Stroke in Young Adults

Our modern life style has put our young adults more at risk in health issues than their elders.

Stroke in young adults is one of the health issues about which we need to create awareness among the general public. This will alert both the young adults as well as their parents/guardians to take preventive measures. Stroke is a public health issue that causes long-term disabilities with emotional and socio economic consequences.

First of all, what stroke is all about?

Stroke is associated with a new onset of rapidly developing symptoms and signs of loss of cerebral function lasting more than 24 hours with no apparent cause other than that of vascular origin. Stroke is of two kinds, one hemorrhagic and second ischemic.In one type, rupturing of blood vessels of the skull occurs. In the other type, bleeding occurs at the spot between the arachnoid membrane and pia mater around the brain. These two are the major causes of stroke in young adults.

Major causes of stroke in young adults and children are different from that of older people.

Strokes develop within 24 hours of onset of symptoms, all occurring within 10 days. Therefore, early suspicion and diagnosis is necessary to prevent stroke. Migraine is an underlying factor for stroke and it also is an acute precipitant of stroke (migrainous stroke). Ischemic stroke risk is higher in females having migraine and using oral contraceptives which are a known independent risk factor for ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. People aged over 35 with a history of hypertension with smoking habits are prone to get stroke attacks. 

F.A.S.T.

Regardless of age, symptoms for stroke are indicated in the acronym F.A.S.T.  “F” for drooping face on the one side, “A” for arms that cannot be raised, “S” for slurred speech, and “T” for time indicating timely action. The acronym FAST is to help detect stroke symptoms and immediate hospitalization.

General symptoms which are not exhaustive

·       Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arms, or legs particularly on one side of the body.

·       Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding difficulty.

·       Sudden vision difficulties in one or both the eyes.

·       Sudden severe headache.

General risk factors,also called as modifiable risk factors in young adults

·       Smoking

·       Alcoholism

·       Diabetes

·       Hypertension

·       Dyslipidemia

·       Past history of stroke

·       Rheumatic heart disease with atrial fibrillation

·       Oral contraceptive pills in women

 Uncommon causes of stroke in young adults.

·       Nonatheroscleroticangiopathies

·       Cervicocephalic  arterial dissection

·       Cerebral amyloid angiopathy

·       Moyamoya disease

·       Fibromusculardysplacia

·       Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome

·       Susac’s syndrome

·       Sneddon’s syndrome

·       Migraine-induced stroke

Hematologic conditions

·       Hypercoagulable state due to deficiencies of protein S, protein C or antithrombin;

·       Factor V Leiden mutation etc

Genetic

·       Fabry disease

·       CADASIL  (cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy)

·       MELAS

·       Marfan syndrome

·       Neurofibromatosis

·       Sturge-Weber disease

Inflammatory and infectious

·       Vasculitis

·       Temporal arteritis

·       Takayasu disease

·       Bechet’s syndrome

·       Neurosarcoidosis

·       Neurocysticerosis

·       HIV

·       Varicella zoster virus

·       Neurosyphilis

·       Tuberculous meningitis

 Indian scenario

According to a study, about 5.8 million people had been affected by stroke as far back as in 2005. Stroke has emerged as the second most common cause of death. Globally 7.8 million deaths have been estimated to occur due to stroke by 2030.  By 2050, India will be one of the regions where 80 % of stroke events will occur.

Prevention of Stroke

Quit smoking and have regular physical exercise for 20 minutes a day at least three to four days in a week.  Ensure against high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels.  Primary stroke prevention in young adults includes aggressive treatment of hypertension, smoking, and dyslipidemia. Secondary stroke prevention involves stroke etiology and treatment of additional risk factors. Secondary stroke prevention aims at prevention and reducing risk of a second stroke after identification etiology of initial stroke as part of stroke rehabilitation.

Although stroke in young adults occurs only in 10-15 % of all stroke patients, this section of the population suffers severe economic consequences as young adults are disabled well before their most productive years. Apart from aggressive treatment and control of risk factors, life style changes can prevent up to 50 % of strokes.

Why is Preventive Health Check-Up Important?

Medical innovations and technological advancements have increased the lifespan of people. But has it improved the quality of health? Many people suffer from chronic health conditions that make their lives extremely painful and miserable. The symptoms of these diseases prevent them from living a normal life and overwhelm their willpower. But these can be avoided with the help of preventive healthcare.

