IPF:

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), the prototype of interstitial lung diseases, has the worst prognosis and is the only interstitial lung disease for which approved pharmacological treatments are available. Despite being considered a rare disease, IPF patients pose major challenges to both physicians and healthcare systems. It is estimated that a large number of IPF patients reside in BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India, and China) given their overall total population of approximately 3 billion inhabitants. Nevertheless, the limited availability of chest imaging in BRIC countries is considered a chief obstacle to diagnosis, since high-resolution computed tomography of the chest is the key diagnostic test for IPF. Further, obtaining reliable lung function tests and providing treatment access is difficult in the more rural areas of these countries. However, IPF might represent an opportunity for BRIC countries: the exponentially increasing demand for the enrollment of IPF patients in clinical trials of new drugs is predicted to face a shortage of patients – BRIC countries may thus play a crucial role in advancing towards a cure for IPF.

Keywords: BRIC countries; High-resolution computed tomography; Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis; Nintedanib; Pirfenidone

COPD:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality across the globe. According to World Health Organization estimates, 65 million people have moderate to severe COPD. More than 3 million people died of COPD in 2005 corresponding to 5% of all deaths globally and it is estimated to be the third leading cause of death by 2030.[1] Most of the information available on COPD prevalence, morbidity and mortality comes from high-income countries. Even in those countries, accurate epidemiologic data on COPD are difficult and expensive to collect. However, it is known that low- and middle-income countries already shoulder much of the burden of COPD with almost 90% of COPD deaths taking place in these countries.[2,3] In this issue of Lung India, the joint ICS/NCCP (I) consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and management of COPD have been published[4] to facilitate the Indian practitioner in burden reduction, diagnosis and management of COPD.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a disease of unknown aetiology associated with progressive parenchymal fibrosis 1. Patients with IPF face substantial morbidity and mortality, and report substantially impaired quality of life 2. Lung transplant (LT) represents the lone intervention that potentially improves survival in IPF 3.

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is evolving as an important factor that can adversely affect outcomes in chronic lung disease. In advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), therapy directed at controlling the pulmonary artery pressure has been recommended 4. In fibrotic lung diseases more akin to IPF, such as sarcoidosis, secondary PH is common and is a marker for early death 5, 6.

Less is known about PH in IPF. Epidemiologically, several retrospective analyses indicate that PH in IPF may be frequent 7–9. Illustrating the emerging interest in PH and IPF, Ghofrani et al. 10 examined the impact of sildenafil on pulmonary haemodynamics in lung fibrosis and concluded that it caused pulmonary vasodilation and improved gas exchange. Others have also explored inhaled agents in IPF related to PH 11.

With the advent of newer options for treating PH, coupled with the lack of effective therapies for IPF, targeting PH appears attractive. However, before studying interventions it is important to define the prevalence and extent of this process. With improved information regarding the prevalence of and clinical factors associated with PH in IPF, clinicians can better determine whom to evaluate for PH, and researchers can design more appropriate clinical trials. Thus, to explore the frequency of PH in IPF, the present authors retrospectively analysed the United States LT registry. The specific objectives were to describe the prevalence of PH in IPF, to assess the severity of PH in this population and to identify clinical variables that correlated with PH

Panchakarma:

Panchakarma is the five-fold purification therapy, which is a special form of treatment in Ayurveda consisting of vamanam, virechanam, nasyam, sneha vasti and kashaya vasti. This Detox procedure is indicated for the healthy as well as for the diseased for eliminating toxins from the body. The speciality of Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Centre is that it does Panchakarma in its own classical way. It is acknowledged as an excellent method to maintain health and to slow down premature aging.

1 – Poorvakarma (Preparation of the body for Panchakarma) Abhyangam (Massage), Elakizhi (Herbal leaves bolus massage), Podikizhi (Herbal powder bolus massage), Steam bath are the procedures done to prepare body. .

2 – Pradhanakarma (Purification Procedure ) Vamana (Therapeutic emesis) Virechana (Purgation ) Nasyam (Nasal Treatment) Kashaya Vasthy (Enema prepared with herbal decoctions ) and Sneha Vasthy (Oil enema)
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3 – Paschath Karma (Rejuvenation Therapy) Njavara Kizhi(Rice bolus Massage) Pizhichil (Oil bath) etc. are the procedures usually done.
Abhyanga:

The term “Abhyanga” means oil massage. Here in Nagarjuna we do “Abhyanga” as a pre-process of Panchakarma. Two expert therapists perform the “Abhyanga” in a synchronised and systematic way. Massage improves metabolism which leads to better tissue respiration, increases circulation, causing the body to flush out its waste products more efficiently. “Abhyanga” improves concentration, intelligence, confidence, and youthfulness. It helps in alleviating Vata troubles. It provides comfort to the eyes, sound sleep, tones up the body, Improves flexibility, softness and firmness of the skin and provides long life. It is the most ancient method used to remove muscular fatigue and pain. The massage is done in a special wooden table called “Dhroni”. The wooden “Dhroni” are made from trees like Neem or Nuxvomica or trees which has similar medicinal properties.

Pizhichil:

Pizhichil is a unique treatment emerged in Kerala, which was developed from ancient classical treatment called “Kayadhara”. In Pizhichil lukewarm medicated herbal oil is poured all over the body. Trained therapists do it in a special rhythmic way continuously for about 45-60 minutes every day.It should be done as a course of 7 days minimum. This treatment is very effective in Rheumatic diseases like arthritis, paralysis, hemiplegia, nervous weakness and nervous disorders.

Njavara Kizhi:

It is the most rejuvenating treatment in which the whole body massage is given with bolus of Njavara. Njavara is special variety of rice. It is cooked in medicinal decoction with milk in to a pudding which is made to boluses tied up in muslin bag. This procedure is done by trained therapists for about 45 to 60 minutes. Njavara Kizhi works on deep tissues and improves neurological and joint functions. Njavara Theppu – Application of the same as a paste all over the body is a variation of this treatment and has cosmetic effect on the skin to improve the lustre and complex.

Siro Dhara:

In this process, herbal oils, medicated milk, medicated butter milk etc., are poured on the forehead in a particular method using a special pot for about 45 minutes a day. This treatment is effective for diseases of the head and neck, insomnia, impaired memory, spondylitis, paraplegia, fatigue and lack of vitality. This treatment also stimulates nerves, reduces stiffness and is proven to be effective for rheumatoid arthritis and other auto immune diseases.

