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Plasma therapy has become one of the most discussed modern medical procedures, offering benefits across regenerative medicine, dermatology, orthopedics, autoimmune disorders, and even severe infections. Although it sounds like a futuristic technology, the method is built on one of the body’s oldest and most essential components—blood plasma. Plasma is the liquid part of blood, making up around 55% of its volume. It contains water, proteins, minerals, antibodies, hormones, and nutrients. Its main role is transportation: carrying nutrients, hormones, immune components, and waste products throughout the body. Because of this rich composition, plasma plays a vital role in immunity, repair, and maintaining healthy balance in the body. What Is Plasma Therapy? Plasma therapy includes several techniques that use plasma for healing. The most widely used form is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), where a patient’s blood is processed in a centrifuge to concentrate platelets. These platelets release growth factors that stimulate repair, reduce inflammation, speed wound healing, and improve skin and hair quality. PRP is used in dermatology, cosmetology, orthopedics, sports medicine, and chronic pain treatment. Another form is convalescent plasma therapy, where plasma from recovered patients transfers antibodies to someone fighting a severe infection. This approach became especially significant during outbreaks such as influenza, SARS, Ebola, and COVID-19. Plasmapheresis is another plasma-based method, used to remove harmful antibodies in autoimmune diseases. How Plasma Therapy Works Despite differences between treatment types, their mechanisms are similar. Plasma therapy enhances natural healing by supplying antibodies, stimulating collagen production, activating cell renewal, regulating inflammation, and removing harmful immune substances in autoimmune conditions. These combined effects help tissues recover faster, strengthen the immune response, and improve overall regeneration. What Conditions Can Plasma Therapy Help With? The therapy is effective across multiple fields. In infectious diseases, convalescent plasma provides immediate immune support when medications are limited. In autoimmune disorders such as lupus, myasthenia gravis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome, plasmapheresis helps reduce symptoms. PRP is widely used in orthopedics for osteoarthritis, tendon injuries, ligament strains, and muscle tears, helping many athletes avoid surgery. In dermatology and aesthetics, PRP is known for skin rejuvenation, texture improvement, pigmentation reduction, treating acne scars, and supporting hair growth. Benefits of Plasma Therapy Because plasma comes from the patient’s own body, it is natural, biocompatible, and carries very low risk of allergic reactions. The procedure is minimally invasive, requires little downtime, and enhances healing in conditions that may not respond well to medication. It can also be safely combined with other treatments. Risks and Limitations Although generally safe, plasma therapy may cause mild swelling, temporary discomfort, or dizziness. Rare allergic reactions can occur, and the cost may be higher due to individualized preparation. Results vary from person to person, and donor screening is essential for convalescent plasma use. How Long Do Results Last? PRP results typically last between six and twelve months, with improvements building gradually over time. Some patients may require repeated sessions depending on their condition. Conclusion Plasma therapy stands at the intersection of natural healing and medical innovation. By using the body’s own plasma, it supports regeneration, strengthens immunity, and opens new possibilities across both medicine and aesthetics. Whether used for serious diseases or cosmetic improvement, plasma therapy continues to transform modern healthcare and enhance quality of life.

