There is no doubt that smoking causes ill effects on our body. It can cause several medical illnesses and sometimes very serious fatal issues. The first areas to be affected are the mouth, gums, and teeth. It leads to tooth stain, gum disease, tooth loss, and in extreme cases mouth cancer. How Smoking Affects My Mouth? The nicotine and the tar in the tobacco cause stain on the teeth, leading to yellow coloration. If a person smokes continuously for years, he may have an almost brown tooth. Effects of Smoking on the Oral Health Smoke contains dangerous chemicals, Credits: pixabay The following dental conditions are seen due to smoking Staining of teeth Bad breath Brown spots in the mouth due to cigarette and pipe smoking. This condition is called smoker’s melanosis Fungal infection in the mouth called oral thrush Gum disease Tooth decay Bleeding in the gums Oral precancer and cancer The lesions in the mouth cancer develop due to the irritants and cancer-causing compounds in the smoke. Two Main Diseases Smokers Should be Aware of In this article, we are discussing the two main diseases of smoking. Periodontitis (Gum disease) Oral cancer Periodontitis Smoking causes gum disease, Credits: pexels Smokers are at a 2.5 to 3.5 times greater risk of developing gum disease. The intensity of the gum disease depends on how many cigars/cigarettes a peron consumes per day. Smokers can build a bacterial plaque, which leads to gum disease. The gums are affected and not healed because smoking leads to a low level of oxygen in the blood. And this gum disease is the main cause of tooth loss in adults. The severe form of gum disease is termed as gingivitis. How Does Smoking Cause Gum Disease? Bacteria causes gum disease, Credits: pexels The type of bad bacteria that causes gum disease is found more in smokers than in non-smokers. The other factors responsible for gum disease in smokers are neutrophils. Neutrophils play an important role in protecting against gum disease. Smokers have high neutrophils, but only a few neutrophils reach the gums due to the effects of nicotine. The fewer number of neutrophils in the gums fail to control the bacteria, resulting in gum disease. Gum destruction occurs at a rapid rate in smokers due to the presence of a higher number of immune response components (matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), elastase, interleukin-1, and prostanglandin-2) that are involved in inflammation and bone loss. How to Prevent Gum Disease? Follow oral hygiene, Credits: pexels Follow good dental habits. Brush your teeth twice daily. It is necessary to floss often to remove plaque. Quit smoking Pay regular visits to your dentist. Will Smokers Respond to Treatment? Treating gum disease, Credits: pexels The other bad thing is smokers respond poorly to the treatment of gum diseases. When they stop smoking, the chance of their gums healing is quite possible. Also implant failures occur at a higher rate in smokers than in nonsmokers. This is due to the exposure of tobacco smoke to the gums around the implant. The treatment for gum disease involves the following: o   Using a prescription medicine and a mouth rinse. o   Surgery to remove tartar deep under the gums. o   Surgery to treat bone loss and gum loss. Oral Cancer Did you Know? Cancer cells, Credits: pixabay People have a belief that smoking affects the lungs and causes lung cancer, but quite unaware that it leads to oral cancer also. Research conducted in various populations shows that smokers have a substantially higher risk of oral cancer. Smokers are six times more likely to develop oral cancers than nonsmokers. The risk is high when the amount of tobacco smoke consumed is high. Passive smoking, tobacco chewing, and cigar smoking are considered risk factors for the development of oral cancer. The combined effects of smoking and alcohol increase the risk of oral cancer. A pre-cancer condition called oral leukoplakia is more common in smokers than in non-smokers. Leukoplakia is a white lesion that can develop into cancer. How Smoking Causes Oral Cancer? Chemicals in tobacco, Credits: pixabay The chemicals found in the tobacco initiate or promote cancer. These chemicals tend to induce genetic changes in cells of the mouth cavity, leading to oral cancer. The mouth cancer is exposed to a lot of carcinogenic chemicals during inhalation while smoking or via direct contact when chewing tobacco products. Treatment of Oral Cancer Chemotherapy, Credits: pixabay When diagnosed at an early stage, surgery will be carried out to remove tumor and cancerous lymph nodes. In some cases, a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy will be performed. Take-Home Message Smoking causes deleterious effects on the body and leads to gum diseases and in extreme cases, oral cancer.

