Brain Tumour: Symptoms, Risk Factors &Treatment

 Brain tumour is growth of abnormal cells located in the brain. They can start in the brain, or cancer elsewhere in the body can spread to the brain. An estimated 19.3 million new cancer cases have been diagnosed and almost 10.0 million cancer deaths have occurred in 2020. The instances of brain cancer have increased in the last few years, but with upgraded technology and treatment options, the death rate has continuously decreased. Don’t let the fear overcome you, but seek medical guidance immediately if you are diagnosed or you feel that you are showing similar symptoms.

Consult experts at the Saroj Group of Hospitals to know the correct diagnosis of your symptoms, and accordingly find a proper treatment plan.

 

TYPES OF TUMOURS:

The site where a tumour first starts developing is called a primary tumour. Cancerous tumours also spread to other parts of the body to form secondary tumours.

Some of the brain tumours are listed below:

1.Meningioma- they grow from cells in the tissues that surround the brain

2.Medulloblastoma- malignant tumours that grow in the cerebellum

3.Pituitary tumours- the cells of the tumour may produce large quantities of hormones which can cause various symptoms.

 

WHAT ARE GRADES OF BRAIN CANCERS?

Not all brain tumours are alike, even if they arise from the same type of brain tissue. Tumours are assigned a grade depending on how the cells in the tumour appear microscopically. The grade also provides information regarding cell's growth rate.

Grade I: The tissue is benign. The cells look almost like normal brain cells, and the growth is slow.

Grade II: The tissue is malignant. These cells look a little less like normal cells in a grade I tumour.

Grade III: The malignant tissue has a distinct appearance. These abnormal cells grow actively.

Grade IV: The malignant tissue has the most abnormal cells and tend to grow at a very fast pace.

 

SYMPTOMS:

1.Early symptoms may include headaches and feeling sick

2.The symptoms also vary depending on the area of brain that is affected

3.Weakness of muscles in an arm, leg, part of the face, or eyes

4.Problems with balance, co-ordination, vision, hearing, speech, communication or swallowing

5.Loss of smell

6.Dizziness or unsteadiness

7.Numbness or weakness in a part of the body

8.Seizures

9.Confusion

10.Personality changes

 

RISK FACTORS:

The following factors have been suggested as possible risk factors for primary brain tumours:

1.Radiation to the head

2.HIV infection

3.Environmental toxins

DIAGNOSIS:

Physical Exam: Once you have explained your symptoms to your primary care physician, he asks for your detailed history and examines you and orders for investigations to confirm the diagnosis.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan and Computerised tomography (CT) scan: These are some of the gold standards for the diagnosis of cancer. These take images of the soft structures to reveal the exact problem and its location.

PET scan: Positron emission tomography is a test that detects the metabolic activity of the cells as cancerous cells tend to take up more energy and lighting up the scan.

Biopsy: This is a test where a sample of the suspected cancerous tissue will be sent to labs to confirm the diagnosis.

Cerebral Angiogram: This test helps to evaluate the blood flow to the brain.

Other tests if applicable: Depending on the stage, severity and the metastases, other tests may be ordered.

 

TREATMENT:

It depends on various factors like type, grade, location of tumour and general health of the patient.

Surgery is one of the options of treatment depending on the location of the tumour and its size. Even removing a portion of the tumour may significantly reduce your symptoms. Whereas, Radiotherapy uses radiation to damage the cancerous cells. Chemotherapy is the use of drugs for killing the cancerous cells. Symptomatic treatment is used to manage the pain and to improve the general quality of life of the patient.

As brain tumours develop in integral parts of the brain that control speech, movement, memory and various other important functions, rehabilitation is an important part of the recovery. Depending on your needs, your doctor may refer you to a speech therapist who will help you if you have difficulty in speaking or physiotherapist to regain your motor skills or an occupational therapist to help you with normal daily life activities.

SINUS: INFECTIONS, PROBLEMS, SURGERY AND MORE

 Sinus infections are commonly occurring conditions in which there is inflammation of the sinuses and nasal passages. When there is excess mucus production during a cold, it can cause a build-up of bacteria or other pathogens, leading to such infection. Sinus infections usually improve in a week’s time when caused by a virus. But, if it is worsening, you may be suffering from a bacterial infection. If you are being troubled by a Sinus infection, visit the leading Ear Nose Throat E

nt Specialists in Rohini for a timely checkup and treatment.

 

Common symptoms of a Sinus Infection

You will be experiencing any of the following symptoms:

1.A headache

2.A congested nose

3.Loss of smell

4.Cough

5.A runny nose

6.Facial pain or pressure

 

Types of Sinus Infections

Sinus infections can be of these types:

1. Acute Sinusitis

In this condition, you may experience loss of smell, facial pain, fever, tooth pain, and fatigue. You will also have a thick yellow or green discharge from the nose. It lasts between one to two weeks if it is a viral infection and more if it is a bacterial infection.

