Conditions

Oral cancer refers to cancers of the head and neck. It includes cancer of the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, salivary glands, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses and pharynx. Brain cancer falls in a different category. The leading causes of oral cancer are smoking and drinking too much alcohol. Ninety per cent of oral cancers are squamous cell carcinoma of oral mucosal origin. Squamous cells line the lips and the oral cavity. The oral cavity is bounded above and laterally by the…

What causes osteoporosis Limited formation of bone early in life, or loss of bone structure later in life leads to osteoporosis. The factors that help in bone growth during youth affect bone mass during the adult years, particularly the following: • Poor calcium intake  • Poor absorption of calcium from the gut • Reproductive calcium intake, i.e., the amount of calcium utilized by the body in women • Vitamin D deficiency • Lack of physical activity • Increased Parathyroid gland function,…

There are typically no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss. But once bones have been weakened by osteoporosis, you may have signs and symptoms that include: Back pain, caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra (back bone) Loss of height over time Stooped posture Bone fracture that occurs much more easily than expected

Different types of osteoporosis • Primary: This is a common type of osteoporosis associated with increase in age, improper diet and lack of physical activities. • Secondary: This is bone loss that occurs due to the use of certain medications. • Juvenile osteoporosis: This is rare. It occurs during the ages when bone growth is rapid, ie in the ages 8-14years.  Different stages of the condition Between the ages of 18 to 30, the bone attains its peak bone mass, ie, bone will reach their…

What tests do I need to have done The doctor may recommend some of the following : DEXA Scan (Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry): This is a type of bone densitometry test commonly used for osteoporosis, which measures bone mineral density. It usually focuses on the spine and the hip or on total bone density to gauge fracture risk. Know more on Dexa Scan or Bone Scan Blood test markers: Blood or urine tests check the chemical processes occurring within the bone. These tests reveal several markers…

You can take steps to prevent osteoporosis by making a few changes to your diet, getting enough exercise, and considering whether the available medication is right for you. Speak to your doctor about the following: • Calcium • Vitamin D  • Exercise. Read more about The Right Exercise for Osteoporosis   • Hormone replacement therapy  • Medication (Fosamas, Evista etc) Screening  The National Osteoporosis Foundation (www.nos.org.uk) recommends bone mineral density testing…

Treatment of osteoporosis may include combination of therapies based on level of bone loss aiming to slow down bone loss and strengthen the existing bone tissues. The most important part of treating osteoporosis is preventing bone fractures. Pharmacological treatment: 1.    Adequate amounts of calcium (1500-1800 mg daily) and vitamin D (400-800 IU). Calcium can be increased through diet and/or calcium supplementation.  2.    Antiresorptive medications…

For healthy bones, you need to do the following: Dietary changes: Adequate Calcium Intake:  •    Consume calcium-rich foods such as dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), leafy green vegetables, tofu, almonds, and cereals. •    Aim for the recommended daily intake of calcium, which varies depending on age and gender but typically ranges from 1500 to 1800 mg per day for adults. Sufficient Vitamin D Intake: •    Ensure adequate vitamin D levels (…

How stroke affects understanding and behaviour and how to regain lost ground. By Porrselvi A.P. a cognitive and psychosocial interventions specialist What happens in a stroke Stroke or Cerebro Vascular Accident (CVA) happens when there is either a block in the supply of blood to an area of the brain or when there is bleeding within the brain tissue. When this happens, areas of the brain do not receive sufficient amount of blood and nutrients they require and are damaged.…