Search Result

Verified by Dr. Vipin Khandelwal, Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centres, Navi Mumbai.Haploidentical BMT, also known as haplo BMT, is a type of bone marrow transplant that uses stem cells from a donor who is only half-matched to the recipient. HaploBMT is a newer type of bone marrow transplant, but it has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially for children. This is because only 30% of patients have a full match donor. For the remaining 70% patients, alternative sources of stem cells are matched from an unrelated adult volunteer donor and haploidentical donor. Parents and siblings who are not fully matched can be haplo donors.How is haploBMT performed?Preparing the recipient for the transplant: This involves chemotherapy and or radiation therapy to destroy the recipient’s bone marrow and make their immune system less active. Once the recipient is prepared, the donor stem cells are collected through apheresis, a procedure similar to donating platelets. The donor stem cells are then processed in the laboratory to remove any T cells, or they are infused directly in patients’ blood and after few days they receive some medicines to deplete T cells in body.Infusion of donor stem cells into the recipient’s bloodstream: The stem cells travel to the recipient’s bone marrow and begin to produce new blood cells. It typically takes a few weeks for the new blood cells to start working.What are the benefits of haploBMT?It is easier to find a haploidentical donor than a full match donor. This is especially important for children from minority ethnic groups.Haplo BMT can be performed more quickly than a matched unrelated donor transplant. This is important for children with aggressive diseases, such as leukemia.Who is a good candidate for haploBMT?Haplo BMT is a good option for children who don’t have a fully matched related or unrelated donor. It is curative option for variety of blood disorders, including:LeukemiaLymphomaSickle cell anemiaThalassemiaAplastic anemiaPrimary immunodeficiency diseaseMyelodysplastic syndromeHaploidentical BMT is a newer type of bone marrow transplant in children that is becoming increasingly popular for children. It is a safe and effective procedure that can be used to treat a variety of blood disorders.Connect with our expert, Dr. Vipin Khandelwal, Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centres, Navi Mumbai to know more about Haploidentical Bone Marrow Transplant procedure.Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment.

Non-Surgical Thyroid Nodule treatment: Advances in Interventional RadiologyThyroid nodules are remarkably common. Most of the time, they are discovered incidentally during a routine neck scan or a general physical. While the vast majority of these growths are benign, they aren't always harmless. As they grow, they can trigger a range of issues, from visible swelling and neck tightness to genuine difficulty swallowing or changes in your voice.For decades, the answer to a symptomatic nodule was almost always surgery. Today, however, the landscape has shifted. Interventional Radiology (IR) has introduced ways to shrink these nodules effectively without a scalpel or a night in a hospital bed, all without surgery. So no cuts no scar, no lifelong thyroid pills and the most importantly the possibility of it becoming cancerous in future is significantly reduced.  Understanding the Clinical PictureA thyroid nodule is essentially a localized overgrowth of tissue within the gland. Treatment becomes a priority when the nodule starts acting up, whether that means it's causing physical discomfort, impacting your appearance, or overproducing hormones.Before jumping into treatment, we follow a strict diagnostic protocol:High-resolution Ultrasound: To map the nodule's size, location and blood flow.Thyroid Function Tests: To see if the nodule is hormonally active.FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration): A quick aspiration / biopsy(FNB) to confirm the nodule is 100% benign before any non-surgical therapy begins. Modern Minimally Invasive Alternatives1. Thyroid Nodule Ablation (RFA and Microwave)Ablation is a heat-based treatment. Using ultrasound as a real-time map, an interventional radiologist inserts a specialized, thin needle into the nodule. Once in place, controlled energy (Radiofrequency or Microwave) is released to heat and destroy the abnormal tissue – in a moving shot technique. Over the following weeks, your body naturally absorbs the treated tissue, and the nodule slowly reduces in size.Why patients choose Ablation:Zero Scarring: There is no incision, just a tiny puncture mark that disappears.No General Anesthesia: You remain awake and comfortable under local numbing.True Outpatient Care: Most patients are back home within hours and back to work in a day or two.Function Preservation: We target only the nodule, leaving the healthy part of your thyroid intact and functioning.No need of Thyroid pills for life. 2. Thyroid Artery Embolization (TAE)For nodules that are particularly large, multinodular / goiter or hyper-vascular (having a heavy blood supply), embolization is a clever alternative. Instead of using heat, we cut off the nodule’s fuel line. A micro-catheter is threaded through the vessels to block the specific blood supply feeding the growth. Starved of blood, the nodule naturally shrinks. Thyroid Artery Embolization for Goiter Reduction (TAEGE) is also a similar procedure.Key Advantages of TAE:Highly effective for large, complex / multiple nodules that might be difficult to ablate.Ideal for patients who cannot undergo surgery due to other health risks.Reduces symptoms caused by mass effect (pressure on the windpipe or foodpipe) more larger than ablationMake you feasible for future ablation after size reduction Interventional Radiology vs. Traditional SurgeryWhile surgery is still necessary if cancer is suspected, IR procedures offer a much gentler path for benign cases. Here is how they stack up:FeatureInterventional RadiologyTraditional SurgeryAnesthesiaLocal (awake)General (unconscious)Recovery Time24–48 hours1–2 weeksScarringNonePermanent neck scarVoice RiskExtremely low risk to nervesHigher risk of nerve injuryMedicationRarely affects hormone levelsMay require lifelong pillsWho is the Ideal Candidate?You may be diagnosed to have thyroid nodule (clinically to see or by ultrasound