Men better watch out for these Symptoms Early!

Complete Guide to STD Panel Testing and Benefits

Your doctor might have prescribed STD panel testing. So, where should you get the testing done? Find a reliable clinic to undergo the test. You will require a valid doctor’s prescription to order the test. The lab technician will want to know the samples to be taken for the test. It helps the doctor to check to determine positivity for STD diseases. Men and women may contract infections like HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, and Syphilis.

How to test?

• Your doctor might prescribe a variety of examinations to diagnose the problem. Usually, they specify the test based on the patient’s personal requirements and sexual history. Some common testing procedures are:
• Urine and Blood examination: These are common tests conducted to determine the presence of STDs. The lab technician might prick the finger or the arm to draw blood. On the other hand, you may have to pee into a cup for a urine sample. However, based on the STD type, the tests might not offer accurate results compared to other testing methods.
• Physical exam: The doctor might conduct a simple physical examination to identify bumps, blisters, or sore development in the body. Such irregularities might indicate sexually transmitted infections. Samples might be necessary from these parts to conduct the test and confirm the symptoms. 
• HPV and Pap Smear exam: The doctor could prescribe a Pap smear exam to determine cervical or anal cancer symptoms. Although such tests might not indicate an STD, abnormal Pap smear results may require further HPV tests. Remember, Pap smear examinations do not immediately indicate cancer or STD. Some abnormal results could be resolved without treatment. 
• Swabs: The doctor may apply swabs inside the mouth, in the urethral, or the vaginal areas. For pelvic examination, they use a cotton swab in the cervix or anal region. Swabs help diagnose infectious viruses or bacteria. The test helps identify the exact problems and avail the correct treatment.

Can you conduct STD tests at home?

Yes, you can buy home testing kits to conduct tests at home. It provides convenience, comfort, and privacy. However, they are prone to improper administration or possible contamination. Hence, the results derived could be false-negative or false-positive. Visit a reputed clinic to receive accurate results. You will have peace of mind and proper treatment.

Time taken to receive the results

You have to deposit the samples to the clinic and wait a couple of days or a week to receive a detailed report. You are to show the report to your doctor. They will examine it thoroughly and determine if it is positive or negative. Fortunately, some STDs are curable. Hence, don’t panic. Talk to the doctor about potential treatment options.

When should you receive an STD test?

Sexually active men and women should get semi-frequent STD testing. Immediate testing might be necessary for diverse reasons. It can be having multiple partners or a new partner, neither of you using condoms, or your partner having an affair. It could also be that one of you exhibits STD symptoms. Whatever the case, visit a clinic at the earliest and get tested. 

10 Pre & Post-Holi Common Illnesses and Skincare Tips: Protect Your Skin This Holi

10 Common Diseases and Skin Care Issues People Face During Holi:

1. Allergic Reactions: Exposure to harsh chemicals in colours can lead to allergic reactions, causing skin rashes, itching, and redness. In severe cases, it may lead to hives or eczema.

2. Eye Infections: Colours containing toxic substances can cause irritation, redness, or infections in the eyes if they come in contact. It is common to see cases of conjunctivitis post-Holi.

3. Respiratory Issues: Inhaling chemical particles from the colours during festivities can trigger respiratory problems like asthma attacks, sneezing, coughing, or shortness of breath.

4. Dehydration: Prolonged exposure to the sun, coupled with physical exertion during celebrations, can lead to dehydration. Signs include dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, and dark-coloured urine.

5. Digestive Problems: Consumption of unhealthy food items or adulterated drinks during Holi can lead to digestive issues like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or vomiting.

6. Sunburn: Prolonged exposure to the sun during Holi can cause sunburn, characterized by redness, pain, and peeling of the skin. This can increase the risk of skin cancer in the long run.

7. Heat Stroke: High temperatures during the festival can lead to heat stroke, a serious condition characterized by symptoms like high body temperature, rapid pulse, dizziness, and confusion.

