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Solving Allergy Problems

Solving Allergy Problems Currently, allergies are a widespread condition affecting people of all ages. In a survey conducted in Thai schools, it was found that the percentage of children with nasal allergies is as high as 30-40%. Moreover, there is a growing trend of children with allergies at a younger age. Some individuals display allergic symptoms just a few days after birth, such as food allergies and milk allergies. The severity of allergies in children these days is increasing because their immune system is not yet strong enough. However, sufficient knowledge and understanding combined with modern medical science can help parents manage or reduce the risk of their children having this condition more effectively.   Why are more and more children developing allergies? The cause may come from changes in the environment, as well as pollutants and additives in food, which alter children's immune systems. Studies have delved deeper into the mother's lifestyle and diet during pregnancy, as food and the environment can affect gene expression that is passed down to the child. Nowadays, we observe that allergies are becoming more severe over time. For example, there are cases of children who are severely allergic to cow's milk or wheat, which can cause them to go into shock. Such cases were once rare in Thai people, but now they are becoming more common in Thai children. Therefore, it is recommended that everyone return to a natural way of life and use less chemicals, reduce the use of food additives and pay more attention to the food you consume in order to reduce the risk of genetic or hereditary effects on the body, which may affect future offspring.   For expectant mothers, it is important to consume a balanced amount of all food groups. Do not overly emphasize any one particular food group, as commonly believed, such as drinking a lot of milk or eating a lot of eggs. For mothers who have a child with a food allergy, when asked about their medical history, it is often found that they have recently increased their consumption of that particular protein during pregnancy, which the body was not accustomed to receiving in such a large quantity. For example, the body is used to balancing the protein from three eggs per week, but cannot adjust to an excessive amount of protein from seven eggs per week, leading to negative consequences for the baby. Therefore, it is advisable to follow the middle path according to the teachings of Buddhism, as anything excessive, no matter how good it may seem, can still have negative or poisonous consequences. If an expectant mother is unsure how to balance her diet, she should consult with a physician and use her judgment when selecting information. Do not simply believe everything heard, but rather examine information from reliable sources and rely on scientific principles. For instance, some mothers have read advice to eat two raw eggs per day during pregnancy, which may have positive effects on the baby, but it is highly not recommended, as there may be issues with cleanliness and disease, and raw protein is more likely to cause an allergic reaction than cooked protein. In fact, babies born to mothers who consumed a lot of raw eggs during pregnancy often exhibit severe egg allergies. Therefore, before making a decision, it is important to carefully consider and study the information to derive the most benefits.   Choosing products for children with allergies, parents should train themselves to read product labels in detail. For example, if they want to choose lotion for a child with a cow's milk allergy, they should choose products specifically made for children with allergies and avoid lotions that contain milk because they may cause skin rashes for the child.   In the case where the child cannot speak yet, how can one know if the child's allergy is severe or not? In fact, children have their own way of communicating, and we must understand and communicate with them because children are straightforward and don't conceal things. In this regard, pediatricians are trained to observe children's body language until they become proficient. We can detect details even if the patient does not speak by using medical tools and questioning the parents.   For parents, if they want to know if their child's allergy is severe or not, a simple way to observe at home is to see if the allergy affects their eating, sleeping, learning, activities, or growth. If any of these change, such as weight gain or loss, restless sleep, lethargy, not playing or eating, it is considered severe and should be examined by a doctor.   But if parents are unsure, they should take their child to see a doctor to assess whether there is anything abnormal or not because sometimes symptoms can be hidden, such as tonsillitis, stuffy nose, runny nose, or sinusitis.   How can we tell if coughing, sneezing, and runny nose are symptoms of allergies? Nasal congestion and runny nose are common symptoms in children. To distinguish between the causes of these symptoms, we can observe the following criteria: if the symptoms are caused by an infection, the child will often have a fever and the mucus may be green. Other symptoms may include body aches, nausea, vomiting, or frequent coughing. On the other hand, if the symptoms are caused by allergies, there may be little or no fever, and the mucus will be clear. If the child frequently experiences itchy or sneezy fits that come and go, this may be more indicative of allergies, as infections generally do not cause itching. Additionally, if the child has mild allergies, the symptoms may only occur at certain times of day, such as in the morning or evening, whereas cold symptoms will often last all day. However, if the child has severe allergies, they may experience symptoms all day long.   This information was sourced from Health Today magazine.