scan) and your consultation with Interventional radiologist - Dr Rohit Madhurkar will help you understand the nature and feasibility of non-surgical (screening ultrasound scan) treatment and also perform FNA / FNB from most suspicious part of the lesion to confirm if its Benign nodule. A visible lump in the neck that affects your confidence.Persistent discomfort or a choking sensation when wearing collars.Difficulty swallowing solid foods.Benign thyroid nodule.A strong desire to avoid surgery, general anesthesia, or permanent scarring.Final WordThe wait and watch approach or total / partial removal thyroid surgery are no longer your only two options. Interventional Radiologist has bridged the gap, offering a better ground that prioritizes your recovery and your body's natural function. By opting for image-guided treatments like ablation (RFA / MWA) or Embolization, you can resolve the symptoms of thyroid nodules without the baggage of traditional surgery. Dr Rohit Madhurkar & team are experienced with high volumes, having global standard treatment protocols. 

Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Diseases (ASCVDs) that result from the buildup of cholesterol deposits (plaques) in the blood vessels are on the rise and striking younger age groups. Apparently healthy people with no preexisting cardiovascular disease seem to suffer from a major heart attack, stroke or sudden death. It is possible to prevent a heart attack or stroke through early identification says Dr. Vijayakumar S., Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist and Clinical Lead in Cardiac Imaging, Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road, Chennai. “Prevention gains great significance in a world where heart attack is the leading cause of mortality, of which one-fourth of the heart attacks occur in persons less than 40 years of age, one-half of heart attack related deaths below 50 years, and 50% in patients without any pre-existing symptoms,” he says.Heart Attack and Stroke are Preventable According to American Heart Association, 90% of the strokes and heart attacks are preventable by early identification and treatment. Since cholesterol deposits start as early as 20 years of age, progress slowly and result in heart attack or stroke between 40 and 80 years, if identified early, it is possible to reverse with cholesterol lowering medications. Even in later stages you can reduce chances of a major heart attack or stroke.Current Approach to ASCVD screening Risk factors like diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, smoking, overweight and family history of heart attacks increase the chance of cholesterol deposits. The present Risk-factor scoring approach based on various combinations of these conditions can estimate the risk of heart attack or stroke and is used currently in allocating preventive therapy. Risk scores are available free online and are automatically generated, classifying risks as low, intermediate and high.“Identification of plaque on CT or US imaging helps the physician decide on preventive treatment with statin and aspirin and more aggressive modifiable risk factor targets (lower levels of LDL cholesterol and blood pressure). It also improves medication adherence and lifestyle modification on the part of the patients”Dr. Vijayakumar S.,Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist and Clinical Lead in Cardiac Imaging, Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road, Chennai.PreventionThe ASCVD prevention focuses on lifestyle modification, and medical treatment (pharmacotherapy). Pharmacotherapy involves treatment of risk factors, such as diabetes mellitus and systemic hypertension. Preventive pharmacotherapy includes cholesterol lowering medication (statin) and aspirin. Lifestyle modification and treatment of risk factors are recommended across all the risk groupsModern Approaches for Early Identification of Risk Risk factor-based approach is not foolproof since cholesterol deposits can also occur due to unknown risk factors. Inherent factors like resilience and susceptibility of individuals can also influence build-up of cholesterol deposits. Modern approaches for early estimation of ASCVD risk have introduced atherosclerotic plaque imaging techniques (like mammography) that can help charter preventive therapies. Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan is a non-invasive CT scan that detects and measures calcium deposits in the coronary arteries (heart), which are signs of plaque buildup and a risk for heart attack. US (ultrasound) plaque imaging is a noninvasive diagnostic method to visualize atherosclerotic plaque in arteries, primarily the carotid (neck) and femoral (groin) arteries, to assess its size, and composition. These three tests, combined with the risk scores, provide precise estimation of 10-year ASCVD risk. Based on whether low, intermediate, or high risk / diabetics, the optimum time interval for the scan would be 5-7 years, 3-5 years, and 3 years, respectively. Featuring insights from Dr. Vijayakumar S., Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist and Clinical Lead in Cardiac Imaging, Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road, Chennai.📞 For appointments, call Apollo Hospitals Chennai at 044 4040 1066

What is Septoplasty? Procedure OverviewSeptoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to correct a deviated septum, which is the cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity into two nostrils. A deviated septum can lead to various health issues, including chronic nasal congestion, sinus infections, and sleep disturbances. At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, we pride ourselves on our reputation for excellence in healthcare, utilizing cutting-edge technology and advanced surgical techniques to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Our team of highly skilled surgeons is dedicated to providing personalized care, making us one of the best hospitals for Septoplasty in India. Trust us to help you breathe easier and improve your quality of life. Clinical Indications: Why Septoplasty is NecessaryA deviated septum can significantly impact your overall health and well-being. It can obstruct airflow, leading to difficulty breathing, especially during physical activities or sleep. Septoplasty is necessary for individuals experiencing: Chronic Nasal Congestion: Persistent