An anal fissure is a painful tear in the tissue of the anal canal. It usually affects the superficial layer (epithelium), but in patients with chronic anal fissures, deeper layers (mucosa) of the anal tissue may be affected too.

Anal fissures can occur in patients of any age. The treatment depends on the severity of the fissure. Mild to moderate cases are treated medically. However, in severe cases, surgical approaches can be adopted.

What Are The Causes Of Anal Fissures?

Most often, anal fissures occur due to trauma caused during the passage of, particularly hard stools.Low-fibre diets cause constipation, and therefore the patient strains more during bowel movements. This can also result in injury to the anal mucosa, which can cause fissures.Trauma during childbirth, chronic diarrhoea, previous anal surgery and anal intercourse are some of the less common causes of anal fissures.

What Are The Symptoms Of Anal Fissures?

Some of the most common symptoms of anal fissures include:

• Severe pain during a bowel movement. Pain may continue for several minutes or hours
• Visible tear in the skin surrounding the anus
• Recurring pain with every bowel movement, making the patient unwilling to pass stools, leading to further constipation
• Bright red blood on the toilet paper or stool
• Presence of a skin flap or tag near the anus

What Are The Risks Associated With Anal Fissures?

If left untreated, anal fissures can increase the risks of developing:

• Severe Constipation: As the pain from the fissure becomes unbearable, patients get discouraged from passing stools, and this worsens constipation.
• Fecal impaction: If the fissure causes narrowing of the anal canal, this can lead to hardened stools that get stuck in the rectum.
• Fistulas: These are abnormal connections that can form between the anus and the skin or intestines.
• Development of a skin tag or flap near the anus.

How Are Anal Fissures Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of anal fissures is done using manual examination as well as instrumental investigations.

Digital (using fingers or digits) rectal examination may be performed by the doctor to assess the depth and length of the anal fissure.

You may also be asked to undergo sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy to visualise the fissure and imagining to assess the fistula.

Additionally, your doctor may also recommend routine blood tests to judge your overall health.

How Are Anal Fissures Treated?

Treatment of anal fissures is mainly medical. The main goal of the treatment of fissure is to relieve constipation and to reduce hard stools, as softer stools are less painful for the patient to pass.

Medical therapy involves:

• Bulking agents like fibre supplementation and stool softeners
• Laxatives to regularise bowel movements
• Mineral oils are used to make the passage of stool easier and to lubricate the anal canal
• Sitz baths can be taken after bowel movements to provide pain relief.

In some cases, doctors may prescribe certain ointments to be applied directly to the internal sphincter for relieving the pain. Botulinum Toxin injection may also be used to relieve spasms in the anal sphincter.

Topical anaesthetic creams may also be prescribed to be applied directly on the fissure in order to achieve pain relief.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do you treat an anal fissure?

Anal fissures are treated by using medications like topical pain-relieving creams, stools softeners and stool bulking agents.

What happens if a fissure goes untreated?

Leaving anal fissures untreated can result in an increased risk of complications like faecal impaction, severe constipation, or fistulas.

Will I need surgery to cure the fissure?

Surgery is indicated in patients in whom:

• Medical therapy failed to resolve the acute fissure.
• Symptomatic chronic fissures seldom heal spontaneously and therefore may need surgical intervention.

How much will a fissure doctor charge on a first visit?

A doctor’s consultation fees are extremely subjective and depend on the doctor you see.

Urology is the branch of medical science that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases associated with the urinary tract of both men and women. Within Urology, some of the specialized fields include:

• Female Urology: The field focuses on conditions related to women's urinary tract.
• Male Urology: The field focuses on conditions related to men's reproductive and urinary tract.
• Neurourology: Focuses on urinary problems related to the nervous system.
• Pediatric Urology: Treats urinary problems in children.
• Urologic Oncology: Focuses on treating cancers of the urinary system.

When to See a Urologist?

