What is a Brain Tumor Surgery?

Brain Tumor Surgery is the primary course of action for treating brain tumors. Brain tumor, also known as Intracranial tumor, is the growth of abnormal cells in the brain that develop in an uncontrolled manner. The development can be a malignant brain tumor (cancerous) or a benign brain tumor (non-cancerous). The surgery helps remove the tumor from the brain, preventing further complications.

Brain tumor surgery also fulfills the following objectives:

• Full or partial removal of the tumor
• Obtaining tissue samples for diagnosis
• Creating access for doing Chemotherapy
• Relieve the pressure caused by the tumor

What are the different types of Brain Tumor Surgery?

Brain tumor operation is essential for eradicating abnormal cell growth and preventing it from growing. The different types of brain tumor surgery are as follows:

• Biopsy:

Biopsy is performed to collect a tissue sample to confirm a malignant brain tumor.

• Craniotomy:

A standard procedure involving surgical removal of the tumor from the brain. An incision is made to remove a piece of the skull to reveal the tumor and operate on it by removing it partially or completely.

• Shunt:

As the tumor grows inside the skull, it creates pressure causing different symptoms. A shunt is a flexible tube inserted by making a small hole in the skull to drain the accumulated fluids.

• Neuroendoscopy:

The minimally invasive method that removes the tumor from a small hole made in the skull.

• Endonasal Endoscopy:

An endoscope with a tiny camera is inserted through the nostril to remove the tumor or collect a sample for biopsy.

What causes Brain Tumours?

How a brain tumor occurs depends on the origination and the type of the tumor. Other factors contribute to the formation of tumors in the brain. The types of brain tumors and what causes them are as follows:

• Primary Brain Tumor:

The tumor originates in the brain's tissues, membranes, glands, or nerves. The cause of the tumor is the mutation of the DNA of the normal cells. The mutations or alterations cause the cells to multiply rapidly, resulting in abnormal growth.

• Secondary Brain Tumor:

Secondary or Metastatic brain tumors are caused when cancer from other body organs reaches the brain.

Other risk factors that can lead to brain tumors can be

• Radiation Exposure:

Prolonged radiation exposure from X-rays or other treatments may increase the chances of developing a brain tumor.

• Genetics:

People with a family history of cancer or a particular genetic makeup are more susceptible to developing a brain tumor.

What are the symptoms of a Brain Tumour?

The symptoms of a brain tumor vary on the basis of size, location, and whether it is a malignant brain tumor or a benign one. Following are some of the symptoms indicative of a tumor:

• Severe headache upon waking or while sleeping
• Blurred or Double Vision
• Seizures
• Loss of Memory or Mental Confusion
• Numbness in the face or a tingling sensation
• Weakness in other parts of the body
• Vomiting
• Feeling dizzy or loss of balance
• Difficulty in speaking and understanding

If you are experiencing symptoms of a brain tumor, enquire now or book an appointment at Gleneagles Aware Hospitals, L B Nagar, Hyderabad, for consultation with our specialist and senior neuro consultant, Dr. J. Gauri Shankar.

How is Brain Tumor diagnosed?

Diagnosis for a Brain Tumor involves a series of tests and procedures to determine the nature of the tumor for appropriate treatment.

• Physical examination by the specialist.
• Taking account of the symptoms, family history, and previous medical conditions.
• Neurological exams check memory and motor skills, vision, hearing, and reflexes.
• Diagnostic tests like MRI and CT Scan to ascertain the size, location, and spread of the tumor.
• A biopsy might be conducted to obtain a sample for pathological examination.
• Spinal Tap procedure to extract spinal fluid and examine it for malignancy.

Diagnosis of a brain tumor is essential for ensuring timely treatment and controlling the condition from worsening. Enquire now or book an appointment at Gleneagles Aware Hospitals, L B Nagar, Hyderabad to avail our cutting-edge diagnostic facilities and consultation with our cancer care specialists.

What are the risks and complications related to Brain Tumour Surgery?

Brain tumor surgery, like any other surgical operation, has its risks and complications. The complications' severity varies based on the type of brain tumor, size, location, and the process conducted. The difficulties related to brain surgery are as follows:

• Swelling and infection
• Internal Bleeding
• Blood clot formation
• Seizures during or post-surgery
• Affect on speech, memory, and coordination
• Reaction to Anaesthesia
• Weakness of hands/legs

If you are experiencing any of the above complications post your brain tumor operation, contact your doctor immediately for treatment.

How to prevent Brain Tumours?

A brain tumor cannot be prevented. However, some precautions can be taken to reduce the chances of occurrence.

• Avoid hazardous environmental conditions like exposure to radiation or smoking.
• Constant contact and exposure to chemicals and pesticides can likely increase the chances of developing a brain tumor. Therefore, maintaining a cleaner and healthier home and work environment is advisable.
• If you have a family history of cancer or brain tumor, connect with your healthcare provider for mapping and early detection.

You can also enquire now or book an appointment with some of our best neurologists in Hyderabad at Gleneagles Aware Hospitals, L B Nagar, Hyderabad, for consultation with our cancer care specialists.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the recovery period of a brain tumor surgery?

Recovery from brain tumor operation depends on the age and health of the patient, the type of procedure performed, and the body’s response to the treatment. You will have to stay at the hospital for a couple of weeks. A more extended stay might be required in case of post-operative complications.

What is the cost of brain tumor surgery?

