How to Choose the Right Toothbrush

Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death in the world. However, in many cases, they can be prevented by changing your lifestyle and paying attention to prevention. Taking care of your heart isn't just about living a long life, but also about its quality: more energy, activity, and a good feeling every day. We have compiled 5 key tips that will help you maintain heart health and reduce the risk of developing diseases. 1. Quit smoking. Smoking is one of the main enemies of the heart and blood vessels. The nicotine and other substances contained in tobacco damage the walls of blood vessels, making them less elastic and increasing the load on the heart. Even passive inhalation of cigarette smoke is dangerous. The good news is that the positive effect of quitting smoking is very fast. Within 24 hours, the risk of a heart attack decreases, and within a year, the probability of cardiovascular diseases is almost halved. The sooner you quit, the better, but it's never too late to start. 2. Move every day. The heart loves movement. Regular physical activity strengthens the heart muscle, improves blood circulation, and lowers the level of "bad" cholesterol. This doesn't necessarily mean the gym or marathons—30-60 minutes of moderate activity a day is enough. This can be brisk walking, swimming, cycling, dancing, or even gardening. It's important that the movement brings pleasure so it becomes part of your life. Even short bursts of activity, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, are beneficial. 3. Balanced nutrition. What we eat directly affects the heart. An improper diet increases cholesterol levels, contributes to weight gain, and the development of diabetes. It's helpful to include in your diet: fresh vegetables and fruits , legumes and whole grains , lean meat and fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids , nuts, seeds, olive oil, and avocado. You should limit: salt and foods high in sodium , sweets and sugary drinks , fast food and processed foods , fatty red meat and trans fats. 4. Weight control and quality sleep. Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, is a serious risk factor. It increases the likelihood of hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Even a small weight loss (3-5% of body weight) positively affects heart function and metabolism. Quality sleep is no less important. People who sleep less than 6-7 hours a day are more likely to suffer from high blood pressure and heart rhythm disturbances. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time, create a calm atmosphere in the bedroom, and put away gadgets before sleep. 5. Regular check-ups. How you feel doesn't always reflect the actual condition of your heart. High blood pressure or high cholesterol can go unnoticed for a long time without symptoms. Therefore, preventive check-ups are vital. It is recommended to regularly check: blood pressure , cholesterol level , and blood sugar level. If you have a family history, are overweight, or have chronic diseases, you should get checked more often. A doctor can identify problems in time and prescribe treatment or prevention. Your heart works non-stop, providing life to every cell in your body. It deserves care. Quitting bad habits, proper nutrition, activity, and prevention are simple steps that will help keep it healthy for many years to come. But the most important thing is not to postpone a visit to the doctor. Even if you feel well, regular check-ups can help prevent hidden risks. At Dalimed Medical Center, you can undergo diagnostics, receive a consultation with a cardiologist, and get personalized recommendations for maintaining heart health. Take care of yourself today to live actively and happily tomorrow!

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is a single-chain 84 amino acid peptide produced by the parathyroid gland in response to a decrease in the extracellular concentration of ionized calcium. Its main role is to increase the level of calcium in the serum. It does this by stimulating the release of calcium from the bones and renal reabsorption in the distal tubules. In the proximal tubules, PTH stimulates the synthesis of calcitriol, which in turn increases the absorption of calcium in the intestines and creates an endocrine feedback loop on PTH secretion at the level of the parathyroid gland. Parathyroid hormone also reduces phosphate reabsorption in the proximal tubules of the kidneys, thereby reducing the amount of phosphate in the serum.Disorders of the parathyroid gland lead to an increase or decrease in blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia or hypocalcemia), which is caused by a change in parathyroid gland secretion.Excessive production of parathyroid hormone is called hyperparathyroidism.Types include:• Primary hyperparathyroidism: Often caused by a benign tumor (adenoma) on one of the parathyroid glands. Other causes include enlarged glands (hyperplasia) or, rarely, parathyroid gland cancer.• Secondary hyperparathyroidism: Occurs as a response to low blood calcium levels due to chronic renal failure, vitamin D deficiency, or extremely high levels of phosphate. The parathyroid glands produce excess PTH, attempting to restore calcium balance.• Tertiary hyperparathyroidism: Develops when secondary hyperparathyroidism continues for a long time, leading to autonomous hyperactivity of the glands, even when calcium levels return to normal.Underproduction of parathyroid hormone is called hypoparathyroidism.The causes of hypoparathyroidism are:• Damage, accidental removal, or destruction of the parathyroid glands during neck or thyroid surgery• Autoimmune diseases• Low magnesium levels• Radiation therapy to the head or neck• Rarely, congenital absence of glands or functional defectsSymptoms of hyperparathyroidism are:• Fatigue and general weakness (the most common symptom)• Bone and joint pain, osteoporosis, brittle bones, and fractures• Muscle weakness• Kidney stones and possible kidney disease or renal failure• Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, depression, anxiety, and mood swings• Increased thirst and frequent urination• Gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, and abdominal pain• Insomnia or difficulty sleeping• Headaches• Heart-related symptoms such as high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and atrial fibrillationSymptoms of hypoparathyroidism are:• A tingling or burning sensation in the fingers, toes, lips, and around the mouth (paresthesia)• Muscle aches, spasms, and cramps, sometimes affecting the hands, feet, face, and throat• Fatigue, weakness, exhaustion• Headaches and problems with memory or concentration• Abdominal pain• Dry skin, brittle nails, dry hair, brittle teeth• Cataracts• Anxiety, irritability, and mood swings• In severe cases, convulsionsSometimes the symptoms are mild or absent, and parathyroid gland problems are detected through routine blood tests.

