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News18
2 days ago
- Health
- News18
Expert Shares How To Guard Against Fungal Infections And Flare-Ups This Monsoon
Last Updated: Monsoon brings relief from heat. But it also brings humidity and dampness which create ideal conditions for bacteria and fungi to thrive, making skin prone to infections. Indian monsoons bring welcome relief from the relentless summer heat, especially as climate change makes weather patterns increasingly unpredictable. Yet, along with the cooling rains comes heightened humidity and dampness that make for the perfect conditions for bacteria and fungi to thrive. This surge in moisture poses a particular risk to the skin, making it vulnerable to infections and flare-ups such as ringworm, tinea capitis, athlete's foot, acne, eczema, and scabies. While this may sound alarming, knowing how these conditions develop and adopting simple preventive steps can keep your skin healthy and protected throughout the season. Dr. Mukesh Batra, Founder & Chairman Emeritus of Dr Batra's Healthcare, shares expert advice on how to prevent the common skin infections that often arise during the monsoon season. Ringworm is one of the most common fungal infections that appear during the monsoons. It is a circular, itchy, and scaly rash that typically appears as red, scaly edges and a clearer centre. It is a type of fungal infection which is rampant during the monsoon, owing to the excess humidity and moisture in the environment during this period, which is a fertile ground for fungi. Preventive Measures and Natural Remedies This is one of the most contagious fungal infections, typically affecting the scalp and hair shafts, primarily caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. This fungus on the scalp may be scaly or itchy and is mostly seen among children, particularly during monsoon, when damp conditions facilitate fungal spread. Preventive Measures Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis) This fungal infection occurs due to sweaty conditions and can spread through direct contact with infected skin or surfaces like showers, swimming pool decks, and gym floors. Sharing towels, footwear, and socks can also spread the infection. The infection appears between the toes, resulting in skin peeling, redness, and itchiness. Preventive Measures Eczema Flare-Ups Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin infection. During the monsoon, the moisture in the air can lead to increased sweat, which can further irritate the skin and trigger Eczema flare-ups. Hydrate skin regularly with fragrance-free moisturisers. Use gentle bathing practices: Avoid hot water and harsh soaps, and pat dry instead of rubbing. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton to reduce irritation. Scabies Scabies is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which burrows into the skin and leads to intense itching and a pimple-like rash. This condition spreads easily in humid environments, prolonging mite survival. Avoid prolonged skin contact with infected individuals. Wash clothes and bedding frequently in hot water. Treat household contacts simultaneously to prevent reinfestation. Excess moisture and humidity are the prime reasons for the increased risk of skin infections during the monsoons. However, preventing them is very easy with proper precautionary measures like maintaining personal hygiene, dressing in breathable clothes, applying natural antifungal treatments, and staying away from shared personal belongings. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Fungal infections health and fitness lifestyle monsoon scabies skincare Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: June 06, 2025, 17:02 IST
Hindustan Times
25-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
World Thyroid Day 2025: Top 5 nutrients you cannot miss out on and need to include in your diet
World Thyroid Day is observed on May 25 to promote awareness about thyroid disorders. On this occasion, it is crucial to understand the value of an appropriate diet that includes top nutrients essential for supporting healthy thyroid function and maintaining hormonal balance. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Mukesh Batra, founder and chairman Emeritus, Dr Batra's Healthcare, highlighted the crucial role of nutrition in supporting thyroid health. Dr Batra explained about thyroid function and added, 'The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating metabolism, energy, and hormonal balance. In order to ensure that it functions at its best, a diet that is high in certain nutrients that are beneficial for hormone synthesis, conversion, and overall endocrine health is crucial.' Moreover, mental health also plays a key role in supporting thyroid function, as Dr Batra elaborated, 'Just as crucial are lifestyle choices, stress, when it is ongoing, can upset hormonal balance, and the practice of mindfulness through yoga and meditation is of great value. A focus on good sleep, at least 7 to 8 hours nightly, can also dramatically affect hormone balance. Through the combination of targeted nutrition and conscious living, we can effectively make strides towards aiding thyroid function and achieving overall wellbeing.' He further emphasised the presence of vital nutrients like iodine, selenium, iron and vitamin D in a thyroid-friendly diet. Here's the nutritional guide Dr Batra shared with us: Dr Batra concluded, 'In addition to specific nutrients, general dietary balance is important. Whole foods, including fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains, paired with appropriate hydration and regular exercise, create a solid foundation for thyroid health. Herbal teas such as green tea and ashwagandha can also provide supplementary benefits.' ALSO READ: Thyroid problems commonly seen in women: Know its types, symptoms and treatment 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.
