Latest Lungs Care Articles | Wockhardt Hospitals

Dual Organ Transplant

Some patients benefit from having a combined or “dual” organ transplant, meaning they receive a new liver and another new organ during the same surgical procedure. Types of combined organ transplants that are performed with liver transplant: Liver and kidney transplant Liver and heart transplant Liver and intestine transplant Liver and lung transplant If you are suffering from serious illness and multiple organ failure, your transplant team may recommend a combined organ transplant to help restore your quality of life. Patients requiring combined organ transplantation are listed on both organ waiting lists. Waiting time for transplantation will vary depending on the organs you need. Post-transplant care is similar to single-organ transplantation in that you will need to take anti-rejection medications for the life of your organs. A simultaneous Kidney Pancreas transplant is an operation to place the kidney and pancreas at the same time in a patient who has kidney failure and also suffers from diabetes, needing very high insulin dose to control sugars. It can be type 1 or burnt-out type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where a patient’s body attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells located in the pancreas. It is typically seen in children and young adults. Type 2 diabetes is what we see commonly in adults. Over some time, these patient’s insulin-producing cells stop making insulin or they are unable to produce enough to meet the body’s demand. Diabetes affects every system in the body. In the eyes, it affects the retina and is the leading cause of blindness. It affects the blood vessels supplying the heart and is a common cause of heart attacks. It accelerates atherosclerosis which is a common cause of strokes/paralysis, heart failure, and kidney failure. Uncontrolled sugars affect the nervous system also. Once the peripheral nervous system is affected, sensation in the hands and feet comes down. Diabetic patients with kidney failure need a kidney transplant to prolong their life. Steroids used as immunosuppression will make treatment of diabetes difficult. Poorly controlled sugars will continue to affect the rest of the body including the transplanted kidney. Performing a pancreas transplant at the same time will eliminate all these problems by optimally controlling sugars. It will not only protect the transplanted kidney from future effects of diabetes but also reverse the effects of diabetes on other systems including peripheral neuropathy and thus protect the limbs. Liver and intestine transplant An intestinal transplant is a complex procedure that requires the expertise of specialists trained in bowel or multi-visceral transplants. The surgery may take up to 12 hours and involves either an isolated intestinal transplant alone, a combined liver and intestine transplant, or a multi-visceral transplant. Depending on what caused your patient’s intestinal failure and his or her overall medical condition, your doctor will determine which type of transplant best meets your child’s needs. Isolated Intestinal Transplant — An isolated intestinal transplant involves removing the diseased portion of the small intestine and replacing it with a healthy small intestine from a donor. This type of transplant is considered for children with complications caused by intestinal failure, who don’t have liver failure. Combined Liver and Intestine Transplant — A combined liver and intestine transplant involves removing the diseased liver and intestine and replacing them with a healthy liver and intestine from an organ donor. This type of transplant is considered for patients with intestinal failure and irreversible liver failure. The cause of liver failure in this setting is usually due to complications of intravenous nutrition. This type of transplant is also required in patients with chronic liver disease patients whose abdominal veins carrying blood from the intestine to the liver are completely obliterated. Multivisceral Transplant — A multivisceral transplant is rare and may be considered for children who have multiple organ failure, including stomach, pancreas, liver, small intestine, and kidney failure. Intestinal transplant: The patient’s blood vessels are connected to the donor’s blood vessels to establish a blood supply to the transplanted intestine. The donor’s intestine is then connected to your patient’s gastrointestinal tract. An ileostomy is then made, which is a surgically created opening through which a portion of the patient’s small bowel, called the ileum, is brought up through the abdominal wall. After the transplant, this new opening on your patient’s abdomen allows body waste to pass directly out of the body and empty into a pouch. The ileostomy also allows the transplant team to assess the health of your child’s transplanted intestine. In time, most patients can have the ileostomy closed. A feeding tube is also placed into the stomach to help the patient transition to an oral diet.

Can Holi colours increase the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

Holi, the festival of colors, is widely celebrated across the country. This year, the festivities are spread across two days — March 7 and 8 — with different regions celebrating the festival on different days. But, while Holi is all about playing with rang, the harmful effects of the colors cannot be stressed enough. As such, experts caution against the use of chemical-laced colors for not just the skin but for the respiratory system, too. According to medical practitioners, store-bought holi colors may contain heavy metals, broken pieces of glass, chemicals, and pesticides that are responsible for aggravating Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) — a chronic inflammatory lung condition that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. “The colors are loaded with hazardous chemicals such as mercury, silica, lead, glass, and pesticides or detergents which are toxic for the skin, eyes, and even lungs. The colors can enter the mouth and aggravate conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. COPD is an inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs,” Dr. Chetan Jain, pulmonologist, told indianexpress.com. The signs and symptoms of the condition are inability to breathe, cough, mucous (sputum) production, and wheezing. “Bronchitis, asthma, and allergies are all exacerbated by chromium, which is also present in Holi colors, along with mercury that has an influence on the health of the kidneys, liver, and an unborn baby. Iron can enhance skin sensitivity to light. Additionally, the silica present in these colors can cause dry skin. Hence, it is extremely important to remain vigilant and report any odd changes to your doctor,” advised Dr. Jain. In fact, even inhalation of organic dry colors can precipitate acute exacerbation of asthma/COPD. “Try to avoid color inhalation as that can trigger cough or breathlessness,” said Dr. Aniket Mule, consultant, internal medicine, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road. According to Dr. Tanvi Bhatt, a pulmonologist, the colors also lead to rhinitis (a reaction that happens in the eyes, nose, and throat when allergens in the air trigger symptoms) causing runny nose, sneezing, and even pneumonitis. It causes chest congestion, difficulty in breathing, and fatigue. What can be done? It is better to stay safe while playing Holi by using organic colors. “Consult an expert if you happen to ingest any color by mistake,” Dr. Bhatt added. Dr. Aniket MuleConsultant – Internal MedicineWockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road To book an appointment call: +918108101104 Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/holi-colours-chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-risk-8478744/

