Latest news with #CAREHospitals
Business Standard
5 days ago
- Health
- Business Standard
CARE Hospitals Unveils "The Power of Three" Campaign to Transform Emergency Care
VMPL Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], May 28: CARE Hospitals, one of India's leading healthcare providers, has launched a new national campaign called "The Power of Three." This campaign highlights CARE Hospitals' dedication to clinical excellence, rapid response, and compassionate care, setting a new benchmark for emergency healthcare across India. As part of this campaign, CARE Hospitals has launched 5G ambulances across all its network hospitals in Hyderabad to make emergency care faster and smarter. For the first time, Hyderabad will witness such comprehensive emergency coverage, where technology and medical expertise come together to ensure timely, life-saving interventions at every stage. These high-tech ambulances send real-time updates about the patient's condition to the hospital, so doctors are ready even before the patient arrives. They allow smooth communication between the ambulance and hospital teams, quick sharing of vital information, and live tracking for faster response. The system also keeps patient data safe and helps improve care through smart alerts and reports, saving more lives when every minute counts. The campaign reflects CARE Hospitals' 28-year journey of saving lives through advanced medical care. It highlights how emergency and specialty treatments have improved over the years and promises even faster and better care for patients in critical need. The campaign was launched by Varun Khanna, Group Managing Director, QCIL, alongside Vishal Maheshwari, Group CFO; Shalabh Dang, Group Chief Sales and Marketing Officer; Dr. Nikhil Mathur, Group Chief of Medical Services; Biju Nair, Zonal HCOO; and Dr. Kiran Kumar, Head of Emergency Medicine, along with other hospital heads & leadership of CARE. The event took place at CARE Hospitals - Banjara Hills with participation from senior doctors, hospital staff, and patients whose lives were transformed by timely emergency care. Speaking on the significance of the campaign, Varun Khanna, Group Managing Director, QCIL said, "This is a proud moment for CARE Hospitals and for healthcare in India. For over three decades, CARE has been synonymous with timely, quality, and compassionate care. With this emergency response commitment, we are reinforcing that legacy while setting a national standard. The 'The Power of Three' campaign embodies our belief that access, speed, and clinical excellence must work together to save lives. We promise every patient and family that we will be there when they need us the most." As part of "The Power of Three" campaign, CARE Hospitals has made three important promises to the public: * All emergency calls will be answered within three rings * An ambulance will pick-up the patient within 30 minutes anywhere in Hyderabad * At designated hospitals--Banjara Hills, Hitech City, Nampally, Malakpet, Musheerabad, and Indore--an Emergency Room doctor will attend to the patient within minutes of arrival to the emergency. The public is encouraged to save the emergency helpline number: 040-61656565 These promises reflect CARE Hospitals' mission to redefine emergency healthcare, making it timely, accessible, and life-saving. They also help the community by giving people quick medical help when it matters most, building trust, and increasing the chances of saving lives. The campaign also celebrates 28 years of CARE Hospitals and how emergency services have grown stronger each year. During the event, presented case studies and emergency response milestones that demonstrate how swift intervention has positively impacted patient outcomes. Patients and their families shared emotional stories of how they were saved by the emergency teams at CARE. Each story reinforcing the narrative, "From Then to Now: Celebrating CARE's Journey Through Lives Saved in Minutes." These stories underscore the critical importance of the GOLDEN HOUR, the vital first hour after a medical emergency, where prompt medical care can make the difference between life and death, recovery and disability. They exemplify the lives touched, healed, and transformed through CARE Hospitals' commitment to rapid, high-quality medical care across specialties. The event concluded with a symbolic flag-off of newly branded 5G ambulances, marking the rollout of this campaign across all CARE Hospitals locations nationwide, ensuring the public is informed and empowered to act quickly during emergencies. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
India Today
5 days ago
- Health
- India Today
Salt therapy is a growing wellness trend, but take it with a pinch of salt