Urologists can help you with the below-mentioned diseases:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): You must see a urologist if you notice symptoms such as pain during urination, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, and fever or blood in the urine.
• Incontinence: Urinary Incontinence is when you can't hold your urine. The causes for this can be varied, and it is best to get yourself checked.
• Chronic Kidney Disease: Chronic Kidney disease can result due to various causes, including hypertension, diabetes, drug-induced, or inflammation of the kidneys. In some cases, it can lead to significant kidney failure needing dialysis/transplant. Kidney disease commonly is asymptomatic but can present with ankle swelling, tiredness, or breathlessness.
• Certain Cancers: Urologists are specialized to treat cancers occurring in the urinary bladder, kidneys, prostate gland, testicles, penis and adrenal glands. These cancers may present with blood in the urine, loin pain, poor flow of urine and sometimes back pain or a palpable lump.
• Male Infertility & Erectile Dysfunction: In 50 per cent of couples with infertility, the cause lies with the man. And it is important that all infertile couples should see a urologist first.
• Erectile Dysfunction: As erectile dysfunction is often a sign of an underlying disease, it is always good to get yourself checked, even if you do not wish to have treatment for ED.
• Prostatitis: It is a condition that causes painful urination or ejaculation that result from infection or inflammation of the prostate. It can also cause pain in the lower back or testicles.
• Kidney and Ureteral Stones: Kidney stones are hard, crystalized deposits that form from minerals in the body. When these stones make their way down the ureters, they are called ureteric stones. Kidney Stones can be asymptomatic or cause loin pain and blood in the urine. When the stone drops into the ureter, it causes severe pain and needs urgent intervention.
• Cryptorchidism (Undescended Testes): Testicles form inside the abdomen of the fetus and then descend into the scrotum before or immediately after birth. When this natural process is unfinished, the condition is called cryptorchidism and can have an impact on sperm production and lead to other complications. If you suspect your child to have this condition, please see a urologist.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or simply enlarged prostate, is a condition that affects 1 in 3 men over the age of 50. The condition results from overgrown cells in the prostate gland that leads to constriction of the urethra (urine pipe), leading to urinary symptoms like poor, intermittent flow and having to frequently wake up at night to pass urine. If left untreated, it can lead to several complications.

Why BGS Gleneagles?

BGS Gleneagles Hospital's Department of Urology houses some of the best urologists in Bangalore. All our doctors are highly trained with a supreme knowledge of their field and impeccable skills. When in their hands, you can expect the best treatment for your condition. All our urologists ensure that they chart the most efficient and fully-tailored treatment plan for you based on your health needs.

Our department has high tech equipment with cutting-edge technology and world-class infrastructure to support our experts and help them get the best, most successful results. In addition, we also have a team of highly trained support staff to back our experts and ensure that our patients are well taken care of.

Our Doctors: Best Urologist In Bangalore

At BGS Gleneagles Hospital's urology department, you will find the best urologists with the highest qualifications and training. Many of our experts are internationally trained and have several years of experience. Our experts ensure that they take enough time to understand the patient's condition thoroughly and plan a treatment regimen based on their health needs and condition. Such a simple patient-centric approach makes BGS Gleneagles Hospital one of the best urology hospitals in Bangalore.

To get in touch with some of the top urologists in Bangalore, visit: https://www.gleneagleshospitals.co.in/book-an-appointment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is a urologist?

Urologists are medical professionals who specialize in treating diseases and conditions that affect the urinary tract.

What conditions does a urologist treat?

Urologists treat conditions related to the urinary tract and reproductive system. Some of the most common conditions treated by urologists include urinary tract infections (UTIs), certain cancers, incontinence, kidney diseases, prostatitis, interstitial cystitis, etc.

Who is the best urologist in Bangalore?

BGS Gleneagles Hospitals has some of the best urologists in Bangalore. You can visit our website and check the profiles of the top urologists.

What are the symptoms I must look out for?

Some of the common symptoms indicating urological conditions include painful urination, blood in urine, difficulty urinating or chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Endoscopy is one of the most useful nonsurgical procedures that allows gastroenterologists to examine a patient’s digestive tract in great detail. The procedure is conducted using an endoscope, which is a flexible tube that has an attached light and camera. The tube is inserted into your body via a small incision or opening such as through the mouth, giving your doctor a clear view of the digestive tract.

