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What Is Follicular Lymphoma? Follicular lymphoma is a slow-progression type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Lymphocytes are white blood cells that are a very important part of the immune system and helps us fight off infections. B and T cell are the two types of lymphocytes of our immune system.  Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that occurs when these lymphocytes grow in big numbers. Lymphomas are categorized into Hodgkin lymphomas and Non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL). It is one of the most common types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It is known as ‘follicular’ because of development of B cells in the lymph nodes in clumps. Rituximab has completely changed the outlook of this disease and has significantly improved the overall survival of patients in the last two decades. The average survival is more than 20 years if treatment is taken. How Common Is Follicular Lymphoma? Caption: Lymphoma Credits: canva Alt tags: Follicular lymphoma Follicular lymphoma accounts for approximately 30-40% of non-Hodgkin lymphomas. This type of lymphoma is is more commonly seen in older patients over the age of 60. Its occurrence rate in India is at 2.9 per 1 lac for men and 1.5 per lac for women. Studies have shown that its occurrence rates are higher in the Western countries as compared to Asian or African countries. Follicular lymphoma in children is very rare. Variants of Follicular Lymphoma The two types of Follicular Lymphoma are : 1. Duodenal-type follicular lymphoma This follicular lymphoma type is usually found in the small intestine. It grows slowly and can be diagnosed in its early stages. It responds to treatment very well and doesn’t spread to other parts of the body. Duodenal-type follicular lymphoma is very unlikely to turn into an aggressive form of lymphoma. 2. Pediatric-type follicular lymphoma As the name depicts, this is a type of lymphoma which affects children and is proven to be very rare in its occurrence. It is usually found in the lymph nodes of head or neck. Similar to duodenal-type follicular lymphoma, this also can be diagnosed in its early stages and responds very well to treatment. Studies have shown very low relapse rates after successful treatment. What Are The Symptoms Of Follicular Lymphoma? Its symptoms are not sudden and they present over a period of time. Some people may not develop  symptoms at all and its diagnosis may be incidental when tests are performed for some other medical issue. The most common symptom of follicular lymphoma is swelling of lymph nodes. These enlarged lymph nodes are usually found in the neck area, arm pits and groin area. Over a period of time, the B cell lymphocytes start growing in huge numbers and form a build up and leads to enlargement of lymph nodes. These usually don’t cause any pain to the patient and is one of the first manifestations of the disease. Below are some more common symptoms associated with follicular lymphoma. Fatigue (feeling tired all the time) Weight Loss that cannot be explained and is unintentional Shortness of breath Fevers which are sometimes accompanies with night sweats Pain in the abdomen, accompanied with swelling Pain in the chest area Getting sick easily and having a hard time recovering from it When fever, night sweats and weight loss occurs together, it is known as ‘B Symptoms’. When follicular lymphoma occurs outside the lymph nodes, it is known as ‘extranodal lymphoma’. Swollen Lymph Nodes If the patient is experiencing extreme fatigue and shortness of breath (anemia), it may be attributed to lymphoma cells penetrating the bone marrow. Lymphoma cells in bone marrow may also cause to thrombocytopenia, which is a condition characterized by abnormally low platelet counts. It can also cause neutropenia which is blood condition characterized by abnormally low levels of neutrophils and increases your risk to an array of infections. Causes of Follicular Lymphoma The cause of follicular lymphoma largely remains unknown just like other forms of cancer. It is not believed to be genetic and cannot be passed down in families. Environmental factors may contribute to development and aggravate this form of cancer. It is linked to exposure to deadly substances such as pesticides, dyes, industrial solvents, benzene etc. but the available data is inconsistent and requires further validation. It has also been  linked to smoking. Certain lifestyle factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy food are believed to be associated with an increased the risk of follicular lymphoma. In most of the cases, development of follicular lymphoma cannot be attributed to any cause or risk. At the same time, lots of people with risk factors never go on to develop this condition. Risk Factors for Follicular Lymphoma Some factors that are believed to increase the risk of follicular lymphoma are listed below : Medications that suppress your immune system Immunosuppressants are prescribed to patients for a variety of diseases, mostly for auto immune conditions and when a patient undergoes transplant. This, in turn compromises the patient’s auto immune system and its ability to fight infections. Infection with certain viruses and bacteria Epstein-Barr and HIV are two viruses that are believed to increase the risk of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Influenza vaccination and heart diseases are to also linked with an increased risk but this requires further validation. Chemicals Insecticides, pesticides, industrial solvents, benzene etc. may increase your risk of follicular lymphoma. Old age It is known to occur at all ages, but people over the age of 60 contribute to a significant portion of diagnosed cases. Hence, it is believed that the risk of follicular lymphoma increases with age. Grading Of Follicular Lymphoma Follicular Lymphoma is divided into four categories on the basis of number of centroblast (large cells) that are observed. It is common in this type of cancer to get diagnosed at advanced stages when the bone marrow is also infiltered. At the same time, if diagnosed in early stages, it can be cured completely in one third cases with no recurrence. Stage I: Only one lymph node area or one organ is involved Stage II – More than two lymph node areas are involved on the same side of diaphragm Stage III – When cancer is found on both sides of the diaphragm Stage IV – This stage indicates widespread disease involving multiple regions or organs.  When the lymphoma reaches liver or bone marrow, it is always classified as stage IV. At the time of stage assignment, A or B letter is also included to denote whether the patient has B symptoms (fever, weight loss and night sweats). Diagnosis and Staging Physical Examination A physical examination includes feeling lymph nodes in the most common regions where they occur to check if they are enlarged. Neck, armpits and groin regions are usually checked for swollen lymph nodes. The doctor may also check for any signs of swelling in other regions such as throat, spleen and liver, which is usually accompanied by a condition of lymphatic system. Biopsy Biopsy is the most important part of diagnosis. A sample is taken from suspected affected lymph node to check for lymphoma cells. Blood Test The blood investigations include a complete blood count, kidney, and liver function tests, and signs for any viral infections such as Hepatitis B and C, HIV. Enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels are also checked as part of the investigation since one fourth of the patients with follicular lymphoma have elevated levels of LDH. Imaging A woman undergoing PET scan CT Scan of neck, chest, abdomen and pelvis area is recommended. PET Scan is useful to identify which areas of the body are affected and stage of the lymphoma. What Is The Best Treatment of Follicular Lymphoma The treatment course will be decided by your doctor on the basis of classification of disease stage. Stage I and II are considered as early stages whereas Stage III and IV are considered as advanced stages of lymphoma. The treatment will be influenced by patient’s age, health condition, location of the lymphoma, size of the enlarged nymph nodes and result of investigations. Treatment of Early-Stage Follicular Lymphoma Only 1 in every 10 people diagnosed are at an early stage of follicular lymphoma. At this stage, radiotherapy is usually the most preferred treatment. If it is located in only one part of organ of the body, then radiation therapy is considered to be the most suitable and most effective, often curing the disease completely. A recent study suggested that a combination of radiation therapy and systemic or chemoimmunotherapy is more effective than radiation therapy alone. In a scenario where radiotherapy is not a suitable treatment choice, observation is considered as a reasonable alternative or monoclonal antibody treatment such as Rituximab is advised. Treatment of Advanced-Stage Follicular Lymphoma A man receiving radiation therapy Most of the patients are at advanced stage at the time of diagnosis. The treatment at this stage has been very successful in recent years. The treatment aims to keep the lymphoma under control with a few side effects. Most people feel better with treatment and sometimes relapse is seen. If the lymphoma is causing problems, chemotherapy combined with antibody therapy is done. The most common treatments used are Bendamustine, also used in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. This is used after other treatments have not worked R-CVP – Rituximab + cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisolone R-CHOP – Rituximab + cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisolon Studies have shown that R-CVP and R-CHOP are both very effective in treatment of follicular lymphoma. R-CVP is the preferred choice for younger patients. The common drugs used in antibody therapy are rituximab and obinutuzumab. Maintenance treatment of antibody therapy is offered to patients who respond well to chemo-immunotherapy treatment. This is done to slow down the progression of diseases and delay instances of recurrence. There are several antibody therapies currently being tested for follicular lymphoma. Stem Cell Transplant In relapsing forms of follicular lymphoma, a stem cell transplant may be considered. In this procedure, healthy stem cells are transplanted into the bone marrow or blood. There are two types of stem cell transplants Autologous transplant : In this procedure, stem cells from your own body are used Allogeneic transplant : In this procedure, stem cells from a healthy donor are transplanted into your body Is Follicular Lymphoma Deadly? Follicular lymphoma patients have a good prognosis and go on to live to for many years without any problems. Most of the treatments available are aimed to keep the disease in control and not cure it. Survival rates are very difficult to predict as each individual progresses and responds differently to treatment. Even though rare, but sometimes follicular lymphoma transforms into an aggressive form of transformed lymphoma called as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Prognosis Based on the test results a “prognostic score” is given which helps predict the response to treatment. There are different scoring systems for follicular lymphoma. The score is based on patient’s age, the spread of lymphoma, and the results of blood tests. Some scoring systems take into consideration the genetic changes in the lymphoma cells. What Is The Survival Rate For Follicular Lymphoma? The five year survival rates for low risk patients is 91%, medium risk patients 78% and high risk patients 53%. Support Lymphoma Support Group India is a group of Lymphoma survivor patients who have come together to offer support to patients who get diagnosed with lymphoma. #Isfollicularlymphomaterminal #Whatisthebesttreatmentforfollicularlymphoma #Follicularlymphoma #Whatisthesurvivalrateforfollicularlymphoma #Isfollicularlymphomadeadly