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Medication for the elderly

Medication for the elderly The elderly are a population that uses more medication than other age groups due to the fact that these patients often have chronic diseases that require treatment by physicians. Many people have found that 90% of those over the age of 65 use at least one type of medication per week, and the number of medications used is related to increasing age. The resulting issues from medication use include adverse effects, drug interactions, and increased treatment costs. The use of medication in the elderly can easily lead to side effects due to changes in pharmacokinetics with age, such as decreased absorption and elimination of drugs from the body. In addition, the elderly who have visual and memory problems have a greater risk of taking medication incorrectly.   Certain medication groups carry a high risk for the elderly, including: Sedative and hypnotic drugs Antidepressants Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Antidiabetic medications Muscle relaxants Anticoagulants Antiemetic drugs Antihistamines   Group of medications commonly used in the elderly: Medications for chronic diseases such as blood pressure-lowering drugs, blood sugar level controlling drugs, and heart disease medications. Sleep and anxiety-relieving medications. Pain relievers and muscle relaxants. Vitamins, dietary supplements, and herbal remedies.   Factors that promote side effects from medication use in the elderly: Taking multiple medications at the same time can cause drug interactions or drug contraindications. For example, a patient with both high blood pressure and diabetes who takes a diuretic blood pressure medication may experience elevated blood sugar levels, making it difficult to treat diabetes. Additionally, in cases where elderly patients regularly take blood thinners and enjoy consuming Ginkgo biloba supplements, there is an increased risk of easy bleeding. Changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics affect drug efficacy and elimination from the body. Patient behavior, such as: Self-medicating, is common in the elderly population in Thailand. It is easy for them to purchase medication from drugstores, and many seniors buy sets of medicine or counterfeit drugs, thinking they are safe because they are made from herbs. However, many of these drugs may contain androgen steroid mixtures that can cause long-term harm, such as osteoporosis, hypothyroidism, and high blood pressure. Lack of regular follow-up with physicians: Many elderly individuals do not like to see a doctor regularly due to various limitations, such as fear of bothering those close to them, fear of wasting time and money, and difficulty with transportation. As a result, it is common for relatives to request the same medications from the physician without the patient being present for follow-up treatment. Non-compliance with medication: Many patients take medication incorrectly for various reasons, such as: Difficulty in understanding how to use medication properly, such as taking medication too many times a day Stopping medication without informing their physician due to unwanted side effects Poor eyesight, forgetfulness, or misreading unclear labels on the medication Patients may also have misconceptions about medication, such as believing that taking more medication will speed up recovery, or taking too much medication can harm their liver and kidneys Accumulation of medication: Elderly patients with chronic illnesses often receive multiple medications, and when they don't finish their medication, they keep it for future use. When they become ill again, they choose to take the same medication that worked before. However, this can be dangerous if the medication has expired. The most commonly used medications by the elderly are sleeping pills and pain relievers, which do not treat the underlying cause of the disease but may temporarily alleviate symptoms. Therefore, medication use should be combined with treatment for the underlying causes of insomnia and pain, which should be under the care of a physician.   Thank you to Health Today Magazine for the information.

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Cardio Boxing คือ การผสมผสานการชกมวยมวยสากลกับมวยไทยเข้าด้วยกัน

Cardio Boxing คือ การผสมผสานการชกมวยมวยสากลกับมวยไทยเข้าด้วยกัน Cardio Boxing           Cardio Boxing   คือ  การผสมผสานการชกมวยมวยสากลกับมวยไทยเข้าด้วยกัน  แต่มีการเพิ่มความสนุกสนานในการฝึกกับ Personal  Trainer ทำให้การเตะ การต่อย เพื่อจะทำให้การออกกำลังกายนั้นเป็นเรื่องสนุก ตื่นเต้น และใครๆก็ฝึกได้  โดยเน้นไปที่การทำงานของระบบหัวใจและหลอดเลือด และเป็นการเพิ่มความแข็งแรงของระบบกล้ามเนื้อเป็นหลัก   การออกกำลังกายแบบนี้จะช่วยให้คุณเห็นผลในระยะเวลาอันสั้น ต่างจาก Body Combat อย่างไร           Body Combat เป็นโปรแกรมที่มีพื้นฐานมาจากศิลปะการต่อสู้  โดยนำท่าทางการต่อสู้ต่างๆ มาประยุกต์เข้ากับดนตรี เป็นรูปแบบการออกกำลังกายแบบกลุ่มส่วน Cardio Boxing เป็นโปรแกรม การผสมผสานการต่อยมวยกับการออกกำลังกาย ที่ออกแบบมาเฉพาะ เพื่อให้ผู้เล่น Fitness สามารถบรรลุเป้าหมายในระยะเวลาอันสั้น ประโยชน์ของการออกกำลังกาย Cardio Boxing -ลดน้ำหนัก -กระชับรูปร่าง -เพิ่มความทนทานในการออกกำลังกายแบบ Cardiovascular -เพิ่มความแข็งแรงของกล้ามเนื้อท้อง -พัฒนาสมดุลของร่างกาย -ลดความเครียดจากการทำงาน -เป็นศิลปะป้องกันตนเอง -เผาผลาญได้มากถึง 800 Cal ต่อครั้ง สนใจสอบถามข้อมูลเพิ่มเติมได้ที่ Vibhavadi Fitness Center 0-2941-2800 , 0-2561-1111 กด 1

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Ebola virus is an acute viral infection caused by a highly contagious virus.

