Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis and Treatment in India

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or maintain an erection sufficient for sex. It is also referred to as impotence.

Rare Erectile dysfunction (ED) is not formidable. Many men suffer from it during times of stress. An ED Clicnic visit can be a sign of medical issues that need treatment. It can also be an indication of emotional or relationship problems that an expert might tend to. If you’re concerned about erectile dysfunction, talk to your doctor — even if you’re embarrassed. Sometimes giving a basic Erectile dysfunction Treatment in India is enough to reverse erectile dysfunction.

How does a man achieve an erection?

During sexual arousal, nerves release chemicals that increase blood flow to the penis. Blood flows into two erectile chambers in the penis that are made of elastic muscle tissue. During an erection, the elastic tissue relaxes and traps the blood. The pressure of the blood in the cavities causes the penis to form, resulting in an erection. When not being explicitly stimulated, the penis is tender and limp. Men may see the girth of the penis change with warmth, coldness, or stress; This is normal and reflects the balance of blood that goes in and out of the penis.

Is impotence equivalent to erectile dysfunction?

Impotence is a term you will hear, however, used from time to time to depict a problem with getting and maintaining an erection. However, most specialists today lean towards the phrase erectile dysfunction (ED). The benefits of Penile Implants Surgery in India may sound like medical language; However, it really bodes well. The older name conveys some unfortunate suggestions because impotence is a comparative word for weakness. Having an erection problem has nothing to do with weakness or deficiency. It’s just a problem with the erectile system not working properly.

How is erectile dysfunction treated?

Your specialist will ask you questions about your symptoms and medical history. They may perform tests to determine if your symptoms are caused by an underlying condition. You should expect a physical exam where your specialist will listen to your heart and lungs to check your blood pressure and analyze your testicles and penis. They may also prescribe a rectal exam to check your prostate. Furthermore, you may need blood or urine tests to rule out various conditions.

What are penile implants?

A penis prosthesis is another treatment alternative for men with erectile dysfunction (ED). These devices are either playable or inflatable. The simplest type of prosthesis consists of a pair of flexible rods carefully implanted within the erectile chambers of the penis. A penile implant is generally used when there is a reasonable medical cause for ED and when the problem is not likely to improve or improve naturally or with other medical treatments.

What are the different types of penile prostheses?

There are two basic types of penile implants:

1. Inflatable implants: Inflatable devices, which are the most widely used type of penile implant, can be inflated to achieve erection and deflation on various occasions.
2. Semi-rigid shafts: Semi-rigid devices are always rigid. The penis can be bent away from the body for sexual activity and toward the body to conceal it.

Will I have a typical inclination after the methodology?

After erectile dysfunction surgery, you will likely need to take medications to relieve pain. Mild pain may last for several weeks. You may also need to take anti-infective medication for several weeks to prevent infection. Most men can continue strenuous physical activity and sexual work about four to about four to six weeks after surgery.

Is it just a hospital method or is it performed on an outpatient basis?

Many items can be accessed “over the counter” or via the Internet that are guaranteed to treat or even fix erectile dysfunction. These items are often very expensive and for the most part have not been tried enough either because of their side effects or results. There have been cases of real health consequences from the use of “erection cures” acquired over the Internet. So Penile implant surgery cost India is the ideal least expensive treatment for erectile dysfunction.

Penile implant treatment in India is safe?

India is the latest hub for specific treatments and surgeries, and its healthcare system is constantly reforming with the latest types of treatment options. Hospitals in India are tremendously polished and bleeding edge as much as the foundation – appearances just like performing surgeries. Global patients are given a large need with the aim that they do not need to experience work downtime.

KEEP YOUR LIVER HEALTHY 5

1 TRY INTERMITTENT FASTING:

2 HAVE AN ANNUAL DRINK DETOX:

3 …THEN TAKE DAYS OFF: USE YOUR OWN NAIL SCISSORS:

List of Top 10 Liver Transplant Surgeons In India

Losing 5-10% of your body weight can stop, and sometimes even reverse, liver damage, with studies finding that a low-carbohydrate diet can dramatically reduce liver fat. According to Dr Kooner, intermittent fasting is an effective way to do this. The

5:2 regime involves eating normally for five days and restricting intake to 500-600 calories on the other two. Or you could try 16:8, which involves eating within an eight-hour window only (e.g. 11am to 7pm).

