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Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the body, typically in the lower leg or thigh. The clot can move through your body and block your blood vessels, leading to serious medical conditions, including pulmonary embolism (PE), heart attack, or stroke. 

What Causes DVT? 

Deep vein thrombosis is caused by a blood clot. It occurs when a clot forms in the deep veins, which are found deep within the body. Inactivity is one of the most common causes of DVT.  

Your blood doesn’t flow very well when you don’t move around. Your muscles are not contracting when you are sitting still or lying down, so your blood flow is sluggish. Any injury to the vein wall (even a small one) can cause scarring, leading to clots forming more easily. A clot makes it even harder for the blood to flow properly, leading to further problems with circulation.  

Other causes of DVT include injuries and surgery, especially surgeries that require long periods of inactivity like hip replacement or knee replacement surgery. Aging increases the likelihood of getting DVT because as people age, they usually become less active and have more medical conditions that can increase their risk of developing clots. 

People who have had previous episodes of DVT or pulmonary embolism (PE) or have a family history of these conditions are at higher risk of getting them again. 

Those who smoke and are overweight also increase their chances of developing clots. 

What are the Symptoms of DVT? 

Symptoms of DVT include,  

• Swelling: One of the most common symptoms, swelling may only occur in one leg. 
• Warm Skin: Skin that’s warm to the touch may indicate circulation problems in your legs. 
• Discoloration: Your legs may appear reddish or bluish. 
• Pain or tenderness: You might experience pain or tenderness in your calves and/or thighs. 
• Cramps, itchiness, and throbbing veins are also common symptoms of DVT. 

But it’s important to note that many people with Deep Vein Thrombosis don’t experience any symptoms. 

How is DVT Diagnosed? 

A Vascular Surgeon diagnoses DVT by examining the legs, a blood test, and an ultrasound. If the physician suspects DVT in a patient, they will first examine the legs for signs of pain, swelling, or warmth. They may also ask about symptoms such as redness of the skin or veins that are tender to the touch.  

If the physical examination is suspicious of DVT, the doctor will order blood tests. These blood tests measure a substance found in high levels when blood clots are present. The selection of appropriate tests depends on the patient’s age, risk factors, clinical presentation, and suspected type of thrombus (blood clot). The following tests may be used: 

D-Dimer Test: This blood test can detect fragments of DNA released by dead blood clots. 

Prothrombin Time (PT) and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) are blood clotting tests. 

Elevated D-dimer levels, as well as abnormal results from the PT and APTT tests, help to confirm the presence of DVT. 

Ultrasound Imaging can also help to rule out DVT in many cases. For example, if a person has lower leg pain, swelling, or redness but their D-dimer level is normal, they likely do not have a blood clot in their leg. However, if the D-dimer level suggests a blood clot might present, an ultrasound scan could be used to confirm this suspicion. 

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV): Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV) — MRI produces a detailed image of blood vessels and soft tissues. An MRI scan may be ordered when other tests are inconclusive. MRV is an MRI test that uses a contrast agent to produce more detailed images of blood vessels in the leg. 

Computed Tomography (CT) scan is a series of X-rays that provide detailed pictures of your blood vessels and organs. Your doctor may use a CT scan to help diagnose or rule out DVT. Your doctor may also want to check for complications of DVT, such as pulmonary embolism. 

How is DVT Treated? 

The primary goal of treating a DVT is to stop the clot from getting bigger and prevent the clot from breaking off and traveling to the lungs, where it can cause a life-threatening condition known as a pulmonary embolism (PE). Treatment for a DVT includes medications, lifestyle changes, and/or interventional procedures. 

Medications: 

Your doctor may prescribe anticoagulants (blood thinners) which help keep clots from getting bigger. They also prevent new clots from forming. Thrombolytics are “clot busters.” These medicines help dissolve blood clots. 

Lifestyle Changes: 

Elevate Your Leg. Using pillows, raise your leg above the level of your heart while lying down, if you can. This slows blood flow back to your leg veins, decreasing swelling and pain. 

Wear Compression Stockings or Socks. These garments squeeze on your legs to reduce swelling and pain and improve circulation. Ask your doctor when you should wear them and for how long. Compression stockings come in different sizes, lengths, and strengths (also called compression levels). Your doctor will tell you which type you should get. 

Interventional Procedures:  

Some of the interventional procedures for patients with a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) include,  

• Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis: Using a catheter, doctors dissolve the clot with medication. 
• Catheter-Directed Mechanical Thrombectomy: Doctors use a catheter to physically remove the clot. 
• Thrombus Fragmentation: Doctors fragment the clot into smaller pieces that can be absorbed by the body more easily. 
• Stent Grafting: Doctors place a stent-graft into the vein to keep it open and prevent future clots from forming. 
• Vena Cava Filters: This procedure places a filter in the inferior vena cava, a large vein that carries blood back to the heart from the lower half of the body. 

Deep Vein Thrombosis is a dangerous condition that can leave you with severe, long-term health problems if left untreated. Understanding the symptoms and treatments associated with the condition is vital to recovery. Our expert Vascular Surgeons are here to discuss your options and find the right solution for you. 

What is Colorectal Cancer? 

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among men and women. The cause of colorectal cancer is unknown, but it appears to be related to dietary factors and sedentary lifestyles.

