Health Information

Health Information

Articles by PhysiciansGeneral Health ArticlesNewsletterVDOPodcast

Search

Digital Mammograms Key to Women's Fight Against Breast Cancer

Digital Mammograms Key to Women's Fight Against Breast Cancer     Digital mammograms have proven to be an important tool in quickly and accurately detecting breast cancer, thereby reducing the number of breast cancer patients, which is the number one cause of death.     Cancer in women around the world, particularly breast cancer, is a difficult disease to identify and prevent. While it can be life-threatening, there are often no early warning signs or symptoms of the disease.   Regular breast examination with a mammogram machine is an important measure to detect breast cancer in its early stages, giving patients a greater chance of survival. Consequently, it should be given great importance.   Differences between digital mammograms and conventional mammograms A mammogram is an X-ray examination of the breast that can be done either conventionally or digitally. Digital mammograms record the digital breast image, making it possible to view the images on a computer monitor in a matter of seconds.     It is recommended that women aged 35 and over have an annual mammogram, although individuals with higher risk factors, such as a family history of cancer, may need to have a mammogram before this age. With kind regards from X-Ray Department, Vibhavadi Hospital

See More

Chikungunya

Disease Characteristics Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne virus infection characterized by symptoms similar to those of dengue fever. Unlike dengue, however, the virus does not lead to the leakage of plasma outside of the blood vessels, meaning that individuals with severe symptoms, up to and including shock, are not typically seen.   Causes Chikungunya virus, an RNA virus belonging to the genus alphavirus and family Togaviridae, is the cause of illness and is spread by Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus mosquitoes.   Transmission Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are the primary transmitters of chikungunya virus. When they bite a person in the high fever stage, when the virus is in the bloodstream, it enters the mosquito's stomach and multiplies. The virus then travels to the mosquito's salivary glands, and when the mosquito bites another person, it transmits the infection, causing them to develop symptoms of the disease.   Incubation Period Generally, about 1–12 days but commonly 2–3 days   Infective Stage During the second to fourth day of the high fever phase, there is a large amount of virus present in the bloodstream. Signs and Symptoms The patient may experience a sudden high fever and a red rash on the body that may be accompanied by itching. Additionally, red eyes (conjunctival injection) may be observed, though bleeding in the whites of the eyes is rare. In children, the symptoms tend to be less severe than in adults, where the most prominent symptom is joint pain, which can occur in different places and may be accompanied by inflammation. In some cases, the joint pain is so severe that the joints cannot move. Generally, the symptoms resolve within 1-12 weeks, though in some cases the joint pain can recur 2-3 weeks later or last for months or even years. No patients with severe to shock symptoms were found, and unlike dengue hemorrhagic fever, a positive tourniquet test and petechiae may be seen on the skin.   Difference between DF/DHF and Chikungunya Infection   1.             High fever is more acute in Chikungunya than in DF/DHF and therefore the patient comes to the hospital sooner. 2.             Fever duration in chikungunya is usually shorter than in dengue and DF/DHF, with patients having fever durations as short as 2 days. In comparison, fever in DF/DHF typically subsides in 4 days. 3.             Although blood spots and a positive Tunigue test can be found on the skin in cases of DF/DHF, both spontaneous and test-induced numbers are usually less common. 4.             A convalescent petechial rash with whitish rings is not a symptom of Chikungunya. 5.             Chikungunya is associated with a higher incidence of maculopapular rash and conjunctival infections than is seen with dengue. 6.             Myalgia / arthralgia are more common in Chikungunya than in dengue. 7.             Up to 15% of those infected with Chikungunya experienced convulsions due to sudden high fever, which was three times higher than the rate of convulsions associated with high fever in dengue cases.   The Chikungunya virus infection, which originated in Africa, was first detected in Asia in 1958 by Prof. W McD Hamnon in Thailand at the same time as a dengue fever epidemic. Chikungunya isolates were also obtained from pediatric hospital patients in Bangkok. Children’s hospital patients in Bangkok.   In Africa, Chikungunya is found in many countries and is transmitted in two ways. The first, known as the primate cycle (rural type), involves humans, mosquitoes, and monkeys such as Cercopithicus or Barboon, which act as amplifying hosts. This can cause sporadic cases and small outbreaks (miniepidemics). The second way is the urban cycle (human-mosquito), which occurs when a non-immune person enters an area where the virus is present and then transmits it to the urban population through mosquitoes such as Aedes aegypti and Mansonia aficanus. This is particularly likely in areas where Aedes aegypti is very prevalent. In Asia, the transmission of the disease is distinct from that in Africa. The primary route of transmission is urban, with Ae. aegypti being the primary vector. After the first report of the disease in Thailand, it has been reported in a number of other countries in Asia, including Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia and the Philippines, with the epidemiology following a similar pattern to other diseases caused by Ae. aegypti.   Rainy season is a time when the prevalence of this disease is high due to an increase in the mosquito population and the resulting infections in Aedes mosquitoes. This particular disease is not age-specific and can affect people of all ages, unlike dengue fever and rubella, which usually occur in individuals under the age of 15. In 1993, there were three outbreaks of this disease in Loei Province, Prachin Buri and Nakhon Si Thammarat as well as Nong Khai. Treatment There is no specific cure for the condition. The primary focus of treatment is palliative care, which includes medications to reduce fever, joint pain, and rest to help manage the symptoms.

