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"Syphilis" the contagious disease that should not be overlooked

"Syphilis" the contagious disease that should not be overlooked   Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema Pallidum. The infection occurs through contact between the mouth, genitals, or other parts of the infected person's body and the syphilis sore of the recipient. Additionally, it can be transmitted from a mother to her unborn child during pregnancy or delivery, resulting in congenital syphilis. The details of this complication are not discussed here. Patients with syphilis may have varying symptoms depending on the stage of the disease.   During the primary stage, patients typically have a painless, hard chancre sore, which may be a single sore or multiple sores. These sores usually appear in areas where the patient had sexual contact, such as the genitals, mouth, anus, or rectum. The sore may last for about 3 to 6 weeks and heal on its own. If left untreated, the disease progresses to the second stage, which is often unnoticed due to the lack of pain and occurrence in hidden areas.   In the secondary stage, patients usually have a rash on their hands and feet, which may also appear on other parts of the body. The rash is usually reddish-brown and non-itchy, and patients may also experience sores in their mouth or genitals, sometimes called the "secondary rash." Other symptoms may include fever, sore throat, muscle aches, hair loss, and fatigue. These symptoms may disappear on their own, but if the patient does not get treatment, it can progress to the next stage.   Latent Stage Symptoms refer to a phase in which the patient may not exhibit any symptoms for many years, and the detection of syphilis during this phase may only be possible through blood tests.   On the other hand, the Tertiary Stage Symptoms occur in patients who have not received treatment since the earlier stages. During this stage, the disease can cause damage to the heart, brain, eyes, and other organs, and patients may experience severe symptoms such as difficulty moving their limbs, paralysis, numbness, blindness, heart disease, or even death. Sometimes, syphilis is called "The Great Imitator" because it can cause a wide range of symptoms that resemble those of other diseases.   Diagnosis:   Diagnosis often relies on symptoms and blood tests. Those who should receive a diagnostic examination include individuals with hard, ulcerated lesions in the genital or oral region, individuals with sexual partners who have syphilis or have symptoms of syphilis, and individuals who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, in which screening for syphilis infection is now a routine part of prenatal care in Thailand.   Prevention:   The best way to prevent syphilis is to abstain from sex or have sex only with a partner who does not have syphilis and does not have sex with others. While condoms can reduce the risk of infection, they only protect the area they cover. If you are in a new relationship, it is recommended to get blood tests before having sex or getting married. It is important to note that washing the genitals, urinating, or douching after sex does not prevent infection.   Treatment:   Treatment can be done effectively using antibiotics. The recommended medication is benzathine penicillin G, which is injected into the muscle once for patients infected for less than a year. For those with long-term infections, multiple injections may be necessary. In cases where the patient is allergic to penicillin, doxycycline or tetracycline may be used instead. For patients with syphilis affecting the nervous system, benzylpenicillin injected into the bloodstream or ceftriaxone may be used. During treatment, patients may experience symptoms such as fever, headaches, and muscle pain (known as the Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction).   However, even after successful treatment, patients should be regularly monitored by blood tests every 3 months for a period of 3 years. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions strictly and inform current and past sexual partners to get tested and treated to prevent the spread of the disease. It is also recommended to avoid having sexual intercourse until both the patient and their partners have been treated to prevent reinfection or spreading to new partners.   Best wishes from the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Vibhavadi Hospital.