Pregnancy is the beginning of an exciting part of a woman’s life. Most women are confused about how and when to take a pregnancy test. Some of the initial signs of pregnancy are confused and mistaken. In this article, we will discuss seven signs of early pregnancy and at what point you should be taking the pregnancy test. 7 Signs You Should Use That Pregnancy Test Kit Right Now Here are seven signs that let you know that you are ready to take a pregnancy test. Missed periods Changes in the breast Cramps Morning Sickness Feeling Different Missed Contraception Changes in Bowel movements 1. Missed Period When you have missed your period, you should take a pregnancy test. In a sexually active woman, a missed period can be an early and first reliable sign of pregnancy. Most pregnancy tests are accurate when performed 4-5 days after a missed period. However, in some cases, the hormone levels may remain insufficient to trigger a positive result. In such instances, you can repeat the test every 2 days. You may experience light bleeding in the early stages of pregnancy and you should not mistake it for menstrual bleeding. If you think you are pregnant, you should try and notice if there’s any change in the color or amount of bleeding. 2. Changes in the Breast A woman noticing changes in breast During early pregnancy, breasts may feel sore and swollen. Due to increased blood flow, breasts appear tender and bigger. Also, some women may notice changes in the nipples. They appear larger and darker during early pregnancy. 3. Cramps A woman having cramps Though cramps are common before and during a menstrual period, some woman has cramps when implantation occurs. If you have cramps before your period is due and there is no bleeding or bleeding is very mild than usual, you can take a pregnancy test. 4. Morning Sickness If you start feeling nauseous and feel like vomiting, then these are usual symptoms women experience in their first trimester of pregnancy. Its common to feel nauseated all the time. If a woman feels nauseous along with the other signs of pregnancy, you should take the pregnancy test at home. 5. Feeling Different The physiological and hormonal changes that happen during early pregnancy may give a “gut feel” that a woman may be pregnant. This sort of different feeling usually happens and is a sign to take up a pregnancy test. Nausea, vomiting, food aversions, exhaustion, and frequent urination may make you feel different. 6. Missed Contraception Birth control pills are not 100% effective, just like condoms. If you have used contraceptive pills and still observe signs of pregnancy, you should consider taking a pregnancy test. Birth control pills are difficult to take as per the directions, and 9 in 100 women on the pill may get pregnant even if they have taken the pill as directed. 7. Changes in Bowel Movements Early signs of gastrointestinal changes during pregnancy include constipation, bloating, and gas. Also, most women experience a frequent urge to urinate and tend to produce increased amounts of urine. How Can I Check If I am Pregnant Without A Pregnancy Test? Food Aversions The best way to confirm pregnancy is by using a pregnancy test kit. However, if you don’t have access to the test you can be fairly certain you are pregnant if you observe the following changes in your body. Food cravings and food aversion Some women may feel the smell of the food is too uncomfortable Changes in the breast Excess vaginal discharge along with soreness Feeling constipated most of the time These signs are seen in the first seven to ten days after ovulation. It is advisable to take the test if a woman observes one or more of these symptoms. How do Pregnancy Test Kits Work? Over-the-counter pregnancy tests test your urine for human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). The hormone HCG is present only in pregnant women and these tests check for its presence in the urine. The pregnancy test is usually done after a missed period, ideally after 4-5 days of missing your period. These pregnancy test kits are very easy to use. Follow instructions mentioned on the kit and after 5 minutes check for the results. Depending on the kit you use, the results will be displayed as Change in color Extra line in addition to the one present on the stick A plus or minus symbol, where plus is positive and minus is negative Words ‘Pregnant’ and ‘Not Pregnant’ How Accurate Is The Early Pregnancy Test To get the most accurate result, a pregnancy test is usually performed after your missed period. Fertilization happens when a woman is ovulating. This is usually on the 14th day of a 28 day menstrual cycle. HCG starts forming after 10-12 days of fertilization, so its safe to say that a test can be taken around the time of your period and for more accurate results waiting for 4-5 days after missing your period will be appropriate. What Are The Different Pregnancy Tests? There are two methods to perform a pregnancy test. First is a urine test that can be done at home using a pregnancy kit. The second is a blood test that has to be done in a diagnostic lab. Blood tests are definitely more accurate than a urine test as it measures the exact amount of HCG present in the blood. Both tests are designed to detect hCG levels in the body. Blood Test Beta HCG Test Qualitative tests are designed to measure the minimum amount of hCG in your blood and hence has the ability to confirm the pregnancy. This test is cheaper than the quantitative blood test. A quantitative pregnancy is known as a beta hCG test. This helps doctors to monitor the progress of pregnancy, mainly to see if the HCG levels are in line with the normal values at different stages of the pregnancy.  This test is useful if a woman has trouble conceiving or has a history of miscarriages. Urine Test to Confirm Pregnancy A home pregnancy test kit showing a positive result A urine test can be done at home and is very convenient. Get a pregnancy test kit from a medical store, follow the instructions, and get the result instantly. The urine test is usually performed 4-5 days after your missed period. If a woman has regular periods this test can be done early, as soon as the periods are missed. Every home pregnancy test kit comes with instructions of how to use and how to interpret the results. The usual procedure is to drop a urine sample on the space indicated for this on the test stick. Taking the test first thing in the morning is advisable as it will lead to more reliable results, especially if you are taking the test early. Pregnancy Test At Home Using Natural Methods The natural pregnancy tests are performed with simple ingredients that are easily available at home. But these tests lack scientific evidence and the results need to be approached with caution. What Are Home Pregnancy Tests? In a lot of places, women don’t have access to a healthcare system which will provide them with home pregnancy test kits or blood tests to confirm a pregnancy. In such cases, there are a few natural methods that may be used but their accuracy will always remain a big question mark. You can perform this test using readily available ingredients at home such as vinegar, bleach, salt etc. We will cover all of these methods in detail below. Conceptually these methods are based on the way these ingredients react with hCG hormone. It is important to mention that results of these tests should always be confirmed with a laboratory test whenever possible. How to Perform the Test? Perform this test about a week after your missed period. Please note that it is important to use the first urine in the morning for better accuracy. You should go through all the early signs of pregnancy mentioned above and perform these tests if needed. Ensure that the utensils being used are clean. Do not move the sample once the ingredient has been mixed with the urine sample. Please find below the natural pregnancy tests you can do at home : Bleach Pregnancy test Sugar Pregnancy Test Soap Pregnancy test Baking soda Dettol Pregnancy test Salt Pregnancy test Wheat and Barley Pregnancy Test 1. Bleach Pregnancy Test Take a teaspoon of bleaching powder and add it to the urine sample. Any kind of fizz formation or foam is a positive indicator of pregnancy. Please ensure that your face is covered with a cloth or mask as this mixture may produce fumes that are harmful. 2. Sugar Pregnancy Test Natural Home Pregnancy Tests This has been a popular method for centuries to test for pregnancy. Pregnancy test kits and blood tests were developed in the later half of twentieth century. Before these were invented, natural methods such as this one were used to confirm if a woman is pregnant. Take a tablespoon of sugar and add it to approximately 25 mL of urine in a clean container. Wait for sugar clumps to form to confirm pregnancy. If the sugar dissolves and no clumps are formed, then it indicatives that you are not pregnant. 3. Soap Pregnancy Test Take a small piece of bathing soap or shampoo available at home. Pour some urine onto this piece of soap or sample of shampoo very slowly. In case of pregnancy, bubbles will form. If its a negative result then nothing significant will happen to the sample. 4. Baking Soda Take a small sample of urine in a clean container and add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to it. If the pregnancy test is positive, you will see bubbles getting formed. 5. Dettol Pregnancy Test Take a small sample of urine in a clean container and add 1 tablespoon of Dettol to it. Wait 8-10 minutes for the urine to form a separate layer on top of the Dettol layer in case of a positive result. 6. Salt Pregnancy Test This is definitely the easiest and most reliable natural home pregnancy test. Salt is available in every household and hence doing this test is feasible for everyone, anywhere. Take a small sample of urine in a clean container and add half teaspoon of salt to it. Wait for 2-3 minutes. In case of a positive pregnancy, clumps will form. 7. Wheat and Barley Pregnancy Test Take a small sample of urine in a clean container and add wheat and barley seeds to it. Wait for 2 days. If the seeds germinate then it indicates a positive result. Disadvantages of Home Pregnancy Tests The home pregnancy tests done naturally cannot be considered completely accurate The pH of urine may lead to false-positive results Using the right quantity of ingredients and clean containers is important, else it may lead to false-negatives To avoid false-positives or negatives, it is recommended to rely on approved pregnancy test kits or blood tests performed in a laboratory. Identification of pregnancy at the correct time will ensure that you are able to get the right prenatal care. How To Use Pregnancy Test Kit Properly? #Howaccurateistheearlypregnancytest #Pregnancytestkit #howtotestpregnancyathome #Pregnancy #pregnancytest #HowcanIcheckifImpregnantwithoutapregnancytest #Howcanweconfirmpregnancy #pregnancytestathome #howtocheckpregnancy #HowsooncanItakeapregnancytest

