Author name: Talha Bhutta

Patient Information Blogs Navigating Gall Stones Courtesy of: Dr. Adeel Jatala; Senior Reg., Medicsi 06/05/2024 Navigating Gall Stones Courtesy of: Dr. Adeel Jatala; Senior Reg., Medicsi 06/05/2024 Guide for Everyday Understanding Gallstones, those trouble-making little formations in the gallbladder, can cause significant discomfort and potential complications if left untreated. But fear not! Understanding gallstones, their symptoms, and the necessary investigations can empower you to take control of your health effectively. What Are Gallstones? Gallstones are deposits that form in the gallbladder either from cholesterol or bile salts. The gallbladder's main function is to store bile. When you eat, the gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats. Gallstones can vary in size and number from single to multiple. Causes of Gallstones: The exact cause of gallstones is not always clear, but they often develop when there is an imbalance in the substances that make up bile. Factors that can increase the risk of gallstones include: Being Overweight or Obese: Excess weight can increase the amount of cholesterol in bile, which can lead to the formation of gallstones. Rapid Weight Loss: Losing weight too quickly can also contribute to the formation of gallstones. Certain Diets: Diets high in fat and cholesterol and low in fibre can increase the risk of gallstones. Family History: If someone in your family has had gallstones, you may be more likely to develop them too. Other comorbidities: Conditions such as diabetes and liver disease can increase the risk of gallstones. Common Symptoms of Gallstones: Gallstones don't always cause symptoms, but when they do, the symptoms can be quite painful. Common symptoms of gallstones include: Sudden and Intense Pain (Biliary colic): This pain, known as gallbladder colic, typically occurs in the upper abdomen and can last for several hours. Nausea and Vomiting: Some people may experience nausea and vomiting along with the pain. Jaundice: If not treated timely a gallstone blocks the bile duct, which can lead to jaundice, a condition characterised by yellowing of the skin and eyes. Fever: In some cases, gallstones can cause inflammation of the gallbladder, leading to fever and chills. It can complicate serious conditions like pancreatitis. What are the management options for gallstones? If you're experiencing symptoms of gallstones, it's important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. It's very important to understand that not all gallbladder stones are operated on. If you have severe symptoms or complications, such as gallbladder inflammation or blockage of the bile ducts, there are some surgical options to remove the gallbladder. Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy. Most preferred these days due to its advantages like less pain and a short stay in the hospital. Open cholecystectomy: Only done if the laparoscopic one is not available or possible. A discussion with your surgeon will clarify the reasons further. Guide for Everyday Understanding Gallstones, those trouble-making little formations in the gallbladder, can cause significant discomfort and potential complications if left untreated. But fear not! Understanding gallstones, their symptoms, and the necessary investigations can empower you to take control of your health effectively. What Are Gallstones? Gallstones are deposits that form in the gallbladder either from cholesterol or bile salts. The gallbladder's main function is to store bile. When you eat, the gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats. Gallstones can vary in size and number from single to multiple. Causes of Gallstones: The exact cause of gallstones is not always clear, but they often develop when there is an imbalance in the substances that make up bile. Factors that can increase the risk of gallstones include: Being Overweight or Obese: Excess weight can increase the amount of cholesterol in bile, which can lead to the formation of gallstones. Rapid Weight Loss: Losing weight too quickly can also contribute to the formation of gallstones. Certain Diets: Diets high in fat and cholesterol and low in fibre can increase the risk of gallstones. Family History: If someone in your family has had gallstones, you may be more likely to develop them too. Other comorbidities: Conditions such as diabetes and liver disease can increase the risk of gallstones. Common Symptoms of Gallstones: Gallstones don't always cause symptoms, but when they do, the symptoms can be quite painful. Common symptoms of gallstones include: Sudden and Intense Pain (Biliary colic): This pain, known as gallbladder colic, typically occurs in the upper abdomen and can last for several