22, Feb 2024
New genetic therapy could be a gamechanger for Motor Neurone Disease and frontotemporal dementia
New Delhi, 22 February 2024: Macquarie University neuroscientists have developed a single-dose genetic medicine that has been proven to halt the progression of both motor neurone disease (MND) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in mice – and may even offer the potential to reverse some of the effects of the fatal diseases.
It may also hold opportunities for treating more common forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease. The new treatment, dubbed CTx1000, targets pathological build-ups of the protein TDP-43 in cells in the brain and spinal cord.
Cells like neurons produce TDP‑43 naturally, and it is important for their healthy function. Under certain conditions, it accumulates in the wrong part of the cells, clogging them and preventing them from working properly. For the past 15 years, a Macquarie University research team led by Professor Lars Ittner has been looking for the causes of this pathological build-up of TDP-43, along with ways to clear the blockages and prevent them from forming in the first place.
The team’s latest findings are published in the prestigious international neuroscience journal, Neuron.
Professor Ittner says their research has furthered their understanding of MND and FTD and their causes.
“We discovered for the first time that where there is pathological TDP-43, there is also an increase in a second protein, 14‑3‑3,” elaborated Professor Ittner.
“The two proteins interact, resulting in these build-ups in the cells. From this, we were able to isolate a short peptide that controls this interaction, and that’s what we used to create CTx1000. When we administered it in the lab, it dissolved the build-ups, tagging TDP-43 proteins for recycling by the body, and prevented new ones from forming. Importantly, CTx1000 targets only pathological TDP-43, allowing the healthy version of the protein to be produced and go about its work unhindered.”
This makes CTx1000 incredibly safe, and Professor Ittner says they have seen no adverse effects in their studies. “We have great hopes that when this progresses to human trials, it will not only stop people from dying from both MND and FTD, but even allow patients to regain some of the lost function through rehabilitation.”
Professor Yazi Ke, lead author of the new paper, says the milestone is particularly exciting for her because the original discovery was made in her early postdoctoral days. “This spans more than a decade of work, and goes from discovery all the way through to a potential treatment,” she says.
“In lab conditions, we saw CTx1000 stop MND and FTD from progressing even at very advanced stages, and resolving the behavioural symptoms associated with FTD. We have great hopes that when this progresses to human trials, it will not only stop people from dying from both MND and FTD, but even allow patients to regain some of the lost function through rehabilitation.”
Research Fellow Dr Annika van Hummel says they covered a variety of mutations in the TDP genes during lab testing.
“We wanted to prove beyond a doubt that this would work in different situations, and it resulted in clear improvements in both symptoms and brain pathology,” she says.
“The fact that it was effective both before and after the onset of symptoms makes it particularly exciting. While we are initially concentrating on MND and FTD, but about 50 per cent of cases of Alzheimer’s also show TDP pathology, so it’s possible that in the future this treatment could be translatable to other neurodegenerative conditions.”
A desperate need for treatment options
Also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), MND causes the progressive loss of the neurons that allow the brain and spine to communicate with the muscles. In its early stages, patients experience muscle weakness, but as the disease progresses, they gradually lose the ability to walk, speak, swallow and breathe unaided. Most people with MND die within two to five years of diagnosis.
FTD is one of the rarer forms of dementia, but it is the second-most common form in people younger than 65. Actor Bruce Willis was diagnosed with FTD in 2023. It does not always have obvious physical symptoms, but it results in cognitive decline coupled with behavioural symptoms including anxiety, loss of inhibition, personality change and impaired judgment. Patients may live for more than 10 years after diagnosis, but it is ultimately fatal.
While there is a genetic therapy showing promise for one form of familial MND, there are few treatments available for the sporadic MND that makes up 90 per cent of all cases. Of those, the most effective can only extend a patient’s life by up to five months. All require frequent doses, and some come with side effects that are difficult to cope with.
There is currently no treatment for FTD.
Macquarie University Professor of Neurology, Professor Dominic Rowe, is one of Australia’s leading MND clinicians and researchers.
“I am currently treating more than 200 people with MND, but only five of them with a specific type of familial MND are currently able to access genomic therapy,” Professor Rowe says.
