Latest news with #Helicobacterpylori
Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Experiencing a burning pain in your stomach? Doctor says it can be ulcers; here's why they happen
Peptic ulcers are open sores on the lining of the stomach that can lead to a burning sensation, especially at night or when we are hungry. But what are ulcers? In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Sanjay Khanna, co-chairman - Manipal Institute of Gastroenterology, hepato-biliary and pancreatic sciences, Manipal Hospitals Dwarka said, 'Ulcers occur when the protective layer of mucus is reduced, allowing stomach acid to damage the tissue.' Also read | Ulcer: Doctors reveal causes, symptoms you should never ignore, treatment Having ulcer pain? Know when to consult a doctor.(Shutterstock) Addressing this, Dr Sanjay Khanna said, 'Ulcer pain comes from the sore area being exposed to stomach acid.' This can happen due to multiple reasons: Infection caused by the bacteria that damages the mucous lining of the stomach and small intestine. Long-term and frequent use of certain pain-relieving medications that irritate the lining of the stomach. Consumption of alcohol or spicy foods, which may not necessarily cause an ulcer, but aggravate the symptoms and make the pain worse. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection: This bacterium weakens the stomach's protective lining, making it more vulnerable to acid Excess stomach acid: Overproduction of acid, often triggered by stress or certain foods, can hamper the lining of the stomach Smoking and alcohol: Both can irritate the digestive tract, increase acid production, and hinder the healing of existing ulcers. Also read | Ulcers and sores? Your mouth may be trying to warn you about lurking internal diseases Here's what can trigger stomach ulcers.(Pexels) When do you need to consult a doctor? A peptic ulcer can be extremely painful and sometimes dangerous. It is important to consult a doctor if you experience severe and persistent pain in the abdominal region. You may also notice the following signs: Burning stomach pain: This is the most common symptom and usually occurs between meals or at night. You may also feel unusually full or bloated. Loss of appetite or weight loss: You may suddenly lose interest in eating. This can also lead to weight loss and feelings of nausea. Dark stools: Bleeding can occur in the digestive tract, which turns black as it passes through the intestines. Look out for tarry or dark stools, as they indicate bleeding. Also read | Do you often get mouth ulcers? Dentist shares what causes them and 4 easy ways to prevent it Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition. Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!. Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.
Time of India
11-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
6 common cancer types and symptoms to watch out for
Cancer is characterized by abnormal cell growth that may invade tissues or metastasize to other organs. It still ranks among the leading causes of death worldwide. The most commonly diagnosed cancers globally, based on the World Health Organization (WHO), are breast, lung, colorectal, prostate, stomach (gastric), and liver cancers. Signs only manifest after the condition has set in, a factor that makes early warning sign recognition, regular screening (mammogram, screening, colonoscopy, PSA testing), and medical assessment at the onset of persistent signs a necessity. Early detection can dramatically enhance survival. Let us take a look at some of the deadliest cancers worldwide and their symptoms to watch out for Breast cancer Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer globally, affecting both women and, rarely, men. It originates in breast tissue—typically the milk ducts or lobules—and is highly treatable if detected early through screening and awareness. Symptoms: Look for a new lump in the breast or armpit, nipple discharge, skin dimpling, or redness. Persistent breast pain or changes in size and shape can also signal potential malignancy. Lung cancer Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer deaths globally. It forms in lung tissues, usually due to smoking or prolonged exposure to toxic pollutants, but is also seen in non-smokers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Düsseldorf: GEERS sucht 700 Testhörer für Hörgeräte ohne Zuzahlung GEERS Undo Symptoms: One should seek immediate attention if there is a persistent cough, chest pain, hoarseness, coughing up blood, or shortness of breath. Fatigue, weight loss, or frequent respiratory infections may also signal potential lung cancer. Colorectal cancer Colorectal cancer arises in the colon or rectum, usually from precancerous polyps. It is the third most prevalent cancer worldwide and can be prevented or cured if detected early by routine screening. Symptoms: Look for blood in the stool, alteration in bowel movements, continuing abdominal pain or cramps, weakness, or unexpected weight loss. Continuing constipation or diarrhea can also indicate early colorectal problems. Prostate cancer Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate gland in men, usually later in life. It may be slow-growing, but it will be aggressive in some instances. Screenings are important regularly, particularly after age 50. Symptoms : Trouble urinating, weak flow of urine, blood in