Endoscopy is helpful for the visual examination of the digestive tract without the need for large surgical incisions and is used as a diagnostic tool to identify the cause of abnormal symptoms. It may also be used to collect tissue samples, as in the case of an endoscopic biopsy. Endoscopy can also be used to treat certain gastrointestinal conditions such as to stop bleeding from an ulcer or to remove gallstones.

How is Endoscopy Treatment done?

To prepare for upper GI endoscopy or stomach endoscopy, you simply need to abstain from any food or drink (excluding water) for a period of 6 to 8 hours before the procedure. In case of a colonic endoscopy or colonoscopy, the colon must also be cleared of any fecal matter prior to the procedure and you may be advised to take a laxative before the procedure. You should also make it a point to inform your doctors about any medications that you may be taking before undergoing an endoscopy.

An endoscopy is performed under local anesthesia, so you will not experience any discomfort or pain during the procedure although you will remain conscious. During the procedure, the endoscopy tube will be inserted through the mouth, which you will be asked to swallow. The local anesthetic will prevent coughing or gagging as the tube passes through, while a mouth guard will be used to protect your teeth. As the endoscope makes its way through the digestive tract, the tiny camera within it relays detailed images onto a screen. Once your doctor has completed the examination or treatment, the endoscope will be withdrawn from your mouth.

An endoscopy is an outpatient procedure, which means that you will not require any hospitalization after the endoscopy. You will simply need to rest for a couple of days and you may also be advised to take certain medications to relieve symptoms like soreness of the throat, gas, bloating, and cramping that can occur of after an endoscopy.

Benefits and Risks

As is the case with any medical procedure, an endoscopy comes with its own sets of risks and benefits. However, your doctor will only recommend the procedure if the benefits outweigh the risks.

The main benefits of endoscopy are:

• It causes minimal discomfort and is painless
• It is highly efficient and can last between 5 to 20 minutes
• There is no need for post-procedure hospitalization
• It helps with the accurate diagnosis of a wide range of gastrointestinal tract problems including GERD, stomach ulcers, gallstones, pancreatitis, tumors, and other problems

The risks of endoscopy include:

• In some cases, swallowing of the tube can cause minor discomfort
• Minor bleeding or infection that can be treated effectively
• Perforation or tearing of oesophageal or stomach lining in rare cases
• Complications from pre-existing conditions such as widening of gastrointestinal blockage

Endoscopy Cost in Bengaluru

Endoscopy costs can vary considerably, depending on the choice of hospital and the type of endoscopy procedure that is required. For example, the endoscopy price of Upper Gastrointestinal or GI Endoscopy will be different from that for Bronchoscopy or Laparoscopy, all of which are endoscopic procedures.

Make an Enquiry

BGS Gleneagles Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru features gastroenterologists with expertise and experience in performing endoscopies and interpreting results. With advanced diagnostic technology, they can ensure the accurate and precise diagnosis of both common and rare GI conditions, ensuring effective treatment. Some of the common endoscopy diagnostics and treatments offered include:

• Upper GI Endoscopy
• Laryngoscopy
• Colonoscopy
• Capsule Endoscopy

The term angina is also referred to as ischemia. This is a sort of chest pain that is caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease. Although angina is comparatively common, it can still be difficult to differentiate from other types of chest pain, such as the discomfort of indigestion.

Sometimes you may feel unexplained chest pain; seek medical attention right away. It may feel like pressure in your chest. Angina is not a serious disease that cannot be treated. It is a basic symptom of an underlying heart problem. Angina has many types, which include micro prinzmetal's angina, stable angina, unstable angina and variant angina.

There are many factors that can trigger angina pain, depending on the type of angina you may have. The symptoms can also be responsible for which type of angina you have.

Understand Your Risk for Angina

If you have a chance of any heart disease or coronary MVD risk, then you also may develop the risk for angina. The most major risk factors for heart disease and coronary MVD include:

• Unhealthy cholesterol levels, high blood pressure
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Overweight or obesity
• Metabolic syndrome
• Inactivity
• Unhealthy diet
• Older age
• Family history of early heart disease

Diagnosis of Angina

All kinds of chest pain should be taken seriously and need to be checked by a healthcare provider. If you feel any kind of chest pain, your doctor will find out whether it's angina and or not. If it turns out to be any of the symptoms of angina, then the medical staff or doctors give you medical treatment. Also, a doctor will be able to find out whether the angina is stable or unstable. You may need emergency medical treatment if the case is unstable to prevent a heart attack.