Menstrual cycle is a normal part of every woman’s life postpone periods naturally. A woman needs her menses on a monthly basis to remain fertile. Although having periods is not something for which women eagerly anticipate, most of us are more or less fine with their occurrence every month. But there are some, especially teenagers and young adults to whom heavy period flows come with many other problems. They often experience cramps and stomach pains not to mention the mood swings. Hence, they desire to get rid of it and search for ways on how to postpone periods naturally. Why Do Women Manipulate with Their Periods? Woman in pain, Credit: Pixabay Women may wish to manipulate their periods for a variety of reasons. It might be surprising to those who have never had a problem with their periods. But several women experience numerous skin issues, pain in legs or stomach, bloating, breast tenderness and many other problems that start prior to the onset of their cycle. Combine this with a heavy flow, and you’ve got every reason to manipulate your period or delay their occurrence. Experiencing periods and associated discomfort also becomes terrifying when you have an important event to attend or a vacation to relax. Such scenarios induce women to look for ways on how to prepone periods. Girls frantically search for tips and remedies on how to get periods immediately in one day or how to get periods in one hour. Can You Manipulate Your Periods? Woman with a sanitary napkin, Credit: Pixabay Periods can certainly be manipulated. Women who postpone periods naturally or prepone their periods do so by either using natural remedies or by taking a medicine to delay periods. The most common natural remedies for manipulating the period cycle involves consumption of certain fruits like papaya, herbs and vitamin c rich foods. Apart from natural remedies, medical ways to suppress menstruation and manipulate your cycle are broadly categorized as follows. Hormonal therapies Using a vaginal ring Medroxyprogesterone injection Contraceptive implant Some of the commonly prescribed medicines for those searching how to get periods fast or delay periods are: Norethisterone Primolut- N Ibuprofen Ovral-G Is Manipulating Periods Dangerous? A warning sign, Credit: Pixabay Before you go ahead and manipulate your periods, note that menstruation is essential for you to remain fertile and eventually start a family. While its manipulation is not linked with big health consequences, frequently doing it may certainly give you many side-effects. The effects of suppressing periods vary according to the age of the woman. Girls before the age of 16 should not interfere with their period cycle primarily because their menstruation is still at its formative stages. Adult women may face some other side effects listed below Stunted growth Breakthrough bleeding (spotting or light menstruation) Risk of unwanted pregnancy Low bone mineral density due to medroxyprogesterone injections Mental illnesses like depression Some side-effects of using contraceptive pills to suppress your periods are: A general feeling of being sick Irritable bowel syndrome Sudden vaginal bleeding Nausea Head pains Summing it all up, we can say that although there are ways to manipulate periods, you should resort to them only if you find it extremely difficult to deal with them. Or if you have a health condition that makes it necessary for you to prevent blood loss. Under normal circumstances, it is best to allow the periods cycle to happen postpone periods naturally.

Sheehan syndrome is a rare condition that occurs due to a large amount of blood loss during childbirth or due to low blood pressure during or after delivery. The low blood pressure brings down the oxygen levels in the body, which may cause damage to the pituitary gland. This condition was first described by the British pathologist Harold Learning Sheehan in 1937. What Causes Sheehan Syndrome? Pregnancy enlarges Pituitary gland, Credits: pixabay The increased amount of estrogen during pregnancy may slightly enlarge the pituitary gland. In such a case, if severe blood loss or oxygen deficiency occurs, it can cause damage to the pituitary gland and its hormone production and regulation abilities. The pituitary hormones that become affected by Sheehan’s Syndrome include: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): It is responsible for regulating metabolism. Doctors often diagnose patients with hypothyroidism (shortage of TSH) if the medical history of the patient during childbirth is unknown to them. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): It helps regulate the menstrual cycle and ovulation. It works together with the LH. Luteinizing hormone (LH): It helps in estrogen regulation. Prolactin: It helps in the production of breast milk. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH): It helps the adrenal gland stimulate hormones like cortisol. Cortisol is necessary to help the body deal with stress. It influences other bodily functions like blood pressure, of the heart, and the immune system. Growth Hormone (GH): It controls and maintains organ and tissue growth. There are various reasons why excessive blood loss could occur during childbirth: High blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia) Placenta detached from the unborn baby (placental abruption) Giving birth to a large baby or multiple babies, like twins When the placenta partly or completely obstructs the cervix (placenta previa) Symptoms Difficulty with breastfeeding, Credits: pixabay Sheehan’s syndrome can show its symptoms immediately after childbirth or after a few months to a few years. The earliest sign of this syndrome is the inability to breastfeed. Other symptoms, caused as a result of low hormone release from the pituitary glands, are: Difficulty or inability to breastfeed Irregular or no menstruation Slow mental function Weight gain Fatigue Low blood pressure Low blood sugar Inability to re-grow shaved pubic hair Decreased sex drive Difficulty staying warm Irregular heartbeat A woman may not show any symptoms at all due to minimum or little damage to the pituitary gland. But after a few years, some stressful situations may trigger an adrenal crisis which disables the body to produce the required amount of cortisol to help cope up with the stressful situation. It may result in Sheehan’s syndrome by damaging the pituitary gland. Diagnosis and Treatment Diagnosis of Sheehan syndrome, Credits: pixabay Any difficulties faced during or after childbirth should be immediately brought to the notice of your medical practitioner. It can help them diagnose the condition better. Excessive blood loss and difficulty in breastfeeding are some conditions that need to be mentioned. Blood tests, MRIs and CT scans are recommended to test the levels of hormones produced by the pituitary gland and imaging can help detect any damage or presence of a tumour. If Sheehan syndrome is diagnosed, the treatment will mainly include hormone therapy for the rest of a girl’s life. A woman will be given corticosteroids to replace the adrenal hormones, LH and FSH to regulate the menstrual cycle and help with ovulation, levothyroxine to increase hormones produced by the thyroid gland, and growth hormone to maintain muscle-fat ratio and lower cholesterol. Sheehan syndrome cannot be prevented. A woman diagnosed with it will have to ensure that treatment is carried out correctly. Many women do not give details of complications during childbirth for which doctors rule it out as hypothyroidism or other similar medical conditions. This makes it crucial to mention your medical history properly to get treated better.

