Diphtheria is a contagious infection of the nose and throat caused by bacteria called Corynebacterium diphtheriae that create toxins. These microbes usually affect the respiratory system. The bacteria consume solid tissues in the respiratory organs. Within a few days, the dead tissue becomes a thick, dark covering that can develop in the throat or nose. This disease can cause shortness of breath, sore throat, gentle fever, and enlarged organs in the neck. Diphtheria treatment is required from a specialist to make your body's essential life process, respiration, run smoothly.

Treatment of Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a serious sickness that requires medical help. Specialists treat it right away and carefully. Doctors first check that the airway isn't obstructed or diminished. Sometimes, they might have to put a breathing tube in the throat to ensure that the airway remains open until it is less inflamed. Diphtheria treatment includes:

• Antibiotics, for example, penicillin or erythromycin, assist with killing microorganisms in the body clearing up the disease. Antibiotics decrease the time that somebody with Diphtheria is infectious.

• An antitoxin: The administration of diphtheria antitoxin effectively inhibits the harmful effects of the bacterial toxin on the body. While this treatment is crucial for respiratory diphtheria infections, it is seldom employed for diphtheria skin infections.

Before giving an antitoxin, specialists might perform skin sensitivity tests. These are done to ensure the contaminated individual doesn't react to the immunising agent, i.e. antitoxin. If a patient is sensitive, the doctor may suggest that the person should not get the antitoxin. 

People affected with diphtheria may be isolated in an intensive care unit because Diphtheria can spread easily from person to person. It can contaminate anyone not vaccinated against the disease.

It’s important to note that diphtheria treatment requires Severe isolation when you are infectious to prevent the spread of the disease. Cautious and frequent hand-washing by everybody in your house significantly restricts the spread of contamination/infection.

Gallstones, which are hardened deposits of digestive fluid in your gallbladder, can be irritating or cause discomfort in your abdomen. However, there are ways that medical professionals may assist. Some gallstone treatment therapies concentrate on utilising certain medications or altering your diet. In certain cases, removing the gallbladder may involve surgery. Knowing about these therapies can assist you and your family in making the right decision. Health insurance coverage for these treatments can also be a crucial aspect to consider for your healthcare needs. Let us explore these simple and helpful ways to deal with gallstones together so that you can feel better and happier! 

Treatment of Gallstones

The following methods are employed for gallstones treatment:

1. Surgery to Remove the Gallbladder (Cholecystectomy):

• For recurring gallstones, cholecystectomy—or the removal of the gallbladder—is advised. 
• This method avoids the gallbladder and allows bile to travel straight from the liver to the small intestine, preventing future stone development. 
• Digestion is not greatly affected by living without the gallbladder. However, transient diarrhoea could happen. 
• The procedure offers comfort by eliminating the possibility of more gallstone-related disorders, guaranteeing a more seamless digestive process in the absence of the gallbladder, and resolving recurrent gallstone-related problems.

2. Medications for gallstone dissolution

• Gallstones can be dissolved using oral medicines, but the process can take time, taking months or even years. Additionally, stopping treatment shortens the time it takes for gallstones to regenerate.
• It is not widely used because of doubts regarding its effectiveness; it is usually chosen for those who cannot undergo surgery.
• Although it can dissolve gallstones, its long duration and tendency to recur after treatment are major drawbacks that affect its general use as the main therapy for gallstone-related problems.
  

• The gallbladder can be removed using a minimally invasive surgery called a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. 
• Surgeons make tiny incisions in the abdomen using tiny instruments and a tiny camera. For improved vision and ease of operation, they inject carbon dioxide gas. 
• Patients heal more quickly, have fewer scars, and spend less time in the hospital when using this technique. 
• With this method, patients can return to their routine more quickly and with less discomfort than with open surgery, which necessitates a larger incision. 
• Ultimately, compared to open surgery, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a more advanced method of removing the gallbladder that causes less pain and a quicker recovery for patients.

Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It can affect both men and women but is more symptomatic in women. Effective treatment for trichomoniasis involves prescription antibiotics like metronidazole or tinidazole. These drugs aim to restrict the parasite's growth or destroy it. Whether you have recently been diagnosed or are simply curious about this widely prevalent infection, this article will provide you with valuable insights into the most effective trichomoniasis treatment methods.

Treatment of Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis treatment involves the following procedures:

1. Prescription for Different Genders:

• For women, doctors typically prescribe metronidazole, which is taken over seven days to treat the infection. 
• However, men may only need a single dose of the same medication, which cures around 95% of cases. 
• So, the treatment duration can be longer for some, while others might need only one dose for the infection to go away. 
• Following your doctor's advice is essential to ensure the infection gets treated completely.

2. Partner Treatment:

• Trichomoniasis necessitates simultaneous treatment for both you and your sexual partner(s). 
• Failing to treat everyone involved concurrently can perpetuate the infection's transmission between partners.
• Even if one person undergoes treatment while their partner does not, the infection might persist, fostering a cycle of reinfection. 
• Treating all parties at the same time disrupts this cycle, preventing the infection from lingering and minimising the risk of recurrent infections between partners. 

