Health Information

Health Information

Articles by PhysiciansGeneral Health ArticlesNewsletterVDOPodcast

Search

Chronic Sickness: Deadly Emotional Silence

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a neurological disorder that causes ongoing muscle weakness and fatigue, which is not alleviated by rest and is not related to exercise. Other symptoms may be present as well, and the patient must have been experiencing chronic fatigue for a period of six months or more. According to Col. (Phor.) Assoc. Vibhavadi Hospital, some patients may even have post-influenza symptoms, but the disease is caused by an imbalance in the immune system, endocrine system, and neurological system. Therefore, the World Health Organization has classified CFS as a neurodegenerative disorder.   Approximately 3,000 people per 100,000 population have been estimated to have the syndrome. According to the US National Health Organization, more than 1,000,000 Americans have the disease, while in the UK it is estimated to affect around 250,000 people, mostly between the ages of 40-50. In ASEAN countries, including Vietnam, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand, the numbers of people affected are 151,953, 158,532, 8,003, and 119,238 respectively. Chronic fatigue syndrome can affect individuals regardless of their gender, age, or race; however, it is more prevalent in women than men. The highest prevalence is seen in those aged between 40-50 who may have a family history of the condition. Despite this, chronic fatigue syndrome is not contagious. Chronic fatigue syndrome is associated with a variety of systemic diseases, such as muscle and joint pain, short attention span, and other symptoms that may include muscle weakness, sensitivity, difficulty changing positions quickly, indigestion, depression and abnormal body immunity, heart and lung problems, etc. According to Assoc. Prof. Samart, the onset of the disease is often sudden, with symptoms such as flu-like muscle aches. For this reason, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States has established criteria for diagnosing this disease that must include symptoms of fatigue that occur unrelated to exertion, impairing daily activities, and not improving with rest. This includes having at least four of the following symptoms for at least six months: lack of concentration, memory loss, short attention span, muscle aches after exercise, feeling that the body and brain are exhausted, insomnia, muscle pain, multiple joint pain, severe headaches, persistent sore throat, pain in the lymph nodes in the neck or armpits, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, flatulence, diarrhea, chills and night sweats, chest pain, shortness of breath, persistent cough, blurred vision, allergic or sensitive reactions to food, alcohol, smells, chemicals, medications, or sounds, as well as fainting, dizziness, depression, and unstable mood when standing for a long time.   If patients experience these symptoms, they may report a decreased ability to perform activities, especially complex tasks, which is similar to people with other chronic diseases such as late-stage AIDS, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. These conditions may affect work more than some diseases such as heart failure and diabetes, in which about two in three patients will work less if they rest; however, the symptoms may temporarily improve but not return to the same level as before. Additionally, the patient's intelligence may decline due to the condition, leading to changes in memory and reflexes. As a result, it may take longer to comprehend tasks, which can cause a decrease in work performance, as well as a reduction in cognitive, speaking, language, and reasoning abilities. Though chronic fatigue syndrome is a debilitating condition, its exact cause is still unknown and therefore, no effective treatment has been found to cure it. As such, only 5% of patients have a chance to be cured through symptomatic treatment, such as dietary interventions, physical therapy, supplementation, antidepressants, the use of immune modifiers, and sleeping pills, but the results are still far from satisfactory. People with chronic conditions should take care of themselves in order to maintain their health. Eating a balanced diet, getting enough rest and engaging in moderate exercise can help prevent further exhaustion. It is also important to learn how to manage stress and be mindful of one's own emotions. Finally, surrounding oneself with positive people and engaging in activities that encourage each other is the best preventative medicine; this can keep one away from diseases that have no cure, but can severely impair one's health in Thai society.