Brain tumor operation cost ranges from INR 1,50,000 to INR 7,50,000. The cost of the surgery varies depending on the city, hospital infrastructure, and type of procedure.

Can brain tumors be cured?

If diagnosed early, a brain tumor can be removed, and the spread of cancer to the entire brain and other parts of the body can be controlled. Some aggressive types of brain tumors are challenging to treat and may keep recurring.

Who is more likely to develop a brain tumor?

People of any gender can develop brain tumors at any age. Those with a history of brain tumors in the family are at a greater risk of developing the disease.

Heart stent surgery, also called Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty, is a procedure that helps open up a blocked artery to boost blood flow to the heart. The coronary arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart get clogged with plaque over the years. The plaque buildup affects the blood supply, damages the heart muscles, and increases the risk of a heart attack.

Heart stents help treat blocked arteries and improve the blood flow to the heart. A heart stent surgery is a minimally invasive procedure where the doctor places a wire mesh tube called a stent into the artery to open it and prevent it from narrowing again.

Doctors use stents coated with medication to keep the arteries open. These are the best stents for the heart as they are permanent.

Why do you need a heart stent?

An unhealthy diet and lifestyle, smoking, diabetes, cholesterol, and high blood pressure are the main reasons behind plaque buildup in the arteries. Plaque is made up of fats and cholesterol. It builds up on the inner walls of the coronary artery, blocks the blood flow to the heart, and causes chest pain.

Plaque also causes blood clots that block the blood flow to the heart. This can cause a heart attack.

A heart stent helps open up the artery allowing proper blood flow to the heart. It prevents chest pain and reduces damage to your heart.

What is the procedure of heart stent surgery?

Doctors perform the procedure for heart stent in the Cardiology department.

The Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty or heart stent surgery is performed under local anaesthesia.

First, they make a small cut in the arm, neck, or groin. Then, they insert a thin tube called a catheter with a cardiac stent and balloon on its tip. Doctors use a monitor and special dyes to guide the catheter through the blood vessel and reach the blocked artery.

Once doctors reach the blocked artery, they inflate the balloon. This expands the stent and stretches the artery allowing the blood to flow easily. After they place the stent in, they deflate the balloon and remove the catheter.

A heart stent operation takes about an hour, but you will need to stay at the hospital overnight or as long as the doctor advises.

What are the benefits of heart stent surgery?

The Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty improves the blood flow to the heart and reduces chest pain and shortness of breath. It prevents further damage to your heart. A stent after a heart attack can save your life.

It is minimally invasive and takes you a few days to recover. Comparatively, coronary bypass surgery is complex and takes longer to prepare for and recover from.

A heart stent procedure can improve your quality of life as it reduces fatigue and helps you function better in your everyday life.

What are the risks of heart stent surgery?

Although heart stent surgery helps reduce the damage to heart muscles, it has some risks, such as:

• Blood clots:

There are chances of blood clots forming in the arteries even after a heart stent surgery, which can lead to a heart attack. Consuming medications, such as aspirin, help diminish the risks of a blood clot.

• Bleeding:

The site on your arm or leg where the catheter was inserted could bleed. Although it could be just a bruise, sometimes you may experience severe bleeding that may need medical treatment.

• Heart attack:

You may get a heart attack during the procedure.

• Damage to the coronary artery:

During the procedure, your coronary artery may get damaged. This may require emergency bypass surgery.

• Stroke:

Although rare, if the plaque comes loose when the catheter is inserted, it could lead to a stroke. Similarly, a blood clot may also form in the catheter and move to the brain if it breaks loose. This could cause a stroke.

• Irregular heartbeat:

You may get an irregular heartbeat during the heart stent operation. Although it occurs for a short while, you may require a temporary pacemaker and medications to resolve the problem.

• Kidney problems:

The special dyes used during the procedure may damage the kidneys. It could be a risk, especially if you have a kidney problem.

Heart stent before and after

If doctors find a blockage in your coronary artery, they will advise a heart stent procedure. Before the surgery, you will have to

• stop taking medications, such as blood thinners, aspirin, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• stop eating and drinking six to eight hours before the heart stent procedure
• take your medicines as advised by the doctor but with small sips of water

After the stent for heart blockage has been placed in your coronary artery, here are some necessary things you need to follow to prevent plaque buildup and reduce the risk of heart disease:

• Follow an exercise regimen approved by your doctor
• Follow a low-fat diet
• Reduce cholesterol levels
• Manage diabetes and blood pressure
• Quit smoking and tobacco use
• Minimize stress
• Reduce weight if you are overweight
• Take all the medications as prescribed by the doctor
• Resume daily activities after consulting with your doctor

Heart stent surgery cost

A stent for a heart patient in India costs approximately 1.2 lakhs to 1.6 lakhs. However, it may differ with city and hospital.

Gleneagles Aware Hospitals, L B Nagar, Hyderabad, has some of the best cardiologists and cardiac surgeons in Hyderabad with expertise in all sub-specialities of cardiology. They will guide and advise you on heart stent surgery and related treatment. Book an appointment at Gleneagles Aware Hospitals, L B Nagar, Hyderabad, now!

FAQs

How long does it take to recover from a heart stent procedure?

A heart stent procedure is minimally invasive and takes three to four days to recover. You may return to your everyday routine after consulting with your doctor.

Are there any restrictions after heart stent surgery?

Doctors will advise you to avoid lifting heavy weights or doing physically strenuous exercise for a couple of days after the surgery. Consult your doctor about any other restrictions that you will need to follow.

