Month: October 2023

Oct 13

6 Rules for How To Wear Your Underwear

Wearing the underwear the right way can help your vaginal health. Ensuring good vaginal health is essential for overall well-being, and surprisingly, your choice of underwear plays a significant role in this aspect. To maintain optimal vaginal health, you should consider a set of guidelines and recommendations that extend beyond simply wearing the right style of undergarments. In this comprehensive discussion, we will delve into Health’s six essential underwear rules, providing you with a holistic understanding of how to safeguard your vaginal health effectively. 1. Prioritize Comfort and Breathability The first and foremost rule in maintaining good vaginal health is to wear comfortable and breathable underwear. Tight-fitting undergarments, especially when worn for prolonged periods, can lead to discomfort and potentially harm your vaginal health. Such underwear limits airflow, increases body heat, and traps moisture, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth and infections. Opt for well-fitting underwear made from breathable materials, with cotton being the preferred choice. Cotton underwear promotes air circulation and minimizes the retention of moisture, offering a more hygienic environment for your vaginal region. Additionally, consider underwear with a cotton lining for added comfort and breathability. 2. Choose Skin-Sensitive Laundry Detergent To maintain the delicate balance of your vaginal area, it is crucial to treat the skin in this region with the utmost sensitivity. One way to achieve this is by using the right type of laundry detergent when washing your underwear. Some laundry detergents contain chemicals and enzymes that can be irritating to the vagina or the surrounding skin. It is advisable to avoid fabric softeners and detergents with enzymes, often referred to as biological detergents, when laundering your undergarments. Instead, opt for detergents specifically designed for sensitive skin or delicate clothing. This ensures that your underwear remains free from any potentially harmful residues that could affect your vaginal health. 3. Change Your Underwear Appropriately Regularly changing your underwear is a fundamental practice for maintaining vaginal health. Daily changes are essential, but there are additional circumstances to consider. During hot and sweaty summer days or post-workout, it’s crucial to change your underwear promptly to prevent dampness and discomfort. This is especially important for individuals prone to yeast infections, as excess sweat in the genital area can encourage yeast growth. Pay close attention to any signs of dampness, including moisture from vaginal discharge, and use this as a cue to replace your underwear promptly. Ensuring that your undergarments remain dry and fresh is a proactive measure in safeguarding your vaginal health. 4. Monitor Vaginal Discharge Vaginal discharge serves as a vital indicator of your vaginal health. Normal discharge is typically white or clear, but its quantity and consistency can vary from person to person. Pay close attention to any changes in your vaginal discharge, as this can provide valuable insights into your overall health. If you notice abnormal discharge, including blood-tinged, brown, foamy, or greenish-yellow discharge, it may be indicative of underlying infections such as yeast infections or sexually transmitted infections. In such cases, seeking medical advice from a healthcare provider is essential to address potential health concerns promptly. 5. Embrace Freedom While underwear serves as a crucial undergarment, there are instances where going without can be beneficial for your vaginal health. Sleeping without underwear, for example, allows for increased airflow and can be a healthier choice, particularly if you are experiencing vaginal itching or discharge issues. Adequate ventilation can aid in maintaining a more comfortable and hygienic environment. However, it’s essential to exercise discretion and consider your activities. Going without underwear may not be suitable when engaging in physical activities, such as exercise, or when wearing pants or shorts. In such situations, wearing underwear helps prevent discomfort, chafing, and skin irritation that can occur when skin rubs against skin or clothing. 6. Invest in Fresh Underwear The lifespan of underwear may not have an official time frame, but the condition of your undergarments can serve as a reliable indicator of when it’s time for replacements. If you have underwear that no longer fits due to size changes or elasticity issues, it’s advisable to invest in new pairs. Maintaining a collection of fresh and well-fitting underwear ensures your comfort and helps you adhere to the other rules for good vaginal health. Regularly evaluating the condition of your underwear and replacing worn-out pairs contributes to a hygienic and comfortable experience. In summary, your choice of underwear is a critical factor in maintaining and promoting vaginal health. By adhering to these six underwear rules—prioritizing comfort and breathability, using skin-sensitive laundry detergent, changing underwear appropriately, monitoring vaginal discharge, embracing freedom when suitable, and investing in fresh underwear—you can establish a foundation for optimal vaginal health. These practices, when combined with regular hygiene and healthcare check-ups, contribute to a healthier and more comfortable life. Comfort and breathability are paramount when it comes to underwear selection. Choosing fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials helps to keep the vaginal area dry and free from excess moisture, which can lead to discomfort and potentially increase the risk of infections. Using a gentle, skin-sensitive laundry detergent ensures that your underwear remains free from irritating residues or chemicals that could irritate the delicate vaginal tissue. Frequent changes of underwear, ideally at least once a day, help to maintain cleanliness and reduce the risk of bacterial overgrowth or fungal infections. Monitoring vaginal discharge is crucial for early detection of any irregularities. Any sudden changes in color, odor, or consistency may be a sign of an underlying issue that requires medical attention. Embracing freedom from underwear when suitable, such as during sleep, allows for improved air circulation and reduces the likelihood of developing moisture-related problems. Finally, investing in fresh underwear means replacing old or worn-out pairs to maintain their effectiveness in supporting vaginal health. Combined with regular hygiene routines and healthcare check-ups, these practices can empower individuals to take proactive steps in caring for their vaginal well-being. Remember, a healthy body starts with small, thoughtful choices, and your underwear is an essential part of that equation.