Jaundice is an extremely common health condition. It occurs when a yellowish chemical compound called bilirubin, that is responsible for enabling your body to excrete unwanted substances reaches high levels. This disease is mostly observed in places that are characterized by low sanitation levels and lack of resources to consume a diet rich in essential nutrients. In India, a jaundice diet that consists of all the essential nutrients is typically prescribed by doctors to patients suffering from this condition. In India, jaundice affects all sections of the population, from men, women to even infants. To combat this life threatening condition a diet for jaundice that is high in critical nutrients is recommended. This type of diet lowers the bilirubin levels which is the main cause of this disease. Let us find out how you can treat this condition with the help of a nutrient rich jaundice diet. What Should We Eat in Jaundice in India? Fruits and vegetables, Credit: Canva Jaundice is characterized by liver inflammation. Patients with jaundice acquire a yellow coloured skin. It is because when their body breaks down RBCs or Red Blood Corpuscles in the liver, it leaves a by-product called bilirubin. This by-product appears yellow. It mixes with the blood in their body and imparts their skin a yellowish tinge. In jaundice, your liver faces difficulty in processing certain food groups and so you need to consume a jaundice diet that consists of only those food items that your liver can process with ease. Consuming healthy and right kinds of food is extremely important if you want to recover from this disease. As a rule of thumb, limit your intake of all the oily food items. It is because when you are suffering from jaundice, your liver becomes weak and is not strong enough to process and digest high fat food items that contain large quantities of oil. Keep in mind that only adhering to the advice of avoiding fatty food items will not make you heal and recover. You also need to consume the right diet, aka, jaundice diet consisting of specific food items. These food groups aid you in the process of recovery by detoxifying your liver. Regularly consuming these food items will rejuvenate the cells of your liver and help you heal and attain better health. What Food Items Can You Eat in Jaundice? glass of sugarcane juice, Credit: Canva The following list of food items will give you a better insight regarding the food you should be including in your daily meals and which types of food you should be avoiding. A jaundice diet primarily consists of: Cereals like suji, rice, poha, bread, and vermicelli. Keep in mind that you should strictly adhere to these grains only and avoid all other grains like millets,bajra, and ragi. Every type of daal can be safely consumed in the jaundice diet. However, certain types of dals like green gram, bengal gram, and red gram should be avoided. A diet for jaundice should include plenty of root vegetables like beetroot, turnips, sweet potatoes and potato. You should aim to include all kinds of vegetables in your meals like leafy greens. As for juices, you should strive to drink plenty of raw fruit juices. Sugarcane juice is one such type of juice that you can drink in high amounts. Fruits as a food item acquire a prominent place in the jaundice diet. It is because fruits in general contain a heavy dose of antioxidants like vitamin C and minerals which collectively help to detoxify your body. Try to include fruits like lemons, papayas, kino, and mosambi as they contain a high level of vitamin C. Lastly, do not forget to sip lots of water. Your body will be able to excrete all toxins. What Should Not Be Eaten in Jaundice? glass of alcohol, Credit: Canva There are certain food groups which should never be made a part of your jaundice diet. These food items are: Alcohol, as it is a very toxic substance for the liver and body’s tissues. Its regular consumption can dramatically impede the functioning of your liver. Packaged and canned food items like meat and other vegetables. High fat dairy items like cheese, yogurt, and full cream milk. Beef and pork, as they contain an extremely high amount of amino acids in them. Frequently Asked Questions About Jaundice Diet Doctor with a patient, Credit: Canva Since jaundice is a condition that can be cured mainly through diet, you need to remain mindful of what you eat. People often get confused between different types of food items and have various doubts regarding what to consume and what not. Here are some extremely common queries of people 1.    Can we drink milk in jaundice? Remember that jaundice is a condition where your liver becomes weak. It cannot digest high-fat food items. So, you should avoid consuming high cream and high fat milk by all means. Include toned or double toned milk in your diet and drink it in small quantities. 2.    Can we eat eggs in jaundice? Cholesterol should not be consumed by you in any form. Cholesterol iss present in dairy products and red meat that are high in saturated fats and trans fats. Egg contains very low amounts of saturated and trans fats. So, you can consume eggs but do not overdo it. 3.    What should be my diet after jaundice recovery? To remain in healthy condition after jaundice you should make it a point to consume lots of water. Do not consume any supplements without asking your doctor. Also, Do not touch alcohol for one to two months after recovering from jaundice. Do not engage in strenuous physical activity. Exclude high fat food items from your diet. 4.    Can spinach help me recover from jaundice? Spinach contains high quantities of fiber as well as antioxidants. They greatly assist in streamlining your digestion. Also, spinach is a very liver friendly food item. Hence, you can consume it in high proportions.

If there is one struggle that people all over the world commonly face, it has to be weight loss. In a bid to lose weight, they try numerous remedies available in their market. However, a simple truth that they forget is that sometimes, instead of these fancy products, they should instead look at nature to find a suitable remedy. Eating fruits and vegetables is the weapon to attain better health and healthy weight. A diet predominantly composed of fruits and vegetables has been shown through various studies to be the most effective in not only helping people lose weight but also keeping them at an arm’s length from various illnesses. Speaking of vegetables low in calories we cannot forget to mention ash gourd. But how is ash gourd juice good for weight loss? It is not only good, but excellent for helping you attain your goal weight. Consuming ash gourd juice will not only get your body rid of all the toxins, it will also keep you full and energetic for quite some time after you have consumed it. The vegetable is high in water and so contains few carbohydrates and negligible fat. Isn’t it the best remedy for you to get over the issue of your weight loss? Keep reading the article as you will find the answer to all your questions like is ash gourd good for health? Or is it a source for causing excess gas? Keep reading. Is Ash Gourd Juice Good for Weight Loss? A fit woman, Credit: Canva Weight gain is very simple to understand. It happens when you consume more than you burn. Naturally, to lose weight, you need to consume less calories than you expend. Your diet should majorly comprise of food items that have low carbohydrates and fats. Ash gourd is composed largely of water. By drinking its juice, you will find that you are not constantly experiencing a nagging feeling of hunger. It will also relieve you of digestive issues like constipation which those who follow restrictive weight loss diets commonly experience. By curing constipation, it will regulate your bowel movements and you will find your stomach flatter than before. Let us explore in detail the numerous benefits of this vegetable that can help you attain a super toned physique and will not make you wonder, is ash gourd juice good for weight loss? The Delightful Health Benefits of Ash Gourd Juice A healthy person, Credit: Canva A 100 gram serving of ash gourd contains only 13 calories, 3 grams of carbohydrates, and less than a single gram of fat. Consuming its juice will thus provide you with extremely low calories as compared to high sugar food items. Composed mainly of water, ash gourd is a good source of soluble fiber. It will enhance your satiety and you will not reach out for unhealthy food. Neither will you experience any digestive issues. If you are someone who is suffering from diabetes and suffering from weight fluctuations, then you should never question, is ash gourd juice good for weight loss? It is perfect for you as it will prevent your blood sugar levels from fluctuating and help you attain a healthy weight. People who are dealing with ulcers of the stomach and intestine should drink ash gourd daily. They will not experience acidity and all the harmful bacteria in their stomach will get cleared away. Many people suffer from internal bleeding. Nose bleeds are very common, especially during summers. Piles and other bleeding issues can also be prevented by drinking ash gourd juice. You can also help yourself from falling into the trap of mental diseases like depression by drinking ash gourd juice. Ash gourd juice, a natural sedative, it helps to calm your mind and provides relief in conditions like anxiety and insomnia. Lastly, you can also apply it on your face and hair as well. You will get the gift of a glowing skin and strong hair. As it has vitamin E and C, it imparts a glowing look to your skin and works to strengthen your hair follicles. Does Ash Gourd Cause Gas? As mentioned above, ash gourd contains a high amount of soluble fiber. By eating it, you will prevent yourself from experiencing common digestive issues like gas and bloating. It will not cause the buildup of excess gas in your body. Can we drink ash gourd juice in winter? Yes, you can safely consume ash gourd juice in winter as well. Make it using room temperature water and do not keep it in the fridge to chill. It will do you no harm. Ash Gourd Juice Weight Loss Drink Recipe glass of green juice, Credit: Canva This tasty weight loss winter gourd juice recipe will take only five minutes and will yield you two servings. All you need is around four cups of ash gourd, a lemon, one fourth teaspoon of salt, pepper, and a cup of water. Take your blender and put your ash gourd pieces in it. Next, add water and start blending it. After it has been blended, it is time to strain the juice. Remember to take away all the chunks and pieces from the juice. Now squeeze some lemon juice and mix salt and pepper. Mix everything for sometime. Your ash gourd weight loss drink is ready for you to enjoy. A glass of this juice will provide you only 64 calories, 14 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of protein and 1 gram of saturated fat. You will receive a whopping 75 mg of potassium, 33 mg of vitamin C, and 156 mg of calcium. You will also get 4 mg of iron. Isn’t it full of vitamins and minerals that are so essential for your well-being? Try it today and feel its effect in your body. Make this vegetable juice a consistent part of your diet. You will never have to question again is ash gourd juice good for weight loss? Not only will you be able to flaunt a great physique, you will also attain lifelong health and vitality.

