Conditions

What is Retinitis Pigmentosa Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) belongs to a group of genetic retinal diseases referred to as inherited retinal dystrophies. RP affects the cells (photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium) in the back part of the eye i.e., the retina which is one of the  crucial structures in eye responsible for vision. A person affected with RP can develop symptoms in early childhood or later in life. In majority of the patients, it is a progressive disease where in patient…

Lapses and relapses are an integral part of recovery of substance use. This article discusses ways to avoid them and how to deal with it when it happens. Important for the person going through substance use problem and their family to understand. This is part of the series on substance use shared by the Addictions Research Group at Sangath India. Part 1 of the series described about What is Substance Use Disorder Part 2 talked of How to overcome a Substance Use Disorder Part 3 talked…

World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) is observed from 18-24 November every year. It serves as a reminder of the growing problem of Antimicrobial Resistance and how each one of us can play a role. PatientsEngage breaks down the problem and what we must do to address the problem of AMR together.  What are bacteria? Bacteria are germs found inside and outside of our bodies. Most germs are harmless, and some can even be helpful to humans, but some bacteria can cause infections, like strep…

As you learn to navigate and manage diabetes, you will come across new terms. PatientsEngage has compiled an easy reckoner in alphabetical order to help you understand the terms associated with diabetes.  If you don't find the term you are looking for, please you leave a comment below or send us a note through contact us and we will update this content.       Beta cells Beta cells are found in the pancreas, as part of clusters called islets. They are…

Creating a support group for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) caregivers might help to ease the emotional strain they experience and provide hope, information, friendship, sharing, self-advocacy, problem- solving skills and opportunities for personal growth. The first part of the article details intense rehabilitation programme after brain injury. Are there any broad guidelines or tips for family and friends supporting someone with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the near, medium and…

While it is important to help out a close person trying to get out of substance use habits, it is also important to draw lines and explain what you will and will not accept. This is part of the series on substance use shared by the Addictions Research Group team at Sangath India. In this article, they focus on supporting substance use recovery of a loved one.   Part 1 of the series described about What is Substance Use Disorder Part 2 talked of How to overcome a…

The management of Atopic Dermatitis or Eczema can be like a roller coaster. An understanding of the nature of the problem can help prevent the anguish and distress that most patients and their loved ones experience. Childhood eczemas affect not just the child, but the entire family. The role of the dermatologist is not merely to prescribe some salves and lotions, but to educate the family on the care of the child’s skin and lifestyle changes that treatment entails. Adult patients with Atopic…

Treatment of atopic dermatitis depends on the age, sites of involvement and severity of involvement.  In mild eczemas, simple moisturization and preventive measures and care of the skin may be enough. Sometimes, a topical corticosteroid cream is enough. In case itching is severe an oral antihistamine is added. In children care should be taken that the anti histamine does not cause excessive drowsiness which can interfere with the child's studies.   In case the lesions are…

Can Eczema be prevented? Exclusive breast feeding for at least 6 months has been shown to be the best risk reduction factor in the prevention and development of Atopic Dermatitis. Children exclusively breast fed for 4 months or more had significantly less Atopic Dermatitis compared with children receiving partial breast feeding.   Dermatologist Dr Belinda Vaz delves deep into the causes, types and preventive measures for Atopic Dermatitis or eczema in children.