How to Control High Cholesterol – Changing Guidelines
Cholesterol is a tricky molecule. The very word evokes a sense of dread among folks. However, it is important to note that not all forms of cholesterol are bad for health. Indeed, cholesterol is an integral component of our bodies’ cellular makeup and plays crucial roles in implementing various biological functions. As with many things in life, maintaining a healthy equilibrium of this lipid is critical to ensure overall well-being and reduce the menace of cardiovascular diseases. This article shall discuss the different types and functions of cholesterol, as well as how to keep it in check.
Essentially, cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found predominantly in animal cell membranes. Biosynthesized by our cells themselves, it is required by the body to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances, like bile acids, that assist in digestion. It is primarily produced by the liver and can also be obtained from certain foods we consume.
The two main types of cholesterol are:
- HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) – Often referred to as “good” cholesterol. Acting as a scavenger, it picks up excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and tissues and transports it back to the liver for disposal. Higher levels of HDL are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease.
- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) – Commonly known as the “bad” form of cholesterol. It carries cholesterol from the liver to cells across the body. When LDL levels are too high and/or there is insufficient HDL, it can lead to the accumulation of cholesterol in the arteries, forming plaques that cake up the already narrow vessels, blocking vital blood flow. This condition is known as atherosclerosis and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease as well as stroke.
One’s diet and lifestyle choices play a critical role in determining cholesterol levels. The following are some key points to consider:
- Healthy Fats: Replace saturated and trans fats with monounsaturated fats with healthier monounsaturated fats (found in rice bran oil for instance); as well as polyunsaturated fats found in fish, seeds, and nuts. When consumed in moderation these fats help lower LDL levels.
- High-Fiber Foods: Including more soluble fiber in our diet also helps in reducing LDL levels. Foods rich in roughage include whole grains, lentils (daal), legumes, fruits, and vegetables.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids; found in fish, seeds, and nuts, are linked with heart health, by lowering triglyceride levels.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in habitual physical activity raises HDL levels and has the converse effect on LDL levels, providing a win-win situation. It is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise weekly, along with strength-enhancing exercises.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking lowers HDL levels and damages arterial linings, making them more prone to plaque build-up, a condition known as atherogenesis.
Alongside the aforesaid points, timely check-ups and blood tests are important to monitor cholesterol levels. When lifestyle modifications alone are insufficient in controlling high cholesterol levels, physicians may prescribe medications like statins to counter LDL levels.
To wrap up, while the word ‘cholesterol’ seems intimidating, it is a vital component of our bodies, playing essential roles in cell structure and function. However, maintaining a balance of it is key to keeping heart disease at bay. Proper diet, regular exercise and avoidance of smoking are the core means of managing cholesterol. In certain cases, medications such as statins may be prescribed. Understanding cholesterol and making informed decisions enables us to prioritize heart health and overall well-being.
Article Credits
Dr. Anoop Lal, Medical Director, CareMithra
Rohan Panicker, Creative Writer, CareMithra
Protecting the Future of Bharat: Getting Indian Kids Vaccinated
In a nation as vast and diverse as India, which also possesses a booming economy, ensuring the health and well-being of its children is of paramount importance. Vaccinations have proven to be a legitimate, powerful tool in safeguarding everyone, particularly the young, against a multitude of diseases. However, there still exists a significant need for raising awareness and emphasizing the crucial role of vaccinations in this rapidly developing nation. This article shall shed light on why parents in India should prioritize vaccinating their offspring, highlighting the immense benefits that vaccinations offer for the health and well-being of individuals along with their communities for a brighter and more prosperous future.
Vaccinations provide a dome-like shield against debilitating and potentially fatal viruses and bacterial infections that typically afflict children, who are generally the most susceptible to these infections (alongside the elderly). A vaccine is in Layman’s terms a highly diluted solution containing the pathogens of said disease. When introduced to the bloodstream, it triggers the body’s immune system, particularly the plasma cells, to produce specialized proteins known as antibodies to offset the threat posed by the pathogens, as if they were foreign invaders. Vaccinating children at the recommended ages thus greatly improves their immunity, preparing them to combat much stronger outbreaks when they really occur.