Preventive healthcare practices help you to maintain good health throughout your life. Studies note that a significant number of individuals in the age group of 40-65 years are affected by lifestyle illnesses. International medical bodies recommend that women above 40 years and men above 35 years need to undergo an annual health check up. 

What are the tests conducted during an Annual Health Check-up?

The tests depend largely on your medical history and family history. However, a full medical checkup is done commonly for everyone, and that includes some tests such as –

History Analysis:

The physician discusses with you about your previous medical conditions including ailments, medical procedures undergone and medications taken. In the case of the presence of any particular diseases in the family such as chronic heart diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, etc., the doctor will suggest few screening tests.

Examination of vital signs:

Your vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiration rate and temperature are checked by the doctor. A checkup is done to look for irregularities in heartbeat and status of lungs.

A full body exam: 

A physical examination is done to the neck, head, mouth, teeth and gums. The ears, eyes and nose, are also checked. An examination of the lymph nodes and thyroid are also done. The abdominal exam reveals the health status of liver, digestive system and bowels. Other areas include joints, arms and legs.

Blood Test:

Blood test for heart disease, diabetes, cholesterol, cancer, and anemia are common during an annual health checkup. A blood test can also give details about the functioning of other vital organs such as the liver, kidney and thyroid. 

HEALTH BENEFITS OF PREVENTIVE HEALTH CHECK UPS

•  A preventive health check up helps in preventing and in some cases in the early detection of chronic ailments.
• Certain illnesses start showing noticeable symptoms only in the extreme stages, but a periodic checkup will help in diagnosing them in the early stage.
• Helps to spot the signs and symptoms of life-threatening ailments such as cancer, HIV, etc.
• Promotes better and effective disease management through medication and counselling
•  Assist and encourages to follow a healthy lifestyle

In short, a preventive health checkup goes a long way in helping you to lead a happy and healthy life throughout a lifetime. Undergoing an annual medical checkup will help you save time and money that you would otherwise have to invest in treating other illness. With stress and tension lurking in every corner of our lives, maintaining a good health will help you to lead a more satisfying life.

  

Chennai Elders Day'16 - Mega Walkathon - 1st Oct

Kidney Stones

Kidney stones or calculi are tough mineral deposits that are formed in the kidneys. The kidney aids in filtering the waste products from the blood and let them into the urine. When the waste products do not break up completely they are formed as hard calculi and then get trapped into the ureter. If it is untreated it may cause infection and also leads to poor functioning of the kidneys.

Several hospitals in India treat various problems in Kidney effectively. Treatment for kidney stones at India is very successful as many skilled Urologists are available at top hospitals. They make use of latest technology and treat effectively with affordable rates.

Symptoms of Kidney stones:

When the stones block the ureter and interrupts in the urine flow symptoms begin and it includes,

·      Severe pain while passing urine

·      Pain in the lower abdomen and back area

·     Presence of blood in the urine

·     Vomiting and nauseate feeling

·        Feeling burning sensation while urinating

·        Pain extending to groin and testicle region

Treatment:

The management of Kidney stones highly depends on the size and nature of the stones present. Those stones which are 5mm or less than that are not treated clinically and it comes down in the urine when the fluid intake is more. If the stones are made of calcium it does not respond to the medications and they are treated through surgical interventions.

·        Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL):

The calculi that are smaller than 2cm can be segmented using shock waves which then are flushed out through the urine. It usually takes 45minutes for the procedure and done as a daycare intervention. It is considered as one of the safest procedure without any harm to the kidneys.

 Ureteroscopy:

A tiny specialized instrument called scope is introduced into the bladder which reaches up to the urethra by means of ureter without making any cut. The stones are then segmented by using holmium laser which makes it as a powder. It is a painless procedure with minimal loss of blood.

·        Percutaneous Nephro Lithotomy (PCNL):

The stones that are larger than 2cm in diameter are treated with PCNL. It is a kind of keyhole surgery in which a small incision is made in the area above kidney. It is performed under general anesthesia and requires 3-4 days stay at the hospital. The recovery time is quick and is much safer procedure.

·        Open surgery:

The stones that are more complex are removed by means of surgery that is done by making a cut in the abdomen region.

Home remedies for kidney stone removal:

·       You can consume two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar mixed with one teaspoon of honey with a cup of warm water and have it for few times in a day.

·        Mix four tablespoons of lemon juice with same amount of olive oil and consume it three times a day for about three days. The citric acid in the lemons helps to fragment the calcium deposits. It is not effective for larger stones.

·        The seeds and the liquid of pomegranate have astringent properties. You can have one fruit or a glass of juice daily or you can grind the seeds and make it as a paste and have it along with horse gram soup.