 It was first identified during an outbreak in 1976 in two locations: Nzara in South Sudan and Yambuku in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The disease was named after the Ebola River near Yambuku where the outbreak occurred.   Ebola virus belongs to the family Filoviridae, which also includes Marburg virus and Cuevavirus. There are five species of the Ebola virus: Bundibugyo virus (BDBV), Zaire ebolavirus (EBOV), Reston virus (RESTV), Sudan ebolavirus (SUDV), and Taï Forest virus (TAFV).   The disease is transmitted to humans through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected animals. Evidence suggests that infection occurs from handling infected animals such as chimpanzees, gorillas, fruit bats, monkeys, and forest antelope, some of which may be sick or dead in the rainforest.   Once the disease has been introduced into the human population, it can spread rapidly through human-to-human transmission. Infection occurs from direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected people, as well as through indirect contact with environments contaminated with such fluids. Funeral ceremonies where mourners have direct contact with the body of the deceased can also play a role in the transmission of the disease.   Infected men can continue to transmit the virus through their semen for up to 7 weeks after recovery. The disease is highly lethal, with a case fatality rate ranging from 50% to 90%. There is no specific treatment or vaccine available for Ebola virus disease, and management is primarily supportive, including fluid and electrolyte replacement, maintaining oxygen status and blood pressure, and treating concurrent infections or complications.   Symptoms and Signs of the Disease   Ebola is a severe and sudden illness caused by a virus. It usually presents with acute fever, extreme fatigue, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat followed by vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, and impaired liver and kidney function. In some cases, both internal and external bleeding may occur. Laboratory tests show low levels of white and red blood cells, as well as high levels of liver enzymes.   Transmission Prevention   For tourists or travelers visiting countries with an outbreak of Ebola, the risk of infection is relatively low. However, basic precautions should be taken to prevent infection. These include avoiding contact with symptomatic patients and/or their bodily fluids, avoiding contact with corpses and/or their bodily fluids, avoiding close contact with wild animals (including monkeys, antelopes, mice, and bats) whether dead or alive, or consuming their meat, washing or peeling fruits and vegetables before consumption, practicing safe sex, and regularly washing hands.   Vaccine and Treatment   Currently, there is no vaccine or specific treatment for Ebola. However, research is ongoing. Patients with severe symptoms require intensive supportive care, including fluid and electrolyte replacement therapy, to manage dehydration. Regular updates from the Ministry of Public Health should be monitored to keep up-to-date on the situation and accurate information.   Important Information to Know   Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) is a severe and often fatal disease caused by the Ebola virus. It used to be called Ebola hemorrhagic fever. The disease is primarily found in remote villages in Central and West Africa, in areas with heavy rainfalls and dense forests. The virus is transmitted to humans from wild animals, and then spreads from person to person. Patients with severe symptoms of the disease require intensive care. The mortality rate can be as high as 90 percent.   For Travelers   What to Do:   Avoid traveling to countries with outbreaks. As of now, there are four countries with outbreaks: Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and the city of Lagos in Nigeria (as per the Ministry of Public Health announcement). Follow official news and information from the Ministry of Public Health.   If you must travel to countries with outbreaks, take the following precautions: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Avoid close contact with patients or touching their clothes. If you have symptoms such as high fever, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, and a red rash all over the body, seek medical attention immediately and inform the doctor of your travel history.   What Not to Do:   Do not eat any kind of wild animal meat. Do not touch any kind of wild animal, especially primates or bats. Do not touch your nose or eyes with unwashed hands. Do not have sexual contact with anyone who is not your regular partner. Do not self-medicate if you have a fever.   With best wishes from Vibhavadi Hospital.

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Premature ejaculation

What is Premature Ejaculation? Premature ejaculation (PE), also known as "bird that can't catch its prey" or "gulf collapse," refers to a condition in which a male partner is unable to control ejaculation long enough for the female partner to reach orgasm.   Premature ejaculation is a medical condition that has three characteristics that affect the individual who has it: Ejaculation occurs before or during penetration, and is too short. The individual cannot control ejaculation. Lack of pleasure or problems in the relationship between partners. 1 in 3 men in the Asia-Pacific region experience premature ejaculation.   Treatment for Premature Ejaculation: Behavioral techniques such as "stop-start" and "squeeze" techniques. Consultation with a psychologist. Reduction of sensitivity in the genital area through the use of thicker condoms and topical creams or sprays, which reduce sensitivity at the end of the penis and may cause the vagina to lose feeling. Treatment with oral medication, which can be taken as needed, once per day, and is safe.   What is the difference between premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction?   The impact of premature ejaculation:   Men's thoughts: Men with premature ejaculation feel anxious about their relationships, sometimes to the point where they avoid close relationships altogether. Even married couples may feel that something is missing, which can affect their intimacy.   Women's thoughts: Women whose partners experience premature ejaculation often feel dissatisfied with their sexual experiences and are worried about their relationship. Many women feel angry and resentful because premature ejaculation seems like a problem that the man should be able to control.   Testing: The Thai Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT) is a self-administered diagnostic test for premature ejaculation consisting of the following questions.   How to control your premature ejaculation? 〇 (0) Not difficult at all 〇 (1) Not very difficult 〇 (2) Moderately difficult 〇 (3) Very difficult 〇 (4) Extremely difficult   Do you ejaculate before you want to? 〇 (0) Almost never or never, 0% 〇 (1) Sometimes, about 25% 〇 (2) Often, about 50% 〇 (3) Most of the time, about 75% 〇 (4) Almost always or always, 100%   Do you ejaculate when stimulated only slightly? 〇 (0) Almost never or never, 0% 〇 (1) Sometimes, about 25% 〇 (2) Often, about 50% 〇 (3) Most of the time, about 75% 〇 (4) Almost always or always, 100%   Do you feel annoyed when you ejaculate before you want to? 〇 (0) Never 〇 (1) Slightly 〇 (2) Moderately 〇 (3) Very 〇 (4) Extremely   Do you feel anxious when you ejaculate and your partner is not satisfied with sexual intercourse? 〇 (0) Never 〇 (1) Slightly 〇 (2) Moderately 〇 (3) Very 〇 (4) Extremely   PEDT score - Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool PEDT score ≥ 11: Premature ejaculation PEDT score = 9 or 10: At risk of premature ejaculation PEDT score ≤ 8: No premature ejaculation