See More

Influenza: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Influenza: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention   Influenza is the most common disease in both children and adults. Some people may have it several times a year, especially young children and those in their first year of school, who may have it on average once a month. This results in a loss of work, study time, and a significant amount of money spent each year.   This is because the virus that causes influenza (the flu virus) comes in almost 200 different types. The majority (75-80%) are caused by rhinoviruses, which are part of the Coryza viruses. Other types of viruses include adenoviruses and the respiratory syncytial virus.   These viruses cause inflammation in the upper respiratory tract (resulting in swollen and red nasal tissues) and produce mucus. Although it is a self-limiting disease that goes away on its own within a week, children will get influenza 6-12 times a year on average.   As the body ages, it becomes more resistant to various types of influenza viruses, making the likelihood of getting influenza less frequent. Adults get influenza 2-4 times a year, and the elderly may get it once a year, with milder symptoms. Women are more likely to get the flu because they are in close proximity to children.   This disease can easily be transmitted from person to person by being in close proximity to each other. Therefore, it is prevalent in schools, factories, and other places where people gather in large groups. It is a disease that occurs throughout the year, but it is most common during the rainy and cold seasons or when the weather is changing. In contrast, it is less common in the hot season.   Cause:   The cause is from the flu virus, which exists in 200 different types. Each time the disease occurs, it is caused by a new type of flu virus circulating continuously. The flu virus is present in the mucus, saliva, and sputum of patients and is transmitted through coughing, sneezing, or breathing.   In addition, the flu virus can also be transmitted through hand contact, that is, the flu virus can attach to the hands of a person, and when they touch their eyes, nose or mouth, the virus can enter their body and cause flu symptoms. The incubation period (the period from when the patient receives the infection until symptoms appear) is 1-3 days.   Symptoms:   Common symptoms include having a fever, body aches, fatigue, mild headaches, dry or phlegmy cough, and sometimes a sore throat when coughing. Adults may not have a fever and only have a runny nose with clear mucus, while children often have a fever and sometimes experience high fever, convulsions, abdominal pain, or diarrhea. If it lasts for more than 4 days, there may be thick or greenish mucus or yellow or green sputum due to repeated bacterial infection, and other complications may occur, requiring antibiotics.   Complications:   Common complications include bacterial infections that cause yellow or green mucus or sputum. If it spreads to nearby sinuses, it can cause sinusitis, otitis media, bronchitis, pneumonia, etc.   In young children, high fever may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain and some may experience a ringing sound in their ears due to inflammation in the ear canal. Some may also experience dizziness due to inflammation of the inner ear, a condition known as "ear cold", which typically resolves on its own within 3-5 days. Complications often occur in patients who do not get enough rest or engage in heavy physical work, and in those with weakened immune systems (such as malnourished infants or the elderly).   What was found:   Fever, runny nose, swollen nasal tissue, and slightly red throat in children may be accompanied by swollen lymph nodes but not severe redness and there may be pus.   Transmission:   This disease often spreads during the winter due to low humidity and cold air. We can contract it through the saliva and mucus of infected individuals, and also through contaminated hands that come into contact with the nose and eyes.   Patients can spread the virus before symptoms occur and 1-2 days after symptoms appear. Those at higher risk of getting a cold are children under 2 years old, malnourished children, and children in childcare settings.   Methods of transmission:   The child's hands or the hands of adults who come into contact with the virus from the patient's mucus or the environment and then touch their eyes, nose, or mouth. Breathing in the virus that the patient coughs out. Breathing in the virus that is in the air.   Treatment:   As the common cold is caused by a viral infection, there is no specific medication for it. Treatment involves managing symptoms only.   1. Patient care recommendations are as follows:   Rest a lot and avoid heavy work or excessive exercise. Wear warm clothing to keep the body warm and avoid getting wet from rain or cold air. Also, avoid taking cold showers. Drink plenty of water to help reduce fever and replace fluids lost due to high fever. Consume soft foods, rice water, sweetened water, orange juice, fruit juice, or hot beverages. Use a damp cloth (should use warm or tap water, not cold or icy water) to wipe the body when there is a high fever.   *These recommendations can also be used for patients with fever from other causes. Treat according to symptoms as follows:   2.1 For adults and children over 5 years old:   If there is a fever, take a fever-reducing medication such as aspirin or paracetamol. If there are symptoms of a runny or stuffy nose, take an allergy medication such as chlorpheniramine. If there is a cough, take a cough medication such as cough syrup or expectorant.   2.2 For young children under 5 years old:   If there is a fever, use a fever-reducing medication such as paracetamol in syrup form or baby aspirin. If there are symptoms of a runny or stuffy nose, take an allergy medication such as chlorpheniramine in syrup form. If there is a lot of nasal congestion making it difficult to breathe, use a rubber bulb to suction out the mucus frequently. If there is a cough, give a combination medication that contains both an allergy medication and a mucus-removing medication, such as cough expectorants or guaifenesin. There is no need to give separate allergy medication. If the child has a history of seizures or high fever that causes restlessness and refusal to sleep, give an anticonvulsant medication such as phenobarbital.   3. Antibiotics are not necessary to be given because they do not have any effect on killing the virus that causes a common cold (which is characterized by clear nasal discharge). However, in cases where there is suspicion of a bacterial infection, such as thick yellow or green nasal discharge, severe sore throat, or ear pain, penicillin or ampicillin can be used, or erythromycin if allergic to penicillin. The duration of treatment should be 7-10 days.   4. If there is sticky phlegm when coughing, avoid taking allergy medicine and cough medicine. Instead, take expectorants like Mucinex and Ammon, and drink plenty of warm water. Do not drink cold water.   5. If there are symptoms of wheezing or high fever lasting more than 7 days, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Further tests such as X-rays or specialized examinations may be necessary.   Prevention:   Avoiding public places such as movie theaters and restaurants during the influenza epidemic. Use a cloth to cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, or wear a mask. Wash your hands frequently (both patients and those close by), and do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth with your fingers as it may introduce germs into your body. Do not stay close to someone who has had the flu for a long time. Take care of your body by keeping warm, especially when the weather changes. Avoid overworking, but exercise regularly. Avoid bathing or washing your hair with excessively cold water, especially in cold weather. It is difficult to prevent the flu and there is still no vaccine to prevent it, therefore taking care of your own health is the most important thing.   Recommendations:   There is no medicine that can cure or prevent the flu, and treatment depends on rest and self-care of the patient. Medications are used only to treat symptoms. Generally, fever symptoms tend to disappear within 4-5 days. Even after the fever subsides, some patients may continue to have a runny nose and cough for a period of time, which can last for 1/2 to 1 month, and the cough may be dry or produce small amounts of white phlegm. If no other abnormal symptoms are present, no medication is necessary, but it is recommended to drink plenty of warm water and avoid cold drinks to gradually reduce the coughing.   It is not necessary to use antibiotics for patients with the flu unless they have suspected complications. Patients with a flu (with fever symptoms) that are chronic or recurring may have other underlying causes, such as heart disease, tuberculosis, leukemia, anemia, malnutrition, etc. Therefore, it is important to check whether these causes are present. If there is suspicion, it is recommended to seek medical attention.   People who frequently sneeze and have a runny nose without fever often have allergic reactions to the environment, such as dust, pollen, or animal dander, rather than a viral infection.   People who have a fever and a runny nose, but the fever is constant and not relieved by medication, may not have ordinary flu, but may have other causes such as measles, pneumonia, or sinusitis. It is recommended to carefully examine the symptoms of these diseases.   In addition, there are several other infectious diseases that may initially show symptoms similar to the common cold; such as dengue fever, pertussis, diphtheria, polio, viral hepatitis, encephalitis, pneumonia, and spinal meningitis. Therefore, it is important to closely monitor any changes in symptoms. If a fever lasts more than 7 days or symptoms deviate from a typical cold, it is recommended that the patient seek medical attention rather than purchasing or taking a cold remedy containing ingredients such as Chloramphenicol, Tetracycline, or Phenylpropanolamine, or giving children powder medicine that contains Chloramphenicol or Tetracycline, as they can be dangerous.