Oct 13

What Are Yeast Infections?

In the realm of infections, bacteria and viruses often hog the spotlight, leaving the unassuming yeast Candida albicans lurking in the shadows. Candida albicans, naturally occurring on the skin and mucous membranes, such as the mouth, gut, and vagina, occasionally seizes the opportunity to unleash infections when it overgrows or ventures into new territories, triggering discomfort and distress in affected individuals. The prevalence of yeast infections remains challenging to estimate accurately, primarily due to many individuals opting for over-the-counter remedies for mild infections without seeking professional medical guidance. However, some forms of yeast infections are more common than others, with statistics suggesting that approximately 75 out of 100 women may encounter a vaginal yeast infection at some point in their lives. Invasive candidiasis, a more menacing variant of yeast infection, afflicts a smaller fraction of the population, standing at nine per 100,000 individuals. Fortunately, medical science has devised treatments capable of countering yeast infections in various bodily locales, allowing most sufferers to embark on a swift road to recovery. An Inclusive Approach: Gender and Sex Before delving into the multifaceted world of yeast infections, it’s essential to acknowledge that gender and sex are diverse spectrums. People may not identify with a specific gender or may not conform to traditional gender norms. The language used in this article aligns with research terminologies and outcomes, reflecting the gender- and sex-based nuances often emphasized in scientific investigations. Varieties of Yeast Infections Yeast infections are a versatile adversary, infiltrating various bodily domains. Although all share the same fungal culprit, a crucial distinction divides them into two categories: local mucocutaneous infections and invasive candidiasis. Local Mucocutaneous Infections Local mucocutaneous infections confine their assault to the skin and mucous membranes. While less menacing than their invasive counterparts, these infections can still disrupt one’s life. Common examples encompass yeast infections of the mouth, often referred to as thrush, as well as those affecting the throat, esophagus, skin, penis, vulva, and vagina. Prompt intervention typically results in resolution within a week or two. Invasive Candidiasis Invasive candidiasis signifies a more formidable adversary, infiltrating the bloodstream or internal organs. Candidemia, where Candida infiltrates the bloodstream, stands as the most prevalent manifestation of invasive candidiasis, afflicting around 25,000 individuals annually in the United States. These invasive infections can be life-threatening, with mortality rates approaching 25%. The high mortality rate can be attributed to the vulnerability of most candidemia patients, often grappling with compromised immune systems or preexisting health conditions. Decoding Yeast Infection Symptoms Symptoms of yeast infections are as diverse as their locations within the body. Local mucocutaneous infections frequently provoke redness, itchiness, and soreness around the afflicted area. Distinct symptoms emerge depending on the infection site. For instance, oral yeast infections manifest as a loss of taste and the appearance of white patches on the tongue, inside the mouth, and throat. Vaginal yeast infections may induce pain during sexual intercourse, urination discomfort, and abnormal vaginal discharge. Invasive candidiasis mirrors the symptoms of bacterial or viral infections, often featuring fever and chills. When invasive infection extends beyond the bloodstream, affecting other bodily regions, additional symptoms may surface. Unmasking the Culprit: What Triggers Yeast Infections? Candida albicans, a ubiquitous yeast species, naturally inhabits the mouth, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract without causing issues. However, when various factors trigger an overgrowth of this yeast or other yeast species, infection ensues. Risk Factors: The Precarious Balance Yeast infections are categorized as opportunistic infections, primarily emerging in individuals with compromised immune systems. Specific yeast infections carry unique risk factors. For instance, vaginal candidiasis risk factors encompass the usage of oral contraceptives, pregnancy, or diabetes. Additional risk factors for yeast infections include: Diagnosis: Unraveling the Intricacies Diagnosing a yeast infection hinges on several factors, such as the infection’s location, severity, the patient’s age, and their immune system status. Healthcare providers commence the diagnostic process by delving into the patient’s symptoms, medication history, and medical background. Sample collection from the affected site constitutes a common diagnostic approach, encompassing vaginal discharge sampling for vaginal yeast infections or mouth swabs for oral candidiasis. In cases of suspected invasive candidiasis, a blood sample may be required to detect yeast in the bloodstream. In certain scenarios, providers may opt for treatment based on clinical suspicion without awaiting diagnostic confirmation. Tailored Treatments for Yeast Infections Treatment for yeast infections is not a one-size-fits-all approach; it hinges on several variables: Local mucocutaneous infections frequently yield to treatment within a week or two, with antifungal medications administered through creams, powders, mouthwashes, or oral pills. If the initial treatment proves ineffective or recurrent infections emerge, healthcare providers may recommend an extended course of oral medication or explore alternative antifungal options, including intravenous administration. Invasive candidiasis necessitates intravenous (IV) medication in nearly all cases. Treatment for bloodstream-invading Candida persists until symptoms abate and yeast is undetectable in the bloodstream, followed by an additional two weeks of treatment. Complications arising from yeast migration to organs, bones, joints, or the nervous system may mandate prolonged treatment. A Looming Challenge: Antifungal Resistance Antifungal drug resistance, akin to antimicrobial resistance in bacterial infections, poses a growing concern. Recent CDC data reveals that approximately 7% of Candida blood samples exhibited resistance to the antifungal drug fluconazole. This underscores the critical importance of preventive measures to mitigate the onset of these infections, emphasizing the necessity of proactive strategies. Prevention: Nipping Infections in the Bud Prophylactic antifungal medication is administered to high-risk groups, a preemptive measure to thwart the initiation of invasive infections. This strategy is extended to individuals in intensive care units (ICUs), recipients of specific organ transplants, patients undergoing certain chemotherapy regimens, those with diminished white blood cell counts, and infants with exceptionally low birth weights. Preventative steps against localized yeast infections are contingent on the infection site. For example, maintaining impeccable oral hygiene can stave off oral Candida, while individuals susceptible to vaginal yeast infections should explore birth control options that reduce their infection risk. Related Conditions: Connecting the Dots Specific medical conditions elevate the risk of yeast infections,