Colorectal cancer begins as a benign tumor called a polyp that forms in the colon or rectum. Over time, these polyps can become cancerous, spreading to nearby organs or lymph nodes and eventually becoming metastatic—spreading to other parts of the body. 

There are two types of colorectal cancers:

Adenocarcinoma, which affects the inner lining of the colon or rectum 

Carcinoid Tumors, which are much less common and slow-growing 

How do You Know if you Have Colorectal Cancer? 

Most people who get colorectal cancer are over 50, but younger people can get it too, so it’s important to know the signs and symptoms.

The most common sign of colorectal cancer is blood in your stool. Blood may appear red or black, but even a small amount of blood mixed with your stool can be a warning sign. You might notice blood on the toilet paper, on the toilet bowl after you flush, or even drops of blood in your toilet bowl after you finish going to the bathroom. Blood mixed with stool changes its appearance—it may look black or tarry, or it may look like coffee grounds. If your stool looks this way, even just once, see a Gastroenterologist right away so they can run tests and find out what is causing it. Other signs include rectal pain, abdominal pain or discomfort (such as bloating), unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel movements over time (diarrhea, constipation), anemia (low red blood cell count due to bleeding from inside of the body) 

Who Should Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer? 

The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 50. This includes colonoscopies every 10 years, flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years, or a combination of both as recommended by your gastroenterologist. If you are between 45 and 49 and have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, talk to your doctor about possibly starting screening earlier. If you have a higher risk for colorectal cancer because of a personal or family history of colorectal polyps or cancer, talk to your doctor about whether to begin screening before age 50, how often to get screened, and what type of test is right for you. 

How is it Treated? 

Colorectal Cancer treatment depends on the stage of cancer and how far it has spread. Treatment may include a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy. 

Surgery is the most common treatment for Colorectal Cancer. A Gastrointestinal Surgeon removes cancer, along with some of the healthy tissue around it—called a margin—and lymph nodes near the tumor site. This surgery is called resection. The surgeon usually reconnects your colon in a procedure called anastomosis. If this isn’t possible, you may need to have an ostomy, where a bag collects stool as it passes through a new opening in your body, often in your abdomen. 

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from dividing. It’s given after surgery to lower the risk that cancer will return or spread to other parts of your body, but sometimes it can be given at the same time as surgery or before surgery if you aren’t a candidate for surgery due to other health conditions or if there’s little chance of removing all of the cancer with surgery. 

Radiation Therapy uses high-powered energy beams to kill cancer cells. It’s only used for rectal cancers and, in some cases, after surgery for Colon Cancers at higher risk of coming back (recurring). This treatment is often combined with chemotherapy. 

Immunotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses certain parts of a patient’s immune system to fight cancer cells. The basic premise of immunotherapy is to encourage the body’s own immune system to recognize, target, and destroy cancer cells. Because the immune system has specific ways of recognizing normal, healthy cells in the body, it can identify and attack irregular, foreign cells—such as mutated cancer cells. So far, immunotherapies have been shown to be effective against several types of cancers. Colon Cancer is one particular type of cancer for which immunotherapy appears to be showing promise. 

Colon cancer is a terrible disease that affects millions of people worldwide. We are proud to bring you a special GI Cancer Screening Package and other Cancer Screening Packages. Take control of your life today by taking advantage of this opportunity. Please contact one of our Cancer Experts if you have any questions, because every minute matters when it comes to fighting cancer. 

Brain Tumors are an abnormal growth of cells in the brain’s tissues. They can be benign, not cancerous, or malignant, meaning cancerous.  

There are two main types of brain tumors—primary brain tumors and metastatic brain tumors. The main difference between the two is where they originate from. Primary brain tumors start in the brain, and metastatic brain tumors form in other parts of the body and then spread to the brain.

According to the American Cancer Society, primary brain tumors are far less common than secondary brain tumors, accounting for about 2 percent of all cancers. 

Brain Tumors are categorized by the type of cells from which they develop. 

Gliomas: These tumors develop from glial cells, which support the nerve cells in the brain. About 80% of primary brain tumors are gliomas. Gliomas are classified as astrocytoma, ependymoma, or oligodendroglioma, based on the specific type of glial cell involved. 

Meningiomas: These tumors develop in the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord (meninges). Meningiomas are usually benign (noncancerous). 

Pituitary Adenomas: These tumors usually occur in the pituitary gland, a small gland at the base of the brain that makes hormones that control other glands and many body functions. Most pituitary adenomas are benign (noncancerous). 

Schwannomas: These tumors form in Schwann cells, which make up the protective sheath (myelin) around specific nerves. Schwannomas most often involve nerves that control balance and hearing. 

Lymphomas: This is an uncommon type of Tumor that involves immune system cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes can collect in any part of the body, including the brain. 

What are the Symptoms of Brain Tumors? 

All brain tumors are severe and can cause severe symptoms. The symptoms vary depending on the tumor’s location, size, the rate at which it is growing, and whether it spreads to other parts of the brain or spinal cord. The most common symptoms include changes in memory or concentration, speech problems, personality or behavior changes, vision problems, hearing problems, loss of balance, numbness or tingling in arms or legs, seizures, severe headaches, and nausea. 