·        Add two table spoons of dried nettle leaf to one cup of boiling water and allow it boil for ten minutes and filter and have the water for two to three times for few weeks. It prevents from the formation of stones and also enhances smooth urination.

·       Basil is good for overall health and has many medicinal properties. Mix one teaspoon of basil juice with honey and have it early morning for few months. It helps in the expulsion of stones from urinary tract.

·     Watermelon is used to treat calculi’s that are formed by calcium and carbonates. The juice when consumed regularly helps in aiding the overall health of kidneys. 

Why one should choose India for Ayurvedic treatment?

‘Ayurveda’ is considered to be one of the world’s oldest consecrated healing systems. It is been practiced for about 5000 years in India. It is considered as the medicinal part of yoga. The main concept of Ayurveda is that the overall well being of a person depends on the fine balance of mind, body and willpower. It enhances the complete health of a person instead of battling for the disease. The main aim of Ayurveda is,

•           To cure an ailment
•          To prevent from a disease
•          To attain prolonged existence or age reversal

      Notion of Ayurveda:

According to the presumption of Ayurveda, all belongings in the universe whether alive or not is associated to each other. Good physical condition is accomplished by unity of brain, body and willpower with the life.

A disruption of this harmony will lead to poor health and sickness. The things that causes disruption are,

       Birth or genetic deficiency
    Wounding of the body
    Changes in environment
       Maturity
    Sentiment

     Benefits of having Ayurvedic treatment:

It is found to be effective for metabolic, tension related and persistent condition. It is also useful in easing the bad effects of surgery and also the side effects caused by chemotherapy. It is even used in rejuvenating whole body and enhancing beauty.

What is done in Ayurvedic treatment?

Ayurveda works to balance the human body’s energy which is called as ‘Doshas’. It is attained by diet, different types of massage, use of herbal liquid onto the body and also herbal leaves and powders. First, you will be evaluated by the Ayurvedic doctor and special treatment method will be customized based on your problem and the root cause will be solved. It will take about few weeks to finish the full treatment. But simple body revitalization treatment such as massage, spa can be done.

Best period to get Ayurvedic treatment in India:

During the rainy season, which starts from June to September is ideal to get Ayurvedic treatment because the climate is fresh, wet and dust free. Also it facilitates the body’s pores to open up which makes the herbal oil and massage to penetrate deep inside the body giving out superior results.

Places where Ayurvedic treatment is offered in India:

The places that offer Ayurvedic treatment are mostly located in southern part of India, mainly Kerala. The main reason is due to the climatic conditions and abundant supply of therapeutic plants and herbs which makes them most suitable for Ayurvedic treatment.

Also few centers are located in Goa and Karnataka. The treatment is available at Ayurvedic hospitals, resorts, wellness hubs and also in five star hotels hotel. An inventive option is to book a boat house which caters the ayurvedic treatment and explore the beauty of backwaters in Kerala. Ayurvedic resorts have become well-liked destination for people all over the world which makes them feel relaxed and rejuvenated and it is the key reason to choose India. As India is the birth place of Ayurveda, many people desire to come here and number of resorts according to their affordability is available. Many Ayurvedic hospitals are situated here which cures many serious health problems.

Price for Ayurvedic treatment:

At an Ayurvedic Hospital, the cost for the treatment will range from $1000 - $1500 which excludes accommodation charges. The minimum charge in the resorts will be about $60 - $150 / day. Packages are available that ranges from $1500 to $1800 for two people with seven days stay.

Best Places that offer Ayurvedic Treatment in India:

Ayurvedic treatment offered at India is two main kinds, common rejuvenation treatment which is catered to travelers who visits those area and concentrated medical treatment given by particular centers in certain location which has suitable climate. Resorts are appropriate to receive an indulging massage and to have an overall feel of Ayurveda. But people who seek proper ayurvedic treatment for their medical problems should visit good ayurvedic hospital.

The Kerala tourism has graded the Ayurvedic Institution, like ‘Green leaf’ and ‘Olive leaf’ to ensure the quality service provided. The centers which have five star amenities are graded as ‘Green leaf’ and those which has three star amenities are graded as ‘Olive leaf’. It is ranked to ensure the reliability of service providers and the excellence.