Oct 13

Can Stress Give You a Yeast Infection?

Stress does not cause yeast infections but can increase your risk of getting one. Vaginal yeast infections are a common ailment experienced by many women, stemming from an overgrowth of yeast within the body. While yeast is a natural component found on the skin, in the mouth, intestines, and the vagina, an imbalance can lead to harmful overgrowth. This overgrowth can be influenced by various factors, including lifestyle habits and the state of your immune system. The role of stress in the development of yeast infections has been a topic of discussion, with some individuals wondering whether it might be a direct cause. To shed light on this issue, we turn to medical experts for insights and explore the potential connections between stress and yeast infections. Stress as a Contributing Factor Dr. Donnica Moore, a renowned OB-GYN and the distinguished president of Sapphire Women’s Health Group situated in the picturesque state of New Jersey, offers invaluable insights into the complex relationship between stress and health. In her extensive medical experience, Dr. Moore underscores the undeniable connection between stress and various health issues, emphasizing that stress can indeed play a pivotal role in our overall well-being. However, when it comes to the specific matter of yeast infections, she asserts that the causative link is not as straightforward as it might initially seem. In her erudite perspective, Dr. Moore clarifies that while stress is a significant factor in the realm of health, there is no definitive and irrefutable evidence that stress alone serves as the direct and exclusive catalyst for yeast infections. Instead, the intricacies of this issue unravel as we delve deeper into the physiology of the human body. Yeast infections, she elucidates, materialize when there is a delicate equilibrium between bacteria and yeast in the vaginal area, which is disrupted. A multitude of factors can tip this balance askew, including but not limited to antibiotic use, hormonal birth control methods, suboptimal vaginal hygiene practices, and the hormonal fluctuations that occur during the transformative phases of pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is within this nuanced context that we must consider the role of stress. Dr. Moore emphasizes that stress, as an isolated variable, may not be the primary instigator of yeast infections. Nevertheless, it can be a pivotal player in the intricate interplay of factors. Stress, she argues, has the potential to affect the immune system, potentially compromising its robustness and resilience. In this weakened state, individuals might become more susceptible to various infections, yeast infections included. However, the connection between stress and yeast infections is not a simple cause-and-effect relationship. Stress is more likely to exacerbate existing vulnerabilities or make infections more persistent and prone to recurrence rather than being the sole trigger. In essence, it acts as a complicating factor within a broader framework of influences. In conclusion, Dr. Donnica Moore’s extensive expertise in the field of women’s health casts a spotlight on the intricate dance between stress and yeast infections. While stress undoubtedly wields a significant influence over our health, it does not operate in isolation. Instead, it interacts with a myriad of other factors, such as hormonal changes and hygiene practices, in shaping the complex landscape of yeast infections. Understanding this intricate web of influences is essential in providing comprehensive and effective healthcare guidance to women seeking to maintain their reproductive health and overall well-being. The Stress-Yeast Connection The link between stress and yeast infections is indeed a complex one, and it involves various physiological mechanisms. Cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone,” plays a crucial role in this relationship. When the body experiences stress, the adrenal glands release cortisol as part of the fight-or-flight response. While cortisol is essential for managing stress, prolonged or chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which can have several adverse effects on the body. One of the key ways in which elevated cortisol levels can contribute to yeast infections is by impacting blood sugar levels. Cortisol triggers the release of glucose into the bloodstream, providing energy for the body’s response to stress. However, prolonged stress can lead to consistently elevated blood sugar levels, which can create a favorable environment for yeast overgrowth. Yeast, particularly Candida species, thrive in environments rich in sugar. The excess sugar in the bloodstream can serve as a ready source of nourishment for yeast, potentially leading to their rapid growth and the development of an infection. Exploring the Causes of Recurrent Yeast Infections For individuals experiencing recurrent yeast infections, identifying the underlying causes becomes crucial. Healthcare providers can conduct various tests to assess potential factors contributing to these infections. Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, a clinical professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive sciences at Yale Medical School, outlines her approach to investigating recurrent yeast infections. 1. Blood Tests: Initial tests may include blood screenings to rule out diabetes, as high blood sugar levels can promote yeast overgrowth. 2. HIV Testing: Since HIV weakens the immune system and increases vulnerability to infections, an HIV test is recommended. 3. Cortisol Levels: Measuring cortisol levels can help determine if stress is a contributing factor. Elevated cortisol may lead to increased blood sugar, creating an environment conducive to yeast growth. Managing and Preventing Yeast Infections For those seeking treatment and prevention strategies for yeast infections, the following steps are advisable: 1. Confirm the Diagnosis: If you suspect a yeast infection, consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations. 2. Stress Reduction: Implement stress-reduction techniques as part of your daily routine. Strategies such as regular exercise, meditation, reduced workloads, adequate sleep, and therapy can help alleviate stress. 3. Dietary Adjustments: Consider modifying your diet to minimize sugar intake, as yeast thrives on sugar-rich environments. 4. Medication: Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment options may include over-the-counter creams or prescription anti-yeast medications. While there is no definitive evidence to support the idea that stress directly causes yeast infections, chronic stress can contribute to an environment conducive to yeast overgrowth. Stress management, in conjunction with good