‘Try a month off every year to reset your tolerance,’ advises Dr Kooner. The more often we drink, the more our tolerance increases, so we need to drink more to get the same effect. But ‘resetting the button’ means we can revert to enjoying a glass or two without needing more.

Avoiding booze mid-week gives the liver a mini-break, pauses the habit, reduces your weekly unit intake and tests your dependency. You should aim for at least three consecutive days off.

4 ENJOY ELEVENSES:

According to the British Liver Trust, regularly drinking moderate amounts of coffee may help to prevent liver cancer, lower the risk of fibrosis (liver scarring) and cirrhosis (severe liver damage) and slow the progression of liver disease.

Left untreated, viral infections hepatitis B and C can wreak havoc on your liver, leading to cirrhosis. ‘Never share toothbrushes, razors, nail scissors or tweezers,’ advises Pamela.

HOW’S AI CHANGING THE CURRENT & FUTURE OF HEALTHCARE

Healthcare has been the most stressful industry across the globe during covid 19, because access to healthcare & right to live has been severely challenged since the onset of pandemic. Traditionally, the healthcare industry was largely dependent on manual examinations & human involvement, but Covid 19 has forced the healthcare industry to evolve and accept the modern technology, to limit in-person contact with their patients and fasten the ‘diagnostic & treatment’ process. The rapidly evolving 4.0 Medtech is helping the healthcare industry to accept & experience a swift digitalisation process. Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, IOT, Big data etc have become the buzz words in healthcare ecosystem, with greater acceptability by all stake holders. This is immensely disrupting the existent healthcare industry & ensuring better, faster, scalable & affordable healthcare for all.

Key Benefit of Artificial Intelligence:

Remote monitoring of the patients:

Wearable Wearable devices & Healthcare mobile apps can monitor patients’ health from a distance by analysing the patient’s health data & help treat patients remotely.

AI Powered ,Multilingual, Virtual Healthcare Assistant:

Helps doctors in automate admin work, collects patients vita data & info, as well as help the patients to access relevant info 24X7 (reminding them about medicines, diets, do & don’t, exercise etc).

Improve Efficiency & Efficacy:

AI helps doctors by compiling all important & vital data at one place & removes any scope of human error. This would help Doctor & paramedical staff to focus on quality work & ensure better outcome.

Predictable Data Analysis:

AI can quickly analyse the healthcare records and suggest actions instantly. This will ensure quick & effective treatment plan based on individual Electronic Health Records (EHR). Expert opinion can also be taken in quick time by sharing the EHR digitally.

Cost Effective & affordable Healthcare:

Robot Process Automation (RPA) can reduce approx. 30% of healthcare costs related to administrative work, alone. RPA includes business process automation like appointment & payment collection management, patient registration & providing routine, as well as relevant info about services, diseases, treatment options etc.

Enhance personal health data security & GDPR compliance:

All the data are end to end encrypted, which ensures data safety & security. Any unwanted activity can be traced & timely alerts can be forwarded to concerned people on time.

AI In mobile Technology:

Powerful images from smart phone cameras are being used for early diagnose of certain diseases in ophthalmology and dermatology, through the power of AI based image recognition algorithm. It’s also helps in patient identification through facial recognition system.

Conclusion:

Advancement in digital healthcare technology, like artificial Intelligence, is going to transform the Healthcare sector by improving overall efficiency, efficacy & transparency in the healthcare ecosystem. future treatment processes would be more data driven which will ensure predictable outcome as well as overall reduction in healthcare cost. Healthcare sector is going to adopt patient centric approach, making it better for patient’s engagement & experience. Healthcare sector is transforming towards the “Patient is King” approach because the patient ‘s life matters the most in the entire Healthcare Ecosystem.

