Latest news with #VikasMittal
Indian Express
21-07-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Sleeping on your side vs sleeping on your back: Which is better for health?
Sleep position is one of those seemingly small details that can have a big impact on your overall health. Whether you're someone who curls up on your side or lies flat on your back, the way you sleep may influence everything from spinal alignment to digestion and even the quality of your breathing. While back sleeping is often promoted for optimal neck and spine support, side sleeping has been linked to better digestion and may reduce the risk of snoring or acid reflux. But which is actually better for long-term health — and does the 'best' position vary from person to person? Dr Vikas Mittal, pulmonologist, Wellness Home Clinic and Sleep Center, Delhi, tells 'Both side and back sleeping have their own benefits and drawbacks. Side sleeping is the most popular and generally healthiest position for most people. It helps reduce snoring, supports spinal alignment when done with proper pillow support, and is especially good for people with sleep apnea and acid reflux. However, it may cause shoulder or hip pressure and wrinkles on the face over time.' He continues, 'Back sleeping, on the other hand, keeps the head, neck, and spine in a neutral position and can help reduce pressure on joints. It may also prevent facial wrinkles. However, it can worsen snoring and obstructive sleep apnea in some individuals. It's also not recommended for pregnant women, especially in later stages, as it can reduce blood flow to the baby.' Dr Mittal says, 'Yes, the side we sleep on can make a difference.' He adds that sleeping on the left side is often recommended for better digestion and acid reflux relief. 'This position allows gravity to help move waste through the colon and keeps stomach acid from rising into the esophagus. It's also believed to be better during pregnancy, as it improves blood flow to the heart and foetus.' Sleeping on the right side, Dr Mittal states, while still beneficial in some cases, may increase acid reflux and can put slightly more pressure on internal organs like the liver. 'However, some people with heart conditions might feel more comfortable on their right side. Individual comfort and medical conditions should guide the choice. According to Dr Mittal, sleeping position can significantly affect people with certain conditions. People with sleep apnea are generally advised to avoid back sleeping, as it can worsen airway obstruction. GERD (acid reflux) patients are encouraged to sleep on their left side to minimise symptoms. Pregnant women should also avoid back sleeping in the second and third trimesters. People with chronic shoulder or hip pain may struggle with side sleeping unless they use proper support pillows. 'In all cases, using the right mattress and pillow can make a big difference in comfort and symptom control,' concludes the doctor.
India Today
04-07-2025
- Health
- India Today
How PM2.5 exposure during pregnancy impacts birth outcomes
Air pollution is one of the most serious environmental threats to human health, affecting people at every stage of life. Breathing in polluted air, especially fine particulate matter like PM2.5, can lead to a range of health problems, from chronic respiratory issues and heart disease to cognitive decline and even are also links of air pollution affecting pregnancy outcomes. A new study by the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, International Institute of Population Sciences, Mumbai and institutes in the UK and Ireland revealed that for pregnant women, the risks of air pollution, especially particulate matter 2.5 are even pregnancy, exposure to polluted air doesn't just harm the mother, it can directly impact the developing baby. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) data from 2019–21, 13% of babies in India were born prematurely, and 17% had a low birth weight, and a major factor contributing to this is exposure to polluted air during to the study, pregnant women exposed to high levels of PM2.5 face a 70% increased risk of premature delivery, risk of low birth weight increases by 40% with greater air pollution exposure, and a 10 g/m rise in PM2.5 levels is linked to a 12% increase in preterm states like Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh are the worst cleaner air in North-East India is associated with healthier birth IS PM2.5 AND WHY IS IT DANGEROUS?PM2.5 refers to tiny particles in the air that are less than 2.5 microns in diameter. These particles come from sources like vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and the burning of fossil fuels and biomass. Because of their small size, they can easily enter the lungs and bloodstream, causing inflammation, reduced oxygen supply, and complications during pregnancy.'Air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5), has emerged as a significant public health threat, especially for pregnant women and newborns,' said Dr Vikas Mittal, Director of Respiratory Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Punjabi AND REGION MATTERThe researchers used satellite data and NFHS survey results to measure the effect of air pollution on birth outcomes. They found that the upper Gangetic belt—including states like Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh—has the highest PM2.5 levels and also shows higher rates of premature and low-weight like Himachal Pradesh (39%), Uttarakhand (27%), and Delhi (17%) reported a high percentage of premature births. Punjab topped the chart for low birth weight at 22%.In contrast, northeastern states like Mizoram, Manipur, and Tripura showed better outcomes, likely due to lower pollution EFFECTS ON CHILD HEALTHLow birth weight and prematurity are not just short-term issues. These conditions increase the risk of:Infant mortalityDevelopmental delaysChronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease later in lifeadvertisementThis makes it crucial to address air pollution as a maternal and child health to Dr. Neha Abhijit