Doc Talk | Trying To Conceive? How Fertility Stress Can Affect Your Mental Health

Doc Talk | Eating Too Much Ghevar This Raksha Bandhan? Doctor Explains Its Impact On Health

Dr Nishant Raizada — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 14:30:44 +0530

Raksha Bandhan comes with a lot of beloved traditions and one such tradition is a giant box of ghevar in many parts of North India. This confection, soaked in sugar syrup and often sprinkled with rabri, malai, nuts or silver leaf, is honeycombed and deeply ingrained in the festivities. This is not about the fact that we eat ghevar once a year. That’s because we often underestimate how fast a pleasurable amount can turn into a hefty metabolic load.

Ghevar is made with concentrated sugar syrup, ghee or oil and maida (refined flour). In the Malai and Rabri varieties, an additional layer of fat and sugar is added. Traditional ghevar has between 350 and 425 calories per 100 grams, according to current nutritional estimates, but recipes and portion sizes vary widely. 600-700 calories in a good size portion of rabri or malai ghevar is more than a third of the daily energy needs of an average adult.

So it is more useful to ask: How big is the serving, what is on top of it, what else have I eaten today? Rather than: How many pieces can I eat?

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What Is A Reasonable Amount Of Ghevar?

For a healthy adult, a moderate festive portion is around 40–50g, usually a small wedge rather than a whole disc. The topping boosts the energy density of malai or rabri ghevar so it is best to limit it to 30 to 40 grams.

Those with high triglycerides, fatty liver disease, diabetes, prediabetes, obesity or polycystic ovarian syndrome should be more cautious. A lesser amount of approximately 20-30 grams may be considered only if the glucose is reasonably controlled and the patient’s physician or dietician has not advised otherwise. Some people with poorly controlled diabetes or very high triglycerides may be better off avoiding it.

There is no “safe number” of anything that has medical significance. The rest of the meal, activity, liver health, medication, body weight, and glucose control are all critical.

What Happens If You Eat Too Much Ghevar?

The first response is an increase in blood glucose. Carbohydrates are readily available in refined flour and sugar syrup but there is not much fibre to slow their absorption. The pancreas needs to secrete insulin to get this glucose from the blood into cells.

In metabolically well people, the body might be able to handle a one-off spike. But in people who are insulin-resistant, glucose levels can also remain elevated longer. May cause thirst, drowsiness, exhaustion, heavy, or excessive urination. Postprandial readings may be particularly prominent in those on glucose lowering drugs.

The fat in ghevar complicates this reaction. The dessert is fried and may contain ghee or malai or rabri which can slow down the process of digestion. In this way, blood sugar may climb rapidly and remain elevated for hours after a meal. This long and delayed response is especially important for users of insulin, who should never try to “cover” a holiday treat by changing their doses on their own.

Diabetes that was previously undiagnosed may show up with conspicuously high readings at festivals. The liver also gets the surplus.

Once immediate energy needs are satisfied and glycogen stores have been adequately replenished, surplus carbohydrates can contribute to the liver’s production of fat. Overdoing it often can make fatty liver and triglycerides worse, especially if you're not active.

The blend of refined carbohydrates and fat is extremely tasty but not in proportion to how filling it is, making it particularly easy to overconsume. In a few minutes a person can eat several hundred calories and not feel as full as they would after a meal with protein, veggies and pulses.

Overeating can also lead to acidity, bloating, nausea, or abdominal discomfort. A large, rich meal can make people with gallbladder problems, reflux illness or sensitive digestion feel especially ill.

One Celebration Or A Week Of Leftovers

For most healthy people, one small serving is probably not going to cause any lasting damage. The bigger issue is "festival spillover" - sweets eaten at home, at work, on visits and again after dinner for several days in a row.

As per the National Institute of Nutrition, the 2024 Dietary Guidelines for Indians recommends about 25 grams of sugar per day for better health. The World Health Organization recommends that for additional benefits, free sugars should be reduced to around 5% of total daily calories, which is roughly 25 grams a day. It also recommends that free sugars be kept below 10%. One syrup-soaked meal can use up or even exceed the recommended daily intake, depending on the recipe.

