Health and Me

Ishita Roy

How A Bat-Scare Cost A 33-year-old Massachusetts Resident A Medical Bill Of $20,000

Last August, Erica Kahn was enjoying a peaceful evening stargazing in Arizona’s Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The 33-year-old Massachusetts resident was on vacation, photographing the night sky. Bats flitted through the air, but she didn’t give them much thought, until one of them flew straight at her face.

In the chaos, the bat became lodged between her camera and her face. She screamed instinctively, and part of the bat ended up in her mouth. She still doesn't know exactly what part of the bat it was, but she estimates the contact lasted a few seconds. “It seemed longer,” she said.

The bat eventually flew away. Though she wasn’t sure if she’d been bitten, her father, a physician who was traveling with her, advised her to get treated for potential rabies exposure.

<h4>Scrambling for Health Insurance</h4>

The problem? Just weeks earlier, Kahn had been laid off from her job as a biomedical engineer and had decided to forgo COBRA coverage, which would’ve let her stay on her former employer’s health insurance plan. The cost, around $650 a month, felt too steep for someone young and healthy.

She figured she could risk going uninsured for a while and quickly sign up for a plan if something happened. That decision turned out to be costly.

After the bat incident, Kahn purchased a private health policy for $311 a month from a Florida-based company called Innovative Partners LP. She even called them to confirm that emergency services or accident-related care would be covered. Feeling reassured, she went to a hospital in Flagstaff the next day and began her rabies vaccination series.

Kahn received four doses of the rabies vaccine over 14 days. Her first visit also included three injections of rabies immunoglobulin, a vital treatment that boosts the body’s ability to fight off the deadly virus. She continued her treatment at different clinics in Arizona, Colorado, and Massachusetts.

Across all four facilities, Kahn was charged a total of $20,749. The bulk of that, $17,079, came from Flagstaff Medical Center, which billed $15,242 for the vaccines and immunoglobulin alone.

To her shock, her insurance company denied all claims. Their explanation? The treatment occurred during the policy’s 30-day waiting period, and the company ruled that the services did not qualify as accident-related or life-threatening under their terms.

<h4>Appeals, Confusion, and Mounting Debt</h4>

Kahn tried to appeal the decision. She got a doctor at Flagstaff Medical Center to sign a letter supporting her claim, but she struggled to reach doctors at the other facilities. The insurance company gave her conflicting information about where to send appeal paperwork. In July, she learned that the insurer had not received any formal appeal.

Health policy expert Sabrina Corlette, from Georgetown University, reviewed Kahn’s situation and suggested the policy she purchased was likely a “fixed indemnity” plan, as reported by the Washington Post. 

These limited plans pay only a set amount per day for care, regardless of actual costs, and are not required to meet the standards of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Corlette added that even if Kahn had purchased a more comprehensive plan, treatment that began the day after enrollment might not have been covered.

“This is why it’s so important to be insured before something happens,” Corlette said. “It’s not just about coverage, it’s about timing.”

Back when Kahn lost her job, she was still within the 60-day window to opt into COBRA. Had she done so and paid the premium, her coverage would have applied retroactively to the day she was laid off. She didn’t realize this until much later.

Now re-employed and covered under her new job’s insurance, Kahn is still chipping away at the debt from her run-in with the bat. She negotiated one $706 bill down to $420 and set up a $10-a-month payment plan for a separate $530 charge. But over $19,000 remains unpaid.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

bat caused dollar 20000 bill

health and wellness

health insurance

bat scare

bat rabies

us health news

9 Signs Your Skin Changes Could Be Psoriasis, According to Experts

How Safe Is Robotic Surgery When It Comes To Women’s Health and Complex Cancer Care?

Toddler Parents Are More Prone To Orthopedic Injuries, Here's How To Be Safe

Health & Wellness

Stress Vs. Anxiety: Difference Explained In 60 seconds

Can You Get Heatstroke In Monsoon?

