-
April 29, 2020
-
0
ESWL – Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy
What is ESWL?
ESWL or extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is a non-invasive medical procedure that uses high-energy shock waves to break down kidney stones into smaller fragments. It involves the use of a machine known as a lithotripter which produces the shock waves. These are focused by X-rays and pass through skin and tissue to reach the kidney stones and break them into small pieces. During the following few day’s, these fragments are passed from the body through urine.How is ESWL performed?
Before ESWL is performed, the patient is given a mild sedative to make them comfortable. A computerised X-ray machine helps the doctor accurately locate the kidney stone. A lithotripter is then used to produce and direct shock waves toward the stone. The rate and power of the shock waves are adjusted based on the size and location of the kidney stone. Once the stone has been broken down to acceptable sizes, the shock waves are stopped and the patient is sent to the recovery room.Who should undergo ESWL?
This procedure is suitable for people who have small kidney stones that are easily visible on X-rays. ESWL is recommended when medication and other treatment have not been successful. There are some cases where ESWL is not a good treatment option, such as:- Pregnant ladies
- Patients who are on blood thinners
- Patients who have bleeding disorders and uncontrolled hypertension
- Patients whose kidney stones are made of cysteine or specific types of calcium
- Patients suffering from acute kidney infection
- Patients with scar tissue or obstructions in the ureter
Latest Posts
Tuberculosis (TB): What You Need to Know and When to Seek HelpMar 26, 2026
No Gas? No Problem: Eating Healthy with Smart Kitchen AlternativesMar 20, 2026
Top 5 affordable treatments for Migraines in BangaloreMar 17, 2026
Top 5 Neurology Hospitals in Bangalore for Stroke RecoveryMar 16, 2026
Top 10 Questions People Ask About MigrainesFeb 16, 2026
Renal Biopsy
What is Renal Biopsy?
A renal biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure where tissue from the kidney is extracted for laboratory tests and analysis. This procedure helps doctors diagnose kidney disease and afflictions and determine a suitable treatment plan. Renal biopsy is also performed to monitor the effectiveness and functionality of the kidneys, especially following a transplant.There are two types of renal biopsy:
Percutaneous biopsy: This involves the use of a thin biopsy needle which is inserted through the skin to extract kidney tissue. A CT scan or ultrasound is used to direct the needle toward the desired site of extraction. This is the most frequently used procedure to acquire renal tissue. Open biopsy: This procedure involves making a small incision in the skin through which the doctor can visualise the kidneys and determine the best area to extract tissue.Why is a Renal Biopsy performed?
A renal biopsy is performed after routine tests show that there are issues with the kidney. If you are showing any symptoms of kidney disease or malfunction, you doctor may suggest a renal biopsy. This procedure will help the doctor identify:- Course of abnormal levels of waste products in your blood
- The causes behind high protein levels in the urine
- The causes behind blood in the urine
- If there is kidney disease to determine its progress and the right treatment
- If a transplanted kidney suddenly lands up with trouble, Renal biopsy will guide as the treatment modality
- A tumour in or around the kidney and also determine if it is benign or malignant
Who should undergo a Renal Biopsy?
If you are showing any symptoms of kidney disease or malfunction such as blood in the urine , make sure to consult your nephrologist immediately. Your doctor will determine if a renal biopsy is necessary based on your condition, its severity and to determine the best course of action.Latest Posts
Tuberculosis (TB): What You Need to Know and When to Seek HelpMar 26, 2026
No Gas? No Problem: Eating Healthy with Smart Kitchen AlternativesMar 20, 2026
Top 5 affordable treatments for Migraines in BangaloreMar 17, 2026
Top 5 Neurology Hospitals in Bangalore for Stroke RecoveryMar 16, 2026
Top 10 Questions People Ask About MigrainesFeb 16, 2026
Dialysis – Purpose & Procedure
What is Haemodialysis?
Healthy kidneys are responsible for keeping your blood clean and free from waste products. They remove these waste products and eliminate them from the body through urine. They also produce important substances like proteins that are vital in maintaining a healthy body. Diseased or malfunctioning kidneys are unable to keep up with their regular tasks, which is why people with kidney failure and other renal issues undergo a treatment known as haemodialysis. Haemodialysis helps filter waste and excess water from the blood in the same way as healthy kidneys. This treatment helps balance the levels of minerals such as calcium, sodium and potassium in your blood. It also helps regulate blood pressure levels. While haemodialysis is not a cure for kidney failure, it can help you live a longer and better life.What happens during Haemodialysis?