If you do this too often, you can end up with higher triglycerides, weight gain, insulin resistance and cavities. The health impact of cumulative exposure is greater than that of a single ceremonial bite.

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How To Eat Ghevar Smartly

Don't take it on an empty stomach. Begin with a wholesome meal that has vegetables, eggs, paneer, curd, dal or some other protein. Protein and fibre can also increase satiety and slow the speed at which a meal impacts blood sugar levels.

Plain ghevar is better than rabri or thickly layered malai types Rather than breaking off “small” pieces repeatedly, cut out one section that you specify. Share a serving. Don’t eat it with sugary drinks and don’t compensate by skipping meals during the day; severe restriction often results in overeating.

A 10 or 20-minute workout after eating can help muscles use up circulating glucose, but it won’t burn away the calories. People with diabetes may check their blood sugar as part of a regular medical routine, especially an hour or two after they start to eat. If readings are consistently high they should not be treated with unsupervised changes in medications but should be reviewed with their physician.

Don't turn Raksha Bandhan into a diet anxiety exercise. Ghevar is not a test of one’s resolution but is a part of the celebration. The most practical rule is simple: maintain the tradition, scale back the quantity, and don’t let one holiday indulgence turn into an extended period of metabolic overload.

Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

UP Reports First Swine Flu Death Of Season As 50-Year-Old Woman Dies In Lucknow

ABP Live News — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 10:39:26 +0530

Lucknow has reported its first swine flu death of the season after a 50-year-old woman from Indiranagar died while undergoing treatment at Balrampur Hospital on Thursday.

The woman had developed cold, fever and breathing difficulties a few days before her death. Her family initially took her to a private hospital, where doctors advised a swine flu test after assessing her symptoms.

A private pathology laboratory confirmed the infection in a report dated August 24. Doctors subsequently advised the family to take her to a higher medical centre. She was admitted to Balrampur Hospital on August 25.

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Woman’s Swine Flu Report Revealed After Death

According to the details available, the woman’s breathing difficulties continued to worsen after she was admitted. As her condition became critical, doctors placed her on oxygen support and life-saving equipment.

She died at around 2:30 pm on Thursday. It was only after her death that the family showed doctors the swine flu-positive report on a mobile phone.

The report prompted concern among hospital authorities. As a precautionary measure, samples were collected from patients admitted near the woman and sent for testing.

Samples Of 17 Doctors And Staff Sent To KGMU

Samples from 17 doctors and healthcare workers involved in the woman’s treatment, along with some patients, have been sent to King George’s Medical University (KGMU) for testing.

Doctors and staff members who treated the woman have also been advised to remain in isolation as a precaution.

The development has prompted the health department to begin gathering further information about the case and assessing the possibility of exposure among people who may have come into contact with the woman.

Health Department To Verify Swine Flu Diagnosis

Chief Medical Officer Dr NB Singh said officials were trying to establish which test was used to confirm the woman’s swine flu infection.

According to Singh, an ELISA test report is required for confirmation of the infection. The health department is now collecting details related to the diagnosis and the woman’s treatment.

Officials will also trace people who came into contact with the woman. The health department team will seek information about places she visited in recent days and identify people she may have interacted with.

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Family Members Advised To Stay In Isolation

Other members of the woman’s family have been advised to remain in isolation for the time being. The health department has also provided them with necessary medicines and asked them to take precautions.

Officials have advised family members and others who may have been in contact with the woman to seek medical attention immediately if they develop symptoms such as cold, fever, cough or breathing difficulties.

The health department is continuing to monitor the situation as testing and contact-tracing efforts proceed.

Morning Pranayama: Know The Benefits Of Doing Pranayama After Waking Up

ABP Live Lifestyle — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 14:37:54 +0530

Morning is often considered a good time to focus on both physical and mental well-being. Starting the day with pranayama, a yogic breathing practice, may help you feel calmer, refreshed and more focused. Pranayama involves controlled patterns of inhalation and exhalation. Practising it for a few minutes as part of your morning routine may offer several benefits. However, it is important to practise within your comfort level and avoid forceful or prolonged breathing exercises.