What Causes Brain Tumors? 

Brain tumors are often caused by the uncontrolled growth of mutated cells that grow out of control and form into a mass. They can occur anywhere in the brain, including the skull, skull base, or spinal cord. 

The exact cause of brain tumors is still unknown, and there is no clear way to prevent their development. What we do know, however, is that they are linked to certain risk factors, including, 

Age. They are most common among older adults—but they can affect people of all ages. 

Gender. Men are more likely than women to develop a Brain Tumor. 

Exposure to Radiation 

Exposure to Certain Chemicals, agricultural pesticides, or herbicides 

Certain genetic syndromes, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome and neurofibromatosis type 1, can increase a person’s risk of developing certain types of brain cancer. Additionally, if siblings or parents have had brain tumors, the affected individual’s children may be at greater risk of developing one. 

How Does a Doctor Diagnose Brain Tumors? 

Your doctor may suspect that you have a brain tumor if you are experiencing various symptoms such as headaches, seizures, weakness in your muscles, or loss of vision. The first step is for a Neurologist or a Neurosurgeon to take your medical history and perform a physical exam. They will likely check your reflexes, vision, strength, and other bodily functions during the exam. After this initial assessment is complete, they may order several tests that can include, 

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan 
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) 
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan 
• Biopsy  
• Cerebral Angiogram 

What are the Treatments Available? 

Treatment options depend on the type of tumor, its location in the brain, and its stage. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. 

Surgery is the most common treatment for noncancerous (benign) and cancerous brain tumors. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible. Brain tumor surgery may also be used to reduce symptoms such as seizures or headaches by removing part of the tumorous tissue. We are equipped with Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (iMRI), a technology to obtain accurate pictures of the brain that guide our neurosurgeons in removing them and treating other conditions such as epilepsy. 

Radiation Therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. Radiation can come from a machine outside the body (external beam radiation) or from giving radioactive material from inside the body (internal radiation). Both types of radiation may be used to treat a Brain Tumor. Our hospital is equipped with Versa HD with HDRS that delivers SBRT/SRS treatment in a standard 15-minute timeslot and allows our experts to perform single isocenter high-definition dynamic radiosurgery (HDRS) for treating brain cancers.  

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill tumor cells or stop them from dividing into new cells. Chemotherapy drugs may be given directly into a vein or artery in the brain (intra-arterial chemotherapy). Chemotherapy is sometimes used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells that are too small for doctors to see on scans or under a microscope. 

It is a challenging disease to treat due to the complex makeup of the brain. It is imperative that you seek out the right treatment program to help with the long-term goals of remission and eventually cure. It is essential to understand how the brain tumor has progressed so that you can know what specific treatment options are available for this condition. Our highly experienced Neurologists, Neurosurgeons, Oncologists, Radiologists, and multidisciplinary team of experts is equipped with advanced technology to provide personalized treatment to all our patients.

What is Sleep Apnea? At some point, you’ve probably heard that a good night’s rest is important for your health and wellbeing. But how much sleep do you really need? And are there other benefits to getting enough sleep? Let’s talk about it. 

How Much Sleep Do I Need? 

An adult needs 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Depending on the individual, you may need more or less. On the other hand, a newborn infant can spend up to 18 hours asleep! 

Why Is Sleep So Important? 

Sleep helps your body perform well-functioning daily activities. When you don’t get enough sleep, you feel tired, and your body does not work as well as it could. Your brain doesn’t function at its peak either. After several days of not getting enough sleep, your brain shows signs of permanent damage and may even stop working entirely if the deprivation continues long enough. Additionally, lack of sleep contributes to depression and anxiety because it makes people irritable and unhappy. 

What Are Some Reasons Why People Don’t Get Enough Sleep? 

There are many different reasons why people don’t get enough sleep at night. Anyone who’s had a stormy night’s sleep knows how miserable it can feel to face the next day. You drag yourself through work and yawn your way through dinner, wishing you could go back to bed. But all that exhaustion comes with another, less obvious downside: a higher risk of health problems. 

If you’re not sleeping well or experiencing disrupted sleep patterns, you’re at increased risk of developing heart disease, obesity, and diabetes—all of which have serious health consequences in their own right. 

What Is Sleep Apnea? 

Sleep Apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects more than 1 in 4 adults. It occurs when the muscles in your airway relax and block your airways, which can cause you to stop breathing for 10 seconds (or longer) at a time. In severe cases, this can occur up to 400 times per night. While we sleep, our body systems slow down, so you might not notice the effects of sleep apnea right away. But if left untreated, it can have serious health consequences. 

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea 

It’s common for people to be unaware of their condition. This is because many symptoms occur during sleep when you cannot observe them directly. For example, a partner may notice that you snore loudly and gasp or choke during sleep.

Other common symptoms include, 

• Morning headaches 
• Difficulty staying asleep 
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Daytime fatigue and moodiness 
• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking up 

Types of Sleep Apnea 

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). This is the most common type— about 80% of sleep apnea cases are OSA. In this kind of Sleep Apnea, the airway is blocked or partially blocked, preventing air from moving into and out of the lungs. 

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA). In this type of sleep apnea, the brain does not send signals to the muscles that control breathing, so there is no effort to breathe for a while. 