There’s no doubt that vegetables of all varieties are immensely beneficial for our health. Among all the vegetables, gourds occupy a significant place largely due to their impressive nutritional profile. Ash gourd or winter melon has been extensively studied by researchers. All the studies have linked it with improved health which can be attributed to the high levels vitamin C and E that is found in it. A powerhouse of vital minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, copper, and selenium, ash gourd is certainly a vegetable that people need to eat more often. At this point, if you are coming across this name for the first time, you might wonder what is ash gourd called in india? It is called ‘petha’ in hindi. Now you must have got a little more familiar with this vegetable. Where Is Ash Gourd Found? Ash gourd, Credit: Canva It is an ancient vegetable that has been well written about in the ancient texts. Its natural habitat consists of the wilderness present in countries that lie in the south eastern part of Asia. These places include Sri Lanka, Nepal, India, China, and Indonesia. It requires a warm climate to grow and become ripe. Hence, it finds a perfect habitat in these places. You must have eaten dishes that include this vegetable at some point in your life. Indians make sabzi, curry, and sweets using this vegetable. Petha as a sweet is very famous in India and is everyone’s favourite. People sometimes ask, Is Ash gourd and pumpkin same? Well, ash gourd is also called white pumpkin and looks very similar to the orange one that you usually see.This vegetable is packed with medicinal value from top to bottom. Ash gourd benefits are widespread. It is an anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and also aids your body to detoxify itself. What Is Ash Gourd Good for? healthy people, Credit: Canva By now you must have got a clear idea that apart from imparting a great taste, this vegetable is a powerhouse of innumerable vitamins and minerals. Naturally, it comes with its various benefits. Come of the major ones are listed below. This vegetable is primarily composed of water. Hence, it has very low calories. It is a good news for those on a weight loss diet. They can eat this vegetable in huge proportions to fill themselves up and lose weight in the process. Diabetics can also benefit by eating it. No longer will you suffer from unwanted cravings and a sense of unfulfilled appetite. People who are concerned about their heart health should also make ash gourd a part of their diet. It does not have any cholesterol. Hence, it is very beneficial for enhancing blood circulation and making your cardiac muscles function at their peak. The vegetable contains tons of fiber through which it is able to stimulate the excretion of toxins and wastes from your body. Hence, it is very good for your kidneys. It will hydrate each and every cell in your body and will get you rid of the toxins in your organs. Digestive issues are commonly faced by people. They can prevent them by increasing fiber in their diet. You will never experience the problems of constipation and bloating of the stomach if you include this vegetable in your meals. Ash gourd has expectorant quality. It makes it able to loosen more than usual mucus in your respiratory tract. Hence, your lungs will function optimally after you consume this vegetable. Ash gourd is high in vitamin E. The gel that is extracted from it when applied to skin can greatly moisturise it and impart a smooth and glowing look. If you are suffering from rashes, sun burns, or boils, apply its gel part on the affected skin. It will help you attain relief from all the infections and allergies. If you take away the peel of this vegetable and use the soft, fleshy part of it on your hair after blending it then you will be able to easily tackle the issue of dry hair and dandruff. It also stimulates the strength of your hair follicles which, thus makes weak and brittle hair strong. This vegetable is non-starchy, which means that it does not contain any amount of carbohydrates. So, it is great for those following ketogenic diets or those who are advised by doctors to stay on a low carbohydrate diet. By just drinking a glass of ash gourd juice everyday, you will witness a huge difference in your intellectual capabilities. You will become more alert, energetic, and will experience an unrivalled calmness. How to Include Ash Gourd in Your Diet? bowl of curry, Credit: Canva If you want to know how to make this vegetable a part of your diet, then try this simple recipe. In water, soak some dal for about an hour. Now, slice some pieces of ash gourd. In a pan, boil some oil and add seeds of cumin and mustard. Now, add some dal and let it boil on a low flame When dal becomes soft add all the pieces of gourd. Cook with salt and chillies till it attains a dry consistency. Your ash gourd sabzi is now ready for you to enjoy. Here is another ash gourd stir fry recipe for you Peel your ash gourd, take away the seeds, and chop it into small pieces. In a pan, boil some black gram lentils, mustard seeds, and oil. Saute it. Now, put some ash gourd pieces. Add around ½ cup of liquid like water into it. In a blender, blend some mustard and coconut seeds and red chilly. When your ash gourd starts to become soft, add whatever you have blended into it. You should stir the mixture for a few minutes. Your ash gourd stir fry is ready for you to relish. Did you see how easy it is to include this highly nutritious vegetable in your diet? Start enjoying this vegetable and soon you will notice a huge improvement in your health and consequently, the quality of your life.

We have finally discovered the perfect getaway in Delhi with the most amazing view! Nearest hill station from Delhi is minimum 6 hours away and that’s why we have found the perfect spot for you to vacation in Delhi. Nestled in the beautiful Hauz Khas Village, this lovely Airbnb in Delhi will take your breath away with its amazing view of the 14th Century Hauz Khas Fort built by Allauddin Khilji. This building was featured in Hindustan Times as “DRAWING ROOM WITH THE BEST VIEW”. Link : https://www.hindustantimes.com/delhiwale-drawing-room-with-a-view/ Sitting in the balcony of this Airbnb will give you an experience beyond the noisy pubs and cafes of Hauz Khas Village. This place will make you realize there is so much more to Delhi than the traffic and hustle bustle of a fast-paced city. Mesmerizing view from the balcony Sometimes you just feel like getting away from it all. In this age of unrelenting stress of work and responsibilities, vacations have been proven to be great for mental health. We urge you to go and immerse yourself in the beautiful experience of this hidden gem for a couple of days and relieve your stress. Collage of pictures of the monument facing apartments Beautiful Views That Will Leave You Mesmerized! This quintessential homestay in the lap of nature and history is great for people looking for a romantic getaway. Thanks to the huge sliding doors in the balcony, you will able to experience the historical monuments accompanied with music of chirping birds. The serenity in waking up to such a scenic view is unmatchable. You may even spot Peacocks early in the morning from your balcony. The décor of this Airbnb is thoughtful with comfortable furniture that allows you to enjoy the nature. The tasteful interiors will leave you spellbound and instantly transfer you to a different place of old world charm and peace. All the apartments have been recently remodeled and designed keeping in mind the requirements of a traveler. If you are fond of reading, then you will be fascinated to know that one apartment in this Airbnb Delhi building has been home to world renowned writer Mayank Austen Soofi – @thedelhiwalla (Instagram) for the last decade. In our travel goals, we sometimes forget how beautiful Delhi is and how much there is to explore! How To Make A Booking You can book apartments in this Airbnb in Delhi using the following links : Link for Apartment 1 Link for Apartment 2 You can also reach out to the owner on Gochhwal.mr@gmail.com or WhatsApp on 9312330990 to make the booking directly. Note : The place is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each guest keeping in mind safety of everyone. Reviews : “This apartment has a wonderful vibe. It’s view is great. I would rate it among one of the best places to stay in delhi.” “What a lovely flat! Truly an oasis of green and peace in polluted Delhi. We had a lovely stay, a retreat ! This house is a jewel , especially due to the amazing breathtaking view. All went well with check in and communication with the very kind owner. The staff is very helpful but providing full privacy too. Totally recommended” “Amazing place to spend with a splendid view” “the location is the best thing about this place. right next to the monuments and the market and walking distance from the park” “The place has an amazing view, nestled right next to the Hauz Khas monuments and ruins. Though I was traveling for work and could not go exploring the ruins, the views in the early morning were incredible. Although situated in the heart of the Hauz Khas Village, which bustles with activity on weekend nights, it is quite taciturn and peaceful, and a bit removed from the loud music and party-crowds.” “Lovely quiet location in a super busy Hauz Khas Village area. The entire area may be throbbing with life due to loud bars, pubs and restaurants, but Mr Ram’s space was entirely insulated from all the hustle of Hauz Khas Village. The room was clean, with a great view of the monuments (yes, exactly as shown in pictures), and the host helped us out with all our queries whatsoever. Bathrooms were clean too. Very intimate and personal space with a fantastic view at a reasonable price!! Would highly recommend!” Hauz Khas Complex : Fort and Lake FAQs Does Airbnb allow unmarried couples? Yes, this Airbnb in Delhi allows unmarried couples. Follow the rules of reservation and check in and you are good to go. How much does an Airbnb cost per night? The rooms available here range from 3000 to 4500 INR per night for 2 for the apartments with monuments view. There are options available without the view also at 2000 INR per night. You can go to the common terrace and enjoy the views. How much is an Airbnb for a week? You can get discounts of 10% on week long stays and 20% on monthly stays. TOP 5 Things To Do In Hauz Khas Village Hauz Khas Village is everything starting from monuments dating back to the Mughal era to plenty of pubs and cafes. A lot of people who have already been to Hauz Khas Village usually miss out on the exploration side of this place. This place started gaining popularity around 1995 with lots of boutiques for Indian ethnic wear. Over the years small cafes and restaurants started popping up. By 2010, the place became one of the hottest spots of the city with ~50+ options of restaurants and bars. Right from live music, places to dance to English or Bollywood tunes, romantic dine ins, family restaurants with great food, dessert parlors – it has everything. We have curated a list below for you with places to visit in Hauz Khas. Hauz Khas Fort And Lake The apartments in this Airbnb are overlooking the Hauz Khas Fort and Lake. The monuments in this fort are breathtaking with endless history to absorb. What will surprise you the most is that a place like this exists right in the heart of Delhi. The ruins make for a great place for people who love to explore. Its also amazing for getting some really great pictures. 