How long does the heart stent last?

Heart stents are made from stainless steel or platinum-chromium. These are also coated with drugs to prevent re-narrowing of the arteries. These stents are called drug-eluting stents and are permanent.

What is Cardiomyopathy?

Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle. It occurs when the heart muscles weaken, due to which the heart is unable to pump blood to the body. Cardiomyopathy is of four different types and is caused due to several factors. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications arising from this condition, including heart failure.

What are the types of Cardiomyopathy?

The four types of cardiomyopathy are:

• Dilated Cardiomyopathy:

The meaning of dilated cardiomyopathy is the enlargement of the heart muscle, which renders it too weak to pump blood efficiently. It can be an inherited condition or a result of coronary artery disease.

Dilated cardiomyopathy treatment includes medications to control the heart's rhythm and help it pump blood better, lower blood pressure, and prevent blood clots.

• Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy:

The meaning of Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the thickening of heart walls which prevents blood from flowing through the heart. It leads to stiffness of the heart muscles, which increases the risk of electrical problems.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy treatment includes medications that slow the heart rate and help the heart pump blood efficiently.

• Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (ARVD):

It is a disease in the heart muscle that causes irregular heart rhythms. It also causes abnormalities in the functioning of the right ventricle.

• Restrictive Cardiomyopathy

In this type, the heart muscle stiffens and doesn't expand to fill up with blood in between heartbeats.

What causes Cardiomyopathy?

Cardiomyopathy causes are:

• Chronic high blood pressure
• Rapid heart rate
• Problems in the heart valve
• Damage to heart tissue from a heart attack
• Inflammation of the heart
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Thyroid
• Covid-19 infection
• Vitamin deficiency
• Iron buildup in the heart muscles
• Protein buildup
• Connective tissue disorder
• Complications during pregnancy
• Alcoholism
• Drug usage
• Chemotherapy and radiation therapy

What are the symptoms of Cardiomyopathy?

Symptoms of cardiomyopathy are:

• Fatigue
• Breathlessness
• Dizziness, fainting
• Chest pain
• Heart palpitations
• High blood pressure
• Oedema in the feet, ankles, legs, or other areas
• Bloated stomach
• Cough when lying down

What are the risk factors of Cardiomyopathy?

The following factors increase the risk of cardiomyopathy:

• Chronic high blood pressure
• Heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease, infection in the heart
• Past heart attacks
• Obesity
• Alcoholism
• Illicit drug use
• Treatment with chemotherapy and radiation therapy
• Family history of cardiomyopathy, sudden cardiac arrest, and heart failure

Diseases that put you at risk of cardiomyopathy are:

• Thyroid
• Diabetes
• Amyloidosis, or protein buildup in the organs
• Sarcoidosis, or the growth of tiny inflammation cells in several parts of the body
• Hemochromatosis, or excess iron storage in the body
• Connective tissue disorders

How is Cardiomyopathy diagnosed?

Doctors enquire about the medical history before performing a physical examination. Tests used to confirm cardiomyopathy are:

• Chest X-ray:

This helps the doctor check for enlargement of the heart.

• Echocardiogram:

An echocardiogram helps check the heart valve. Sound waves create images of the heart to show its size and movements as it beats.

• Electrocardiogram:

This non-invasive test checks the heart's electrical activity over a short period.

• Stress test:

This test helps assess the heart's functioning and rhythm, blood pressure, and breathing while you exercise.

• CT Scan:

A cardiac CT scan collects images of the heart to check the heart size, its functions, and the heart valves.

• Heart MRI:

An MRI uses magnets and radio waves to collect images of the heart and its blood vessels.

• Blood tests:

Doctors order blood tests to check the kidneys, liver, and thyroid. Blood tests also measure the level of BNP or B-type natriuretic peptide. It is a protein produced in the heart, the blood level of which might rise during heart failure.

Besides these diagnostic tests, doctors also advise some procedures to confirm cardiomyopathy. These are:

• Cardiac catheterization:

In this procedure, a thin, long tube is inserted into the groin and threaded through the coronary arteries to the heart. This procedure helps check for heart blockages and to see how forcefully the blood pumps through the heart.

• Coronary angiography:

In this procedure, a dye is injected into the bloodstream to check for blood flow through the arteries and the heart.

• Myocardial biopsy:

In this procedure, doctors remove a small part of your heart's tissue to examine it under a microscope.

How is Cardiomyopathy treated?

Cardiomyopathy treatment depends upon the damage to the heart because of the condition. Treatment includes:

• Medication:

Doctors prescribe medicines to improve the heart's ability to pump blood and increase blood flow, bring down blood pressure and heart rate, prevent blood clots, and remove any extra fluid from the body.

• Implant devices:

Devices, such as pacemakers and defibrillators, are inserted surgically.

• Surgery:

Bypass surgery or valve surgery is advised if medications don't show results. Septal myectomy is performed to remove some heart tissue for better blood flow to the heart.

• Lifestyle changes:

Doctors advise regular physical activity, a heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking, managing stress, and weight reduction.

• Heart transplant:

A heart transplant is the last resort, especially for people with heart failure or for whom medications do not help.

How can you prevent Cardiomyopathy?

To ensure you don't develop any heart conditions that increase your risk of cardiomyopathy, you must make the following lifestyle changes:

• Follow a heart-healthy diet:

Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and low-fat dairy. Avoid fried, sugary, and fatty foods and reduce salt intake.