See More

Frequently Asked Questions Compilation of the New Influenza Type A (H1N) Strain   The Bureau of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health has compiled a collection of frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the new influenza A (H1N) strain, as of June 15, 2009 at 8:00 a.m. This collection includes questions about wearing a mask, taking antiviral drugs, prevention methods, and proper practices to prevent an epidemic. For more information, please read here.   Frequently Asked Questions Compilation of the New Influenza Type A (H1N) Strain 1.             What is the flu that is currently spreading in the news? The 2009 new influenza outbreak began in Mexico and spread to travelers in many other countries. It is caused by a new strain of influenza virus type A H1N1 (A/H1N1) which contains the genetic material of human influenza, swine flu, and avian influenza. This strain has never been seen before in both swine and humans, and is believed to have originated from cross-breeding. No contact from pigs was found. When the World Health Organization announced the official name on April 29, the disease was changed to "New strains of influenza, type A, H1N1". 2.             Why was the term “Swine Flu” not used like the name used in the early stages of the epidemic? The English term “Swine Flu” was used when reporting the influenza epidemic in Mexico. The results of genetic analysis revealed that it is a new strain found in humans and has never been found in pigs before. Swine flu is typically a respiratory disease that occurs in pigs, caused by several different influenza viruses, such as H1N1, H1N2, H3N1, and H3N2, each with different strains. Occasionally, pigs can be infected and become sick, which is rare. Infection is normally caused by humans inhaling droplets when pigs cough or sneeze, or come into contact with pigs or the environment in which the pigs live. However, no outbreaks of this disease in swine have been reported in either Mexico or the United States, and results of disease investigation have found no one to have contracted the disease from swine. Instead, it is believed to only spread the disease from person to person.   On April 29, 2009, the World Health Organization officially changed the name of the new strain of influenza, formerly known as Swine Flu, to "Influenza A H1N1". In response to this change, the Thai Ministry of Public Health has adopted the same name and changed the abbreviation from "2009 new influenza" to "New strains of influenza, type AH1N1" to ensure consistency and help convey a common understanding to the public. It is important to note that this strain of influenza is distinct from seasonal influenza A H1N1, which are caused by different influenza viruses. 3.             How is a person infected? Most people acquire influenza by coming into contact with the respiratory droplets, coughs, sneezes, mucus, and saliva of infected individuals. Additionally, indirect transmission of the virus can occur when individuals touch contaminated surfaces such as handkerchiefs, doorknobs, telephones, eyeglasses, and other objects. There is no evidence to suggest that influenza is transmitted through the consumption of pork. Most patients usually experience symptoms 1-3 days after being exposed to the virus. In rare cases, this period can extend up to 7 days. They may become infectious one day prior to the onset of illness, and the first 3 days are the most contagious. The infectious period typically lasts no longer than 7 days, although in young children, it may last up to 10 days. 4.             Can humans infect other animals? The International Animal Disease Organization officially published a report on May 7, 2009, confirming a new strain of influenza type AH1N1 that has been found in both humans and swine in Canada, leading to an outbreak of the disease in swine. 5.             Will the consumption of pork or products made from pork result in infection with this new strain of virus? Cooking pork and pork products at 70 degrees Celsius or higher will make them safe to consume. It is important to not use sick or dead pigs for cooking, as the heat from cooking will not destroy any new strains of influenza virus that may be present. 6.             What are the symptoms of H1N1 influenza? Symptoms of the common flu, such as high fever, headache, muscle aches, cough, and sore throat, are similar to those seen in most cases of the virus. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also be present. Generally, 95 percent of patients experience mild symptoms and are able to recover without having to be hospitalized. However, people with chronic underlying diseases such as respiratory disease, asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, the elderly, children under 5 years old, those with low immunity, obesity, and pregnant women are at risk of severe complications and even death. 7.             Can this disease be treated and how? Most patients with mild symptoms, such as low-grade fever, can recover without hospitalization by taking symptomatic medications such as paracetamol to reduce fever (do not use aspirin). These patients can visit their doctor at the clinic or obtain medicines and advice from a pharmacist near home to maintain their condition at home. However, those with more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, panting, and vomiting a lot should see a doctor to consider the provision of antiretroviral drugs or to be admitted to the hospital. 8.             How do we protect ourselves from this disease? In order to protect yourself from contracting this disease, it is important to avoid contact with people who have flu symptoms. If you must take care of a patient, make sure to wear a mask, as well as ensuring that the patient also wears a mask. Additionally, it is important to regularly wash your hands with either water and soap or alcohol gel, especially after coughing and sneezing. To further prevent the spread of germs, do not share glasses, drinking straws, food spoons, handkerchiefs, or towels with others. Finally, it is important to maintain good health by eating nutritious food, drinking clean water, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and alcohol.   Outbreak situation and severity of the disease 9.             What is the current influenza A (H1N1) situation? Since mid-March 2009, Mexico has seen an abnormal increase in influenza and pneumonia cases. Subsequently, laboratory samples have been sent as of June 15, 2009, which revealed a confirmed case of influenza infection due to a new strain of type A (H1N1). As of this date, 29,669 cases have been reported in 74 countries, resulting in 145 deaths, accounting for a morbidity rate of about 0.49%. A list of countries where cases were found and daily disease situation reports can be found on the Ministry of Public Health website www.moph.go.th. 10.          Has this new Influenza strain of influenza been discovered in Thailand? Since April 28, 2009, Thailand has seen 201 confirmed cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection, of which 30 were imported cases and 171 were domestically infected. Currently, there is an outbreak of the disease in Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Pathum Thani, which has caused the closure of schools and entertainment venues both in Thai and foreign tourist attractions. All patients reported mild symptoms and there have been no fatalities. In order to prevent the spread of the virus, health officials have been closely monitoring people who have had close contact with infected individuals. Those who have been affected have been treated, but their symptoms have not been severe. 11.          What is the trend of the outbreak? The World Health Organization has declared that the opportunity to contain the H1N1 flu epidemic to the country of origin has passed and that the outbreak is likely to continue to spread across the globe, creating a pandemic. The virus may undergo mutations, leading to either more or less severe outbreaks, the severity of which is still unpredictable. However, from the experience of past pandemics, there are usually subsequent outbreaks that tend to be more severe than the first wave. 12.          