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A tracheoesophageal fistula is a link between trachea and esophagus. Due to this liquids and foods can be aspirated into the lungs. The devastating pulmonary complications from tracheoesophageal fistulas can be minimized by a few simple maneuvers. A new tracheostomp tube should be placed if possible, so that the balloon is below the fistula to minimize soiling of the tracheobronchial tree. A separate jejunostomy tube is inserted for nutritional purposes. These measures usually obviate the need for esophageal diversion with ligation of the gastroesophageal junction. Because mechanical ventilation after tracheal reconstruction is associated with a high incidence of anastomotic dehiscence or restenosis, a conservative approach is used until the patient is weaned. Esophageal diversion complicates and lengthens management of these patients. It should be reserved for cases where soilage of the tracheobronchial tree continues despite conservative measures or for supracarinal fistulas that cannot be controlled otherwise. Once the patient is weaned from mechanical ventilation, single-stage repair can then be undertaken without the risks of postoperative ventilation. Most tra- cheoesophageal fistulas require tracheal resection because of circumferential injury to the trachea at the inciting cuff site or because of the size of the fistula. Types of tracheoesophageal fistula Type A = pure esophageal atresia. Type B = esophageal atresia with proximal tracheoesophageal fistula. And, Type C = esophageal atresia with distal tracheoesophageal fistula. Type D = esophageal atresia with proximal and distal tracheoesophageal fistula. Type E = H-type tracheoesophageal fistula without esophageal atresia. Tracheoesophageal fistula radiology tracheoesophageal fistula radiology A sudden increase in tracheal secretions is often the first sign that a tracheoesophageal fistula is present. Plain chest radiographs may demonstrate the esophagus dilated with air distal to the fistula. This finding, although often subtle, is pathognomonic for tracheoesophageal fistula. Barium contrast studies usually demonstrate the fistula. Complete radiographic examination of the trachea is also done. Bronchoscopy and esophagoscopy are helpful to demonstrate and identify its exact location. Instillation of methylene blue or air into the esophagus while observing the trachea through a bronchoscope may identify small fistulas. Rigid bronchoscopy is essential to determine the extent of airway injury and to determine whether resection and reconstruction of the trachea is required. Tracheoesophageal fistula treatment tracheoesophageal fistula SMALL FISTULA AND NORMAL TRACHEA The small tracheoesophageal fistula that does not require tracheal resection poses unique technical problems. Exposure through the neck is often limited, especially when the fistula is located distally. More importantly, the recurrent laryngeal nerve on the side of exposure is in jeopardy of being injured. Local inflammation may make identification of the nerve difficult. In these circumstances, it is best to identify the nerves at a location remote from the fistula. The nerve should be elevated with the trachea during exposure of the fistula. Care should be taken to avoid retractor injuries to the recurrent nerve. The fistula is identified and divided. The inner layer consists of esophageal mucosa. interrupted 4-0 silk sutures can be given. The esophageal muscle is then closed over the mucosal layer. A strap muscle is pedicled to buttress and separate the tracheal and esophageal suture lines. This minimizes the risk of recurrent fistula. If concern exists about the degree of narrowing of the trachea, a small amount of esophageal mucosa can be left with the tracheal side of the fistula. This can then be used in the closure of the tracheal defect to minimize tracheal narrowing. LARGE DEFECT WITH CIRCUMFERENTIAL TRACHEAL DAMAGE The fistula that requires tracheal resection, although technically more complicated, provides much better exposure. Circumferential dissection above and below the fistula should be very close to the trachea to avoid injury Operative Technique. The principles of patient management before definitive repair have been delineated. This approach allows pulmonary sepsis to be controlled, nutrition to be optimized, and, most importantly, mechanical ventilation to be ended. The principles of tracheal surgery need to be closely followed because many of the cases are reoperations or associated with more than the usual amount of inflammation Most postintubation tracheoesophageal fistulas may be corrected through a low collar incision, oftentimes including the tracheostomy stoma if present. Partial division of the sternum to just below the angle of Louis gives exposure of the trachea to carinal level. A right lateral thoracotomy through the fourth interspace is preferable for fistulas at or just above the carina or if a previous operation was done transthoracically. The nerves are allowed to fall laterall resection of the damaged portion of the trachea gives excellent exposure of the esophageal defect. It is essential to separate the esophageal suture line with a strap muscle to help prevent recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula. Narrowing of the esophagus to this degree is well tolerated. Esophageal dilation may be required postoperatively. Lateral traction sutures of 2-0 Vicryl are used and left in place. Absorbable suture material has dramatically reduced the incidence of suture line granulomas. Anastomotic tension must be scrupulously avoided. Resection of excessive amounts of trachea must be avoided. A Montgomery suprahyoid laryngeal release may be needed if flexion of the neck is not sufficient to minimize anastomotic tension. The anastomosis should be covered by reapproximation of the thyroid isthmus or strap muscle to avoid contamination by the tracheostomy tube. It is possible to close longitudinally the posterior defect in the membranous tracheal wall, borrowing some adjacent esophageal wall if needed. This limits the amount of trachea to be resected and allows reconstruction that otherwise might not be possible. This presumes the cartilaginous tracheal wall is healthy. For those situations where the length of tracheal dam- age exceeds the limits of reconstruction, it is still worth- while to repair the fistula and buttress the closure with strap muscle. The airway can be maintained by a tracheal T tube. Oral alimentation is then possible, thus avoiding the need for permanent feeding tubes. Management of Tracheal Defect This can be done because of the presence of tracheal stenosis with full thickness circumferential dam-age at the level of the cuff or stoma or when the defect in the membranous tracheal wall was too large for direct closure.

