PharmEasy Blog

Protect Your Lungs From Toxic Colors This Holi!

Holi is a festival of colours and a joyful celebration of togetherness. However, the colours and water, sometimes makes it troublesome for us and our surroundings too! Thus, there are certain health concerns linked to the use of colours.  

Needless to say, Holi leads to air pollution, considering there is a tradition of throwing colours in the air as well as at people. So, there is definitely an impact on the health of those who are already suffering from respiratory disorders.  

But the question is, how is it affecting the health of patients with respiratory ailments?

According to a medical journal published by Ira Shah on Pediatric Oncall, cheap Holi colours, including liquid colours contain harmful agents like pieces of glass, mica and acids that have severe health effects. Other than these, Holi colours can also cause skin-related allergies like dermatitis and eczema. Both of them can lead to blisters, scaly skin, irritation and itching.    

Some of the respiratory allergies from Holi colours are as follows:  

So, we at Lupin India, want to emphasize, as much as we can, how essential it is for you to take safety precautions during Holi.

What can you do to stay safe this Holi?

Some safety tips for Holi you should follow are:  

Celebrate this beautiful, colourful festival with your family and friends, without compromising on your well-being.

On that note, we wish you a happy and safe Holi!

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.

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Common Menstrual Disorders You Need To Know About!

It’s time that we talk about menstruation and discuss it as a function of a healthy female body!  Many women are still unsure about what is normal and what is unusual when it comes to their menstrual cycle. While they endure it, they do not realize when it is time to visit a doctor.Below are some common menstrual disorders that every woman should know about.

Amenorrhea:

The absence of one or more menstrual periods is known as Amenorrhea. Women with at least three missed menstrual periods consecutively or girls who haven’t started menstruation by age 15 are said to have Amenorrhea. The main symptom of Amenorrhea is a lack of menstruation. Other symptoms include milky nipple discharge, hair loss, headache, vision changes and additional facial hair.Can this be treated? Yes! Treatment options vary based on the cause of Amenorrhea. Some women may need to make lifestyle changes, such as a change in diet, regular exercise or yoga and reducing stress. Certain hormonal medicines and birth control pills can help balance hormones, trigger periods or ovulation, such as for PCOS. 

Dysmenorrhea:

Having painful periods or menstrual cramps are called Dysmenorrhea. These cramps are triggered by uterine contractions which are caused due to hormone-like substances called Prostaglandins. Primary dysmenorrhea refers to common menstrual cramps, while secondary dysmenorrhea is mild to severe pain that results from a disorder in the reproductive organs such as endometriosis, fibroids or adenomyosis. Both types are treatable.How do you know if you have dysmenorrhea? The most common symptoms are: In-Blog-01Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower back or abdomen for pain relief. Rest when needed. Avoid caffeine, smoking and alcohol. Avoid popping pain medications without doctor’s advice as these medicines may have side effects in some cases.  If you find that none of these self-care measures are providing relief, it is recommended to seek medical advice from your doctor. They will be able to provide proper guidance and may consider prescribing appropriate medication to help alleviate your pain and other symptoms effectively.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):

PMS is a group of symptoms that affects a woman’s physical and emotional health and behaviour between ovulation and a period, generally starting 5-11 days before menstruation and typically ending once menstruation begins. What does PMS feel like? PMS has a wide variety of symptoms, including mood swings, depression and irritability, fluid retention, acne, bloating, diminished libido, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue, headaches and vertigo. It’s estimated that almost 3 of every 4 menstruating women have experienced some form of PMS. Treatment:
  1. Antidepressants such as SSRIs successfully reduce mood symptoms.
  2. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  3. Diuretics.
  4. Hormonal contraceptives.
Also Read: How To Increase Female Libido Rapidly

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD):

PMDD is an endocrine disorder in which a woman has symptoms such as severe depression, irritability and tension before menstruation. PMDD symptoms are usually more severe than those that occur during PMS. In addition to physical symptoms, women with PMDD also experience a variety of mental health symptoms such as depression and suicidal thoughts.Symptoms include: In-Blog-02Can PMDD be treated? Yes! Treatments for PMDD include-  If you have irregular periods, painful cramps, excessive facial hair growth or mood swings, don’t ignore it. It may help to visit a doctor and discuss your symptoms with them. Also Read: Quick Tips: How to Get Your Period Faster and SafelyDisclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

Can I Exercise On An Empty Stomach?

