Nephrological Diseases

The kidneys, each about the size of a fist, play three major roles:

• Removing waste products from the body
• Producing hormones that control other body functions, such as regulating blood pressure and producing red blood cells
• Regulating the levels of minerals or electrolytes (e.g. sodium, calcium, & potassium) and fluid in the body

Different types of Kidney diseases

• Acute Kidney Injury
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• End-stage Renal Disease

Symptoms

Mild to moderate kidney disease often does not have any symptoms. However, in End-Stage Renal Disease or Uremia, when the toxins accumulate in a person's blood, symptoms may include:

• Puffy eyes, hands, and feet(called edema)
• Bad taste in the mouth or bad breath
• High blood pressure
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Generalized, persistent itchy skin
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle twitching or cramping
• Loss of appetite
• A yellowish-brown tint to the skin
• Nausea and vomating
• Thirst
• Urine that is cloudy or tea-coloured

Kidney disease usually does not cause pain, but in some cases pain may occur. A kidney stone in the ureter can cause severe cramping pain that spreads from the lower back into the groin.

Causes

• Infection such as Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
• Obstruction due to Kidney stones
• Lifestyle factors like Obesity
• Heredity such as Polycystic kidney disease
• Diuretics or medications may lead to excessive urination or incontinence
• Food like alcohol and caffeine may also act as diuretics

Diagnosis

• Physical examination (Edema, high blood pressure, Anaemia)
• MR angiography
• Renal biopsy
• Blood tests
• Intravenous urography (IVU)
• Urine analysis
• Scintigraphy
• Gomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)
• Renal Arteriography
• Ultrasound scanning

Treatment

Depending on the underlying cause, some types of kidney disease can be treated. Often, though, chronic kidney disease has no cure.

Five things people with kidney disease should follow

• Lower your blood pressure
• Keep blood-sugar levels under control, if diabetic
• Reduce salt intake
• Avoid Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), a type of painkillers
• Moderate protein consumption

If you develop complete or near-complete kidney failure, you have end-stage kidney disease. At that point, you need dialysis or a kidney transplant:

• Dialysis: Dialysis artificially removes waste products and extra fluid from your blood when your kidneys can no longer do this. In hemodialysis, a machine filters waste and excess fluids from your blood. In peritoneal dialysis, a thin tube (catheter) inserted into your abdomen fills your abdominal cavity with a dialysis solution that absorbs waste and excess fluids. After a period of time, the dialysis solution drains from your body, carrying the waste with it.
• Kidney transplant: A kidney transplant involves surgically placing a healthy kidney from a donor into your body. Transplanted kidneys can come from deceased or living donors. You will need to take medications for the rest of your life to keep your body from rejecting the new organ. You don't need to be on dialysis to have a kidney transplant.

A heart transplant is a surgical procedure in which a diseased or failing heart of a patient is replaced with a healthy donor heart. The treatment is often considered for patients with end-stage heart diseases who have not been responding well to medications and other treatments.

When Is A Heart Transplant Performed?

When a patient with end-stage heart disease is not showing any progress under the current treatment program, a heart transplant can be considered. Some common heart diseases that can benefit from heart transplant include:

• Advanced heart failure
• Arrhythmia
• Cardiomyopathy
• Congenital heart disease
• Coronary artery disease
• Heart valve diseases

Risks

Heart transplant is a complex medical procedure with potential risks such as:

• Infections
• Excessive blood loss or bleeding during or after the surgery
• Blood clots leading to heart attacks or strokes
• Breathing problems
• Rejections of the donor's heart
• Failure of the donor's heart
• Cancer
• Sever side effects of medicines

How Can You Prepare?

Preparing for the transplant is a crucial task and often takes months. Once you have consulted your doctor and decided to undergo a transplant, it’s time to look for a transplantation center. Ensure that you meet all their criteria to be considered for the transplant. You may have to take certain tests to ensure that your body can take the surgery and respond positively.

After all this, your next step will be to wait for a potential donor.

What Happens Before The Procedure?

The transplantation procedure needs to take place within four hours after the organ has been removed from the donor’s body. Once you’re notified, you will have to reach the transplantation center immediately where the surgeons will perform a few tests on you to determine if your body is ready for the transplant and if it will accept the donor’s heart.

What Happens During The Procedure?

