Riya Baibhawi

Air Pollution Can Worsen COPD: Follow These Expert-Recommended Preventive Measures

Air Pollution

As air quality in Delhi-NCR worsens, the focus has shifted to protecting oneself from respiratory diseases. While experts are advising residents to wear masks and stay indoors, many have expressed concerns about safeguarding the health of those suffering from <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease">Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease</a></span> (<span>COPD</span>). <span>Air pollution</span>, besides smoking, is the major cause of this serious health condition that is primarily characterized by difficulty in breathing. A person suffering from COPD experiences frequent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, fatigue, and frequent respiratory infections. 

Dr Sandeep Nayar, Chest &amp; Respiratory Diseases expert at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi said that long-term exposure to pollutants in the air could increase a person's chances of contracting COPD. He added that the respiratory tract is particularly susceptible to ill effects of air pollution, even more than other systems in the body. 

"Long-term exposure to air with a high concentration of pollutants may increase the incidence of COPD. The increased concentrations of various air pollutants, such as Ozone, Nitrogen oxides, Sulphur oxides, PM 2.5 etc. can not only increase in the number of COPD cases but also result in worsening and increase the risk of mortality in patients who are already suffering from COPD. So, rising air pollution is definitely a cause of concern for Delhi-NCR residents," he said. 

Precautions COPD Patients Should TakeAccording to Dr Nayar, one should avoid going out until it is necessary. In case they really need to go out, they should cover their face with a mask, preferably N95. "Try to eliminate the source of pollution if possible. Keep your indoor pollution less by keeping it smoke-free. Avoid burning wood, candles, cigarettes, incense sticks, avoid perfumes or exposure to other chemicals, and irritants," he said.  People staying indoors, especially elderly age groups, may consider the installation of appropriate Air Purifiers. The most effective way to improve air quality in your home is to ventilate with clean, outdoor air.

It is very important for the patients who are on inhalers, to continue them as prescribed by physicians and not stop medication even if they are feeling fine until &amp; unless told by their doctors.  

One key piece of advice Dr Nayar gave to all COPD patients is to avoid activity outdoors when outdoor pollution levels are high. They also need to keep themselves hydrated and ensure proper nutrition in their diets. "Keep yourself covered and wear a mask when you are going out. Even in the presence of the slightest of symptoms, contact your doctor as early intervention will prevent you from worsening of symptoms," Dr Nayar asserted. 

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COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

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As air quality in Delhi-NCR worsens, the focus has shifted to protecting oneself from respiratory diseases. While experts are advising residents to wear masks and stay indoors, many have expressed concerns about safeguarding the health of those suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Air pollution, besides smoking, is the major cause of this serious health condition that is primarily characterized by difficulty in breathing. A person suffering from COPD experiences frequent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, fatigue, and frequent respiratory infections. Dr Sandeep Nayar, Chest & Respiratory Diseases expert at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi said that long-term exposure to pollutants in the air could increase a person's chances of contracting COPD. He added that the respiratory tract is particularly susceptible to ill effects of air pollution, even more than other systems in the body. "Long-term exposure to air with a high concentration of pollutants may increase the incidence of COPD. The increased concentrations of various air pollutants, such as Ozone, Nitrogen oxides, Sulphur oxides, PM 2.5 etc. can not only increase in the number of COPD cases but also result in worsening and increase the risk of mortality in patients who are already suffering from COPD. So, rising air pollution is definitely a cause of concern for Delhi-NCR residents," he said. Precautions COPD Patients Should TakeAccording to Dr Nayar, one should avoid going out until it is necessary. In case they really need to go out, they should cover their face with a mask, preferably N95. "Try to eliminate the source of pollution if possible. Keep your indoor pollution less by keeping it smoke-free. Avoid burning wood, candles, cigarettes, incense sticks, avoid perfumes or exposure to other chemicals, and irritants," he said.  People staying indoors, especially elderly age groups, may consider the installation of appropriate Air Purifiers. The most effective way to improve air quality in your home is to ventilate with clean, outdoor air.It is very important for the patients who are on inhalers, to continue them as prescribed by physicians and not stop medication even if they are feeling fine until & unless told by their doctors.  One key piece of advice Dr Nayar gave to all COPD patients is to avoid activity outdoors when outdoor pollution levels are high. They also need to keep themselves hydrated and ensure proper nutrition in their diets. "Keep yourself covered and wear a mask when you are going out. Even in the presence of the slightest of symptoms, contact your doctor as early intervention will prevent you from worsening of symptoms," Dr Nayar asserted. 