Second opinion | Medical Tourism In India

Medical Tourism in India

In this contemporary and fast moving world, our human life is constantly invaded by new deadly diseases which poses a big challenge to us. The field of medical science with its constant enhancements has almost healed all kinds of diseases to increase the human life span. Medical tourism in India is blooming and it has become one of the preferred destinations for medical treatments for people across the world as hospitals in India have state of the art medical technologies, proficient doctors and skilled health care professionals.

Health Opinion is one of the growing health tourism company which helps out patient who are in need for solutions to their medical problems. We at Health Opinion offer tailored care to each patient with reasonable economic rates, where their needs are met quickly at the right time without bearing any additional cost.

The fundamental goal of health opinion is commitment towards customer’s satisfaction and to serve them with utmost care. We offer various services like booking an appointment with concerned doctors, referring them to best hospitals for medical treatment suitable to their estimated budget and also obtain second opinion from various hospitals to make them understand their health issues.

Health Opinion assures their patient with quality care that is on par with world class medical technology. The health opinion team has dedicated professionals at 24/7 and gives solution to patients at the earliest with our established network of well qualified consultants and India’s top most hospitals. We specialize in areas of Orthopedics, Cardiology, Spine problems, Oncology, Neurology and Neuro surgery, Transplant surgery, Urology, Infertility treatment, Cosmetic treatment, General surgery, Women and Child care. We are connected with leading single and multi-specialty hospitals across the major cities in India. The enquiries submitted to us will be addressed within a maximum of 24 to 48 hrs with an estimate from over two or three hospitals and the patients can choose the hospitals upon their requirement.

We serve both domestic and international patients. We have supported patients from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Djibouti, Iraq, Srilanka, Nigeria and United Kingdom. All of our patients go back to their home with complete happiness which is shown by their testimonials. The medical tourism in India is becoming very important in comparison to other countries because of the excellent treatment methods and low price.

Health opinion welcomes the patient with warmth and care starting from the airport pickup, accommodating them at the hospitals or service apartments/hotels and coordinating with the hospitals for medical treatment. We also assist them in meeting their dietary needs by providing different cuisines according to their taste. As many people from abroad find difficulties in their language, health opinion facilitates them with interpreters so that they have a secured feel. As a part of our tourism package we also offer local sightseeing activities so that they relax despite of their medical problems. Some of our additional values include exchange of foreign currencies, consultation for people in remote areas through telemedicine facility and visa assistance.  

The team at Health Opinion provides a comprehensive package to take care of your health necessities at your door step. We help to save your precious time and money with utmost satisfaction. In short Health Opinion ‘Connects you to Good health’ with superior care. 

Getting Helpful Tips from your Health Care Plans

There are certain fundamentals about health care plans that you should be familiar with questions you should raise before deciding which health plan is best suited for you and your family ...

Before you initiate the process of selecting the right health care plans, the first thing you need to understand coverage. Even though the same condition pertaining to urgent situation care is mentioned in many plans, it does not mean that a plan pays sum cost of emergency care.

Most of the plans cover 80 % of the expenses incurred while other plans upto 50 %. Another important thing that everyone should know is basically there are four types of health care plans presented to people who do not accept Medicare or Medical.

It pays for most part of your health problems, but does not pay for health care prevention. In an indemnity plan, you can consult any doctor or hospital as per your wish, but don't forget that the monthly premium is normally superior to other types of health care plans.

Health Maintenance Organization (HMO): It covers massiveness of your health care requirements, together with medical check-ups, vaccinations and hospitalization, for a moderately small co-payment. Through HMO, no claim forms are available but you are controlled to using only hospitals and doctors associated with your health plan. A list of allied physicians is provided by the HMO.

Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO): The functions of this plan are same as HMO and the type is also similar to HMO.

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): Almost covers most of your health care needs for a little per-visit fee if you select from the list of preferred providers. Of course you can choose to see a doctor not on the preferred list, but you will have to compensate part of the bill and have to pay a deductible. Some PPOs need claim forms.

Point of Service (POS): This plan gives you two different options each and every time you use health care services: The first option is to apply the plan just like a HMO and the second option is to apply your plan just like an indemnity plan. While you are using your health care plans like indemnity insurance, you are responsible for a deductible and a percentage of your receipt.

The most significant tip is not at all waiting till you fall ill to aim for a health care plans. You must clearly understand it necessitates a little knowledge of pre-study before you can confirm the right health care plans for you.

The primary step in selecting a health care plans that is suited for you is choosing a best doctor who is right for your health care. If you have a doctor you as like, find out the plans in which your doctor contributes. If you are not able to find an answer, or you are not fulfilled with the answer you get, move on to another health care plans.