At the beginning of the haemodialysis treatment, a nurse will insert two needles into your arm. These needles are connected to a filtering machine known as a dialyser, also sometimes called an ‘artificial kidney.’ The dialyser machine consists of fibres, filters and dialysis solutions through which your blood is passed. Waste products are removed and filtered blood is returned to your body.Who should undergo Haemodialysis?
Your doctor will suggest haemodialysis if your kidneys show that they can no longer function as well as they did. You are a good candidate for haemodialysis if your kidneys are not removing enough fluid or waste from your blood. People with kidney disease, kidney failure and other specific renal issues are suggested to undergo haemodialysis. Haemodialysis is essential for people with kidney failure because it can help extend their lives. Consult your nephrologist for more details on haemodialysis and its benefits.Latest Posts
Tuberculosis (TB): What You Need to Know and When to Seek HelpMar 26, 2026
No Gas? No Problem: Eating Healthy with Smart Kitchen AlternativesMar 20, 2026
Top 5 affordable treatments for Migraines in BangaloreMar 17, 2026
Top 5 Neurology Hospitals in Bangalore for Stroke RecoveryMar 16, 2026
Top 10 Questions People Ask About MigrainesFeb 16, 2026
AV Fistula
What is Haemodialysis?
Haemodialysis is a treatment conducted on people with kidney failure to help purify their blood. During this treatment, a dialysis machine takes over the functions of their kidneys and filters out toxins and waste material from the blood. It is prescribed for people who have kidney disease or other issues that have caused their kidneys to lose function. Before haemodialysis, the patient must first undergo a surgical procedure to create an access point known as AV fistula for the dialysis machine. This is normally done in the wrist or arm and performed by a vascular surgeon.What is AV Fistula?
An AV (arteriovenous) fistula is a connection that is created between an artery and vein in the patient’s arm for dialysis access. It is created as part of a surgical procedure to prepare the patient for haemodialysis. During the procedure, the surgeon connects the artery in the patient’s arm to a vein, creating the AV fistula. The artery-vein configuration is selected by the surgeon depending on the patient’s health and body structure. The AV fistula surgery is normally conducted about six months before the patient’s first haemodialysis treatment. The surgery is done within a few hours and is typically an outpatient procedure. The patient is given a numbing agent in the arm or general anaesthesia so that they are comfortable during the procedure.How is the AV Fistula used during Haemodialysis?
Once the AV fistula is created, it serves as a connection between the patient and the dialysis machine. Before the haemodialysis treatment, a nurse will insert two needles into the AV fistula. One needle is connected to a tube which transports blood into the dialysis machine. The second needle allows purified blood to safely return to the patient’s body. A regular haemodialysis treatment lasts three to four hours.Latest Posts
Tuberculosis (TB): What You Need to Know and When to Seek HelpMar 26, 2026
No Gas? No Problem: Eating Healthy with Smart Kitchen AlternativesMar 20, 2026
Top 5 affordable treatments for Migraines in BangaloreMar 17, 2026
Top 5 Neurology Hospitals in Bangalore for Stroke RecoveryMar 16, 2026
Top 10 Questions People Ask About MigrainesFeb 16, 2026
Every Breathe Counts
Over the years, Intensive Care has made the most progress compared to other branches of medicine. Technological and pharmacotherapy developments have vastly improved the quality and efficacy of treatment offered to patients in a hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The ICU is designed to treat patients suffering from emergencies and need critical care. Not all patients are sent to the ICU, but people with respiratory conditions often qualify for critical care. They are admitted to the hospital’s respiratory ICU where they receive treatment from highly skilled respiratory therapists and access to cutting-edge treatments.What respiratory conditions qualify for ICU treatment?
Respiratory conditions are common and seen in millions of people around the world. The common factor among these conditions is that they can impair your breathing. This leads to a variety of life-threatening results, including decreased oxygen being transported to your organs, especially the brain. Some respiratory conditions that necessitate ICU treatment are: Chronic bronchitis: Persistent cough and difficulty breathing caused by inflamed bronchial tubes. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD: Group of progressive lung diseases that cause obstructed airflow to the lungs. Pneumonia: Infection that causes inflammation of the air sacs in the lungs. Cystic fibrosis: Hereditary disease that is characterised by thick mucus that block the lungs. Acute or chronic respiratory failure: Short- or long-term condition that affects blood oxygen levels.How are respiratory conditions treated in the ICU?