• Cooperative treatment is pivotal in containing the spread of trichomoniasis within sexual relationships, ensuring comprehensive eradication and reducing the likelihood of further transmission.

3. Abstaining from Sex:

• It is essential to wait at least one week after completing the recommended pharmaceutical regimen before engaging in any sexual activity. 
• This length of time gives the treatment enough time to eradicate the infection and ultimately reduce the symptoms.
• Having sex too soon after treatment might increase the chance of reinfection and reduce the medication's effectiveness.

4. Follow-Up Care:

• It is essential that you make an appointment with a doctor for a follow-up visit after three months of trichomoniasis treatment. 
• This follow-up is essential to verify the infection's total absence and guarantee its eradication. Frequent monitoring provides peace of mind regarding your sexual health and helps prevent any recurrences. 
• A follow-up visit assists in confirming the parasite's absence even in cases where symptoms have subsided after treatment, lowering the possibility of transmission and subsequent problems.
• By guaranteeing the effective resolution of trichomoniasis, prioritising these follow-ups shows a dedication to comprehensive health management and enhances general well-being.

Liver cirrhosis, a condition characterised by scarring of the liver, needs different treatments to help manage symptoms and slow down its progress. Treatment focuses on lifestyle changes like eating better, not drinking alcohol, and handling other problems like hepatitis. Certain medications might also assist with alleviating symptoms. A successful course of therapy depends on early diagnosis, individual care, and addressing associated health conditions. Improved quality of life, reduced complications, and delayed liver deterioration are the goals of these initiatives for cirrhosis patients. Read on to learn more about the various liver cirrhosis treatment methods.

Treatment of Liver Cirrhosis

Depending on the underlying cause and extent of liver damage, cirrhosis therapy attempts to control symptoms, minimise liver scarring, and avoid consequences. Approaches to liver cirrhosis treatment include:

1. Dealing with the Root Causes

a) Alcohol Addiction:

• Quitting drinking is essential for those with cirrhosis brought on by excessive alcohol consumption. 
• Given that alcohol damages the liver no matter how much of it is consumed, treatment programmes for alcohol addiction may be suggested to help achieve sobriety.

b) Weight Management: 

• Blood sugar management and weight decrease can help alleviate cirrhosis associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

c) Managing Viral Hepatitis: 

• Certain drugs assist in preventing more hepatitis B or C virus-induced liver damage.

2. Managing Other Causes:

• If detected early enough, medications that target forms of liver cirrhosis—such as primary biliary cholangitis—can reduce the disease's progression.

3. Medicines and Symptom Control:

• Pain, weariness, and itching are among the symptoms that medications reduce. 
• Nutritional supplements can prevent osteoporosis and combat malnutrition associated with cirrhosis.

4. Addressing Complications:

• Targeted approaches are necessary for the successful treatment of cirrhosis complications. 
• A low-sodium diet, medicines, and, in extreme circumstances, fluid drainage techniques or surgery are used to treat ascites or fluid accumulation. 
• Medication for high blood pressure and frequent upper endoscopy to repair veins are used to treat portal hypertension, which is defined by increased vein pressure and lowers the risk of life-threatening bleeding.
• Antibiotics are used to treat infections; hepatitis, pneumonia, and influenza shots are advised. 
• While drugs help reduce toxin accumulation causing hepatic encephalopathy, they also improve the overall treatment of cirrhosis-related problems. Regular blood tests and ultrasounds are used to screen for liver cancer.

5. Liver Transplant:

• When liver failure occurs due to advanced cirrhosis, a liver transplant may be required as a last-resort for liver cirrhosis treatment. 
• This entails using a healthy liver from a deceased or living donor to replace the damaged liver.
• Patients are put through a rigorous testing process to guarantee an excellent surgical result.
• Previously, transplants were not available to those with alcoholic cirrhosis because of the risk of alcohol recurrence.
• According to recent research, some people with severe alcoholic cirrhosis who match the conditions of the transplant centre and pledge to abstain for life can succeed after receiving a transplant.

The common cold affects the respiratory tract. It is a prevalent disease. As per studies, on average, adults experience around two to three colds annually. Despite its harmless nature, the common cold is a cause of discomfort for individuals experiencing it. More than 200 viruses can be responsible for causing a cold, with rhinoviruses being the most prevalent.

These viruses are highly transmissible, quickly spreading from person to person or from one surface to another. Many viruses can persist on surfaces for extended periods, ranging from hours to even days. Common cold treatment aims to alleviate its symptoms and facilitate a speedier recovery. We have curated the list of most commonly tried and tested modes of treatment for the common cold.

Treatment of Common Cold

Take a look at the multifaceted standard cold treatment:

Drink plenty of fluids: Ensure we are well-hydrated by consuming water, juice, clear broth, or warm lemon water. Adequate hydration helps soothe the throat, keeps us hydrated, and assists in breaking down mucus.