blockage can lead to discomfort and difficulty in breathing.Frequent Sinus Infections: A deviated septum can hinder proper drainage of the sinuses, increasing the risk of infections.Sleep Apnea: Obstructed airflow can contribute to sleep apnea, a serious condition that disrupts sleep and can lead to other health issues.Nasal Bleeding: A crooked septum can cause irritation and dryness, leading to frequent nosebleeds. By addressing these issues through Septoplasty, patients can experience significant relief and improved quality of life. At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, our expert team is committed to providing the highest standard of care, ensuring that each patient receives the attention and treatment they deserve. Potential Risks of Delaying Deviated Septum SurgeryDelaying Septoplasty can lead to a range of complications that may worsen over time. Some potential risks include: Worsening Symptoms: Chronic nasal congestion and sinus infections can become more severe, leading to increased discomfort and health issues.Development of Complications: Untreated conditions may lead to complications such as chronic sinusitis, which can require more extensive treatment.Impact on Quality of Life: Difficulty breathing can affect daily activities, sleep quality, and overall well-being, leading to decreased productivity and increased stress. Timely intervention is crucial for preventing these complications. At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, we understand the urgency of your situation and are here to provide you with the care you need. Don’t wait—schedule a consultation today to discuss your options. Key Benefits of Septoplasty for Improved BreathingUndergoing Septoplasty can lead to numerous benefits, including: Improved Breathing: The primary benefit of Septoplasty is enhanced airflow through the nasal passages, allowing for easier breathing.Reduced Sinus Infections: By correcting the septum, patients often experience fewer sinus infections and related symptoms.Better Sleep Quality: Improved airflow can alleviate sleep apnea symptoms, leading to more restful sleep and increased energy levels.Enhanced Quality of Life: With reduced nasal congestion and discomfort, patients can enjoy a better quality of life, engaging in activities they love without the hindrance of breathing difficulties. At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, we are dedicated to ensuring that our patients experience these benefits through our expert care and advanced surgical techniques. Patient Guide: Preparation and Recovery ProcessPreparing for Septoplasty is essential for a smooth surgical experience and recovery. Here are some practical tips: Pre-Operative Preparation for SeptoplastyConsultation: Schedule a thorough consultation with our specialists to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and the procedure.Preoperative Instructions: Follow any preoperative instructions provided by your surgeon, including dietary restrictions and medication adjustments.Arrange Transportation: Since you will be under anesthesia, arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.Plan for Recovery: Set up a comfortable recovery area at home, stocked with necessary supplies like ice packs, medications, and entertainment. Post-Operative Recovery and Aftercare TipsFollow Postoperative Instructions: Adhere to the care instructions provided by your surgeon, including how to care for your nose and manage pain.Rest and Hydration: Ensure you get plenty of rest and stay hydrated to promote healing.Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for at least a few weeks post-surgery.Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Keep all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and address any concerns. At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, our team is committed to supporting you throughout your recovery journey, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcomes. FAQs 1. What are the risks associated with Septoplasty?While Septoplasty is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. These may include bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. However, complications are rare, especially when performed by experienced surgeons at Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad. Our team will discuss all potential risks during your consultation. 2. How long does the Septoplasty procedure take?The duration of the Septoplasty procedure typically ranges from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity of the case. At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, our skilled surgeons utilize advanced techniques to ensure a swift and efficient procedure, allowing for a quicker recovery. 3. When can I return to normal activities after Septoplasty?Most patients can return to light activities within a few days after surgery, but full recovery may take several weeks. It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions and attend follow-up appointments to ensure a smooth recovery process. 4. How do I choose the right surgeon for Septoplasty?Choosing the right surgeon is crucial for a successful outcome. At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, our team consists of highly qualified and experienced ENT specialists who are dedicated to providing personalized care. During your consultation, feel free to ask about their experience and success rates with Septoplasty. 5. How can I schedule a consultation for Septoplasty at Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad?Scheduling a consultation is easy! You can contact us through our website or call our dedicated helpline. Our friendly staff will assist you in setting up an appointment with one of our expert surgeons to discuss your symptoms and treatment options. ConclusionIf you are struggling with breathing difficulties due to a deviated septum, Septoplasty may be the solution you need. At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, we are committed to providing exceptional care, utilizing advanced technology and techniques to ensure successful outcomes. Our team of experienced surgeons is here to guide you through every step of the process, from consultation to recovery. Don’t let nasal obstruction affect your quality of life any longer. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards better breathing and improved health.