New Indian Express
21-05-2025
- Health
- New Indian Express
Spotting hidden thyroid issues
It often starts quietly — just a sense of fatigue that refuses to go away, even after a full night's sleep. You blame it on work stress or ageing. Then comes unexpected weight gain, or maybe hair thinning, dry skin, or that restless feeling that makes it hard to sit still. For many, these scattered symptoms are brushed off. But ahead of World Thyroid Day on May 25, doctors are reminding people that these could all be signs of one sneaky culprit: thyroid dysfunction. Thyroid disorders tend to have non-specific or very common symptoms that can be easily mistaken for other health complaints. 'Thyroid disorders often have common symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, hair loss, mood swings and irregular periods that people usually attribute to stress, poor sleep or ageing,' says renowned homeopath and Padma Shri awardee Dr Mukesh Batra, who is also the founder and chairman emeritus, Dr Batra's® Healthcare. That is why clinical alertness and thorough assessment become extremely critical due to the subtle onset of thyroid dysfunction.
News18
01-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Mental Health In A Heatwave: The Hidden Impact of Rising Temperatures
Last Updated: Extreme summer heat doesn't just tax the body — it deeply affects our sleep, mood, and mental resilience. The most crucial thing to know about our bodies is that good health and holistic wellness are not characterized by the absence of sickness but by a harmonious balance among body, mind, and environment. With climate change causing spikes in global temperatures, the summer heat has become an emergent public health concern. Dr. Mukesh Batra, Founder & Chairman Emeritus, Dr Batra's Healthcare, shares all you need to know: Biologically, our bodies are finely tuned to nature's rhythms, adapting not only to daily and seasonal shifts in light, temperature, and food availability but also in subtle ways that affect our emotional and cognitive states. Just as we adjust our clothing or diet to match the weather, our mental and emotional needs also fluctuate with the seasons. According to research published in ScienceDirect, there is a 2.2% increase in mental health-related mortality and a 0.9% rise in illnesses linked to mental health for every degree Celsius that the temperature increases. Changes in daylight and temperature can influence mood, energy levels, and cognitive functions — highlighting the importance of aligning our emotional and intellectual habits with these natural cycles. Harsh weather seasons, especially the extreme heat of summer, place particular demands on both our physiological and psychological functioning. The climatic extremes of soaring temperatures, extended days, and increased environmental stress tend to disrupt this delicate balance, often leading to emotional disturbances, mental exhaustion, and sometimes, severe mood disorders. Recognizing and understanding these seasonal energies is crucial for preserving emotional resilience and mental clarity. Tapping into our body's natural responses and working in conjunction with them through holistic methods — such as lifestyle adjustments, mind-body techniques, and gentle treatment approaches — can help us navigate even the most difficult seasons with inner strength and reduced mental and emotional stress. Nighttime temperatures above 25°C significantly reduce slow-wave and REM sleep cycles, which are vital for emotional processing and memory consolidation. Sleep fragmentation during summer months creates a neurobiological vulnerability to mood disorders. Epidemiologic data show a 28% increase in depression diagnoses following heatwaves lasting more than five days, with insomnia severity mediating this relationship. 2. Summer-Onset Depression Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is commonly associated with cold winters, though a lesser-known variant occurs in summer. Summer SAD presents with agitation, insomnia, and appetite suppression — unlike winter SAD, which involves hypersomnia and carbohydrate cravings. Neurobiological models suggest that extended photoperiods disrupt melatonin synthesis, while excessive light exposure downregulates serotonin receptors in the dorsal raphe nucleus. Clinicians report a 140% increase in summer-SAD cases since 2010, especially in regions experiencing more than 20 days annually above 35°C. 3. Cognitive Fatigue Long-term exposure to heat reduces cognitive processing speed. It impairs memory, concentration, and decision-making. Combined with environmental hazards such as pollution — a major issue in densely populated countries like India — the overall cognitive load may rise, making it harder to stay focused and emotionally resilient. 4. Increased Anxiety The physical response to excessive heat, such as a heightened heart rate and shortness of breath, can mimic symptoms of anxiety. For those already susceptible to panic attacks or chronic stress, this physiological crossover can trigger more frequent episodes of anxiety during summer. Mental Health Is Not Separate from Holistic Wellness Before considering specific interventions, it's important to acknowledge that mental health cannot be separated from overall wellness. True well-being stems from a dynamic balance between physical, emotional, mental, and environmental factors. During summer, when external stressors are high, this balance can easily be disrupted. Prioritizing a holistic lifestyle — with mindful hydration, nourishing foods, physical movement, emotional self-care, restorative sleep, and meaningful social connections — lays the foundation for stronger mental resilience. Supporting the body and mind as a connected system helps individuals adapt to seasonal extremes and maintain emotional stability. Homeopathy's Role in Supporting Mental Health During Summer While holistic wellness practices provide a