COSMETIC DENTISTRY – SCALING NEW HEIGHTS

Cosmetic dental practice is a fastgrowing sector and is expected to rise further in the coming years. A study by Allied Market Research reveals that the global cosmetic dentistry market size stood at 14,861.3 million in 2020, and is projected to reach 24,382.1 million by 2030, maintaining a CAGR of 5.20% during the period.

The reasons for this are many.

There has been a surge in the dental tourism market in India – and other emerging countries –in the past decade. This is largely because dentistry– along with other medical procedures – is extremely cost-effective in these countries. This has resulted in many overseas travelers visiting India to avail of these facilities, which has directly added to the mushrooming cosmetic dentistry segment in India. However, with the pandemic still a problem in many countries, dental tourism has experienced restrictions and blockages. The pandemic brought with it a major slump in this – and other – industries. It affected the overall dentistry segment significantly. Even routine dental care was suspended during the pandemic-induced lockdowns, as both dentists and patients were exposed to high risk of cross-infections.

However, factors like rising consumer awareness, an increased focus on aesthetics, increased spending power of the middle class, and growing dental tourism will push the already-burgeoning market of the cosmetic dentistry segment. Also, the rapid development of technologically advanced procedures and solutions are also parameters that will contribute to the growth of this industry, going forward.

Cosmetic dentistry procedures include any dental processes that improve – or light up – the patient’s smile. That is, they better the appearance of the teeth and gums, with includes changing the shape, size, alignment, colour, position, and overall appearance of both these aspects of the face. Common cosmetic dental procedures include porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, dental bonding, smile makeover, full-mouth reconstruction, gum lift, and contouring.

Botox and dermal fillers are two very popular forms of cosmetic surgery. While Botox is used to reduce fine lines and wrinkles by paralyzing the underlying muscles, the latter fills in the wrinkles. The market for both – already large increased further during the pandemic, as lockdowns allowed people enough time to inspect their appearance.

Even though the cosmetic dentistry market is expected to witness substantial growth going forward, there are limitations that accompany, quite literally, the pretty picture. For one, cosmetic surgery, as a whole, is an expensive procedure. Added to that feature is that this section is not covered by medical insurance, so the cost of the process is not reimbursable. The primary reason for this is that cosmetic dentistry is not considered crucial to maintaining the quality of a person’s life, or vital for the functioning of a body part or system. However, if the procedure is categorized as being reconstructive surgery – this refers to surgical methods conducted with the objective of correcting trauma, physical defects, ailments, or diseases – then the medical expenses could be covered. However, there is fine line dividing the two dental procedures. Other risks and problems are mainly in the aeras of dental bridges and orthodontic treatments – mainly used to better the appearance and alignment of crooked, protruding, or crowded teeth, and also correct problems with the bite of the teeth. Cumulatively, these factors could restrain the growth of the cosmetic dentistry market.

Apart from augmented awareness and popularity of the cosmetic dentistry segment, increased knowledge has taken, and will continue to push this domain to greater heights. The use of biomimetics and biocompatibility has enabled the making of a firm foundation for the future of the cosmetic dentistry segment. Biomimetics imitates natural aesthetics, so future operations will be so much like the original that it will be difficult to tell the difference. Biocompatibility involves the development of implants that will join with the body and function indefinitely without causing any damage. Following close on the heels of cosmetic surgery, the growing popularity of cosmetic dentistry indicates a definite shift in people’s mindset. That is, the concept of oral health now goes beyond fixing protruding teeth or the meting out the arduous root canal treatment.

Cosmetic surgery tourism alert

THE Government is warning against travelling abroad for breast implants, liposuction and other cosmetic procedures following a number of deaths.

Turkey has become a major medical tourism destination with thousands of travellers undergoing dental work and cosmetic surgery each year.

Medical tourists make the journey to places such as Turkey, Thailand or India to save money on cosmetic treatments which would otherwise be more expensive in the UK. Health tourism is a booming business which continues to grow as selfconscious Brits pack their bags to travel abroad in the hope of saving money on treatments.