The teams working in the ICU are specially trained in treating respiratory conditions and other medical emergencies. They offer services such as:- Providing inhaled medications such as bronchodilators and antibiotics to alleviate the patient’s symptoms.
- Provide ventilator support to help patients with breathing. This includes both invasive ventilation through tracheostomy tube and non-invasive ventilation through face masks.
- Provide respiratory support treatments such as oxygen therapy, inhaled medication therapy, lung volume expansion therapy and extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation.
- Provide post-operative care.
Latest Posts
Tuberculosis (TB): What You Need to Know and When to Seek HelpMar 26, 2026
No Gas? No Problem: Eating Healthy with Smart Kitchen AlternativesMar 20, 2026
Top 5 affordable treatments for Migraines in BangaloreMar 17, 2026
Top 5 Neurology Hospitals in Bangalore for Stroke RecoveryMar 16, 2026
Top 10 Questions People Ask About MigrainesFeb 16, 2026
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit – NICU
There is no feeling comparable to welcoming a child into this world. At the hospital, you know your baby and you are in good hands thanks to a dedicated team of doctors and nurses. They are also qualified to provide critical care treatment to your little one in case of an emergency. Babies are taken to the neonatal intensive care unit or NICU during these cases where they are given necessary care and treatment.Common reasons why babies are sent to the NICU
One of the most difficult things for a parent to experience is hearing that their child needs critical care. There are several reasons why a baby needs to be sent to the NICU, some of which are: Prematurity: Babies born prematurely, any time before the 37-week , are the most common candidates for NICU admissions. Premature babies are developmentally and physically underdeveloped and can find it a struggle to transition to the outside world. They show unstable vital signs, uncontrolled body temperature and excessive weight loss, all of which can affect in the long term. Premature babies need to remain in an enclosed, controlled space such as an incubator which mimics the uterine environment. Infection or sepsis: Another common reason for NICU admission is infection or sepsis. This is commonly seen in premature babies because their immune systems are not strong enough. Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS): A baby’s immature lungs are often prone to developing respiratory problems. At the NICU, the baby is placed on a ventilator to treat this condition. Perinatal depression: Problems during delivery can sometimes lead to decreased blood flow and oxygen to the baby. The baby is admitted to the NICU to prevent brain damage and other problems. Hypoglycaemia: Low blood sugar is common in premature babies or infants born to mothers with gestational diabetes. For more details on neonatal care, talk to your doctor today.Latest Posts
Tuberculosis (TB): What You Need to Know and When to Seek HelpMar 26, 2026
No Gas? No Problem: Eating Healthy with Smart Kitchen AlternativesMar 20, 2026
Top 5 affordable treatments for Migraines in BangaloreMar 17, 2026
Top 5 Neurology Hospitals in Bangalore for Stroke RecoveryMar 16, 2026
Top 10 Questions People Ask About MigrainesFeb 16, 2026
Treatment for Outer Ear Infection
What is Otitis Externa?
Otitis externa is a condition characterised by the inflammation of the external or outer ear canal. The inflammation is caused due to an infection typically caused by bacteria. It is often referred to as “swimmer’s ear” as repeated exposure to water can make the ear more susceptible to infection and irritation. The external ear canal extends from the outer ear to the eardrum. When water remains in this area after a bath or a swim, it creates a moist environment that is perfect for bacterial growth. The proliferation of bacteria causes otitis externa. Putting objects in your ears like cotton swabs or your fingers can damage the lining of the ear canal, making it more vulnerable to infection. Prompt treatment of otitis externa can prevent the development of more serious complications or infections.What are the symptoms of Otitis Externa?
The symptoms of otitis externa are often mild in the beginning, but they can become worse if the condition spreads and is not treated. Mild symptoms include:- Redness and itching inside the ear
- Mild discomfort within the ear canal
- Drainage of clear and odourless fluid from inside the ear
- Increasing pain that radiates to the neck and face
- Increasing itching and redness
- Excessive fluid drainage
- Partial or complete blockage of the ear caused by fluid or debris collection or swelling
- Fever
- Muffled or decreased hearing
- Swelling of the lymph nodesin the neck
How to prevent and treat Otitis Externa?