Granuloma is a lesion which is chronic, focal, and consist of macrophage cells formed in response to an inflammation. It might also comprise of other cells like giant cells, eosinophils, mast cells etc. it is formed in response to a foreign agent that causes damage to the tissues. This is usually an inflammatory response mediated by T-lymphocytes. Granuloma annulare Generalized granuloma annulare is a chronic granulomatous skin disease for which good treatment does not exist. Its cause is not clear, although injury to the skin could be related to onset in a few cases. Its pathogenesis is probably immunologic, and a delayed hypersensitivity mechanism seems the best interpretation of the known studies and pathology. Additional means to suppress T cell reactions may prove useful in the future. Center of plaques is composed of coalescing papules. Malignancy was diagnosed with annular more than with nonannular lesions. Certain types of hyperlipidemia were significantly more frequent in those patients with annular lesions. Generalized granuloma annulare, nonannular variant- Coalescing papules form erythematous plaques that cover large areas of extremities. most commonly affected region of the skin. Sun exposure as a precipitating factor for generalized granuloma annulare was implicated by history alone in two of our patients, by history and striking accentuation in sun-exposed areas in two other patients, and by characteristic distribution without supporting history in three patients. Precipitation of generalized granuloma annulare by sunburn, 12 psoralens plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy, and insect bites has been reported by studies A 22% prevalence of some form of drug allergy, as well as development of lesions as a consequence of hypersensitivity reactions to orally and intravenously administered medications. Therapy for generalized granuloma annulare has been largely disappointing despite sporadic reports of limited success with agents such as systemic corticosteroids, chloroquine, potassium iodide, sulfones,  niacinamide, and chlorpropamide. Other types of granulomas granuloma report Calcified granuloma When the inflammation in the tissues become calcified in due course of time, then it is called calcified granuloma. Calcium will get deposited in the lesion slowly. Most of often caseous granuloma occur in brains. Caseating granuloma The granuloma becomes necrosed with dead cells and resembles a cheese like appearance. Non- caseating granulomas This granuloma is not necrotic and not infectious in origin. It can occur in lungs, chest, liver etc. Umbilical granuloma This type of granuloma occurs on the belly of a baby. It can be seen when the umbilical cord is dry or has fallen. Pyogenic granuloma pyogenic granuloma The pyogenic granuloma is a benign growth of the skin or mucous membrane. Clinically it may appear alarming as a rapidly growing soft, pedunculated tissue mass with a fiery red colour and a glossy lobular surface, frequently with ulceration. It is mostly non-tender and bleeds easily. It is more common in women than in men with well-defined changing sex-ratios with age. and is most common between 20-40 years of age. In the oral cavity the gingiva is the most common site of occurrence with a preponderance of the granuloma anteriorly on the labial part of the gingiva in the maxilla. Only a small number of studies has dealt with its aetiology and pathogenesis and early descriptions the pyogenic granuloma, as the name implies, was regarded as a response to pyogenic organisms. However, the conclusions from more recent studies of pyogenic granulomata hint at some initial traumatic condition as the main aetiological factor. It has been shown that pyogenic granulomata located at extragingival sites in the oral cavity often have positive information on preceding injuries. Furthermore, there is evidence of an association with specific injuries, as pyogenic granulomata have been recorded among upholstery workers who had pricked their fingers with sewing needles, among females who had bored their noses for ornamental purposes and among patients who had received smallpox vaccination. Of pyogenic granulomata affecting the skin there is an increased incidence of the growth on hands and fingers in Western populations whereas in rural African populations the incidence on feet and toes is comparable to that of the hands. Although there is only little positive information on preceding injuries at these sites, it might be assumed that the majority of small injuries here scarcely are noticed. Despite lack of evidence, the main aetiological factor of lesions at gingival sites is thought also to be traumatic. As a majority of gingival granulomata are located on the labial gingiva in the anterior region of the oral vestibule, it seems tempting to postulate that habitual toothbrushing which mainly is confined to vestibular tooth surfaces may be considered as a significant cause of microtrauma and irritation to the gingiva. Another local irritant which may be significant in the pathogenesis of the granuloma is gingival inflammation. Such inflammation is a direct response to the presence of bacterial plaque. It may become more severe by elevated levels of progesterone: a condition present in pregnancy and by intake of oral contraceptives.

No one is unfamiliar with a headache. It is defined as pain in any part of the head. If you’re troubled by frequent headaches, then one of the first things you should do is determine its place of occurrence. You should know about headache location meaning, that is, in which particular part you experience pain. There are several areas where the pain can be felt. Some of them are: headache on top of your head, front of the head, one or both sides of the head, or the back of your head. People feel it in different forms like a pulsing or throbbing pain, sharp pain, dull ache, etc. Types of Headache and Location Meaning The location of the headache can help a lot in finding out what type of headache it is. Hence it will enable the doctor in diagnosing the root cause of a particular headache. Given below are the different types of headache Tension headache Tension headache migraine Cluster headache Sinus headache 1.   Tension Headache Person experiencing tension headache, Credit: Pixabay The location of this type of headache is usually at the top of your head and the temple region. Those who experience this headache also complain that they can feel the pain all over their head. 2.   Tension Headache Migraine Person experiencing tension headache migraine, Credit: Pixabay It is commonly experienced at the back of your head and neck. It can also be felt behind both of your eyes. Other locations include forehead and cheeks. 3.   Cluster Headache Person experiencing cluster headache, Credit: Pixabay It occurs suddenly on one side of your head or one eye. People feel it in cluster periods that can last from anywhere between a few weeks to several months. 4.   Sinus Headache Person experiencing sinus headache, Credit: Pixabay This kind of headache occurs mostly around your eyes, bridge of your nose, and across your cheeks. It can also occur around the forehead or around the teeth area. It is important to keep in mind that not everyone suffers from pain in the same region of their head. Symptoms, especially in migraines can differ a lot from person to person. How Different Kinds of Headache Can Be Treated Person taking headache medication, Credit: Pixabay The location of your headache and its meaning is one aspect that helps doctors find out about the underlying headache. Tension Headache Treatment Tension headaches are mild headaches that can be treated with over-the-counter medicines and taking plenty of rest. Students who experience tension headaches often complain of pain or stiffness in their neck, upper back, or shoulders. A outcall massage London can also help to relieve them. Tension Headache Migraine Treatment Tension headache migraine is more severe than a simple tension headache. They often have triggers, and identifying those triggers can help them from preventing it from occurring frequently. These kinds of migraines are very severe and distressing. If you experience its symptoms like nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, mood swings, then its time for you to seek your doctor’s help. There are some medications that they may prescribe to help you deal with the intense pain. Cluster Headaches Treatment Cluster headaches are associated with redness of the eye and stuffy nose. They are very painful. But at the same time, they are not very common in people. It’s cause is not known. Hence there is no treatment available for it at present. Sinus Headache Treatment A sinus headache indicates the presence of respiratory infection in your body. You can use an over-the-counter decongestant or allergy medicine to get relief from the sinus condition. Sometimes you may need an antibiotic. Conclusion There are more than 150 different types of headaches. Those mentioned above are some of the most common ones that many people experience in their lifetime. Recent years have seen considerable improvement in the kinds of medicines to treat different types of headaches. However, massage, consuming relaxants, and anti-inflammatory medications remain the most common treatment line for it. References https://www.medicinenet.com/headache/article.htm https://headaches.org/resources/the-complete-headache-chart/ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320767