Siro Vasthi

Medicated lukewarm herbal oil is poured into a cap fitted on the head and kept for 15 to 60 minutes per day according to the patient’s conditions. This treatment is highly effective for facial paralysis, Migraine, dryness of nostrils, mouth and throat, severe headaches and other Vata- related diseases. Also effective for the loss of tactile sense, facial paralysis, speech difficulties, insomnia and nervous disorders. Also prescribed for other diseases of the head, eyes, ears and nose.

Kati Vasthi :

In this process specially prepared warm medicated oil is kept over the lower back with a tank prepared with herbal powder paste. This treatment lasts for 30-45 minutes. Specifically for low back pain, lumbago and degenerative vertebral diseases, disc prolapse Etc.

Ela Kizhi

Small bags containing Herbal leaves are applied to the whole body in boluses heated with hot medicated oils for 45 minutes per day. This treatment is for Osteo arthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Spondylosis, sports injuries etc.

Nasyam:

Nasyam is the treatment of nasal application of herbal oil or juices. A purification method meant for eliminating vitiated doshas in the head and neck. Nasyam is also effective for paralytic and mental disorders.

Good offspring:

Today’s circumstances related to life style is of unhealthy food habits, use of hormones and steroids, adulteration of food stuffs, mindless use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The vital components for embryo formation, such as sperm and ovum are essentially cells. These cells, for the reasons mentioned above, are polluted, with the result that their effective way of functioning has been tampered with – leading to the probable birth of a progeny with weak genetics.

Clinically the three humours (Tridosha) and the seven elementary substances (Sapta dhatus) get tampered. If the offspring that is born has to be of a high standard, physically, mentally and intellectually, the source from it is born must be pure. In other words, Semen and Ovum must be without any blemish, the mind ought to be pure and the intellect must be endorsed with purpose and scientific logic.

It is in this context that the cleansing and purification process in Ayurveda achieves paramount importance. Cleansing regimen or therapy purifies every cell, source and m… more
Rejuvenation for healthy life
Emotional pressures & metabolic toxins

Many times the pressures of living situation force us to behave in a certain way to aggression and suppression of our emotional feelings. The body secretions become excess or inadequate, leading to abnormalities in the effective metabolism. Metabolism (ability to transform and convert ) is the process by which the food we eat is digested and converted to energy in cells through many stages. When metabolism is impaired, the food you eat doesn’t convert to the body element (Dathu) and become the final energy (Ojjas) in your cells. Then what does it become? It forms deficient cells and accumulates toxins in the cells that blocks the micro channels in your body. This affects the physiological functions and cause diseases.

The same problems occur due to improper food and life style. Food habits including contradictory elements taken at improper times and lack of physical exercise, all contribute to poor digestion leading to accumulation of toxins in our cells
Ayurvedic Approach to optimizing health

Ayurveda assigns prime importance to prevention rather than just curing diseases. Proper care of health through daily regimens (Dinacharya) and seasonal regimens (Ritucharya) has tremendous value in keeping your metabolic systems in best condition.

Ayurveda treats each individual as a special living being with whole of physical, mental, intellectual and spiritual qualities. Accordingly the diagnosis of diseases is also very specific. The solutions are person specific. Problems that have cumulated over years can be eliminated in a short time by few weeks of treatment. As a result of the care, your digestion and absorption, metabolism and circulation improves and the self-healing property of your body becomes optimal.

Act today wholesomely:

Rejuvenation program leads to correction of metabolic strength resulting in healthy mind, body, intellect and spirit. It helps you to evolve as a balanced mature individual. It is always advisable to undergo this care by both husband and wife together so that corrections could be attained simultaneously. The learning programs will help both to understand each other better. It helps to guide and support each other at all times.

Rasayana Chikitsa

The promotive treatment is to attain longevity and freedom from disorders by optimizing the strength of physique and sense organs. This treatment has tremendous scope in arresting the process of aging and building up immunity against diseases like Cancer and many other degenerate conditions. Rasayana Chikitsa known in the classics as ‘Vatatapikam’ and ‘Kutipravesika’ for complete rejuvenation is undertaken only after detailed discussion with the Physician.

Do’s and Dont’s
For providing better results from Ayurvedic Treatments, we strictly advise following regimen during treatment days

During therapy, indulging in activities requiring more than ordinary physical exertion is contra effective.
Smoking/Consumption of Alcohol or any Narcotic Drugs in rooms and any of the premises of the Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Centre is strictly prohibited.
Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Centre is strictly vegetarian. Meat, fish, eggs are not allowed. Eatables from outside are also not allowed
During your stay in our Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Centre, we provide medicated herbal drinking water only, as a part of detoxification treatment
No major treatments during menstruation days.

Article by
Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Centre: Kalady – 683 550, Kerala, India

NATUROPATHY:

Naturopathy is a natural ayurvedic healing technique using the healing powers of nature. The principle of Naturopathy is that the accumulation of toxins is the root cause of all diseases. Prevention and elimination of toxins is the route to health. Treatments are based on the 5 great elements of nature that have immense healing properties. There is no role of internal medications in the nature cure system.

The Five great elements of nature and the treatments based on them are:

Earth – Mud baths, Mud packs,
Water – Hydrotherapeutic methods in the form of Baths, Jets, Douches, Packs, Compresses, Immersions
Air – Breathing exercises, Outdoor walking, Open air baths
Fire – Sun baths, Thermoleum baths, Magnetised water, Colour charged oils / water
Ether – Fasting therapy

Other Naturopathic Therapies:

Yoga
Oriental healing techniques like Reflexology, Acupressure, Acupuncture and Auriculotherapy
Food and Nutrition
Magnetotherapy
Physiotherapy
Chromotherapy

This multi disciplinary approach uses the healing power of natural resources like foods, herbs, earth, water, air, sun and magnets to allow the body to heal itself. It helps in degenerative and chronic conditions like asthma and arthritis, gastro-intestinal problems and hypertension.
Dead Sea PackEARTH – MUD THERAPY

Of the five elements of nature, mud represents Earth and has tremendous impact on the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases. Minerals and trace elements present in the mud are known for its renowned effects and healing properties. Mud also has the remarkable property of holding moisture for a long time, which has a cooling effect on the part of the body applied.

Helps improve circulation and relax the muscles
Improves the digestive activity and sets right the metabolism
Local application helps relieve inflammations, swellings and reduces pain
Excellent in skin conditions without open lesions
Helps bring down blood pressure
Nourishes the skin
Conditions the hair
Specific kind of application relieves the stiffness of joints

MUD PACKS

Frequent application of mud helps in improving the complexion of the skin by getting rid of spots and patches, which appear in various skin disorders. Mud baths are also generally recommended for all skin diseases, including psoriasis, leucoderma and urticaria and other allergic conditions of the skin.
BODY WRAPS

Using special Natural Muds high in natural minerals and salts the pack is applied on the entire body except the head.
Dead Sea Mud Body Wrap

The mud from the Dead Sea is highly saturated with natural salts and minerals like calcium chloride, iron and sulphates. These minerals are known for their renowned effects and healing properties.

