Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Ulcers vs Gastritis: How To Spot The Difference Before It Worsens?

Most of us have dealt with an occasional upset stomach. It’s uncomfortable, but usually passes after a few hours or a quick antacid. But when that stomach pain doesn’t go away or when it keeps returning—it might be something more serious. Two common culprits are gastritis and peptic ulcers. While their symptoms often overlap, these conditions are not identical, and mistaking one for the other can delay treatment and allow complications to develop.

Knowing how ulcers and gastritis are different, what they are caused by, and when to see a doctor is important. If left untreated, both can result in long-term health effects, from ongoing digestive discomfort to bleeding internally and even gastric cancer.

The stomach is designed to deal with acid. The lining of the stomach contains cells that secrete protective mucus and bicarbonate, forming a buffer against the very chemicals that digest food- hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes.

This defensive system is robust, but not unbreakable. When the mucus layer weakens, or acid production turns too vigorous, stomach lining gets irritated or injured. This interference paves the way for gastritis (stomach lining inflammation) or peptic ulcers (sores in the stomach or small intestine).

<h2>Gastritis vs Ulcers: What's The Core Difference?</h2>

According to Dr. Amit G. Yelsangikar, gastroenterologist from Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore, "Gastritis is inflammation of the mucous lining of the stomach. It can be caused by infection, chemicals, or irritants that stimulate the digestive system. Ulcers are more profound damage—open wounds that form when acid from the stomach wears away the protective coating. Not like gastritis, ulcers can go through layers of tissue and lead to sharp, focused pain. Gastritis is irritation, whereas ulcers are wounds."

<h2>Gastritis vs Ulcers: Overlapping and Deceptive Symptoms</h2>

One reason that ulcers and gastritis get confused is that their symptoms appear almost identical. The common symptoms are:

<ul><li>Burning pain in the upper abdomen</li><li>Bloating and over-burping</li><li>Loss of appetite</li><li>Nausea or vomiting</li><li>Burning sensation in the chest area similar to heartburn</li></ul>

But not everyone with gastritis has symptoms, whereas pain from an ulcer is usually more sharp, burning or gnawing. <span>Ulcer symptoms</span> might get better temporarily after eating, only to recur a few hours later.

An ominous red flag for ulcers is vomiting blood, black stools, or sudden dizziness, which indicate bleeding inside and must be addressed immediately.

Gastritis typically occurs as a result of stomach lining irritation and not structural damage. Some of the common causes include bacterial infections like stomach flu, heavy drinking, and long-term use of drugs such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen and aspirin). It may also occur due to decreased blood circulation to the stomach lining, as well as chronic stress and poor diet, which also stimulate inflammation.

Ulcers occur when the protective lining of the stomach or duodenum collapses, exposing the tissue to damage. The most prevalent cause is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, a bacterium that causes long-term inflammation in the digestive system. An additional main cause is overproduction of stomach acid, which can exacerbate irritation and, in extreme cases, be associated with disorders like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Lifestyle and drug use also come into play—prolonged NSAID use and smoking both disrupt the healing process and predispose to recurrent ulcers.

Dr. Yelsangikar comments, "The germ H. pylori is a big contributor. It irritates the stomach and small intestine, thinning the mucous layer and leading to ulcers."

<h2>What Are The Risks of Ignoring Symptoms?</h2>

What starts as minor stomach upset can become worse. Chronic gastritis can lead to ulcers, and ulcers that aren't treated can result in:

<ul><li>Internal bleeding, causing anemia or shock</li><li>Perforation, in which the ulcer perforates the stomach wall</li><li>Obstructions, disrupting digestion</li><li>Greater risk of stomach cancer, especially in chronic H. pylori infections</li><li>These complications highlight why proper diagnosis is so important.</li></ul>

<h2>Gastritis vs Ulcers: How Physicians Distinguish Them?</h2>

Physicians use a combination of patient history, physical exam, and tests to differentiate between ulcers and gastritis. Endoscopy permits direct visualization of the lining of the stomach and identification of ulcers. H. pylori tests (biopsy, stool, or breath) identify bacterial infection. Imaging scans are employed when complications are suspected.