• Adopt a fitness regimen:

Get at least 30 minutes of exercise six days a week.

• Get enough sleep:

Sleep deprivation and heart disease are interlinked, so ensure you get 7 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep.

• Manage stress:

Try healthy ways of reducing stress by doing deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga.

• Quit smoking:

Smoking affects your cardiovascular health, so quitting is the best solution.

• Manage your health conditions:

Diabetes, cholesterol, or thyroid are the underlying health conditions that increase the risk of cardiomyopathy. Consult your doctor and learn to manage these with medications and healthy lifestyle changes.

Gleneagles Aware Hospital in LB Nagar, Hyderabad, offers expert care and surgical procedures in Cardiac Sciences. Our highly skilled team of cardiac specialists in Hyderabad will guide you on the treatment for cardiomyopathy and preventive measures for a healthy heart.

We conduct advanced heart failure management at our cardiac failure clinics. We successfully conduct procedures, like CRT, CRTD, ICD, and L-VAD at Gleneagles Aware Hospital using the most advanced technology best suited to our patients.

Book an appointment with our specialists at Gleneagles Aware Hospital, today!

FAQs:

Who is at a higher risk of cardiomyopathy?

People with diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol, unhealthy dietary habits, sedentary lifestyle, and smoking habits are at a higher risk of developing the condition.

Can cardiomyopathy be cured?

Although there is no cure for cardiomyopathy, one can make healthy lifestyle choices and seek timely medical attention to improve their quality of life.

What are the signs of cardiomyopathy getting worse?

The signs of cardiomyopathy getting worse are:

• breathlessness when doing an activity and also when at rest
• swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs
• coughing when lying down
• bloating in the stomach from fluid buildup
• rapid heartbeat
• chest discomfort
• exhaustion

What is Dementia?

Dementia is not a particular disease but a term used for several conditions, such as Alzheimer's Disease. The disorders related to dementia cause abnormal changes in the brain. The symptoms include loss of memory and thinking and problem-solving skills, all of which can interfere with your daily life. These changes also affect behaviour and social and personal life and relationships. Various conditions can cause certain signs and symptoms of dementia, most of which can not be cured. However, conditions such as vitamin deficiencies, depression and thyroid problems can be reversed.

If a loved one has symptoms of dementia, consult your doctor at the early signs of dementia to help diagnose the cause and get them the necessary treatment.

Categories of dementia

Dementia is divided into three categories:

Primary, where dementia is the main illness:

• Alzheimer's disease
• Vascular dementia
• Dementia with Lewy bodies
• Mixed dementia
• Frontotemporal dementia

Secondary, where dementia is caused due to another disease:

• Huntington's disease
• Parkinson's disease
• Cruetzfeldt - Jakob disease
• Traumatic brain injury

Dementia due to reversible causes:

• Vitamin deficiency
• Normal pressure hydrocephalus
• Infections like Lyme disease or HIV
• Endocrine and metabolic conditions, like thyroid problems, liver cirrhosis, and low blood sugar
• Other causes like a brain tumour

What are the causes of dementia?

To understand what causes dementia, it is important to understand brain cells and their connections.

When the brain cells fail to communicate with each other, it affects behaviour, thinking, and emotions.

Different regions in the brain are responsible for various functions. When the brain cells in any region are affected, that region can't fulfil its functions effectively.

• Alzheimer's disease is a common cause of dementia. Plaques or clusters of the protein called beta-amyloid and tangles of the tau protein damage the healthy cells in the brain in Alzheimer's disease patients. Patients experience different signs of dementia depending upon what are the stages of dementia.
• Vascular dementia is caused due to damage to the blood vessels that supply blood to the brain.
• Lewy body dementia disease is caused due to balloon-shaped clusters of proteins in the brain.
• Frontotemporal dementia is caused due to the breakdown of nerve cells and their connections in the frontal and temporal regions of the brain.
• Mixed dementia is caused due to a combination of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia.

How is dementia diagnosed?

Your doctor will study your medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination. They will ask the family members about the signs of dementia that you display. They will also advise several tests to help in the diagnosis of dementia.

The tests are:

• Cognitive and neuropsychological tests:

These tests help check your thinking skills, memory, attention, reasoning, judgment, language skills, and orientation

• Neurological assessment:

As part of the neurological assessment, your doctor will analyse your language, attention, problem-solving skills, movement, balance, and reflexes.

• Brain scans:

CT scans or MRIs are advised to check for an indication of a stroke, tumour, bleeding, or hydrocephalus.

• Lab tests:

Your doctor will advise blood tests to check for vitamin B deficiency and thyroid functioning. They will recommend a spinal fluid test(csf analysis) to check for infection, inflammation, or a degenerative disease.

• Psychiatric assessment

Your psychiatrist will assess you for depression or other mental health conditions responsible for symptoms of dementia.

What are the complications associated with dementia?

Dementia disease affects the body's ability to function normally. It can cause the following complications:

• Poor nutrition
• Problems at workplace
• Inability to take care of oneself
• Pneumonia
• Personal safety issues
• Death

How to treat dementia?

The treatment of dementia depends upon the causes of dementia. Although most types of dementia can not be treated, your doctor will suggest ways to manage the symptoms of dementia with the help of medications and therapies.