Prioritise rest: Allow body the necessary time to recover by getting ample rest. Adequate sleep supports the immune system's efforts to combat the viral infection and promotes a faster recovery.

Use a saltwater gargle: Gargling with a saltwater solution can help alleviate a sore throat. This simple remedy reduces inflammation and provides temporary relief from discomfort.

Try saline nasal drops or sprays: Saline nasal drops or sprays can help moisturise the nasal passages, ease congestion, and facilitate the removal of mucus. These are especially useful for relieving nasal symptoms.

Zinc lozenges: Zinc lozenges are often used as a potential treatment for the common cold.

Use a suction bulb: A suction bulb can clear nasal passages for younger children who may have difficulty blowing their noses. This helps in reducing congestion and improving breathing.

Humidifying the air: Humidifying the air helps prevent the air in our living spaces from becoming too dry. This is especially important during the colder months when heating systems can remove moisture from the air, leading to dry nasal passages and throat.

Warm bath: A warm bath provides a calming environment, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. This can be particularly beneficial when feeling unwell due to a cold. Steam from a warm bath can help alleviate nasal congestion. The heat and steam may help open up nasal passages.

OTC medicines: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as Advil (ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen), or Tylenol (acetaminophen), along with cold medications, have the potential to alleviate symptoms.

Echinacea: based on research findings, Echinacea has shown potential effectiveness in reducing the duration of a cold in certain instances. Studies suggest that using Echinacea may contribute to a shorter duration of cold symptoms, offering a possible benefit in managing and alleviating the effects of a cold.

The thyroid, a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating our body's metabolism and overall health. Unfortunately, thyroid disease is quite common, affecting millions of people worldwide. But fear not, as various treatment options are available to help manage these conditions and restore balance to your life. In this article, we will explore the most effective thyroid disease treatments currently available. 

Treatment For Thyroid

Thyroid disease treatment is possible in various ways, and every form of treatment will rely upon the reason for your thyroid condition.

Assuming you have elevated degrees of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism), treatment choices can include:

• Anti-thyroid medications (methimazole and propylthiouracil): These are meds that prevent your thyroid from making hormones.

• Radioactive iodine: This treatment harms your thyroid cells, keeping them from making elevated degrees of thyroid hormones.

• Beta-blockers: These don't change how much hormones are in your body, yet they assist with dealing with the side effects of hyperthyroidism.

• Surgery: Your medical services supplier may precisely eliminate more severe thyroid diseases through surgery. This involves the removal of the thyroid, which will prevent it from making hormones. In this case, you will be placed on thyroid replacement hormone therapy until the end of your life.

The surgical procedure to remove your thyroid gland is called a thyroidectomy. There are two ways this surgery can be carried out:

• With an incision on the front of your neck

It is a more traditional way of removing the thyroid, and the doctor makes an incision on the front of the throat. 

• With an incision in your armpit

It is a scarless way of removing the thyroid, and the doctor makes an incision through your armpit, creating a tunnel to the thyroid. The specialist will utilise a mechanical arm that will travel through the passage to get to the thyroid. It can remove the thyroid back through the passage and out of the entry point in your armpit.

Assuming you have low production of thyroid hormones(hypothyroidism), the main treatment choice is:

• Thyroid substitution prescription: This medication is man-made (synthetic) which will replace thyroid hormones in your body. One drug that is ordinarily utilised is ]levothyroxine. Using this medicine, you can oversee thyroid disease and carry on with an ordinary life.

Chest infection refers to the infection and inflammation of the lungs and upper respiratory tract. Depending upon the cause and extent of infection, the condition can be mild or severe. Chest infection can be due to bacterial or viral infection.  In the lungs and airway, the pathogen grows resulting in inflammation, and mucous formation. This leads to constant cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, muscle pain, etc.  The chest infection passes from one person to another and can cause mass infections. To control this condition and avoid the spread, it is important to take action on time.    

Treatment of Chest Infection

If the infection is due to a virus, then it usually goes by itself depending upon the immunity of the patient. But if it is caused due to bacteria, then the doctor will provide antibiotics along with other medicines to relieve symptoms.

The following are the chest infection treatment options: 

• Antibiotics and medicines – In case of bacterial chest infection antibiotics are recommended for severe symptoms like pneumonia. Common antibiotics used are amoxicillin (a type of penicillin), clarithromycin, doxycycline, etc. Other than antibiotics some medicines like analgesics, antipyretics, and cough medicines are recommended to ease the symptoms. These medicines are recommended in both bacterial and viral chest infection cases. In the case of viral chest infections like acute bronchitis, no specific antibiotic is recommended.
• Home remedies – In case of mild chest infection, some herbal medicines are recommended and they work very well. Some common home remedies are warm water gargle, hot lemon-ginger tea, ginger, and honey cough drops, etc.  Drinking warm water helps to loosen the mucous accumulated. 
• Restraining from physical activity – Depending upon the severity of infection the patient is recommended to take rest and avoid heavy physical activity. 