Olive oil has been around for centuries. It is a major ingredient in the diets of people belonging to southern Europe. Quite unexpectedly, these are the people who have proven themselves to be the healthiest in the world, averaging a life span longer than people of other regions. It makes one wonder, what are extra virgin olive oil benefits that set it apart from other oils? How can you use olive oil for cooking and become healthier with every passing day? In this low-fat diet culture, many people seem reluctant to add sources of healthy fats into their meals. Little do they know that it is one of the biggest mistakes they make to optimize their health. A good diet needs to have balanced quantities of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Simply eliminating one of them in favor of others will never let you achieve the optimum health you’re aiming for. On the contrary, you’ll only fall prey to a host of diseases and ailments. Extra Virgin Olive Oil Benefits Enhanced cardiovascular health Aids in weight loss Optimizes colon and gallbladder health Reduces the risk of cancer Prevents Alzheimer’s disease Maintains liver health 1.   Enhanced Cardiovascular Health Man running on treadmill, Credits: Pixabay People who consume olive oil in their meals are less prone to developing cardiovascular ailments. Time and again, studies have concluded the importance of including healthy sources of fat like olive oil to prevent yourself from a host of heart diseases. Extra virgin olive oil contains abundant polyphenols that are a kind of antioxidant. They protect you from heart, brain, and cancer, thus helping you lead a healthy life. 2.   Aids in Weight Loss Woman who has effectively lost weight, Credits: Pixabay You might wonder, why should you use olive oil for cooking if you want to lose weight? It is because the fat in it will help you to stay satiated for long periods of time. You will not crave anymore food after eating your meals. It will also provide you with good energy to help you power through the most intense workouts. Moreover, there are many kinds of fat soluble nutrients that are not absorbed by your body in the absence of a healthy source of fat like olive oil. 3.   Optimizes Colon and Gallbladder Health Diagram showing fallbladder, Credits: Pixabay There are many benefits of drinking olive oil in the morning. It boosts the production of bile and pancreatic juices in the stomach and consequently, lowers the risk of the development of gallstones. Filled with antioxidants that fight free radical damage, it decreases the risk of colon cancer. Adding olive oil to your meals will prevent you from developing any intestinal and gallbladder issues. 4.   Reduces the Risk of Cancer Women showing the breast cancer sign, Credits: Pixabay Many women are prone to breast cancer. Recent studies have discovered a link between various substances in olive oil that help in preventing cancer. Many medical tests have also been conducted that have concluded that the antioxidants found in olive oil may help ward off inflammation and oxidative damage in the body. 5.   Prevents Alzheimer’s Disease Women taking alzheimer’s test, Credits: Pixabay Olive oil protects the blood vessels in the brain. It can significantly prevent the elderly from developing Alzheimer’s disease. Oleocanthal dense extra virgin olive oil can dramatically slow down Alzheimer’s disease from spreading. It also protects memory and boosts learning abilities in individuals; hence, it would be an excellent idea to include it every day in your diet. 6.   Maintains Liver Health Women with healthy liver, Credits: Pixabay The phenolic compounds present in extra virgin olive oil not only prevents liver damage, but also prevents insulin resistance that can damage the liver. The oil is a good source of monounsaturated fatty acids which is linked to good liver health. Fatty liver disease, which is very common among people can be easily prevented by consuming the recommended quantity of olive oil. Conclusion 2 tablespoon of olive oil, i.e, 28 grams is the recommended dosage that can be safely consumed by everyone. There are no studies on the side-effects of olive oil as yet, but that does not mean you can consume it without any limit. Excess of everything is bad, and the same goes for olive oil. Now that you know all about olive oil benefits and side-effects, it’s time to make it a consistent part of your diet.

Everyone experiences nosebleed at some point in their lives. They’re extremely common not only among children but also among the elderly and women who are pregnant. A question that frequently pops up in most women’s minds is when should I be worried about nosebleeds during pregnancy? Hormonal changes during pregnancy make nosebleed a frequent phenomenon among ladies. But it is very difficult for a woman to view the sight of her bloodied nose, especially when she’s pregnant. Nosebleeds, for the most part, are harmless. However, their duration matters. A heavy or light nosebleed continues from between a few seconds to ten minutes. If it continues for more than half an hour, it is time to seek medical help. Let’s explore this condition in more detail. What Is a Nosebleed? Woman experiencing nosebleed, Credit: Pixabay Nosebleed refers to blood loss that takes place from the tissues that line your nose. When the blood vessels in your nose break due to any injury, it causes nosebleed. One of its most common causes is the inhalation of air that is dry and stripped of moisture. Besides, your nose’s location in the middle of the face and the many blood vessels in it makes it prone to getting injured easily during any accident or physical activity. Causes like respiratory infections, nasal line inflammation, or the presence of chemical irritants in the environment, among many more factors, all can make nosebleeds a widespread condition. Why Do Nosebleeds Occur During Pregnancy? Many women experience nose bleed in pregnancy during second trimester. It happens because blood vessels in the nose expand due to hormonal fluctuations. Other causes of it are: A sinus infection An allergic reaction Respiratory infection like cold Injury to the nose You suffer from high blood pressure Can the occurrence of a nosebleed help you determine the baby’s gender? Many women try to guess the gender of their baby through the occurrence of a nosebleed. Nose bleed in pregnancy boy or girl myths are pervasive. Women generally associate it with a girl child. But many of them give birth to a boy after experiencing nosebleeds in their second and third trimester. Thus, there’s no truth to it. You cannot determine the gender of your child only by the sight of a bleeding nose. Are nosebleeds in pregnancy a sign of miscarriage? There is no link between nosebleeds and miscarriage. Often women get terrified while seeing blood dripping from their nose but there’s no cause for concern. It in no way means any danger to the health of your baby. Nose bleed in pregnancy miscarriage is far from truth. However, frequent nosebleeds that continue for more than 10-15 minutes are definitely a sign of an underlying health condition related to blood. When is Nosebleed during Pregnancy a Sign of Concern? Tissues soaked with blood, Credit: Pixabay When should I be worried about nosebleeds during pregnancy You should immediately seek medical help during pregnancy if you experience the following during the nosebleed: Heavy blood flow from your nose Difficulty in breathing You suddenly turn pale after the bleeding The bleeding doesn’t stop after 30 minutes of pressure Can You Avoid Nosebleeds during Pregnancy? Woman with a handkerchief on her nose, Credit: Pixabay Adopt the following measures to prevent nosebleeds from occurring during pregnancy. Always keep yourself hydrated to prevent the cracking of your mucous membranes . When blowing your nose, do so in a gentle manner. If you’re living in a dry climate or area, use a humidifier to minimize the dry air. Check with your doctor if your nose spray is causing the lining of your nose membrane to dry out. There’s really nothing to worry about nosebleeds whether you’re pregnant or not. However, if it persists for long and is accompanied by the complications mentioned above, then you should seek medical help as soon as possible.