During the procedure, you will be given anesthesia. The surgeon will then make an incision or a cut through the breastbone to remove the dysfunctioning heart and replace it with a healthy heart. A machine called the heart-lung bypass machine keeps pumping the blood throughout the body while the surgery is being performed. After the new heart is attached, the machine is stopped, and the transplanted heart takes over.

During the procedure, the lungs too stop functioning, therefore, tubes are inserted in the chest to drain blood, air, and fluids from the body till the lungs fully re-expand are start functioning normally.

What Happens After The Procedure?

Post-surgery, you will have to spend a few days in the ICU where the doctors will monitor your health closely to determine if the transplant was successful and/or if you have any complications.

After you leave the hospital, your health will be monitored by your transplant team to look for signs of any complications or organ rejection. You will also have to visit your doctor every few months to undergo certain tests to ensure that the new heart is functioning well.

Why BGS Gleneagles Hospital For Heart Transplant?

BGS Gleneagles  Hospital is one of the best hospitals for heart transplantation in Bangalore as it is well-equipped with advanced technology, modern instruments, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and supremely skilled surgeons.

Chest pain can be a worrying symptom because of its association with heart attacks. At the same time, keep in mind that pain or heaviness in the chest can also be indicative of digestive, musculoskeletal, respiratory, or other physical and mental health ailments. Because of its association with heart attacks, chest pain should never be ignored. However, chest pain isn’t always a cause for panic as there are ways to tell if it is an emergency that requires quick medical attention.

Signs Of A Medical Emergency

Although heart attacks don’t always present with chest pain, it should be treated as such if you notice other symptoms including:

• Breathlessness or heaviness in the chest
• Nausea or lightheadedness
• Cold sweats
• Pain that radiates to the shoulder, arm, neck, or jaw

In the event that such symptoms persist for 5 minutes or more, seek immediate medical care.

Causes Of Chest Pain

Aside from heart problems like coronary artery disease, myocarditis, or a heart attack, chest pain can also have other causes. Some of these can include:

• Respiratory problems like pneumonia, Chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), asthma, pleurisy, or pulmonary embolism, among others.
• Gastrointestinal problems like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Esophageal hypersensitivity, peptic ulcers, gallbladder disease, and so on.
• Musculoskeletal and nerve problems like muscle strain, shingles, and rib problems.
• Anxiety and stress disorders that cause panic attacks.

Heart Related Causes

Common heart related chest pain causes include:

Coronary artery disease (CAD)–

A condition of narrowing or blockage of blood vessels, impairing blood and oxygen flow to the heart muscles. The chest pain may radiate to the shoulder, back, arm, neck, or jaw.

Heart attack –

The condition in which reduced blood flow to the heart causes damage or death of heart muscle cells. This is characterized by crushing pain in the centre of the chest or right chest pain.

Myocarditis –

A condition of heart muscle inflammation that can cause similar symptoms to those of a heart attack although there is no blockage.

Pericarditis –

This describes inflammation or infection of the pericardium, which is a protective sac around the heart. It can cause sharp pain in the left chest that can also radiate to the neck and shoulder.

Other heart related causes of chest pain include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, mitral valve prolapse, and coronary artery dissection.

Respiratory Causes

Chest pain associated with respiratory causes is usually a result of lung injury or impairment of airflow because of problems with the airways. Respiratory conditions that can cause pain in the middle of the chest or stabbing pain in the chest include pneumonia, asthma, COPD, collapsed lung, pulmonary embolism, pleurisy, pulmonary hypertension, and lung cancer.

Chest pain that is caused by a respiratory condition will typically worsen with any kind of exertion or heavy breathing, while it is relieved with rest and slow breathing.

Gastrointestinal Causes

Chest pain linked to digestive disorders is usually connected to problems that affect the esophagus. The esophageal tube connects the throat to the stomach to carry food or liquid that you consume. Conditions like acid reflux or GERD are known to cause heartburn, which is characterized by a sharp pain in the chest. It is often confused with heart attacks. Conditions like esophageal contraction disorders, esophageal hypersensitivity, peptic ulcers, and gallbladder disease can also cause chest pain.

Chest problems and pain linked to gastrointestinal problems are usually relieved with exercise and exacerbated with lying down, as opposed to chest pain caused by heart and lung disease.

Other Causes Of Chest Pain

In addition to heart, respiratory, or gastrointestinal disease, chest pain can also be caused by musculoskeletal problems or nerve disorders, such as muscle strain, a rib injury, shingles, or stress and anxiety disorders that cause panic attacks.

When To See A Doctor?