You’re Not Lazy! Women Do Need More Sleep Than Men

How To Ditch Daytime Sleepiness In Office?

Common Mistakes People Make While Eating Flaxseeds

Toddlers In India Are Missing Development Milestones: Study

Yoga Poses You Should Do For Back Pain

Healthy Brunch Ideas For A Lazy Weekend Meal

Balancing Exercises You Should Do For Stability

How Much Can Food Affect Menstruation?

What Should Fitness Look Like For A 13-18 Year Old

Food For Diabetes: What Should A Diabetic Diet Contain

You Don’t Always Need Weights For Strength Training

Feel Sleepy After Lunches - Light And Healthy Office Lunches

Positive Thinking Practice – How Does It Help You?

MIND Diet – Is This A Healthy Diet Or Another Trend?

Yoga Prop Essentials To Improve Your Exercise Session

Should Potatoes Be The Part Of A Healthy Diet?

Best And Worst Foods To Lower Blood Pressure

Low-Impact Cardio Workouts You Should Try

10 Healthy Pasta Salad Dressing For Weight Loss

Breathing Exercise You Should Do To Relieve Stress

Headache vs. Migraine: Difference Explained In 60 Seconds

High Carb Foods That Are Actually Healthy

How Many Times Do You Need To Wash Your Face?

Hypothyroidism Diet – What To Eat And What You Should Avoid

Stretches To Relieve Leg Pain And Numbness After Sitting For Too Long

No-Cook Healthy Meals For Lazy Days At Home

Easy Breakfast Options To Try During Calorie Deficit

How To Stop Muscle Cramps Immediately

Why You Should Go For An Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Foods To Lower Cortisol Levels In Your Body

High-Fiber Dips You Can Make At Home For The Week

Weekend Warrior Exercises To Makeup For Stressful Week

Experiencing Headaches At Word? Natural Remedies To Try

Yoga Poses That Enhance Digestion

Health Benefits of Walking Backwards

No Eggs? Egg-Alternatives You Can Add To Your Diet

Savory And Smart Ways To Add Broccoli To Your Diet

Calorie Burning Habits That Can Help You Shed Extra Pounds

Last August, Erica Kahn was enjoying a peaceful evening stargazing in Arizona’s Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The 33-year-old Massachusetts resident was on vacation, photographing the night sky. Bats flitted through the air, but she didn’t give them much thought, until one of them flew straight at her face.In the chaos, the bat became lodged between her camera and her face. She screamed instinctively, and part of the bat ended up in her mouth. She still doesn't know exactly what part of the bat it was, but she estimates the contact lasted a few seconds. “It seemed longer,” she said.The bat eventually flew away. Though she wasn’t sure if she’d been bitten, her father, a physician who was traveling with her, advised her to get treated for potential rabies exposure.Scrambling for Health InsuranceThe problem? Just weeks earlier, Kahn had been laid off from her job as a biomedical engineer and had decided to forgo COBRA coverage, which would’ve let her stay on her former employer’s health insurance plan. The cost, around $650 a month, felt too steep for someone young and healthy.She figured she could risk going uninsured for a while and quickly sign up for a plan if something happened. That decision turned out to be costly.After the bat incident, Kahn purchased a private health policy for $311 a month from a Florida-based company called Innovative Partners LP. She even called them to confirm that emergency services or accident-related care would be covered. Feeling reassured, she went to a hospital in Flagstaff the next day and began her rabies vaccination series.The Treatment and the ShockKahn received four doses of the rabies vaccine over 14 days. Her first visit also included three injections of rabies immunoglobulin, a vital treatment that boosts the body’s ability to fight off the deadly virus. She continued her treatment at different clinics in Arizona, Colorado, and Massachusetts.Then the bills arrived.Across all four facilities, Kahn was charged a total of $20,749. The bulk of that, $17,079, came from Flagstaff Medical Center, which billed $15,242 for the vaccines and immunoglobulin alone.To her shock, her insurance company denied all claims. Their explanation? The treatment occurred during the policy’s 30-day waiting period, and the company ruled that the services did not qualify as accident-related or life-threatening under their terms.Appeals, Confusion, and Mounting DebtKahn tried to appeal the decision. She got a doctor at Flagstaff Medical Center to sign a letter supporting her claim, but she struggled to reach doctors at the other facilities. The insurance company gave her conflicting information about where to send appeal paperwork. In July, she learned that the insurer had not received any formal appeal.Health policy expert Sabrina Corlette, from Georgetown University, reviewed Kahn’s situation and suggested the policy she purchased was likely a “fixed indemnity” plan, as reported by the Washington Post. These limited plans pay only a set amount per day for care, regardless of actual costs, and are not required to meet the standards of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Corlette added that even if Kahn had purchased a more comprehensive plan, treatment that began the day after enrollment might not have been covered.“This is why it’s so important to be insured before something happens,” Corlette said. “It’s not just about coverage, it’s about timing.”A Harsh Lesson in HindsightBack when Kahn lost her job, she was still within the 60-day window to opt into COBRA. Had she done so and paid the premium, her coverage would have applied retroactively to the day she was laid off. She didn’t realize this until much later.Now re-employed and covered under her new job’s insurance, Kahn is still chipping away at the debt from her run-in with the bat. She negotiated one $706 bill down to $420 and set up a $10-a-month payment plan for a separate $530 charge. But over $19,000 remains unpaid.