the urine or semen, and pain in the pelvis are symptoms. More progressed stages can produce bone pain or erectile dysfunction. Stomach (Gastric) cancer Cancer of the stomach develops in the lining of the stomach, frequently associated with long-term Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, or dietary factors. It is more prevalent in East Asia, Eastern Europe, and South America. Symptoms : Indigestion, bloating after meals, nausea, abdominal pain, and unexplained loss of weight are typical. In advanced stages, vomiting blood or black stools can occur. Liver cancer Liver cancer most commonly begins as hepatocellular carcinoma and is frequently due to chronic infections with hepatitis B or C, alcoholism, or fatty liver disease. It occurs more commonly in Asia and Africa. Common symptoms: observe upper abdominal discomfort or bloating, jaundice (yellow eyes or skin), weight loss, weakness, and darkened urine. Loss of appetite and nausea can also be present. The importance of vigilance Many of these cancers develop silently, presenting symptoms only after the disease has progressed significantly, in the stages where there is no going back. This highlights the necessity of routine health checkups, timely screenings, and paying attention to persistent bodily changes. According to the WHO, early detection combined with effective treatment significantly increases the chances of survival. Recognizing the signs and acting on them promptly can save lives. When it comes to cancer, awareness isn't just power—it's protection. Learn to prioritize your health; it is the only wealth that matters. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
NDTV
10-06-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Indians Are Most Prone To These Cancers
Certain cancers are more prevalent among Indians due to a combination of genetic factors, lifestyle habits, dietary patterns, environmental exposures, and healthcare access. For example, high rates of tobacco use contribute to oral and lung cancers, while dietary habits low in fiber and high in refined carbs are linked to gastrointestinal cancers. Limited awareness, delayed diagnosis, and cultural stigmas around cancer also play a role in poor outcomes. Moreover, factors like pollution, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, infections and lack of regular screenings make some cancer types more common in the Indian population. Below we discuss most common cancers in Indians. 10 Cancers Indians are most prone to 1. Oral cancer India has one of the highest rates of oral cancer globally, largely due to the widespread use of tobacco in both smoking and smokeless forms (gutka, pan masala, khaini). Poor oral hygiene and alcohol consumption also contribute, and lack of early detection often worsens outcomes. 2. Breast cancer Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Indian women. Urbanisation, sedentary lifestyles, hormonal imbalances, late pregnancies, and a lack of breastfeeding are key contributors. Limited awareness and delayed screenings often lead to late-stage diagnosis. 3. Cervical cancer Cervical cancer remains a significant burden among Indian women, especially in rural areas. It's primarily caused by persistent infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Lack of access to HPV vaccines and routine Pap smears increases the risk and severity of this preventable cancer. 4. Lung cancer Lung cancer in India is strongly associated with tobacco smoking, air pollution, and second-hand smoke exposure. With rising pollution in urban areas and a spike in cigarette use among both men and women, lung cancer rates are steadily increasing. 5. Stomach cancer Stomach cancer is more common in some Indian states due to high consumption of pickled, spicy, and salted foods, poor refrigeration, and Helicobacter pylori infections. Lifestyle and sanitation factors also play a role in elevating risk. 6. Colorectal cancer Colorectal cancer is rising in India, especially in urban regions. Diets low in fibre, high in red and processed meats, sedentary lifestyles, and obesity contribute significantly. It's often detected late due to minimal screening efforts. 7. Prostate cancer Prostate cancer cases are increasing among older Indian men due to longer life expectancy and improved detection. However, awareness remains low, and early symptoms are often mistaken for benign conditions, delaying diagnosis. 8. Oesophageal cancer Oesophageal cancer is common in India, especially in the "oesophageal cancer belt" regions like Kashmir and Assam. Contributing factors include hot tea consumption, tobacco, alcohol, nutritional deficiencies, and fungal-contaminated food. 9. Liver cancer Liver cancer in India is commonly linked to chronic infections with Hepatitis B and C, excessive alcohol use, and fatty liver disease. Poor vaccination coverage and lack of liver health monitoring increase susceptibility. 10. Ovarian cancer Among Indian women, ovarian cancer is one of the deadliest gynaecological cancers due to vague symptoms and lack of early detection methods. Genetic predisposition, lifestyle changes, and hormonal imbalances contribute to its increasing incidence. Understanding what cancers are most common in Indians can help in prevention and early diagnosis. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
Medscape
05-06-2025
- General
- Medscape
Anemia in a Heavy Smoker