Chest pain that is accompanied by other symptoms associated with a heart attack should always be treated as a medical emergency. However, chest pain that develops suddenly and does not improve with anti-inflammatory medications and dietary changes should also be brought to the attention of your doctor.

Despite warnings from viral epidemiologists and scientists, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic caught most of the world by surprise. Although it has wreaked havoc on communities worldwide, researchers and pharmaceutical companies rose to the challenge, creating vaccines within record-breaking time. However, this accomplishment alone will not suffice to overcome the pandemic. Widespread vaccination is necessary for populations to reach herd immunity, a condition in which a large enough percentage of the population is immune to an infectious disease, thereby providing indirect protection to the entire population. 

When a large percentage of the population is vaccinated against an infectious disease like COVID-19, the risk of infection and transmission is significantly reduced. This means that the population is less likely to experience large-scale outbreaks, allowing life to return to normal. Of course, does not address every concern about the impact of vaccination on immunity.

Does COVID-19 Vaccination Offer Complete Protection against Infection and is it advisable or necessary for you to get vaccinated if you have previously suffered from Covid-19 infection?

At present, India has three COVID-19 vaccines that are approved for use – Covaxin, Covishield, and Sputnik V. All of these are non-replicating vaccines, including inactivated or subunit and nucleic acid vaccines. While Covaxin has been developed indigenously, Covishield is the Indian version of the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine, and Sputnik V was developed in Russia. All three vaccines have been found to be effective at preventing COVID-19 infection with high levels of efficacy ranging from 63.09% to 92%. All of the vaccines available in India have undergone numerous phases of trials to ensure their safety and efficacy as pointed out by the Government of India and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW).

At the same time, you should keep in mind that no vaccine offers 100% protection against infection. However, the risk of infection is considerably lower and the risk of severe COVID-19 infection is even lower. As mentioned earlier, the risk of infection is also reduced as a larger percentage of the population gets vaccinated. All COVID-19 vaccines that are approved for use in India must also be administered in two dosages. This means that you can still get infected before receiving the second dose of the vaccine. This is why it is important to continue to exercise caution even after receiving your first dose.

Is vaccination safe and necessary for those who have been previously infected with COVID-19?

The Government of India and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) recommends that all individuals who have previously tested positive for COVID-19 and have fully recovered should receive the vaccine. This will help to strengthen the immune response against the virus as infection with COVID-19 is believed to only provide protection for a limited duration. Moreover, research suggests that people who have been previously infected show a better response to vaccination and may get the same immune benefits from a single dose as most people get from two doses.  It is best to wait for one to two months after recovery from COVID symptoms before seeking vaccination.

Individuals who have recently tested positive or are suspected to have COVID-19 infection should wait for at least two weeks post-recovery to seek vaccination as they could pose a high risk of transmitting the virus to others at the vaccination site.

Can I Resume Normal Activities After Getting Fully Vaccinated?

Eventually, we will all be able to return to normal life after we have been vaccinated. However, this also requires vaccination of a large section of the population to reach herd immunity. While getting vaccinated does provide protection against possible infection and severe COVID-19 symptoms, it does not provide 100% protection. It is also part of our social responsibility to continue complying with precautionary measures including hand-washing, mask-wearing, and social distancing. Doing so will make it easier for us to overcome the pandemic not just as individuals, but as a society.

Vaccination is regarded as the best defence against infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, making it especially important for those at a high risk of severe COVID infection. As patients suffering from cardiovascular or heart disease fall into this category, it is advisable for them to get vaccinated as soon as possible to lower the risk of infection.

According to a Cardiological Society of India statement published in the Indian Heart Journal, COVID-19 patients who suffer from cardiovascular disease are at a significantly higher risk of complications and fatalities. Among hospitalized COVID-19 patients, nearly 30% experience cardiac injury and 40% of fatalities are linked to cardiac complications.

This is why you should seek vaccination as soon as possible if you suffer from heart disease. Likewise, it is advisable to get family members who suffer from heart disease vaccinated against COVID-19. At present this is regarded as the most effective strategy for protecting those with heart disease or cardiovascular risk factors from COVID-19 infection.

At the same time, concerns about the safety of COVID-19 vaccination for patients with such preexisting conditions are understandable.

Can Covid vaccines worsen the condition or cause side effects that further jeopardize your health if you are an existing cardiovascular or heart disease patient?

