Hiccups are sudden, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm that may repeat several times per minute. The diaphragm is the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen and plays an important role in breathing. Each contraction is followed by a contraction of the vocal cords, resulting in a sudden rush of air into the lungs and creating the “hic” sound.

Hiccups may occur in episodes or individually. These are often rhythmic, meaning that the interval between each hiccup is relatively constant. Hiccups are a temporary minor problem, but prolonged hiccups may signal a major medical problem.

Women and men tend to get hiccups equally as often but hiccups that last longer than 48 hours are more common in men.

Causes of Hiccups

For hiccups that last less than 48 hours, common triggers may include-

• Eating quickly and swallowing air along with chewing gum.
• Drinking too much alcohol.
• Sudden temperature changes.
• Drinking carbonated beverages.

For hiccups that last longer than 48 hours, common triggers include-

Damage or irritation of the phrenic nerves or vagus nerves which serve the diaphragm muscle. This may be caused by-

• Sore throat or laryngitis, a tumor, cyst or goiter in the neck.
• A hair or any object in the ear touching the eardrum.
• Gastroesophageal reflux.
• Pneumonia.
• Liver disease.
• Surgery.

A tumor or infection in the central nervous system or damage to the central nervous system as a result of trauma. This can disrupt the body’s normal control of the hiccup reflex. This may be caused by-

• Stroke.
• Traumatic brain injury.
• Tumors.
• Meningitis.
• Encephalitis.
• Multiple sclerosis.

Metabolic disorders and drugs, including-

• Diabetes.
• Alcoholism.
• Kidney disease.
• Steroids.
• Anesthesia.
• Electrolyte imbalance.
• Tranquilizers.

Risk Factors for Hiccups

Hiccups can occur at any age, even in a fetus. But the following factors can put a person at risk of developing it more often than others-

• Being a male.
• Strong emotions and anxiety.
• People who have received general anesthesia.
• After surgery, especially abdominal surgery.

Symptoms of Hiccups

• A single or series of breathing diaphragm spasms that is usually rhythmic.
• A brief but painful, frequent or occasional interruption in normal breathing with a slight tightening sensation in the throat, chest or abdomen.

Are There any Complications?

Yes, long-term hiccups can lead to certain complications, which are as follows-

• Trouble sleeping.
• Malnutrition.
• Fatigue or exhaustion.
• Weight loss.
• Dehydration.

How to Prevent Hiccups?

Although, there are no proven ways to prevent hiccups, but the following methods can be followed to prevent triggers that can cause hiccups:

• Avoid overeating.
• Avoid consumption of carbonated drinks.
• Self-protection from sudden temperature changes.
• Avoid drinking alcohol.
• Stay calm. Avoid strong emotions, anger or anxiety.

Diagnosis for Hiccups

Hiccups that last less than 48 hours do not usually need any medical attention, as they resolve on their own. If they persist for longer, a medical professional should be consulted.

To make a diagnosis, the doctor will perform a physical examination and a neurological exam to check your balance and coordination, eyesight, muscle tone, strength and reflexes.

If any underlying medical condition is suspected, the doctor may recommend one or more of the following tests-

• Blood tests to check the signs of diabetes, infection or kidney disease.
• Imaging tests such as chest X-ray, CT scan or MRI scan to detect the anatomical abnormalities that may be affecting the vagus nerve, phrenic nerve or diaphragm.
• Endoscopic tests to check for problems in the windpipe or esophagus.

Treatment for Hiccups

Most of the hiccups resolve on their own without medical treatment. If an underlying condition is causing it, managing the condition may help eliminate the hiccups.

If prolonged hiccup is disrupting your quality of life, the doctor may prescribe medication including-

• Baclofen.
• Chlorpromazine.
• Metoclopramide.

In cases that don’t respond to other treatments, the doctor may inject medication into the phrenic nerve to temporarily block the nerve’s action to stop hiccups.

Another option is the surgical implantation of a battery-operated device to deliver mild electrical stimulation to the vagus nerve. This procedure is commonly used to treat epilepsy, but it has been found to help control persistent hiccups.

Home Remedies to Control Hiccups

• Sugar-Have a teaspoon of sugar and let it melt slowly in your mouth without chewing. This remedy is effective to stop hiccups. It is especially suitable for young children who don’t follow detailed instructions on breathing patterns.
• Yogurt-Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of yogurt, stir well until the salt is completely dissolved. Consume it slowly, this will help stop hiccups.
• Cardamom powder-Cardamom powder is an effective remedy for hiccups. Boil 1 cup of water and add 1 teaspoon of freshly ground cardamom powder. Let it cool, then strain and drink the liquid. This medication will help the diaphragm muscles relax and stop your hiccups.
• Ginger-Peel a small piece of fresh ginger and chew it gently to get rid of hiccups.
• Warm water-Slowly drink a glass of warm water. This helps stimulate the activity of the vagus nerve, which travels from the brain to the stomach, thereby reducing hiccups.
• Peanut butter-A spoonful of peanut butter is a great remedy that can help stop persistent hiccups.
• Holding breath-Hold your breath for a few seconds to effectively retain some of the carbon dioxide in your body. It works against spasms in the diaphragm and thus prevents hiccups.
• GheeTake 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds, mix it with 1/2 teaspoon of pure ghee and swallow the mixture. This will help reduce your hiccups.
• Pat on the back-If your hiccups are uncontrollable, gently pat your back, behind your neck along your spine. This helps relieve tension in the diaphragm muscles and stops hiccups.

When to see a doctor?

Make an appointment with your doctor if your hiccups last more than 48 hours or are severe enough to cause problems with eating, sleeping, or breathing.

