Understanding Cervical Health

The cervix is the bottom portion of the uterus, which opens to the vagina. It has a major role in reproductive health, menstruation and pregnancy. Cervical health is generally concerned with how to stop, find or fix the problem of abnormal cervical cells that are mostly the result of a persistent infection with high-risk types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

Why Cervical Health Awareness Matters

Cervical health awareness is all about providing information on risk factors, screening options, vaccination and warning signs to women. Awareness is like a superpower whereby people can equip themselves with protective measures even before a problem arises.

Some of the major advantages of being aware are:

• Higher rate of attendance in regular check-up programs
• Immediate findings of abnormal cervical cells
• Decrease in the occurrence and death due to cervical cancer
• Better availability of medical care at the right time

The statistics of public health are proof that nations with efficient cervical screening studies have just a fraction of cervical cancer cases compared to others.

Early Detection Through Screening

Among the positive changes that came out of the spread of cervical health awareness is the greater willingness to undergo screening tests. It is through screening that one can know about the problem even before it becomes cancer.

Recognizing Risk Factors Early

Awareness is a tool that equips women with the knowledge of factors that can lead to cervical health problems, such as:

• Continuous HPV infection
• Being sexually active at an early age
• Smoking, which leads to a less efficient immune response
• Having an impaired immune system
• Not having regular check-ups

The Role of HPV Vaccination

Cervical health awareness is also about HPV vaccination. The vaccine works by being protective against the different strains of the virus that cause cervical cancer.

To work best on the body, the vaccine should be given before a person is first exposed to the Human Papillomavirus, although there is some benefit in giving the vaccine later in age. Awareness lightens the lives of people through the process of busting myths and thus the vaccine is not seen as ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌a cure in the first place.

Identifying​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Early Warning Signs

Usually, cervical abnormalities cause no symptoms, but knowing the warning signs can encourage women to seek medical consultation if they experience any of the following

• Spotting at odd times
• Non-menstrual pelvic pain
• Discomfort during intercourse
• Unusual vaginal discharge

Discerning Cervical Changes Before They Become Cancerous

When the changes are detected in time, the areas of abnormal cells (precancerous changes) can be treated before the development of cancer. Most often, these precancerous cells do not cause any symptoms, but some atypical vaginal bleeding can be detected in the early stages of the disease.

In addition to regular Pap and HPV tests, women are also advised to:

• Make known any unusual vaginal bleeding to their doctor.
• Report a new pelvic pain other than during their period.
• Seek medical advice if pain during sex continues.

Reducing Health Disparities Through Awareness

One of the most valuable tasks of cervical health awareness is to draw the attention of the underserved communities to the importance of cervical health. Certain situations, such as the inaccessibility of healthcare, lack of awareness and cultural taboos, act as a barrier to such communities to get timely screening and thus delay diagnosis.

Local health programs, in collaboration with the health appliances at the workplace and through social media, can render a great service by:

• Making the screening process understandable, accessible and comfortable for everyone to prioritize.
• Bringing women together for a meaningful and open talk about reproductive health
• Clearing the path of the mess of fear and ignorance

Early detection resulting from awareness substantially diminishes the probability of the use of aggressive treatments and the patients’ quality of life gets greatly improved.

Long-Term Impact of Early Detection

Detecting cervical abnormalities early leads to:

• Less invasive treatments
• Better chances of survival
• Lower healthcare expenditure
• Less emotional and physical suffering of patients and families

As per international health bodies, cervical cancer is among the most preventable cancers if awareness, screening and vaccination programs are effectively run.

Final Thought

To conclude, cervical health awareness is a life preservation plan. Awareness from early screening, understanding all the risk factors, supporting HPV vaccine advocacy and consulting medical experts all help raise awareness and identify conditions long before the time they turn into fatal afflictions. Being aware of cervical health can make a whole lot of difference while dealing with a fatal medical condition. As the best multispeciality hospital in Coimbatore, Kumaran Medical Center focuses on making cervical health awareness a top priority, as it is one way to ensure a healthy life for women.

Dr. P. Kavitha., MD (OG)

OBSTETRICS & GYNAECOLOGY

Dr. Ramya Ponnuswamy MD(OG)

OBSTETRICS & GYNAECOLOGY

Patients are unaware that COPD may be identified early and controlled, enabling patients to live fulfilling lives. The best hospital in Coimbatore, Kumaran Medical Center, strives to make each patient’s life easier by raising awareness and providing prompt screening.