14th century monuments from the reign of Delhi Sultante The Lake overlooking the monuments is one of the very few water bodies in Delhi. It is home to beautiful ducks, swans and rare trees. The entire track around the lake is approx. 1 km and you will enjoy a walk around the circular water body. Do not miss a walk around this breathtaking Lake We will let you do the exploration on your own to find out more about the history of this gem. It is a popular spot for pre wedding photoshoots and clothing photoshoots. Popular movies like Lakshay (starring Hrithik Roshan and Preity Zinta), Rockstar (starring Ranbir Kapoor and Narghis Fakhri), Tamasha (starring Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone), 2 States (starring Alia Bhatt and Arjun Kapoor), Wazir (starring Amitabh Bachchan) were also filmed here. Deer Park Deer Park, as you can guess from its name, is home to lots of deer. This has 3 monuments inside – Bagh-e-Alam ka Gumbad, Tuhfewala Gumbad and Kali Gumti. The inscription on these monuments tells us that these are dated back to early 16th century. Taking a walk around the huge complex will take you approximately half an hour. Its full of lush green trees and is a treat for photographers. In the evening, you will find a bunch of people playing volleyball and badminton. If you like any of these sports, you can ask them to let you play and they will happily let you join. There is a pub nestled in this beautiful park called Lord of the Drinks Meadow which is a must try for this place! Deer Park Hauz Khas Rose Garden The entry to rose garden is right at the entrance of Hauz Khas Village, next to the parking. The path laid out leads to the garden area full of hundreds of different species of roses. In your 15 minute walk from Hauz Khas Village entrance gate to reach the garden, you will see that the path diverges into two. This always reminds me of the poem “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost. “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.” Don’t worry. This wont be a life decision, unlike the Robert Frost poem – the two paths lead to opposite ends of the huge garden full of roses. Rose Garden Hauz Khas Shops There are a variety of shops in Hauz Khas Village ranging from boutiques selling Indian ethnic wear and western wear, Art Collection stores, recently opened Chumbak store. The best way to explore is by walking around the entire village and checking out the stores that are to your liking. Shop in the streets of Hauz Khas Village Hauz Khas Village Pubs & Restaurants Oh, where do I even begin?! The list is endless and each one of them are great with amazing views and food. Do you love to party? Try Imperfecto and Vapour Bar Exchange. If you want to go little farther, 200 metre farther, then definitely go to Summerhouse Café and Auro in Aurobindo Market. Do you want to have a nice, romantic dinner with great view? Try Mia Bella – it’s a rooftop restaurant overlooking the monuments and the lake. Are you a food lover? Try out Yeti – The Himalayan Kitchen, Naivedyam and Coast Cafe Love a cozy vibe where you can sit and read? Try Elma’s Bakery and Kitchen Unfortunately a lot of places have shut down due to COVID and hence we our recommendations are based on the places that are open in 2021. Mia Bella, rooftop restaurant in Hauz Khas Village What is Hauz Khas village famous for? It is famous for the Hauz Khas Fort that was built by Allauddin Khilji in the 13th century, which was later taken over by Feroze Shah Tughlaq. The fort overlooks a lake that was built as a tank to serve the water requirements of the surrounding areas. This place is also famous for its plethora of pubs, cafes and small boutique shops. Is Hauz Khas village safe? It is a safe place to go to. There is lots of police surveillance round the clock due to popularity of the place. However, we would not recommend going to the fort or lake after dark. Is Hauz Khas village open today? It is open all 7 days of the week throughout the year. What does Hauz Khas mean? Hauz means water tank and Khas means royal. To book this Airbnb in Delhi (Hauz Khas Village) : Airbnb.com/h/monumentsviewthebest Airbnb.com/h/monumentsviewthebest2 or WhatsApp on 9312330990, email : gochhwal.mr@gmail.com #airbnbdelhi #hauzkhasvillage

Water has been deemed as a health elixir from time immemorial. Drinking approximately eight glasses of water in a day is a phrase that we’ve all heard from our childhood days. It replenishes the body, helps in repairing muscle tissues, and facilitates many digestive processes. Your body is made up of 75% water, and by not keeping it adequately hydrated, you run the risk of developing severe complications. Water, be it hot or cold, has numerous benefits for your body. It is usually recommended to be drunk first thing in the morning, preferably on an empty stomach. The water that is recommended in the morning is hot and not cold, as drinking hot water is proven to aid your body with detoxification. It doesn’t end here. There are many more benefits of drinking warm water that people are not familiar with. Benefits of Drinking Hot Water Helps with weight loss Eases menstrual cramps Detoxifies the body Promotes healthy, glowing skin Makes your hair stronger Promotes good digestion Reduces stress levels Relieves constipation Reduces risk of cardiovascular diseases 1.   Helps with Weight Loss Diagram showing reduced belly fat, Credit: Pixabay Those who are in a quest to lose excess pounds should definitely try hot water for weight loss. It is the best way to bring your metabolism back into gear. Add a drop of lemon to hot water and drink it on an empty stomach every morning. Not only will it increase your metabolism, which is essential for burning excess calories, it will also start breaking down the adipose or the fat tissue present in your body. 2.   Eases Menstrual Cramps Woman suffering from menstrual cramps, Credit: Pixabay One of the lesser-known hot water benefits relates to its ability to help ease your menstrual cramps. The warmth of the water soothes and relaxes the abdominal muscles that are taught with pain. It has a calming effect on the spasms and cramps that occur as an unpleasant sensation when you’re on your menstrual cycle. 3.   Detoxifies the Body Woman drinking water, Credit: Pixabay Drinking hot water raises your body’s temperature. It results in you sweating and in the process eliminating all the toxins from your body. Thus, hot water cleanses your body and makes it ripe for absorbing all the nutrients from your food. 4.   Promotes Healthy, Glowing Skin Woman with healthy skin, Credit: Pixabay Hot water is a healer and repairs your skin cells. It enhances the elasticity of the skin that is prone to be affected by pollution in the environment. As it cleanses your body, hot water eliminates all the bacteria that cause acne and pimples on your face. Thus, drinking it daily will keep your skin healthy and glowing. 5.   Makes Your Hair Stronger Woman with healthy hair, Credit: Pixabay There’s no other better option to naturally enhance the strength and shine of your hair than hot water. It boosts the strength of nerve endings in your hair, thus, making them active and energetic. Your hair will start feeling healthy after you make drinking hot water a habit of yours. 6.   Promotes Good Digestion Diagram showing good digestive health, Credit: Pixabay The body is able to effectively eliminate all the waste products when it is adequately hydrated. If you have digestive issues, then you should definitely drink hot water after your meals. It will make your digestive system active and resolve all your issues. 7.   Reduces Stress Levels A stressed out person, Credit: Pixabay Those feeling anxious and stressed can add hot water into their diet and feel more relaxed and rejuvenated. Studies have shown that by enhancing the functioning of the central nervous system, hot water promotes feelings of calmness and satisfaction in people. Thus, it instantly improves your mood and makes you feel better. 8.   Relieves Constipation Diagram showing a person defacating, Credit: Pixabay Drinking hot water frequently is the best thing you can do to relieve your constipation issues. It makes your intestine contact and makes the food in your body to efficiently pass out. For healthy bowel movements, drink a glass of hot water after your meals. 9.   Reduces Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases Diagram showing heartbeat, Credit: Pixabay Warm water is essential for the healthy blood circulation in your body. Your arteries and veins can carry blood more efficiently when they are adequately hydrated. It helps to reduce the risk of any cardiovascular ailment. Now that you know that hot water is not just water heated up, it’s a potent health elixir you can drink everyday and feel your health getting better with every passing moment.

