Understand brain tumour symptoms, signs, and causes. Learn about diagnosis, treatment options, and survival rates for brain cancer. Get expert insights on benign vs. malignant tumours.

Have you ever found yourself sneezing non-stop and wondering, "Is it a cold, or is it just allergies?" You're not alone! It’s surprisingly easy to confuse a pollen allergy with a common cold,...

Have you ever heard about a serious condition called pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and wondered how doctors actually spot it? If you're curious (or concerned about high blood pressure symptoms that persist), understanding the radiologic features of PAH could be a real eye-opener. In this guide, we’ll break down everything in simple words – no complicated medical jargon – so you can grasp how scans reveal this hidden threat inside the body. Stick around; it’s fascinating and could even save a life.What is pulmonary arterial hypertension in simple terms?Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart. Unlike regular high blood pressure, this form targets a specific area, making it much trickier to catch early. The vessels in the lungs get narrowed or blocked, which forces the heart to work much harder. Over time, this extra strain can weaken the heart muscle and lead to heart failure if not detected early.Radiology – using imaging techniques like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs – plays a major role in catching PAH before it gets out of hand. These scans provide vital clues that blood tests and physical exams alone might miss.How do radiologic scans help detect PAH?When doctors suspect PAH, they turn to imaging to get a closer look at what’s happening inside the chest. Some common findings on radiologic scans include: Enlargement of the pulmonary arteries: This is often the first and clearest sign seen on chest X-rays and CT scans. Right heart enlargement: The right ventricle may appear bigger because it’s working overtime to pump blood. Pruning of peripheral blood vessels: CT scans often show a reduction in the number of smaller blood vessels in the lungs. Pulmonary oedema: In some cases, fluid buildup is visible, signalling advanced disease. MRI and echocardiography also offer detailed views of the heart's structure and function, helping doctors measure the pressure in the pulmonary arteries more accurately.What scans are used to diagnose pulmonary arterial hypertension?If a doctor suspects PAH, they may order several different imaging tests. Each one has a special role: Chest X-ray: Quick and easy, but less detailed. It may show enlarged arteries or the heart. CT pulmonary angiography: This scan gives a highly detailed image of the pulmonary vessels and can rule out blood clots. Cardiac MRI: Provides a clear view of the heart’s structure and function without using radiation. Ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) scan: Checks for clots by looking at airflow and blood flow in the lungs. These scans are quite similar to the ones used for cancer diagnosing scans, you need to know about, where imaging is critical to catch early signs of disease.What does pulmonary arterial hypertension look like on a chest X-ray?On a chest X-ray, several changes might hint towards PAH: The main pulmonary artery often looks much wider than normal. Branches of the pulmonary artery leading into the lungs may look bigger, a phenomenon called "hilar enlargement." The heart may appear enlarged, particularly the right side. Although a chest X-ray alone can't confirm PAH, these findings raise enough suspicion to warrant further, more specific testing.Can PAH be mistaken for other conditions?Absolutely. The early symptoms of PAH are often vague – shortness of breath, tiredness, chest pain – and can mimic asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or even anxiety. Radiologic imaging helps separate PAH from these other conditions by showing the physical changes inside the body, something symptoms alone can't do.In fact, many people initially ignore signs, thinking they are just typical high blood pressure symptoms or effects of ageing. That’s why understanding and trusting the imaging process is so important.What is the role of medication once PAH is diagnosed?Once a diagnosis is confirmed, managing PAH becomes a top priority. Doctors often prescribe medications that help relax blood vessels, lower blood pressure in the lungs, and improve heart function. Treatments may include a range of options depending on the severity of the disease.For instance, drugs like Ambrisentan & tadalafil are used to block substances that tighten blood vessels, while medicines such as tadalafil can help relax blood vessel walls and improve blood flow. Some patients may even be prescribed therapies like the endobloc t kit to manage their symptoms and enhance their quality of life.The aim is to slow disease progression, relieve symptoms, and improve everyday life for patients. Early diagnosis through imaging can make a massive difference in how well treatments work.Are there lifestyle changes that can help manage PAH?While medications are crucial, lifestyle changes play a big role too. Here are some simple steps patients can take: Regular but gentle exercise: Activities like walking or light yoga can help keep the heart strong. Low-salt diet: Reducing salt helps lower blood pressure. Quitting smoking: Smoking worsens lung and heart function. Staying up-to-date with vaccinations: Flu and pneumonia shots can prevent infections that might stress the heart further. Managing stress and getting plenty of rest are also key parts of coping with PAH day-to-day.Final thoughtsUnderstanding the radiologic features of pulmonary arterial hypertension can literally be a life-changer. With imaging tools like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, doctors can catch this silent threat early, often before it causes serious damage. If you or someone you know has unexplained shortness of breath, chest pain, or fatigue that doesn’t seem right, don't hesitate to ask your doctor about these scans.Early detection and proper treatment make all the difference in living well with PAH. Stay informed, listen to your body, and never ignore persistent symptoms. After all, your health is your wealth.