The initial red flag distinguishing ulcers from gastritis is the presence of bleeding—vomit or stool containing blood. Once diagnosed, treatment varies with the cause.

<h2>How Does Treatment Addressing The Source In Stomach?</h2>

Initial aim is healing the sore and avoiding recurrence. Routine treatment includes:

<ul><li>Antibiotics for H. pylori infection</li><li>Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acid</li><li>Stopping NSAIDs where feasible</li><li>Surgery, in exceptional cases, for persistent ulcers that do not respond to medication or lead to scarring and nerve damage</li></ul>

Treatment usually centers around lifestyle modification and symptom control:

<ul><li>Taking small, frequent meals</li><li>Avoiding spicy, acidic, and carbonated foods</li><li>Reducing smoking and alcohol consumption</li><li>Including bland, stomach-soothing foods such as rice, bananas, and boiled potatoes</li><li>Taking acid-reducing medications with medical guidance</li></ul>

Both conditions improve with stress management, good sleep, and regular medical follow-up, since acid imbalance and inflammation are likely to recur without proper care.

<h2>Why Lifestyle Is As Essential As Much As Medicated Treatment?</h2>

In most instances, long-term gastric well-being rests as much on lifestyle as on medication. Smoking, alcohol, unhealthy eating, and high-stress lifestyles all compromise the stomach's defenses. Minimizing these risk factors can prevent flare-ups as well as hasten recovery.

Self-medication with over-the-counter antacids to the point of ignoring chronic pain, however, is not an acceptable plan of action. Persistent symptoms require medical examination.

The stomach can appear to be able to stand any amount of abuse, yet gastritis and ulcers disprove this. Both diseases develop quietly, with symptoms that are dismissed or attributed to common indigestion.

The issue is that once they have developed further, the effects become much more serious and even irreversible. If you experience persistent stomach discomfort, unexplained bloating, or appetite changes, it's worth getting an appointment with a gastroenterologist. Tests nowadays are brief, noninvasive, and can avoid years of ongoing digestive issues.

Gastritis and ulcers can have similar symptoms, but they are different diseases that need to be addressed differently. Gastritis is like the warning signal—inflammation indicating that the defenses of the stomach are breached. Ulcers are the full-blown invasion, a wound that needs to be urgently healed.

Both can be treated easily with early diagnosis, specific treatment, and dietary modification. But neglecting the symptoms means allowing an easy-to-handle condition to escalate into a serious one.

That is to say, don't wait for your bellyache to intensify. Recognizing the <span>difference between ulcers and gastritis</span> at an early stage may be the move that saves your well-being.

<em>Dr. Amit G Yelsangikar, MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Gastroenterology) at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore in India</em>

