What are plaques on the eyelids?

In medical terminology, plaques on the eyelids that have a yellowish tint are called xanthelasma. This word comes from the Greek word “xanthos”, which translates as “yellow plate”.

Xanthelasmas are soft or semi-hard growths that are yellowish in color and most often located on the inner corners of the upper eyelids, although they can also occur on the lower eyelids. These growths often appear symmetrically on both eyes.

Xanthelasmas are cholesterol deposits by nature. They are completely benign, do not cause pain, and do not turn into malignant tumors. However, large growths can cause discomfort and interfere with the normal functioning of the eyelids.

According to statistics, xanthelasmas occur in 1.1% of women and 0.3% of men, and can occur between the ages of 20 and 70, with a maximum incidence at the age of 40-50.

Why do eyelid xanthelasmas occur?

It is believed that xanthelasmas are formed as follows: immune system cells called macrophages, which are found in the skin, absorb excessive amounts of lipids. At some point, the fat-filled macrophages lose control of their lipid metabolism and turn into foam cells. The accumulation of these foam cells leads to the formation of growths known as xanthelasmas.

Many people with xanthelasmas do have elevated blood lipids. Lipid disorders can be primary or secondary. Primary disorders, such as hereditary hyperlipidemia, are associated with genetic diseases that lead to elevated levels of “bad” cholesterol at a young age.

Secondary disorders can occur due to excess weight, smoking, alcohol abuse, and various chronic diseases and conditions. These diseases include:

• Diabetes: A chronic disease associated with abnormal blood sugar metabolism.
• Hypertension: High blood pressure, which can contribute to the formation of fatty deposits.
• Hypothyroidism: A deficiency of thyroid hormones, which can lead to abnormal lipid metabolism.
• Primary biliary cholangitis: Inflammation and destruction of the small bile ducts in the liver.
• Sarcoidosis: An autoimmune disease that can affect many organs, including the skin.

In addition, lipid levels can be elevated by certain medications, such as corticosteroids, retinoids, immunosuppressants, estrogens, and drugs used to treat epilepsy.

However, about half of people with xanthelasma do not have significant lipid abnormalities, and the exact cause remains unknown. Xanthelasma is rare in young people and is most often associated with dyslipidemia.

How is xanthelasma diagnosed?

A doctor can diagnose xanthelasma based on the appearance of the growths. This does not require specialized diagnostic equipment. However, since xanthelasma can be a symptom of other conditions, blood tests for lipid and glucose levels are usually ordered when they are detected, and thyroid hormone levels, liver enzymes, and other indicators are sometimes checked.

How are eyelid plaques treated?

Xanthelasma is a benign growth that does not pose a health threat and does not require mandatory treatment. However, since the growths do not resolve on their own and can grow in size, as well as be a cosmetic concern, many people decide to have them removed.

There are various methods for removing xanthelasma, including:

• Chemical peels: Using concentrated trichloroacetic acid to remove the growths.
• Cryotherapy: Using liquid nitrogen to freeze and remove the growths.
• Radiofrequency ablation: A method of removing growths using radiofrequency waves.
• Laser removal: Using a laser to precisely remove xanthelasma.
• Surgical excision: Traditional surgical removal of the growths.

Once xanthelasmas are removed, there is a chance that they will recur, especially in people with high cholesterol and all four eyelids affected. With repeated removal, xanthelasmas may recur in 60% of patients.

In summary, although xanthelasmas themselves are not dangerous and are benign growths, they are formations, their presence may indicate the need to check your cholesterol levels and overall health.

While cosmetic treatment of xanthelasma, or yellowish plaques on the eyelids, is not always necessary, it is important to understand that the presence of these plaques may indicate a more serious health problem. Xanthelasma may be a symptom of dyslipidemia, a condition in which the level of lipids (fats) in the blood is abnormal, which significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Dyslipidemia can be primary or secondary. Primary dyslipidemia is usually associated with hereditary factors and genetic predispositions that lead to increased levels of “bad” cholesterol in the blood. Secondary dyslipidemia can develop as a result of other factors, such as excess weight, smoking, alcohol abuse, chronic diseases including diabetes, hypertension, hypothyroidism, primary biliary cholangitis, sarcoidosis, as well as the use of certain medications.