Treatment of Angina

Your doctor will tell you which physical exam should be taken, and also, you should ask about your symptoms, risk factors and family history. They might need to do certain tests likes:

• EKG: This test measures your heart's electrical activity and rhythm.
• Stress test: This test is done to check how your heart is working while you are doing any activity and exercise.
• Blood tests: The doctor will check the proteins level called troponins. Your doctor may also do more general tests like a metabolic panel or complete blood count (CBC).
• Imaging tests: Chest X-rays help to find out other things that might be causing your chest pain, like lung conditions. Echocardiograms and CT and MRI scans can create images of the heart to help the doctor recognize the problems.
• Cardiac catheterization: This will be going to inserts a long, thin tube into an artery in your leg and threads it up to the heart to check your blood flow and pressure.
• Coronary angiography: Your doctor injects into the blood vessels of your heart. This process shows up on an X-ray, also creating an image of the blood vessels. They may do this procedure during cardiac catheterization.

When to see a doctor

If your pain lasts for longer than a few minutes and doesn't go while taking rest or sleep or taking angina medications, then it may be a sign you have a heart attack. If you think your chest discomfort is a new symptom for you, it's important to check with your doctor and try to find out the cause of your chest pain and get proper treatment and medication. It is also important if you are diagnosed with stable angina and it gets worse by the time or changes, seeks medical attention immediately.

Why should you consider BGS Gleneagles Hospital?

BGS Gleneagles Hospital, Cardiology is our most trusted hospital for cardiac disease in Bangalore. Our speciality is one of the best heart hospitals which gives the best treatment of any cardiac disease. We provide advanced level care for all the specialities such as heart diseases, cardiac diseases and also provide cardiovascular and thoracic surgeries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How serious is angina?

It's not life-threatening, but it's an alarm warning sign that you could be at risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Can angina just go away?

Angina symptoms usually ease or go away after a few minutes' rest or after taking the medicines but if you think you may be having a heart attack, call your local emergency service.

How do you fix angina?

Angina needs to be treated with nitrates to relax and widen your blood vessels, allowing more blood to flow to your heart muscle. 

What are the three types of angina?

The different types of Angina Pectoris are Stable Angina, Unstable Angina and Variant Angina Pectoris.

Heartburn is a feeling of burning sensation and intense pain in your chest, just behind your breastbone. The pain often gets worse after eating in the evening or when lying down or bending over. Casual or random heartburn is common and has no cause for alarm. Most people experience the discomfort of heartburn on their own with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. Heartburn that may come more frequently can interfere with your daily activity that can be a symptom of a more serious condition that requires urgent medical care.

Heartburn Symptoms

The most common symptom of heartburn tends to feel warmth, heat or burning in the chest and throat. This may be due to the stomach releases the acid flowing back up into the oesophagus. Some symptoms of heartburn may include as:

• A burning sensation and slight pain in the chest usually occurs after eating and may occur at night
• Pain that may get worsens when lying down or bending over, or during sleep.
• You feel a Bitter or acidic taste in your mouth.

Heartburn Diagnosis

If you feel heartburn for a long time, it may be a sign of a more severe condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease. A doctor is able to find whether it's GERD that causing the heartburn from your symptoms. With the help of the tests, the doctor will find the how serious condition is and may do several tests, including:

• X-ray: a solution called a barium suspension that coats the lining of your upper GI (gastrointestinal) tract -- your oesophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine.
• Endoscopy: A small camera on a flexible tube is put down into your throat to give a view of your upper GI tract.
• Ambulatory acid probe test (oesophagal pH monitoring): It measures when stomach acid backs up into your oesophagus and for how long.
• Oesophagal motility test or oesophagal manometer: A catheter going to be put into your oesophagus and measures pressure and movement.

Heartburn Problems & Complications

Occasional heartburn isn't dangerous. But GERD can sometimes give you serious problems which cannot be avoided, such as:

• A long-term coughLaryngitis
• Inflammation or ulcers of the oesophagus
• face problems of swallowing because of a narrow oesophagus
• Barrett's oesophagus, a condition that can make it more likely to get oesophagal cancer

Heartburn occurs most frequently and interferes in a daily life activity which is considered gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This treatment may require prescription medications and surgery, or other medical procedures.