Lungs Health: Early Warning Signs Of Lung Diseases

Knowing the early signs of lung disease can help us seek treatment before the condition deteriorates or even becomes life-threatening. It’s possible for lung disease symptoms to emerge slowly and discreetly at first. People frequently think their symptoms are a sign of becoming older or being unfit. Many people modify their daily activities to accommodate or decrease their symptoms rather than seeking help. By being aware of the early signs of lung disease, you can receive treatment before it becomes worse or becomes life-threatening. A troublesome cough or a light wheeze may go unnoticed throughout our busy days, but it is important to pay attention to even the smallest symptoms. Breathing issues should be regularly examined because they may be the first signs of lung disorders including COPD, asthma, or lung cancer. Early Warning Signs of Lung Diseases: Dr. Sanggita CheckerConsultant PulmonologistWockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road To book an appointment call: +918108101104 Source: https://www.india.com/health/lungs-health-early-warning-signs-of-lung-diseases-that-you-should-not-ignore-5848421/

Asthma: Foods to eat and avoid when suffering from the lung disease

Poor nutrition could worsen asthma symptoms while eating well can help one prevent the disease. Here are foods you must eat and avoid when suffering from asthma. Asthma, the disease that leads to the narrowing of small airways in your lungs, could affect your day-to-day life in a number of ways. Not only does it leave you with little energy but also interrupts your sleep which could lower your immunity and make you susceptible to other deadly diseases. There is no specific food that can help relieve symptoms of asthma but poor nutrition could worsen your asthma symptoms while eating well could help prevent the disease. Studies show that people who eat foods rich in vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, flavonoids, magnesium, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids have lower rates of asthma. According to a study, children who grew up eating a Mediterranean diet that is high in nuts and fruits like grapes, apples, and tomatoes were less likely to have asthma symptoms. Dr Jignesh Patel, Consultant Pulmonologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road suggests foods one should eat and avoid when suffering from lung disease. Foods to eat • If you have asthma then it will be imperative for you to stick to a healthy diet. You need to eat enough fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and pulses. Moreover, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, tuna, sardines, and flaxseed can be beneficial for those with asthma. Have rice, bell peppers, broccoli, beetroots, potato, carrots, methi leaves, coriander leaves, spring onions, onions, garlic, ginger, oranges, berries, grapes, pears, pomegranate, kiwis, and cherries. • Eat vitamin D-rich foods such as milk, eggs, and orange juice to reduce the swelling in the airways due to asthma. Bananas contain potassium and improve lung function. Vitamin E-rich foods like nuts, mustard greens, broccoli, and kale reduce coughing and wheezing. • Almonds, walnuts, paneer, chaas, curd, and ghee can also be helpful for you. Apples and grapes contain antioxidants called flavonoids and selenium that are anti-inflammatory in nature. • A Mediterranean diet loaded with fruits and vegetables is good for asthma patients because of its anti-inflammatory properties. It emphasizes the intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and it includes less dairy and meat. Foods to avoid • Cut down on your consumption of fast, junk, oily, processed, and canned food as they can further worsen one’s symptoms like coughing and inflammation. • Even colas, sodas, cakes, pastries, candies, sweets, juices, and other foods with artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and flavors should be avoided as having them can worsen your condition and irritate your lungs. • Do not eat dried apples or any other fruits as the sulfites that help preserve dried fruit can worsen your asthma and lead to lung irritation. Even alcohol, pickled vegetables, and bottled lemon juice will have sulfites. Hence, you need to avoid them. Dr. Jignesh PatelConsultant – PulmonologistWockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road To book an appointment call: +918108101104 Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/asthma-foods-to-eat-and-avoid-when-suffering-from-the-lung-disease-101656760857608.html