COPD: The Silent Struggle Behind the Breath

COPD is a set of lung illnesses, including principally emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that block airflow and cause breathing problems. It generally develops slowly with modest symptoms to start, which can be easily confused for weariness, allergies or just becoming older.

Early signs may include:

• Persistent cough or ‘smoker’s cough’
• Breathlessness during physical activity
• Wheezing or tightness in the chest
• Frequent illnesses of the breathing tract

Unfortunately, until the condition has moved to a severe stage, people often miss these signs. To guarantee quick identification, Kumaran Medical Center, the best multispecialty hospital in Coimbatore promotes awareness, routine examinations and pulmonary tests.

When it comes to early detection, timing is necessary.

COPD is not a random occurrence; rather, it develops over years of exposure to hazardous particles such as dust from the job, air pollution or tobacco smoking. Early detection can significantly delay the disease’s course, boost lung function and enhance quality of life.

When detected early, COPD can frequently be treated with:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Medication and inhaler therapy
• Rehabilitation of the lungs
• Immunizations eliminate infections

The pulmonary specialists emphasize that early screening is proactive, not fearful. Here, the patient education program is designed in a manner so as to remove stigma and encourage awareness that the difference in survival can be made through prevention and early care.

From Symptoms to Screenings: What You Should Know

At this best hospital in Coimbatore, the process is easy and comprehensive:

Full Clinical Assessment

• The physicians first examine the patient’s lifestyle, environmental exposures and family history to identify possible risk groups, especially smokers or people exposed to dust and pollutants.

Chest Imaging and Advanced Diagnostics

• X-rays and CT scans provide a clear view of the condition of one’s lungs and may help in detecting damages or inflammation in their early stages.

Blood Oxygen Analysis

• Oxygen level measurement allows for insight into how well the lungs are functioning. When combined with spirometry, it gives a complete view of your respiratory health.

As the best hospital in Coimbatore, Kumaran Medical Center integrates these diagnostics with personalized consultation so that every patient leaves with not just a diagnosis but a pathway to better health.

Why Early Screening Shouldn’t Wait

Treatment options may be limited if you wait until symptoms worsen. Although advanced COPD cannot be stopped, its effects can be lessened and its progression slowed.

Every screening is an opportunity to diagnose the disease before the disease steals away years of good health. The specialists herein deal with the patients to help them come up with active lifestyle and treatment plans tailored towards early recovery and prevention.

Where Technology Meets Compassion

Kumaran Medical Center’s innovative technology and patient-centered care has made it the best multispecialty hospital in Coimbatore. The hospital’s pulmonology department has extended lung function analyzers, non-invasive ventilators and digital X-ray machines installed for prompt and precise diagnosis.

The Path Ahead: Authorizing Every Breath

Despite being chronic, COPD does not have to rule your life.  Patients can continue to lead active, fulfilling lives with early discovery, prompt care and proper medical guidance. As the best multispecialty hospital in Coimbatore, Kumaran Medical Center is guiding towards a broader knowledge and healthier future by raising awareness, expanding screening programs and providing gentle treatment.  Because early detection of COPD can save lives, preserve moments and safeguard the rhythm of every breath, in addition to saving lungs.

Dr. B. Nithilavalli MBBS., DTCD

PULMONOLOGY

இந்த சுலோகம் நம் உடலுக்கும், மனதிற்கும், வாழ்க்கையுக்கும் முக்கியமான பல செய்திகளை நினைவூட்டுகிறது. இதயம் சீராக செயல்படும் போது தான் வாழ்க்கை சீராக நடைபெறும். அந்த துடிப்பில் குறை ஏற்பட்டால், சிறிய தவறுகூட உயிருக்கு ஆபத்தான விளைவுகளை உண்டாக்கும். ஆதலால், இதயத்தை பாதுகாப்பது மனிதனின் முதன்மைக் கடமையாகும்.

இதய நோய்களின் உயர்வு
உலகளவில் இறப்புக்கு முக்கியமான காரணங்களில் முதலிடம் வகிப்பதாக இருப்பது இதய நோய்கள். குறிப்பாக இந்திய துணைக்கண்டத்தில், நகர்ப்புற மற்றும் கிராமப்புறம் இரண்டிலும் இதய நோய்களின் எண்ணிக்கை வேகமாக அதிகரித்து வருகிறது.