Popular surgical procedures include liposuction, breast implants, rhinoplasty and dental work. Turkey attracts a large number of Brits looking for hair transplants and BBL (Brazilian butt lift) surgery. The Foreign And Commonwealth Office said:“The standard of medical facilities and available treatment vary widely around the world.As such, British nationals considering undertaking medical treatment in Turkey should carry out their own research.It is unwise to rely upon private companies that have a financial interest in arranging your medical treatment abroad.

“We are aware of 17 British nationals who have died in Turkey since January 2019 following medical tourism visits.If you are travelling to Turkey to undertake a medical procedure, you should ensure that your chosen medical facility is accredited with the Turkish authorities.”

Penile implant surgical procedure India gives hope to erectile dysfunction patients

Overview

Penile prosthesis is a treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction. These devices are delicate or inflatable. The simplest type of prosthesis is a pair of delicate rods that are surgically implanted into the penile pillar. With this type of implant, the penis is always semi-flexible and only requires straightening or lifting to initiate sexual intercourse. Recently, many people opt for hydraulic, inflatable prostheses, which allow them to have the erection to choose from, and are less complicated to conceal. It’s more natural.

What is a penile implant and who should go for it?

Penile implant surgical technique is a technique in which men with erectile dysfunction are unresponsive to other forms of treatment. Men with erectile dysfunction (ED) due to a specific medical problem are the best candidates for this type of procedure. However, in most cases, doctors first try simpler and less invasive treatments. If those measures are not successful, men with ED may consider a penile implant surgical procedure.

Important features of penile implant in India

Penile implants are among the many options available to patients suffering from erectile dysfunction or impotence in India, also known as internal penis pumps. India is a hub for penile implant surgery because the cost of surgery here is very aggressive and healthcare delivery worldwide is low. All hospitals in India take advantage of penile implants, all of which provide quality treatment and are accredited by NABH or JCI. Most hospitals in India are located in almost all Indian cities, where talented doctors and surgeons are available in India for the procedure of penile implant surgery. These surgeons are exceptionally knowledgeable and are recognized for their surgical expertise in erectile dysfunction in India.

Where is the best hospital for penile implant in India?

EDTreatemtent India Consultant takes pride in its reputation for providing cost-effective medical treatment services and comprehensive health care solutions. In our long journey, we have transformed the lives of thousands of people to live and enjoy a healthy life.

Our hospitals are world class in terms of services, infrastructure, doctors, technology and equipment. EDTreatemtent India Consultant is the top medical provider that has helped patients reach globally recognized and certified medical facilities and surgeons.

How much does penile implant cost in India?

One of the penile implants benefits India when it comes to the right; You can get a lot of benefits besides spending benefits. In terms of cost, India ranks far lower than others. Treatment of erectile dysfunction in India costs $ 6000 to $ 10000 for any global patient, whereas a single surgery in the UK and the US will cost you between 15,000 and 25000 USD. Therefore, when India has benefited from a penile implant in terms of cost and quality, it appears to be far ahead of what is found in the United Arab Emirates, in which surgery is performed to remove the curse of impotence.

Why are the vast majority of Saudi Arab patients looking for a penile implant in India?

Unlike those found in the Saudi Arab, India is known as one of the best Urology hospitals and health centers with all facilities and modern facilities. Most Saudi Arab patients in India want to seek penile implant. In fact, the main reason they come to India for these surgeries is the cost; Penile implant benefits India, and they enjoy a 60-70% discount on the cost of these surgeries. Patients in the Saudi Arab often visit these hospitals and get an absolute pleasure from being sick. There you will find some of the best quality surgeries where patients can easily get the solutions of their disability with surgeries like Penile Implant Surgery India.