 आजकल कई ऐसी बीमारियां हैं, जिनकी कुछ साल पहले तक किसी बीमारी की श्रेणी में गणना नहीं होती थी। लेकिन अब बड़ी तकलीफ बनकर उभर रही हैं। इन्हीं बीमारियों में से एक हैं फ्रोजन शोल्डर (कंधे की अकड़न)। जिसकी मुख्य वजह गलत लाइफ स्टाइल और आधुनिक खान-पान को अपनाना है। जिसके कारण कंधे में अकड़न की समस्या बेहद आम हो गयी है। इतनी आम कि यह बुजुर्ग लोगों की तुलना में युवाओं में अधिक देखने को मिलती है। इस समस्या के मुख्य कारण खराब मुद्रा एवं झुककर बैठना, गलत तरीके से भारी वजन उठाना और घंटों तक कम्प्यूटर पर काम करना आदि होता है।

क्या होता है कंधे की अकड़न?     

फ्रोजन शोल्डर हड्डियों से जुड़ी एक समस्या होती है। जिसके होने पर कंधे के जोड़ों में गंभीर दर्द होता है। जिसे फ्रोजन शोल्डर या कंधे का अकड़न कहा जाता है। इसके अलावा इस समस्या को मेडिकल भाषा में एडहेसिव कैप्सूलाइटिस (Adhesive  Capsulitis) के नाम से भी जाना जाता है। यह समस्या आमतौर पर 40 से 70 आयु के लोगों में देखने को मिलती हैं। हालांकि, आज के दौर में अनियमित दिनचर्या के कारण लगभग सभी उम्र के लोगों को फ्रोजन शोल्डर जैसी परेशानी से गुजरना पड़ता है। वही, यह समस्या पुरुषों की तुलना में महिलाओं में अधिक देखने को मिलती है। दूसरे शब्दों में कहें तो कंधे के जोड़ों या आस-पास के ऊतकों में सूजन हो जाती है और वह अकड़ जाते हैं। जिससे कंधे को हिलाने में परेशानी और दर्द उत्पन्न होने लगते है। कंधे की अकड़न की समस्या एक या दोनों कंधो को प्रभावित कर सकती है। दरअसल कंधे की हड्डियां, स्नायुबंधन (ligaments) और मांसपेशियां यह सभी अंग, सिर को सहारा देती है।साथ ही गति को सामान्य बनाए रखती हैं। ऐसे में उस स्थान पर सूजन, चोट या किसी भी प्रकार की  असामान्यता होने पर कंधे में दर्द या अकड़न होने लगती है। इसे दूर करने के लिए फिजियोथेरेपी या व्यायाम की आवश्यकता पड़ सकती है।

कंधे की अकड़न के चरण-

फ्रोजन शोल्डर यानी कंधे की अकड़न सामान्यतः धीरे-धीरे और तीन चरणों में विकसित होते हैं जो कुछ महीनों तक बने रहते हैं। आइए बात करते हैं इन्हीं चरणों के बारे में दर्दनाक चरण (फ्रीजिंग)- फ्रोजन शोल्डर का यह चरण काफी दर्दनाक होता है। इसमें दर्द कंधे के किसी भी गतिविधि में हो सकता है। साथ ही यह दर्द धीरे-धीरे बढ़ता है और रात के समय यह तीव्र हो जाता है। आमतौर पर यह दर्द मरीज को 3 से 9 महीने तक परेशान करता है। फ्रोजन (Frozen)- यह कंधे की अकड़न का दूसरा चरण होता है। इसमें फ्रीजिंग चरण की अपेक्षा कम दर्द का एहसास होता है। लेकिन इस अवस्था में आपका कंधा अकड़ सकता है। यह चरण 4 से 12 महीने तक हो सकता है।थाविंग (Thawing)- यह कंधे की अकड़न का अंतिम चरण माना जाता है। इसमें कंधा पहले जैसा काम करने में सक्षम हो जाता है । लेकिन इस अवस्था में दर्द के होने की संभावना बनी रहती है। यह चरण 1 से 3 साल तक रहता है।

कंधे की अकड़न के सामान्य लक्षण-

●कंधे को हिलाने में कठिनाई महसूस करना।

●कंधे की कैप्सूल का सख्त या कठोर(स्टिफनेस) होना।

●कंधे में तेज दर्द होना।

●कंधे में खिंचाव या अकड़न के कारण कार्य करने में असमर्थ होना।

कंधे की अकड़न होने के कारण- 

शोल्डर ब्लेड, ऊपरी बाह की हड्डी और गर्दन से नीचे की कंधे की ओर जाती हुई हड्डी (कॉलरबोन) अर्थात इन तीनो हड्डियों से मिलकर कंधे का निर्माण होता है। यह सभी हड्डियां कंधे में गेंद के आकार के सॉकेट से जुड़ी होती हैं। इस जोड़ या सॉकेट में आस-पास के हड्डियों को जोड़ने वाले ऊतक (टिश्यू) मौजूद होते हैं। इसके अतिरिक्त कंधे के जोड़ में मौजूद द्रव (Synovial fluid) जोड़ों को बिना घर्षण के हिलने में सहायता करता है। लेकिन किसी कारणवश इन्हीं ऊतकों में क्षति होती है, तब कंधे की अकड़न शुरू हो जाती है। जो प्रायः कंधे के दर्द से जुड़े होते हैं। कंधे की दर्द का प्रमुख कारण उपास्थि और हड्डियों में घिसाव के कारण हुई टूट-फूट भी होता है। ऐसी समस्या ज्यादातर उम्र बढ़ने वाले लोगों में पाई जाती है। हालांकि, यह अन्य जोखिम कारकों के कारण युवकों में भी होता है। आइए जानते हैं इन्हीं जोखिम कारकों के बारे में;

