Why is Glaucoma Called the Silent Killer?

Glaucoma Week is observed globally from March 12-18 to raise awareness among the general public. It is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide.

Glaucoma is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it can severely damage the optic nerve without any noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. There are multiple causes of glaucoma. It can develop due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye. However, glaucoma can also occur even if the intraocular pressure is normal. Factors like family history, diabetes, high blood pressure, nearsightedness or farsightedness, migraines, eye injuries, other eye diseases, and uncontrolled use of steroid eye drops without a doctor’s advice can contribute to glaucoma.

Without proper treatment, glaucoma patients can permanently lose their vision. However, if detected early, glaucoma can be controlled.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Glaucoma symptoms can vary from person to person. Common signs include:

• Eye pain and redness
• Sensitivity to light
• Difficulty seeing in bright or dim light
• Seeing halos around lights
• Eye, head, and forehead pain
• Swelling of the eye
• Nausea

Age and Glaucoma : Glaucoma Awareness

It was previously believed that glaucoma is primarily an age-related disease, affecting individuals over 40. However, this notion has changed. People of any age, including newborns, can develop glaucoma. Sometimes, the condition is congenital. If a newborn has persistent tearing, light sensitivity, cloudy corneas, and enlarging eyeballs, it is crucial to consult an eye doctor immediately.

Treatment and Care

Anandalok Hospital’s ophthalmology department offers specialized glaucoma treatment, supported by a team of eye specialists. For more information on eye disease treatments, visit the hospital's website.

Learn Which Type of Hepatitis is the Most Dangerous

Every year, approximately 1.4 million people worldwide die from hepatitis. Hepatitis B is the most severe liver infection affecting the largest number of people globally.

Hepatitis is a liver disease that can be caused by several factors. It can be cured with proper treatment, but negligence can turn it into a life-threatening condition.

Hepatitis B spreads through infected blood transfusions or other bodily fluids. It is not a hereditary disease and cannot be passed down through genes. However, an infected pregnant woman can transmit the virus to her unborn child through the placenta.

Using contaminated surgical tools, toothbrushes, needles, and syringes can spread the disease. Excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged use of certain medications, and unsafe sexual practices can also cause hepatitis.

Hepatitis A, B, and D can be prevented through vaccination. Hepatitis A and E typically spread through contaminated food and water.

Types of Hepatitis : Hepatitis Awareness

1. Hepatitis A

   • Spread through contaminated food and water.
   • Symptoms include liver swelling, loss of appetite, fever, vomiting, and joint pain.

2. Hepatitis B

   • Spread through blood, sweat, saliva, and other bodily fluids.
   • Diagnosed through blood tests.
   • Can lead to chronic liver diseases like cirrhosis and cancer.

3. Hepatitis C

   • More dangerous than Hepatitis A and B.
   • Spread through contaminated needles and blood transfusions.
   • Often has no symptoms but can cause severe liver damage over time.
   • Chronic infection can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, or cancer.

4. Hepatitis D

   • Often affects those already infected with Hepatitis B or C.
   • Spread through contaminated blood and needles.
   • Can cause liver infections, vomiting, and mild fever.

5. Hepatitis E

   • Spread through contaminated food and water.
   • Symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, yellowing of the skin, and mild fever.

World Hepatitis Day

World Hepatitis Day is observed every year on July 28th to raise awareness about hepatitis. The initiative was started by the World Hepatitis Alliance in 2008 and was officially recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2011. The day honors Nobel Prize-winning scientist Baruch Samuel Blumberg, who discovered the Hepatitis B virus and developed a diagnostic test and vaccine for it. Each year, the day has a specific theme; in 2023, the theme is "One Life, One Liver."

Kashmiri Chicken Masala recipe

Kashmiri Chicken Masala is a flavorful and aromatic dish from the Kashmir region, known for its rich spices and creamy texture. Here's a simple recipe to bring this delicious dish to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• Chicken: 500 grams, cut into pieces
• Onions: 2 large, finely sliced
• Tomatoes: 2 medium, finely chopped
• Yogurt: 1 cup, beaten
• Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 tablespoons
• Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: 2 teaspoons
• Turmeric Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Garam Masala Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Coriander Powder: 2 teaspoons
• Cumin Seeds: 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon Stick: 1 inch
• Cardamom Pods: 3-4
• Cloves: 4-5
• Bay Leaf: 1
• Salt: to taste
• Cooking Oil: 3 tablespoons
• Fresh Coriander Leaves: for garnish

Instructions: Kashmiri Chicken Masala recipe

1. Marinate the Chicken:

   • In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Masala:

   • Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
   • Add cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté until the spices release their aroma.
   • Add the sliced onions and cook until they turn golden brown.
   • Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 2 minutes.
   • Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and blend with the onions.

