This time in our health by numbers/tests series, Dr Shital Raval takes a look at our platelet count that can be determined by a routine blood test. If the platelet count is high or low from the normal range, it can provide insight into various abnormalities and blood disorders including infections and cancer.
A platelet count test is conducted to check the number of platelets in the blood. This test is usually a part of the CBC or complete blood count. Here is a look at what platelet count…
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10 Myths and Facts about Epilepsy and Seizures dispelled by leading neurologist Dr Nirmal Surya, who has been working for over two decades to control epilepsy. Dr. Nirmal Surya emphasizes that with timely diagnosis and treatment about two-thirds of people with epilepsy can completely control their seizures. MYTH: Epilepsy is contagious disease and spreads through touching and coughing. FACT: Epilepsy is a disease of the brain. It occurs due to the abnormal hyperactivity or sudden surge…
In India, nearly 80% of asthma patients are on oral medications due to fear and stigma associated with the inhalers. Dr Shilpa Nayak, an allergist and immunologist, dispels misconceptions about inhalers and shares tips to manage asthma well to lead a full and active life. WORLD ASTHMA DAY #WorldAsthmaDay Which are the 5 most common asthma triggers in India? Asthma is triggered most commonly by – Viral flu and cold Outdoor and indoor pollution Cigarette smoking Allergen exposure Strenuous…
The best way to help a person with dementia is to ensure that they maintain control over as many areas of their life as possible and encourage them to maximise their remaining abilities, recommends Amrita Patil–Pimpale, a dementia care consultant. During my recent home visit to Mr. Dsouza (name changed) who is living with Dementia, I noticed a bottle of floor cleaner kept on his dining table. Usually this isn’t matter of concern. However in Mr. Dsouza’s case, he is in mid-stage of dementia, has…
Falls are a common complication of advancing Parkinson's disease. So how can you minimise the risk of falls, be in good shape and lead an active life? Find out here: It is important that you do not allow a fear of falling to stop you doing things, provided that you are sensible. Keeping active is good for your mobility and independence, and doing the things you like is good for your morale. Try not to let falls curb your activities too much as this can have a negative impact on your quality of…
Did you know Type 2 diabetes (T2D), insulin resistance, obesity, metabolic syndrome and MASLD (Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver disease) formerly called NAFLD (Non Alchoholic Fatty Liver Disease) are particularly closely related? Dr Parijat Gupte, Consultant Hepatologist or Liver Specialist, provides us with a basic knowledge on NAFLD and what it can signify. What Is MASLD (earlier termed NAFLD? In simple terms, MASLD (Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver disease) is…
When you have a health problem, it is always important to understand what it is and to learn about its causes, symptoms and prevention. So next time you visit your doctor, go prepared with a list of questions. It will help you be more informed and less stressed. To enable you to make the most of your doctor’s appointment, we bring you a new series called ‘What to Ask your Doctor’ starting with questions on Uterine Fibroids. A uterine fibroid is a benign tumor that grows in the wall of the…
People with Parkinson's are at high risk of falling due to problems with balance, rigidity, and slowness of movement. Here we bring key safety strategies to reduce incidence of falls that can cause bumps, bruises or even broken bones. Some people with Parkinson’s find their pattern of walking (gait) changes; you may walk more slowly, shuffle, or you may experience freezing of gait when you stop and are unable to move for a few seconds or minutes. These changes in walking pattern can affect your…
The theme of the World Health Day 2017 is ‘Depression: Let’s Talk’. Encourage people with depression to talk about their feelings. Depression can easily be treated with psychological therapies and medicines. Learn about these and some other basic information on depression issued in public interest by SCARF (Schizophrenia Research Foundation). The wounds of depression are unseen, but they hurt more than the ones that bleed. Seek professional help and get better. Facts about Depression…