முக்கிய காரணங்கள்:

அடிக்கடி உடற்பயிற்சி செய்யாத வாழ்க்கை முறை

அதிக கொழுப்பு மற்றும் பருப்புசத்து நிறைந்த உணவுகள்

புகைபிடித்தல் மற்றும் மதுபான அலவட்டம்

நீரிழிவு நோயும், உயர்ந்த இரத்த அழுத்தமும்

மனஅழுத்தம் மற்றும் தூக்கமின்மை

இவற்றால் ஏற்படும் அரித்மியா (துடிப்பு சீர்கேடு), இதயக்கோளாறு (காதியக் வார்த்தி அடைப்பு), மற்றும் திடீர் இதய அடைப்பு போன்றவை உயிருக்கு ஆபத்து ஏற்படுத்தக் கூடியவை.

“ஒரு துடிப்பையும் தவறவிடாதீர்கள்” என்ற கருத்தின் முக்கியத்துவம்
இந்த ஆண்டின் கருப்பொருள் இரண்டு நிலைகளில் புரிதலாகிறது:

உண்மையான பொருள் – இதயத் துடிப்பு
இதயத் துடிப்பை சரியாகக் கவனிக்க வேண்டும். திடீர் துடிப்பின் வேகம், மிஞ்சுதல், சீர்கேடு அல்லது அவசர நிலைகள் நிகழும்போது உடனே எச்சரிக்கையாக இருக்க வேண்டும். மருத்துவ பரிசோதனைகளை தவறாமல் செய்து, ECG மற்றும் ECHO சோதனைகள் மூலமாக இதய நலத்தை உறுதி செய்வது அவசியம்.

உவமை பொருள் – வாழ்க்கைத் துடிப்பு
வாழ்க்கையில் ஒரு நிமிடத்தைக் கூட வீண் விடக்கூடாது என்பதற்கான உந்துதலையும் இந்த கருப்பொருள் தருகிறது. குடும்ப உறவுகள், ஆரோக்கியமான பழக்கங்கள், தினசரி மகிழ்ச்சிகள் – அனைத்தையும் மதித்து வாழ்வது.

தடுப்பு முறைகள்
இதய நோய்களைத் தடுப்பது சாத்தியமே. சில எளிய பழக்கங்கள் வாழ்நாள் முழுவதும் பெரிய மாற்றம் தரும்:

முறையான உடற்பயிற்சி: நாள் ஒன்றுக்கு குறைந்தது அரைமணி நேரம் நடப்பது அல்லது ஏரோபிக் பழக்கங்கள் கொண்டால் இதயம் வலிமை பெறும்.

சத்தான உணவு: காய்கறிகள், பழங்கள், உயர் நார்ச்சத்து உணவுகள் அதிகம் உட்கொண்டு, ஜங்க் உணவுகள் மற்றும் எண்ணெய்/உப்பு குறைக்க வேண்டும்.

புகைபிடித்தலை நிறுத்துதல்: புகை மற்றும் மதுபானம் இதயம் மீது நேரடி தாக்கம் செய்கிறது.

இரத்த அழுத்தம் மற்றும் நீரிழிவைக் கட்டுப்படுத்துதல்: இந்த இரண்டும் “அமைதியான கொலைகாரர்கள்” எனப்படும். தவறாமல் பரிசோதனை செய்யுதல் அவசியம்.

மனஅழுத்த மேலாண்மை: யோகா, தியானம், இசை, குடும்பத்துடன் நேரம் செலவிடுதல் – இதயம் ஆரோக்கியமாய் இருக்கும்.

தூக்க ஒழுங்கு: தினமும் 7–8 மணி நேரம் நல்ல தூக்கம் கொடுக்க வேண்டும்.

தொழில்நுட்பத்தின் பங்கு
இன்றைய டிஜிட்டல் யுகத்தில் ஆரோக்கியக் கல்வி பெரிதும் பரவியுள்ளது. மொபைல் ஆப்ஸ்கள், ஸ்மார்ட் வாட்சுகள் மூலம் இதயத் துடிப்பைக் கண்காணித்தல் சாத்தியமாகியுள்ளது. Don’t Miss a Beat என்கிற வார்த்தை தொழில்நுட்பத்துடன் இணைந்திருக்கும் போது, ஒவ்வொருவரும் தமது துடிப்பை கவனித்து, சுகாதார எச்சரிக்கைகளை தவறாமல் பெற முடிகிறது.

