GOQii

Blog

  • HOME
  • HEALTHY LIVING
  • FITNESS
  • HEALTHY RECIPES
  • USER STORIES
  • KARMA
  • BUY GOQii

October 5, 2024 By Dr Manali Rao 4 Comments

The 3 S of Breast Cancer: Signs, Symptoms and Self Examination

breast-cancer-awareness-month-memes-inspirational-quotes-4CANCER!!! The word itself is feared and dreaded by everyone around the globe. Many people who are diagnosed with this illness feel like it’s a death sentence, but it doesn’t have to be. There are ways to fight and overcome cancer.

Before learning how to overcome cancer, it is important to understand what it is. Cancer is a group of diseases involving abnormal cell growth, which may or may not spread to other parts of the body. Not all tumors are cancerous; only malignant ones spread throughout the body, while benign ones do not.

One of the most common invasive cancers in the world today is ‘BREAST CANCER’. It is more frequently seen in developed countries, but outcomes in these regions tend to be better due to advanced healthcare.

Who is at Risk for Developing Breast Cancer?

While breast cancer is more common in Females, men can also develop it (though cases in men are rare). Risk factors include:

  • Obesity
  • Lack of exercise
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Hormone replacement therapy
  • Early menarche
  • Late pregnancy
  • Nulliparous women
  • Family history
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Smoking

Let me now take you through the 3S of Breast Cancer- Signs Symptoms and Self Examination

Look out for these Signs and Symptoms:

  • The most common first symptom is a lump in the breast that feels different from the rest of the tissue.
  • Dimpling or puckering of the skin on or around the nipple.
  • A change in the position or shape of the nipple, which may become inverted.
  • Orangish discoloration of the skin around the breast or a texture resembling an orange peel (peau d’orange).
  • Nipple discharge, which could be watery, milky, yellow, or even bloody.
  • One breast appearing larger than the other.
  • Constant pain in the breast or armpit area.
  • Swelling in the armpits or around the collarbone.
  • Redness, itching, increased sensitivity, or a burning sensation.

It’s important to note that some people may not experience any symptoms until the cancer has progressed, which is why regular check-ups are vital.

How to self-examine?

The best way to be aware of breast cancer is through self-detection. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and your hands on your hips.

  • Look at the size, shape, and color of your breasts.
  • Check for dimpling, puckering, or bulging skin.
  • Look for any changes in the position of your nipples or signs of inversion (a nipple that is pushed inward).
  • Watch for redness, soreness, rash, or swelling.

Step 2: Raise your arms and check for the same changes.

Step 3: While standing in front of the mirror, check for any fluid discharge from the nipples, which could appear watery, milky, yellow, or even bloody.

Step 4: Lie down and feel your breasts. Use your right hand to examine your left breast and your left hand for your right breast. Apply a firm, smooth touch using the pads of your fingers in a circular motion. Cover the entire breast, from top to bottom and side to side, including from the collarbone to the top of the abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage.

Start at the nipple and move outward in larger circles until you reach the edge of the breast. Be sure to feel all the tissue, from the front to the back of your breasts.

Step 5: Finally, feel your breasts while standing or sitting. Many women find that it’s easiest to feel their breasts when their skin is wet and slippery, such as during a shower. Use the same hand movements as described in Step 4.

Breast Cancer Support Groups:

Support groups play a crucial role in helping patients fight cancer. These groups provide an opportunity to learn from others who have faced the same disease. Seeing other survivors can give patients the strength and hope they need to fight their own battles. Remember, hope is everything.

We hope this article helped you understand the signs, symptoms, and steps to perform a self-examination for breast cancer. Regular check-ups and self-awareness can make all the difference in early detection and treatment. Have any questions or experiences to share? Let us know in the comments below! You can also find more articles on Women’s Health here. Stay informed, stay healthy!

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

April 21, 2024 By Vaishali Khanna 2 Comments

Sleep Apnea, its symptoms and how you can prevent it?

