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COVID-19 Vaccination For Children: ASSOCHAM

Dec 18, 2021 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Anil Rajput, #ASSOCHAM, #COVID-19 Vaccination, #COVID-19 Vaccination For Children, #Dr. Amita Mahajan, #Dr. G. C. Khilnani, #Dr. Rahul Nagpal, #Dr. Rajesh Kesari, #Founder

The Associated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ASSOCHAM) the apex association in the country had organized a webinar on “COVID-19 VACCINATION FOR CHILDREN” under its “illness to wellness” campaign which seeks to highlight salient points regarding vaccination in children.

The webinar was attended by, Shri Anil Rajput, Chairperson, ASSOCHAM CSR Council, Dr. G. C. Khilnani, Ex-Head & Professor, Department of Pulmonary Medicine & Sleep Disorders, AIIMS, New Delhi Chairman, PSRI Institute of Pulmonary Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Dr. Rahul Nagpal, Director & Head of Pediatrics Fortis Hospital Vasant Kunj, Dr. Amita Mahajan Sr. Consultant, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Dr. Rajesh Kesari, Founder, and Director, Total Care Control.

Initiating the webinar Shri Anil Rajput, Chairperson, ASSOCHAM CSR Council said, “COVID-19 has upended the life of children, and children’s health is one of the most important issues in sustainable development goals. Although the infection has been less severe for children one cannot ignore the importance of vaccination, and with rising cases of Omicron there is a high risk for children especially who have underlying medical conditions like Asthama, obesity, heart diseases etc”

Mr Rajput further added that several countries have extended their immunization programme for children, but India is yet to roll out a COVID-19 vaccine for children. Vaccinating children will not only decrease COVID19 transmission in this age group but will also reduce transmission from children to adults, minimize disruptions to education and maintain their overall well-being and health.

Taking the parents perspective, Dr. G. C. Khilnani, Ex-Head & Professor, Department of Pulmonary Medicine & Sleep Disorders, AIIMS, New Delhi Chairman, PSRI Institute of Pulmonary Critical Care & Sleep Medicine said, There are incidences of increased obesity amongst parents and this has a direct bearing on children as they will watch their parents itself, with this, there are concerns over increasing alcoholism and child abuse that has come with the social isolation and altercations between the parents themselves and even worse is the loss of a parent that the child may go through during the Pandemic. There is also the issue of increased screen time that the children are facing with all the education and classes taking place in online form due to the Pandemic.

Speaking on the mental well-being of children, Dr. Rahul Nagpal, Director & Head of Pediatrics Fortis Hospital Vasant Kunj said, Besides the physical aspects’ children have been majorly restricted and socially isolated, this has a bearing on their mental health and wellbeing which is the reason why there is an increase in developmental disorders in children in this early stage, the loss of a parent has caused anxiety and nervousness amongst the children as well. The children are losing a sense of reality due to increased screen time as most of their time now is spent looking at fictional cartoons and other characters. The risk of MISC (Multi-system inflammatory syndrome) cannot be ignored in children. MISC is the most important complication as it happens at least after a month of active disease and 1 in 10 lac children get affected due to hyperactivity of the immune system.

Elaborating on children’s specific responses, Dr. Amita Mahajan Sr. Consultant, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals said, The treatment has varying and differing effects on every child and asymptomatic children will have a more severe impact, and thus steps were taken to limit exposure to the infection, as it was seen that indirect impact was more severe in children with cancer. It is a fact that healthy children do not suffer so badly, unlike children who already have an underlying disease like cancer. The vaccination for high-risk children population has not yet been approved by the DCGI and in the west, only children above 5 years of age are being immunized, the DCGI is carefully deliberating the risk to benefit ratio. Although the pediatric vaccination will build confidence as soon as some degree of vaccination is rolled out.

Dr. Rajesh Kesari, Founder, and Director, Total Care Control said, The most effective arsenal against this virus is the vaccine, our country has made great strides in process of vaccination and India has taken one of the biggest steps, but are these steps enough, as children are being isolated which is making them irritable and depressed, and with the rising burden with the parents to maintain a family discussion on the new variant and children’s vaccination becomes imperative.