The novel coronavirus emerged last year in the city of Wuhan, China, and scientists all over the world are still struggling round the clock to learn more about the novel coronavirus. Months after this deadly outbreak, scientists came up with another symptom associated with the Coronavirus infection that is known as the “COVID toe”. What is COVID toe? COVID toe is a dermatological manifestation that closely resembles Chilblains or “pernio” , characterized by swelling and red discoloration of the toes. The redness may turn purple,and spread to the whole foot , sometimes affecting fingers too. People even reported these to be itchy and tender, preventing them from wearing shoes. Its pathogenesis in COVID-19 is still a potential research topic. Recent reports from China say that only 0.2% of COVID patients were seen with any dermatological manifestation. At the same time, reports of April 2020 both from Spain and the United States show a substantial number of COVID patients suffering from COVID toes. However, these were also seen in people testing negative for the novel coronavirus. A research study was conducted on 51 patients having pernio-like toes; it showed that none of the patients having these conditions were tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Is ‘COVID toe’ another rumour forwarded on Whatsapp? Researchers who conducted the study on 51 patients having pernio-like dermatological manifestations suggest that the so-called COVID toes are not due to the novel coronavirus. They hint towards the “couch potato” lifestyle due to the COVID-19 quarantine. A research was conducted on 20 children having pernio-like symptoms, by Dr. Ignacio Torres-Navarro, a dermatologist, and his team with the University Hospital of la Fe Polytechnic in Valencia. They said that these “appeared mainly in children isolated in houses that were not well suited for individuals who spent long periods barefoot or only wearing socks and with very little physical activity”. A few doctors believe that COVID toe might not be caused by the novel coronavirus, but an inflammatory response of the body to the infection. What is inflammation? Inflammation is the protective response of our body to foreign pathogens. It is characterised by five cardinal signs, i.e, calor(heat), rubor(redness), dolor(pain), tumor(swelling), functiolaesa (loss of function). Is it something to be worried about? Although the WHO (World Health Organisation) and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), have not added COVID toes as one of the symptoms of COVID-19 infection; there is no strong evidence that rules out COVID association with such a condition as of now. So if you encounter any such symptom, it’s wise to get tested. According to the CDC, you can have symptoms anytime between day 2 to day 14 after you have been exposed to the pathogen. The second important thing you need to do is self-isolation to prevent further transmission of the novel coronavirus. Can COVID toes spread through touch? COVID toes does not spread through touch, but getting too close to someone with these symptoms can get you in close proximity and hence increase the risk of breathing the virus in from their respiratory secretions . Inhalation of droplets still happens to be the most common and prevalent source of transmission. Book An Appointment Call 1860-500-1066 to book an appointment What is the treatment of COVID toes? Researchers say that you don’t need a specific treatment for COVID toes as it resolves over a few weeks on its own. But it’s important to consult a dermatologist to rule out any other skin condition which might need medications. Are there any other dermatological manifestations associated with COVID-19? Although COVID toes are in the limelight of being the most prominent and prevalent dermatological manifestation associated with COVID-19, there can be other conditions too. Some of them are: ● Hives: Itchy, swollen, reddish skin bumps ● Morbilliform Rash: Slightly raised red circular or elliptical speckle lesions in various parts of the body. ● Chickenpox-like rash: Fluid-filled eruptions on the skin surface closely resembling chickenpox rash. ● Livedo reticularis: Reddish blue to purple mottled skin in a net-like appearance. It’s often seen in conditions like Raynaud’s disease, Antiphospholipid syndrome, etc. ● Petechiae: Minute, circular dark purple to brown spots which are actually blood clots due to blood vessel rupture underneath the skin. ● Multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C): Prevalent among children characterized by widespread rash accompanied with swelling of extremities, inflammation of the oral cavity, throat, and lips, and swelling of glands in the neck. This shows some resemblance to the Kawasaki disease. If my toes swell and turn red suddenly, should I get tested for COVID-19? Although the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have not listed toe rash on the official list of a major symptoms for COVID-19 infection, researchers suggest you to get tested if you have such skin symptom. It is also possible that people with