Heartburn Medications

Self-treatment

To prevent heartburn, it's best to avoid lying down for at least two hours after also eating, avoid fats, sweets, chocolates and citrus foods. Antacid medications may ease symptoms immediately. Other medications such as omeprazole and avoid taking longer to work but may provide more effective relief.

Seeking medical care

See a doctor immediately if you:

• Have chest pain along with sweating, shortness of breath or pain in the arm or jaw
• Experience heartburn symptoms that don't respond to antacids

Visit your doctor and make an appointment if you feel any of these symptoms

• You may experience heartburn two or more times a week
• Get reflux symptoms that interfere with sleep
• Develop a new cough
• Have difficulty swallowing, nausea or vomiting
• Don't improve with self-treatment
• Lose weight unintentionally

Treatment of Heartburn

A person may discover symptoms of heartburn by using these drugs, which are:

• Antacids, which are over-the-counter (OTC) medications that help relieve mild heartburn
• Proton pump inhibitors which help to reduce the amount of stomach acid
• H2 blockers, which are a type of medication that reduces stomach acid levels and may help to heal the oesophagal lining.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prevent heartburn?

Mild cases of acid reflux can usually be prevented by adopting a few lifestyle changes in your daily activity.

When should I call my doctor about my heartburn?

Contact your doctor if you have any of the following heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms or conditions.

Does drinking water help heartburn?

Drinking water during the later stages of digestion can reduce acidity and GERD symptoms.

Will heartburn go away by itself?

Mild heartburn occurs after eating spicy or acidic food, which lasts until the food gets digested.

An endoscopy is a procedural method where organs inside of your body are checked or looked at by an instrument called an endoscope. An endoscopy is a long, thin and flexible tube that has a light and camera at one end.

This will take a picture of your inner body organ that is shown on computer television. An upper endoscopy is a procedure that is used to visually examine your upper digestive system with a small camera and a long end flexible tube.

This disease is treated by a specialist who treats the digestive system (gastroenterologist) uses endoscopy to diagnose and also to treat conditions that affect the oesophagus, stomach and beginning of the small intestine called the duodenum). This medical term is also termed esophagogastroduodenoscopy.

When is endoscopy used?

An endoscopy can be used to investigate:

• Unusual symptoms
• Help perform certain types of surgery

Endoscopy is also used to remove a small sample of tissues that can be looked at more closely and clearly. Endoscopy is called a biopsy.

Endoscopy symptoms and risks

• Fever
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• A red bloody, black or very dark-coloured stool
• Difficulty swallowing
• Severe or persistent abdominal pain
• Vomiting, especially when your vomit seems bloody or looks like small stone grounds

If you feel any of these, then you should call your doctor immediately or go to an emergency room if you are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms.

An endoscopy is a very safe procedure. Rare complications include:

• Bleeding - You might have chances of a bleeding problem after an endoscopy is done because this procedure involves removing a piece of tissue for treating a digestive system problem. In some cases, such bleeding may require a blood transfusion.
• Infection - Most endoscopies consist of an examination and biopsy, and the risk of infection is low. The risk of infection might get increases when any of the additional procedures are performed as part of endoscopy.
• Tearing of the gastrointestinal tract - A tear in your oesophagus or may another part of your upper digestive tract which needs to require hospitalization and sometimes surgery to diagnose it.

Causes of endoscopy

This may include:

• Perforation (tear in the gut wall)
• Reaction to sedation
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Pancreatitis a result of ERCP

When to see a doctor?

If you notice any signs of infection:

Signs of infection include:

• Redness, pain or swelling near where the endoscope placed in
• A discharge of fluid or pus close to where the endoscope placed in
• High temperature, or feeling hot or shivery at the times

Other complication signs which might come after having an endoscopy include:

• Black or very dark-coloured poo
• Shortness of breath, bad stomach pain, or abdominal pain that does not go away easily or keeps coming again
• Vomiting blood
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does an endoscopy test for?