8. Injuries: Improper handling of colours, water balloons, or playing with water jets can lead to physical injuries like cuts, bruises, sprains, or fractures.

9. Infections: Playing with water mixed with colours can increase the risk of bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infections leading to conditions like dermatitis or fungal skin infections.

10. Fatigue: Participating in energetic activities during Holi can lead to fatigue and muscle soreness post-celebrations due to physical exertion.

11. Sunburn: Prolonged exposure to the sun during outdoor Holi celebrations can cause sunburn.

12. Rashes: Skin rashes can develop due to sensitivity or allergic reaction to Holi colours.

13. Dehydration: Increased activities during Holi can lead to dehydration if adequate fluids are not consumed.

14. Infections: Open wounds or cuts on the skin can get infected due to exposure to colours and dirt during Holi.

15. Acne flare-ups: Certain chemicals in the colours may clog pores and lead to acne breakouts.

16. Hair damage: Excessive exposure to colours and harsh chemicals can damage the hair, leading to dryness and breakage.

Holi Skin Care Tips and Hair Care Hacks During the Festival:

1. Moisturize: Apply a generous amount of moisturizer on your skin before stepping out to prevent the harsh colours from penetrating and drying out your skin.

2. Oil Your Hair: Massage your scalp with coconut or olive oil to create a protective layer, making it easier to wash off colours post-celebrations.

3. Cover Exposed Areas: Wear full-sleeved clothes, caps, and sunglasses to shield your skin and eyes from direct exposure to colours and sunlight.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after playing Holi to prevent dehydration and keep your skin hydrated.

5. Use Herbal Colours: Opt for organic and herbal colours that are skin-friendly and less likely to cause allergies or irritations.

6. Protect Your Eyes: Wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from chemical colours or any other harmful substances that may come in contact.

7. Post-Holi Skincare: After playing Holi, avoid harsh soaps to remove colours. Instead, use a mild cleanser and lukewarm water to wash off the colours gently.

8. Avoid Scrubbing: Do not vigorously scrub your skin to remove colours as it can lead to abrasions or further skin damage. Instead, opt for a gentle exfoliating scrub.

9. Apply Aloe Vera: Aloe vera gel can help soothe any skin irritations caused by colours and provide a cooling effect to reduce inflammation.

10. Consult a Doctor: In case of allergic reactions, severe skin rashes, or eye irritations post-Holi, seek medical help immediately to prevent any complications.

Post Holi Tips:

Holi Special Skin care tips to follow after Holi celebrations:

1. Avoid scrubbing the skin vigorously to remove Colours, as it can further irritate the skin.

2. Use mild cleansers and lukewarm water to wash off Colours gently.

3. Moisturize the skin well after cleansing to restore moisture and prevent dryness.

4. Apply a soothing lotion or aloe vera gel to calm any skin irritation or redness.

5. Avoid using harsh chemicals or exfoliants immediately after Holi.

6. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo to remove Colour and use a nourishing hair mask to restore moisture.

7. Use cold compresses for any eye irritation and consult a doctor if symptoms persist.

8. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to flush out toxins from the body.

9. Wear loose and comfortable clothing to prevent further irritation to the skin.

10. If any skin issues persist or worsen, consult a dermatologist for appropriate treatment.

Remember, taking care of your skin before and after Holi celebrations is crucial to avoid common illnesses and protect your skin from damage caused by colours and sun exposure.

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Struggling with Acidity issues? Try tried-&-tested Home Remedies

Acidity, also known as acid reflux or heartburn, occurs due to the reflux of stomach acid into the oesophagus, leading to symptoms like chest pain, burning sensation in the chest or throat, and a sour taste in the mouth. While there are various over-the-counter medications available to alleviate acidity, there are also several tried and tested home remedies that you can try. Here are some home remedies for acidity:

1. Ginger: Ginger is well-known for its digestive properties and can help alleviate acidity. You can consume it in various forms: chewing on raw ginger, drinking ginger tea, or adding ginger to your meals.