How A Bat-Scare Cost A 33-year-old Massachusetts Resident A Medical Bill Of 20,000

how a bat-scare cost a 33-year-old massachusetts resident a medical bill of $20,000

Supriya Ramesh

Credits: Canva

Subtle Symptoms May Indicate To Early Warning Signs MS, 15 Years Before You Are Diagnosed

subtle symptoms may indicate to early warning signs ms, 15 years before you are diagnosed

What Causes Epilepsy? 5 Common Reasons Why It Happens

what causes epilepsy? 5 common reasons why it happens

How Much Time Does It Take To Recover From A Hair Transplant? A Week-By-Week Reality Check

how much time does it take to recover from a hair transplant? a week-by-week reality check

Health News

US Faces Nationwide STD Epidemic As Cases Surge Past 2.3 Million

us faces nationwide std epidemic as cases surge past 2.3 million

You spot an itchy patch, a flaky scalp, or a rash after a bad week and think, “It’s probably nothing. Maybe I just need a better moisturiser.” But sometimes, skin changes are like quiet signs from your immune system, and ignoring them could mean missing a chronic condition hiding in plain sight: psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease whose symptoms are often mistaken for everyday skin issues. For light skin tones, it can show up red or pink with a silvery white scale; on darker skin tones, it might look purplish, grey, or dark brown, with scaling that’s less obvious.

Dr K R Sharmatha, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, SIMS Hospital, Chennai, says that because psoriasis often hides behind myths, it’s misdiagnosed as something else. So, let’s debunk nine common misconceptions that are actually signs you might have psoriasis, not just a skin infection.

1. It’s dry skin; a moisturiser will fix it

Early psoriasis can look like stubborn red or scaly patches on knees, back, scalp, or elbows, resulting in silvery-white scales on inflamed skin. Moisturisers won’t cut it; targeted treatments and light therapy are the real solutions.

2. If it itches, it’s probably eczema

Psoriasis can itch like eczema, but it’s not just a surface problem. The itching can cause burning and pain, with flare-ups that feel deep and relentless.

3. Flaky scalp = dandruff

Scalp psoriasis is thicker, with defined plaques and red blotches. Medicated shampoos containing coal tar or salicylic acid can help, but it needs proper diagnosis first.

4. Temporary allergy rash after illness or stress

After a sore throat, fever, or a rough life event, small teardrop-shaped red lesions might appear. This is often misread as an allergy rash, but it could be guttate psoriasis, triggered by immune stressors and treatable with immune-regulating medication and UV therapy.