Every migraine sufferer knows that it is not just the terrible headache that they need to prepare for before its onset. Migraine occurs in various stages, namely prodrome, aura, headache, and postdrome phase. All these phases are characterized by their own set of symptoms. Migraine prodrome symptoms, however, are not uniformly experienced by everyone. Even all the above-mentioned phases do not occur for everyone. Some may feel only migraine prodrome anxiety, while others may feel migraine postdrome symptoms for a very short period of time compared to others. In such a scenario, many migraine sufferers get confused and are not able to identify if they are dealing with prodrome symptoms or not. It is a known fact that effectively managing the warning signs or pre-headache symptoms can help a lot in reducing the severity of the attack. Here are all the signs and symptoms that accompany the initial phase of the migraine attack that you should know about. Most Common Migraine Prodrome Symptoms Feelings of depression Difficulty in comprehension Difficulty in concentrating Frustration and irritability Frequent urination Fatigue Sensitivity to sound Sensitivity to light Excessive yawning Distubed sleep Nausea and vomiting Stiffness in the neck Cravings of sweet and salty food Feeling excessively thirsty Keep in mind that a crucial indicator to help you know that you’re in the pre-headache phase is the severity of the symptoms during or after physical exertion. Exercise induced migraine prodrome symptoms usually start with neck pain. It’s a sign for you to stop exerting yourself physically. 1.   Feelings of Depression Woman feeling depressed, Credit: Pixabay It is a very common symptom that migraine sufferers experience. Feeling low or depressed during the pre-headache phase should prepare you for the impending attack. The migrainous process that occurs in the brain affects the levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine. Hence, mood swings accompany this phase. 2.   Difficulty in Comprehension Person unable to comprehend, Credit: Pixabay This phase is characterized by reduced comprehension powers. It is called Aphasia. You may feel an impairment of your ability to understand or comprehend phrases and words. Hence, speaking and reading will become difficult. 3.   Difficulty in Concentrating Person not able to concentrate, Credit: Pixabay People in the prodrome phase may find it very difficult to concentrate on a task. It brings a halt to their important daily activities. The situation becomes particularly difficult when these people are working in the office or are engaged in a really important task. 4.   Frustration and Irritability Woman feeling frustrated, Credit: Pixabay You should immediately become aware of your irritable nature during the prodrome phase. Feeling excessively frustrated and irritated with nothing in particular is common during this phase. It also makes it difficult for them to deal with those who are close to them. 5.   Frequent Urination Picture of a washroom, Credit: Pixabay This stage is also characterized by an upset stomach. You may feel an excessive need to urinate and also diarrhea. So do not go out of your home if you’re experiencing any disturbance in your bowel movements. 6.   Fatigue Woman feeling fatigued, Credit: Pixabay Feeling tired and fatigue is a common feature of the prodrome phase. The intense exhaustion may make it difficult for you to involve yourself in any activity. So just take rest and stay in a quiet place. 7.   Sensitivity to Sound Person feeling sensitivity to sound, Credit: Pixabay Increased sensitivity to sound makes it imperative for migraine sufferers to find a quiet place where there’s no noise. This sensitivity or phonophobia is the most visible symptom of prodrome as well as the subsequent phases. So take necessary steps to steer away from any sources of noise. 8.   Sensitivity to Light Woman feeling photosensitive, Credit: Pixabay This symptom starts during the prodrome phase and continues till the attack subsides. Photophobia or the increased sensitivity to light make it difficult for migraineurs to sit in a place that has bright and fluorescent light. 9.   Excessive Yawning Person yawning Credit: Pixabay Yawning repetitively is a very common symptom of the pre-headache phase. Yet it is ignored by migraine sufferers. There is not much clarity about the occurrence of this symptom in the medical circle but you should be aware of it to deal with the headache. 10.  Disturbed Sleep Man not being able to sleep, Credit: Pixabay Migraineurs often suffer from interrupted sleep. It is both a cause as well as a symptom of the migraine. It is essential for them to rest, recover, and maintain good sleeping habits so that they do not face any trouble in sleeping. 11.  Nausea and Vomiting Woman feeling nauseated, Credit: Pixabay Nausea is common during the prodrome phase. It is one of the widely known signs that is felt by the sufferers throughout the migraine attack. The occurrence of nausea hours or days before the migraine attack should prepare people in advance. 12.  Stiffness in the Neck Person feeling stiffness in the neck, Credit: Pixabay The feeling of stiffness in the neck occurs in the pre-headache phase. It also stays in the post-headache phase. This feeling occurs along with other symptoms and it is important to recognise it. 13.  Cravings of Sweet and Salty Food Woman feeling food cravings, Credit: Pixabay Migraineurs crave sweet and salty food a lot during the prodrome phase. It is not related to any vitamin or mineral deficiency in their body. Hence, become attentive of your cravings and if you suddenly feel the need to eat all kinds of sweet and salty food, then see it as an indication of a migraine attack. 14.  Feeling Excessively Thirsty Woman feeling thirsty, Credit: Pixabay If you’re feeling too thirsty, then pay attention to it. It is a common yet overlooked symptom of the pre-headache stage. Those with existing health conditions that increase thirst are particularly prone to ignoring this symptom as an indicator of an impending attack. Presently there exists no specific prodrome treatment. However, certain medications like Naratriptan 2.5 mg can help to reduce the severity of the attack. You should always consult your doctor before beginning any treatment plan.