It cleanses, exfoliates, draws out toxins, hydrates and improves the flow of nutrients to the skin surface

Moor Mud Body Wrap

This mud is from the boggy lake and marshland in Austria, which is home to a rich inheritance of plants and herbs, some of which are unique It contains about 300 medicinal herbs, lipids, enzymes, essential oils, minerals and vitamins.

Good for acne, eczema, psoriasis and other skin disorders
A natural anti-inflammatory
Good for rheumatism and arthritic conditions
Helps break down cellulite by stimulating the circulation and lymphatic system

Great Salt Lake Mud Body Wrap

The whole body is covered with this mud which is composed of pure natural clay and a trace elements and minerals blend product from the Great Salt Lake.

Restores and revitalizes the skin for a healthy appearance
Excellent for psoriasis, eczema, acne and other skin irritants

Hungarian Wellness Mud Body Wrap

Improves the skin cells metabolism and gently soothes irritation
Provides firmness and strength and deeply penetrates the tissues to help clear stored toxins

Hydro TherapyWATER – HYDROTHERAPY

This uses the therapeutic properties of water. This medium was made use in therapeutics hundreds of years ago. Water has great healing properties and exhibits different properties at different temperatures. The temperature of the water for any treatment depends on the effect desired. Kellogg is considered to be the Father of Hydrotherapy.

Water is used internally and externally in all its forms- steam, liquid or ice, to cleanse and restore health. It is used in the form of Baths, Jets/Douches, Packs, Compresses and Immersions to name a few.

Drinking a specific amount of water also has therapeutic effects:

Helps maintain hydration of the body
Helps in proper secretion of body fluids and maintenance of Ph.
Aids digestion and prevents constipation
Improves skin condition and nourishes it
Maintains the flexibility of joints
Helps in detoxification

HYDRO WASHES

This helps cleanse and detoxify even the internal cavities of the face.
HYDRO BATHS

Arm and Foot Bath

Relieves localized pain and inflammations
Relieves congestive headaches
Relieves the spasms of the bronchioles and facilitates easy breathing as in asthma and bronchitis
Excellent for relieving the numbness and tingling in the extremities as in diabetes mellitus

Hip Bath

Stimulates the circulation towards the pelvic and digestive organs relieves constipation, flatulence and indigestion
Helps set right the menstrual disorders like dysmenorrhoea, menorrhagia, leucorrhoea
Helps strengthen the hips and lumbar sacral spine and the coccyx and relieves pain if any
Beneficial in relieving haemorrhoids

Spinal Bath / Anti-Stress Bath

Stimulates the spinal nerves
Relaxes the paraspinal muscles
Helps maintain the blood pressure
Helps in regulating the moods like anxiety or depression
Relaxes irritable nerves

Steam Bath

Exposing the entire body with the exception of the head to a superheated atmosphere helps in many ways. Steam inhalation helps decongest the respiratory tract

Medicated ayurvedic or herbal steam helps rejuvenate the body
Helps open up the skin pores
Helps remove the toxins of the skin through sweating
Helps the skin maintain its natural moisture and softness

WET PACKS

This treatment allows an in-depth detoxification of the areas which are swollen, blocked or sensitive and helps to restore the vitality of the skin and the body. There are several packs like abdomen, knee, trunk, shoulder, ankle and neck packs.

Relieves inflammation and swellings
Improves circulation
Relieves the stiffness and spasms of muscles and joints

HYDRO JETS / DOUCHES

These spa treatments help refresh, stimulate and boost vitality of the body. They improve the peripheral blood circulation and stimulate the nervous system.
COMPRESSES

This is the application of water in the form of a pack wrung out in water of different temperatures.

Helps in detoxification of areas which are swollen, blocked or sensitive
Excellent for tight sore muscles, edema, cellulite
Stimulates the blood and lymph stream
Gives soothing, refreshing, calming and decongesting qualities

IMMERSIONS

It is one of the hydrotherapeutic techniques where the body locally or wholly is immersed in water of different temperatures.

Helps improve the circulation to the part immersed and also the peripheral circulation
Helps relieve edema
Useful in treating skin disorders
Helps to relieve congestion of the reflex regions thereby relieving symptoms of asthma, migraine, insomnia, etc

COLONIC HYDROTHERAPY / IRRIGATION

The colon is the seat of all toxins in the body. This detoxifying treatment involves a soothing gentle flow of filtered, temperature-controlled water throughout the colon to flush out logged waste and toxins.

Helps bring about efficient elimination of waste products
Helps restore tissue and organ function
Rebalances body chemistry

REFLEXOLOGY

An Oriental healing technique used to relax the nerves and release the trapped energy. There are energy zones that run throughout the body and reflex areas in the feet that correspond to all the major organs, glands and parts of the body. Based on the principle that reflex points in the feet and palms correlate to individual organs and parts of the body, manipulations on these reflexes help stimulate the organs. It helps those suffering from insomnia, menstrual problems and pains.Reflexology

Reduces stress and induces deep relaxation
Improves circulation
Cleanses the body of toxins and impurities
Brings the whole system into balance
Vitalises energy
A preventive healthcare by enhancing the immune system
Helps encourage healing in combination with specific treatments

ACUPRESSURE

This natural Oriental healing technique uses applied pressure to specific points on the body to relax trapped nerves and release blockages. It is used both as a preventive and curative therapy. It helps alleviate pain, fatigue and addresses musculoskeletal problems.

Induces relaxation and restores balance
Stimulates the circulatory and lymphatic system
The therapeutic touch stimulates certain chemicals in the brain that boost the immune system, lifts depression and relieves stress

AcupunctureACUPUNCTURE

Chinese Acupuncture works by using fine needles painlessly applied to specific points around the body to stimulate channels of energy flow allowing the body to balance itself. It helps in migraines, pains, sciatica and allergies like asthma and sinusitis.

Effective in alleviating pain particularly in painful recurring diseases
Relaxation of muscle spasm so that the toxicity held in the muscle and internal organs and glands is released
Promotes healing and rebalancing of the subtle bodies and physical body

AURICULOTHERAPY
All the internal organs of the body and the most vital functions like heart rate, blood pressure, etc and also thirst, hunger, etc are represented in each ear. By pricking needles in these regions we are aiming at stimulating and normalizing the functions of these organs.