Mixed or Complex Sleep Apnea. This is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea. 

How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed? 

It is diagnosed with an overnight sleep study or a home sleep test. An overnight sleep study, or polysomnogram (PSG), is the most common way to diagnose sleep apnea. This test is performed in a sleep lab or at home and monitors your breathing, brain waves, oxygen levels, leg movements, and heart rate while you sleep. 

In some cases, the results of the PSG may show mild or moderate OSA even though a person has severe symptoms. This is because of the limited number of hours that are monitored during this test. 

The Home Sleep Test (HST) allows you to be monitored for as long as you would normally sleep at night. The HST also monitors your breathing and oxygen level during sleep. The HST is more convenient than an overnight PSG because it can be done in your own home, but the results are not always as accurate as an overnight PSG and may need to be confirmed with another test. Consult our Sleep Specialists to schedule your sleep study. 

How is it Treated? 

There are three main types of treatments for sleep apnea: lifestyle changes, devices, and surgery to help with breathing during sleep. 

Lifestyle Changes: Losing weight is the most common lifestyle change needed to treat sleep apnea. Other changes include adjusting your sleeping position and cutting back on alcohol, caffeine, or smoking. Your doctor may also recommend eating foods that are high in protein and low in carbohydrates. This can help you get better sleep overall, but it’s not a cure.. 

Devices: There are several devices designed to help people with mild or moderate sleep apnea breathe more easily during the night. These include a CPAP machine or continuous positive airway pressure that uses a mask to blow pressurized air into your airway to help keep it open. 

Surgery may be an option if other treatments don’t help. Surgery can also be used to help treat sleep apnea. The most common surgeries are uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), tracheotomy, and tongue reduction. 

Our multidisciplinary team of expert Neurologists, Pulmonologists, ENT Specialists, Bariatric Surgeons, and Nutritionists can discuss your sleep disorder and help you determine the best course of treatment for a good night’s sleep. 

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the ovaries. The ovaries are part of the female reproductive system. They have two main functions:

• To produce eggs (ova) for reproduction.
• To produce female hormones called estrogen and progesterone.

Ovarian cancer most often begins in the outer lining of one or both ovaries (called the epithelium). It can also start in the fallopian tubes or egg sacs attached to the ovaries. Cancers that begin in these cells are called epithelial ovarian cancers.

Cancer can also begin in the hormone-producing tissue of the ovary. This is called stromal ovarian cancer. Stromal cancers are not very common. Cancer that starts in other parts of the body, such as the breast or bowel, can spread (metastasize) to the ovary. These cancers are not classified as ovarian cancer but rather by where they began in the body.

The symptoms are often hard to detect, especially early on. It’s a sneaky disease that can be hard to catch until it’s already advanced. That’s why it’s so important to know what to look for, which we’ve outlined below. If you have any of the listed symptoms, you must immediately consult your Gynecologist

Bloating in Your Abdomen

Bloating in your abdomen can be a common symptom that may not cause worry. But if it’s a new symptom for you, or if it’s persistent and severe, it could be a sign of ovarian cancer. If you’re experiencing bloating, along with other symptoms, such as pelvic pain or difficulty eating, make an appointment with your doctor to find out the cause.

Pressure in Your Lower Back or Pelvic Area

If you’re experiencing pressure or pain in your lower back or pelvic area, it could be a symptom of ovarian cancer. It occurs when abnormal cells in the ovaries grow out of control, forming a tumor that can cause pain and pressure in the lower back and pelvic area.

Feeling Full Quickly When Eating

If you feel full while eating a small quantity of food or aren’t able to eat as much as you used to, it could be a sign of ovarian cancer.

Unexplained Weight Loss and/or Gain

Unexplained weight loss or gain, can occur rapidly and with little to no effort. While non-cancerous conditions can cause unexplained weight changes, it is crucial to speak with a Gynecologist or Oncologist if you experience sudden changes in your weight.

Changes in Bowel Movements or Bladder Function

Changes in bladder or bowel habits such as needing to urinate more frequently, having a more challenging time starting your stream or emptying your bladder, constipation, black, tarry stools, or blood in your stool can be a sign of ovarian cancer.

Pain During Intercourse

Pain during intercourse, also called dyspareunia, can be a sign of ovarian cancer. If you’ve given birth or are preparing for menopause and notice pain during intercourse, make a trip to your Gynecologist to receive a further examination.

Vaginal Bleeding Between Periods, After Menopause, or After Sex

While many symptoms of ovarian cancer are subtle and nonspecific, it is essential not to ignore them. Vaginal bleeding between periods, following menopause, or after sex may be a warning sign of ovarian cancer. Other conditions may cause these symptoms; however, it is essential to discuss these with your Gynecologist if they persist.

Regular Screenings Can Save Lives

We all know that the best way to treat cancer is to catch it early and focus on prevention. There is no standard screening test for ovarian cancer. Most women are diagnosed with the disease after symptoms have appeared, which often don’t appear until cancer has advanced. Still, some tests may help find it early. These include:

Pelvic Exam. Your doctor manually feels (palpates) your reproductive organs during a pelvic exam to look for any abnormalities.