Most of us who like to exercise first thing in the morning always wonder whether we should first have breakfast, or catch up with it later? It’s often recommended that you work out first thing in the morning before eating breakfast, as it is believed to help with weight loss. However, exercising after eating may give you more energy and improve your performance.  

Does exercising on an empty stomach help you lose more weight?

The theory is that your body feeds on fat and carbohydrates which is stored in your body for energy instead of the food you’ve recently eaten, leading to higher levels of fat loss. Working out on an empty stomach would direct your body to use the stored-up protein as fuel rather than using it to build and repair muscles after exercise.  

Also, if your body uses stored fat as energy, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you are going to burn more calories or reduce your body fat percentage. This is because your body will adjust itself to using fat reserves for energy and might continue to store more fat than usual to make up for it.

Is it safe to work out on an empty stomach?  

Some research does support working out on an empty stomach however, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the ideal way. When you exercise on an empty stomach, you may burn valuable energy sources (proteins) and have less stamina.  

You will not only feel intense hunger but your stomach can also cramp. Sometimes, your blood sugar levels may drop and leave you feeling lightheaded, nauseous, dizzy or shaky.  

Which foods will help you improve your performance?

Working out requires you to follow a well-balanced diet to improve your performance. Choose food that is natural and nutritious, eat fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Add nuts, seeds and sprouts which are a rich source of iron.    

If you do decide to work out after eating, choose a meal that can be digested easily and is rich in carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Eat your meal at least 2-3 hours before your planned workout. If you’re pressed for time, munch on an energy bar or fresh/ dried fruit.  

A post-workout meal is equally important to improve and speed up recovery. Have a meal that is rich in carbohydrates, fats and proteins within 30 minutes to 2 hours after a workout. You can choose from options that include soymilk, smoothies, sandwich, energy bar, yoghurt, etc.    

Don’t forget to drink plenty of water before, during and after your exercise.

It’s often recommended that you work out first thing in the morning before eating breakfast, in what’s known as a fasted state. This is believed to help with weight loss. However, working out after eating may give you more energy and improve your performance.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Also Read: Food For Upset Stomach: A Research-Based Guide To Soothing Foods

Which foods will help you improv

When should you eat?

Depending on the type of activity, you can determine whether you should eat before a workout or not. Light exercises such as yoga and walking may not require you to fuel up beforehand.  

However, it’s essential that you eat before any activity that requires a lot of strength, energy and endurance, or even if you plan to work out for over an hour. These activities could include swimming or running.  

Foods with a high-fibre, high-fat content, fast food or energy drink are not recommended to be consumed for at least one hour before the workout as they hinder an effective workout and make the person more full.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.

Also Read: Why Does Your Stomach Growl: Scientific Insights into Body Sounds

How should you plan your meals?

To get the most out of your next workout activity, prepare by eating foods that will provide the best fuel for your body.

Foods such as Complex carbohydrates like high-protein oatmeal or homemade granola will arm you with plenty of energy to get through your next aerobic routine. Also, lean protein, like nuts and nut butter, is great for sustaining your system and keeping you full while you work out.  

Schedule your pre-exercise meal about 90 minutes before your exercise. Always have an option for foods that are light and easy to digest, like fresh fruit, an energy bar, juice or a smoothie in case you need a snack closer to your workout time.

Having food in your stomach before you start working out not only makes your workout more fun but will also help you build and sustain muscle mass to achieve the optimal results you admire.  

You are your own best guide, so listen to your body and do what is best for you and your body. Be happy, stay hydrated, maintain a balanced diet and live a lifestyle in line with your best health interests. Remember to always talk to your family physician/ doctor/ nutritionist before starting any new exercise program.

Also Read: What is the Best Time to Exercise?

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.  