Chest infection can be prevented in the following ways:

• Awareness – Being aware of the seasonal flu and other infections circulating in the surrounding area is important. Depending upon the type of viral strain causing the flu, flu shots are given. This gives protection from the circulating strain and helps us avoid severe infection.
• Avoid catching and circulating infection – The following ways are used to prevent chest infection circulation:

• Regular hand washing
• Wearing a mask if an infection is suspected in the surroundings 
• Cover mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing 

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) happens when the median nerve in the wrist gets squeezed or pressed. This nerve helps us feel things on the palm, tip of our thumb, and fingers, except the little finger. When this nerve is squeezed, it can make our hand and wrist feel tingly, numb, weak, or painful. Different things like doing the same hand movements a lot, health issues like arthritis, or wrist injuries can lead to CTS. It can hurt a lot and make it hard to do regular things. Treatments are aimed at easing the symptoms and making our hands work better.

Treatment of Carpel Tunnel Syndrome:

Carpel tunnel syndrome treatments include the following:

Carpel tunnel syndrome treatments include the following:

In the early stages, simple things that we can do to make the problem go away are:

• Taking frequent breaks: Giving regular rests to our hands during activities can reduce strain.
  
• Avoiding straining activities: Activities that worsen symptoms should be avoided or modified to lessen pressure on the wrist.
  
• Applying cold packs: Cold compresses can aid in reducing swelling and discomfort.

For cases diagnosed early, non-surgical methods are often recommended:

• Wrist splinting: Wearing a splint to immobilise the wrist during sleep can alleviate nighttime symptoms of numbness and tingling. We can also benefit from wearing a splint during the day. For a pregnant lady, nighttime splinting may be a good option.
  
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen may provide short-term relief from CTS-related pain, although they don't treat the condition directly. However, there is no evidence that these drugs improve carpal tunnel syndrome.
  
• Corticosteroids: Injections of corticosteroids into the carpal tunnel can decrease swelling and alleviate pain. Sometimes, ultrasound is used to guide these injections, ensuring more accuracy.

If CTS stems from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, treating the underlying condition may alleviate the symptoms of the disease, although this approach lacks conclusive evidence.

• Surgery: Surgery may be an appropriate option if symptoms are severe or if an individual does not respond to other treatments. The objective of surgery for Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is to reduce the pressure on the median nerve by cutting the ligament that's pressing against it. There are two different techniques to perform surgery. Surgical options include endoscopic surgery, a minimally invasive procedure using a small camera. A tiny incision is made on the palm or wrist to visualise and cut the pressing ligament. Alternatively, open surgery involves a palm incision to access and release the nerve. Even though it's a bit more invasive, this surgery effectively helps ease the pressure on the median nerve when symptoms continue despite trying other treatments.

Scabies is a common and contagious skin condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is caused by tiny parasitic mites known as Sarcoptes scabiei, which burrow into the skin and lay their eggs. Scabies can cause intense itching, red spots, bumps, or blisters on the infected area of your body. This uncomfortable sensation often leads to severe sleep deprivation as the itching gets worse at night. Furthermore, if left untreated scabies can also lead to secondary bacterial infections and scarring from scratching. In this article, we will provide insight into scabies treatment; so you have all the information needed to take care of yourself should you end up dealing with it!

Treatment of Scabies

Scabies treatment includes killing the bugs and eggs with a medicated cream or pill. 

Your medical care provider will probably request that you apply the prescribed medication to your entire body, starting from the neck. You'll have to leave it on for no less than 8 to 14 hours. In some cases, you might need to apply the cream twice. More medicines might be required, assuming new side effects show up.

Since scabies spread with such ease, your medical care provider will probably suggest treating all family individuals and other close contacts, regardless of whether they have side effects of scabies.

Scabies Treatment Frequently Uses:

• Permethrin cream- This skin ointment with synthetics kills parasites that cause scabies and their eggs. It's considered safe for adults, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and youngsters north of 2 months old.

• Sulfur cream- This cream is a scabies treatment that can be applied temporarily, after which it is flushed off and reapplied for five evenings in succession. 

• Ivermectin (Stromectol). Ivermectin can be taken as in a pill form to treat scabies when creams don't work. It's frequently endorsed for individuals with crusted scabies. Ivermectin isn't suggested for pregnant or nursing individuals or kids who weigh under 33 pounds (15 kilograms).

Hyperplasia refers to the abnormal increase in the number of cells in an organ or tissue, causing it to enlarge. This can sometimes be an indication of abnormal or precancerous changes. This condition is called pathologic hyperplasia. The cell growth can also be normal, then it is called physiologic hyperplasia.

The condition is something that a lot of people come across but often aren't sure how to address. So, let's dive into the treatments available for this hyperplasia and see how we can prevent or manage this condition effectively.

Treatment of Hyperplasia

Endometrial hyperplasia is most common in women aged between 50 and 60. The treatment for this primarily revolves around progestin therapy. It is a synthetic form of progesterone, a hormone that is typically low in individuals with this condition. Here's a breakdown of the various forms of progestin treatment:

Oral Progesterone Therapy:

It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and schedule whenever we take progesterone orally. This method can be convenient but requires consistency in taking the pill daily. It is effective in reversing hyperplasia in many cases and is often the first line of treatment. However, it is important to be aware of potential side effects like mood swings or weight gain.