Because dyslipidemia can affect overall cardiovascular health, it is important to manage the condition. Doctors typically recommend lifestyle changes to lower cholesterol and improve lipid profiles. These changes may include:

• Losing weight: Being overweight or obese contributes to high cholesterol, so losing weight can help improve your lipid profile.
• Changing your diet: Reducing your intake of saturated and trans fats, increasing your fiber intake, and including foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, can help improve your cholesterol levels.
• Physical activity: Regular exercise can improve overall cardiovascular health and help lower your “bad” cholesterol.
• Quitting smoking: Smoking significantly increases your risk of heart disease and can worsen lipid problems.

In some cases, medication may be needed in addition to lifestyle changes. Your doctor may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins or fibrates. Specific treatment will be determined based on the exact diagnosis, the level of dyslipidemia, and the patient’s overall health.

It is important to have regular medical checkups and follow your doctor’s recommendations to prevent cardiovascular disease and maintain overall health. Eliminating the causes that lead to the formation of xanthelasma will help improve not only your appearance, but your overall health as well.

It is Easy to Find and Treat the Cause of the Disease

Many people tend to believe that skin conditions such as rashes can be easily explained and eliminated, associating them with poor nutrition, gastrointestinal (GI) problems, or allergies. However, it often turns out that the causes of skin diseases can be much more complex and multifaceted.

These problems do not always have obvious or easily eliminated causes, as is the case with other chronic non-communicable diseases. The skin can react to internal and external factors that are difficult to identify and eliminate without proper medical examination.

Rashes Are Not Serious

Many people underestimate or ignore rashes, believing that this is not a serious problem. As a result, they may avoid using medical treatments, considering rashes to be insignificant. However, such conditions can have a significant impact on quality of life. They can cause discomfort, emotional distress, and even social problems, so it is important to take them seriously and seek medical help when needed.

You Should Get Rid of “Toxins”

A common myth is that you can cleanse your body of “toxins” using various supplements or methods. In fact, evidence-based medicine is based on the use of proven drugs and methods that have scientific evidence to support their effectiveness and safety. Before taking any supplements or undergoing procedures, you should undergo an examination and receive an accurate diagnosis from a qualified doctor. Cleansing the body of toxins, as is sometimes advertised, has no serious scientific evidence.

You Can Restore Skin’s Youth

Some people turn to dermatologists in the hope of stopping the aging process of the skin or returning its condition to 10-20 years ago. They may expect that cosmetic or medical procedures will be able to change the genetically predetermined features of the skin and hair.

However, at the moment, science does not have methods that could effectively and safely restore the former youth of the skin. While various treatments can improve the appearance and condition of the skin, it is impossible to completely stop or reverse the aging process.

There are universal remedies

Many people believe that there are universal cosmetics that can solve all skin problems. However, treating skin diseases often takes time and an individual approach. The problem with skin care cosmetics is that brands often focus on positive results, hiding the limitations and potential side effects. There is no one product that would suit all cases and all skin types.

Unusual changes in the skin require an immediate visit to the doctor

A visit to the doctor is necessary when skin changes begin to affect the quality of life or if the same problems appear regularly and do not go away for a long time. Not all skin changes require immediate medical intervention, but caution should be exercised when the changes become permanent or cause discomfort.

Sun protection is marketing

There are many studies that confirm that ultraviolet radiation is a significant risk factor for skin cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for sunscreen use are not a marketing ploy. They are based on scientific evidence of the damage UV rays can cause to the skin. Sunscreens with an SPF that protects against both UVA and UVB help reduce the risk of skin damage and cancer.

Moles should not be removed

There are many myths and superstitions associated with mole removal, such as fear of changing one’s fate, the mole growing in another place, or the risk of death from metastasis. However, benign moles are not prone to metastasis, and their removal should not cause such consequences if performed by a qualified doctor.