Medications prescribed for the disease treatment of dementia are:

• Cholinesterase inhibitors:

These medications are prescribed for the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease, Lewy body dementia, and Parkinson's disease dementia. These drugs help boost the chemical messengers responsible for memory and judgment.

• Memantine:

These medications boost a chemical messenger responsible for learning and memory.

• Other medications are also prescribed to treat signs and symptoms of dementia, such as sleep disturbances, agitation, hallucinations, and depression.

Besides medications, doctors will also recommend the following:

• Occupational therapy helps manage behaviour and teaches coping behaviour to prevent accidents. The therapist will help with suggestions for making your home safer and preparing you for the progression of your disease.
• Make alterations at home to reduce noise and clutter to help you or your loved ones focus better and function to the best of their ability. Your therapist will guide you on simplifying tasks, making them easy to perform, and preventing confusion and distress.

What can be done to prevent dementia?

Dementia can't be prevented. However, you can take measures to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and support the prevention of dementia. These are:

• Keep your mind active by participating in mentally stimulating activities such as solving puzzles, reading, word games, and memory training.
• Be physically active. Exercise 30 minutes a day, 150 minutes a week
• Be socially active. A social network helps prevent cognitive decline and reduces the risk of dementia.
• Quit smoking. Smoking increases the risk of stroke or bleeding in the brain, which increases the development of Alzheimer's disease.
• Manage cardiovascular conditions. Maintain healthy levels of blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure. Reduce your weight.
• Follow a balanced diet comprising vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids to promote overall health and well-being.
• Get enough sleep. Address sleep-related issues such as sleep apnea, snoring, and sleeplessness.
• Treat hearing problems if you have any. Hearing loss increases the risk of cognitive decline.

How do people live with dementia?

Living with dementia is a challenge for patients. However, as caregivers, you can help your loved ones to reduce their discomfort in the following ways:

• Encourage them to stay physically active by incorporating exercise to improve balance, strength, and heart health.
• Communicate with them through simple sentences and gestures to help them understand instructions and suggestions
• Engage them in activities they enjoy, like painting, singing, dancing, etc.
• Maintain a calendar to help them remember daily activities, events, and medication schedules.
• Go for regular eyesight, dental, and hearing check-ups.
• Follow a regular everyday routine.

Bottom line:

Dementia is a debilitating condition that affects memory, language, thinking and problem-solving skills. Although it is incurable, timely medical treatment and therapies can help you deal with the symptoms of dementia. Caregivers play a crucial role in a patient's health care and help them live a dignified life.

Please visit Gleneagles Aware Hospital, LB Nagar, Hyderabad one of the best neurology hospital in Hyderabad to consult our expert geriatricians and neurologists for more information, care, and management of dementia. Visit our website and book an appointment now!

What is peripheral neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is related to the peripheral nervous system that sends sensory messages to the central nervous system. Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the nerves carrying messages from the brain and the spinal cord to the rest of the body get damaged. In simple words, the periphery nerves pass on information between our brain and the rest of the body. Any damage or disease that affects these nerves discontinues the communication between the brain and the body. This can cause pain, loss of sensation, impaired muscle movement and weakness of muscles.

Read to learn more about peripheral neuropathy, its causes, and its treatment. 

What are the Categories of Peripheral Neuropathy?

Different types of peripheral neuropathy occur due to various reasons. A few of them are listed below:

• Carpel tunnel syndrome:

It is a condition where the nerves in the wrist get compressed or crushed.

• Ulnar nerve palsy:

In this condition, the nerve that is close to the skin's surface at the elbow gets damaged and causes numbness and weakness in the hand.

• Peroneal nerve palsy:

When the fibular nerve or the nerve at the top of our calf on the knee is compressed, it causes peroneal nerve palsy.

• Bell's palsy:

This condition is characterized by a sudden weakness in the muscles on one side of the face. It causes the face to appear drooped.

• Postherpetic neuralgia:

This condition is caused due to a complication of the shingles. Shingles are caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chicken pox. Shingles cause pain and a rash on one side of the body. Once the rash goes away, the pain remains. This condition is called postherpetic neuralgia.

• Brachial neuropathy:

This condition affects the chest, shoulders, arms, and hands. It affects one side of the body.

• Guillain Barre syndrome:

It causes weakness of limb and facial muscles. If not taken emergency treatment, could lead to life risk and death.

What are the Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy?

Neuropathy typically occurs due to three factors. These are:

Acquired neuropathies:

These are caused due to an illness, an infection, or trauma. Examples of acquired neuropathies are:

• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• Thyroid disease
• Liver disease
• Certain cancers & Cancer Medications
• Lyme disease
• Shingles
• AIDS/HIV
• Vitamin deficiency
• Alcoholism
• Toxins

Hereditary neuropathies:

These are passed on from parents to the child through genes. The most common example of hereditary neuropathy is:

• Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT): This neuropathy affects the motor and sensory nerves. Its symptoms are poor hand coordination, difficulty lifting the foot, and maintaining balance.

Idiopathic neuropathies:

These neuropathies occur due to unknown causes. The symptoms are numbness, tingling, burning sensation, pain, muscle weakness, and lack of coordination.

How is Peripheral Neuropathy Diagnosed?

For a thorough diagnosis of neuropathy, the doctor will conduct a

• Neurological exam to check muscle strength, reflexes, reactions to sensations, and coordination and posture.
• Medical history to understand a lifestyle, family history of neurological diseases, and exposure to toxic substances and alcohol.