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Most of us have dealt with an occasional upset stomach. It’s uncomfortable, but usually passes after a few hours or a quick antacid. But when that stomach pain doesn’t go away or when it keeps returning—it might be something more serious. Two common culprits are gastritis and peptic ulcers. While their symptoms often overlap, these conditions are not identical, and mistaking one for the other can delay treatment and allow complications to develop.Knowing how ulcers and gastritis are different, what they are caused by, and when to see a doctor is important. If left untreated, both can result in long-term health effects, from ongoing digestive discomfort to bleeding internally and even gastric cancer.The stomach is designed to deal with acid. The lining of the stomach contains cells that secrete protective mucus and bicarbonate, forming a buffer against the very chemicals that digest food- hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes.This defensive system is robust, but not unbreakable. When the mucus layer weakens, or acid production turns too vigorous, stomach lining gets irritated or injured. This interference paves the way for gastritis (stomach lining inflammation) or peptic ulcers (sores in the stomach or small intestine).Gastritis vs Ulcers: What's The Core Difference?According to Dr. Amit G. Yelsangikar, gastroenterologist from Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore, "Gastritis is inflammation of the mucous lining of the stomach. It can be caused by infection, chemicals, or irritants that stimulate the digestive system. Ulcers are more profound damage—open wounds that form when acid from the stomach wears away the protective coating. Not like gastritis, ulcers can go through layers of tissue and lead to sharp, focused pain. Gastritis is irritation, whereas ulcers are wounds."Gastritis vs Ulcers: Overlapping and Deceptive SymptomsOne reason that ulcers and gastritis get confused is that their symptoms appear almost identical. The common symptoms are:Burning pain in the upper abdomenBloating and over-burpingLoss of appetiteNausea or vomitingBurning sensation in the chest area similar to heartburnBut not everyone with gastritis has symptoms, whereas pain from an ulcer is usually more sharp, burning or gnawing. Ulcer symptoms might get better temporarily after eating, only to recur a few hours later.An ominous red flag for ulcers is vomiting blood, black stools, or sudden dizziness, which indicate bleeding inside and must be addressed immediately.What Are The Underlying Causes?GastritisGastritis typically occurs as a result of stomach lining irritation and not structural damage. Some of the common causes include bacterial infections like stomach flu, heavy drinking, and long-term use of drugs such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen and aspirin). It may also occur due to decreased blood circulation to the stomach lining, as well as chronic stress and poor diet, which also stimulate inflammation.UlcersUlcers occur when the protective lining of the stomach or duodenum collapses, exposing the tissue to damage. The most prevalent cause is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, a bacterium that causes long-term inflammation in the digestive system. An additional main cause is overproduction of stomach acid, which can exacerbate irritation and, in extreme cases, be associated with disorders like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Lifestyle and drug use also come into play—prolonged NSAID use and smoking both disrupt the healing process and predispose to recurrent ulcers.Dr. Yelsangikar comments, "The germ H. pylori is a big contributor. It irritates the stomach and small intestine, thinning the mucous layer and leading to ulcers."What Are The Risks of Ignoring Symptoms?What starts as minor stomach upset can become worse. Chronic gastritis can lead to ulcers, and ulcers that aren't treated can result in:Internal bleeding, causing anemia or shockPerforation, in which the ulcer perforates the stomach wallObstructions, disrupting digestionGreater risk of stomach cancer, especially in chronic H. pylori infectionsThese complications highlight why proper diagnosis is so important.Gastritis vs Ulcers: How Physicians Distinguish Them?Physicians use a combination of patient history, physical exam, and tests to differentiate between ulcers and gastritis. Endoscopy permits direct visualization of the lining of the stomach and identification of ulcers. H. pylori tests (biopsy, stool, or breath) identify bacterial infection. Imaging scans are employed when complications are suspected.The initial red flag distinguishing ulcers from gastritis is the presence of bleeding—vomit or stool containing blood. Once diagnosed, treatment varies with the cause.How Does Treatment Addressing The Source In Stomach?For UlcersInitial aim is healing the sore and avoiding recurrence. Routine treatment includes:Antibiotics for H. pylori infectionProton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acidStopping NSAIDs where feasibleSurgery, in exceptional cases, for persistent ulcers that do not respond to medication or lead to scarring and nerve damageFor GastritisTreatment usually centers around lifestyle modification and symptom control:Taking small, frequent mealsAvoiding spicy, acidic, and carbonated foodsReducing smoking and alcohol consumptionIncluding bland, stomach-soothing foods such as rice, bananas, and boiled potatoesTaking acid-reducing medications with medical guidanceBoth conditions improve with stress management, good sleep, and regular medical follow-up, since acid imbalance and inflammation are likely to recur without proper care.Why Lifestyle Is As Essential As Much As Medicated Treatment?In most instances, long-term gastric well-being rests as much on lifestyle as on medication. Smoking, alcohol, unhealthy eating, and high-stress lifestyles all compromise the stomach's defenses. Minimizing these risk factors can prevent flare-ups as well as hasten recovery.Self-medication with over-the-counter antacids to the point of ignoring chronic pain, however, is not an acceptable plan of action. Persistent symptoms require medical examination.The stomach can appear to be able to stand any amount of abuse, yet gastritis and ulcers disprove this. Both diseases develop quietly, with symptoms that are dismissed or attributed to common indigestion.The issue is that once they have developed further, the effects become much more serious and even irreversible. If you experience persistent stomach discomfort, unexplained bloating, or appetite changes, it's worth getting an appointment with a gastroenterologist. Tests nowadays are brief, noninvasive, and can avoid years of ongoing digestive issues.Gastritis and ulcers can have similar symptoms, but they are different diseases that need to be addressed differently. Gastritis is like the warning signal—inflammation indicating that the defenses of the stomach are breached. Ulcers are the full-blown invasion, a wound that needs to be urgently healed.Both can be treated easily with early diagnosis, specific treatment, and dietary modification. But neglecting the symptoms means allowing an easy-to-handle condition to escalate into a serious one.That is to say, don't wait for your bellyache to intensify. Recognizing the difference between ulcers and gastritis at an early stage may be the move that saves your well-being.Dr. Amit G Yelsangikar, MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Gastroenterology) at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore in India