இளைஞர்களும் இதய ஆரோக்கியமும்
இதய நோய் என்பது முதியோருக்கே ஏற்படும் என்ற பழைய கருத்து முற்றிலும் தவறானது. 30 வயதிற்கு குறைவான இளைஞர்களிடையே கூட இதயக்கோளாறுகள் அதிகமாகின்றன. வேலை அழுத்தம், தவறான உணவு பழக்கங்கள், இரவு நேர வாழ்க்கை முறை ஆகியவை இதற்குக் காரணமாகின்றன. ஆகவே இளம் தலைமுறையும் “ஒரு துடிப்பையும் தவறவிடக் கூடாது” என்ற கருத்தை மனதில் கொள்ள வேண்டியது அவசியம்.

விழிப்புணர்வு பிரச்சாரங்கள்
உலக ஹார்ட் டேவை முன்னிட்டு பல்வேறு நகரங்களில் நடத்தப்படும் நிகழ்ச்சிகள்:

இலவச இதய பரிசோதனை முகாம்கள்

ஆரோக்கியம் குறித்த நடைபயிற்சி (Walkathon)

இதயம் தொடர்பான சொற்பொழிவுகள், கருத்தரங்குகள்

சமூக ஊடகங்களில் விழிப்புணர்வு பிரசாரம்

இந்த நிகழ்ச்சிகள் மூலம் “இதயத்தை பாதுகாப்பது தான் அனைத்து செல்வங்களிலும் பெரிய செல்வம்” என்பதைக் கூறுகின்றன.

தமிழர்கள் மற்றும் இதய நோய்கள்
தமிழகத்தில் கூட இதய நோய்களின் விகிதம் அதிகரித்து வருகிறது. வேகமான வாழ்க்கை முறை, சாப்பாடுகளில் வெளியூர்ப் பழக்கங்கள், இயங்காத வாழ்க்கை முறை ஆகியவை காரணமாக உள்ளன. பாரம்பரியமான நமது உணவு முறைகள் – குறைந்த எண்ணெய், அதிக நார், தினசரி உடல் உழைப்பு ஆகியவை தொடர்ந்தாலேயே இதயத்தின் ஆரோக்கியம் காக்கப்படும் என்பதை நினைவில் கொள்ள வேண்டும்.

“துடிப்பை காப்போம் – வாழ்வை காப்போம்”
இதயத் துடிப்பு தான் உயிரின் அடையாளம். நம் குடும்பம், சமூகம், தொழில் – எல்லாதிலும் நாமே இருக்க வேண்டியதால், துடிப்பைச் சீராகக் காப்பதே முதல் கடமையாகிறது.

இதயம் பாதிக்கப்படாமல் நிம்மதியான வாழ்க்கை நடத்த, ஒவ்வொருவரும் தமது பழக்கங்களில் சிறு மாற்றங்களை ஈரமாக்க வேண்டும். சின்னசின்ன தவறுகளைத் தவிர்ப்பதன் மூலமே பெரிய பிரச்சனைகளைத் தவிர்க்க முடியும்.

முடிவுரை
உலக ஹார்ட் டே 2025 இன் “ஒரு துடிப்பையும் தவறவிடாதீர்கள்” என்ற செய்தி, ஆரோக்கியத்தைப் பேணுவதற்கான மிகச்சிறந்த நினைவூட்டல். ஒவ்வொரு இதயத்துடிப்பும் ஒரு பரிசு. அந்த பரிசை வீணாக்காமல், நாம் என்ன செய்வது என்பதை இன்று தீர்மானிக்க வேண்டும்.

விழிப்புணர்வை ஏற்படுத்துங்கள்.

நமது குடும்பத்தினரையும், நண்பர்களையும் ஆரோக்கியமான வாழ்க்கைக்கு வழிநடத்துங்கள்.

மருத்துவ பரிசோதனைகளை தவறாமல் செய்து, தேவையான சிகிச்சையை உடனடியாக மேற்கொள்ளுங்கள்.

இதயம் துடிப்பதே வாழ்க்கை. அதனால், “ஒரு துடிப்பையும் தவறவிடாதீர்கள்; ஒரு நிமிடத்தையும் வீணாக்காதீர்கள்” என்பதே எப்போதும் நம் வழிகாட்டிச் செய்தியாக இருக்க வேண்டும்.

Dr. K. Karthik MD., DNB

CARDIOLOGY

Prevalence:

Globally, by 2020, an estimated 619 million people (around 10% of the world’s population) were suffering from low back pain. According to WHO projections, this number is expected to rise to 843 million by 2050.

