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The Hindu
3 days ago
- The Hindu
All you need to know about: sarcoidosis
Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory condition that can affect several organs. A disease of unknown etiology or chronic inflammation can lead to permanent scarring of the affected tissues. Considered a rare disease, research is ongoing to understand further the causes, diagnosis and treatment modalities. What is sarcoidosis? Sarcoidosis is believed to be an exaggerated response of the immune system either due to a genetic disposition or due to environmental triggers. It results in affected people developing lumps on their skin or in other parts of the body. The Mayo Clinic website describes the lumps or clusters of immunity cells in an organ as 'tiny collections of immune system cells in any part of the body,' which are red, swollen lumps called granulomas. They commonly occur in lungs and the lymph nodes of the chest, the website adds. What are the symptoms? Persons with sarcoidosis may suffer from a variety of symptoms including fatigue, shortness of breath, wheezing, chronic cough, skin rashes that appear scaly, red eyes, irregular heart beat, weakness or numbness of a limb or part of face, discolouration of the nose, cheek, lips or ears; and chest pain. Some people may remain symptom free as the disease disappears on its own but in some others, though the disease may not progress they may have symptoms that affect their lifestyle. A third of those diagnosed with the condition may require long-term treatment. A person in whom the disease has been active for over two to five years is termed to have a chronic ailment. In such persons, it can be life-threatening. How rare is the condition? In the United States of America an estimated 1.5 to 2 lakh persons live with sarcoidosis. The National Library of Medicine, operated by the United States government, states that the incidence of sarcoidosis is 11 in 1 lakh among the white population and 34 in 1 lakh among the African American population. Across the world an estimated 1.2 million have the condition. In a letter published in 2019 in the Sarcoidosis, Vasculitis and Diffuse Lung Diseases journal, researchers from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, stated that while the reported prevalence of sarcoidosis in India was estimated to be 10-12 cases per 1,000 new registrations in a respiratory unit at Kolkata and 61.2/100,000 new cases at a centre in New Delhi, 'these figures are unlikely to be a true representation as sarcoidosis is usually unidentified due to the high burden of tuberculosis here. Real figures are anticipated to be much higher.' At AIIMS, Delhi, approximately 100 new cases of pulmonary sarcoidosis are being diagnosed every year, says Rashi Jain, of the department of pulmonary medicine and sleep disorders at AIIMS, Delhi and the main author of the letter. 'The number is quite noticeable for a disease otherwise considered rare,' the letter noted. Organisations working to raise awareness about the disease say approximately five to 10% of all those diagnosed will have advanced sarcoidosis. What are the treatment modalities? Research studies and patient advocate organisations have all called for more research on sarcoidosis to develop effective treatment strategies. Dr. Jain says low awareness about sarcoidosis in India results in doctors misdiagnosing it as tuberculosis. Stating that the condition could cause mental stress due to the multiple evaluations and tests required, she called for exclusive clinics with a multidisciplinary teams of healthcare workers from various specialties, to treat patients with sarcoidosis. Among the affected, around 25% to 30% develop extrapulmonary sarcoid. While in men the heart function is commonly affected, in women, the skin and eyes are more prominently affected. Many persons with the disease recover completely. In those with advanced sarcoidosis (active disease for over two to five years), treatment options include corticosteroids besides other therapies. Persons who require treatment even if they do not have symptoms are also classified as having advanced sarcoidosis. Persons on advanced treatment also need to contend with fatigue, pain, cognitive failure, neuropathy, an inability to exercise and depression besides other comorbidities such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Hindustan Times
3 days ago
- Hindustan Times
World Self Care Day: Rituals of renewal from around the world
Abhyanga: Ayurveda's healing power of touch World Self Care Day(Photos: Adobe Stock) Ayurveda practices are known for their potent rejuvenating properties. One such technique is the Abhyanga. This massage ritual, traditionally performed in the morning, involves a generous application of warm, medicated oils tailored to one's body constitution or doshas. Warm sesame oil for vata, coconut for pitta, mustard or sunflower for kapha, and gently massaging these into the scalp, limbs, joints and the abdomen. It improves blood circulation, stimulates lymphatic drainage and nourishes the skin; the practice is usually followed by a warm bath for complete rejuvenation. Far beyond a beauty ritual, Abhyanga slows ageing, improves sleep, enhances vitality and helps ground the nervous system. China's Qigong: Breath work for inner peace Qigong is a centuries-old Chinese self-care technique that combines flowing movements with meditation to balance the Qi or life force. The focus here is staying present as one syncs breath with motion. Studies have linked Qigong to improved mood and focus, as well as relief from chronic fatigue and