See More

Implementing 5S to Achieve Goal 7 of Zero Falls

Implementing 5S to Achieve Goal 7 of Zero Falls We can work together to create a safe and sustainable environment by sorting, sharing, and storing our belongings to avoid cluttering the aisle. Signs indicating different levels, such as handrails, railings, and belts, can help prevent falls. Additionally, we should all strive to keep our environment clean by sweeping and tidying regularly and making sure our surroundings are well-lit and clearly visible. Through our cooperative efforts, honesty, and pursuit of knowledge, we can achieve excellence and create a safe and sustainable environment for all. Benefits of 5S Activities It is a technique to improve easily, not complicated. 5S makers learn to work as a team. Emphasis on tangible results Promote the formation of habits and discipline in the department. It forms the basis of other productivity activities Sa-sang or the action of tidying up strives to focus on the essentials in the workplace, filtering out the unneeded to create a streamlined work environment. It emphasizes the importance of simplicity, removing any extraneous elements that do not contribute to productivity. Reasons for tidying up Unnecessary things in the workplace. Lost storage space Lost items often can't be found, wasting time searching for them. Cramped workplace Saduak or convience is the core: all elements must have their own designated location, arranged in an orderly fashion for maximum productivity, quality, and safety. The workplace is where this practice is implemented, ensuring that everything is in its rightful place. To make it easier to accomplish tasks, the necessary equipment, tools, and documents must be in place. The following steps should be taken to ensure convenience: Plan to set the location of the items clearly. Arranged in an orderly category There is a name tag to show where to place the items. There is a name tag attached to the item to be placed. Make a diagram showing the location of the items. Check regularly Convenience operations should prioritize three key principles: Efficiency, Identification, and Organization. Efficiency can be achieved through the use of identification signs, document file binding, and color symbols. Organization should involve creating a categorical system to store and access items. The quality of a product is determined by the quality of the raw materials, equipment, etc. used in its production. Additionally, when dealing with the storage of these items, the FIFO (First In First Out) principle must be followed to ensure the quality of the product. Safety means storing things, tools, and equipment according to safety principles. Sa-Ard or clean requires inspection. Cleanliness is key for an efficient and productive workplace. S Clean is a cleaning process that involves dusting, sweeping, wiping, and mopping of machinery, tools, and equipment. Additionally, it includes the inspection of these items to ensure their proper functioning. This process is divided into three levels of cleaning to ensure maximum productivity. Daily cleaning Inspection cleaning        3.Maintenance cleaning

