint replacement shares the cause of arthritis, symptoms and prevention.

Causes of arthritis 

1. GeneticsRheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are usually seen in those who have a family history. There are specific genes in the body cells that cause autoimmune inflammatory responses and these get inherited from the parents to their children.
2. AutoimmunityRA and PsA usually occur when the body’s immune cells directly damage the healthy cells of the body, especially the joints, causing pain and inflammation. Those individuals who are genetically prone to arthritis, can get an immune response triggered following some stress or infection.
3. AgingOsteoarthritis progresses with advancing age as the cartilage between the bone joints wears down as the body ages, causing bone to bone rubbing and pain and inflammation. Also genetic inheritance, overweight, obesity and any injury further accelerates OA.
4. InjuryAny sports or accidental injury to the joint can damage the cartilage and lead to OA. Also if extra mechanical stress is put on the affected joints such as by heavy weight lifting or repetitive movement, it will lead to more inflammation and pain.
5. Overweight and obesityAny individual having more than target weight is more prone to arthritis as extra body weight puts pressure on the hips, knees or spine. So the cartilage of these bones is at a higher risk of wear and tear and fat tissue is responsible for production of inflammatory compounds that trigger arthritis.
6. Metabolic disorderCertain metabolic disorders such as gout is a form of arthritis that is triggered by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints.

Symptoms of arthritis

1. Joint painThe first and foremost visible sign of arthritis is joint pain which occurs on a particular movement of the joint or if any body part/joint is moved after long inactivity. One characteristic feature of RA is joint stiffness for at least 30 minutes after waking up.
2. Swelling and inflammationThe affected joints may feel swollen or red and also generate some heat. In the case of RA or PsA, the immune cells attack the cells of the joint and cause swollen areas.
3. Limited movementThe affected joint becomes very hard to move and individuals may face issues even on slightest activity of daily life such as walking, gripping, stretching out arm etc.
4. Systemic symptomsRA and PsA are autoimmune arthritis and before joint pain, these arthritis show other systemic responses such as fever, tiredness, loss of appetite etc. These symptoms help in early detection of these types of arthritis.

Prevention strategies for arthritis

1. Weight managementFor dealing with arthritis, body weight should be maintained as extra weight especially on the weight-bearing joints such as knees, hips or spine can trigger arthritis by cartilage breakdown.
2. Regular monitoringThose individuals who are at high risk of arthritis such as overweight or obese subjects, those at genetic predisposition, elderly individuals etc. should get regular health check-ups and also certain diagnostic blood tests to measure inflammation. These include ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein).
3. Stress managementMost of the autoimmune conditions are related with stress and this makes stress an important causative factor behind both RA and PsA. So for better joint health, engage in yoga, meditation or breathing exercises for alleviating stress.
4. Refrain from smoking and drinkingArthritis prevention needs lifestyle modification which includes staying away from smoking and alcohol drinking. Smoking is associated with symptoms worsening and lowered treatment response, while alcohol triggers uric acid accumulation in the joints, thereby leading to gout.
5. Anti-inflammatory dietHave a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as nuts and seeds etc., whole grains as well as antioxidants such as berries, green leafy vegetables etc. Such a diet helps to reduce pain and inflammation.

Early detection and management of symptoms can prevent arthritis progression and limit joint pain and injury. Also lifestyle modifications such as physical exercise, healthy diet and cessation of smoking and drinking can prevent arthritis in at-risk group too.

1.