Latest news with #NSAIDs
India Today
15 hours ago
- Health
- India Today
What happens to your brain during a migraine and how to manage it?
A throbbing, pounding pain on one side of the head can stop anyone in their tracks. It's not just a headache - it drains your energy, affects your work, and makes you extra sensitive to lights, sounds, and even is a migraine – a condition that continues to puzzle doctors and IS A MIGRAINE? A migraine is a neurological (brain-related) condition that causes severe headache, often on one side of the can last for hours or even days. According to Dr. Bhaskar Shukla, Consultant Neurologist at PSRI Hospital, 'A migraine affects the brain's normal functioning. It involves changes in nerve signals, brain chemicals, and blood flow.'During a migraine, the brain experiences something called 'cortical spreading depression' – a wave of unusual electrical activity that spreads across the brain and then slows can trigger pain and inflammation in the blood vessels, causing that strong, throbbing SYMPTOMS OF A MIGRAINEThrobbing or pulsating pain (usually on one side)Sensitivity to light, sound, or smellsNausea or vomitingDizziness or fatigueVisual changes (called "aura") such as flashes of light or blind spotsWHAT CAUSES IT?The exact cause of migraines is still unclear, but several factors can increase the risk, including low serotonin levels in the brain, hormonal changes, especially in women during menstruation or menopause, stress and poor sleep, and food triggers like processed meats, cheese, chocolate, and Shukla explains that in people with aura (visual or sensory disturbances before the headache), these brain changes are more may also be connected to mood disorders and seizures, as all involve similar brain activity, says Dr. Anurag Saxena, Neurosurgery Head at Manipal Hospital, IN THE BRAINRecent research shows that migraines could lead to or be linked with changes in brain structure:Volume loss: Some brain areas, like the left basal forebrain and optic chiasm, may be smaller in migraine matter damage: White matter, which helps different brain areas communicate, may have small damaged flow changes: Blood volume and circulation in the brain may also change during a TO MANAGE A MIGRAINE?Migraines can't be cured, but they can be managed and prevented with the right regular sleep and drink plenty of waterAvoid known triggers (foods, smells, stress)Exercise and relax with meditation or yogaConsider preventive medications (as prescribed by a doctor)Treatment:Over-the-counter pain relievers (like NSAIDs)Triptans (special migraine medications)Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practicesIf you suffer from frequent migraines, consult a neurologist. Understanding your triggers and treatment options can help you take control of the are a real neurological issue that affects brain function, daily life, and overall health. With the right mix of medical care and lifestyle habits, migraines can be managed effectively.- Ends
Mint
4 days ago
- Health
- Mint
7 common medicines that may secretly harm your heart health, reveals heart surgeon
Your heart works tirelessly, beating over 100,000 times a day to keep you alive, yet it is often taken for granted. With rising stress, sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy eating habits, and poor sleep, heart problems are becoming more common than ever, even among younger people. While many are aware that smoking, high cholesterol, and lack of exercise can hurt heart health, few realize that certain everyday medicines might be quietly adding to the risk. From pills we pop for a headache or cold to drugs for chronic conditions, some of them could strain the heart in unexpected ways. Yes, there are a few common medications that, when misused or taken long-term, may actually do your heart more harm than good. Here are some common medicines that may take a toll on your heart, leading to serious complications like high blood pressure, heart attack, heart failure, and even stroke: Over-the-counter pain relievers like Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, and Nimesulide are widely used medicines for treating pain, fever, and inflammation. But what many people do not realize is that these drugs can quietly affect your heart health. "Long-term or high-dose use of NSAIDs can lead to high blood pressure, fluid retention, and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially in those with existing heart issues," warns Dr Swarup Swaraj Pal, Senior Consultant Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon at Gleneagles Hospitals. A study published in the British Medical Journal found that taking NSAIDs, even for just a week, can significantly raise your risk of a heart attack. To deal with seasonal cold and flu, decongestants like phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are commonly used. However, they may do more than good. "Decongestants can constrict blood vessels, leading to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure," explains Dr Swarup. For individuals with hypertension or pre-existing cardiac conditions, this can be dangerous. The Annals of Emergency Medicine reports that these drugs can overstimulate the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart attack or other complications. While antidepressants can help improve mental health, some types, especially tricyclic antidepressants like Amitriptyline or SSRIs like Fluoxetine, can potentially affect your heart rhythm. "These drugs may increase heart rate and, in people with structural heart disease or arrhythmias, lead to palpitations or irregular heartbeats," says Dr Swarup. If you have any known heart issues, it is important to discuss potential side effects with your psychiatrist or cardiologist before starting or changing antidepressant medication. Some medications used to manage type 2 diabetes, such as Pioglitazone, are known to cause fluid retention. In some cases, this can lead to heart failure. It is particularly risky in people who already have any heart health problems. If you are on anti-diabetic medication, make sure your doctor keeps a close watch on your heart health. Antibiotics like Azithromycin and Clarithromycin are often prescribed for respiratory or bacterial infections. However, they can interfere with your heart's electrical activity. "These drugs can lead to arrhythmias, especially when taken alongside other heart-sensitive medicines," notes Dr Swarup. They are not dangerous for everyone, but in people with heart conditions or those taking multiple medications, the combination could be risky. Corticosteroids, often referred to simply as steroids, are commonly prescribed for asthma, arthritis, and allergic conditions because of their anti-inflammatory properties. But they can come with serious cardiovascular side effects. According to a study in the Canadian Respiratory Journal, oral corticosteroids were linked to a higher risk of high blood pressure and acute myocardial infarction (heart attack). Why? These drugs can cause the body to retain sodium and fluid, leading to increased pressure in blood vessels and added strain on the heart.