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5 Simple Ways To Break An Unhealthy Eating Habit!

We all want to put an end to bad habits but that’s a tough job, isn’t it?   Eating unhealthily is one of those bad habits that you need to get rid of right away. It affects our body more than you can imagine! If you just knew these few tips, you would never want to eat like that again.

Here is how you can begin –

To eat healthier food, you may need to make some lifestyle changes including changes in your daily habits as well as in your environment. For example, if you don’t keep a tab of the snacks you consume in between meals, you may end up overeating. It’s ok to indulge in a healthy snack or two between meals. They can keep blood sugar steady as well as allow one to rack up more servings of fruits and vegetables.  

Typical snack foods (chips, biscuits) not only lack nutrition but also are low in satiety, so it’s easy to overdo them. Rather choose something that feels like real food like half of a small sandwich, whole-grain crackers with cheese, a handful of nuts or yoghurt.

5 ways to maintain a healthy diet:

1. Do not skip on a healthy breakfast – A healthy breakfast is the most essential meal of the day. Eating breakfast helps jumpstart the metabolism, makes us feel energetic, cut cravings during the day and provides the essential vitamins and proteins required for the day. It is also considered a key to maintaining weight loss for a long time.

2. Try replacing sweets with the fruit of all kinds – Fresh, frozen, dried or tinned. Slice them and store them into plastic lidded containers in the fridge, so you have a go-to snack when you’re tempted to have sweets.  

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3. Chew your food properly – Gulping food may set you up for stomach troubles. Saliva begins to break down food and when food spends little time in the mouth, it leaves more work for the rest of the digestive tract. This may contribute to indigestion.

4. Turn off the television when you dine – Television makes people particularly prone to spaced-out eating. Plan and make sure that healthy snacks like fresh fruits, veggies, whole grain crackers, or nuts are ready to go when you feel the urge to munch on something. Set your table and plate your food (instead of eating directly out of the container) so that you have more control over the quantity you eat.

5. Hydrate yourself – Water is crucial for the proper functioning of your brain cells and every organ in your body (including your skin). Your body needs at least eight glasses of pure water daily to burn out fat. Water not only quenches your thirst; it decreases hunger and removes toxins. Liquids such as soda and coffee drain water from your body. So, drink plenty of water.

How can I eat healthy regularly?

Eating a healthier diet may be intimidating at first. However, you have a better chance of succeeding when you see how good it makes you feel or how good healthy food can taste. Over time, your preferences will change and cravings for unhealthy foods will fade away.  

Making sure you don’t fall back into unhealthy eating:

Even those who manage to break their bad eating habits can easily slip into their old ways during stressful times. When you feel weak or vulnerable, the automatic response often overrides good intentions. Make sure you don’t skip or delay meals and ensure that you schedule your snacks. If you stay hungry for a longer period, you may end up eating too much or choosing an unhealthy snack.  

If you have a bad eating habit, don’t be too hard on yourself. Slowly but surely change to a healthier lifestyle – you will be happy you did!

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.  

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How Do You Choose The Right Therapist?

Therapy and counselling are important aspects of treatment for a host of emotional and mental health problems. Sharing your thoughts and feelings or simply talking about something that’s weighing you down with someone who not only listens to you but also cares for you, can be therapeutic.  Although sharing your problems with your close friends and family is helpful, you sometimes need extra support, an outside perspective or some expert guidance that only a therapist or counselor could provide. Therapists are professionally-trained listeners who can help you get to the root of your problems, overcome emotional challenges and make positive changes in your life.Seeking therapy does not imply that you have been diagnosed with a mental health problem. Many people go into therapy for everyday concerns like relationship troubles, job stress or self-doubt. Hence it’s important to choose a therapist you can trust, someone who is non-judgmental and patient, and who helps you become stronger and more self-aware.  

Why is therapy needed in addition to medication?

As appealing as it may sound, popping a pill each day is not a solution to your problems. Mental and emotional problems have different causes which medications alone cannot cure. The medicine helps ease symptoms but is associated with several side effects. Besides, medicines cannot fix your relationships, help you figure out what to do with your life or even give you an insight into why you continue to make unhealthy choices. Although challenging, therapy will give you long-lasting benefits that would go beyond symptomatic relief.  