2. Chronic Sinusitis

If your symptoms persist for 12 weeks or more, it is termed chronic sinusitis. You may get symptoms like fever, congestion in the face, a runny nose, headache, or tooth pain.

 

Different Treatment Options for Sinus Infections

If you have been suffering from these symptoms for more than a week, you should consult a reputed ENT specialist in Rohini immediately. Timely treatment will result in quick healing and prevent complications.

These are the treatment methods:

1. For Simple Infections

If your infection is not serious, the doctor may suggest using a decongestant to relieve the pressure or pain on your face. You can try using nasal saline rinses to clear your nose of the sticky, thick mucus. Hydrate yourself well to thin your mucus. Use warm compresses to get relief from the pain.

2. Antibiotics

If there is no relief from symptoms from these methods, you may be suffering from a bacterial infection. Your doctor will then prescribe antibiotics which you must take for specified periods. Stopping them earlier will prevent the infection from healing fully.

3. Pain-relief Medicines

A sinus infection causes pain in the face or gives you an ache or pressure in the head. Taking over the counter medicines may provide comfort from the pain.

4. Surgery for Sinus Infections

If the doctor does not see an improvement despite all these remedies, he may recommend surgery. The surgery’s goal is to remove blockages and clear the pathways of the sinuses. The surgery removes nasal polyps, any growth blocking the nasal passage, thin bone pieces, mucous membranes, or damaged tissue.

 

Endoscopic sinus surgery is popularly used by surgeons. In the procedure called Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), the surgeon inserts a thin fiber-optic tube into the nose for reaching the sinus openings. A more advanced method is image-guided endoscopic surgery that surgeons use for severe sinus blockages.

 

How to reduce your Risk for Sinus Infections

With a healthy lifestyle and with some precautions, you can prevent sinus infections. Here is how:

1.Avoid smoke, pollen, chemicals, and other allergens

2.Get vaccinated for flu

3.Keeps your hands clean always

4.Consume a nutrient-rich diet with lots of fruits and vegetables

5.Keep a safe distance from people with cold or flu

 

If treated in time, a sinus infection heals quickly. But, if treatment is postponed, you will unnecessarily get a bacterial infection, which can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. Visit Saroj Hospital, the Best Super Speciality  Hospital in Delhi, for a checkup if you have sinusitis symptoms. The experienced doctors will employ the most suitable treatment method to cure your infection and help you resume normal activities within the shortest time.

Heart during Covid-19

 Majority of patients infected with the coronavirus experience mild symptoms from which they fully recover. But, studies made during the wake of the pandemic reveal that people with heart diseases and other existing conditions are more vulnerable and get severe symptoms of the infection. Such people may have a lesser ability to withstand the pressure of Covid-19 symptoms like low oxygen levels. It is, therefore, vital that people with pre-existing heart issues take extra care to avoid infection. If you have heart issues, contact the best cardiology hospital in Delhi for a health assessment and know how you can protect yourself.

 

What happens to the heart during Covid-19?

When you get a fever due to the infection, your heart rate increases. This forces your heart to work harder, thus putting more pressure on it. Additionally, your blood pressure may shoot up or dip and add more stress to your heart. Your body craves more oxygen, and eventually, you may suffer heart damage if you have an already weakened heart. Covid-19 also causes inflammation and activates the clotting system. It can cause blood clots in the lungs and increase the demand for oxygen, thereby damaging the heart muscles. 

 

How can Heart Patients Protect Themselves During Covid-19?

Even if it is true that with a heart condition, you are at greater risk, with proper care, you can safeguard your heart during this pandemic. Visit the leading Centre for Cardiac treatment in Delhi to know how you can keep your heart healthy.

These are the ways health experts recommend to protect your heart:

1.Stay Safe at Home

Considering these circumstances, it is advisable to stay safe at home following safety guidelines. Sanitize your hands, keep a safe distance from people, and wear a protective face mask if you need to go out.

2.Continue your Medications

Do not be misled by messages on social media. Consult your doctor and inform him about the medicines you take daily. Never stop or reduce any of your heart medication without consulting your cardiologist.

3.Use Telemedicine to Keep in Touch with your Doctor

Most doctors today allow patients to consult them through video or voice calls. Make in-person visits only if absolutely necessary. You will get solutions for all your queries through your mobile or laptop.

4.Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Following healthy lifestyle practices will strengthen your immunity while lessening your risks for any heart issues.

These tips will help your heart healthy:

a.Eat a diet rich in essential nutrients, with a lot of fruits and vegetables

b.Exercise daily following the guidelines of your doctor

c.Check your blood pressure regularly

d.Do not exert yourself

e.Get adequate rest and sleep

5.Don’t Hesitate to Contact your Doctor if Necessary

If you are having any symptom of Covid-19 or heart trouble, immediately contact your health provider. An early evaluation could save you from severe problems and even save your life.