ulcers vs gastritis: how to spot the difference before it worsens?

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Del Amitri’s singer, <span>rock legend Justin Currie</span>, recently opened up about his struggle with playing the guitar due to one of the devastating effects of Parkinson's. 

The 60-year-old Scottish songwriter spoke about his condition on BBC Breakfast, he explained how the degenerative condition is causing him to lose control of his hand which is affecting his ability to play the bass. 

“You get good weeks and bad weeks, I think. And I’ve felt quite asymptomatic recently, slight tremor this morning.” explained Currie. He added how when he has no symptoms it is like being “high” but the weeks when there are recurring symptoms, he feels incredibly ill. When it comes to his career, he added that it's been getting hard navigate, “It’s hard knowing what kind of nick you’re going to be in from gig to gig.” 

This is not new news to him, he had known about his diagnosis long before. However, he did not want to go public with this knowledge as he didn’t want to tell his mother, who later passed away. 

How Does Parkinson’s Affects Movement? 

According to Parkinson’s Community Los Angeles, Parkinson's disease (PD) is a brain disorder that affects a person's ability to move normally. While it might seem strange, one of the best ways to manage the symptoms is to stay active. Participating in games and activities that help with hand-eye coordination, thinking skills, flexibility, and balance is very important for reducing symptoms and improving a person's quality of life. 

Parkinson's UK explains that this disease affects a person's ability to move and keep their balance. It's important to remember that everyone experiences symptoms differently, and most people will only have some of them. The disease damages the brain cells that produce dopamine, a chemical needed for smooth, coordinated movement. This damage leads to several common symptoms, including: 

A sudden, brief inability to move, as if your feet are stuck to the floor. 

Movement skills are divided into two main categories: <span>fine motor skills</span> and gross motor skills. Both are affected by Parkinson's, and understanding the difference is key to managing the disease. 

Fine Motor Skills vs. Gross Motor Skills 

These are the small, precise movements we use every day, like writing, buttoning a shirt, or picking up small objects. These skills are often one of the first things affected by PD. People may find their handwriting becomes very small and cramped (a condition called micrographia), and simple tasks like using a fork or tying shoelaces become slow and frustrating. 

These involve the use of large muscle groups for bigger movements, such as walking, standing up, or keeping your balance. As PD gets worse, people often struggle with these larger movements. This can lead to a shuffling way of walking, poor balance, and a higher risk of falling. The stiffness and slowness caused by the disease make these movements difficult and slow. 

Activities That Can Help With The Loss of Movement 

Engaging in specific games and activities can help people with Parkinson's disease improve the small, precise movements of their hands. 

Puzzles and board games that use small pieces can improve hand movements and dexterity. Puzzles also stimulate your brain, which helps to improve memory and thinking skills. 

Holding a pen, pencil, or brush can help you practice control and reduce tremors. It is also a great way to express yourself and feel a sense of calm. 

These hobbies require careful, precise movements. You can use larger beads or needles to make the task easier, while still practicing control over movement and timing. 