Mole removal may be necessary for diagnosis or to correct aesthetic or medical problems, and is not dangerous if done correctly.

During this period, herpes is especially contagious, and contact can not only be uncomfortable for the infected person, but also significantly increases the risk of transmitting the virus to the partner. Herpes rashes are one of the most acute moments in the course of the disease, when the virus actively multiplies and is easily transmitted through microtraumas of the skin and mucous membranes.

However, during periods when there are no symptoms and the disease is in remission, the risk of transmitting the infection still remains, but it can be significantly reduced. Using condoms is one of the most effective methods of preventing the transmission of herpes, reducing the likelihood of infecting a partner by 65-96%. Despite this, even with a condom, the risk is not completely eliminated, since the virus can be on areas of the skin that are not protected by this contraceptive.

It is important to note that drug therapy for herpes is not prescribed to everyone. Medicines are required only for those who suffer from frequent and severe symptoms of the infection. If such patients begin to regularly take antiviral drugs, this will not only help them control outbreaks of the disease and improve their quality of life, but also significantly reduce the likelihood of transmitting the virus to a partner. This therapy is called suppressive and can reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to minimal values.

Genital herpes is a viral infection that is predominantly sexually transmitted and is caused by the herpes simplex virus. In most cases, the disease is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which prefers to affect the epithelial cells of the genitals. However, about 40% of genital herpes cases are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which usually causes infection in the mouth.

HSV-1 genital infections occur through oral sex, when the virus is transferred from the mouth to the genitals. Oral herpes can also occur when HSV-2 is transferred from the genitals to the mouth through oral contact.

Symptoms of genital herpes can vary in severity, depending on whether the infection is a first or recurring episode. Many people who are infected do not experience any unpleasant symptoms.

However, for those who do develop symptoms, the first episode is usually the most severe. The initial outbreak occurs several weeks after infection and is accompanied by symptoms such as itching, tingling, or pain in the buttocks, legs, or thighs. Later, blisters appear on the genitals, which turn into painful ulcers.

In addition, during the primary outbreak, additional flu-like symptoms may occur: high fever up to 40 °C, weakness, headache and joint pain. These symptoms usually disappear within one to two weeks, after which the ulcers crust over and gradually disappear. The primary outbreak is a serious test for the body, and it can be very painful and unpleasant.

After the first outbreak, the virus remains in the body in a latent, or hidden, stage. At this stage, there are no symptoms, and the person may feel completely healthy. However, the virus continues to exist in the nerve cells and can reactivate, leading to repeated episodes of the disease.

These relapses can occur several months or even years after the initial infection. Triggers for relapse can be any stress factors, such as another infectious disease, surgery, emotional stress or even ultraviolet radiation.

Recurrent episodes of herpes are usually milder than the first. Blisters and ulcers may appear in different places than during the primary outbreak, and they are often less painful. Relapses usually do not cause flu-like symptoms such as fever and weakness. However, if the initial outbreak was asymptomatic, a person may mistakenly think that they have only just become infected, since symptoms first appeared during a relapse.

Thus, with herpes, it is important to understand the characteristics of the disease and be prepared for its relapses. Regular use of antiviral drugs, use of condoms and a conscious attitude to your health and the health of your partner can help minimize the risks and lead a full life despite the presence of this infection.

Genital herpes is transmitted mainly through sexual contact, including oral, anal and vaginal. The greatest likelihood of contracting this infection occurs during periods when the disease is in the active phase, and characteristic herpetic rashes in the form of open and moist ulcers appear on the skin or mucous membranes. At this time, viral particles are especially easily transmitted from one person to another through the fluid secreted from herpes blisters.

Once a person has been infected with the herpes virus, it remains in his body for life. Even during periods when there are no external symptoms of the disease and it seems that the infection has retreated, the virus does not disappear completely. It “hides” in nerve cells, inaccessible to the immune system, which could destroy it.