Oct 13

Can You Give Your Partner a Yeast Infection?

Here’s what to know about dealing with a yeast infection during sex. Intimacy in a relationship often brings about a multitude of thoughts and questions. If you, or your partner, experience a yeast infection, the concern may arise about whether it could spread to your partner. Vaginal yeast infections, also known as vaginal candidiasis, are common occurrences caused by a fungal species known as yeast. While yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs), it is possible to transmit a yeast infection to a partner during sexual activity. In this article, we will explore how yeast infections spread, conditions similar to yeast infections, and effective treatment options. Factors That Increase the Risk of Yeast Infections Several factors increase the likelihood of developing a yeast infection, including: 1. Pregnancy: Pregnancy can alter hormone levels and increase the risk of yeast infections. 2. Hormonal Contraceptives: The use of hormonal contraceptives can influence hormone levels, potentially contributing to yeast infections. 3. Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes may be more susceptible to yeast infections, as elevated blood sugar levels can encourage yeast growth. 4. Weakened Immune System: A compromised immune system can reduce the body’s ability to combat infections, including yeast infections. 5. Antibiotic Use: Taking antibiotics can disrupt the balance of microorganisms in the body, potentially leading to yeast overgrowth. Understanding the Transmission of Yeast Infections While yeast infections are not considered STIs, they can still be transmitted to a partner during sexual activity. The typical symptoms of a yeast infection may manifest following vaginal, anal, or oral sex. These symptoms can include: Penile Yeast Infections Approximately 15% of male partners may develop symptoms such as an itchy rash on the penis after engaging in unprotected sex with a partner who has a yeast infection. Individuals who are uncircumcised or have diabetes may have a higher risk of yeast infections. Vaginal Yeast Infections In cases where both partners are female, there is a potential for yeast infections to be transmitted between them. Shared sex toys or the exchange of vaginal fluids may carry a minimal risk of transmitting yeast infections. Oral Yeast Infections Although yeast infections are primarily spread through vaginal sex, there is a possibility of yeast spreading to the oral cavity if a person engages in oral sex with a partner who has a yeast infection. This condition is known as thrush or oral thrush and may present symptoms such as an itchy, irritated mouth with white patches or sores. Conditions Resembling Yeast Infections Several conditions exhibit symptoms similar to yeast infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bacterial vaginosis (BV). Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) UTIs are caused by the introduction of bacteria into the bladder and are characterized by symptoms such as pain while urinating, lower abdominal pressure, foul-smelling urine, blood in the urine, fatigue, and fever. Although UTIs can develop after sexual activity, they cannot be transmitted to a partner. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) BV occurs due to an imbalance of good and bad bacteria in the vagina. Risk factors for BV include douching, lack of condom use, having multiple sexual partners, and new sexual partners. BV cannot be transmitted to male partners but may be transmitted between female partners. Effective Treatments Regardless of how a yeast infection is acquired, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for confirmation of the diagnosis. If both partners exhibit symptoms, seeking medical advice is advisable. Treatment options for yeast infections include antifungal medications. A healthcare provider may prescribe antifungal medication, such as fluconazole, or recommend over-the-counter (OTC) treatments like creams, tablets, ointments, or suppositories. The duration of treatment varies, with some requiring daily doses for up to seven days. In cases of recurrent yeast infections, long-term antifungal medication may be recommended. Sexual Activity During a Yeast Infection Should you or your partner experience a yeast infection and wish to engage in sexual activity, experts recommend practicing abstinence. Intercourse during a yeast infection can be uncomfortable or painful, particularly when symptoms are exacerbated. Dr. Sherry A. Ross, a Los Angeles-based OB-GYN and author, advises against engaging in sexual activity when a vaginal infection is present. She emphasizes that it is essential to wait until the infection has been fully treated. Conclusion In summary, yeast infections, though not officially classified as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can indeed be transmitted between sexual partners during intimate activities. While they are primarily caused by the overgrowth of the fungus Candida, which naturally resides in the body, certain sexual practices can increase the risk of transmission. Consequently, if you suspect you have a yeast infection, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment. It’s crucial to recognize that several other conditions can share symptoms with yeast infections, leading to potential confusion and misdiagnosis. Two common examples are urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bacterial vaginosis (BV). UTIs often involve symptoms like frequent urination, a burning sensation during urination, and lower abdominal discomfort, which can overlap with the discomfort experienced in yeast infections. BV, on the other hand, may manifest with symptoms like unusual vaginal discharge and odor, similar to those of yeast infections. Given these overlapping symptoms, self-diagnosis and treatment without professional guidance can lead to incorrect choices in addressing the issue at hand. This can result in delayed relief from symptoms and, in some cases, even exacerbation of the underlying problem. Seeking medical guidance is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, it ensures that the correct diagnosis is made. This is vital because while yeast infections can often be managed with over-the-counter antifungal medications, other conditions may require different treatments, such as antibiotics for UTIs or specific medications for BV. Accurate diagnosis leads to more effective and targeted treatments, promoting the swift resolution of symptoms and a return to optimal intimate health. Furthermore, healthcare providers can offer valuable insights into the potential causes of recurrent yeast infections. They may explore factors such as changes in diet, hormonal fluctuations, or underlying health conditions that could contribute to the recurrence of