Helps Reduce Stress And Improve Concentration

Pranayama encourages you to focus on your breathing, which may help calm the mind and promote relaxation. Regular breathing practices can be a useful part of a routine aimed at managing everyday stress. Concentrating on slow, controlled breathing may also help improve mindfulness and focus. This can be particularly useful before starting a day of studying, working or other activities that require attention.

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Helps Refresh The Body And Support Breathing

Pranayama involves consciously controlling the pace and pattern of breathing. Regular practice can increase awareness of your breathing and may support respiratory function. Practising gentle breathing exercises in the morning may also help you feel more refreshed and reduce feelings of morning sluggishness. Some people combine pranayama with light yoga or other forms of physical activity. However, breathing exercises should always be performed comfortably. Beginners should avoid breathing too rapidly or holding their breath for long periods without proper guidance.

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May Support Better Sleep And A Healthy Routine

Relaxation and breathing exercises may help calm the body and mind, which could support better sleep for some people. Making pranayama part of a consistent morning routine can also encourage healthier daily habits. Combining it with regular physical activity, adequate hydration and a balanced breakfast can help create a more structured start to the day. If you have a respiratory condition or experience dizziness, discomfort or difficulty while practising pranayama, stop the exercise and seek appropriate medical advice. Beginners can also consider learning breathing techniques from a qualified yoga professional.

[Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not substitute for medical advice. Always consult your doctor or relevant specialist before undertaking any new activity or exercise.]

Biological Age Test: Have Your Heart And Brain Aged Faster Than Your Actual Age? Find Out

ABP Live Lifestyle — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 13:53:41 +0530

We all have a chronological age based on our date of birth. However, our organs—including the brain, heart and other vital systems—may age at a different rate. This is known as biological or organ-specific ageing. To better understand this difference, neurologist Tony Wyss-Coray and his team at Stanford University in the US have developed a blood-test approach that can estimate the biological age of 11 different organs, with particular focus on the brain. The research, published in Nature Medicine, could offer new insights into age-related health risks.

How The Test Works And What It Reveals

The test analyses specific proteins found in the blood. Since different organs release different proteins, researchers can study these protein patterns to estimate whether an organ appears biologically younger or older than expected for a person's chronological age. The research involved around 45,000 participants whose health was monitored over several years.

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Researchers found that people whose brains appeared biologically older than expected had a substantially higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. They also had a higher risk of dying during the follow-up period. In contrast, people whose brains appeared biologically younger tended to have a lower risk of death. These findings suggest that organ-age measurements could potentially help researchers identify people at higher risk of certain age-related conditions.

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Why Is This Important For Doctors And Patients?

Scientists believe organ-age testing could eventually help doctors understand how different parts of the body are ageing and identify potential health risks earlier. If further research confirms its usefulness, such information could support more personalised monitoring and preventive care. Unlike traditional genetic testing, this approach focuses on proteins circulating in the blood, potentially providing a snapshot of how the body is changing over time. However, it is important to note that the test is not currently a routine diagnostic test available in hospitals and clinics. More research is needed to determine how accurately it can predict individual health outcomes and how it could be used in medical practice. The findings nevertheless offer an encouraging direction for research into early detection of Alzheimer's disease and other age-related conditions.

Hospital Treatment: 6 Things To Know To Avoid Overcharging And Scams

ABP Live Lifestyle — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 13:43:10 +0530

Hospitalisation can be stressful, and unexpected or incorrect charges on a medical bill can add to the burden. Patients may sometimes face issues such as overcharging, unnecessary tests, or unclear billing. However, a few precautions can help you stay informed and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Ask About The Full Cost In Advance

Before getting admitted, ask the doctor or hospital staff about the estimated cost of treatment. Clarify expenses such as room rent, tests, medicines, procedures, and other charges beforehand. Check every bill carefully for additional charges. Items such as injections, gloves, masks, or other consumables may appear separately, so make sure you understand what each charge is for.

Verify Medicine Prices

Before purchasing medicines from the hospital pharmacy, ask your doctor for a prescription and check the listed prices. Where possible, compare them with prices at other licensed pharmacies. This can help you identify unusually high charges.