Watch out for these symptoms:

a.Pain in the chest during a physical activity

b.Difficulty in breathing

c.Changes in your speech

d.Headache

e.Weakness in the body, especially at one side

 

You need not be afraid of visiting your doctor if you have any heart-related health issues. All hospitals today follow strict Covid-19 guidelines and undertake essential safety measures. Make an appointment with Saroj Hospital, the best heart treatment hospital in Delhi, if you have any heart issues. Using their experience, the hospital’s talented cardiologists will assess your condition and prescribe the best possible treatment plan.

 

CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE: SYMPTOMS, CAUSES & TREATMENT

 COPD is a chronic disease of the lungs that obstructs airflow of the lungs. Breathing problems, choking, sputum production, and wheezing are common symptoms. Prolonged exposure to irritating gases or particulates, most frequently cigarette smoke, is by far the most common cause. Patients with COPD are much more likely to develop heart disease, lung cancer, and a wide range of other situations.

 

Experts at the Best Respiratory Medicine Hospital in Delhi, state that the 2 most frequent conditions that contribute to COPD are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. These two conditions commonly live side by side and can range in intensity among COPD patients.

Chronic bronchitis is a disease that causes inflammation of the airways in the lungs, which transfer air to and from the lungs' air sacs. It is differentiated by a chronic cough and the secretion of mucus.

Emphysema is an ailment in which the lobules at the finish of the lungs' littlest air passages (bronchioles) are destroyed as a result of tobacco smoking and other aggravating gases and particulates.

COPD is a curable illness, regardless of the fact that it is a chronic condition that gets worse over time. Best Pulmonologist in Delhi advises that patients with COPD can achieve good symptomatic relief and life quality with successful handling, as well as a reduced risk of other associated conditions.

 

Symptoms:

Symptoms of COPD mostly include:

1.Facing breathlessness, particularly during physical activities

2.Wheezing

3.Chest tightness

4.A chronic cough that also brings up sputum

5.Frequent respiratory infections

6.Lack of energy

7.Unsolicited weight loss

8.Swelling in ankles and also in the feet, at times

 

Causes:

Cigarette smoking is the leading risk factor for COPD in advanced nations. COPD is common in developing countries world among people exposed to fumes from the combustion of fuel for cooking and heating in unventilated homes.

Only a small percentage of persistent smokers develop medically visible COPD, though many smokers with a long history of smoking might very well develop reduced lung function. Fewer common lung conditions develop in some smokers. They could be mistaken with COPD until a more thorough evaluation is done.

 

Treatment:

Numerous patients with COPD have gentle illnesses that require little treatment other than quitting smoking. Even with the most advanced stages of the disease, effective therapy is indicated to reduce symptoms, slow advancement, lower your risk of comorbidities and impaired function, and improve your opportunity to live an active life.

Doctors at the Best Pulmonary Medicine Hospital in Delhi mention the following factors to curb the complexities of COPD.

 

1.Quitting Smoking - The most critical change in any COPD treatment regimen is to give up smoking wholly. Stopping smoking can help avoid COPD from aggravating and lowering your ability to breathe. Even so, quitting smoking is not simple.

2.Bronchodilators - Bronchodilators are inhalable medications that unwind the muscles surrounding your airways. This can help alleviate respiratory infections and breathlessness, as well as make breathing easier. Based on the intensity of your disease, you may necessitate a short-acting bronchodilator before actions, and an everyday long-acting bronchodilator, or both.

3.Inhaled steroids - Corticosteroid medications when breathed can reduce airway stress and swelling prevent chronic conditions. Bruising, oral infections, as well as difficulty breathing, are potential side effects. These medications help people who have frequent COPD flare-ups.

4.Oral Steroids - Short courses of steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may inhibit much farther progressive deterioration of COPD in people who have experienced periods when their COPD is becoming more severe, recognized as a moderate and severe acute exacerbation. 

5.Lung Therapies – For individuals with mild to severe COPD, doctors usually use the following important therapies:

 

Therapy with oxygen:

Supplemental oxygen may be necessary if there is low pressure in your blood.There are many devices that deliver oxygen to your lungs, including ultra-light, portable units which you can take with you when you run an errand or take trips.

 

Program for pulmonary rehabilitation:

Overall, these programs incorporate education, exercise training, nutrition advice, and counselling services. You'll work with a bunch of specialists who might customize your rehabilitation program to the specific requirements.

Make sure to be vocal about your needs and what is causing discomfort. If you don’t adjust these medications and therapies according to your need, then no effect will be happening even after the medications are administered. The Best Pulmonologist in Delhi advises you to visit your doctor on a regular basis and keep a track of your COPD accordingly.