“Treatment like that doesn’t exist for anyone else. For most patients, all we can do is provide good quality, multidisciplinary care. This new research is incredibly promising in slowing the progression of MND and FTD for the vast majority of our patients. I’m extremely hopeful that it will soon be available to our patients at the Macquarie University Hospital MND Clinic.”
The team at Macquarie University hopes to be able to begin in-human trials of CTx1000 within two years, and they have already received a pre-clinical grant of $1.2 million from FightMND to assist with the process.
The therapy is one of the key discoveries being championed by Celosia Therapeutics, a Macquarie University spin-out company formed in 2022 to help bring groundbreaking work of the University’s neuroscientists from the lab to patients.
Testing new therapies and bringing them to waiting patients is incredibly expensive – in this case, the cost is an estimated $22 million to get to human trials.
“There is such a desperate need for new drugs for neurodegenerative diseases like MND, and this is an exciting new therapeutic with enormous potential,” Dr Hamdorf says.
“MND is difficult to diagnose because there is no conclusive test. It’s a process of elimination that can take up to 12 or 18 months, by which time, the disease has progressed significantly. We have the potential for CTx1000 to be a one-shot treatment that can help people even at late stages of the disease, then it would quite literally be a light at the end of the tunnel that patients and their families just don’t have now.”
This research was funded by grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council and MND Australia.
Professor Lars Ittner is the Director of the Dementia Research Centre and Professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences of the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences at Macquarie University.
Professor Yazi Ke is the Deputy Director (Operations) of the Dementia Research Centre and Professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Macquarie University.
Dr Annika van Hummel is a Research Fellow at the Macquarie University Dementia Research Centre.
Professor Dominic Rowe is the Foundation Professor of Neurology in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Macquarie University, Chairman of Macquarie Neurology, and Consultant Neurologist at Macquarie University Hospital.
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- By Rabindra
22, Feb 2024
Thyroid Eye Disease: more to it than meets the Eye
Authored by Dr. Saptagirish, HoD Orbit and Oculoplastics, Dean,
Sankara Eye Hospital, Bangalore
Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) is mostly caused by the immune system targeting the muscles and tissues that surround the eyes, which causes irritation and an array of ocular symptoms. In a study conducted over 18 months in 2020, it was found that 34.7% patients with thyroid dysfunction having TED and 4:1 ratio of women to men with TED. With the advancement of AI and technology, it is much easier to diagnose TED and provide much more advanced treatment that will help in the speedy recovery of the patient. People need to be conscious of these indications and get help as soon as possible to prevent them from getting worse. Failure to do so may lead to complications, including potential vision loss.
Key Clinical Features of Thyroid Eye Disease:
Protrusion of Eyes (Proptosis): One prominent indication entails the protrusion or bulging outwards of one or both eyes due to swelling and inflammation affecting the eye muscles along with adjacent tissues.
Double vision: TED can induce restriction of one or more muscles that help rotate the eyes in different directions, thereby leading to double vision medically termed diplopia.
Ocular Discomfort and Pain: Individuals afflicted with TED often experience discomfort accompanied by dull aching pain within their affected eyes coupled with sensations akin to grittiness, irritation and foreign body sensation.
Swelling and Inflammation: Swelling alongside inflammation in tissues surrounding the eyeballs leads to redness, pain and discomfort
Dry eyes: Reduced production of tears, inability to close eye completely and increased visualization of white part of the eye leads to dryness
Cosmetic disfiguration: bulging of one or both eyes, staring look, inability to close eyes completely and eyelid lag can result in unsightly appearance aesthetically displeasing to some individuals.
Systemic manifestations: Weight loss, palpitations, increased heart rate, heat intolerance and generalised apprehension and anxiety should alert one on presence of hyperactive thyroid hormones. Ocular manifestations may precede or follow systemic manifestations in a majority of individuals.
Dietary Considerations
When managing TED closely paying heed towards eating habits emerges as beneficial thus certain considerations worth pondering include:
Foods that should be avoided include processed foods, as they often contain high levels of sodium which can contribute to water retention and worsen eye swelling. Excessive intake of sugary foods should be restricted as it may lead to inflammation in the body. It is always recommended to follow a low-sugar diet to help manage symptoms.
Selenium supplements: Dietary sources like onions, garlic, meat, seafood, shellfish, eggs and cereals or selenium supplements prescribed by a medical practitioner have beneficial effects in controlling symptoms and progression in mild TED due to its antioxidant properties.