What are my therapy options?

It is important to note that no one type of therapy is best and it all depends on individual preferences.  Common types of therapies include:

How can I choose the right therapist?

Medical health professionals who have advanced training and are certified by their respective boards include psychiatrists, psychologists, marriage & family therapists, family counselors, licensed professional counselors and social workers.Finding the right therapist takes time and effort. You need to find someone you can comfortably talk about difficult subjects and share intimate secrets with. Unless you have this bond with your therapist, your therapy won’t be effective.  

How can I make the most of my therapy?

Start implementing what you learn in your sessions in real life. Here are a few tips to make the most out of your therapy: Remember, it is important to evaluate your progress to ensure you’re getting what you need out of your therapy. Things won’t work out overnight. The progress will be slow, full of twists and turns. Be patient and don’t get discouraged over temporary setbacks. Work with your therapist in re-evaluating your goals and progress. However, remember that therapy isn’t a competition. Not meeting your goals in the number of sessions that you originally planned doesn’t mean that you have failed. Focus instead on overall progress and what you’ve learned along the way.Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

Is It Safe To Swim After Eating?

Ever wondered why as a child, your elders warned you against going into the water immediately after a meal? The belief that you should wait at least 30-60 minutes after eating a meal before you swim is based on the idea that, after eating a meal, some of your blood flow from your muscles is diverted to your stomach for digestion – swimming might inhibit that necessary blood flow, causing cramps or a stitch, leaving you unable to swim, which could result in drowning.  

So, is this advice medically correct or is it just a made-up myth?

Researchers have disputed the food-drowning link and have questioned whether there was any correlation. It is true that the blood from the muscles around the stomach aids indigestion. When there is a reduction in blood flow, there is potentially less oxygen available to the working muscle and stomach, which can cause cramping. However, some researchers do not correlate this specifically with swimming.  

There is no scientific basis for that recommendation that we should wait 30 mins after taking a meal to swim. You may end up with some stomach cramping or a muscle cramp, but this is not a dangerous activity to routinely enjoy.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

What causes a cramp or a stitch?

Cramps are involuntary, spasm-like contractions that can occur during or after exercise and is usually related to fatigue. However, cramping is more likely to be caused by a combination of factors, including dehydration, electrolyte imbalance and neurological fatigue. Moreover, after a big sized meal, we have enough blood to keep all our body parts functioning properly, so a cramp after a meal is unlikely.  

Stitches can be explained as exercise-related transient abdominal pain. It manifests as a sharp pain felt on either side of your abdomen. Stitches aren’t well understood but are thought to be caused by cramping of the diaphragm due to restricted blood flow due to pressure from the lungs above and abdomen below.    

It is in fact recommended to eat after swimming as it is an intensely physical activity, the consumption of protein-rich foods for the repairing and building of our worn-out tissues after a swim is usually very helpful.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D

So, is there a risk or not?  

It is true that swimming on a full stomach can be uncomfortable and, if done in excess, can lead to vomiting caused by unexpected reflux. That said, numerous scientific studies could not establish any correlation between cramp, cold shock response, drowning and digestion. In fact, professional swimmers are cautious enough not to overeat, yet they ensure that they have eaten enough to provide them with the energy needed to perform at their best. Long-distance swimmers even consume food during the race. And, if they do experience a cramp, it’s more out of overexertion, and not related to food.

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Also, remember that a meal itself does not pose any real danger if and only if it is not accompanied by alcohol. Reports on drowning have no mention of lives being lost after eating. These reports, however, express concern about the elevated risk of drowning due to alcohol consumption. Alcohol impairs judgment and physical ability thereby reducing our reflexes and the ability to react.

Common sense lies in knowing that swimming is not the best way to settle your full stomach. So, take your time to get in the water, use the stairs if required, also taking a shower will help you get used to the temperature. If you want to swim immediately after a meal, choose meals that are high in simple carbohydrates, like fruits, milk and milk products. These foods are good for your body and are much easier to digest as compared to food rich in fats and proteins.  