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The Hearing Test

The Hearing Test   Do you experience any of these issues? Difficulty understanding speech when people talk Needing to turn up the volume on the TV, radio or music Asking people to repeat themselves or saying "What?" often Struggling to hear on the phone Hearing loud ringing or buzzing in your ears Speaking louder than usual Finding it hard to hear in noisy environments Struggling to hear high-pitched sounds like women's voices or alarms   If you have any of these problems, it's possible that you may have hearing issues.   What is a Hearing Test?   A hearing test is a process of evaluating how well your ears and nervous system function in terms of hearing levels. Typically, there are two ways to test your hearing level: through air conduction and bone conduction. This is done by conducting tests in a soundproof room.   • Air conduction testing is done by using headphones to deliver sounds into your ears. • Bone conduction testing is done by placing a device behind your ear that sends sound vibrations to your inner ear through your skull.   Symptoms that may warrant a hearing test include: Ear pain Loud ringing in your ears Dizziness or vertigo Decreased hearing ability Earaches Fluid draining from your ear Difficulty understanding speech Exposure to loud noises at work   Tools Used for Diagnosis:   Audiometer: Detects hearing impairments by measuring the hearing system's ability to receive and interpret sounds. Tympanometer: Examines the middle ear's functionality. Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs): Measures the reflection of sound waves produced by the hair cells in the inner ear. This is often used to screen for hearing impairments in newborns.   Types of Hearing Loss:   Conductive Hearing Loss: When there is a problem with the middle ear that hinders the transmission of sound waves. Sensorineural Hearing Loss: When there is a problem with the inner ear that affects the reception of sound waves. Mixed Hearing Loss: When there is a problem with both the middle and inner ear that affects the reception and transmission of sound waves.   Are you curious about your level of hearing ability?   Levels of Hearing Ability: Degree of Hearing Loss | Hearing Ability Level Normal | 0 - 25 dB | No difficulty understanding spoken words. Mild | 26 - 40 dB | Difficulty hearing soft spoken words. Moderate | 41 - 55 dB | Understands normal conversation at 3-5 feet. Moderately Severe | 56 - 70 dB | Needs loud speech to understand, and has difficulty hearing in noisy environments. Severe | 71 - 90 dB | Can hear high-pitched sounds within 1 foot, but cannot understand them. Profound | 91+ dB | Cannot hear even very loud sounds.   A normal conversation is typically around 40-60 dB.   Treatment and Prevention:   Medications Surgery Hearing aids Wearing soundproofing devices such as earplugs/earmuffs when exposed to loud noise Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noise   If you experience hearing problems, it will undoubtedly affect your daily life. Don't let your ears deteriorate before their time. It is recommended to have your hearing checked at least once a year.   Best wishes from EENT Department, Vibhavadi Hospital

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Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy   A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that involves using a camera to examine the large intestine, from the rectum to the beginning of the colon, including the cecum, appendix, and terminal ileum. It is a safe procedure that typically does not take long (unless a biopsy is required) and can be performed without the need for the patient to be hospitalized, provided they are young and do not have any underlying medical conditions.   However, for patients who are at high risk of complications, such as the elderly or those with heart, lung, liver, or kidney diseases, it may be necessary to hospitalize them to ensure appropriate care and minimize the risk of complications that may occur during or after the procedure.   Common indications for a colonoscopy include abnormal bowel habits (e.g., constipation alternating with diarrhea, blood or mucus in stools, or frequent bowel movements that do not feel complete), lower abdominal pain or discomfort, abnormal findings on a barium enema x-ray, a family history of colon cancer, or positive results on an occult blood test despite having normal-looking stools.   Patient Preparation and Examination Procedures   Patients should avoid taking Aspirin or iron-containing supplements for at least 7 days prior to the examination in order to ensure a clean colon, free of fecal matter on the surface of the large intestine. Therefore, patient preparation is necessary for endoscopy, as follows:   Three days before the examination, patients should consume foods with low residue, such as congee, boiled rice, fish, white bread, butter, milk, honey, tea, and coffee, and avoid foods with high fiber, such as vegetables, fruits, and brown rice.   On the day before the examination, patients should only consume clear liquids for all meals and drink plenty of fluids. Clear liquid diet includes fruit juices without pulp, tea without milk, black coffee, clear soup without solid food, and sweetened drinks.   Patients may also need to take laxatives as prescribed by the doctor to ensure that the colon is free of fecal matter in the evening, before bed, or in the morning of the examination day.   The examination will take place at the Gastrointestinal Center of Vibhavadi Hospital, which has prepared separate examination rooms for male and female patients.   Post-Examination Care:   It is recommended to avoid food and water for approximately an hour, until the patient feels normal or until their general symptoms subside. The patient may experience bloating or discomfort due to the air inserted by the physician into their intestines, which should disappear shortly. They may also feel abdominal pain and a desire to defecate.   In cases where tissue samples are taken for examination, there may be slight bleeding mixed with stool in the first two days.   Lower gastrointestinal endoscopy is a safe procedure, with a low risk of complications such as bowel perforation or tearing, which would require surgical repair. Bleeding resulting from tissue or intestinal perforation during the procedure usually stops on its own. However, if the patient experiences sudden severe abdominal pain, fever, or heavy bleeding exceeding half a cup, urgent medical attention should be sought.   With best regards, The Gastrointestinal System Center.

