Many people enjoy taking a nap during the day,
particularly in the afternoon and it is a common habit that many people include
into their daily routines.
The term ‘Nap’ is commonly used to refer to a fleeting
period of sleep taken throughout the day which helps people stay awake and
combat tiredness during the day. In addition, it is believed that taking a nap
is beneficial. A brief nap during the day may boost workplace performance by enhancing
cognitive functions such as memory, logical reasoning, and the ability to
complete complex tasks.
However, the benefits of napping differ from
people to people. Some people may benefit from naps, while others may find it
least beneficial. Because taking long naps can lead to negative impacts on
one's health. Currently, there is no clear understanding of how naps
specifically affect one’s health. There is still a lot to learn about the correlation
between napping and night-time sleep, as well as how the duration or frequency
of naps affects the overall health and wellness of the individual.
But individuals who nap often have reported
experiencing poorer overall health. Additionally, they are more likely to sleep
for extended periods and experience sleep issues such as snoring.
According to a recent study conducted by
researchers in China, taking frequent naps may show a higher risk of developing
blood pressure and stroke compared with people who never nap.
Now, you may confuse should I take a nap, or
not to nap?
A lot of individuals want to sleep during the
day, especially in the afternoon, but doing so for too long might be harmful.
Long naps in the afternoon should be avoided because of their harmful effects.
It may disturb your ability to fall asleep at night. An expert has found that a
20 percent higher risk of stroke is associated with extended periods of sleep.
The Medical Journal of the American Academy of Neurology published a study that
backs up these assertions. A 25 percent increased stroke risk has been linked
to taking naps in the afternoon lasting more than 90 minutes. The research also
found that changes in cholesterol levels were associated with fewer hours of
sleep.
Extended Nap Cause Health Risk
1. Cardiovascular Disease
According to the Centres for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC), insufficient sleep at night can increase the risk of
heart disease, stroke, depression, and Type 2 diabetes. Although it is not
entirely clear what biological factors increase this risk, experts believe that
certain factors may be responsible for it.
Elevated levels of the stress hormone
catecholamines (which are also involved in the body's adrenaline response and
can raise blood pressure) have been linked to night-time insomnia. Lack of
sleep can also hinder your body's ability to keep your blood arteries clear,
increasing your risk of blood clots.
According to the study, napping and insufficient sleep may also contribute to an increase in inflammation within the body. Additionally, disrupting the body's natural blood pressure rhythm by napping may have long-term consequences. Blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day, with the maximum levels typically occurring after waking up in the morning and the lowest levels occurring during sleep. Both mental and physical activity have an effect on these fluctuations.
2. Stroke
Disrupted sleep can cause an individual to take
a nap during the day. There is a correlation between poor sleep quality and
stroke. Individuals who take naps during the day for more than an hour are 80%
more likely to suffer a stroke than those who do not take naps. However, it was
found that taking a planned nap of less than an hour was not associated with
stroke.
3. Affects Your Mental Health
Napping excessively might be a sign of
emotional distress like stress or anxiety. If your poor mood persists, you
experience a change in your weight or eating habits, or you lose interest in
things that you formerly enjoyed, so it is important to consult with your
doctor.
As previously mentioned, napping can also be beneficial. For adults, it is recommended to take a nap for a duration of 20 minutes, and not exceeding 30 minutes. Taking a nap for 20 minutes can help increase alertness by providing light sleep without entering into a deep sleep . Awakening from a deep sleep can result in grogginess and worsen sleepiness. In simple words, short naps should be preferred over long ones during the daytime to lead a healthy and active life. If you want to overcome any kind health issues or concerns related to sleep or mental wellness consult a doctor immediately.
A decrease in the circulation of red blood cells causes anemia. During anemia, the blood does not provide the required oxygen to the body. This is why a person with Anemia always feels tired and weak. Anemia has many forms, and each has its own cause. A few may be long-term and severe, and a few could be short-term and mild, depending on its type. All you need to know is that Anemia is indeed severe and requires immediate medical attention if it worsens.