Oct 13

4 Things Never to Say to Someone With Vitiligo—Even if You Don’t Mean Any Harm

Take note: All of these comments are unhelpful—and can even be hurtful. Vitiligo is a skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing patches of skin to lose their natural color. The color of our skin is determined by a pigment called melanin, which is produced by melanocytes. When a person has vitiligo, these melanocytes either stop functioning or die, resulting in the loss of melanin production. This condition can affect anyone, regardless of their age or ethnicity, although it may be more noticeable in individuals with darker skin tones. While vitiligo is not life-threatening, it can profoundly impact an individual’s physical appearance and emotional well-being. Living with vitiligo can be challenging, especially when it develops during childhood, a period when children are learning about their bodies and forming their identities. Those with vitiligo often face bullying and insensitive comments, making it essential for us to be mindful of our words and actions when interacting with individuals living with this condition. In this exploration, we will hear from four individuals who have vitiligo and learn about the comments and behaviors that can be hurtful or insensitive when engaging with someone affected by this condition. 1. Avoid Asking if Vitiligo Is Contagious One of the most important things to remember when interacting with someone who has vitiligo is to avoid asking if the condition is contagious. Mariah Perkins, a 22-year-old living with vitiligo, shared her experience of someone asking her this question. Such inquiries can deeply affect individuals with vitiligo, as they imply that their skin is undesirable or even repulsive. For many, vitiligo onset occurs during adolescence, a vulnerable period when individuals may be particularly sensitive about their appearance. Mckyla Crowder, who has lived with vitiligo since the age of 4, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of treating people with vitiligo with the same respect and consideration as anyone else. She emphasized that individuals with vitiligo are still the same on the inside, and their condition does not define their worth or character. 2. Avoid Recommending Products to “Fix” Their Skin Another insensitive comment is suggesting products that claim to “fix” or conceal vitiligo-affected skin. Marian De Vos shared her experience of being referred to a product that promised to provide full coverage for her skin, similar to a foundation for the entire body. While some people with vitiligo may choose to cover their skin using makeup, it is a deeply personal decision that should not be influenced by unsolicited product recommendations. Mariah Perkins, too, went through a phase of using makeup to conceal her vitiligo, a practice that was both time-consuming and expensive. Eventually, she made the courageous decision to stop using makeup to hide her vitiligo. Similarly, Mckyla Crowder used makeup and layers of clothing to hide her symptoms, especially during high school, when she became acutely aware of her differences. However, she eventually embraced her true self and found a supportive community that helped her come out of her shell. 3. Avoid Labeling Their Skin as “Flawed” or “Imperfect” When interacting with someone with vitiligo, it is vital to refrain from using derogatory terms like “flawed” or “imperfect” to describe their skin. Such comments can have a profoundly negative impact on their self-esteem and body image. As Marian De Vos eloquently put it, referring to individuals with vitiligo as “imperfect” can cause them to doubt themselves and their self-worth. Embracing one’s appearance is challenging enough, and using derogatory language only adds to the burden. Mckyla Crowder emphasized that vitiligo is not a flaw, and it does not cause physical pain. Just as you wouldn’t label someone else’s condition as a “flaw,” it is crucial to extend the same courtesy to individuals with vitiligo. 4. Do Not Comment on New or Changing Spots Vitiligo is a condition that typically progresses slowly over time, with pigment loss spreading to involve more of the skin. Rarely, some individuals may experience repigmentation. It is essential to avoid pointing out changes in someone’s vitiligo-affected skin, as they are acutely aware of these developments. For individuals living with vitiligo, accepting the changing nature of their skin can be a challenging journey. Chelsey Hamilton, a 25-year-old with vitiligo, shared her experience of friends noticing new white patches on her skin. Such comments, even when well-intentioned, can be uncomfortable for individuals with vitiligo, as they are still coming to terms with their changing bodies. 5. Respect Their Privacy and Choices When meeting someone with vitiligo for the first time, it is important to respect their privacy and choices regarding their condition. Not everyone is ready to discuss or acknowledge their vitiligo openly, and making unsolicited comments about their skin can be distressing. Each person’s journey with vitiligo is unique, and some may not be ready to embrace their condition fully. In conclusion, understanding and supporting individuals with vitiligo requires sensitivity, empathy, and respect for their unique experiences and choices. Avoiding hurtful comments and behavior and treating them with kindness and understanding can go a long way in creating a more inclusive and supportive society for those living with vitiligo.