3. Cook the Chicken: Homemade Kashmiri Chicken

   • Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook on medium heat until the chicken pieces turn white.
   • Add Kashmiri red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala powder. Mix well to coat the chicken with the spices.
   • Cover and cook on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and tender. If the gravy is too thick, add a little water to achieve the desired consistency.

4. Final Touch:

   • Taste and adjust the salt if needed.
   • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

5. Serve:

   • Serve hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti.

Street Foods in Odisha

Odisha, known for its rich cultural heritage, also boasts a diverse and delicious street food scene. Here are some of the must-try Best street foods in Odisha :

1. Dahi Bara Aloo Dum A popular street food, Dahi Bara Aloo Dum combines soft, spongy lentil cakes (Dahi Bara) soaked in yogurt with spicy potato curry (Aloo Dum). It is garnished with sev, chopped onions, and a sprinkle of spices.

2. Gupchup Known as Pani Puri in other parts of India, Gupchup in Odisha is a favorite snack. These small, crispy puris are filled with tangy tamarind water, spicy mashed potatoes, and chickpeas.

3. Chhena Poda A sweet delight, Chhena Poda is a cheese dessert made from fresh cottage cheese, sugar, and cardamom, baked until it turns golden brown. It has a unique caramelized flavor.

4. Chakuli Pitha Chakuli Pitha is a type of rice pancake, similar to dosa but thicker. It is usually served with a variety of chutneys or a potato curry.

5. Bara These are savory lentil fritters, crispy on the outside and soft inside. They are often served with ghugni (a spicy chickpea curry) or chutney.

6. Chaat Odisha offers a unique version of chaat, a mix of diced potatoes, crispy puris, onions, tomatoes, sev, and a variety of chutneys, topped with spices.

7. Singhada Singhada, or Samosa, in Odisha is filled with a spicy potato mixture and served with tamarind chutney. It's a popular snack during tea time. Odisha food recipes

8. Dalma A wholesome dish made from lentils and vegetables, Dalma is often served with rice or puri. It's not only tasty but also very nutritious.

9. Pakhala Bhata A traditional Odia dish, Pakhala Bhata is fermented rice served with fried or mashed vegetables, fish, and papad. It's especially popular during the summer months.

10. Rasabali A delicious sweet dish, Rasabali consists of deep-fried cheese patties soaked in thickened milk, flavored with cardamom.

Where to Find Giant Fish Fry Kabiraji?

Hearing "Kabiraji" is enough to make anyone's mouth water, and if it's a giant-sized version, it's even more enticing! The special giant-sized Fish Fry Kabiraji from Jadavpur has captured the hearts of the city's food enthusiasts. FoodKatha, along with Saumi Dutta, tried it out. Check out the video to see their reaction.

About Saumi Dutta: Saumi Dutta, the 2021 Queen of Asian International, started her career as a psychologist. Her life took a turn through social media. She loves cooking and eating. Her top secret for a 'strict diet' is eating adequate meals regularly and having hot water with lemon after meals.

Giant Fish Fry Kabiraji : The Unique Giant Fish Fry Kabiraji: This unique dish combines a giant fish fry with the flavors of Kabiraji. The plate includes spicy red sauce, kasundi (mustard sauce), and salad. Perfect for a rainy day, this dish is sure to make your mouth water.

Best Street Food in Jadavpur : Where to Get It: You can find this giant-sized Fish Fry Kabiraji at "Bang On" in Jadavpur. It is delicious, very crunchy, and crispy, with perfectly marinated fish inside. The price is only 120 rupees.

The Inspiration Behind It: The owner of "Bang On" shared that the idea for this innovative dish, combining fish fry with Kabiraji, came from her husband and their food mentor.