Winter may be beautiful, but it can be tough on your hands. Cold air, low humidity, and constant temperature changes between indoors and outdoors can strip the skin of moisture. Add frequent handwashing or exposure to irritants, and your hands can quickly become dry, rough, and even cracked. Fortunately, with a few simple habits, you can keep your hands comfortable, hydrated, and healthy all season long. Why Winter Dries Out Your Hands When temperatures drop, the air becomes drier both outside and inside heated buildings. This lack of moisture pulls hydration from your skin, weakening its natural barrier. Moving between warm and cold environments causes the skin to lose even more moisture. On top of that, handwashing—while essential—removes natural oils your skin needs to stay protected. People with sensitive skin or conditions such as eczema often feel these effects even more intensely. Top Tips for Healthy Winter Hands 1. Moisturize Frequently Keeping your hands moisturized is the most important step in preventing dryness. Apply a fragrance-free, gentle hand cream every time you wash your hands and throughout the day. Look for ingredients that help lock in moisture, such as shea butter, glycerin, urea, or hyaluronic acid. 2. Use Gentle Cleansers Many hand soaps contain harsh ingredients or heavy fragrances that can irritate the skin. Switch to mild, fragrance-free cleansers that won’t strip away natural oils. When washing your hands, use lukewarm water rather than hot water—hot temperatures can worsen dryness. If you’re on the go, handwashing is preferable to alcohol-heavy sanitizers when possible. If you must use sanitizer, choose one with added moisturizers, and apply hand cream afterward.3. Protect Your Hands from the Cold Cold air is one of the biggest culprits behind winter dryness. Wearing warm, soft gloves whenever you go outside helps keep your hands at a consistent temperature and prevents moisture loss. Long exposures to both cold and heat (like heaters or open fires) should be avoided, as extremes in temperature can further dehydrate your skin. Don’t forget gloves for household chores, too. When cleaning, washing dishes, or using detergents—especially strong chemical products—wearing protective gloves prevents irritation and helps preserve your skin barrier. 4. Try an Overnight Treatment For hands that feel especially tight or rough, consider a simple overnight treatment. Apply a rich moisturizer generously, then wear cotton gloves as you sleep. This intensive approach delivers deeper hydration and can make a noticeable difference by the next morning. You can do this as often as your hands need a boost. 5. Exfoliate and Mask (Gently) A little exfoliation goes a long way. Once a week, use a gentle homemade scrub—such as sugar mixed with a small amount of plant oil—to remove dead skin cells. This helps your moisturizers absorb better. You can also use hydrating masks. Natural ingredients like avocado (rich in healthy fats) and olive oil (deeply moisturizing) can nourish the skin and restore softness. 6. Treat Cracks with Care If the skin begins to crack, choose a thick, healing ointment containing natural protective ingredients like beeswax or shea butter. These create a barrier that shields the skin while encouraging healing. Avoid exposing cracked hands to cold air or irritants, and always wear gloves when handling cleaning products.Support Hydration from Within Healthy hands aren’t just about what you put on your skin—your overall hydration matters too. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseed, walnuts, or oily fish. These healthy fats help support the skin’s protective barrier. When to Seek Professional Help If dryness becomes severe, painful, or doesn’t improve with regular care, consult a dermatologist. Persistent cracking, bleeding, or visible inflammation may require medical treatment or prescription-strength creams. Keep Hands Healthy All Winter Long Winter hand care is all about maintaining moisture, protecting your skin, and avoiding extremes. By adopting a consistent routine—moisturizing frequently, cleansing gently, protecting your hands, and nourishing your skin—you can prevent discomfort and keep your hands soft and smooth all season. With the right care, winter doesn’t have to be harsh on your hands.