Is Anemia common?
Of course, it is. According to an expert report, the illness affects around 1 in 3 people globally.
Anemia Causes
Anemia can be caused by various factors. Iron deficiency is a prevalent type of anemia that develops due to a lack of iron in the body or a balanced diet. Even blood loss due to injuries could cause this type of Anemia. Doctors categorize Anemia as being inherited or acquired.
Anemia Symptoms
Anemia symptoms vary based on the anemia causes of the anemia and the severity of the illness. It can be both severe and mild as well. Sometimes, you can see no symptoms at the initial stages of Anemia. Symptoms mainly occur when the conditions get worse. This lack of symptoms happens when Anemia is caused by some other disease, wherein the other diseases mask the anemia symptoms in your body.
A few common anemia symptoms include the following:
- Weakness
- Tiredness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Short of breath
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Cold feet and hands
- Headache
Anemia Types
There are two types of anemia: inherited and acquired. The following are the types under these two categories.
Inherited Anemia Types
- Diamond-Blackfan Anemia
- Thalassemia
- Sickle cell anemia
- Fanconi anemia
Acquired Anemia Types
- Pernicious Anemia
- Macrocytic Anemia and megaloblastic Anemia
- Autoimmune hemolytic Anemia
- Anemia of chronic disease
- Normocytic Anemia
Other Anemia Types
- Sideroblastic Anemia
- Hemolytic Anemia
- Aplastic Anemia
- Microcytic Anemia
Anemia Diagnosis
Anemia is diagnosed after knowing the family medical history because sometimes anemia occurs due to family history. In general, anemia is diagnosed by various laboratory tests that include the following:
- Complete blood count test (CBC)
- Serum iron level test
- Reticulocyte count test
- Ferritin test
- Coombs test
- Folic acid test
- Vitamin B12 test
- Bone marrow test
- Fecal occult blood test
Anemia Treatment
There are many treatments for anemia, and each one is based on what is causing it. These treatments focus on increasing the person’s RBC count, which increases the oxygen in their blood. Be sure to consult with your doctor if you find any symptoms, find the type of anemia you are diagnosed with, and get the right treatments as soon as possible. Ignoring the symptoms of Anemia will lead to serious health issues.
Whom to Consult for Anemia?
Your family doctor or a primary care provider will help you get treated for Anemia. After diagnosis, if they feel like the condition is worse, they will refer you to a cardiologist, hematologist, nephrologist, or a gastroenterologist based on the type of Anemia you are diagnosed with.
8th Jan, 2025
Diarrhea is a common health condition that affects millions of people every year, with around 2 billion cases reported globally. While it often resolves on its own or with simple home remedies, it requires prompt medical attention if diarrhea persists or worsens. Consulting a doctor is essential for effective treatment and management.
What is Diarrhea?
Diarrhea refers to passing loose or watery stools more than three times a day. It affects all ages and is most common in children and adults. However, frequent bowel movements with normal stool consistency are not categorized as diarrhea.
Diarrhea Types
Diarrhea is classified into different types based on its duration:
· Acute diarrhea: Lasts one to two days.
· Persistent diarrhea: Lasts about two to four weeks.
· Chronic diarrhea: Lasts more than four weeks or occurs repeatedly over a long period.
Causes of Diarrhea
The most common cause of diarrhea is an infection in the gastrointestinal tract, which can be triggered by:
· Bacteria
· Viruses
· Parasitic organisms
Other possible causes include:
· Food poisoning
· Medication side effect
· Foods that upset your digestive system
· Crohn’s disease
· Ulcerative colitis
· Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Symptoms of Diarrhea
The following symptoms may occur along with diarrhea:
· Abdominal cramps or pain
· Bloating
· Nausea
· Vomiting
· Fever
· Blood in the stool
· Mucus in the stool
· An urgent need to pass stool
In some cases, diarrhea may be a symptom of serious medical conditions and may not improve without proper medical treatment.