Oct 13

Lincoln inadequate GP surgery left blood results for days

Google A GP practice where some abnormal blood results were not reviewed quickly enough has been put in special measures by the health watchdog. Emergency equipment at Richmond Medical Centre in North Hykeham, near Lincoln, also had no instructions in English, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) said. Greg Reilly from the CQC said the inspectors’ findings were “concerning”. The medical centre said “significant changes” had been made since the inspection. Staff at the practice told inspectors in May 2023 that equipment regularly went missing from the emergency trollies. They also said GPs “weren’t visible” and this was “having an impact on people’s care”. ‘Warning notice’ The inspectors found the surgery did not review blood tests on the day the results arrived, meaning there were 32 outstanding abnormal results awaiting action after three days of being received. There were “127 patients with a potential undiagnosed long term condition following blood results,” according to the report. Patients were also unable to get through to the practice “in a timely manner” by telephone. Mr Reilly said: “We’ve used our enforcement powers and issued a warning notice which highlight the areas we need to see significant and immediate improvements. “In the meantime, we’ll continue to monitor this service, including through further inspections, to make sure people are receiving the safe care they deserve, and won’t hesitate to take further action if needed.” ‘Kindness and respect’ But inspectors said staff at the surgery “treated patients with kindness, respect and compassion and helped patients to be involved in decisions about care”. A spokesperson for the practice said the management of blood test results had been changed and staff training had taken place since the inspection. “We feel that the report published today no longer reflects our current position and we are working closely with the CQC in order to be re-inspected as soon as possible,” they said. “As a medical centre we have faced a number of challenges over the past 12 months, and we accept that at the time of the inspection, some of our processes were not to a standard we all aspire to.” Follow BBC East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] Related Topics North Hykeham Lincoln Care Quality Commission Related Internet Links Care Quality Commission Richmond Medical Centre The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites.