Transvaginal Ultrasound. This test uses sound waves to create a picture of your ovaries and uterus. A wand-like device called a transducer is inserted into your vagina and used to bounce high-frequency sound waves off internal tissues or organs and make echoes. The echoes form a picture of body tissues called a sonogram.

Blood Tests. Your doctor may check levels of tumor markers such as CA-125, hCG, and AFP in your blood if you have symptoms. Tumor markers are substances made by cancer cells or other cells in your body in response to cancer.

It is one of the deadliest cancers affecting women. It’s responsible for more deaths than any other gynecological cancer. The problem? Most women don’t know they have it until it’s too late, making early detection and treatment crucial to increasing survival rates.

Fortunately, we have you covered with our Comprehensive Cancer Screening Packages for Women to make sure you catch cancers as early as possible.

Schedule an appointment with our Obstetrics & Gynecologists to talk about your risk factors for ovarian cancer or other gynecological cancers and how often you should get tested.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a disorder that affects women’s reproductive organs. It occurs when the endometrium, which lines the inside of the uterus, grows outside of it. The misdirected growth of this tissue can cause painful periods and other problems. The most common locations are on the fallopian tubes and ovaries, but it can occur anywhere in the body, including on the bladder or intestines.

What are the Symptoms of Endometriosis?

While each woman’s experience with endometriosis is unique, many women report experiencing discomfort during or near their periods. Additionally, some women experience pain during sexual activity, bowel movements, or urination. While these symptoms are common in many women, they do not necessarily indicate that you have endometriosis — only a Gynecologist can confirm this!

Who Gets Endometriosis?

While it can happen at any age, it’s most common in women between 25 and 40. The following factors may increase your chance of developing it:

• Family history of endometriosis.
• Starting your period before age 11
• Short menstrual cycles (27 days or less)
• Infrequent periods (less than 8 per year)
• Never having given birth
• A diet high in red meat and low in vegetables and fruit

How Common is Endometriosis

Endometriosis is an often painful disorder in which the endometrium, tissue that normally grows inside the uterus, grows outside the uterus. It’s most commonly found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and tissue lining the pelvis. Rarely, it may also occur in other parts of the body. It affects about 176 million women worldwide – or roughly 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It can be challenging to diagnose and may take up to 7 to 8 years from the time symptoms begin to receive a diagnosis of endometriosis. Many women are first diagnosed during fertility testing. If you’re trying to get pregnant and having trouble, you should talk to your Obstetrician & Gynecologist about whether it might be the cause.

How is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

If you suspect that you have endometriosis, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your Gynecologist who will ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical exam, which includes a pelvic exam. They may also order an ultrasound, MRI, or laparoscopy to confirm the diagnosis.

How is Endometriosis Treated?

Treatment depends on your symptoms, the severity of the condition, and how long you’ve had it. Treatment options include hormone therapy, pain medicine, and surgery to remove lesions or tissue growths. A hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended for severe cases. Sometimes, simply changing diet, exercise habits, sleep patterns, or other lifestyle factors can help to reduce the pain and other symptoms. A good understanding of this syndrome can help lead to a better quality of life.

The kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped organs on either side of your spine. They filter our blood, remove toxins, and produce urine. But how to maintain our kidney health, so that our kidney’s can continue to do this for the rest of our lives?

Here are six quick tips for how to keep your kidneys healthy and strong:

Drink More Water

Drink more water! In order to function properly, your kidneys need a good amount of water every day. Keep drinking throughout the day, so you’re never dehydrated, and try adding a lemon wedge or cucumber slice if you don’t like plain water. If you want to know how much water you should drink, take your weight in pounds and divide it by two—that’s how many ounces you need to drink every day. Studies show that drinking water helps the body in many ways. For example, it lubricates joints, helps with digestion, and helps flush out toxins in the body. If you’re not drinking enough water every day, your kidneys won’t function properly. Hence, drinking water is essential for maintaining your kidney health

Eat Less Salt

Excess salt consumption can harm your kidneys and make you retain more water. This can cause hypertension, which increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. Salt also makes you crave more sugar, leading to weight gain. In a diet high in salt, the body holds onto the water to dilute it. This leads to a higher blood volume, which requires more effort from the heart to pump it around the body. The extra pressure this exerts on the walls of arteries can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke. A high-salt diet may also contribute to bone loss in older people because salt increases calcium excretion in urine. It is recommended that adults not consume more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day. A simple way to reduce sodium intake is to avoid processed foods and season fresh foods with salt-free spices instead of table salt.

Avoid Excess Protein

Protein is a critical component of our diet, helping us build muscle and repair tissues. However, getting enough protein can be challenging. But what if you’re getting too much? Too much protein in your diet can put a strain on your kidneys, so it’s essential to pay attention to how much protein you’re eating. Specifically, people with chronic kidney disease are encouraged to limit their protein intake to worsen their symptoms. In general, people need about 10% of their calories to come from protein sources. The recommended daily allowance varies by age group. For adults ages 19-70, that means between 46g and 56g per day. You don’t need to eat meat or animal products to reach this amount; there are many plant-based proteins that you can eat instead! Our registered Dietitian Nutritionist can help you plan a healthy diet personalized to your needs and health condition.