air pollution can worsen copd: follow these expert-recommended preventive measures

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Bathroom habits can reveal a lot about our health. While you may think of your bathroom routines as normal, even small and seemingly unimportant signs could lead to devastating diagnosis. When it comes to periods and menstruation related illnesses, many women are often dismissed regarding their concerns. The notion that pain and discomfort surrounding menstruation is normal and should be tolerated, has stopped many women from getting proper diagnoses. 

Diseases like <span>endometriosis</span>, Uterine fibroids, Polycystic Ovarian Disorder/Syndrome (PCOS/PCOD) etc., affect many women worldwide, however the signs and symptoms of these diseases are often ignored or overlooked. 

If you've noticed changes in your bowel habits, such as going to the toilet more or less often than usual, it might be time to see your doctor. The Endometriosis Foundation warns that this could be linked to an incurable condition affecting the bowel called <span>Bowel Endometriosis</span>. 

Endometriosis, often shortened to "Endo," happens when tissue similar to the lining inside the womb starts growing outside of it. These growths, called lesions, can spread to many parts of the body. When these lesions affect your bowel or digestive system, it's called Bowel Endometriosis. The lesions can either stay on the surface of your bowel or grow deeper, causing a lot of discomfort and problems. This type of Endometriosis is most commonly found in the lower part of the intestine, where it can make it hard to empty your bowel. 

Affecting many women globally, endometriosis is a chronic condition, with 190 million people experiencing it. It can cause extreme pain during periods, sexual intercourse, bowel movements, urination etc. The World Health Organization explains that the causes of endometriosis is still unknown and has no cure. The only relief people get is from managing the symptoms with medication and in some cases surgery.

<h2>Signs and Symptoms of Bowel Endometriosis </h2>

Pain when you have a bowel movement is the most common sign that you might have bowel Endometriosis. In more serious cases, you might even see blood in your poop. 

It's important to remember that the signs of bowel Endometriosis can be different for everyone. Some people might only have one or two symptoms, while others might experience many of them all at once. 

The symptoms listed below are often linked to bowel Endometriosis, but this isn't a complete list. There might be other signs too: 

<ul><li>Pain when you have a bowel movement</li><li>Pain in your pelvic area</li><li>Changes in how often you go to the toilet, like constipation (hard to go) or diarrhea (loose stools)</li><li>A dull ache, sharp pain, or cramping in your lower belly and/or back</li><li>Swelling in your belly</li><li>Pain during or after eating certain foods</li><li>Pain during sex</li><li>Feeling like you need to have a bowel movement more often or very urgently</li><li>Feeling like you can't completely empty your bowel</li><li>Seeing blood in your poop</li></ul>

If you're having unusual pain that makes it hard to do daily things like go to school or work, or if you notice changes in your periods or bowel habits, think about whether it could be Endometriosis or another problem. It's really important to talk to a doctor right away. When you do, make sure to mention Endometriosis and ask if you need to see a specialist. And remember, you always have the option to get a second opinion if you want. 