Oct 13

Sultan Of Delhi Review: Blood Soaked But Far From Full Blooded

<!– –> A still from Sultan Of Delhi. (courtesy: YouTube) All show and no substance: that is the sum total of Sultan of Delhi. A period crime drama that ambles leaden-footed through the dregs of a troubled city in the years following the carving up of the subcontinent into India and Pakistan, it is a right royal trudge. It is about a Partition riots survivor who seeks to work his way out of the horrors of history and fight for a foothold on a slippery heap where gain and loss, friendship and animosity, go hand in hand. Sultan of Delhi, created and directed by Milan Luthria from a screenplay by co-director Suparn S. Varma, is a blood-soaked tale all right, but its depiction of a city and its underbelly is far from full-blooded. The Hotstar Specials series is ambitious in scale – it is a story of loyalty, ambition and treachery set in the first couple of decades of free India – but the execution is anything but grand. Tepid, if not turgid, the show lacks the energy and momentum to rustle up moments that hit home. Sultan of Delhi makes its lumbering way through a string of gunfights and slugfests, hints of perfunctory romance (and loads of bromance, too), a whole lot of toxic masculinity (of desperate men who believe that the world is theirs for the asking) and an overload of riddles (which are posed by a robber-baron to begin with and then assume the nature of a mind game between him and his accomplices and adversaries). The series revolves around Arjun Bhatia (Tahir Raj Bhasin), who, 17 years after the Partition riots, has learnt to live down his past and go for broke in a dog-eat-dog world. He is a master-mechanic driven by a passion for cars that enable him to zoom into the big league in a hurry. [embedded content] With his loyal friend Nilendu alias Bangali (Anjum Sharma), the young hustler works for Jagan Seth (Vinay Pathak), a businessman with political ambitions. Arjun falls in love with a wealthy man’s daughter Sanjana (Mehreen Pirzada) but his path, as he is to find out soon, isn’t strewn with roses. Sultan of Delhi begins with a meeting of a half a dozen ageing men whose writ runs over the city’s underworld. The convener of the gathering of rogues is Farooq Mastaan (Anil George), who advises the gang lords to work in unison and names Arjun as a first among equals, the man who will henceforth call the shots. A couple of the old fogeys do not take kindly to the prospect of a rookie being handed the reins of their operations. Arjun whips out a gun. Cut. The rest is more hysteria than history, peppered with exploits of men going all out to change their individual and collective destinies. Arjun has his own way of dealing with tricky situations such as the one in the opening sequence. There is worse ahead. His principal foe is Rajinder Pratap Singh (Nishant Dahiya), son of a businessman who made his fortune by profiting from the misery of refugees. The lines separating good and evil are not only blurred but completely eliminated as Rajinder, egged on by Shankari (Anupriya Goenka), the manipulative mistress he has willingly inherited from his father, conspires to push Arjun off the pedestal that Jagan Seth has given him. The lacklustre show does away with the layers that are an integral part of the book it is adapted from – Sultan of Delhi: Ascension, written by Arnab Ray. The narrative vacuum that is created as a result is hard to offset. The titular city, the tumultuous 1960s and the tough men who joust for control over a crime network run by slimy businessmen and smarmy politicians are mere cardboard pieces in a haphazard jigsaw that does not quite add up. Many of the crucial elements of the plot, especially the setting, are short on authenticity. Neither the milieu nor the period creates an impression. Nobody in the show lives in real homes. Everybody owns a mansion that sprawls across of acres of land in the middle of nowhere. One does not see enough of Delhi, barring establishing aerial shots of Qutub Minar at different times of day and night. These feel more like stock footage than fundamental parts of the visual design. The streets, the houses, even a ritzy hotel and its environs – nothing bears any resemblance to what the city might have looked like back then. Early on, Sultan of Delhi offers glimpses of a Lajpat Nagar refugee camp, where a boy ends up with his father after the rest of his family has been wiped out in Lahore. It also takes the audience into Chawri Bazaar, Paharganj and other parts of Old Delhi. They are akin to drop-in settings, as counterfeit as the show’s general depiction of people, places and politics. Parts of Sultan of Delhi play out in Calcutta. Here too, one sees nothing of the city. The show’s understanding of leftist political activism of the 1960s is limited to the presence of a filmmaker simply called Roy Babu. He masterminds bank heists. It isn’t robbery, it is rebellion, the man insists. The money belongs to the poor, he asserts. In Delhi, too, all that it takes for a moneyed man to get an election ticket is a threatening phone call a cocky coquette makes to a political party supremo. The lady believes that she holds all the aces. She isn’t wrong, but the show is determinedly male-dominated and allows her limited play despite the sway she apparently has over the men around her. If only the script had allowed her the room she deserves – Anupriya Goenka plays the role with a mix of controlled intensity and come-hither allure – Sultan of Delhi may have found some meaningful narrative spaces to explore. The script metes out pretty much the same treatment to Mouni Roy, cabaret dancer at a Calcutta nightclub who

Oct 13

The cause of the Salmonella Thompson outbreak remains under investigation

Federal officials are still looking for the cause of an outbreak of Salmonella Thompson infections. According to an update from the Food and Drug Administration, the outbreak continues to grow, with 67 patients having been confirmed so far. The FDA first reported the outbreak on Oct. 4 but has not reported where the outbreak patients live. Investigators have begun traceback efforts, but the FDA is not reporting what food or foods are being traced. The agency has not yet begun sample collection or on-site inspections. There has been at least one recent Salmonella infection in a South Carolina resident, but it is unknown if the patient is part of the FDA’s current investigation. Recently, at least five Salmonella outbreaks have been linked to cantaloupe, including one this year. A spokesperson with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention told Food Safety News that the agency is not currently investigating Salmonella infections involving South Carolina residents and cantaloupe. About Salmonella infectionsFood contaminated with Salmonella bacteria does not usually look, smell, or taste spoiled. Anyone can become sick with a Salmonella infection. According to the CDC, infants, children, seniors, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness because their immune systems are fragile. Anyone who has developed symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek medical attention. Sick people should tell their doctors about their possible exposure to Salmonella bacteria because special tests are necessary to diagnose salmonellosis. Salmonella infection symptoms can mimic other illnesses, frequently leading to misdiagnosis. Symptoms of Salmonella infection can include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Otherwise, healthy adults are usually sick for four to seven days. In some cases, however, diarrhea may be so severe that patients require hospitalization. Older adults, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients, are more likely to develop severe illness and serious, sometimes life-threatening conditions. Some people get infected without getting sick or showing any symptoms. However, they may still spread the infections to others. (To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News,click here)

