• Published on: Apr 04, 2022
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Everything You Need To Know About Piles

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Piles is another term for hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower anus and rectum. This swelling can cause localized inflammation of other tissues.

There are a few different symptoms of hemorrhoids that you may experience. First, you may notice bleeding during bowel movements. This can happen if the hemorrhoid ruptures, or if it becomes irritated and scratches the anal area. You may also see blood on toilet paper after wiping, or in the toilet bowl itself. Second, you may experience pain and/or itching in the anal area. This can be caused by the hemorrhoids themselves, or by anal fissures (tears in the skin around the anus). third, you may have swollen tissue in and around the anus. this can make it difficult to wipe after using the bathroom, or to sit down without discomfort.

There are several symptoms that can be associated with hemorrhoids. These can include bleeding from the rectum, pain, or discomfort in the anal area, itching around the anus, and lumpiness or swelling around the anus. In some cases, hemorrhoids can also lead to leakage of feces or difficulty folds clothes. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a best doctor online as soon as possible to rule out other potential causes and get started on treatment. Treatment for hemorrhoids often includes home remedies such as increased fiber intake and sitz baths, but in more severe cases may require prescription medications or even surgery. Don't suffer in silence - get help from the best doctor today!

Hemorrhoids are typically diagnosed by a physical examination. However, if your hemorrhoids are large and causing significant discomfort, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy to rule out other causes of bleeding. hemorrhoids usually first develop during pregnancy or from constipation. The increased pressure from the enlarging uterus (womb) on the rectum and anus often leads to the development of hemorrhoids. Other possible causes include inflammation in the anal area (proctitis), higher than normal levels of estrogen, genetic disposition, and weakening of the supportive tissues around the anal canal with age.  Hemorrhoids are a common problem and can usually be treated with over-the-counter remedies. However, if they are causing significant discomfort or bleeding, it's best to consult a doctor.

There are a variety of different treatments for hemorrhoids, depending on the severity of the condition. Some treatments include over-the-counter medications, and lifestyle changes (such as increasing fiber intake and drinking plenty of water), and in some cases, surgery may be necessary. If you're experiencing any symptoms of hemorrhoids, it's best to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. You can also visit Best Doctors Online to find qualified doctors in your area who can help you get relief from your hemorrhoid symptoms. Diagnosis of hemorrhoids can be tricky, as there are a variety of symptoms that can point to this problem. One of the best ways to get an accurate diagnosis is to consult with a doctor online. This way, you can provide a detailed description of your symptoms and get an expert opinion on what might be causing them.

There are a few key symptoms that are typically associated with hemorrhoids, including painless bleeding during bowel movements, itching around the anus, and swelling or protrusion near the rectal opening. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible.

Prevention of hemorrhoids is a relatively simple process that mainly involves making lifestyle changes and consulting with the best doctors online. Lifestyle changes that can help prevent hemorrhoids include, but are not limited to, drinking plenty of water, eating fiber-rich foods, exercising regularly, and avoiding sitting or standing for long periods of time. In addition, consulting with the best doctors online can provide more specific advice on how to prevent hemorrhoids based on an individual's unique health profile. For example, some people may need to take special steps to avoid constipation while others may need to exercise caution when lifting heavy objects.

Prevention of hemorrhoids is best done by consulting with a doctor online. While there are some things you can do to help prevent hemorrhoids, such as eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of water, not every preventive measure will work for everyone. That's why it's important to consult with a doctor who can help assess your risk factors and develop a prevention plan that's tailored specifically for you. Some preventive measures may include increasing the amount of fiber in your diet, avoiding constipation, using moist wipes instead of dry toilet paper, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing.

If you're looking for information on the treatment of hemorrhoids, the best place to start is www.secondmedic.com. On our website, you'll find a wealth of resources on this topic, including articles, videos, and expert advice from medical professionals. Hemorrhoids are a common condition that can cause a great deal of discomfort and embarrassment. But there's no need to suffer in silence - there are plenty of effective treatments available nowadays. So if you're wondering how to get rid of hemorrhoids, or how to relieve the symptoms, be sure to consult our website for the latest information and guidance.

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Sleep Debt and Its Impact on the Body: Hidden Risks of Chronic Sleep Loss

Sleep is not a luxury; it is a biological necessity. Yet in today’s fast-paced world, many people consistently sacrifice sleep due to work demands, screen time and stress. Over time, insufficient sleep accumulates into what is known as sleep debt. Understanding sleep debt and its impact on the body is essential because chronic sleep loss silently affects nearly every organ system.

According to the World Health Organization and global sleep research, chronic sleep deprivation is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders and mental health conditions.

