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Appendicitis is a condition in which the appendix becomes inflamed and swollen. The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch attached to the lower right part of the large intestine. Although it is not essential for survival, its inflammation can quickly become dangerous if not treated in time. Appendicitis usually occurs when the appendix becomes blocked by hardened stool, swollen lymphatic tissue or infection. Bacteria multiply inside the blocked appendix, causing swelling, reduced blood flow and tissue damage. If untreated, the appendix may rupture and spread infection into the abdominal cavity. For this reason, appendicitis is considered a medical emergency. It most commonly affects people between 10 and 30 years of age, but it can occur at any age. Signs and Symptoms Early recognition is very important. Typical symptoms include: • Pain that begins near the belly button • Pain that moves to the lower right abdomen • Increasing abdominal pain • Nausea and vomiting • Loss of appetite Other possible symptoms may include: • Fever • Abdominal tenderness • Pain that worsens with movement or coughing • Bloating • Constipation or, in some cases, diarrhea Children, elderly individuals and pregnant women may not have typical symptoms. If the appendix ruptures, severe abdominal pain, high fever and signs of widespread infection may develop. This requires immediate emergency care. Diagnosis A healthcare provider evaluates symptoms, performs a physical examination and may order tests such as: • Blood tests • Abdominal ultrasound • CT scan These help confirm appendicitis and rule out other conditions. Treatment Appendicitis requires urgent treatment. Antibiotics are given to treat and prevent infection. In very early and mild cases, antibiotics alone may temporarily improve symptoms, but recurrence is common. Surgery (appendectomy) is the standard and most reliable treatment. The appendix is usually removed within 24 hours of diagnosis to prevent rupture. Most surgeries are performed laparoscopically, allowing faster recovery. In complicated cases, open surgery may be necessary. The appendix is not a vital organ, and people live normal lives after its removal. Complications and Recovery If untreated, appendicitis may lead to rupture, abscess, peritonitis or sepsis. Early treatment greatly reduces these risks. Most patients recover completely, especially with early care. After uncomplicated surgery, many return home within 24 hours and fully recover within several weeks. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience persistent or worsening pain in the lower right abdomen, especially with fever, nausea or vomiting.

Breast cancer is influenced by many factors. Some—such as genetics, age, and family history—cannot be changed. However, research shows that healthy lifestyle choices combined with regular screenings can significantly lower risk and improve early detection. Although prevention cannot be guaranteed, proactive steps can reduce your chances of developing breast cancer and increase the likelihood of detecting it early, when treatment is most effective. 1. Maintain a healthy weight Excess weight, especially after menopause, increases risk because fat tissue produces estrogen. Maintain a stable, healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular activity. 2. Stay physically active Exercise helps regulate hormones and control weight. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly, plus strength training twice a week. 3. Limit alcohol Alcohol increases breast cancer risk. If you drink, limit it to one drink per day—or avoid it entirely. 4. Choose a balanced diet There is no single “anti-cancer diet,” but eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats supports overall health. Reduce processed meat, red meat, sugary drinks, and heavily processed foods. 5. Avoid smoking Smoking is linked to many cancers, including breast cancer. Quitting greatly benefits overall health. 6. Breastfeed if possible Breastfeeding may slightly reduce risk, especially when continued longer. 7. Use hormones carefully Hormone replacement therapy and some hormonal contraceptives may slightly increase risk. Always discuss options with your doctor and use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. 8. Know your family history Understand cancer history on both sides of your family. 9. Take extra steps if high-risk High-risk individuals may need earlier screening, preventive medications, genetic counseling, or other preventive strategies. 10. Prioritize regular screening Healthy habits reduce risk—but screening saves lives. Early detection greatly improves outcomes. Screening may include: • Clinical breast exams • Mammography based on age and risk • Breast ultrasound, especially for dense breast tissue • MRI for high-risk individuals Ultrasound is safe, painless, and radiation-free, and can detect changes not always visible on mammograms. If you notice a lump, skin changes, nipple discharge, or breast shape changes, seek medical care promptly. Regular check-ups are not routine—they are protection.