Everyone suffers from headaches from time to time. But those who have to deal with migraines experience something that is much more than just a headache. To an ordinary person, there is no difference between a terrible headache and a migraine. People who frequently experience migraine headaches can tell you that there’s a world of difference between them. A complicated neurological condition, migraine causes a range of symptoms which include, but is not limited to, just a throbbing headache. A migraine attack and its terrible headache come with nausea, vomiting, visual changes, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. A migraine chart illustrating the different phases of migraine is recommended by doctors to these patients to keep with them. It helps them prepare for the migraine attack beforehand. Migraine Pain Chart – The Four Phases of a Migraine Attack Understanding the distinct phases of migraine can help people manage it effectively. They are: Prodrome phase Aura phase Headache phase Postdrome phase 1.   Prodrome Phase Person experiencing lack of concentration, Credit: Pixabay This is the first phase of the migraine attack and it can start from hours or days before the attack. It serves as a warning sign for migraine sufferers. They can take preventative steps during this phase. The symptoms of prodrome phase include Difficulty in concentrating Tiredness Depression Irritability Frequent urination Food craving More than usual yawning Trouble in sleeping 2.   Aura Phase diagram showing blurred vision, Credit: Pixabay This phase is characterised by its visual disturbances. It can be as short as 5 minutes or as long as an hour. It also serves as a warning sign of the succeeding phases. Symptoms in this phase include: Blind spots Blurred vision Wavy lines in the line of vision Difficulty in seeing things Light flashes Dizziness Partial loss of hearing Tingling sensations in the arms, legs, or face Hearing sounds and smelling odours that aren’t present 3.   Headache Phase Person experiencing headache, Credit: Pixabay The headache phase is the most painful one. It can last anywhere from between four hours to three days. Symptoms associated with this phase include: A headache that often begins on one side of the head and spreads to the whole head. Headache that worsens with physical exertion. Pain in the eyes, teeth, jaw, and neck. Nausea and vomiting Hot flashes or chills Panic and depression 4.   Postdrome Phase Person experiencing bodyache, Credit: Pixabay This phase is characterised by a subsiding headache. It is often described by migraine sufferers as a feeling of hangover. Its symptoms include: Bodyache Fatigue Difficulty in concentrating Sensitivity to light Depression Migraine Types Chart Person experiencing headache, Credit: Pixabay There are many different types of migraine headaches. Their types and location can help people better identify what type of migraine they’re dealing with. It is also called the migraine location chart. Migraine with aura, a string of sensory and visual changes that occur during or before a migraine attack. Migraine without aura, characterised by throbbing pain, vomiting, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound that can last upto 48 hours. Silent migraine, which consists of all the symptoms of migraine except headache. Hemiplegic migraine, characterized by weakness on one side of the body along with visual symptoms. Retinal migraine, characterized by a temporary loss of vision in one eye that can last from days to months. Chronic migraine, characterised by headaches that last upto 15 days in a month with varying severity. Ice pick headaches, characterized by intense, sharp pain in the head that occurs suddenly. Cluster headaches, characterized by a severe pain around and above the eyes, temples, and moving to the back of your head. Migraines cannot be cured completely. But there are certain measures you can take to limit their outbreak. Being attentive about your diet can help you a lot in treating and preventing migraines. Limiting foods that triggers your migraine will reduce the frequency of the attack. A migraine diet chart consisting of whole natural foods like fresh fruits and vegetables is one of the first steps that you can take to prevent the onset of migraine.