Let's talk wellness. What is wellness? An endeavour to achieve a state of being healthy - in mind, body and soul. A pursuit of happiness, in a nutshell. Wellness in India has come a long way. It's no longer just about haldi doodh, nani ke nuskhe or the early morning weekend yoga stretch, it's a full-blown lifestyle. It's not just eating clean or early to bed, early to rise kind of a habit, it's a in 2025, it comes in the form of spa retreats, scented candle-lit rooms, or salty crystal rooms that probably look straight out of a Pinterest-y subcontinent has witnessed a cultural shift when it comes to wellness in the contemporary age. Retreats and wellness centres are cropping up across cities and have even gained global recognition. In a country where Ayurveda has long prevailed, the 21st-century wellness wave is louder, trendier, and far more Insta-worthy. ( your chakras is the new lifestyle flex, or is it?) Now sample this: It's a balmy afternoon. You are sitting in a plush chair. Away from the chaos. Away from the mundane hustle. The environment is soothing, bathed in a soft pink glow. It smells faintly like the beach. The walls? Salty. The floor? Salty. The air? Salty. What is it?advertisementWell, it is a salt cave - a growing wellness trend that works on the concept of what is called salt therapy or halotherapy. It's said to enhance breathwork, relieve congestion, and reduce spaces often offer services rooted in Ayurveda or naturopathy and aim at rejuvenation. And like you may have already understood, such therapy centres are already available in places like Gurugram, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and the question remains, is salt therapy just another aesthetic vibe check for your Instagram, or is there actual science behind the salt?Hype, healing or bothThe concept of salt therapy traces its roots to Europe. It was observed that salt miners had better respiratory health and reported fewer breathing issues compared to other mine workers. This led to further exploration of the phenomenon - could salt really aid in overall well-being? Thus, halotherapy was born, and with it, salt caves as lifestyle experiences for the masses. Salt caves have salt-laden walls and floors as well (Photo credits: Getty Image) The science of salt suggests that the grains have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation, alleviate congestion, and clear mucus, leading to better airway clearance. But not everyone is sold just yet. Experts tend to take the concept with a pinch of lot has been said about salt therapy or halotherapy in respiratory diseases, particularly in COPD, asthma and breathing difficulties,' Dr. A. Jayachandra, clinical director and senior interventional pulmonologist at CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, tells India said that, he also mentions, the effect isn't substantial.'This is not mainstream therapy and does not really have any significant benefits. At best, it can only be a supportive therapy. It may help to a certain extent in loosening mucus and aiding its expectoration.'He further adds, 'This might be useful for people with milder to moderate forms of disease, those who are otherwise comfortable or whose main problem is cough and difficulty expectorating, they can try it, and it may offer some benefit. But it should always be an adjunct to mainstream therapy.'Explaining the frequency of undergoing this therapy for effectiveness, Dr. Jayachandra said, 'Maybe twice or thrice a day could help some people. We use hypotonic saline nebulisation to achieve the same purpose, which is more mainstream. Probably the same logic applies to salt therapy or halotherapy, but it becomes an expensive proposition. I wouldn't recommend it very often for these patients.'Breathe in salt, breathe out stressadvertisementCare for a little salt for the soul? Wellness centres that offer salt therapy advocate its effect on mental health too. And this part seems to hold more ground, even with experts.'Salt therapy is believed to boost mood, making it a helpful addition for those with mood disorders. Salt caves may help improve serotonin levels, which can lift your mood and enhance overall well-being. The calming and stress-relieving nature of salt therapy may also play a role in supporting mental health,' explained Dr. Sumalatha Vasudeva, psychologist, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, to the expert, people with anxiety or depression often try these salt rooms. 'As a psychologist, I remain open to complementary approaches that may support well-being, given that it does not replace actual treatment. While salt therapy is not a substitute for psychological or medical interventions, people do claim to be more at ease and have an improved mood after the session."TakeawaySalt therapy definitely brings the vibe and the aesthetic, but science hasn't fully backed it just yet. Experts only acknowledge its benefits to a certain extent. Enough clinical trials and placebo effect checks remain grainy. advertisement
News18
22-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Lymphatic Drainage Massages: Hype, Healing, or Half-Truths? Doctors Weigh In