How does the Ministry of Public Health predict outbreak trends in Thailand? The outbreak of the disease within and outside the country can be divided into three distinct phases, taking into account the nature of the disease, its environment, and the potential it has in the country. The phases should be considered in order to identify the current epidemic situation in the country. Situation A involves a patient who has been infected from outside the country and has come into the country. Situation B involves a localized spread of the infection within the country's borders. Situation C involves a widespread distribution of the infection within the country. From late April to early June 2009, Thailand has been screening international travelers (Scenario A) and sustained domestic transmission for more than 6 weeks. Recent data suggests that Thailand has started to experience new influenza infections within the country (Scenario B) and the domestic outbreak may continue to spread (Scenario C), similar to the outbreaks in other countries such as the United States and Japan. To successfully combat the crisis, the public, government, and other stakeholders must cooperate and take strong preventive measures. If successful, the impact on health, economy, and society can be kept to a minimum. 13.          What is the impact of a widespread outbreak? The spread of the disease in the past can have a significant impact on the health of the people in Thailand, with an estimated 10-40% of the population (6.5-26 million people) potentially becoming infected. This could lead to many deaths, and would also have major economic and social implications such as reduced tourism, businesses suffering, and disruption to people's daily lives. 14.          What information is the Ministry of Public Health concealing or distorting about the outbreak, if any? The Ministry of Public Health has a policy of providing information to the public with transparency, so that people have accurate knowledge and understanding and can participate in the prevention and control of the disease. Official information may take some time to verify for accuracy, or may require consultation with experts and all parties involved for use in consideration and decision-making. This is done for the greatest benefit to the country and with the least amount of errors. However, some information should not be publicly disclosed, as it may cause more harm than good, such as personal details of patients which are not needed for the prevention and control of the disease. These details must be kept confidential in order to protect the rights of the patient.   15.          What is the reason for the discrepancy between the number of Thai cases reported by the World Health Organization and the number of cases announced by the Ministry of Public Health? In order to accurately report official cases to the World Health Organization, individual report forms must be filled out with detailed information. This includes information that must be gathered over time, such as the patient's treatment results, which may not be known until after the patient has recovered or finished their medication. Recently, the number of cases has risen rapidly in clusters, which could lead to the World Health Organization reporting a lower number of cases than what is initially announced by the Ministry of Health.   Outbreak Warning Level 16.          What is the Outbreak Warning Level? In 2005, the World Health Organization set the pandemic alert level for influenza in order to reflect the stages of an outbreak, starting with the discovery of a new strain of the virus in animals and ending with a global epidemic. It was estimated that the virus causing the pandemic influenza was the H5N1 bird flu virus, but when the outbreak occurred in 2009, it was the new H1N1 influenza virus. In response, the World Health Organization revised their definitions for each outbreak level to make it easier to direct disease prevention and control measures and to have a common understanding around the world.   17.          How many outbreak warning levels are there and what do they mean? The World Health Organization (WHO) has revised its 2009 Warning Level for new influenza outbreaks, setting it at six levels. Level 1 is triggered when a new strain of influenza virus is found in animals. Level 2 indicates infection has occurred in humans. Level 3 is when patients are found in small groups and human-to-human contact is limited. Level 4 is an outbreak at the community level. Level 5 is when human-to-human transmission is occurring in at least two countries in the same WHO region. Level 6 is an outbreak in more than one WHO region.   18.          What is our current warning level for the outbreak? On June 12, 2009, Dr. Margaret Chan, Director-General of the World Health Organization, announced that the pandemic alert level had been raised from Level 5 to Level 6, indicating that the new influenza A (H1N1) virus had begun to spread worldwide with human-to-human transmission occurring at that time. By that date, the virus had been confirmed in more than 30,000 cases across 74 countries. 19.          What is the 6th outbreak level like? The World Health Organization recommends that countries prepare for an ever-increasing number of patients in the near future. For countries with widespread disease outbreaks, a particular emphasis should be placed on preparing for a second wave of disease outbreaks, as well as ensuring proper nursing care for patients. Laboratory investigations and disease investigations in areas with widespread outbreaks should be deemphasized, as the benefits may not be worth the resources that have to be invested into it.   The World Health Organization is now working closely with vaccine manufacturers to maximize the availability of the new strain of flu vaccine within the next few months. In the meantime, the WHO recommends that public health and community measures, such as promoting personal hygiene and restriction of gatherings, should be implemented to prevent the spread of infection. Travel restrictions or borders should not be closed.   Antiviral Drug 20.          Is there any kind of medicine that can treat this disease ? If a patient is suffering from influenza, oseltamivir is a highly effective oral medication that can be used to treat it. However, if the viral examination results show that the virus is resistant to the antiviral drugs amantadine and rimantadine, zanamivir may be used as an inhaler. For the best results, it is recommended that the medication be taken within two days of the onset of fever.   21.          Is there enough Oseltamivir in Thailand? The Thai Ministry of Public Health and the Department of Disease Control have taken steps to ensure that sufficient medication is available for the current situation, as 95% of COVID-19 patients have mild symptoms and can recover without hospitalization or antiretroviral therapy. To this end, 420,000 sets of ready-to-use drugs have been reserved nationwide, and raw materials for the production of an additional 100,000 sets have been reserved by the Government Pharmaceutical Organization. Aspirin should not be used, and instead paracetamol can be taken to reduce fever.   22.          Is it necessary for both state enterprises and private sector organizations to reserve antiviral drugs, and if so, why? The Ministry of Public Health has a policy to promote private sector participation in the antiretroviral stockpile in order to expand the country's reserves and prepare for a potential pandemic of influenza. Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is currently being used for both therapeutic and prophylactic purposes in accordance with medical indications.   The drug is classified as a controlled substance, and its use is restricted to hospitals with overnight patient beds. Doctors must prescribe the medication, and establishments can acquire or donate it through private hospitals approved by the Ministry of Public Health. The importer must inform the Drug Control Division of the Food and Drug Administration and provide evidence of importation.