foundation for emotional resilience, supplementary support from therapeutic systems like homeopathy can further strengthen the mind-body balance. Homeopathy approaches health by treating the individual as a whole — considering physical symptoms alongside emotional and mental states. Seasonal aggravations, like those triggered by extreme heat, are key indicators in remedy selection. Homeopathy offers a gentle way to aid the body's natural functions without harsh chemicals, making it particularly useful when the body is under prolonged external stress. Glonoinum is used when heat exposure leads to pulsating headaches, confusion, and irritability. Natrum Muraticum suits individuals who become emotionally sensitive, withdrawn, or dehydrated in summer. Gelsemium is ideal for those who feel mentally dull, fatigued, or overwhelmed. Aurum Metallicum helps stabilize deeper emotional upsets such as intense sadness or hopelessness. Ignatia Amara addresses emotional shocks, bereavement, and mood swings aggravated by environmental stressors. Kali Phos 6X is a natural de-stressor for mental and emotional exhaustion during long, sweltering days. These individualized remedies offer a subtle, non-intrusive means of helping individuals maintain equilibrium amid summer's challenges. Holistic Approaches for Stress Management in Summer Combining conscious lifestyle practices with homeopathy can significantly enhance mental wellness during summer. Staying hydrated with water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelons, and oranges helps stabilize energy and supports brain function. Environmental adjustments, such as limiting outdoor activities to cooler times of the day and using sun protection, reduce physical and mental stress. Prioritizing sleep with cooling solutions and soothing bedtime routines ensures more restful nights. Stress-management techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing cultivate emotional resilience. Coping with urban stress — especially during summer commutes — is made easier with calming music, relaxation exercises, and proper hydration. Seeking professional support provides personalized care to maintain mental balance throughout the season. Parting Thoughts top videos View all India's intense summer heat and extended daylight hours demand more than just physical endurance — they call for mindful mental care. The combination of heat, sleep disruption, environmental stress, and social pressure can significantly affect cognitive and emotional well-being. Adopting a holistic lifestyle that acknowledges the interconnectedness of body, mind, and environment allows us not only to survive but also to flourish during the harshest months. By tuning into the body's signals, making thoughtful adjustments, and incorporating supportive therapies, we can navigate the summer season with increased vitality, emotional stability, and inner calm. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : beat the heat Better Mental Health delhi heatwave heatwave heatwave alert Heatwave delhi mental health conditions Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: May 01, 2025, 21:51 IST News lifestyle » health-and-fitness Mental Health In A Heatwave: The Hidden Impact of Rising Temperatures
Hindustan Times
30-04-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Beating acne naturally: Ayurveda herbs, homeopathy tips and 6 lifestyle changes to detox your skin
Acne is among the most prevalent skin problems, occurring in millions of people globally and while breakouts typically happen during the teenage years, a large population of adults deal with persistent acne. According to the National Library of Medicine, most adult acne patients are between 26 and 30, with women being disproportionately affected. Research indicates that 44.5% of cases of acne exhibit a cyclic pattern that worsens with the summer months. While conventional treatments, such as antibiotics and chemical-based topical solutions, may provide temporary relief, they often fail to address the root cause of acne. Experts claim this is where holistic healing systems like Ayurveda and homeopathy offer a promising alternative, focusing on internal balance, detoxification and long-term skin health. Homeopathy approaches acne treatment by considering an individual's unique symptoms, lifestyle and overall health. It offers targeted remedies based on the type and cause of acne. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Mukesh Batra, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Dr Batra's Healthcare, shared, 'Homeopathy provides a personalised approach to treating acne, working on the internal imbalances that cause breakouts rather than just treating the symptoms. It is a safe, natural and effective alternative for those who want long-lasting skin improvement without the side effects of harsh medications.' Ayurveda, India's ancient healing system, has long emphasized that skin issues like acne arise due to imbalances in the body's doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). Ayurveda focuses on purifying the body, balancing hormones and enhancing digestion to resolve acne at its root. Natural herbs like Neem, Shudh Gandhak, Chirayta and Haritaki are renowned for their acne-fighting properties. Danny Kumar Meena, Founder and CEO at Girlyveda, a brand that provides Ayurvedic-based solutions for women's health, including skincare, expressed, 'Ayurveda works at the root cause of acne rather than providing superficial relief. Ingredients like Neem, Shudh Gandhak, Chirayta and Haritaki help detoxify the body, regulate sebum production and promote long-term skin health. Unlike chemical treatments, Ayurveda provides a sustainable and natural solution for acne.' Both Ayurveda and homeopathy emphasize the importance of lifestyle modifications to prevent and manage acne effectively. Here are some essential tips: 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.