Intrauterine Device (IUD) Containing Progesterone:

An IUD provides direct and localised hormone therapy, which often results in fewer systemic side effects compared to oral therapy. It is a long-term solution and it is usually effective for up to five years. It is particularly beneficial for women who are also seeking contraception. The IUD needs to be inserted and eventually removed by a healthcare professional and this requires a clinic visit.

Injection (Depo-Provera®):

The Depo-Provera® injection is usually given once every three months. This makes it a convenient option for those who prefer less frequent dosing. It is important to note that it might take some time for fertility to return to normal after stopping the injections. So, it is a significant consideration for those planning future pregnancies.

Vaginal Cream or Gel:

This localised treatment is often well-tolerated and can be a good choice for those who experience side effects with oral progesterone. The direct application allows for the absorption of progesterone right where it is needed, potentially reducing systemic side effects. It is an especially suitable option for postmenopausal women or those who may have contraindications to systemic therapy.

Each method of delivering progesterone has its specific advantages and considerations. Therefore, it is crucial to have a detailed discussion with a healthcare provider to understand the best treatment plan tailored to individual health needs and lifestyles.

Gangrene is a condition that causes the death of tissues from the lack of blood flow or bacterial infection. It usually affects the arms and legs. Gangrene is manifested as skin colour changes, swelling, blisters, immense pain followed by numbness, skin that feels too cold to touch, etc. 

Today, we will dive into the treatment options for gangrene, a condition that requires prompt attention to prevent further complications. Let's explore the various medical approaches to dealing with this serious issue.

Treatment of Gangrene

When it comes to gangrene treatment, it's not a one-size-fits-all scenario. Different cases may require different interventions, but here are some common procedures you might encounter:

• Antibiotics

In the case of gangrene, antibiotics play a crucial role in killing bacteria in the affected area.

• Surgery to Remove Dead Tissue (Debridement)

Surgical removal of dead tissue, known as debridement, is a key step in treating gangrene. 

• Maggot Debridement

In a somewhat unconventional approach, certain types of sterile maggots are introduced to the affected area. They munch away the dead tissue, promoting a clean slate for healing. 

• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

In hyperbaric oxygen therapy, patients breathe pure oxygen in a pressurised room or chamber. This boosts oxygen levels in the blood, helping the body fight infection and stimulate the growth of new tissue. 

• Vascular Surgery

Sometimes, gangrene is a result of impaired blood flow. Vascular surgery aims to improve blood circulation by repairing damaged vessels. 

Did you know that today, about half the group with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) can live past 40 years? Research shows that children born with the condition can live longer than before.

According to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, many patients can now enjoy healthy, fulfilling lives. This is due to significant advancements in Cystic Fibrosis treatment and care.

Several treatments can help ease the health issues caused by the condition. The common ones include medications for gene mutations, anti-inflammatory drugs and mucus-thinning medications. Once you control the symptoms, it becomes easier to manage the condition. You also get to prevent further complications. Let’s explore further the medication treatment options for Cystic Fibrosis in this blog.

Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis

• Medications for Gene Mutations

This is a new medicine combination of three drugs. It acts as a remedy to the most common genetic mutation that causes CF. Doctors consider it a significant treatment accomplishment.

• Anti-inflammatory Drugs

They function to reduce instances of swelling in the airways of your lungs.

• Mucus-thinning Medications

The drugs include hypertonic saline that works by allowing you to cough up mucus. This results in enhanced lung function.

• Inhaled Drugs

These drug types are known as bronchodilators. They function by keeping your airways open, hence resulting in relaxed muscles around the bronchial tubes.

• Oral Pancreatic Enzymes

They work to aid your digestive tract in nutrient absorption.

• Acid-reducing Drugs

These medications enhance the functioning of pancreatic enzymes.

What You Need to Know About Cystic Fibrosis Treatment

Even though it’s evident that there’s no permanent cure for Cystic Fibrosis, treatment helps the patient benefit in the following ways;

• Ease the uncomfortable symptoms
• Reduce further health complications
• Improve patient’s overall quality of life. 

With a doctor’s close and continuous monitoring, together with early intervention, the Cystic Fibrosis patient is likely to live healthy and longer. Such treatment measures help in slowing down the CF progression, hence a better quality of life for the person. Also, whenever necessary, doctors will prescribe particular drugs for conditions like diabetes or liver disease.

Take note that the management of CF can be complex. Thus, it helps to prioritise getting the right Cystic Fibrosis treatment. Also, ensure you’re well-armed with suitable health insurance. Be certain to renew the health insurance policy on time so that nothing can delay your access to the necessary treatment and care. 

Bell's palsy is also referred to as acute peripheral facial palsy, and it happens due to an unknown cause. It is an undetermined episode involving facial muscle weakness or paralysis. It begins instantly and may worsen over 48 hours. The condition happens due to facial nerve (7th cranial nerve) damage. The pain and discomfort are often felt on one side of the face and head.