See More

15 Communicable Diseases to Watch Out For During the Rainy Season

15 Communicable Diseases to Watch Out For During the Rainy Season   When entering the rainy season, it is important to take precautionary measures to prevent the spread of contagious diseases. There are 5 groups of diseases that are commonly seen during this season, totaling 15 diseases. These include: Common infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract include acute diarrhea, dysentery, typhoid, food poisoning, hepatitis. The most common infectious disease group through wounds or mucous membranes is leptospirosis. or leptospirosis. The prominent symptoms are acute high fever, headache, often severe pain in the calf and thigh muscles, and red eyes. Respiratory disease group Common colds include colds, influenza, strep throat, bronchitis, pneumonia or pneumonia. Three major mosquito-borne diseases are: Dengue fever is primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which make up more than 80 percent of mosquitoes living in households. JE encephalitis (Japanese Encephalitis) is transmitted by mosquitoes, which often breed in water sources such as rice fields. Malaria is caused by Anopheles mosquitoes that live in the wild. Conjunctivitis can be caused by a virus when dirty water is splashed into the eye. In addition to the dangers of the rainy season, there is also the problem of foot biting caused by fungi. This is caused by long-term exposure to dirty water, which causes reddened skin and wounds with lymphatic discharge if scratched. There is also the danger of poisonous animals such as snakes, centipedes, and scorpions that have fled the water to live in the house. To be careful, it is advisable to avoid taking antipyretic drugs such as aspirin, as this can increase the risk of three serious diseases: dengue fever, influenza, and leptospirosis. Ingesting aspirin, which contains anticoagulants, can make it easier for the body to bleed and increase the risk of death.     To prevent disease during the rainy season, people should exercise regularly and wear clothes to keep their bodies warm. It is especially important for children and the elderly to take special care, as the high humidity and cold weather can lower their immunity to disease. Additionally, people should drink clean water, such as boiled water, and eat freshly cooked food with no flies. Lastly, everyone should wash their hands with soap and water before eating every time to avoid the spread of illness.   Thank you Ministry of Public Health for the information.

See More

Blood Fat or Cholesterol

Blood Fat or Cholesterol Let's explore the different sources of cholesterol in the blood, as well as the levels that can be detected.   Now is the perfect time to get a check-up if you have never had one before. Due to the food available today, it can easily lead to high blood fat. Make sure to read up on the details. Blood Fat or Cholesterol   Where Does Cholesterol Come From?   Approximately one-third of the cholesterol in the body comes from food sources. The fat from food is digested and transported to the liver and the whole body. The liver produces the remaining two-thirds of the cholesterol that is necessary to transport it to other parts of the body.   Dangers of Cholesterol   Abnormal arteries can cause difficulty in blood flow.   Cholesterol deposits start to build up on the inner walls of the arteries.   As the cholesterol accumulates, fat begins to form plaque, which hinders circulation and increases the risk of a sudden heart attack or stroke.   Large plaques can form, blocking the artery or causing the plaque to break, releasing cholesterol that can lead to an acute thromboembolism and a sudden heart attack or stroke.   "Have you ever had a blood test to check your cholesterol levels? The following blood tests measure the cholesterol levels of total fat, HDL (good cholesterol), LDL (bad cholesterol), and triglycerides:   Total Cholesterol (mg/dl) <200 in range 200-239 almost high ≥240 high HDL Cholesterol (mg/dl) < 40 low ≥ 60 high   LDL Cholesterol (mg/dl) < 100 in range 100-129 above range 130-159 almost high 160-189 high ≥ 190 very high     Triglycerides (mg/dl) < 150 in range 150-199 almost high 200-499 high ≥ 500 very high   If you have never had a check-up before, now is the perfect time to do so. In this day and age, food can easily lead to high cholesterol levels.   Kind regards from Department of Health Examination, Vibhavadi Hospital [email protected]

See More

Rainy Season Brings Increased Risk of Conjunctivitis

Rainy Season Brings Increased Risk of Conjunctivitis   Conjunctivitis Conjunctivitis is a common eye infection that is caused by the Adenovirus. This virus is highly contagious and can spread easily through direct contact, such as through shaking hands, sharing tools, swimming in contaminated pools, and during the peak of conjunctivitis season. It is most commonly seen during the rainy season.   If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of the disease, such as acute red eyes, watery eyes, swollen conjunctiva, enlarged anterior lymph nodes, slightly irritated eyes, or even bleeding from the whites of the eyes (which may start on one side before spreading to the other side), it is highly recommended to avoid contact with others for 7 days after the onset of symptoms.   A viral infection from the Adenovirus group is usually transmitted by contact with the tears of an infected patient. This can be done by touching their fingers and then transferring it to the eyes. To prevent infection, it is important to avoid contact with the infected person's eyes, as well as to not share food or air with them. Symptoms of the virus usually appear within 1-2 days, and it can be contagious to others for up to 14 days.   Infection can be from the simple actions below: Avoid close contact or contact with patients with conjunctivitis. Do not share clothing or items with the patient. Do not let dust or dirty water in the eyes. Do not let flies or other insects in your eyes. Keep the body clean, especially hands and face.   People who have been infected with the virus may experience red eyes, eye irritation, and a reddish tint to the whites of the eyes. Tears may flow, the eyes may hurt, and there is often a lot of eye discharge. If this is a bacterial infection, it usually starts in one eye first and can spread to the other eye quickly if not carefully monitored. If care is taken to not water the infected side, it may not spread to the other eye, but oftentimes it does spread very quickly.   Prevention Ensure that you always wash your hands with soap and water. Avoid close contact or sharing items with patients. If dust or dirty water gets in your eyes, rinse them immediately with clean water. Do not allow flies to land or enter your eyes. Maintain personal hygiene and keep items and appliances such as clothes, towels, bed sheets, and pillowcases clean. If you have conjunctivitis, stay home from school or work to prevent spreading or contact with others.   Best wishes from the Department of Ophthalmology and LASIK, Vibhavadi Hospital.

