World Hepatitis Day 2019: An Overview

World Hepatitis Day is observed on 28th July every year to spread the awareness on Hepatitis. The inflammation of the liver is termed as 'Hepatitis'. Despite the campaigns and programs that happen worldwide, there are still 300 million in the globe who are unaware that they are suffering from hepatitis. There are five types of hepatitis, but the commonly known are Hepatitis A, B and C.  

Hepatitis Symptoms and Treatment 

The symptoms of Hepatitis include fatigue, loss of appetite, pale stools, abdominal pain, yellow eyes and skin. These symptoms are not given much of a concern as it is confused with other medical conditions. So, medical professionals focus on treating the symptoms than actually the disease. There is a need for proper diagnosis and testing to determine the incidence of hepatitis. 

Blood tests help in determining whether hepatitis is resultant from viral infections or other reasons. Hepatitis A and E are typically caused due to the consumption of contaminated food and water. The presence of Hepatitis E in pregnant women is found to be dangerous. Hepatitis B, C and D are caused by direct contact or transmission through the body fluids. 

Hepatitis A (Hep A) is the acute condition which mostly do not need treatments. But its symptoms such as nausea and vomiting may cause dehydration in individuals. In such cases, IV fluids might be recommended by the doctor. Medication will be needed if it progresses to severe condition. After the patient recovers from the Hep A, they generally become immune lifelong to hepatitis. There is Hep A vaccine to protect individuals from this condition. 

Hepatitis B and C are the inflammatory conditions of the liver which are known to be dangerous. Hepatitis B vaccine is the only way to prevent the contraction of Hep B. It is the type of hepatitis which does not have a cure. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends one shot of Hep B,12 hours after birth to protect the baby from the exposure to Hep B virus. 

There are no vaccines existing for Hep C. It is cured in 20-25 percent of the cases through anti-viral medications. In others it tend to develop it into chronic stages which may result in liver failure or cirrhosis. For these complications such as liver damage and dysfunction of the liver there are treatments that can be taken. 

  

Hepatitis & India 

Hepatitis C can lead to chronic conditions such as cirrhosis and inflict severe damage to the liver. In that case, there might be a need for a liver surgery. It could be the restoration of the damaged portion of the liver or else a complete replacement.  

In India, liver transplant surgery is one of the successful transplant surgeries. There is a 90 percent survival rate (Source: Apollo Hospitals) associated with this transplant. The cost and quality of medical treatment in India attracts abundant patients for liver-related treatments. The health tourism in India has plenty of players to aid the patients in choosing the best hospital for the treatment and care. 

Success Rate of Hip Replacement in India

A functional hip is an essentiality for regular activities in daily life. Any kind of obstruction can interfere with basic movements such as sitting, bending, standing and walking. If there is any damage, it calls for immediate surgery after medical expertise. Hip Replacement Surgery is one of the corrective measures for a dysfunctional hip. And it is particularly, one of the main focus of Indian Medical Tourism. Most medical tourists prefer hip replacement surgery in India because of the cost and quality factor. 

The Hip Replacement procedure is generally recommended for conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. These conditions cause the weakening of the hip or its parts. There are cases of hip fractures which can be from accidents or medical conditions like osteoporosis. 

  

The success rate of hip replacement surgery is generally defined by the number of years which guarantee a functional hip. According to a study conducted by researchers Herbert and Malchau regarding the prognosis of top hip replacement surgery, the success rate of having a functional hip after 10 years of surgery was 90-95 percent. After a period of 20 years, it became 80-85 percent. 

  The key aspect contributing to this high success rate is the recovery or rehabilitation post-surgery. 

  

Types of Hip Replacement Surgeries 

There are a number of hip replacement surgeries in the healthcare sector. So, one must be cautious about selecting surgery for their condition. It is wise to go for the expertise of more than one doctor. A collective opinion will imbibe the confidence in the patient to take up the surgery. Here few hip replacement surgeries are briefed on:  

  

Total Hip Replacement Surgery - In the traditional way of surgery, the prosthetic parts are inserted in the place of damaged bone and cartilage. The head of the femur (thigh bone) is replaced by a metal or ceramic head. It also has an extension which goes a little down into the hollow surface of the thigh bone. The socket of the hip joint called as the acetabulum is placed with a metal socket held by screws or cement. The ball is inserted into the socket which has a plastic liner. It enables the movement of the thigh bone as normally as before. 

  Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement Surgery - It is similar to the traditional one but in this case, there is a minimal incision. The prosthetics used is the same as the traditional one. The only difference is that there are specialized surgical instruments used to make the incisions and space in the socket. The incision will be 2-3 inches or 1-2 inches in these particular surgeries, which will depend on each patient's case. 

Recovery Post Hip Replacement Surgery

 For a successful hip replacement, it is necessary to take rest and focus on rehab. The first few days, the patient will be under supervision in the hospital. Once the doctor approves the patient is fit, one can move back home. One should take care that there are not much of physical activities at this stage. Going into a rehabilitation centre will ensure the recovery process is faster and efficient. If there are any signs of infections then once must consult with the doctor. A regular doctor check-up will ensure that the healing process is occurring naturally. 

Reaching the Best Place for Treatment 

Generally, the two dimensions which are prioritized in medical treatments is cost and quality. And the one place you can avail this is in India. The healthcare consultants are the best way to access the hip replacement surgeries in the hospitals specializing on the same. They are the ambassadors of medical tourism - who will link up leading hospitals and competent medical professionals. Approaching a medical tourism company will take care of the itinerary of the medical journey. So, the medical tourist need not be concerned about the language barrier, accommodation and transportation. 