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Influenza Vaccine

Influenza Vaccine Compiled by Assoc. Prof. Sunee Techasupakornkul, Ph.D.   Disease and Significance Influenza, also known as the flu, is a well-known infectious disease, especially during the global outbreak that occurred in 2009. In Thailand, in the year 2009, there were reports of 120,000 cases of influenza with 231 deaths. The disease is most prevalent during the rainy season until the end of winter. The cause of influenza is the influenza virus, with three types known as A, B, and C. The Influenza A virus, which is the cause of the disease and the annual epidemic, is further classified into various subtypes according to the protein structure of the outer shell, such as H and N, designated as H1N1 or H3N2. The H5N1 subtype is the cause of avian influenza. The virus constantly mutates, resulting in different amino acid sequences in the virus separated from each patient each year, even though they may be of the same subtype, such as H1N1, which leads to drug resistance.   Transmission of Influenza Influenza is easily transmitted by coughing, sneezing, or talking, and the most common route is through the hands, which touch contaminated items such as nasal secretions, saliva, food, eyes, and noses. These are all pathways for the influenza virus to enter the body. Patients should frequently wash their hands, cover their mouths and noses to reduce the spread of the virus during coughing and sneezing. Infection can occur more easily in crowded places, such as schools, factories, and buses.   Symptoms of Influenza The general symptoms of influenza are fever, chills, fatigue, cough, headache, muscle aches, and sometimes nasal congestion or sore throat. In children, there may be diarrhea and high fever, which can lead to convulsions. Most patients recover within 7-10 days, but less than 10% may develop serious complications, the most important of which is pneumonia, which can be fatal. Groups of people at high risk for serious complications from influenza include:   Elderly people aged 65 and over Children under 5 years of age Severely obese individuals (weighing over 100 kilograms) Pregnant women over 16 weeks Patients with chronic diseases such as lung disease, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, immunodeficiency, or those with swallowing and breathing problems, such as epilepsy, asthma, and emphysema, and brain disabilities are eligible for the influenza vaccine. Children (under 18 years old) who need to take continuous aspirin   The influenza vaccine consists of two strains of influenza A viruses, H3N2 and H1N1, and one strain of influenza B virus. The strains included in the vaccine are newly changed every year, based on predictions of which strains will spread in that year. This is evaluated by the World Health Organization, based on viruses identified from patients in different regions around the world in the past year.   There are two types of influenza vaccines, including the live attenuated vaccine and the inactivated vaccine, both of which are propagated in fertilized chicken eggs. However, currently only the inactivated vaccine is available for sale in Thailand. The live attenuated vaccine is still under research and development by the pharmaceutical industry.   1) The original inactivated vaccine was made up of whole inactivated virus particles, but it had high side effects, so it was discontinued. The current inactivated vaccine has two types.   1.1) Split vaccine is produced by breaking up the virus particles using a lipid layer that surrounds them. Only the protein parts of the virus envelope (H, N) and other viral proteins remain. The split vaccine is available for sale in Thailand under the brand names Fluarix®, Fluzone®, and Vaxigrip®.   1.2) Subunit vaccine contains only the purified protein parts (H, N) of the virus envelope. Some companies add adjuvants to enhance the immune response. Subunit vaccines available for sale in Thailand include Agrippal S1®, Fluad®, and Influvac®.   Inactivated vaccines are made into liquid form in doses of 0.5 mL or 0.25 mL (1 dose) in a prefilled syringe or packaged in 5 mL (10 doses) in a glass vial, depending on the company.   Inactivated influenza vaccines can be given to all ages from 6 months and older, including those at high risk for complications from influenza infection, as well as medical personnel and those who care for high-risk groups.   2) Live attenuated influenza vaccines are made from viruses that can cause disease along with attenuated viruses that grow well at 25 degrees Celsius. There is an exchange of genes, resulting in attenuated viruses with H and N proteins that are similar to those of disease-causing viruses. The vaccine is administered via a nasal spray containing 0.2 ml (1 dose) in a tube with a dose metering valve that delivers 0.1 ml per spray.   Those who can receive live attenuated influenza vaccines are people between the ages of 2 and 49 who are in good health and not pregnant, as well as those who care for high-risk groups, including those working in neonatal intensive care units and those caring for cancer and HIV patients.   Size and Management of Vaccines   Immunity that occurs naturally from infection or from receiving both types of vaccines lasts no more than 1 year, and the strains that cause outbreaks each year differ. Therefore, it is recommended to receive the vaccine every year, once a year before the epidemic season. For Thailand, it is recommended to receive the vaccine before the rainy season, from late April to early May. If a person has been infected with the flu for more than 1 year, they should receive the vaccine again in the following year.   Inactivated virus vaccines are administered by injection into the muscle, 0.5 ml for children under 3 years old, and only 0.25 ml for children under 3 years old.   People aged 65 and over should receive Fluad ®, which contains adjuvants that can stimulate the immune system to a sufficient level to prevent the disease. The inactivated virus vaccine is administered by spraying into both nostrils, 0.1 ml each.   Children under 8 years old who have never received any type of flu vaccine should receive two doses of the vaccine in the first year, at least 1 month apart. In the following year, they should receive only one dose.   Effectiveness of the Flu Vaccine   2-3 weeks after receiving the vaccine, immunity (antibodies) begins to develop, which is high enough to prevent the disease. This will be at its peak from 2-4 months after vaccination and can prevent the disease for 6-12 months after vaccination. The efficacy of the flu vaccine in healthy 5-6 year old children is approximately 87% for the nasal spray vaccine and 70-90% for the inactivated virus vaccine.   However, the virus that causes illness each year is different from the viruses used to make the vaccine, so the effectiveness of the vaccine may not be very high. People who have received the vaccine still have a chance of getting sick, but the symptoms will not be severe because the immunity from the vaccine can still provide some protection. A study on the efficacy of inactivated virus vaccine against the flu in Thai elderly people in urban areas in 2007 found that 8.9% of vaccinated people were infected, compared to 16.9% of those who were not vaccinated.   Side Effects   Both types of vaccines have minimal side effects. For those who receive the inactivated virus vaccine, common side effects (more than 10%) include pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site for about 1-2 days, fatigue, headache, and muscle aches. Children under 5 years of age may experience drowsiness and loss of appetite. Inactivated virus vaccines with adjuvants have more side effects than those without adjuvants.   Common side effects (more than 10%) for those who receive the live attenuated virus vaccine include nasal congestion and runny nose, which can occur at any age. High fever is found in the age group of 2-6 years old, while sore throat is found in adults.   Prohibitions   Influenza vaccines that are available in the market contain viruses grown in chicken eggs. Therefore, individuals who are allergic to eggs or have a history of severe allergic reactions to influenza vaccines should not receive the vaccine. Symptoms of severe allergic reactions include pale skin, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, wheezing, and difficulty breathing with a loud whistling sound.   Children under 2 years old, individuals aged 50 years and above, pregnant women, and those who are at high risk of developing complications when infected should not receive live attenuated influenza vaccines.   Healthcare workers who are in close contact with immunocompromised individuals, such as patients undergoing bone marrow transplant, should not receive live attenuated influenza vaccines.   Individuals who have a history of allergies and experience stuffy nose or difficulty breathing are recommended to receive inactivated influenza vaccines instead.   If you are currently ill, such as having a high fever, it is recommended to postpone getting vaccinated until you are fully recovered. However, if you have minor illnesses such as allergies, itchy skin, common cold or sore throat with a low-grade fever, it is safe to receive inactivated influenza vaccines.   References:   Tittipong, Y. (2009). Surveillance report of influenza disease. Retrieved from http://epid.moph.go.th/Annual/Total_Annual.html   Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2010). Prevention and control of seasonal influenza with vaccines: recommendations of the advisory committee on immunization practices (ACIP). MMWR, 59(RR-8), 1-68.   Flumist (Package insert). (2011). MedImmune. Gaithersburg, MD. Retrieved from http://www.fda.gov/downloads/BiologicsBloodVaccines/Vaccines/ApprovedProducts/UCM123743.pdf.   Fluzone (Package insert). (2011). Swiftwater, PA. Retrieved from http://www.fda.gov/downloads/BiologicsBloodVaccines/Vaccines/ApprovedProducts/UCM195479.pdf   Usa Panichprathompong. (2007). Influenza in Thai senior citizens. Thailand Human Influenza Research Meeting Summary. AFRIM Clinical Trial Center Zmujme.