Pawar, Consultant, Gynaecology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, exposure to air pollution can even result in miscarriage and stillbirth. "These pollutants can impair oxygen and nutrient flow to the fetus, cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and disrupt hormonal balance. Evidence shows that exposure during the third trimester is particularly associated with lower birth weight, while high levels of PM2.5, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone are consistently linked to premature birth before 37 weeks," said Dr. added that toxic air pollutants like benzene and PAHs may interfere with fetal organ development, increasing the risk of congenital anomalies such as heart defects, neural tube defects, and cleft women exposed to polluted air are also at higher risk of preeclampsia (high blood pressure) and gestational hypertension due to impaired vascular function and inflammation. Long-term exposure can impact a child's health even after birth, potentially increasing the risk of asthma, developmental delays, and behavioural populations, such as those with low socioeconomic status, living in urban or industrial areas, or with pre-existing conditions like asthma or diabetes, face the highest risks and need targeted CAN BE DONE?The study urges immediate policy action to protect public health. It recommends strengthening the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), which was launched in 2019 to combat air pollution. It also calls for implementing climate adaptation strategies, such as heat action plans and improved water study also stresses the importance of raising awareness among pregnant women about the harmful effects of air pollution on their health and their babies.'We need targeted interventions in high-risk districts and public health strategies that factor in climate change,' the study authors for pregnant women to stay safe:Avoid outdoor activity during high-pollution daysUse air purifiers at homeWear certified masks (like N95) when stepping outsideConsult a doctor regularly for fetal monitoringAir pollution isn't just a threat to your lungs, it's a danger to the next generation.- EndsMust Watch
India Today
02-07-2025
- Health
- India Today
Buckets in AC rooms? More risk, zero reward, says expert
In the midst of rising concerns about dry indoor air and its impact on respiratory health, particularly during peak summer months, a growing number of social media posts and home remedies have recommended keeping a bucket of water in an air-conditioned room to 'balance' humidity levels. But is this really effective, or even safe?To separate fact from fiction, we spoke with Dr Vikas Mittal, a seasoned Pulmonologist at Wellness Home Clinic & Sleep Center, Delhi, who strongly dismisses this age-old hack as both 'ineffective and potentially hazardous.'advertisement'No, I don't think so,' Dr Mittal said when asked if keeping a bucket of water in an AC room helps retain humidity. I don't believe that placing a bucket of water in an AC room really helps to maintain humidity. To help with this, the water needs to be in vapor form, which is typically achieved through a humidifier. This cannot happen just by keeping a bucket of water in a room.'WHY DRY AIR IS A PROBLEM FOR YOUR LUNGS? Explaining how air-conditioning systems work, Dr Mittal highlighted that ACs actively remove moisture from the air, which leads to lower humidity and, in turn, drier respiratory passages.'An air conditioner works on the principle of removing moisture from the air to cool it. It circulates the air and extracts moisture, which results in dry air. "This dryness can cause thickening of respiratory secretions and dryness of the air passages,' he can be especially problematic for people with chronic respiratory conditions like COPD, asthma, or sinusitis, as thickened mucus can lead to sputum retention and even secondary infections.'In people with chronic lung disease, this can increase stress on the airways and sputum retention, potentially leading to infections,' he warned. 'Prolonged exposure to dry air can also exacerbate symptoms of conditions like sinusitis and allergies, further contributing to respiratory discomfort.'HIDDEN DANGERS OF THAT WATER BUCKETApart from being ineffective, keeping a bucket of water in an enclosed space comes with serious safety risks, especially in homes with young children or elderly family members.'The stagnant water can also become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, especially in an environment with fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels. This could potentially lead to health problems, including respiratory infections and allergic reactions,' said Dr leading home safety organisations caution against leaving open water containers in living areas for extended periods, not just due to slip hazards but because of the risk of vector-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya in the Indian subcontinent, especially during HUMIDITY MATTERS?Beyond respiratory issues, Dr Mittal pointed out that humidity affects multiple aspects of well-being and comfort in indoor humidity can lead to dry skin, irritated eyes, and sore throats. It can also affect wooden furniture and instruments, causing them to crack. Proper humidification is essential in maintaining an optimal indoor climate, especially in environments where air conditioning is heavily used,' he ALTERNATIVEDr Mittal's advice is clear, He says ditch the bucket and buy a proper humidifier.'A better solution would be to invest in a commercial humidifier or a cool mist humidifier that is designed to safely and effectively add moisture to the air,' he said. 'These devices are specifically built to disperse water vapor into the air, which is the most effective way to maintain indoor humidity levels between 40-60%.'What's more, modern humidifiers come equipped with filters and purifying technology, which help in reducing allergens, dust, and pollutants, which is a major bonus for those suffering from asthma or seasonal allergies.'Humidifiers come with filters that help in purifying the air, which could further assist in reducing airborne irritants, pollen, and dust,' said Dr Mittal. 'Regular cleaning and maintenance of these humidifiers are necessary to prevent bacterial growth and ensure they continue to function effectively.'Placing a bucket of water in an air-conditioned room is neither a scientifically sound nor safe practice. If you're concerned about dryness, especially due to respiratory conditions or general discomfort, Dr Mittal along with decades of indoor air research strongly recommends using a humidifier I believe that using a bucket of water is neither a practical nor safe alternative to proper humidification,' Dr Mittal reiterated. 'There are many affordable, commercially available humidifiers and cool mist humidifiers that can be used to retain moisture in the air.'For anyone looking to improve their indoor air quality this summer, it's time to move from jugaad to smart, safe solutions.- EndsMust Watch