After the initial infection, the virus penetrates the nerve roots that extend from the spinal cord, and then spreads to the nearest sensory ganglia – these are nerve nodes located along the spine.

Even during periods when the disease does not manifest itself externally, a small number of viral particles can leave their secluded places in the nerve nodes and penetrate the epithelial cells of the genitals. Here, the virus can be released into the environment, which makes it possible to infect a partner even in the absence of visible ulcers or other manifestations of infection.

Therefore, it is not uncommon for people to become infected with genital herpes from partners who have no visible signs of the disease and whose skin looks completely healthy.

It is important to remember that the herpes virus quickly loses its activity outside the human body. It is inactivated and becomes incapable of infecting almost instantly. This means that it is simply impossible to become infected with herpes through everyday activities such as shaking hands, hugging, or touching objects that an infected person has touched.

How contagious is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is an infection whose level of contagiousness depends on several factors, including the gender of the infected partner and the type of sexual activity. In general, men become infected with genital herpes from women less often than women from men. This means that the likelihood of transmission from a man to a woman is higher than in the opposite case.

Additionally, the risk of infection varies depending on the frequency of changing sexual partners, the regularity of sexual intercourse, and the use of contraception. It is important to consider what kind of contraception a couple uses and how often they use it.

Different studies offer different estimates of the risk of infection from an infected partner. Some indicate a risk of 3%, others – up to 10%. One of the largest studies found that in stable couples where one of the partners is infected, the probability of contracting herpes is 3.6% over eight months.

How to have safe sex with genital herpes?

1. Confirm the diagnosis: If you have sores or other symptoms in the genital area, it is important to make sure that they are indeed related to herpes and not another disease that can be even more dangerous, such as syphilis or chancroid. An accurate diagnosis may require a consultation with a doctor, as well as a PCR test for the presence of the virus in samples from the sores.
2. Discuss the situation with your partner: If the diagnosis of herpes is confirmed, an open conversation with your partner becomes necessary. Openly discussing the problem will help maintain trust in the relationship and choose the best strategy to protect the health of both partners.
3. Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks: During periods of herpes outbreaks, when blisters and ulcers appear, it is recommended to completely abstain from all types of sexual activity, including vaginal, anal and oral sex. During this period, the risk of transmitting the virus is especially high, even when using condoms. Ulcers can occur in areas that are not protected by condoms, such as the thighs, buttocks and the area around the anus. When in contact with these areas of the skin, the risk of infection increases significantly.
4. Use condoms outside outbreaks: Even during periods of remission, when there are no visible symptoms, the herpes simplex virus can be released from skin cells, which maintains the risk of infection. However, correct use of condoms significantly reduces the likelihood of transmission: by 96% for women and by 65% ​​for men. Thus, condoms remain an important means of protection, even if partners are in remission. Consider antiviral therapy for frequent outbreaks: If outbreaks are frequent and cause significant discomfort, it is recommended to discuss antiviral therapy with your doctor. Drugs such as acyclovir can significantly reduce the frequency of outbreaks, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to a partner. These medications are available by prescription and should only be prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional.

Can I have oral sex if I have herpes on my lip?

The same rules apply for oral sex with herpes on my lip as for vaginal or anal sex. If there are blisters or ulcers on the lips, it is best to refrain from oral sex until the skin has completely healed, as this minimizes the risk of transmitting the virus to your partner.

Information about the risk of transmitting HSV-1 during oral sex

The risk of sexual intercourse outside of an outbreak is limited, but the risk is probably low. However, genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the HSV-1 and HSV-2 viruses. Once the virus has entered the body, it is impossible to completely get rid of it. The infection can be transmitted both during an active outbreak and during remission.

To minimize the risk of infection, it is recommended to avoid sexual activity during outbreaks of herpes infection. Oral sex is possible outside of outbreaks, but it is advisable to use condoms for vaginal and anal sex. If outbreaks occur frequently, it is worth considering starting antiviral therapy.