Malaysian Reserve
5 days ago
- Health
- Malaysian Reserve
Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Market Gearing Up for Outstanding Expansion Across the 7MM During the Forecast Period (2025-2034)
According to DelveInsight's analysis, the market for facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy is anticipated to increase during the forecast period (2025–2034), owing to improved diagnosis, treatment advancements, aging demographics, increased awareness, the launch of emerging therapies, and healthcare spending globally. LAS VEGAS, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) often starts with muscle weakness in the face, shoulders, and upper arms, and gradually progresses to affect the abdominal muscles, legs, and pelvic area as the disease advances. Symptoms commonly emerge during childhood or adolescence, though they can begin at any stage of life, from infancy to old age. There is considerable variation in symptom onset and severity, even among relatives with the condition. Roughly 80% of individuals carrying the FSHD gene mutation experience symptoms, while the remaining 20% are asymptomatic, either showing no signs or only very mild symptoms that may go unnoticed until later in life. For FSHD1, children of an affected parent have a 50% likelihood of inheriting the disorder. In FSHD2, the inheritance risk depends on the genetic background of both parents, typically ranging from 25% to 50%. In 2024, the United States represented about 45% of all FSHD cases across the 7MM, with numbers projected to rise by 2034. Most US patients in 2024 scored between 7 and 10 on the RICCI scale, indicating moderate to severe levels of muscle dysfunction. Download the report to understand which factors are driving FSHD epidemiology trends @ Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Treatment Algorithm At present, there are no available therapies that can slow, halt, or reverse the progression of muscle weakness in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy. While physical therapy can be beneficial in some cases, it is generally recommended that individuals engage in regular low-resistance and aerobic exercise. Collaborating with a physical therapist is important to create a personalized and safe exercise regimen. Some patients may benefit from surgical stabilization of the scapula to enhance their ability to raise their arms above shoulder level. Scapular fixation involves anchoring the shoulder blades to the ribs and may be performed on one or both sides. This is a complex procedure that should only be undertaken by skilled surgeons after thorough evaluation and discussion with both the surgeon and the neurologist. Additionally, medications such as NSAIDs, opioids, and antidepressants are commonly prescribed to manage FSHD-related pain. Current care practices are centered around managing complications and preserving physical function. Rehabilitation consultations are advised for individuals facing mobility or functional issues. However, there remains a significant unmet need for effective and affordable approved therapies, as existing supportive treatments are often costly and limited in efficacy. Learn more about the FSHD treatment @ New Treatment for Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy There remains a significant unmet need in the treatment of FSHD, as current approaches primarily involve off-label therapies. Management strategies are largely aimed at alleviating symptoms and preserving physical function. Although FSHD is a progressive disorder with potentially serious long-term effects, treatment options are still limited to symptomatic care. Several investigational therapies are in development, including GYM329/RO7204239/RG6237 by Roche and Chugai Pharmaceutical, Delpacibart braxlosiran (del-brax) by Avidity Biosciences, EPI-321 by Epicrispr Biotechnologies, among others. Discover which therapies are expected to grab major FSHD market share @ Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Market Report GYM329 (also known as RO7204239 or RG6237) is an experimental anti-myostatin antibody aimed at enhancing skeletal muscle mass and growth. It has been specifically engineered as a 'recycling' and 'sweeping' antibody, meaning it may clear myostatin from the bloodstream more effectively than traditional antibodies. This targeted approach is expected to help address conditions marked by muscle wasting and reduced muscle strength. In November 2022, Roche began a Phase II clinical trial (NCT05548556) in patients with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, and according to the company, regulatory filing is anticipated after 2028. As per Chugai Pharmaceutical's Q1 2025 update, results from the ongoing MANOEUVRE Phase II study for FSHD are expected in 2025. With proof of concept established, Chugai plans to advance to Phase III trials, set to begin in 2026. Delpacibart braxlosiran (del-brax, formerly AOC 1020) is currently being assessed in the Phase I/II FORTITUDE trial (NCT06547216) in both adult