In India, the count is even higher, with 19.8% of the population affected. Nearly 20 out of every 100 individuals in India report low back pain.

Causes and Risk Factors:

Several causes and risk factors contribute to the onset of low back pain, including:

• Trauma: Injuries to the spine or surrounding tissues.
• Degeneration: Conditions like disc bulge and herniation .
• Poor Posture: Sitting or standing incorrectly for long periods.
• Inflammation and Conditions: Such as ankylosing spondylitis or sacroiliitis.
• Metabolic Causes: Osteoporosis, leading to weakened bones.

Times to Take Back Pain Seriously!

It’s important to recognize when back pain could be a sign of a more serious condition. Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Lower limb pain, numbness, or weakness, which may suggest a prolapsed disc, fracture, or cancer.
• Fever or night sweats, potentially indicating an infection like tuberculosis or rheumatic conditions.
• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite, a possible sign of cancer or other serious diseases.
• Joint pains accompany back pain, which could indicate an autoimmune disease.
• Pain that worsens at night or during rest, may be due to infections or tumours affecting the spine.

If your back pain persists for more than six weeks or is accompanied by any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult Our physiotherapist for further evaluation.

Prevention is better than cure!

Taking proactive steps can reduce the risk of developing low back pain. These preventive strategies include:

• Maintaining proper posture while sitting and standing.
• Using correct lifting techniques to avoid back strain.
• Regular physical activity, including stretching and strengthening exercises.
• Managing weight to reduce stress on the spine.
• Avoiding prolonged sitting or standing.
• Wearing proper footwear that supports good posture.
• Ensuring an ergonomic work environment.

How to Manage?

For those already suffering from low back pain, a combination of treatments can be effective. Recommended management strategies include:

• Stretching exercises to improve flexibility.
• Strengthening exercises to build core stability.
• Low-impact aerobic exercise to promote overall fitness without overloading the spine.
• Manual therapy to relieve pain and tension.
• Postural training and education to correct harmful habits.
• Pain relief modalities such as heat therapy or acupuncture.
• Functional training to restore daily movement.
• Lifestyle modifications to improve overall health.

Kumaran Medical Center’s Commitment to Your Spine Health

At Kumaran Medical Center, we offer specialized care for low back pain with a focus on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Our experienced professionals use state-of-the-art techniques to ensure personalized care and help you regain a pain-free life. Join us today to feel the difference!

our team of physiotheraphist is always here to help.

OUR TEAM

The Magic of Mother’s Milk

Breast milk is the gold standard in infant nutrition. It’s a living fluid that adapts to your baby’s changing needs. Packed with essential nutrients, antibodies, and growth factors, it offers unparalleled benefits for both mother and child.

Boosts immunity: Breast milk helps protect your baby from infections.

Supports brain development: Essential fatty acids in breast milk nourish your baby’s growing brain.

Aids digestion: Breast milk is easily digestible, reducing colic and constipation.

Promotes bonding: Skin-to-skin contact during breastfeeding strengthens the mother-baby bond.

Overcoming Breastfeeding Obstacles               

Breastfeeding can be a beautiful experience, but it’s not without its challenges. Common issues include sore nipples, engorgement, and difficulty latching. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

• Our Gynaecology Experts are here to provide expert guidance and support.
• Breastfeeding support groups offer a safe space to share experiences and find solutions.
• Proper latching techniques are crucial for a comfortable breastfeeding experience.

Balancing Breastfeeding and Modern Life

• Juggling breastfeeding with work, family, and other responsibilities can be overwhelming. But with proper planning and support, it’s achievable.
• Expressing breast milk allows you to continue providing your baby with the benefits of breast milk.
• Workplace accommodations are essential for breastfeeding mothers.
• Time management and self-care are key to maintaining your well-being.

Your Mental Health Matters

• Breastfeeding can impact your emotional state. It’s important to prioritize your mental health.
• Postpartum depression is a common challenge faced by new mothers.
• Seek support from your partner, family, or healthcare provider.
• Practice self-care through relaxation techniques, exercise, and adequate sleep.

Celebrate Your Breastfeeding Journey

Every breastfeeding mother is a superhero! Your dedication to nourishing your baby is commendable. Let’s celebrate your achievements and support each other.

• Join our breastfeeding support group to connect with other mothers.
• Share your breastfeeding story to inspire others.
• Advocate for breastfeeding-friendly environments in your community.