Last Updated: The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining immune defense and fluid balance in the body From glossy spa menus to viral TikTok tutorials, lymphatic drainage massages have rapidly gained popularity as a supposed shortcut to detoxing, slimming, and even boosting immunity. But are these trending treatments backed by science—or is it just another wellness fad masquerading as medical advice? Let's separate fact from fiction when it comes to lymphatic massages and the reality is more nuanced than social media would have you believe. A Vital but Misunderstood System The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining immune defense and fluid balance in the body. Unlike the circulatory system, it lacks a central pump and relies instead on movement, muscle contraction, and deep breathing to circulate lymph—a fluid that removes waste, toxins, and excess fluid from tissues. 'Your body already has a very capable detox system—your liver, kidneys, and yes, the lymphatic system," explained Dr. H. Guru Prasad, Associate Clinical Director and Head of General Medicine, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. 'But contrary to social media trends, you don't need costly massages to keep it functioning well." Echoing this, Dr. Siddharth M, Consultant Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Bengaluru, noted, 'While lymphatic massages have some clinical value, the majority of wellness claims made about them are exaggerated or not supported by strong medical evidence." When Are Lymphatic Massages Actually Useful? Both doctors agree that lymphatic drainage has legitimate medical applications—but only in specific contexts. 'Lymphatic massages can be helpful in managing lymphedema, which is swelling caused by fluid retention after surgery, cancer treatment, or infections that affect lymph nodes," said Dr. Prasad. 'In those cases, manual lymphatic drainage, when done under proper medical guidance, can support recovery." Dr. Siddharth added that these massages are also useful post-operatively, especially for patients who have undergone lymph node removal or experience persistent swelling. 'When performed correctly, they can reduce localized fluid retention while improving comfort and mobility," he said. Debunking the Detox and Slimming Myths A major appeal of lymphatic massages on social media is the promise of instant de-bloating or slimming. But both doctors caution against misinterpreting these short-term effects as lasting results. 'Weight loss or body contouring observed after such massages is usually the result of temporary fluid movements, not fat reduction," clarified Dr. Siddharth. 'These are transient outcomes and should not be misconstrued for long-term health benefits." Dr. Prasad called out the misleading idea that these massages act as a detox: 'There's a lot of misinformation floating around about lymphatic drainage massages being a shortcut to detox or weight loss. The truth is, your body doesn't need external help to detox—it's already equipped for that." So, What Actually Supports Lymphatic Health? Forget the spa. According to both experts, the best way to support your lymphatic system is free, simple, and rooted in daily habits. 'To naturally support lymph health, stay hydrated, include fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet, move regularly—especially walking and deep breathing exercises—and avoid sitting still for long hours," said Dr. Prasad. Dr. Siddharth added: 'Incorporating stretching, wearing compression garments if medically indicated, and elevating limbs can also enhance lymph flow, particularly in at-risk individuals." The Bottom Line: Context Is Key In the right medical setting, and when administered by trained professionals, lymphatic drainage massages can play a supportive role in treatment plans. But for the average healthy person, the spa version is unlikely to offer anything more than a relaxing hour. 'Context, technique, and realistic expectations are crucial," said Dr. Siddharth. 'It's not a miracle cure—it's a medical tool that must be used wisely." As Dr. Prasad puts it, 'Don't fall for the shortcut myth. Your body needs movement and good habits—not magic massages—to thrive." First Published: May 22, 2025, 14:15 IST
Indian Express
15-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Bengaluru man gains 24 kg in 2 years with 16-hour work day: How fast can you gain weight with a long desk job