Besides these, a doctor will advise the following tests:

• Blood tests:

These will help check for diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, immune function abnormalities, and any indications of illness or infection that could cause neuropathy.

• Imaging tests:

A CT Scan and an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to help check for pinched nerves, tumors, and herniated discs.

• Nerve function tests:

An Electromyography (EMG) checks the electrical activity in the muscles and detects any nerve damage.

A sensory test records how we feel touch, vibration, and temperature.

• Nerve biopsy:

In this test, a small part of the nerve will be removed to check for abnormalities.

• Skin biopsy:

In this test, a small part of the skin will be removed to check for a reduction in the nerve endings.

The goal behind the treatment of neuropathy (primary) is managing the condition causing neuropathy and providing relief from the symptoms. Your doctor will observe your condition to see if it improves, based on which they will create a treatment plan.

What are the Complications Associated with Peripheral Neuropathy?

The damage caused by neuropathy causes the following complications:

• Injuries and infections due to loss of sensation and numbness
• Gangrene and amputation due to such infections
• Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy affects how a body controls blood circulation and heartbeat.
• Digestive problems like heartburn, nausea, bloating, and lack of appetite
• Deformity in the joints and bones in the feet or legs
• Loss of bladder control

What are the risk factors associated with peripheral neuropathy?

The risk factors of peripheral neuropathy are:

• Vitamin deficiencies
• Diabetes, in case of uncontrolled glucose levels
• Rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
• Kidney and liver disorders
• Thyroid disorders
• Infections, such as hepatitis B and C, HIV, and Lyme disease
• Misuse of alcohol
• Exposure to toxins
• Family history of peripheral neuropathy

What can be done to Prevent Peripheral Neuropathy?

Managing health conditions that increase the risk of neuropathy is crucial for the prevention of neuropathy Here's how we can stay safe:

• Manage diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis
• Quit smoking and alcohol
• Eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to keep the nerves healthy and protect against deficiencies.
• Exercise at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week
• Maintain correct postures and avoid repetitive motions or sitting in cramped positions that can put pressure on nerves.

How do People Live with Peripheral Neuropathy?

Living with peripheral neuropathy requires proper care and management.

• For people with diabetes, taking care of their feet and checking for cuts and blisters is essential.
• Maintaining blood glucose levels by following a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial to reduce complications arising out of neuropathy.
• People with neuropathy can seek help from alternate medicines, acupuncture, and herbs to reduce pain and discomfort.
• As alcohol is a risk factor, people with peripheral neuropathy must avoid alcohol.
• Cigarette and tobacco consumption must be avoided as it affects blood circulation and increases foot problems in diabetics.

Bottom line:

Peripheral neuropathy affects the peripheral nervous system. Several factors increase the risk of neuropathy and cause an impairment of nerve signals that leads to pain, infection, and loss of sensation. However, with proper care, medical treatment, and changes in lifestyle and diet, we can live healthy and active life.

Please book an appointment with our experienced neurologists in Hyderabad at Gleneagles Aware Hospitals, LB Nagar, Hyderabad for more information and advice on the care and management of peripheral neuropathy .

What is Hemiplegia?

Hemiplegia is a condition that involves paralysis of one side of the body. It occurs due to brain or spinal cord injury. It affects muscle movement and control on the paralysed side and causes muscle stiffness. Hemiplegia can be either permanent or temporary. It is often caused due to life-threatening medical conditions, such as stroke or trauma to the spinal cord or the brain. Its treatment depends upon the underlying causes of hemiplegia.

Read to know more about hemiplegia, its causes and treatment, and how people with hemiplegia live with the condition.

Categories of hemiplegia

The following are the types of hemiplegia that can cause symptoms of hemiplegia.

• Spinal Hemiplegia

Spinal hemiplegia affects one side of the spinal cord. It causes paralysis on the side of the body that has been injured. It causes a loss of pain and temperature sensation to the affected side.

• Facial Hemiplegia

Facial hemiplegia affects one side of the face. It may also affect other parts of the body.

• Cerebral Hemiplegia/Cerebral palsy

Cerebral hemiplegia is a condition where paralysis occurs on the opposite side of the body that has suffered from brain damage. it causes contractions in the muscles of the affected side. It also causes stiffness in the paralysed body.

• Spastic Hemiplegia

Spastic hemiplegia is cerebral palsy affecting one side of the body. The muscles on this side suffer from constant contractions or spasms.

• Childhood Hemiplegia

Childhood hemiplegia affects children below 18 months. It leads to recurring episodes of hemiplegia that affect either one side or both sides of the body.

What are the causes of hemiplegia?

Hemiplegia occurs due to problems affecting the brain and the spinal cord that make up the central nervous system. There are several causes of hemiplegia. These are:

• Brain Stroke
• Brain tumour
• Brain Traumatic
• Brain injury
• Spinal cord injury
• Nervous system diseases, such as multiple sclerosis
• Infections affecting the nervous system
• Seizures and epilepsy
• Migraine headaches
• familial hemiplegic migraine

How is hemiplegia diagnosed?

For a proper diagnosis of hemiplegia, doctors perform a detailed neurological examination, analyse your sensory and motor functions, and review your medical history.

Doctors advise the following tests to determine the underlying causes of hemiplegia:

Blood tests to help check for infections and malignancies:

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
• Coagulation test

Imaging tests:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Computed Tomography (CT Scan) of the head
• Electroencephalography (EEG) to measure the electrical activity of the brain

What are the complications associated with hemiplegia?

