Cardiologist shares most dangerous food habits that could silently increase your risk of heart attack: ‘Eat more fibre'
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Hindustan Times
6 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
From blue light to UVA rays: Dermatologist shares 6 reasons you shouldn't skip sunscreen indoors
Sunscreen is often seen as an outdoor essential, but did you know your skin needs its protection even when you're indoors? In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Ruben Bhasin Passi, consultant, dermatologist, CK Birla Hospital Gurugram said, 'Very few people understand that even when indoors, their skin requires protection. Sunscreen is not only meant for the beach or sunny weather; it's an everyday item, wherever you go.' Also read | Is your sunscreen safe or ageing your skin faster? Watch out for these hidden irritants linked to skin damage Wear sunscreen even while indoors.(Pexels) 1. UV rays can travel through windows Glass will filter out UVB rays, but UVA rays, which travel deeper into the skin, will penetrate. Indoor exposure to UVA can also lead to premature ageing, wrinkles, and pigmentation. Sitting near a sunny window at work or driving can add immensely to your UVA exposure. 2. Blue light from screens affects skin We sit for hours in front of laptops, smartphones, and tablets. These output high-energy visible (HEV) blue light, which can cause skin damage, pigmentation, and premature aging over the long term. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with built-in blue light protection can assist. 3. Cumulative sun damage adds up Sun damage isn't just about the occasional sunburn, it's the steady build-up of daily exposure that contributes to skin problems down the line. Putting on sunscreen indoors guarantees even protection, keeping damage from silently piling up over time. Sunscreen can protect you from UVA rays.(Unsplash) 4. Indoor lighting can cause skin damage Some halogen and fluorescent lights produce minor levels of UV radiation. Although less strong than sunlight, repeated exposure in home or office settings can still have an effect on skin health, particularly in individuals who are susceptible to pigmentation. Also read | Most people use sunscreen wrong. Are you one of them? Ladakh to Delhi, here are skincare tips for different altitudes 5. Prevention is easier than repair Treating sun damage, whether it's fine lines, dark spots, or uneven skin tone, often requires expensive and time-consuming procedures. Daily sunscreen use is a simple, cost-effective preventive measure that protects your skin's health and appearance. 6. It supports skin treatments If you're undergoing skin treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, or acne management, sunscreen is crucial, even indoors. Without it, the results can be compromised, and post-treatment pigmentation can occur. Also read | World Sunscreen Day: Everything you need to know about how sunblock works,from ideal SPF range to UV protection 'Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater, put it on as the final step of your morning skin care routine, and reapply every 2–3 hours if you are in front of windows or using devices for extended periods of time. Your skin will appreciate it in the years ahead,' Dr. Ruben Bhasin Passi added. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
8 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Can menopause lead to weight gain? Gynecologist busts this and 6 other myths
Menopause refers to the end of the reproductive years of a woman, usually marked by consecutive 12 months of no menstruation. While this is a natural biological condition, it is often shrouded in myths and misconceptions. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Astha Dayal, director of obstetrics and gynecology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram said, 'Knowing the facts can empower women to welcome this phase with optimism and sound health choices.' Also read | Menopause and hormonal changes: Doctor shares tips to manage symptoms naturally Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life. The gynecologist further busted several myths about menopause. Myth 1: Menopause occurs overnight Fact: Menopause is not a sudden occurrence, but a gradual process often initiated by perimenopause, which takes several years. Hormone levels are unsteady during this time, causing irregular periods before they completely cease. Myth 2: Only older women experience menopause Fact: Although the mean age is 45–55, a few women also go through early menopause because of genetics, medical interventions, or illness. Knowledge is the key to timely intervention and symptom management. Myth 3: Menopause always leads to severe symptoms Fact: Not all women suffer from extreme hot flashes, mood changes, or sleeplessness. Symptoms are often mild for most and may be managed with lifestyle modifications, eating habits, and sometimes medication. Menopause does not occur overnight.(Shutterstock) Myth 4: Menopause marks the end of sex Fact: While hormonal changes do impact libido and vaginal health, these can be corrected through open discussion with your physician, lubricants, hormone therapy, or other medical treatments. Most women have rich and satisfying relationships after menopause. Also read | Menopause coach shares 6 tips to improve sleep during menopause; says eat well, reduce screen time and stay cool Myth 5: Weight gain is automatic Fact: Hormonal shifts can change fat distribution, but menopause itself won't automatically lead to weight gain. Eating healthily, exercising regularly, and sleeping well contribute much more towards keeping a healthy weight. Myth 6: You can't get pregnant after 40 Fact: As long as you haven't been 12 months without your period, you are still able to get pregnant. You might still need to use birth control during perimenopause if you do not want to get pregnant. Myth 7: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is dangerous for everyone Fact: HRT can be safe and effective for many women when prescribed after a thorough evaluation. It's important to discuss the benefits and risks with your gynecologist to determine what's best for you. Also read | Doctor shares 6 ways women can take care of their mental health during menopause Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