Pain killer use can cause erectile dysfunction

Erection problems are common in adult men. In fact, almost all men experience occasional difficulty getting or maintaining an erection. In many cases, it is a temporary condition that will go away with little or no treatment. However, in other cases, it can be an ongoing problem that can damage a man’s self-esteem and harm his relationship with his partner. Many factors are involved in the problem, and now, a new study has found that men who regularly use strong pain killers are prone to have erectile dysfunction. Researchers affiliated with the Kaiser Permanante Center for Health Research at Oregon Health & Science University (Portland Oregon) published their findings on May 15 in the journal Spine.

 

The study authors noted that men with chronic pain may experience erectile dysfunction related to depression, smoking, age, or opioid-related hypogonadism (narcotic-related decrease in testicular function). They explained that the prevalence of this problem in back pain populations and the relative importance of several risk factors are unknown. Therefore, they designed a study that examined associations between use of medication for erectile dysfunction or testosterone replacement and use of opioid (narcotic) therapy, patient age, depression, and smoking status.

The researchers examined electronic pharmacy and medical records for males with back pain in a large health maintenance organization (HMO) during 2004. Relevant prescriptions were considered for 6 months before and after the index visit. The investigators found 11,327 males with a diagnosis of back pain. Males who received medications for erectile dysfunction or testosterone replacement (909 men) were significantly older than those who did not and had greater comorbidity (other health problems), depression, smoking, and use of sedative-hypnotics (i.e., tranquilizers, antidepressants, and sleeping pills). The long-term use of opioids was associated with greater use of medications for erectile dysfunction or testosterone replacement compared with no opioid use (1.45-fold increased risk. Age, comorbidity, depression, and use of sedative-hypnotics were also independently associated with the use of medications for erectile dysfunction or testosterone replacement. Patients prescribed daily opioid doses of 120 mg of morphine-equivalents or more had greater use of medication for erectile dysfunction or testosterone replacement than patients without opioid use (1.58-fold increased risk), even with adjustment for the duration of opioid therapy.

The researchers concluded that dose and duration of opioid use, as well as age, comorbidity, depression, and use of sedative-hypnotics, were associated with evidence of erectile dysfunction. They noted that their findings may be important in the process of decision making for the long-term use of opioids. They explained that patients need to be aware that, although these medications may be effective for short-term pain relief, they may not be effective in the long-term for treating chronic pain. Instead of relying on medications, the researchers believe that doctors should encourage alternative treatments for pain relief because there is growing evidence that some of the more effective treatments for persistent pain are rigorously designed exercise programs along with cognitive behavioral therapy.

Source: http://www.edtreatmentindia.com

Prostate Cancer Symptoms

The prostate is a relatively small (size of a walnut, normally weighing around 7-16 grams in adults) reproductive gland surrounding the urethra (the outlet tube of the urinary bladder), housed in the pelvic cavity between the bladder and the rectum and primarily functions in contributing 20-30% of seminal fluid in males.
The prostate gland enlarges with age and if the process happens in an anomalous fashion, it leads to prostate cancer (size increases upto 40 cubic centimeters and weighs around 30-45 grams).
Anomalous changes that together contribute to the disease process accumulate over years until it is at an advanced stage and symptoms are more promiscuous.
Prostate cancer symptoms are usually delayed and mostly observed when the disease has metastasized to secondary organs.
The following are the major observed symptoms which should concurrently be used for differential diagnosis:

Problems during urination.

Frequency – Polyurea, whereby there is an exponential increase in the use of the restroom, mostly during night time.
Urgency – Multiple occurrence of the need to urinate ASAP. This happens due to a loss of control of the bladder muscles. This is also coupled to the sensation of inadequacy after urination.
Hesitancy– Lack of pressure and difficulty in starting and maintaining the urine stream. Classically, this is identified by the interrupted urine stream and a significantly decreased angle of the stream.
Pain during urination – Qualititative burning sensation and gnawing pain in the lower abdomen while urinating.
Blood in the urine.

