Kidney stones: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is an important vitamin that helps the body grow, repair, and function properly. It is involved in the production of new cells, making red blood cells, and supporting healthy brain and nervous system function. Although folic acid is most commonly associated with pregnancy, it is actually essential for people of all ages. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, a vitamin naturally found in foods. Since the body cannot store large amounts of it, regular intake through food or supplements is important. This vitamin has several important functions in the body, including: • Supporting cell growth and DNA production • Helping form healthy red blood cells • Supporting brain and heart health One of the most well-known benefits of folic acid is its role during pregnancy. In the early weeks of pregnancy, it helps the baby’s brain and spinal cord develop properly. Adequate folic acid intake significantly lowers the risk of serious birth defects such as spina bifida. Because these changes happen very early — often before a woman even knows she is pregnant — doctors recommend that women of reproductive age get enough folic acid daily. A lack of folic acid may lead to folate-deficiency anemia, a condition in which the body cannot produce enough healthy red blood cells. Common symptoms may include: • Fatigue and weakness • Pale skin • Dizziness or shortness of breath Folic acid may also contribute to overall wellness by helping regulate homocysteine, a substance linked to heart disease when present at high levels. Some studies also suggest that healthy folate levels may support memory, mood, and cognitive function. Good dietary sources of folate include: • Leafy green vegetables • Beans and lentils • Citrus fruits • Eggs and nuts • Fortified cereals and grain products Most adults need around 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, while pregnant women usually require higher amounts. Supplements may be recommended in certain situations, especially during pregnancy or in people with absorption problems. Overall, folic acid is a small but essential nutrient that supports many important processes in the body. From healthy blood cells to proper fetal development, getting enough folic acid is an important part of maintaining good health. Check your folic acid levels now at Dalimed Medical Center.

Vitreous hemorrhage is bleeding inside the vitreous — the clear, gel-like substance that fills the center of the eye. The vitreous normally allows light to pass freely to the retina, helping us see clearly. When blood enters this area, vision becomes blurred, cloudy, or darkened. This condition is usually painless, but it can cause sudden visual disturbances ranging from mild floaters to major vision loss. Vitreous hemorrhage itself is not a disease, but a sign of another eye or health problem that needs medical attention. What causes vitreous hemorrhage? Vitreous hemorrhage develops when blood vessels inside the eye leak or rupture. One of the most common causes is diabetic retinopathy, where fragile abnormal blood vessels form and bleed easily. Retinal tears, retinal detachment, and eye injuries are also frequent causes. Other possible causes include high blood pressure, retinal vein occlusion, blood disorders, and age-related macular degeneration. In some people, age-related changes in the vitreous can pull on the retina and damage nearby vessels. Symptoms of vitreous hemorrhage Symptoms often appear suddenly and may vary depending on the amount of bleeding. Common signs include: • Floaters or dark spots in vision • Cobweb-like shadows • Blurred or hazy eyesight • Red or brown tint in vision • Partial or severe vision loss Many patients describe the sensation as looking through smoke, fog, or dirty glass. Although the condition is typically painless, sudden visual changes should always be evaluated urgently. Diagnosis and treatment An eye specialist can diagnose vitreous hemorrhage through a detailed eye examination. Tests such as ocular ultrasound or optical coherence tomography (OCT) may help identify the source of bleeding, especially if the retina cannot be clearly seen. Treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause. In mild cases, the blood may clear naturally over time. More serious cases may require: • Laser treatment • Anti-VEGF injections • Vitrectomy surgery • Treatment of underlying diseases Vitrectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the blood-filled vitreous and replaces it with a clear solution to improve vision. Recovery and prevention Recovery can take several weeks or months depending on the amount of bleeding and the condition causing it. Without treatment, vitreous hemorrhage may lead to complications such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, or permanent vision loss. Regular eye examinations, proper diabetes and blood pressure control, and protective eyewear during sports or hazardous activities can help reduce the risk of vitreous hemorrhage and protect long-term vision.

Folliculometry is a diagnostic ultrasound procedure used to monitor the growth and development of ovarian follicles during the menstrual cycle. It helps doctors evaluate ovulation and determine the most fertile period for conception. The examination is commonly recommended for women who are planning pregnancy, undergoing fertility treatment, or experiencing irregular ovulation. A follicle is a small fluid-filled structure inside the ovary that contains an immature egg. During the menstrual cycle, several follicles begin to grow, but usually one becomes dominant and reaches maturity before ovulation occurs. By performing a series of ultrasound scans, doctors can observe how the follicles develop and estimate the exact timing of ovulation. When is folliculometry performed? The timing of folliculometry depends on the type of menstrual cycle and the purpose of monitoring. In a natural cycle or during intrauterine insemination (IUI), monitoring usually begins around the 9th or 10th day of the cycle. During IVF treatment, scans may start earlier, often from the 5th or 6th day. In most cases, several ultrasound examinations are required throughout the cycle. Monitoring may continue until the dominant follicle reaches the size associated with ovulation, which is generally between 18 and 22 mm. How is the procedure done? Folliculometry is performed using a transvaginal ultrasound examination. The examination is usually simple, painless, and takes approximately 10–20 minutes. During each visit, the doctor evaluates: • The number of developing follicles • The size and growth rate of the follicles • Signs of approaching ovulation • The thickness of the uterine lining Follicles typically grow about 1–2 mm per day until they reach maturity. Why is folliculometry important? Folliculometry provides valuable information about a woman’s reproductive health and is widely used in fertility assessment and treatment. It can help: • Determine whether ovulation occurs normally • Identify the most fertile days for conception • Monitor response to ovulation-stimulating medications • Support fertility treatments such as IVF or IUI • Evaluate menstrual irregularities and ovulation disorders The procedure may also be recommended for women with a history of infertility, recurrent miscarriage, or conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Are there any risks or side effects? Folliculometry is considered a safe and minimally invasive procedure. No significant side effects or risks have been associated with routine ultrasound monitoring. Because the procedure does not involve radiation and provides detailed information about follicular development, it has become an important tool in modern reproductive medicine. Trust your health to the specialists at Dalimed Medica Center by undergoing high-quality and precise folliculometry.

A thyroglobulin test is an important laboratory test that helps doctors evaluate the condition of the thyroid gland and monitor treatment results. It measures the level of thyroglobulin, a protein produced only by thyroid cells that participates in the formation of T3 and T4 hormones. Normally, a small amount of this protein is present in the blood. However, changes in its level can signal various processes—from thyroid activity to the presence of pathologies. Main role: monitoring after thyroid cancer The primary significance of the test is the observation of patients after thyroid cancer treatment. After the removal of the gland, the thyroglobulin level should be minimal or undetectable. The analysis allows for: • Evaluating how successful the treatment was • Identifying residual tissue or early recurrence • Tracking the course of the disease over time Dynamic changes in indicators, rather than a single value, are especially important—this provides the most accurate information. When else is this test prescribed? Although the main task remains monitoring oncology patients, the test can be used in other cases as well. Additionally, the test helps to: • Evaluate thyroid activity in hypo- or hyperthyroidism • Identify inflammatory processes (thyroiditis) • Distinguish the causes of thyrotoxicosis It is important to remember that the test is not suitable for the primary diagnosis of cancer, as its level can also increase in benign diseases. The thyroglobulin test is a tool for dynamic observation. It helps the doctor monitor treatment, timely identify changes, and make informed decisions, ensuring more accurate and safe patient management.