Justin Currie

fine motor skills

Rock Legend Justin Currie

Justin Currie Parkinsons

parkinsons disease

parkinsons

parkinsons Justin currie

justin currie disease

Del Amitri’s singer, rock legend Justin Currie, recently opened up about his struggle with playing the guitar due to one of the devastating effects of Parkinson's. The 60-year-old Scottish songwriter spoke about his condition on BBC Breakfast, he explained how the degenerative condition is causing him to lose control of his hand which is affecting his ability to play the bass. “You get good weeks and bad weeks, I think. And I’ve felt quite asymptomatic recently, slight tremor this morning.” explained Currie. He added how when he has no symptoms it is like being “high” but the weeks when there are recurring symptoms, he feels incredibly ill. When it comes to his career, he added that it's been getting hard navigate, “It’s hard knowing what kind of nick you’re going to be in from gig to gig.” This is not new news to him, he had known about his diagnosis long before. However, he did not want to go public with this knowledge as he didn’t want to tell his mother, who later passed away.  How Does Parkinson’s Affects Movement? According to Parkinson’s Community Los Angeles, Parkinson's disease (PD) is a brain disorder that affects a person's ability to move normally. While it might seem strange, one of the best ways to manage the symptoms is to stay active. Participating in games and activities that help with hand-eye coordination, thinking skills, flexibility, and balance is very important for reducing symptoms and improving a person's quality of life. Parkinson's UK explains that this disease affects a person's ability to move and keep their balance. It's important to remember that everyone experiences symptoms differently, and most people will only have some of them. The disease damages the brain cells that produce dopamine, a chemical needed for smooth, coordinated movement. This damage leads to several common symptoms, including: Shaking, especially at rest. Stiff muscles. Slowness of movement.  Problems with balance. A sudden, brief inability to move, as if your feet are stuck to the floor. Painful muscle contractions or cramps.  Movement skills are divided into two main categories: fine motor skills and gross motor skills. Both are affected by Parkinson's, and understanding the difference is key to managing the disease.  Fine Motor Skills vs. Gross Motor Skills Fine Motor Skills These are the small, precise movements we use every day, like writing, buttoning a shirt, or picking up small objects. These skills are often one of the first things affected by PD. People may find their handwriting becomes very small and cramped (a condition called micrographia), and simple tasks like using a fork or tying shoelaces become slow and frustrating.  Gross Motor Skills These involve the use of large muscle groups for bigger movements, such as walking, standing up, or keeping your balance. As PD gets worse, people often struggle with these larger movements. This can lead to a shuffling way of walking, poor balance, and a higher risk of falling. The stiffness and slowness caused by the disease make these movements difficult and slow.  Activities That Can Help With The Loss of Movement Engaging in specific games and activities can help people with Parkinson's disease improve the small, precise movements of their hands. Puzzles and Board Games Puzzles and board games that use small pieces can improve hand movements and dexterity. Puzzles also stimulate your brain, which helps to improve memory and thinking skills.  Coloring and Painting Holding a pen, pencil, or brush can help you practice control and reduce tremors. It is also a great way to express yourself and feel a sense of calm.  Beading or Knitting These hobbies require careful, precise movements. You can use larger beads or needles to make the task easier, while still practicing control over movement and timing. 

rock legend justin currie says parkinson's makes playing guitar difficult - how motor skills are affected

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Israeli Scientists Created The First Lab-Grown Kidney That Survived 34 Weeks

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Researchers at Tel Aviv University and Sheba Medical Center have made a major scientific breakthrough by successfully growing a human kidney organoid in the laboratory. An organoid is a tiny, three-dimensional model of an organ, and this new creation is far superior to any previous model. For the first time, the team grew the kidney organoid from specialized kidney stem cells, rather than from more general stem cells. This innovative approach has resulted in a model that perfectly mirrors the development of a human fetal kidney. 

One of the most remarkable aspects of this new organoid is its longevity. It can be kept alive and stable for an impressive 34 weeks, which is more than six months. This marks a significant improvement over older models, which typically failed and broke down after only four weeks. This extended lifespan allows for long-term research and medical testing on the kidney model.

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<h2>How Did Scientists Make This Lab-Grown Kidney? </h2>

Before this breakthrough, scientists used "master" cells called pluripotent stem cells to grow organoids. The problem was that these cells could turn into any type of cell, which often led to the organoids being "contaminated" with unwanted cells from other parts of the body. This made experiments difficult to trust. 