pain. Bearing several similarities to Pranayama, one could easily practise this technique during morning meditation and even incorporate it into workplace wellness programmes as a way to recharge sans equipment. Coffee and conversations with Swedish fika Breaks are important, but in Swedish philosophy, it's all about intent. The concept of Fika, in particular, dictates intentional pauses during work, often with coffee and even a sweet treat. A study by the National Library of Medicine, USA, found that incorporating Fika significantly reduced sleepiness and improved focus. Mindful downtime fosters social bonding, morale, and chips away at burnout. From the rise of 'slow cafés' in India — think Delhi's Hinoki or Blondie in Mumbai — to short chat-and-chai breaks in workplaces, this is reflecting a culture of mindful pauses, redefining wellness in high-pressure environments. Dancing through difficulty with African ngoma In Central and Southern Africa, Ngoma refers to a rhythmic drumming tradition and is often performed at social gatherings, celebrations and healing ceremonies. It stems from the idea that music and dance to address emotional and physical distress. A somatic experience, it helps participants process emotional struggles through communal movement and support. Closer home, you can find similar energies at devotional gatherings, the Mahakal Arti in Ujjain, Ganga Arti in Banaras and chanting sessions at ISKCON temples around the country. Japanese Shinrin-yoku: Nature therapy at its best The Japanese tradition of forest bathing — Shinrin-yoku — is an immersive form of therapy where you let the forest become the healer. Originating in the 1980s, this practice was a national response to urban stress. Take a cue from actor Shahid Kapoor, who reconnected with Nature during a recent trip to Japan (pictured above). To practise Shinrin-yoku, all you need to do is slow down as you walk through the forest. Taking in the sights, sounds and scents and hugging the trees has been linked to reduced stress, lower blood pressure, enhanced immunity, and better mood. Bonus? It's easily adaptable to India's forest trails and retreats. (Written by Richa Singh)
Time of India
5 days ago
- Time of India
What does high cortisol feels like and how does it impact the brain and body?
Ever felt like your mind is racing, and your heart won't slow down? No matter how much sleep you get, you still wake up feeling exhausted and fatigued from last night. Well, that nagging sense of being 'on edge' all the time might not just be your stress or hormones - it could be high cortisol. Often dubbed as 'stress hormone,' cortisol is your body's natural alarm system, often kicked in when you are struggling to meet a deadline or when you are stuck in bad traffic. Cortisol helps us survive but when stress overpowers us, cortisol can go from helpful to harmful really quickly, wreaking havoc on your body, brain and mind. Let's break down what high cortisol actually feels like and how it could silently damage our mood and gut health, likewise. What does cortisol do to your body and brain? It usually starts with a racing heart, shaky hands, and uneasy feeling in your chest, during any stressful work. Maybe to some, they are just 'nerves' speaking but science suggests that this is something deep—your cortisol level are likely spiking up and your body is feeling the impact. Back in 2019, a study was published in the National Library of Medicine offers fresh insight into this hormonal rollercoaster. The research further observed a group of young adults during a period of intense academic session, the results were shocking! Salivary cortisol levels rose tenfold on the day of the exam compared to a normal day. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo But what made this study truly stand out was not just the biochemical data, it was how the hormonal spike translated into real, physical efforts. 5 Simple ways to bring down high BP Cortisol and balance ? The study revealed that elevated cortisol wasn't just making participants feel anxious — it was literally throwing them off balance. Both dynamic balance (our ability to move and stay stable) and static balance (our ability to stay still without falling) were significantly impaired during high-stress periods. In some cases, performance on balance tests dropped by nearly 50%. It actively interferes with how our brain and body coordinate movement, maintain posture, and react to physical stimuli. That means the next time you feel clumsy or off-center during a stressful moment, it's not all in your head — your hormones may actually be to blame. What are the symptoms of high cortisol? High cortisol can start with a range of symptoms. Some of them include: Acne Weight gain Easy bruising Flushed face Severe fatigue High blood pressure Headache What causes high cortisol levels in the body? Chronic stress The most common cause of high cortisol in the body. It can be triggered by work pressure, relationship issues, academic stress or unresolved grief. Sleep deprivation Lack of quality sleep confuses the body's natural cortisol rhythm, leading to sustained high levels. Poor diet High amounts of sugar, processed foods and excessive caffeine can spike cortisol. Alcohol and substance use Regular intake of alcohol and some substances interferes with adrenal function and disrupts cortisol balance. High cortisol is a silent sleep disruptor, often caused by stress, poor sleep and lifestyle choices. It impacts our mood, memory, and physical health. Recognizing the signs early and making mindful changes in your lifestyle can restore balance and protect long-term well-being.
