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Cortisol is the main glucocorticoid synthesized in the fascicular zone of the adrenal cortex. Cortisol levels reflect acute, chronic, and diurnal changes in the body across various physiological and psychological states. Typically, the highest secretion of cortisol occurs in the second half of the night, reaching its maximum level in the early morning, after which cortisol levels decrease throughout the day, recording the lowest levels in the first half of the night. Cortisol plays an important role in regulating many crucial physiological processes, including energy metabolism, electrolyte balance, maintenance of blood pressure, immunomodulation, stress response, cell proliferation, as well as cognitive functions. The main part of cortisol circulates in the plasma bound to proteins: corticosteroid-binding globulin and albumin. The biologically active free fraction accounts for only 2-5% of total cortisol. High levels of cortisol can be detected during stress reactions, psychiatric disorders, obesity, diabetes mellitus, alcoholism, and pregnancy, which can cause diagnostic problems in patients with Cushing's syndrome. Low levels of cortisol are observed in patients with rare adrenal enzyme disorders and after prolonged stress. When blood cortisol levels are low, the hypothalamus in the brain releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which in turn causes the pituitary gland to produce adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH stimulates cortisol secretion, leading to an increase in blood cortisol levels. When cortisol levels rise, they begin to inhibit the release of CRH from the hypothalamus and ACTH from the pituitary gland. The causes of high cortisol (hypercortisolism) are: 1.Overproduction of ACTH due to a CRH-producing tumor, an ACTH-producing pituitary tumor (Cushing's disease), or other tumors. 2.Autonomous overproduction of glucocorticoids by the adrenal fascicular zone, for example, in the case of a tumor (Cushing's syndrome). Manifestations of hypercortisolism include: • increased arterial pressure. • weight gain with fat accumulation in the face, neck, and torso, while the limbs are relatively thin. • hyperglycemia. • suppression of the immune system (lymphopenia, eosinopenia). • decreased muscle mass. • osteoporosis. • thinning of the skin. • appearance of striae. • slow wound healing. The causes of low cortisol (hypocortisolism) are: • Addison's disease (primary adrenal insufficiency). • Secondary adrenal insufficiency. • Pituitary insufficiency. • Hypothalamic insufficiency. • Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (defects in enzymes involved in cortisol synthesis). If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above or want to assess your hormonal balance, we recommend checking your cortisol levels at Dalimed Medical Center. Our modern laboratory and experienced professionals ensure accurate results and personalized care.

Brushing teeth is an important part of daily oral hygiene. And choosing the right toothbrush is the first step to making this ritual truly effective. Currently, there is a huge selection of toothbrushes on store shelves, and it's easy to get confused: which one is really right for you?Choosing a Toothbrush: What to Look For?Here are three key points to consider when choosing a toothbrush:1. Soft Bristles. The toothbrush should have soft bristles. Such brushes clean teeth and gums more gently, especially if you have sensitive enamel or a tendency to inflammation. Hard bristles might indeed be better at removing plaque, but with excessive pressure, they can damage enamel and even cause gum recession (their pulling away from the teeth). This, in turn, leads to exposed tooth roots and increased sensitivity to cold, hot, and certain foods.2. Small Brush Head. The shape of the brush head also plays an important role. It is better to choose brushes with a small head (for example, a rhomboid shape) — they penetrate more easily into hard-to-reach areas of the oral cavity, especially to the back teeth. The shape should be comfortable so that you can easily reach all tooth surfaces. This will make the brushing process not only effective but also pleasant.3. Electric Toothbrush. Although a regular manual toothbrush also copes with its task, an electric toothbrush can remove plaque significantly better. It is especially useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas and simplifies the brushing process itself. In addition, many such models have a built-in two-minute timer — it helps to observe the brushing time recommended by dentists.Individual Approach to Toothbrush Selection.Depending on your individual characteristics and needs, you can choose a toothbrush that is best suited for you:•Sensitive teeth – pay attention to toothbrushes specifically designed for sensitive oral cavities. They usually have ultra-soft bristles and a gentle cleaning mode.•Orthodontic appliances – if you have braces or other appliances, choose toothbrushes with angled bristles or special models for orthodontic system care. They effectively clean the area around brackets and wires.•Additional functions – some toothbrushes are equipped with built-in tongue scrapers or gum massagers. These elements help to freshen breath and maintain gum health. It is also worth considering the shape of the handle, the comfort of the grip, and the design of the bristles. The main thing is that it should be comfortable and pleasant for you to use the brush every day.To be confident in your dental health and to choose the right oral care products, we recommend undergoing a preventive dental check-up. At the Dalimed Medical Center, you can receive qualified consultation and professional oral care. Take care of yourself in time — health begins with a smile.