Endoscopy is used to collecting tissue samples, also called biopsy, that is used to test the diseases and conditions

What diseases can be detected by endoscopy?

Some of the common diseases and conditions that endoscopies can detect includes:

• Anaemia, ulcers, and hiatus hernias
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD
• Celiac disease and gastrointestinal cancers

What is endoscopy, and how long does it take to complete?

An upper endoscopy usually takes half an hour or an hour to complete the procedure. When the procedure is over, the doctor will remove the endoscope. Then they will shift you to a recovery room.

Do they make you sleep for an endoscopy procedure?

In endoscopic procedures involve sedation, which may relax you and subdues your gag reflex. You may feel calm and sedated during the procedure, which makes you sleep, and you will not feel any kind of discomfort when there is an endoscope inserted through the mouth and into the stomach.

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, prioritizing our emotional well-being is essential for leading a fulfilling and balanced existence. From managing stress to fostering resilience, our daily habits play a significant role in shaping our emotional landscape. Integrative medicine, which combines conventional and complementary therapies, offers holistic approaches to promote emotional wellness. In this guide, we'll explore ten simple yet powerful daily habits that can help you cultivate inner harmony and enhance your emotional well-being, drawing insights from integrative medicine principles. 

As Dr Crystal, heading the department of Integrative Medicine, emphasizes, "Integrative medicine recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, and plays a vital role in nurturing emotional well-being by addressing the root causes of imbalance and supporting the body's innate healing abilities."
 

1) Prioritize Quality Sleep: 

Make sleep a priority by establishing a consistent bedtime routine and creating a conducive sleep environment. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night to support emotional resilience, cognitive function, and overall well-being.

2) Practice Mindfulness Meditation: 

Embrace the present moment through mindfulness meditation, cultivating awareness and acceptance of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations. Dedicate a few minutes each day to quiet reflection, focusing on your breath or observing your surroundings without judgment.

3) Nourish Your Body: 

Fuel your body with wholesome, nourishing foods that support optimal physical and emotional health. Emphasize a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while minimizing processed foods and sugary treats.

4) Engage in Physical Activity: 

Regular exercise is not only beneficial for your physical health but also your emotional well-being. Incorporate activities you enjoy, whether it's walking, yoga, dancing, or cycling, to release endorphins, reduce stress, and boost your mood.

5) Foster Social Connections: 

Cultivate meaningful relationships with friends, family, and community members to nurture a sense of belonging and support. Engage in heartfelt conversations, share laughter, and offer acts of kindness to strengthen social bonds and promote emotional resilience.

6) Cultivate Gratitude: 

Take time each day to express gratitude for the blessings in your life, whether big or small. Keep a gratitude journal, write thank-you notes, or simply reflect on moments of appreciation to foster a positive outlook and deepen connections with others.

7) Practice Self-Compassion: 

Treat yourself with kindness and compassion, embracing your imperfections and acknowledging your worthiness. Practice self-care rituals that nourish your body, mind, and soul, such as taking a warm bath, reading a book, or indulging in a hobby you love.

8) Connect with Nature: 

Spend time outdoors and connect with the natural world to recharge your spirit and alleviate stress. Take a walk in the park, hike in the mountains, or simply bask in the beauty of a sunset to experience the healing power of nature.

9) Set Boundaries: 

Establish healthy boundaries in your personal and professional life to protect your well-being and honor your needs. Learn to say no when necessary, prioritize self-care, and communicate openly and assertively with others to maintain balance and harmony.

10) Embrace Mind-Body Therapies: 

Explore integrative medicine modalities such as acupuncture, massage therapy, aromatherapy, or herbal medicine to support your emotional well-being. These complementary therapies can help alleviate stress, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body and mind.

By incorporating these ten daily habits into your routine, you can create a nurturing environment that fosters emotional well-being and resilience. Drawing inspiration from integrative medicine principles, embrace holistic approaches that honor the interconnectedness of your physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. Remember that small changes can yield significant results, so start today and embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner transformation.

All You Need to Know About Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are a common problem that many people face. If you have them, you're not alone! In this blog post, we will discuss what varicose veins are, the causes, and the treatments available. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent varicose veins from forming in the first place. Keep reading for more information!