Obesity is not just excess weight, but is considered a chronic disease that over time leads to serious complications. According to the WHO, obesity is a global epidemic that affects both physical and psychological health. Main causes of obesity • Poor diet – abuse of fats, sweets, and high-calorie foods. • Lack of physical activity – a sedentary lifestyle reduces energy expenditure. • Hormonal disorders – for example, hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome. • Genetic predisposition – some genes affect metabolism and appetite. • Psychological factors – stress, depression, loneliness, which often lead to excessive food consumption. The hidden dangers of obesity Excess weight can become the basis for numerous health problems. The consequences of obesity include a high risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases (heart attack, stroke), atherosclerosis, and joint diseases (arthrosis, gonarthrosis). It can also cause respiratory disorders (sleep apnea, asthma) and hormonal disorders. In addition, obesity is associated with a high risk of oncological diseases (breast, uterine, colon, and other cancers), as well as skin problems (dermatitis, fungal infections). Prevention The prevention of obesity is based on a healthy lifestyle: • A healthy and balanced diet, limiting fats and simple carbohydrates. • Regular physical activity, at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. • Periodic monitoring of weight and body mass index. • Hormonal and metabolic tests for those at risk. Treatment Obesity treatment is individualized and includes a comprehensive approach: • Diet therapy – calorie control, diet adjustment. • Physical activity – workouts and motor activity. • Treatment of accompanying diseases – diabetes, hypertension, hormonal disorders. • Bariatric surgery – indicated when the BMI is over 40 and diet and physical activity have not given a satisfactory result. Obesity is not just an aesthetic problem, but a serious medical condition. By consulting an endocrinologist in time and undergoing hormonal and metabolic tests, it is possible to prevent severe complications and maintain a healthy life.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is considered one of the most common hormonal disorders among women, affecting both the reproductive system and metabolism. In this condition, numerous small, immature follicles form in the ovaries, which can disrupt the natural process of ovulation. Why is it important to recognize polycystic ovary syndrome? PCOS can go on for years without obvious symptoms, but it can lead to the following complications: • Infertility or complications during pregnancy • Irregular menstrual cycle • Skin and hair problems: acne, hirsutism • Insulin resistance and a high risk of type 2 diabetes • Psychological complications: depression, stress, low self-esteem How is a diagnosis confirmed? PCOS diagnosis is made by combining a number of data points: • Detailed medical interview • Menstrual cycle analysis • Ultrasound examination (sonography) • Blood hormonal and metabolic tests How is treatment carried out? PCOS is treated with a combined approach, depending on the woman's age, goals (e.g., getting pregnant or regulating the cycle), and the severity of the symptoms. The main directions of treatment are: 1. Regulation of diet and lifestyle 2. Cycle regulation: hormonal treatment 3. Treatment of hirsutism and skin acne 4. Assisted conception: medication or, if necessary, the use of reproductive technologies 5. Medications that increase insulin sensitivity Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and a Healthy Lifestyle Even a mild weight loss (5-10%) can significantly improve hormonal balance, restore ovulation, and regulate menstruation. • Balanced nutrition • Regular physical activity • Good quality of sleep • Stress management methods Remember, you are not alone. There are many women with PCOS, and with proper management, it is possible to live a full, feminine life with a healthy reproductive system. Pay attention to your body's signals, and do not hesitate to consult a specialist.