At Kumaran Medical Center, we are committed to supporting breastfeeding mothers. Our team of experts is here to provide you with the information, support, and resources you need to have a successful breastfeeding journey.

Schedule a consultation with our Gynaecology Experts today.

Dr. M. Kausalya DNB(Paediatric), PAEDIATRICS

Dr. A. Valliyappan MBBS., DNB, PAEDIATRICS

Dr. Ramya Ponnuswamy MD(OG), OBSTETRICS & GYNAECOLOGY

Its causes are infection, injury, allergic reaction, nose picking, or an object being pushed into the nostril.
Spontaneous ( little area bleeding )
Trauma

Tumour
Vessel defect etc..

Few more causes
Local trauma
Anatomical irregularities
Topical nasal spray

Symptoms
High Bp

Vascular malfunction cardiovascular diseases

Bleeding disorder

It’s to be taken care and it’s a sign of emergency if

1. Mode of Onset
2. Duration and frequency of bleeding
3. Amount of blood loss
4. Whether bleeding is an Anterior & posterior
5. Any known Bleeding tendency in the patient or Family history
6. Side of Nose from where bleeding is occurring
7. History of known Medical ailments like BP, Leukemia, Mitral valve disease, Cirrhosis, Nephrite
8. History or drug intake

Measures to stop the bleeding

1. Sit upright and lean head slightly forward
2. Breathe through your mouth
3. Use your thumb and index finger to pinch the soft part of your Nose
4. Apply an ice pack to the bridge of your Nose

Consult your doctor immediately if you cannot stop the bleeding and it lasts more than 15 Minutes.

DR. J. PRAVEEN KUMAR., MBBS, MS(ENT), FAGE, FACI (ALLERGIST)

FELLOWSHIP IN RHINOPLASTY

Risk factors

1. Gender it occurs for Females more than male
2. Age
3. Family History
4. Goitrusenic Foods
5. Smoking
6. Iodine Deficiency
7. Environmental Exposure
8. Radiation Exposure

Symptoms for Hypo Thyroidism clinical features

1. Fatigue
2. weight gain
3. Cold Intolerance
4. Constipation
5. Hair loss
6. Depression, Etc..

Symptoms for Hyper Thyroidism

1. Fatigue
2. Weight loss
3. Heat Intolerance
4. Diarrhoea
5. Tremor
6. Nervousness and Irritability Etc.

Natural Remedies to treat Thyroid Dysfunction

1. Avoid processed Foods

2. Quit caffeine

3. Add iodine foods to your diet

4. Eat a balanced and healthy Diet

5.Manage stress

6. Exercise Regularly

7. Drink Vitamin beverages

8. Take proper rest and sleep

9. Intake Herbs and spices wisely

10. Reduce Exposure to Environmental toxins

Goals to Manage Hyper and Hypothyroidism

1. Regain Normal Thyroid Hormone level
2. Eradicate symptoms
3. Inhibiting or reversing Negative effects of the disease
4. Decreasing the size of the goiter if needed

DR. J. PRAVEEN KUMAR., MBBS, MS(ENT), FAGE, FACI (ALLERGIST)

FELLOWSHIP IN RHINOPLASTY

Prostate cancer that’s detected early, has the best chance for successful treatment.

When should I seek medical help?

You should call your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Difficulty peeing.
• Peeing frequently (incontinence).
• Pain when you pee or have intercourse.
• Blood in your pee or semen.
• Loss of hunger
• Loss of weight
• Bone pain
• Pain in the lower back, upper thigh or hips
• Emotional stress

What are the risk factors for prostate cancer?
The most common risk factors include:
Age. Your risk increases as you get older. You’re more likely to get diagnosed if you’re over 50. About 60% of prostate cancers occur in people older than 65.
Family history of prostate cancer. You’re two to three times more likely to get prostate cancer if a close family member has it.
Genetics. You’re at greater risk if you have Lynch syndrome or if you inherited mutated (changed) genes associated with increased breast cancer risk (BRCA1 and BRCA2).
Some studies have identified other prostate cancer risk factors, but the evidence is mixed. Other potential risk factors include:
Smoking.
Prostatitis.
Having a BMI > 30 (having obesity).
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You’re also at greater risk of prostate cancer at the age 45.

How can I prevent prostate cancer?