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Question Unnecessary Tests

If a test is recommended, ask your doctor why it is needed and how it will help with your diagnosis or treatment. Do not hesitate to seek a second medical opinion if you are unsure about an expensive or non-urgent procedure. Having health insurance does not mean every test or treatment is automatically necessary or covered. Check your policy and understand what your insurer will pay for.

Keep All Bills And Medical Records Safe

Keep copies of your bills, prescriptions, test reports, discharge summary, and other treatment-related documents. These records can be useful if you need to question a charge or raise a complaint later. It is also advisable to read your health insurance policy beforehand so you know about exclusions, limits, and covered expenses.

Know Where To Complain

If you believe you have been overcharged or have concerns about the quality of service or treatment, you can seek help through the appropriate consumer grievance mechanisms. The National Consumer Helpline can also provide guidance on consumer complaints. Medical negligence may have legal implications when professional standards are not met.

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Don't Make Decisions Under Pressure

Even during an emergency, avoid making major financial or treatment decisions based solely on pressure, rumours, or unverified claims. For costly or non-emergency procedures, ask questions, understand the available options, and seek an expert opinion when appropriate. Staying informed, checking bills and keeping proper records can help you protect yourself from avoidable expenses while ensuring you receive the treatment you need.

Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition

Swine Flu Vaccine: When Should You Get Vaccinated? Doctors Answer 10 Key Questions

ABP Live Lifestyle — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 11:45:20 +0530

Cases of H1N1, commonly known as swine flu, have risen sharply across Delhi-NCR. As of August this year, more than 1,777 cases have been reported—nearly eight times the number recorded during the same period last year. This has raised an important question: When is the right time to get the swine flu vaccine? Should people wait until October, or get vaccinated now? Let's break down what doctors and government health experts recommend.

Is There A Separate 'Swine Flu Vaccine'?

There is no separate vaccine specifically labelled for H1N1 or swine flu. H1N1 is now part of the seasonal influenza spectrum, so protection against the strain is included in seasonal flu vaccines. Rommel Tikku, senior consultant in internal medicine at Max Healthcare, Delhi, explains that people generally do not need to look for a vaccine specifically labelled "H1N1" or "swine flu." The seasonal influenza vaccine is designed to protect against influenza viruses circulating during that season, including H1N1, an influenza A strain.

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So, When Should You Get Vaccinated Against Swine Flu?

The ideal timing depends on where you live in India. Government health experts have recommended different vaccination windows for different regions based on their flu seasons.

1. October Is Recommended For Northern India

October is considered an appropriate time for vaccination in colder parts of northern India, where influenza activity generally rises during winter.

A central government expert panel involving the ICMR, NCDC and Directorate General of Health Services has recommended region-specific vaccination timings:

Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand: October
Most other mainland states: May-June
Tamil Nadu: July

These recommendations are based on regional patterns of influenza activity.

2. Missed October? Don't Panic

If you don't get vaccinated in October, there's no need to panic. Vaccination can still be useful while influenza continues to circulate.

The key is not to assume that missing the recommended month means you have missed your opportunity altogether.

3. What If You Get Vaccinated In August Or September?

With H1N1 cases increasing in Delhi-NCR, doctors say people who have not received their seasonal flu vaccine should discuss vaccination with their doctor rather than automatically waiting for October. Dr Soumya Swaminathan has advised getting vaccinated ahead of increased flu activity because the body generally takes around two weeks to develop protective immunity after vaccination. Dr RS Mishra, Principal Director of Internal Medicine at Max Healthcare, also recommends getting vaccinated at least two weeks before flu activity is expected to increase, allowing time for immunity to develop.

Does The Vaccine Provide 100% Protection?

No. Influenza vaccines do not provide complete protection against infection. Their effectiveness can vary depending on how closely the vaccine strains match the viruses circulating during a particular season. Age and an individual's immune response can also influence how well the vaccine works. However, vaccination can still reduce the risk of severe influenza, hospitalisation and complications, even when it does not completely prevent infection. Research has also found that vaccination timing can affect effectiveness. Protection may be lower when vaccination occurs several months before peak flu activity, which is one reason region-specific vaccination windows are useful in a country as geographically diverse as India.