Food allergies occur when your immune system mistakenly identifies a specific food as a threat. In an attempt to defend your body, it triggers a range of reactions like skin rashes, stomach discomfort, swelling, and trouble breathing. Unlike food intolerances, allergic responses can be immediate or delayed and may impact several body systems at once.The difference between a food allergy and food intolerance is important to understand. While a food allergy involves an immune response, food intolerance typically leads to issues such as bloating or abdominal pain a few hours after eating the problematic food, without involving the immune system.Symptoms of a food allergySymptoms of a food allergy may appear soon after consumption or even days later. They can affect various parts of the body simultaneously. Common signs include:•Dizziness or lightheadedness•Swollen lips, eyes, or face (angioedema)•Itchy skin or hives (raised rash)•Wheezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing•Sneezing, runny or blocked nose•Hoarseness or noisy breathing•Nausea or vomiting•Stomach cramps•DiarrheaCauses of food allergyFood allergies are the result of the immune system overreacting to proteins found in certain foods. Although the exact cause isn’t fully known, some foods are more likely to provoke an allergic reaction in susceptible individuals. These include:•Cow’s milk•Eggs•Peanuts, soybeans, peas, and chickpeas•Tree nuts like almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios, Brazil nuts, and cashews•Shellfish such as prawns, crab, and lobster•WheatIn addition, foods like mustard, sesame seeds, celery, and lupin flour can also be allergens. Your risk increases slightly if you or close family members have other allergies, eczema, or asthma.What kind of testing do I need for a food allergy?To identify a food allergy, healthcare providers may recommend:•Skin prick test: A small amount of a suspected allergen is introduced to your skin to observe for a reaction.•Blood test: Your blood is analyzed for the presence of antibodies that respond to specific allergens.•Food challenge: Under medical supervision, small portions of a suspected allergen are consumed to monitor for a reaction.What are the complications of food allergies?One of the most dangerous outcomes of a food allergy is anaphylaxis — a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction. This may involve swelling of the airways, difficulty breathing or swallowing, vomiting, and a significant drop in blood pressure (anaphylactic shock). If not treated promptly, anaphylaxis can be fatal. Seek emergency medical attention or call 1-03 immediately if you experience swelling in the face, lips, or throat, trouble breathing, or faintness after eating.

Mesotherapy is a non-surgical aesthetic treatment in which a combination of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and enzymes is injected into the middle layer of the skin. The method gets its name from the Greek word "meso" (middle) and aims to directly treat problem areas by delivering active ingredients closer to the target tissues. While it resembles acupuncture in technique, mesotherapy is performed with fine needles or special devices.It is legally permitted for healthy individuals over 18, but certain conditions (like pregnancy or chronic illness) may make someone ineligible. Each treatment is personalized, taking into account a person’s age, skin type, health, and specific needs.How is Mesotherapy Applied?Before beginning, a physical exam helps define the problem area and determine the correct approach. The skin may be numbed with anesthetic cream. Using fine disposable needles or a mechanical injector, the practitioner delivers a small amount of solution into the middle skin layer at an angle. The number of sessions depends on the area and desired results.The procedure is quick, outpatient-based, and doesn’t require dressing or significant downtime. Most people return to their daily activities the same day unless they experience rare side effects like redness or swelling.What are the Types of Mesotherapy?Mesotherapy can be divided into three injection techniques:•Point by Point•Upper Skin Mesotherapy•Comprehensive MesotherapyIn terms of application areas, mesotherapy includes:•Hair Mesotherapy•Mesolifting (facial rejuvenation)•Body Mesotherapy (for fat and cellulite)How Does Mesotherapy Work?After analyzing a patient’s needs, health, and skin condition, a mix of substances like amino acids, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and vitamins is prepared. These are injected into the skin, where they stimulate collagen and elastin—key elements that maintain skin firmness and elasticity.The injected nutrients also improve blood and lymph circulation and trigger the body’s natural repair mechanisms. This process restores skin tightness, reduces signs of aging, and enhances overall skin vitality. The outcome varies based on the patient’s condition, substance composition, and session count.In Which Areas Can Mesotherapy Be Applied?Hair Mesotherapy:Used for both men and women suffering from hair thinning or hair loss. Vitamins and minerals are injected into the scalp to strengthen follicles and stimulate new growth.Facial Mesotherapy:Reduces wrinkles, dryness, uneven tone, and signs of aging. Substances like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C brighten the complexion, restore elasticity, and improve skin barrier function.Neck Mesotherapy:Targets sagging and wrinkles in the neck and under-chin areas. It firms the skin and can help dissolve localized fat, especially in the double chin region.Body Mesotherapy:Applied to hips, abdomen, arms, and thighs to break down fat cells and improve skin texture. Effective in treating cellulite without the need for surgical intervention.If you're considering mesotherapy for skin rejuvenation, hair loss, or body contouring, it's important to choose a clinic you can trust. At Dalimed Medical Center, our qualified specialists offer personalized treatments using safe, effective techniques tailored to your needs. Let us help you feel confident in your skin again.