The new method is different. It uses stem cells that are already programmed to only become kidney cells. Because of this, the new organoid is a "clean" model, made purely of kidney tissue. This purity allows for more accurate and reliable experiments, so scientists can be sure their results are directly related to the kidney. 

This new model gives researchers a clear look at how a kidney grows. They can watch for months as different parts of the kidney form, like the blood filters and urinary ducts. By using this model, they made a big discovery about birth defects. They intentionally blocked a signal in the organoid and watched as a developmental problem appeared, one that is known to cause kidney birth defects in people. This shows them exactly how a small mistake in development can lead to a serious medical condition. 

<h2>How Does The <span rel="noindex">Artificial Kidney</span> Change Medicine </h2>

Researchers explain that this breakthrough provides a powerful new tool that could change medicine. 

The model helps scientists see how problems in development lead to kidney diseases. This could lead to new treatments that fix the root cause of these illnesses. 

Researchers can now safely test if new drugs are harmful to a developing kidney, which is especially important for protecting babies during pregnancy. 

This new process creates a reliable supply of kidney cells. These cells could be used in research or as building blocks for new therapies to repair or replace damaged kidneys. 

<h2>Why Is This Artificial Kidney So Important? </h2>

Although the organ made is not yet transplantable, it is a step towards better care and more organ transplants for people who need it. To understand how the wait time increases or decreases, a 2025 study published in JAMA Open Network, used a computer model of 662,190 patients found that if the <span>kidney transplant</span> waiting list grew, so would the wait times. 

<ul><li>A 10% increase in the waiting list would add about 4 months to the wait time.</li><li>A 50% increase in the waiting list would add about 20 months to the wait time. </li></ul>

As the time increases, so does the desperation for a properly working organ that helps them increase the quality of their life. This artificial kidney could help many people, who are in the waitlist, by helping them sustain for more than 6 months, while they wait for a new organ for the transplant. Researchers are working towards bettering this medical future, which will soon be helping many. 

First Lab Grown Kidney

Israeli Scientists create artificial kidney

Lab Grown Kidney

artificial kidney that survives 34 weeks

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Artificial Kidney

Researchers at Tel Aviv University and Sheba Medical Center have made a major scientific breakthrough by successfully growing a human kidney organoid in the laboratory. An organoid is a tiny, three-dimensional model of an organ, and this new creation is far superior to any previous model. For the first time, the team grew the kidney organoid from specialized kidney stem cells, rather than from more general stem cells. This innovative approach has resulted in a model that perfectly mirrors the development of a human fetal kidney. One of the most remarkable aspects of this new organoid is its longevity. It can be kept alive and stable for an impressive 34 weeks, which is more than six months. This marks a significant improvement over older models, which typically failed and broke down after only four weeks. This extended lifespan allows for long-term research and medical testing on the kidney model.Also Read: Flesh-Eating Screwworm Parasite Detected in First US Human Case: Know the Warning Signs How Did Scientists Make This Lab-Grown Kidney? Before this breakthrough, scientists used "master" cells called pluripotent stem cells to grow organoids. The problem was that these cells could turn into any type of cell, which often led to the organoids being "contaminated" with unwanted cells from other parts of the body. This made experiments difficult to trust. The new method is different. It uses stem cells that are already programmed to only become kidney cells. Because of this, the new organoid is a "clean" model, made purely of kidney tissue. This purity allows for more accurate and reliable experiments, so scientists can be sure their results are directly related to the kidney. This new model gives researchers a clear look at how a kidney grows. They can watch for months as different parts of the kidney form, like the blood filters and urinary ducts. By using this model, they made a big discovery about birth defects. They intentionally blocked a signal in the organoid and watched as a developmental problem appeared, one that is known to cause kidney birth defects in people. This shows them exactly how a small mistake in development can lead to a serious medical condition. How Does The Artificial Kidney Change Medicine Researchers explain that this breakthrough provides a powerful new tool that could change medicine. Understanding Disease The model helps scientists see how problems in development lead to kidney diseases. This could lead to new treatments that fix the root cause of these illnesses. Safe Drug Testing Researchers can now safely test if new drugs are harmful to a developing kidney, which is especially important for protecting babies during pregnancy. Regenerative Medicine This new process creates a reliable supply of kidney cells. These cells could be used in research or as building blocks for new therapies to repair or replace damaged kidneys. Why Is This Artificial Kidney So Important? Although the organ made is not yet transplantable, it is a step towards better care and more organ transplants for people who need it. To understand how the wait time increases or decreases, a 2025 study published in JAMA Open Network, used a computer model of 662,190 patients found that if the kidney transplant waiting list grew, so would the wait times. A 10% increase in the waiting list would add about 4 months to the wait time.A 50% increase in the waiting list would add about 20 months to the wait time. As the time increases, so does the desperation for a properly working organ that helps them increase the quality of their life. This artificial kidney could help many people, who are in the waitlist, by helping them sustain for more than 6 months, while they wait for a new organ for the transplant. Researchers are working towards bettering this medical future, which will soon be helping many. 