Oct 13

Experimental Blood Test for Cancer Shows Potential To Screen for

A blood test that could detect multiple cancers at their earliest stages has long been a dream of the medical community. Now results from a pilot study, published in The Lancet, suggest that a single blood test might identify the presence of more than 50 cancer types. The experimental test analyzes DNA shed from cancer cells into the bloodstream, looking for telltale genetic “cancer signals.” The goal is to detect these early signs of cancer well before symptoms occur or results are obtained from other diagnostic methods. This kind of test is often called a liquid biopsy. The study is preliminary but included two important findings: Nearly half of the newly diagnosed cancers were identified at an early stage. The test detected many cancer types for which there are no current screening tests endorsed by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, the regulatory authority that influences health insurance coverage. “This work is still preliminary, but it is provocative and could represent a future approach to cancer diagnosis and screening,” says Deb Schrag, MD, MPH, Chair of the Department of Medicine at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) and first author of the manuscript published in The Lancet. “We need further research to confirm this approach to screening will translate into meaningful clinical benefits. Early Cancer Detection Results In the study, called PATHFINDER, more than 6,600 patients who did not have signs of cancer agreed to submit a blood sample for testing. If a cancer signal was detected, the test also indicated where the cancer likely started to focus further diagnostic tests that could give a more definitive answer. Overall, a cancer signal was detected in 92 patients — about 1.5% of those screened. In about a third of those patients, cancer was confirmed. The other two-thirds of patients with initial positive results did not turn out to have cancer. “The blood test is not definitive that someone has cancer,” Dr. Schrag says. “The test identifies people for further diagnostic evaluation. About 1 in 3 whose screening test was positive were ultimately confirmed to have a cancer.” Many cancer screening tests, such as mammograms for breast cancer or low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans for lung cancer, can produce false positive results. In that regard, this test was no different, says Dr. Schrag. Like all screening tests, this test generated “false positives,” which then required time, effort, and expense to resolve. However, the percentage of false positives was relatively low when considering the overall number of people being screened, Dr. Schrag notes. Lethal Cancer Types Might Be Caught Early Importantly, the test resulted in early detection for cancer types that are considered rare, including cancers of the bile duct, small intestine, and pancreas, which are not likely to be found during routine physical examination or current screening. The results were based on analyzing DNA circulating in the bloodstream — known as cell-free DNA, or cfDNA. The test is made by the biotech company GRAIL, which sponsored this study. Researchers looked for cancer signals derived from methylation patterns. Methylation, a chemical modification of DNA, is one of the factors that influences gene expression and can be significantly altered in cancer cells. The participants in the PATHFINDER trial were from outpatient clinics across seven U.S. healthcare systems. Patients were recruited from December 2019 to December 2020, when Dr. Schrag, who joined MSK in 2021, worked at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The study included adults over 50, with and without elevated cancer risk. Elevated risk was based on having one or more of the following: A personal history of cancer at least three years earlier A history of tobacco use Genetic risk A strong family history of cancer Dr. Schrag explains that including patients who already survived one type of cancer was strategic for multiple reasons: These people face increased risk of developing a new cancer type as well as recurrence of the initial cancer. Recruiting high-risk patients decreases the total number of participants required to answer a research question. Cancer survivors are likely to have a deep understanding of what blood testing and imaging studies entail, and they are well-informed to make decisions about participation in this type of research. Cancer survivors are motivated to participate in research if it has even a small chance of helping others avoid the ordeal of cancer treatment. Dr. Schrag cautions that the results from this study are preliminary. Validating the clinical usefulness of liquid biopsy testing to screen for multiple cancers simultaneously will require a randomized trial that recruits a diverse group of patients. New studies are already underway — including one called PATHFINDER2 — to evaluate the test in a larger and more diverse U.S. population. There is also an important randomized trial evaluating cancer detection in people who had the liquid biopsy test compared with those who did not in patients from the U.K.’s National Health Service. Results from this study are expected in a few years. The PATHFINDER results are early but significant: They show the feasibility of a new means of early cancer detection. “This is the brave new world of testing. And although lots more work must be done before this approach becomes standard, it could eventually transform cancer diagnosis and treatment,” Dr. Schrag says.