The panellists were unanimous in their praise for ASSOCHAM for its initiative, they also spoke about the side effects of Indian vaccines which they sought out to be minimal, the severeness of vaccine hesitancy has been effectively replaced by aggressive acquiring of vaccines, there was discussion on the booster dose as the vaccine efficacy gets lower as time passes by and after 6 months it was found to be 20-25% as compared to 90-95% during the first months, full vaccination is hardly more than 50% and school-going children need to be vaccinated as it will prevent transmission and duration of transmission, as COVID is here to stay we need to take steps to address this commotion.

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INFLUENZA & PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINES IMPORTANT FOR ELDERLY AND HEART PATIENTS DURING WINTERS TO STAY FIT AND KEEP COVID-19 AT BAY: CARDIOLOGY EXPERTS

Jan 9, 2021 by Rekha Nair 0 Comments #ASSOCHAM National Council on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), #Cardiac Sciences, #Chairman, #chairman PSRI Heart Institute, #Dr. Rajesh Kesari, #Eminent cardiologist, #Founder and Director, #Max Healthcare, #Mr. Anil Rajput, #Padma Bhushan Dr K.K. Talwar, #Padma Shri Dr Balbir Singh, #Total Care Control

New Delhi: People with cardiovascular problems need to be extra cautious when temperatures start to fall, as risk of a heart attack begins to climb during cold weather, said cardiology experts sharing their experiences during 16th edition of ASSOCHAM webinar series on Illness to Wellness.

Supported by the hygiene brand SAVLON, the program which promotes healthy living with a quality life focusing on wellness and preventive health through healthy lifestyle habits, balanced diet, regular exercises, and holistic health saw the speakers engage on the preventive measures for healthy Heart especially in winter season.

It was also discussed that influenza vaccine for all individuals above 65 years and in addition to that Pneumococcal vaccine is key to stay fit for everyone with heart diseases.

“The supply of oxygen-rich blood to heart muscles gets reduced during winter season forcing the heart to work harder, as such any demand-supply mismatch in terms of blood flow to heart muscles due to cold temperatures can put health at risk for those having heart conditions,” said experts during the panel discussion at an ASSOCHAM webinar on ‘Heart Care during winters in Covid-19 era,’ held yesterday .

Staying extra cautious and taking certain precautions like limiting the in-take of high-calorie food, indulging in sports activities and others can help minimise risk of heart attack or a cardiac arrest, said experts sharing their views during the webinar.

Eminent cardiologist, Padma Bhushan Dr K.K. Talwar, chairman PSRI Heart Institute in his address said that elderly people are at a higher risk during winter season as cold weather can affect heart, especially those having cardiovascular disease. “Being outdoors in cold weather for long time should be avoided, cardiac patients should move out only when sun is shining and cover themselves up properly.”

Dr Talwar also said that a regular exercise routine can be a blessing not just for heart patients but for normal people as well and that it is always better to play any sport rather than merely walk.

Talking about the food habits, he stated that oily foods need to be avoided and those who consume liquor should take small amounts to just relax themselves, besides sweets, milk products and bakery items should be completely avoided by those suffering from heart diseases.

On a cautionary note he said that it is extremely important to keep blood pressure under control in all circumstances and for diabetics and kidney disease patients it should be less than 130/80.

Sharing his views, Padma Shri Dr Balbir Singh, chairman, Cardiac Sciences, Max Healthcare said that heart disease is preventable by following certain healthy practices. First, it is important to give up high-saturated diet because if we eat and drink in moderation then it won’t become a health risk. He also said that in today’s fast paced-lives, stress has become quite common among people thus it is important to manage it by indulging in recreational activities like yoga and others.

He added that there is a popular myth that alcohol consumption can prevent heart attack, it is nothing but overblown. He said, in India people indulge in binge drinking and eat high-calorie food which is very harmful for heart health.