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Treatment of Fractured Bones with Splints

Treatment of Fractured Bones with Splints   Why do we need to use splints or temporary casts? To help support the injured bones and muscles, reduce pain, swelling, and muscle spasm, prevent the relocated bones from moving incorrectly again. The splint that is used may be a temporary half-cast or a full-arm cast. The temporary half-cast is less strong than the full cast.   Types of Splints Currently, there are 2 major types of splints to choose from:   Plaster splint, which is a plaster-coated gauze. Once applied, it will become white. Advantages: Relatively low cost, easy to apply and remove the splint. Disadvantages: Relatively heavy, easily broken, poor air circulation may cause itching, and if wet, the splint will become loose and less strong.   Plastic splint, which is a synthetic plastic. Advantages: Lightweight, good air circulation, beautiful color, high strength. Also, when taking X-ray photos, the bone can be seen more clearly. Disadvantages: Expensive (6-7 times more expensive than plaster splint), difficult to cut and mold the splint. It requires removal and replacement of the splint.   How to apply the splint? Before applying the splint, the doctor will wrap a padding around the affected area. The splint should be tightly secured and fitted to the arm or leg. Generally, the splint is applied from below the fractured bone to above the broken bone. A temporary splint will be used during the early stages of swelling. When the swelling goes down, a full splint can be applied. Sometimes, after a few weeks (about 2 weeks), the splint may become loose due to a decrease in swelling, and a new splint may need to be applied. After the bone begins to heal (about 4-6 weeks), a temporary splint can be used for convenience during physical therapy.   How to reduce swelling? In the first 48-72 hours, swelling may cause pressure on the splint, resulting in tightness, numbness, and pain. To reduce swelling, you can:   Elevate the arm or leg above heart level, such as by placing it on a pillow or cloth. Move your fingers or toes frequently. Apply cold compresses to the affected splint area by using ice in a dry plastic bag and compressing it around the splinted area. A single cold compress point may not be effective.   Seek urgent medical attention if there are danger signs after inserting or temporary splinting.   If there is increased pain and tightness in the splint, it may be due to swelling. Numbness and tingling in the hands or feet may occur due to excessive pressure on the nerves. Pain and warmth may occur due to excessive pressure on the skin. Swelling below the splint edge may indicate poor blood circulation. Inability to move fingers or toes is also a concerning sign.   Caring for a permanent or temporary splint involves:   Keeping it dry at all times. If you want to take a bath, cover the splint with two layers of plastic bags, and tie the mouth of the bag tightly to prevent water from getting inside the splint. Do not put weight on the splint until it is completely dry and hard, which may take an hour for a plastic splint and 2-3 days for a plaster splint. Avoid getting dirt, sand, or dust inside the splint. Do not pull out the padding inside the splint Do not use any object to scratch inside, or put powder inside the splint. If there is severe itching, see a doctor. Do not cut the edges of the splint yourself. Monitor the skin around the splint, and seek medical attention if there is redness or swelling. Check the splint frequently, and seek medical attention if it is cracked or broken. If you need to remove the splint, seek medical attention.   Splint removal   It is not recommended to remove the splint by yourself as it may cut the skin or cause bone healing problems. When removing the splint, a doctor will use a saw to cut the splint, which will vibrate sideways (not rotate) and when the saw touches the padding under the splint, it will not damage the skin. Sawing the splint may cause a loud noise and a warm sensation from the friction, but it will not be overly dangerous.   Treatment:   Generally, if there are no problems, the doctor will schedule a follow-up examination about 1-2 weeks after putting on the splint to assess the condition and see if the splint is loose. If the splint is loose, an X-ray may be required and the splint may need to be replaced. If the splint is tight and strong, the doctor will schedule a follow-up X-ray every 1-2 months until the bone is fully healed.   The splint will be left on for approximately 4-6 weeks, but it will take 4-6 months for the bone to fully heal. Therefore, even if the splint is removed, the broken bone may still be fragile and precautions should be taken and the doctor's instructions should be followed. Otherwise, the bone may break again, requiring a new round of treatment.