Bell's palsy can occur in individuals of any age, but it's less common in people below 15 years and those over 60 years. 

Recovery starts mostly around 2 weeks to 6 months after the start of the symptoms. Most patients with Bell's Palsy recover their full facial expression and strength.

Treatment of Bell’s Palsy

The sooner the Bell's Palsy treatment begins, the higher the chance for faster and full recovery. The therapies include:

Drug Prescription

Common drugs prescribed by physicians to treat Bell's Palsy include: 

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medicines that help reduce facial nerve swelling. They work best if the patient starts the prescription within a few days after the onset of the symptoms.

People with the condition are likely to recover quickly and more completely after taking corticosteroids. These drugs tend to reduce inflammation, which most doctors believe could be the cause of Bell's Palsy. Some of the Corticosteroids include Prednisone and oral glucocorticoids.

Antiviral Drugs

When added to steroids, antiviral drugs can benefit some individuals with Bell's Palsy condition. For instance, antivirals like valacyclovir (Valtrex) or acyclovir (Zovirax), given together with prednisone, could work effectively in those with severe facial palsy.

Physical Therapy

Working with a physical therapist to treat Bell's Palsy can be one of the best remedies. The therapist will offer facial exercises that can help reduce the recovery time frame. The physical therapist can train patients how to massage the facial muscles gently. Some exercises recommended to help a Bell's Palsy patient work by

• Maximising the symmetry of the face
• Supporting facial movement towards recovery
• Limiting the restrain of the facial side that's unaffected by the condition
• Giving some sensation and movement to the affected part of the face to speed recovery

Some of the common facial exercises include:

• Gently pulling the mouth out to a smiling position using one finger at the corner of the weakened side of the mouth.
• Lifting the eyebrow and closing the eyelid gently using one finger

• Surgical Options

The doctor will often recommend surgery as the last Bell's Palsy treatment option. This is only suggested if a patient's symptoms fail to improve months after initiating other treatments. 

The surgery option may include:

• The transfer of muscles from other body areas to the face
• Weight insertion into the eyelid to enable it to close
• Facial nerve decompression, although doctors rarely recommend this option. It involves a nerve sheath opening alongside a bony canal to help ease pressure on the facial nerves.

Amnesia is the medical term for memory loss. There are two forms of this condition. The inability to store and remember new information is called anterograde amnesia and the difficulty to retrieve old information is called retrograde amnesia. Pathological memory loss can also occur due to any trauma (Post-traumatic amnesia), stress (Dissociative amnesia), brain disease, brain infection, brain tumour, etc. Excessive or long-term use of alcohol can also cause amnesia. The management of the condition very much depends upon the patient’s health status and usually requires multiple healing approaches.    

Treatment of Amnesia

Any specific treatment is not available for the different types of amnesia. Depending upon the patient’s health and medical background certain approaches and medicines are used to improve brain function and prevent the progression of amnesia.    

Amnesia treatment approaches include:

• Occupational therapy – These include cognitive training. This is done by an occupational therapist who helps the patient to rehearse through repetitive stimuli. This helps the patient enhance their memory retention. Common behavioural strategies include breathing exercises and Tai Chi movements.
• Behavioural therapy – These include strategies that help children memorise things. This is done by letting them listen to rhymes, have short exposure to photos, play memory games, etc. 
• Medications – There is no approved medicine for amnesia. But medicines are effective in case of amnesia associated with diseases like -  

• Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome 
• Brain infection 
• Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington chorea, etc.   Such patients can benefit from the medicine cholinesterase. 
• Psychiatric diseases (e.g., depression). People with these conditions can benefit from anti-depression medicines.
• Psychological diseases due to any mental trauma 

• Technological aid – In this technologically advanced digital era, many handy smartphone applications are available to help patients keep track of their daily activities. Smartphones and tablets can help patients organise their daily tasks with time alarm systems, handwritten notes, etc.
• Healthy lifestyle – A physically active lifestyle helps to enhance brain function and can prevent further memory loss.  

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a disease of the gastrointestinal system that causes altered bowel habits and abdominal discomfort, if not associated with any other disease. It is the most commonly diagnosed gastrointestinal disease in primary care hospitals. Even so, many IBS cases go undetected due to various socio-economic reasons. Many cases of IBS in females present with abdominal pain and constipation, while in males it is associated with diarrhoea. Broadly IBS can be categorised as IBS with diarrhoea (IBS-D), IBS with constipation (IBS-C), and IBS with mixed pattern (IBS-M). IBS is manageable through changes in food habits and certain medicines.     

Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)          

The indications of IBS vary depending upon the underlying cause and the treatment given is subjective to the symptoms experienced. The treatment includes both medicines and some non-pharmaceutical approaches, particularly for mild cases. Nonetheless, the IBS treatment given should be personalised and must consider the patient’s health status and medical background. Treatments are given to reduce symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, cramping, etc. With the required individualised treatment approach the symptoms can be managed and the quality of life of the patients can be

Commonly practiced irritable bowel syndrome treatments are:

Non-pharmaceutical approaches

• For IBS-C, fiber supplements, and herbal laxatives are recommended to reduce the problem.
• Whereas, in the case of IBS-D, a probiotic is given as a supplement.