The best way to prevent an infection in your ear is to keep your ears dry by using a cap or an ear plug. Drain any water collected inside your ear by tipping your head to the side. Avoid putting foreign objects like cotton swabs or hairpins in your ears. If you are experiencing symptoms of otitis externa, contact a doctor. They will prescribe medication or ear drops to curb the infection and inflammation.Latest Posts
Tuberculosis (TB): What You Need to Know and When to Seek HelpMar 26, 2026
No Gas? No Problem: Eating Healthy with Smart Kitchen AlternativesMar 20, 2026
Top 5 affordable treatments for Migraines in BangaloreMar 17, 2026
Top 5 Neurology Hospitals in Bangalore for Stroke RecoveryMar 16, 2026
Top 10 Questions People Ask About MigrainesFeb 16, 2026
Cerumen in the Ears
What is Cerumen?
Cerumen is the medical term for earwax, which is the yellowish, waxy substance found inside your ears. It is formed by the sebaceous glands found within the ear canal and mainly consists of dead skin cells. The purpose of earwax is to protect, clean and lubricate the ear canal and its lining. It traps dirt, repels water and protects the ear canal and eardrum from bacteria, fungi and insects. Cerumen has antimicrobial properties and is essential for a healthy ear canal. Without earwax, your ears become susceptible to infections and waterlogging. It also prevents the lining of the ear canal from becoming dry. Earwax can cause problems as well, such as hearing loss or infection.What are the symptoms of Cerumen problems?
The accumulation or hardening of earwax can form a plug or block within the ear canal. This can be painful and affect your hearing. Here are some symptoms of cerumen problems:- Earache
- Itching in the ear
- Ear infection
- Ringing in the ear or tinnitus
- Vertigo or problems with balance
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Cough
How are Cerumen problems treated?
Earwax normally falls out on its own. To remove excess cerumen, it is best to use a soft towel to wipe the outside of the ear. Your doctor may recommend some suitable over-the-counter treatments such as ear drops to soften and remove excessive earwax. If these treatments do not work, the doctor will irrigate the ear and manually remove the impacted cerumen.Latest Posts
Tuberculosis (TB): What You Need to Know and When to Seek HelpMar 26, 2026
No Gas? No Problem: Eating Healthy with Smart Kitchen AlternativesMar 20, 2026
Top 5 affordable treatments for Migraines in BangaloreMar 17, 2026
Top 5 Neurology Hospitals in Bangalore for Stroke RecoveryMar 16, 2026
Top 10 Questions People Ask About MigrainesFeb 16, 2026
Are You Suffering from Allergic Rhinitis?
What is Allergic Rhinitis?
Do you often find yourself sneezing or coughing when you inhale pollen or dust? It is your body’s way of saying you are allergic to these substances. Allergic rhinitis is a condition associated with symptoms affecting your nose. The word ‘rhinitis’ is derived from two terms - ‘rhino-’ which refers to the nose and the suffix ‘-itis’ which is the medical term for inflammation. Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is an allergic reaction to certain allergens such as pollen, mould, dust, animal dander etc. Symptoms can also present themselves if you consume some food that you may be allergic too, such as mushrooms, fish or gluten. Pollen is the most common substance to cause allergic rhinitis. This condition is sometimes referred to as seasonal allergy as it flares up during specific seasons, mostly spring and summer. It can exist throughout the year; it’s called as Perennial allergy.What are the symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis?
In most cases, the symptoms of allergic rhinitis present themselves almost immediately after coming in contact with an allergen. While some allergens produce mild symptoms, others can be more dangerous. The most common symptoms are:- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Stuffy nose
- Runny nose
- Itchy nose
- Itchy eyes
- Scratchy or sore throat
- Watery eyes
What causes Allergic Rhinitis?
Your body has a specific response when it comes in contact with an allergen. A chemical known as histamine is released which helps defend your body against the allergen. This causes the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, which is a sign that your body is fighting off what it perceives as foreign invaders. Besides pollen, other allergens that are commonly found include animal hair or dander, dust mites, mould, cosmetics and smoke. The easiest way to protect yourself from allergic rhinitis is to prevent any contact with allergens. If you are experiencing any symptoms, your doctor will prescribe antihistamines to give you relief. In severe cases your doctor may prescribe intra nasal spray. Complications like enlarged turbinate’s and polyps will require surgery. Your doctor will guide you regarding best course of treatment.Latest Posts
Tuberculosis (TB): What You Need to Know and When to Seek HelpMar 26, 2026
No Gas? No Problem: Eating Healthy with Smart Kitchen AlternativesMar 20, 2026
Top 5 affordable treatments for Migraines in BangaloreMar 17, 2026
Top 5 Neurology Hospitals in Bangalore for Stroke RecoveryMar 16, 2026
Top 10 Questions People Ask About MigrainesFeb 16, 2026
Contact
JAYANAGAR
BANASHANKARI