To conclude, swimming after meals is just like any other type of physical activity. It should be done in moderation.  

Read More: 14 Health Benefits of Swimming

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.  

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What Happens If You Bite Your Fingernails?

Nail biting, a common habit in about 20-30% of the population, can be caused by stress, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or just being bored. It can be a temporary behaviour, but it can also develop into a severe, long term problem. Nail biting, medically termed as Onychophagia, can be characterized by seemingly uncontrollable nail-biting that is destructive to fingernails as well as the surrounding tissue.  

What happens if you bite your nails? 

People who frequently bite their nails may experience both psychological and physical symptoms like: 

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Why do we bite our nails? 

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Nail biting when encountered in healthy children is usually temporary and does not last very long. Educating children, parents, teachers, and siblings could be helpful, applying bitter nail polish, bandages or gloves temporarily can help as well in some cases.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.

What are the long-term effects of nail-biting?

A lot of people have nervous habits such as pacing or fidgeting.  While a lot of these are harmless, but nail-biting when stressed or anxious exposes you to several ailments. 

Your nails are an ideal dwelling place for several germs. When you bite your nails, these bacteria travel from the mouth to the gut, causing stomach infections that lead to diarrhoea and abdominal pain.

It may seem harmless, but it can increase the risk of bacterial or fungal infection entering your blood, and that could lead to cold or flu.

If you bite off a big piece of your nail, you can expose the delicate skin under your nail to any bacteria or pathogens in your mouth. One of the most common infections called paronychia causes pain, redness and pus-filled lumps.

Your saliva’s chemical composition allows it to break down fat and other food molecules. While that aids your digestion, but it can also damage and inflame the skin of your fingertips if you are constantly jamming them in your mouth. 

Your nails have a layer, called the matrix, from where the nail grows. Biting can damage this matrix, causing nail deformities or chronic ingrown nails.

If you pick warts, contagious material can get into your nails and when you touch your face or neck, you can end up with warts on your neck and face.

Chronic nail biting can deform or destroy the sockets that hold your teeth. It can also fracture your teeth and trigger gum diseases. Also, it doesn’t leave your hand looking aesthetically pleasing but rather more damaged. 

Not all nail biting is pathological, and the difference between harmful obsession and normal behavior is should always be done. Sometimes it’s classified as impulse control disorder.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
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How can you stop biting your nails? 

You may not be able to change your habit overnight, but with a little time and effort, you’re sure to overcome it. 

Also Read: Brittle Nails: Causes, Symptoms, and Proven Solutions

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare. 

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Here’s Why You Should Take Regular Breaks At Work!

Most of us spend our workdays sitting at our desks, being chained to our cubicles, straining our eyes in front of the computer screen and then wondering why we have a nagging pain in our neck and shoulders. We assume that taking breaks at work would put us behind the rest, especially at a time when ”Being Busy” is glorified. In the pursuit of achieving a good standing at our workplaces, we work overtime and agree to take on extra work when in reality this ”Hard work” mentality is not just ineffective but also unhealthy.  

By not taking adequate breaks from work, your productivity, mental well-being and overall work performance may begin to suffer. Overworking often leads to stress and burnout. In the middle of chaos, we don’t realize how draining it gets until we are out of it. Stepping out of the chaos of the workday not only gives our minds but also all our other senses a much-needed break. Taking adequate breaks during the workday drastically improves focus. We are not supercomputers that can run continuously at a high speed for a long duration.    

The Pomodoro Technique, the world-renowned time management tool invented by Francesco Cirillouses, uses a timer to break down work into intervals, traditionally 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. Our brains need some downtime so that we can dive back to achieve greater focus.  

Taking a break from work increases focus when employees return to work, thus improving their productivity. Additionally, taking breaks relieves some stress, which helps employees’ mental health and well-being.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

So how do breaks at work help our brain?