Melasma is a common skin pigmentation disorder that primarily manifests on the face, with hyperpigmented patches appearing in areas exposed to the sun. It appears as symmetrical brown or gray-brown spots, most commonly on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, nose, and chin. This condition is more frequent in women, especially those with darker skin (Fitzpatrick III–V type). Causes and Mechanisms of Development The causes of melasma are diverse. One of the primary factors is sun exposure (ultraviolet and visible rays), which stimulates melanocyte activity, increasing melanin production. Hormonal influences also play an important role, as melasma often occurs during pregnancy (known as chloasma or the "mask of pregnancy"), or with the use of contraceptives or hormonal treatments. Notable factors include genetic predisposition, thyroid disorders, certain medications, or cosmetic products that make the skin more sensitive to light. In melasma, from a dermatological perspective, there is an increase in melanin in the epidermis, dermis, or both, depending on the type of melasma. Clinical Picture Three main forms are differentiated: • Epidermal Melasma – light brown, well-defined edges, which intensifies under Wood's lamp examination. • Dermal Melasma – grayish or bluish color, poorly defined edges, which does not intensify under Wood's lamp. • Mixed Form – contains features of both types. Diagnosis The diagnosis is primarily based on the clinical presentation. Wood's lamp examination plays a supporting role, as it helps determine whether the pigment is located in the epidermis or dermis. If necessary, dermatoscopy is performed. Treatment The treatment of melasma requires a comprehensive and individualized approach, as it has a chronic and recurrent course. 1. Sun Protection – the most important step. Broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 50+ should be used daily to protect against UVA/UVB rays. 2. Topical Treatment – skin lightening agents such as hydroquinone, azelaic acid, and niacinamide are used. 3. Aesthetic Interventions – chemical peels and laser therapy (e.g., Q-switched Nd:YAG) can improve the appearance of the skin, but they must be done with caution, especially in individuals with darker skin, as they may cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Conclusion Melasma is a benign but long-lasting condition. Although it may not always fully resolve, consistent treatment and the use of sun protection can lead to noticeable improvement. Patients should be informed that recurrences are possible, and it is crucial to maintain sun protection, avoid irritating agents, and perform gentle care.

Women's health is not just the absence of diseases; it includes physical, hormonal, psychological, and sexual well-being. Daily preventive and mindful habits can significantly enhance the quality of life, providing energy, self-confidence, and harmonious relationships with one's body. Below are 10 essential pillars of women's healthy life that are scientifically backed and easy to incorporate into daily routines: 1. Regular Gynecological Visits At least once a year, it is recommended to undergo a gynecological exam, Pap test, and, if necessary, a vaginal ultrasound. This approach allows early detection of inflammatory, infectious, or hormonal changes, which often develop without noticeable symptoms. Early diagnosis is one of the most effective preventive measures. 2. Sensitive Monitoring of the Cycle Keeping a cycle calendar helps in understanding the dynamics of hormonal balance. It is important to note: • Cycle duration, • Nature of blood discharge, • Presence of pain, • Changes in mood. This information facilitates both self-monitoring and cooperation with a doctor, ensuring a more accurate approach. 3. Balanced Diet and Sufficient Iron Diet plays a key role in regulating a woman's hormonal system. It is essential to increase the intake of: • Proteins (fish, poultry, legumes), • Green vegetables, • Foods rich in B vitamins. Iron deficiency is a common issue for women, so attention should also be given to iron-rich foods such as meat and leafy vegetables. At the same time, it's advisable to limit excessive sugar and caffeine, which can disrupt the natural hormonal cycle. 4. Hydration At least 1.5–2 liters of water per day is the minimum required to: • Reduce the risk of urinary infections, • Improve skin elasticity, • Boost recovery processes. Dehydration can also affect energy levels and concentration. 5. Movement and Circulation Stimulation Walking, yoga, pilates, or light aerobic exercises promote better circulation in the pelvic area. This, in turn, supports hormonal balance, reproductive health, and overall vitality. Systematic but moderate physical activity also helps reduce stress accumulation. 6. Quality Sleep Sleep deprivation disrupts estrogen and progesterone levels while increasing the effect of stress hormones. For women, it is especially important to have: • 7–9 hours of restful sleep, • Regular sleep patterns, • Reduced screen time before bed. Good sleep is a cornerstone of hormonal balance and mental stability. 7. Mental Peace Stress can interfere with the menstrual cycle, affect fertility, and impact the thyroid gland. Helpful practices include: • Meditation, • Breathing techniques, • Self-care rituals, • Social support. Mental health is an integral part of a woman’s overall health. 8. Mindful Preservation of Sexual Health Sexual health includes not only safe sexual behavior but also a mindful attitude toward one’s body. It is important to: • Use reliable protective methods, • Maintain proper hygiene, • Have open and healthy communication with a partner, • Avoid self-medication. Regular check-ups help monitor any changes. 9. Vigilance toward Hormonal Changes A woman’s life is divided into phases: adolescence, reproductive years, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and perimenopause. Each stage has its own requirements, and it is essential to consult a specialist not only for problems but also for general awareness and support. 10. Love for Womanhood Health is not just about the state of the body, but also the attitude toward oneself. A woman’s identity becomes more complete when she learns to love her body, accept her cyclical nature, and value both her strength and gentleness. Womanhood begins with health, and health begins with care and awareness.