No doubt, drinking hot comes with a plethora of benefits for your health. From improving your digestive health to giving you glowing and healthy skin, it seems to do it all. Many people drink hot water right at the time they wake up. Doing so is recommended by several healthcare professionals too. But does that mean it is suitable for everyone? Drinking hot water comes with its own set of precautions that can injure your health instead of promoting it if not taken care of. You heard it right. There are times when hot water should not be consumed as it can put you in a very discomforting situation. Let’s find out how a hot water drink turns dangerous for your health. What Are the Disadvantages of Drinking Hot Water? Consumption of hot water in large quantities can make you sick. It can swell your brain cells and cause an imbalance in the water concentration in your body. You should remember that even healthy food items if consumed in excess, can have the opposite effect. The same is the case with hot water. It’s hard to believe that water, which is the healthiest liquid in the world, can make you ill. Some of the potential drinking hot water side effects are: Kidney damage Burns the lining of the mouth Causes sleep disturbance Electrolyte dilution in the blood Provides a breeding ground for contaminants 1.   Kidney Damage Woman experiencing kidney pain, Credit: Pixabay Our kidneys do the job of eliminating extra fluids from the body. Many people consume large amounts of hot water, thinking that it will detoxify their bodies. But instead of detoxification, the excess quantity of warm water inhibits the kidneys to clear it. Instead, it damages the kidneys and, in the process, your digestive system too. 2.   Burns the Lining of the Mouth Picture of false teeth, Credit: Pixabay Hot water can develop blisters in the mouth and  burn the lips, tongue, and the innermost lining of the mouth. It can also burn the lining of various internal organs inside the body, especially the digestive tract and the esophagus. Hence, always check the temperature of the water and make sure it is not too hot. 3.   Causes Sleep Disturbance A sleepless man, Credit: Pixabay Consuming hot water, especially large amounts of it during your bedtime, can wreak havoc with your sleep schedule. It will make you urinate at frequent intervals throughout the night, and you will not be able to get a wink of sleep. Stop consuming water or any other liquid two hours before you hit the bed. 4.   Electrolyte Dilution in the Blood Drinking too much hot water can also have negative effects on the blood and the cells in your body. It dilutes the electrolytes present in the blood which directs the water flow to the cells of the body. Over time, it can swell it and cause pressure and pain. 5.   Provides a Breeding Ground for the Contaminants Glass of water, Credit: Pixabay If the pipes are rusted, there is a risk of lead particles to dissolve with hot water. Contaminants have the tendency to mix well in hot water instead of cold water. So you need to take out water and heat it in a kettle to drink it. Never drink it from the pipe. The above side-effects or disadvantages of drinking hot water are easily overlooked by many people. Keeping them in mind whenever you go to drink hot water will ensure that you get the most benefits out of it for your body.

Breast pumps have been around for almost a century. However, over the past 20 years, they have gained in popularity and could be considered an asset for breastfeeding mothers. Expressing breast milk for infant feeding is one way that mothers can address some of the common issues cited as reasons for discontinuing breastfeeding. These include decreased supply, concern about infant nutrition and weight, inadequate latch, mother or infant medical conditions, and returning to work or school. The breast pump has become a nearly ubiquitous fixture in our society, used not only in maternity hospitals but also at work and at home. A wide variety of reasons exist for expressing milk, the most common of which are: (1) to allow other caregivers to provide breastmilk, (2) for an emergency supply and (3) to relieve engorgement. Women learn about pumping from friends, family, online and print resources, and health professionals. As breast pumps continues to evolve and the number of women using them remains a substantial majority, health care professionals need to maintain a thorough understanding of this tool and relevant techniques to help mothers succeed. Why and how is breast pump used? breast milk pump Lactating mothers commonly use breast pumps to allow for regular human milk expression and collection despite separation from their breastfeeding infant. Most women use an electric breast pump and are provided with a compatible equipment kit from the same manufacturer. Kits contain breast pump tubing, breast shields (also referred to as flanges), valves with diaphragms, and collection bottles. They are designed by the manufacturer to be used with their matching breast pump model to provide optimal milk expression and comfort. The tubing, valve, and diaphragm create the vacuum suction pressure that is required to drain the breast. The volume of milk expressed by the breast pump is determined by the vacuum suction pressure and the cycle frequency generated by the pump and the amount of breast fullness. Poor suction pressure can limit milk expression leading to early termination of breastfeeding. Extreme suction pressure can cause discomfort and breast injury and affect long-term breastfeeding success. Despite manufacturer recommendations, breastfeeding expert advice and differences in pump design, some women interchange kits between different manufacturers of breast pumps. Currently, there are no studies that evaluate whether interchanging the brand of kit impacts breast pump performance. Lactation is dependent on repetitive milk expression that empties the breast and results in release of prolactin and an increase in milk production. Breast pumps are designed to mimic infant oral suction pressure and suckling rate to empty the breast. By frequently pumping, a mother who is separated from her infant can successfully maintain lactation and provide breast milk to her infant. However, low vacuum pump pressure can be ineffective at fully emptying the breast that can lead to lower total milk expression or delay the onset of lactation Types of Breast Pumps breast pump Breast pumps are either manual or electric. Most women in the United States use electric breast pumps. MANUAL PUMPS Manual pumps are operated by the hands or feet with repetitive pushing or squeezing of a device to generate vacuum. They are lower in cost than electric pumps, quieter, and easier to transport. Because they do not require electricity or a battery, they are convenient to use in a variety of places. The majority of manual breast pumps are single-sided. Expressing milk from one side at a time is usually a slower process than expressing milk from both breasts simultaneously using a double-sided electric pump. Studies do not consistently show that electric pumps express higher total volumes than manual pumps. A manual pump is a good choice for a mother who does not use a pump very often, as they are inexpensive. It might not be an ideal choice for a mother who has time restraints when expressing milk at work, or a mother who is exclusively pumping and bottle feeding an infant. ELECTRIC PUMPS These pumps use electricity or batteries to generate its cycles and vacuum, and can be categorized as personal-use pumps or multiuser pumps. PERSONAL-USE PUMPS Most electric pumps fall into this category and are not designed to be used by >1 person. These pumps are often described as having an open system. These pumps are at risk for contamination of filters and non-replaceable parts, which can pose the risk of pathogen infectivity from one user to another. MULTIUSER PUMPS These are often called hospital grade pumps because they are used by mothers in the hospital. Each mother attaches her own unique pump kit to the pump. The design of the pump prevents contamination from one user to another. These pumps tend to be more expensive than personal-use electric pumps, precluding ownership by most lactating mothers. ADJUSTABLE SUCTION PRESSURES AND CYCLE SPEED Nearly all pumps, both electric and manual, allow the mother to alter vacuum pressures. However, many pumps will automatically increase the cycle duration as the vacuum pressure increases, causing the cycles to be longer duration and slower in frequency. Conversely the same pumps decrease cycle duration with lower vacuum pressure, causing the cycles to become shorter and more frequent. Sometimes this relationship between vacuum pressure and cycle duration/ frequency is not desired, so the mother may want to obtain a pump that allows for adjustment of both suction pressures and cycle speed independently of each other. There is not a single pattern of pump efficacy that is ideal for all mothers. Mothers vary in terms of their response to the relationship between cycle frequency and vacuum strength. PRE-PROGRAMMED SUCTION PATTERNS Many electric breast pumps have a pre-programmed stimulation phase that is shorter, faster, and lower vacuum as compared with the expression phase. The stimulation phase is designed to mimic the sucking pattern of a baby when the milk flow is slow. Depending on the pump, this phase may automatically begin as soon as pumping is initiated, or can be chosen at any time during the pumping period. Some pumps without a pre-programmed stimulation phase have an option to control both the vacuum and the rate of suction (limerick website), thereby allowing the mother to manually create a stimulation phase. BREAST SHIELDS Breast shields tend to be specific to the pump. Some pumps have a flexible 1-size fits-all shield meant to fit all users. Other pumps come with 1 or 2 standard breast shield sizes, with additional sizes available for purchase. There are no proven guidelines on proper fitting of breast shields. Breast shields should be comfortable, provide an appropriate seal, and not cause trauma to the breast or nipple/ areolar complex. Flange size requirements may change during lactation as the mother’s breast shape and size fluctuate, and a woman may even require a different size for each breast. PUMP KITS Most double electric breast pumps come with a separate pump kit that attaches to the breast pump. The pump kit is unique to the pump, and usually cannot be used with a different manufacturer’s pump. Some companies include a hand pump in the pump kit. All pump kits include information on how to clean the pump accessories Many lactating mothers do not nurse their babies, and instead express their milk by manual or pump expression. Health care professionals who gain familiarity with the physiology of lactation and breast pump technology are in a better position to educate mothers on establishing and maintaining adequate lactation, as well as safe weaning. Is it worth buying a breast milk pump? manual breast pump Yes, definitely. Considerations When Choosing a Breast Pump Factors Suggestions Lowest cost Manual pump Intermittent use for a stay-at-home mother Manual pump Primary need is to increase milk supply Double electric pump Ill or premature infant in the hospital Hospital grade electric pump Mother is back to work Double electric pump Infant primarily receives bottles of expressed milk Double electric pump No access to an electrical outlet Manual or battery operated pump Lactating women are similar in terms of milk expression dynamics. However, women are unique in their response to individual pumps, such that 1 particular pump style or brand is not optimal for all mothers. Recommendations for milk expression need to be adapted for several situations, such as engorgement, infant prematurity, back to work, and infant adoption.

Myiasis means the infestation of live human and vertebrate animals with larvae, which feed on the host’s dead or living tissue, liquid body substances, or ingested food for some period of time. The vertebrates usually involved are mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles, but a case of aquarium fish (Asryanax mexicanus fasciatus,Mexican tetra) was infested in the stomach by Calliphora. Classification of myiasis Bloodsucking Tissue destroying Subdermal migratory Infestations of the head passages Intestinal/urinogenital Living hosts Detrimental- Myiasis , Beneficial- Maggot therapy Dead hosts Detrimental- Food spoilage, beneficial- Nutrient recycling and forensic Adopting the parasitological classification, we will consider three main groups of myiasis-producing species: obligatory parasites, which must develop on live hosts and facultative parasites, which can develop on both living and dead organic matter and can be divided into two groups, the primary species which are able to initiate myiasis and the secondary species which occur after obligate or primary species have initiated it fourth grouping, the accidental myiases or pseudomyiases occur when fly eggs or larvae are inadvertently swallowed. In a controlled experiment, nausea, vomiting, intestinal cramps and diarrhoea were observed in volunteers who swallowed live larvae of Musca domes- tics, Calliphora or Sarcophaga in gelatine capsules Naturally acquired accidental intestinal infestations can show similar symptoms or be benign. Myiasis in humans Fly on Skin Miscellaneous myiases are often reported, particularly in humans, that are essentially accidental but do not involve the intestinal tract. They occur when the wrong host is invaded or eggs are laid in atypical sites for the species. Examples are facultative species involved in human urinary tract myiases, when eggs are deposited at the entrance to the urethra, hatch into larvae and develop at the end of the urethra or inside the urethra or bladder, being passed in the urine Another internal region of the human body that can be unusually infested is the respiratory tract, with relatively mild. human myiasis can be common in parts of the tropics. In humans it can affect oral cavity, skin, penile strutctures, ears etc. This leads to what is called oral , cutaneous, penile myiasis. Although many authors have reported the clinical and histological features of human infestations with Dermatobia hominis (e.g. Lane et al., 1987), there are few accounts of immunological features. report that there is a complex host immunological response to thelarva, including lymphocytes, eosinophils, activated fibroblasts, mature histiocytes, mast cells/basophils, plasma cells and Langerhans cells. A similar set of cells is found in mice infested by Cuterebra angustifrons. Immunohistochemistry revealed that the dominant dermal cells responding to the larva were activated T-helper cells which, in turn, probably stimulate plasma cell production and B-cells to produce antibody. The activated fibroblasts produce collagen that may be important in containment of the larva within its fibrous, subcutaneous nodule. The first instar larvae produced the greatest host reaction and allowed the earliest detection of infestation by ELISA. However, the initial immune response against antigens produced by second and third instar larvae was depressed during the course of an infestation, but started to increase as soon as the larvae left their host. This suggests that immunosuppression may be a phenomenon. Portchinsky (1916) recorded many cases of human infestation with W. mugnca from Russia, with approximately 80% in children of 10 years or less and approximately 70% affecting the ears. Most other cases affected the head area, either eyes, mouth or nose. Human infestations due to W. magnca are still recorded, from the ear (El-Begenny, 1989), eye nose or mouth. Myiasis treatment nasal myiasis There are basically three levels at which control of myiasis species can be considered: eliminate the fly species take care of the wound, dress it properly, take prophylaxis antibiotics or insecticides can be used The location of the parasites for much of their developmental stages on the host means that control techniques can be very precisely targeted against at least the larval stage. The precision of targeting and the proportion of the population that can be reached depends on the host specificity of the parasite (i.e. whether there are wild animal, reservoir hosts which cannot be easily treated), and its degree of dependence on the host (i.e. whether or not it is a facultative species that can also develop on carrion). Historically, control of Dermatobia hominis has been by the application of various insecticides to the hide of livestock, to kill larvae in furuncles and to prevent reinfestation. Applications had to be repeated at two- to four-week intervals to be of benefit. Insecticides used in this manner include toxaphene (camphechlor), DDT/gamma-BHC mixtures, crufo- mate, fenthion and trichlorphon. The intramuscular injection of Closantel (10-12.5 mg kg-‘) has been used for control with success, three injections at regular intervals keeping cattle virtually free of larvae for three to four months. Ivermectin is very effective for killing larvae of D. hominis in cattle. Doramectin gave at least 35 days protection from infection by first instar larvae. This ability to protect cattle from infestation gives chemicals such as Doramectin a marked advantage over those that are only effective in treating existing infections since, in economic terms, it is more important to prevent hide damage than treat animals with an infection that has already damaged the hide There is considerable scope for further study of the interactions between agents of myiasis and other parasites of domestic livestock, regarding immunosuppression and the possibility of myiasis making animals more susceptible to other diseases.

Rhinosporidiosis is a chronic, granulomatous infection caused by Rhinosporidium seeberi. It is characterised by the development of granular, polypoidal masses primarily affecting the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity and nasopharynx. The disease is more prevalent in South India and Sri Lanka. Cutaneous, laryngotracheal, genital and bony dissemination are rare, and can mimic soft tissue sarcoma. Following the onset of nasal lesions, it usually takes many years for systemic dissemination to occur. Very rarely rhinosporidiosis involves larynx and trachea with other nasophryngeal lesions. Rhinosporidiosis is a chronic disease which affects the mucous membrane of nose and larynx. however, tracheal dissemination is rare. If the larynx and trachea get involved, then there is a potential risk of aspiring the contents. Locally this can spread by spilling of the spores from pharynx into larynx during a surgery etc. Rhinosporidiosis affects mucous lining of nose and pharynx. Rarely spreads to trachea and if spreads then it is very dangerous. It could spread due to dissemination of the spores during bleeding. life cycle of Rhinosporiodosis Rhinosporidiosis nose R seeberi could transmit it through it spores through dust or infectious clothing or even through dirty, unsanitary water. This could lead to suppression of the immune response and make the immunity fall below the required level. Nasopharyngeal lesions are seen predominantly in males, while ocular infection is more prevalent among females. Infection produces granulomatous inflammation of the affected tissues. The infection usually begin as papules but transform into large polypoidal masses which bleed on touching. They resemble strawberry with red-pink color and white specs, specially in the nose. Masses are usually unilateral and pedunculated, and rarely exteriorise. Other mucosal sites are involved infrequently, including the palpebral conjunctiva, oropharynx, asopharynx, maxillary antrum, larynx, external ear canal, parotid duct and genitalia. Oral and oropharyngeal lesions may interfere with breathing and/or eating. Systemic dissemination to the trachea, lung, urethra, liver, genitalia, lacrimal sac and bone is very rare. Dissemination can be fatal, and occurs more commonly in association with immunodeficiency disorders (such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). Infection can spread via body fluids such as ascites and blood. If the airways is blocked. Bleeding is a lot and all organs have failed, then this could result in death. laryngotracheal dissemination could have been due to implantation of spores into the laryngeal and tracheal mucosa during episodes of recurrent bleeding from nasopharyngeal lesions and during previous surgery. Biopsy should not be done as it could bleed and cause aspiration which could be dangerous. Rather, a CT scan or computed tomography should be done to evaluate the extent of the lesions in larynx and trachea. Patients affected by it can complain of voice being hoarse over a period of time. Also, the sputum can be filled with blood on coughing. The throat could be affected the most by this. If the nose will be examined then red-pink strawberry like irregular lesions with nodules could have white specs on them and may extend further into the pharynx(naso and laryngopharynx). Rhinosporidiosis Histopathology Doctors Diagnosis is confirmed on the basis of histopathological demonstration of the characteristic thick-walled giant sporangia (measuring 60–450μm or more in diameter) in various stages of development and containing sporangiospores (7–15 μm in diameter, and up to 12 000 in number). Rhinosporidium seeberi is easily identified in haematoxylin and eosin stained smears. Spores and sporangia can e observed by periodic acid Schiff, Mayer’s mucicarmine, Verhoff’s vonGieson and Grocott Gomori methamine silver stains. Barring one report by Levy et al., cultivation has not been successful. Recently, tests for assessing the viability of the organism have been developed. Spherical bodies, provisionally regarded as the electron-dense bodies of endospores, are able to reduce the salt 3-[4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl]-2,5- diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide to a formazan that can be visualised microscopically. Nasal cavity examination revealed reddish, strawberry- like, nodular, irregularly surfaced lesions studded with whitish specs on the mucosa of both nasal cavities, including both vestibules and extending to the nasopharynx and oropharynx Tele-laryngoscopy showed multiple, sessile, reddish, nodular, strawberry-like masses with whitish specs on their surface, involving the laryngeal inlet and extending to the subglottis. Fibre-optic laryngoscopic examination revealed multiple sessile lesions occluding the tracheal lumen, more on the right lateral wall than the left. Opacities of the soft tissue in nose and pharynx, larynx, trachea can be diagnosed with the help of computed tomography (CT). Routine haematological investigations, chest radiography and fundoscopy can also be conducted. Diode laser excision of lesions was performed under direct laryngoscopy and rigid bronchoscopy guidance. Histopathological examination of the excised specimens revealed hyperplastic epithelium with globular cysts of various shapes, representing sporangia at various stages of development Post-operatively, the patients can be commenced on dapsone 100 mg/day, which he was advised to continue for two years. Strawberry-like rhinosporidial masses are commonly observed in this reddish colored masses with whitish specs are the characteristic feature which can be seen on the glottis and trachea. Bronchoscopy and laryngoscopy can also be performed. Rhinosporidiosis Treatment Doctor and Scared patient Surgical extirpation is the treatment of choice. Following surgical excision, cauterisation or ablation of the lesion base is strongly recommended, as local recurrences are common due spillage of sporangia. Rigid bronchoscopy combined with tracheotomy is useful in the removal of laryngotracheal lesions. The likelihood of bleeding from these lesions makes surgical intervention difficult. direct laryngoscopy and rigid bronchoscopy guided excision of the laryngeal and tracheal lesions can be perfomed. No rhinosporidial lesions were seen in either main bronchus. Nasal lesions recur following surgery in approximately 10 per cent of cases; the incidence of recurrence of laryngotracheal lesions is not known due to their extreme rarity. If medicine is advised, then it should not allow the sporangia to mature, should cause it to degenerate, increase fibrosis, and should not allow it to recur by blocking the folic acid in these species.