Some heart disease patients and caregivers have concerns about the vaccine itself causing infection. This is not possible with the COVID-19 vaccines that are currently in use as they do not have a live virus and are non-replicating vaccines, including inactivated or subunit and nucleic acid vaccines. However, vaccines can cause mild to moderate side effects as your immune system responds to the vaccine. Such side effects are indicative that the vaccine is working, although everyone responds differently and not everyone will necessarily experience side effects.

Common side effects of COVID-19 vaccination include pain at the site of the injection, lethargy, fatigue, headache, and muscle pain. These side effects are outweighed by the benefits of vaccination because of the risk of severe COVID-19 in heart patients. As pointed out by the World Health Organization, heart patients who also suffer from compromised immunity, are pregnant, or have a history of allergic reactions (particularly to vaccines) should discuss these concerns with their health care provider before getting vaccinated.

An aneurysm occurs when a spot on the arterial wall weakens causing a bulge that could rupture leading to a life-threatening situation. A ruptured brain aneurysm needs immediate medical assistance to prevent further neurological damage.

Symptoms of Brain Aneurysm

Brain aneurysms do not normally showcase any noticeable symptoms until they rupture. Here are some of the most common symptoms of brain aneurysms based on their stages:

Unruptured Aneurysm

Tiny unruptured aneurysms do not showcase any symptoms. However, a large one can produce the following symptoms:

• Pain above and behind one eye
• Dilated pupil
• Change in vision
• Double vision
• Numbness of one side of the face

Ruptured Aneurysm

Common signs and symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm include:

• Sudden, extremely severe headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stiff neck
• Blurred or double vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Seizure
• A drooping eyelid
• Loss of consciousness
• Confusion

Leaking Aneurysm

In some cases, an aneurysm may leak a minimal amount of blood that may cause sudden, extremely severe headaches.

When to See a Doctor?

If you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms or experience sudden headaches that cause excruciating pain, you must visit a doctor immediately.

Common Causes of Brain Aneurysm

Brain aneurysms are usually associated with age and develop in adults above the age of 40. However, younger individuals, including children, can develop the condition as a result of congenital blood vessel defects, head trauma, genetic disorders, or connective tissue disorders.

Other risk factors for developing brain aneurysms can include the presence of underlying conditions such as:

• Hypertension
• Atherosclerosis
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Infections
• Tumor or cancer in the head or neck
• Family history and genetics
• Lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol abuse, drug abuse)

Diagnosis of Brain Aneurysm

• CT Angio of the brain: A technician injects a contrasting dye into a vein to make it easier to see the blood flow and determine the aneurysm spot in the brain.
• MRI Angio of the brain: MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging uses radio waves or magnetic fields to curate a precise and detailed image of the brain and blood vessels.
• Digital Subtraction Angiography: DSA shows weak spots in the blood vessels. It is considered to be the most reliable test for detecting aneurysms.
• Cerebrospinal Fluid Test: This diagnostic test involves putting a needle into the draw spinal fluid and then testing it to see if it contains blood which could indicate the rupture of an aneurysm.

Treatment of Brain Aneurysm

• Surgical Clipping: This is a surgical procedure to close off an aneurysm. It involves a trained neurosurgeon who removes a section of the skull to access the aneurysm. The surgeon then places a tiny metal clip to block blood flow to the aneurysm.
• Endovascular Coiling: In this procedure, the surgeon inserts a catheter (a hollow plastic tube) into an artery and then threads it through the body to the aneurysm. They then guide a wire that pushes a soft platinum wire through the catheter. This platinum wire coils up inside the aneurysm disrupting the blood flow to it.

Enquire Now

BGS Gleneagles Hospital provides the best treatment for brain aneurysms. We house the best neurosurgeons and cutting-edge technology for accurate diagnosis and treatment of the condition. For more details, contact us now.

Mucormycosis is a rare fungal infection that has been on the rise in India. It can be caused by exposure to certain types of mold and spores. The fungus spreads through the body, destroying healthy tissue and organs. There is an unusual rise in Mucormycosis cases among Covid-19 patients. A recent study found that the second wave of Mucormycosis cases are those who have recovered from the first wave of Covid-19 but still have uncontrolled diabetes or were treated with steroids. This means that these people are more likely to be infected by mucormycosis during their recovery period rather than being at risk for it before they even contracted COVID as well as after recovery from the virus itself.

Watch Dr Prashanth Reddy, Chief ENT and endoscopic skull base surgeon at BGS Gleneagles Hospital as he talks about all the things you need to know about Mucormycosis.