Vitiligo is a long-term skin condition where pale or white patches gradually appear on different parts of the body. These patches form when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys melanocytes — the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color. When this happens in areas with hair, the hair may also turn white or silver.Who does vitiligo affect?Vitiligo can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex, or ethnicity, although it’s more noticeable in people with darker skin. Most people notice the first signs — small light patches or macules — before they turn 30.Certain autoimmune conditions can increase your risk of developing vitiligo, such as:•Addison’s disease•Anemia•Type 1 diabetes•Lupus•Psoriasis•Rheumatoid arthritis•Thyroid disordersSymptoms of vitiligoVitiligo typically starts as a pale patch that may gradually turn completely white. Sometimes, the center of the patch is white, surrounded by a lighter-toned border. If blood vessels are visible underneath, the area might appear pink instead.Commonly affected areas include:•Around the mouth and eyes•Fingers and wrists•Armpits and groin•Genitals•Inside the mouth•The scalp or anywhere with hair folliclesThe edges of the patches might be smooth or uneven, and in some cases, they may look red, inflamed, or show a brownish tint (known as hyperpigmentation). Although the patches usually don’t cause any discomfort or dryness, they may occasionally feel itchy.The extent of skin involvement differs from person to person. Some develop only a few small spots, while others experience larger patches that may merge over time. Unfortunately, there’s no way to predict how the condition will progress, and the patches are usually permanent.TriggersSeveral factors may trigger or worsen vitiligo, including:•High-stress events like childbirth•Skin trauma such as cuts or severe sunburn (known as the Koebner phenomenon)•Hormonal shifts like those during puberty•Liver or kidney issues•Exposure to certain chemicalsImportantly, vitiligo is not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person.How is vitiligo treated?Vitiligo is a cosmetic condition and does not harm your physical health, so treatment isn't medically required. However, if it affects your emotional well-being or self-esteem, there are options available to even out your skin tone — either by restoring pigment (repigmentation) or removing the remaining pigment (depigmentation).Treatment options include:•Medications•Light (phototherapy) treatment•Depigmentation therapies•Surgical procedures•Psychological counselingWhat can I expect if I have vitiligo?Living with vitiligo can be emotionally challenging due to changes in appearance. It's not unusual to feel self-conscious or anxious in social settings. Many people benefit from speaking with a mental health professional to build confidence and cope with the emotional effects.While there’s no known cure, effective treatments are available. Our healthcare provider can help you find the right approach based on your skin type and personal preferences.

Orthostatic hypotension is a sudden drop in blood pressure when getting up from a sitting or lying position. This can cause dizziness or even fainting.What is blood pressure?Blood pressure shows how much force the blood exerts on the walls of the arteries when the heart is working. It is measured by two indicators in millimeters of mercury (mmHg):•Systolic pressure – when the heart contracts and pushes blood out.•Diastolic pressure – when the heart rests between beats.Blood pressure is recorded as systolic/diastolic. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg , and blood pressure below 90/60 mmHg is considered low.Why does orthostatic hypotension occur?When lying or sitting, blood easily returns to the heart. When standing up, blood pools in the legs, and there is less for the heart and brain – blood pressure temporarily drops. Possible causes:•Weak heart contractility•Dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system•Diseases such as Parkinson's or Lewy body dementia•Prolonged bed rest•Blood or fluid loss•Adrenal gland problems•Medication side effectsWhat are the symptoms?Symptoms usually worsen in the morning when blood pressure is at its lowest. Some people have no symptoms, while others find them worse in hot weather, with fever, or after a hot shower.The main symptom is dizziness or weakness when standing up, which resolves when sitting or lying down.Other possible signs include:•Fainting•Blurred vision•Fatigue, weakness•Chest, neck, or shoulder pain•Difficulty concentrating•Headaches•Rapid heartbeat•Nausea, sweating•Shortness of breathHow is it diagnosed?A doctor will measure your blood pressure while lying down, sitting, and standing. They may also order:•Blood tests (e.g., for anemia or diabetes)•ECG – to assess heart rhythm•EchoCG – to check how the heart works•Stress test•Holter monitoring•Tilt table testWhat are the possible complications?Orthostatic hypotension can lead to:•Falls, fractures, concussions•Post-meal hypotension (especially after carbohydrate-rich meals)•Lower blood pressure when lying down•Stroke or heart disease due to blood pressure fluctuations•Organ damage if blood pressure remains lowWhat to expect?The condition is usually manageable. Simple measures, such as getting out of bed more slowly, help. Serious complications are rare.Can orthostatic hypotension be cured?There is no complete cure, but symptoms can be alleviated by following a doctor's recommendations:•Taking medications•Increasing fluid intake•Eating small, frequent meals•Wearing compression stockingsHow to reduce the risk?•Avoid very hot showers and baths•Drink enough water, limit alcohol, do not overeat•Sleep with your head elevated•Get up slowly, especially in the mornings•Do light exercises – squeeze a ball, march in place•Use compression garments (stockings, belts)If you notice signs of orthostatic hypotension, do not delay visiting a specialist. Timely diagnosis and treatment will help avoid complications and improve your quality of life. At Dalimed Medical Center, you can receive qualified assistance and undergo all necessary examinations under the supervision of experienced doctors.