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7 Food Tips For a Beautiful Figure, Clear Skin, and Good Health

7 Food Tips For a Beautiful Figure, Clear Skin, and Good Health   Eat three complete meals per day, avoiding skipping breakfast, eating a light lunch, and refraining from heavy meals at dinner.   Consume all five food groups, including white protein from eggs/fish, complex carbohydrates from brown rice and grains, healthy fats from plant sources such as beans, sesame seeds, and avocados, reducing animal fat consumption. Additionally, intake vitamins and minerals from a variety of colorful vegetables and non-sweet fruits such as guava and green apples.   Diversify your food choices and rotate them regularly. Eating the same food repeatedly increases the risk of nutrient deficiency and contamination by similar substances.   Consume fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables, which reduces the risk of exposure to toxins and chemicals from cultivation. Wash them thoroughly before consuming. Organic produce is preferred.   Opt for fresh, minimally processed foods, avoiding fast food, frozen food, and convenience foods to promote longevity.   It is advisable to eat slowly and in small portions, rather than quickly and in large amounts. Chew your food thoroughly to reduce the burden on your body's digestive system and minimize the production of free radicals resulting from the process of burning food. You may also consider intermittent fasting for 2-3 times a week to stimulate the growth hormone and promote youthful recovery.   Drink plenty of water throughout the day, aiming for 2-3 liters to nourish your skin and brain. Avoid drinking a large amount of water at once, and refrain from drinking RO (reverse osmosis) water, which may deplete essential minerals from your body and bones.   Best wishes from the Department of Anti-Aging Medicine at Vibhavadi Hospital  