Vaccinations also contribute to the tenet of herd immunity. Herd immunity takes place when a sizeable portion of a population becomes immune to a particular disease, impeding its transmission. This protective barrier is especially important for infants. When parents vaccinate their children, they contribute to herd immunity, shielding entire communities from the clutches of deadly diseases.
Moreover, vaccinating a high percentage of children prevents contagious diseases from causing epidemics. The key point here is that the burden on healthcare facilities is significantly reduced during pandemics, allowing personnel to focus on other critical medical needs. Therefore, vaccinations play a pivotal role in mitigating the strain on healthcare systems.
From being in a highly destitute situation, post-independence India has witnessed massive strides in its life expectancy figures primarily due to the role of vaccinations (alongside better nutrition and education). Smallpox was virtually eradicated thanks to its vaccine, and polio and tuberculosis vaccines have also shown to be very effective. They have become so robust that the Government of India has mandated certain vaccines. The chickenpox, influenza and typhoid vaccines are prominent examples of the many life-saving vaccines available in the market.
As modern India continues facing the hurdles of poverty and wealth disparity, being sitting ducks to easily preventable diseases is lunacy, and is why it is highly stressed upon parents to take the initiative of vaccinating their scion. By failing in this rudimentary task, parents indirectly contribute to the hindrance of economic growth, stability, and prosperity.
All in all, the importance of vaccinations cannot be overstated when it comes to the safety of our future generations. By immunizing their kids, parents play a vital role in protecting them from avoidable diseases, outbreaks, and epidemics, ultimately reducing the burden on the healthcare system. They also indirectly contribute to long-term economic and social welfare for the country; much like a biological investment.
Article Credits
Rohan Panicker, Creative Writer, CareMithra
Nithya A.S & Narthana .B, Green Valley International School, Trivandrum
Comprehensive Care of Bedridden Patients
Being bedbound can be an incredibly challenging and often isolating experience for individuals who are inept to leave their beds due to illness, injury, or age-related conditions. It is important to note that the wellbeing of bedridden patients largely depend on the nursing care provided by caregivers. In this article, we shall delve into the multifaceted challenges faced by bedridden patients, ranging from physical ailments such as bed sores, pneumonia, urinary infections, muscle weakness, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT), to the emotional, psychological, and mental strain on both bedridden patients as well as their caregivers.
- Bed Sores (Pressure Ulcers): The development of bed sores, a.k.a. pressure ulcers or decubitus ulcers, results from continuous pressure from the skin and its underlying tissue onto the surface of the bed over a prolonged duration. It occurs especially in bony regions of the body (e.g., hips, ankles, tailbone, heels) and may rapidly turn into painful and potentially serious wounds. To combat this, patients must regularly reposition themselves, maintain adequate hygiene, use softer surfaces on which to support their bodies and consume proper nutrition.
- Pneumonia: Inflammation of the lungs caused by bacterial or viral infection. Bedridden patients are vulnerable to developing pneumonia because of constrained mobility and compromised lung function. Lying in bed for extended periods impairs the regular clearance of mucus from the lungs, leading to infections. To avoid this, patients should turn themselves frequently, do constant breathing exercises, and keep their surroundings clean.
- Urinary Infections: Bedridden patients can, unfortunately, get urinary tract infections (UTIs) from using catheters (a tube inserted into the bladder to help in urination), being stationary, and having a lack of proper hygiene. These infections typically cause discomfort, fever and can lead to more severe complications. Habitual cleaning of the genital area, proper hydration and monitoring the usage of catheters can prevent UTIs from occurring.