Editor's Note: The Case Challenge series includes difficult-to-diagnose conditions, some of which are not frequently encountered by most clinicians, but are nonetheless important to accurately recognize. Test your diagnostic and treatment skills using the following patient scenario and corresponding questions. If you have a case that you would like to suggest for a future Case Challenge, please email us at ccsuggestions@ with the subject line "Case Challenge Suggestion." We look forward to hearing from you. Background and Initial Presentation A 40-year-old man presents to the emergency department with complaints of repeated vomiting and dizziness for the past 2 days. He has no fever or diarrhea. He has been experiencing dyspepsia and abdominal fullness after meals for a month. These symptoms have increased during this time, causing him to decrease his food intake week by week. He has tried over-the-counter drugs, such as antacids and pantoprazole, with no effect. This condition has been associated with epigastric pain; his general practitioner tested him for Helicobacter pylori , which was negative. The patient has been a heavy smoker for the past 15 years, smoking one pack per day. Since his symptoms began, he has tried to quit smoking using nicotine patches. He attributed his dyspepsia to the use of the nicotine patch, considering his negative H pylori test. He therefore decreased the duration of his nicotine patch use, but his symptoms only minimally improved. He has also experienced easy fatigability over the past 4 months. He noted that at times during the previous month, his eyes have become yellow. His family history shows that his father died of colon cancer in his 50s. The patient's presentation is suspicious for hemolytic anemia, so it will be important to confirm this with a Coombs test and a peripheral blood smear for schistocytes.[1] ESR and CRP and GGT levels will not help diagnose the cause of hemolytic anemia. Physical Examination and Workup Examination: Blood pressure: 100/60 mm Hg Pulse: 95 beats/min Temperature: 37.5 °C (99.5 °F) General examination: Pallor of the inner lips; hand creases apparent, not faded Abdominal examination: Splenomegaly Laboratory investigations: Sodium: 130 mEq/L (range, 135-145) Potassium: 3 mEq/L (range, 3.5-5.2) Creatinine: 1.5 mg/dl (range, 0.7-1.3) Blood urea nitrogen: 50 mg/dL (range, 6-24) Coombs test: 3+ (range, 0-4) Hemoglobin: 9 g/dL (range for men, 13.2-16.6) Calcium level: 9 mg/dL (range, 8.5-10.2) Complete blood film shows schistocytes count of 6% (range, normal is < 0.5%, although usual values are < 0.2%) Mean corpuscular volume: 90 fl (range, 80-100) Platelet: 150,000/µL (range, 150,000-450,000) White blood cells: 6000/µL (range, 4,500-11,000) ESR: 120 mm/hr (range for men, < 50 years old: < 15) CRP: 70 mg/dL (range, < 0.3) A CT of the abdomen with contrast was taken, showing the lesions in Figure 1. Figure 1. Abdominal CT with contrast showing lesions. MAHA as a paraneoplastic syndrome in infiltrative gastric cancer is the most likely diagnosis. MAHA as a paraneoplastic syndrome is a rare presentation of metastatic gastric cancer, with only about 50 cases documented in the literature. MAHA is caused by tumor-associated thrombotic microangiopathy and is considered an oncologic emergency.[2] It is associated with poor prognosis.[3] In one single-center analysis, most of the patients with MAHA showed infiltrative diffuse gastric cancer with partial or complete signet ring cellular morphology. All patients had metastatic disease at the time of presentation of MAHA, either at first diagnosis or recurrence.[2] Gastric cancer (GC) is a major cause of cancer-related deaths, mostly due to diagnosis at advanced stages of the disease;[4] it is often asymptomatic in the early stages.[5] Asymptomatic cancers can present with nonspecific paraneoplastic symptoms such as anemia or endocrine disturbances. Rapid development of pernicious anemia due to adenocarcinoma of the stomach has been reported in the literature.[6] Advanced GC symptoms may include iron deficiency anemia.[5] Anemia due to bleeding in cancers presents as microcytic anemia with low iron and ferritin levels (although ferritin can be elevated as part of the immune response to cancer).[7] Anemia due to malabsorption is usually due to deficiencies of B12 or folate causing macrocytic anemia or to iron malabsorption causing microcytic anemia.[7,8] In this patient, the Coombs test result was positive for hemolytic anemia, and the blood smear indicated elevated schistocytes. His anemia is normocytic hemolytic anemia due to destruction of the red blood cells with elevated lactate dehydrogenase and schistocytes. The presence of clear invasive GC provides a cause of his anemia. In the CT of the abdomen with contrast (Figure 1), circumferential wall thickening up to 15 mm was seen throughout the stomach. Multiple enlarged pathologic lymph nodes were noted perigastric, peripancreatic, within the porta-hepatis, and para-aortic. The largest was seen at porta hepatis measuring 30 x 14 mm. Mild ascites was present. The liver echo pattern was inhomogeneous with multiple bilobar hypodense non-enhancing hepatic focal lesions: one in segment VI/VII measuring 8 x 7 mm and the other in segment III subcapsular exophytic lesion measuring 14 x 12 mm. An upper GI endoscopy was performed and biopsies were taken. Endoscopy showed thickened mucosa of the stomach with decreased gastric rugae and volume (Figure 2). Figure 2. Upper GI endoscopy showing thickened stomach mucosa with decreased gastric rugae and volume. The pathology report of the gastric antral biopsies showed diffuse signet ring cellular morphology stage III. Of note, in all newly diagnosed patients with GC, testing for microsatellite instability (MSI) status by PCR/next-generation sequencing or mismatch repair status by immunohistochemistry is recommended.