See More

Diabetes Mellitus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Diabetes Mellitus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment   Causes of Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes mellitus is a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels resulting from insufficient insulin production by the pancreas or the body's reduced responsiveness to insulin, or both. This inability to properly metabolize carbohydrates leads to elevated blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a common disease, affecting 10.2% of the population aged over 35 years.   Diabetes specialists at Vibhavadi Hospital are happy to provide consultation.   Self-observation symptoms: Frequent thirst Frequent urination during the night Blurry vision Fatigue Unexplained weight loss   Diabetes can be divided into two types: Type 1: Insulin-dependent diabetes This occurs when the pancreas produces insufficient insulin, or in some cases, none at all. It is commonly found in children under 10 years of age, with more severe symptoms.   Treatment may involve transplanting pancreatic cells, with further research needed.   Type 2: Non-insulin-dependent diabetes The pancreas of patients with type 2 diabetes produces a relatively large amount of insulin, but the body responds less effectively than normal, leading to insulin resistance. Approximately 90% of diabetic patients have type 2 diabetes.   Initially, the pancreas will release more insulin to meet the increased demand. However, eventually, the overworked pancreas will be unable to produce enough insulin to manage high blood sugar levels.   In the beginning, treatment may involve controlling diet and medication without needing insulin injections. However, in cases where blood sugar levels are difficult to control, fluctuate rapidly, or are very high, insulin injections may be required occasionally. Insulin injections become necessary when the pancreas can no longer produce insulin.   Since diabetes is a chronic disease that cannot be cured, relying solely on medication is not enough to control it. Therefore, controlling diet and making appropriate food choices, in quantities proportional to the body's needs, is another crucial aspect of treatment and prevention of diabetes.   Risk factors: Obesity Age over 40 years High blood pressure An abnormal glucose tolerance test, with blood sugar levels between 140-199 mg/dL after consuming 75 grams of glucose High triglyceride levels and low levels of good cholesterol (HDL-C) Fasting blood sugar levels between 100-125 mg/dL after 8 hours of fasting Family history of diabetes   Indications for diabetes screening in individuals who are unaware of their diabetes and have no symptoms:   Age over 45 years; if the test results are normal, retest every 3 years. Those who should be screened before the age of 45 or require more frequent testing include individuals with the following risk factors: Body Mass Index (BMI) > 25 (calculated as {weight(kg) / height²(meters)}) Family history of diabetes, such as having a parent, sibling with diabetes. History of delivering a baby weighing more than 4 kilograms or having gestational diabetes. High blood pressure, greater than 140/90 mmHg. Abnormal blood lipids: HDL < 35 mg/dl, Triglyceride > 250 mg/dl. Fasting blood sugar > 100 mg/dl after fasting for 8 hours. Sedentary lifestyle. Presence of vascular disease. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).   Diagnosis: The diagnostic criterion for diabetes is a blood sugar level equal to or greater than 126 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). If found in a person with symptoms, the test must be repeated to confirm the result. Thus, a blood test is always required. For individuals with blood sugar levels between 101 and 125 mg/dl, it is considered abnormal but not yet diabetic. These individuals have a high risk of developing diabetes and are at risk for complications from large blood vessel diseases.   Fasting blood sugar > 126 mg/dl after refraining from eating or drinking calorie-containing beverages for at least 8 hours. Presence of diabetes symptoms, along with a random blood sugar level at any time of the day, regardless of when the last meal was consumed, > 200 mg/dl. HbA1c is the average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. The treatment goal is to control HbA1c levels to < 6.5 or 7 (depending on the type of patient).   This value is useful because many patients strictly control their diet for just 1-2 days before seeing their doctor, which can result in good blood sugar levels during testing. However, in reality, they may not have managed their condition well during the past 2-3 months, which would be reflected in a high HbA1c value. This allows the doctor to see the patient's true blood sugar levels, and if the HbA1c is high, it increases the risk of diabetes-related complications.   Chronic Complications (or Silent Dangers from Diabetes) Diabetes is commonly found in people who are obese, have a family history of diabetes, and often have high blood pressure and abnormal blood lipids. The latter two conditions contribute to the development of large blood vessel complications more rapidly. People with high blood sugar levels experience effects on the body's red blood vessels, leading to faster deterioration of various body parts and subsequent complications. Therefore, strict treatment must be carried out alongside controlling blood sugar levels, high blood pressure, and abnormal blood lipids, which are often found in conjunction with diabetes and accelerate the development of large blood vessel complications.   Coronary arteries: Can lead to ischemic heart disease or myocardial infarction (heart attack). Cerebral arteries: Can result in strokes or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). Peripheral arteries in the legs: May cause insufficient blood flow to the legs, leg pain while walking, and potentially ulcers on the feet due to poor blood supply. Retina: Patients should have their retinas examined by an ophthalmologist at least once a year, and if abnormalities are detected, laser treatment can be used to prevent vision deterioration and blindness. Learn more about diabetic retinopathy. Kidneys: Early stages may detect protein leakage in the urine, and if not properly managed, it could lead to kidney failure in the future. Nerves: Common symptoms include numbness, stinging or burning pain, severe pain, or a tingling sensation, often starting in the toes and fingertips.   To prevent such diabetes-related complications, it is crucial to control blood sugar levels from the moment of diagnosis and to detect and treat any associated risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high blood lipids.   Diabetes management tips:   Control your diet by reducing rice, starch, sugar, and sugar-containing beverages, especially soft drinks, fruit juices, and sour milk. Exercise regularly for 30-60 minutes per session, 3-5 times per week. Refrain from smoking. Take medications or injections as prescribed by your doctor. Treat other risk factors found in conjunction, such as high blood pressure and high blood lipids. If you experience abnormal symptoms, such as severe vomiting or inability to eat, consult a doctor as your blood sugar levels may fluctuate significantly. Physician Dr. Waranun Charoenhirunyingyas Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology

See More

Meteorological Department Offers Guidance for Earthquake Preparedness

Meteorological Department Offers Guidance for Earthquake Preparedness To prepare for an earthquake: A flashlight with batteries and a medicine bag should be kept in the house and the location should be made known to everyone. Study basic first aid Have fire safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and sand bags, to help prevent and combat fires. Should know the location of the water shut-off valve, gas shut-off valve, electric bridge for cutting electricity. Do not place heavy objects on the shelves or high shelves when earthquakes may fall dangerously. Tie heavy appliances firmly to the floor and walls of the house. The group should plan a meeting point in case anyone gets separated from the rest of the group and needs to come back together later. Build houses in accordance with the specified rules for earthquake prone areas. During an Earthquake Try to remain calm and in control of your thoughts. If you are indoors, stay put. If you are outside, do not go back inside. Many people have been injured by going back and forth between the house and outdoors. If staying in the house during a storm, stand or crouch in an area with a strong structure that can support a lot of weight and is away from doors, balconies, and windows. If you are in a high-rise building, concentrate on getting out of the building as quickly as possible. Avoid any objects that could potentially fall on you. If you are outdoors, it is important to stay away from electric poles and other hanging items that may not be safe. Instead, opt for open spaces. Do not use candles, matches, or any other item that produces open flames or sparks in the area, as there may be a gas leak present. If you are driving, stop the car and stay inside the car until the shaking stops. It is strictly forbidden to use the elevator during an earthquake. If you're at the beach, stay away from the coast because there might be a big wave hitting the shore.   Post-Earthquake Check yourself and those around you for any injuries, and then provide first aid if needed. Leave the damaged building immediately, as a second earthquake may cause it to collapse. Wear closed toe shoes to protect your feet from any sharp objects or debris. Check the wires, water pipes, and gas pipes for any damage. If you suspect a gas leak, close the gas tank valve and do not light a match or start a fire until you are sure there are no gas leaks. Only use your sense of smell to detect any gas leaks. If you detect a smell, open all windows and doors. Stay away from any broken wires or wiring materials. Turn on a radio to listen for any emergency instructions, and only use the phone for essential calls. Inspect the toilet and drain pipes for any damage before using. Avoid entering any area with high levels of damage or a collapsed building. Do not spread rumors

See More

Ventricles of the Brain Contain Cerebrospinal Fluid

Ventricles of the Brain Contain Cerebrospinal Fluid It is expected that many of you would like to know about cerebrospinal fluid in the cerebrospinal fluid, so bring the article that the doctor wrote for us to share with you as knowledge. Ventricles of the Brain Contain Cerebrospinal Fluid by.. Dr. Watanyu Prachayanon   What are Ventricles? What is Cerebrospinal Fluid?   The human brain is much more than just a lump of fat; it has a hollow in the center which we refer to as the "brain cavity."   Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), also known as the English term Cerebrospinal fluid, is a fluid that is produced in the ventricles of the brain. It circulates throughout the brain and spinal cord to provide necessary nourishment and protection. CSF also serves as an insulating layer to absorb shock, helping to protect the brain and spinal cord from any impacts that may affect the head or back. In addition, CSF brings nutrients to the brain and carries away waste. The body produces cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by extracting it from arterial blood using special arteries found in the ventricles of the brain. This fluid is then circulated through the various ventricles of the brain, eventually flowing out beneath the meninges and spinal cord before being reabsorbed into the large arteries on the surface of the brain. On average, the body produces around 500 cc of CSF per day, but the capacity of the brain's ventricles is only 70-80 cc, plus the subcortical ventricle and the spinal cord. As a result, the amount of CSF present in the body is usually no more than 150-200 cc. To maintain this balance, the production and reabsorption of CSF must be in equilibrium.   Cerebrospinal fluid congestion can be caused by an increase in production of cerebrospinal fluid beyond what can be reabsorbed, decreased efficiency in absorption, or obstruction of the flow from the ventricles to the subcortical and cerebral surfaces.   Common diseases or disorders that can cause the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles include tumors of blood vessels that produce cerebrospinal fluid, tumors in the ventricles of the brain or brain tissue that cause the cerebrospinal fluid to flow poorly, and ventricular stenosis, either from congenital stenosis or from cysts, parasites, blood clots, or lumps that clog the ventricles of the brain and impede the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. If a child is born with an unclosed fontanel or an incompletely healed skull seam, the skull will still be able to expand. However, over time, this can cause the brain tissue to become thinner, resulting in an increase in head size and a characteristic "watermelon head" appearance. When fontanelle closure occurs in older children, adolescents, or adults, the skull seam is completely healed and can no longer expand. This can lead to dangerous symptoms such as headaches, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even death due to increased intracranial pressure or cerebrospinal fluid pressure from the congestion of cerebrospinal fluid. It is important to seek treatment and help as soon as possible.   What changes, if any, occur to cerebrospinal fluid in the elderly, and what causes these changes? How can these changes be addressed and remedied?   The elderly may experience a gradual accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid, which is known as chronic hydrocephalus. This condition is believed to be caused by a deterioration of the body's ability to circulate cerebrospinal fluid, as the filter that normally allows the fluid to enter the venous blood at the surface of the brain is not working as efficiently as it used to. This can cause the cerebrospinal fluid to become clogged with sediment and slag, which can prevent it from flowing as freely as it used to. Although the amount of cerebrospinal fluid created each day does not drastically change, it can accumulate in the ventricles of the brain over time, causing the ventricles to gradually expand and squeeze the brain tissue. This can occur at a rate of less than a cc per day, but over the course of years, can cause the condition to worsen.   As people age, the cerebrospinal fluid develops gradually, allowing the body to better tolerate the slow change. However, if the retention of cerebrospinal fluid is not monitored, eventually abnormal symptoms may appear.   The main symptoms of cerebrospinal fluid in the elderly are not headaches or epilepsy, but rather changes in brain function such as worse memory, unusual gait, difficulty walking, or not walking well, falling often, stiffness, trembling of the limbs (similar to those with Parkinson's disease), and urinary incontinence (similar to those with enlarged prostate).   Due to the fact that it can present with similar symptoms to other conditions, cerebrospinal fluid in the elderly can often be neglected or disregarded. Diagnosis today is relatively straightforward, since the majority of examinations do not involve any pain. For instance, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to measure the size of the brain's ventricles and the velocity of cerebrospinal fluid flow. Other tests may require a bit of discomfort, such as a spinal tap to directly measure cerebrospinal fluid pressure. In some cases, 40-80 cc of cerebrospinal fluid may be drained if the pressure is higher than normal and the patient's symptoms improve after the procedure, such as improved walking, reduced trembling and spasticity. This is a clear indication that cerebrospinal fluid is present in the ventricles.     Nowadays, treating the cerebrospinal fluid is relatively easy. All that needs to be done is to change the pathway of the fluid after it has been reabsorbed by the brain - instead of stopping here, let it be reabsorbed by the peritoneum instead. That's all it takes.   With correct and timely treatment, people who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease can experience a return to normal life for a long period of time. Many of them are able to drastically reduce the dosage of their medication, and some may even be able to discontinue taking it entirely.   It is important to understand that life is fleeting. To help the elderly have a better quality of life, one must be happy with their children, be encouraging, and be respectful. Ultimately, the love, care, and guidance we give our children is irreplaceable and invaluable.     It is important to remember that when we grow old, we cannot avoid this reality.