Difficult in penile erection, painful ejaculation or blood in the semen.
Pelvic discomfort.
Persistent pain in back and lower extremity bones and muscles in the back and hip region.
Swelling in the legs as a result of edema.
Swelling of the lymph glands. Prostate cancer normally spreads through the lymphatic system and swollen lymph glands and body ache are outcomes of the process.
Metastatic disease is an advanced stage where the tumor in the prostate gland moves to secondary organs through the blood or lymphatic system. Pain in the abdomen, jaundice and liver failure can be detected for tumors metastasizing to liver, whereas lung metastasis causes severe chest pain and respiratory distress. Advanced disease progression also presents itself with undefined and consistent weight loss and acute fatigue.

The etiology of prostate cancer is not precisely known, but considerable advance has been made at the behest of the National Cancer Institute in the last two decades to delineate the potential causative/risk factors.
Age is considered to be the single most profound risk factor as 70% of the diagnosed patients are over the age of 65. The median age at diagnosis is 67 years.
Read more about the causes of prostate cancer and what are some of the risk factors that make one more vulnerable to this type of cancer.

Early detection through implementation of screening tests:

Currently, there are two well accepted screening modules. Digital rectal exam (DRE) is a non-invasive, per-rectal examination conducted by the urologist where the overall goal is to feel by touch for tumorous outgrowths in the prostate gland. The second strategy involves a blood test for a protein made by the prostate gland, prostate specific antigen (PSA).
Normal PSA levels are less than 4 nanogram/milliliters of blood. PSA level between 4-10 nanogram/milliliters of blood presents a 25 fold increased risk of incidence and a level higher than 10 nanogram/milliliters is indicative of a 50 fold higher risk of prostate carcinogenesis.
The current screening parameters for early detection are ordained by the National Cancer Institute’s Early Detection Research Network (EDRN). Even though both ways suffer from false detection when used individually, the sensitivity significantly improves when used together and in a and in prostatitis or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). So any positive test during screening has to be confirmed by surgical biopsies of the prostate tissue and subsequent histopathologic analyses. Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE), another brain child of the National Cancer Institute, is aggressively pursuing research to define other biomarkers and symptoms that can lead to an early detection of prostate cancer.

Additionally, you may be asked to complete a form to evaluate the severity of symptoms and their impact on everyday life. The score of this assessment can be compared to past records to determine if the condition is worsening.

Other prostate problems

An enlarged prostate means the gland has grown bigger and happens to almost all men as they age. As the gland grows, it can press on the urethra and cause urination and bladder problems.
An enlarged prostate is called benign prostatic hypertrophy or hyperplasia (BPH). It is not cancer and does not increase the risk of prostate cancer.
It is believed that factors linked to aging and the testicles themselves may play a role in the growth of the gland. The men who had their testicles removed at an early age (for example, as a result of testicular cancer) do not develop benign prostatic hypertrophy or hyperplasia (BPH).
Similarly, if the testicles are removed after a man develops BPH, the prostate begins to shrink in size.

Some facts about prostate enlargement are:

The probability of developing enlarged prostate increases with age.
BPH is so common that it has said, “All men will have prostate enlargement if they live long enough.”
A small degree of prostate enlargement is present in many men over age 40 and over 90% of men older than 80 years.
We have not identified risk factors other than having normally functioning testicles.

Into the violent mind…

Look out for early signs to a violent mind, warns , even as she asks experts for tips on dealing with aggression

ISN’T it intriguing that the more we progress as a society, the more we seem to regress as individuals? How else would you explain the increase in violence all around? Be it on the domestic or the corporate front, violence is becoming so common that we’re getting almost inured to its occurrence. From supermodel Naomi Campbell hurling her phone at her housekeeper, to Aishwarya Rai being manhandled by Salman Khan, celebrity fisticuffs are as common as a fishwife’s spat. And increasingly so.

Why are we, as a society, so much more able to express that violent streak today, as compared to our forefathers? To find answers, it might do well to delve into the development of the violent mind… According to neurologist, Dr Rakesh Singh, Lok Hospital, Thane, “There is no change in the brain patterns of a violent mind. But certain experiments have shown links between imbalance of certain neurotransmitters like noradrenaline and dopamine and the violent mind.”