Dr Singh further said that usage of facemasks should be continued even after the covid-19 has subsided as it would help prevent spread of infections like pneumonia and viral diseases. Even in hospitals, he said infections have significantly decreased due to measures like wearing masks and hand sanitization.

ASSOCHAM National Council on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), chairman, Mr Anil Rajput said that the year 2020 saw medical fraternity rising to the challenge thereby showcasing their unwavering spirit despite complex nature of Covid-19 pandemic.

He added, that fighting the Covid-19 virus becomes more challenging for those with underlying heart conditions, more so during the winter season when heart must work extra hard to maintain a healthy body temperature.

Mr Rajput also lauded the doctors, scientists, frontline workers for fearlessly dedicating themselves to the fight against this deadly virus.

The session was moderated by Dr Rajesh Kesari, founder and director, Total Care Control who also shared his experiences and highlighted that heart disease and high blood pressure can put one at greater risk, thus following a healthy regime can help protect one’s heart during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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ARTHRITIS TODAY IS AS TREATABLE AS DIABETES: EXPERTS AT ASSOCHAM’S ILLNESS TO WELLNESS SERIES

New Delhi: The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), one of the apex trade associations of India concluded the fourteenth edition of the ‘Illness to Wellness’ series themed ‘Preventive and Curative Measures for Bones and Joint Pains During Winter & COVID–19’. The event saw an expert panel of rheumatologists invited to hold an informative dialogue on challenges faced by patients suffering from pain in bones and joints, finding the right exercises and activities to elevate their pain and the importance of reaching out for treatment.

Supported by the hygiene brand SAVLON, the programme which promotes healthy living with focus on wellness and preventive health through healthy habits, diet, exercise, and holistic health saw the speakers actively engage on the importance of right medication and treatment to control and prevent pain for arthritic patients.

Speaking on how arthritis may not have a cure just like diabetes or hypertension, Dr. P. D. Rath, Director & Head of Department, Rheumatology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket Smart, New Delhi emphasised how science has now ensured that arthritis is treatable. “When we suffer from an autoimmune disease, it is important that we don’t run away from it. We should face it and treat it. Today, with the kind of treatment we have, arthritis is as treatable as blood pressure, thyroid or diabetes. In our country, we have drugs that are at comparably cheaper and effective. So, patients should be confident enough to pursue treatment,” he said. Calling arthritis, a multifactorial disease, he listed some of the common factors behind arthritis like genetics, stress, infections and others. He also added, “Don’t manage arthritis on your own with pain killers. They can only provide temporary relief, but they will not address the underlying disease. In cases of dangerous arthritis this can be life threatening.”

Highlighting the wide prevalence of joint-related diseases in adults and not just seniors, Shri Anil Rajput, Chairperson, ASSOCHAM CSR Council said, “It is a well-known fact that a healthy mind lives in a healthy body and certain medical conditions like diabetes, obesity and hypertension need to be well controlled to have better immunity against all types of infections. Bones and joint pains are no longer a disorder that affects only elders, rather, these health conditions have trickled down to adults as a result of lifestyle choices. Acute or chronic trauma, degenerative changes and the wear and tear of joints and joint structures over the time are the common causes of major bone injuries and health conditions. To prevent this, a healthy ecosystem and environment is a prerequisite. Taking multivitamins and other healthy foods is important, however, not enough to boost immunity alone. Experts are stressing on the need to spend at least 30 minutes a day doing regular exercises and taking brisk walks.”

Taking the discussion further, Dr. (Lt. General) (Prof.) Ved Chaturvedi, Senior Consultant, Rheumatology, Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi, spoke of the importance of ensuring right dietary supplements to prevent bones and joint-related diseases. “Calcium and Vitamin D are two of the most recommended supplements by doctors and specialists. In women, calcium supplement post 45 years of age, during menopause is crucial. You roughly require 1-1.5 gm of Calcium daily. Growing children too need it. Vitamin D has also emerged as one of the most recommended supplements because it can help immune systems, nerves, muscles,” he said.

