PULSE YOUR HEALTH

Dementia is a progressive condition that affects millions of people worldwide, impacting memory, thinking abilities, and daily functioning. It is not a single disease but a term that describes a range of cognitive impairments, with Alzheimer's disease being the most common type. Understanding dementia can help individuals recognize early signs, seek timely intervention, and improve the quality of life for those affected. What Is Dementia? Dementia is a broad term for conditions that cause a decline in cognitive function, affecting a person's ability to perform daily activities. It results from damage to brain cells, which impairs communication between neurons, leading to memory loss, confusion, and changes in behavior. While dementia primarily affects older adults, it is not a normal part of aging. Common Causes of Dementia Several conditions can lead to dementia, including: • Alzheimer’s Disease: The most common type of dementia, caused by harmful protein buildup in the br...

Every year on March 21st, the world comes together to observe World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD)—a global event dedicated to raising awareness, promoting inclusion, and celebrating the lives of individuals with Down syndrome. This special day is an opportunity to educate communities, challenge misconceptions, and advocate for equal rights and opportunities for people with Down syndrome. Why March 21st? World Down Syndrome Day is observed on March 21st to symbolize Trisomy 21, the genetic condition that causes Down syndrome. People with Down syndrome have three copies of chromosome 21 instead of the usual two. This extra chromosome affects development in varying degrees, but with support and inclusion, individuals with Down syndrome can lead fulfilling lives. Understanding Down Syndrome Down syndrome is a genetic condition that affects physical growth, cognitive development, and overall health. It is one of the most common chromosomal disorders, occurring in approximately 1 in 700 births wo...

Hypothyroidism, also known as an underactive thyroid, is a common endocrine disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. This condition occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormones, leading to a slowdown in the body's metabolism. Since the thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, hypothyroidism can significantly impact an individual's health and well-being. This article explores the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of hypothyroidism to help readers better understand and manage this condition. What Causes Hypothyroidism? Several factors can contribute to the development of hypothyroidism, including:      1. Autoimmune Diseases – The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to decreased hormone production.      2. Iodine Deficiency – Iodine is essential for...

Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide, affecting energy levels, cognitive function, and overall health. If you often feel fatigued, experience dizziness, or have pale skin, you may be dealing with iron deficiency. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and best dietary sources of iron can help you maintain optimal health. Understanding Iron Deficiency Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. When iron levels are low, the body struggles to produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to iron deficiency anemia. Common Symptoms of Iron Deficiency      • Fatigue and weakness      • Pale skin      • Shortness of breath      • Dizziness or headaches      • Brittle nails      • Cold hands and feet      • Cravings for non-nutritive substances (like ice or clay) Cause...

  Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a numerical system used to measure the effectiveness of sunscreen products in protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. SPF does not measure protection against ultraviolet A (UVA) rays.  UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn and can contribute to the risk of skin cancer. In contrast, UVA rays are associated with long-term skin damage, such as wrinkles, premature aging, DNA damage, and are linked to and an increased risk of skin cancer over time. To ensure comprehensive protection, it is important to choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, shielding the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. How SPF Works: SPF indicates how much longer you can stay in the sun without getting sunburned while wearing sunscreen, compared to without it. For example, if you usually burn after 10 minutes of sun exposure, applying SPF 30 sunscreen theoretically allows you to stay out for 300 minutes (10 minutes x 30) without burnin...

  Horner's Syndrome is a rare neurological condition that affects the nerves responsible for controlling the muscles around the eyes. It is characterized by a set of distinct symptoms that can indicate a disruption in the sympathetic nerve pathway. This condition can be caused by a variety of underlying issues, ranging from benign to serious. In this article, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of Horner's Syndrome, as well as what you can do if you or a loved one is diagnosed with the condition. What is Horner's Syndrome? Horner's Syndrome is a condition that results from damage to the sympathetic nerve pathway that controls the muscles around the eyes. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for activating the dilation (widening) of the pupils and controlling the muscles that raise the eyelid, among other functions. Damage to this system can lead to several noticeable signs in the affected eye. Causes of Horner's Syndrome Horner...

  Introduction to Dysentery Dysentery is a type of gastrointestinal infection that causes inflammation of the intestines, specifically the colon. This condition leads to severe diarrhea, often accompanied by blood or mucus in the stool, stomach cramps, fever, and dehydration. Dysentery is typically caused by bacterial or parasitic infections, and it can be highly contagious, spreading through contaminated food, water, or contact with infected individuals. It is important to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for dysentery to manage the condition effectively and prevent complications. Types of Dysentery There are two primary types of dysentery: bacillary dysentery and amoebic dysentery. 1. Bacillary Dysentery:       o Caused by bacteria such as Shigella, which invade the intestines and cause severe inflammation and infection. Bacillary dysentery is the more common form of dysentery and is typically transmitted through contaminated food or ...

Understanding Maldives' Health Protocols Maldives, renowned for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, has implemented specific health measures to safeguard the well-being of both residents and visitors. One crucial aspect of these measures is the health declaration form that all incoming passengers are required to complete. What is a Health Declaration Form? A health declaration form is a document that collects essential health information from travelers before they enter a country. It serves as a tool to identify potential health risks and take appropriate preventive measures. Why is a Health Declaration Required for Maldives? Disease Prevention: The health declaration helps to monitor and prevent the spread of infectious diseases, such as COVID-19. Contact Tracing: In case of a health emergency, the declaration form can assist in contact tracing, identifying individuals who may have been exposed to the disease. Public Health Safety: By collecting health information, the ...

  Gastroenteritis , often referred to as "stomach flu," is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines that leads to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. This common condition is caused by viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections and can affect people of all ages. Gastroenteritis is highly contagious and can spread rapidly, particularly in environments such as schools, daycare centers, and healthcare facilities. In this article, we’ll discuss the causes of gastroenteritis, its symptoms, treatment options, and how to prevent its spread. What is Gastroenteritis? Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. It is often confused with the stomach flu, though the two are not directly related. Gastroenteritis can be caused by various pathogens, including viruses (like norovirus and rotavirus), bacteria (such as E. coli and Salmonella), and parasites (l...

Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic infectious disease that primarily affects the skin, nerves, and upper respiratory tract. Despite being an ancient condition, leprosy remains prevalent in certain parts of the world. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies for leprosy to help raise awareness and promote early detection and treatment. What is Leprosy? Leprosy is a contagious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It affects the peripheral nerves, skin, mucous membranes, and the upper respiratory system. Although it has been historically feared due to its debilitating effects, leprosy is curable with proper treatment. The disease progresses slowly, and symptoms may not appear for several years after exposure to the bacteria. Causes of Leprosy Leprosy is caused by Mycobacterium leprae , which is spread through respiratory droplets from an infected person. However, leprosy is not highly cont...

Introduction to Liver Transplantation Liver transplantation is a life-saving procedure that involves replacing a diseased or damaged liver with a healthy one from a donor. It is typically considered for patients suffering from end-stage liver disease or acute liver failure. As the liver plays a crucial role in detoxifying the body, producing proteins, and aiding in digestion, a failing liver can have severe consequences on overall health. This article will explore the liver transplant process, including its causes, symptoms, surgical procedure, recovery, and risks. What is Liver Transplantation? A liver transplant is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased liver is replaced with a healthy liver from a donor. The liver can either come from a living donor (a person who donates a part of their liver) or a deceased donor (someone who has passed away and donated their entire liver). The procedure is typically performed when the liver fails to function properly due to chronic li...