Incurable Bowel Condition

Changes In Toilet Habit

Endometriosis

Endometriosis of bowel

bowel Endometriosis

can you cure Endometriosis

Bathroom habits can reveal a lot about our health. While you may think of your bathroom routines as normal, even small and seemingly unimportant signs could lead to devastating diagnosis. When it comes to periods and menstruation related illnesses, many women are often dismissed regarding their concerns. The notion that pain and discomfort surrounding menstruation is normal and should be tolerated, has stopped many women from getting proper diagnoses. Diseases like endometriosis, Uterine fibroids, Polycystic Ovarian Disorder/Syndrome (PCOS/PCOD) etc., affect many women worldwide, however the signs and symptoms of these diseases are often ignored or overlooked. If you've noticed changes in your bowel habits, such as going to the toilet more or less often than usual, it might be time to see your doctor. The Endometriosis Foundation warns that this could be linked to an incurable condition affecting the bowel called Bowel Endometriosis. What is Endometriosis? Endometriosis, often shortened to "Endo," happens when tissue similar to the lining inside the womb starts growing outside of it. These growths, called lesions, can spread to many parts of the body. When these lesions affect your bowel or digestive system, it's called Bowel Endometriosis. The lesions can either stay on the surface of your bowel or grow deeper, causing a lot of discomfort and problems. This type of Endometriosis is most commonly found in the lower part of the intestine, where it can make it hard to empty your bowel. Affecting many women globally, endometriosis is a chronic condition, with 190 million people experiencing it. It can cause extreme pain during periods, sexual intercourse, bowel movements, urination etc. The World Health Organization explains that the causes of endometriosis is still unknown and has no cure. The only relief people get is from managing the symptoms with medication and in some cases surgery. Signs and Symptoms of Bowel Endometriosis Pain when you have a bowel movement is the most common sign that you might have bowel Endometriosis. In more serious cases, you might even see blood in your poop. It's important to remember that the signs of bowel Endometriosis can be different for everyone. Some people might only have one or two symptoms, while others might experience many of them all at once. The symptoms listed below are often linked to bowel Endometriosis, but this isn't a complete list. There might be other signs too: Pain when you have a bowel movementPain in your pelvic areaChanges in how often you go to the toilet, like constipation (hard to go) or diarrhea (loose stools)A dull ache, sharp pain, or cramping in your lower belly and/or backSwelling in your bellyPain during or after eating certain foodsPain during sexFeeling like you need to have a bowel movement more often or very urgentlyFeeling like you can't completely empty your bowelSeeing blood in your poopWhen to See a Doctor If you're having unusual pain that makes it hard to do daily things like go to school or work, or if you notice changes in your periods or bowel habits, think about whether it could be Endometriosis or another problem. It's really important to talk to a doctor right away. When you do, make sure to mention Endometriosis and ask if you need to see a specialist. And remember, you always have the option to get a second opinion if you want. 

changes in toilet habits could be a sign of this incurable bowel condition

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Being the leading cause of death worldwide, <span>cancer</span> diagnoses can change the trajectory of a person’s life. New cancer stats reveal that an estimate of 2,041,910 new cancer cases will be diagnosed in the US, and about 600,000 have been estimated to die due to the disease. As you may know, cancer is a generic term for a lot of different diseases that affect our health. A malignant <span>cancer diagnosis</span> means that there is a rapid growth in abnormal cell growth which can affect various parts of your body. 

According to the World Health Organization, cancer causes nearly 1 in 6 deaths globally and had accounted for 20 million deaths in 2020. The question remains, has the advancement in research and public education helped lower cancer cases or recognized any concerning patterns? 

New information from Cancer Research UK, looking at 50 years of health data, shows both good and bad news about cancer. On the one hand, the number of deaths from cancer has gone down by more than one-fifth, which is a positive sign. However, the number of people being told they have cancer has actually gone up by 50%, showing a worrying increase in new cases. 

<h2>More Young People Getting Cancer </h2>

One of the most concerning things we're seeing is how much more young people, under the age of 50, are getting cancer. Specifically, for those between 20 and 49 years old, cancer rates have shot up by 23% since the 1990s. Scientists are now working hard to understand why this is happening and what's causing this significant jump in cancer cases among younger individuals. Several factors are being explored as likely contributors to the rise in early-onset cancers: 

<h4>Obesity, Poor Diet, and Inactivity </h4>

These lifestyle choices are strongly linked to the increase. Research into the rise of colon cancer among young people, for instance, revealed that more than a third of those studied were obese. It has been observed that individuals developing cancer at a younger age tend to have significantly higher rates of obesity compared to those diagnosed later in life. 

The food we eat greatly affects our gut health. It's suggested that outside elements like microplastics or chemicals could be altering this balance, potentially contributing to cancer development. Experts stress how important it is to start healthy eating and exercise habits early. There's also a warning not to forget that certain drinks can be just as risky as unhealthy processed and sugary foods. 

