Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Does Sleeping In This Position Affect Your Brain?

Sleep hygiene is the best way to ensure your brain’s well-being. When you stay awake for too long, or sleep for more than the usual hours, it throws off your body clock and affects your health. Sleeping for the recommended 7-9 hours improves your brain performance, mood, health as well as your long-term well-being. Not only does lack of sleep lead to heart diseases, but also obesity and other disorders like dementia. 

Other than these issues, sleep hygiene involves other things like your bedtime routine, what kind of mattress you sleep in as well as what position you sleep in. Different studies have been done on the same, and research shows sleeping on your back could also affect your brain 

A study showcased in the Alzheimer's Association International Conference indicates that sleeping on your back, called the supine position, might be linked to a higher risk of brain diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. While this research shows a strong connection, it doesn't yet prove that back sleeping causes these conditions. The study adds to earlier findings suggesting a link between back sleeping and neurodegenerative diseases. 

The idea that back sleeping could contribute to neurodegeneration isn't entirely new. It was first explored in mouse studies back in 2015. Later, in 2019, human studies involving individuals with neurodegenerative diseases showed that sleeping on their backs for more than two hours a night was connected to a higher risk of these conditions. The latest study further explored this by comparing healthy individuals with those experiencing mild cognitive impairment or various neurodegenerative disorders. They found that people with brain conditions spent significantly more time sleeping on their backs. 

<h2>Back Sleeping Doesn't Directly Cause Dementia </h2>

While these findings are certainly interesting and could point to sleep position as a factor we can change to reduce our risk of brain diseases, it's crucial to acknowledge some limitations. First, these results have only been presented at a scientific meeting and haven't yet gone through a thorough review by other experts before being published. Also, the groups of people in the study weren't perfectly matched in terms of age and gender, which could affect the findings. Finally, the study was sponsored by a company that sells sleep tracking devices, so there's a potential for bias. 

<h2>How Back Sleeping Might Impact Brain Health </h2>

Experts believe that sleeping on your back might harm brain health because it could hinder your body's ability to efficiently clear out harmful substances. During sleep, your brain has a "waste management system" called glymphatic clearance that flushes out neurotoxins. This process naturally becomes less efficient as we age. When you lie on your back, it might not allow blood to drain from your brain as effectively as it should, potentially slowing down this critical cleansing. In contrast, sleeping on your side appears to promote better blood flow and waste removal. Additionally, sleeping on your back can worsen sleep apnea, a condition that disrupts sleep and can lead to even more toxin buildup in the brain over time, further contributing to neurodegeneration. 

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Sleep hygiene is the best way to ensure your brain’s well-being. When you stay awake for too long, or sleep for more than the usual hours, it throws off your body clock and affects your health. Sleeping for the recommended 7-9 hours improves your brain performance, mood, health as well as your long-term well-being. Not only does lack of sleep lead to heart diseases, but also obesity and other disorders like dementia. Other than these issues, sleep hygiene involves other things like your bedtime routine, what kind of mattress you sleep in as well as what position you sleep in. Different studies have been done on the same, and research shows sleeping on your back could also affect your brain A study showcased in the Alzheimer's Association International Conference indicates that sleeping on your back, called the supine position, might be linked to a higher risk of brain diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. While this research shows a strong connection, it doesn't yet prove that back sleeping causes these conditions. The study adds to earlier findings suggesting a link between back sleeping and neurodegenerative diseases. The idea that back sleeping could contribute to neurodegeneration isn't entirely new. It was first explored in mouse studies back in 2015. Later, in 2019, human studies involving individuals with neurodegenerative diseases showed that sleeping on their backs for more than two hours a night was connected to a higher risk of these conditions. The latest study further explored this by comparing healthy individuals with those experiencing mild cognitive impairment or various neurodegenerative disorders. They found that people with brain conditions spent significantly more time sleeping on their backs.  Back Sleeping Doesn't Directly Cause Dementia While these findings are certainly interesting and could point to sleep position as a factor we can change to reduce our risk of brain diseases, it's crucial to acknowledge some limitations. First, these results have only been presented at a scientific meeting and haven't yet gone through a thorough review by other experts before being published. Also, the groups of people in the study weren't perfectly matched in terms of age and gender, which could affect the findings. Finally, the study was sponsored by a company that sells sleep tracking devices, so there's a potential for bias. How Back Sleeping Might Impact Brain Health Experts believe that sleeping on your back might harm brain health because it could hinder your body's ability to efficiently clear out harmful substances. During sleep, your brain has a "waste management system" called glymphatic clearance that flushes out neurotoxins. This process naturally becomes less efficient as we age. When you lie on your back, it might not allow blood to drain from your brain as effectively as it should, potentially slowing down this critical cleansing. In contrast, sleeping on your side appears to promote better blood flow and waste removal. Additionally, sleeping on your back can worsen sleep apnea, a condition that disrupts sleep and can lead to even more toxin buildup in the brain over time, further contributing to neurodegeneration. 

does sleeping in this position affect your brain?