Preventing prostate cancer isn’t possible. Still, taking these steps may reduce your risk:

• Get regular prostate screenings. Ask your healthcare provider how often you should get screened based on your risk factors. Talk to your doctor about the increased risk of prostate cancer.
• Maintain a healthy weight. Ask your provider what a healthy weight means for you.
• Exercise regularly. The CDC recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, or a little more than 20 minutes daily.
• Eat a nutritious diet. There’s no one diet to prevent cancer, but good eating habits can improve your overall health. Eat fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid red meats and processed foods.
• Quit smoking. Avoid tobacco products. If you smoke, work with your provider on a smoking cessation program to kick the habit.

Is prostate cancer curable?

Yes, if it’s caught early. In some cases, cancer grows so slowly that you may not need treatment right away. Treatment can often eliminate prostate cancers that haven’t spread beyond the prostate gland.

What are the treatment options?

• If the cancer is confirmed to the prostate gland, surgical removal of the prostate gland provides the best possible cure.
• If the cancer has spread beyond the prostate into the nearby areas, Radiotherapy can still cure it.
• If the cancer has spread to distant sites like Bone, Lungs, Lymph nodes, you will require hormonal control in the form of Injectable therapy or surgical removal of testes. Though it doesn’t properly cure, it will control the diseases to provide you a healthy lifestyle.

DR. VIGNESH M, MBBS., MS., MCH

UROLOGY

!!!  Remember, practice makes perfect. Before discharge, make sure you — and your partner — are comfortable with these newborn care basics:

Handling a newborn, including supporting your baby’s neck

Changing your baby’s diaper

Bathing your baby

Dressing your baby

Swaddling your baby

Feeding and burping your baby

Cleaning the umbilical cord

Caring for a healing circumcision

Using a bulb syringe to clear your baby’s nasal passages

Taking a newborn’s temperature

Tips for soothing your baby

A Mother’s helper

How Do I Get Help After My Baby Comes Home?

An important part of caring for a newborn is to also take care of yourself. Consider getting help during this time, which can feel hectic and a bit overwhelming.

Ask For NICU Support Care And Their Guidance

Relatives and friends might want to help. Even if you disagree on some things, their own experiences might be helpful.

To keep your baby healthy, anyone handling your little one should be up to date on their vaccines and help only if they feel well. But if you don’t feel up to having guests or have other concerns, don’t feel guilty about limiting visitors.

COUNSELLING ON NUTRITION

• Advise the woman to eat a greater amount and variety of healthy foods, such as meat, fish, oils, nuts, seeds, cereals, beans, vegetables, cheese and milk to help her feel strong and well (give examples of how much to eat).
• Reassure the mother that she can eat any normal foods – these will not harm the breastfeeding baby.
• Discuss any taboos that exist about foods which are nutritionally healthy.
• Talk to her partner or other family members to encourage them to ensure that the woman eats enough and avoids hard physical work.

SHE SHOULD NOT WAIT if she has any of the following danger signs:

• vaginal bleeding has increased
• fits
• fast or difficult breathing
• fever and too weak to get out of bed
• severe headaches with blurred vision
• calf pain, redness or swelling; shortness of breath or chest pain.

Rush to health centers if she has any of the following signs:

• swollen, red or tender breasts or nipples
• problems urinating, or leaking
• increased pain or infection in the perineum
• infection in the area of the wound (redness, swelling, pain, or pus in wound site)
• smelly vaginal discharge
• severe depression or suicidal behaviour (ideas, plan or attempt)

ENCOURAGE WOMEN TO DO THINGS FOR THEMSELVES THAT THEY ENJOY SUCH AS

• meeting a friend
• getting out of the home or walking, or things which help them to let their feelings out
• singing, drawing or writing
• spiritual relief through prayer
• meditation

Support the woman in whatever way you can. This may include a home visit and/or extra postpartum appointments. Encourage her partner and family to support her practically and emotionally.

Newborn baby care

How Do I Handle My Baby?

If you haven’t spent a lot of time around newborns, they may seem very fragile. Here are a few basics to remember:

• Wash your hands (or use a hand sanitizer) before handling your baby. Newborns don’t have a strong immune system yet, so they’re at risk for infections. Make sure that everyone who handles your baby has clean hands.
• Support your baby’s head and neck. Cradle the head when carrying your baby. And support the head when carrying the baby upright or when you lay your baby down.
• Never shake your baby, whether in play or in frustration. Shaking can cause bleeding in the brain and sometimes death. If you need to wake your baby, don’t do it by shaking. Instead, tickle your baby’s feet or blow gently on a cheek.
• Always fasten your baby securely when using a carrier, stroller, or car seat. Limit any activity that could be too rough or bouncy.
• Avoid rough play with newborns, such as jiggling them on the knee or throwing them in the air.

skin-to-skin contact with your baby:

• Avoid using scented perfumes or lotions and stay away from cigarette smoke beforehand.
• Find a comfortable seat in a dimly-lit room. Wear a shirt that opens in the front. Lay your baby in just a diaper on your bare chest.
• Sit quietly, talk softly, hum, sing, or read aloud. Your baby may sleep during this time.

