Knowing What is Multiple Sclerosis

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Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system. It is characterized by the damage and scarring of the protective layer, known as myelin, that surrounds nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This damage to the myelin causes a range of symptoms, such as 

  • Blurred or double vision
  • Pain in one eye
  • Fatigue
  • Tingling and numbness in your arms and legs
  • Muscle spasms and weakness
  • Difficulty with balance and coordination
  • Tremors
  • Dizziness
  • Electric-shock sensations with bending your neck forward

The exact cause of MS is still unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Researchers believe that MS may be triggered by a combination of an individual’s genetic susceptibility and exposure to environmental factors such as a viral infection, low vitamin D levels, or smoking.

MS is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical and neurological exams, imaging tests, and laboratory tests. While there is currently no cure for MS, there are several treatments available to help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. These treatments include medications to reduce inflammation, symptom-specific treatments for muscle weakness, spasticity, and other symptoms, and physical therapy and rehabilitation to improve mobility and function.

Living with MS can be challenging, but with the right support, individuals with MS can lead fulfilling and productive lives. This includes developing a strong support network, learning coping strategies, and being proactive in managing the disease.

It’s important for individuals with MS and their loved ones to be well-informed about the disease and available treatments, and to work closely with healthcare providers to develop an individualized plan for managing the disease.

Disease-modifying medications taken as early as possible and throughout the disease course can help stall the progression of relapsing-remitting MS. These medicines are available in the form of injections, oral medications, or infusion treatments. In conclusion, understanding MS is crucial in the journey of living with the condition. With the right support and treatments, individuals with MS can lead full and productive lives. Regular communication with healthcare providers and being proactive in managing the disease is crucial in achieving this goal.

Archana Hospitals has an excellent department of neurological care, including diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. Do schedule a visit by calling our office at Madinaguda, Hyderabad.

Shoulder Arthroscopy

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Shoulder Arthroscopy is a safe and customized surgical procedure to treat Shoulder Injuries.

If you have a shoulder injury that is not improving with non-surgical treatments, then your doctor may recommend a shoulder surgery. Some of the shoulder problems that may require surgical intervention include:

  • Tendinitis,
  • Partial Rotator Cuff tears,
  • Shoulder instability,
  • Fractured collarbone,
  • Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis.

Shoulder arthroscopy is a type of surgery that uses a tiny camera called an Arthroscope to examine and/or repair any damaged tissues inside or around the shoulder joint. Advances in medicine now mean that it can be used to treat a number of different shoulder injuries and conditions. Conditions that can be treated by a Shoulder Arthroscopy are:

  • A torn/damaged cartilage ring or biceps tendon
  • A torn rotator cuff
  • Shoulder stiffness
  • Frozen shoulder
  • Removal of any loose bodies
  • Shoulder joint infection

During this type of surgery, the surgeon will make small incisions around the joint area. The arthroscope is then inserted along with a sterile solution that works to expand the joint, giving the doctor a clear view and room to work.

Another incision is made for the surgical instruments that are used along with the tiny camera to repair any damage in the injured shoulder.

An arthroscopic shoulder surgery is typically an outpatient procedure and you will be able to return home the same day.

While it is a safe and effective way to restore the function of joints, it has to be performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon.

Advantages of a Shoulder Arthroscopy are

  • Smaller incisions
  • Faster healing times
  • Less scarring
  • A more rapid recovery

If you have experienced joint damage or a shoulder injury and are becoming frustrated with the pain and lack of motion, it is time that you visit a Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgeon.

At Archana Hospitals, the Specialists favor non-invasive treatments (eg. medication and physical therapy) over more extensive procedures, but in situations where these procedures no longer provide relief, the right diagnosis and treatment is just a call away.

shoulder Arthroscopy

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease(GERD)

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Occasional feelings of heartburn are normal, but if a person suffers from heartburn frequently, the heartburn could actually be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as GERD. A gastroenterologist can help get relief.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease often starts out as gastric reflux. Gastric reflux is caused by the sphincter muscle between your esophagus and stomach not closing properly. The incomplete closure of the muscle allows stomach acid to back up into your esophagus/oral cavity /lung, causing the burning sensation known as heartburn.

Acid reflux can grow worse over time, developing into a chronic condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. Signs and symptoms of GERD include:

Typical symptoms:
● Heartburn
● Reflux
● Chest pain
● Difficulty in swallowing

Atypical symptoms:

● Upper abdominal pain
● Nausea, bloating, belching
● Chronic cough, Asthma
● A sour taste and bad breath
● Eroding tooth enamel which causes sensitive teeth
● Throat clearing ,Laryngitis

Risk factors for GERD include obesity, smoking, regular alcohol consumption, increased age. spicy foods, can also aggravate the symptoms of GERD.