A Walk in The Woods

Do you wish sometimes that you could live in a forest? Maybe have a tree-house or a big tree in your backyard? Have you climbed a tree to pick a ripe mango and wanted to taste it desperately? Ever experienced the curiosity when you came across an exotic insect? These are some of the thoughts which cross our minds from time to time. The memory of forests has been etched in our memories with a distinct freshness and colour. And if you are a vivacious medical traveller then this is the right place for you. 

Research has proven that even a 5-minute walk in the dense forest will have a positive impact on our health. The serene environment devoid of distraction such as the vehicle noises, mobile phones, work tension, creates a state of relaxation and calmness. Forest bathing which is a Japanese nature therapy treatment is the cornerstone of preventive healthcare. 

Let's look at the walk in the wood benefits: 

Enhances the immunity - There is a unique aroma that belongs to the forest. Plants release phytoncides into the air to give its distinctive smell. Phytoncides are anti-microbial organic compounds that improve immunity in humans. It has the power to increase the natural killer(NK) cells in the human body. These cells are crucial in rejecting the tumor cells and virally infected cells, hence there are of utmost importance. 

Uplifts the mood - When cheerful thoughts enter into the world of a cluttered mind, one finds happiness. The magic of the forest enables you to experience its mystic sereneness. Instant positive transformation in your mood, makes you want to explore the secrecy of the woods. 

Boosts the energy level - Being in the vicinity of thickets, makes your mind ponder over the beauty and simplicity of mother nature. Individuals suffering from depression and anxiety can say a bye to their negatives and immerse themselves into the tranquilness of the woods. As the mind is free from pressure, there would be abundant energy which can be exploited for a forest adventure. 

Doorway to Recovery - A clean and peaceful atmosphere aid in quick recovery from an illness or surgery. After a certain accident or surgery, it is generally advised to take rest. The forest experience can help one regain betterment by rendering a nourishing condition for the cell. It is a natural medicine treatment with immense power for revitalizing health. 

 Treasure this kind of expedition with a group. It may open your eyes to discover new meanings to your life. There could be moments where you can come about with newness. It can also spark creativity and thinking in you. As your mind becomes free, it renders an arena for challenges and actually strengthens the body to face new challenges. Having a strong mind and body is the greatest forte.

There is a collaboration of social, mental, physical and emotional benefits that promises the holistic improvement during and after a forest walk. It is a necessity for the mind and body to find a resting place in spite of the daily pressures of life. Indulge into woods to know the wonderful reviving perks that can happen to yourself. 

The Emergence of New Vaccines

Protection against rising pathogens is the need of the hour. The stronger the immunity, the better is the ability to fight against the infections. Scientists are putting their best efforts to bring out powerful vaccines. A vaccine is a biological preparation which guards the body against particular diseases. Prior to medical travel and leisure trips its recommended to get immunized. When entering a new territory, there is a possibility that the body may not be adaptable to environmental microorganisms.Being immunized gives one the protection from the foreign particles which could be harmful to the body. 

Travel-based vaccines 

Vaccinations for travel are advised to be taken before the journey around 4 to 6 weeks or at least 2 weeks prior. This would help you to know if any possible side effects would be seen and could be consulted with the doctor. Know about the essential vaccines needed based on the place you visit. According to international regulations, the vaccine for yellow fever is considered mandatory. Vaccination ensures dangerous infections are not carried by you to your hometown. 

Immunization in India 

The Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) in India came about in 1985. The primary objective is to provide vaccines against polio, tuberculosis and other diseases to Indian children.  The program provides vaccination for 12 diseases: 

    • Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) for Tuberculosis 

    • DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis & Tetanus Toxoid) 

    • OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine) 

    • Measles 

    • Hepatitis B 

    • TT (Tetanus Toxoid) 

    • JE Vaccination 

    • Hib containing pentavalent vaccine (DPT+ Hepatitis B + Hib) 

The recent vaccines added to the list include the vaccines against rotavirus, rubella, inactivated poliovirus (IPV) and Japanese encephalitis vaccines. 

India had the highest incidences of polio cases. It was eradicated through a  vaccination programme with the collaborated efforts of WHO, Rotary International,  CDC, UNICEF, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Government of India. 

  

Vaccines for the older population 

Shingles is a common viral infection the causes painful rash seen in old age. There is a risk of developing shingles as one gets older. Most of the seniors over 60 years get hospitalized due to seasonal flu. Some of the vaccines which need to be taken includes: 

    • Seasonal Flu (influenza) vaccine 

    • Td or Tdap vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria & pertussis) 

    • Shingles vaccine (for 50years & above) 

    • Pneumococcal vaccine (for 65 years & above) 

Vaccination is crucial even in old age. Talk to your doctor to understand what vaccines are required by you. There could be ingredients in vaccines which individuals can be allergic to certain individuals, therefore, a doctor's consultation is recommended. 

Allergies & Vaccines 

Sometimes, there are instances where an individual shows allergic reactions upon the administration of vaccines. This is due to the ingredients present in the vaccines which may be: 

    • Egg 

    • Latex 

    • Gelatin 

    • Yeast 

If the patient shows an immediate type of reaction to these above components, it's better to have skin testing before taking immunization. 

Vaccination is necessary for all ages. From infancy to seniority receiving immunization is a must. As the environmental conditions are advancing, new pathogens are arising. Researchers and scientists are working towards a disease-free world through vaccination. There are plenty of vaccines for travellers which should be taken in advance. Vaccines are now existential at healthcare centers, hospitals, community centers. There could be vaccination programs in schools, colleges and even workplaces. A prompt vaccination paves the way for better public health services.