Myth: All diseases can be cured with drugs

Drugs designed to treat or alleviate specific diseases and conditions may not solve all health problems or be the only solution to overall well-being.

Increasing the number of medications will not lead to a faster recovery. Excessive dosage or improper use of drugs can cause unwanted side effects and cause health problems.

Some medications are aimed at relieving symptoms but not treating the underlying cause of the disease. It is important to understand the difference between symptomatic treatment and treatment of the cause of the disease in order to see a doctor and receive appropriate treatment.

The effects of medications may vary among individuals depending on their age, gender, physiological characteristics, and other individual factors. Therefore, the use of medications should be done with caution and only as prescribed by a doctor.

Myth: Aspirin cures all diseases

In 1971, British scientist John Vane published research on the effectiveness of acetylsalicylic acid, and since that time, aspirin has become widely used for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Aspirin remains a key drug for maintaining heart health. When using aspirin and nitroglycerin in the first minutes of an attack, it is possible to prevent the development of myocardial infarction and significantly reduce the risk of death.

However, aspirin increases bleeding, which makes its use risky for infectious diseases. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause ulcerative lesions and bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Even small doses of aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding.

Children should not take aspirin for viral infections due to the risk of developing the rare but deadly Reye’s syndrome. To reduce fever and relieve pain, NSAIDs and paracetamol are usually preferred.

Do not forget that medications should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor!

Myth: It is necessary to lower the fever

When the temperature rises in the body, the process of producing interferons, which are important for fighting viruses and bacteria, is activated. These proteins stimulate the process of phagocytosis, in which phagocyte cells engulf and destroy infectious agents.

Possible symptoms of fever include headache, aching bones, weakness, chills, loss of appetite and increased sweating.
Doctors recommend refraining from taking antipyretics if the temperature does not exceed 38-38.5 °C.

Antipyretic drugs can have negative effects on the liver and digestive system when used frequently, including destruction of the stomach walls and causing ulcerative processes, which can lead to bleeding.

Maintaining bed rest and allowing the body to rest is considered an effective way. Any viral disease transmitted during vigorous activity can lead to unwanted complications and infect others.

Myth: Paracetamol and ibuprofen are the same thing

Both drugs have an antipyretic effect, but let’s take a closer look at their features.

• Ibuprofen works faster, lasts longer, and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it more effective in fighting inflammation.
• Paracetamol has fewer side effects, which makes it gentler on the stomach and general condition of the body.
• Both drugs can be taken together for a short time, but long-term use requires consultation with a doctor.
• The UK’s National Health Service does not recommend that women take any of these drugs during pregnancy due to possible negative effects on the baby’s development.
• When a short course of analgesic treatment is required, paracetamol is most often recommended.

ARVI

ARVI in children under one year of age can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, as well as inflammation of the small airways. One of the main signs of the disease is wheezing, but its presence is observed only in 25-40% of children. And only less than 2% of them require hospitalization. The infection usually lasts about one to two weeks, but in some cases it can last longer

Croup

Croup is a childhood disease caused by parainfluenza viruses. The main symptom of croup is a characteristic “barking” cough, which can be quite memorable. In children, croup can be severe, and up to 6% of cases require hospitalization for medical observation and treatment. Croup usually lasts for about a week, but sometimes symptoms can last longer. Approximately 6 in 100 children get croup each year, and it most often occurs in children under two years of age.

Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is a condition in which a child develops a rash accompanied by pharyngitis. Typically, the child will have a sore throat and fever. The rash, characterized by a bright red hue and roughness to the touch, spreads throughout the body.

Previously, scarlet fever was considered a dangerous childhood disease, but modern antibiotics can effectively treat this condition. Scarlet fever is now seen more as one of the manifestations of the rash, which is successfully controlled by drug treatment.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a skin condition caused by a bacterial infection. It is the third most common skin disease among children, most often affecting children between the ages of 2 and 6 years. However, the condition is highly contagious and adults can also become infected.