The first year of life is a time of very rapid growth, and good nutrition is essential for healthy development. Vitamin D is one of the most important nutrients for infants, as it supports strong bones, teeth, and the immune system. Because babies cannot safely get enough vitamin D from sunlight or diet alone, supplementation is often necessary from birth. Vitamin D is sometimes called the “sunshine vitamin” because the body can produce it when skin is exposed to sunlight. Why do babies need vitamin D? Infants grow very quickly during their first 12 months, which increases their need for vitamin D. Without enough vitamin D, calcium cannot be absorbed properly, leading to weak or soft bones. Severe deficiency can cause rickets, a condition that may result in delayed growth, bone pain, and skeletal deformities. Vitamin D also plays an important role in supporting the immune system, helping babies fight infections and stay healthy. Why sunlight and diet are not enough Although sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, babies have very sensitive skin and should not be exposed to direct sunlight, especially in early life. Breast milk, while the best source of nutrition for infants, usually does not contain enough vitamin D to meet daily needs. Solid foods introduced later are also low in vitamin D. For these reasons, health authorities recommend vitamin D supplementation for many infants. Which babies need vitamin D supplements? • All breastfed babies should receive a daily vitamin D supplement from birth. • Babies who receive both breast milk and small amounts of formula also need supplementation. • Formula-fed babies usually do not need extra vitamin D if they consume enough fortified infant formula. Babies at higher risk of deficiency Babies born to mothers with low vitamin D levels and infants with darker skin tones are more likely to have vitamin D deficiency, as darker skin produces less vitamin D from sunlight. In these cases, regular supplementation is especially important. How to give vitamin D Vitamin D supplements for babies are widely available as liquid drops. They can be given directly into the baby’s mouth using a dropper or oral syringe. Always choose a supplement suitable for infants, follow the instructions carefully, and do not exceed the recommended dose. In summary, vitamin D is essential for healthy growth, strong bones, and immune support in infants. Since babies cannot safely rely on sunlight or diet alone, providing a daily vitamin D supplement during the first year is a simple and effective way to support their long-term health.

When someone undergoes surgery, one of the biggest hidden risks comes from the stomach. If food or liquid remains in the stomach during anesthesia, it can accidentally travel into the lungs—a dangerous situation known as aspiration. This can lead to serious complications such as breathing difficulties, lung inflammation, pneumonia, or, in severe cases, life-threatening outcomes.To reduce this risk, patients are usually asked to fast before surgery. While fasting rules work well for many people, they don’t always guarantee an empty stomach—especially for those with certain medical conditions. That’s where gastric ultrasound becomes a powerful and reassuring tool.What Is Gastric Ultrasound?Gastric ultrasound is a quick, painless, and non-invasive scan that allows doctors to see what’s inside your stomach in real time. It’s done right at the bedside and takes only a few minutes. Using sound waves, the ultrasound shows whether your stomach is empty or contains food or liquid—and even what kind.This information helps doctors make safer decisions about when and how to perform anesthesia, especially when the situation is unclear.How Gastric Ultrasound Helps Keep You SafeA gastric ultrasound allows healthcare providers to:• Check whether your stomach is empty or full• Identify solid food, thick liquids, or clear fluids• Estimate the amount of liquid in the stomach• Decide whether surgery can proceed safely or should be delayed• Choose the safest anesthesia and airway protection methodFor urgent surgeries, this information is especially valuable—it helps doctors reduce risks even when waiting isn’t an option.Is Gastric Ultrasound Safe?Yes—gastric ultrasound is extremely safe. It does not use radiation and has no known side effects. There are very few situations where it might not be suitable, such as severe abdominal injury or when a patient cannot safely lie on their side.In some cases, special techniques or temporary tubes may be used to empty the stomach and protect the lungs during anesthesia.Gastric ultrasound is a simple exam that can make a big difference in surgical safety. It provides clarity when fasting status is uncertain and helps doctors tailor care to your individual needs. Most importantly, it reduces the risk of serious complications and helps ensure that your procedure is as safe as possible.