What is varicose vein?

Varicose veins also known as varicoses or varicosities,are swollen, twisted, and enlarged veins that appear blue or dark purple in color. They are typically found in the legs and can cause pain, fatigue, and burning sensations. In some cases, they may cause more serious issues such as skin deterioration or ulceration.

Causes of varicose vein:

Causes of varicose vein are:

1. Pregnancy
2. Age (since as you age your veins become weaker),
3. Genetics
4. Obesity
5. Smoking
6. Physically inactive
7. Hormone changes during puberty or menopause

Signs of Varicose Vein:

The most common symptom of varicose veins is aching or heavy legs. If your legs feel like they need to be massaged or rubbed after standing for long periods, it could be a sign that you have weakened vein valves. Other symptoms include swelling in the feet, ankles, and calves; discolored skin around the affected area; and itching or burning sensations near the veins. In some cases, you may even see visible bulging or twisting veins under the skin.

How to prevent Varicose Vein?

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent varicose veins from occurring in the first place:

• Regular exercise such as walking or swimming; avoiding sitting or standing for long periods of time
• Elevating your legs when sitting down
• Eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants; drinking plenty of water
• Avoiding the usage of high heels for a long time
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding tight clothing around your waist, legs or groin area
• Quit smoking

Common Treatments for Varicose Vein Removal:

The type of treatment you receive will depend on the severity of your condition. Here are some common treatments for varicose vein removal

Compression Socks

Compression socks help reduce swelling by applying pressure to the affected area. They also aid in preventing further vein damage

Sclerotherapy

In this procedure, a solution is injected into the affected vein which causes it to close off and eventually disappear over time

Endovenous Laser Treatment

Endovenous laser treatment involves using laser energy to heat up and seal off the affected vein so that blood can no longer flow through it

Varicose veins can worsen over time, but they don’t have to be. With the right treatment and preventive measures, you can put your best foot forward. And if you ever find yourself worried about a potential vein issue, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’d be more than happy to chat and answer any questions you might have. Enquire now!

Book an appointment now with the best vascular surgeon in bangalore at BGS Gleneagles Hospital

Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea

"Why do I snore loudly and feel tired and irritable even after a full night's sleep?" 
The answer is - You might have sleep apnea.

What is Snoring- A quick guide

We find it unbelievable that we only snore at night and not during the day, but why is that the case? During the day, our neck muscles keep the airway broad and help air pass through the nose and throat smoothly. Meanwhile, neck muscles loosen during sleep and collapse into this airway, narrowing it and causing airflow turbulence. The suction current created by the rapid airflow vibrates and stretches the uvula and soft palate. Due to the negative pressure pulling the tongue back and blocking the airway, this force causes snoring and sleep apnea.

Snoring can happen at various levels starting from the nose to the oropharynx (back of your mouth)

1. Air from outside transits to the nasopharynx via the nose. Any obstruction in this passage will cause snoring. The deviated nasal septum that blocks the airway is one of the major causes. Patients with difficulty breathing through the nose tend to sleep with their mouths open at night, which causes turbulence of airflow as it bypasses the nose and results in snoring.
2. Similar causes of snoring are Allergic rhinitis and nose block, Sinusitis with nasal polyps, tumors of the nasal cavity.
3. Patients with tonsillar hypertrophy will also experience snoring because of the same phenomenon. Here, airflow obstruction is at the level of the oropharynx.
4. In obese patients, there will be increased neck circumference due to fat deposition, shorter neck, and loose neck muscles. These are contributing factors to increase the turbulence of airflow and snoring.
5. Acidic reflux in the long-term causes elongation of the uvula and edema of the mucous membrane of the throat. The movement of the long uvula with breathing will also cause turbulence and snoring.

How loud do I snore?

Usually, snoring is reported by your partner/ roommate. There are several ways to assess the loudness of snoring with the help of questionnaires.

What are the treatment options?

A qualified ENT surgeon will evaluate you to assess the causes of snoring. Treatment options aim at creating a smoother airway during sleep. Lifestyle changes can achieve a holistic approach toward the reduction of snoring.