●मधुमेह (डायबिटीज) होने पर। 

●अतिसक्रिय थायराइड (हाइपरथायरायडिज्म) होने पर। 

●हाइपोथायरायडिज्म यानी थायराइड का कम होना। 

●हृदय संबंधी कोई बीमारी होने से। 

●टीबी की शिकायत होने पर। 

●पार्किंसंस रोग जैसी समस्या से ग्रसित व्यक्ति को।

कंधे की अकड़न का निदान-

कंधे की अकड़न के निदान के लिए डॉक्टर सबसे पहले कराने की सलाह देते हैं। कुछ शारीरिक परीक्षण निम्नलिखित हैं शारीरिक परीक्षण- इस परीक्षण में डॉक्टर समस्या को पता लगाने के लिए सबसे पहले शारीरिक परीक्षण करते हैं। इस प्रक्रिया में वह कंधे की हड्डी, गर्दन एवं पीठ के पीछे के हड्डियों को स्पर्श करते हैं। इससे पता चलता है कि असल में समस्या कहां से उत्पन्न हो रही है। मेडिकल हिस्ट्री- चिकित्सक रोगी से उसकी मेडिकल हिस्ट्री के बारे में पूछ सकते हैं। ऐसी समस्या पहले कभी हुई थी या नहीं। यदि हां, तो उसके लिए किस प्रकार की दवाइयाँया उपचार किया गया था। एक्स-रे- फ्रोजन शोल्डर की जांच के लिए डॉक्टर एक्स-रे करवाने की सलाह देते हैं। इससे रोग का सही ढंग से पता चलता है कि अकड़न या दर्द किस वजह से हैं।

कंधे की अकड़न के घरेलू उपाय-

एप्सम साल्ट (सेंधा नमक)-

एक कटोरी एप्सम साल्ट (सेंधा नमक) को हल्के गर्म पानी से भरे बाथटब में डालें। जबतक पानी की गर्माहट रहे तब तक बाथटब में बैठे रहें। ऐसा करने से कंधे की अकड़न में आराम मिलता है। 

आइस पैक-

आइस पैक (ice pack) कई तरह के दर्द में मदद करता है। इसलिए आइस पैक को प्रभावित अंग पर लगाने से काफी आराम मिलता है। इसके अलावा आइस पैक कंधे या शरीर के अन्य किसी हिस्से में दर्द के साथ सूजन को भी खत्म करता है।

गर्म सिकाई करें-

किसी भी तरह के दर्द से राहत पाने के लिए गर्म पानी से सिकाई करना एक अच्छा उपाय माना जाता है। इससे रक्त का संचरण भी ठीक हो जाता है। इसके अलावा गर्म पानी से शावर लेने पर भी कंधे की दर्द में फायदा करता है।  

तिल का तेल- 

तिल के तेल में फॉस्फोरस, मैग्नीशियम, जिंक, कॉपर और विटामिन डी प्रचूर मात्रा में पाए जाते हैं। जो कंधे की दर्द या अकड़न से राहत दिलाने का काम करते हैं। इसके लिए प्रतिदिन तिल के तेल को हल्का गुनगुना करके हल्के हाथों से प्रभावित अंगों कीमालिश करें। ऐसा करने से आपका दर्द काफी हद तक कम हो जाता है। 

फ्रोजन शोल्डर के लिए फीजियो थेरेपी (व्यायाम)- 

फ्रोजन शोल्डर अर्थात कंधे की अकड़न या दर्द को कम करने के लिए डॉक्टर कुछ शारीरिक व्यायाम करने की परामर्श देते हैं। इन व्यायामों का उपयोग नियमित रूप से दिन में कम से कम 3 से 4 बार करने से कंधे के दर्द से काफी हद तक राहत मिलती हैं जो निम्नलिखित हैं:

●शोल्डर स्ट्रेच। 

●वाल क्रावल। 

●पेंडुलम। 

●रोप एंड पुल्ली स्ट्रेचेस।

क्या है फ्रोजन शोल्डर के बचाव और सावधानियां?

●दर्द को नजरअंदाज न करें। लगातार या कई दिनों तक रहने पर डॉक्टर से तुरंत सलाह लें। 

●तेज दर्द का अहसास होने पर अपने हाथों को सिर के बराबर ऊंचाई पर रख कर सोएं।

●3 से 9 महीने के समय को फ्रीजिंग पीरियड माना जाता है। इस दौरान फिजियोथेरेपी के इलाज से बचें।

Achalasia is a rare but serious disease that usually affects the oesophagus i.e, the food pipe. The oesophagus is a type of tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. Apart from this, there is also a lower oesophagal spectrum in the body that is not able to open properly while chewing food due to achalasia due to which the chewed food remains in the tube. In this situation, sometimes the nerves of the food pipe also get damaged. Thus, a person suffering from this disorder finds it extremely difficult to swallow food. Also, there is discomfort in the oesophagus.

A person suffering from achalasia has to face problems like indigestion, vomiting, chest pain, burning sensation and weight loss because, in this disease, the oesophagus does function properly. As a result, food does not mix with saliva to reach the stomach through the food pipe.

Symptoms of Achalasia

Achalasia affects the body in many ways. People with this disease often have difficulty swallowing food and liquids due to which they feel that food is stuck in their throat. The disease mostly affects people between the ages of 25 and 60. The symptoms of this disease can last for several months or even years. Hence its symptoms are as follows:

• Pain and nervousness after eating.
• Chest pain and discomfort.
• Difficulty swallowing liquids or solids.
• Feeling like a lump in the throat.
• Weight loss.
• Burning in chest.
• Feeling stressed etc.
• Sometimes in some people without any symptoms, problems like sudden shortness of breath, phlegm in the throat, food or something stuck in the throat are also seen. Apart from this, symptoms like food coming back from the food pipe and acid reflux also start appearing.

Causes of Achalasia

There is no exact cause of this disease. This can happen due to various reasons such as genetic, autoimmune disorders, and viral infections. During an autoimmune disorder, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the body which also affects the nerves of the oesophagus due to which the person starts having difficulty in swallowing while eating or drinking something.