There are also points which help get rid of addictions, increase or decrease appetite, raise or lower blood pressure, heart rate and pulse rate.
NutritionNUTRITION & DIETETICS

Using food as medicine, an individually devised, wholesome and natural diet is aimed at balancing nutritional deficiencies, combating allergies, digestive disorders and building resistance to disease. Medical nutrition therapy and specific diet strategies are advised for chronic conditions, illnesses, or injuries.

Swedish MassageMASSOTHERAPY

There are different types of massages dependent on the materials and techniques used. To add to the experience we have soft soothing music and aromatic oils to stimulate the senses.

ENERGY BALANCE MASSAGE

This cream massage is soothing and is ideal for stress relief, relaxation and as a remedial treatment for physical and emotional problems.
SWEDISH MASSAGE

A therapeutic massage using a variety of manipulations helps eliminate toxic accumulation which causes stress, fatigue, muscular aches and pains.
THAI MASSAGE

This massage is based on the theory that the body is made up of 72,000 sen or energy lines. Many of these channels correspond to Chinese meridians while others correspond to the concepts of Nadis from the Ayurvedic medical science. The massage helps stretch and stimulate the body. The patterns of gentle rocking, stretching and rhythmic compressions opens up blockages on the energy lines.

Helps remove blockages and improve vitality
Opens the joints and balances all the major muscle groups in the body
Suitable for long term injuries
Builds a high level of fitness
Bring one into a deeply relaxed state
Helps one become more flexible

FOMENTATION MASSAGE

With the help of hot or cold packs the massage is done to stimulate or relax the body.
UNDERWATER MASSAGE

This massage under water helps balance the pressure within the body. It makes the body feel lighter as the body under water increases the buoyancy of the body.

Relieves joint stiffness
Relieves muscle spasms
Improves the circulation especially peripheral circulation
Activates the functions of the skin

DRY MASSAGE

This gentle massage without oil/cream helps stimulate the area.
AROMA OIL MASSAGE

A very relaxing and refreshing massage using the aromatic oils that have very specific properties and effects on the body.

Refreshing to the senses and mind
Highly relaxes and calms the mind
Sets right the metabolic disorders
Improves the skin condition and nourishes it

MAGNETO THERAPY
This is the treatment of diseases with the healing powers of magnets. Magnets are natural substances which exhibit different properties on different poles. The same properties of magnetism are exhibited in humans as well. It is this similarity which helps in therapeutic administration.

It is a totally non-invasive therapy where no medications or radiations are involved and no side effects are seen. Through the application of magnetic field on the body, it has proved beneficial in certain diseases, especially in rheumatic and muscular aches and pains, as it has the power of draining pains out of the body. It is contraindicated in case of those having pace makers, pregnancies or carcinomas.
ZERO BALANCING

It is the art and skill of balancing body energy with body structure through touch. This is a hands-on bodywork system designed to align energy of the body with the physical structure.
CRANIO SACRAL THERAPY
This subtle technique listens to the rhythm of the body particularly the spinal column which in turn helps release the natural flow of energy within the body. Latent injuries be they physical or emotional will help get healed.

Knee Replacement Implant Materials:

The replacement knee joint is comprised of a flat metal plate and stem implanted in your tibia, a polyethylene bearing surface and a contoured metal implant fit around the end of the femur. The use of components made from metals and polyethylene allow for optimum articulation (or joint mobility) between the joint surfaces with little wear. Because the knee implant has a flatter bearing, wear is less of a problem than in a hip implant which has a very deep bearing.

Materials which can be used in knee implants are:

Stainless Steel

Due to limited ability to withstand corrosion in the human body in the long term, stainless steel is not often used in knee replacement implants. It is more suited to being used as temporary implants such as fracture plates and screws.
Cobalt-chromium Alloys

Cobalt-chromium alloys are hard, tough, corrosion resistant, bio-compatible metals. Along with titanium, cobalt chrome is one of the most widely used metals in knee implants. There is no consensus as to which material is better and more suitable.

Although the percentage of patients having allergic reactions related to the use of cobalt-chromium alloys to is very low, one area of concern is the issue of tiny particles (metal ions) that may be released into the body as a result of joint movement. These particles can sometimes cause reactions in the human body, especially in case of those patients who have allergy to special metals like nickel.
Titanium and Titanium Alloys

Pure titanium is generally used in implants where high strength is not necessary. For example, pure titanium is sometimes used to create fiber metal, a layer of metal fibers bonded to the surface of an implant which allows bone to grow into the implant or allows cement to better bond to the implant for stronger fixation.

Titanium alloys are bio-compatible in nature. They commonly contain amounts of vanadium and aluminum in addition to titanium. The most used titanium alloy in knee implants is Ti6Al4V. Titanium and titanium alloys have great corrosion resistance, making them inert biomaterial (which means they will not change after being implanted in the body).

Titanium and its alloys have a lower density compared to other metals used in knee implants. Additionally, the elastic nature of titanium and titanium alloys is lower than that of the other metals used in knee implants. Because of this, the titanium implant acts more like the natural joint, and as a result, the risk of some complications like bone resorption and atrophy are reduced.

Uncemented implants

Knee implants may be “cemented” or “cementless” depending on the type of fixation used to hold the implant in place. The majority of knee replacements are generally cemented into place. There are also implants designed to attach directly to the bone without the use of cement.

These cementless designs rely on bone growth into the surface of the implant for fixation. Most implant surfaces are textured or coated so that the new bone actually grows into the surface of the implant.

For this, surface of the titanium is modified by coating the implant with hydroxyapatite, a bioactive surfacing agent that will ultimately bond as the bone grows into it.
Tantalum

Tantalum is a type of pure metal, which has excellent biological and physical properties, namely flexibility, corrosion resistant, and biocompatibility. Recently, a new porous substance has been made of tantalum named Trabecular Metal. It contains pores, the size of which makes this material very good for bone in-growth. In addition, Trabecular Metal has an elastic nature which aids bone remodeling.
Polyethylene

The tibial and patellar components in knee replacements are made of polyethylene. Though standard polyethylene surfaces traditionally suffered from wear in hip implants, wear is less of a problem in knee implants as the bearing surfaces are flatter and do not result in the same kind of wear. The use of Ultra Highly Cross Linked PolyEthylene (UHXLPE) or Ultra High Molecular Weight PolyEthylene (UHMWPE) reduces even the minimal wear enabling the knee implants to last for a much longer time.
Zirconium

Zirconium alloy and all plastic tibial component:

Zirconium alloy is used in a new ceramic knee implant. The zirconium alloy is combined with an all-plastic tibial component, replacing the metal tray and plastic insert used in other knee replacements. It is believed that this new knee could last for 20-25 years, substantially more than the 15-20 years that cobalt chromium alloy and polyethylene implants are effective. The new combination can be lubricated, which results in a smoother and easier articulation through plastic.