israeli scientists created the first lab-grown kidney that survived 34 weeks

Most Heart Attacks Strike Between 7-11am, Cardiologist Explains What Puts Your Mornings At Risk

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How Stressful Mornings Affect Heart? (Credit-Canva)

We all want to have a relaxed and easy. Rushing to get ready, eating unhealthy breakfasts and running out the door, these habits are not feasible and can be difficult to maintain. Although getting up early and getting things in order before you leave may seem like a lot of work, it can be the best option not only for your mental health, but also your heart. 

According to cardiologist Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj, a board-certified cardiologist, your morning routine can significantly impact your <span>heart health</span>. He warns that the hours after you wake up are a "high-alert window" for your heart, as this is when the body's natural processes can increase the risk of a <span>heart attack</span>. 

However, it is not just his professional opinion, studies have shown that there is a time period, i.e. 7 am – 11 am, when we are most susceptible to heart attacks and you may be surprised to know how many people suffer sudden cardiac events within these hours. 

<a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/cardiologist-shares-3-healthy-breakfast-foods-that-silently-raise-your-blood-pressure-article-152521975" data-type="tilCustomLink"><strong>Also Read: Cardiologist Shares 3 'Healthy Breakfast' Foods That Silently Raise Your Blood Pressure</strong></a>

<h2>How Are Morning Hours Dangerous For Heart Events? </h2>

According to a 2020 study published in the Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine journal, for many years, research supported the idea that sudden cardiac arrests followed a predictable pattern. 

<strong>Morning Peak:</strong> Several studies from the late 1980s and early 1990s found that sudden cardiac death was most common in the morning, typically between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. 

<strong>Weekly Peak:</strong> Some studies also showed a "Monday peak," where more events occurred on Mondays than on any other day of the week. This was often linked to the stress of starting the work week. 

<strong>Seasonal Peak:</strong> There was also evidence of a seasonal pattern, with more events happening in the winter months. 

This pattern was thought to be due to natural daily changes in the body, such as fluctuations in heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormones like cortisol. 

<h2>Does This Time Pattern Still Affect Heart Events? </h2>

More recent studies are starting to tell a different story. Research from the past decade, including a large study called the Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study, has found no clear morning or Monday peak for sudden cardiac arrests. While many studies still show a low number of events in the early morning hours (between 12 a.m. and 6 a.m.), the classic morning peak has disappeared. This has been attributed to: 

The widespread use of medications like beta-blockers has been shown to reduce the effects of stress hormones that were thought to cause the morning peak. 

Advances in treating heart failure and coronary artery disease have also changed the way cardiac arrests present. 

Our 24/7 lifestyle with constant access to technology and stress may have spread the risk factors for cardiac arrest more evenly throughout the day and week, eliminating the "Monday peak." 