Treatment options for GERD include lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods and losing weight, as well as over-the-counter and prescription medications. Antacids and acid-blocking medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), can help to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach and alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the valve between the stomach and
esophagus.

It’s important for people with GERD to manage their symptoms to prevent complications such as esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), Barrett’s esophagus (a precancerous condition), and esophageal cancer. If a person is experiencing symptoms of GERD, it’s important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

In summary, GERD is a chronic condition caused by the stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. If you are suffering moderate to severe signs and symptoms of GERD, it’s best to visit your gastroenterologist for treatment. GERD is typically diagnosed with an endoscopy. The endoscopy can help identify irritated, inflamed, or ulcerated tissue due to GERD. The gastroenterologist can prescribe
medication to reduce stomach acid, soothe esophageal irritation, and heal ulcerated tissue.

Relief for the uncomfortable symptoms of GERD is just a phone call away. To find out more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of GERD, call our Gastroenterologist at Archana Hospital for accurate diagnosis and treatment if required.

KNEE REPLACEMENT

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Knee Replacement surgery — known as Knee Arthroplasty — may be needed if other treatments for knee conditions or injury have been unsuccessful. Knee arthroplasty is a successful treatment for arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and conditions that cause knee pain and injury. The surgery involves replacing the damaged bone and cartilage with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic components.

It is usually recommended for people who have severe knee pain or stiffness that does not go away with other treatments, such as medications, physical therapy, or injections.

There are three common kinds of Knee Replacements:

Total Knee Replacement:  The entire joint of one knee is replaced with artificial parts

Partial Knee Replacement:  Either the inside (medial), outside (lateral), or kneecap (patellofemoral) is replaced

Bilateral knee replacement:  Both knees are replaced during a single procedure

In addition to pain relief, the benefits of Knee replacement surgery are improved range of motion, mobility, and quality of life.

When does a person requires Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee joint replacement surgery is an option when non-surgical treatments — such as braces, physical therapy, medicines, and rehabilitation — don’t relieve pain. People of any age or activity level who experience severe pain that limits everyday activities and disturbs sleep are good candidates for knee replacement.

An orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in joint replacements performs the Knee Replacement Surgery. The procedure lasts about two hours, and requires spinal or general anesthesia and/or a regional nerve block (an injection that blocks pain signals to the brain).

During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision on the front of the knee, removes the damaged pieces inside the knee joint, and implants a prosthetic device. After testing the prosthetic joint for proper placement and fit, the surgical site is closed.

Recovery time for knee replacement surgery varies depending on the procedure and your condition. Most people spend a day or two in the hospital and begin outpatient (clinic) rehabilitation and physical therapy. Most people can resume regular activities within six weeks following surgery, but full recovery can take three to six months.

Overall, knee replacement surgery can be very effective in relieving pain and improving mobility in people with severe knee damage. However, like any surgery, it does carry some risks, such as infection, blood clots, and nerve or blood vessel damage. It’s important to talk to the Specialist doctor about the potential risks and benefits of the surgery before making a decision.

Archana Hospitals is equipped with the latest technology to serve the needs of patients who require Knee Replacement by expert Surgeons. Please contact the help desk to know more.

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Conditions That Lead to Dialysis

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Dialysis is a medical treatment that is used to filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys are no longer able to perform these functions effectively.

There are several conditions that can lead to the need for dialysis, including:

  • Chronic kidney disease (CKD): This is a condition that occurs when the kidneys are damaged and unable to function properly over a long period of time. The most common cause of CKD is diabetes, but it can also be caused by high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease, and certain medications.
  • Acute kidney injury (AKI): This is a sudden and severe loss of kidney function that can occur due to a variety of factors, including dehydration, sepsis (a serious infection in the bloodstream), and certain medications.
  • Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): This is a genetic disorder that causes numerous cysts (fluid-filled sacs) to develop in the kidneys, leading to kidney damage and eventually kidney failure.
  • Glomerulonephritis: This is a group of diseases that cause inflammation of the glomeruli, which are tiny filters in the kidneys that help to remove waste and excess fluids from the blood. Glomerulonephritis can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications.
  • Renal artery stenosis: This is a condition in which the blood vessels that supply blood to the kidneys become narrowed or blocked, leading to reduced blood flow and impaired kidney function.

If you are experiencing symptoms that suggest you may have one of these conditions, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent or delay the need for dialysis.