Addictions: Smoking and alcohol are substances that have the potential to exacerbate eye discomfort and disrupt sleep patterns associated with Thyroid Eye Disease (TED). Therefore, it is advisable to gradually reduce and stop consumption of these substances altogether.
To take precautions against TED, regular medical check-ups are essential. By scheduling routine appointments with healthcare providers, individuals can monitor their thyroid function and assess the progression of TED more effectively.
Lubricants: The use of lubricating eye drops can also alleviate dryness and increase overall comfort experienced by some individuals.
Adequate sleep plays a significant role in promoting overall well-being while alleviating uncomfortable symptoms such as eye discomfort. It’s important to prioritize quality rest by ensuring sufficient hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.
Furthermore, stress management techniques prove beneficial for managing autoimmune conditions related to TED. Adopting practices like meditation or yoga helps individuals cope better with stressors that could potentially worsen their condition over time.
Understanding Thyroid Eye Disease requires awareness of its symptoms alongside implementing supportive dietary choices and taking the necessary precautions mentioned above. This includes seeking personalized advice from healthcare professionals regarding tailored treatment plans. Finding a balance between medical guidance, and lifestyle modifications allows people affected by this condition, to improve their overall well-being effectively, and successfully manage its impact on ocular health.
• Indian Journal of Ophthalmology: Clinical profile of thyroid eye disease and factors predictive of disease severity
• National Library of Medicine: Selenium supplementation in thyroid associated ophthalmopathy, an update
22, Feb 2024
Uptick In Respiratory, and Cardiac Problems Due To Poor Air Quality In Delhi
Delhi:- As a result of poor air quality, many residents in the capital are experiencing respiratory and cardiac issues. Instances of cardiac arrest, stroke, and gastric problems have risen significantly. It is crucial to refrain from going outdoors during periods of low air quality or to wear a mask as a precaution.
“With levels of particulate matter (PM) reaching hazardous levels, the impact on respiratory and cardiac health is becoming increasingly evident. There is a spike in cases of asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory illnesses, while individuals with pre-existing heart conditions are experiencing exacerbated symptoms. The high levels of pollutants in the air can lead to inflammation in the lungs and heart, putting individuals at a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases. There has been a notable rise in the number of patients seeking medical care for a variety of health concerns, including respiratory issues like asthma, chronic coughs, colds, viral infections, and abdominal distress. This increase has also been observed in cases related to cardiac conditions. People come with signs and symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, which are often exacerbated by pollutants. Children and the elderly population are particularly vulnerable to these effects due to weakened immune systems or respiratory function. Air pollution has been linked to cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks and strokes. last 2 month 200 cases spread across all age group, but mainly old age and adults with comorbidities like diabetes and heart disease.” Said Dr Dixit Thakur, Pulmonologist, Apollo Spectra Delhi, Chirag Enclave.
Dr Thakur Added, “ The high levels of pollutants in the air have been linked to respiratory issues such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis, as well as an increase in cardiovascular diseases. The presence of smog can cause direct irritation to the lungs and throat, especially impacting individuals with pre-existing respiratory issues. Common issues include upper respiratory problems such as nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and a sore throat. Individuals may also experience chest discomfort and fever. However, the majority of these symptoms are mild and typically resolve on their own. Urgent action must be taken to address this pressing issue and improve air quality in Delhi for the well-being of its residents.”
Investing in high-quality air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters can significantly improve indoor air quality and help combat the effects of pollution in Delhi. Limit outdoor activities during peak pollution hours, typically early morning and late evening when the pollutant levels are at their highest. Opt for indoor exercises or activities during these times to reduce exposure to toxic air pollutants and protect your respiratory health in the long run. Avoiding venturing out of the house or wearing a mask can help to keep the lungs and heart healthy,” Concluded Dr Thakur.
21, Feb 2024
Nestlé Health Science launches Resource Activ, the ‘New-Edge’ nutritional solution for active millennials
In line with its purpose of unlocking the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone, today and for generations to come, Nestlé India has launched Resource Activ, a multi-benefit, high-protein supplement designed to cater to the wellness needs of active millennials. With its unique ‘New Edge Formula’, Resource Activ has high quality proteins for muscles, enriched calcium and vitamin D for bone health and hyaluronate for skin health. It also contains fiber and immune nutrients. Resource Activ seeks to address the nutritional need gaps of the millennials through supplementation.