A Bengaluru professional's recent Reddit post on gaining 24 kg in two years since 2022 because of his 'corporate slave' routine of 14-16 hour workdays has revived conversations of work culture affecting our health. Just like him, Dr Venugopal Pareek, bariatric surgeon and obesity specialist at Hyderabad's CARE Hospitals, sees many young professionals who sleep by 2 am and report for work by 9 am, cramming the rest of their lives in between. 'All of them complain of gaining weight uncontrollably because of their sedentary lifestyles, zero exercise and what I call a lift-to-lift routine (walk out of a lift and get into another),' he says. How fast can you gain weight? Anybody with a sedentary lifestyle and a fast food diet can gain up to 2 kg a month. 'Consuming an additional 500 calories per day might result in a 6 to 8 kg weight gain in six months. Of course, each body has its own setpoint, which slows down weight gain by reducing appetite and boosting metabolism. But without exercise, your muscles give way to fat,' says Dr Pareek. Given the way we snack at work, we end up overloading ourselves by anything between 350 and 500 calories. 'A pastry yields a neat 500 calories, a frappuccino contains 20 gm of sugar and yields 600 calories, two cookies and an Irani chai can yield 300 calories, a Coke can contains 24 gm sugar and can yield 140 calories while one rasgulla yields 106 calories,' he adds. This is just snacking. Now be it young men, women or couples, none of them have home food. 'A young couple once told me that their LPG cylinder ran almost a year because they mostly made tea and coffee. Since they had to be at work by 9 am, they had kachori samosa from a kiosk near their office as breakfast. For lunch, they would order in, mostly rich biryani or pulao, then have pastry and Coke late afternoon and burgers for dinner. Their walk to and from the elevator and car cannot even burn a fraction of this load. They do no activity on weekends when they prefer to sleep and rest,' says Dr Pareek. Why long desk hours make you hungry That's because the body is under stress and releases cortisol to deal with it. 'Cortisol stimulates appetite, especially for high-fat and sugary foods, leading to increased calorie intake. High cortisol can slow down your metabolism, making it harder to burn calories and leading to weight gain. It tends to decrease the muscle-building hormone testosterone, which can lead to muscle breakdown, allowing for fat build-up. Cortisol can cause the body to store more fat, particularly around the abdomen, even if caloric intake is controlled. It can lead to insulin resistance, making it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar and weight,' says Dr Satish N, senior consultant, bariatric surgery, Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru. Limited sleeping hours increase the hunger hormone ghrelin and reduce the satiety hormone leptin, intensifying food cravings. The extra weight is usually deposited in the upper arms, shoulder, face and abdomen. 'Men have higher testosterone levels to protect their muscle mass, women have nothing to shield them against weight gain,' says Dr Pareek. How to plan diet with exercise on weekends Even if as a salad or home-made sandwich, carry any food you can rustle up at home that's rich in fibre, legumes, wholegrains and protein sources. 'Give up salad dressings, all processed and packaged food. Keep heat-free meal packs ready the night before,' urges Dr Pareek. Taking an exercise snack, like doing wall squats on the hour, though sounding good, may not be feasible. 'Walk while answering calls, take a 20-minute brisk walk break in your campus without smoking or taking food. It burns up to 350 calories. Another hour in the morning or at night can help the body burn calories even at rest,' adds Dr Pareek.
New Indian Express
14-05-2025
- Health
- New Indian Express
Creepy Crawlies on Your Lids: The Truth About Demodex Mites
Remember the spine-chilling creatures from Stranger Things, The Mist, or A Quiet Place? What if we told you that something just as unsettling might be living right on your eyelids — not your eyelashes, but the skin around them? Sounds gross, right? But it's true. Demodex mites — microscopic, eight-legged intruders that make your eyelids their home. So what exactly are they, and should you be worried? Experts break it down for CE. 'Demodex mites, often called 'eye bugs,' are microscopic parasites that inhabit the sebaceous glands and hair follicles of the eyelids,' explains Dr Bhanu Prakash, senior consultant, cataract, cornea, and refractive surgeon at Yashoda Hospitals, Hitec City. 'Though they're a natural part of the skin's ecosystem, problems begin when their population grows out of control, leading to a condition known as Demodex blepharitis,' says Dr Bhanu. According to Dr Deepti Mehta, senior ophthalmologist at CARE Hospitals, Hitec City, 'These mites feed on dead skin cells and oils around the lashes, which can result in symptoms like redness, itching, watering, a gritty sensation, and crust formation at the lash base. Left untreated, the condition can lead to blocked oil glands, misdirected lashes, eyelash loss, severe dry eyes, and even ulcers on the eye surface.' Dr Bhanu further warns, 'In severe cases, untreated infestations can cause permanent scarring or even vision loss, especially in people with underlying skin conditions like rosacea.'