See More

Preparing for a Lab Test

Preparing for a Lab Test In order to obtain accurate results and maximize benefits from laboratory analysis, proper preparation and collection of specimens is essential. Ensuring that the right amount of specimen is collected is critical to achieving success.   For a blood test, the following steps should be taken: Blood Test 1. Blood Sugar Detection: Fast for at least 8 hours, but able to drink water No other drinks of any kind are allowed Detection of cumulative average sugar levels (Hb A1C) without fasting 2. Check the Lipid Levels in the Blood: Fast for at least 12 hours, but able to drink water No other drinks of any kind are allowed 3. Wear clothes that can roll up the sleeves for ease of blood collection **After blood collection, apply pressure to the mouth of the wound until the bleeding stops, or for about 5 minutes if the bleeding does not stop. Notify the authorities if necessary. Urine sample A Random Urine analysis test is used to detect urinary retention, as well as other substances such as protein in the urine which could indicate pregnancy. To collect a urine sample for urinary retention, follow these steps: 1. Clean the urinary excretory area. 2. Discard the first portion of urine. 3. Collect 10-30 ml of central urine (1/2 can) in a clean container with a tightly closed lid. 4. Hand over to the staff. ** If collecting from home, submit within 2 hours. ** If collecting for a culture, place the sample in the sterile container provided.   Stool Collection Collect about 1 scoop of feces and put it in a container. By selecting an area of the stool that looks abnormal or appears to contain parasites and make sure to avoid any contamination from urine. If the stool is soft to hard, not liquid, tightly close the lid of a container. **Deliver the sample within two hours. Sputum Collection Should be collected in the morning after waking up. Rinse your mouth several times with plain water. Do not use mouthwash. Take a deep breath and cough deeply to produce sputum, then spit it into a sealed can. Ensure that the sputum is not saliva, but rather a thick, sticky substance that may be yellow, green, or red in color. Once the sputum is in the can, make sure to close the lid tightly. Hand over to the staff.   ** In case of collecting sputum from home Should be sent within 2 hours. If unable to deliver, store in a refrigerator at 2-8 degrees Celsius for no more than 24 hours. ** In case of collecting sputum for tuberculosis testing for 3 days, all 3 cans can be stored in the refrigerator at 2-8 degrees Celsius and delivered together. but should not be longer than 7 days.   Remarks: Clearly indicate the name-surname and Hospital No. Best wishes from Vibhavadi Hospital