skin symptoms are contagious. Therefore, it is important to know what precautions can be taken to prevent the virus from spreading. If I have one of these skin conditions, should I go to the emergency room? Unless you have severe symptoms like a high fever, confusion, or shortness of breath, it is better to contact your doctor or your local healthcare provider to check where you can get tested for COVID-19. If you have not already contracted the coronavirus, you could come into contact with it in an emergency room. Symptoms of COVID-19 listed by WHO Severe symptoms ● Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath ● Chest pain or pressure Less common symptoms ● Body aches and pains ● Sore throat ● Diarrhea ● Conjunctivitis ● Headache ● Loss of taste or smell ● Skin rash Recently health experts at AIIMS came up with a report that COVID-19 can affect almost all organs of our body and the initial symptoms can be totally different from the usual chest complaints. Prevention is better than cure and is the most effective treatment as of now. Avoid getting in close proximity to anyone having flu-like symptoms and seek medical help immediately if you notice any symptoms of COVID-19. Book An Appointment Call 1860-500-1066 to book an appointment

India’s largest hospital chain says it’s ready to administer one million coronavirus vaccine doses a day, but the government has not made clear how vaccines will be distributed and whether private health-care networks will be involved. Read More

What is PCOD? Polycystic Ovarian Disease/Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a condition in which cysts are formed in the ovaries.  As name suggests (‘polycystic’ means ‘many cysts’), in PCOS, many tiny, fluid-filled sacs grow inside ovaries. Each of these sacs are follicles actually, as each one has an immature egg. The eggs does not mature enough to trigger an ovulation. Lack of ovulation alters the levels of progesterone, estrogen, LH and FSH. While progesterone levels are generally lower than usual, androgen levels are higher than the usual. Extra male hormones disrupt the menstrual cycle, therefore women with PCOS get fewer periods than usual. The other common symptoms include male pattern hair loss,  infertility, irregular periods and abnormal weight gain. Book An Appointment How is it caused? The ovaries in the female body produce the female sex hormones called estrogen and progesterone and a small number of male sex hormones called androgens. These hormones help to enhance the formation of eggs in the ovaries during the menstrual cycle. The imbalance in these sex hormones leads to PCOS. When a woman has PCOS, the ovaries produce more androgens than usual, resulting in a barrier to ovulation. During menstrual cycles, the ovaries release one or two eggs from the Follicles. With PCOS, the eggs in the follicles do not mature and stay in the ovaries without any activity. As a result, these immature eggs turn into cysts in the ovaries, causing severe pain and other related symptoms. PCOD is a genetically inherited syndrome. About 40% of women get this condition either from their mother or sister. What are the symptoms of PCOD? The most common symptoms include: Acne formation leading to pus cells on the face, termed Acne Vulgaris.Unusual weight gainAbnormal and darker hair growth on the face, back, belly and chestTrouble with menstruating or irregular menstrual cycle. Women with PCOS usually get only 9 periods in a year. Also, the menstruation will happen longer than usual with heavy bleeding. Few women may not even get their periods. Androgenetic Alopecia/Male pattern hair loss – permanent hair loss or thinning of hair commonly seen in men due to excess formation of Androgens.Infertility. Most women do not get pregnant or may have miscarriages. How does changing the diet impact PCOD? Though PCOD is a recurrent condition, the symptoms can be kept in control by regulating the hormones. A healthy and nourishing diet helps balance the hormones, which helps regularize the menstrual cycle. Eating the right foods and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important to avoid this condition. The insulin levels in women with PCOS will be higher than usual. High levels of insulin tends to cause more androgens, resulting in imbalance in the hormones, causing PCOS. Hence, it is important to maintain the insulin levels. This can be achieved by refraining foods that are high in refined carbohydrates. Changing the diet helps enormously in weight reduction, especially with women suffering from PCOS. For PCOS, it is important to maintain the weight as it will lead to serious other issues along with the symptoms of PCOD. What are the 10 best natural remedies for PCOD? The ovarian cysts in most women will go away by themselves without any treatment. But for cysts with severe symptoms, it is mandatory to take the doctor’s advice. The first step of treatment is usually lifestyle and natural remedies. These  remedies for PCOD do not make the condition disappear entirely. However, help with the symptoms when clubbed with medications prescribed by