Despite the rapidly growing protein supplement market, there is a need for offerings tailored for individuals. Studies suggest that after the age of 30, there is involuntary loss of muscle mass. It also leads to reduced bone density, tissue breakdown and signs of aging like loss of skin hydration and elasticity. Resource Activ is customized to fulfill the nutritional needs of this age group, aiding muscle health, energy, bone health and skin health. Consumers can enjoy Resource Activ with water or milk in a delicious vanilla biscuit flavour.
Talking about the launch, Mr. Suresh Narayanan, Chairman and Managing Director, Nestlé India said, “Nestlé India has been on a continuous journey to add value to the lives of its consumers through powerful brands and products. We are happy to launch Resource Activ, for active adults, including millennials. Resource Activ is an output of extensive research and is backed by the assurance of Nestlé’s quality and safety. We are confident that the brand would be able to supplement the nutritional needs of the active millennials and help them lead an active life.”
Resource Activ will be available on ecommerce and across 11 cities at national pharmacies and local chemists in Delhi NCR, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Kochi, Kozhikode, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Nestlé Health Science is a global leader in the space of nutritional science. It focuses on advancing the therapeutic role of nutrition to change the course of health management for consumers, patients, doctors, nurses and its partners in healthcare. The key products include RESOURCE High Protein, PEPTAMEN, OPTIFAST, RESOURCE Diabetic, RESOURCE Fiber Choice, THICKEN UP CLEAR, RESOURCE Renal and RESOURCE Dialysis. Nestlé Health Science also has a dedicated team of clinical experts who engage with healthcare professionals across India for awareness and education.
21, Feb 2024
Cervicalgia
Author
Dr. Arunkumar, Principal
Saveetha institute of medical and technical sciences,
Saveetha college of occupational therapy
The term “cervicalgia” refers to pain or severe discomfort in the neck, particularly in the back and/or sides. Cervicalgia is essentially neck pain. The cervical spine, which spans from the first to the seventh spinal vertebra, is made up of the bones of the neck. Spine’s first bone is roughly where your ears are, and its seventh bone is at the base of your neck. Since sensory organs and nerves are located in the cervical spine, cervicalgia may also be accompanied by other symptoms. Dizziness and tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, were found to be extremely common in a 2016 International Archives of Otorhinolaryngology study. Other symptoms included neck cracks and pops, hearing problems, and symptoms related to your cardiovascular system.
CAUSES
Muscle Strain
Injury: Trauma from accidents or fall.
Degenerative conditions: osteoarthritis
Herniated Disc
Pinched Nerve
Cervical Stenosis
Postural Issues
Stress
Rapid forward-backward movement of the neck
Medical Conditions: Fibromyalgia, Rheumatoid arthritis.
SYMPTOMS
Radiating Pain: Pain that travels down the arm fingers and possibly into the
Stiffness
Muscle Tension: Tightness in neck muscles.
Headaches
Sensations of numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands.
Pain when turning the head, tilting, or bending the neck.
Difficulty in sleeping due to pain and discomfort
Weakness: Reduced strength in the arms or hands in more severe cases.
DIAGNOSIS
Electromyography (EMG)
Blood Tests
Nerve conduction studies
Medical management
Pain medication-
NSAIDS
Muscle relaxants corticosteroid injection
OT MANAGEMENT
Occupational therapists (OTs) use everyday activities, or “occupations,” as a therapeutic tool to help people of all ages and abilities participate in the activities they choose. Their success stems from matching each client’s unique set of meaningful activities with goals to be achieved during therapy.
Pain Management: Occupational therapists can teach relaxation techniques, gentle exercises, and ergonomic strategies to manage pain and reduce muscle tension.
Posture Correction: They can assess your posture and provide guidance on proper body mechanics to prevent strain on the neck during daily activities.
Ergonomics: Occupational therapists can evaluate your workspace, whether at home or work, and recommend adjustments to your desk, chair, computer setup, and other equipment to reduce strain on the neck.
Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques like gentle massage, mobilizations, and stretching may be used to alleviate muscle tension and improve range of motion.
Activity Modification: Occupational therapists can guide you in modifying daily tasks to minimize neck strain and pain while still
accomplishing your goals.