See More

Tips for Staying Healthy During the Rainy Season

Tips for Staying Healthy During the Rainy Season To keep your health in check during the rainy season, aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day and opt for fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamins. This can help to prevent flu and other illnesses.   Now is the time when the weather is changing, and it is becoming increasingly hot. Soon, it will rain, so it is important to take extra care of your health. This will help your body adjust to the changing climate without causing any adverse effects on your health. It will also help prevent respiratory illnesses such as influenza, which can lead to more serious conditions like bronchitis and pneumonia if not treated properly. People with allergies should exercise regularly, as exercise not only helps keep the body healthy, but also strengthens immunity against diseases. Exercising can be done in many ways, such as aerobic dancing, brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or playing a sport with continuous movement. To stay healthy, it is recommended to exercise for at least 30 minutes, five days a week.   To ensure good health during the rainy season, it is important to start exercising gradually. Start with a little bit of time and gradually increase the time each week to allow the body to adjust. Increase the strength or weight, but don't push yourself too hard. Excessive exercise, especially in hot weather, can lead to heat stroke, a dangerous condition which can cause high body temperature, inability to sweat, unconsciousness, and organ failure. It is also important to drink enough water, especially water with mineral salts, while exercising. In addition to exercise, diet should also be taken into account. Eating plenty of vegetables, both fresh and cooked, can help build immunity. Eating fruits high in vitamin C, such as oranges, guava, tomatoes, grapes, pineapples, and papayas can also help. Taking care of one's health according to these practices not only helps to stay healthy during the rainy season, but also has long-term benefits.   Best wishes from Vibhavadi Hospital

See More

Acne & its Management

Acne & its Management Factors causing acne Increasing abnormal division of basal keratinocytes Blockage of Pilosebaceous Increasing sebum production related to androgen hormones Comedone digestion by P. acnes Inflammation in hair follicles and sebaceous glands   Types of Acne Clogged Acne: This type of acne appears as white granules and can be healed quickly without leaving scars. Inflammatory Acne: This type of acne is caused by fatty acids and bacteria that become clogged and inflamed inside the skin. It appears as red blisters, pustules, or swelling which is known as elephant pimples. This type of acne is usually more difficult to treat and can often leave scars.   Treating Acne: What You Need to Know Don't rush your acne treatment; severe acne can take up to 6 months to heal, especially when it comes to scarring. Be gentle when washing your face; avoid scrubbing or rubbing your skin too hard, as this can aggravate acne. Cleanse your face twice a day with a mild soap or cleanser and remove all makeup. Refrain from touching your face or the areas with frequent acne breakouts, such as not squeezing or popping pimples. Lack of sleep, stress, and other factors can increase the likelihood of acne appearing, so try to reduce these when possible. Use ointment or oral medication regularly and consistently, and do not adjust your medication without consulting a medical professional. Do not wait too long to treat your acne, as it may be too late to repair the damage. When the acne begins to clear up, do not stop your medication right away; continue to use it as recommended by your doctor. Testosterone (Androgen) can cause a lot of acne in the age range of 15-30 years, so hormone therapy using Estrogen hormones may be an option for treatment. “Inflamed and severe acne may require medication, both topical and oral.”   The most effective treatment for inflammatory and severe acne, according to medical belief, is Retinoid medication for a period of at least three months or longer. Please contact Dermatology and Laser Center, Vibhavadi Hospital by calling 0-2561-1111 and pressing 1.