the doctor. Below are some of the best natural  remedies for PCOD: Consuming Whole Foods – Whole foods do not contain artificial sugars and are free from preservatives. Some of the whole foods that can be added to women’s diet with PCOD are fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. These may help to maintain the insulin levels, and thus PCOD can be kept in control.Watching out for Carbohydrate intake – Carbohydrates can impact the blood sugar level resulting in high insulin levels. It is important to consume only less carbohydrate and have more high protein and high fibre foods .Adding anti-inflammatory foods – PCOS can be considered as a  chronic inflammatory condition. Hence, eating foods that are anti-inflammatory in nature helps to reduce the symptoms accompanied by PCOS. Foods like tomatoes, leafy veggies and greens, fatty fish like mackerel and tuna, tree nuts and olive oil possess anti-inflammatory properties.  Keeping the iron intake high – Due to excess bleeding than usual during menstrual cycles in women with PCOS, there are more likely chances to have iron deficiency. This may make the woman suffering from PCOS become anemic. Adding iron rich foods in the diet can help avoid this problem. Foods such as spinach, eggs , liver and broccoli are the best iron rich foods to be included. It is also equally important to consult the doctor on iron supplements and consumption of iron rich foods.Increasing the intake of magnesium – Magnesium-rich foods such as cashews, almonds, bananas, spinach can be added to the diet to fight PCOS symptoms. Magnesium helps to maintain the insulin levels and helps in restful sleep.In-take of fiber – Adding fiber to the diet helps with digestion. Foods like lentils, lima beans, broccoli, brussels sprouts, pears, and avocados are rich in fiber and help to improve  digestion for women with PCOS, as they may suffer from bloating and constipation during their menstrual cycles. Avoiding coffee –  Caffeine in coffee stimulates the body by increasing estrogen levels. As a result, a hormonal imbalance may happen. It is advisable to avoid coffee. Instead, the individual can consume herbal tea for refreshment. Green tea also helps maintain insulin levels and acts as an agent for weight reduction, which is crucial for women with PCOS.Consuming Soy products – Including soy protein or soy products in the diet helps in balancing the estrogen in the body, and hence, the normal secretion of hormones can be maintained. Foods like soy milk, tofu, miso, and tempeh can be considered. However, people with any estrogen-related problems like breast cancer are advised not to consume soy products. Hence, it is necessary to check with the doctor before including soy in the diet.Avoiding junk and oily/fatty foods – Oily foods add to weight gain and abnormal functioning of the digestive system. This can cause severe symptoms of PCOS. Hence, it is essential to avoid junk and oily foods completely, although olive oil is an exception.Balancing exercises – To maintain a healthy lifestyle, it is necessary to exercise and keep the body healthy and fit. Exercising at least 150 minutes per week helps to reduce stress and balances the weight. Also, the calories are constantly burnt and hence, insulin levels can be kept under control. Besides the above natural remedies for PCOD, having proper sleep cycles and maintaining a stress free life is vital to avoid the symptoms and ease off the complications of the syndrome.

“Do I have cancer?” Or rather “Am I susceptible to cancer?” is the question that haunts most of us in our lives. Well, it’s not that simple, but it’s also not that difficult to understand the ‘know-hows’ of it. Cancer is something that’s feared by all, but can be conquered if detected early . Sometimes, cancer turns out to be something that’s completely out of our control and with factors like genetics, age and gender; there are many things which could elevate our cancer risk. However, the ultimate goal is to educate people, from nine to ninety, to recognize cancer in its early stages. When it comes to cancer, time counts, and actually ends up saving your life. So, this article isn’t essentially about how to ‘prevent cancer’ but about identifying it and seeking medical help at the right moment. What are the most common types of cancer prevalent in women? Well, it’s October, which is the Breast Cancer month, but that’s not the only type of cancer women need to worry about. Some of the cancers which are most commonly detected in women are breast, lung, colorectal, cervical, endometrial, skin and ovarian cancers. And each of these cancers brings certain changes in your body. So, the key to detecting cancer in its early stages and consequently saving your own life is to pay attention to every detail, notice and inspect whenever something new or different happens to your body. Cancer signs that women need to be on the watch for: Not all cancer reflects pink and while you may be on the lookout for lumps and bumps on your breasts, there are certainly more important, yet commonly ignored symptoms that women should