Education: They provide education on body mechanics, proper lifting techniques, and way to avoid repetitive strain injuries.
Stress Management: Occupational therapist can teach stress reduction techniques, as stress can exacerbate neck pain.
Splint: Cervical neck brace.
Adaptive device: shoulder relaxer, cervical traction holder belt
21, Feb 2024
Post Operative Physical Therapy Rehabilitation in Rotationalplasty
Dr.Sathya Siva., MPT (Neuro)
Tutor, Saveetha College of Physiotherapy
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai-602105
Rotationalplasty is a novel functional surgical technique performed, in which the affected part of lower leg is amputated and the remaining portion of ankle is rotated to 180 0 and reattached . The successful rate of the surgery depends to good functional activates, healing, reduction of hospital stay and prevention of complication of the disease. Multidisciplinary rehabilitation, such as appropriate prosthetic fitting and physical therapy support, is necessary to ensure a successful recovery.
Enhancing muscle strength, gait pattern, balance, coordination, and joint flexibility is a major role of physical therapists. During the rotational plasty rehabilitation, proper knowledge about the patient’s condition must be addressed together with a deeper comprehension of joint biomechanics, where the ankle complex serves similar purpose as the knee complex.
Several physical therapy management evidence supports the patient to return back to normal like Active range of motion exercise, strengthening program using progressive resistance training, gait training using a parallel bar and crutch training.
Rotationalplasty is a better choice for the patient with bone tumors in leg .The functional Ankle joint at the level of the knee allows better functioning of the prosthesis which helps the patient to perform well in sports and ADL’s
Dr.Sathyasiva has been probing on relationship with the Neuroplasticity on before and after the rotaionalplasty in his exemplary research works .These finding would be helping to treat the patient with better understanding of several adaptation of brain during rehabilitation.
21, Feb 2024
Indian Dental Association conducting Oral Cancer Public Dental Health screening camp
Hyderabad, 21th February 2024: IDA (Indian Dental Association) through its Deccan Branch; is hosting an Oral Cancer Checkup, Screening, Awareness, Detection Camp, as a part of it’s a national CSR activity initiative till February 23rd 2024, between 9.00 am and 5.00 pm., at the APMC (Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee), Malakpet, Hyderabad. The screening camp is doing general dental health check-up for decayed teeth, missing teeth, filled teeth, and for other miscellaneous dental and gum ailments. The Camp was inaugurated today.
The camp aims to detect oral cancers in the early stages and curb oral cancers. Fifteen Dental Surgeons including Oral & Maxollofacial Specialists from IDA & Pananeeya Institute of Dental Sciences will be performing the Oral Cancer Checkup, Screening, Awareness, Detection where necessary biopsies will also be taken in suspected oral cancer lesion cases.
According to Dr A Srikanth, Secretary IDA, Deccan Branch; Telangana’s percentage of mouth, head, and neck cancers is 16%, which is higher than the national average of 12% surpassing the count of lung cancer cases. Head, neck and mouth cancers have now become the number one cancer among men in Telangana. Among the top 5 cancers in India, for instance, cancers of lungs, oral cavity, uterine cervix and large intestine have strong lifestyle risks. People who use tobacco products, smoke cigarettes, pipe, hookah or chew gutka, snuff etc. have much higher chances of getting lung or oral cavity cancers. Consuming alcohol alongside tobacco increases the risk of oral cancers even further. Oral cancers are the leading cancer by incidence in the world. The most common reasons include consumption of tobacco, betel nut, alcohol along with poor oral hygiene.
Dental surgeon plays a critical role in the diagnosis and treatment of oral cancer. Early detection and treatment is key to improving outcomes for patients with oral cancer. Oral cancer can be cured if found and treated at an early stage, dental doctors often finds oral cancer in its early stages because the mouth and lips are easy to examine, says Dr Srikanth.
21, Feb 2024
Harmful Effects Of Eyelash Extension & Remedial Measures
Dr. Anchal Mitra MBBS, MS, DNB, FMRF, FICO
Consultant Ophthalmologist
Dept. Of Cataract, Paediatric Ophthalmology & Squint
Disha Eye Hospitals.