When to consult a doctor?
Consult a doctor for diarrhea if:
· It lasts longer than two days without improvement.
· You experience severe abdominal pain or cramping.
· There is blood or mucus in your stool.
· You have a high fever accompanying the diarrhea.
· Signs of dehydration appear, such as dry mouth, extreme thirst, or reduced urination.
· Diarrhea occurs after recent travel, particularly to areas with poor sanitation.
· It recurs frequently or is accompanied by unexplained weight loss.
· The symptoms are severe and interfere with daily activities.
Treatment and Home Remedies for Diarrhea
Medical Treatment
In most cases, diarrhea resolves on its own. However, if it persists for more than two days, your doctor may recommend:
· ORS (Oral Rehydration Solutions)
· Anti-diarrheal drugs
· Antibiotics
Home Remedies
You can try the following remedies at home to alleviate diarrhea:
· Drink plenty of water
· Try BRAT (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast) Diet
· Stay away from fatty, spicy, or sugary foods and caffeine
· Try ginger or chamomile tea
· Consume plain yogurt
Note: These remedies may provide relief in mild cases. If diarrhea persists, worsens, or is accompanied by severe symptoms, consult a doctor immediately to prevent complications.
In conclusion, diarrhea is often a short-term condition that resolves within a few days with proper care and attention. While it can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments can help manag it effectively. Most cases improve with simple remedies, but persistent or severe symptoms should not be ignored. Consult a doctor and get the best way to get it cured.
6th Jan, 2025
Cholera is typically a bacterial infection that spreads through contaminated water. This illness will cause severe diarrhoea and dehydration by making your body lose electrolytes. (Crucial minerals are required to help your body work.)
Cholera is a fatal disease. Drink plenty of water and fluids throughout the day to stay hydrated. If you are experiencing severe diarrhoea, vomiting, or dehydration, visit a doctor immediately.
Cholera Causes
Cholera mostly spreads in areas with more access to dirty and contaminated water. Sometimes, eating raw shellfish can also cause cholera. This spread or outbreak happens mostly after heavy rainfall and natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes.
Even raw vegetables could cause cholera. If the fertilizers or the vegetables are grown near a contaminated area, there is a higher chance that you will get cholera through vegetables.
Cholera symptoms
The most common cholera symptom is watery tools, which is accompanied by a few other symptoms that include the following:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Thirst
- Low blood pressure
- Extreme thirst
- Vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Fast heart rate
- Peeing rarely
Note: In most cases, people do not face any cholera symptoms.
Cholera Diagnosis
If your general physician thinks you have cholera, they will suggest you take a test for the cholera virus (Vibrio cholerae) and ensure that you talk about all your symptoms to your doctor. Taking a stool sample and getting it tested will help you know if you have cholera and can stop spreading it.
Cholera Treatment
The best cholera treatment involves drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated. Doctors mainly prescribe antibiotics like erythromycin, azithromycin, and doxycycline to improve immunity and make people feel better. Kids between the ages of 6 months and 5 years are treated using Zinc supplements.
Cholera Prevention
Drinking clean and sanitized water will keep you away from cholera. Wash your hands often when you go out and get back home. Follow personal hygiene. Drink and cook purified water if you are unsure if your water is safe to consume.
If you are in or traveling to a place where there are more cholera cases, ensure that you take the required precautions, such as getting vaccinated.
What are the Complications of Cholera?
Cholera is dangerous when it is left untreated or adequately medicated. It has the potential to cause fatal problems like:
- Organ failure
- Heart rhythm issues
- Hypovolemic shock
Whom to Consult for Cholera?
If you feel like you have any symptoms of cholera, then immediately consult your general physician or family doctor to get it treated immediately.