Another important characteristic of this material is that it is biocompatible, meaning that people who have nickel allergies and cannot have knee implants made of cobalt chromium alloy (because nickel is an ingredient of cobalt chromium alloy). Zirconium alloy implants eliminate the risk to nickel-allergic patients because this new material contains no nickel.

Hair Care Tips For Healthy And Beautiful Hair
All said and done, the hair forms an important part of our appearance. We are biologically programmed to view this as a marker in finding suitable partners as it is an important indicator of a person’s youth, health and beauty. With a perfect hairstyle that matches your face shape and figure, you can you can make an individual style statement. But the point is that you can experiment with your looks and locks only if you have thick and luscious hair! Long hair can be called beautiful only if you pay adequate attention to it. There is definitely hard work involved, but the results could astonish you! In addition to being fun and trendy, the hair serves a valuable biological purpose i.e. it keeps your head warm and helps regulate body temperature. Read below to know more about tips to maintain healthy and beautiful hair, some ideas about the myths and facts about hair and how to handle hair breakage.

Hair Myths And Facts

Hair Facts:

A combination of hormones and genetic factors are responsible for hair loss in both males and females. A typical scalp contains 100,000 to 150,000 hair follicles before any serious cases of hair loss.
Blondes have the greatest number of scalp follicles followed by brunettes. Redheads are said to have the fewest number of hair follicles!
The hair is the fastest growing tissue in the body, second only to bone marrow. It is normal to lose approximately 100 hairs per day from the scalp.
Your hair turns gray because pigment cells known as melanin become dysfunctional. The hair bulb usually degrades in production, with increasing age or stress.
When your hair is wet, you can increase its length by up to 30% and it will still return to normal length after it has dried. But, if you try this too often then it can damage the hair shafts too.

Hair Myths:

Washing your hair too much can cause hair loss. The only way this is possible is if you conduct this operation vigorously.
Cutting your hair makes it stronger and it tends to grow faster. Let’s bust this myth with one question – how?!
Split ends can be repaired. This is a myth that needs to be broken because split ends cannot be mended and should be trimmed off immediately.
Dandruff causes you to lose hair. This is a very common belief amongst women.
Hair loss does not affect young people. Although most statistics show that older men tend to lose their hair, it can also be possible with teenagers and adults too.
Lack of sex causes hair to thin. Untrue!
Pluck one gray hair and two grow back. When you pluck gray hair out, there is a chance you’re looking for more and hence see more!

How To Handle Hair Breakage And Loss

After a hair wash, try not to use a comb directly on the hair. Make it a point to run your fingers through your hair and ensure that it is not subjected to any jerks.
Make sure that you let your hair free once in a while. Tying your hair back in a ponytail or wearing a hat all the time will only add to stress on the hair follicles which results in hair breakage or hair loss.
Minimize the use of hair dryer. Try not using it directly over the scalp instead use it only on the hair. Again, do not use it on freshly washed locks. You could replace this by draining off the water with the help of a thick towel. Let your hair be semi-dry before you use the hair dryer again.
Use a high quality shampoo and conditioner that is designed for dry and fragile hair. Perform weekly deep conditioning treatments. Wear a swimming cap when you enter a pool to avoid exposing your hair to chlorine.
Wash your hair only once or twice a week. The more you wash your hair, the more it gets stripped of oil and it further dries up.

How To Enjoy Hair Care

Long or short, consult an expert who can suggest different looks. It is truly enjoyable to experiment with various hairstyles.
Learn to handle your hair length. This way you will give it more attention. There are many books and videos which can help you learn the basics of braiding.
There are certain remedies to help you take care of your problems such as dandruff, baldness etc. Adhere to the tips in case of hair loss problems, hair implant procedures, general hair care tips, hair coloring and hair styling and braids.

Hair care is an integral part of daily living. Thus, take care of your hair the way it should be done!

Hair Care Tips And Ayurveda
An individual with beautiful hair often makes a lasting impression. Don’t you think? Thick luscious hair and a fine hairstyle can infact make any average-looking face look ravishing. But, it all comes at a price- the price of paying heed! This article gives you the right tips to get glossy

Anti Aging Cosmetic Surgery Options:

Age is one factor which worries all and surely even you think the same, so, this article will help you with all the information on how you can reverse the signs of ageing. Along with age, many problems such as wrinkles, scars, loose skin and many other unwelcome things come on your way making you worried and tensed. In the present beauty conscious world, nobody wants to look aged and dull. That is why everyone strives hard to maintain the perfect figure and a healthy skin. But age is one factor which can never be hidden without the help proper care and maintenance. But, nowadays, help is at hand, with the progress of science and technology, nothing is impossible, thus, if you are ready, all your age and beauty related problems can be cured by anti-aging cosmetic surgery. So, now you know how to get that youthful appearance. Know more on various anti-aging surgeries by following the writing below.

Skin Resurfacing, Peeling And Lifts:

Anti aging Laser Skin Resurfacing:

Laser resurfacing is a method to give individuals, magically softened, healthier looking skin by smoothing the wrinkles and removing scars and other blemishes. It is a relatively new technology, which is proving to be less abrasive to the skin than traditional treatments. Noticeably, the results of laser resurfacing are immediate, especially when used to remove fine to moderate wrinkles.

Chemical Peel:

Chemical peel, also called derma peeling or chemexfoliation, is one of the techniques to make you look younger. This technique makes a person look years younger by removing and softening wrinkles and blemishes caused by over exposure to the sun. Depending on the degree of wrinkling, a light, medium or deep peel may be recommended. Although chemical peel is most commonly used on face, the treatment can also be used to improve the skin on legs, neck and hands.

Neck, Forehead And Eyelid Lift:

Forehead Lift:

A forehead lift is performed in conjunction with a facelift to achieve a more harmonious and complete facial enhancement. A forehead lift is also appropriate for the treatment of certain inherited traits. Young people, who have a low brow or who already have deep frown lines due to stress or over activity of the forehead muscles, can benefit from this procedure. A forehead lift can improve rigidity of the skin. Another facelifting procedure, ‘endoscopic facelift’ is the medical name for an improved plastic surgical technique that provides facial enhancement with minimal scars. This technique allows faster healing, and results in fewer side effects than traditional techniques.