Snoring is a common sleep related disorder whereby some parts in your throat begin to quiver. It occurs only when the person is sound asleep. In medical terms, snoring comes under the broad category of sleep disordered breathing. Snoring is commonly observed in men more than women and loud snoring is often more troublesome not for the person who is actually snoring, but for the one sleeping next to him or her. How to stop snoring immediately ? is a common question that those who snore ask. It is because apart from being irksome this rattling noise is also an indicator of various underlying disorders in a person’s body. Snoring is done by people of all age groups. Even children who suffer from sleep disorders like sleep apnoea can be heard snoring. Before we explore the solutions for the question,how to stop snoring, let us find out what snoring actually means. Only after attaining a good understanding of it will you be able to discern how to put an end to this discomforting habit. What Is Snoring? a couple in bed, Credit: Canva When your throat vibrates during sleep and produces a rough sound, you are said to be snoring. The organ that vibrates in your throat is known as the pharynx. Snoring is said to occur when a blockage or restriction to your upper airway interrupts the movement of air through the portion which is at the back of your mouth, nose, or throat. It occurs when you are breathing while sleeping. Sometimes, the snoring sound can be soft and in other cases, it can be very noisy and unpleasant. Now that you know what exactly snoring is and why leads to the production of such unpleasant sounds, it is time to find out snoring causes. Only then will you be able to determine how to stop snoring. What Causes Snoring while Sleeping? woman using nasal spray, Credit: Canva When you are awake, the muscles present in the back part of your throat tighten in order to keep the tongue, the soft palate,(back roof of your mouth) and the uvula (structure that dangles at the back part of your mouth) in place and stop them from collapsing and in the process, vibrating. But when you are asleep, these muscles relax. Hence, they are not able to control these structures. It is what causes people to snore and is one of the principal causes of snoring. Studies have demonstrated that there is no standard cause for snoring. Conditions like loss of muscle tone while sleeping, blockage of nasal passages, large size of the tongue or tonsils, allergies, and conditions like asthma can all lead to air passages shrinking and making a person snore. Apart from it, studies have also shown that you can become prone to snoring heavily if you are overweight or obese. Other possible causes are: Excessive consumption of alcohol that prompts the muscles present in the back of your throat to relax. Breathing not with the nose but through the mouth. People who regularly suffer from blocked noses have no option but to breathe from their mouths. It creates a vacuum within their throat and consequently makes them prone to snoring. Nasal polyps are big tongue swellings. Narrowing of the airway due to them makes people snore. Children who suffer from issues like adenoids are also prone to snoring. There are some medications that can help your muscles to relax. They also cause snoring in the long run. Do not be frightened by these causes and think that there is no snoring treatment present to help you get rid of it. Here is how to stop snoring and put an end to this extremely annoying sleep condition. How Can I Stop Snoring ASAP Man exercising, Credit: Canva You can manage your snoring problem and enable your partner to get a good night sleep by just following some simple steps. Snoring treatment options range from making lifestyle changes to utilising the various anti-snoring appliances and devices. If you find that you are not able to find relief from this condition, you can also consult your doctor and undergo a surgical treatment. Here is a comprehensive list of remedies that you can follow. The first route of treatment is to make changes in your lifestyle. If you are overweight, try to reduce your weight. There is a clear connection between being overweight and developing sleep apnea disorder. In this condition, your upper airway completely collapses while you are sleeping. When you lose weight, it enhances your breathing and helps you overcome sleep apnea. You should also limit your consumption of alcohol as it makes your muscles relax. Snoring can also be reduced by sleeping in the right position. But what is the best position to stop snoring? Try to sleep on your side. Do not sleep on your back. Also maintain a regular sleeping schedule. The membranes of your throat and nose are characterised by their sensitive nature. Exposure to dry air in the room irritates them. It results in air passages becoming narrow. Hence, try to keep the air in your bed room moist through a humidifier. Also, while in bed, you can also perform some throat muscle strengthening exercises. Such exercises include curling your tongue and repeating vowels for a few times as loudly as you can. Apart from the lifestyle modifications, you can utilize an anti snoring device These devices can be worn between teeth and by pushing forward the lower part of your jaw helps your airway become wider. But use these devices after consulting with your doctor. What to eat to stop snoring? Your diet should be composed of healthy whole foods like fruits and vegetables. It will help you to lose weight and get rid of this condition. How to stop snoring yoga There are various yoga poses that are designed to expand your chest and increase the flow of oxygen and blood in your body. Easy poses like cobra pose, bow pose, and various types of pranayama help to strengthen your throat muscles and prevent them from collapsing and completing relaxing while you sleep.

A major part of the world’s population find themselves afflicted with bad breath. In medical terms, it is called halitosis or a foul odour that comes from a person’s mouth. Although not a serious condition, no one would like to move around with people who have foul breath. How to get rid of bad breath is a question that is not only on the minds of those who suffer from this condition but also those who have to regularly stay in contact with people who emanate a bad breath. More than viewing bad breath as something which is socially unacceptable, people need to pinpoint the underlying reason behind bad smell from mouth. There are various reasons behind the foul odour that seems to be circulating in your mouth. They can stretch from cavities to gum disease, inflammatory conditions or even malnutrition and diabetes. Various kinds of ulcers and infections in your digestive system can also impart your breath a foul odour. Let us find out how to get rid of bad breath. After reading the article you will also be able to prevent yourself from becoming that person whose breath causes others to stop their breathing in your presence. How to Get Rid of Bad Breath – Causes bad teeth, Credit: Canva If you are someone who wants their breath to become fresh and not full of odour, then you must be always wondering, why does my breath smell so bad? Some very common causes of such bad smelling breath are: Dental diseases, for example, a decaying tooth, or a gum disease. In these diseases bacteria starts to multiply in the affected area. These bacteria emanate sulfurious smell. As the disease progresses, you will find that the odour from your mouth becomes worse. Consult a dentist if you think that you are suffering from an oral disease. When you have a dry mouth characterised by a reduced flow of saliva, then also you become prone to bad breath. Dry mouth can occur due to salivary glands problems, medications, and excessive use of tobacco. Gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, lung infections, and kidney diseases also cause bad breath. There are many medications that leave an unpleasant odour in your mouth. One of the answers to the question, how to get rid of bad breath is practicing good oral hygiene. Improper oral hygiene makes way for bacteria to accumulate in your mouth which causes bad odour. There are various food items and beverages that have odour causing compounds in them. They will directly make your mouth smell bad. How to Remove Bad Breath? people brushing teeth, Credit: Canva How can I permanently get rid of bad breath? This question contains a variety of answers. First of all you need to find out the cause. Read the causes mentioned above and figure out what is it that is spreading a foul odour in your mouth. Only after that can you find out how to get rid of bad breath. There are many home remedies for bad breath that you can follow. But before that a visit to the dentist may be necessary. Your dentist will be able to find out if you’re shuddering from any gum disease or other oral health issues. Here are some effective ways which will help you to freshen up your breath that is a source of constant embarrassment for you. Many people wear dentures. If you are one of them and are plagued by a bad breath, it is time you remove them and clean them thoroughly to eliminate any buildup of bacteria. It is essential that you clean them after eating and drinking. How do you get rid of bad breath naturally? Just start brushing your teeth two times in a day. You will instantly notice a great improvement in your breath. Make it a point to substitute your toothbrush with a new one at an interval of three months. When you brush in the morning, take a spoon and scrape the surface of your tongue. It will eliminate the bacterial buildup on the surface. Take some fennel seeds and cloves and slowly chew them. Their antiseptic properties will kill all the foul odour causing bacteria in your mouth. Pineapple juice is the answer for those wondering, what can I drink to get rid of bad breath? It contains loads of vitamin C and will instantly freshen up your breath. How to get rid of bad breath using herbs? Just start chewing a mixture of parsley, mint, and basil. These green plants will help fight the foul odour. A natural mouth freshener can be made using a piece of orange or lemon rind. It contains citric acid that stimulates the production of saliva from the glands. One of the easiest answers to the question, how to get rid of bad breath is drinking more Water freshens your breath, and fights the odour that emanates from your mouth when you wake up. Make a mouthwash rinse by mixing some water with a teaspoon of baking soda. Put some drops of peppermint oil. Use it to rinse your mouth. Eat fruits like apples. They contain pectin which neutralises all the foul odour that circulates in your mouth. When Should You Seek Professional Help? Dentist with a patient, Credit: Canva By now you must have gained clarity with regards to an answer to the question, how to get rid of bad breath? You can utilize any measure that is mentioned above to freshen up your breath. Bad breath is usually not a cause of much worry. If, however, you feel that you are not achieving a fresh breath even after maintaining proper oral hygiene, then it is time to visit your dentist. If you experience the following alongside a bad breath, then you need to communicate it to your doctor. A constant dry mouth Presence of numerous sores in your mouth Difficulty while chewing food items You may also find it painful to swallow the food Pain in the teeth. Presence of broken teeth should also be reported to the doctor. Presence of numerous white spots in your tonsils A constant feeling of exhaustion.