Complications associated with hemiplegia are often noticed after some months after paralysis occurs. These are:

• Pain
• Tight, inflexible muscles
• Muscle weakness
• Bladder problems, such as incontinence
• Bowel control problems
• Deep vein thrombosis or blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the weak legs
• Infection in the bloodstream or sepsis, secondary to ulcers developed over the weak limb
• Respiratory problems
• A sudden increase in blood pressure
• Bed sores
• Depression

How to treat hemiplegia?

Treatment of hemiplegia depends upon the underlying causes of hemiplegia and the symptoms of hemiplegia.

Some symptoms of hemiplegia are treatable and also curable. But some conditions may cause permanent damage to the spinal cord and the brain due to trauma. These may improve over time to some degree.

Along with treatments, doctors also recommend the assistance of the following therapists to help improve the sensation, muscle function, and motor abilities to help you perform your everyday activities.

• Physical therapists
• Rehabilitation therapists
• Occupational therapists
• Psychologists

Doctors also recommend medications for other reasons associated with hemiplegia, like

• relieving symptoms of anxiety
• treat seizures
• antibiotics to treat brain infections
• blood thinners to prevent blood clots and strokes
• neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to decrease spasticity and improve the functioning of the muscles

What can be done to prevent hemiplegia?

Hemiplegia is an unpredictable condition. You can make lifestyle changes for the prevention of hemiplegia and avoid circumstances that cause hemiplegia, such as

• Eat a balanced diet to maintain your cholesterol and blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of stroke.
• Maintain a healthy body weight.
• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes, cholesterol, high blood pressure, and epilepsy.
• Get immediate medical treatment for infections of the ears and eyes, as these can spread to the brain if left untreated.
• Always wear safety equipment, such as helmets and seat belts, that safeguard against head, neck and back injuries that increase the risk of hemiplegia.

How do people live with hemiplegia?

Living with hemiplegia is difficult. It needs adjustments in your everyday habits and relearning to do your daily activities to cope with the condition.

Doctors advise the following exercises and therapies to improve your overall physical and mental well-being:

• Strength training to improve the functionality of your limbs.
• Seated aerobics helps burn calories and improve your health.
• Water aerobics helps move the muscles that get neglected during seated aerobics.
• Muscle stretching helps reduce pain in the muscles and joints.
• Occupational therapy to help resume everyday activities for independent living.
• Support groups offer a safe space to unburden your stress and find support to deal with the emotional stress.

Everyday activities that people with hemiplegia need to relearn are:

• Learning to eat with one hand and preparing foods to be eaten with one hand.
• Maintaining an everyday routine for personal hygiene to help tackle bladder and bowel control problems.
• Remodelling the layout of their homes to help ease the usage of wheelchairs to perform everyday tasks such as cleaning, dusting, or doing the dishes independently.
• Using robotic vacuum cleaners that help in maintaining a clean house.
• Using assistive devices that make dressing up easier with one hand, such as using velcro tapes instead of buttons and choosing shoes without laces.
• Wearing loose, comfortable clothes that are easy to slip on and off.

Bottom Line:

Hemiplegia is an unpredictable condition. It involves paralysis on either your body's left or right side. It happens due to an injury to the brain or spinal cord or life-threatening conditions such as strokes. Treatment of hemiplegia depends upon the severity of the condition and the symptoms. Treatment of hemiplegia requires a multidimensional approach. To help you live a better life, your doctor will recommend medications and various therapies for your overall physical and mental well-being.

Please book an appointment with our expert neurologists in Hyderabad at the Gleneagles Aware Hospital, Hyderabad. They will provide more information about the treatment and care of hemiplegia.

Critical care is a branch of medicine that deals with diagnosing and treating life-threatening conditions. It is usually provided in a hospital setting. Critical care services can cover many different medical conditions. These include heart attacks, strokes, sepsis, organ failure, bleeding, poisoning, and accidents, for traumatic injuries. In this blog post, we will explore some of the different medical conditions covered by critical care services. We will also discuss the importance of having access to such services and how they can help save lives.

This blog post will explore some of the different medical conditions covered by critical care services. We will also discuss the importance of having access to such services and how they can help save lives.

What is Critical Care?

Critical care is a branch of medicine that deals with diagnosing and treating life-threatening conditions. It is also known as intensive care or Intensive Care Medicine (ICM).

Critical care services are provided by a team of medical professionals specially trained in this field. The team includes doctors, nurses, pharmacists, respiratory therapists, nutritionists, physiotherapists, medico-social workers, and other specialists. They work together to provide the best possible care for patients with serious health problems.

Patients admitted to the ICU (Intensive Care Unit) have usually been in an accident or have a severe illness such as a heart attack, stroke, and other serious, life-threatening infections. They may also suffer from multiple organ failure, sepsis (a potentially life-threatening condition caused by infection), or following major invasive procedures like transplant surgeries.

In the ICU, patients are closely monitored and treated around the clock. They receive constant nursing care and close supervision by doctors and other healthcare team members. Treatment in the ICU is often complex and requires sophisticated equipment and techniques.

The goal of critical care is to save lives and improve patient outcomes. In many cases, it is successful in doing so. However, some patients do not survive their illnesses or injuries despite the best efforts of the critical care team due to poor response from the patient organs.

What Medical Conditions are Covered Under Critical Care?