hours. Nausea and Vomiting: Some people may experience nausea and vomiting along with the pain. Jaundice: If not treated timely a gallstone blocks the bile duct, which can lead to jaundice, a condition characterised by yellowing of the skin and eyes. Fever: In some cases, gallstones can cause inflammation of the gallbladder, leading to fever and chills. It can complicate serious conditions like pancreatitis. What are the management options for gallstones? If you're experiencing symptoms of gallstones, it's important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. It's very important to understand that not all gallbladder stones are operated on. If you have severe symptoms or complications, such as gallbladder inflammation or blockage of the bile ducts, there are some surgical options to remove the gallbladder. Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy. Most preferred these days due to its advantages like less pain and a short stay in the hospital. Open cholecystectomy: Only done if the laparoscopic one is not available or possible. A discussion with your surgeon will clarify the reasons further. Recent Blogs edit post What is Medical Aesthetics Read More edit post Managing Your Pain Read More edit post PREMATURE MENOPAUSE: IT IS BEING DIAGNOSED TOO LATE Read More

Patient Information Blogs Your Thyroid Courtesy of: Dr. Saleha; Senior Resident, Medicsi 05/05/2024 Your Thyroid Courtesy of: Dr. Saleha; Senior Resident, Medicsi 05/05/2024 A key gland controlling Metabolism of the body. It is a butterfly shaped gland in front of your neck that controls the body’s energy consumption and regulation. It controls the formation of vital structures and organ rejuvenation in the early stage of life. It exerts its function by secreting hormones in blood which act on receptors throughout the body.   What happens when it produces too little or too much of these hormones? Goitre: It is the enlargement of thyroid gland to an extent that it becomes prominent and is visible to the naked eye. Goitre is more common in females. There are certain conditions in which the thyroid gland enlarges and appears as goitre. Symptoms: Fatigue Weight gain and  sometimes weight loss (depending on type of the goitre) Dry skin Lethargy Constipation Irregularity in menstrual cycle and subfertility Panic attacks.   Way Forward: A surgeon will examine the neck and do a general examination to determine the nature of this disease. A few supportive blood tests are done which tells us about the hormone production. If there is a goitre an ultrasound can tell us about the nodularity. Any new nodule needs testing. It could be a sign of something sinister.    Weight loss despite increased appetite, voice changes, difficulty in breathing are all dangerous signs and warrant immediate evaluation by an expert!!   All goitres are not operated. Based on the Ultrasound, size of the gland and the hormones level. There are medical as well as surgical options. Medical management: medicines will be prescribed and if needed you will be referred to the physician. Surgery: It's a major surgery where part or whole of the thyroid gland is removed in expert and safe hands this operation has excellent results both aesthetically as well as general well-being. Radio-iodine Therapy: It is given in specialised cases. A key gland controlling Metabolism of the body. It is a butterfly shaped gland in front of your neck that controls the body’s energy consumption and regulation. It controls the formation of vital structures and organ rejuvenation in the early stage of life. It exerts its function by secreting hormones in blood which act on receptors throughout the body.   What happens when it produces too little or too much of these hormones? Goitre: It is the enlargement of thyroid gland to an extent that it becomes prominent and is visible to the naked eye. Goitre is more common in females. There are certain conditions in which the thyroid gland enlarges and appears as goitre. Symptoms: Fatigue Weight gain and  sometimes weight loss (depending on type of the goitre) Dry skin Lethargy Constipation Irregularity in menstrual cycle and subfertility Panic attacks.   Way Forward: A surgeon will examine the neck and do a general examination to determine the nature of this disease. A few supportive blood tests are done which tells us about the hormone production. If there is a goitre an ultrasound can tell us about the nodularity. Any new nodule needs testing. It could be a sign of something sinister.    Weight loss despite increased appetite, voice changes, difficulty in breathing are all dangerous signs and warrant immediate evaluation by an expert!!   All goitres are not operated. Based on the Ultrasound, size of the gland and the hormones level. There are medical as well as surgical options. Medical management: medicines will be prescribed and if needed you will be referred to the physician. Surgery: It's a major surgery where part or whole of the thyroid gland is removed in expert and safe hands this operation has excellent results both aesthetically as well as general well-being. Radio-iodine Therapy: It is given in specialised cases. Recent Blogs edit post PREMATURE MENOPAUSE: IT IS BEING DIAGNOSED TOO LATE Read More edit post Minimally Invasive Surgery At Medicsi Read More edit post Ensuring Your Comfort and Safety Read More