It's interesting to note that smoking is probably not the reason for the increase in cancer among young people. Experts have actually seen a drop in cancers linked to smoking across almost all age groups. This suggests that while smoking is a known cause of cancer, its decreasing popularity means it's not behind the current rise in cases among younger generations. 

Despite more young people getting cancer, Cancer Research UK's report highlights that we are currently in a very positive time for cancer treatment. Thanks to advancements, one in two people diagnosed with cancer are now expected to live for at least 10 years. This is a huge improvement from the 1970s, when only one in four patients reached that milestone, showing great progress in saving lives. 

Cancer

Cancer diagnosis

Cancer Diagnosis Under 50s

what causes cancer

cancer in young people causes

cancer in younger generation

Being the leading cause of death worldwide, cancer diagnoses can change the trajectory of a person’s life. New cancer stats reveal that an estimate of 2,041,910 new cancer cases will be diagnosed in the US, and about 600,000 have been estimated to die due to the disease. As you may know, cancer is a generic term for a lot of different diseases that affect our health. A malignant cancer diagnosis means that there is a rapid growth in abnormal cell growth which can affect various parts of your body. According to the World Health Organization, cancer causes nearly 1 in 6 deaths globally and had accounted for 20 million deaths in 2020. The question remains, has the advancement in research and public education helped lower cancer cases or recognized any concerning patterns? New information from Cancer Research UK, looking at 50 years of health data, shows both good and bad news about cancer. On the one hand, the number of deaths from cancer has gone down by more than one-fifth, which is a positive sign. However, the number of people being told they have cancer has actually gone up by 50%, showing a worrying increase in new cases. More Young People Getting Cancer One of the most concerning things we're seeing is how much more young people, under the age of 50, are getting cancer. Specifically, for those between 20 and 49 years old, cancer rates have shot up by 23% since the 1990s. Scientists are now working hard to understand why this is happening and what's causing this significant jump in cancer cases among younger individuals. Several factors are being explored as likely contributors to the rise in early-onset cancers: Obesity, Poor Diet, and Inactivity These lifestyle choices are strongly linked to the increase. Research into the rise of colon cancer among young people, for instance, revealed that more than a third of those studied were obese. It has been observed that individuals developing cancer at a younger age tend to have significantly higher rates of obesity compared to those diagnosed later in life. Diet and the Microbiome The food we eat greatly affects our gut health. It's suggested that outside elements like microplastics or chemicals could be altering this balance, potentially contributing to cancer development. Experts stress how important it is to start healthy eating and exercise habits early. There's also a warning not to forget that certain drinks can be just as risky as unhealthy processed and sugary foods. Smoking's Declining Role It's interesting to note that smoking is probably not the reason for the increase in cancer among young people. Experts have actually seen a drop in cancers linked to smoking across almost all age groups. This suggests that while smoking is a known cause of cancer, its decreasing popularity means it's not behind the current rise in cases among younger generations. Despite more young people getting cancer, Cancer Research UK's report highlights that we are currently in a very positive time for cancer treatment. Thanks to advancements, one in two people diagnosed with cancer are now expected to live for at least 10 years. This is a huge improvement from the 1970s, when only one in four patients reached that milestone, showing great progress in saving lives.  

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If you have ever had a <span>migraine</span> then you would know that it is not just a <span>headache</span>, but it comes in phases. It starts with you being sensitive to all noise, smell, and even taste, feeling a bit dizzy, and losing out on your energy. Then there is a throbbing pain, this is when you know your migraine has reached its peak. 

<h4>What Are The <span rel="noindex">Stages Of Migraine</span>?</h4>

There are four main stages of migraine, which starts from predrome, aura, headache, and then postdrome. 

This stage is like a warning stage where there may be certain physical and mental changes. These include feeling tired, excessive yawning, food cravings, changes in your mood. You may feel low or irritated. Your body feels dehydrated and you might feel thirsty, have stiffness around your neck and may pass more urine. 