Impetigo appears on the skin as small, itchy blisters or sores that eventually burst, releasing fluid and forming a characteristic honey-colored crust. Treatment for impetigo usually involves the use of antibiotics. Great care is required to maintain skin and environmental hygiene to prevent the spread of infection.

Whooping cough

Whooping cough is a contagious bacterial infection that can affect both adults and children, but is especially dangerous for little ones. Children may have such severe spasms during a coughing attack that it can lead to breathing problems. More than half of infants who develop whooping cough require hospital treatment.

Vaccination has significantly reduced the number of whooping cough cases, but the vaccine is no longer effective after 5 to 10 years, increasing the risk of recurrence in adults who can infect children.

Myth: Taking melatonin without a doctor’s prescription is harmful

The long answer to this question depends on many factors, including dosage and individual characteristics of the body. Please note that melatonin may be contraindicated in some people for various reasons, so you should consult your doctor before taking it.

Melatonin belongs to the group of neurohormones, that is, hormones that are produced in the brain. Its main function is to control our biological rhythms, managing the transition between sleep and wakefulness.

The maximum level of melatonin synthesis usually occurs from 23:00 to 03:00, when the concentration of this hormone in the blood reaches about 200 picograms per milliliter. At this time, healthy people sleep the most soundly.

Melatonin-containing medications have been developed by humans to regulate their biological clocks. However, these drugs and medications containing melatonin have not yet been fully studied, and their effect remains relatively low.

The most compelling evidence for melatonin’s effectiveness comes from its use to treat sleep disorders in blind people and those who suffer from difficulty falling asleep and sleep-wake cycle disorders. Some studies also point to possible benefits of melatonin for jet lag.

The effects of taking melatonin without consulting a doctor depend on the amount of this hormone in the supplement or medicine. Research shows that the effects of melatonin vary depending on the dosage and can be either positive or negative for the body.

When taking melatonin in a daily dose of 0.3 to 0.5 mg, the level of this hormone in the blood remains within the natural night peak. As a result of this dosage, the effect of melatonin is comparable to its natural release, which promotes quick and quality sleep. In such quantities, melatonin is not harmful to health.

With a daily dose of 1 to 10 mg, the level of melatonin in the blood increases 3-60 times. Although melatonin itself is not toxic, at such high concentrations it has too strong an effect on the body.

People taking these dosages through supplements or medications may experience severe daytime sleepiness, decreased performance, and a drop in body temperature that may manifest as unpleasant chills.

Taking melatonin in a dosage of 0.3 to 0.5 mg is considered safe for most people and does not cause discomfort.

Some products containing melatonin may interact with certain medications. For example, caffeine and the antidepressant fluvoxamine can increase melatonin levels in the blood, increasing the risk of side effects when taken together.

Melatonin may reduce the level of nifedipine in the body. This poses certain risks because nifedipine is used to control blood pressure. If this drug does not work enough, it may be harmful to your health.

Evidence suggests that in adults without medical conditions who have difficulty sleeping or experience jet lag, melatonin at a dosage of 0.3 to 0.5 mg does not pose a threat.

However, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor before purchasing to ensure that using a melatonin supplement or medication is truly necessary.

Myth: You need to sleep eight hours a night

The duration of sleep may vary for each person. Although the generally accepted standard indicates a certain number of hours of sleep, many people can feel comfortable and well-rested even if they deviate from this standard.

Individual sleep needs depend on many factors, including age, physical activity, genetics and sleep quality.

The National Sleep Foundation recommends that healthy adults get seven to nine hours of sleep each day. However, each person is unique and their sleep needs may vary.

It is important that he feels rested and energetic. However, too much or too little sleep, especially if it becomes a regular occurrence, can have a negative impact on your health.

Myth: The consequences of lack of sleep should not be underestimated

It is as important to our health as proper nutrition and physical activity. During sleep, the production of important hormones peaks, including:

• Melatonin, which promotes deep and restful sleep and also regulates our internal clock, or circadian rhythm.
• Somatotropic hormone, which plays a key role in the growth and development of the body, especially in children. It also affects metabolism, making it important for maintaining a healthy weight.
• Leptin, which controls our hunger by helping regulate appetite and body fat levels.