Sleep-Apnea-700x400

Has anyone ever told you that you have a tendency to snore? Or maybe you don’t…but you have a partner or family member who does? Do you find that you tend to wake up throughout the night? Or maybe you think you get good sleep, but you consistently find yourself with a dry mouth in the morning?

These are all signs that could suggest that you (or…your beloved snoring family member) may have something called “Sleep Apnea.” Well, there are people who cannot sleep without a machine and that is because they suffer from a medical condition called ‘Sleep Apnea’.

Let’s actually break this down. What is Sleep Apnea?

The most common type of Sleep Apnea is ‘Obstructive Sleep Apnea’ (OSA). OSA is a potentially life-altering and life-threatening breathing disorder that occurs during sleep.

The upper airway repeatedly collapses, causing cessation of breathing (apnea) or inadequate breathing (hypopnea) and sleep fragmentation. The breathing stops during sleep for 10 seconds to a minute or longer. Oxygen levels in the blood decrease.

One challenge with something like this is that you may not necessarily wake up entirely. So it’s not always easy to self-diagnose. BUT – Sleep fragmentation results in chronic daytime sleepiness (which you would expect if you’re constantly getting interrupted throughout the night). This disrupts healthy sleep and causes a number of short-term and long-lasting effects that threaten the health and well-being of those who suffer from the condition.

How many people have OSA? The prevalence of OSA in the general population is still unclear. Several epidemiological studies have attempted to examine this issue. Epidemiological data from Young, Palta, Dempsey, et. Al (1993) in a study paper titled:- Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: natural history, diagnosis, and emerging treatment options, estimated that in a group of 602 middle-aged individuals 2% of women and 4% of men meet the minimal diagnostic criteria for sleep apnea with excessive daytime sleepiness.

People most likely to have or develop OSA may have any of the following:

  • Obesity, especially in the upper body
  • Small upper airway due to excess throat tissue or abdominal jaw structure
  • Nasal Obstruction
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Family History of OSA
  • Overweight Obese individuals

Obesity, particularly abdominal and upper body obesity is the most significant risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea. Excess body fat on the neck and chest constricts the air passageways and sometimes the lungs – thus setting the stage for interrupted breathing during the night. And according to the research…The more obese a person, the greater the risk of apnea.

The good news is that there are some general things that can make a big difference.

This includes:

Losing some weight, if you are overweight or obese (even as little as 5% of your body weight can make a change)

Avoid alcohol, sedatives, and hypnotics (as they can sedate the very muscles we need to breathe)

Sleeping on your side or in a semi propped position

If you have sleep apnea, do not take sleep medicines or sedatives. These chemicals will increase the relaxation in the tissues of the upper airway and make the obstruction worse. The specific treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is usually a mask worn at night to keep the airway open or using a sleep machine that can help you breathe and sleep properly.

If OSA is left untreated, it can increase the risk of developing:

  • Hypertension
  • Cardiac Arrhythmias
  • Myocardial Ischemia
  • Stroke Pre-diabetes
  • Decreased quality of life (because who wants to feel sleep deprived?)

Weight loss is frequently recommended to improve OSA among obese patients. Not only does sustained weight loss improve OSA, it also improves many other independently linked comorbidities such as Hypertension, High Cholesterol, and Diabetes. The greater the change in body weight or waist circumference, the greater is the improvement in OSA

Prioritize your sleep health by recognizing the symptoms of sleep apnea and implementing preventative measures. Share your experiences and insights on managing sleep apnea in the comments below. For personalised advice and support, consult a healthcare professional specializing in sleep disorders or reach out to our certified experts by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

November 29, 2023 By GOQii Leave a Comment

Prioritize Prostate Health: Recognizing Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer for a Healthier You

We just celebrated International Men’s Day on November 19th, a day to honour the amazing contributions men make to our lives and society. But amid these celebrations, there’s one thing we often forget—men’s health, especially prostate health.

While we appreciate and applaud men on this special day, it’s vital to talk about the health challenges they face, with prostate health often ignored in our health conversations. Let’s start a dialogue about men’s health issues, with a focus on prostate health. It’s time we give this important aspect the attention and care it deserves, making our health conversations more holistic and inclusive.