To make the lashes appear longer and fuller, eyelash extensions are semi-permanent lash treatments that require gluing strands of silk, synthetic, mink, human, or horse hair to each lash. An expert from the salon does the process. To manually adhere a fake lash to an existing lash, they employ several kinds of glue. The effect is a richer, more realistic-looking flutter. Depending on the type of fake hair used, lash extensions come in three main varieties. It falls into the categories of synthetic, mink and silk.
In extremely small amounts, latex, cellulose gum, cyanoacrylates, benzoic acid, and formaldehyde are some of the substances frequently found in eyelash extension adhesives. Among the substances present in eyelash extension removers are propylene glycol and formaldehyde.
Chemicals and other potentially hazardous or irritating substances are present in the glues used to attach eyelash extensions to natural lashes. Within two to three days, the person may feel discomfort if there is a reaction to a chemical used during the procedure.
Side effects on the skin and eyes
The usage of eyelash extensions has been linked to a variety of dangers. They are as follows:
a) Significant eye pain and redness have resulted from nylon lash extensions lodged in the conjunctiva and subconjunctival area; removal necessitates an operating room visit. It has been reported that subconjunctival haemorrhage and conjunctival damage can result from the pressure exerted on the eyes by eyelash tape and the rubbing involved in lash removal.
b) The use of different kinds of eyelash glue, eyelash tape and eyelash remover has also been linked to reports of allergic blepharitis, keratoconjunctivitis, and contact dermatitis. Eyelash glue abraded the cornea, causing serious vision-threatening conditions like hemophilus influenza keratitis, a bacterial infection of the cornea.
c) Eyelash remover solvent may cause corneal complications, specifically in patients with prior LASIK refractive surgery.
d) As lash glue ranks as one of the most toxic beauty products in the market, many variants contain a cocktail of hazardous chemicals including paraben, ammonia, formaldehyde, lead, and sodium dodecylbenzenesulfanate – all of which cause skin irritation, redness, and swelling.
e) Lash glue can cause a variety of inflammatory conditions – inflammation of the cornea and the inner membrane that protects the eyelids and blepharitis – inflammation of the eyelids that causes redness and itchiness and formation of scales.
f) Apart from allergies, these chemicals are also responsible for one of the most alarming dangers of eyelash glue: cancer. Mounting studies prove that exposure can cause brain, lung, and kidney cancer. Lead poisoning can also cause miscarriage in women and can be fatal to small children.
g) The American Academy of Ophthalmology cautions that lash glue components also lead to infection of the eyelids and the cornea. In fact, a 2012 study of 120 women found that 97.5 percent or 117 female subjects experienced dryness, itchiness, tearing, and purulent discharge – a common sign of infection – following lash glue application. Infections can sometimes also result from dirt and bacteria getting trapped in glue.
h) Loss of lashes. While a lot of people accidentally pull out their natural lashes while applying false lashes, lash glue itself can cause hair loss as well. The tension that glue and false lashes put on natural lashes can cause them to fall out – the condition is called traction alopecia. Although in many cases lashes grow back in six to eight weeks, Britain’s College of Optometrists notes that there are instances when this excessive tension damages the hair shaft and follicle that lash production does not only slow down but stops completely.
Unless one has an underlying condition that makes eyelash extensions an inappropriate choice, the following guidelines can typically help avoid these risks:
• Have a professional, certified cosmetologist or aesthetician attach eyelash extensions in a clean environment.
• Ask for a list of the ingredients used in the adhesive. Avoid adhesive that includes formaldehyde, as it is a toxin that can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation.
• If allergic to latex, ensure it is not among the listed ingredients.
• Ensure the clinician uses surgical glue and not nail glue. This is a must-avoid red flag.
• Confirm that the clinician washes their hands, sterilizes their equipment, and provides clean towels or bedding for the procedure.
• If one has sensitive skin or allergies to products like makeup, ask for a patch test to be done on the arm a few days before the eyelash extension procedure.
People with certain skin conditions probably should not get eyelash extensions unless their doctor has approved the procedure ahead of time.
Consult a doctor about getting eyelash extensions if one has:
• Eyelid Dermatitis
• Blepharitis
• Alopecia Areata
• Trichotillomania
Avoid getting eyelash extensions while undergoing medical procedures of the eye, such as LASIK surgery or chemotherapy and radiation.
To avoid allergies to glue used in eyelash extensions:
1. Use an Anti-Allergy Gel – It works wonders to keep glue allergies at check by keeping an open jar of Anti-Allergy Gel nearby. This jelly-like jar contains Anti-Allergy Gel, which absorbs fumes and cyanoacrylate before they reach the eyes and nostrils.