In cases of obstruction at the nose level, like a deviated septum, allergic rhinitis, or nasal polyps, the treatment aims to clear the disease and create a nasal pathway for the smooth conduct of air.

Some doctors recommend a balloon sinuplasty procedure to reduce the forces that create vibration, snoring, and sleep apnea. However, balloon sinuplasty is considered ineffective in reducing sleep apnea symptoms. Balloon sinuplasty has a higher risk of complications and an extended recovery period. Today there are procedures to stiffen or soften the soft palate that can reduce snoring and open the airway in the back of our throat.

In some cases, an oral appliance may also be needed to assist in holding the mouth closed and move the jaw slightly forward to shift an oversized tongue away from the back of the throat.

What's beyond snoring? Have you heard of Obstructive sleep apnea?

In some people, the throat closes so much that not enough air can get through to the lungs, and when this happens, the brain sends an alarm to open the airway. The brain quickly reactivates the muscles that hold the throat open. Air gets through again, and our brain goes back to sleep. Most often, this is associated with brief arousal from sleep. When we experience this disorder, the term given to it is "obstructive sleep apnea."

In this process, the person tends to keep his mouth open to breathe easily. Mouth breathing also dehydrates the tongue, which results in progressive tongue enlargement, increasing the chance of sleep apnea.

Do I have Obstructive sleep apnea? Check it out!!

Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea:

• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Loud snoring
• Observed episodes of stopped breathing during sleep
• Abrupt awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking
• Awakening with a dry mouth or sore throat
• Morning headache
• Difficulty concentrating during the day
• Mood changes, such as depression or irritability
• High blood pressure
• Decreased libido

Factors that increase the risk of sleep apnea include:

• Excess weight. Obesity dramatically increases the risk of sleep apnea.
• Neck circumference. People with thicker necks might have narrower airways.
• A narrowed upper airway.
• Shorter jaw
• Double chin
• Being older.
• Family history.
• Use of alcohol, sedatives, or tranquilizers.
• Smoking.
• Nasal congestion/ Nasal block
• Medical conditions like diabetes, Parkinson, etc.,

Lifestyle changes to adapt

Few lifestyle changes and home remedies that can help you.

• If you're overweight, try to lose weight.
• Sleep on your side.
• Raise the head of your bed.
• Treat nasal congestion or obstruction.
• Limit or avoid alcohol and sedatives.
• Quit smoking today.
• Get enough sleep.

You can visit your doctor if you have or if your partner observes the following:

• Snoring loud enough to disturb your sleep or that of others.
• Waking up gasping or choking
• Pausing your breathing during sleep
• Treat nasal congestion or obstruction. Having excessive daytime drowsiness, which may cause you to fall asleep while working, watching television, or even driving a vehicle.

Is treatment for Obstructive sleep apnea necessary?

Obstructive sleep apnea is considered a severe medical condition.

• Daytime fatigue and sleepiness. Patients might find it challenging to concentrate and fall asleep at work while watching TV or even when driving. This can put them at higher risk of work-related accidents.
• Cardiovascular problems: Many people with obstructive sleep apnea develop high blood pressure, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
• The more severe obstructive sleep apnea, the greater the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attacks, heart failure, and strokes.
• Obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk of abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias), which can lower blood pressure.
• Complications are also seen with medications and surgery. These medications, such as sedatives, narcotic analgesics, and general anesthetics, relax your upper airway and can worsen your obstructive sleep apnea.
• If you have obstructive sleep apnea, having major surgery, especially after being sedated and lying on your back, can worsen breathing problems. People are prone to complications after surgery.
• Before surgery, tell your doctor if you have obstructive sleep apnea or symptoms related to the condition. Your doctor might want you tested before surgery with a sleep study.
• Eye problems. Some research has found a connection between obstructive sleep apnea and certain eye conditions, such as glaucoma.
• Sleep-deprived partners. Loud snoring can keep those around you from getting good rest.
• Patients may also complain of memory problems, morning headaches, mood swings or depression, and a need to urinate frequently at night.
• Children and young people may display attention or behavior problems.
• Individuals with obstructive sleep apnea are at higher risk for developing a severe form of COVID-19 and needing hospital treatment than those who don't have obstructive sleep apnea.