- Muscle Weakness: Much owing to the widely used proverb, “You don’t use it, you lose it.”. This holds true regarding the muscle atrophy experienced by bedfast patients. Physical inactivity leads to the loss of muscle strength and tone, resulting in difficulties in performing even the most primitive actions necessary to live. Maintaining muscle strength and functionality involves physical therapy, range-of-motion exercises, and appropriate assistive devices.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) & Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Stagnation increases the risk of forming blood clots (thrombi) in one or more of the deep veins of the body, typically in the lower regions such as the legs. Besides causing pain and swelling, it can lead to serious, life-threatening complications such as pulmonary embolism. PE ensues when a fragment of the DVT clot splits and travels to the lungs. Proper positioning, regular limb movements, compression stockings, and medications (when required) can be used as preventive strategies to reduce the risk of blood clots in infirm patients.
To sum up, bedridden patients and their caregivers face significant challenges that greatly impact their physical and emotional well-being. By understanding and addressing the abovementioned dangers associated with immobility, implementing preventive measures and getting the right support, the patients and caregivers can navigate these challenges more effectively.
Article Credits
Dr. Anoop Lal, Medical Director, CareMithra
Rohan Panicker, Creative Writer, CareMithra
H. pylori – The Villain behind many Gastro Intestinal Disorders
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a gram-negative bacterium identified as a major culprit of multiple gastrointestinal disorders. It is a helically structured bacterium that colonises the human stomach and upper gastrointestinal tract. Infection with H. pylori is deemed a macro health problem and affects a substantial percentage of the global populace.
Infection with H. pylori is correlated to the development of chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, gastric adenocarcinoma, and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. Chronic gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining and is the most common disorder accompanying H. pylori infection. This bacterium has a unique ability to endure the acidic environment of the stomach by producing urease, an enzyme catalysing the conversion of urea into ammonia, nullifying the acid in its immediate surroundings.
Peptic ulcer disease is another condition linked with H. pylori infection. It is characterised by a split in the mucosal lining of the stomach or duodenum, causing abdominal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. Furthermore, H. pylori is strongly associated with the formation of gastric adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer concerning the lining of the stomach. This is due to the constant inflammation caused by the bacterium, leading to genetic changes potentially resulting in abnormal cellular growth.
MALT lymphoma is a rare type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that arises from the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue in the stomach. It has been linked to H. pylori infection, and eradication of the bacterium can result in complete remission of the lymphoma.
Diagnosis of H. pylori infection can be done through several means, including urea breath tests, stool antigen tests, and biopsy-based tests. Urea breath tests involve the patient ingesting a labelled urea substrate metabolised by the H. pylori enzyme urease. The labelled carbon dioxide produced by this reaction can then be detected in the patient’s breath. Stool antigen tests and biopsy-based tests involve the revelation of H. pylori antigens or genetic material in the stool or tissue samples, respectively.
Treatment for H. pylori infection typically consists of a combination of antibiotics and acid-suppressive therapy. The aim of treatment is to annihilate the bacteria present and prevent the manifestation of associated conditions. Antibiotics utilised to treat H. pylori infection include amoxicillin, clarithromycin, metronidazole, and tetracycline. Acid suppressive therapy, such as proton pump inhibitors and histamine-2 receptor antagonists, are employed to reduce the acidity of the stomach, thus improving the effectiveness of the antibiotics.
In conclusion, H. pylori infection is a noteworthy international health crisis and is associated with a range of gastrointestinal disorders, including chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, gastric adenocarcinoma, and MALT lymphoma. Diagnosis of H. pylori infection can be done through various methods, and treatment involves a combination of antibiotics and acid-suppressive therapy. Early recognition and treatment of H. pylori infection can thwart the development of associated conditions and improve patient outcomes.