2. Stock glues for lash extensions that are delicate. Compared to regular lash glues, sensitive lash extension glues have substantially less cyanoacrylate. While they might not be the longest-lasting or fastest-drying glues, they are nonetheless appropriate for customers with delicate immune systems or eyes. The best adhesives for delicate eyes are BL Advanced Glue and Lily Glue.
Lash glue frequently contains ammonia and latex, two major allergies. It also frequently releases large amounts of the hazardous formaldehyde.
Blepharitis – Blepharitis typically happens due to the accumulation of bacteria on the lids, just around where lashes grow. Although everyone has some degree of bacteria around their eyes, certain things can increase the quantity of it, like using mascara, contact lens solutions, or eyelash extensions.
There is no proven treatment for blepharitis, but there are a couple of key steps that can be taken to manage symptoms, including:
• Gently washing eyelids regularly.
• Keeping eyelids clean and free of crusts.
When washing eyelids, follow these steps:
· First, make sure hands are clean by washing them with soap and water.
· Place a drop of mild cleanser on a clean, damp cloth.
· Gently press the cloth against the closed eye(s) for a couple of minutes. This will help loosen the crusts and can also open up the oil glands, preventing them from clogging.
· Using very little force, rub the cloth on lids to remove the crusts.
· Rinse the eyes with clean water.
· Repeat as needed.
Often referred to as “artificial tears,” over-the-counter eye drops can also be used to assist relieve dryness and pain. Consult a medical expert again if symptoms do not go away after a few days. An ophthalmic examination can be performed to evaluate the state.
Treatment recommendations may include the following, depending on the symptoms:
Eye Drops: Steroid eye drops are useful for reducing inflammation, redness, and pain. An earlier study from 2012 found that using eye drops and/or ointments to treat blepharitis helped 107 patients with their symptoms.
Antibiotics: A medical practitioner may recommend antibiotics if they believe that bacteria caused the blepharitis.
In some cases, an underlying condition, like rosacea, psoriasis, or dandruff, might be triggering blepharitis symptoms. In that case, you will need to treat the underlying cause. If you have lash extensions, treatment might involve getting them removed to help reduce symptoms.
To sum up, I would thus say why to have a cosmetic procedure like eyelash extensions in the very first place, when even the safe ones also come with so many side effects
21, Feb 2024
Breaking the Stigma: Understanding Epilepsy, its causes, effects and treatment
Dr. Sowmya M, Senior consultant Neurologist, Aster RV Hospitals
Come February, Epilepsy awareness is planned and observed as International Epilepsy day. The aim is to improve awareness about epilepsy in the general public , reduce stigma related to epilepsy due to the misunderstanding and misconceptions that surround it and provide support to individuals and families living with epilepsy . “Milestones on My Epilepsy Journey”. The theme of International epilepsy day this year , emphasises to highlight personal achievements despite the challenges brought about by the condition.
For the benefit of people who are not clear about Epilepsy, Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects the brain, where there is sudden abnormal electrical activity in the brain causing a person to loose control over his body and have a seizure. There are many different types of seizures. There is the major type where a person looses consciousness, falls down and has involuntary jerky movements of the whole body and minor types where they do not lose consciousness completely, may be confused and have partial symptoms depending on the area of brain affected, like simple twitching movements of the face, jerking of one part of the body, visual or hearing symptoms or abnormal feelings. Epilepsy is a condition where a patient has 2 or more recurring seizure without a provoking cause.
In India over 1 crore people are affected with epilepsy , that is 6-10 persons per 1000 but unfortunately a large number of these people do not get access to proper treatment causing major suffering to the patient and the family members.
What are the types of Seizure?
Seizures can vary in type and intensity, Auras or warning signs or sensations which lead to visual disturbances or strange smells, experience temporary confusions, memory loss, or difficulty speaking or understanding language, or uncontrollable movements of the arms, legs, or other parts of the body are all symptoms of an Epileptic attack.
What are the causes of Epilepsy?