Avoid Alcohol

Drinking alcohol is a dangerous habit for your kidneys. Alcohol is a toxin that requires your kidneys to work harder in order to remove it from your body. Excessive drinking can cause the glomeruli, the tiny filters in your kidney, to become inflamed and scarred. The more you drink, the more damage you do. If you drink too much, you are at risk of developing kidney failure. Heavy drinking can also cause problems with other organs such as the liver and brain, making it difficult for those organs to send signals to your kidneys telling them how much urine to make. This can cause dehydration, which can lead to kidney stones or damage.

Get Enough Rest

Your kidneys work hard all day to filter out toxins and waste products from your blood, so when you go to sleep at night, they get a chance to rest and repair themselves. If you aren’t getting enough sleep, your kidneys won’t have enough time to do their job—and the toxins will build up in your system until it can no longer keep up with them. When that happens, you might experience nausea or headache. Sometimes, severe symptoms like vomiting, chest pain, fainting, swelling of the hands and feet, or even seizures. So don’t skimp on sleep! Shoot for 8 hours per night for the best results.

Exercise Regularly

The National Kidney Foundation recommends getting at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. This can help keep your blood pressure down, which is essential in maintaining good kidney health. You don’t have to run a marathon or join a gym—even just a brisk walk around the block can improve your blood pressure and help maintain sound kidney health. If you’re not able to walk, try some other form of low-impact exercises such as yoga, light stretching, or swimming. In addition to improving your blood pressure and overall health, regular exercise can help reduce stress, improve sleep patterns, and even improve your mood!

If you’ve been diagnosed with kidney disease, have questions about your treatment options, or want to learn more about kidney health, our expert Nephrologists, who have assisted countless patients in managing their renal disease, are available to you 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. Our hospitals are equipped with advanced and cutting-edge dialysis systems that seamlessly integrate technology, safety, and comfort to provide the best possible and compassionate care in a friendly and comfortable environment.

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women’s accomplishments in all fields, whether social, economic, cultural, scientific, political or any other. It is an opportunity to consider future challenges and potential solutions. Women account for half of the world’s population and play critical roles in their families, communities, and economies. Women are committed to driving change, assisting those around them, and improving the world, whether at home or work. So women’s health is vital for all.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #BreaktheBias.

Today serves as an excellent reminder to continue the excellent work that women are doing. It is critical to reflect on our own well-being and that of our loved ones. Along with the more conventional women’s health concerns, women may face health concerns throughout their lives related to pregnancy, birth control, menopause, and other conditions.

It is critical to see a women’s health professional for any concerns they may have and to have them taken seriously. It is never too late to make positive changes to one’s lifestyle. It is more critical than ever to maintain an active lifestyle that includes healthy eating, regular exercise, routine health screenings, and a positive attitude. A physically active lifestyle can help lose weight, increase energy, improve a women’s mental health, maintain independence, and strengthen the body. A healthy lifestyle is well known to reduce the risk of developing certain chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, chronic pain, and depression. Our medical experts are committed to eliminating bias and advancing women’s physical and mental health to live longer and healthier lives.

On this International Women’s Day make a commitment to yourself to make small changes today to reduce your risk of breast disease, cervical disease, heart disease, and stroke. Women need to stay informed about their health. Here are a few of our favorite tips for eating healthy, staying active, and keeping motivated.

Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Sleep helps you maintain a healthy weight, reduces stress, and improves the function of your immune system. A recent study showed that people who get fewer than six hours of sleep per night have a higher risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. This is because sleep deprivation causes changes in hormones that regulate appetite and increases in blood pressure and heart rate that increase the risk for cardiovascular disease. The exact number varies depending on age and lifestyle factors like diet, exercise routine, and job demands. Generally, adults should get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. If you’re having trouble getting those hours, it’s time to consult our Sleep Specialists.

Wear Sunscreen

Even on a cloudy day, up to 80% of the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate your skin. To ensure you’re completely protected from skin cancer, it’s essential to apply sunscreen to your exposed skin before going outside. With summer on its way, it’s important to remember the dangers of sun damage. If you have any questions about choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type, don’t hesitate to ask our Skin Specialists who will explain to you the cancer risk of the UV rays versus the cancer risk of tanning creams.

Eat More Vegetables

Eating vegetables is an essential part of a healthy diet. Vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, can help you maintain a healthy weight, and are naturally low in fat, cholesterol, and sodium. Veggies are packed with fiber, vitamins and minerals that help to improve our overall well-being. These nutrients help to guard us against heart disease, stroke, some cancers, diabetes, and even obesity. Our Nutritionists are here for your every step of the way to help you make the right dietary changes that can improve your overall health and well-being.

Drink Water Instead of Soda, Carbonated and Sugary Drinks

According to a study conducted by the American College of Cardiology, drinking one soft drink a day is tied to a 20% increase in a person’s risk of death. If you drink two soft drinks a day, that number is doubled. There are many reasons why this could be happening, including that soft drinks contains high amounts of sugar and other additives, which can lead to weight gain and tooth decay. Soft drinks also loaded with artificial ingredients like phosphoric acid, which can dissolve bones over time. It is also suspected of causing osteoporosis in people who consume it regularly, especially women and seniors. The human body is made up of between 50 and 65% water. Without water to break down nutrients, carry oxygen to the brain, regulate body temperature, protect body organs and tissues, and lubricate joints, the human body would not function. For all of these reasons, any time you’re choosing a beverage to drink, water should be your first choice. Water has no calories and no sugar, making it a more healthy option than soft drink. It’s also important to remember that sugar can leave you feeling more dehydrated. Water helps keep you hydrated and flush out toxins. It also helps you feel full and more energized, allowing you to perform at your best throughout your day. Drinking water also aids in weight loss by helping you to burn more calories, gives your skin a great glow, and has been linked to better brain function.