Menopause or climacteric is one of the natural stages of a woman's life, following the climacteric period. Menopause is mostly observed between the ages of 48-52. It is characterized by the absence of menstrual bleeding for one year or more. From this point on, the woman's reproductive function is completed, and the ovarian function is reduced. The secretion of sexual hormones (estrogens, progesterone) and gonadotropic hormones is quantitatively altered, and the sexual organs perform their function partially. The presence of blood in the sexual organs is no longer normal and becomes unusual. The sexual organs undergo physiological aging and atrophy if not surgically removed. A perimenopausal period is distinguished, which precedes and follows menopause. Many and various changes occur in the woman's body, both general and local in nature: In the vagina, there is dryness of the mucous membrane, atrophic phenomena, and minor injuries. Urinary problems, such as incontinence, often arise. There may be pelvic muscle and ligament weakness, organ prolapse. Hot flashes, increased sweating, tachycardia, heart palpitations, sleep disturbances, nervous irritability, mood instability, and depression are common. Symptoms of anxiety, memory loss, vision deterioration, fluctuations in blood pressure, headaches, dry skin, hair loss, joint pain, weight changes, etc., may also occur. Bone tissue loss is often observed, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Sexual function disturbances may also occur.Causes and Negative Factors of Menopause The course of this physiological stage in a woman’s life can be negatively affected by harmful habits, psychological factors, poor and unbalanced nutrition, a sedentary lifestyle, the presence of inflammatory and other diseases (including endocrine gland disorders), and others. Menopause may also occur due to: • Surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus. • Other medical interventions, such as radiation or chemotherapy. Main Approaches to Menopause Treatment It is very important to perform research and treatment for women in this age group. It is recommended to perform ultrasound, mammography, laboratory tests, and other examinations. Treatment depends on the presence and severity of symptoms and can be both pharmacological and non-pharmacological. Pharmacological treatment may include: • General, • Local, • Combined. This includes: • Hormone therapy, • Treatment of comorbidities, symptomatic treatment. A healthy lifestyle is also essential and plays a significant role. • Balanced diet, • Adequate physical activity, • Water procedures, • Regulation of blood pressure and weight, • Giving up harmful habits, • Positive emotions, • Avoiding stress. In some cases, physiotherapy is also used: • Reflexotherapy, • Electrophoresis of the lumbar region. Early Consultation with a Doctor — Individual Approach In all cases, it is essential to consult a doctor early, and an individual approach is crucial. Early treatment results in better health for the woman and makes this phase of life more tolerable. Thus, menopause is one of the natural stages in a woman’s life, which causes numerous changes in the skin, sexual organs, and psychological state. Take care of your health and consult a doctor in time to avoid severe consequences.