Epilepsy has no identifiable cause in about half of the people while in the other half the condition can be due to various causes like genetic influence, developmental conditions. Other causes can be structural problems in the brain like head trauma from accidents or injuries, brain tumour or structural abnormalities in the brain, infections, vascular conditions like stroke , hypoxic injury to brain during birth. Other causes for seizure can be due to effect of illicit drug abuse, excessive alcohol consumption or sudden alcohol withdrawal, low or very high blood sugar levels, low blood sodium levels, high blood creatinine levels which occurs in renal failure and various other causes. It is important to try and identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Effects of Epilepsy
Seizures can result in physical injury due to falls or involuntary movements. This risk of injury may lead to limitations in daily activities and independence. Epilepsy can have psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and social stigma, which may impact mental well-being and quality of life. Some individuals with epilepsy may experience cognitive impairments, such as memory problems or difficulty concentrating, which can affect academic or occupational performance. In many countries, individuals with epilepsy are subject to driving restrictions due to the risk of seizures while operating a vehicle, which can impact mobility and independence.
Treatments for Epilepsy:
Anti seizure medications have to be appropriately chosen. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are often the first-line treatment for epilepsy. These medications help control seizures by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. In about 30 % of epilepsies which do not respond to medications, there are alternative modalities of treatment like neuromodulation and epilepsy surgeries. Surgical options include removing the area of the brain responsible for seizures or implanting devices to regulate brain activity. There is also Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) therapy which involves implanting a device that delivers electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, helping to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. Some individuals with epilepsy may benefit from following a ketogenic diet, which is high in fat and low in carbohydrates. This diet has been shown to help control seizures in some cases, particularly in children. Lifestyle modifications, such as getting adequate sleep, managing stress, and avoiding triggers known to precipitate seizures, can help reduce the frequency and severity of epilepsy episodes.
21, Feb 2024
Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery: A gentle approach to Heart Health
National Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day
Dr. Udgeath Dhir, SENIOR DIRECTOR CARDIO THORACIC VASCULAR SURGERY, Fortis Hospital, Gurgaon
When it comes to matters of the heart, advances in medical science continue to bring hope and relief to those in need. One such innovation is minimally invasive cardiac surgery, a technique that offers a gentler alternative to traditional open-heart procedures.
A study carried out by the Global Health Research Institute suggests that J&K has recorded 29.6% deaths due to heart-related ailments. The study further reports that 25% of deaths occur in the age group of 25-69 years. In light of the above statistics, minimally invasive heart surgery emerges as a beacon of hope.
In minimally invasive heart surgery, the skilled hands of surgeons make small incisions in the chest, sidestepping the need to crack open the breastbone as in traditional surgeries. Through these tiny openings, surgeons can navigate between the ribs with precision, aided by a miniature camera that provides a clear view of the heart’s inner workings.
This approach is versatile, lending itself to the treatment of various heart conditions including coronary bypass, valve surgery, repairing holes in the heart, and even addressing heart tumors such as myxomas. What sets minimally invasive surgery apart is not just the smaller scars it leaves behind, discreetly tucked below the breast, but also the reduced pain and swifter recovery it offers to patients.
Let’s take coronary bypass surgery as an example. In the minimally invasive version of this procedure, only a single small chest incision is made, sparing the patient the discomfort associated with a larger cut down the center of the chest in traditional open-heart surgery. This translates to less pain, minimized scarring, and a faster return to everyday activities for the patient.
The benefits of minimally invasive heart surgery extend beyond aesthetics:
1. Reduced blood loss during surgery.
2. Decreased risk of post-operative infections.
3. Alleviated pain for patients undergoing the procedure.
4. Diminished reliance on a breathing tube, known as a ventilator, following surgery.
5. Shortened hospital stays, resulting in less time spent recovering in medical care facilities.
6. Accelerated recovery timelines, enabling patients to swiftly return to their daily routines.
7. Minimized scarring due to smaller incisions made during the surgery.
After a minimally invasive bypass surgery, for instance, patients can expect to spend around few days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for close monitoring. Following this, they are transferred to a general ward where they continue to be observed for a few more days before being discharged, usually within four- or five-days post-surgery. Within a week to ten days, most patients find themselves back to their usual activities, with their hearts on the path to healing.
Throughout the recovery journey, patients receive support and guidance from their healthcare providers. Regular check-ins and follow-ups ensure that any concerns or discomfort are promptly addressed, while encouragement and positivity from the surgical team help patients navigate the emotional aspects of post-surgery life.