[4] Testing for MSI status also should be done in patients with locally advanced and unresectable or metastatic GC to tailor treatment.[5] Signet ring cell cancer grade 3 usually shows recurrence within 2 years after standard treatment of radical surgery and chemotherapy. Signet ring cell cancer is often chemoresistant; even the use of adjuvant chemotherapy is controversial.[9] Adequate surgical resection is considered the main therapeutic option for signet ring cell GC;[10] surgery is recommended for appropriate metastatic GC candidates.[4] Advanced GC signet ring cell type is treated with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU);[11] for stage III, the treatment regimen is chemotherapy with a 5-FU-based combination.[2] For patients who are candidates for treatment with PD-1 inhibitors, PD-L1 testing may be considered. A specimen with a combined positive score ≥ 1 is viewed as exhibiting PD-L1 expression.[4] The patient was referred to surgery for a radical gastrectomy. After 1 month, he started chemotherapy with a 5-FU-based combination. After completing his 13-month course of chemotherapy, the patient began to experience cough and dyspnea. He presented to the emergency department with cyanosis and severe dyspnea. On examination, his temperature was normal but his oxygen saturation was 70%, and there was decreased air entry on both sides of the chest. A chest radiograph demonstrated bilateral pleural effusion. Chest CT with contrast was performed to exclude metastasis (Figure 3). The chest CT showed bilateral encysted pleural effusion with mild pericardial effusion. The lungs exhibited areas of atelectasis in relation to the effusion. Lung biopsies confirmed metastasis. Figure 3. Chest CT with contrast showing bilateral encysted pleural effusion. The findings indicated recurrence with metastatic presentation. Because of the late stage of disease and the type of tumor, the oncologist recommended personalized palliative immunotherapy to prolong survival and improve the patient's general condition. Immunotherapy options for GC include immunomodulators, checkpoint inhibitors,[4,5,12] and vaccines targeting the tumor.[12] The patient has recurrent disease following treatment with a 5-FU-containing regimen, and he had received a radical gastrectomy when he presented at stage III. His dyspnea is considered a rare presentation of GC, although it can occur in cases of pulmonary metastasis, pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis, or pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy.[13] Immunotherapy for signet ring cell GC includes immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting PD-1 and PD-L1. In selected cases of signet ring cell cancer, where MSI is high with deficient mismatch repair proteins, immunotherapy with PD-1 could be effective.[10] PD-1 and PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors decrease T-cell tolerance to the tumor cells, enhancing the body's adaptive immune response against cancer cells.[12] This patient had high MSI and started PD-1 inhibitor immunotherapy. His pulmonary symptoms improved, with decreased dyspnea and fatigue and increased oxygen saturation. Later chest CT showed absence of pleural effusion and pericardial effusion, and the metastatic nodules regressed. Signet ring cell GC comprises about 17% of primary gastric tumors.[14,15] Patients with signet ring cell gastric carcinoma usually exhibit higher TNM staging at presentation as compared with patients with non-signet ring cell tumors.[15] More patients with signet cell GC receive chemotherapy than those with non-signet cell cancer. Bone metastasis was higher in patients with signet ring cell cancer as compared with those with non-signet ring cell cancer GC in a large cohort (> 36,000) of GC patients.[15] First-line treatment for stage IV signet ring cell cancer includes palliative chemotherapy with docetaxel-5-FU-oxaliplatin. If the patient has stage IV disease at diagnosis, radical gastrectomy with chemotherapy (13 months) provides longer survival than chemotherapy alone (7 months).[14] However, in the REGATTA trial, palliative gastrectomy in stage IV disease did not provide any survival benefit over chemotherapy alone.[16] PD-1 inhibitor immunotherapy may be effective in patients with signet ring cell cancer with high MSI and deficient tumor mismatch repair.[10] As noted previously, PD-1 and PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors decrease T-cell tolerance to the tumor cells, enhancing the body's adaptive immune response against cancer cells.[12] Although the patient's chest CT showed bilateral pleural effusion, that is not a prognostic marker for PD-1 inhibitor response. As noted earlier, signet ring cell cancer is often chemoresistant, and grade 3 usually shows recurrence within 2 years after the standard treatment of radical surgery and chemotherapy,[17] neither of which are prognostic markers for PD-1 inhibitor response.
Hindustan Times
03-06-2025
- General
- Hindustan Times
Stress and other surprising causes of bloating: Doctors share gut health tips that could change your life
Feeling bloated or gassy is a frequent cause for complaint and many people think they have overdone it on a meal or suspect they have a touch of indigestion. While these are common suspects —particularly in those that eat a high amount of beans, lentils, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, sprouts or dairy —we have to consider a wider and sometimes more serious scope of reasons why you are feeling these symptoms. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Rajesh Bathini, Consultant – Gastroenterology at Manipal Hospital in Vijayawada, shared that while indigestion is what many people think of when they think of bloating, the problem is really more complicated. He said, 'Some foods (such as high-fiber vegetables and dairy products in those who are lactose intolerant) will provoke bloating, yes. Other gastrointestinal diseases, in particular, peptic ulcer disease, medically caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, GERD and IBS may also be involved.' He added, 'Systemic diseases, such as unstable diabetes, thyroid or medication complications (aspirin or iron supplements) also interfere with the clinical view and conditions such as heart failure or heart attacks may, occasionally, have symptoms that are more related to just abdominal bloating. Symptom onset can rarely be an indicator of underlying gastrointestinal cancers, such as esophageal, gastric or pancreatic, when the presentation is limited to a mere bloated sensation prior to the progression to more specific manifestations.' Bringing his expertise to the same, Dr Gyanaranjan Rout, Consultant – Medical Gastroenterologist in Bhubaneswar, pointed out that while dietary factors such as overeating, chewing gum or drinking carbonated beverages are common triggers, chronic bloating could be a symptom of a larger issue. He revealed, 'Bloating could also be a sign of IBS, lactose intolerance, celiac disease or SIBO. Hormonal imbalances, especially in women, is another reason that may cause one to bloat. Less frequently acknowledged is the contribution of psychological stress and anxiety that can cause distress to affect the gastrointestinal physiology and symptoms.' According to Dr Anurag Shetty, Consultant – Medical Gastroenterology at KMC Hospital in Mangalore's Dr BR Ambedkar Circle, gas and bloating are two issues commonly perceived as nuisances connected to diet and are a result of a complicated web of body mechanics. He explained, 'Gut-brain axis dysfunction in IBS stimulates visceral hypersensitivity, so that normal gas volumes feel inappropriately unpleasant.' Dr Anurag Shetty elaborated, 'Malabsorptive conditions, such as lactose intolerance, can ferment poorly digested food which can give rise to more gas. Furthermore, disrupted gut motility as observed in chronic constipation can lead to fermentation and bloating. Hormonal changes such as those associated with menstruation or menopause very often cause the women to retain water and feel bloated.' Dr Rajesh Bathini advised that any patient with new or worsening symptoms — particularly with warning signs such as unplanned weight loss, fatigue, loss of appetite or anemia — should promptly seek medical care. Dr Gyanaranjan Rout suggested, 'Changes in lifestyle, including keeping a food diary, drinking plenty of water, physical exercise and stress management can identify triggers and offer relief but if they do not help, you may need to consult your doctor to make sure a more serious underlying condition is not responsible for your pain.' Abdominal bloating can be quite harmless but if it persists or you are experiencing more unpleasant symptoms, then don't ignore it. However, the key is knowing when symptoms point to something more serious. Listening to your instincts and acting fast to consult with a medical professional can help to make a very real difference in staying on top of your health. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