recognize. So, even though most of these following cancer symptoms could also denote harmless medical conditions as well, you need to be on the lookout for persistent signs and contact a professional for that necessary dose of certified assurance. Book An Appointment Abnormal periods or abdominal/pelvic pain: As most women already know or have experienced, abnormal periods isn’t uncommon. There may be many reasons which could impact your menstrual cycle such as pregnancy, obesity, ovarian cysts, thyroid extremities, menopause and even stress. But, if you start to have prolonged and significant changes such as post-menopausal bleeding and even pelvic pain, you should definitely consider visiting a doctor. If you have ongoing abdominal pain you need to see a doctor because, ovarian, cervical, endometrial and other types of cancers may cause persistent abdominal pain as well. Bloody Stool or Vaginal Discharge: Seeing blood getting discharged with your stools could be real scary, but generally the blame goes to constipation or hemorrhoids. Though 75% of men and women are bound to suffer from blood in the stools at some point of time, it should never be left unchecked. Bloody bowels are never normal and could lead up to colon cancer. Similarly, dark, bloody and smelly vaginal discharge is a warning sign for cervical, endometrial or vaginal cancer. Extreme and Abnormal Weight Loss: Most women tend to overlook weight loss as they consider it to be a good change. But in reality, it’s actually a concerning one and one should consult a doctor for both weight gain and loss. Unusual and unexpected changes in both weight and appetite could turn out to be a symptom. Leukemia, pancreatic, liver, esophageal, and colon cancer are all capable of causing symptoms like a sudden weight gain/loss without any change in your diet or exercise regime. Breast changes as dimpling, discoloration etc.: Most women who are cautious about breast cancer are well aware of symptoms like breast lumps and bumps. But, what they don’t know or are unaware about, is the lesser known symptoms like breast dimpling. There are other breast cancer signs like the discoloration of skin, swelling, and even nipple inversion. So, you should always get it checked if you witness even the slightest of changes in this part of your body. Chronic Coughing: Everyone gets sick every now and then, and it could be anything from common cold to allergies to the flu or something even serious. We generally tend to overlook such things and just go for a paracetamol or some cough syrup. But, if you are suffering from a cough that has lasted you for more than two weeks, it’s time to take things seriously. Coughing up blood is also a red flag for lung cancer or leukemia. Painful Swallowing: If you are experiencing difficulty in swallowing and if you have been blaming it on a sore throat for days on end, you might want to get it checked. Persistent symptoms could point towards throat, stomach, lung and even thyroid cancer. Don’t ignore such ‘seemingly harmless’ symptoms for too long and dial your doctor’s office for an appointment as soon as possible. Apparent Skin Changes: We all know our ABCDs by heart, but do you know the ABCDE’s of ‘Melanoma’ or skin cancer? This gives you about a better idea about which spot on the skin to notice and which to ignore. Look out for A-Asymmetry: If you draw a line through the middle of the lesion, the two halves don’t match, so it looks different from a round to oval and symmetrical common mole. B – Border: abnormal or blurry edges, C- inconsistent Color changes in the skin, D- spots having a Diameter bigger than 6 mm and lastly E- any mole that Evolutions or changes with time. Also Read About: Squamous Cell Carcinoma of The Skin Stomach Pain and Nausea: Stomach upsets and nausea are such general symptoms that it’s almost wrong to claim that they could lead up to cancer. However, if you are facing stomach cramps or a nauseous feeling which has stayed with you for more than two weeks, it’s time to hit the doctor’s chamber as these are potential signs of esophageal, stomach, pancreatic, colorectal and liver cancer. Bloating: Bloating after a sumptuous, filling lunch or during your period days is absolutely normal, but bloating on a daily basis is definitely not. A constant bloating feeling could be a sign of ovarian or uterine cancer. So, simply ask your doctor to take a closer look. Chronic Headaches: This is probably one of the most commonly experienced and ignored symptoms. But, to be honest, if you have never had migraines, then a sudden onset of painful headaches needs to be taken seriously. It could very well lead to brain cancer or lymphoma and should be thoroughly discussed with your doctor. So, the moral of the story is that any symptom, no matter how big or small should be taken seriously, as it could denote cancer or something equally serious. You need to follow the 2- week rule and if any change in your health lasts for that time period, it’s time to consult a doctor. Remember, when it comes to detecting cancer, the best person to come to your rescue is yourself.