Pharmaceutical approaches

• Magnesium hydroxide oral (Phillips' Milk of Magnesia) or polyethylene glycol (Miralax) are recommended as laxatives for IBS-C patients.
• Loperamide is given to IBS-D patients to treat diarrhoea
• Psyllium (Metamucil) helps to reduce IBS-C symptoms
• Many anti-diarrheal, anti-constipation, and anti-cholinergic medicines like tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotics, serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and diphenhydramine have a wide range of actions including on smooth muscle located in the Gastro-Intestinal tract to reduce the symptoms of IBS.
• Analgesics or pain medicines are given to reduce abdominal pain
• Certain drugs particularly recommended for IBS patients are –
• Rifaximin: reduces abdominal pain and diarrhoea
• Alosetron (Lotronex): Used to treat IBS-D in females
• Eluxadoline (Viberzi): Reduces muscle contraction and secretions in the intestine

Physical activity

• Enhanced physical activity can help improve the symptoms by increasing the transit time of food through the colon.

• Reducing the intake of FODMAPs – FODMAPs refer to fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. These are present in foods like wheat products, onions, certain fruits and vegetables, sorbitol, and some dairy. FODMAPs are known to increase abdominal pain and gastrointestinal symptoms in IBS patients. 

Cardiac arrest is a critical medical emergency characterised by the sudden cessation of the heart's pumping function. A person loses consciousness, stops breathing, and has a weak or no pulse. This is a potentially fatal circumstance. It is imperative to respond quickly. Health insurance financially supports to have access to life-saving measures, ensuring timely intervention during emergencies. Cardiac arrest treatment demands immediate action. The likelihood of surviving a cardiac arrest can be significantly increased by acting quickly and taking the appropriate action.

Treatment of cardiac arrest

Cardiac arrest treatment involves immediate medical interventions to restore the heart's function and support the person's life. This usually consists of:

1. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, or CPR

• CPR entails rescue breathing and rapid chest compressions
• To maintain blood circulation and avert possible deaths after abrupt cardiac arrest, this life-saving method is essential.
• Performing CPR as soon as possible helps to keep oxygen flowing to critical organs, improving the patient's chances of life during crucial cardiac emergency minutes.

2. Defibrillation for Heart Rhythm Restoration:

• Using an automatic external defibrillator, defibrillation attempts to restart the heart's normal rhythm by applying an electric shock.
• This procedure addresses tachycardia in cases of cardiac arrest and other situations.
• Defibrillation can effectively restore a regular heartbeat and improve survival rates during major cardiac episodes.

3. Heart Rhythm and Symptom Management Medicines:

• Supplemental medications that regulate heart function and lessen possible triggers for cardiac events include ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. These are administered to treat arrhythmias or lower the risk of sudden cardiac death.
• These drugs are essential for preserving heart health and reducing the risk of potentially fatal cardiac problems.

4. Heart Surgery:

• In some circumstances, surgery is required to implant cardiac devices or remove blockages causing cardiac problems.
• The goal of these procedures is to address underlying issues that may be interfering with proper cardiac function, such as blockages or abnormalities.

Tularemia Disease, or rabbit fever, is caused by a highly infectious gram negative bacterium that commonly affects rabbits and other rodents. It can sometimes get transmitted to humans and varies greatly in symptoms.  

What are the Causes of Tularemia Disease?

Tularemia is caused by bacteria that can survive in a variety of substrates like soil, water, air, and on dead animals.  It doesn’t occur naturally to humans but is transmitted from rabbits and other infected animals to humans through several means. 

The following are known risk factors and causes for tularaemia disease:

• Insect bite – It is one of the major causes of tularemia disease where the infecting bacteria are transmitted through insects (deer fly, tick, etc.) to humans, which explains why nearly all cases occur in rural areas.
• Contact transmission – It occurs in people living in close contact with animals. Handling infected animals or their meat is a common source of tularemia disease.
• Food & Water transmission – Tularemia caused by ingestion of food or water can  occur if someone eats undercooked or raw meat from infected animal or shares the drinking water source with infected animal.
•  Air transmission – Cases also resulted from inhaling airborne bacteria and from laboratory accidents. It is particularly true for people working with animals or working in gardens. Even people doing construction activities can also ingest infecting bacteria through soil. 

Like the other insurance products in the market, COVID-19 insurance is a specialised health policy that covers hospitalisation and treatment expenses related to the virus infection. COVID-19 health insurance coverage comes in dedicated policy forms, including the Corona Kavach and Rakshak cover. Many general insurance companies in India began offering travel and medical insurance with COVID coverage after the pandemic.