Bite correction is a dental and orthodontic treatment focused on improving how the upper and lower teeth fit together, a relationship known as occlusion. When the bite is properly aligned, the teeth, jaw muscles, and joints work together smoothly. When it is not, everyday actions such as chewing, speaking, or swallowing can become uncomfortable and inefficient.Many people believe orthodontic treatment is only about straight teeth, but bite alignment is just as important. A healthy bite protects your teeth from damage, supports jaw function, and contributes to overall oral and facial health.Understanding Bite Problems (Malocclusion)A misaligned bite, also called malocclusion, occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not align correctly when the mouth is closed. This condition may be caused by genetics, jaw development issues, missing teeth, injuries, or childhood habits.Common bite problems include:1. Overbite, Underbite, and CrossbiteAn overbite occurs when the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth, while an underbite happens when the lower teeth extend past the upper teeth. A crossbite occurs when upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside.2. Open Bite and CrowdingAn open bite means the teeth do not touch when biting down. Crowded or crooked teeth can also prevent proper alignment and lead to uneven pressure on teeth.3. General MisalignmentImproper spacing or positioning of teeth can affect chewing efficiency, oral hygiene, and jaw comfort.If left untreated, malocclusion may cause jaw pain, headaches, worn or damaged teeth, gum disease, and changes in facial appearance.Functional Benefits of Bite CorrectionBite correction improves how your mouth functions and helps prevent long-term oral problems.• Better chewing and clearer speechAligned teeth make eating more comfortable and can reduce speech difficulties.• Jaw pain and TMJ reliefCorrecting bite alignment reduces strain on jaw muscles and joints, easing tension, clicking, and discomfort.• Protection from tooth damageEvenly distributed bite pressure helps prevent enamel wear, chipping, and cracking.Proper alignment also makes brushing and flossing easier, lowering the risk of cavities and gum disease.Aesthetic and Confidence BenefitsBite correction doesn’t just improve function—it also enhances appearance. Proper alignment creates a more balanced smile, improves facial symmetry, and reduces crowding or gaps. Over time, untreated bite problems may contribute to premature facial aging or jawline changes.A healthy, aligned smile often leads to increased confidence, positively affecting both personal and professional life.Causes and Symptoms of a Bad BiteMalocclusion is often inherited, but it can also result from habits or medical conditions. Common causes include: thumb-sucking, prolonged pacifier use, jaw injuries, missing or impacted teeth, teeth grinding, tongue thrusting, mouth breathing, and poor oral hygiene. Symptoms may include: difficulty chewing, jaw pain or clicking, headaches, speech issues, frequent cheek or tongue biting, mouth breathing, and noticeable changes in facial appearance.Bite Correction Treatment OptionsTreatment depends on the severity of the problem and the patient’s age.1. Orthodontic TreatmentsTraditional braces and clear aligners gradually move teeth into proper alignment and are effective for mild to complex cases.2. Restorative ProceduresCrowns, bridges, implants, or tooth replacement can help restore bite balance when teeth are missing or damaged.3. Advanced or Supportive TreatmentsBite adjustment, jaw expanders, headgear, tooth extraction, or jaw surgery may be recommended in more severe cases.Treatment typically lasts between 12 months and two and a half years, with regular checkups to monitor progress.When Is Bite Correction Necessary?Not every mild bite issue requires treatment. However, if malocclusion affects eating, speaking, breathing, oral hygiene, or causes pain or tooth damage, professional care is important. Early treatment—especially in children—is often easier, but adults can benefit from bite correction at any age.Take the First Step Toward a Healthier SmileA misaligned bite can affect your comfort, confidence, and long-term oral health. Early diagnosis and timely treatment help prevent complications and improve quality of life.If you are concerned about your bite, the experienced dental team at Dalimed Medical Center is ready to help. We provide personalized bite correction solutions using modern techniques to restore function and enhance your smile. Don’t wait—schedule a consultation at Dalimed Medical Center and take an important step toward a healthier, more confident future.

When you hear the word elastography related to the thyroid, there’s no need to worry. It’s simply a modern imaging method that gives doctors more information than a regular ultrasound. Elastography works like an “electronic palpation” — it allows doctors to assess how soft or stiff the thyroid tissue is, without physically touching it. Why Does This Matter? The thyroid gland is located at the front of the neck and often develops nodules, which are small lumps of tissue. Most thyroid nodules are harmless, but some may need closer attention. Doctors usually evaluate them with standard ultrasound and, in certain cases, a fine-needle biopsy. While these methods are helpful, they don’t always give the full picture. Elastography adds important extra information by showing how stiff the tissue is. Changes in tissue stiffness can occur with conditions such as nodules, inflammation, or other thyroid disorders. This information helps doctors better understand what they are seeing on ultrasound. How Does Thyroid Elastography Work? Elastography is performed during an ultrasound examination and does not cause pain or discomfort. The technique measures how thyroid tissue responds to gentle pressure or sound waves. In simple terms, elastography helps to: • Compare softer and stiffer areas within the thyroid • Provide additional details alongside regular ultrasound images • Support doctors in evaluating thyroid nodules more accurately What Are the Benefits for Patients? • Non-invasive and painless • Performed together with standard thyroid ultrasound • Provides additional information without extra procedures Where Can You Do This Exam? If you may benefit from thyroid elastography — especially if a previous ultrasound showed nodules or changes in the thyroid — you can have this examination at Dalimed Medical Center. The medical team performs thyroid elastography as part of comprehensive ultrasound diagnostics and explains the results in a clear and patient-friendly way.