Cataract is an eye disease characterized by clouding of the lens, the biological lens of the eye, which interferes with the normal perception of images. As a result of this process, vision gradually worsens, which may eventually lead to complete blindness if not treated in time. The main symptom of cataract is the gradual decline in vision, and the disease often develops without pain. Initially, the deterioration of vision may be barely noticeable, but over time it progresses. The world around you starts to appear blurry, as if the person is looking through fogged glass or a screen of falling water. Colors become dull, and details become less sharp. Glasses do not help in this case, as the issue is not related to refraction. An important symptom is that, at the beginning of the disease, vision for nearby objects may even improve. This happens because cataract often causes myopia (nearsightedness), which improves the visibility of objects at a close distance. However, as the disease progresses, the situation worsens, and later, patients begin to suffer from vision loss both near and far. Other characteristic signs of cataract include: • The appearance of halos around bright light sources, such as street lamps or car headlights, especially at night. • Double vision. This is also often observed under bright light and in low-light conditions. • Reduced contrast sensitivity. Patients with cataract may have difficulty distinguishing shades of similar colors, such as blue and purple. • Increased sensitivity to light. Even ordinary daylight may irritate the eyes. • Difficulty reading, sewing, or working with small details. These difficulties are related to focus and clarity issues. The symptoms of cataract vary depending on its type and stage. For example, in nuclear cataract (clouding of the central part of the lens), vision for nearby objects may improve at first, but later, a loss of visual acuity occurs. In cortical cataract (clouding at the lens periphery), changes in vision occur more slowly, and the patient may not notice vision deterioration for a long time. As the disease progresses and the clouding of the lens continues, vision can decline to the point where the person loses the ability to distinguish objects and orient themselves in space. In mature cataract, vision is completely lost, and the pupil takes on a milky-white hue. Treatment of Cataract Currently, the only effective treatment for cataract is surgical intervention, as no other methods, such as medication or folk remedies, can restore the transparency of the lens. Surgical Treatment The main method of treating cataract is surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial lens. This surgery is called phacoemulsification. In this method, ultrasound is used to break up the lens, after which the fragments are removed from the eye, and an artificial lens (intraocular lens, IOL) is placed in its place. Phacoemulsification is a modern and minimally invasive method that preserves vision and ensures a fast recovery period. The operation is performed through a small incision, only 2-3 mm, which minimizes the risk of complications and promotes quick healing. It usually takes 15 to 20 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia, making it accessible even for elderly patients. Moreover, after such an operation, stitches are not required, as the incision heals on its own. It is important that the postoperative period usually goes without complications, and patients often regain their vision within a few days. Artificial Lenses After cataract surgery, an artificial lens is placed in the eye. Today, there are several types of intraocular lenses: • Monofocal lenses, which provide clear vision at one distance (e.g., for distance or near vision). • Multifocal lenses, which provide good vision at different distances and can replace glasses for near and far vision. • Astigmatic lenses, intended for patients with astigmatism. The choice of lens depends on the patient’s condition and needs, as well as consultation with an ophthalmologist. It is important to note that even after successful cataract lens replacement surgery, patients may need additional glasses for certain tasks, such as reading.Conclusion Cataract is a common disease that impairs daily life and can lead to blindness if left untreated. However, with modern treatment methods, including cataract surgery with artificial lens implantation, most patients regain their vision and return to normal life. Early detection of the disease and consultation with an ophthalmologist are key to successful treatment and preventing the development of serious complications.