Limit Processed Foods

Limiting processed foods is essential for everyone, but women in particular need to pay attention to how much of these foods they’re eating. Processed foods include anything that has been cooked and then frozen, canned, dried, or pasteurized; any food with added sugar, fat, or salt; any food made from refined grains like white flour and white rice. Generally speaking, the more of these foods you eat, the higher your weight gain and chronic disease risk. But according to a 2019 study by the Annals of Internal Medicine, women are at an incredibly high risk of developing type 2 diabetes when they consume a lot of processed foods. The best way to avoid these risks is to limit your intake of processed foods.

Exercise for At least 30 Minutes Per Day

The medical community has long urged men and women to exercise for at least 30 minutes per day to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that women get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio activity each week, while men should get at least twice that. The AHA also reports that women who exercise have lower blood pressure decreased risk of heart disease, and a healthier body weight than those who don’t.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight is a significant part of your overall health. If you are concerned about your weight, talk to your Weight loss Experts. They can help you find ways to eat healthier and get more physical activity to reach and maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, losing as little as 5 percent of your current body weight can improve your health. If you want to be healthy, your weight should be at a level where you are neither underweight nor overweight. Calculating your recommended weight based on your height and body type is possible. Our BMI Calculator can help you determine whether you’re at the right weight.

Not everyone realizes how important a human body’s waist circumference is, but that’s something we need to know if our waist measures more than 40 inches if we are men, or 35 inches if we are women. That means that if you have a large waist circumference, it is likely that you also have too much fat deep in your abdomen. Extra abdominal fat increases your risk for serious health problems, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes. If you carry extra weight around the center of your body, talk to your doctor about strategies that may be right for you to lose weight and reduce risk factors so that you can make healthier choices which will improve your life expectancy.

Take Care of Your Dental Health

Women, it’s time to take care of your dental health. When you take care of your teeth, you’re not only taking care of your smile but also your heart. Research has shown that gum disease is linked to increased risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other diseases. Taking care of your mouth can be as simple as brushing and flossing twice a day and regularly visiting the Dentist. It’s important to schedule annual dental checkups because they can catch issues before they become significant problems. Additionally, women should be aware that the hormones released during pregnancy can make them more susceptible to cavities and other oral health issues. Pregnant women should speak with their Obstetrics and Gynecology Experts about additional steps they can take to ensure good oral health during their pregnancy.

Get Enough Calcium and Vitamin D

Strong, healthy bones are crucial to a successful and fulfilling life. Your body needs Calcium to maintain healthy bones and teeth, nerve signaling, muscle contraction, vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), and secretion of hormones such as insulin. Calcium also plays a role in blood clotting, enzyme activation, maintaining heart rhythm, and preventing atherosclerosis (hardening or clogging of the arteries). Unfortunately, many women are not getting enough Calcium and vitamin D in their diets, which can lead to decreased bone density. The American Dietetic Association recommends that women aged 19-50 consume 1,000 mg of Calcium per day and 200-400 IU of Vitamin D per day. Women who do not consume enough Calcium and Vitamin D in their diet are at risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures later in life. One way to help guard against this is by getting enough Calcium and Vitamin D every day.

Get Yourself an Annual Eye Exam

The symptoms of glaucoma are more pronounced in women than in men, so women must get their eyes checked annually. Glaucoma is a disease where there is damage to the optic nerve, resulting in loss of vision. This happens when the pressure inside the eye increases due to a buildup of aqueous humor. Getting an annual eye checkup is one of the best things for women’s health and well-being. If there’s anything amiss with your eyesight, whether or not you’ve noticed it yet, our Ophthalmologists will find it—and then they can help make sure it doesn’t get worse.

Say Goodbye to Smoking

The number of young female smokers of conventional cigarettes, particularly “Shesha,” is increasing. It’s a dangerous habit because it increases the risk of lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke, diabetes and high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and has a negative effect on reproduction and fertility. Women who smoke have a harder time conceiving than women who do not smoke. Women who smoke during pregnancy are more likely to experience pre- or postpartum loss. Additionally, their babies may be born prematurely or with other complications, such as being underweight. Hence smoking is dangerous for women’s health.

Hearing loss is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide and hearing health is vital for the overall the overall wellbeing. It can be caused by several factors, including ear wax, ear infection, exposure to loud noises, aging, disease, and hereditary conditions. Treatment usually ranges from simple clearing of ear wax to complex options like the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants. There are three main types of hearing loss, 

• Sensorineural Hearing Loss is when the nerves in the inner ear are damaged and can no longer send information to the brain about sound in an accurate way.  
• Conductive Hearing Loss is when there is damage to the outer or middle ear, which causes the sound not adequately conducted from the air to the inner ear.  
• Mixed Hearing Loss combines both sensorineural and conductive issues. 