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[Do Not Ignore] Abdominal Pain in 7 Areas: Right, Center, Lower Abdomen, Left, etc. What Diseases Should You Be Cautious About? Should You See a Doctor?

[Do Not Ignore] Abdominal Pain in 7 Areas: Right, Center, Lower Abdomen, Left, etc. What Diseases Should You Be Cautious About? Should You See a Doctor?   Abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms that patients present to a doctor. The causes of abdominal pain can be numerous, and the importance lies in whether the pain is acute or chronic. If the pain is acute, it could be due to some life-threatening diseases that require urgent medical attention. These diseases are often related to surgical and gynecological conditions.   Causes of abdominal pain   Causes of abdominal pain based on location of the pain   If the pain is located on the right abdomen:   Right upper abdomen: it could be due to diseases such as acute cholecystitis, gallstones, hepatitis, appendicitis, pneumonia, small bowel obstruction, acute hepatitis, or pancreatitis.   Right lower abdomen: it could be due to diseases such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, inguinal hernia, ovarian torsion, or ovarian cyst rupture.   If the pain is located on the left abdomen:   Left upper abdomen: it could be due to diseases such as peptic ulcer disease, gastritis, splenic rupture, pneumonia, myocardial infarction, or pancreatitis.   Left lower abdomen: it could be due to diseases such as diverticulitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, ovarian torsion, ovarian cyst rupture, or inguinal hernia.   If the pain is located in the epigastric region: It could be due to diseases such as peptic ulcer disease, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acute pancreatitis, or myocardial infarction.   If the pain is located around the umbilicus: It could be due to diseases such as appendicitis, gastroenteritis, mesenteric adenitis, or small bowel obstruction.   If the pain is located in the lower abdomen: The causes found include: bladder inflammation, inflamed wall of the large intestine, inflamed appendix, testicular gland disease, inflamed fallopian tubes, displaced intestine, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancy, inflamed small intestine, and intestinal obstruction.   Abdominal pain may also be caused by conditions outside the abdominal cavity such as spinal disease, pneumonia, snakebite, high blood calcium, diabetes with complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), kidney failure with high levels of waste products in the blood (uremia), Addison’s disease, typhoid fever, porphyria, poisoning from mushrooms, and malfunction of the adrenal gland. Additionally, psychiatric disorders can also cause abdominal pain.   Pain in different points of the abdomen, all 7 points... refers to... Pain in the right rib Ccge It is the location of the liver and gallbladder. If a hard lump is found upon pressing along with yellowing of the skin and eyes, it may indicate a problem with the liver or gallbladder. Severe pain requires immediate medical attention.   Under the xiphisternum or middle of the body Located at the lowest point of the rib cage (middle of the body), it refers to the stomach, liver, gallbladder, and hyoid bone. If the pain occurs regularly when hungry or full, it may be related to a peptic ulcer. Severe pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting indicates an inflamed liver. If a relatively large and hard lump is found, it may indicate an enlarged liver (consult a doctor). If a small, flat triangular lump is felt, it is often the hyoid bone (also consult a doctor).   Pain in the right rib cage It is the location of the muscles. If there is pain, immediate medical attention is required.   Pain in the lower right abdomen It is a common problem among women, and the location is the ureter, kidney, and large intestine. Severe pain indicates an inflamed large intestine. Pain that extends to the leg indicates a twisted ureter, which starts with a small ureteral stone. Pain accompanied by fever, chills, cloudy urine, and back pain indicates an inflamed kidney, so do not delay seeking medical attention. If a hard lump is felt, it may be a tumor, so an immediate medical diagnosis is necessary.   Pain around the rib cage It is the location of the small intestine, often found in people who walk frequently. However, if there is severe pain upon pressing, it may be the ileum, and immediate medical attention is required. However, if the pain is accompanied by bloating, it may not be a severe problem but may indicate that the small intestine is not functioning properly (possibly due to overeating).   Pain in the lower left abdomen It is the location of the ureter, kidney, and large intestine (similar to point 4).   Pain in the lower abdomen It is the location of the bladder and uterus. Pain during urination or defecation is easily identifiable and may indicate a bladder infection or, in severe cases, bladder stones. If the pain is accompanied by cramps during menstruation, it is not a severe problem and may indicate the onset of menstruation. However, if the pain is persistent in women who are married and do not have children, they should consult a doctor immediately as it may be a symptom of a gynecological problem.   7.1 Right lower abdomen This is the location of the small intestine, ureter, and ovarian tube.   If there is constant cramping pain that radiates to the leg, it may indicate a problem with the kidney. It is necessary to see a doctor promptly. If there is constant, severe pain and tenderness, do not tolerate it as it may be a sign of inflamed small intestine. If there is fever, chills, and discharge, only women are affected because it may be an inflamed ovary. See a doctor immediately. If a lump is felt during palpation, it may be an abnormality in the small intestine or fallopian tube.   7.2 Left lower abdomen This is the location of the ovary and ureter.   If there is cramping pain that radiates to the leg, it is usually a ureteral stone. If there is fever, chills, and discharge, it may be an inflamed ovary. If there is pain accompanied by abnormal bowel movements, it may be due to inflamed colon. If a lump is felt during palpation and constipation is a regular occurrence, it may be a tumor in the intestine.   Treatment Doctors will rely on the patient's medical history and physical examination to determine if further tests are necessary or if a preliminary diagnosis can be made if the symptoms are unclear or chronic. Treatment and monitoring should be provided. If the patient responds well to treatment, a preliminary diagnosis may be made. However, if there is no response or symptoms change, further tests will be necessary. The tests that will be performed depend on the cause that the doctor suspects, such as blood tests, urinalysis, stool examination, radiological studies, endoscopic examination, or biopsy.   If there is a potential risk, please seek examination and consultation at the Digestive System Center, Vibhavadi Hospital.