TANTRUM ALERT

If you’re wondering whether or not to call in the cops when your neighbour cuts up your doormat, Dr Vikas Mohan Sharma, psychiatrist at the Vidyasagar Institute of Mental health and Neurosciences (VIMHANS), Delhi, explains what really constitutes violent behaviour. “It’s any act that stems from aggression. I emphasise the word ‘aggression’, which may be a precursor to violence. We are all aggressive to some extent as it is the basic instinct for survival. When this aggression is unchecked at the provocation of something or someone, the person may resort to violence. Usually, it is seen that children who are born stubborn, very impulsive or extremely short-tempered, are more susceptible to becoming violent if their aggression is not channelised into positive directions. Parents must play a big role in this, perhaps even liaising with the child’s teachers to check for any signs of excessive, uncontrolled aggression. Counselling at an early age can help stem the rot,” advises Dr Sharma.

DISTRESS FROM STRESS

An extremely short-tempered person has a limited ability to control temper and therefore can, on an impulse, commit violent acts, adds Mumbai-based psychiatrist Dr Amit Upasham. He says, “Today, stress in general has increased. There is pressure to excel in every aspect of life, which gives rise to frustration. Our coping skills have also reduced considerably. Increased portrayals of violence in movies and television serials are also influencing the mind. For example, there was a recent media report on how a man tortured his wife to death inspired by actor Nana Patekar’s role in the film Agnisakshi. A combination of all these factors could lead to violent repercussions.”

LIVING ON THE EDGE

Our fast-changing lifestyle has much to do with the increase in violent outbursts too, he maintains. “For instance, we no longer sleep enough. Less sleep affects the biological rhythm of the body and consequently the person becomes more irritable, snappy and often violent,” says Dr Upasham. Similarly, food habits can trigger violent behaviour too, says Purwa Duggal, chief dietician at Wockhardt. “Studies claim that poor nutrition may trigger aggressive behaviour. Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, cola-type beverages and chocolates, stimulates the central nervous system and dehydrates the body, which can affect mood and incite violence,” she explains.

ANGER IN ADVERSITY

“When a person has to make do with fewer resources like time, money or coping skills to manage their stresses, they are more prone to violent behaviour,” says Dr Sharma. Some indicators for a potentially violent person would be him or her snapping at people, being under constant pressure (creating a pressure cooker-like situation which might result in violence), etc.

A violent mind born out of such social or situational reasons cannot be clinically treated, as these are not illnesses, says Dr Sharma. And terrorists, too, can be perfectly normal human beings who look at their violent acts as a part of their job, driven by a strong belief, somewhat like that of a hangman. Dr Upasham, though, maintains that terrorists could be products of psychopathic minds, where people do things that are not normally perceived to be right. Such a psychopathic mind, which cannot differentiate between right and wrong, can be treated.

CLINICALLY SPEAKING

• People suffering from personality disorder can also be prone to violence.
• Someone with Antisocial Personality Disorder does not have any regard for laws, rules or regulations and hence sees no harm in flouting them. This trait can be seen among children as part of Conduct Disorder. Counselling and psychotherapy can be effective here.
• Someone with Borderline Personality Disorder may have a major difficulty in controlling his or her emotions and nurture a poor self-image.
• The mentally ill suffering from severe depression, paranoid schizophrenia and bipolar disorder can also become violent because the disease affects their judgement.

If you live with a violent person…

• Be patient and keep your cool
• Ensure that he/she does not have easy access to sharp objects like knives or glass
• Don’t bring up topics or do things that you know will disturb or enrage him/her
• Avoid confrontations. If possible, try to distract the person. Arguing is a strict no-no. Talk gently and softly.
• Whenever you see signs of escalating aggression, try to ensure the presence of family/friends/neighbours
• Restrict his/her consumption of caffeine-based products…

5 Things Your Personal Trainer Won’t Tell You

For many of these brawn machines, the body is the temple, and ignorance is bliss, warns

1. “I HAVE NO BRAIN, JUST BRAWN”