“Do I have cancer?”, or rather, “Am I susceptible to cancer?” is a question that haunts almost everyone. Judging how susceptible one may be to cancer is not the easiest thing to do, but proper awareness of the know-hows can really help. Cancer is something that is feared by everyone, but if detected early, it can be conquered as well. In many cases, cancer is something that is completely out of your control and with factors like genetics, age, and gender, there are many things that can elevate your cancer risk. However, it is very important to educate people to recognize cancer in its early stages. When it comes to cancer, time counts, and can actually help in saving your life. Here is some more information, not essentially about preventing cancer, but about identifying it, so you can seek medical help at the right time. What are the Most Common Types of Cancer Prevalent in Women? While breast cancer has its own ‘awareness month’ every October, it isn’t the only type of cancer that can affect women. The most common types of cancers that affect women are breast, lung, colorectal, cervical, endometrial, skin, and ovarian cancers. Each of these cancers affects certain changes in your body, so the key to detecting cancer at an early stage is to pay attention to every detail and to notice and inspect whenever something new or different happens to your body. Signs that Women Need to Watch Out For Not all cancer reflects pink and while you may be on the lookout for lumps and bumps on your breasts, there are more important, yet commonly ignored symptoms that women should be able to recognize. Even though most of the cancer symptoms that you should look out for can also denote harmless medical conditions, you need to be aware of persistent signs and should contact a professional for certified assurance of whether it is cancer or some other condition. 1. Abnormal Periods or Abdominal/Pelvic Pain As most women already know or have experienced abnormal periods, it isn’t an uncommon symptom. There are many reasons that can impact your menstrual cycle, such as pregnancy, obesity, ovarian cysts, thyroid extremities, menopause, and even stress. However, if you start to notice prolonged and significant changes, like post-menopausal bleeding or pelvic pain, you should visit a doctor. If you have ongoing abdominal pain, you need to see a doctor as ovarian, cervical, endometrial, and a few other types of cancers may cause persistent abdominal pain as well. 2. Bloody Stool or Vaginal Discharge While bloody stools can be a cause for worry, the blame generally lies with constipation or haemorrhoids. Almost 75% of men and women suffer from blood in the stools at some point in time. However, it is not something that should be left unchecked. Bloody bowels are never normal and can lead to colon cancer. Similarly, dark, bloody, and smelly vaginal discharge is a warning sign for cervical, endometrial, or vaginal cancer. 3. Extreme and Abnormal Weight Loss Thinking of it as a good change, many women tend to overlook weight loss. However, abnormal or extreme weight loss, or even gain, is a concerning occurrence and one should consult a doctor for the same. Unusual and unexpected changes in weight or appetite can be a symptom. Leukaemia, pancreatic, liver, oesophageal, and colon cancer are can causing symptoms like sudden weight gain/loss without any change in diet or exercise regime. 4. Changes in the Breasts Women who are cautious about breast cancer know how to look out for lumps and bumps in the breast. However, there are also many other symptoms like breast dimpling that many people are unaware of. Other signs of breast cancer include skin discolouration, swelling, and even nipple inversion. So, if you witness even the slightest changes in your breasts, you should get checked by a doctor to rule out anything serious. 5. Chronic Coughing Everyone gets sick every now and then, and it could be anything from a common cold to allergies to the flu, or it could be something serious. Generally, people tend to overlook such things and self-medicate with a paracetamol or cough syrup. But, if you have a cough that has lasted you for more than two weeks, it’s time to take things seriously. Coughing up blood is also a red flag for lung cancer or leukaemia. 6. Painful Swallowing If you experience difficulty in swallowing for days on end, it may not be a sore throat and you might want to get it checked. Persistent symptoms can point towards the throat, stomach, lung, and even thyroid cancer. These ‘seemingly harmless’ symptoms should not be ignored for too long and you should head for a doctor’s appointment as soon as possible. 7. Apparent Skin Changes You may know your ABCDs by heart, but did you know about the ABCDE of ‘melanoma’ or skin cancer? This would give you a good idea about which spot on the skin you should notice and which you should ignore: A – Asymmetry: Draw a line through the middle of the lesion and notice if the two halves don’t match, so it looks different from a round to oval and symmetrical common mole. B – Border: Having abnormal or blurry edges. C – Colour: Look for inconsistent colour changes in the skin D – Diameter: Spots with a diameter bigger than 6 mm E – Evolution: If the mole changes or evolves with time 8. Stomach Pain and Nausea An upset stomach or nausea are so common that it may feel like an exaggerated claim to say that they can lead to cancer. However, if the stomach cramps or nauseous feeling has been affecting you for more than two weeks, you should book a doctor’s appointment as they can be potential signs of oesophageal, stomach, pancreatic, colorectal, or liver cancer. 9. Bloating Bloating during your menstrual cycle or after a filling lunch is quite normal, but if you are bloated on a daily basis, the constant bloating feeling can be a sign of ovarian or uterine cancer. So, make sure you ask your doctor to take a closer look. 10. Chronic Headaches One of the most commonly experienced and ignored symptoms, if you have never had migraines, then the sudden onset of painful headaches needs to be taken seriously. It could very well lead to brain cancer or lymphomas and should be thoroughly discussed with your doctor. Basically, any symptom, no matter how big or small should be taken seriously, as it could denote cancer or something equally serious. You need to follow the 2-week rule and if any changes in your health last for that time period, it’s time to consult a doctor. Remember, when it comes to detecting cancer, you are the best person to be able to notice any changes. List of best Oncologist in Delhi NCR: https://delhi.apollohospitals.com/cancer/clinical-team-doctors