There are several ways to prevent the need for dialysis:

  • Maintain good kidney health: The best way to prevent the need for dialysis is to take care of your kidneys before kidney damage occurs. This includes controlling high blood pressure, managing diabetes, and avoiding drugs and other substances that can damage the kidneys.
  • Eat a kidney-friendly diet: A kidney-friendly diet can help preserve kidney function and slow the progression of kidney disease. This may include limiting your intake of protein, salt, and potassium, and eating more fruits and vegetables.
  • Stay active and exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help lower blood pressure and improve overall health, which can help prevent kidney damage.
  • Don’t smoke: Smoking can increase your risk of kidney disease and other health problems. Quitting smoking can help protect your kidneys and overall health.
  • Get regular check-ups: It is important to get regular check-ups and screenings to detect kidney disease early. This can help you get treatment before the disease progresses to a point where dialysis is necessary.

It is important to work with a medical professional to determine the best course of action for you. We at Archana Hospitals can help you develop a plan to prevent the need for dialysis and manage any existing kidney problems.

Symptoms that may lead to the need for dialysis include:

  • Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
  • Muscle cramps
  • Dry, itchy skin
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Seizures or coma (in severe cases)

It is important to note that these symptoms may be caused by other medical conditions as well, and a medical evaluation is necessary to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, do get in touch with us at Archana Hospitals where our Expert Nephrologists are always at hand to recommend the correct course.

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Urinary Tract Infections and their causes

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A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that occurs in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are usually caused by bacteria entering the urinary system, although they can also be caused by fungi or viruses. The most common cause of UTIs is the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is normally found in the digestive system.

There are several ways in which bacteria can enter the urinary system and cause an infection, including:

  • Having a decreased ability to completely empty the bladder
  • Having a structural abnormality of the urinary tract
  • Using a catheter for a long period of time
  • Having a suppressed immune system
  • Using certain types of birth control, such as a diaphragm
  • Sexual activity: UTIs are more common in women who are sexually active, especially if they use a diaphragm or have multiple sexual partners.
  • Poor hygiene: Failing to properly clean the genital area can allow bacteria to enter the urinary system.
  • Bladder catheterization: A catheter is a tube that is inserted into the bladder to drain urine. If the catheter is not properly inserted or maintained, bacteria can enter the bladder and cause an infection.
  • Structural abnormalities: Certain structural abnormalities in the urinary system, such as a blockage or abnormal narrowing of the urethra, can increase the risk of UTIs.

To prevent UTIs, you can take the following steps:

  • Drink plenty of fluids, particularly water, to flush bacteria out of the urinary tract.
  • Urinate when you feel the need and try to empty your bladder completely.
  • Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to prevent bacteria from the anus from entering the urethra.
  • Avoid using feminine hygiene sprays or perfumed products in the genital area.
  • Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing.
  • Drink cranberry juice or take cranberry supplements, which may help to prevent UTIs.
  • Drink unsweetened probiotic beverages or take probiotic supplements, as they may help to prevent UTIs.
  • Practice good hygiene by regularly washing genital area
  • If you have a catheter, it is important to follow the Doctor’s instructions for proper care and maintenance to prevent infections.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause a variety of symptoms, which may vary depending on the location of the infection in the urinary tract. Common symptoms of a UTI include:

  • Pain or burning sensation when urinating
  • Frequent urges to urinate, even if only small amounts of urine are produced
  • Cloudy, bloody, or strong-smelling urine
  • Pelvic pain or pressure in women
  • Low fever
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fatigue

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a Doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. UTIs can be serious if left untreated, as the infection can spread to the kidneys and cause more serious complications.

If you think you have the above symptoms please get in touch with the Nephrologists at Archana Hospitals for immediate diagnosis and treatment.

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HEAD INJURY – MISTAKES TO AVOID

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Each day, people who are involved in road accidents as well as other accidents sustain serious head injuries. These types of injuries affect a person’s everyday life and are often very complex and expensive to treat. The decisions a person makes immediately following the accident or injury can determine how quickly and how well they heal. The biggest mistakes that people make after sustaining a head injury include:

1) Not seeking medical help at once. Any head injury could result in life-threatening injuries. Head injury can result in serious or even fatal complications if the patient does not seek medical help in time. Only a medical professional can tell you whether they have sustained a serious head injury or not. Always err on the side of caution and seek medical help if a person has sustained any type of head injury – even if they do not yet have symptoms and seem to be fine.

2) Not keeping close track of symptoms. Keeping close track of symptoms with a written record does two things. First, it can give an indication of the kind of injury. Secondly, it helps to notice symptoms that people may dismiss but that could point to a serious condition. If the person is having headaches or dizzy spells each day, they may not notice – unless they are keeping track. Sometimes, head injuries have very subtle symptoms that are hard to catch.

3) Not taking extra precautions against additional head injury. If a person already has one head injury, additional head injuries can become life-threatening or can seriously complicate the condition. After sustaining a head injury, they should ensure that they wear helmets or protective headgear for any contact sports, bicycle riding, or motorcycle riding or other activities where there is a chance of head contact. They should take every precaution against head injury to ensure that they do not worsen the condition.

