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What is an impacted tooth?

What is an impacted tooth?   An impacted tooth is a tooth that cannot fully emerge or develop normally in the mouth. It may only partially emerge or be completely buried within the jawbone. The most commonly impacted tooth is the lower wisdom tooth, which should typically emerge between the ages of 18-25. It may grow at an angle or completely vertically. Other teeth, such as canines and premolars, can also become impacted but are less common than the lower wisdom tooth.   Why is it necessary to remove impacted teeth? 1. To prevent gum infection due to bacteria and food particles accumulating around the impacted tooth, which can lead to painful and swollen gums, and even abscess. 2. To prevent crowding of adjacent teeth. 3. To prevent the resorption of neighboring bone due to difficulty cleaning around the impacted tooth, which can result in the buildup of plaque and bone loss. 4. To relieve pain caused by pressure from the impacted tooth. 5. To prevent cyst formation.   Treatment steps: 1. Preliminary examination. 2. X-ray to check the position of the impacted tooth. 3. Notification of complications if present. 4. Surgical removal of the impacted tooth. 5. Post-surgical follow-up to monitor healing and address any complications.   What are some possible complications after the surgery? Normally, patients may experience pain and swelling for about 5-7 days after surgery, depending on the complexity of the procedure. 1. Infection after surgery. 2. Allergic reactions to pain relievers, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory drugs. 3. Excessive bleeding. 4. Numbness or tingling of the tongue, lips, or chin due to the proximity of the impacted tooth to the nerves that run through the jawbone.   Preparing for wisdom tooth extraction or tooth extraction: Before receiving treatment, it is recommended to eat and rest adequately. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, you should consult your doctor beforehand to prepare your body for the treatment, especially if you are taking blood-thinning medication.   Common symptoms after wisdom tooth extraction: 1. Pain and swelling for about 3-5 days. 2. Bleeding may occur from the wound within 24 hours.   Recommendations after wisdom tooth extraction or tooth extraction: 1. Bite down on gauze for 1-2 hours after the procedure, then remove and discard it. If bleeding persists, replace with a clean gauze for another hour. 2. While biting down on the gauze, swallow saliva to keep the mouth dry. Do not spit or rinse out blood and saliva. 3. Avoid using mouthwash or sucking on ice in the first day. 4. Brush your teeth as usual, but be gentle around the wound. 5. Take medications as prescribed by your dentist. 6. Do not poke or suck on the wound. 7. Avoid drinking alcohol, smoking, and consuming hot food. 8. If there are abnormal symptoms, such as uncontrolled bleeding or numbness after the procedure, immediately consult a dentist. 9. In case of surgical wound or wisdom tooth extraction, apply ice pack wrapped in cloth on the outside of the mouth on the day of the procedure, and use a warm compress after the first day. This will help reduce swelling and promote faster healing, and the stitches will be removed in about 5-7 days.

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Eating too much sweets will age you quickly

Eating too much sweets will age you quickly   For those who love to eat sweets, please listen up. Having a sweet tooth regularly can harm your body and connective tissues, just like how glass shrimp or sweet pork does. This is because sugar attaches to protein molecules and forms "advanced glycation end products" that can cause severe damage and cross-linking, resulting in cell damage and death, ultimately leading to aging of various organs.   If you don't change your sweet-eating habits, it can lead to the following: 1. Elastin and collagen become stiff, causing dark spots and wrinkles. 2. Blood vessels become fragile, resulting in bruising and broken blood vessels, and causing redness on the face. 3. Those with diabetes will get worse, causing complications such as high blood fat, narrowed blood vessels, decreased brain blood flow, heart disease, and kidney damage. 4. The lens of the eye will become sensitive to light, which may result in cataracts in the future. 5. Brain cells in the memory area die, causing memory loss (Alzheimer's disease).   Change your behavior in these ways: Quit smoking and drinking alcohol. Avoid grilled and barbecued foods. Reduce consumption of sugar and sweet foods. Avoid junk food. Get enough rest. Exercise regularly without overexerting yourself. Eat a healthy diet, including appropriate dietary supplements.   To maintain our youthfulness, we should change our lifestyle and eating habits. This will result in good skin, good health, and a strong body.   Warm wishes from Vibhavadi Hospital ReferenceL Kom Chud Leuk Newspaper