 

What Is Sleep Debt?

Sleep debt refers to the cumulative effect of not getting enough sleep.

For example:

  • if you need 8 hours but sleep 6 hours daily

  • you accumulate 2 hours of sleep debt per night

Over a week, that equals 14 hours of lost sleep.

This deficit places strain on the body.

 

Why Sleep Is Critical for Health

Sleep supports:

  • brain function

  • immune response

  • hormonal regulation

  • tissue repair

  • memory consolidation

Without adequate sleep, these processes become impaired.

 

Immediate Effects of Sleep Debt

Short-term consequences include:

  • daytime fatigue

  • poor concentration

  • mood swings

  • irritability

  • reduced reaction time

Even one night of poor sleep affects cognitive performance.

 

Sleep Debt and Hormonal Imbalance

Sleep regulates several key hormones.

Chronic sleep loss disrupts:

  • cortisol

  • insulin

  • leptin and ghrelin (hunger hormones)

This imbalance affects appetite, stress and metabolism.

 

Impact on Metabolic Health

Sleep debt increases:

  • insulin resistance

  • blood sugar fluctuations

  • abdominal fat accumulation

ICMR and NFHS-5 data show rising metabolic disorders in India, partly linked to lifestyle patterns including poor sleep.

 

Increased Risk of Obesity

When sleep is insufficient:

  • appetite hormones increase

  • cravings for high-calorie foods rise

  • impulse control weakens

Sleep deprivation promotes weight gain.

 

Sleep Debt and Immunity

The immune system relies heavily on sleep.

Chronic sleep loss:

  • reduces infection-fighting cells

  • increases inflammation

  • slows recovery from illness

Lancet research confirms that sleep deprivation weakens immune response.

 

Cardiovascular Consequences

Sleep debt increases risk of:

  • hypertension

  • heart disease

  • stroke

Poor sleep affects blood pressure regulation and vascular health.

 

Mental Health Impact

Sleep and mental health are deeply connected.

Sleep debt contributes to:

  • anxiety

  • depression

  • emotional instability

Chronic insomnia is both a cause and consequence of mental health disorders.

 

Cognitive Decline and Brain Health

Lack of sleep impairs:

  • memory

  • attention

  • decision-making

Over time, chronic sleep deprivation may increase risk of neurodegenerative disorders.

 

Sleep Debt and Inflammation

Chronic sleep loss elevates inflammatory markers.

Persistent inflammation contributes to:

  • metabolic syndrome

  • cardiovascular disease

  • autoimmune conditions

Preventing sleep debt reduces systemic inflammation.

 

Can Sleep Debt Be Recovered?

Short-term sleep debt can be partially recovered through:

  • consistent longer sleep

  • improved sleep hygiene

However, chronic sleep deprivation requires long-term behavioural changes.

Weekend “catch-up sleep” offers temporary relief but does not fully reverse long-standing sleep debt.

 

Warning Signs of Sleep Debt

Common indicators include:

  • reliance on caffeine

  • difficulty waking up

  • daytime drowsiness

  • poor focus

  • frequent illness

Persistent symptoms require lifestyle correction.

 

Practical Strategies to Reduce Sleep Debt

Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily.

 

Limit Screen Exposure Before Bed

Blue light suppresses melatonin production.

 

Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment

Dark, quiet and cool environments improve sleep quality.

 

Manage Stress

Relaxation techniques reduce cortisol levels and support sleep.

 

Avoid Heavy Meals and Caffeine at Night

These disrupt sleep cycles.

 

Role of Preventive Health Checkups

Screening helps detect:

  • hypertension

  • metabolic imbalance

  • stress-related conditions

Sleep quality assessment should be part of preventive care.

 

Long-Term Benefits of Adequate Sleep

Restorative sleep supports:

  • stable mood

  • strong immunity

  • healthy weight

  • improved productivity

  • reduced disease risk

Sleep is foundational to wellness.

 

Conclusion

Understanding sleep debt and its impact on the body highlights the critical role sleep plays in maintaining physical and mental health. Chronic sleep loss disrupts hormones, weakens immunity, increases metabolic risk and affects heart health. While occasional sleep loss may be manageable, consistent deprivation carries serious long-term consequences. Prioritising adequate, high-quality sleep is one of the most powerful steps toward protecting overall health and preventing chronic disease.

 

References

  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Sleep and Non-Communicable Diseases

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Lifestyle Disorders and Sleep Patterns

  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Adult Health Indicators

  • Lancet – Sleep Deprivation and Chronic Disease Research

  • NITI Aayog – Preventive Healthcare and Lifestyle Risk Factors

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