Many men tend to ignore the strange symptoms they experience. They don’t want to complain or draw attention, so they keep quiet and hope it goes away. But sometimes, things get worse and they end up in the hospital with problems like trouble urinating and feeling tired all the time. That’s when their loved ones get worried. And that’s when the doctor tells them they have prostate cancer. That’s the wake-up call, showing them how they neglected their health. This example shows the importance of knowing the warning signs of prostate cancer for better prostate health.

Prostate cancer is a serious health threat that affects millions of men worldwide. It’s crucial to educate men about its risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options, as early detection can make a big difference in outcomes. International Men’s Day is an opportunity to urge men to prioritize their health, get regular check-ups, and talk to their doctors about any concerns.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, with tens of thousands of new cases diagnosed every year. According to the Global Disease Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study of 2019, there were 94 million men aged 40 and above with prostate hyperplasia (an enlarged prostate) globally in 2019, a 70.5% increase from 51.1 million in 2000. Source: [Global Disease Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study of 2019]

It’s vital to raise awareness about prostate cancer, so men understand the risk factors, symptoms, and screening options. Early detection can greatly improve the chances of successful treatment and survival. Yet, many men skip regular check-ups and screenings, leading to late diagnoses and limited treatment choices. Moreover, social stigmas around men’s reproductive health often prevent open discussions and awareness about prostate cancer. It’s essential to learn about the potential red flags and preventive measures for optimal prostate health.

Warning signs of prostate cancer often show up as changes in urination, such as difficulty starting or stopping, weak flow, frequent night-time urination, or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. It’s important not to ignore these symptoms and seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Other signs like blood in urine or semen, and pain in the pelvis, lower back, or hips could also indicate underlying problems that need medical attention, even though they might also be caused by non-cancerous conditions.

Moreover, general symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or loss of appetite should not be overlooked. Individuals with a family history of prostate cancer should be especially careful about monitoring their prostate health due to increased risk.

Regular doctor visits for check-ups and screenings, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams, are crucial. These tests are not perfect, but they can help flag potential issues, leading to further diagnostic steps.

In summary, better prostate health means knowing the warning signs of prostate cancer and taking proactive steps. By being aware of symptoms, following regular check-ups and screenings, and discussing any concerns with your doctor, you can improve your prostate health and well-being. So, the next time you celebrate International Men’s Day, don’t forget to take care of your prostate health. It might just save your life!

#BeTheForce

September 9, 2017 By Dr Ashwin Nanda 17 Comments

Know all about Dengue and Chikungunya and how to prevent it

Dengue and Chikungunya

Chikungunya and Dengue have created havoc in the capital city of Delhi and certain other parts of the country. The death toll from the two vector-borne diseases has been climbing every day even as the number of affected people crossed 2,800. It has been reported that according to the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP), the number of chikungunya cases in Delhi had spiked to over 2000 till September 11 as fever clinics in the city continue to be swamped with patients.

The World Health Organisation has said that in recent years, globalisation of travel and trade, unplanned urbanisation and environmental challenges including climate change has had a “significant” impact on transmission of vector-borne diseases.

However, the key to averting such an adverse outcome is timely diagnosis and appropriate monitoring along with supportive care.

Let me begin with the basics about dengue and chikungunya…….the culprit for both is the Aedes aegypti mosquito and hence a person can be infected with both diseases simultaneously by its bite. Viruses are the cause of both problems, which enter the mosquito when it bites a human suffering from dengue or chikungunya.

The most likely time for this mosquito to bite is 2 hrs after sunrise and 2 hrs before sunset but, probability of a bite occurring is anytime during daylight hours. So it’s active during the time when most of us are also likely to be outdoors.

Chikungunya begins with sudden onset of high fever, ranging from 101 to 105 degree Fahrenheit accompanied by severe pain in joints. Other symptoms like chills, headache, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite and conjunctivitis can also be seen. Rash occurs typically on day 2 or 3 when the fever has subsided along with itching.

The Complete Blood Count (CBC) may show reduction in the total White cell count and platelet count, though neither are severe nor life threatening. IgM (Immunoglobulin M) antibody against Chikungunya can be detected in blood after 5 days till months after onset of symptoms. Joint pains and stiffness can last for weeks or months and can be distressing.

Treatment involves paracetamol to control fever, although NSAIDS (Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs like Brufen and diclofenac) may be needed to reduce fever and joint pains as paracetamol may not suffice. Ice compress on the joints can reduce pain. Ensuring water intake of at least 3 liters/day for adults is a must to counter the dehydration resulting from high fever. Antihistamines reduce the rash and itching. Extreme joint pains get relieved by oral steroids.

Dengue is equally dangerous and spreading. According to New Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health’s research finds that the Dengue virus is the most rapidly spreading virus transmitted by mosquitoes and is a major source of illness in the tropics and subtropics, infecting as many as 400 million people annually.

Dengue symptoms are no different from Chikungunya. Both have similar onset with high grade fever (102 to 105 degree fahrenheit), headaches especially behind the eyes, back pain, muscle & joint pains, weakness. Rash can also occur. Cold and cough, vomiting and diarrhoea may accompany other symptoms. The diagnosis can be done through blood tests like Dengue NS1 which comes positive during first 3 days of fever & Dengue IgM which is detected from 5th to 7th day from onset of fever.

Treatment of uncomplicated dengue is same as chikungunya. Hospitalization is a must in worsened abdominal pain & vomiting, significant fall in blood pressure, breathlessness and platelet count going lower than 30,000. Platelet transfusions may be needed along with fluid infusion.

There are no antiviral medicines yet for dengue and chikungunya. Prevention of mosquito bites is the easiest way of avoiding these diseases, wearing full length shirts & trousers helps, applying mosquito repellent & using mosquito nets goes a long way in avoiding bites.

The Aedes aegypti mosquito breeds in stagnant fresh water which is avoidable by disposing used plastic bottles & discarded tyres properly. Pooling in plant trays and coolers also needs to be prevented. Also one should cover water containers that can be mosquito breeding grounds.

  • 1
  • 2
  • Next Page »

Search

Recent Posts

  • More Common Reasons For Not Losing Belly Fat
  • Silencing the Food Noise: Tackling Cravings While on GLP-1 Therapy
  • From Shimla’s Slopes to Chandigarh’s Sidewalks: Surinder Kaur Bhalla’s Journey from Chaos to Control
  • Reframing Obesity as a Disease: From Blame to Biology
  • All You Need To Know About Visceral Fat

Stay Updated

Archives

  • July 2025 (4)
  • June 2025 (18)
  • May 2025 (13)
  • April 2025 (21)
  • March 2025 (26)
  • February 2025 (23)
  • January 2025 (26)
  • December 2024 (26)
  • November 2024 (26)
  • October 2024 (27)
  • September 2024 (25)
  • August 2024 (31)
  • July 2024 (22)
  • June 2024 (27)
  • May 2024 (31)
  • April 2024 (27)
  • March 2024 (29)
  • February 2024 (26)
  • January 2024 (27)
  • December 2023 (18)
  • November 2023 (19)
  • October 2023 (24)
  • September 2023 (25)
  • August 2023 (23)
  • July 2023 (24)
  • June 2023 (25)
  • May 2023 (27)
  • April 2023 (25)
  • March 2023 (25)
  • February 2023 (20)
  • January 2023 (16)
  • December 2022 (12)
  • November 2022 (16)
  • October 2022 (15)
  • September 2022 (13)
  • August 2022 (11)
  • July 2022 (18)
  • June 2022 (11)
  • May 2022 (10)
  • April 2022 (6)
  • March 2022 (6)
  • February 2022 (13)
  • January 2022 (13)
  • December 2021 (7)
  • November 2021 (3)
  • October 2021 (6)
  • September 2021 (3)
  • August 2021 (8)
  • July 2021 (7)
  • June 2021 (15)
  • May 2021 (16)
  • April 2021 (10)
  • March 2021 (7)
  • February 2021 (4)
  • January 2021 (4)
  • December 2020 (3)
  • November 2020 (4)
  • October 2020 (10)
  • September 2020 (3)
  • August 2020 (3)
  • July 2020 (2)
  • June 2020 (4)
  • May 2020 (10)
  • April 2020 (12)
  • March 2020 (10)
  • February 2020 (4)
  • January 2020 (4)
  • December 2019 (3)
  • November 2019 (7)
  • October 2019 (5)
  • September 2019 (4)
  • August 2019 (9)
  • July 2019 (9)
  • June 2019 (11)
  • May 2019 (4)
  • April 2019 (9)
  • March 2019 (8)
  • February 2019 (9)
  • January 2019 (8)
  • December 2018 (9)
  • November 2018 (3)
  • October 2018 (3)
  • September 2018 (5)
  • August 2018 (10)
  • July 2018 (6)
  • June 2018 (13)
  • May 2018 (8)
  • April 2018 (18)
  • March 2018 (9)
  • February 2018 (8)
  • January 2018 (15)
  • December 2017 (12)
  • November 2017 (19)
  • October 2017 (13)
  • September 2017 (15)
  • August 2017 (4)
  • July 2017 (8)
  • June 2017 (7)
  • May 2017 (6)
  • April 2017 (8)
  • March 2017 (6)
  • February 2017 (7)
  • January 2017 (10)
  • December 2016 (10)
  • November 2016 (7)
  • October 2016 (7)
  • September 2016 (7)
  • August 2016 (11)
  • July 2016 (9)
  • June 2016 (9)
  • May 2016 (12)
  • April 2016 (17)
  • March 2016 (17)
  • February 2016 (8)
  • January 2016 (6)
  • December 2015 (2)
  • November 2015 (9)
  • October 2015 (7)
  • September 2015 (9)
  • August 2015 (11)
  • July 2015 (9)
  • June 2015 (12)
  • May 2015 (9)
  • April 2015 (13)
  • March 2015 (8)
  • February 2015 (5)
  • January 2015 (12)
  • December 2014 (14)
  • November 2014 (11)
  • October 2014 (6)
  • September 2014 (13)
  • August 2014 (12)
  • July 2014 (6)
  • June 2014 (2)
  • May 2014 (7)
  • April 2014 (5)

From Shimla’s Slopes to Chandigarh’s Sidewalks: Surinder Kaur Bhalla’s Journey from Chaos to Control

Some journeys start with a plan. Others begin with a stumble literally. Surinder Bhalla, a government professional, born and raised in the scenic hill town of Shimla, had always lived a life of movement. “In Shimla, you walked everywhere,” she reflects. … [Read More...]

Ananda Mukherjee Health Story

From Terminal Illness To Complete Wellness! Ananda Mukherjee Health Story

As we observe World Cancer Day under the powerful theme ‘United by Unique’ (2025-2027)**, we are reminded that every individual’s journey with cancer is distinct, yet united by shared resilience, hope, and the collective fight against this disease. This theme places people at the centre of care and their stories at the heart of the […]

Devesh Srivastava

Devesh Srivastava Lowers His HbA1c from 6.7 to 5.8 With GOQii

Have you ever suffered from a cold or fever and thought to yourself that you can manage this? In fact, there’s a good chance that with some medication and rest, the symptoms of a cold or fever have subsided. But, when you deal with issues such as Diabetes and Hypertension, trying to manage the issue […]

Dhiren Matani - Healthy lifestyle

Transforming Health and Life: Dhiren Matani’s Inspirational Journey to Wellness

In the face of persistent health challenges, Dhiren Matani, (43), an entrepreneur from Mumbai, embarked on a journey of resilience and transformation. Battling weight issues and a heart condition for some years, he refused to succumb to the daunting odds. Through sheer determination, he took control of his health at the right time by adopting […]

  • HOME
  • HEALTHY LIVING
  • FITNESS
  • HEALTHY RECIPES
  • USER STORIES
  • KARMA
  • BUY GOQii

Copyright ©2016 GOQii