Patient Information Blogs Piles Or Haemorrhoids (Bawaseer) Courtesy of: Dr. Kainat; Surgical Resident, Medicsi 05/05/2024 Piles Or Haemorrhoids (Bawaseer) Courtesy of: Dr. Kainat; Surgical Resident, Medicsi 05/05/2024 Piles or Bawaseer is a broader term used by common man for perianal condition, haemorrhoids. What are Haemorrhoids? Haemorrhoids are inflamed and swollen collections of tissue in the anal area. They can have a range of sizes, and they may be internal or external. Internal piles are normally located between 2 and 4 centimetres (cm) above the opening of the anus, and they are the more common type. External piles occur on the outside edge of the anus. Haemorrhoids are classified into four grades: Grade I: There are small invisible swellings, usually inside the lining of the anus. Grade II:These are larger than grade I piles, but also remain inside the anus. They may come out of anus during passing stool, but they will return unaided. Grade III: Also known as prolapsed haemorrhoids, and appear outside. The individual may feel them hanging, but they can be easily pushed back. Grade IV: These are the severe forms which cannot be pushed back. They are large and remain outside of the body. SymptomsAn individual with piles may experience the following symptoms: A hard, possibly painful lump may be felt around the anus. It may contain coagulated blood. Piles that contain blood are called thrombosed external haemorrhoids. After passing a stool, a person with piles may experience the feeling that the bowels are still full. Bright red blood is visible after a bowel movement. The area around the anus may be itchy, red, and sore. Haemorrhoids usually present with painless bleeding. Pain may occur only in 4th degree when they become irreducible. Causes These may be due to: Long standing constipation Chronic diarrhoea Lifting heavy weights Pregnancy Straining when passing stool Obesity Colon cancer Spinal cord injury Lifestyle changes We will initially recommend some lifestyle changes to manage piles. Diet: A change in diet can help keep the stools regular and soft. This involves drinking more water and eating more fibre, such as fruits and vegetables, or primarily eating bran-based breakfast cereals. Body weight: Losing weight may help reduce the incidence and severity of piles.  Exercising: is one of the main therapies for piles. Medications: Several medicinal options are available to make symptoms more manageable for an individual with piles.  Over the counter medications: These are available, including painkillers, ointments, creams, and pads, and can help soothe redness and swelling around the anus. Do not use them for more than 7 days in a row. Laxatives: The doctor may prescribe laxatives if a person with piles suffers from constipation. These can help the person pass stools more easily and reduce pressure on the lower colon. Surgical options: Advanced Piles require surgical treatment.  Sclerotherapy: Medicine is injected to make the hemorrhoid shrink. The hemorrhoid eventually shrivels up. This is effective for grade II and III haemorrhoids and is an alternative to banding. Banding: Involves putting an elastic band around the base of the pile, cutting off its blood supply. After a few days, the hemorrhoid falls off. This is effective for treating all haemorrhoids of less than grade IV status. Open Hemorrhoidectomy: The excess tissue that is causing the bleeding is surgically removed. This can be done in various ways.  Haemorrhoids stapling: Blood flow is blocked to the hemorrhoid tissue. This procedure is usually less painful than hemorrhoidectomy. Hemorrhoidectomy with energy device: Is newer technique involving energy devices like Liga-Sure and Harmonic to coagulate the blood supply of hemorrhoidal vessels. Laser Hemorrhoidectomy: Is a newer technique involving Lasers to block the blood supply of haemorrhoidal vessels. (Currently not available in Medicsi) Piles or Bawaseer is a broader term used by common man for perianal condition, haemorrhoids. What are Haemorrhoids? Haemorrhoids are inflamed and swollen collections of tissue in the anal area. They can have a range of sizes, and they may be internal or external. Internal piles are normally located between 2 and 4 centimetres (cm) above the opening of the anus, and they are the more common type. External piles occur on the outside edge of the anus.   