5. Nail crumbling means vitamin deficiency

Yellow nails, tiny dents, or separation from the nail bed could mean nail psoriasis. It can even signal psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory joint condition.

6. Shiny red patches are sweat rash or fungal infections

Inverse psoriasis shows up as red, shiny patches without scaling, often in the groin, underarms, or under breasts. Its appearance fools people into thinking it’s a sweat rash or fungal infection. Gentle cleansers and prescription creams can help.

7. Skin issues and joint pain aren’t connected

Think again. Persistent stiffness or pain in fingers and knees can be psoriatic arthritis, which may show up without visible skin patches.

8. If it’s not visible, it’s not serious

Psoriasis can affect hidden spots like the inner thighs or inside the mouth, severely impacting quality of life and requiring customised treatment.

9. If it runs in the family, you’re stuck with it

Genetics can play a role, but early intervention reduces severity and prevents complications.

Dr Vaaruni Ravishankar, Consultant Dermatologist, MGM Healthcare, Chennai, explains that psoriasis can be silent, sometimes showing up as fissured palms and soles, oozing skin, persistent groin or armpit rashes, or rough, pitted nails. It can even come disguised as arthritis or link up with autoimmune gut issues.

However, don’t panic, self-treat, or ignore it. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition triggered by factors like hormonal changes, metabolic issues, genetics, stress, certain medications, infections, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or alcohol. But it’s not contagious.

Diagnosis often involves a clinical exam and, if needed, a skin biopsy to confirm. Dr Ravishankar recommends lifestyle adjustments, stress management, and targeted treatment, from topical formulations to immune-modulating medications or biologics that tackle inflammation. Daily care with pH-balanced cleansers, barrier-repair emollients, and sun protection can keep symptoms under control.

And if skin problems last more than two to four weeks, don’t keep guessing. Persistent discomfort, lack of improvement with fungal creams, or worsening skin could be subtle signs of psoriasis. Myths only delay care and in the case of psoriasis, early attention can change everything.