Other Offerings: Besides the giant Fish Fry Kabiraji, "Bang On" also offers a variety of snacks, including momos, kebabs, and pakoras.

How to Get Relief from Gas Problems in the Stomach

Understanding and Managing Gas Issues

Dr. Payel Kumar Roy, a Clinical Dietician and Critical Care Nutritionist, provides insights into managing gas problems in the stomach. Gas issues can affect anyone, from newborns to adults, and are often exacerbated by dietary habits and lifestyle choices.

Causes of Gas Problems

• Dietary Habits: Consuming fried foods, excessive oil, and spicy dishes can cause gas. Irregular meal times and skipping breakfast can also contribute to gas problems.
• Seasonal Changes: In winter, people often indulge in various vegetables and foods, disrupting their regular diet and leading to gas issues.
• Feeding Practices: For infants, improper feeding bottle techniques can cause them to swallow air, leading to gas.
• Lack of Hydration: Drinking less water, especially in colder weather, can lead to constipation, which is closely linked to gas problems.
• Physical Inactivity: Reduced physical activity, particularly in older adults, can slow down digestion and increase gas issues.

Symptoms of Gas Problems

• Abdominal pain and pressure
• Feeling bloated
• Frequent belching or flatulence
• Constipation

Dietary Changes to Avoid Gas : Gas Relief Tips

1. Avoid Fried and Spicy Foods: These take longer to digest and can cause gas.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to aid digestion and prevent constipation.
3. Eat Balanced Meals: Include a variety of vegetables and fruits, and avoid skipping meals, especially breakfast.
4. Limit Junk Food: Reduce the intake of junk and restaurant foods that often contain high levels of fat and preservatives.

Lifestyle Modifications

1. Regular Exercise: Engage in at least 150 minutes of walking per week. Physical activity helps in digestion and reduces gas buildup.
2. Walk After Meals: Walking for at least 30 minutes after dinner aids in digestion and prevents gas.
3. Proper Feeding Techniques: For infants, ensure the feeding bottle is held correctly to minimize air intake.

Home Remedies for Gas Relief

1. Ginger: Known for its digestive properties, ginger can be consumed raw or with a pinch of salt. Heating ginger slightly before consumption can enhance its effectiveness.
2. Antacids: While over-the-counter antacids can provide temporary relief, it's better to rely on natural remedies for long-term management.

Conclusion

Managing gas problems involves a combination of dietary changes, regular exercise, and home remedies. By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the discomfort associated with gas and improve your overall digestive health.

Tips to Avoid Patchy Scalp in Summer

How to Care for a Patchy Scalp

What should you do if you have a patchy scalp? How can you take care of your hair at home if this problem occurs? Model-actress Tanisha Dasgupta shares valuable tips on how to get rid of dandruff and care for your scalp.

During the hot summer days, running around with work, school, and other activities can make your scalp itch when you come home. Your scalp can become very patchy or oily. Due to sweating in the summer, it's often hard to notice this problem. Tanisha says that if you have a patchy scalp, it will itch a lot, and the dandruff will stay stuck to the scalp instead of falling off. Patchy scalp can also cause significant hair fall, especially in summer.

Home Remedies for Patchy Scalp : Home remedies for dandruff

Tanisha suggests some home remedies for dealing with a patchy scalp. She recommends using aloe vera gel, which is easily available in stores. Aloe vera gel keeps the scalp hydrated and strengthens hair roots. Lemon juice is also very beneficial for the scalp and helps prevent dandruff. Make sure to rinse your hair 10 minutes after applying these remedies. Do not leave these packs on your hair all day.

Patchy scalp is mainly caused by fungal infections. Tanisha emphasizes the importance of hair scrubbing in summer. You can take care of your hair with any mild shampoo. When asked about applying oil to the scalp in summer, she says that light oil can be used but should be applied according to your scalp's health.

Key Points : Patchy scalp treatment

• Identify Patchy Scalp: Look for signs like intense itching and dandruff sticking to the scalp.
• Home Remedies: Use aloe vera gel and lemon juice but rinse after 10 minutes.
• Hair Scrubbing: Regularly scrub your scalp with mild shampoo.
• Oil Application: Use light oil based on your scalp's needs.

Following these tips can help you maintain a healthy scalp and avoid the discomfort of a patchy scalp during summer.