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Herpangina

Herpangina Herpangina is a disease that causes sores in the throat. It often occurs during the rainy season and is common in children between the ages of 3 and 10 years, affecting boys and girls equally.   What causes Herpangina? The disease is caused by a virus from the group of coxsackie viruses A serotype 1-10, 16, and 22, as well as groups B1-5.   How is Herpangina transmitted? Herpangina is highly contagious and can be transmitted through contact with infected individuals, such as through saliva, mucus droplets, coughing, sneezing, feces, and hands entering the mouth. Patients typically experience symptoms about 4-14 days after infection, and can transmit the virus from the first day of infection until they recover, which usually takes about 1-2 weeks.   What are the symptoms of Herpangina? Patients with Herpangina typically experience sudden fever, which can reach up to 41 degrees Celsius, headache, body aches, and possibly vomiting. A notable symptom is pain in the roof of the mouth and throat, which is followed by red spots on the soft palate, uvula, and possibly red blisters on the tonsils or inside the throat, within a day. Within 24 hours, the red spots turn into small blisters about 1-2 millimeters in size, which can turn into water-filled blisters about 2-4 millimeters in size. There may be small sores in the center of the blisters, and the area around the sores may become inflamed. There may be 5-10 blisters. Fever usually subsides within 2-4 days, but the sores may persist for about a week.   How to treat herpangina? Treatment depends on the symptoms. Use a cool compress to help reduce fever and give paracetamol (acetaminophen), but not antiviral or antibacterial drugs unless there is suspicion of a bacterial infection. Topical anesthetics may help some older children, but for younger patients, it is recommended to drink cold water or chilled milk to reduce the pain when swallowing. There may be dehydration or mild malnutrition.   When should you take your child to see a doctor? It is important to take your child to see a doctor when the symptoms are severe, including:   1. Fever does not subside within 3 days, or the fever remains high even after taking fever-reducing medication. 2. Difficulty eating and signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth or decreased urination. 3. When symptoms worsen.   How to prevent herpangina? There is currently no vaccine to prevent herpangina, so the best way to prevent it is to wash hands regularly, avoid contact with saliva and nasal secretions, and avoid sharing utensils or toys with infected children. If a child is sick, they should stay home from school for one week.  

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Looking clearly at ‘cataracts’

Looking clearly at ‘cataracts’ Cataracts are a condition in which the eye's lens becomes cloudy, causing blurry vision. This can be caused by various factors, which can be divided into two main types:   1. Congenital cataracts: Cloudiness of the eye's lens that occurs from birth up to 3 months of age. If the cloudiness is mild, it may not cause any decrease in vision. However, it can remain stable or gradually worsen over time, leading to decreased vision in adulthood. Causes: may be due to infections during pregnancy, exposure to X-rays while pregnant, malnutrition, maternal diabetes, and genetic factors. 2. Acquired cataracts: These are cataracts that occur in people who previously had clear lenses. They are more common and can occur at any age. Causes: aging, exposure to UV radiation, smoking, certain medications, and medical conditions such as diabetes. Senile cataract is a natural change that occurs with age, causing a gradual, slow blurring of vision over the years. Traumatic cataract, on the other hand, occurs as a result of injury to the eye, whether it be from impact, foreign objects entering the eye, a history of previous eye surgery, exposure to high-voltage electricity or radiation to the head and face. Cataracts caused by metabolic diseases such as diabetes can occur earlier in life. Cataracts caused by certain medications used to treat other diseases such as corticosteroids can also occur. Other eye conditions such as previous eye injuries, inflammation of the iris or retinal detachment can also lead to cataracts.   Symptoms of cataracts include gradual, painless blurring of vision and a reduction in contrast sensitivity in dim lighting, darkness or at night. Some individuals may experience monocular diplopia, or double vision in one eye, due to the scattering of light by the cloudy lens. Initially, vision may be blurred, especially for distant objects, similar to nearsightedness. Some patients may experience sudden eye pain, redness, and rapid worsening of vision due to complications from the cataract, such as acute angle-closure glaucoma, which requires urgent medical attention.   Treatment: In the early stages, blurred vision can often be corrected with the use of eyeglasses. However, at a certain point, when the cataract becomes more pronounced, eyeglasses are no longer effective. There are reports that certain types of eye drops can delay the progression of cataracts, but they cannot make existing cataracts disappear. The results of this treatment are not yet fully confirmed and may not be effective for some people. Currently, there are two main types of surgical procedures that are commonly performed for cataract removal:   1.  Extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) involves using a scalpel to make an incision in the eye, puncturing the lens capsule, removing the cloudy lens, leaving the lens capsule intact, and inserting a new artificial lens. The incision is then sutured closed. This procedure is usually performed on people with mature or advanced cataracts. 2. Phacoemulsification is a highly popular method nowadays because it involves a smaller incision. A 3mm blade is used to puncture the eye and open the lens capsule, then a phaco head releases high-frequency sound waves (similar to ultrasound) to break the cataract into small pieces which are then suctioned out. Unlike ECCE which removes the entire lens, phacoemulsification only removes the cataract, leaving the natural lens intact. An artificial lens is then inserted. The incision is small, and it may not be necessary to suture the wound, making it a relatively safe procedure.   The choice of surgical method may vary depending on the individual patient. There is a small risk of complications, such as infection, glaucoma, or swelling of the eye nerves, which can occur in a small percentage of cases. However, these risks can be minimized with careful preoperative evaluation and postoperative care.     Dr.RUTHAIRAT WINITCHAI Eye and LASIK Center