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Your Chronic Health Struggles Could Be Doubling Your Risk Of Depression- Here’s What To Know

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Living with a chronic illness can be like fighting an uphill battle—physically, mentally, and emotionally. But new research indicates the cost may be even deeper than most people know: long-term physical illness may dramatically raise your risk of developing depression.

As a revolutionary study in Nature Communications Medicine explains, individuals with many chronic conditions are much more likely to experience a <span>mental health</span> breakdown. This finding explains the essential, but frequently overlooked, connection between body and mind.

Traditionally, healthcare systems everywhere have addressed physical and mental illness as separate silos. But new science is presenting a different picture—one where body and mind are highly intertwined.

In the recent U.K. Biobank study, researchers followed over 142,000 adults aged between 37 and 73, all of whom had at least one chronic illness but no prior diagnosis of depression. The findings were eye-opening: individuals with multiple physical conditions were up to 2.4 times more likely to be diagnosed with depression over the next decade compared to those without chronic illnesses.

The report's co-author, Professor Bruce Guthrie from the University of Edinburgh, underscored the significance: "Healthcare tends to think of physical and mental ill health as two totally separate things, but this research indicates that we must do better at predicting and treating depression in individuals who have physical illness."

<h2>Which Conditions Have the Highest Risk?</h2>

While any long-term illness will erode mental toughness, some combinations greatly increase depression risk. Among the study's most surprising findings:

Individuals with migraine illness or chronic respiratory disease had twice the risk of depression.

A combination of heart disease and diabetes raised depression risk by almost 78%.

Gastrointestinal illnesses such as IBS, celiac disease, and liver disease were associated with an 83% increased risk of depression in women and a twofold increase in risk in men.

These figures are more than just statistics—they represent real individuals facing a double burden of illness and emotional distress. And with 1 in 12 people in high-risk groups developing depression over a decade (compared to 1 in 25 among those without chronic conditions), the data calls for urgent attention.

<h2>Why Is Depression Always More Than Just Feeling Sad?</h2>

In order to comprehend why this is important, it's necessary to know what depression actually is. Clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a mood disorder that extends far beyond fleeting sadness. It's a complex illness that influences the way individuals think, feel, and behave. Symptoms can involve:

<ul><li>Constantly feeling sad or hopeless</li><li>Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed</li><li>Fatigue or loss of energy</li><li>Trouble concentrating or making decisions</li><li>Changes in appetite or sleep habits</li><li>Physical symptoms like sudden pain</li><li>Integers of suicide or harming oneself</li></ul>

Depression is not a personal failing or something you can simply "snap out of." It is a genuine medical illness that more often than not needs to be treated by professionals—such as therapy, medication, or both.

<h2>Biological and Emotional Roots of Depression in Chronic Illness</h2>

Why chronic illness would so greatly increase the risk of depression? Experts consider the causes to be multifactorial.

Physiologically, certain chronic diseases interfere with brain chemistry or hormonal equilibrium, both of which play a critical role in regulating mood. Such conditions as thyroid disease or diabetes, for example, can have a direct effect on neurotransmitters associated with depression.

Emotionally, the ongoing juggling act of pain, tiredness, and doctor visits can be draining. Throw in social isolation, financial burden, or loss of autonomy, and it is not hard to understand how emotional well-being can start to fray.

If you or someone close to you is living with a chronic illness, it is important to remain aware of depression symptoms. Early treatment makes a real difference in the outcome of care and the quality of life.

Do not wait until things get worse. If you see signs such as lingering unhappiness, loss of initiative, or constant exhaustion, seek professional attention. A visit to a primary care doctor or mental health expert can be an important first step.

This new research supports what many patients have long intuited—real wellness can't be realized without attending to body and mind. It's high time for medical providers, policymakers, and insurers to adopt a more integrated strategy for the management of chronic disease that encompasses preventive screening and treatment for mental illness.