See More

What Causes Chickenpox?

What Causes Chickenpox? Chickenpox is caused by the Varicella Virus, also known as Human Herpes Virus Type 3. This is the same virus that causes shingles.   2 Main Symptoms of the Disease Children with low fever, exhaustion and loss of appetite may have aches and pains similar to the flu, but the fever may not be present. Adults tend to have a high fever.  When the fever is present, a rash usually follows 1 day after the onset of the fever. The rash will start out as a flat red rash, then become a blister that is clear, watery, and itchy. After a few days, the blister will become a scab. The rash typically begins along the hairline, then spreads to the face and body, and sometimes the back. In some cases, blisters may also appear in the mouth, causing the tongue and mouth to rot. The sore throat and fever typically last for about 6-7 days, from the appearance of the blister until it becomes scaly.   Complications Chickenpox rashes usually heal without leaving scars, unless there is an infection complication of bacteria. If the infection spreads, it can cause pus-filled rashes and scarring. In extreme cases, the infection may spread into the bloodstream, leading to septicemia and pneumonia. People with weakened immunity, such as those receiving cancer treatments or taking steroids, are at a higher risk of the infection spreading to their internal organs, such as the brain, lungs and liver.   Transmission Chickenpox and shingles are typically spread by direct contact with water blisters or touching objects contaminated with blisters from someone with the virus. The virus can also be spread through inhalation of the aerosol from the blisters through the mucous membrane. The time from exposure to the virus to the onset of symptoms is known as the incubation period, and typically lasts 10-20 days.   Treatment Chickenpox is typically a mild, self-limiting disease in children, but it is highly contagious, so they must miss school while they are infected. Treatment is symptomatic and should include rest, plenty of fluids, and Paracetamol to reduce fever if it is high. Aspirin should not be used in this situation as it can cause serious brain and liver symptoms. In most cases, the disease resolves without any complications and the patient fully recovers. However, complications can occur, leading to severe illness or even death.   Guideline Take a shower with soap to keep your skin clean and keep your nails trimmed to avoid scratching. Antiviral drugs should be taken within 24-48 hours of a rash appearing.   Things to Know 1. There is a chance of getting shingles, with an infection hiding in the body's Dorsal North Ganglia, and the risk of infection is around 15%. The patient should be separated from other people during the infectious period, which lasts from 24 hours before the rash and blisters appear until they are completely dry, usually taking 6-7 days. There is no restriction on what food can be eaten during this period. Currently, there is a chickenpox vaccine available, but it is still relatively expensive in Thailand, so it is not yet a mandatory vaccine. However, there are recommendations for children to be vaccinated, with the vaccination starting at 1 year old with one dose, and a booster dose recommended at 4-6 years old. If the vaccination is started at 12, then two injections are needed, 4-8 weeks apart. Vaccination is administered subcutaneously, and it takes two weeks for immunity to develop.     Vaccines are generally safe, but there may be some side effects, such as fever and redness at the injection site in 5% of cases. In some cases, a rash similar to chickenpox may appear, but it is usually not severe, only 3–4%.   Vaccination can help to decrease the occurrence of chickenpox and lower the risk of shingles.   Prohibition Vaccination is not recommended for women of reproductive age who are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant within 3 months of receiving the injection. People receiving chemotherapy should not receive the injection during their treatment.   For more information, please contact Department of Pediatrics, Vibhavadi Hospital Tel. 0-2561-1111 press 1