Haemorrhoids are classified into four grades: Grade I: There are small invisible swellings, usually inside the lining of the anus. Grade II:These are larger than grade I piles, but also remain inside the anus. They may come out of anus during passing stool, but they will return unaided. Grade III: Also known as prolapsed haemorrhoids, and appear outside. The individual may feel them hanging, but they can be easily pushed back. Grade IV: These are the severe forms which cannot be pushed back. They are large and remain outside of the body. Symptoms An individual with piles may experience the following symptoms:   A hard, possibly painful lump may be felt around the anus. It may contain coagulated blood. Piles that contain blood are called thrombosed external haemorrhoids. After passing a stool, a person with piles may experience the feeling that the bowels are still full. Bright red blood is visible after a bowel movement. The area around the anus may be itchy, red, and sore. Haemorrhoids usually present with painless bleeding. Pain may occur only in 4th degree when they become irreducible. Causes These may be due to:   Long standing constipation Chronic diarrhoea Lifting heavy weights Pregnancy Straining when passing stool Obesity Colon cancer Spinal cord injury Lifestyle changes We will initially recommend some lifestyle changes to manage piles.   Diet: A change in diet can help keep the stools regular and soft. This involves drinking more water and eating more fibre, such as fruits and vegetables, or primarily eating bran-based breakfast cereals. Body weight: Losing weight may help reduce the incidence and severity of piles.  Exercising: is one of the main therapies for piles. Medications: Several medicinal options are available to make symptoms more manageable for an individual with piles.  Over the counter medications: These are available, including painkillers, ointments, creams, and pads, and can help soothe redness and swelling around

Patient Information Blogs Introduction To Surgical Work At Medicsi … 30/04/2024 Medicsi runs an active out-patient, in-patient and emergency departments. It is equipped with the necessary machinery and trained personnel.   Depending on your physical condition and medical urgency you have the choice of visiting the consultants in the out-patient department (OPD) or visiting our emergency department which is open 24/7.  To see the consultant in OPD, you can take one of the two routes. You can call our telephone exchange and make an appointment for the consultant that you wish to see OR leave a message in the chat and someone will help you OR if you are aware of your consultant’s clinic timings, you can walk in and request to be seen by him/her. Introduction To Surgical Work At Medicsi … 30/04/2024 Medicsi runs an active out-patient, in-patient and emergency departments. It is equipped with the necessary machinery and trained personnel.   Depending on your physical condition and medical urgency you have the choice of visiting the consultants in the out-patient department (OPD) or visiting our emergency department which is open 24/7.  To see the consultant in OPD, you can take one of the two routes. You can call our telephone exchange and make an appointment for the consultant that you wish to see OR leave a message in the chat and someone will help you OR if you are aware of your consultant’s clinic timings, you can walk in and request to be seen by him/her. Once seen by the consultant, you can get your laboratory and radiological investigations done there and then. At the moment CT scan and MRI are not available at Medicsi.   If you need admission your consultant, with the help of the on-call doctor will plan and arrange it. He will also brief you on the management plan and need for surgery if any.   If for valid reasons you need to go to the emergency department, qualified and trained on-call doctors will see you and after examinations, they will talk to the on-call consultant. Any further management will be planned by the consultant and executed by the doctor there. If your condition is such that they are unable to give you the definitive treatment at Medicsi, they will provide the first aid needed and will refer you to another hospital where those facilities are available. We can provide you with an ambulance and help you in transfer if needed. Recent Blogs edit post PREMATURE MENOPAUSE: IT IS BEING DIAGNOSED TOO LATE Read More edit post Minimally Invasive Surgery At Medicsi Read More edit post Ensuring Your Comfort and Safety Read More