Taking frequent short breaks (micro-breaks) is more effective in preventing aches and pains, than a single longer break in the middle of the day. It is important to remember that during these short breaks, you must move your body to maintain your blood circulation.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

Choosing what you do during your break time is also of utmost importance. A break where you are gulping down cups of caffeine or venting about a problem is hardly beneficial. It only adds to your fatigue. An effective break should leave you with a sense of positivity. For breaks to be effective, there needs to be a refreshing change of pace that allows you to escape work, even if it’s just for a short time.

When you plan your day and more specifically the time you have, switching between work and breaks will come to you naturally. You’ll be able to judge what to work on when and will have clear boundaries for work time and downtime. Breaks reboot your brain and help you to dive back in with greater focus.  

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

4 Ways To Manage A Panic Attack!

A panic attack is the feeling of sudden and intense anxiety, fear and panic. The condition is twice as likely to occur in women than in men. As these attacks are spontaneous, individuals often become preoccupied with the fear that they may occur again, at any time. The symptoms include trembling, disorientation, nausea, rapid and irregular heartbeats, dry mouth, breathlessness, sweating and dizziness.   Most panic attacks can last anywhere between 5 minutes to half an hour. Thus, interfering with many aspects of personal life causing them to avoid work, school or situations where they fear a panic attack may occur. People are often embarrassed to share what they experience, distancing themselves from family and friends who could support them.  

Handling A Panic Attack:

It’s important to confront your fears and not let panic attacks control you. Here are a few tips to help cope with a panic attack –

Understanding what is happening in your body, is the first step in overcoming the panic attack symptoms. Gather knowledge and work on the factors that may trigger an attack. In a panic attack, anxiety which is the body’s ”fight or flight” response to uncertainty or trouble is misinterpreted as being the dangerous giving rise to the barrage of symptoms. Although these symptoms may seem as if you are dying or having a heart attack, it’s completely harmless.  

Panic and anxiety attacks both cause a rapid heart rate, shallow breathing, and a sense of distress. However, they typically differ in severity and cause. Panic attacks are often more intense and can occur with or without a trigger, while anxiety attacks are a response to a perceived threat.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

Relaxation techniques help to calm the body, relaxes the muscles and aids in thinking more rationally. These also halt the production of stress hormones likes adrenaline. Relaxation methods include calm breathing and deep muscle relaxation.

We tend to breathe faster or hyperventilate when we are anxious. This over-breathing can leave us feeling lightheaded and dizzy. Calm breathing helps to reduce some of these symptoms. Practice calm breathing by inhaling through the nose for 4 seconds, then holding your breath for 1 or 2 seconds and exhaling through the mouth for 4 seconds. Pause for a few seconds before repeating the same again. Calm breathing regulates oxygen intake and reduces dizziness, lightheadedness and tingling sensations associated with over-breathing and should be practised twice every day for 5 minutes.

Deep muscle relaxation eliminates muscular tension, stress and should be practised every day as a preventive mechanism, not just when in panic and stressful situations. Here you begin with tensioning a target muscle group like the neck or shoulders. Take deep breaths and tense the muscles as much as possible for 5 seconds. Release the tension and exhale. Remain relaxed for the next 15 seconds before moving on to the next muscle group.    

The 3-3-3 method is most widely used and effective in aborting a panic attack. It involves looking around your environment to identify three objects and three sounds, then moving three body parts. Many people find this strategy helps focus and ground them when anxiety overwhelms them.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Thoughts associated with panic attacks can be grouped into two categories: overestimating and catastrophizing. To break the cycle of panic attacks, we first need to change the way we think and then change our actions.

Overestimating is guessing what will happen next, these are not facts. Remember that your fears are unlikely to happen.

Challenge your catastrophic thoughts by imagining the worst possible thing that could happen and then think of a way of coping up with it.

An untreated panic disorder can affect your quality of life and lead to difficulties at work or school. The good news is panic disorder is treatable, and early intervention and psychological support are known to help in such circumstances.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

You need to face situations, places and activities that you have been avoiding in fear of suffering a panic attack. Make a list of such activities or situation and try exposing yourself to these, for a brief period to start with and then gradually extending the time. Facing what you fear is sometimes frightening. Take your time and you will eventually be able to overcome your anxiety.  