psoriasis

autoimmune

skin patches

silvery scales

eczema

scalp plaques

guttate psoriasis

nail changes

psoriatic arthritis

early intervention

You spot an itchy patch, a flaky scalp, or a rash after a bad week and think, “It’s probably nothing. Maybe I just need a better moisturiser.” But sometimes, skin changes are like quiet signs from your immune system, and ignoring them could mean missing a chronic condition hiding in plain sight: psoriasis.Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease whose symptoms are often mistaken for everyday skin issues. For light skin tones, it can show up red or pink with a silvery white scale; on darker skin tones, it might look purplish, grey, or dark brown, with scaling that’s less obvious. Dr K R Sharmatha, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, SIMS Hospital, Chennai, says that because psoriasis often hides behind myths, it’s misdiagnosed as something else. So, let’s debunk nine common misconceptions that are actually signs you might have psoriasis, not just a skin infection.1. It’s dry skin; a moisturiser will fix itEarly psoriasis can look like stubborn red or scaly patches on knees, back, scalp, or elbows, resulting in silvery-white scales on inflamed skin. Moisturisers won’t cut it; targeted treatments and light therapy are the real solutions.2. If it itches, it’s probably eczemaPsoriasis can itch like eczema, but it’s not just a surface problem. The itching can cause burning and pain, with flare-ups that feel deep and relentless.3. Flaky scalp = dandruffScalp psoriasis is thicker, with defined plaques and red blotches. Medicated shampoos containing coal tar or salicylic acid can help, but it needs proper diagnosis first.4. Temporary allergy rash after illness or stressAfter a sore throat, fever, or a rough life event, small teardrop-shaped red lesions might appear. This is often misread as an allergy rash, but it could be guttate psoriasis, triggered by immune stressors and treatable with immune-regulating medication and UV therapy.5. Nail crumbling means vitamin deficiencyYellow nails, tiny dents, or separation from the nail bed could mean nail psoriasis. It can even signal psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory joint condition.6. Shiny red patches are sweat rash or fungal infectionsInverse psoriasis shows up as red, shiny patches without scaling, often in the groin, underarms, or under breasts. Its appearance fools people into thinking it’s a sweat rash or fungal infection. Gentle cleansers and prescription creams can help.7. Skin issues and joint pain aren’t connectedThink again. Persistent stiffness or pain in fingers and knees can be psoriatic arthritis, which may show up without visible skin patches.8. If it’s not visible, it’s not seriousPsoriasis can affect hidden spots like the inner thighs or inside the mouth, severely impacting quality of life and requiring customised treatment.9. If it runs in the family, you’re stuck with itGenetics can play a role, but early intervention reduces severity and prevents complications.Dr Vaaruni Ravishankar, Consultant Dermatologist, MGM Healthcare, Chennai, explains that psoriasis can be silent, sometimes showing up as fissured palms and soles, oozing skin, persistent groin or armpit rashes, or rough, pitted nails. It can even come disguised as arthritis or link up with autoimmune gut issues.However, don’t panic, self-treat, or ignore it. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition triggered by factors like hormonal changes, metabolic issues, genetics, stress, certain medications, infections, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or alcohol. But it’s not contagious.Diagnosis often involves a clinical exam and, if needed, a skin biopsy to confirm. Dr Ravishankar recommends lifestyle adjustments, stress management, and targeted treatment, from topical formulations to immune-modulating medications or biologics that tackle inflammation. Daily care with pH-balanced cleansers, barrier-repair emollients, and sun protection can keep symptoms under control.And if skin problems last more than two to four weeks, don’t keep guessing. Persistent discomfort, lack of improvement with fungal creams, or worsening skin could be subtle signs of psoriasis. Myths only delay care and in the case of psoriasis, early attention can change everything.

9 signs your skin changes could be psoriasis, according to experts

Low FODMAP Diet Could Help Women with Endometriosis Finally Tackle Debilitating Gut Symptoms, Study

low fodmap diet could help women with endometriosis finally tackle debilitating gut symptoms, study

‘Lucky To Be Alive', US Woman Wakes Up From A Coma Just Seconds Before Doctors Begin Organ Harvesting

‘lucky to be alive', us woman wakes up from a coma just seconds before doctors begin organ harvesting

Nutrition

Drug Expert Says More Brits Should Consume Ginger Either In Meals Or As A Supplement

drug expert says more brits should consume ginger either in meals or as a supplement

No More BBL For Non-Medics, UK to Regulate High-Risk Beauty Procedures

no more bbl for non-medics, uk to regulate high-risk beauty procedures

When robotic surgery was first introduced in India, it was considered an advanced and largely inaccessible technique, reserved for high-end hospitals and select cases. Over time, it has evolved into an important tool in women’s healthcare, transforming gynaecologic procedures by making them safer, more precise, and significantly less invasive.

Now, if you’re imagining a machine operating on you while your surgeon takes a break, hit the brakes. This is not sci-fi. In reality, the surgeon is in full control, seated at a console, guiding robotic arms with the finesse of human wrists and the added bonus of 3D vision.

As Dr Rooma Sinha, Founder and President of AGRS and Senior Mentor at Vattikuti Foundation, explains, the advantages of robotic surgery shine brightest in complex cases like hysterectomies, myomectomies, endometriosis excision, and cancer surgeries, especially when factors like obesity, previous surgeries, or deep pelvic adhesions come into play. Public perceptions, however, are still catching up. “There is still a need for greater public clarification that robotic procedures are not only precise and minimally invasive but also safe when performed by trained specialists,” she says.

Even in the US, she points out, 85 per cent of women with large or multiple fibroids still undergo open surgery, largely because traditional laparoscopy proves tricky. “Doing 1000+ benign gynaecological surgeries in my career is the testimony of my belief in this technology as a game-changer in surgery for women,” she says.