Benefits of a Covid 19 Insurance

The benefits of a COVID-19 insurance policy include the following:

1. Financial Protection to Your Loved Ones

A COVID-19 health insurance policy provides financial stability to a person’s family in case of that individual's demise due to the disease. So, if a person has this policy and has contracted coronavirus and couldn’t survive this disease, in that case, his family member who is a nominee will receive the entire sum assured in the policy. 

2. Affordable Premiums

With a Corona insurance policy, one can receive coverage for medical and non-medical expenses by paying a nominal premium. Treatment for COVID-19 can sometimes be very expensive and can cost lakhs of rupees, in case it becomes severe. So, opting for a COVID-19 health insurance policy will help to meet the medical expenditures at an affordable cost. 

3. Uncomplicated Claim Settlement Procedure

COVID-19 health insurance offers a quick claim settlement policy that will help the insured get his claims at the earliest. This policy offers a cashless/online settlement option so that the person doesn’t have to go to the billing counters to settle his bills. The insurance agents will assist the insured in claiming and settling the expenses.

4. Inflation-Proof Your Financial Planning

The expense of healthcare has risen tremendously during the pandemic as people are forced to spend their money to get premium treatments in the hospital. Most rely on their funds to deal with emergencies without a health policy. The COVID-19 health insurance policy also assures to benefit the insured’s family if the person dies of COVID-19 disease.

A condition characterised by elevated blood sugar levels, diabetes mellitus is caused by various factors, including genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, environmental influences, autoimmune responses and insulin-related issues. To control blood sugar levels and prevent this disease, diabetes mellitus treatment takes an extensive approach including medication, insulin treatment, lifestyle changes and routine monitoring. The goal of individualised care plans is to keep patients' blood sugar levels at optimal ranges to reduce risks and improve their general health and well-being.

What is the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus Disease?

Diabetes mellitus treatment involves the following approach:

1. Blood Glucose Control:

• The goal of managing diabetes is to keep blood glucose levels close to normal, which is essential for preventing complications, particularly heart and peripheral artery illnesses.

2. Control of Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: 

• In addition to glucose, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol is essential for treating diabetes holistically and lowering cardiovascular risks.

3. Diet and Exercise:

• Effective management of diabetes often involves a balanced diet tailored to regulate blood sugar levels and a consistent exercise regimen, essential for controlling the condition and maintaining overall health.

4. Insulin Therapy: 

• Delivered through insulin injections or insulin pumps, insulin therapy is crucial for type 1 diabetes and occasionally for type 2. 

• Rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting insulin are among the varieties; doses are customised based on circumstances.

5. Oral Medications: 

• Advised when blood sugar management is not achieved only by lifestyle modifications.
• These medications improve the efficiency of natural insulin, decreasing the generation of sugar, increasing the production of insulin or limiting the absorption of sugar. 
• They can be used with insulin or without it.

6. Blood Sugar Management and Other Treatment Options:

• Carbohydrate counting remains a crucial practice for managing blood sugar levels in type 1 diabetes, while in severe cases, doctors may consider pancreas or islet cell transplants as potential options for treatment

7. Customised Care: 

• Physicians adjust insulin dosages depending on each patient's unique requirements and reaction, considering variables such as body weight, meal timings, frequency of activity, and endogenous insulin production.

8. Patient Responsibilities: 

• Self-care is essential; people should adhere to regular schedules that include blood pressure checks, food modifications, exercise, weight control, stress reduction and medication compliance.

9. Regular Monitoring: 

• Frequent check-ups with a doctor to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment, requiring modifications to medication or lifestyle as needed to provide the best possible control of diabetes and a decrease in complications.

To continue our fight against COVID-19, staying informed about all coronavirus treatments is paramount. From remedies such as antivirals to vaccines ⎯ is the information just too much? Well, that’s where we come in: to help break down what may seem impossible to deal with when it comes to treatment of Covid-19.

What is the Treatment of Covid-19 Disease?

Let's walk through the options that we resort to for the treatment of Covid-19:

• Nirmatrelvir with Ritonavir (Paxlovid): This specific treatment is for adults and younger kids of the age of 12 and up. Once you start having those COVID symptoms, jump on this treatment as soon as you can, but no later than five days after. The greatest thing about it? It’s an at-home oral treatment, which works pretty well!

• Remdesivir (Veklury): This antiviral is suitable for kids and adults. If you're within a week of the first symptom, it is your go-to. However, it involves going to a medical facility for 3 consecutive days for IV infusions.

• Molnupiravir (Lagevrio): This one is specifically for adults. Much like Paxlovid, you must start taking it as soon as symptoms begin and within 5 days. This is also something that you can take as soon as possible in the comfort of your own home in pill form.

• What Else to Remember: These treatments may also interfere with other medications and sometimes cause unwanted side effects. Therefore, it would be best if you could take a few minutes to speak with your doctor about what may be good for you! Don't know who to talk to? Many local community health centres have walk-in clinics!

• Under Treatment Options: You don’t have to be alarmed if you end up in the hospital as different treatments are available now to suit individual conditions. If you have a weaker immune system, you may need to get convalescent plasma for treatment.