Conclusion
Get in touch with a healthcare professional right once if you have severe diarrhoea from cholera or another cause. To prevent dehydration, you must replenish fluids and electrolytes. Serious health issues and even death may result from this condition. Cholera is still a significant global health risk, even though you may not hear about it very often. There are concerted public health initiatives to lower cholera outbreaks and fatalities in the areas most affected.
If you visit a place where cholera is common, you may protect others and yourself by being vaccinated. Drink lots of fluids, bone broth, or oral rehydration treatments to treat diarrhoea as soon as possible. Additionally, if you are unsure about your ability to stay hydrated, don't be afraid to seek emergency assistance.
24th Dec, 2024
Snoring is more like noisy breathing during sleep. It is a very common condition that can affect many people, primarily overweight people. Generally, snoring happens when air flows past the relaxed tissues in the throat, making the tissues vibrate while you breathe. However, most people snore when they are tired, and at times, for some, it can be a chronic condition. Snoring also indicates a severe condition. If you feel your snoring seems normal, you can visit a doctor and get your questions answered.
Snoring
Mostly, snoring happens when there is no proper airflow through the nose and mouth or when the air passing from mouth to nose gets blocked. Along with which there are a few things that cause snoring:
- Overweight issues: Sometimes, being overweight can cause snoring. Children with bulky throat issues and large tonsils and adenoids snore more often.
- Alcohol and drug use: Drinking excess alcohol and any other drug use would also make you snore.
- Sleep positions: Sometimes, sleeping on your back makes you snore. In that case, you can use a soft and comfortable pillow.
- Blocked nose: A few people snore when they have allergies. For instance, allergies like dust and sinuses block nasal airways, leading to snoring while you sleep.
- Sleep Deprivation: When you are sleep deprived, your throat muscles have more chances to relax, which can cause snoring issues.
- Poor muscle tone in your throat: Your tongue and throat muscles could be more relaxed, which will make you snore.
Snoring Symptoms
Snoring is associated with a type of sleep disorder called OSA (Obstructive Sleep Disorder), but it doesn't mean that everybody will have OSA. A few snores due to prevalent reasons like nose blocks, etc. A few significant symptoms of snoring include the following:
- Morning headaches
- Restless sleeping
- High blood pressure
- Chest pain during the night
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Sleeping during the daytime
- Sore throat
- Gasping at night or feeling choked
- Poor attention span in children, poor performance, behavioral issues.
OSA can be differentiated by loud snoring followed by silence. This pause or silence or break in breathing will sometimes signal you to wake up with a gasping sound.
When should you consult a doctor, and whom should you consult?
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, it's essential to consult your doctor, as they could be signs of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). You can either consult an ENT doctor or a primary physician to get it treated.
If your child snores, discuss it with their pediatrician. Children can also suffer from OSA, often due to issues like enlarged tonsils or obesity, which can narrow their airways and lead to OSA.
Snoring Diagnosis and Treatment
Ensure to tell your doctor if you feel uncomfortable about your snoring. You or your family could explain the sound or something that makes your snoring feel wrong. That way, your doctor can diagnose the cause of your snoring issue. Also, talk to your doctor about your medical history; it will help them know more about your health condition.
After a straightforward discussion, your doctor might give a few tests to diagnose the condition that would include the following:
- Imaging test: This is more like an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI, using which the problems in your nasal airways can be found
- Sleep Study: This test involves machine monitoring that records your sleep at home. Alternatively, you can go to a lab for a test called polysomnography. This test records your heart rate, brain activity, and breathing while you sleep.
Treatment
Here are some potential treatments for snoring:
- Lifestyle: Your doctor may recommend losing weight, quitting smoking, or avoiding alcohol before bedtime.
- Oral Appliances: These small plastic devices, worn in the mouth during sleep, help keep airways open by adjusting the position of the jaw or tongue.
- Surgery: Various surgical procedures can reduce snoring by removing or shrinking throat tissues or stiffening the soft palate.