This happens to a third of people with migraine, notes The Migraine Trust. There are various neurological symptoms that happens in this stage, which includes changes in sight. This means, one may see dark spots, coloured spots or sparkles, often described as stars and zigzag lines. There could also be numbness, feeling like pins and needles on your body, you may also feel weakness, dizziness, and have problems with speech and hearing. 

The Migraine Trust notes that aura is the result of wave of nerve activity that spreads over the brain, it is also known as cortical spreading depression. When this electrical wave spreads, the nerves fire in an abnormal way and this range of reversible neurological symptoms develop. 

This can last from five minutes to 60 minutes. 

As per the American Migraine Foundation, the headache phrase of a migraine attack is characterized by pain on one or both sides of the head. This phase lasts from several hours to up to three days. 

This phase can vary from person to person. While some can experience mild pain, for others it could be a debilitating pain. 

The pain, in this phase, also shifts from one side of the person's head to other. In this phase, doing everyday activity like walking, turning on the lights, or any slight change, movement, sensory actions can aggravate the pain. 

This phase is also called "migraine hangover". This happens during the end of headache phase. The American Migraine Foundation notes that not everyone experiences this phase, however, it occurs in most cases, in about 80% of people. 

In this phase, the headache could be debilitating, but then it follows with fatigue, body aches, and trouble concentrating, dizziness and sensitivity to light. While in this phase the headache is ending, however, people could still be sensitive to smells, tastes and sensory actions. 

stages of migraine

health and wellness

migraine

headache

what is migraine

If you have ever had a migraine then you would know that it is not just a headache, but it comes in phases. It starts with you being sensitive to all noise, smell, and even taste, feeling a bit dizzy, and losing out on your energy. Then there is a throbbing pain, this is when you know your migraine has reached its peak. What Are The Stages Of Migraine?There are four main stages of migraine, which starts from predrome, aura, headache, and then postdrome. What Do These Stages Mean?Predrome This stage is like a warning stage where there may be certain physical and mental changes. These include feeling tired, excessive yawning, food cravings, changes in your mood. You may feel low or irritated. Your body feels dehydrated and you might feel thirsty, have stiffness around your neck and may pass more urine. This can last for 24 hours.AuraThis happens to a third of people with migraine, notes The Migraine Trust. There are various neurological symptoms that happens in this stage, which includes changes in sight. This means, one may see dark spots, coloured spots or sparkles, often described as stars and zigzag lines. There could also be numbness, feeling like pins and needles on your body, you may also feel weakness, dizziness, and have problems with speech and hearing. The Migraine Trust notes that aura is the result of wave of nerve activity that spreads over the brain, it is also known as cortical spreading depression. When this electrical wave spreads, the nerves fire in an abnormal way and this range of reversible neurological symptoms develop. This can last from five minutes to 60 minutes. HeadacheAs per the American Migraine Foundation, the headache phrase of a migraine attack is characterized by pain on one or both sides of the head. This phase lasts from several hours to up to three days. This phase can vary from person to person. While some can experience mild pain, for others it could be a debilitating pain. The pain, in this phase, also shifts from one side of the person's head to other. In this phase, doing everyday activity like walking, turning on the lights, or any slight change, movement, sensory actions can aggravate the pain. PostdromeThis phase is also called "migraine hangover". This happens during the end of headache phase. The American Migraine Foundation notes that not everyone experiences this phase, however, it occurs in most cases, in about 80% of people. In this phase, the headache could be debilitating, but then it follows with fatigue, body aches, and trouble concentrating, dizziness and sensitivity to light. While in this phase the headache is ending, however, people could still be sensitive to smells, tastes and sensory actions. 

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Air Pollution Can Worsen COPD: Follow These Expert-Recommended Preventive Measures

Quick Stories

Changes In Toilet Habits Could Be A Sign Of This Incurable Bowel Condition

Cancer Diagnosis Under 50s Have Been Fueled By These Lifestyle Factors

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Health Conditions A-Z

First COVID, Now Hepatitis, Kerala Is Facing Health Crisis As Thrissur Becomes The New Epicenter

Changes In Toilet Habits Could Be A Sign Of This Incurable Bowel Condition

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