Article Credits
Dr. Anoop Lal, Medical Director, CareMithra
Rohan Panicker, Creative Writer, CareMithra
All about Chickenpox and its Prevention
Chickenpox, also known as Varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV). It is mostly seen in children but can also affect adults who have not previously had the disease or been vaccinated against it. The disease typically presents with a characteristic white-yellowish rash of itchy, serum-filled blisters that can spread across the entire body. While chickenpox is generally a mild illness, it can sometimes lead to more serious complications, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or adults.
Chickenpox is primarily spread through direct contact with the discharge secreted from erupted blisters or respiratory secretions from infected individuals. The virus can also be transmitted through contact with objects contaminated with the virus, such as toys, clothing, doorknobs etc. Symptoms of chickenpox typically begin 10-21 days after exposure to the virus and can include fever, headache, fatigue, and loss of appetite, in addition to rash(es).
Complications of chickenpox can include bacterial infections of the skin or lungs, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), pneumonia, or even death in extraordinary cases. Hence it is essential to take appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of chickenpox, particularly to vulnerable populations.
One of the most effective means to prevent chickenpox is through vaccination. The Varicella vaccine, which was first licensed in the United States in 1995, is a safe and resourceful way of protecting against the virus. The vaccine is recommended for infants ranging from twelve to fifteen months, with a second dose recommended between four and six years of age. Adults who have not previously been vaccinated or had chickenpox should also receive the vaccine.
The Varicella vaccine is made from a weakened, diluted form of the virus, which stimulates the body’s immune system to produce antibodies to offset VZV antigens. This allows the body to recognise and fight the virus if it is encountered in the future, preventing or lessening the severity of the illness.
In addition to protecting against chickenpox, the varicella vaccine has also been shown to reduce the incidence of shingles, a painful and debilitating condition caused by the reactivation of the VZV virus later in life. This is because the vaccine boosts the immune system’s memory of the virus, which helps to prevent reactivation in oncoming years.
While some individuals may experience mild side effects from the varicella vaccine, such as soreness or redness at the injection site, these are generally mild and temporary. Serious adverse occurrences from the vaccine are extremely rare.
In a nutshell, chickenpox is a common and highly contagious viral illness that can lead to serious complications in certain populations. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the disease and reduce its spread. The Varicella vaccine is safe and highly effective and is recommended for all children and adults who have not previously been vaccinated or had the disease. By taking these steps to protect against chickenpox, we can help to ensure the health and well-being of ourselves and our communities.
Article Credits
Dr. Anoop Lal, Medical Director, CareMithra
Rohan Panicker, Creative Writer, CareMithra
Gluten Sensitivity and its Solutions
Gluten is a protein composite found in wheat (maida), barley, and rye. It is responsible for the elastic texture of dough (maavu), which allows it to rise and hold its shape during baking. Gluten is also present in many other processed foods, such as pasta, bread, white rice, pizza, and cereal grain. Despite its widespread use in the food industry, gluten has become a topic of controversy in recent years due to its potential health hazards.
For people with celiac disease, consuming gluten can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhoea, bloating, and abdominal pain. This autoimmune disorder affects about 1% of the population and is characterised by an immune response to gluten that damages the small intestine. The only treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet.
Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) is another condition that has been linked to gluten consumption. People with NCGS experience symptoms similar to celiac disease, such as bloating and abdominal pain, but do not have the same immune response to gluten. The prevalence of NCGS is not well-defined, but it is estimated to affect 0.5% to 13% of the population.
While some people may need to avoid gluten for medical reasons, others choose to do so for perceived health benefits. Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people claiming that they feel better and are more energetic when they eliminate gluten from their diet. However, scientific evidence to support these claims is scarce.
As a matter of fact, some experts have raised concerns that gluten-free diets may actually be harmful to people who do not have a valid medical reason to avoid gluten. Gluten-free products are often more expensive and comprise fewer important nutrients, such as fibre and B vitamins. Additionally, many gluten-free products are highly processed and contain added sugars and fats, which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems.
In spite of the hullabaloo surrounding gluten, it is important to remember that not all gluten-containing foods are unhealthy. Whole grains, such as whole wheat, red/brown rice, barley, and rye, are important fibre, vitamin, and mineral sources. These foods have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic ailments.