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Why Do You Need The Flu Vaccine Every Year?

There are two main reasons:

The virus keeps changing: Influenza viruses undergo genetic changes over time. The WHO therefore updates vaccine compositions periodically to match currently circulating strains.
Protection can decrease over time: Immunity from a previous vaccination or infection can wane, while different influenza strains may circulate in subsequent seasons.

Annual vaccination helps maintain protection against the influenza viruses expected to circulate in the current season.

Should You Skip The Vaccine If You've Already Had H1N1?

No. Having had H1N1 in the past does not guarantee protection against future influenza infections. Different strains can circulate from one season to another, and immunity can decrease over time. For this reason, eligible people are generally advised to consider seasonal influenza vaccination each year in consultation with their healthcare provider.

Can You Get Vaccinated If You Have A Mild Cold?

Generally, yes. A mild illness or common cold is not usually a reason to delay vaccination. However, if you have a high fever, are moderately or severely unwell, or have another significant illness, speak with your doctor about whether it is better to postpone vaccination until you recover.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]

Skin Cancer Vaccine: How Does It Work? Know How This New Treatment Could Help Fight Skin Cancer

ABP Live Lifestyle — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 19:46:28 +0530

Melanoma is a dangerous form of skin cancer. A personalised mRNA therapy from Moderna and Merck is currently being discussed for its treatment. It is considered a game-changer in cancer treatment. This vaccine, developed by two pharmaceutical companies, Merck and Moderna, is called Intismeeran Autogene (4157/V940). The unique feature is that it is tailored to each patient based on their tumor information. Its purpose is to help the body's immune system recognise specific cancer markers present in that patient's tumor.

Therapy Will Be Based On The Tumor.

Its approach is quite different from a typical vaccine. A sample of the patient's tumor is taken to identify the changes present in it. Neoantigens are then selected that the immune system can use to recognise cancer cells. Personalised mRNA therapy is developed based on this information. Its purpose is to train the body's immune system to recognise these specific hallmarks of cancer and help attack such cells. This is not a vaccine that can be administered to healthy people like a typical vaccine to protect them from cancer.

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Got Better Results

This therapy has been tested in combination with Merckki's Keytruda, pembrolizumab, in patients with high-risk stage III and IV melanoma whose tumors were completely removed by surgery. In approximately 5-year follow-up data released in 2026, the combination of V940 and Keytruda reduced the risk of cancer recurrence or death by 49% compared to Keytruda alone. The risk of distant cancer spread or death was also reduced by 59%.

Not Approved For General Patients

It's important to understand one important point here: V940 is currently an investigational therapy, meaning it's undergoing clinical trials and hasn't been approved as a standard treatment for all melanoma patients. The Phase 3 INTerpath 001 trial is investigating its safety and efficacy in high-risk melanoma. The study aims to enroll approximately 1,089 patients.

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How Will The Body Recognise Cancer?

The most remarkable feature of this therapy is its personalised approach. Instead of creating a single drug that's exactly the same for every patient, it's designed based on specific changes in the tumor. This is why it's being seen as a new direction in cancer treatment. However, it's still too early to call it a definitive vaccine for melanoma. Only further trials will reveal its effectiveness and effectiveness in different patients.

Doc Talk | H1N1 Beyond The Lungs: How Influenza Can Affect The Brain And Nervous System

Dr. Atampreet Singh — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 16:31:00 +0530

Fever, cough, muscle aches and breathlessness are the more characteristic symptoms of influenza or flu, other individuals can have nervous system involvement during their illness. It is not a frequent cause of 'flu' but it does occur sometimes in children, the elderly and those with other medical conditions.

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How H1N1 Can Affect The Brain And Nervous System

The nervous system and brain are often affected as part of the infection or of the bodily response to the virus. These signs and symptoms of neurological involvement can be influenced by high fever, dehydration, low blood oxygen levels, and the immune response. Individuals may have headaches, dizziness, confusion, increased drowsiness and changes in their behavior. Seizures occur in some individuals especially those with high temperature fever.