Every year May 28th is celebrated as “World Menstrual hygiene Day”, to highlight the importance of good menstrual hygiene management and raise awareness on its practices. The government of India has also undertaken numerous initiatives to promote women’s health in India. But how seriously are you practising menstrual hygiene? Being a working woman can make it difficult for you to take care of yourself at times which may cause you to ignore the basics of menstrual hygiene while you work for longer durations. But it is of utmost importance to maintain and adapt proper menstrual hygiene practices in order to prevent any kind of bacterial infection. To keep yourself healthy, happy and fit, you must follow certain basic menstrual hygiene practices. Here are a few tips you should keep in mind during your periods: Change your pads/tampons regularly Wash properly Know the cleaning technique Sundry your undergarments Proper disposal of pads. Let’s discuss how these 5 tips can help improve your health by keeping bacterial infections away. Change Your Pads/Tampons Regularly Tampons or pads, Credits: pixabay It’s recommended that sanitary pads and tampons should be changed every 4-6 hours. Menstrual cups should be emptied at least twice a day. There are no exceptions to this rule unless you need to change more often due to heavier flow. But if you observe minimum flow or you’re wearing a pad with extra soaking capability, you need to change your pad every 4-6 hours. This is because wearing a pad for more than 4-6 hours will cause bacterial growth and may increase the chance of vaginal infection. The infection may cause you skin rashes, itching, inflammation and even urinary tract infections. Wash Properly woman washing her hands, Credits: pixabay Irrespective of whether you are at work or at home, every time you change your sanitary pad, wash your vagina properly. There’s no need to use soaps or vaginal hygiene products as the vagina has a self-cleaning property and these products tend to affect the pH balance of your vaginal fluid. However, when you are on your period, the excess blood will reach places around the vagina which needs to be washed away. Wash the area before changing a new pad. Use tissues or a gentle cloth if required. Know the Cleaning Technique Know the cleaning technique, Credits: pixabay Whenever you are cleaning your genital area, remember that you need to clean ‘front to back’. This means your hand movement should be from the vagina towards the anus. If you wash from anus to vagina, bacteria from the anus can get lodged on your vagina and cause infections. Chances of getting a UTI infection is more in this case. Sun dry your Undergarments Dry your undergarments in sun, Credits: pixabay Having wet panties after urinating puts you at the risk of developing a vaginal infection. It also leaves a bad odour and causes irritation. Pat the area dry clean with toilet paper or with the help of a soft cloth. Do not wipe harshly or use talcum powder. Your panties require to be dry and not your vagina, if your vagina becomes dry, it will cause itchiness and can lead to pain. Proper Disposal Proper disposal of the pad, Credits: pixabay Disposing of your sanitary pad or tampon properly is another crucial thing in maintaining proper menstrual hygiene. It not only helps you keep the environment clean but also helps prevent the spread of infection. Try wrapping your used pad or tampon in a tissue paper while disposing of to prevent any spread of bacteria and resulting infections. Do not flush them down the toilet. Once you have wrapped and disposed of the used pad/tampon in the bin, wash your hands properly with soap and water. Most women are not aware of the hygiene practices that are necessary to be followed while on their period. Be responsible and spread responsibility. Only you have the ultimate power to take care of your body.

Your menstrual cycle follows a set pattern. Most of the time how to get periods in one hour, the pattern does not change and you find yourself menstruating at around the same time every month. Several factors, however, can make your menstrual cycle irregular. Pregnancy, stress, and hormonal changes are mainly responsible for delayed ovulation. A maximum delay in periods if not pregnant is 5 days or at most a week. If your periods aren’t coming even after the said time period, a gynecologist should be consulted. Sometimes, dealing with a heavy period flow becomes discomforting. It is especially true when you have a big event coming up. Women in such situations search for ways on how to get periods in one hour. It is mainly done to get rid of the inconvenience associated with them and enjoy the upcoming event, trip, or the vacation to the fullest. How to Prepone Periods Woman with calendar, Credit: Pixabay Is there only a week left for the special occasion that you are eager to attend and you still haven’t had your periods? Such a scenario might force you to look for ways and means to know how to get periods immediately in one day. There are a lot of ways through which you can induce your periods to come faster. Here is the round up of the best ways to do so. Add some herbs in your diet Juice up a papaya Pomegranate/ celery juice Up your intake of vitamin C Turmeric to your rescue Regular exercise 1.  Add Some Herbs in Your Diet Herbs like parsley, ginger, cinnamon, and cumin are effective in shifting your period cycle to make it arrive earlier. These herbs can be boiled in water and consumed every morning, preferably on an empty stomach. 2.  Juice up a Papaya Papaya contains carotene which activates the estrogen hormone. This is the hormone that is associated with the timing of periods.Thus, consuming papaya raw or in the form of its juice helps bring periods earlier than usual. 3.  Pomegranate/ Celery Juice Consuming pomegranate or celery juice is a natural way to stimulate the flow of blood to your uterus. They are very helpful in inducing periods before their usual time. 4.  Up Your Intake of Vitamin C Vitamin C raises the level of estrogen in a woman’s body. High levels of estrogen result in uterine contractions, hence, bleeding is stimulated. Increase your intake of vitamin C in the form of leafy green vegetables and citrus fruits like pineapple, grapes, and oranges. 5.  Turmeric to Your Rescue A week before your expected period date, consume turmeric with some water two times a day. You will soon experience your menstrual cycle occurring earlier than usual. 6.  Regular Exercise If you’re struggling with irregular periods and are unsure of the time of your date, try adding some exercise in your life. Suffering from irregular periods naturally makes you concerned regarding your fertility. Gentle exercises is the answer to your often searched question, how to get pregnant faster with irregular periods. How to Get Periods Fast with Medicines Woman holding a pill, Credit: Pixabay Some medicines allow you to shift your menstrual cycle to some extent. Hormonal birth control pills, which contain estrogen and progestin can greatly alter your period cycle. Additionally, you can also use one or the other medicine to delay periods or induce them before their due date. Some of these medicines are: Primolut-N Ibuprofen Ovral-G All the ways mentioned above are completely safe, natural, and effective to help you prepone your periods. Bear in mind though, that birth control and other medicines may have some side-effects. So don’t rely on them too often. Besides, don’t make it a habit to manipulate your periods too often. Many young girls go crazy and look for ways on how to get periods in one hour. But it is generally not advised to do so.