What is Mucormycosis?

What are the initial symptoms of Mucormycosis?

How do we diagnose Mucormycosis?

Why is there a sudden rise in Mucormycosis cases in the second wave?

What is the treatment of Mucormycosis?

Why is there an anti-fungal shortage?

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Hemorrhoids, most commonly known as piles, are normal swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. Hemorrhoids are of two main types - internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum while external hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus. Another type that results from the clotting of blood due to external hemorrhoids and very painful is called thrombosed external hemorrhoids.

This is an extremely common condition. 80%-90% of the world’s population suffer from hemorrhoids at least once in a lifetime. There is no need to be alarmed as it can be successfully treated, often with simple lifestyle changes. Surgery is only reserved for a relative few only!

Symptoms Of Hemorrhoids

External Hemorrhoids

• Itching or irritation in the anal region
• Painful bowel movements
• Discomfort
• Swelling around the anus
• Bleeding

Internal Hemorrhoids

• Painless bleeding during bowel movements
• Fecal leakage

Thrombosed Haemorrhoids

• Extreme pain
• Swelling & inflammation
• Hard lump near the anus

Causes Of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids occur when veins around the anus stretch due to pressure or swelling. This pressure results from:

• Straining while passing bowels
• Sitting for too long in the toilet
• Suffering from chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Regular anal intercourse
• Consumption of low-fibre diet

Treatment of Piles

Hemorrhoids can sometimes be extremely painful and discomforting, in certain cases even embarrassing. Piles Treatment can be successfully done depending on the type and severity of the condition. Some of the most common treatment approaches are as follows:

• Medication: If the condition causes mild pain or discomfort, the doctors may suggest certain medications, ointments, suppositories, or pads. They help with the pain and itching. It is suggested to consult a doctor before using any over-the-counter medication or creams.
• Rubber Band Ligation: Rubber band ligation is a minimally invasive treatment procedure in which two small rubber bands are placed around the base of the internal hemorrhoid. This simply cuts off the circulation around it and the hemorrhoid withers and eventually falls off within a few days’ time.
• Coagulation: Coagulation is another surgical treatment that uses laser, heat, or infrared light to harden internal hemorrhoids resulting in them falling off. This treatment can have a few manageable side effects and may cause some pain or discomfort or discharge.

Other Surgical Treatments for Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoidectomy: This is a complex surgical procedure in which excessive tissues that cause bleeding are removed. This procedure is one of the most effective ways of treating severe or recurring hemorrhoids. Most of them tolerate this well but in a rare few certain complication can arise post-surgery which may include temporary difficulty in passing urine, and rarely UTI (urinary tract infection).

Hemorrhoidectomy is generally done under regional anesthesia combined with sedation or general anesthesia.

Hemorrhoid Stapling: Hemorrhoid stapling is medically termed as hemorrhoidopexy or stapled anopexy. It is a procedure that blocks the flow to the hemorrhoidal tissue and is used for treating internal hemorrhoids. Although it is less painful than a formal open hemorrhoidectomy, it can often have serious sideeffects such as recurrence, rectal prolapse, bleeding, urinary retention, or sepsis (life-threatening blood infection). These complications occurring are very rare but worthwhile to consult a specialist doctor before making any decisions.

Easy Ways of Preventing Hemorrhoids

• Consuming Fiber-rich Foods: Include fiber-rich foods and vegetables in your diet. This helps soften the stool and prevents straining that often causes hemorrhoids.
• Keep Yourself Well-Hydrated: Keeping yourself well-hydrated will keep your stools soft and prevent straining. Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water and other non-alcoholic beverages every day.
• Avoid Straining: Straining or holding your breath while passing stool can exert more pressure on the veins in the lower rectum causing them to rupture, leading to hemorrhoids.
• Don’t Hold the Urge To Pass Stool: If you do not go as soon as you feel the urge to pass stool, it may dry out and become harder to pass later.
• Avoid Sitting for Prolonged Periods: Sitting for too long, especially on the toilet, can exert pressure on the veins in the anus.
• Exercise: Regular exercise can help prevent constipation which in turn helps prevent hemorrhoids.

Why BGS Gleneagles Hospital for Piles Treatment?

BGS Gleneagles Hospital is one of the best Quaternary care superspeciality hospitals in Bangalore as it houses the top surgeons with superspeciality expertise and doctors who are extremely skilled and knowledgeable. The Team is also backed with highly trained support staff, world-class technology, and state-of-the-art infrastructure making BGS Gleneagles Hospital the best suited to look after your problems in Bangalore.