Living in fear of a panic attack and avoiding situations that may cause them only leads to an unending cycle of fear and anxiety. The goal is not to eliminate attacks but to manage them without fear.

Ways to Prevent a Panic Attack:

  

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.  

8 Secrets You Shouldn’t Keep From Your Doctor

A visit to the Doctor’s office can leave you feeling anxious. The more-than-anticipated wait in the reception area, the vitals being checked, the preliminary questions are enough to make anyone ”forget” to give out essential information to the doctor. There are some reasons why you may keep something from your doctor. You may either be embarrassed or probably afraid that the doctor will judge you or be disappointed in you.  

If there’s anywhere you need to be honest about your health and habits, it’s the doctor’s office. A doctor-patient relationship is governed by trust, honesty and commitment. Besides the doctor is bound to keep your information confidential, so rest assured, you can be sure that your secrets are going to be safe with your doctor. However, by leaving out the information you run the risk of not receiving the right medical care.

Here’s a list of topics that you need, to be honest about with your doctor  

Most people avoid mentioning that they currently smoke or used to smoke either because they felt ashamed, weren’t ready to quit or they don’t want to be lectured about it. Apart from having harmful effects on your health, your doctor needs to know this bit of information as smoking can affect the treatment of certain conditions such as bronchitis.

Alcohol can have serious health consequences. Excessive drinking can lead to many serious health conditions in the long term, such as high blood pressure, gastric problems, liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, pancreatitis, alcohol dependence and various psychological conditions. Telling your doctor how much alcohol you drink is important so that your doctor is aware of the potential interactions between the alcohol and prescription medicines that you may require. It will also help you and your doctor understands your limits and develops a plan to cut down on excessive drinking.

Although sexual history is rarely taken in routine consultations with a doctor, sharing the details especially from adults and adolescents is a necessary first step toward providing contraceptives, ruling out sexually transmitted diseases and addressing the overall health and well-being of the patient.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

Most people avoid telling their doctor about the over-the-counter vitamins or supplements they take. While you may think that these supplements are harmless, certain supplements interact with medications, for e.g., Calcium supplements could interact with the absorption of antibiotics.  

Sharing your family history with your doctor may seem unimportant to you. However, it helps your doctor to gain insight into the risk factors as well as recommend preventive measures for the diseases that run in your family.  

Several people have trouble discussing their mental health with their doctors as they fear being labelled as psychiatric patient. Anxiety and depression are not just passing phases, they require medical treatment. These can be dangerous, debilitating and involves the risk for life. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms so that he can direct you to other helpful resources. Bear in mind that mental health issues can be treated and the earlier the treatment begins the more effective it will be.

Lack of proper diet and exercise could give rise to diseases like Hypertension and Diabetes. At the same time changes in appetite, recent unexplained weight loss may be signs of some serious underlying conditions. Your doctor will advise you with the right steps to improve your health.

Honesty is the best health policy. In fact nobody should keep any secrets from doctors, not the mentioned 8 here. The reason people keep secrets is that actually people don’t set out to lie or omit information — they just want their doctor to think best of them. If anyone has lung cancer or heart attacks, lying about smoking makes it worse as smoking is the cause and treating smoking addiction is essential.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

This also includes stopping or reducing the regularity of the medication when the condition has normalised. It is important to let your doctor know that you’re taking the medicines as prescribed so that he or she can make accurate decisions about your health. For example, if you are not taking your medicines as advised the doctor may assume that the medication isn’t working and may prescribe you a different medicine or a higher dose. Before you start or stop any medication it is necessary to consult your doctor.  

While you may be uncomfortable talking about some problems like bladder and bowel problems, blood in the stools, sex life, etc., leaving out any information could affect your health and could have a negative effect on your care. You shouldn’t be embarrassed to discuss health-related issues with your doctor. After all your doctor isn’t there to judge you.  

Remember, there’s nothing to be embarrassed about or scared of. After all, you and your doctor are in this together.      

Also Read: Why Does Mouthwash Burn? Decoding Oral Health Mysteries

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.  

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