What are Cavities? Right from infants to elder people, everyone faces tooth cavity issues. Do you know what it exactly means? A tooth is made of outer coating called enamel, the inner part called dentin, and pulp. The pulp is the living part of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. A cavity is the one that happens from tooth decay. A cavity can affect both the inner and outer coatings of the teeth. Cavities are the permanently damaged areas that develop into tiny openings or holes. Cavities and tooth decay are reported to be the world’s most common health problems. If cavities are not promptly treated, they can cause severe toothache, infection, and even tooth loss. Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Cavity Man suffering from toothache, Credits: pexels Depending on the location and extent of the cavity, the signs and symptoms may vary. During the initial days, you may not feel any pain. As the decay gets deeper, the following symptoms may be seen. Tooth sensitivity Toothache for no apparent reason When you drink hot, cold, or sweets, you may feel mild and sharp pain. Staining (black, white or brown) on any surface of the tooth Pain during biting A visible hole in your teeth Causes of Cavities The causes of cavities can be due to the following. Food Poor dental hygiene Lack of fluoride Acid reflux disease Age Bedtime infant feeding Dry mouth Eating Disorders Food Eating sugary foods cause cavities, Credits: pexels Carbohydrates like bread, soda, fruits, cereals, and candy tend to stay on your mouth and can cause decay. The bacteria can convert them to acids. Bacteria, acid, debris, and saliva altogether can convert it to a plaque which tightly says on the teeth. The acids in the plaque can erode the enamel and create holes called cavities. Poor Dental Hygiene When we don’t brush after eating and drinking, there are higher chances that plaque forms and damages your tooth. Lack of Fluoride A toothpaste, Credits: pexels Sometimes your toothpaste, tooth powder, and the mouthwash you use may lack a component called fluoride. Fluoride is essential to prevent cavities and tooth damage. Acid Reflux Disease Man suffering from acid reflux, Credits: pxfuel A disease called acid reflux disease pulls the stomach acid into the mouth causing cavities. Age Old age men, Credits: pxfuel As a person gets older, the gums may pull away from your teeth. This can expose the roots of the teeth to form a plaque. And adding too much sugary drinks makes the issue worse. Bedtime Infant Feeding Infant feeding, Credits: pexels When babies are provided with sugary milk, formula, and juice during the bedtime, the beverages can remain in the teeth, attract the bacteria, and initiate tooth decay. Dry Mouth Dry mouth is due to the lack of saliva, which helps prevent tooth decay by washing away food and plaque from your teeth. Some medicines and chemotherapy drugs can reduce saliva production and puts you at risk of developing cavities. Eating Disorders Anorexia and bulimia are the eating disorders that interfere with saliva production and lead to significant tooth erosion and cavities. Diagnosis of Cavities An X-ray to diagnose to cavities, Credits: pexels It is important to have frequent dental checkups. A dentist may be able to evaluate the cavity through physical examination or a dental x-ray. Treatment for Cavities A small buy brushing his teeth, Credits: pexels If you have severe tooth pain, and couldn’t go to a dentist immediately, you can try doing the following. Brush your teeth with warm water. Use toothpaste that is designed for sensitive teeth. Try over the counter medicines like naproxen and ibuprofen to get relieved from the pain. If the tooth cavity is identified at an early stage, fluoride treatment may help recover the enamel and prevent tooth decay. The treatment for the cavities depends on how severe it was. Depending on the nature of your cavity,   the following procedures will be performed by your dentist. Filling Crowns Root canal Filling Tooth filling, Credits: pexels Your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth using a drill, and fill the hole with a filling made of a silver alloy, gold, porcelain, or composite resin. Crowns A representation of dental repair, Credits: pexels When the tooth is very badly damaged such that the enamel is completely lost, treating it with the crown is necessary. The damaged portion of the tooth is repaired and then a crown is fixed that is made from porcelain, or porcelain fused to metal over the rest of the tooth. Root Canal A root canal is required if the root or pulp of the tooth is injured or damaged. Along with the decayed portions of the tooth, the nerve, blood vessels, and tissue are also removed. The roots are filled with sealing material and a crown is placed over the filled tooth. Can Cavities Cause Complications? Yes! Definitely. Woman suffering from tooth pain, Credits: pexels The long term complications of cavities include: Pain Trouble in chewing Tooth pain and damage Tooth loss Pus due to bacterial infection How to Prevent Cavities? Visit dentist frequently, Credits: pexels Dental hygiene is important to prevent cavities. Brush twice a day with toothpaste that has fluoride. American Dental Association recommends flossing your teeth at least once daily Have a balanced diet. Cut down sugary drinks. Limit snacking between meals. Have frequent visits to your dentist and do routine cleanings. Take-Home Message Cavities can lead to long term complications if left untreated.