4) Returning to regular activities too soon. If a person has sustained a serious head injury, the first thing to do is speak with a doctor before returning to regular activities such as bicycle riding, contact sports, and other physical exertions. If they sustain injuries again while already having a head injury, the results could be life-threatening. Caution is advised against taking risks with the health. They should make sure that they speak with their doctor about which activities they can return to and follow the doctor’s timetable for recovery.

5) Health Insurance. If a person has suffered a head injury the medical costs associated are quite high. It is not unusual for someone with a serious head injury to spend thousands of rupees in replacement income and medical bills in the first few years of their injury. In addition to the medical scans necessary to treat such an injury, serious head injuries may require surgery, rehabilitation, and many other expensive treatments. Therefore having a health insurance cover is vital and helps in mitigating the existing medical condition from a financial point of view.

Archana Hospital is in the forefront of every medical emergency with specialists available round the clock. Do get in touch for any kind of medical consultation at the earliest.

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When Should You Worry About a Headaches ?

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Headaches are one of the world’s most common conditions. Some, such as hunger or stress headaches, which subside on their own aren’t a cause for concern. Others, such as migraines, have the potential to be more serious.

Migraines can be debilitating, but for some people who experience auras with their headaches, they could be a symptom for a more serious danger — an increased risk for stroke.

There are two types of Headaches

Primary: It is a condition where there are no underlying diseases or systemic conditions in the body. These headaches are the  most common cause of headaches comprising approximately 85% of cases and are more benign.

Secondary: It is a condition where headache can be a symptom of underlying disease or condition in the head or body. About 15% of headaches can be of this type which indicates serious causes.

  1. Headache 

Conditions such as Migraine, Tension type Headaches (TTH) and Trigeminal Autonomic Cephalalgias (TACs) are a group of Primary Headache disorders These type of headaches are triggered by 

  • Stress
  • Lack of Sleep
  • Drugs or Alcohol
  • Smoking
  • Food ( Excessive Caffeine, MSG, Processed Meat)
  • Change in weather or strong smell
  • Bright Lights
  • Loud Sound 

      2. Headache 

Secondary Headache is a symptom of a disease that can activate the pain-sensitive nerves of the head. Any number of conditions, varying greatly in severity may cause Secondary Headaches. The causes for these type of headaches are 

  • Hypertension
  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea
  • Systemic Disease
  • Drugs
  • Tumors
  • Sinusitis
  • Ear Infection
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Idiopathic Intercranial Hypertension (IIH)
Primary Headaches are benign but if the pain persists it could be a case of Secondary Headache.  So a trip to the Specialist is required when
  • New bouts of Headaches
  • Change in the character of Headache
  • Moderate to severe Headache
  • Affecting productivity and quality of life
  • More than or equal to 4 episodes per month
  • Sudden severe headache (which will seem like the worst headache of your life)
  • Taking frequent pain killers and other medication
  • Pregnant women and post delivery
  • Uncontrolled hypertension
  • Vision complaints
  • Weight loss
  • Sleep disorders or Excessive daytime fatigue
  • Psychological issues like Anxiety or Depression
If you or your loved ones are experiencing any kind of systems described above, the Specialists at Archana Hospitals are always at hand to diagnose and guide you on the right path of treatment. Do not hesitate to call us anytime 24/7.
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Coronary Artery Disease

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Coronary artery disease is a common heart condition. The major blood vessels that supply the heart (coronary arteries) struggle to send enough blood, oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. Cholesterol deposits (plaques) in the heart arteries and inflammation are usually the cause of coronary artery disease.

Signs and symptoms of coronary artery disease occur when the heart doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. If you have coronary artery disease, reduced blood flow to the heart can cause chest pain (angina) and shortness of breath. The other symptoms are sweating, fatigue, light headedness, palpitations, nausea. A complete blockage of blood flow can cause a heart attack.

Coronary artery disease often develops over decades. Symptoms may go unnoticed until a significant blockage causes problems or a heart attack occurs. Following a heart-healthy lifestyle can help prevent coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease may also be called coronary heart disease.

Symptoms may go unrecognized at first, or they may only occur when the heart is beating hard, for example, during exercise. As the coronary arteries continue to narrow, less and less blood gets to the heart and symptoms can become more severe or frequent.  The risk factors that can culminate in coronary heart disease can be Hypertension, Diabetes, Stress, Smoking, Alcohol, Unhealthy diet and Family history. A healthy lifestyle can help keep the arteries strong and clear of plaque. To improve heart health, follow these tips:

  • Quit smoking.
  • Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
  • Exercise often.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Eat a low-fat, low-salt diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
  • Reduce and manage stress.

Archana Hospitals has always been in the forefront of creating awareness for the general good of the society. If you have any questions please feel free to walk in and consult with our specialists.

Coronary Artery Disease