and adolescent participants with FSHD. This study is focused on evaluating the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of intravenously administered del-brax. In June 2025, Avidity Biosciences announced that del-brax may qualify for an accelerated approval pathway in the U.S. for FSHD treatment. The company also launched the global Phase III FORWARD trial to serve as a confirmatory study for full regulatory approval. Additionally, Avidity reported positive topline results from the dose-escalation cohorts of the FORTITUDE trial, which will be shared at the 32nd Annual FSHD Society International Research Congress. EPI-321 is an investigational, one-time gene-silencing therapy targeting abnormal DUX4 expression. Administered systemically via a validated AAV vector, EPI-321 has shown strong preclinical results, including effective suppression of DUX4 and preservation of muscle tissue. It has received Fast Track, Orphan Drug, and Rare Pediatric Disease designations from the FDA. The company is preparing to launch a global Phase I/II trial in 2025. Discover more about drugs for FSHD in development @ Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Clinical Trials The anticipated launch of these emerging therapies for FSHD are poised to transform the market landscape in the coming years. As these cutting-edge therapies continue to mature and gain regulatory approval, they are expected to reshape the FSHD market landscape, offering new standards of care and unlocking opportunities for medical innovation and economic growth. DelveInsight estimates that the market size for FSHD is expected to grow at a significant CAGR by 2034. This growth is mainly driven by increased awareness, improved diagnostic techniques, and ongoing research into genetic therapies. Rising investment from pharmaceutical companies and the emergence of targeted therapies are expanding treatment options. Regulatory support for orphan diseases is also accelerating drug development. DelveInsight's latest published market report, titled as Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Market Insight, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast – 2034, will help you to discover which market leader is going to capture the largest market share. The report provides comprehensive insights into the FSHD country-specific treatment guidelines, patient pool analysis, and epidemiology forecast to help understand the key opportunities and assess the market's underlying potential. The FSHD market report proffers epidemiological analysis for the study period 2020–2034 in the 7MM segmented into: Total Prevalent Cases of FSHD Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of FSHD Type-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of FSHD Gender-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of FSHD Age-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of FSHD Severity-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of FSHD Total Treated Cases of FSHD The report provides an edge while developing business strategies by understanding trends shaping and driving the 7MM FSHD market. Highlights include: 10-year Forecast 7MM Analysis Epidemiology-based Market Forecasting Historical and Forecasted Market Analysis upto 2034 Emerging Drug Market Uptake Peak Sales Analysis Key Cross Competition Analysis Industry Expert's Opinion Access and Reimbursement Download this FSHD market report to assess the epidemiology forecasts, understand the patient journeys, know KOLs' opinions about the upcoming treatment paradigms, and determine the factors contributing to the shift in the FSHD market. Also, stay abreast of the mitigating factors to improve your market position in the FSHD therapeutic space. Related Reports Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Pipeline Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Pipeline Insight – 2025 report provides comprehensive insights about the pipeline landscape, pipeline drug profiles, including clinical and non-clinical stage products, and the key FSHD companies, including Fulcrum Therapeutics, Dyne Therapeutics, Hoffmann-La Roche, aTyr Pharma, Inc., Avidity Biosciences, Inc., among others. Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Epidemiology Forecast Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Epidemiology Forecast – 2034 report delivers an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted FSHD epidemiology in the 7MM, i.e., the United States, EU5 (Germany, Spain, Italy, France, and the United Kingdom), and Japan. Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Market Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast – 2034 report delivers an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted epidemiology, as well as the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key DMD companies, including Sarepta Therapeutics, PTC Therapeutics, Nippon Shinyaku, Santhera Pharmaceuticals, ReveraGen BioPharma, Taiho Pharmaceutical, FibroGen, Capricor, Daiichi Sankyo, Italfarmaco, Antisense Therapeutics, Solid Biosciences, among others. Spinal Muscular Atrophy Market Spinal Muscular Atrophy Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast – 2034 report delivers an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted epidemiology, as well as the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key SMA companies, including Scholar Rock, Biogen, Astellas Pharma, Alcyone Therapeutics, AndroScience Corporation, Hanugen Therapeutics, Voyager Therapeutics, Hoffmann-La Roche, Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, NMD Pharma, Biohaven Pharmaceuticals, CANbridge Pharmaceuticals Inc., Aurimed Pharma, Exicure, Amylon Therapeutics, Amniotics, among others. About DelveInsight DelveInsight is a leading Business Consultant and Market Research firm focused exclusively on life sciences. It supports pharma companies by providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions to improve their performance. Get hassle-free access to all the healthcare and pharma market research reports through our subscription-based platform PharmDelve. Contact Us Shruti Thakur info@ +14699457679 Logo: View original content:
Daily Mirror
5 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Cat owners warned that sneeze could be sign of 'kitty chlamydia' or herpes
If you're concerned about your cat's sneezing, read on to discover five reasons why cats sneeze and when you should be worried about it, according to pet health experts Hundreds of animal species are known to sneeze, including the likes of chickens, dogs, elephants and even pandas. However, if you've observed your feline friend sneezing more than usual, you might be pondering the cause. Could it be an allergy, a common cold in cats, or perhaps something more serious? While sneezing is a perfectly normal behaviour for cats, there are several reasons why they might have a tickly nose. Experts at Pet MD have compiled a list of potential ailments that could be causing your cat's sneezes. They also provide guidance on when sneezing should raise alarm bells and when it's time to consult a vet. According to their website, "If your cat's sneezing occasionally, it may just be part of the normal process to clear their nose and usually isn't concerning." They add: "However, if the sneezing is persistent or if other symptoms are present, it may indicate an underlying disease." But before you jump to conclusions about your cat's sneezing, bear in mind that it can be surprisingly tricky to distinguish between a cat sneezing, coughing, gagging, reverse sneezing, hiccupping, retching, or wheezing. Therefore, it might be necessary to seek a vet's expertise to determine whether your cat is indeed sneezing, reports the Daily Record. The specialists suggest recording your cat during a 'sneezing' bout to assist the vet in making an accurate diagnosis. Five health conditions that cause cats to sneeze 1. Viral Respiratory Infections Herpesvirus in cats is primarily known for causing upper respiratory symptoms, such as sneezing and discharge from both the nose and eyes, with stress often worsening these signs. Feline herpes operates in cycles, which means a cat might recover from respiratory issues and be well for a period before falling ill again under stressful conditions. It's advised to contact your vet if your cat exhibits these symptoms. 2. Bacterial infections According to Pet MD, "Bacterial infections almost always play a secondary role in upper respiratory symptoms in cats". They note that if you observe yellow or green mucus coming from your sneezing cat's nose or eyes, this unusually coloured discharge indicates a bacterial infection. Bordetella, mycoplasma, and chlamydia are typical culprits behind bacterial infections in a cat's nasal area, generally managed with antibiotic treatments. 3. Inflammation and irritation Sneezing in cats can also be triggered by inflammation, which is frequently a sign of various other health issues in felines. Treatments may involve oral steroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate inflammation, and vets can further explore any additional health problems that might be causing your cat's discomfort. 4. Foreign material Experts have stated, "Inhaling a foreign material, such as blades of grass, can of course cause irritation in the nasal passages". "When these intruders are inhaled by a cat, the body's response is to sneeze to expel the foreign debris. While this approach might work for smaller particles like dust, larger objects are difficult for a cat to remove through sneezing." 5. Dental disease Dental disease is another unexpected condition that can lead to your cat sneezing. This is due to the fact that a cat's upper jaw teeth roots are situated right next to the nasal passages. Therefore, when teeth become infected or inflamed, the barrier between the tooth socket and the nose can be breached, triggering sneezing. Regardless, if you notice your cat has been sneezing excessively, it's advisable to consult a vet as it could signify a range of issues with your pet.