For those who need to avoid gluten, many alternative grains and flours are available, such as quinoa, buckwheat, and almond flour. North Indian bread-based dishes like paratha and naan are notorious for containing high levels of gluten, whilst South Indian staples such as dosa and idli provide a gluten-free, healthier alternative. It is also important to read food labels carefully and avoid processed foods that contain masqueraded sources of gluten, such as soy sauce and salad dressings.
To summarise, gluten is a protein composite found in wheat, barley, white rice and other cereal grains which are responsible for dough’s elastic texture. While some people need to avoid gluten for medical reasons, such as celiac disease and NCGS, there is little scientific evidence to support the use of gluten-free diets for general health benefits. Whole grains, such as whole wheat, barley, and rye, are important sources of fibre, vitamins, and minerals and have been linked to a lower risk of chronic disease. For people who need to avoid gluten, there are many alternative grains and flours available, and it is important to read food labels carefully to avoid hidden sources of gluten.
Article Credits
Dr. Anoop Lal, Medical Director, CareMithra
Rohan Panicker, Creative Writer, CareMithra
Kids’ Screen Time – What Parents Should Know
Social media and smartphones have become an integral part of our daily lives. They have revolutionised the way we communicate, entertain ourselves, and access information. However, excessive use of social media and smartphones can have negative effects on children, both mentally and physically.
One of the major negative effects of social media and smartphone usage by children is getting addicted to it. Children are easily hooked to the constant flow of notifications, likes, comments, and messages that social media offers. They may spend hours scrolling through their feeds, neglecting their studies, socialising, and physical activities. This addiction can have detrimental effects on their mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and poor self-esteem.
Another negative aspect of social media applications is cyberbullying. Social media provides a platform for bullies to harass, humiliate, and intimidate their victims. Children who are victims of cyberbullying may suffer from anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. They may also develop a social phobia and avoid social interactions, leading to social isolation. Children are vulnerable to viewing inappropriate sexual content, violence and profanity which is not suitable for their age. Disturbingly, social media platforms can also be used by child predators to lure minors, usually through fake accounts.
In addition, intense screen use can have adverse effects on children’s sleep patterns. The blue light emitted by these devices can interfere with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, suppressing hormones such as melatonin being released in the brain at night, making it difficult for children to fall asleep at an ideal time. This can lead to sleep deprivation, which can have negative effects on their physical and mental health, including fatigue, irritability, and poor academic performance.
Moreover, sitting in front of the screen all the time can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which can have negative effects on children’s physical health. Children who spend most of their time on their devices may not engage in physical activities such as sports, which are essential for their physical development. This can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems.
Finally, screen use can have negative effects on children’s cognitive development. Children who spend most of their time on their devices may not engage in activities that stimulate their brains, such as reading, problem-solving, and creative thinking. The constant stimuli of fluorescent colours and satisfying sounds can diminish their attention span. This can lead to poor cognitive development, negatively affecting their academic performance and future success.
In conclusion, social media and smartphone use can have negative effects on children, both mentally and physically. Parents and caregivers need to monitor their children’s device usage and ensure that they are not addicted, cyberbullied, sleep-deprived, sedentary, or cognitively impaired. Parents should also encourage their children to engage in physical activities, reading, problem-solving, and creative thinking to promote their overall health and well-being. By doing so, we can ensure that our children grow up to be healthy, happy, and successful individuals.
Article Credits:
Dr. Archana Dinaraj, Pediatrician, CareMithra
Rohan Panicker, Creative Writer, CareMithra
Prevention of Cervical Cancer
Cervical Cancer is a form of cancer that affects the cells of the cervix, the lowermost part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is the fourth most common cancer in women globally, accounting for 570,000 new cases and 311,000 deaths in 2018. It is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a sexually transmitted infection. While the number of incidences of cervical cancer has reduced in more developed nations due to widespread screening and vaccination programs, it remains a significant public health issue in lower-income countries where access to these interventions is limited.