There’s nothing wrong with that. After all, the body is their temple, and ignorance is bliss (that’s how Rushdie described Californians, but it could easily be contemporary Indians). The only problem is that if they give you the wrong advice, you could end up dropping your uterus, or damage your gonads, or get a bad case of halitosis. According to a veteran gym owner, who didn’t want to be named, most personal trainers are only working on getting you a quick-fix bod, even if that ends up making you an invalid with bad knees and a dysfunctional liver by the time you are 55. In their bid to delete all the adipose and turn it into rippling muscle, they often give people insane advice. “They’ll recommend any thing just to pump up your body. I know one trainer who advises his clients to eat 27 eggs and nine chickens a day,” says the gym owner. Eek? It’s because this high protein diet helps you develop quick muscles (and terrible breath?). In one case, a 15-year-old boy, who wants to be Hrithik when he grows up, is on this diet. Does his mummy know? Eggs, chicken, even protein shakes are not so bad, but what can get dubious is the ease with which they prescribe steroids and scary substances like creatine. “Eventually, you must look at the health benefits of fitness, not just the aesthetic side,” says former fitness instructor Banoo Batliboi. “Fitness has three basic components : cardio-vascular, strength training, and flexibility.”

2. “YOU’RE GETTING OBSESSED WITH ME”

The number of wealthy married women who are having affairs with their personal trainers is staggering. It’s logical enough. These women are often stuck with fat, flatulent and flaccid men who are busy chasing their own fantasies. Along comes Mr Hunk, fresh from Ludhiana–or Parsi Colony. Work out happens in madam’s bedroom. Drop the blinds. It’s a fair exchange. She gets Adonis, and he gets Armani (Why do you think personal trainers are always so well turned-out?). “It happens all the time,” confides one lady who lunches. “And these are women you would never suspect.” Just last week, a conservative wealthy burkha-clad woman who used to work out at a south Mumbai gym, threw out her husband and had her trainer move in. It works in all directions. We also heard of an expat gentleman who invited his toy boy trainer to come and live with him.

3. “YOU CAN’T CHANGE YOUR GENES”

Your trainer may tell you that he can get you a dream body if you follow his step-ups, but the fact is that the way you look has been largely predetermined by those squiggly little things called genes. Many of these trainers come from small towns in the north, and have grown up in the akhada tradition of eating well and romping around in the mustard fields. The same may not apply to every one. So, if your parents are both a bit on the stout side, and that is the natural shape of your body, no matter how much you sweat it out, or starve yourself, your body will creep back to that level. “You need to be aware of your limitations,” advises a gym owner. “It doesn’t mean you stop trying, but you could perhaps have different goals–like to stay healthy, and sustain that feeling of well-being that comes from working out.” Besides, one size doesn’t fit all. Different people require different kinds of inputs depending on their needs.

4. “I CHARGE DEPENDING ON WHO YOU ARE”

The range for personal trainers can be anywhere from Rs 600 per session to Rs 10,000 (no, that’s not a typo). Like ipods and salt, personal trainers seem to have become a neccessity, and because they can be as indispensible as your therapist, they charge whatever. If the trainer has broken into Bollywood, and convinced some bimbo that he can charge her chakras and give her a Beyonce like body through his cosmic nutritional tips, he can safely plan to earn Rs 30,000 per session.

That, incidentally, is what a certain well-known trainer reportedly charged a young actress recently. More power to both. What’s the big deal? A personal training session here, an Atul Dodiya painting there. It’s all very ho-hum beyond a few zeros. And any way, for every sucker, there are at least ten cosmic bull-shitters.

5. “I HAVE NO QUALIFICATIONS”

A trainer has to have a keen understanding of anatomy, posture and physiognomy. Ask whether he or she has been certified. There are several

certifications available, the best among them being the ACSM, or American College of Sports Medicine certifiication, which is offered in India as well. An ACSM-certified trainer will have a good knowledge of theory as well as practical training. There is also the ACE, which comes from the American Council of Exercise. Locally, trainer Kaizad Kapadia has started a fitness academy with a highly respected training program. Make sure your trainer has some idea about the nuances of the spinal cord and does not spell muscle like the shellfish.