<h3>Babies, Blood Loss, and Better Scars</h3>

One unexpected benefit is fertility. Robotic myomectomy allows for precise fibroid removal and meticulous suturing, increasing the chances of full-term pregnancy, something not always guaranteed with traditional surgery. Endometriosis patients, too, benefit from improved pelvic anatomy restoration, reduced pain, and a better shot at conceiving naturally.

And while the upfront cost of robotic surgery still raises eyebrows, Dr Sinha points out that it’s an investment with returns: shorter hospital stays, fewer complications, and speedier returns to daily life. “Within a few days, many patients are back on their feet and return to work,” she says.

According to Dr Sinha, today’s Indian woman is informed, outcome-driven, and unwilling to settle for outdated surgical methods. She asks better questions and demands better options and robotic-assisted surgery is increasingly stepping up as a modern, evidence-based choice rather than an unattainable luxury.

Over in the oncology wing, Dr Arun Kumar Giri, Director of Surgical Oncology at Aakash Healthcare, sees similar misconceptions playing out. “Beliefs about autonomous robotic surgery or its applicability to complex cases may dissuade people from pursuing this revolutionary treatment,” he says.

MYTH: Robotic surgery is experimental and unsafe for gynaecological operations.

FACT: Dr Giri points out that robotic surgery has been around for more than two decades, backed by substantial research and clinical trials. In disciplines including gynaecology, it has shown lower complication rates and better patient outcomes than standard open surgery.

MYTH: Robotic surgery is completely automated and doesn’t need a surgeon.

FACT: “This is not correct,” Dr Giri says firmly. Robotic systems are sophisticated tools, nothing more, nothing less, always operated by a trained surgeon from a console. The robot doesn’t make decisions or perform surgery on its own; instead, it enhances a human surgeon’s precision and control.

From fibroids to fertility and from pelvic pain to complex cancer care, robotic surgery is quietly proving itself as one of the most effective, least invasive ways forward. Sure, it’s not a sci-fi robot saving the world single-handedly, but maybe that’s for the best. The best surgeries happen when human skill and robotic precision work hand in hand.

Robotic Surgery

hysterectomies

myomectomies

endometriosis excision

cancer surgeries

laparoscopy

fertility

Robotic myomectomy

Endometriosis

pelvic anatomy

When robotic surgery was first introduced in India, it was considered an advanced and largely inaccessible technique, reserved for high-end hospitals and select cases. Over time, it has evolved into an important tool in women’s healthcare, transforming gynaecologic procedures by making them safer, more precise, and significantly less invasive.Now, if you’re imagining a machine operating on you while your surgeon takes a break, hit the brakes. This is not sci-fi. In reality, the surgeon is in full control, seated at a console, guiding robotic arms with the finesse of human wrists and the added bonus of 3D vision.As Dr Rooma Sinha, Founder and President of AGRS and Senior Mentor at Vattikuti Foundation, explains, the advantages of robotic surgery shine brightest in complex cases like hysterectomies, myomectomies, endometriosis excision, and cancer surgeries, especially when factors like obesity, previous surgeries, or deep pelvic adhesions come into play. Public perceptions, however, are still catching up. “There is still a need for greater public clarification that robotic procedures are not only precise and minimally invasive but also safe when performed by trained specialists,” she says.Even in the US, she points out, 85 per cent of women with large or multiple fibroids still undergo open surgery, largely because traditional laparoscopy proves tricky. “Doing 1000+ benign gynaecological surgeries in my career is the testimony of my belief in this technology as a game-changer in surgery for women,” she says.Babies, Blood Loss, and Better ScarsOne unexpected benefit is fertility. Robotic myomectomy allows for precise fibroid removal and meticulous suturing, increasing the chances of full-term pregnancy, something not always guaranteed with traditional surgery. Endometriosis patients, too, benefit from improved pelvic anatomy restoration, reduced pain, and a better shot at conceiving naturally.And while the upfront cost of robotic surgery still raises eyebrows, Dr Sinha points out that it’s an investment with returns: shorter hospital stays, fewer complications, and speedier returns to daily life. “Within a few days, many patients are back on their feet and return to work,” she says.The New-Age PatientAccording to Dr Sinha, today’s Indian woman is informed, outcome-driven, and unwilling to settle for outdated surgical methods. She asks better questions and demands better options and robotic-assisted surgery is increasingly stepping up as a modern, evidence-based choice rather than an unattainable luxury.The Truth Behind the MythsOver in the oncology wing, Dr Arun Kumar Giri, Director of Surgical Oncology at Aakash Healthcare, sees similar misconceptions playing out. “Beliefs about autonomous robotic surgery or its applicability to complex cases may dissuade people from pursuing this revolutionary treatment,” he says.MYTH: Robotic surgery is experimental and unsafe for gynaecological operations.FACT: Dr Giri points out that robotic surgery has been around for more than two decades, backed by substantial research and clinical trials. In disciplines including gynaecology, it has shown lower complication rates and better patient outcomes than standard open surgery.MYTH: Robotic surgery is completely automated and doesn’t need a surgeon.FACT: “This is not correct,” Dr Giri says firmly. Robotic systems are sophisticated tools, nothing more, nothing less, always operated by a trained surgeon from a console. The robot doesn’t make decisions or perform surgery on its own; instead, it enhances a human surgeon’s precision and control.From fibroids to fertility and from pelvic pain to complex cancer care, robotic surgery is quietly proving itself as one of the most effective, least invasive ways forward. Sure, it’s not a sci-fi robot saving the world single-handedly, but maybe that’s for the best. The best surgeries happen when human skill and robotic precision work hand in hand.