Esophageal reflux is a condition where stomach contents, including acid, digestive juices, or sometimes food remnants, rise up into the esophagus. The esophagus connects the mouth to the stomach, and normally, there is a special circular muscle at the lower end of the esophagus, known as the lower esophageal sphincter, which opens only during swallowing and then closes to prevent stomach contents from returning. When this muscle weakens or does not close fully for any reason, stomach acid can rise upward, causing irritation, heartburn, pain, or other discomforting sensations. Main Causes of Reflux 1. Weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter, which is the most common cause. 2. High stomach pressure, caused by excess weight, pregnancy, or consuming heavy food. 3. Certain foods and drinks, including coffee, alcohol, carbonated beverages, chocolate, fatty, and fried foods, that can increase the likelihood of reflux. 4. Smoking and alcohol, which weaken the sphincter. 5. Medications, such as certain anti-inflammatory drugs or blood pressure medications. 6. Stress and anxiety, which affect the digestive system and can contribute to the development of reflux. Main Symptoms • Chest burning, especially after eating or when lying down. • Bitter or sour taste in the mouth. • Itching or pain in the throat. • Hoarse voice or cough, especially in the morning. • Bloating or gas, nausea. • Rarely, difficulty breathing or throat pain that does not go away. If left untreated, the acid can damage the esophageal lining, leading to esophagitis, ulcers, and bleeding, Barrett’s esophagus, or even respiratory problems, such as asthma flare-ups and chronic cough. Diet and Lifestyle • Avoid overly spicy, fatty, and sour foods. • Do not eat before bedtime, as it can lead to excessive acid in the stomach. • Eat smaller portions more frequently, as consuming less food reduces the likelihood of reflux. • Reduce coffee, chocolate, and carbonated beverages. • Eat lighter foods, such as oats, bananas, vegetables, boiled meats, and soups with plain water. • Avoid eating before lying down to reduce the chances of acid rising. • Raise the head of the bed while sleeping, to help the sphincter stay closed and prevent stomach contents from rising. • Lose weight gradually if overweight, as excess weight can contribute to reflux. • Avoid tight clothing that can put pressure on the stomach. • Do not smoke or drink alcohol, as both weaken the lower esophageal sphincter. Treatment Esophageal reflux is a common but manageable condition. It requires a consistent treatment approach, which may involve medications and lifestyle changes. The treatment may include proton pump inhibitors, eliminating alcohol and smoking, as well as a reflux-friendly diet. If symptoms persist or frequently return, it is essential to consult a doctor for appropriate treatment options.

The knee joint is subjected to heavy daily stress. It is a fairly large joint, surrounded inside and outside by ligaments and tendons that ensure its stability. In fact, the articular cartilage itself has no nerve supply. With age, as cartilage wears down and body weight increases, the strain on the ligamentous apparatus also increases, leading to inflammation and destructive joint processes. At this stage, the patient feels pain in the knee joint. According to global statistics, every 10th person over the age of 55 suffers from gonarthritis, and one in four of them becomes disabled and requires knee joint endoprosthesis surgery. Causes of knee pain: • Osteoarthritis, mainly caused by cartilage wear, • Arthritis or joint inflammation, which can occur in rheumatoid arthritis, reactive arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, septic or infectious arthritis, periodic disease, gout, and other inflammatory joint conditions, • Excess weight or obesity, which increases the load on the knees, • Vitamin D deficiency, • Impaired blood circulation in the lower limbs, for example due to varicose veins, pronounced lymphostasis, or obliterating arterial diseases of the legs, • Certain types of anemia, • Excessive physical exertion. When to see a doctor: • if the pain is persistent and gradually worsening, with only temporary relief from painkillers, • if there is redness and localized warmth, • if movement in the knees becomes difficult, especially when climbing up or down stairs, • if a cracking or grinding sound (known as crepitus) is heard or felt in the knees, • if there has been a wound or insect bite on the skin over the knee, followed by inflammation with redness and warmth. Patients with gonarthritis (inflammation of the knee joint) may also have anemia. This may be a manifestation of the main disease or, in some cases, anemia itself may provoke joint inflammation. For example, in rheumatoid arthritis, blood tests may show anemia, thrombocytosis, and elevated ESR — indicators of disease activity. In such cases, it is not necessary to treat anemia with iron supplements; rather, proper anti-inflammatory therapy to control disease activity and flare-ups is sufficient, and laboratory markers will normalize on their own. Anemia during inflammatory joint diseases may also be caused by prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as diclofenac, ibuprofen, aertal, or indomethacin, which can lead to gastritis or peptic ulcers. One possible manifestation of these complications is anemia. Knee pain can also be occupational. For example, knee injuries are very common among football players, since football involves fast running, sudden stops and turns, jumping, and kicking. Players may stretch or tear cruciate ligaments, damage the menisci, dislocate the kneecap, or develop inflammation or muscle strain. A deficiency of vitamin D and magnesium can also cause knee and muscle pain. It is particularly important to replenish magnesium deficiency, as all enzymes involved in vitamin D metabolism require magnesium as a cofactor. Even when magnesium levels in bone tissue decrease, its concentration in the blood may remain within the normal range — this is known as chronic latent magnesium deficiency.