Ulcer

Ulcers are painful sores that develop on the lining of the digestive tract, which includes the oesophagus, stomach and small intestine. The digestive tract is coated with a mucous layer that provides protection against the acids in the stomach. When these acids increase in amount, they damage the mucous coating and lead to the development of ulcers. They can be extremely painful and uncomfortable. Therefore, ulcer treatment at the earliest is extremely crucial.

Symptoms of Ulcer

Mentioned below are some of the most common symptoms of ulcers:

• Burning stomach pain
• Feeling of fullness
• Bloating
• Intolerance to fatty foods
• Nausea
• Heartburn
• Discomfort

Some of the rare symptoms of severe ulcers include:

• Vomiting
• Blood in vomit
• Blood in stools
• Dark/ Black stools
• Breathing difficulties
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Unintentional weight loss
• Changes in appetite

Causes Of Ulcer

Bacterium Helicobacter Pylori (H. Pylori): This bacterium dwells in the mucous layer that provides protection to the tissues lining the stomach and the small intestine. It generally causes no harm, but when increased in number, it can cause inflammation in the stomach's inner layer which results in the development of painful ulcers. Mild stomach ulcer treatment is possible with medications, however, it is essential that you take quick actions.

Certain Medications: Regular or excess usage of certain pain relief medications, over-the-counter medications, prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause irritation and inflammation in the lining of the stomach and small intestine leading to the development of ulcers.

Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a rare cause of ulcers. It increases the production of acids in the body that damage the lining and lead to the formation of ulcers. This syndrome is extremely rare and causes less than 1% of all ulcers.

Diagnosis and Tests Of Ulcer

Endoscopy: This test is done to examine your upper digestive tract to determine the presence of an ulcer. In the process, your doctor will pass an endoscope (a tube with a tiny camera lens on it) down your throat to your oesophagus, stomach and small intestine. If your doctor suspects the presence of an ulcer, a small tissue sample is taken for histopathology, to look for presence of H. pylori in your stomach lining, or other cause of ulcers, which will help them chart your ulcer treatment.

Lab Test For Bacterium Helicobacter Pylori: Other noninvasive tests for H. pylori are, Urease breath test (UBT), stool antigen test and serological markers from blood.

The Urease breath test is based on the ability of H.pylori to convert urea to ammonia and carbon dioxide. In this patients is asked to consume urea with uncommon isotope - radioactive carbon. The H. pylori bacterium reacts with radioactive carbon and produces carbon dioxide (CO2) and ammonia. You will be asked to blow into a bag which will later be tested for the traces of CO2. The presence of CO2 will confirm H. pylori in your body and the doctors will begin your treatment accordingly.

It is advised to not take any medications without consulting your doctor, prior to the test, as it can, interfere in the testing process and tamper with the test results.

Medications For Ulcer

Mild ulcers can be easily treated with medications such as the following:

• Antibiotic: Since H. pylori is considered to be the main reason for ulcers, your doctor may recommend antibiotics to kill the bacteria and treat ulcers effectively.
• Acid Blockers: Certain acids produced in the stomach can damage the mucosal lining and lead to ulcers. Medications known as proton pump inhibitors (PPI) can stop the production of such acid and promote healing in the stomach. It can be an efficient treatment of ulcers.
• Antacids: Antacids neutralize the stomach acid and help relieve the pain caused by ulcers. Therefore, your doctor may include certain antacids in your regimen for stomach ulcer treatment.
• Cytoprotective Agents: These are medications that protect the lining of the stomach and the small intestine and prevent ulcers.