Umbilical cord care: Clean around the cord stump with plain water and blot dry until the stump dries up and falls off, usually in 10 days to 3 weeks. Don’t let the belly button area soak in water until the stump falls off and the area heals. Before the cord stump falls off, it will change color from yellow to brown or black — this is normal. Call your doctor if the area looks red, has a bad odor, or has discharge.

Feeding your newborn

your baby may show you they’re hungry by crying, putting fingers in their mouth, or making sucking noises. A newborn baby needs to be fed every 2–3 hours.

Breastfed babies are probably getting enough to eat if they:

• seem satisfied
• have about 6 wet diapers and several poops a day
• sleep well
• gain weight regularly

Baby’s Sleep

You may be surprised to learn that newborns sleep about 16 hours or more. They typically sleep for periods of 2–4 hours. Many babies sleep through the night (between 6–8 hours) at 3 months of age, but if yours doesn’t, it’s not a cause for concern. Like adults, babies develop their own sleep patterns and cycles.

Change the position of your baby’s head from night to night (first right, then left, and so on). This helps prevent a flat spot from developing on one side of the head.

Diaper My Baby

Whether you use cloth or disposable diapers, your little one will dirty them about 10 times a day, which is about 70 times a week. When diapering your baby:

• Have all the supplies you need within reach.
• Wipe your baby front to back gently using water, cotton balls, and a washcloth or wipes.
• Apply diaper cream if needed to treat diaper rash.
• Wash your hands before and after changing the diaper.

Conclusion

Before long, you’ll have a routine and be parenting like a pro. If you have questions or concerns, talk with your doctor. They can recommend resources that can help.

DR. A. VALLIYAPPAN MBBS., DNB

PAEDIATRICS

DR. M. KAUSALYA DNB(PAEDIATRIC)

PAEDIATRICS

• Choose air-conditioned or well-screened accommodations since dengue-carrying mosquitoes are most active from dawn to dusk, and they can bite at night.
• Wear protective clothing like long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes when entering mosquito-infested areas.
• Apply mosquito repellent to your skin, with at least a 10% DEET concentration. Permethrin can be used on clothing, camping gear, and bed netting. There are also clothing items pre-treated with permethrin.
• Use screens on windows and doors, ensuring there are no holes to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
To prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs near water sources:
• Weekly, empty, scrub, turn over, cover, or dispose of items that hold water, such as tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpots, or trash containers.
• Regularly inspect both indoor and outdoor areas for containers that may collect water.

For babies and children:
• Apply insect repellent to your hands and then gently apply it to the child’s face.
• Dress children in clothing that covers their arms and legs.
• Use mosquito netting to cover strollers and baby carriers.
Always adhere to the label instructions when using insect repellent. Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD) on children under 3 years old. Avoid applying repellent to sensitive areas, including hands, eyes, mouth, cuts, or irritated skin.

Regarding symptoms:
• Dengue symptoms often mimic other illnesses and typically appear 4 to 10 days after a mosquito bite.
• Symptoms include high fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, eye pain, swollen glands, and rash.
• While most people recover within a week, severe dengue can occur, leading to complications like internal bleeding and organ failure.
In some cases, symptoms worsen and can become life-threatening. This is called severe dengue, dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.

Warning signs of severe dengue:
A life-threatening condition, can develop suddenly and include severe stomach pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding from gums or nose, blood in urine, stools, or vomit, skin bleeding resembling bruising, rapid breathing, fatigue, and irritability.

When to see your doctor:
If you experience these warning signs after being in a dengue-prone area, seek immediate medical attention. For mild symptoms, especially after recent travel to a dengue-endemic region, contact your doctor.

In conclusion, raising awareness through health education is a crucial tool in the fight against dengue. Informing the public about dengue in detail is vital for the effective implementation of dengue control programs. This awareness can be achieved through audiovisual media and mass awareness campaigns.

DR. SASI KUPPUSAMY MD., DNB

FAMILY MEDICINE