Q. What is angioplasty, and how does it work?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked blood vessels, usually arteries, and it's a lifesaver for many. It's often done in coronary arteries near the heart, but it can be used in other arteries too. Let's dive into how it works.

In a nutshell, angioplasty involves a tiny balloon and sometimes a stent. Here's the step-by-step:

1. Getting In: First, a skilled medical team gains access to your blood vessels, usually through the groin or wrist. They do this using a small incision, and don't worry, you'll be under anesthesia or sedation, so you won't feel a thing!

2. Guiding the Way: A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is threaded through the blood vessels until it reaches the blocked or narrowed area. This catheter is your pathway to fixing the problem.

3. Balloon Magic: Now comes the star of the show - the balloon. It's deflated and passed through the catheter to the trouble spot.

4. The Inflation: Once in place, the balloon is inflated. This has a cool effect: it pushes aside the fatty deposits (plaque) or squishes them against the artery walls, widening the passage.

5. A Helping Hand: Sometimes, just inflating the balloon isn't enough. That's when they insert a stent. Think of it as a scaffold; it's a small tube made of metal or fabric that holds the artery open. It's like installing a permanent guardrail.

6. The Grand Finale: After the artery is sufficiently widened, they deflate the balloon (if used) and remove the catheter. Your artery is now free-flowing, and your heart (or wherever the procedure was done) gets the oxygen-rich blood it craves.

So, there you have it! Angioplasty is like a highway renovation project for your arteries, ensuring smooth traffic flow for your blood. It's effective, minimally invasive, and has saved countless lives.

Remember, if you or someone you know needs angioplasty, consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the specifics. It's a tailored procedure, and they'll guide you through the whole process.

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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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