See More

Back Pain Treatment with Laparoscopic Surgery

Back pain treatment with laparoscopic surgery   There are several main reasons for surgical treatment of back pain: Intervertebral discs that have been collapsed or fractured, causing pressure on the nervous system (nerve or spinal cord) Degenerated and collapsed spine, with plaque growth that presses on the nervous system Dislocation of the spine due to bone degeneration or from an accident Tumors in the nervous system or the spine.   The most common cause of symptoms that can lead to surgical treatment are the aforementioned causes: Weakness in the muscles of the arms or legs Numbness in the hands and feet Reduced strength in the hands or legs Difficulty with balance and walking short distances - Severe pain or pain that impacts daily activities (neck pain, back pain, waist pain, headache) that does not respond to drug treatments   Why the “Laparoscopic Surgery?” When a doctor has diagnosed the need for surgery, laparoscopic surgery is the best option today. It has many advantages compared to open surgery, such as lowering the risk of mistakes being made during the operation, reducing the amount of time a patient needs to stay in the hospital (which can vary depending on the complexity and severity of the condition), lowering the cost of hospital recovery, enabling patients to return to work quicker, and reducing pain due to the smaller surgical incisions. The only downside of this method is that it requires a high-investment in terms of surgical science, medical team and surgical equipment, with the surgical camera alone costing several million baht and requiring high-speed (nearly 100,000 rpm).   Neck Surgery Surgical treatment for cervical disc issues or abnormal cervical spine can involve pressure on the nervous system or movement of the bones. The incision for the surgery is usually made at the front of the neck and is about 2-3 cm long. The procedure typically takes an hour, but this can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Following the surgery, patients may have difficulty swallowing, dry throat, neck or shoulder pain, but these sensations usually vanish within 24 hours. Patients are usually able to get up and walk the next day, and they do not need to wear a collar. They can usually go home the following day without any visible sutures or scars.   Lumbar Surgery Laparoscopic surgery is often used to treat lumbar disc herniation or problems with the lumbar bones that compress the nerves. Patients may experience pain in the lower back, difficulty walking, fatigue, numbness or radiating pain in the legs or feet, and possibly problems with urination. The procedure involves making an incision on the back of 3-4 cm, although this may be longer or shorter depending on the patient's body weight and the affected level. Patients are usually allowed to bear weight 24-48 hours after the procedure, and a physical therapist can help with this process.   For more information, please contact the Brain and Spine Center. http://www.vibhavadi.com/neuro/ Vibhavadi Hospital Tel. 0-2561-1111 , 0-2941-2800 press 1

See More

Non-Surgical Back Pain Treatment

Non-Surgical Back Pain Treatment   Back pain, including lumbar pain and neck pain, is a common health issue that can be caused by incorrect use of the spine, prolonged sitting with an improper posture, or an accident involving heavy lifting or extreme twisting of the neck or waist. Symptoms can often be improved with supportive treatments such as physical therapy, massage, and exercise. In more serious cases, surgery may be necessary to correct structural abnormalities of the spine.   Medication More than half of people who come to a doctor with back, neck, or waist pain are typically suffering from muscle inflammation or tendon pain, for which medication is an effective treatment. Painkillers, muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs, and nerve tonics are commonly prescribed. Stress relief medications may also be prescribed. The advantages of this type of treatment are that it is non-invasive and not as costly as surgery. However, it is important for a doctor to rule out any serious underlying causes that may require surgery prior to prescribing this therapy. Failure to do so could lead to a worsening of symptoms, making treatment more difficult.   Physical Therapy Physical therapy is often employed as a supplementary treatment to other methods, such as administering medications alongside it. After deformity surgery, physical therapy techniques may include muscle massage with ultrasound heat, paraffin heating, electrical muscle stimulation, acupuncture, local injections at painful sites, back traction, and neck traction.   Before undergoing physiotherapy, it is important to make sure that the patient does not have any underlying surgical diseases. In particular, if there is a severe deterioration of the cervical vertebrae, surgery may be required to resolve nerve compression before physical therapy. Pulling the neck or back forcefully in such cases may worsen symptoms, possibly leading to paralysis or paresis. To detect and evaluate the severity of nerve compression, doctors may request radiological tests, such as X-rays of the cervical or lumbar vertebrae and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).   Patients should understand that physical therapy and medication may not be a permanent solution to all medical issues, even if a doctor determines that surgery is not yet necessary. Some conditions may worsen over time and require additional treatment, such as when spinal degeneration or intervertebral discs occur. Even if the patient's symptoms improve initially, progressive deterioration may cause the symptoms to return and further treatment may be necessary.   Topical Injections If the patient has been receiving treatment for their back pain but has not seen satisfactory results, then their doctor may opt for a radiographic diagnosis to determine the cause of their pain. After the diagnosis is complete, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the current standard diagnostic method used. However, if the patient does not need surgery but does not respond well to the given medication, their doctor may consider injections to relieve the pain. These injections often involve anesthetic or anti-inflammatory drugs, and those receiving this treatment are usually able to go home after only a few days in the hospital.     Intervertebral Disc Repair through Heat Waves This method is similar to fixing a malfunctioning intervertebral disc so that it can last for an extended period of time. The doctor will insert a needle with a small electrode at the tip into the affected intervertebral disc. This electrode will emit heat to the disc, causing it to shrink. As a result, the nerves that are compressed by the intervertebral disc will be alleviated. Patients can expect to return home after a few days.   In summary, the treatment of low back pain, neck pain, and waist pain requires a definite diagnosis before planning a treatment. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the standard diagnosis today, making it easier for doctors to plan treatment. When possible, no surgery will be performed, but if the patient has severe symptoms or does not respond to non-surgical treatments, surgery may be considered as a last resort. Laparoscopic surgery is currently the standard surgery for low back pain centers at Vibhavadi Hospital, and patients can usually go home within a few days.     For more information, please contact the Brain Center. Vibhavadi Hospital Tel.0-2561-1111, 0-2941-2800 press 1

See More

Find a doctor

Make an appointmen

Jab & Go Clinic