There’s hardly any woman who eagerly looks forward to that time of the month. Though everyone is aware of the importance of a regular menstrual cycle, it is hard to deny that the experience in itself is not quite pleasing. It is especially true when you have a big event to attend or a vacation to enjoy. Such situations prompt ladies to search for ways on how to delay periods or how to postpone periods naturally. Before you decide to manipulate your menstrual cycle, keep in mind that a maximum delay in periods if not pregnant is around a week. Sometimes, repeated attempts at delaying periods can contribute to a highly irregular menstrual cycle. You would then have to visit a gynacologist to resolve such issues. How to Delay Periods A calender, Credit: Pixabay Periods can be delayed with the help of a hormonal contraceptive. But many women might not wish to deal with the side-effects of these pills. In such cases, it is best to take the natural route. Natural methods offer another advantage. They can be used by women searching for ways on how to get periods immediately in one day. They can also be utilised by those wishing to postpone their periods. Here are some of them. Eat more papayas Boost the intake of vitamin c Have some herbs and seeds Drink some ACV 1.  Eat More Papayas Papayas contain carotene which stimulates the level of estrogen in the body. It alters the blood flow in the uterine. If you are looking to delay your periods start consuming more papayas. 2.  Boost the Intake of Vitamin C Vitamin c found in citrus fruits and green vegetables slows down the process of ovulation. Vitamin c found in lemon and raspberry leaves not only makes your flow lighter, but also helps to delay it further. 3.  Have Some Herbs and Seeds Herbs like parsley contain vitamin B12, vitamin K, and vitamin A. Make a parsley tea by boiling it in water. Consume it in regular intervals throughout the day. You will find the arrival of your periods much later than usual. Powdered mustard seeds or other lentils mixed with lukewarm water and consumed daily will also help you in holding up your periods. 4.  Drink Some ACV Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) mixed with water consistently for around 10 days will postpone your periods and they will arrive later than usual. How to Postpone Periods Using Medicines Person holding a medicineCredit: Pixabay Hormonal and oral contraceptive pills are prescribed for women wanting to know how to get pregnant fast with irregular periods. There are some medicines and tablets that are very effective in delaying periods in women. The most widely used medicine to delay periods is Norethisterone. It is essentially a progesterone which is associated with delayed periods.  Other medicines that delay periods and give you relief from heavy menstrual bleeding and cramps are: Utovlan Provera Primolut-N Ibuprofen Ovral-G What are the Side-Effects of Taking Medicines to Delay Periods? Woman in pain, Credit: Pixabay Breakthrough bleeding is one common side-effect of taking contraceptive pills to delay your periods. It is a type of bleeding that begins when you start using such pills. Other medicines like norethisterone and those listed above should be used occasionally. Their regular usage can make you experience side-effects like mood swings, acne, and breast tenderness. Delaying periods is something which can be tried in urgent situations. A frequent manipulation of the menstrual cycle may lead to infertility issues. If you do however have to delay your periods at all costs try doing so with natural remedies. At the same time, don’t make it a habit to postpone periods. You’ll only have to suffer for it later.

Several areas in your mouth like lips, inner cheeks, and tongue are prone to infections and developing various oral health conditions. It may cause much discomfort since these parts of your oral cavity anatomy help you perform many day-to-day functions. Any trouble in their work can cause problems in activities like speaking, chewing, eating, and even smiling. One of the painful conditions commonly associated with your oral cavity anatomy is an ulcer or a canker sore. An ulcer can occur anywhere. Apart from one in mouth, you can develop a throat ulcer and a stomach ulcer also. You may wonder about the cause behind your painful ulcers and actively seek a solution like an over the counter mouth ulcer gel for it. But if these painful wounds repeatedly strike you, it’s time to analyze your lifestyle and seek help. What Causes Painful Ulcers? Ulcers occur due to a variety of reasons. Some of the common causes are listed below. Reaction to a medical drug Accidentally biting the inner cheeks Neglecting oral hygiene Anxiety and stress Viral infections Burns due to consuming hot or spicy food Mouth cancer as malignant or premalignant lesions of oral cavity anatomy Hormonal changes Continued rubbing against braces and dentures Conditions like cold sore, anaemia, folate deficiency, oral thrush Habits like chewing tobacco, smoking, etc. Different Kinds of Ulcers A mouth ulcer, Credit: Pixabay The painful ulcers that you may suffer from can fall into one or the other category mentioned below. Canker sores, occurring as white patches with red borders, are non-contagious and self-healing. Cold sores, occurring as a group of red blisters on the lips, are highly contagious but also self-healing. Candidiasis, a yeast infection in the mouth, it requires medical attention Leukoplakia, occurring as white patches anywhere in the mouth, require immediate medical attention. Are Ulcers Dangerous? A mouth ulcer, Credit: Pixabay Mouth ulcers are mostly harmless. They usually heal  in a span of a week or a little more.  