The experts further agreed that patients should focus on increasing dietary intake of required supplements as opposed to taking them in the form of pills unless suggested by doctors. Tablets should only be used for those for whom dietary intake may be difficult due to allergies and other reasons. For calcium, the most recommended form was in milk, curd and cheese. Omega 3 found in fish and flax seeds was another was recommended as a must have element in daily diet due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Commenting on the best course of action to eliminate joint pains during winters, Dr. Maninder Shah Singh, Senior Consultant, Chief Foot & Ankle Services, Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, New Delhi said, “The most effective way to reduce joint pain during winter is keeping active through brisk walks and exercises such as running and cycling. Those who are elderly and have pre-existing joint problems may opt for simple stretches to avoid stiffness in joints. Yoga and warm baths are particularly effective. Keeping your body warm is also very important, especially around joints using gloves, scarves, thermals and warm boots. Spending just 30 minutes or 2% of a day exercising can go a long way in keeping our body healthy as we all have only one body for our entire life.”

Dr. Rajesh Kesari, Founder and Director, Total Care Control acted as the moderator of the event and raised pertinent questions before the panellists to guide the discussion into a strong knowledge-sharing webinar. His smart manoeuvring of the discussions helped reap health foresights from the veteran rheumatologists.

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Gastrointestinal Tract can also serve as a Transmission Route for COVID-19 – says Experts at ASSOCHAM’s ‘Illness to Wellness’ Series

Oct 30, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), #Dr. Rajesh Kesari, #Dr. Saumitra Rawat, #Dr. Vasudevan K.R, #Dr.(Prof) D.K. Bhargava, #Mr. Anil Rajput, #SAVLON

The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), one of the apex trade associations of India concluded the tenth edition of the ‘Illness to Wellness’ series themed webinar on ‘Digestive Health In COVID-19 Era’. The event saw an elite panel of leading gastroenterologists discuss the possible transmission of Coronavirus through fecal-oral transmission and the viability of a COVID vaccine.

Supported by the hygiene brand SAVLON, the programme, an innovative and comprehensive approach to cascade awareness through wellness campaigns to address preventive healthcare management and to promote health, hygiene, and well-being of people, the webinar saw renowned panelists speak at length on how the number of patients experiencing GI symptoms exceed those suffering from respiratory symptoms.

Speaking on the issue, Padma Shri Dr.(Prof) D.K. Bhargava, Senior Consultant, Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital said, “Gastrointestinal tract can also serve as a route of transmission for COVID-19. Although, it has not been proven completely, scientific evidence points to the probability of fecal-oral transmission serving as another route. Symptoms of these are mostly nausea, anorexia, vomiting, abdominal distension and diarrhoea in about 20% of cases. Sometimes, in close to 50% of cases, intestinal symptoms precede respiratory symptoms. It has been documented that in more than 50% cases, the stool samples of COVID-19 positive patients contain RNA and nucleic acid particles. They represent the presence of the virus in the stool so the faecal-oral transmission can occur. So, one should be very careful when handling this stool. In some cases, it has been documented that patients may not have any respiratory symptoms but showcase only gastrointestinal tract symptoms.”

Padma Shri Dr. Saumitra Rawat, Chairman and Head Surgical Gastroenterology & Liver Transplant, Sri Ganga Ram Hospital further elaborated on the topic saying, “Patients having GI symptoms are usually having milder symptoms of COVID-19 than those experiencing respiratory tract symptom. For patients who have the virus is in the respiratory tract, the stool sample remains positive for about 15 days and then the patient becomes negative. The fecal sample positivity for patients showing GI symptoms usually lasts for nearly 28 days, so strong precautions need to be taken. Though the GI symptoms start early, sometimes, the respiratory symptoms can develop later. In some cases, the patient may have only GI symptoms. And even if the patient continues to have GI symptoms then it is of milder form.”