See More

Deadly Drug Interactions: The Silent Threat to Drug Users

Deadly Drug Interactions: The Silent Threat to Drug Users by Jatuporn Thong-im, pharmacist at Public Health Service Center 51, Wat Phai Tan, Department of Health, Bangkok What is drug interaction? "Drug interactions" refer to the changes in the effects of one drug when taken with another. These changes can result in increased therapeutic effects, adverse reactions, reduced treatment effects, or even life-threatening conditions. The severity of these interactions may vary depending on the duration and amount of the drugs taken.   What is the cause of drug interaction? Patients with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure are particularly prone to drug interactions due to the fact that they may be taking multiple medications from multiple hospitals and/or different doctors or pharmacists. This lack of awareness or coordination can lead to dangerous drug interactions if the patient is unaware of what medications they are taking. To reduce the risk of drug interactions, it is important for patients to inform their doctors, pharmacists, and hospitals of all the medications they are taking. The patient's own lack of knowledge can lead to serious problems. For example, when an individual buys medicines, supplements, or herbs to take on their own, they run the risk of receiving duplicate medications or having a dangerous drug interaction.   What are some examples of dangerous drug interactions? Some antibiotics can interact with the medications that a patient is already taking, such as lipid-lowering drugs, heart drugs, bronchodilators, etc., resulting in an increase of the drugs in the patient's bloodstream. In some cases, this can be a dangerous side effect. Patients taking anticoagulants must be cautious when taking other medications or supplements simultaneously, as they can cause adverse reactions that could lead to abnormal bleeding and other potentially dangerous outcomes. Taking antibiotics alongside antacids, calcium, iron, or certain vitamins can reduce the absorption rate of the disinfectant by more than half, thus significantly reducing its effectiveness. Herbal supplements and certain fruit juices can interact with anti-platelet aggregation drugs such as aspirin and other anti-platelet drugs, as well as anticoagulants like warfarin. These non-drug or herbal supplements may increase the effect of these medications and should be taken with caution. Garlic, ginkgo biloba, and other supplements should be discussed with a doctor prior to use, as they could create a drug-hit with these medications and increase the risk of side effects.   Will smoking, drinking alcohol, or taking dietary supplements interact with drugs and, if so, how? The behavior of patients with regard to eating, smoking, and drinking alcohol can have an impact on the action of medications. For instance, smoking can reduce the efficacy of many medications, and smokers often need to take higher doses than nonsmokers. Similarly, alcohol consumption can alter the therapeutic effects of drugs. Certain medications, such as diabetes medications, may increase your risk of hypoglycaemia or cause a symptom known as the disulfiram-like effect. Consuming certain fruit juices, particularly grapefruit juice (250 cc size), can amplify the effects of certain medications, such as lipid-lowering drugs and central nervous system depressants. To solve the problem of drug interactions, it is important to be aware of the potential for drug interactions and take steps to prevent them. This may include avoiding duplicate drug use, researching any supplements or herbs one is taking, and consulting with a healthcare professional before taking any new medications. Additionally, it is important to read labels carefully, as certain fruit juices, garlic, or gingko biloba may increase the effects of medications that increase blood flow. By following these guidelines, one can reduce the risk of drug interactions. The Pharmacy Council has created a "drug diary" to ensure the safety of drug use for patients and the public, particularly elderly patients and those with chronic illnesses. This tool is used by pharmacists in hospitals and pharmacies to track and maintain individual medication histories, and help them collaborate to guarantee the safe use of drugs. This medication book will contain a list of the medications taken by the patient and will be useful for monitoring and managing the patient's drug use. This information will help doctors or pharmacists to avoid prescribing drugs that duplicate those the patient is already taking, or that interact with those already being taken, thus ensuring the patient's safety. In addition to listing medications, the medication diary will also record important details of the patient, such as their history of drug allergies, any side effects experienced, and risky behaviors such as smoking or drinking alcohol. The Pharmaceutical Council has requested the cooperation of pharmacists in both public and private hospitals, pharmacies, and public health centers to assist in recording drug lists or issuing drug records that are paid to patients and people who receive drug services from them. This will help to improve the treatment effectiveness, reduce drug redundancy, and prevent severe side effects that can occur from inappropriate medication use, ensuring that patients are safe when using the drugs, particularly those with chronic diseases that require continual medication. Having a complete drug record is an important tool for ensuring safety when it comes to medicines, drugs, and supplements. Keeping a record of all drugs, herbs, and supplements purchased for personal use can help to prevent potential dangers associated with their use and promote true drug safety.     Where is the medication record book? Patients with chronic diseases can benefit from consulting with a pharmacist at a hospital or pharmacy, particularly a quality pharmacy, which will provide continuous drug monitoring, similar to a family pharmacist. To ensure the most effective and safe treatment, it is important to keep a record of all drugs used regularly. Start by listing and noting the size of all drugs in your personal drug record today. Carry this medication record book with you to the doctor or pharmacy whenever you purchase medicine. When new drugs are added, record them in your drug record book as well.