But if the ulcers are hindering you to perform your daily activities to a great extent, then it’s wise to consult an oral health specialist. The ulcers can sometimes make it difficult to breathe, talk, and swallow. They can also become blisters. Mouth ulcers, however, should not be completely ignored. If you find that you’re not able to relieve them even after a week or two, it is time to take some preventive action. Consider it a warning when you experience the following symptoms: Skin rashes Pain in the joints Constant fever Diarrhea Repeated occurrence of ulcers The ulcer is very big Ulcers that don’t heal, but spread further How Can You Treat Painful Ulcers? Bottles of mouthwash, Credit: Pixabay Many kinds of ulcers do not require any specific treatment. They can be effectively treated by the following actions. Drink adequate water Apply an antiseptic mouth ulcer gel Use a medicated mouthwash Avoid or limit the intake of spicy and sour food For severe pain, use a paracetamol Practice good oral hygiene Salt water gargles Avoid the use of tobacco Drink chamomile tea How Can You Prevent Mouth Ulcers? Family brushing teeth, Credit: Pixabay You cannot control all the causes that lead to the development of ulcers in your mouth. But you can try to prevent their occurrence and reduce their severity with the following measures. Consume a healthy and well-balanced diet Limit the consumption of acidic and spicy food Take proper care of your braces if you use them Do not brush your teeth vigorously Try to maintain a stress-free lifestyle Take adequate rest in the form of sleep On the whole, ulcers are not something to worry about. Although they may look and feel terrible, they usually heal themselves over a short time. Only some severe cases, when they are accompanied by symptoms in other parts of the body, should be considered as a serious health concern.

Your oral cavity health is an important indicator of your overall well-being. As children, we come across many Oral Submucous Fibrosis pictures in our science textbooks and labs. For those who may have forgotten, the oral cavity consists of the lips and roof of the mouth. It also includes cheek lining, front part of the tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, and the area behind your wisdom teeth. The oral cavity is at risk of developing several debilitating conditions that may either arise naturally, or maybe a result of bad habits like excessive tobacco consumption, smoking, and the like. Lesions in the oral cavity like oral submucous fibrosis affect 12.6 % of Indian males. Here is all you need to know about it. What Are Premalignant Conditions of Oral Cavity? Woman with hand on cheek, Credit: Pixabay Precancerous or premalignant condition is a state that is at risk of developing cancer. Premalignant lesions of the oral cavity usually develop in the skin lining of your mouth (epithelium). Some of the lesions are easily diagnosed and remain harmless, but others can turn into oral cancer. The lesions are detected and diagnosed in people who habitually consume alcohol, tobacco, or chew betel leaves. At the same time, they can also develop naturally in younger persons not having such habits. Premalignant lesions of the oral cavity are usually marked by an absence of any symptoms in the earlier stages. A close examination of the oral cavity will reveal whether the lesion is malignant or not. How to Detect Malignant Lesions Doctors in operation, Credit: Pixabay Malignant lesions are characterised by red or white patches or are in an area where the skin lining of the mouth is lost. They are generally found under the tongue, floor of the mouth, at the back of the mouth, and the topmost area of the throat. Some reddish and white patches in the mouth with no prior cause can also be malignant. These patches cannot be wiped off with a tissue. Lesions that are prominently red carry the highest chances of developing cancer or being malignant. Types of Premalignant Conditions of Oral Cavity Person smoking, Credit: Pixabay There are six main potentially malignant complications that may or may not develop into cancer. Erythroplakia Leukoplakia Oral submucous fibrosis Palatal lesion of reverse cigar smoking Oral lichen planus 1.  Erythroplakia A rare condition that is usually characterised by a bright red component. It has well-defined boundaries and a velvety surface texture. It can be detected in heavy smokers and those who consume excessive amounts of alcohol. This complication in the oral cavity immediately demands a biopsy. 2.  Leukoplakia The lesion is prominently white in colour and develops on the tongue. It can neither be wiped or scraped away. It is seen in those who regularly indulge in tobacco (guthka) chewing. Prevalent in India, this type of lesion is detected more commonly in males than females. 3.  Oral Submucous Fibrosis It is a premalignant condition that is commonly seen in people who habitually chew betel quid consisting of areca nuts. The lesion is characterized by chronic inflammation, and abnormal accumulation of collagen in the oral tissues. Patients with oral submucous fibrosis find it extremely difficult to open their mouth. If detected at an early stage, followed by quitting the habit of tobacco/ betel nut chewing, the condition can be resolved. 4.  Palatal Lesion of Reverse Cigar Smoking People in South American and South Asian countries indulge in ‘reverse smoking’. They insert the end of the cigar or cigarette which is lit into their mouth. The excessive heat alters the tissue lining inside the mouth. It results in a palatal lesion which has the potential to become malignant. 5.  Oral Lichen Planus It is an inflammatory lesion that is characterized by prominently white and lacy patches, tissues that appear red and swollen, or sometimes open sores. The internal membrane of the mouth is severely affected in this condition. Symptoms include burning and pain in the affected area. On the whole, premalignant lesions, if diagnosed and detected early, can save you from developing mouth cancer. While they may develop naturally in some, others who are predisposed to habits like tobacco, alcohol consumption and smoking should try to quit these habits as early as possible. For severe cases, surgical incision and laser ablation remain the two most widely used treatments.