Ribs fractured, lungs punctured, multiple surgeries save youth

A rare and very complex surgery saved the life of a 27-year-old youth at Wockhardt Hospital recently. The man met with an accident near Balaghat and fell in a creek. He lay there for over three hours before some passers-by noticed him and took him home. As his condition deteriorated and he fell unconscious, family members brought him to Nagpur. Dr Vaibhav Agrawal, who treated the patient, told TOI that the X-ray and primary investigations revealed that the rib cage of this person had multiple fractures. “Six out of eight ribs were fractured. His lungs were also ruptured and chest was filled with blood and air,” said Dr Agrawal. Immediately, the blood accumulated in his chest was removed in an emergency procedure. “The most important thing to keep in mind while treating such patients is pain management. Our team did it efficiently,” Dr Agrawal said. The trauma team included Dr Nitin Kimmatkar, Dr Vaibhav Agrawal and Dr Rahul Zamad. As the patient had multiple complications, a multidisciplinary treatment was planned for him. Dr Nitin Kimmatkar said it took two days to stabilize the patient, after which they decided to operate upon his rib fractures. “His chest ribs were fixed with plates and screws, which is generally avoided in the surgical fraternity, as it is a very complex procedure and needs high skills. His lungs were ruptured and filled with air. We had to act very gently while repairing the lungs to save his life. We did two surgeries on this patient in a single sitting,” said Dr Kimmatkar, adding that the first surgery was done for scapula (shoulder blade) and one for fracture of ribs. Anesthesiologist Dr Rishikesh Awode played an important role in handling this case. The patient was discharged recently in stable condition and doctors claim he will start leading a normal life soon. “With advanced technology and multidisciplinary approach, we were able to save another valuable life and achieve a milestone in healthcare,” said Abhinandan Dastenavar, centre head, Wockhardt Hospitals, Nagpur, adding that the city has already emerged as a medical hub of central India and many complicated trauma cases can be managed in Nagpur now. Dr Vaibhav AgrawalInternal MedicineWockhardt Hospital, Nagpur Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/nagpur/ribs-fractured-lungs-punctured-multiple-surgeries-save-youth/articleshow/89838276.cms

Understanding COPD

COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is the name used to describe a number of conditions affecting the lungs including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. When smoke and other pollutants enter the lungs, the cilia are often paralyzed or destroyed. This causes airways to become swollen and narrowed. Over time, lungs with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease lose their elasticity, get big and floppy, and make it hard for to breathe and release air. What is respiratory medicine speciality? Respiratory medicine is a speciality which deals diseases related to our respiratory system which consist of the nose, nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx, trachea, smaller conducting airways (bronchi and bronchioles), lungs and pleura What is the function of our lungs? The lungs’ main function is to help oxygen from the air we breathe enter the red cells in the blood. Red blood cells then carry oxygen around the body to be used in the cells found in our body. The lungs also help the body to get rid of CO2 gas when we breathe out. What is the pathophysiology of COPD? In COPD, less air flows in and out of the airways because of one or more of the following: What are the signs and symptoms of COPD? What are the risk factors associated with COPD? Inhaling pollutants; that includes smoking and second-hand smoke. Fumes, chemicals and dust found in many work environments are contributing factors Genetics can also play a role in an individual’s development of COPD—even if the person has never smoked or has ever been exposed to strong lung irritants in the workplace. What are some options for Treatment? 1)Pursed-Lips Breathing To do purse-lips breathing: 2) Diaphragmatic (Abdominal/Belly) Breathing The diaphragm is the main muscle of breathing. It’s supposed to do most of the work. When you have COPD, the diaphragm doesn’t work as well and muscles in the neck, shoulders and back are used. These muscles don’t do much to move your air. Training your diaphragm to take over more “work of breathing” can help. This technique is best used when you’re feeling rested and relaxed, and while sitting back or lying down. Relax your shoulders. What are some Diagnostic Test? Anyone with the following should get tested: Spirometry is a simple, non-invasive test that is used to diagnose COPD. The machine will calculate two numbers: the amount of air you blow out in the first second, and the amount of air you blow out in 6 seconds or more. A spirometry test can also show your doctor how severe your COPD may or may not be. For further treatment and information please contact are respiratory medicine department at Wockhardt Hospitals About Wockhardt Hospitals: A 50-year-old legacy and tradition of caring is what Wockhardt Hospitals stands on. Wockhardt Hospitals has been proactive in bringing innovative nurturing for better health. Wockhardt Hospitals has become a leading health service provider with its strong presence in the western parts of the country i.e. Mumbai, Nagpur Rajkot, Nasik and Surat. This group of 8 hospitals fulfils the need of the community in its chosen field of super specialty like Cardiology, Orthopaedics, Neurology, Gastroenterology, Urology, Aesthetics and Minimal Access Surgery. Wockhardt Hospitals has state-of-the-art infrastructure. Our prime objective is patient safety and quality of care at all levels. The guiding philosophy is to serve and enrich the Quality of Life of patients and to make life win. Wockhardt Hospitals follow process driven quality systems that adhere to international standards of clinical care, safe environment, infection control and respect for patient rights & privacy. Many of the Wockhardt group of hospitals has accreditation of the NABH (National Accreditation Board of Hospitals &Healthcare), the highest and the most stringent quality standards institution in India and the National authority in healthcare accreditation. To achieve high degree of clinical excellence, we have entered into strategic alliances with Partners Medical International, USA, whereby Wockhardt Hospitals has access to Harvard’s expertise and experience in the fields of surgery and other Medicare services. Wockhardt group of hospitals in India is a preferred destination for patients from Europe, USA, Africa, Middle East and South Asia.