See More

Melasma

Melasma   Causes of Melasma   The formation of abnormal color melanocyte cells, leading to the manifestation of brown marks on the skin, is caused by a variety of factors, such as exposure to ultra violet (UV) rays in sunlight, hormonal imbalances, and heredity. Over time, the accumulation of the black pigment (Melanin) results in the appearance of sheets or bands of clear brown pigment on the skin. The areas most likely to be affected are the cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and forehead.   Melasma may be caused by a variety of factors, including the use of certain drugs (hormones, birth control pills), genetics, certain substances, inflammation stimulants, heat and exposure to sunlight.   No matter how often you apply medicine or sunscreen, it is impossible to guarantee 100% protection from the sun's harmful rays. If you are exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time or frequently, you may experience melasma, freckles, wrinkles, or even skin cancer.   The chance of developing melasma is higher in women than in men due to the influence of female hormones. During pregnancy, taking birth control pills, or taking hormones during menopause can further increase the risk of melasma in women. Melasma Treatment and Care To protect yourself from direct sunlight, use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 PA+++ or higher and wear protective items such as hats, umbrellas, and sunglasses. The best way to treat melasma is to use effective drugs that can control the production of melanin, eat anti-oxidant vitamins that are free of mercury, and reduce effective pigmentation. These drugs should be safe and have few side effects. With this effective treatment, melasma can be faded by 80-90%, and other treatments can be used to further increase the efficiency of the treatment. AHA Treatment Treatment lonto, Phono, Microdermabrasion Pigmented Laser such as ND Yag, VPL/IPL A dermatologist is required for the most efficient use of the product with no side effects or risks to safety.   Freckles   Freckles and black spots have different characteristics, namely   Freckles, sometimes referred to as "black spots," are small dark spots on the skin. Freckles are small, shallow brown spots that are more common in people with lighter skin tones. They tend to appear most often on the area of the cheekbones and the bridge of the nose, but they can also be found all over the face, arms, neck, chest, and even outside of clothing. The cause of freckles is prolonged exposure to sunlight.     Nevus (Ota and Ori)   Ota nevus is a skin condition that affects around 20-30% of people in countries such as Asia, Thailand, and Japan. Unlike freckles and melasma, it is characterized by a bluish-gray spot with distinct boundaries. It is most commonly found on the cheekbones and the bridge of the nose. In addition, Ota nevus can also occur on mucous membranes such as the conjunctiva and palate of the mouth, while the ori nevus only occurs on normal skin.   Causes of Ota and Ori Nevi   The precise reason for the symptom remains a mystery. It can develop naturally from birth or appear in adulthood and tends to become increasingly apparent with age.     Treatment Treatment of black spots from “freckles”   Whitening drugs can be used to stimulate the creation of new skin cells and reduce skin pigmentation. A concentrated acid solution can be used to make freckled areas flaky and peel off, but should only be used by a medical professional to avoid scarring. Drugs can be delivered deeper into the skin than usual to lighten it. Laser light therapy, such as Ruby Laser, Nd Yag Laser and IPL, can be used to affect the pigment, but should only be done by a specialized dermatologist to ensure maximum efficiency and no side effects. After the laser treatment, the freckles will scab and fall off within one week.     Treatment (Ota and Ori)   Dermatologists specializing in laser treatments can utilize ruby laser or Q-Switched Nd-YAG laser to reduce the melanin in the skin. On average, each treatment will improve the skin by 20-30%, though multiple treatments are generally necessary, spaced 1-3 months apart.     Tips If you notice any dark spots on your face, it is important to consult a dermatologist in order to properly diagnose and effectively treat the underlying cause. “To prevent and treat skin conditions, it is essential to avoid sunlight exposure as much as possible.” Best wishes from Skin and laser center  Vibhavadi Hospital Tel. 0-2561-1111 press 1

See More

Find a doctor

Make an appointmen

Jab & Go Clinic