Treatment And Prevention Of Ulcer

• Non-surgical Ulcer Treatment: Treatment of ulcers resulting from H.pylori can be easily done with certain medications such as antibiotics, antacids and acid blockers which are considered to be the best for stomach ulcer treatment.
• Surgical Ulcer Treatment: In some rare and severe cases, where a stomach ulcer is recurring, bleeds, or disrupts the digestive process, you may need invasive surgery to treat it. The surgical procedure generally involves removing the entire ulcer and patching the wound spot with a piece of tissue from the intestine.
• Healthy Diet: A healthy diet is a key to a healthy life. A well-nourished diet can maintain the good health of your intestinal tract and prevent ulcers from developing. You can include leafy green vegetables, probiotic-rich foods such as yoghurt, fruits such as apples and berries in your diet.
• Manage Stress: A stressful lifestyle can pave the way for several health complications, and can worsen the symptoms of peptic ulcers. Address the cause of your stress and work towards managing it better. Some effective stress management strategies include journaling, walking & exercising, listening to music, talking to a friend or loved one. If you think you are unable to manage your stress no matter what you do, you must consider counselling or therapy.
• Quit Tobacco: Smoking and tobacco consumption increases your risk of developing stomach ulcers as it can damage the protective lining of the stomach and increase the amounts of stomach acids.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can erode the protective mucosal layer in the stomach and the intestines, leading to inflammation and bleeding which can further lead to peptic, gastric and stomach ulcers. To prevent this, you must limit your alcohol consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the fastest way to cure a stomach ulcer?

Mild ulcers can be easily treated with certain medications. If you think you have any symptoms of ulcers contact your healthcare provider immediately.

How to deal with stomach ulcers?

Antibiotics, antacids and acid-blockers can help you deal with ulcers. However, it is advised to seek professional consultation before taking any such medications.

What antibiotics treat ulcers?

Antibiotics such as amoxicillin, levofloxacin, clarithromycin, tinidazole, metronidazole, etc can help. It is wise to consult your doctor before taking any of these medications.

How long does it take for a stomach ulcer to heal with medication?

The healing time depends on the type and severity of the condition. The period can range anywhere between a couple of weeks to a few months. If you’re facing any discomfort or notice any symptoms of ulcers, contact your doctor immediately.

The anterior cruciate ligament simply referred to as ACL, is a major ligament or tissue band that holds the bones together. This makes it important for ensuring stability and mobility of the knee joint. An ACL injury or tear is a common type of knee injury that can affect anyone, but it is generally seen in competitive athletes. This is because such injuries develop with sudden movements or sharp turns while engaging in high-intensity activities like running or jumping. An ACL tear is impossible to miss as the condition is known to cause excruciating pain to the extent that it is debilitating, and pressure cannot be applied on the joint even to stand or walk.

What Are The Symptoms Of ACL Injury?

An ACL injury is impossible to miss because of the extent of pain caused. Symptoms typically include:

• Sudden pain onset
• Popping sound at the moment of injury
• Pain that severely limits joint mobility
• Loss of joint stability
• Rapid swelling and inflammation of the knee

Any sign of an ACL injury should be regarded as a medical emergency because of the complexity of the knee joint and the risk of further damage with delayed treatment.

Risks For ACL Injury?

Certain factors can increase the risk of an ACL injury, and these include the following:

• Women are more vulnerable due to anatomical and hormonal factors
• Contact sports and high-intensity activities like soccer, basketball, and gymnastics
• Poor forms when exercising, such as bending the knees incorrectly when practising lunges or squats
• Poorly fitted footwear
• Playing sports on artificial turf
• Use of poorly maintained or low-quality gym equipment

Diagnosis And Tests for ACL Injury

In addition to a physical examination, your doctor may also recommend the following tests to diagnose an ACL injury.

• X-rays: These are used to eliminate fractures, but they won’t reveal tissue injuries such as to the ACL.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This type of imaging test is most useful as it depicts both hard and soft tissues, revealing the extent of an ACL injury and any surrounding damage.
• Ultrasound: Ultrasound tests use soundwaves to create visual depictions of internal structures and help identify injuries to the ACL.

Treatment of ACL Injury

Treatment for ACL injuries can vary significantly depending on the severity of the injury. For minor injuries, administration of first aid, rest, and the use of crutches can suffice as treatment. Doctors may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and relieve pain. As part of recovery, you may also be advised to use a knee brace for added support, especially when walking or engaging in any physical activity.

1. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is an essential part of the recovery process and is recommended at least a few days in the week to restore joint mobility and strength. Physiotherapy sessions for ACL injuries usually include strength training exercises for the surrounding muscles and to improve range of motion. These exercises can also be practiced at home.

2. ACL Knee Surgery

In case of severe ACL injuries or an ACL tear, the joint cannot bear any load and leaves you debilitated. This can be devastating for athletes or other individuals whose livelihoods depend on an active lifestyle. Depending on your need or the severity of the injury, doctors may recommend ACL knee surgery.

