The Indian Practitioner

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Overview and Addressing Concerns

2025-02-13T11:37:35+00:00

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus similar to many other respiratory viruses, and known to cause seasonal outbreaks of acute respiratory infection (ARI), peaking in late winter to early spring. Symptoms like cough, fever, and nasal congestion are seen, similar to the common cold, and sometimes flu-like symptoms and lower respiratory infection can occur especially in very young children or those with chronic respiratory, medical or immunosuppressive conditions. However, hospitalization rates are low and long-term sequelae not seen. Most children are infected by the age of 5 years, but reinfections can occur anytime throughout life. Supportive and symptomatic care usually leads to recovery in around a week. HMPV is an old known virus and has not shown potential to become a pandemic. Therefore, it should not be looked at with the eye of the COVID experience, and all such misplaced information and fear-spreading on media should be curbed. However, the community especially the high-risk groups should always be reminded and guided of general health, hygienic and lifestyle practices that protect against respiratory infections.

Medi Matters

2025-02-13T11:37:36+00:00

Clinical acceptability of SOREZE GEL in Pressure Ulcers: Results from a Pilot Study

2025-02-13T11:37:36+00:00

Introduction: Pressure ulcers (PU), commonly addressed as ‘bed sores’, are a considerable burden of disease and have been one of the important causes of morbidity and mortality among elderly patients. Methods: In a pilot study comprising 21 days, an innovative barrier-film-forming gel (SOREZE ® gel) was used on patients with varying degrees of severity of multiple pressure ulcers. This novel skin protectant gel contains silicone elastomers, polysiloxane, and starch using patented EPB (Elastomer Potentiated Barrier) technology that forms a protective film. Results: In this study, twice daily application was safe and effective. The mean total Braden score across all subjects was 15.8 at baseline and increased to 16.2 at the end of this treatment. There was a reduction in pain with a change in baseline VAS score from 3.15 to 2.92 at the end of the 21-day application. No adverse events were reported during the entire study period. None of the patients reported any hypersensitive skin reactions. No new pressure ulcers were formed and none of the subjects deteriorated during the 21-day application period.
Conclusion: The pilot experiment results demonstrated some improvement in pressure ulcers and prevention of pressure ulcers, as new pressure ulcers did not occur in the sensitive areas using SOREZE gel.

Is India Ready For ‘Posthumous Presumed Consent’ For Corneal Retrieval?

2025-02-13T11:37:37+00:00

The Government of India is considering introduction of posthumous presumed consent for corneal retrieval as a way to address the gap between the demand and availability of corneal tissues to combat correctable blindness. While countries like Spain and Austria have successfully increased donation rates through such laws, India faces peculiar challenges in adopting this system. These include religious diversity, socio-cultural sensitivities, and public mistrust due to past incidents of tissue and organ trafficking etc to name a few. Transparency, public awareness, and community engagement are essential to foster acceptance of presumed consent in a culturally diverse nation like India. While the opt-in model remains the preferred approach, implementing presumed consent requires careful groundwork, including legislative reforms, public education, and pilot projects in selected regions before it can be introduced nationwide.

Benefits, Myths, and Acceptability of Yoga

2025-02-13T11:37:37+00:00

Yoga, an ancient practice originating from India, has gained global attention due to its numerous benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Yoga is a holistic science that is aligned with principles of health promotion and self-care of the body and mind. Regular yoga practice has been found to improve flexibility and range of motion, improve strength, and thereby reduce the risk of injuries and their consequences. Yoga incorporates certain specific breathing techniques and meditation, which have proven benefits in reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation. Yoga may be a spiritual path that helps people grow personally and find their purpose in life for those who regularly do it. Yoga is advantageous for all genders, age groups, religions, or socioeconomic groups and anybody may do it under proper guidance. The Global community, including medical professionals, recognizes its therapeutic value, and various sectors, including workplaces and educational institutions, have embraced yoga as a means to enhance overall health and productivity. By incorporating yoga into their daily routines, individuals can experience the transformative effects of this ancient practice.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A PHILOSOPHICAL CONSTRUCTIN EVALUATINGPSYCHIATRIC SYMPTOMS- Part 1 (Personality problems)

2025-02-13T11:37:37+00:00

The article emphasizes the interplay between philosophy and psychiatry, exploring how psychiatric disorders challenge the understanding of personal identity, responsibility, and human flourishing. It highlights the need for a humanist approach in psychiatry, integrating neurobiological insights with philosophical perspectives on mental states, actions, and therapy. The author reflects on how mental illness reshapes identity, urging mental health professionals to recognize the person behind the disorder. By addressing unresolved philosophical questions, the article advocates for advancing humane and effective psychiatric care. This is the first part of the series

Interview with Pulmonologists for Insights on Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)

2025-02-13T11:37:38+00:00

The untimely demise of renowned percussionist Zakir Hussain has refocused attention to Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), a chronic and progressive lung disease of unknown origin. Leading pulmonologists Dr. Salil Bendre, Dr. Desh Deepak, and Dr. Viral Nanda have addressed key questions posed by The Indian Practitioner to raise awareness about this condition. Their insights provide an in-depth understanding of the disease, including its risk factors, symptoms, diagnostic tools, treatment modalities, and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. Additionally, they emphasize the need for further research into innovative therapies and healthcare policies to improve patient outcomes and extend life expectancy in individuals affected by IPF.

Nutraceuticals

2025-02-13T11:37:38+00:00

Ayush / Alternative Medicine

2025-02-13T11:37:38+00:00

Medi Devices / Medtech

2025-02-13T11:37:38+00:00