Treatment and Screening process of Achalasia

To treat and diagnose achalasia, doctors conduct some tests to examine the body of the victim and also try to know the family’s medical history. The tests & procedures are-

Oesophageal manometry-

Through this test, the contraction of muscles in the oesophagus is observed while swallowing food by which it is ascertained how much the lower oesophagal sphincter is opening and closing while swallowing food.

X-ray-

For this procedure, the inner lining of the patient's digestive system is first filled with a special fluid. After that, the upper part of the digestive system, the upper part of the stomach and intestine and the food pipe are examined. For this procedure, the patient is given a barium tablet to eat which helps to check for obstruction in the oesophagus.

Endoscopy-

In this procedure, the doctor examines the oesophagus and stomach by inserting a flexible tube containing a light and camera into the patient's throat. Through this test, the blockage in the food pipe is checked. Apart from this, the tissue sample is taken and sent to the laboratory for an acid reflux test.

Myotomy surgery-

Myotomy is a surgical procedure in which the oesophagus is cut slightly to open the sphincter muscle of the patient. Thus this surgery gives the patient a permanent solution to swallowing.

Pre-oral endoscopic myotomy-

This is a new treatment in which instead of operating, the patient is given myotomy using a gastroscope.

Apart from all this, in some cases, an attempt is made to increase the patient's oesophagal sphincter by inserting a balloon so that the patient's oesophagal sphincter can open slightly. This process is repeated over and over again when the oesophagal sphincter does not open.

Home remedies for Achalasia

In the case of achalasia, this problem can be avoided to a great extent by making some lifestyle changes and adopting the right eating habits. Therefore, these changes are as follows-

• Drink plenty of water when suffering from achalasia. Apart from this, drink water in between while eating because, with the help of water, there is less trouble in swallowing food.
• When suffering from achalasia, take only a liquid diet instead of a solid for a few days.
• During this time, drink carbonated beverages in appropriate amounts. This increases the pressure on the oesophagus and it easily reaches the stomach.
• Take a healthy liquid diet supplement if you are losing weight due to achalasia.
• Eat a diet rich in nutrients, vitamins and minerals to reduce malnutrition and physical weakness during achalasia.
• When suffering from achalasia, the patient should consume foods like curd, milk, porridge, oats, juice and soup.
• Always chew the food thoroughly and eat it.
• When suffering from achalasia, avoid consumption of anything that causes difficulty in swallowing.
• Do not consume anything that causes constipation or gas in the stomach at the time of achalasia.
• Exercise daily.
• While sleeping, sleep with the head slightly above the pillow or any other mattress. By doing this, the oesophagal promote the emptying of the contents of the stomach and the patient does not have much difficulty in breathing.

मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी आना एक आम समस्या है जिसका मतलब मांसपेशियों की गतिविधियों का ठीक से काम न कर पाना है। यह समस्या ज्यादातर उन लोगों में देखने को मिलती है, जो लोग शरीर से अधिक कमजोर होते हैं अर्थात जिन लोगों में शारीरिक ताकत की कमी होती है। इसके अलावा यह समस्या अधिक काम करने वाले लोगों में भी हो सकती है। इस समस्या से ग्रसित व्यक्ति के शरीर में गिरावट, जलन, बेचैनी, मांसपेशियों में ऐंठन एवं दर्द, आदि लक्षण नजर आते हैं।  

मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी के कारण

मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी या दर्द होने के पीछे कई कारण होते हैं। जिनमें प्रमुख कारण निम्नलिखित हैं:

बढ़ती उम्र

मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी का सबसे बड़े कारणों में से एक है बढ़ती उम्र का होना। क्योंकि उम्र बढ़ने के साथ-साथ शरीर की मांसपेशियां कमजोर होने लगती हैं। 40 से 50 साल तक हम और आप महसूस नहीं कर पाते हैं लेकिन इससे बाद की उम्र में कमजोरी महसूस होने लगती है। परिणामस्वरूप मांसपेशियां अधिक नाजुक हो जाती हैं। उपरोक्त आयु के दौरान यह समस्या सभी लोगों में ज्यादा होती है और कई बार यह इनएक्टिव होने के कारण भी होती है। इसलिए इस उम्र में व्यक्ति को अपने शरीर के पीछे ज्यादा से ज्यादा एक्टिव रहना चाहिए।

किसी दवाई का दुष्प्रभाव होना

बीमार होने पर डॉक्टर हमें कुछ दवाईयां देते हैं। जो हमें ठीक होने में सहायता करती हैं। लेकिन साथ में इन दवाईयों के कुछ दुष्प्रभाव भी होते हैं। जिसके कारण मसल्स वीकनेस जैसी कई गंभीर बीमारियां होने की संभावना बढ़ जाती हैं।

रोग-प्रतिरोधक क्षमता का कमजोर होना

मांसपेशियों की कमजोरी होने का प्रमुख कारण कमजोर रोग-प्रतिरोधक क्षमता (Immune System) होता है। इसलिए लोगों को नियमित रूप से व्यायाम करना चाहिए ताकि उनकी रोग-प्रतिरोधक क्षमता मजबूत रहे।

शरीर में विटामिन और मिनरल्स की कमी होना

शरीर को सभी तरह के पौष्टिक पदार्थों की आवश्यकता होती है। क्योंकि यह पदार्थ शरीर को सेहतमंद बनाते हैं। इसमें विटामिन और मिनरल्स भी शामिल हैं। जिसका मुख्य काम मांसपेशियों को मजबूत करना होता है। लेकिन यदि कोई व्यक्ति विटामिन और मिनरल्स युक्त तत्वों का सेवन नहीं करता तो उसे मसल्स वीकनेस समेत अनेक बीमारियों का सामना करना पड़ सकता है।

स्ट्रोक के कारण

यदि किसी को कभी भी स्ट्रोक हुआ है तो उससे मांसपेशी कमजोर हो जाती है। कई बार स्ट्रोक (पक्षाघात) होने पर व्यक्ति के शरीर की एक तरफ की मांसपेशियां प्रभावित होती हैं। जिसके वजह से व्यक्ति को चक्कर आना, चलने-फिरने में परेशानी होना, धुंधला दिखाई देना, सिर दर्द रहना और कंफ्यूज रहना आदि समस्याएं उत्पन्न होते हैं।

मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी के अन्य जोखिम कारक

• शरीर में रक्त की कमी होने पर।
• खेल के दौरान मांसपेशियों में चोट लगने पर।
• अधिक परिश्रम करने पर।
• गलत या अस्वस्थ आहार लेने पर।
• पोलियो, रूमेटिक बुखार होने पर।
• डायबिटीज एवं थाइराइड होने पर। 
• कैंसर ट्रीटमेंट थेरेपी और रूमेटाइड आर्थराइटिस। 
• मस्तिष्क संबंधी बीमारी जैसे डिप्रेशन आदि होने पर। 

मांसपेशियों के कमजोर होने के लक्षण

• मांसपेशियों में ऊर्जा की कमी का आभास होना।
• चलने-फिरने में कठिनाई महसूस करना।
• सांस लेने में तकलीफ होना।
• लेटने के बाद सिर को उठाने में परेशानी होना।
• किसी एक अंग को हिलाने में परेशानी होना।
• अपने दैनिक कार्य जैसे कंघी करना, सीढ़िया चढ़ना, बोलने में कठिनाई महसूस करना।
• थकावट महसूस करना।
• चक्कर आना।
• बेचैनी  या घबराहट होना।
• शरीर में कंपकंपी आना।
• अधिक नींद आना।
• देखने में परेशानी होना।
• मांसपेशियों में ऐंठन होना।
• खाने-पीने या निगलने में कठिनाई महसूस करना।

कैसे करें मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी की रोकथाम?

मांसपेशियों की कमजोरी से पीड़ित मरीजों को कई समस्याओं का सामना करना पड़ता है। लेकिन लोग कुछ सावधानियों को बरतें तो वह मांसपेशियों की कमजोरी की रोकथाम कर सकते हैं;

• जो लोग गतिविधियां अधिक करते हैं, वह अपने मांसपेशियों को आराम दें।
• आयरन, कैल्शियम, प्रोटीन इत्यादि पौष्टिक युक्त भोजन का सेवन करें।
• पर्याप्त मात्रा में पानी पिएं।
• नियमित रूप से व्यायाम करें। ताकि वह लोग सेहतमंद रहें।
• अपने मांसपेशियों को अच्छे से स्ट्रेच करते रहें। जिससे रक्त का संचार ठीक रहता है। 
• सभी लोगों को अपने वजन को नियंत्रित करना चाहिए। जिससे उन्हें किसी प्रकार की गंभीर बीमारी न हो सके।
• अपने स्वास्थ्य को नियमित रूप से चेक करवाएं। जिससे पता चलता है कि हम पूरी तरह से स्वस्थ्य हैं।
• यदि शरीर के किसी अंग की  मांसपेशियां कमजोर हैं  तो फिजियोथैरेपी जरुर करवाएं।

मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी के घरेलू उपचार

तेल की मालिश

मांसपेशियों की कमजोरी को दूर करने के लिए तेल की मालिश को कारगर उपाय माना जाता है। इसके लिए नारियल एवं सरसों तेल की समान मात्रा को गर्म करके मिला लें। अब इस मिश्रण से प्रभावित जगहों पर हल्के हाथों से मालिश करें। ऐसा करने से मांशपेशियां मजबूत होती है। इससे प्रभावित जगह की दर्द एवं सूजन भी कम होती है।

विटामिन युक्त खाद्य पदार्थो का सेवन

मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी के इलाज और रोकथाम में विटामिन्स का महत्वपूर्ण योगदान होता हैं। एक शोध के अनुसार, विटामिन-डी आंतों में कैल्शियम के अवशोषण को बढ़ाता है। वहीं, विटामिन-सी मांसपेशियों को मजबूती प्रदान करता है। इसलिए हमें अपने भोजन में विटामिन से समृद्ध खाद्य पदार्थों जैसे पनीर, खट्टे फल, हरी पत्तेदार सब्जियों आदि का सेवन जरुर करना चाहिए।

दूध का सेवन करें

दूध में कई तरह के विटामिन और मिनरल्स पाए जाते हैं। जो मांसपेशियों के स्वास्थ्य के लिए बेहद जरुरी है। इसलिए प्रतिदिन दूध पीने से मांसपेशियों को कमजोरी दूर करने में सहायक होती है। इसके अलावा दूध कैल्शियम से समृद्ध है, जो कमजोर मांसपेशियों को मजबूती प्रदान करता है। साथ ही इसके निरंतर सेवन से शरीर हाइड्रेट भी रहता है।

आवंला है फायदेमंद

आवंला कैल्शियम,आयरन, प्रोटीन एवं विटामिन बी से भरपूर है। यह सभी तत्व कमजोर मांसपेशियों के लिए बेहद जरुरी होते । इसके अलावा आंवला में प्राकृतिक एनाल्जेसिक गुण पाया जाता है, जो कमजोर मांसपेशियों के कारण होने वाले दर्द को कम करता है।

कमजोर मांसपेशियों को दूर करने के लिए केला खाएं

केला शरीर को ऊर्जा प्रदान करने में सहायक होता है। इसके अलावा मांसपेशियों की कमजोरी को दूर करने के लिए बेहतरीन उपाय है। दरअसल केले में सुक्रोज और ग्लूकोज जैसे कार्बोहाइड्रेट मौजूद है। साथ ही केले में पोटैशियम की प्रचूर मात्रा पाई हैं जाती है।  जो कार्बोहाइड्रेट को ऊर्जा में परिवर्तित  कर देती है। यह ऊर्जा कमजोर मांसपेशियों को दूर करने में बेहद जरुरी है।  

कब जाएं डॉक्टर के पास?

• बेहोश होने पर।
• मांसपेशियों की कमजोरी गंभीर होने पर।
• चलने-फिरने या अंगों को हिलाने में अधिक कठिनाई होने पर।
• अधिक बेचैनी, उलझन एवं कुछ समझने में कठिनाई महसूस करने पर।
• सांस लेने में तकलीफ होने पर।

In today's time almost everyone has the problem of back pain. There are many reasons behind this. One of these reasons is a slipped disc. However, this disease is mostly seen in the elderly but due to the hectic life and unhealthy lifestyle, the problem of slipped disc has become very common today. Working on a computer for long hours, using a cell phone for a long time, standing for a long time, running for long hours, incorrect posture and lifting heavy weights in the wrong way, etc. are some of the common causes of a slipped disc.

What is a Slipped disc?

There are small padded discs in the back to support the bones that are attached to the spine. It works to protect the spine from shocks and keeps it flexible. When this disc swells or breaks due to some reason, this condition is called a slipped disc. In addition, the outer wall of the disc becomes discolored or inflated due to which the fluid present in it starts leaking into the spinal cord.

The human spine consists of 7 cervical spines, 12 thoracic spines and 5 lumbar spines from top to bottom. All these bones are connected by discs. Each disc consists of two parts- soft inner part and hard outer ring. Due to the weakening of the outer ring for some reason, the inner part of the disc gets a signal to exit. This phenomenon is known as slipped disc or herniated disc.

Types of Slipped discs

There are mainly three types of slipped discs, which are as follows-

Cervical disc slip

Cervical disc slip occurs in the neck. This causes pain in the back of the head, neck, shoulder bone and hands.

Lumbar disc slip

This disc slip occurs in the lower part of the spine. This causes pain in the lower back, hip, thigh, anus/genitals and feet or toes.

Thoracic disc slip

This type of slipped disc occurs in the middle of the spine. The main reason for this is the pressure exerted around it. This causes pain in the central part of the back and shoulder area. However, the chances of this happening are very low.

Stages of Slipped disc

There are four stages of a slipped disc, which are as follows-

First stage

Dehydration starts from the discs of the body in this phase due to which the outer layer of the disc becomes weak and flexibility decreases. This problem occurs due to aging.

Second stage

In the second stage, cracks develop in the fibrous layers of the disc due to which the fluid inside it starts leaking or bubbles start forming.

Third stage

In the third stage of a slipped disc, a portion of the nucleus breaks off but it resides inside the disk.

Fourth stage

This stage of slipped disc is very serious. In this phase the fluid inside the disc starts coming out from the hard outer layer. Along with this, the leakage of this fluid starts completely in the spinal cord.

Causes of Slipped disc

There are many reasons behind a slipped disc but some of the main reasons are the following-

Disc weakening

Each of the vertebrae present in the spinal cord are connected by discs which tend to weaken over time. In older people, the outer layer of the disc begins to weaken and bulge due to which complaint of slipped disc occurs due to slight injury or blow. If these vertebrae break, then there is pressure on the nervous system of the body. As a result, pain occurs in the back. After some time this pain starts affecting different parts of the body as well.

Pressure on the disc

Some people's daily chores involve difficult and tiring activities which exerts pressure on the disc. This includes activities such as lifting heavy weights, working in a bent position, sitting in the wrong posture, etc. due to which a slipped disc may occur. As a result, pain starts in the lower part of the spine.

Due to injury

Chronic injury in the neck or spinal cord can lead to slipped disc problems in the future.

Lack of calcium and vitamins in the body

The body needs all kinds of nutritious substances because these substances make the body healthy. It also contains calcium and vitamins. Its main function is to strengthen the bones but if a person does not consume calcium and vitamin-rich elements, then in this condition he starts feeling weak and starts to bulge because of which a person may have to face the problem of slipped disc.

Symptoms of Slipped disc

Slipped discs mainly cause pain in the areas around the shoulders and neck. Apart from this, some other symptoms of a slipped disc are as follows-

• Weakness or tingling in the hands and feet.
• Difficulty in walking due to lack of coordination.
• Feeling pain while travelling some distance.
• Pain spreading to arms or legs.
• Sharp pain in a specific part of the body.
• Unbearable pain in the lower back.
• Feeling of pain often while getting up and sitting anywhere.
• Trouble walking or exercising.
• Tingling or burning in the affected area.
• Difficulty urinating and passing stools as problems progress.
• Numbness around the hip or thigh when pressure is applied to the middle of the spinal cord.

Prevention methods of Slipped disc

• Maintain body weight so that the pressure on the lower back of the person is reduced.
• Walk and exercise regularly every day.
• Use correct technique for lifting weights.
• Avoid wearing shoes and sandals with high heels.
• Avoid the use of tobacco and smoking.
• Read a book, sit, watch television and sleep in the correct posture.
• Maintain proper body posture while using the computer and mobile phone.
• Do not stand or sit in the same posture for long hours.
• Keep your neck, shoulders and hips straight while walking or standing.
• While sitting on the chair, make a round pillow or towel. Doing so does not damage the disc.

Tests for Slipped disc

To check for a slipped disc, doctors recommend getting an X-ray done. With the help of X-ray, all types of wear and tear of discs in the body can be detected. If not certain with X-rays, the doctor may order other tests, such as a CT scan, MRI, and myelography (via an injection into the spinal cord canal). This shows the status of the slipped disc.

Slipped disc patients mostly get relief with rest and physiotherapy. For this, the person should take complete rest for at least 2-3 weeks. If the pain does not subside, take pain-relieving medicines as per the doctor's advice. For this, muscle relaxants or sometimes steroids are also given. In this problem, physiotherapy is also done only after the pain subsides

Home remedies for Slipped disc

Garlic

Heat at least 4 to 5 cloves of garlic in mustard oil. After cooling down a bit, massage the back and waist with this oil. Massaging the spine with the thumb with light hands helps to relieve pain.

Cloves & peppercorns

Make a powder by grinding five cloves and five black peppercorns. Now prepare a mixture by mixing some ginger powder. Now make a decoction from this mixture and drink it twice a day. By doing this, the problem of slipped discs gets relieved.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon also proves to be effective in relieving slipped discs. For this, take 2 grams of cinnamon powder mixed with one spoon of honey.

Camphor and asafoetida

If there is a slipped disc, take equal quantities of camphor and asafoetida and make a paste by beating it in mustard oil. Now massage this mixture on the affected parts of the neck or body with light hands. By doing this, the pain gets relieved.

Hot compress

Compressing with warm water provides great relief from any kind of pain. It also improves blood circulation. Apart from this, taking a shower with hot water is also beneficial in back and neck pain.

Ice packs

Ice packs help in many types of pain. Therefore, applying an ice pack on the affected part provides great relief. Along with this, it also eliminates swelling.

Muscle weakness is a common problem, which means the inability of muscles to work properly. This problem is mostly seen in people who are weaker that is, people who lack physical strength. Apart from this, it can also occur in people who work more. Symptoms like restlessness, muscle cramps and pain, etc., are seen in the body of the person suffering from this problem.

Causes of Muscle Weakness

There are many reasons behind muscle weakness or pain. The main reasons for which are the following-

Ageing-

One of the biggest causes of muscle weakness is ageing because, with age, the muscles of the body start weakening. All of us does not realize it but after 40 to 50 years, we start feeling weakness. As a result, the muscles become more fragile. During the above age, this problem is more in all people and sometimes it is also due to being inactive. Therefore, at this age, a person should be more active.

Side-effects of certain medicines-

When we are sick, doctors give us some medicines that help us to recover but these medicines also have some side effects due to which the chances of getting many serious diseases like muscle weakness increases.

Weakening of immunity-

The main reason for muscle weakness is a weak immune system. Therefore, people should exercise regularly so that their immunity remains strong.

Lack of vitamins and minerals in the body-

The body needs all kinds of nutritious substances because these substances make the body healthy. It also contains vitamins and minerals. Its main function is to strengthen the muscles but if a person does not consume elements containing vitamins and minerals, then he may have to face many diseases including muscle weakness.

Due to stroke-

If someone has ever had a stroke, it weakens the muscles. Sometimes a stroke (paralysis) affects the muscles on one side of the person's body due to which the person has problems like dizziness, difficulty in walking, blurred vision, headache etc.

Other risk factors for Muscle Weakness

• Lack of blood in the body.
• Injuries to muscles during sports.
• Excessive body strain.
• Wrong or unhealthy diet.
• In polio and rheumatic fever.
• Diabetes and thyroid.
• Cancer treatment therapy and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Mental illnesses such as dementia, depression etc.

Symptoms of Muscle Weakness

• Feeling of lack of energy in the muscles.
• Feeling difficulty in walking.
• Facing difficulties while breathing.
• Difficulty in lifting the head after lying down.
• If moving a limb becomes difficult.
• Difficulty in daily activities such as combing, climbing stairs, and speaking.
• Feeling tired.
• Body shivering.
• Feeling sleepy.
• Having trouble seeing.
• Muscle cramps.
• Feeling difficult to eat, drink or swallow.

Prevention methods for Muscle Weakness

Patients suffering from muscle weakness have to face many problems but it can be prevented with some precautions such as-

• People involved in excessive physical activities should relax their muscles.
• Eat nutritious food rich in iron, calcium, protein etc.
• Drink a sufficient amount of water.
• Exercise regularly to remain healthy.
• Keep stretching your muscles well. It helps in blood circulation.
• Everyone should control their weight so that they do not get any kind of disease.
• Get your health checked regularly which shows that we are completely healthy.
• If the muscles of any part of the body are weak, then physiotherapy must be done.

Home remedies for Muscle Weakness

Oil massage-

Oil massage is considered an effective remedy for muscle weakness. For this, heat an equal quantity of coconut and mustard oil and mix it. Now massage this mixture on the affected areas with light hands. By doing this, the muscles get stronger. It also reduces the pain and swelling of the affected area.

Consumption of foods rich in vitamins-

Vitamins play an important role in the treatment and prevention of muscle weakness. According to research, vitamin D increases the absorption of calcium in the intestines. At the same time, vitamin C strengthens the muscles. Therefore, we must consume foods rich in vitamins like cheese, citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables etc. in our diet.

Drinking milk is helpful-

Many types of vitamins and minerals are found in milk which is very important for muscle health. Therefore, drinking milk daily helps in weakness in the muscles. Apart from this, milk is rich in calcium which strengthens weak muscles. Along with this, the body also remains hydrated with its consumption.

Amla is beneficial-

Amla is rich in calcium, iron, protein and vitamin B. All these elements are very important for weak muscles. Apart from this, natural analgesic properties are found in amla, which reduces the pain caused due to weak muscles.

Eating banana is beneficial-

Banana helps in providing energy to the body. Apart from this, it is a great remedy for muscle weakness. Carbohydrates such as sucrose and glucose are present in bananas. Apart from this, it is also rich in potassium which converts carbohydrates into energy. This energy is very important in curing weakened muscles.

When to go to the doctor?

• On being unconscious.
• Severe muscle weakness.
• Difficulty in walking or moving the limbs.
• Feeling restless, confused and difficulty understanding something.
• Trouble in breathing.