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Headaches: the different types, symptoms, and when to see a doctor

Headaches: the different types, symptoms, and when to see a doctor Headache is the most common symptom that patients present with when they visit the Neurology Clinic. The cause may be due to changes in modern society's way of life where everyone is rushing, stressed, and having trouble sleeping. However, headaches may not only be caused by stress or lack of sleep but may also be a symptom of dangerous diseases, disability or even death.   Headaches can occur in people of all genders and ages, mostly in the working age group, middle-aged people, and even the elderly. The likelihood of each age group having different types of diseases also varies. For example, people of working age may encounter non-dangerous diseases, while the elderly may encounter more dangerous diseases.   Generally, we tend to divide headaches into two groups: 1. Primary Headache, which refers to headaches without any underlying disease in the brain, head or neck. This group usually consists of non-serious headaches that come and go intermittently, such as migraines, tension-type headaches, cluster headaches, etc. 1.1 Migraine: A type of headache that occurs frequently in people from a young age to middle age. It often causes throbbing pain on one side of the head, spreading to the eye or temple. The pain is usually accompanied by nausea or vomiting, sensitivity to light or sound, and can last from 4 hours to 3 days. Migraines are believed to be caused by the expansion of blood vessels near the brain's covering tissue after being stimulated by certain triggers, including hormonal changes in women, certain foods such as coffee, chocolate, cheese, alcohol, bodily and emotional stress, environmental factors such as hot weather, loud noises, strong smells, etc. 1.2 Tension-type Headache: The most common type of headache, often causing a feeling of tightness or pressure around the head, neck or shoulders, as if something is squeezing around the head. The cause is usually related to inadequate rest and stress. 1.3 Cluster Headache Cluster headaches are commonly found in people between the ages of 20 and 50. They have distinct characteristics such as one-sided headaches that occur around or behind the eye, feeling like something sharp is poking into the eye, and intense pain that makes one feel restless. The duration of these headaches can last from 15 minutes to 3 hours, and they can occur multiple times a day. Typically, they persist for weeks to months, and then they disappear, only to reoccur around the same time the following year.   Cluster headaches are often accompanied by autonomic nervous system symptoms such as droopy eyelids, swollen or red eyes, runny nose, and watery eyes or nose. These symptoms occur on the same side as the headache.   The cause of cluster headaches is believed to be related to the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls the body's internal clock. When this area of the brain does not function properly, it can cause changes in the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for facial sensations, as well as the autonomic nervous system and the blood vessels on one side of the head.   Office Syndrome is the most common cause of headaches today. This condition is caused by working for extended periods and involves using computers, mobile phones, tablets, chatting, watching movies, and listening to music. This results in symptoms ranging from mild tension headaches to severe ones such as numbness in the hands, back pain, and leg cramps.   People who use computers and smartphones usually do not sit upright but instead slouch and cross their legs for hours on end. Some even continue using these devices after returning home, resulting in insufficient sleep and little rest, causing their muscles to become stiff for a long time.   Many people who experience headaches for several months become anxious and worry about having a brain tumor. They visit doctors to have their brain computer-checked, but the results are usually normal, and the headaches do not go away even after taking painkillers like paracetamol.   The treatment for headaches is not difficult. Taking a 5-minute break to rest your eyes every hour of work or standing up from your chair to stretch your muscles can prevent these headaches. It may seem easy, but in reality, it is often overlooked because work can be demanding and urgent.   2. Group with neurological diseases (Secondary Headache)   For example, tumors in the brain, inflamed brain covering, swollen brain blood vessels, inflamed blood vessels, bleeding in the brain, degeneration of neck bones, meningitis, sinusitis, etc.   