The primary risk factor for cervical cancer is infection with HPV, which is spread through sexual contact. While many strains of HPV are harmless, some types can lead to abnormal cellular growth and eventually become cancerous. Other risk factors for cervical cancer include smoking, a weakened immune system, long-term use of oral contraceptives and a family history of the illness.
In its early stages, cervical cancer may not cause any noticeable symptoms, which is why regular screening is so important. The Pap test is the most common method of cervical cancer screening, which involves collecting cells from the cervix to examine for any abnormalities. If abnormal cells are detected, further testing may be required to determine if cancer is present.
In more advanced stages, symptoms of cervical cancer may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pain during sexual intercourse and unusual vaginal discharge. If any of these symptoms are present, women should consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
Treatment options for cervical cancer depend on the stage and severity of the disease. In early stages, surgery can be used to remove the cancerous cells or the entire uterus if necessary. Radiation therapy, which uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells, may also be used to target the affected area. In more advanced cases, where the cancer becomes malignant, chemotherapy may also be used to destroy cancer cells throughout the body.
The good news is that there are several measures that can be taken to prevent cervical cancer, the most effective of which being the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both boys and girls aged 11-12, but can also be given up to age 26 for those who have not been previously vaccinated. Other ways to reduce the risk of developing the disease include usage of condoms during sexual activity, and limiting the number of sexual partners.
In conclusion, cervical cancer is a serious ailment that can be prevented and treated via early detection and proper medical care. Women should make it a priority to schedule regular Pap tests and follow-ups should there be any abnormal results. The HPV vaccine is perhaps the most effective preventive measure for both males and females. Efforts to improve access to cervical cancer screening and treatment are crucial to reducing the burden of this disease, especially in underprivileged populations. By enforcing these measures, we can work towards a future where cervical cancer is no longer a leading cause of death among women.
Article Credits
Dr. Bindu PS, Gynecologist & Fertility Specialist, CareMithra
Rohan Panicker, Creative Writer, CareMithra
How to Get Better Sleep at Night
The quality of our day is greatly influenced by how well we slept the night before. If we follow various habits and control certain factors, we put ourselves in the best possible position at the start of each day. This enables us to function better, have improved mood and concentration, and perform the tasks we must do throughout the day in a more alert, efficient manner. It is also beneficial for our overall health and wellbeing.
Our bodies follow a 24-hour biological clock known as a circadian rhythm. It is a natural, internal process involving the brain, body and hormones that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. A person’s exposure to light intensity throughout the day affects the circadian rhythm. It is important to increase exposure to bright light, preferably natural sunlight, during the daytime. This helps to keep us awake, alert and active in our daily routines. At night, however, we must reduce our exposure to light as much as possible. This is because light supresses hormones like melatonin, which induces sleep, from being released in the brain. It is important to avoid blue light in particular, which is emitted from the screens of smartphones, computers, TV and other electronic gadgets, at least two hours before bed. It is recommended to use a blue-light filter on your smartphone at night in order to get better sleep.
It is better not to have stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine late at night. Also do not consume any alcohol as it has an impact on melatonin production. Although drinking sufficient water throughout the day is crucial for hydration, it is better not to drink too much of it and other fluids too close to bedtime as having to wake up to urinate can disrupt the sleep cycle. Taking naps longer than thirty minutes during the daytime can also affect sleep at night as it can negatively affect the body clock. It is ideal to wake up and go to bed roughly the same time every day. Try to avoid sleeping-in and staying up late on the weekends. A person may have an underlying physical or psychological illness keeping them awake at night. This needs to be evaluated and appropriately treated.