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Understanding Menopause

Understanding Menopause   What is menopause? Menopause is a stage in life that begins with infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and then menopause. Adolescence is the starting point where the ovaries produce hormones that lead to menstruation.   During menopause, the ovaries function less, resulting in a decrease in the production of hormones (estrogen, progesterone), which can cause some women to experience fewer periods. Some may experience a gap between periods until they stop altogether. These hormones help with menstruation, pregnancy, bone density, and cholesterol reduction.   When does menopause begin? Women aged 40 years and above can experience menopause, with an average age of 50 years. Women who smoke may experience menopause earlier than those who do not smoke. Women who have had their ovaries removed can also experience menopause immediately after the surgery.   What are the warning signs of menopause?   The symptoms of menopause can include irregular periods, such as coming early, coming late, being heavier or lighter than usual. Hot flashes are also common, where the patient feels a sudden heat that mostly affects the upper part of the body like the cheeks, neck, and back. This can be followed by sweating and feeling cold at night, and can last from 1-5 minutes.   Other problems can arise with the vagina and bladder, as the decreasing levels of estrogen can cause dryness and thinning of the vaginal walls. This can lead to discomfort during sex and increased risk of infection in the vagina. Additionally, there may be difficulty with holding urine, especially when coughing or sneezing.   Sleep problems are also common, with patients having difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently at night, and sweating excessively. This can lead to fatigue during the day.   Mood swings, irritability, and lack of concentration are also common symptoms of menopause. Changes in body shape may occur, with a decrease in waist size and an increase in fat around the waist. Muscle mass may decrease while fat increases, and the skin may become thinner and less elastic.   Other issues may include headaches, memory loss, and body aches.   During menopause, women may be at an increased risk for certain health conditions. This is because the hormonal changes that occur during menopause can affect various parts of the body. Here are some of the diseases that can be more common in those suffering from menopause:   Osteoporosis: As estrogen levels decrease, women can experience bone loss, which can increase the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.   Cardiovascular disease: The risk of heart disease and stroke increases after menopause due to changes in hormones, such as decreased estrogen levels, which can affect blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood vessel health.   Urinary tract infections: Lower levels of estrogen can cause thinning of the vaginal walls, making it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract and cause infections.   Breast cancer: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, and menopause marks a significant change in a woman's hormone levels, which can increase the risk of breast cancer.   Depression and anxiety: Menopause can be a challenging time for women, both physically and emotionally. Hormonal changes can lead to mood swings, depression, and anxiety.   Insomnia: Sleep problems are common during menopause, and insomnia can increase the risk of various health problems, including cardiovascular disease, depression, and obesity.   It is important for women going through menopause to stay informed about these potential health risks and to talk to their healthcare provider about ways to reduce their risk and manage their symptoms.   As you enter your golden years, it is important to take care of yourself by following some healthy practices. You should consume high-calcium foods and reduce your intake of fats to lower your risk factors for heart disease. Additionally, quitting smoking and alcohol consumption is highly recommended. Using lubricants before sexual activity is also advised. Getting screened annually for breast and cervical cancer is also important.   When it comes to treating age-related illnesses, hormone replacement therapy should be considered after a thorough evaluation of the severity of the disease. For instance, symptoms like hot flashes and thinning bones should be taken into account. The risks associated with hormone replacement therapy, such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke, should also be considered before starting the treatment. Alternatives to hormone therapy should also be explored before proceeding with this treatment.   If you experience hot flashes during menopause, there are certain steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms. You can move to a cool place, lie down in a cool room, drink cold water, avoid spicy and hot foods, and avoid alcohol. Stress should also be minimized, and breathing exercises can help you relax. Dressing in layers and removing them when you feel hot is another helpful practice.   Some doctors recommend using vitamin E, which can reduce symptoms by 40%, and anti-depressant medications such as Prozac and Zoloft for relief. Foods that contain soybeans can also help reduce hot flashes. Dryness and pain during intercourse, as well as frequent urination, can be addressed by taking hormones. However, if there are restrictions on hormone replacement therapy or if the patient is not willing to take the risk of hormone therapy, estrogen can be applied topically to the vaginal area. Although the level of hormones in the bloodstream will be lower than if taken orally, the treatment will be more effective for the vaginal area, with a fourfold increase in efficacy. For the first-time use, apply the cream daily, and then adjust the frequency to 2-3 times per week as needed. In addition, some people may use a medication to increase moisture in the vaginal area without thickening the tissue.   For insomnia and mood swings, it is recommended to avoid stress, exercise, and abstain from drinking coffee, which can make it harder to sleep. The use of SSRI antidepressants can also be helpful, as they can modify serotonin levels in the brain and reduce symptoms of depression.   Giving hormone replacement therapy to elderly patients with certain medical conditions requires assessing the severity of their condition and associated risks, such as hot flashes, osteoporosis, and the potential for hormone-related diseases like cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Other treatment options should be considered as well. Some patients may benefit from taking birth control pills, which can alleviate hot flashes, regulate menstrual cycles, and reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.   However, the downside is that it may not be clear if the patient has reached menopause or not. If in doubt, birth control pills should be stopped for 4-5 months to see if menstrual periods resume. When patients enter true menopause, doctors may consider prescribing hormone replacement therapy that contains estrogen and progesterone, which can alleviate symptoms, prevent bone loss and protect against heart disease. However, doctors must be cautious of complications such as liver disease, high triglycerides, and breast cancer risk associated with the use of phytoestrogens found in various plants like grains, vegetables, and legumes that mimic estrogen. While these plants contain substances that have estrogen-like effects, they are not currently recommended for treatment because their efficacy and side effects have not been fully researched.   The Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology at Vibhavadi Hospital wishes to emphasize the importance of evaluating the potential benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy in elderly patients with certain medical conditions before initiating treatment. Other options should be considered, and patients should be monitored for complications throughout their treatment.