Girl with hand on cheek, Credit: Pixabay Doctors often use the term ‘Oral Cavity’. What they are really referring to is simply, your mouth. Basically, your oral cavity anatomy consists of lips, teeth, tongue, and the associated salivary glands. We are often asked to maintain good oral health. It is because poor oral health is not only associated with teeth and gum problems but also with chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Why Oral Health Is Important Oral health plays a very important role in our day-to-day functioning. Our ability to smile, chew, breathe, and speak properly hinges on our oral health. The lips, tongue, teeth, and other parts of our oral cavity allow us to produce speech and communicate efficiently. Apart from this, our oral cavity also plays an important role in the food digestion process. Oral cavity also provides an alternate passage for air to enter our respiratory tract when we inhale and exhale. It’s especially helpful when it’s hard to breathe through our nose.. Example, when our nose is blocked due to the common cold. Why You Should Take Care of Your Oral Cavity Health woman with tongs, Credit: Pixabay Do you know that more than 40% of adults visit a dentist every year with complaints of mouth pain? Oral health problems are widespread. They are a direct consequence of ignoring oral hygiene and engaging in habits that harm one or the other part of the oral cavity anatomy. Some examples are consuming too many sugary foods and beverages, chewing tobacco, smoking, and drinking excessively. Constantly abusing your oral health over a period of time can also result in premalignant conditions of oral cavity like oral submucous fibrosis. These conditions put you at a greater risk of developing cancer. Some of the most common oral cavity problems are listed below: Tooth cavity Gum problems Oral or mouth cancer 1.  Tooth Cavity Eating too many sugary food items like cakes and candies makes the bacteria present on the plaque of the teeth to produce more acids. These acids break down the enamel of the teeth. If neglected cavities can lead to severe gum infections which can be fatal. 2.  Gum Problems The bone that holds the teeth is characterized by inflamed or swollen gums. Chronic health conditions like diabetes and a weak immune system can cause gum diseases. Poor oral hygiene and tobacco use can also affect your gum health. 3.  Oral or Mouth Cancer Oral cavity anatomy cancers are a direct result of neglecting oral health. They are also caused by  high risk behaviors like alcohol abuse, consuming tobacco, chewing betel leaves, and smoking excessively. Mouth cancer is generally preceded by red and white patches in certain areas of the mouth. These are known as premalignant conditions of oral cavity. Some remain harmless while others develop into cancers. How to Maintain Good Oral Cavity Health Woman undergoing a mouth examination, Credit: Pixabay Now you know that maintaining a healthy oral health is crucial for an optimal functioning of your body. Moreover, maintaining such health doesn’t have to be difficult. Incorporating a few changes in your life can make a world of a difference to your mouth and teeth. Regularly brush your teeth two times a day using a fluoride toothpaste. Apart from brushing, make it a habit to floss daily. Eat healthily and the consumption limit sugary foods. Drink sufficient amounts of water after sugary food or beverages to flush away the sugar and acids. Change your toothbrush after every 3-4 months if you find its bristles wearing off. Quit habits like smoking, tobacco chewing and excessive drinking. Oral cavity is thus linked to your overall health. Taking care of it by practicing good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups and limiting the intake of foods that compromise its functioning will go a long way in preventing painful oral health ailments.

Scoliosis brace is a condition of the spine where the curvature of the spine is slightly towards the side. The doctors may describe the angle of the curve as “C” or “S”. The curve may appear to be small, large, or somewhere in between when seen in scoliosis X-ray. Symptoms and signs of scoliosis A scoliosis patient consulting doctor, Credits: pixabay A person with scoliosis may observe the following signs: A curve which is visible in your back Waist, hip and shoulders that look uneven Uneven shoulder blades where one looks larger than the other Ribs may stick out farther on one side of your body Symptoms include: Pain in the lower back Stiffness in the back Numbness in legs Fatigue Types of scoliosis There are 4 types of scoliosis which include: Idiopathic Congenital scoliosis Neuromuscular scoliosis Degenerative scoliosis How to Prevent Scoliosis from Getting worse? The vast majority of Scoliosis cases cannot be prevented. However, the progression of the disease can sometimes be curtailed from getting worse. Let’s see some of the points below on how scoliosis condition can be prevented. Use of braces Scoliosis traction chair Remaining physically active Consuming nutritious food Spinal surgery Use of Braces Braces for scoliosis, Credits: pixabay Back braces can help kids who are still growing. Many studies have shown that wearing braces for scoliosis for at least 16 hours a day can keep spinal curves from getting large enough to prevent them from surgery. In general, about ¼ of children suffering from scoliosis is likely to benefit from scoliosis braces. Braces for scoliosis are usually made of plastic and cant be seen under the clothes. Scoliosis traction chair Scoliosis chair to help keep the back straight, Credits: pixabay A Scoliosis Traction Chair (STC) is a corrective instrument for scoliosis. It can be used as a chair for back pain to address adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.  It has shown proven benefits by promoting a powerful effect on the spine. The recommended seating time in the scoliosis chair is 30 minutes twice daily. It is not for use by the general public and can be used only by chiropractors.  STC can be ineffective or even harmful if it is not used properly. Remaining physically active Exercise for back pain, Credits: pixabay Including flexibility and strengthening exercises in your daily routine can help strengthen your muscles and possibly prevent scoliosis from worsening. You can also speak to a physiotherapist who can help improve pain, strengthen muscles, and increase the flexibility of your spine. A chiropractor may also help you with scoliosis pain by keeping your facet joints supple. Water or pool therapy can take some of the stress off your joints and help you cope up with pain Eat nutritious foods Eating healthy and nutritious food, Credits: pixabay Consuming foods rich in certain minerals and vitamins can help maintain strong, and healthy vertebrae as well as other bones of the body. Minerals such as calcium, magnesium and phosphorus form the mineral matrix of your bones including your spine. Vitamin D is also an important nutrient to build your bones healthy and strong. Spinal surgery Spinal surgery, Credits: pixabay Spinal surgery should always be the last option considered for scoliosis. However, in some cases, it becomes increasingly important to stop the deformity from progressing. In such cases, surgery can be considered where two or more vertebrae are fused together with bone grafts and metal rods or other hard devices to support the spine in order to keep it straight. An altered curvature of spine is not preventable but the progression and worsening of the condition can be managed through braces, traction chairs, eating healthy and nutritious food and remaining physically active.