For example, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society, more than nine hours of sleep per night is considered normal for young adults, those compensating for sleep loss, and people with chronic illnesses. An increased need for sleep may also be common in pregnant women.

Almost half of Russian residents suffer from sleep deficiency on weekdays. However, trying to make up for lost time on the weekend cannot replace regular, high-quality and sufficient sleep.

Myth: It is quite possible to sleep for nine hours and wake up exhausted if your sleep is not of good quality.

Quality sleep is determined by the following signs:

• Fall asleep quickly in 30 minutes or less.
• Get a full night’s sleep, with few, if any, awakenings.
• Easy falling asleep after waking up at night, usually taking no more than 20 minutes.
• Sleep duration corresponds to average age norms.
• Feeling fresh, invigorated and energetic after waking up in the morning.

Exposure to artificial light, such as scrolling through your phone or watching TV before bed, can disrupt your circadian rhythm, causing your body to confuse day with night.

In response to darkness, the pineal gland in the brain, or pineal gland, begins to produce melatonin, which promotes sleep and makes it easier to stay asleep. Disruption of this process can make it difficult to fall asleep.

Myth: Sleep disorders can be caused by various pathologies

Here are the most common ones:

Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or frequent awakenings at night, which can make it difficult to fall back asleep. Insomnia can be caused by stress, anxiety, or medical problems.

Sleep apnea: short-term cessation of breathing during sleep, accompanied by severe snoring. This can lead to decreased sleep quality and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Restless legs syndrome: discomfort in the legs, such as tingling or burning, with a desire to move them to relieve discomfort. This often occurs during periods of rest and can make it difficult to fall asleep.

Hypersomnia: Excessive sleepiness during the day, which can lead to daytime napping and decreased productivity.

Parasomnia: talking, walking, or other unusual activities while falling asleep, sleeping, or immediately upon awakening. This may be associated with sleep disturbances and decreased quality of rest.

Circadian rhythm disorders: Problems with your sleep-wake cycle, which can lead to insomnia or daytime sleepiness.

This often occurs due to changes in sleep patterns, such as working at night or flying across multiple time zones.

If the quality and duration of your sleep has been affected for several weeks for no apparent reason, and this is affecting your well-being, you should consult a doctor.

Myth: Laser treatment of sore throat is effective

A laser is a device that creates an amplified optical beam consisting of light waves synchronized in time and space.

The therapeutic laser generates low intensity laser radiation (LILR) with a wavelength from 365 to 904 nm. This range includes ultraviolet, visible and infrared radiation spectra.

They differ in the depth of tissue penetration, which allows the laser to be used for various therapeutic purposes.

Since the invention of the laser, its use in medicine has attracted the interest of researchers. Low-intensity laser radiation is considered as a means of reducing inflammation and stimulating metabolic processes in the body.

Therefore, its use has been studied in various fields of medicine, such as ophthalmology, dermatology, otolaryngology and others.

However, the use of laser treatment is not always effective. Despite some evidence of its usefulness in the treatment of certain musculoskeletal and skin conditions.

The laser treatment process involves sending light pulses to the desired area. This is usually painless, although the person may feel a warm or mild tingling sensation.

The duration of the procedure can vary from a few minutes to several hours depending on the area of treatment.

To treat angina, some medical institutions offer a course of treatment consisting of 10-12 sessions. The duration of the manipulation varies from one to five minutes for each point of influence.

Is it true that laser helps with sore throat?

The technique is widespread in Russia, but there are no significant clinical studies confirming the effectiveness of therapeutic laser for angina.

Laser therapy, like other physiotherapeutic methods, is not included in generally accepted international recommendations, including for the treatment of recurrent or chronic tonsillitis, which is characterized by periodic and frequent exacerbations of sore throat.

There has been limited research on the use of therapeutic laser for the treatment of sore throat in the Russian Federation. Participants reported positive results, including decreased pain and faster recovery time by 12 days.