Eyelids lift:

After the face, it is the eyelids that show signs of aging. Blepharoplasty or eyelid cosmetic surgery can return youthful elegance to an individual’s face, making the eyes appear brighter and more refreshed. Browpexy is another procedure used to lift the brow without surgery. Some individuals experience an accumulation of fat in the lower eyelids, creating persistent bags under the eyes. These bags, however, are not always related to aging. This tendency may be inherited and may appear in early life before the aging process becomes noticeable. In other individuals, the skin of the upper eyelids may become lax and impart a hooded appearance to the upper eyelids and, in severe instances, even obscure vision. These can be corrected with eyelid cosmetic surgery.

Face lift:

Compared to any other parts of your body, it is the face which shows the sign of ageing very prominently. So, when you think of anti-ageing surgery, face lift or rhytidectomy can be your best bet. This surgery removes the loose skin from your face, thereby, making you look fresh and younger.

Neck lift:

Neck is also another region in the body where the age factors like wrinkles and dark spots can be seen prominently. In most cases, patients are asked to undergo only neck lift rather than the entire facelift. The neck lift can be considered as a part of the facelift, as the surgery takes place behind the ear and down into the neck. This procedure tightens the neck skin, upward behind the ears.

General Foot Conditions And Treatment
As our feet are spent in closed footwear all day long, bacteria and fungi tend to thrive and survive. Occurrence of any microbial infection causes dehydration, redness, blisters, itching and peeling of the skin. If these are not treated properly then there is a chance of a relapsed infectivity. Some of the tips that you could follow are to maintain your feet, especially the area between your toes, dirt free and to keep them dry so as to avoid any sort of contamination. There are 26 bones, 33 joints and more than 100 muscles in the foot that require attending to! These are responsible for keeping you mobile and active throughout the day. Read the following article for an insight on tips to cure foot diseases, burning foot cures and foot care for diabetics.

Tips To Cure Foot Problems

Avoid residing in footwear such as boots, high heels and cleats. Wear shoes that make room for movement around the toe area. Shoes that confine your feet prevent proper blood flow properly and can lead to foot problems such as calluses and improper balance.
Give your feet a daily massage and watch how they serve you after that! Excessive walking can cause knots or can even strained tendons on the feet. For this reason, massaging the soles of your feet will help in increasing circulation.
Place your feet in warm water to help alleviate any pain or swellings that can be caused by bunions. Wear a protective covering, which can be purchased at a drug store, to pad the area and reduce inflammation.
Keep your feet hydrated (with cream/oil and not water) and skin moist to cure any sort of cracks. Massage foot oil onto the soles and heels of your feet every day.
Remember to wash your feet daily and scrub between the toes to cure any itching and fungal infection to prevent athlete’s foot. If the infection is chronic, visit a doctor and get a prescribed topical antifungal medication.

Burning Feet Cures

Burning feet are a sign of a serious health condition such as peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is the damage to nerves on your feet. If you suspect this condition, a health-care provider will screen you for diseases like diabetes and nerve damages. Closely follow your doctor’s advice.
Another way to cure burning feet is to use shoes and socks that are adequately ventilated. Synthetic shoes are not as well aired as the ones made from genuine leather. Socks that are made from nylon do not allow the skin to breathe; shift to materials such as cotton or linen.

Foot Care For Diabetes

Check your feet and toes every day by carefully looking at the top, sides, soles, heels and toes. Wash them in lukewarm water with mild soap as use of strong detergents may damage your skin.
Test the temperature of the water with your fingers or elbows before putting your feet in warm or hot water. This is because as a diabetic, you may not be able to sense if the water is too hot and burns can easily occur
Make sure that you gently and thoroughly dry your feet, particularly areas between your toes as infections are prone to develop in moist areas.
Your feet may also crack causing rough heels and possibly even sores. After bathing your feet, soften the dry skin with lotion, petroleum jelly, lanolin or oil.
Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes that have plenty of room. Never buy shoes with the notion that it will stretch over time. Nerve damage is sure to kill the sensation on your feet! If you are diabetic, you may need special shoes that are custom-made for you. At this point, do not opt for footwear with pointed or open toes, high heels, flip-flops or sandals.

Make it a point to take medication for your feet whenever required. Pamper them as you might be extremely dependent on them in the years to come!

Eyelid Surgery Tips:
Belpharoplasty, medical term for eyelid surgery, is a blessing in disguise for those who are born with droopy eyelids and sagging eye lines. This surgical modification of the eyelid not only makes your eyes look attractive but also adds a fresh new dimension to your personality. The increasing stress and work pressure, along with improper diet and incomplete sleep, can cause wrinkles and puffiness around the eyes making you look older than your actual age. Eyelid surgery, which can be done along with other facial surgeries, can help correct flabby eyelids. Generally, belpharoplasty is conducted after the patient is a given local anesthesia or put under sedation. In this surgical procedure, the price generally depends on various factors such as age, health risks, and location of the place. The surgery can take anywhere from two to four hours to complete. Scroll down the article to know more on how to prepare for an eyelid surgery and tips for recovery from eyelid surgery.

How To Prepare For Eyelid Surgery

Before undergoing eyelid surgery, visit the surgeon’s office for a series of tests, usually performed to evaluate your eyesight and capability to produce tears. Also, give a copy of your previous eye exam records to your plastic surgeon to give him/her a fair idea. During the consultation, don’t hesitate to ask questions and clear all your doubts related to the surgical procedure.
The doctor will not only tell about the operation in detail but will also give tell you what all preparation you need to do for the eyelid surgery, the kind of medications you should take post surgery, after-care, foods to avoid, etc. Those who smoke are generally advised to kick the habit weeks before the surgery, as smoking tends to slow the process of healing.
It’s worthwhile to make prior arrangements when it comes to accommodation and staying over. If you don’t want to rely on your immediate friends or relatives, then you can directly approach your surgeon’s office and ask for post-surgery nursing services, which are usually offered at a reasonable price.

Tips For Recovery From Eyelid Surgery

Post surgery, it’s necessary to take plenty of rest and not do any kind of strenuous work like washing clothes, cleaning, etc, especially, for the first few days. Though you may watch television and read books for some time, overdoing it may increase swelling and blur your vision.
Make sure that friends or family members are always there around you, so that they can help you during any emergency or when you need their assistance. For the first three days, avoid bending over and or indulging in physical activities that can strain you.
If you feel irritation in the eyes, you can apply lubricating drops or cold / warm compresses. Take a clean cloth and dip it in cold or warm water and then apply it on your eyes. Doing this several times a day will not only reduce swelling and bruising but also relax your eyes.
The surgeon will usually prescribe ointments or creams to be applied on the eye lids and the surrounding areas. Apply the ointments with a clean finger, during the initial. Wash your hands properly before and after the application.
Women should avoid wearing any kind of heavy make-up during the first ten days.
Patience is an important weapon you must possess if you want to banish post-surgery problems like swelling, bruising, and redness among others. Sometimes, patients may face a little bleeding, which is completely normal and disappears within a couple of weeks.