2. Apple cider vinegar: Despite its acidic nature, apple cider vinegar can help balance the pH levels in the stomach and prevent acid reflux. Mix one tablespoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it before meals.

3. Aloe vera juice: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the oesophagus and reduce acidity. Drink half a cup of aloe vera juice before meals to prevent acid reflux.

4. Baking soda: Baking soda acts as a natural antacid, neutralizing stomach acid and providing relief from heartburn. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it to help alleviate acidity.

5. Bananas: Bananas are a natural antacid and can help neutralize stomach acid. They also contain compounds that promote the production of mucus in the stomach, which can help protect the stomach lining from acid.

6. Chamomile tea: Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing acidity and promoting digestion. Drink a cup of chamomile tea after meals for relief.

7. Licorice: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a form of licorice that can help soothe the stomach lining and reduce acidity. You can take DGL supplements or chew on DGL tablets before meals.

8. Slippery elm: Slippery elm is a herb that can help coat and soothe the oesophagus and stomach lining, reducing acidity and heartburn. You can take it in supplement form or drink slippery elm tea.

9. Elevate your head while sleeping: Elevating your head while sleeping can help prevent acid reflux by keeping your upper body elevated and reducing the likelihood of stomach acid flowing back into the oesophagus.

10. Lifestyle modifications: In addition to home remedies, making certain lifestyle changes can also help prevent and alleviate acidity. Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down after eating, and maintaining a healthy weight are important steps in managing acidity.

While these home remedies can provide relief from occasional acidity, if you experience frequent or severe symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Acidity, or acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the oesophagus, causing discomfort and a burning sensation. Here are some common causes of acidity in detail:

1. Faulty Eating Habits: Eating large meals or lying down right after a meal can cause acidity. Overeating, eating spicy or fatty foods, and consuming caffeine, alcohol, or carbonated drinks can also trigger acidity.

2. Hiatal Hernia: This condition occurs when a part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. It can lead to acid reflux as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) malfunctions.

3. Obesity: Excess weight puts pressure on the abdomen and can cause the LES to open, allowing stomach acid to reflux into the oesophagus.

4. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause the LES to relax, leading to acid reflux.

5. Smoking: Smoking weakens the LES and stimulates the production of stomach acid, increasing the risk of acidity.

6. Certain Medications: Some medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, certain muscle relaxants, and blood pressure medications, can contribute to acid reflux.

7. Medical Conditions: Conditions like gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and gastritis can increase the likelihood of acidity.

8. Stress and Anxiety: Emotional distress can affect digestion and trigger acidity.

9. Lying down or bending over: These positions can allow stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus more easily.

10. Eating Too Late at Night: Eating close to bedtime can trigger acidity as lying down shortly after eating can cause stomach acid to reflux.

It's essential to identify the specific causes of acidity in an individual as triggers can vary from person to person. Lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and medications can help manage and reduce acidity symptoms. If you experience chronic or severe acidity, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

While these home remedies can provide relief from occasional acidity, if you experience frequent or severe symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Manipal TRUtest offers a wide range of diagnostic services with assured quality, accuracy, and trust backed by 70 years of Manipal legacy.  You can easily schedule a blood test such as Diabetes profile test, HbA1c, CBC, Kidney Function Test, Lipid Profile, Liver Function Test, Vitamin Test. Thyroid Profile. through our WhatsApp Chatbot, Mobile App, or Website. We also provide the convenience of a Home Sample Collection, where a highly qualified phlebotomist will visit you in the comfort of your home. 

Reference Links:

https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/acidity-home-remedies-digestive-issues-7901099/

https://www.india.com/lifestyle/acidity-gastric-problems-home-remedies-try-these-proven-home-remedies-by-expert-5424708/

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