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder or disease that affects people irrespective of their racial, ethnic, or geographic origin. Currently, this disease is affecting an enormously large number of people every single year. Did you know that in 2013 alone globally 382 million people were diagnosed with this disease? Each year diabetes symptoms in men and women below the age group of fifty years are being detected. One of the major routes of treatment that doctors prescribe to every patient suffering from different types of diabetes is immediate lifestyle related changes. The reason why diabetes symptoms in men continue to rise is due to a general lack of knowledge and awareness regarding this disease. Awareness is especially absent in the rural areas and India is home to a large rural population. Epidemiological data shows that symptoms of diabetes in men are especially found in those who have many people in their family suffering from this condition. Men below the age of thirty five years who enjoy a sedentary lifestyle are also vulnerable to diabetes. Becoming overweight or obese also makes a man suitable candidate for acquiring diabetes. Presence of high blood pressure or hypertension is also a warning sign for men to immediately alter their lifestyle and make it a more healthier one. Key Facets of Diabetes Woman eating food, Credit: Canva Let us examine the condition of diabetes in a greater detail. The major aspects of this metabolic disorder includes: Diabetes falls in the list of those health conditions which stretch over a long time period. It results in extremely high amounts of sugar levels in your blood. How does diabetes affect both men and women? This condition prompts your body to stop its regular production of the hormone insulin. Diabetes often strikes women while they are pregnant. This type of diabetes is known as gestational diabetes. Diabetes symptoms in men often include more than usual amount of urination, extreme thirst, and the tendency to get hungry more often than usual, increase in weight, and fatigue. Patients of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are advised to eat healthily and incorporate lots of movement into their daily routine. Patients of type 2 diabetes also need medication in addition to following a healthy lifestyle. How Does Diabetes Affect a Man? A couple on bed, Credit: Canva High sugar levels affect men by making them encounter sexual dysfunction. Although diabetes symptoms in men may come to their or their partner’s notice very late, diabetes makes its presence felt in the sexual life quite early on. Extremely high amounts of sugar levels in blood for a prolonged period works to disrupt the nerves and blood vessels which includes the once in your penis. It directly results in constraining the blood flow to this organ. Its impact is felt in the form of a reduced feeling of sexual sensations. Men often find it difficult to get aroused by their partners. Diabetes symptoms in men need to be acknowledged at an early stage. Not acknowledging them at the right time will only disrupt the sexual life of men and their partners. Another important sexual problem that men may face when suffering from diabetes is erectile dysfunction. Men may find it increasingly hard to achieve an erection. They also find it increasingly hard to maintain their erection. It is because high amounts of sugar levels in the blood constraints its flow. It may also result in neuropathy or damage of the nerves as well as a disruption in the blood vessels. For treating sexual issues men often rely on pills like cialis and viagra. But this should be done only under medical supervision. What Are the 3 Most Common Symptoms of Undiagnosed Diabetes? man drinking water, Credit: Canva There are many diabetes symptoms in men that need to be detected at the earliest. But there are three most common warning signs that men generally overlook. It is easy to misinterpret these symptoms as they are similar to what one experiences on a usual basis for a short period of time. But misinterpreting will only make you regret later. You need to become aware ASAP. So what is often one of the first signs of diabetes in men? Well, here are the three initial symptoms that signal the onset of this metabolic disorder. They are: Increased levels of thirst. If you observe yourself feeling thirsty all round the day even after drinking the required amount of water then you should not ignore it. Do not confuse it with a normal thirst for water on feeling tired. For many, confronting their doctor with the issue of suffering from abnormally high amounts of thirst may lead to an early diagnosis and thereby prevention of diabetes, especially if it’s type 1. Abnormal levels of fatigue, when experienced for a prolonged period of time is one of the earliest diabetes symptoms in men. If you find that you are getting adequate hours of sleep but still waking up the next morning feeling drained and tired than before, it may point to an underlying condition. Frequently feeling the need to urinate or for that matter, urinating more often is another one of the diabetes symptoms in men that is overlooked. Although people are generally advised to consume more water which makes them go to the bathroom more often, if you find that you are making bathroom trips even during the night time before sleeping when you have not consumed much water, it may be a sign of diabetes. After reading about the diabetes symptoms in men, it should be clear to you that an intervention at the right time is the key to managing this condition. This will help you prevent and manage it effectively through a combination of healthy diet and exercise. Otherwise, you will become insulin dependent. Diabetes, if neglected, can easily turn fatal. To avoid becoming a victim of this condition, start improving your current lifestyle and make it more healthier.