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Sleeping well contributes to good health...

Sleeping well contributes to good health...   Before going to bed tonight, we have some non-secret tips to share so that everyone can sleep soundly and comfortably.   Many people face problems such as sagging skin, dark circles, and premature aging. They search for various expensive skincare products, but these symptoms persist. The real cause of these symptoms is insufficient sleep.   Sleeping well naturally stimulates the production of melatonin hormone, which is crucial for our body.   Here are some tips for good sleep:   Sleep in a completely dark room. There should be no electronic devices that emit light in the room. Bright light interferes with the natural release of melatonin and disrupts the sleep-wake cycle. Keep only a small night light to turn on when necessary, such as when going to the bathroom at night. Avoid using the bright bathroom light at night. If you cannot avoid light in your bedroom, use a sleep mask, especially if you live in a city. Help your body distinguish between light and dark. Open the curtains and let in natural light in the morning, every day. This helps to set your body's internal clock. At night, keep your bedroom completely dark to let your body know that it's time to sleep. Avoid using electronic devices such as TVs, mobile phones, or anything that emits electromagnetic waves while sleeping. These devices stimulate your brain and interfere with the natural production of melatonin. Set a consistent sleeping and waking time every day, including on weekends, to allow your body to establish a circadian rhythm of sleep-wake cycles. Aim to fall asleep no later than 10:30 pm, as around 11 pm to 1 am is when the hormone cortisol is released, which increases alertness and interferes with the body's natural sleep-wake cycle. This is also the time when the pineal gland stops producing the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin, which can make it harder to fall asleep. Additionally, if you don't fall asleep by this time, toxins can be reabsorbed into the liver and bloodstream, which can have negative effects on your health and accelerate aging.   Sleep for an appropriate amount of time, which may vary from person to person but should be around 6-8 hours on average. If you don't get enough sleep, your sleep debt will accumulate, and you'll feel even more tired the next day.   Do not compensate for lack of sleep by sleeping late. It's not good for your health because your body's sleep cycle is already disrupted. Avoid using loud alarm clocks, which can wake you up abruptly and disturb your sleep. If you sleep well, your body will naturally wake up at the right time."   Bedtime Behavior:   For those who enjoy thinking and contemplating, they may try writing down their thoughts before bed to help organize their ideas and prevent the brain from being too stimulated. Relax before bed by listening to music or calming instrumental sounds, or natural sounds. Practice breathing or meditation and avoid loud or stimulating music or songs with lyrics that can keep the brain awake. Also, avoid activities that may make you feel alert before bed, such as reading exciting books or watching stimulating TV shows. Avoid exercising 2-3 hours before bedtime. If you have difficulty sleeping, it is recommended to exercise in the morning and avoid strenuous activities at night. Do not attempt to work at least one hour before bed and try to finish your tasks for the day. Organize your schedule well to avoid anxiety before bedtime. Taking a warm shower before bed (not hot water) can make it easier to fall asleep. It's also recommended to use the bathroom before bed to reduce the likelihood of waking up in the middle of the night.   Healthy food before bed:   Eat food high in L-Tryptophan, which helps produce melatonin and serotonin to aid in sleep, such as fish, beans, squash, bananas, and grains. Avoid foods or snacks high in sugar before bed because it raises and drops blood sugar levels, causing difficulty falling and staying asleep. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, especially in the evening, such as coffee, tea, soda, and alcohol. Although alcohol can make you drowsy, it can cause sleep disturbances later in the night. Do not overeat or eat spicy food, as it makes digestion difficult and causes discomfort. Avoid being overweight, which contributes to sleep apnea and makes it difficult to sleep comfortably.   Sleeping: Pre-sleep beauty tips:   Since the sleep time is a period when the body can repair and rejuvenate the skin, it is important to prepare the skin by starting with cleansing the face thoroughly and nourishing it with moisturizers that are suitable for the skin type, including applying eye cream. Sleep on your back to prevent wrinkles, facial swelling, and to help breathe easier and relax your muscles. Use a soft pillow made of smooth fabric, such as silk, to prevent wrinkles and damaged hair. Ensure the room temperature is comfortable and well-ventilated, and the bed is neither too hard nor too soft. Consulting a doctor to delay aging is recommended. f all methods have been tried and failed, hormone adjustments, vitamin and mineral supplements, and some types of dietary supplements may need to be added. Additionally, balancing the body through natural or alternative medicine methods such as acupuncture to adjust internal balance can help with sleep and rejuvenate the skin at the same time.   Special thanks to: http://www.goosiam.com/ From the Gastrointestinal System Center, Vibhavadi Hospital.