Time of India
29-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Doctors Warn Of Parasitic Infection From Stray Dogs
New Delhi: In a disturbing case of medical misdiagnosis, an 18-year-old boy was treated for tuberculosis (TB) for six months before doctors discovered that he was actually suffering from a parasitic lung infection, likely contracted from close contact with a stray dog. The patient experienced persistent coughing and fatigue—symptoms typically associated with TB. Based on his clinical presentation, he was put on a full course of anti-tuberculosis therapy. However, when his condition failed to improve, further diagnostic tests at CK Birla Hospital revealed the real cause: hydatid disease, a zoonotic infection caused by tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. "This is not as uncommon as it sounds," said Dr Vikas Mittal, director of pulmonology at CK Birla Hospital. "Zoonotic infections—those transmitted from animals to humans—can closely mimic common illnesses like TB. If clinicians don't consider them, patients may be misdiagnosed and given unnecessary treatments." You Can Also Check: Delhi AQI | Weather in Delhi | Bank Holidays in Delhi | Public Holidays in Delhi Hydatid disease is spread through microscopic eggs found in the feces of infected dogs. These eggs can stick to the animal's fur, soil or dust and can enter the human body through hand-to-mouth contact, if hands are not washed after petting or feeding stray dogs and cats. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo This can happen even with handling pets at home if they are not dewormed regularly. O nce inside the body, the parasite can form cysts in vital organs such as the lungs, brain or liver, and cause pressure symptoms at the affected site. If the lungs are affected, it can cause respiratory distress, chest pain and general fatigue. These symptoms often mimic those of more common illnesses like TB, leading to misdiagnosis. According to experts, general physicians often diagnose tuberculosis solely on the basis of chest X-ray findings, without seeking specialist consultation or further investigation. This contributes significantly to misdiagnoses—especially in cases where radiological features overlap with other conditions. Dr Mittal said that in this case, the patient was suffering from a complicated, ruptured hydatid cyst in the lungs, which led to the accumulation of fluid in the chest cavity. He needed chest tube drainage to extract the fluid, a symptom that initially pointed towards TB. However, several indicators of a hydatid cyst were overlooked by the radiologist, possibly due to insufficient awareness, resulting in an incorrect diagnosis. Delhi and other Indian cities with large populations of free-roaming dogs are particularly vulnerable to such infections. Public health experts warn that while feeding or petting stray animals may seem harmless, it can carry serious health risks. "People think infections only come from bites, but many parasites don't need bite to spread," Dr Mittal pointed out. "Simple hygiene practices like hand washing can go a long way in preventing these infections. " Hydatid disease is listed as a neglected tropical disease by World Health Organization and is often underdiagnosed in resource-limited settings due to low awareness and limited access to advanced diagnostic tools. Experts advise people, particularly pet owners and those who regularly interact with strays, to inform their doctors about any animal exposure when reporting respiratory symptoms. In many cases, a simple additional test could prevent months of ineffective and potentially harmful treatment. They advise the public to avoid close contact with stray animals, maintain hygiene and seek a second opinion if common treatments fail to show results.
New Indian Express
12-06-2025
- Health
- New Indian Express
Spike in Delhi's COVID-19 cases takes tally to 757; 66 new cases on June 11
NEW DELHI: With 66 new cases identified on Wednesday and seven deaths in the past 12 days, Delhi's cumulative COVID-19 load now stands at 757. A day ago, 42 cases were added. Doctors report a significant rise in patients coming in with symptoms similar to COVID-19 with patients from vulnerable groups disproportionately affected by the disease. Since January this year, the national capital has recorded a total of 1,232 cases that have resulted in discharge. The city reported eight deaths during the period. As per Health department officials, Covid-19 was an incidental finding among many of the deceased patients. 'If we look at the history of the deceased, most of them were already suffering from some illnesses, admitted for surgery or belonged to vulnerable groups. These people are already predisposed to the severe illnesses caused by Covid-19,' a senior official said. 'In the first case from Maharashtra, the 44-year-old male passed away due to a combination of severe ARDS, dilated aortic regurgitation, and a Covid-19 infection. The virus was not considered the primary cause of his death,' said senior pulmonolgist Dr Vikas Mittal. Senior consultant Dr Neetu Jain said cases with symptoms similar to Covid-19 are rising and the new variant appears to be more transmissible compared to the previous strains.