Neurological Symptoms And Rare Complications Of Influenza

Rare but significant complications like encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) have also been documented after infection with 'flu'. It has also been documented rarely in patients with encephalopathy (malfunctioning of the brain) whereby they develop disturbances of consciousness, confusion, abnormal behavior. Muscle inflammation is common, and sometimes (rarely) other problems involving the nervous system with movement abnormalities or loss of neurological function have been reported.

Warning Signs That Need Immediate Medical Attention

It does not mean that every headache or dizzy turn whilst you have 'flu' has a nervous system problem associated with it as most individuals recovering from flu are fine. Warning signs are anything which is unusual or are serious, or which are progressing in severity.

These warning signs from a neurological perspective and that are of concern include significant confusion, difficulty keepingawake, seizures, abnormalities in behaviour, weakness of either limbs, difficulties with speech, balance problems and a very significant headache which feels different from usual symptoms.

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Loss of consciousness is another symptom which requires immediate review.

Patients should attend for review for any of these warning signs rather than wait for the 'flu' itself to resolve. Treatment depends on the symptoms and their cause. Investigations such as neurological examination, checking oxygen saturation levels and blood investigations, and scans like a brain scan might be necessary dependent on presentation. Anti viral treatment might be considered by the attending medical practitioner based on symptoms, severity and risk of complication.

ABP LIVE Doc Talk | When Back Pain Could Signal A Slipped Disc, Fracture Or Infection

Dr Sharmila Tulpule — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 20:11:53 +0530

Back pain is commonly regarded as being caused by bad posture, sitting at the computer for long periods, putting strain on one’s back, or growing old. In many cases, it lasts for a limited time and goes away with proper treatment. However, persistent or certain unusual types of back pain should not be ignored. Sometimes, this discomfort may point to underlying medical conditions that need treatment.

Back Pain And Disc Problems

A slipped or herniated disc happens when the cushions between the bones in the spine bulge or break and cause irritation to nerve endings. One might experience the same or may also suffer from pain radiating down the legs, numbness, and weakness along with back pain. If the symptoms worsen or remain persistent, it is advisable to consult a doctor to rule out the possibility of nerve compression.

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Back Pain And Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis reduces the strength of bones and heightens the risk of vertebral fracture. When back pain appears suddenly after a minor fall, lifting something heavy, or an everyday movement, it may be the sign of a vertebral compression fracture, especially in adults with osteoporosis.

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Is It Possible That It Is an Infection?

Spinal infections are rare but can result in back pain. However, if pain is accompanied by fever or chills or a general lack of wellbeing, a medical examination should be performed. There may also be a greater risk for certain infections in people with immunosuppression and a history of spinal surgeries.
Due to the seriousness of potential spinal infections, unexplained back pain, including symptoms of infection, should not be disregarded.

When Should You Get Medical Help for Back Pain

There are particular signals that mean one may be dealing with something much worse. These signs are:
Back pain that is intense or worsening
Pain that comes after a fall or injury in an elderly person.
Fever or any other signs of infection
Being unable to provide a reason for sudden loss of weight
Previous history of cancer.
Increasing numbness or weakness in the legs.
New problems while walking.
New issues with bladder or bowel control.
New sensations of numbness around the thighs or buttocks.

If an individual experiences saddle anaesthesia with new onset of urinary retention, then he/she should seek emergency medical assistance.

Be Investigative About Back Pain

There are certain types of back pain that don’t need any expensive tests or imaging for diagnosis. For straightforward back pain without any complications, there is no need for the typical imaging test in the first instance. Nevertheless, if there are symptoms like those that persist or develop over time, other tests may be required.

It is important to bear in mind that back pain itself is a symptom but not a diagnosis. Some types of back pain would be treated with some simple measures but should also be followed up with proper attention. Detecting symptoms at an early stage may prevent the development of conditions like disc disease, fractures, infections, and serious nerve compression. The best way to proceed is neither to panic about every ache in the back nor to ignore pain that feels abnormal.

Doc Talk | Trying To Conceive? How Fertility Stress Can Affect Your Mental Health

Dr Preeti Mahawar — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 16:55:14 +0530

The process of becoming pregnant is frequently characterized as a medical odyssey that requires monitoring and testing for ovulation, as well as fertility treatments where needed. The psychological effort involved in the process takes place outside these doctor's visits. For certain people, the process of becoming pregnant transforms their regular monthly routine into one filled with mathematics, waiting, disappointment, and recovery.