A significant factor in getting a good night’s sleep is one’s bedroom environment. It has been shown that an optimum bedroom environment is one that is cool, dark, dry, quiet and clean. Furthermore, one’s mindset before bed plays a role in dictating one’s quality of sleep. It is vital to maintain low stress levels during bedtime. Taking a warm bath or shower and meditating before going to bed can help dissipate the stresses accumulated from the course of the day. Any kind of exercising and physical activity can greatly improve one’s sleep at night. It is important to exhaust ourselves during the daytime physically in order to fall asleep easier at night. However, due to the release of hormones like adrenaline, it can make us too alert, so it is better not to exert yourself too close to bedtime.
To conclude, attaining the right quality and quantity of sleep is fundamental to long-term health and wellbeing. Everybody is different, so finding which of the recommendations mentioned above suit yourself is key to developing a healthy relationship with sleep.
Article Credits
Rohan Panicker, Creative Writer, CareMithra
Hair Loss – Causes and Remedies
Hair growth is cyclical. There is a growing stage, resting stage and shedding stage (hair fall). 80-90% of hair is in growing stage. 5% is in shedding stage. It is normal to lose 50-100 strands of hair every day. Beyond this number is when we have abnormal hair loss. We may find hairs in various places such as on pillows that we rest our head on, on the comb, on the towel after we shower etc. A common misconception when we lose hair in the shower is that it is due to showering. This is not the case, as showering simply removes hair that is already detached from the scalp.
A big factor that contributes to the health and thickness of our hair is our diet. Following certain diet/weight loss programmes may cause vitamin deficiencies, resulting in hair loss. People who have low haemoglobin levels in their bloodstream may also experience hair loss. Blow-drying hair damages hair follicles. It is important to be wary of hairstyling products such as hair dyes which can cause allergic reactions. Using equipment like flat/curling irons can also cause damage.
Another significant factor that triggers hair loss is stress/anxiety. It is important to find ways to reduce our physical and mental stress as much as possible to promote the vitality of our hair.
Hair loss can occur in different areas of our scalp, in many kinds of shapes and patches. Nowadays various treatments are available. One can seek help from a dermatologist or trichologist if they experience such issues. Male-pattern and female-pattern baldness is predetermined by our genetics. Our hormones also influence this condition.
Male-pattern baldness is also known as androgenetic alopecia. Androgens are sex hormones which is formed from testosterone. DHT is an androgen produced in men during puberty, which help them to develop male sex characteristics. This can cause growth of body and facial hair, but can also induce hair loss on the head, usually in the form of bald spots. This appears initially on the crown and temple of the head, expanding as men age. Female-pattern baldness, also caused by androgens, is more immune-related and usually begins as a widening of the centre hairline of the head. The density of hair tends to reduce over time, especially during menopause. There are now many scientifically proven methods of treating male and female-pattern baldness. Hair growth factors such as oils and serums are available for hair growth. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment can also be done to stimulate hair growth.
Dandruff can also cause hair loss. A significant factor that causes dandruff is having copious amounts of a yeast like-fungus called Malassezia. Dandruff flakes are essentially comprised of dead skin cells, the Malassezia fungus and oil (sebum) secreted from the scalp. Excessive build-up of dandruff causes inflammation of hair follicles, which can stunt hair growth. Not washing the hair enough often leads to this build-up of dandruff, however it is important to note that over-washing the hair also causes hair loss. If anti-dandruff shampoos do not work, one may need to see a dermatologist or trichologist for advanced treatment options. Certain lotions, creams and ointments can be prescribed for this condition.
Women may also experience hair fall post-delivery. This is a normal phenomenon and is hormone related. The intensity of hair fall is usually at its peak three to four months after delivery. This is expected to gradually decrease and return to a normal amount nine months to one year after delivery as hormone levels stabilise. If it persists beyond this period then it will need to be investigated.
To summarise, there are multiple reasons for hair loss. However, in the modern era, there are many remedies as well.
Article Credits
Dr. Sunita Thomas, Dermatologist, CareMithra
Rohan Panicker, Creative Writer, CareMithra