Hepatitis A

Key facts:

Hepatitis A is a viral liver disease that can cause mild to severe illness.
The hepatitis A virus is transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food and water or through direct contact with an infectious person.
Almost everyone recovers fully from hepatitis A, but very small proportions die from fulminant hepatitis.
Hepatitis A infection risk is associated with a lack of safe water and poor sanitation.
Epidemics can be explosive and cause significant economic loss.
Improved sanitation and the hepatitis A vaccine are the most effective ways to combat the disease.

Hepatitis A is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus. The virus is primarily spread when an uninfected (and unvaccinated) person ingests food or water that is contaminated with the faces of an infected person. The disease is closely associated with unsafe water, inadequate sanitation and poor personal hygiene.

Unlike hepatitis B and C, hepatitis A infection does not cause chronic liver disease and is rarely fatal, but it can cause debilitating symptoms and fulminant hepatitis (acute liver failure), which is associated with high mortality.

Hepatitis A occurs sporadically and in epidemics worldwide, with a tendency for cyclic recurrences. The hepatitis A virus is one of the most frequent causes of foodborne infection. Epidemics related to contaminated food or water can erupt explosively, such as the epidemic in Shanghai in 1988 that affected about 300 000 people1. Hepatitis A viruses persist in the environment and can withstand food-production processes routinely used to inactivate and/or control bacterial pathogens.

The disease can lead to significant economic and social consequences in communities. It can take weeks or months for people recovering from the illness to return to work, school or daily life. The impact on food establishments identified with the virus, and local productivity in general, can be substantial.
Geographical distribution

Geographical distribution areas can be characterized as having high, intermediate or low levels of hepatitis A infection.
Areas with high levels of infection

In developing countries with very poor sanitary conditions and hygienic practices, most children (90%) have been infected with the hepatitis A virus before the age of 10 years2. Those infected in childhood do not experience any noticeable symptoms. Epidemics are uncommon because older children and adults are generally immune. Symptomatic disease rates in these areas are low and outbreaks are rare.
Areas with intermediate levels of infection

In developing countries, countries with transitional economies and regions where sanitary conditions are variable, children often escape infection in early childhood. Ironically, these improved economic and sanitary conditions may lead to a higher susceptibility in older age groups and higher disease rates, as infections occur in adolescents and adults, and large outbreaks can occur.
Areas with low levels of infection

In developed countries with good sanitary and hygienic conditions, infection rates are low. Disease may occur among adolescents and adults in high-risk groups, such as injecting-drug users, men who have sex with men, people travelling to areas of high endemicity, and in isolated populations, such as closed religious communities.
Transmission

The hepatitis A virus is transmitted primarily by the faecal-oral route; that is when an uninfected person ingests food or water that has been contaminated with the faeces of an infected person. Waterborne outbreaks, though infrequent, are usually associated with sewage-contaminated or inadequately treated water.

The virus can also be transmitted through close physical contact with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.
Symptoms

The incubation period of hepatitis A is usually 14–28 days.

Symptoms of hepatitis A range from mild to severe, and can include fever, malaise, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark-coloured urine and jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes). Not everyone who is infected will have all of the symptoms.

Adults have signs and symptoms of illness more often than children, and the severity of disease and mortality increases in older age groups. Infected children under 6 years of age do not usually experience noticeable symptoms, and only 10% develop jaundice. Among older children and adults, infection usually causes more severe symptoms, with jaundice occurring in more than 70% of cases.
Who is at risk?

Anyone who has not been vaccinated or previously infected can contract hepatitis A. In areas where the virus is widespread (high endemicity), most hepatitis A infections occur during early childhood. Risk factors include:

poor sanitation;
lack of safe water;
injecting drugs;
living in a household with an infected person;
being a sexual partner of someone with acute hepatitis A infection; and
travelling to areas of high endemicity without being immunized.

Diagnosis

Cases of hepatitis A are not clinically distinguishable from other types of acute viral hepatitis. Specific diagnosis is made by the detection of HAV-specific IgM and IgG antibodies in the blood. Additional tests include reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect the hepatitis A virus RNA, but may require specialised laboratory facilities.
Treatment

There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A. Recovery from symptoms following infection may be slow and may take several weeks or months. Therapy is aimed at maintaining comfort and adequate nutritional balance, including replacement of fluids that are lost from vomiting and diarrhoea.
Prevention

Improved sanitation, food safety and immunization are the most effective ways to combat hepatitis A.

The spread of hepatitis A can be reduced by:

adequate supplies of safe drinking water;
proper disposal of sewage within communities; and
personal hygiene practices such as regular hand-washing with safe water.

Several hepatitis A vaccines are available internationally. All are similar in terms of how well they protect people from the virus and their side-effects. No vaccine is licensed for children younger than 1 year of age.

Nearly 100% of people develop protective levels of antibodies to the virus within 1 month after a single dose of the vaccine. Even after exposure to the virus, a single dose of the vaccine within 2 weeks of contact with the virus has protective effects. Still, manufacturers recommend two vaccine doses to ensure a longer-term protection of about 5 to 8 years after vaccination.

Millions of people have been immunized worldwide with no serious adverse events. The vaccine can be given as part of regular childhood immunizations programmes and also with other vaccines for travelers.
Immunization efforts

Vaccination against hepatitis A should be part of a comprehensive plan for the prevention and control of viral hepatitis. Planning for large-scale immunization programmes should involve careful economic evaluations and consider alternative or additional prevention methods, such as improved sanitation, and health education for improved hygiene practices.

Whether or not to include the vaccine in routine childhood immunizations depends on the local context. The proportion of susceptible people in the population and the level of exposure to the virus should be considered. Several countries, including Argentina, China, Israel, Turkey, and the United States of America have introduced the vaccine in routine childhood immunizations.

While the 2 dose regimen of inactivated hepatitis A vaccine is used in many countries, other countries may consider inclusion of a single-dose inactivated hepatitis A vaccine in their immunization schedules. Some countries also recommend the vaccine for people at increased risk of hepatitis A, including:

travellers to countries where the virus is endemic;
men who have sex with men; and
people with chronic liver disease (because of their increased risk of serious complications if they acquire hepatitis A infection).

Regarding immunization for outbreak response, recommendations for hepatitis A vaccination should also be site-specific. The feasibility of rapidly implementing a widespread immunization campaign needs to be included.