• ACL Reconstruction: During ACL knee surgery, an orthopedic surgeon will remove and replace the damaged ligament with similar tissue or tendon that will grow to replace the torn ACL. The process is also described as a graft. Full knee function is usually restored within a year.BGS Hospital is home to some of the leading orthopedic surgeons, making it a top destination for any kind of ACL knee surgery. The orthopedic team at BGS is experienced and skilled, working together to ensure high success rates, providing both excellent pre-and post-operative care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you work with torn ACL?

For a sedentary job, you would simply require a week’s rest, but standing jobs or jobs that require physical activity can only be resumed after 5 to 6 months of rest.

ACL Injury

 22/07/2021

The anterior cruciate ligament simply referred to as ACL, is a major ligament or tissue band that holds the bones together. This makes it important for ensuring stability and mobility of the knee joint. An ACL injury or tear is a common type of knee injury that can affect anyone, but it is generally seen in competitive athletes. This is because such injuries develop with sudden movements or sharp turns while engaging in high-intensity activities like running or jumping. An ACL tear is impossible to miss as the condition is known to cause excruciating pain to the extent that it is debilitating, and pressure cannot be applied on the joint even to stand or walk.

What Are The Symptoms Of ACL Injury?

An ACL injury is impossible to miss because of the extent of pain caused. Symptoms typically include:

• Sudden pain onset
• Popping sound at the moment of injury
• Pain that severely limits joint mobility
• Loss of joint stability
• Rapid swelling and inflammation of the knee

Any sign of an ACL injury should be regarded as a medical emergency because of the complexity of the knee joint and the risk of further damage with delayed treatment.

Risks For ACL Injury?

Certain factors can increase the risk of an ACL injury, and these include the following:

• Women are more vulnerable due to anatomical and hormonal factors
• Contact sports and high-intensity activities like soccer, basketball, and gymnastics
• Poor forms when exercising, such as bending the knees incorrectly when practising lunges or squats
• Poorly fitted footwear
• Playing sports on artificial turf
• Use of poorly maintained or low-quality gym equipment

Diagnosis And Tests for ACL Injury

In addition to a physical examination, your doctor may also recommend the following tests to diagnose an ACL injury.

• X-rays: These are used to eliminate fractures, but they won’t reveal tissue injuries such as to the ACL.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This type of imaging test is most useful as it depicts both hard and soft tissues, revealing the extent of an ACL injury and any surrounding damage.
• Ultrasound: Ultrasound tests use soundwaves to create visual depictions of internal structures and help identify injuries to the ACL.

Treatment of ACL Injury

Treatment for ACL injuries can vary significantly depending on the severity of the injury. For minor injuries, administration of first aid, rest, and the use of crutches can suffice as treatment. Doctors may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and relieve pain. As part of recovery, you may also be advised to use a knee brace for added support, especially when walking or engaging in any physical activity.

1. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is an essential part of the recovery process and is recommended at least a few days in the week to restore joint mobility and strength. Physiotherapy sessions for ACL injuries usually include strength training exercises for the surrounding muscles and to improve range of motion. These exercises can also be practiced at home.

2. ACL Knee Surgery

In case of severe ACL injuries or an ACL tear, the joint cannot bear any load and leaves you debilitated. This can be devastating for athletes or other individuals whose livelihoods depend on an active lifestyle. Depending on your need or the severity of the injury, doctors may recommend ACL knee surgery.

• ACL Reconstruction: During ACL knee surgery, an orthopedic surgeon will remove and replace the damaged ligament with similar tissue or tendon that will grow to replace the torn ACL. The process is also described as a graft. Full knee function is usually restored within a year.BGS Gleneagles Hospital is home to some of the leading orthopedic surgeons, making it a top destination for any kind of ACL knee surgery. The orthopedic team at BGS is experienced and skilled, working together to ensure high success rates, providing both excellent pre-and post-operative care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you work with torn ACL?

For a sedentary job, you would simply require a week’s rest, but standing jobs or jobs that require physical activity can only be resumed after 5 to 6 months of rest.

How Do I Prepare for the Surgery?

Before surgery, it’s essential that you give the affected joint adequate rest, use crutches if necessary to avoid putting any pressure on the knee. Plan your schedule and activities for pre-a and post-op recovery, making adequate arrangements for leave or assistance as required.

Can you fully recover from a torn ACL?

Recovery can take several months, but if you adhere strictly to treatment recommendations, physiotherapy, and follow-up care, you can make a complete recovery. Some athletes even return to competitive sports within a year of undergoing ACL knee surgery.