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The Risks of Eating Saturated Fats

The Risks of Eating Saturated Fats   Consuming a diet high in saturated fats poses risks. But first, let’s understand where cholesterol comes from.   1 out of 3 comes from food. The fat from the food we eat is broken down and sent to the liver to be distributed throughout the body. 2 out of 3 are made by our liver. The liver creates cholesterol that the body needs to help transport fat to various parts of the body.   The dangers of cholesterol:   In normal blood vessels, cholesterol begins to build up on the inner walls. Fat accumulates and forms a plaque, which can cause sudden heart attacks and stroke. Cholesterol can form larger plaques that can block all of the red blood vessels, causing sudden blood clots and heart attacks.   Cholesterol and triglycerides lead to the buildup of plaque:   Brain: can cause stroke and paralysis due to narrowed blood vessels in the brain. Heart: can cause narrowed blood vessels in the heart, sudden heart muscle death, and heart attack. Kidneys: can cause blocked blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to kidney failure. Legs: can cause poor blood flow to the legs, resulting in leg pain when walking.   Foods to Avoid:   Foods to avoid are those high in fat, especially saturated and trans fats, and cholesterol, including fatty meats such as bacon, sausage, and organ meats like liver and brain, egg yolks (you can eat egg whites), shellfish, squid, shrimp, and fish eggs, cheese, cream, butter, cakes, cookies, and doughnuts, fried foods, and foods prepared with pork fat, palm oil, coconut oil, or coconut cream.   Cholesterol levels in some types of food   The following table shows the amount of cholesterol in 100 grams of each food:   Food Item                            Cholesterol (milligrams)       Chicken breast, skinless               63     Duck, meat                                      82     Beef, meat                                       65     White tuna fish                               69     Skipjack tuna fish                            51     Black tiger shrimp                          175     Squid                                                251     Chicken egg, whole                       508     Pork spare ribs                               105     Crab meat                                       145       * Source: Bureau of Nutrition, Department of Health   Tips for people with high cholesterol:   Maintain a healthy weight. Reduce alcohol intake. Quit smoking. Control high blood pressure and diabetes, if present. Exercise regularly, such as walking, aerobics, or running (at least 30-60 minutes, at least 3 times a week). Have cholesterol levels checked regularly and take cholesterol-lowering medication as prescribed by a doctor.

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The Flu Is Not A Big Deal If Prevented Properly