Lowering cholesterol levels requires a comprehensive approach that includes both lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication.Lifestyle Changes1.Heart-Healthy Diet. Diet plays a key role in cholesterol control. Doctors recommend eliminating trans fats and limiting saturated fat intake. It is also important to monitor calorie intake to avoid weight gain. The emphasis is on a varied and nutritious diet—fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.2.Maintaining a Healthy Weight. Excess weight is one factor that increases LDL (bad cholesterol) and lowers HDL (good cholesterol). This is especially relevant for people with metabolic syndrome—a set of conditions that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.3.Physical Activity. Regular exercise helps lower triglycerides and LDL, while simultaneously raising HDL. The appropriate level of activity should be discussed with your doctor, especially if you have not exercised before.4.Stress Reduction. Constant psycho-emotional stress can negatively affect cholesterol balance, increasing LDL and lowering HDL. Stress management methods—from meditation to walks—can be helpful.5.Quitting Smoking. By quitting smoking, you can increase your HDL levels, which helps remove LDL from the body. This is one of the most effective steps toward improving cardiovascular health.6.Quality Sleep. 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night also affects cholesterol levels. Lack of sleep can contribute to its increase.Medication TherapyWhen lifestyle changes are not enough, doctors may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications. There are different types of such medications, each with its own mechanism of action and possible side effects. It is important to choose the right medication in consultation with your doctor. However, even when taking medication, it is important to continue to follow a healthy lifestyle—diet, physical activity, and avoiding bad habits remain important.Additional Treatments1.Lipoprotein Apheresis. Some patients with hereditary hypercholesterolemia (FH) may require an apheresis procedure. Using special equipment, LDL is removed from the blood, after which the rest of the blood is returned to the body.2.Dietary Supplements. Many supplements are available on the market that promise to lower cholesterol. However, not all of them have proven their effectiveness. Here's what the research base shows:•Plant stanols and sterols, especially when taken with food, can lower cholesterol levels.•Soy products may have a slight positive effect. However, soy products are more effective than supplements.•Whole flaxseed and flax lignans help lower cholesterol, but flaxseed oil does not.•Garlic supplements may slightly lower cholesterol, but their effect is significantly weaker than that of medications.Always consult your doctor before taking any supplements. Some of them may cause side effects or interact with medications.

Summer is a wonderful time to be outside all day, running, playing, and having an incredibly fun time, but with all that, the risk of developing heatstroke, burns, and dehydration is high. Therefore, it is important to know the simple rules for sun protection:•Try to stay indoors at midday to avoid the sun's strong and harmful rays (specifically between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM), or hide in shady places (under a tree, an umbrella, or in a tent).•Dress children in long-sleeved, cotton, loose-fitting clothes to protect exposed areas of their body.•Buy a wide-brimmed hat to cover the head, neck, and ears. This is especially important for toddlers with short hair.•Older children can wear sunglasses that will protect their eyes from the sun's UV rays (when buying, pay attention to the percentage: 97-100% UV protection).•Do not forget to use sunscreen (at least 15 SPF), applying it 30 minutes before going outside and reapplying every 2 hours.By the way, before applying the cream completely, it is important to do a patch test on a small area of the skin to check for an allergic reaction. Also, before buying a sunscreen, pay attention to the ingredients. It is desirable that it does not contain oxybenzone. The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend using sunscreen for children under 6 months old, but if sun exposure is unavoidable, apply a thin layer with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.However, even slight carelessness can lead to sunburn. The first signs of a burn often appear 6-12 hours after being in the sun. A mild burn does not require special hospital treatment; this refers to localized redness, warmth, or pain on the skin. In such a case, it is important to:•Offer plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.•Bathe only with lukewarm water.•Give the child some pain reliever (paracetamol or ibuprofen; follow the age and weight-appropriate dosage indicated in the leaflet).•Avoid various lotions and creams intended for adults, and consult a pediatrician before use.•Avoid the sun until the burned skin has healed.•Remain under the supervision of a pediatrician.In case of a more severe burn (blistering, fever, chills, headache, weakness), contact a pediatrician immediately or go to the nearest children's hospital.