For dangerous cluster headaches, they can be identified by the fact that the pain is relatively rapid and severe, such as within 1 minute, starting from no pain at all and turning into intense pain as if the head is about to explode. This is considered dangerous, as there may be bleeding in the brain. For people who have never had a headache before, but suddenly experience one after the age of 50, it is considered dangerous because non-dangerous headache groups, such as migraines, tension headaches, and cluster headaches, usually have symptoms before the age of 50. For people who have experienced headaches before, if they recur in the same pattern as before, and suddenly change in a negative way, such as becoming more severe, changing location, lasting longer, or sometimes waking up due to pain, this is considered dangerous. If there are neurological symptoms, such as sudden weakness, double vision, hearing ringing in the ears, slurring speech, stumbling, or having a stiff neck, this is considered dangerous. For people with chronic illnesses, especially those with low immunity, they should be suspicious of dangerous headaches. For example, someone with SLE taking immunosuppressants and suddenly experiencing headaches should be suspicious that there may be a possible infection. These are ways to observe dangerous headache groups. There are various types of diseases, ranging from tumors, constricted brain blood vessels, meningitis, etc.   Position of Pain Usually, doctors will ask where the pain is located, what its characteristics are, how the disease is progressing, and how the location of the pain can help, such as:   Eyebrows - we need to see which eyebrow hurts. If it's just the eyebrow that hurts, it may be a sinus problem, or it could be a cluster headache, or it could be a migraine. Forehead, temples, back of the head, or neck - these are important areas that people with pain may need to observe and tell the doctor about to help with diagnosis. Many people have pain in the back of their neck, which can be caused by many diseases, such as migraines, tense muscles, or cervical spine disorders, or even brain tumors. In addition to the location, we also use other symptoms such as the nature of the disease, what makes it better or worse, and physical examination. Some diseases may cause pain throughout the head, or pain in specific areas, but if the patient can observe, the diagnosis will be easier. If there are symptoms that indicate danger, a brain scan may be needed to confirm if there is anything abnormal in the brain. Or in cases where the symptoms are similar to encephalitis, such as fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and stiff neck, a lumbar puncture may be necessary to analyze the cerebrospinal fluid. Suppose there is suspicion of bleeding. In that case, a CT scan of the brain may be selected, which will be clearer, but if we want to collect more details, such as suspected tumors due to brain or cerebral infarction, we may choose an MRI because we can also see the MRA, which is a red blood vessel.   The nature of disease progression can be divided into three simple types: Throbbing or pulsating pain that follows the rhythm of the heartbeat. This type of pain may indicate diseases such as vascular disorders or migraines. Sharp, stabbing pain that feels like a jolt. This type of pain may be a symptom of peripheral neuropathy. Tight, squeezing pain that feels like something is pressing on the head. This type of pain can be difficult to diagnose because it can range from normal muscle tension to a lump in the brain.   The duration of the disease progression is also important, with most non-life-threatening conditions experiencing periods of remission and flare-ups. The duration of each disease can vary, for example, a migraine may last no more than three days per episode, while a cluster headache may occur several times a day but only last for a few hours.   Tension headaches can occur for up to three hours at a time, but may happen several times a day. Meanwhile, conditions in the dangerous category often have persistent pain that may improve somewhat with medication but never fully goes away. For example, a lump may gradually increase in pain over time.   If the condition involves bleeding, the pain may be sudden and severe, and may not fully subside even after taking painkillers.   Another important factor in diagnosis is how the condition responds to different treatments. For example, for a migraine sufferer, lying down to rest may alleviate the pain, while for others, vomiting may be a sign of improvement.   Basic Self-care Basic self-care emphasizes the importance of reviewing one's own headache symptoms to determine whether they may be related to a dangerous disease. If we seek treatment promptly, there is a chance that it may disappear.   However, when receiving massages, particularly neck massages, one must be extremely cautious when experiencing muscle or bone pain in the neck. Although stretching the muscles may improve symptoms, incorrect techniques, such as twisting the neck, may cause blood vessels to tear, which can be dangerous.   When to see a doctor for a headache If a headache feels like an explosion and has never occurred before in one's life, it may indicate an increase in pressure in the skull that is rapidly increasing, which can be due to bleeding under the brain's lining and high blood pressure. If the headache is severe, accompanied by sudden weakness on one side of the body, it may indicate a stroke caused by bleeding in the brain's tissue. If the headache is severe, accompanied by fever, stiff neck, and an inability to bend the neck, there may be an infection in the brain's lining. If the headache is severe, accompanied by fever and convulsions or jerking of the body, it may indicate inflammation of the brain. If you or a loved one experience any of the aforementioned headache symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible to determine the cause and receive prompt treatment.   Dr. Pongsakorn Tanayapong Neuropathic physician

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The hidden risks of "Ya-dom" to the nervous system

The hidden risks of "Ya-dom" to the nervous system   We all have personal things that we carry with use all the time. Due to the tropical climate of Thailand, one item that cannot be missing is "ya-dom" or the Thai herb nasal inhaler.   However, this is a warning! Improper use of ya-dom can be dangerous to the nervous system. This product, when inhaled, causes the nasal passages to open and gives a refreshing feeling, and is also beneficial when a person is experiencing vertigo or syncope. The benefits of this product are unquestionable.   However, as with most things that have advantages, there are also disadvantages. Using ya-dom frequently may lead to addiction because some of the chemicals used in its production, such as menthol and camphor, can affect the nervous system.   Though it does not mean that the dangers are extreme, the addiction itself is more of a habit that is hard to break.   The correct way to use ya-dom is as follows: Inhale it close to the nose, but do not directly touch the nasal cavity. Do not allow the tube to remain in the nasal cavity as the chemicals may irritate it. Avoid using the same ya-dom tube as others as it may spread infections. Ya-dom has properties that temporarily relieve dizziness, syncope, and fatigue. If symptoms are severe, consult a doctor. If using a liquid or balm ya-dom, use a cotton ball or face cloth instead. Avoid using the nasal inhaler if previous nasal passage disorders exist, it may cause further irritation.   Information from Thailand FDA

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Rotavirus

Rotavirus Rotavirus infection is a disease that causes diarrhea in infants and young children. Rotavirus is a type of virus that is easily transmitted and is a major cause of diarrhea in young children, especially those between the ages of 6 months and 2 years old. It is reported that almost every child under the age of 5 has been infected with rotavirus at least once in their lifetime. If an adult or older child is infected, they may experience more severe symptoms or fewer symptoms than a young child.   This virus is the leading cause of severe diarrhea in young children, which can require hospitalization due to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. It is a virus that spreads widely throughout the world.   Even in developed countries in Europe and the United States, where there is knowledge of public health and medicine, it is difficult to avoid rotavirus infection.   It is estimated that each year, at least 2 million children under the age of 5 become sick with rotavirus infection, causing severe diarrhea.   How do children get infected? The infection of rotavirus occurs when a person ingests something that has been contaminated with the virus through the mouth, such as water, food, or objects like toys, or hands that have been contaminated with the virus and then touch the mouth. After infection, the virus travels through the digestive system, namely the stomach and small intestine, damaging the walls of the intestines, causing a decrease in water and mineral absorption, and abnormal enzyme production for carbohydrate digestion.   What are the symptoms of the disease? After being infected with rotavirus, the symptoms typically appear between 1-3 days and may include the following: Nausea and vomiting Fever (which may be as high as 39°C) Respiratory symptoms, such as runny nose, cough, and sore throat may also be present Abdominal pain and diarrhea, which may occur up to 10-20 times a day Most people recover within 3-5 days, but some may experience prolonged diarrhea for up to 9 days to 3 weeks. Severe cases may lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which can be life-threatening.   It should be noted that the loss of fluids and electrolytes is greater than that caused by other types of bacterial infections, increasing the risk of death. Therefore, if symptoms are severe, medical attention should be sought immediately. The best treatment is to ensure adequate fluid and electrolyte replacement.   How to know if the symptoms of diarrhea are caused by rotavirus? A diagnosis of rotavirus-induced diarrhea is made by a medical professional based on the child's symptoms and the season when it occurs (which typically occurs during the winter months, between November and January). Additionally, a stool sample may be collected and tested for the presence of the virus.   If a child gets infected, how should they be treated? Since there is no direct antiviral medication for this type of virus, treatment is based on symptom management. If the symptoms are not severe, medication can be taken at home, such as replenishing lost minerals by drinking saltwater to compensate for those lost from diarrhea and vomiting, and taking medication for nausea if vomiting is frequent.   If these symptoms occur, it is recommended to immediately bring the child to a doctor or hospital for urgent treatment: Weakness, lack of energy, dry mouth, sunken eyes Cold body or high fever (temperature greater than 38.5 degrees Celsius) Convulsions Difficult breathing Little urine output, dark urine or no urine for more than 6 hours Severe vomiting that prevents intake of medication   How can we protect children from getting infected? Childcare facilities and kindergartens should provide hand washing and disinfecting facilities that meet health standards, and maintain the cleanliness of the premises and equipment, including proper disposal of children's waste. If a sick child is found, precautions should be taken to prevent the spread of the virus to other children.   Parents should promptly take the child to a doctor and continue treatment until recovery.   The basic preventive measures for diarrhea are maintaining good hygiene, ensuring clean food and drinking water, toys, and teaching proper hand washing. These measures are generally effective in preventing bacterial and viral infections, but are not completely effective against rotavirus.   Since rotavirus is more easily transmitted, 1 cc of infected feces can contain 1,000,000,000 viruses, making it important to prioritize good hygiene and sanitation to prevent transmission.   The best way is to get vaccinated against Rotavirus infection. Strengthening the immune system with orally administered vaccines is a convenient and effective method that allows children to have enough immunity to prevent the disease. It helps reduce the severity of illness. The first dose of Rotavirus vaccine should be given between 6 weeks and 4 months of age and should be completed by 8 months of age.   Studies have shown that the Rotavirus vaccine can prevent severe diarrhea caused by the virus by about 80-90% in fully vaccinated children.   If there are subsequent infections (due to different strains of Rotavirus), the symptoms will be less severe because some immunity is already present.   Rotavirus is a highly resilient virus that can survive well in various environmental conditions. There is no specific treatment for Rotavirus, and general treatment is based on the symptoms. Vaccination with orally administered vaccines remains the best prevention method.

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Prenatal Diagnostic Center

Prenatal Diagnostic Center           Parents always wished for their child to be born healthy, without any physical or mental disabilities, and with sharp intellect. In the past, knowing whether a fetus had any abnormalities or not required waiting until the baby was born. This could result in significant economic losses, particularly in terms of emotional and psychological wellbeing for your parents and family.             However, due to advances in modern science, it is now possible to diagnose abnormalities in a fetus before birth, both structural abnormalities visible using high-frequency sound waves and hidden ones like various diseases that could lead to physical or mental disabilities or even death shortly after birth.             Prenatal diagnosis can provide your parents with confidence that their baby will be born healthy and without any serious risks to their health. If any abnormalities are detected, they can receive advice on options for managing their pregnancy and preparing for the baby's care to ensure the best possible outcome for their child.   The service provides counseling, recommendations, and diagnosis for the care of mothers and fetuses during pregnancy in relation to abnormalities and various diseases that may occur in the fetus during pregnancy. With advancements in genetics and high-frequency sound wave testing, doctors can diagnose almost all types of abnormalities in the fetus, including congenital disabilities, diseases caused by chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, and genetic diseases such as thalassemia and SLE, which are commonly found in Thai people. In addition, services are provided for the health and growth of the fetus during pregnancy, in cases where the mother has medical complications such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or toxic shock syndrome. The Prenatal Diagnosis Center at Vibhavadi Hospital provides diagnostic services before delivery, covering various issues, and provides services in the following stages:   Examination in the early stage of pregnancy (10-13 weeks) with high-frequency waves for checking the number of fetuses, the viability of the embryo, and screening for chromosomal abnormalities. The second trimester of pregnancy (16-18 weeks) provides amniocentesis and blood sampling from the umbilical cord to analyze chromosomal abnormalities and genetic diseases such as thalassemia. The second trimester of pregnancy (20-24 weeks) provides an anomaly scan using high-frequency sound waves to check for abnormalities in the fetus's organs, such as the heart, digestive system, cleft palate, brain, arms, and legs. Four-dimensional sound wave testing is also conducted to examine the fetus's movements and internal organs in more detail. During the third trimester of pregnancy (more than 28 weeks), tests are conducted to monitor the baby's growth and health, such as biophysical profile, amniotic fluid volume, and Doppler blood flow in the umbilical cord. The baby's heart is also checked for abnormalities and to evaluate its functioning.   In addition, a baseline fetal anomaly scan is also performed to identify any abnormalities in the developing fetus during pregnancy.

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Information about Glaucoma that you should know

Glaucoma is mainly divided into 3 types: Pinguecula and pterygium (open-angle glaucoma and closed-angle glaucoma): which are the deterioration of the eye's tissue. Cataract (congenital and acquired cataract): which is the deterioration of the eye's glass lens. Glaucoma: which is the deterioration of the optic nerve fibers.   1. Pinguecula and Pterygium Pinguecula is a yellowish-white bump that resembles a small clear jelly located on the conjunctiva near the iris. It is commonly found near the head of the eye but can also be found near the tail. It is caused by chronic eye irritation from dust, sun, wind, or smoke. Pterygium is the thickening of the conjunctiva that appears as a blood vessel and thick tissue growing from the conjunctiva to the cornea or iris. It is also caused by chronic eye irritation and is commonly found near the head of the eye. 2. Cataract Cataract is a condition where the eye's lens becomes cloudy, which affects vision. Normally, the lens is clear and focuses light on the retina. When cataracts form, they cause vision to become blurry and can cause eye strain. There are two types of cataracts, congenital cataracts that are present at birth and acquired cataracts that develop later in life. Causes of cataracts include genetic factors and environmental factors such as exposure to UV light and some medications. 3. Glaucoma Glaucoma is a slow deterioration of the optic nerve that can cause a gradual loss of peripheral vision and eventually lead to blindness if left untreated. The cause of glaucoma is not entirely clear, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of factors such as genetics, increased eye pressure, and poor blood flow to the optic nerve. Some medications and eye injuries can also cause glaucoma.   Risk factors for developing glaucoma include: Elevated intraocular pressure above the normal range (20-21 mmHg) Age over 60 years Abnormalities in the circulatory system, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels, which can impair blood flow to the optic nerve Diabetes Myopia   Treatment and care: 1. For those with pinguecula and pterygium, wearing sunglasses and avoiding factors that cause eye irritation, such as dust, sunlight, wind, smoke, or any other irritants, can help reduce inflammation and prevent further damage. Eye drops may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation and pressure, and artificial tears may be used as needed. In severe cases where the iris obstructs the drainage angle, surgery may be needed to remove it. 2. For cataract, avoiding factors that increase the risk of progression, particularly exposure to sunlight, and being cautious with medication use can help slow its development. Glasses may be prescribed to correct vision changes, and certain eye drops may be effective in delaying or preventing the onset of cataract, although their effectiveness is not fully established by studies. In cases where the cataracts are severe, it is necessary to use surgical treatment. Currently, the popular method is to dissolve the existing cataracts and replace them with artificial lenses. This will allow patients to see clearly as they did before. 3. Treatment for glaucoma depends on the type of glaucoma that is the cause. Some types may not show symptoms at all, and they can only be detected through examination. Therefore, those who suspect that they are at risk, such as having a family history of glaucoma, having a chronic illness, taking certain medications regularly, having had an eye injury before, having had chronic eye infections, or having had eye surgery, should consult an ophthalmologist for proper advice and examination.   General standards for treating glaucoma include: Using eye drops to lower eye pressure to an appropriate level depending on the severity of the disease and the abnormality of the optic nerve. Considering surgery in cases where the patient cannot control eye pressure with eye drops. Using lasers for patients with closed-angle glaucoma (not for all patients). However, no single method of treating glaucoma can cure the disease completely, and sometimes multiple methods may be necessary to control the disease and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Patients should understand and cooperate in using medications and attending follow-up appointments, and have realistic expectations regarding the purpose of treatment.   Signs of eye issues: Some types of eye problems have symptoms that can be observed externally, but some do not show symptoms initially. Therefore, observing any abnormality in the eyes, such as irritation, inflammation, pain, or blurriness, can help alert us in the early stages. It is recommended to promptly get checked and receive treatment, and it is not recommended to buy eye drops for personal use. Annual eye checkups can be beneficial, especially for those at risk or in old age.   Prevention and risk management: 1. Identify who is in the high-risk group and whether we are part of that group. 2. Consult a doctor before using any medication and be aware of the possible side effects. 3. Wear sunglasses regularly when outdoors. 4. Regularly check the eyes according to age standards to detect potential diseases before symptoms appear. 5. Observe any abnormalities and seek medical attention promptly. Do not buy and use eye drops without a doctor's prescription.                                                                                                                                                       

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Vibhavadi Heart Center

Vibhavadi Heart Center You only have one heart, so it is important to take care of it.   Heart disease can be caused by both genetic and external factors such as lifestyle and diet. We can prevent heart disease by taking care of ourselves, changing behaviors that are detrimental to our health, such as choosing healthy foods, controlling weight, and exercising regularly. However, if you have heart disease, you must seek treatment.   Currently, heart disease is the second leading cause of death after cancer. However, those who have heart disease can still have a good quality of life with proper care. "Taking care" plays a significant role in this.   The Vibhavadi Heart Center provides modern technology and medical tools, along with a team of specialized cardiovascular physicians in all branches, such as cardiovascular surgeons, cardiologists, rehabilitation physicians, and pediatric cardiologists. The center is available 24/7, and they emphasize the importance of regular health check-ups and seeking immediate medical attention if experiencing symptoms of heart disease.   Providing services with modern medical technology and tools: 64-slice multidetector computed tomography angiography (MDCTA) is a high-speed computed tomography machine used to examine the heart's blood vessels. The Somatom Sensation Cardiac64 is a widely accepted machine worldwide that can examine patients with a tendency towards heart disease, such as narrowed or blocked heart blood vessels, which can help in detecting heart muscle disease in patients without symptoms. This allows for timely prevention and treatment, and it is also an efficient CT machine capable of producing 64 images per rotation (360 degrees) with a rotation speed of just 0.33 seconds, making it the best machine for examining the heart due to the constant movement of the heart.   Cardiac catheterization is a method of examining and treating the heart using small catheters (approximately 2mm) inserted through red or black blood vessels from the femoral or arm area to the heart. Contrast dye is injected to: Examine the red blood vessels that supply the heart muscle (coronary angiography) Evaluate the condition of the left or right heart chamber Identify abnormal electrical activity of the heart Treat heart fluttering with balloons such as central mitral valve balloon dilation Close leaks or holes in the heart blood vessels without surgery using special instruments.   Coronary angiography is a medical procedure used to examine the blood vessels of the heart. A small catheter (about 2 mm in size) is inserted into the red blood vessels from the groin or arm and guided to the coronary arteries. Contrast dye is injected through the catheter to produce clear images of the coronary arteries, which help doctors identify areas of narrowing or blockage. If blockages are identified, the doctor may recommend a percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and stenting procedure. This involves inserting a small balloon-tipped catheter into the narrowed section of the artery and inflating the balloon to widen the artery. A small metal mesh stent may also be inserted to help keep the artery open. In some cases, a drill or a laser may be used to remove hardened plaque from the artery.   Echocardiography is a medical test that uses high-frequency sound waves to examine the heart. It is used to diagnose and predict heart disease, as well as monitor the effectiveness of treatment for heart and blood vessel conditions. Echocardiography is effective because it can measure the size and function of the heart and its structures. The heart center has a 4D echocardiography machine that can diagnose and treat heart disease.   An exercise stress test is a medical procedure that assesses a patient's heart function while they exercise according to a pre-determined program, such as walking on a treadmill. The test is designed to identify conditions such as coronary artery disease, where blood flow to the beating heart is reduced or interrupted, and arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats that occur during exercise. This type of test is useful in diagnosing patients who experience chest pain.   A 24-hour ambulatory ECG recording is a test that monitors a patient's heart's electrical activity for 24 hours. A machine records the electrical activity while the patient goes about their daily activities, such as working or resting at home, without having to stay in a hospital. After 24 hours, the machine is removed, and the patient receives an analysis of the results from a physician. This test is useful for patients who experience occasional irregular heartbeats, fainting spells, dizziness, or other symptoms of heart disease.   A tilt table test is a specialized medical test that assesses patients who experience fainting spells due to a drop in blood pressure. The patient lies on a table that is tilted to simulate standing up. The test monitors the patient's heart rate and blood pressure while the table is tilted to see if these vital signs change significantly. The test is useful for diagnosing conditions such as vasovagal syncope, which is a common cause of fainting.   Electrocardiogram (EKG) helps diagnose conditions such as coronary artery disease, enlarged heart, abnormalities in blood electrolyte levels, etc. by examining the electrical activity of the heart.   Cardiac Rehabilitation is a combination of various processes including exercise and education to build strength and modify risk factors for coronary artery disease so that patients can maintain good physical and mental health in the long term.   The Vibhavadi Heart Center provides large-sized cardiac wards, experienced medical staff and nurses, state-of-the-art cardiac surgery equipment, and modern cardiac monitoring tools for patients with coronary artery disease. The center also provides high-quality care for critical care patients.   Conditions requiring treatment and care for the heart include hypertension, coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, abnormal electrical impulses in the heart, heart failure, aortic aneurysm, and others.   If you have risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol, smoking, frequent fainting, family history of heart disease, or are aware of your own risky behavior, don't take it lightly and seek medical attention to prevent the condition from escalating into "heart disease."

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