Q Diagnosis of high cholesterol

The diagnosis of high cholesterol levels is based on a simple blood test. Usually a complete Lipid profile is advised to test the levels of different components of cholesterol and triglycerides. Total cholesterol levels should be less than 200 mg/dl. LDL levels less than 100 mg/dL ( 2.6 mmol/L) are considered optimal. An acceptable HDL range is between 40- 60 mg/dL (1.04-1.56 mmol/L). Triglyceride levels should be maintained less than 150 mg/dl. High levels of HDL have a protective effect against heart disease whereas high levels of LDL and triglycerides increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Q I have white stuff in my milk ducts and I want to know it its cancerous

Discharge of white material from breast can be normal as well as abnormal. An abnormal discharge would be from any one breast, it would be without any touching or squeezing. It may have a bad smell. A careful investigation and examination is required to comment anything. It is advisable that you consult a gynaecologist who based on your symptoms and breast examination can give you the correct diagnosis and treatment. Also if the discharge turns out to be abnormal there is no need to worry as most of them are easily treatable.

Q My doctor tells me my test results are normal, but I still have a few thyroid symptoms. Should I worry?

If the thyroid function test is done for the first time and the reports are normal, then there is nothing to worry about. However if you are taking the medicine for any thyroid disorder, then though your results are normal you may have the symptoms for few days.

Q High lymphocytes means what.

An increase in lymphocyte concentration is usually a sign of a viral infection (in some rare case, leukemias are found through an abnormally raised lymphocyte count in an otherwise normal person).

Q Using woolen blanket during summer can cause hair fall?

There is no scientific evidence to prove that using woolen blanket in summer can lead to hair fall.

Q Split ends in my hair !! Any treatment?

Splint ends are caused due to dryness and damage to hairs. Factors that can cause dryness and damage to hair are over exposure to sun rays, poor nutrition, excessive use of chemical based hair products, use of hair dryers, etc. Here we are also listing some general tips to improve your hair health: Warm oil massage, regular trimming of hair, minimizing use of hair dryers or styling products, following a balanced and nutritious diet, covering your hair properly while going out in sun and avoid combing hair when they are wet.

Q Is there any reliable tips to reduce weight as I am working woman and do not find time for exercise but yes if you can suggest diet I can follow

When it comes to losing weight, good eating plan and regular exercise schedule go hand in hand. It is not possible to achieve permanent result by substituting one for another. Along with healthy eating a minimum of 150 mins of exercise in a week can make huge difference. As far as eating healthy is concerned you can make following changes in your routine. Instead of three large meals, have 5-7 small meals. Replace refined foods with whole grain foods. For example replacing white bread with brown bread. Include plenty of fresh fruits and green veggies in your meal. Avoid intake of processed foods, junk foods and sugary drink. Make sure your there is some amount of protein rich food in your breakfast, lunch and dinner. Foods such as eggs, chicken, fish, milk, cheese, curd, paneer are good source of proteins.

Q My grand dad is 86 years now, he had got a 2nd heart attack, and the doctor is telling he should undergo an angioplasty . Is it required ? or any other simple operation can he go trough as he is aged

Angioplasty is required when the vessels carrying blood to the heart are narrowed due to blockage. The amount of blockage will decide whether your grandfather requires an angioplasty or not. Angioplasty is a simple and safe procedure. Do not worry.

Q I am feeling weekness from past 2-3 days

Excessive physical exertion, excessive mental stress, prolonged lack of sleep, viral infection are some of the probable causes of weakness. Take adequate rest, follow well balanced diet, stay well hydrated, if you are overly stressed, try and find the cause and work towards improving it. Consultation with your physician will be necessary if the weakness is not relieved in few days or you develop any other symptoms.

Q What tips do you have for someone with Social Anxiety?

At first, being social when youre feeling anxious is challenging. As difficult or painful as it may seem initially, dont avoid situations that trigger your symptoms. By regularly facing these kinds of situations, youll continue to build and reinforce your coping skills. The following techniques can help you begin to face situations that make you nervous: Prepare for conversation. For instance, read the newspaper to identify an interesting story you can talk about. 1. Focus on personal qualities you like about yourself. 2. Practice relaxation exercises. 3. Adopt stress management techniques. 4. Set realistic goals. 5. Pay attention to how often the embarrassing situations youre afraid of actually take place. You may notice that the scenarios you fear usually dont come to pass. 6. When embarrassing situations do happen, remind yourself that your feelings will pass, and you can handle them until they do. 7. Develop coping skills- Hang out with people whom with you feel comfortable, Joining a group that offers opportunities to improve communication and public speaking skills, remind yourself that you can get through anxious moments, that your anxiety is short-lived. 8. Take good sleep and healthy diet. Psychiatric counselling and medicine helps to deal with anxiety. Finally positive thinking and building self-confidence is the key to fight against your anxiety. Be confident. All the best.