The Flu Is Not A Big Deal If Prevented Properly   You probably have experienced the unpredictable weather conditions from last year until now, where it's hot, rainy, and cold, making it difficult to dress appropriately for the season. However, what's more concerning than choosing the right sweater is the illness that many people are experiencing due to the rapidly changing global temperature. While getting a common cold is manageable, getting the flu is a much bigger issue.   The flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can spread rapidly. Each year, the strain of the virus can change, causing varying degrees of severity. The flu can be especially severe in patients with chronic diseases or weakened immune systems, such as the elderly, and can even lead to death. This can result in significant medical expenses, time off from work, and decreased work productivity. In comparison to a common cold, the flu can be much more severe.   Influenza A (commonly known as the "flu") versus the common cold:   Influenza A symptoms include a fever that can spike suddenly to 38-40°C, muscle aches, fatigue that can last for several weeks, and occasionally nausea and vomiting in children. While runny nose and sore throat may be present in the early stages, they are not as common as with a cold. Influenza A is caused by the influenza virus, which affects the respiratory system.   On the other hand, the common cold typically presents with a low-grade fever, mild muscle aches, and a runny or stuffy nose. Sore throat may occur in the early stages, but is not as common as with influenza. Fatigue may occur, but is generally not as severe or long-lasting as with the flu. The common cold is caused by a variety of viruses that affect the respiratory system.   Do not be overly fearful and panic to the point of paranoia, because the flu can be prevented. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health have recommended that every high-risk individual should receive an annual flu vaccination to reduce the risk of severe complications from influenza infection, which may require hospitalization.   High-risk individuals include healthcare professionals and staff who are involved with patients, as well as those who have chronic conditions such as obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, renal failure, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, diabetes, thalassemia, and HIV-infected patients with symptoms. In addition, the high-risk group for influenza also includes individuals who are 65 years of age or older, pregnant women who are four months or more pregnant, individuals who weigh more than 100 kilograms, individuals with disabilities who cannot care for themselves, and infants aged 6 months to 2 years.   Of all high-risk individuals mentioned, patients with underlying heart disease and diabetes should take special precautions to prevent influenza.   Because influenza infection has a direct relationship with the exacerbation of heart and blood vessel disease, once the body is infected, it triggers the stimulation and clotting of blood platelets, leading to a process of blood clotting that can cause blockage of blood vessels and ultimately result in sudden heart attacks.   Especially during the flu season when influenza is prevalent, it is often found that 4 out of 10 patients who are treated for Acute MI die suddenly, with the flu infection occurring shortly before. In addition, hospitalization and mortality rates for heart disease patients are also increasing. Therefore, getting vaccinated against influenza can greatly reduce deaths caused by heart and blood vessel disease.   For diabetic patients who contract influenza, they are at a higher risk of severe complications than non-diabetics. It is found that hospitalization rates are up to 6 times higher, and the chances of dying from infection during a flu outbreak increase by 5%.   Outbreaks of influenza occur worldwide and can be severe in certain years due to constantly changing weather patterns. The influenza virus can spread from animals to humans, causing the disease. In Thailand, influenza outbreaks occur frequently during the rainy and cold seasons, specifically from May to October and January to February.   Transmission:   The flu virus can be transmitted from one person to another through breathing, receiving mucus or phlegm from the patient, and the virus can enter through the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth. It can also be transmitted by touching contaminated objects such as tissues, spoons, glasses, or through kissing. Additionally, touching the virus and then rubbing one's eyes or putting it in one's mouth can also result in infection.   Complications:   Generally, the flu can be cured on its own without complications. However, in some cases, complications may arise such as sinusitis, middle ear infection, inner ear infection, bronchitis, and the most serious being pneumonia, which is often caused by bacteria such as pneumococcus or staphylococcus. Complications from the flu usually occur in children and the elderly.   Treatment for the flu:   Rest as much as possible and avoid physical activity. Drink plenty of water, fruit juices, or even mineral water mixed with salt. However, avoid drinking plain water alone because it can lead to mineral deficiencies. Treat the flu symptoms like a cold by avoiding cold baths, using a wet cloth to wipe the body when the fever is high, eating soft foods, and taking Paracetamol painkillers. Adults should take one tablet (500 milligrams) of Paracetamol, 2-3 times per day. Avoid using aspirin if there are symptoms of wheezing or suspected pneumonia, in which case immediate hospitalization is recommended.   Vaccines:   Vaccination is an effective way to reduce hospitalization rates for patients with diabetes caused by influenza, with a reduction of up to 79% when vaccinated against the flu. Additionally, getting vaccinated against the flu also reduces the occurrence of complications and deaths related to the flu.   For those interested in receiving the influenza vaccine, there are currently two types available: the 3-strain and the 4-strain influenza vaccine. The 4-strain vaccine provides greater coverage against the B strain of the influenza virus, covering both the A strains (H1N1 and H3N2) as well as both the Victoria and Yamagata lineage B strains. This further enhances the ability to prevent the spread of influenza during outbreaks, thereby reducing the risk of illness and death.   If you or anyone in your family is at risk, it is recommended to seek medical advice and get vaccinated against influenza at a nearby hospital to prevent illness before it occurs.