A Holter monitor is a small, wearable medical device used to continuously record the electrical activity of your heart over an extended period, usually 24 to 48 hours, and sometimes longer. It’s a type of ambulatory electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), meaning it monitors your heart while you go about your normal daily routine outside of a clinic or hospital. Unlike a standard ECG, which captures your heart’s activity for just a few minutes while you’re resting, a Holter monitor provides a much broader picture. By recording every heartbeat over one or more days, it helps healthcare providers detect heart rhythm problems that may appear only occasionally or during specific activities such as exercise, stress or sleep. How a Holter monitor works Your heart beats because of natural electrical impulses that control the timing and rhythm of contractions. A Holter monitor records these impulses through electrodes placed on your chest. The system usually includes: • Electrodes – small adhesive patches attached to the skin that detect electrical signals • Wires – connect the electrodes to the recording device (some newer models are wireless patch-style units) • Recording device – a lightweight, battery-powered monitor worn on a belt, strap or in a pocket The device stores all the data while you wear it. Your healthcare provider reviews the recordings only after you return the monitor—there’s no real-time monitoring. Why a Holter monitor may be needed Your healthcare provider might recommend a Holter monitor if symptoms suggest a heart rhythm issue that isn’t visible on a resting ECG. It’s especially useful when symptoms are intermittent. Common reasons include: • Dizziness, fainting or unexplained fatigue • Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeats • Chest discomfort or shortness of breath • Evaluating how well heart medications or a pacemaker are working • Assessing heart rhythm changes after a heart attack or in certain heart conditions Because the monitor records continuously, it increases the chance of capturing abnormal rhythms such as very fast, very slow or irregular heartbeats. What to expect while wearing a Holter monitor Getting set up is simple and usually done on an outpatient basis. After the electrodes or patch are placed on your chest, you can return to most of your normal activities, including work and light exercise, unless your provider advises otherwise. You’ll likely be asked to: • Keep a diary of activities and symptoms (noting time, activity and how you felt) • Avoid getting the device wet (no showering, bathing or swimming) • Stay away from strong magnetic or high-voltage environments that could interfere with the recording Recording what you’re doing when symptoms occur helps your provider match those moments with changes seen in your heart rhythm. Risks and limitations A Holter monitor is safe and painless. Risks are minimal, but some people may notice: • Mild skin irritation or itching where electrodes are attached • Discomfort when electrodes are removed • Loosening of electrodes due to sweating Electrical appliances, magnets or cell phones placed too close to the device may interfere with signal quality, so following instructions is important. After the monitoring period Once the monitoring time is complete, you return the device to your healthcare provider. The data from the monitor, along with your activity diary, is analyzed to look for abnormal heart rhythms, pauses or unusual rate changes. Results may show normal heart activity or detect rhythm disorders such as atrial fibrillation, bradycardia (slow heart rate), tachycardia (fast heart rate) or extra beats. Your provider will explain the findings and discuss next steps, which may include additional tests, medication adjustments or other treatments if needed. A Holter monitor is a valuable, noninvasive tool that helps healthcare providers better understand how your heart behaves throughout your everyday life—not just in a brief moment in the exam room. If you have heart-related symptoms, you can visit Dalimed Medical Center for a specialist consultation and, if needed, undergo Holter monitoring using modern equipment in a comfortable clinical setting.

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), commonly known as CMV, is a widespread virus from the beta-herpesvirus family that causes lifelong infection. Once a person is infected, the virus remains in the body in a dormant state and may reactivate later. CMV is extremely common worldwide, with infection rates ranging from 55% to nearly 100%, depending on age, geography, and socioeconomic conditions. Most healthy people experience no symptoms or only mild, flu-like illness during primary infection. However, CMV can cause severe and life-threatening disease in individuals with weakened immune systems, including newborns, pregnant women, organ transplant recipients, and people living with HIV/AIDS. CMV and High-Risk Groups CMV is the leading infectious cause of congenital abnormalities in developed countries, affecting approximately 1–2.5% of all live births. The virus can cross the placenta during pregnancy and infect the fetus, even if the mother has no symptoms. Complications of congenital CMV may include: • Low birth weight • Hearing and vision loss • Microcephaly • Enlarged liver and spleen • Developmental and cognitive delays In immunocompromised adults, CMV can cause pneumonia, gastrointestinal disease, retinitis, neurological complications, and may contribute to transplant rejection. Transmission of CMV CMV spreads through direct contact with infected body fluids, such as saliva, urine, blood, breast milk, and sexual fluids. Young children are a common source of infection due to prolonged viral shedding. Main routes of transmission include: • Close contact with saliva or urine • Sexual contact • Breastfeeding • Blood transfusions and organ transplants Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention CMV is diagnosed using blood, urine, or saliva tests. Treatment with antiviral medications (ganciclovir or valganciclovir) is usually limited to high-risk patients, as these drugs cannot reverse existing damage and may cause side effects. Prevention focuses on reducing exposure, especially during pregnancy:• Strict hand hygiene • Avoiding sharing utensils with young children • Practicing safe sex • Medical monitoring after transplantation Conclusion Human cytomegalovirus is usually harmless in healthy individuals but can cause serious disease in vulnerable populations. Improved understanding of CMV biology and immune interactions is essential for better therapies and the development of an effective vaccine.