Lead researcher Lauren DeLong said it best: "We noticed obvious links between physical health conditions and the occurrence of depression, but this research is just the start. We hope our research will encourage other scientists to explore and disentangle the connections between physical and mental health conditions."

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Living with a chronic illness can be like fighting an uphill battle—physically, mentally, and emotionally. But new research indicates the cost may be even deeper than most people know: long-term physical illness may dramatically raise your risk of developing depression.As a revolutionary study in Nature Communications Medicine explains, individuals with many chronic conditions are much more likely to experience a mental health breakdown. This finding explains the essential, but frequently overlooked, connection between body and mind.Traditionally, healthcare systems everywhere have addressed physical and mental illness as separate silos. But new science is presenting a different picture—one where body and mind are highly intertwined.In the recent U.K. Biobank study, researchers followed over 142,000 adults aged between 37 and 73, all of whom had at least one chronic illness but no prior diagnosis of depression. The findings were eye-opening: individuals with multiple physical conditions were up to 2.4 times more likely to be diagnosed with depression over the next decade compared to those without chronic illnesses.The report's co-author, Professor Bruce Guthrie from the University of Edinburgh, underscored the significance: "Healthcare tends to think of physical and mental ill health as two totally separate things, but this research indicates that we must do better at predicting and treating depression in individuals who have physical illness."Which Conditions Have the Highest Risk?While any long-term illness will erode mental toughness, some combinations greatly increase depression risk. Among the study's most surprising findings:Individuals with migraine illness or chronic respiratory disease had twice the risk of depression.A combination of heart disease and diabetes raised depression risk by almost 78%.Gastrointestinal illnesses such as IBS, celiac disease, and liver disease were associated with an 83% increased risk of depression in women and a twofold increase in risk in men.These figures are more than just statistics—they represent real individuals facing a double burden of illness and emotional distress. And with 1 in 12 people in high-risk groups developing depression over a decade (compared to 1 in 25 among those without chronic conditions), the data calls for urgent attention.Why Is Depression Always More Than Just Feeling Sad?In order to comprehend why this is important, it's necessary to know what depression actually is. Clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a mood disorder that extends far beyond fleeting sadness. It's a complex illness that influences the way individuals think, feel, and behave. Symptoms can involve:Constantly feeling sad or hopelessLoss of interest in activities once enjoyedFatigue or loss of energyTrouble concentrating or making decisionsChanges in appetite or sleep habitsPhysical symptoms like sudden painIntegers of suicide or harming oneselfDepression is not a personal failing or something you can simply "snap out of." It is a genuine medical illness that more often than not needs to be treated by professionals—such as therapy, medication, or both.Biological and Emotional Roots of Depression in Chronic IllnessWhy chronic illness would so greatly increase the risk of depression? Experts consider the causes to be multifactorial.Physiologically, certain chronic diseases interfere with brain chemistry or hormonal equilibrium, both of which play a critical role in regulating mood. Such conditions as thyroid disease or diabetes, for example, can have a direct effect on neurotransmitters associated with depression.Emotionally, the ongoing juggling act of pain, tiredness, and doctor visits can be draining. Throw in social isolation, financial burden, or loss of autonomy, and it is not hard to understand how emotional well-being can start to fray.When to Seek Help?If you or someone close to you is living with a chronic illness, it is important to remain aware of depression symptoms. Early treatment makes a real difference in the outcome of care and the quality of life.Do not wait until things get worse. If you see signs such as lingering unhappiness, loss of initiative, or constant exhaustion, seek professional attention. A visit to a primary care doctor or mental health expert can be an important first step.This new research supports what many patients have long intuited—real wellness can't be realized without attending to body and mind. It's high time for medical providers, policymakers, and insurers to adopt a more integrated strategy for the management of chronic disease that encompasses preventive screening and treatment for mental illness.Lead researcher Lauren DeLong said it best: "We noticed obvious links between physical health conditions and the occurrence of depression, but this research is just the start. We hope our research will encourage other scientists to explore and disentangle the connections between physical and mental health conditions."

your chronic health struggles could be doubling your risk of depression- here’s what to know

Is It Safe When You Skip Your Period While On Birth Control?

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Periods can be a mild inconvenience for some and for others, they're a cause of disabling pain, mood swings, or health complications. As medical science continues to advance, one question keeps raising eyebrows and eyebrows: Is it actually safe to miss your period on the pill? The short answer? Yes, and in many cases, it can even be beneficial but before tossing aside your placebo pills, it’s important to understand what’s happening to your body, the science behind <span>menstrual suppression</span>, and the myths versus facts surrounding it.

For many people, the motivation to skip a period is rooted in convenience. Maybe you’re planning a beach vacation, attending a wedding, or simply want to avoid the monthly disruption that comes with cramps and mood swings.

Beyond lifestyle, others find relief from more severe health conditions. Painful cramps, mood swings, endometriosis, anemia, and even fibroids are all legitimate reasons for wanting to control or prevent menstruation.

People with chronic pelvic pain, hormonal issues, or neurological conditions like menstrual migraines can also benefit from less frequent menstruation.

<h2>What Happens When You Skip a Period on Birth Control?</h2>

The menstrual cycle induced while on the pill is not actually a period it's a withdrawal bleed from the placebo (hormone-free) week. If you avoid that week and stick with active pills or use other continuous birth control like the ring or implant without interruption, you stop that withdrawal bleed.

"There is no medical need for the body to bleed each month with the use of hormonal birth control. It's a pattern created decades ago to imitate the natural cycle not because the body requires it.

By keeping the hormones at a steady level through continuous use, users can actually abolish regular bleeding altogether.

Even with the evidence for menstrual suppression, falsehoods prevail in cyberspace. Social media influencers such as those on TikTok advise against "suppressing natural processes" or assert that long-term hormonal birth control causes infertility.

Medical practitioners warn against such a tide of online misinformation. There is no scientific evidence that avoiding periods through birth control negatively impacts fertility. These stories usually come without context, are not peer-reviewed, and give rise to unnecessary fear.

Depending on anecdotal guidance rather than medical experience can be hazardous particularly when it impacts reproductive choices.

Though missing your period with birth control is safe medically for most, it's not completely side effect-free. One typical problem is breakthrough spotting or bleeding, particularly if you miss several cycles consecutively.

It's also worth mentioning that since menstruation is a visual indicator of <span>pregnancy</span> detection, becoming period-free could make it more difficult to detect an unplanned pregnancy early on. That is why correct and consistent use of your contraceptive is paramount.

In exceptional circumstances, long-term use of hormonal birth control can marginally boost the risk of blood clots or cardiovascular problems, particularly in smokers or those with existing conditions but missing your period doesn't add to those risks above the baseline created by the birth control itself.

If you're thinking about missing your period consistently, talk to a health care provider. You'll figure out the best option together — whether that is extended-cycle pills, hormonal IUDs, rings, patches, or implants.

Your health care provider will also assess if you're a good fit based on your history, lifestyle, and general wellness objectives. Most importantly, they'll walk you through what to anticipate and how to watch for any unusual symptoms.

Skipping your period using hormonal birth control is not only safe, it can be incredibly beneficial for many people. Whether you’re looking to gain more control over your schedule, reduce painful symptoms, or manage a chronic health issue, menstrual suppression is a validated, doctor-approved choice.

Nevertheless, it is a personal choice that can be made with a doctor's counsel. With proper information and assistance, you can gain control over your cycle according to your lifestyle and health.

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Periods can be a mild inconvenience for some and for others, they're a cause of disabling pain, mood swings, or health complications. As medical science continues to advance, one question keeps raising eyebrows and eyebrows: Is it actually safe to miss your period on the pill? The short answer? Yes, and in many cases, it can even be beneficial but before tossing aside your placebo pills, it’s important to understand what’s happening to your body, the science behind menstrual suppression, and the myths versus facts surrounding it.For many people, the motivation to skip a period is rooted in convenience. Maybe you’re planning a beach vacation, attending a wedding, or simply want to avoid the monthly disruption that comes with cramps and mood swings.Beyond lifestyle, others find relief from more severe health conditions. Painful cramps, mood swings, endometriosis, anemia, and even fibroids are all legitimate reasons for wanting to control or prevent menstruation.People with chronic pelvic pain, hormonal issues, or neurological conditions like menstrual migraines can also benefit from less frequent menstruation.What Happens When You Skip a Period on Birth Control?The menstrual cycle induced while on the pill is not actually a period it's a withdrawal bleed from the placebo (hormone-free) week. If you avoid that week and stick with active pills or use other continuous birth control like the ring or implant without interruption, you stop that withdrawal bleed."There is no medical need for the body to bleed each month with the use of hormonal birth control. It's a pattern created decades ago to imitate the natural cycle not because the body requires it.By keeping the hormones at a steady level through continuous use, users can actually abolish regular bleeding altogether.Even with the evidence for menstrual suppression, falsehoods prevail in cyberspace. Social media influencers such as those on TikTok advise against "suppressing natural processes" or assert that long-term hormonal birth control causes infertility.Medical practitioners warn against such a tide of online misinformation. There is no scientific evidence that avoiding periods through birth control negatively impacts fertility. These stories usually come without context, are not peer-reviewed, and give rise to unnecessary fear.Depending on anecdotal guidance rather than medical experience can be hazardous particularly when it impacts reproductive choices.What Are The Risks Involved?Though missing your period with birth control is safe medically for most, it's not completely side effect-free. One typical problem is breakthrough spotting or bleeding, particularly if you miss several cycles consecutively.It's also worth mentioning that since menstruation is a visual indicator of pregnancy detection, becoming period-free could make it more difficult to detect an unplanned pregnancy early on. That is why correct and consistent use of your contraceptive is paramount.In exceptional circumstances, long-term use of hormonal birth control can marginally boost the risk of blood clots or cardiovascular problems, particularly in smokers or those with existing conditions but missing your period doesn't add to those risks above the baseline created by the birth control itself.If you're thinking about missing your period consistently, talk to a health care provider. You'll figure out the best option together — whether that is extended-cycle pills, hormonal IUDs, rings, patches, or implants.Your health care provider will also assess if you're a good fit based on your history, lifestyle, and general wellness objectives. Most importantly, they'll walk you through what to anticipate and how to watch for any unusual symptoms.Skipping your period using hormonal birth control is not only safe, it can be incredibly beneficial for many people. Whether you’re looking to gain more control over your schedule, reduce painful symptoms, or manage a chronic health issue, menstrual suppression is a validated, doctor-approved choice.Nevertheless, it is a personal choice that can be made with a doctor's counsel. With proper information and assistance, you can gain control over your cycle according to your lifestyle and health.

is it safe when you skip your period while on birth control?

COVID-19 Returns? Is The New Variant Worse And How Long Will You Be Sick With It?

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With the world continuing to inch away from the height of the <span>COVID-19</span> pandemic, a fresh wave of infections is again causing concern—this time fueled by new subvariants of the Omicron variant. Southeast Asia, more so urban areas in Singapore, Hong Kong, and sections of India, is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 infections propelled by the JN.1 variant and its sub-lineages LF.7 and NB.1.8 but is it a new pandemic in the making? 

How severe is the new variant? And what should you do if you become infected? All three of these countries have officially reported an increased surge in infections. In India, while numbers are still low by comparison, Kerala is the leader in new cases (69 as of mid-May), followed by Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Delhi. Experts explain the acceleration of cases not due to increased virulence but due to behaviors such as erosion of immunity and fatigue around prevention strategies.

Most recent data from Southeast Asian health ministries reveal a sudden surge in cases of Covid-19 in Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand. In Singapore, the Ministry of Health's rare update—its first since nearly a year ago—recorded a 28% jump in weekly cases to 14,200 for the week to May 3. The daily hospital admissions have also increased about 30%.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong is also experiencing a sharp peak. The Centre for Health Protection indicated the positivity rate of respiratory samples rose from 1.7% mid-March to 11.4%, greater than the August 2024 peak. There have been 30 fatalities in 81 severe adult cases in the past month, the majority involving individuals over 65 and with existing medical conditions.

The trend is concerning and part of a wider pattern sweeping across the region. Thailand experienced fresh clusters of infections following its heavily publicized Songkran holiday in April, and mainland China's test positivity rates have risen by over double since late March, approaching that of its summer 2024 wave.

The new wave of COVID has brought the JN.1 variant of Omicron into the spotlight, which is responsible for the latest surge in numbers. In India alone, there are 257 active cases, and the discussion about safety, new policies and health issues has started.

The present surge in COVID-19 cases is being majorly spurred by new Omicron subvariants, most notably JN.1. That variant and its offspring LF.7 and NB.1.8, are being found highly contagious. "These variants are too easy to spread and disrupt the body's immunity and cause another infection," says Dr. Harish Bhatia, Senior Chest Specialist &amp; Director &amp; Head Dept. Of Respiratory Medicine

The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified JN.1 as a "variant of interest," subsequently promoting it to a "variant of concern." Nevertheless, world health authorities continue to assert that the public health risk is low at this point.

<h2>Is JN.1 More Dangerous Than Previous Variants?</h2>

The JN.1 strain, though better at spreading, has not indicated signs of making healthy people sicker. "The good part," Dr. Bhatia explains, "is that this variant seems to produce milder disease in healthy individuals."

But there is an exception. The old, the immunocompromised, or those with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or heart disease are still at increased risk of developing complications. For them, even a "mild" strain could be a potentially deadly affair. It's a warning that COVID-19 is not yet "just another cold." 

<h2>Symptoms Of Covid-19 JN.1 Variant To Watch For</h2>

The symptoms of JN.1 and its sub-lineages are very similar to those of previous Omicron variants, affecting the upper respiratory system. Typical symptoms are:

<ul><li>High temperature</li><li>Runny nose</li><li>Sore throat</li><li>Headaches</li><li>Body aches</li><li>Exhaustion or tiredness</li><li>Mild gastrointestinal distress (in some individuals)</li></ul>

The majority of individuals recover with rest at home, but the duration and intensity depend on one's immune response and health condition.

<h2>Covid-19 JN.1: How Long Will You Be Sick?</h2>

Experts say that the average recovery period for a light COVID-19 disease caused by the JN.1 variant is 5 to 7 days. Yet, some of the symptoms—especially fatigue and cough—can persist for 2 to 3 weeks.

Dr. Bhatia suggests that in case of persistence of the symptoms beyond 10 days or deterioration—particularly high-grade fever or respiratory difficulty—medical help must not be delayed. "It is important to listen to your body and not overlook warning signs," he adds.

<h2>Covid-19 JN.1: What to Do If You Get Infected?</h2>

In case you test positive for COVID-19, here is what public health officials suggest:

Isolate for a minimum of 5 days, or until your symptoms resolve. For extra caution, isolate up to 10 days.

<ul><li>Drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Symptomatic treatment with paracetamol for fever and muscle pain is often adequate.</li><li>Keep track of your symptoms, particularly if you fall into a high-risk group.</li><li>Get professional assistance if you have difficulty breathing, chest discomfort, or unrelenting high fever.</li><li>Notify close contacts to watch for symptoms and test as necessary.</li><li>Prevent contact with high-risk individuals for a minimum of 10 days.</li></ul>

Although hospitalization is not necessary for healthy persons in most cases, early diagnosis and treatment are important to avoid complications.

<h2>Covid-19 JN.1: How to Stay Safe?</h2>

Though the world has transitioned away from the period of global emergency of the pandemic, the virus keeps mutating. Remaining guarded is still important—particularly during surges such as this one.

Dr. Bhatia points out, "Wearing a mask in public places, regularly washing your hands, keeping your vaccinations current—including booster shots—and keeping your distance from someone who is infected are still effective measures."

Besides, the immunocompromised individuals or those with vulnerable family members should take extra precautions and advise their healthcare professionals about preventive drugs or vaccines beyond the primary doses.

COVID-19 is frequently no longer making headlines as it did in 2020, but its presence is certainly not done yet. The advent of JN.1 and other subvariants is a grim reminder that the virus continues to mutate—and so must our strategy against it.

<em>Dr. Harish Bhatia is Senior Chest Specialist &amp; Director &amp; Head Dept. Of Respiratory Medicine with MGS Hospital and the Founder Director of Rebreathe Clinic.</em>

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is covid back

With the world continuing to inch away from the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a fresh wave of infections is again causing concern—this time fueled by new subvariants of the Omicron variant. Southeast Asia, more so urban areas in Singapore, Hong Kong, and sections of India, is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 infections propelled by the JN.1 variant and its sub-lineages LF.7 and NB.1.8 but is it a new pandemic in the making? How severe is the new variant? And what should you do if you become infected? All three of these countries have officially reported an increased surge in infections. In India, while numbers are still low by comparison, Kerala is the leader in new cases (69 as of mid-May), followed by Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Delhi. Experts explain the acceleration of cases not due to increased virulence but due to behaviors such as erosion of immunity and fatigue around prevention strategies.Most recent data from Southeast Asian health ministries reveal a sudden surge in cases of Covid-19 in Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand. In Singapore, the Ministry of Health's rare update—its first since nearly a year ago—recorded a 28% jump in weekly cases to 14,200 for the week to May 3. The daily hospital admissions have also increased about 30%.Meanwhile, Hong Kong is also experiencing a sharp peak. The Centre for Health Protection indicated the positivity rate of respiratory samples rose from 1.7% mid-March to 11.4%, greater than the August 2024 peak. There have been 30 fatalities in 81 severe adult cases in the past month, the majority involving individuals over 65 and with existing medical conditions.The trend is concerning and part of a wider pattern sweeping across the region. Thailand experienced fresh clusters of infections following its heavily publicized Songkran holiday in April, and mainland China's test positivity rates have risen by over double since late March, approaching that of its summer 2024 wave.The new wave of COVID has brought the JN.1 variant of Omicron into the spotlight, which is responsible for the latest surge in numbers. In India alone, there are 257 active cases, and the discussion about safety, new policies and health issues has started.The present surge in COVID-19 cases is being majorly spurred by new Omicron subvariants, most notably JN.1. That variant and its offspring LF.7 and NB.1.8, are being found highly contagious. "These variants are too easy to spread and disrupt the body's immunity and cause another infection," says Dr. Harish Bhatia, Senior Chest Specialist & Director & Head Dept. Of Respiratory MedicineThe World Health Organization (WHO) has classified JN.1 as a "variant of interest," subsequently promoting it to a "variant of concern." Nevertheless, world health authorities continue to assert that the public health risk is low at this point.Is JN.1 More Dangerous Than Previous Variants?The JN.1 strain, though better at spreading, has not indicated signs of making healthy people sicker. "The good part," Dr. Bhatia explains, "is that this variant seems to produce milder disease in healthy individuals."But there is an exception. The old, the immunocompromised, or those with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or heart disease are still at increased risk of developing complications. For them, even a "mild" strain could be a potentially deadly affair. It's a warning that COVID-19 is not yet "just another cold." Symptoms Of Covid-19 JN.1 Variant To Watch ForThe symptoms of JN.1 and its sub-lineages are very similar to those of previous Omicron variants, affecting the upper respiratory system. Typical symptoms are:High temperatureRunny noseSore throatHeadachesBody achesExhaustion or tirednessMild gastrointestinal distress (in some individuals)The majority of individuals recover with rest at home, but the duration and intensity depend on one's immune response and health condition.Covid-19 JN.1: How Long Will You Be Sick?Experts say that the average recovery period for a light COVID-19 disease caused by the JN.1 variant is 5 to 7 days. Yet, some of the symptoms—especially fatigue and cough—can persist for 2 to 3 weeks.Dr. Bhatia suggests that in case of persistence of the symptoms beyond 10 days or deterioration—particularly high-grade fever or respiratory difficulty—medical help must not be delayed. "It is important to listen to your body and not overlook warning signs," he adds.Covid-19 JN.1: What to Do If You Get Infected?In case you test positive for COVID-19, here is what public health officials suggest:Isolate for a minimum of 5 days, or until your symptoms resolve. For extra caution, isolate up to 10 days.Drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Symptomatic treatment with paracetamol for fever and muscle pain is often adequate.Keep track of your symptoms, particularly if you fall into a high-risk group.Get professional assistance if you have difficulty breathing, chest discomfort, or unrelenting high fever.Notify close contacts to watch for symptoms and test as necessary.Prevent contact with high-risk individuals for a minimum of 10 days.Although hospitalization is not necessary for healthy persons in most cases, early diagnosis and treatment are important to avoid complications.Covid-19 JN.1: How to Stay Safe?Though the world has transitioned away from the period of global emergency of the pandemic, the virus keeps mutating. Remaining guarded is still important—particularly during surges such as this one.Dr. Bhatia points out, "Wearing a mask in public places, regularly washing your hands, keeping your vaccinations current—including booster shots—and keeping your distance from someone who is infected are still effective measures."Besides, the immunocompromised individuals or those with vulnerable family members should take extra precautions and advise their healthcare professionals about preventive drugs or vaccines beyond the primary doses.COVID-19 is frequently no longer making headlines as it did in 2020, but its presence is certainly not done yet. The advent of JN.1 and other subvariants is a grim reminder that the virus continues to mutate—and so must our strategy against it.Dr. Harish Bhatia is Senior Chest Specialist & Director & Head Dept. Of Respiratory Medicine with MGS Hospital and the Founder Director of Rebreathe Clinic.

covid-19 returns? is the new variant worse and how long will you be sick with it?

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