Time of India
10-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
10 Everyday habits that could lead to kidney damage without you knowing
Your kidneys are essential for filtering waste, balancing body fluids, and managing blood pressure—yet they're often overlooked in daily health routines. Surprisingly, many common lifestyle habits may be silently damaging these vital organs over time. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now From overusing painkillers to eating too much salt or processed food, even seemingly harmless choices can strain your kidneys. Add in poor hydration, lack of sleep, or excessive protein, and the risks multiply. Fortunately, small, conscious changes can make a big difference. According to the National Kidney Foundation, here are 10 everyday habits that may contribute to kidney damage and offer practical tips to protect and support long-term kidney health. Kidney damage can start with these daily habits Overusing painkillers Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin are widely used to ease aches, inflammation, or fever. But frequent or high-dose use—especially without medical guidance—can reduce blood flow to the kidneys and potentially lead to long-term damage. This risk is even higher for people already living with kidney disease. To protect your kidneys, use NSAIDs sparingly and never exceed the recommended dosage. Eating too much salt Excess sodium is a known contributor to high blood pressure, one of the leading causes of kidney damage. Most of this salt doesn't come from the salt shaker but from processed and packaged foods. Over time, high sodium levels can strain kidney function. Try seasoning meals with herbs, lemon juice, or garlic to reduce your salt intake without sacrificing flavor. Consuming too many processed foods A 2022 study revealed that diets heavy in ultra-processed foods can increase the risk of chronic kidney disease by 24%. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now These foods are high in sodium, unhealthy fats, added sugars, and chemical additives—yet low in fiber and essential nutrients. Swap them out for whole foods like fresh vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains to support kidney and overall health. Not drinking enough water Water helps your kidneys remove toxins through urine. Dehydration, especially during intense activity or hot weather, can lead to kidney stones or impair how well your kidneys filter waste. While those with late-stage kidney disease may need to limit fluid intake, most people should aim for 6 to 8 glasses of water a day. Always consult your doctor to determine what's right for you. Skimping on sleep Your kidneys, like the rest of your body, follow a daily rhythm. Sleep regulates hormones that affect kidney function and fluid balance. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to higher risks of high blood pressure and kidney problems. Prioritize 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night to give your kidneys time to recover and regenerate. Eating too much protein Protein is essential for health, but excessive consumption—especially from red meat—can put extra stress on your kidneys. Animal proteins produce waste products that kidneys must filter out. In people with pre-existing kidney conditions, this burden can accelerate damage. Opt for lean proteins like fish or plant-based alternatives, and talk to your healthcare provider about how much protein is appropriate for you. Overindulging in sugar Consuming too much sugar can lead to weight gain, obesity, and eventually diabetes—all of which increase your risk of kidney disease. Added sugars are found not just in sweets but in seemingly healthy foods like flavored yogurt, breakfast cereals, and sauces. Reading nutrition labels and cutting back on sugary drinks and snacks can help safeguard your kidneys. Smoking Smoking doesn't just harm your lungs and heart—it also affects your kidneys. Nicotine can impair blood flow and damage kidney tissue. Additionally, smokers are more likely to have protein in their urine, a marker of kidney damage. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk and improve your overall health. Drinking too much alcohol Heavy alcohol consumption disrupts how kidneys regulate fluid and electrolytes in your body. It can also dehydrate you, increase blood pressure, and worsen liver health—making your kidneys work harder. Moderate drinking is generally considered one drink per day for women and two for men. Anything beyond that may raise your risk of kidney and liver complications. Living a sedentary lifestyle Lack of physical activity is linked to weight gain, poor circulation, and higher blood pressure—all of which can negatively impact kidney health. Regular exercise helps manage weight and cholesterol and improves heart and kidney function. Even light activities like walking, stretching, or yoga can benefit your kidneys when done consistently. Key lifestyle habits that can prevent kidney damage naturally Stay well-hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your kidneys flush out waste and prevent kidney stones. Drinking enough water helps your kidneys flush out waste and prevent kidney stones. Eat more whole foods: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and home-cooked meals instead of processed or salty foods. Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and home-cooked meals instead of processed or salty foods. Limit salt and sugar intake: Reducing sodium and added sugars can help control blood pressure and lower your risk of diabetes—both major causes of kidney disease. Reducing sodium and added sugars can help control blood pressure and lower your risk of diabetes—both major causes of kidney disease. Be mindful of medications: Avoid overusing NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) and always follow dosage instructions. Avoid overusing NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) and always follow dosage instructions. Prioritise quality sleep: Your kidneys rely on a regular sleep-wake cycle to function efficiently. Your kidneys rely on a regular sleep-wake cycle to function efficiently. Stay physically active: Regular exercise helps regulate blood pressure, manage weight, and improve overall kidney function. Regular exercise helps regulate blood pressure, manage weight, and improve overall kidney function. Monitor protein consumption: While protein is important, too much—especially from animal sources—can burden your kidneys, especially if you already have kidney concerns. While protein is important, too much—especially from animal sources—can burden your kidneys, especially if you already have kidney concerns. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: Smoking reduces blood flow to your kidneys; excessive alcohol can dehydrate and strain them. Smoking reduces blood flow to your kidneys; excessive alcohol can dehydrate and strain them. Get regular checkups: Especially if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney issues. Also Read |