- CPAP: A continuous positive airway pressure machine can treat sleep apnea and potentially reduce snoring by blowing air into the airways during sleep.
Home Remedies to Avoid Snoring
Here are some home remedies to help reduce snoring and improve your sleep quality:
- Sleep on your side instead of your back.
- Elevate the head of your bed by a few inches.
- Use nasal strips to open your nostrils.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
13th Dec, 2024
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a complex medical condition that often misunderstood and surrounded by numerous misconceptions. This blog post aims to shed light on the critical aspects of TBI, dispel common myths, explore its causes, and provide guidance on seeking appropriate medical care.
Debunking Common Myths
Myth 1: You Always Lose Consciousness with a TBI
Fact: Not all brain injuries result in losing consciousness. Many TBIs can be mild, with symptoms that are subtle and may not immediately seem serious. Some individuals might experience confusion, dizziness, or brief disorientation without a complete loss of consciousness.
Myth 2: Recovery from TBI is Quick and Complete
Fact: Brain injury recovery is a complex, often lengthy process. While some individuals may recover relatively quickly, others might face long-term challenges. Recovery depends on multiple factors, including the severity of the injury, the specific area of the brain affected, and the individual's overall health.
Myth 3: Only Severe Blows Cause Significant Brain Damage
Fact: Even seemingly minor impacts can cause significant brain trauma. Concussions, which are a form of mild TBI, can have lasting effects, especially if they occur repeatedly or are not properly treated.
Primary Causes of Traumatic Brain Injury
Accidents and Falls
- Motor vehicle collisions remain a leading cause of TBI
- Falls, particularly among children and older adults, contribute significantly to brain injuries
- Workplace accidents and sports-related incidents are also common sources
Sports and Recreational Activities
- Contact sports like football, hockey, and boxing carry high risks
- Extreme sports and activities with potential for sudden impacts increase TBI likelihood
Violence and Physical Assaults
- Domestic violence
- Physical altercations
- Gunshot wounds and other violent encounters
Military Combat
- Explosive devices
- Combat-related impacts and sudden traumatic events
Whom to Consult After a Potential Brain
Injury
Immediate Medical Professionals
- Emergency Room Physicians: For acute injury assessment
- Neurologists: Specialized in brain and nervous system conditions
- Neurosurgeons: For surgical interventions if necessary
Specialized Follow-up Care
- Neuropsychologists: Assess cognitive functions and mental health impacts
- Rehabilitation Specialists: Help with recovery and adaptive strategies
- Physical Therapists: Assist in motor function recovery
- Occupational Therapists: Support daily living skill reacquisition
Warning Signs Requiring Immediate
Attention
Severe Symptoms
- Prolonged confusion
- Persistent headaches
- Repeated vomiting
- Seizures
- Inability to wake up
- Slurred speech
- Weakness or numbness in extremities
Prevention Strategies
Use Protective Gear
- Helmets during sports and cycling
- Seatbelts in vehicles
- Appropriate safety equipment in high-risk environments
Create Safe Environments
- Remove tripping hazards for elderly and children
- Install proper lighting
- Use non-slip mats and handrails
Practice Situational Awareness
- Be mindful during high-risk activities
- Follow safety guidelines
- Avoid risky behaviors
Living with TBI: Hope and Support
While a traumatic brain injury can be life-altering, advances in medical science offer increasingly effective treatments and rehabilitation strategies. Support groups, continuous medical follow-up, and a holistic approach to recovery can significantly improve outcomes.
Remember: Every brain injury is unique. Personalized medical assessment and treatment are crucial for optimal recovery.
Conclusion
Understanding traumatic brain injury goes beyond medical terminology. It is about recognizing the human experience behind the diagnosis, supporting those affected, and promoting awareness that can potentially prevent future injuries.
If you or a loved one experiences a potential brain injury, seek professional medical evaluation immediately. Early intervention can make a substantial difference in recovery and long-term quality of life.
11th Dec, 2024
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