The emotional and psychological strain of infertility can begin long before a couple receives a formal diagnosis. For many, the stress starts when months pass without conception, bringing uncertainty, anxiety, and growing emotional pressure even before they seek medical help.

When The Menstrual Cycle Becomes A Monthly Countdown

For those who are actively trying to conceive, a menstrual cycle could transform into a series of events. Ovulation predictor tests, monitoring of cervical mucus, the use of the basal body temperature method, fertility apps, and timed intercourse could make couples concentrate more on discovering the “right” days. The waiting time after ovulation becomes another stage when everything that happens to a woman’s body is interpreted for possible signs of conception.

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A delay in menstruation might be seen as an event that brings hope and then a fear of taking a pregnancy test. In case the pregnancy test comes out negative, the whole process repeats with the following cycle. This can result in the development of what can be called anticipatory stress.

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The Pressure Does Not Stay Inside the Couple

The attempt at conception may affect the way the couple behaves towards other people. Questions like "Are you going to have a baby anytime soon?" or "Any good news?" might seem innocent on the part of the questioner, but they can cause immense discomfort to the individual who is struggling to conceive. Social gatherings, baby showers, and pregnancy announcements can be hard experiences, even though the couple is genuinely happy for others.

Social media may further make this situation challenging. The couple can keep seeing pregnancy announcements, pictures of babies, and anything that has to do with fertility, while they are having a hard time themselves.

Fertility Can Also Become A Source of Self-Blame

The next part of the mental burden is the desire to find someone to blame.
Women can worry whether their age, stress levels, eating habits, physical activity, or previous use of contraceptives has influenced their fertility. For men, there could be concerns regarding the quality of sperm or feelings that being infertile is somehow associated with being less masculine.

However, this problem becomes even more complicated because infertility is not always connected with any single person's efforts. Infertility might be caused by the condition of women, men, a mixture of both of these, or stay undefined.
Fertility should be viewed as a shared health journey, with both partners equally involved in understanding, addressing, and managing fertility concerns.

Partners May Experience The Journey Differently

There is no necessity for both partners to experience fertility problems in the same way. While one partner may wish to talk about every result obtained, the other might prefer to avoid talking. One may feel like continuing treatment after each failed attempt, while the other will need some time to recuperate. Neither of these approaches means that one partner cares less.

Consistent conversation regarding what each needs, as opposed to assuming that both partners go through the whole experience in the same way, is the best solution to avoid resentments.

Creating Boundaries Can Reduce The Emotional Burden

The first step is for them to set an expectation on how far into the fertility process they would like to include their family and friends. They may also stop talking about pregnancy every day, take a break from all things fertility on social media, and avoid having every single conversation with their partner centering on having a baby. Couples need to keep some aspect of their relationship that is not fertility related. Going out for dinner, traveling, working out together, and just hanging out and not talking about the process at all may go a long way in not making their relationship all about fertility.

Emotional Support Should Be Part of Fertility Care

Getting psychological help does not suggest that the couple cannot handle things on their own. Fertility counselling may offer an organized venue for dealing with anxieties, grief over failed cycles, treatment decisions, and relationship issues.
This need becomes especially relevant when either one of the partners suffers from persistent depression, intense anxiety, withdraws from daily activities, has sleep problems, or cannot function properly at work/home. The goal is not to make couples “see the bright side of things.” Instead, this approach will allow them to deal with uncertainties without losing themselves in their fertility journey.

Fertility Care Needs To Look Beyond the Medical Result

The successful fertility journey cannot only be determined by positive results on the pregnancy test, as the emotional journey is important as well. Couples must receive fertility treatment that considers the fact that any scan, any test, and every treatment-related decision carries an emotional impact. Acknowledgement of the emotional burden can help couples to communicate, to look for professional help early enough, and make decisions in relation to treatment without letting fear and guilt control everything. Fertility treatment may include medical intervention, but the journey is very personal as well.

Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition