Q. Does leprosy spread by just touching a leprosy infected patient?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It is primarily transmitted through prolonged and close contact with an untreated person who has the active disease. The transmission of leprosy is not as simple as casual contact or just touching an infected individual.

Leprosy is considered to have a low level of contagiousness, and it's believed that it requires prolonged and regular exposure to the bacteria for transmission to occur. Most people have a natural immunity to the disease, and even when exposed, they may not develop the infection.

Direct and prolonged contact with nasal droplets or respiratory secretions from an untreated leprosy patient is considered one of the main modes of transmission. It is important to note that once a person with leprosy starts receiving appropriate treatment with multidrug therapy (MDT), they become non-infectious and the risk of transmission is greatly reduced.

In summary, leprosy does not easily spread through casual touch or brief contact with an infected individual. It primarily spreads through prolonged and close contact with untreated individuals who have the active disease, particularly through respiratory secretions. Timely diagnosis and treatment of leprosy are key measures in preventing its further transmission.

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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