The cavernous sinus is an important anatomical part. When thrombosis occurs in it, this is called cavernous sinus thrombosis. Read on to know about its anatomy, radiology, and tributaries in detail. Cavernous sinus anatomy and its tributaries cavernous sinus thrombosis radiology The right and left cavernous sinuses are trabeculated dural venous sinuses situated on the lateral aspect of the sella turcica, extending from the superior orbital fissure to the petrous apex of the temporal bone. Each cavernous sinus is linked to its counterpart via anterior and posterior intercavernous sinuses that encircle the pituitary gland. Blood enters the cavernous sinuses from the ophthalmic veins, the superficial middle cerebral veins, inferior cerebral veins and the sphenoparietal sinuses, as well as from the sphenoid sinuses via communicating veins in the intervening bone. The cavernous sinuses drain via emissary veins into the pterygoid venous plexus, and via the inferior and the superior petrosal sinuses draining into the internal jugular vein and the sigmoid sinus respectively. The cavernous sinuses and their connections are devoid of valves, consequently bidirectional spread of infection and thrombi can occur throughout this network. Infection of the thrombus within the cavernous sinuses cannot be proven in the vast majority of antemortem cases of septic CST, but has been demonstrated in postmortem studies. This Infection could spread via a thrombophlebitis within the veins. Infection may spread within veins from the primary source to the cavernous sinuses as a contiguous phlebitis/ thrombophlebitis which are trapped within the cavernous sinus. Bacteria are potent stimulators of thrombosis by mechanisms that include release of coagulative substances or toxins causing tissue damage, and the thrombus itself is an excellent growth medium for bacterial. Bacteria within the deeper layers of the thrombus are shielded from antibiotic penetration by the outer layers of the thrombus that they can subsequently infect. Etiology of CST In the early antibiotic era, paranasal sinusitis was responsible for up to 30 per cent of cases of septic CST.1 Although septic CST is now infrequently documented, contemporary reports suggest that a greater proportion of CST is due to sinusitis, and it is possible that this has become the most prevalent aetiology as a result of a disproportionately greater reduction in complicated facial infections. This may be explained by the fact that facial In sinogenic cases of septic CST, the sphenoid and/ or ethmoid sinuses are almost invariably involved. This contrasts to an indirect pathway that is more frequently responsible for the intracranial spread of ethmoid sinusitis, notably infection reaching the cavernous sinus via ophthalmic veins after breaching the lamina papyracea. Secondly, sphenoid sinusitis produces very few localizing symptoms or external signs (headache felt in the vertex is uncommon 12 per cent, pain or altered sensation in the distribution of the ophthalmic or maxillary nerves occurs in one third of patients).Thirdly, sphenoid sinusitis is notoriously difficult to diagnose by routine clinical and radiological examination. Consequently, sphenoid sinusitis is frequently misdiagnosed on presentation, is referred initially to clinicians other than rhinologists, and is suspected only Cavernous sinus thrombosis radiology radiology of cavernous sinus thrombosis Radiology CT and MRI are the primary radiological modalities used to confirm the diagnosis that should be suspected on clinical grounds. It should be noted that neither modality is absolutely sensitive or specific for CST, although both have improved with refinements in technology. The greatest advantage of CT and MRI over other more conventional techniques is their safety, particularly in septic patients. Furthermore, as CT and MRI become more sensitive they may be able to confirm the diagnosis unequivocally at an earlier stage than could be achieved on clinical grounds alone. Traditionally, the most sensitive investigation of intracavernous occlusive defects has been venography, either via the orbital or inferior petrosal veins. Cerebral angiography had also been advocated as the primary confirmatory technique, since it frequently demonstrated abnormal findings such as narrowing or occlusion of the intracavernous segment of the internal carotid artery, and the venous phase images from angiography have shown poor filling of the cavernous sinuses or reversal of normal venous flow at the base of the skull. However, conventional venography and angiography have several drawbacks; they require iodinated contrast material that can cause dissemination of infection and thrombus extension in patients with septic thrombophlebitis, they are invasive and technically difficult in patients with periorbital inflammation and sepsis, and they are not always reliable (the venous phase images from technically well-performed angiograms demonstrate the cavernous sinuses in only 42 per cent of normal subjects). As a result of these limitations, these older techniques have a limited role in the modern diagnosis of septic CST. It is important to note that intracavernous filling defects may be observed using any imaging modality in pathologies other than thrombosis. These pathologies include thrombosed intracavernous carotid artery aneurysms, trigeminal neuromas, intracavernous metastases, and cartocio-cavernous fistulas. Using either CT or MRI, both direct and indirect signs of thrombosis are sought to increase the accuracy for diagnosing CST. Direct signs include expansion of the cavernous sinuses, convex bowing of the lateral wall, abnormal filling defects and asymmetry between each side. Indirect signs relate to concomitant venous obstruction and include Clinical features of CST Person suffering from cavernous sinus An abnormal ENT examination has been reported in 40 per cent, findings include a purulent nasal or posterior pharyngeal discharge, inflamed nasal mucosa and tenderness over the sinuses. However, this is likely to underestimate the incidence of ENT pathology since several cases of sinogenic septic CST have been misdiagnosed antemortem. Eye signs are caused initially by venous congestion within orbital veins as a result of impaired inflow to the thrombosed cavernous sinuses. As the disease process becomes established, eye signs subsequently develop as a result of neural involvement, and this has been proven unequivocally by evidence of aberrant regeneration of the oculomotor nerve in one case that has survived. Typically, one eye is affected first and more severely in acute presentations of septic CST, and this is followed by signs in the other eye within 48 hours in most cases. Chemosis, periorbital oedema and proptosis are the most consistent (95 per cent) and visible features of septic CST. Impaired ocular motility invariably occurs and has different mechanisms; mechanical restriction caused by venous congestion of orbital tissues, extraocular muscle inflammation and infection, and inflammatory involvement of the oculomotor, trochlea, and abducent nerves within the orbit and cavernous sinus. Gaze paresis may develop sequentially, with lateral gaze being affected initially and most severely. This may be explained by the susceptibility of the abducent nerve to intracavernous pathology because of its intraluminal course. The trochlear nerve is affected least in septic CST, which may be explained by the fact that this nerve lies outside the muscle cone in the orbit, hence is spared from mechanical damage from muscle inflammation and orbital pressure.