Early detection of any hearing impairment, particularly in children, is critical for optimal speech and language development. Parents and caregivers should be on the lookout for subtle signs and symptoms of hearing loss, as these can be difficult to detect. Consider an audiology evaluation if your child speaks excessively loudly, listens to the television/handheld device at a high volume, is inattentive, mispronounces words, is uneasy at school, or exhibits difficult behavior for no apparent reason. Hearing health is critical at any age.

World Hearing Day aims to promote awareness of the effects of noise on hearing and your ears.  

1 day a year is not enough, so here are 10 ways to protect your hearing which you can do every day. 

Protect Your Ears from Loud Noises by Wearing Ear Protection Gear 

In order to prevent hearing loss, it’s essential to protect your ears from loud noises. These sounds can cause permanent damage to your hearing if you’re exposed to them for even a short period of time. Some examples include music concerts, car horns, and powered tools. Any sound louder than 85 decibels (dB) could potentially be hazardous. You can protect your ears by wearing earplugs or earmuffs in situations where you may be exposed to loud, harmful sounds. If you are constantly exposed to loud noise at workplace, get an annual ear and hearing evaluation and have proper follow up with the ENT doctor.  

Reduce the Volume 

Hearing loss can happen gradually, and most people don’t notice it until it’s too late. Listening to music at loud volumes can cause permanent hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and other hearing problems. The best way to protect your hearing is to turn down the volume. If you’re listening to music through headphones, use the volume control feature on your device. 

Avoid Using Cotton Ear Swabs 

Many people don’t realize that our ears naturally filter out any harmful particles or debris that enter our ear canals and that most of the time earwax doesn’t need any help getting out of there. You can do more harm than good by using cotton swabs in your ears by pushing the ear wax deep into the ear canal. This can injure the ear drum and making it difficult for the doctor to clean the ears. If you’re experiencing some discomfort, ear block or hearing issues, visit one of our Best ENT Specialists for an easy fix! We’ll have you feeling better—and hearing better—in no time. 

Take Medications Exactly as Prescribed 

Many over-the-counter and prescription medications can permanently damage hearing if taken in high doses or for long periods of time. Talk with your doctor about the best options for your specific health needs. Avoid using ear drops without an examination of ears by the doctor. Over the counter usage of ear drops can sometimes cause damage to ear.  

Keep Your Ears Dry 

Water is an essential element for our bodies — it helps us stay hydrated and keeps us alive! It can also help us enjoy various activities like swimming and diving. However, water can be dangerous if it gets in your ears. If water gets into your ears, it can damage the ears’ delicate inner workings and lead to hearing loss. If you’ve ever gone swimming, you might be familiar with the feeling of a clogged ear. That’s because water entering your ear canal can disrupt the ear drum’s ability to vibrate properly and conduct sound to your inner ear. This can lead to temporary hearing loss. If you can feel water in the ear, tilt your head to the side and tug lightly on the ear lobe to coax the water out. Sometimes water inside the ear can cause ear canal infection called the swimmer’s ear or even fungal infection of ears. Over time, repeated exposure to moisture (e.g., water, sweat) can also cause skin breakdown in the ear canal, leading to inflammation and infection. 

Reduce or Eliminate Your Exposure to Chemicals that May Cause Hearing Loss 

Chemicals can be found in everything from plastics to cleaning products, and many of them are known to be harmful when we’re exposed to them for extended periods of time. If you work in an industry where you’re regularly exposed to chemicals, be sure that you’re getting annual hearing tests; if you notice a change in your hearing in between your appointments with the Best ENT doctor and audiologist, schedule an appointment immediately. 

Exercise Regularly 

Regular exercise and making sure to get up and move around every so often can help protect your hearing and help you maintain your hearing health. Cardio exercises like walking, running, or cycling gets the blood pumping to all parts of your body, including the ears. This helps the internal parts of ears to stay healthy and working to their maximum potential.  

Control Your Stress Levels 

Stress affects the body in a multitude of ways, from stomach upset to high blood pressure. Unfortunately, stress can also contribute to hearing loss! This may come as a surprise to many, but it’s true. Stress disrupts circulation to the ears, sending blood rushing to other parts of your body instead. As stress becomes chronic, cells in the ear can be damaged or even die, leading to hearing loss and ringing sensation in ears. 

Get a Good Night Sleep 

One of the most common yet surprising consequences of hearing loss is sleep deprivation. This can result in several health problems, including weight gain, irritability and depression, memory loss, and more. Hearing problems don’t just make it harder for you to hear—they can also affect the quality of your sleep. Get plenty of rest! If you’re not sleeping well—especially if you suspect it has to do with lack of quality sleep—make an appointment with our sleep specialists as soon as possible. Lack of sleep is linked to many health issues, and poor sleep can affect your hearing health too. 

Get Regularly Checked 

Hearing loss can happen to anyone, and it’s a problem that we often don’t notice until it’s too late. That’s why regular health checkups are so important. Getting your hearing checked at least once a year can help you keep your ears and hearing health. Our ENT experts will run a few tests, and if they do find a problem, they can take steps to correct it before more damage occurs. So whether you’re having trouble hearing or need a checkup, we’re here for you!