Vaccination to control community-wide outbreaks is most successful in small communities, when the campaign is started early and when high coverage of multiple age groups is achieved. Vaccination efforts should be supplemented by health education to improve sanitation, hygiene practices and food safety.
WHO response

WHO is working in the following areas to prevent and control viral hepatitis:

raising awareness, promoting partnerships and mobilizing resources;
formulating evidence-based policy and data for action;
preventing transmission; and
executing screening, care and treatment.

WHO also organizes World Hepatitis Day on July 28 every year to increase awareness and understanding of viral hepatitis.

What is Dengue?

Dengue is a mosquito-borne infectious disease caused by the dengue virus, which is mainly found in the tropical regions. The disease may produce such body pains as one feels when his/ her bones break; it is hence known as Dengue fever, or ‘Breakbone’ fever.

The major symptoms of dengue include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain and a typical skin rash that occurs all over the body, similar to measles. Rarely dengue may develop into a more life threatening form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever, which results in bleeding, decreased blood platelet count or thrombocytopenia, blood plasma leakage or the more fatal dengue shock syndrome, which causes dangerously low blood pressure.

Dengue and Dengue fever
How is it Caused and Spread?
Dengue is a serious infection especially among children; about two-fifths of the world’s population is at risk. Dengue and dengue haemorrhagic fever are spread from human-to-human by the bite of mosquitoes carrying the dengue virus. The dengue virus belongs to a group known as Flavivirus and can be typically divided into four viral serotypes, DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4, which are closely related but differ in their antigens. Many species of mosquito under the genus Aedes transmit dengue; especially the Aedes aegypti species is involved in spreading the infection and is considered as the main cause of dengue. This species of mosquito breeds in stagnant water and usually bites during daylight hours. The virus circulates in the blood for 2-7 days after the human is affected, during which the mosquito may acquire the virus by biting the infected human and spread it to another unsuspecting victim.

The symptoms typically develop anywhere between 2 to 4 days from the time of the mosquito bite and may last up to a week. The dengue virus doesn’t have any detrimental effect on the mosquito, that carries it, and the mosquito remains infected for life. Dengue is rarely spread through person-to-person contact. Usually the disease is spread when a mosquito bites an infected person and becomes a carrier of the dengue virus. The mosquito then bites another healthy person and thus spreads the disease causing a possible epidemic breakout. A person infected with a single type of dengue virus serotype out of the four, develops resistant to that particular virus. However, they become much more susceptible to infection by other three serotypes.

Dengue Infection Cycle
Complications Involved with Dengue
Dengue causes the dengue fever, which sometimes may develop into more dangerous forms such as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which may lead to the development of life-threatening symptoms. Some of the complications caused due to the disease are:

Severe dehydration

Continuous bleeding

Low platelets, due to which clotting of blood doesn’t occur

Blood pressure may go dangerously low

Enlargement of liver and damage to it

Bradycardia (heart beating less than 60 counts per minute)

Damage to brain due to bleeding, seizures or encephalitis

Damage to the immune system

Diagnosis of Dengue
Diagnosis of dengue is considered when fever is accompanied by severe body pain. It is important to be evaluated when a person develops fever within two weeks of being in the tropics or sub-tropics. Dengue often causes symptoms that are similar to other diseases such as flu, measles, and typhoid fever etc. Hence investigations are always performed to exclude other disease conditions. Usually the blood of the patient is tested for the presence of antibodies and virus. Diagnosis of dengue infection can be done by the following methods:

Isolating the virus by collecting serum sample from patients within 5 days of appearance of symptoms

Detection of specific antibodies can be done by collecting serum within 6 days after onset of symptoms. The serum is tested for specific anti-dengue antibodies by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Titres of IgM and IgG antibodies increase four-fold in serum sample

Using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for detecting viral genomic sequence from Serum or Cerebro Spinal Fluid (CSF) samples collected from the patient, which is more expensive and complicated

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

In the case of more serious complications such as dengue hemorrhagic fever, the following diagnosis must be performed:

A tourniquet test is to be conducted, where a tourniquet is tied to the arm and if blood blotches tend to appear beyond the tourniquet, the patient may be suffering from increased bleeding, which may indicate Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

Decreased in platelet count also known as Thrombocytopenia occurs when platelets are found to be 100 000 cells or less and this may be due to disease condition

Increase in hematocrit i.e., the volume percentage of Red Blood Cells (RBS), by 20% should be a caution as it occurs due to rise in the vascular permeability of the plasma. Signs of plasma leakage appears as increased fluid accumulation in the chest and abdominal cavity known as pleural effusion or ascites respectively

Treatment for Dengue:

There are actually no known antiviral drugs or injections available for the cure of dengue. However, the disease can be treated with plenty of supportive care and treatment that would eventually help save the patient’s life. Dengue is characterized by fever and intense body ache. The fever can be treated with antipyretic drugs such as paracetamol and the body ache can be treated with analgesics that help relieve the pain. Drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen should be avoided as they may increase the risk of hemorrhage. The patient can also be treated with natural home remedies such as papaya leaves, kiwi and other food items that have been proven to help in the increase of platelet count, which gets affected during dengue.

In the case of more severe forms of dengue, such as dengue hemorrhagic disease or dengue shock syndrome, it a must for the patient to be admitted to a hospital and given proper care. The mortality rate of a dengue patient without hospitalisation increases about 50 percent. Treatments such as intra-venous fluid replacements should be administered to these patients to prevent shock. Patients should drink plenty of fluids, as dehydration is prevalent among those affected with Dengue. Vaccines for all of the serotypes are being developed, which will be the most effective way to cure the disease.
Prevention of Dengue
As there are no injections or vaccines available to cure dengue, prevention by following certain basic steps will be the most effective way to fight against the dreadful disease. Some of the ways to prevent the onset of dengue are stated as follows:

It is better to avoid stagnant water in flowerpots, buckets, barrels etc., in and around the house, as these are the favorite places for mosquitoes to lay eggs. Water should be stored in closed containers

Bleaching powder may be used in water sources that are not meant for drinking, as it prevents the development of mosquito eggs

The female mosquito feeds on blood as it requires the blood protein to produce eggs, hence it is better to use mosquito repellents, even when indoors

It is advised to reside in a well screened or air conditioned house. If not, mosquito nets may be attached to the windows

Usage of long-sleeved shirts, boots, socks and long pants is advised when outdoors

It is healthier to avoid being outdoors during dawn, dusk or early evenings when mosquitoes tend to roam around in the open

Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colored clothing hence it is better to wear bright and light colored clothes

Avoid strong perfumes, as mosquitoes are drawn towards strong body odours