Various studies over the decades have demonstrated a link between increased levels of stress and a host of health conditions. Everyone feels stressed at some point in their life. But enhanced stress levels over a period of time can become dangerous to an individual’s health. One of the most common conditions associated with tension and anxiety is migraine. Effectively controlling your stress levels can reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. These prolonged periods of intense headaches happen when you have no room in your lifestyle for relaxation and rejuvenation. Although there are many other causes of migraines, stress is one of the major reasons that can be brought under control. Many people suffer from stress migraine symptoms but refuse to acknowledge them. Such neglect can exacerbate the condition and put their health at risk. How Stress Triggers Migraine Person suffering from stress, Credit: Pixabay Stress has a huge role to play in the onset of a migraine attack. Not only that, it even has the potential to worsen the severity of the attack. A 2007 study has pointed out that increased levels of tension and anxiety experienced by individuals in their personal lives were associated with increased frequency of migraine attacks. It has been verified by a 2014 study published in ‘European Journal of Pain’. It concluded that job-related anxiety, like high job demands, low social support, etc. are the major reasons behind the occurrence of migraine attacks. Stress can be of different types. It usually consists of intense emotions like anxiety, shock, excitement, tension, etc. These emotions are linked to an increased occurrence of migraine episodes. Thus, stress migraine anxiety is one which is commonly experienced by many people. How to Find out If Stress Is the Cause Behind Your Migraine? Person suffering migraine attack, Credit: Pixabay A useful way of knowing if you experience migraine after stress is to keep a migraine diary. It can help you point out exactly the kinds of stress that trigger migraine attacks in your head. In your diary, you should keep track of the following things: The time when your headache starts, its duration, and location Vitamins or other supplements that you consume Your daily food intake And, Your daily exercise Your menstrual cycle details Your stress levels everyday The duration of sleep and rest you get What Are the Symptoms of Stress Induced Migraines? Person feeling fatigued, Credit: Pixabay You will experience a stressful situation a day before the onset of the migraine attack. The symptoms of stress induced migraines are: Constipation Irritability Tiredness Pain in the chest High pulse rate Mood swings and depression A reduced interest in sex How Can You Get Stress Migraine Relief? One of the most practical and effective things you can do to reduce the frequency of your migraines is to minimize your stress levels. The following measures will help you a lot in this process. Focus on the important things Schedule your time Spend time with people Get adequate rest 1.   Focus on Important Things Diagram showing task scheduling, Credit: Pixabay List all your priorities and determine which are the most important. Prioritize those tasks that make you happy in order to lead a stress free life. It’s time for you to sit and analyse what is really worth your time and efforts and what is not. 2.   Schedule Your Time Diagram showing the importance of time, Credit: Pixabay Schedule and organise your time in a way that will help you get some time for yourself. Always being busy is a major contributor to stress. You need some breathing time to focus on yourself. 3.   Spend Time with People Spending time with near ones, Credit: Pixabay Nurture your relationships and spend some time daily with your partners or loved ones. Go out for a walk or a vacation and enjoy yourself. Interact with those who are near to you and it will surely make you happy and content. 4.   Get Enough Sleep Person getting adequate sleep, Credit: Pixabay Poor sleep quality is related to increased frequency of headaches and mood swings. Sleep disorders like insomnia trigger migraine. Practice good sleeping habits, exercise everyday, and eat nutritious foods to improve your quality of sleep. Recognising the symptoms of stress induced migraine is the first step towards treating it. A healthy lifestyle is the foundation to preventing any kind of anxiety and stress related problems.

Severe headaches that are characterized by throbbing pain and sensitivity to sound and light are called migraines. Intractable migraine with status migrainosus are prolonged migraine headaches that last for longer than 72 hours. This kind of migraine is very rare and affects only 1% of the population in any given area. It requires an immediate hospital visit as the pain becomes too difficult for the person to handle for such a long time. It differs from non intractable migraine with status migrainosus, in which the patient experiences the pain for not more than 72 hours. This type of headache can be managed with the help of medicines. What Are the Symptoms of Status Migrainosus? Person getting migraine headache, Credits: Pixabay The most distinguishing feature of status migrainosus is that the headache that a person feels refuses to go away for more than two days. All of its symptoms are prolonged. It is difficult to treat them with regular migraine medications. You can experience the following symptoms: An intense throbbing ache on either one or both sides of your head. Nausea accompanied by vomiting Sensitivity to light, noise, and sounds Dizziness and fatigue When finally the symptoms begin to subside, the person may experience a kind of migraine ‘hangover’. It again lasts for several days. Intractable migraine with status migrainosus icd 10 is G43.111 . Other migraine with status migrainosus intractable icd 10 is G43.811 There is a very high possibility that the symptoms in this condition will get worse, requiring a visit to the hospital. What Is Migraine without Aura? Aura is a phase in the migraine where the person experiences vision changes. This vision change typically takes place in the form of unusual formations in the person’s line of vision. An intractable migraine with aura without status migrainosus is not as disturbing to a person’s functioning as the one with aura. But intractable migraine without comes with various phases that are very distressing for the person. They are: Premonitory phase Headache phase Postdrome phase 1.   Premonitory Phase Diagram showing mood swings in a person, Credits: Pixabay This phase is experienced by the person hours or days before the migraine attack. It can be seen as a warning before the beginning of the headache. It can happen in both intractable migraine without aura and with aura. The person may feel the following symptoms: Food cravings Mood swings Irregular bowel movements Stiffness of neck muscles Exhaustion Increase frequency of urination Sensitivity to light and sound 2.   Headache Phase Person experiencing headache, Credits: Pixabay The pain of this migraine ranges from being moderate to severe. It becomes severe when it is left untreated. Common characteristics of the headache phase are: Head pain lasting from 4-72 hours Moderate to severe intensity of pain A constant throbbing pain Headache that worsens with physical exertion Nausea followed by vomiting Light and sound sensitivity 3.   Postdrome Phase Person feeling depressed, Credits: Pixabay This is the hangover phase that patients experience after the headache. It may take patients a while to recover. They may complain about feeling like a zombie. Its symptoms include: Feeling low or depressed Fatigue Inability to concentrate Treatment of Status Migrainosus Person getting migraine treatment, Credits: Pixabay Treatment plans for these kinds of migraine attacks include the following: Acute medication that is administered at the beginning of a migraine attack Medications to prevent and reduce the occurrence of headache attacks Preventive treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy and biofeedback Examining mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, obesity , etc. Migraine attacks can affect anybody. Leaving it undiagnosed and untreated will only make your symptoms worse. Reach out to a doctor if you are not able to manage the pain.