However, these experiments were carried out on a limited number of patients, and the effectiveness of laser therapy has not been confirmed.

There are a number of strict contraindications to laser therapy

• Oncological diseases.
• Blood clotting disorders.
• Liver and kidney failure.
• First half of pregnancy.
• Severe diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
• Cerebrovascular accident.

As with any medical procedure, laser treatment may carry the risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, or hearing and smell impairment. However, if the procedure is performed correctly, the likelihood of their occurrence is minimal.

How is a therapeutic laser different from a surgical laser?

Therapeutic and surgical lasers have differences in power and wavelength. A surgical laser has greater power and wavelength. It is able to coagulate blood vessels, evaporate excess tissue and provide a clean cut without heating.

The surgical laser is believed to provide more precise cuts and also reduce blood loss and the risk of complications after surgery compared to conventional surgical instruments. This method is recommended in international guidelines for certain operations.

However, the choice of intervention method depends on the specific situation, and the decision to use a laser is made by the doctor, taking into account all the circumstances.

To date, the effectiveness of therapeutic laser for the treatment of sore throat has not been confirmed. This method is not included in generally accepted international recommendations, and its use for acute or chronic sore throat is not justified.

Myth: It is beneficial to rinse your nose with sea water

Natural sea salt is composed primarily of 90-95% sodium chloride (NaCl) and contains up to 2% other minerals, including potassium, magnesium, sodium, manganese and iodine salts. These minerals provide significant benefits to the nasal mucosa.

The use of sea water rinses is an effective method of treating rhinitis and sinusitis in adults and children from birth. This method can be used several times a day over an extended period of time, preferably choosing ready-made solutions based on sea water.

With rhinitis and sinusitis, the vessels of the nasal mucosa dilate, causing swelling. Before rinsing your nose, it is recommended:

• Apply vasoconstrictor drops (no more than 5 days in a row). This will help narrow the blood vessels and reduce swelling, which will make the rinsing process easier.
• Wait 5-10 minutes until breathing becomes easier. This time will allow the drops to begin to act and improve the patency of the nasal passages.
• Start rinsing. After waiting for the specified time, you can begin the procedure of rinsing your nose with sea water or special solutions.

If the nose is blocked, fluid can enter the middle ear, causing an ear infection. Therefore, it is recommended to use vasoconstrictor drugs before washing. Before starting the procedure, it is important to consult with an otolaryngologist.

Myth: If  you always wear a medical mask outside, you won’t get sick

People affected by influenza are able to transmit the virus over a distance of 2-3 meters. Most experts believe that the influenza virus spreads through droplets produced by coughing, sneezing, and even normal breathing.

However, you can get the flu by touching surfaces that have the virus on them and then touching your own mouth, nose, or eyes.

Wearing masks outdoors has limited value. In such settings there is usually no close contact with other people, which reduces the risk of infection.

However, in enclosed spaces or on public transport, the use of medical masks can help reduce the likelihood of infection. For more effective protection, you can use special respirators, which are also available in pharmacies.

The effectiveness of masks depends on the size of the pores in the material: the smaller they are, the higher the protection. The most inexpensive masks provide only basic protection. It is important to change the mask regularly – on average once every two hours or when wet/contaminated.

Myth: It’s better not to wash when the temperature is high

When it’s hot outside, it’s important to avoid hot baths or showers, especially if the water is too hot, as this can worsen discomfort and negatively affect the body.

Instead, it is preferable to choose warm water, which will help to gently lower your body temperature and create a feeling of comfort.

However, refusing hygiene procedures during illness is ineffective and even harmful. Taking a shower will help eliminate sweat, improve your mood and overall well-being.

If you experience weakness, dizziness or headache, it is recommended to wait until your condition improves or consult a doctor before taking a shower or bath.

It’s important to stay hydrated and rested in hot weather, so drink enough fluids and make sure you get the rest you need. Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for how to care for yourself while you are sick.