How to Treat Anaemia in Dialysis Patients? - An article written by MrMed-Best-Online-Super-Specialty-Pharmacy on Zupyak.com. Read more here!

Ulcerative colitis (UC), a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), continues to challenge millions across the world, including a growing number of patients in India. With symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhoea, and fatigue, managing this lifelong condition often feels like a rollercoaster. However, the good news is that 2025 has brought a new wave of game-changing therapies, ones that go beyond conventional treatment, giving patients renewed hope and a better quality of life.In this blog, we will explore the latest breakthroughs, smart strategies for managing flare-ups, and the future of UC care, all tailored with an India-specific perspective.What is Ulcerative Colitis?Ulcerative colitis is a long-term condition where the inside of your large intestine (colon) and rectum becomes swollen and develops sores or ulcers. This happens because your body’s immune system starts attacking the healthy lining of your gut by mistake. People with ulcerative colitis often have symptoms like stomach pain, bloody diarrhoea, feeling tired, and needing to go to the toilet urgently. The disease usually comes and goes. Sometimes symptoms are bad (called a flare-up), and other times they go away for a while (called remission). Although there is no complete cure, medicines and lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms and let people live a normal life.What are the latest treatments for ulcerative colitis in 2025?Ulcerative colitis treatment options1. Personalised Biologic TherapiesBiologics are not new, but in 2025, they’ve become smarter. Vedolizumab and Ustekinumab are among the biologics widely used, especially for patients who don't respond to traditional therapies. India is also seeing increased access to biosimilars, which are more affordable versions of this biologic medication, without compromising efficacy. Pentasa sachet contains mesalamine, a well-known first-line treatment for mild to moderate UC. 2. Oral JAK InhibitorsNewer oral therapies, like Upadacitinib, are gaining traction. These JAK inhibitors work by interrupting specific pathways in the immune response, reducing inflammation rapidly. What’s game-changing here is the convenience—patients no longer need infusions or injections, just a daily pill.3. Microbiome-Modifying TherapiesThe gut microbiome has become a buzzword in UC care. In 2025, researchers have developed next-generation probiotics and faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) capsules to help restore healthy gut bacteria. Some Indian hospitals are beginning to offer FMT under clinical supervision for severe UC cases.How effective are dietary and lifestyle changes in managing UC symptoms?Smart Diet Strategies: Low-FODMAP diets have shown good results in reducing bloating and cramping. Simple, home-cooked meals during a flare-up help reduce gut irritation—think khichdi, moong dal, and curd rice. Some patients find relief by eliminating dairy or gluten, though this varies from person to person. Lifestyle Tips: Yoga and stress management: Practices like pranayama, meditation, and mild yoga help reduce stress-induced inflammation. Sleep hygiene: Lack of quality sleep can worsen immune function, so it’s important to keep a consistent bedtime routine. Avoiding NSAIDs: Many Indians use painkillers like ibuprofen frequently, but these can trigger UC flares. What are the best ways to manage typhoid and colitis flare-ups during winter?Here are practical tips for winter flare management: Hydration is key: Warm soups, coconut water, and herbal teas help maintain fluid balance and soothe the gut. Avoid raw street food: Stick to cooked, home-prepared meals to reduce the risk of typhoid and gastro infections. Monitor symptoms early: If fever and abdominal pain start together, get tested immediately to differentiate between typhoid and a UC flare. Use medications responsibly: Your doctor may adjust your UC medications or prescribe antibiotics if a co-infection is detected. Is there a cure for ulcerative colitis in 2025?As of 2025, there is still no permanent cure for ulcerative colitis Early intervention: New diagnostic tools detect UC even before full-blown symptoms appear. Maintenance therapy: Regular use of medications like Mesalazine helps keep inflammation under control and prevent relapses. Minimally invasive surgery: For patients not responding to any treatment, surgery like colectomy has become safer with robotic-assisted methods. How do medications help in treating UC?Key benefits: Targeted delivery: The medication reaches the large intestine where it’s needed most. Fewer side effects: Because it works locally in the gut, systemic absorption is minimal. Convenience: Sachets are easy to carry and mix with water or soft food, improving compliance. How can I naturally improve immune system while living with UC?Here are a few natural, doctor-approved ways to do this: Eat immune-supportive foods: Add garlic, turmeric, ginger, and amla (Indian gooseberry) to your meals. Get your vitamins: Many people with UC are low in Vitamin D, B12, and zinc. Consider a supplement if your doctor approves. Stay active: Light exercise like walking or swimming can improve circulation and immune response. Key TakeawaysUlcerative colitis may still be incurable, but 2025 is proving to be a breakthrough year in how we understand and treat this condition. With targeted therapies, smarter diagnostics, and a growing focus on patient-specific care, the future for people living with UC is more promising than ever.In India, where infections, diet, and environmental factors often complicate the picture, staying informed and working closely with your gastroenterologist can make all the difference. Whether it’s embracing new medications like biologics or making simple diet tweaks, you’re no longer alone in this journey—science and strategy are both on your side.