how safe is robotic surgery when it comes to women’s health and complex cancer care?

What Eating Sugar Does to Your Teeth and Why Oral Health Could Shape Your Whole Body’s Wellbeing

How Your Body Reacts When You Don't Eat Enough Fiber In Your Daily Diet?

how your body reacts when you don't eat enough fiber in your daily diet?

'Your Gut Is Your Second Brain': Why Looking Fit Can Still Mean You Are Unhealthy

"your gut is your second brain": why looking fit can still mean you are unhealthy

Oxford Study Reveals 6 Common Health Conditions That Could Lead To Dementia

oxford study reveals 6 common health conditions that could lead to dementia

In today’s world, things move very fast. Our meals are rushed, and food choices often lean toward convenience. Supermarkets overflow with ready-to-eat snacks, sugary drinks, and packaged meals. These quick bites may save time, but they come at a hidden cost, especially to our teeth. While these usually dominate health discussions, one silent victim of modern diets is often ignored, which is our smiles.

<h3>How Sugar Affects Teeth</h3>

According to Dr. Sanyukta Rege, Periodontist, Laxmi Dental Limited, sugar is in almost everything we consume. From breakfast to dinner, it shows up in cereals, sauces, juices, and snacks. When we eat sugary food, mouth bacteria feed on it. As they feed, they release acid which eats away the enamel. As enamel wears down, cavities form. Over time, untreated cavities lead to deeper decay, infections, and even tooth loss.

<h3>Why Oral Health Affects the Whole Body</h3>

Your mouth does not work in isolation. It connects to your entire body. Studies show that poor oral health links to heart problems, diabetes, and even respiratory diseases. Dr. Rege explains that if gum disease causes inflammation, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to other organs.

Hence, tooth decay is not just about losing teeth. It is about how diet choices affect the body as a whole. What starts as a cavity can become a larger health issue, especially if ignored for years.

Stopping sugar damage is not just about brushing more. It takes a group effort by everyone and here is how we can start:

Children need to know that diet affects teeth. Schools should explain how sugar leads to decay. Lessons should include how to read food labels and choose better snacks. Dr. Rege says that instilling these lessons early makes healthier habits more likely to stick.

Help Parents Make Informed Choices

Parents shape early eating habits. By cooking more at home, checking labels, and offering fruits instead of packaged snacks, they can limit sugar exposure. Dr. Rege adds that this not only helps children’s teeth but also improves overall family health.

Make Dental Care Accessible

Regular check-ups can catch problems early. Sealants, fluoride treatments, and cleanings protect teeth. Free or affordable dental programmes in schools and communities can help reach more children. Dr. Rege stresses that prevention is far less costly than treating advanced dental issues.

Modern diets may be quick and tasty, but they often fail our long-term health. What we eat today shapes our bodies and our smiles tomorrow. The solution lies not just in brushing more but in eating smarter and acting earlier. As Dr. Rege reminds us, caring for your teeth is not just about avoiding cavities; it is an investment in your overall wellbeing.

sugar

teeth

enamel

cavities

gum disease

oral health

inflammation

prevention

bacteria

wellbeing

In today’s world, things move very fast. Our meals are rushed, and food choices often lean toward convenience. Supermarkets overflow with ready-to-eat snacks, sugary drinks, and packaged meals. These quick bites may save time, but they come at a hidden cost, especially to our teeth. While these usually dominate health discussions, one silent victim of modern diets is often ignored, which is our smiles.How Sugar Affects TeethAccording to Dr. Sanyukta Rege, Periodontist, Laxmi Dental Limited, sugar is in almost everything we consume. From breakfast to dinner, it shows up in cereals, sauces, juices, and snacks. When we eat sugary food, mouth bacteria feed on it. As they feed, they release acid which eats away the enamel. As enamel wears down, cavities form. Over time, untreated cavities lead to deeper decay, infections, and even tooth loss.Why Oral Health Affects the Whole BodyYour mouth does not work in isolation. It connects to your entire body. Studies show that poor oral health links to heart problems, diabetes, and even respiratory diseases. Dr. Rege explains that if gum disease causes inflammation, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to other organs.Hence, tooth decay is not just about losing teeth. It is about how diet choices affect the body as a whole. What starts as a cavity can become a larger health issue, especially if ignored for years.Escaping the Sugar TrapStopping sugar damage is not just about brushing more. It takes a group effort by everyone and here is how we can start:Teach Kids EarlyChildren need to know that diet affects teeth. Schools should explain how sugar leads to decay. Lessons should include how to read food labels and choose better snacks. Dr. Rege says that instilling these lessons early makes healthier habits more likely to stick.Help Parents Make Informed ChoicesParents shape early eating habits. By cooking more at home, checking labels, and offering fruits instead of packaged snacks, they can limit sugar exposure. Dr. Rege adds that this not only helps children’s teeth but also improves overall family health.Make Dental Care AccessibleRegular check-ups can catch problems early. Sealants, fluoride treatments, and cleanings protect teeth. Free or affordable dental programmes in schools and communities can help reach more children. Dr. Rege stresses that prevention is far less costly than treating advanced dental issues.Modern diets may be quick and tasty, but they often fail our long-term health. What we eat today shapes our bodies and our smiles tomorrow. The solution lies not just in brushing more but in eating smarter and acting earlier. As Dr. Rege reminds us, caring for your teeth is not just about avoiding cavities; it is an investment in your overall wellbeing.

what eating sugar does to your teeth and why oral health could shape your whole body’s wellbeing

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

How A Bat-Scare Cost A 33-year-old Massachusetts Resident A Medical Bill Of 20,000

Quick Stories

9 Signs Your Skin Changes Could Be Psoriasis, According to Experts

How Safe Is Robotic Surgery When It Comes To Women’s Health and Complex Cancer Care?

What Eating Sugar Does to Your Teeth and Why Oral Health Could Shape Your Whole Body’s Wellbeing

Health Conditions A-Z

9 Signs Your Skin Changes Could Be Psoriasis, According to Experts

How Safe Is Robotic Surgery When It Comes To Women’s Health and Complex Cancer Care?

Toddler Parents Are More Prone To Orthopedic Injuries, Here's How To Be Safe