These days there are many such diseases, which till a few years ago were not counted in the category of any disease but now a big problem is emerging. One of these diseases is Cervical pain. The main reason for this is to follow modern food habits and the wrong lifestyle due to which the problem of neck pain (cervical pain) has become very common. It has become so common that it is seen more in children and young people than in elderly people. The main reasons for this problem are- working on the desktop for hours, bad posture and sitting in a bent position and lifting heavyweights in the wrong way etc.

What is Cervical Pain?

Cervical pain is a problem related to bones due to which there is severe pain in the neck, shoulders, head etc which is called Cervical pain. This problem can happen to anyone. In today's era, due to irregular routines, almost every third person has to go through problems like cervical.

In other words, problems with the joints and discs of the cervical spine can lead to cervical pain. The cervical disc absorbs the pain between the bones. The bones, ligaments and muscles of the neck all support the head and keep the speed normal. In such a situation, there is swelling, injury or any kind of abnormality at that place, there is pain or stiffness in the neck. Physiotherapy or exercise may be needed to overcome this.

Symptoms of Cervical pain

Cervical pain mainly affects the areas around the shoulder and neck. Apart from this, other symptoms are also seen which are as follows-

• Weakness or tingling in hands and feet.
• Difficulty walking due to lack of coordination.
• Muscle cramps.
• Stiffness or strain in the neck.
• Feeling pain in the back of the head.
• Irregular functioning of the bladder and intestines.
• Bodyweight loss.
• A neck injury, trauma, or blow.
• Numbness around the hip or thigh when pressure is applied to the middle of the spinal cord.

Causes of Cervical pain

Cervical pain is pain caused by cervical spondylolysis or osteoarthritis. In this condition, changes occur in the bones, discs or joints which are usually attached to the neck. The main cause of cervical pain is also the wear and tear of cartilage and bones. This type of problem is mostly found in ageing people. However, it also occurs in younger people due to other factors. These factors are-

Over use of neck-

Some people's daily chores involve difficult and tiring activities that put a lot of pressure on the bones of the spine. This includes activities such as lifting heavy weights, working in a bent position, sitting in the wrong posture, etc.

Due to injury-

Due to chronic injury to the neck or spinal cord, a person may suffer from cervical pain in the future.

Herniated disc-

In this type of cervical pain, cracks develop in the spinal discs. These cracks give way to leakage of internal cushioning material. As a result, there is pressure on the nerves and muscles of the spine. In this way, the symptoms of cervical pain can bring pain and numbness in the arms.

Dehydrated spinal disc-

When the disc in the middle of the spine dries up rubbing them repeatedly causes intense pain.

Disk bulge-

Sometimes a bulging disc like a ruptured disc puts pressure on the body's nervous system. As a result, pain starts in the upper parts of the spine.

Abnormal curvature of the spine-

Normally, the length of the spine increases in equal proportion with increasing age from childhood due to which balance remains in the body but on the contrary, if for some reason there is more growth in one part of the spine and less growth in the other part, then due to this irregular growth, the physical balance gets disturbed due to which the body suffers from neck pain, back pain and other serious diseases.

• Common Causes of Cervical pain
• Sitting continuously and working for hours.
• Incorrect sitting posture.
• Muscle strain.
• Extreme weakness in the body.
• Lack of vitamin D and calcium in the body.
• Muscle cramps.
• Reading a book or watching TV while sitting in poor posture.
• Not turning the neck in the right way while doing the exercise.
• Tingling of the neck on one side for hours.
• Lift heavy weights with jerks. 

Home remedies for Cervical pain

Ice pack-

Ice pack helps in many types of pain. Therefore, applying an ice pack on the affected part gives great relief. Apart from this, ice packs also eliminate swelling along with pain in the neck or any other part of the body.

Rock salt-

Put a bowl of Epsom salts (rock salt) in a bathtub filled with lukewarm water. Sit in the bathtub as long as the water is warm. By doing this, there is relief in cervical pain.

Garlic-

Garlic has properties like calcium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin C etc. which provide great relief in body pain. For this, roast 2 cloves of garlic daily and consume it with water. Apart from this, make a paste by taking at least 8 to 10 buds of garlic and apply it to the affected part. By doing this, relief from cervical pain starts in a few days.

Ginger-

For cervical pain, soak ginger in warm water and keep it for some time. Now mix honey in that water and drink it. By doing this, there is relief in cervical pain. Massage the neck or affected part with ginger oil to get instant relief.

Essential oil-

Massage the mixture made from lavender and basil oils on the neck or affected parts with light hands. By doing this, there is quick relief in cervical pain.

Asafoetida and camphor mixed with mustard oil-

If there is cervical pain, take an equal quantity of camphor and asafetida and make a paste by beating it in mustard oil. Now massage this mixture on the affected parts of the neck or body with light hands. By doing this, the pain gets relief.

Lukewarm water compress-

Compressing with lukewarm water is a good option to get relief from any kind of pain. It also improves blood circulation. Apart from this, taking a shower with hot water also helps in relieving neck pain.

Turmeric-

Turmeric has antiseptic and antibiotic properties which naturally eliminates the pain and swelling arising in any part of the body. For this, before sleeping at night, put a spoonful of turmeric in a glass of milk and heat it. After it cools down a little, add a spoonful of honey to it and consume it. By doing this, there is relief in cervical pain. It also boosts blood circulation.

Sesame oil-

Sesame oil is rich in copper, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, vitamin D, etc. that helps to relieve cervical pain. For this, massage the affected parts with lukewarm sesame oil with light hands. By doing this, the pain reduces to a great extent.

Apple cider vinegar-

Apple cider vinegar is considered one of the best home remedies for neck pain. According to scientific research, apple cider vinegar helps in reducing joint pain and improves symptoms of arthritis and cervical pain. Therefore, it can be said that apple cider vinegar can cure neck pain.