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Jaundice in Infants

Jaundice in Infants   Yellowing condition in newborn infants, also known as jaundice, is found in 50% of cases. The yellow substance that we can see on the baby's skin can be measured through a blood test called bilirubin, which is a result of the breakdown of red blood cells in the baby. Bilirubin is eliminated by the liver and excreted through the baby's stool.   The main causes of jaundice can be divided into two groups. The first group is called physiologic jaundice, which is a normal condition and not dangerous. The second group is called pathologic jaundice, which is dangerous and has clear causes, including:   Increased breakdown of red blood cells Abnormal liver function Breastfeeding, although the mechanism for this cause is unclear.   Treatment:   In normal circumstances, jaundice in babies aged 7-10 days will resolve on its own. In high risk cases, medical intervention according to the American Academy of Pediatrics will occur. There are 2 main approaches:   1. If bilirubin levels are moderate, light therapy will be used to decrease the number. 2. If bilirubin levels are high, or if light therapy was ineffective, a blood transfusion must be done.   Some may believe that putting babies out in the sun may help their jaundice, which it may help slightly. However, the light used in light therapy and natural sunlight are quite different, so it cannot be said that sunlight can replace light therapy.   Parents should keep an eye out for their baby’s skin tint around their face, trunk, and limbs. If the baby appears to be abnormally yellow, it is advised to seek medical help immediately.   Some parents may wonder if breastfeeding must be stopped during light therapy, but that is only the case if infants are shown to have high bilirubin levels for 24-48 consecutive hours. When the jaundice goes away, normal breastfeeding can resume.   For more information, contact Department of Pediatrics at Vibhavadi Hospital Tel. 02-561-1111 ext. 4220, 4221

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Numbness and Tingling in Hands and Feet

Numbness and Tingling in Hands and Feet   Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet is a condition that many people may have experienced. Some may experience it only briefly, while others may have longer-lasting symptoms. Although it may not be a serious issue, it can be bothersome. In the early stages, it often does not interfere much with daily life beyond the discomfort. However, it is a signal of an abnormality in the nervous system, so it is important to identify the cause and find ways to address it before more severe complications occur.   This condition is an abnormal sensation in the nervous system that can occur in any part of the body, particularly the fingers, hands, feet, or legs. It is characterized by feelings of pain, discomfort, warmth, or coldness that are less intense than usual or completely absent. Some people may feel a numbness or a sensation of something pressing on the tips of their fingers or toes that comes and goes. The condition occurs when the nerves that transmit sensation in the affected area are not functioning properly, with at least a 50% reduction in their capacity. If the nerve damage occurs slowly over time, it may not be noticeable, and it can be difficult to detect. However, if the damage occurs rapidly, the symptoms will be more obvious.   Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet can occur for various reasons, such as sitting or standing in the same position for a long time, which can restrict blood flow and cause nerve damage. It can also be caused by certain medical conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, snake bites, diabetes, migraines, stroke, and vitamin deficiencies. Inadequate nutrition can also lead to nerve damage, especially if the body lacks sufficient amounts of vitamin B.   There are several ways to alleviate nerve-related symptoms. Firstly, it is important to consume foods rich in vitamin B, including vitamins B1, B6, and B12, which are essential for nerve health. These vitamins can be found in a variety of foods such as whole grains, nuts, fruits, vegetables, fish, eggs, and meat.   Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, plays a crucial role in building a protective layer around nerve cells while they transmit signals through the nervous system. A deficiency in thiamine can result in the destruction of nerve cells, causing severe pain and disruption in various bodily processes, including muscle and nervous system function. Additionally, a lack of thiamine may affect the metabolic system, leading to abnormal digestion and reduced glucose metabolism, ultimately increasing blood sugar levels. This deficiency is often found in patients with uncontrolled diabetes and may result in nerve damage.   Signs of a vitamin B1 deficiency may include fatigue, loss of appetite, insomnia, mood swings, confusion, and even movement disorders due to the deterioration of the nervous system. Beriberi is a condition that may occur in severe cases.   Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is responsible for transporting glucose in the body. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to high blood sugar levels, as the body cannot convert glucose into energy. Elevated blood sugar levels can damage the nervous system, resulting in nerve-related diseases. In diabetic patients, a deficiency in vitamin B6 may contribute to the development of peripheral neuropathy, a condition characterized by nerve damage in the limbs.   Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, plays a crucial role in the nervous system by promoting the production and growth of nerve cells. Prolonged deficiency of vitamin B12 can lead to changes in the protective tissue that surrounds and supports nerve fibers, causing nerve disorders to develop.   All B vitamins are water-soluble, meaning that any excess the body does not use is excreted through sweat or urine. Therefore, it is essential to consume enough vitamins through the diet. If food sources do not provide sufficient amounts of vitamin B1, B6, and B12, supplements may be taken to ensure proper maintenance of the nerve system.   Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and exercising regularly can also help protect the nerves. Simple adjustments such as wearing comfortable and appropriate footwear, avoiding prolonged sitting, and correcting posture in daily life can also prevent nerve damage. For individuals with diabetes, controlling blood sugar levels is equally important.