8 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Doctor warns of hidden health dangers in monsoon because of waterlogged cities; shares precaution tips, dos and don'ts
More than relief from the scorching heat, monsoon in India often translates to waterlogged roads, food contamination, and a rise in health issues, including skin diseases, infections and illnesses. However, a few precautions, knowledge of the diseases, and dos and don'ts can help you breeze through the season without getting sick. Dr Vora stresses that with some vigilance and simple precautions, most monsoon-related illnesses are preventable. (RAJ K RAJ /HT PHOTO) Also Read | Want abs like Deepika Padukone, Katrina Kaif and Alia Bhatt? Their Pilates trainer Yasmin Karachiwala shares the secret In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Vikram Vora, medical director at International SOS (India), discussed monsoon illnesses and infectious diseases, the precautions to take against them, and more. He said, 'The warm and wet environment during the rains creates ideal conditions for bacteria, viruses, and fungi to spread. From gastrointestinal issues to vector-borne diseases, monsoon illnesses can range from mildly inconvenient to severely debilitating. Understanding how to safeguard your health during this season is essential for preventing common infections and maintaining well-being.' One of the major precautionary steps in the monsoon is to stay dry, carry rain gear, and change out of wet clothes immediately to prevent chills and viral infections. (Praful Gangurde/Hindustan Times) Tips to stay safe in the monsoon Preventing illnesses during the monsoon is easy by keeping in mind how to safeguard yourself. Here are some tips Dr Vora offers: Always drink boiled or filtered water. Avoid street-side juices and ice, as these are likely made from unfiltered water. Eat freshly cooked, homemade food. Avoid raw salads, chutneys, and street food during the season. Use mosquito repellents, wear full-sleeved clothing, and ensure there is no stagnant water in or around your home. Bathe daily, dry feet thoroughly, and wear breathable footwear. Avoid walking barefoot in wet areas. Stay dry, carry rain gear, and change out of wet clothes immediately to prevent chills and viral infections. Common monsoon illnesses Having the knowledge of the health issues that can catch up with you in the monsoon is also important in order to safeguard yourself. Here are 5 common illnesses that you should be aware of: 1. Waterborne infections: Diarrheal diseases, cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis A and E are infections common during monsoons, due to the consumption of contaminated water or food. Stagnant water and poor sanitation are key contributors. 2. Vector-borne diseases: Mosquito-borne infections such as dengue, malaria, chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis peak during the rains. Water accumulation in open containers and clogged drains becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Mosquito-borne infections such as dengue, malaria, chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis peak during the rains. (Shutterstock) 3. Airborne diseases: The increased humidity and dampness promote the growth of fungi and mould, which can trigger asthma and allergies. Colds, flu, and other respiratory infections also spread more easily. 4. Skin infections: Fungal infections like athlete's foot and ringworm increase due to sweat and or if you stay wet for long. Cuts and wounds are also more prone to infection during monsoons due to the prevalence of bacteria. 5. Leptospirosis: Walking barefoot in puddles or wading through floodwaters increases the risk of leptospirosis, an infection caused by exposure to the urine of infected animals. Do's and Don'ts Dr Vora also suggested a few dos and don'ts to keep in mind during the monsoon to safeguard yourself from illnesses and infections. He advises: Do's: Wash your hands frequently with soap, especially before eating. Keep nails trimmed and clean. Use a disinfectant to clean floors and surfaces. Drink plenty of clean water to stay hydrated. Use a mosquito net or repellent while sleeping. Don'ts: Don't let water sit stagnant in plant pots, coolers, or garbage bins. Don't consume raw or cut fruits sold in the open. Don't walk through floodwater unless you have no choice. Do ensure you dry off thoroughly as soon as possible. Don't ignore persistent fever, diarrhoea, or unexplained body aches. Seek medical help early. Don't self-medicate for infections; get a doctor's consultation. Lastly, Dr Vora stressed that with some vigilance and simple precautions, most monsoon-related illnesses are preventable. He suggests prioritising hygiene, eating safely, and staying dry, as it can go a long way in protecting yourself and your family. 'If symptoms such as high fever, persistent vomiting, skin rashes, or fatigue occur, consult a healthcare provider promptly. Prevention, as always, is better than cure—especially when the rains are pouring,' he adds. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