Many conditions can be covered under critical care medicine. Some of the critical care diseases include:

• Severe Burns
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
• Meningoencephalitis
• Sepsis
• Acute coronary syndrome
• Dysrhythmia
• Pulmonary embolism
• Acute kidney injury
• Acute hepatic failure
• Acute severe pancreatitis

However, this is not an exhaustive list; other conditions may also be covered depending on the case. It is always best to consult a medical professional to determine if critical care services. are right for you or your loved one.

Who Needs Critical Care Services?

Several medical conditions require critical care services, including:

• Heart attacks
• Kidney failure
• Heart failure
• People who have recently undergone major surgery and are recovering
• Respiratory failure
• Severe burns
• Severe bleeding
• Sepsis
• Stroke
• Shock
• Severe trauma and injuries.

What are the Benefits of Critical Care Services?

There are many benefits of timely admission to the critical care unit. Some of the most common benefits include the following:

1. Improved patient outcomes

Critical care services have been shown to improve patient outcomes. In one study, patients who received critical care services were more likely to survive their hospital stay than those who did not receive critical care services when the patient was sick.

1. Reduced length of stay

Patients who receive critical care services often have a shorter stay in the hospital. This is because critical care services can help stabilise patients and prepare them for discharge sooner.

1. Reduced hospital early costs

Shorter lengths of stay can also lead to reduced hospital costs. Critical care can save on resources when patients do not need to stay for as long.

1. Improved quality of life

Critical care services can also improve the quality of life for patients. This is because they can help patients recover from illnesses and injuries and return to normal activities sooner.

1. Prevent organ damage

Critical care services provide early intervention to prevent further organ damage when a patient's condition deteriorates. For example, if a patient is experiencing low blood pressure, intravenous fluids or medications help raise the blood pressure before organ damage occurs.

In critically ill patients who require mechanical ventilation to support their breathing, timely critical care and proper mechanical ventilation may prevent lung damage, which can affect other organs in the body.

Medications in patients experiencing kidney failure may help support kidney function and prevent further damage.

What Machines Are Used in the ICU?

In a critical care unit, healthcare providers and staff use various equipment. The most common ones include the following:

• IV Tubes:

Intravenous or IV tubes are routinely used in the ICU to give fluids and medicines.

• Catheters and other flexible tubes:

These are routinely used for injecting and draining fluids into and from the body.

• Dialysis machines:

These machines, also called artificial kidneys, are used for patients who are in kidney failure

• Oxygen therapy:

This is a cornerstone ICU treatment to provide patients with supplemental oxygen.

• Tracheostomy tubes:

Also called breathing tubes, these are placed into the windpipe (trachea) through the front of the neck.

• Ventilators:

These are life support machines that move air in and out of the lungs either when the patient is in respiratory failure or their lungs require time to heal.

• ECMO machines:

Like a heart-lung bypass machine, this machine pumps blood through a tube into an artificial lung that supplements oxygen and removes carbon dioxide. The blood is then warmed to the body temperature and pumped back into the patient's body.

Are There Any Alternatives to Critical Care Services?

Critical care services are meant to be given only when the patient requires them. There are alternatives to critical care services, and based on the situation, some patients may be treated with less intense forms of care, such as home health or hospice care. Some others may choose to receive no medical treatment and focus only on comfort measures. Additionally, some patients may be able to be transferred to a lower-level care facility, such as a skilled nursing facility, depending on the safety of the patients.

Conclusion:

Critical care services cover various medical conditions, from heart attacks and strokes to car accidents and burns. No matter the cause, critical care services provide the highest level of care possible. If you or a loved one has been affected by a critical illness, don't hesitate to seek the help you need. With the right team in your corner, you can get through anything.

Our Doctors:

At Gleneagles Aware Hospital, Hyderabad, our team of critical care doctors , like Dr Srinivasa Chary Avancha, are highly-trained medical professionals experienced in providing comprehensive care for a wide range of medical conditions. With our advanced medical technology and compassionate care, we provide the highest standard of care.

If you or a loved one are suffering from a medical condition that requires critical care, look no further than Gleneagles Aware Hospital, Hyderabad. Book an Appointment now. Enquire Now!

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is critical care?
Critical care is a branch of medicine that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and managing life-threatening illnesses or injuries.

What is the difference between critical care and intensive care?
Critical care disease is a specialized medical treatment for those critically ill or injured and involves close monitoring and support for vital organ functions. Intensive care is a more general medical term requiring constant attention and support for those with serious medical conditions.

What are the medical conditions for intensive care?
Common critical care diseases for intensive care include sepsis, respiratory failure, trauma, cardiac arrest, shock, and organ failure.

What are examples of critical care?
Patients who undergo major surgeries, have poor outcomes as a result of surgeries, meet with an accident or severe trauma, are unable to breathe on their own, or the heart is unable to pump blood to maintain circulation sufficiently are some classic examples of patients who require critical care.

What are the levels of critical care?
There are three levels of critical care:
Level 1:
If you are at risk of your condition deteriorating or have been recently moved from higher levels of care and your needs can be adequately met in a ward with additional support from the healthcare team, you are said to be at level 1.
Level 2:
If you require more observation and intervention than those at level 1, for example, to support a single failing organ system or postoperative care are said to be at level 2 of critical care. You are said to be in high-dependency units.
Level 3:
If you require advanced respiratory support for at least two organ systems with or without basic respiratory support, you need level 3 critical care services or admission to intensive care units (ICUs).