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Ovarian cancer risks

Ovarian cancer risks   Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer in women and the fourth leading cause of death.   The tumor in the ovary can be divided into two types: benign tumors, which do not spread and can be easily treated with surgery, and malignant tumors, which may spread to other organs and become dangerous if not diagnosed early.   The types of ovarian cancer include:   Epithelial Tumor: a type of tumor that arises from the surface cells of the ovary, and is the most common type of ovarian cancer.   Germ Cell Tumor: a cancer that arises from the cells that produce eggs.   Stromal Tumor: a tumor that arises from the connective tissue cells of the ovary, which produce sex hormones estrogen and progesterone.   The causes of ovarian cancer are not fully understood. However, it is more common in women who have never had children and tends to occur more frequently in women over the age of 40. Certain risk factors that may increase a woman's chance of developing ovarian cancer include genetics, family history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer, and personal history of certain cancers or certain genetic mutations. If you have a family history of ovarian cancer, it's important to talk to a healthcare professional about your risk and whether genetic testing is appropriate.   Genetic factors that may increase the risk of ovarian cancer include:   Having two or more close relatives (such as a mother or sister) with ovarian cancer. Having one close relative with ovarian cancer and another with breast cancer, both of which occurred before age 50. Having two or more close relatives with either ovarian or breast cancer, both of which occurred before age 60. Having a family history of both ovarian and colon cancer, or having three or more relatives with colon cancer.   As one ages, the risk of developing cancer increases, particularly for those over 40 years of age.   Women who have a menstrual cycle onset before the age of 12 and experience menopause after the age of 50 are at higher risk of developing cancer.   Not having children increases the risk of cancer more than having children. Those who have had breast or colon cancer are also at risk of developing cancer.   Stimulating egg release for more than 12 consecutive months, in the case of IVF, increases the risk of disease.   Studies have shown that using powder in the genital area for a long period of time increases the risk of ovarian cancer, although old powders may be contaminated.   If you have a history of any of the above, consult a doctor for screening. Some people who are at risk of developing ovarian cancer may want to consider removing their ovaries, but they should consult a doctor to consider the benefits and risks of surgery.   Early ovarian cancer detection:   All types of cancer can be effectively treated when detected early. This also applies to ovarian cancer, which is often diagnosed later due to its location in the abdominal cavity and its lack of early symptoms. Only 25% of patients are diagnosed with ovarian cancer before it spreads, so early detection significantly increases the chance of a complete recovery.   The following are ways to detect cancer early:   Regular screening, such as Pap tests, can detect cervical cancer, but cannot detect ovarian cancer in its early stages. Ovarian cancer is usually found in the late stages of the disease, so regular screening is necessary. It is recommended to begin screening at age 18 or older.   It is important to see a doctor when experiencing symptoms such as abdominal swelling, bloating, abnormal vaginal bleeding, small amounts of discomfort in the back, legs, or abdomen without a clear cause.   Specialized tests such as blood tests for CA-125 and ultrasound examinations through the vaginal canal can help detect ovarian cancer earlier. However, both tests are not recommended for general screening as they may not be accurate.   An ultrasound examination through the vaginal canal is a non-invasive procedure using high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the ovaries. This test does not cause pain.   Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer:   Ovarian cancer in its early stages often has no symptoms, but symptoms may appear in the later stages of the disease, including:   Abdominal discomfort or bloating (some may suspect gas in the stomach) Nausea, constipation, frequent urination Loss of appetite Feeling of fullness after eating Unexplained weight gain Vaginal bleeding   Treatment:   The treatment of ovarian cancer depends on the stage of the disease and the overall condition of the patient. Treatment involves several medical departments, such as obstetrics and gynecology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology.   Surgical Treatment and Reasons for Surgery:   Surgery may be necessary if there is suspicion of ovarian cancer.   The reasons for surgery include:   Surgery to diagnose the disease, where the doctor will cut into the affected tissue and take a sample for testing. Surgery to determine the extent of the disease, where the doctor will cut into the affected area and assess the spread of the cancer and remove the yellow ligament. Surgery for treatment, where the doctor will remove the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and yellow ligament, which is called a hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. The doctor will also take a sample of the yellow ligament and fluid from the abdomen for testing. During surgery, if the cancer is found to have spread, the doctor will remove as much of the affected tissue as possible for effective treatment with radiation or chemotherapy.   The adverse effects of using surgery as treatment:   Surgical intervention in the early stages may result in some pain, which can be relieved by painkillers. However, in the subsequent stages, removal of the ovary can result in the inability to produce sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone), leading to vaginal dryness and hot flashes, similar to those experienced by menopausal women.   Chemotherapy is the administration of drugs to destroy cancer cells, which can also affect normal cells in the body. There are two types of chemotherapy:   Adjuvant Chemotherapy, which is administered after surgery, involves 4-6 cycles over a period of 3-6 months. This is recommended when the doctor believes that not all cancerous tissue has been removed during surgery or when surgery is difficult.   Neo-Adjuvant Chemotherapy is administered before surgery, and is recommended when the cancerous lump is too large to be easily removed during surgery. The aim is to reduce the size of the lump to make it easier to remove.   Chemotherapy can be given orally or through injection, but injections are more common. In some cases, chemotherapy is given directly into the abdominal cavity. After administering chemotherapy, doctors may perform surgery to assess the extent of destruction of cancerous cells. If any cancerous cells remain, the doctor may perform additional surgery to remove them.   The adverse effects of this treatment depend on the type and amount of drugs used. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and hair loss.   Radiation therapy involves using radiation to destroy cancerous cells. The adverse effects include fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, and difficulty urinating. There are two types of radiation therapy:   External Beam Radiation Therapy involves using a machine outside the body to administer radiation, typically over the course of five days a week.   Brachytherapy involves inserting radioactive material near the cancerous tissue to deliver a concentrated dose of radiation to the affected area.

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