Is your back pain making it difficult for you to sit and work at the office? Is your daily productivity getting hampered? Well! Here are some exercises that will not only help you get rid of your backache but will also increase productivity at work. There are several back pain exercises which, when performed daily can bring relief from debilitating back pain. Sitting pigeon pose Knee to chest pose Cat and cow pose Cobra pose Knee rolls Standing extension Calf rest 1.  Sitting Pigeon Pose Sitting pigeon pose (variation of Gomukhasana), Credits: pixabay Sitting pigeon pose is a variation of Gomukhasana which is also called as Kapotasana How to: Start with spreading out your legs in front of you while sitting on the ground. While keeping your back straight, try to bring your right ankle towards the top of your left knee. Make sure your right knee is bent. While holding the position, lean forward and try to reach your thighs. You can also do a variation by moving your trunk towards the opposite side of the bent leg. Now place your left hand on the right ankle and another hand on the ground. This variation should only be performed if the patient feels comfortable doing it. Benefits: Sitting pigeon pose stretches the muscles in the back, glutes, groins, chest,  shoulders, and neck. One can find relief from back pain in minutes. 2. Knee to Chest Pose Knee to chest pose, Credits: pixabay Knee to chest pose strengthens your abdominal muscles and lower back, and provide long term benefit from aching back muscles. How to: It’s a simple pose where you bend both your knees and bring them towards your chest while sleeping on your yoga mat. Hold into the position with your knees covered with your arms just like you are hugging them. Benefits: Knee to chest pose stretches your hips, thighs, glutes and improves flexibility in the lower back area thus providing relief from lower back pain. 3. Cat and Cow Pose Cat-cow stretch, Credits: pixabay The cat-cow pose is a gentle warm-up exercise which can provide immediate relief from back pain. It is a combination of two poses and also physiotherapist recommended. It is considered as one of the best physiotherapy exercises for back pain. How to: As the name suggests, try putting your body into a cat position. Kneel down on your knees, bring your upper body towards the front with your palms on the ground supporting your body. Keep your head down. This is cat pose Now, look up towards the ceiling by pressing your hips up to come into a cow pose. Benefits: The cat and cow pose stretches your back and improves spine flexibility. It can also help decompress the lower back. 4. Cobra Pose Cobra pose, Credits: pixabay Cobra pose is another great physiotherapy exercise for the lower back which is also referred to as a sphinx ( lumbar extension).  It is a part of hatha yoga. How to: Lie down in prone position with your palms outstretched on the floor. Take a deep breath, slowly raise your upper body, towards the ceiling by moving your shoulders and chest away from the floor. Repeat the pose with deeper stretch. Benefits: Removes congestion in your spine and back,  relieves abdominal and back muscles pain. 5. Knee Rolls Knee rolling exercises are great for lower back pain which also increases the range of motion in this area. How to: Lie on your back with your legs spread on the ground Bend your knees while keeping your feet on the ground Allow both your knees to roll over to one side as far as is comfortable Hold on for a few seconds, then bring them on the other side Repeat the position for 30-seconds Try to find time to do this exercise every 2-3 hours. Benefits: It relieves any tension in tight muscles present in the lower back. It helps regain flexibility, and lost rotation associated with sciatica. 6. Standing Extension Standing extension, Credits: wikimedia Standing extension is one of the easiest to perform back pain exercises which you can do it while standing at your desk in your office. How to: Stand up straight on your legs. Place your hands on your waist and try to lean back as much as you can. Repeat it till you find relief from backache Benefits: Stretches and strengthens your back muscles and leg muscles. Also helps release congestion from the lower back. 7. Calf rest Giving your calves some rest can also provide relief from back pain. Rest your calves on a chair or sofa hands while resting your body on the floor. Separate your knees and stay in this position for a while. Come down one leg at a time and by getting on the side. Back pain belt A belt for back pain will keep your back straight and support the muscles when you are in grave pain. It protects and supports your back and speeds up the healing process by easing the pain in your back.