<h2>Why Do <span rel="noindex">Mornings Stress Out Our Heart</span>? </h2>

Dr Bhojraj explains that when you first wake up, your body goes through several changes that can be stressful for your heart. These include: 

<ul><li>Your body experiences a surge in cortisol, which is the stress hormone, in the morning to help you wake up, but it can also put a strain on your cardiovascular system.</li><li>Your blood platelets, which help with clotting, become stickier. This can increase the risk of blood clots that may block arteries.</li><li>Your also blood pressure increases as part of the waking process.</li></ul>

<h2>How To Start Your Day In A Heart Healthy Way </h2>

To protect your heart, Dr. Bhojraj suggests a gentle morning routine rather than a frantic one. He advises against rushing into the day with high-stress activities. Here are his recommendations for a heart-healthy morning:

Taking your medications on time is especially important for any heart-related prescriptions.

Eat a protein-rich breakfast like to start your day.

Take 10 to 15 minutes for some gentle exercise before you get busy.

 Starting your day slowly because it can help reduce the stress on your heart and set a positive tone for the rest of your day. 

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We all want to have a relaxed and easy. Rushing to get ready, eating unhealthy breakfasts and running out the door, these habits are not feasible and can be difficult to maintain. Although getting up early and getting things in order before you leave may seem like a lot of work, it can be the best option not only for your mental health, but also your heart. According to cardiologist Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj, a board-certified cardiologist, your morning routine can significantly impact your heart health. He warns that the hours after you wake up are a "high-alert window" for your heart, as this is when the body's natural processes can increase the risk of a heart attack. However, it is not just his professional opinion, studies have shown that there is a time period, i.e. 7 am – 11 am, when we are most susceptible to heart attacks and you may be surprised to know how many people suffer sudden cardiac events within these hours. Also Read: Cardiologist Shares 3 'Healthy Breakfast' Foods That Silently Raise Your Blood PressureHow Are Morning Hours Dangerous For Heart Events? According to a 2020 study published in the Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine journal, for many years, research supported the idea that sudden cardiac arrests followed a predictable pattern. Morning Peak: Several studies from the late 1980s and early 1990s found that sudden cardiac death was most common in the morning, typically between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. Weekly Peak: Some studies also showed a "Monday peak," where more events occurred on Mondays than on any other day of the week. This was often linked to the stress of starting the work week. Seasonal Peak: There was also evidence of a seasonal pattern, with more events happening in the winter months. This pattern was thought to be due to natural daily changes in the body, such as fluctuations in heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormones like cortisol. Does This Time Pattern Still Affect Heart Events? More recent studies are starting to tell a different story. Research from the past decade, including a large study called the Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study, has found no clear morning or Monday peak for sudden cardiac arrests. While many studies still show a low number of events in the early morning hours (between 12 a.m. and 6 a.m.), the classic morning peak has disappeared. This has been attributed to: Better Medication The widespread use of medications like beta-blockers has been shown to reduce the effects of stress hormones that were thought to cause the morning peak. Improved Treatment Advances in treating heart failure and coronary artery disease have also changed the way cardiac arrests present. Modern Lifestyle Our 24/7 lifestyle with constant access to technology and stress may have spread the risk factors for cardiac arrest more evenly throughout the day and week, eliminating the "Monday peak."   Why Do Mornings Stress Out Our Heart? Dr Bhojraj explains that when you first wake up, your body goes through several changes that can be stressful for your heart. These include: Your body experiences a surge in cortisol, which is the stress hormone, in the morning to help you wake up, but it can also put a strain on your cardiovascular system.Your blood platelets, which help with clotting, become stickier. This can increase the risk of blood clots that may block arteries.Your also blood pressure increases as part of the waking process.How To Start Your Day In A Heart Healthy Way To protect your heart, Dr. Bhojraj suggests a gentle morning routine rather than a frantic one. He advises against rushing into the day with high-stress activities. Here are his recommendations for a heart-healthy morning:Drink water as soon as you wake up.Taking your medications on time is especially important for any heart-related prescriptions.Eat a protein-rich breakfast like to start your day.Take 10 to 15 minutes for some gentle exercise before you get busy. Starting your day slowly because it can help reduce the stress on your heart and set a positive tone for the rest of your day. 

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