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Osteoarthritis

  Osteoarthritis   Osteoarthritis, commonly known as knee arthritis, is a condition where the cartilage, joint capsule, and synovial fluid responsible for protecting and lubricating the knee joint deteriorate, causing pain and inflammation. This condition can occur due to improper lifestyle habits and not just in older individuals, contrary to popular belief.   Symptoms of knee arthritis include chronic pain while moving or putting weight on the affected knee, swelling, stiffness, and creaking sounds during movement. In severe cases, the knee joint may become deformed, and the pain can spread to other areas of the leg, significantly limiting mobility.   There are several risk factors associated with knee arthritis, including old age, obesity, previous knee injuries, hormonal imbalances in women, and pre-existing bone and joint conditions. However, the condition can be managed and treated with a combination of medication, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgery. Whether or not surgery is necessary will depend on the severity of the condition and the individual case.   Prevention:   Maintain a healthy body weight as the knee joint is responsible for bearing weight. The more weight the joint bears, the more quickly the bone around the knee joint wears out, leading to damage and weakness.   Avoid using the knee joint in the wrong way, such as sitting cross-legged, kneeling, sitting for long periods, or standing for extended periods.   Avoid excessive use of the knee joint, such as standing for long periods, going up and down stairs frequently, and lifting heavy objects.   Strengthen the muscles around the knee joint as they are essential in supporting the joint and reducing the burden on the knee joint. However, if excessive force is applied to the knee joint, such as during sports that involve high-impact knee movements like running and jumping, it can lead to damage to the bone around the knee joint. Therefore, low-impact exercises that do not put pressure on the knee joint, such as yoga (which helps to strengthen the leg, knee, and calf muscles) and swimming (walking in water) or cycling, can help to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint.   If there is an abnormality in the knee joint, it should be treated appropriately, such as treating gout or rheumatoid arthritis, or if there is an accident to the knee joint, such as a torn ligament or broken bone, it must be treated correctly until the knee returns to normal.   Treatment:   Knee osteoarthritis cannot be completely cured, but patients can manage and treat the condition based on the following:   • Take pain relievers or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) when there is pain and inflammation.   • For overweight patients, weight loss can help reduce pressure on the knee joint.   • Engage in physical exercise or physiotherapy to reduce pain and strengthen the knee muscles.   • Use a knee brace to support the knee joint and relieve pain.   • Consider surgical treatment, such as knee replacement surgery, if the knee joint is severely damaged and the patient cannot walk or move properly.   • Steroid injections can be an option for those with mild-moderate osteoarthritis, however, injections should not exceed 4 times/year.   In cases of severe and malformed knee conditions, patients may choose to undergo knee replacement surgery, which may involve either replacing some parts of the joint (unicompartmental knee replacement) or replacing the entire joint (total knee replacement), depending on the severity of the disease. During the surgery, medical-grade materials such as metals or plastics may be used to reinforce the joint. These artificial knee joints have different lifespans.   Nowadays, patients who undergo knee replacement surgery can recover more quickly due to smaller incisions and less pain than traditional knee replacement surgery. The surgery typically takes two hours, and recovery time is only one week.   However, before undergoing the surgery, the doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination to ensure safety and accuracy in controlling pain during the surgery.   For cases where the knee is severely damaged and other methods have not worked, I recommend using the latest technique for knee replacement surgery. This involves making a small incision, cutting a small amount of muscle tissue, and using high-quality standard knee joints from America, without the need for suturing the incision. The wound will not become bruised.   Therefore, patients can recover quickly and can walk sooner after surgery. The wound will heal nicely, and the likelihood of complications is reduced.   Patients can resume their normal daily lives, travel, and improve their physical and mental health. Then, they will be healthy and active senior citizens.

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