Commenting on how poor lifestyle choices of Indians contribute to gastrointestinal issues, Mr. Anil Rajput, Chairman, ASSOCHAM CSR Council said, “In India, unhealthy eating habits, poor lifestyle, unclean water and improper sanitation has led to a surge in digestive disorders. It is well known that stress and anxiety, high blood sugar, insomnia and other degenerating habits can alter and damage the gut microbiome. Taking precautions against these is of greater importance in the backdrop of the pandemic. Besides having a balanced diet, incorporating pre- and pro-biotic supplements can go a long way in improving and maintaining digestive health. Curd in that regard is extremely beneficial but in today’s hostile environment, many might need stronger supplements.”

Dr. Rajesh Kesari, Founder and Director, Total Care Control who moderated the webinar by placing poignant questions before the panelists, added to the discussion by sharing a recent study he had come across. “A survey by IMA said that when they surveyed about thousand COVID positive patients, they found that most of the patient’s family members had GI symptoms that did not progress to fever and other problems. However, for one or two family members, it did progress further. The other symptoms they faced were loss of taste and loose motion.”

The panelists also spoke at length about the world’s COVID vaccine readiness by sharing details of the various stages of development being carried out across the world. Dr. Vasudevan K.R., Senior, Consultant & Head Liver Transplantation & GI Surgery, Institute of Gastroenterology & Liver Transplant, PSRI Hospital though warned, that a vaccine does not necessarily mean that it will provide complete protection against COVID infection.

“The intention of the vaccine is to try and minimize the burden of the disease on the population and the healthcare system. It is not a cure. As a patient, if you expect that a tablet or an injection can keep you safe from the virus by not taking any precautions then you are very wrong. The purpose of the vaccine is such that even if you do get infected, you get COVID in a milder form. We hope that the vaccine is there soon and whenever it is there, the existing fear will be gone. Also, the phenomenon of not being able to provide ICU beds due to the overburdening situation will be controlled and reduced. We will get on with life, but the fact is that we can not stop wearing masks because a vaccine has been created. Precautions will still have to be taken,” he said.

Speaking on the importance of developing immunity, the panellists agreed that maintaining a balanced diet with immune-boosting food items such as green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits along with optimal calorie intake, unsaturated fat oils, and low sugar can help in the long battle against COVID. They also suggested taking additional supplements for those needing it to maintain a healthy microbiome in the intestine.

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Screening Test for Children (Ages11 to 18) for Early Detection & Treatment of Hypertension, Cholesterol and Diabetes, Says Experts At Assocham’s ‘Illness To Wellness’ Series

Oct 8, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #ASSOCHAM, #cholesterol, #Diabetes, #Dr. Manjinder Sandhu, #Dr. Rajesh Kesari, #Dr. Raman Puri, #Dr. T.S. Kler, #Hypertension, #Mr. Anil Rajput

The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), one of the apex trade associations of India concluded the eighth edition of the ‘Illness to Wellness’ series themed ‘Prevention and Management of Hypertension’. The event saw an elite panel of leading cardiologists, hold an active dialogue on hypertension prevalence in India, its risks at the time of COVID-19, its early detection in children and best practices to lead a healthy life free from hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Supported by the hygiene brand SAVLON, the programme, an innovative and comprehensive approach to cascade awareness through wellness campaigns to address preventive healthcare management and to promote health, hygiene, and well-being of people, saw the renowned panellists firstly put forth the commonality of hypertension and how it is showing its presence even in children.

Reflecting on how hypertension is no longer a rich man’s disease but a steady silent killer, Padma Bhushan Dr. T.S. Kler, Chairperson, PSRI Heart Institute said, “Hypertension is currently one of the most common diseases in the world today. It was estimated in 2012 that there are 1.13 billion people with hypertension. In men, only 9.2% of the adult population has hypertension and in females, it was 4.5%. So roughly, more than one-fourth of the world population has hypertension. Two-third of the patients of hypertension are in the lower-middle-income countries. In fact, incidents of hypertension are less in advanced countries like the USA. People say that it is a disease of the rich, but it is not so, rather it is the other way around. Also, almost 95% of hypertension cases are idiopathic hypertension meaning, we do not know the cause of it. Only 5% of cases have some removable cause.”

Elaborating on how children too are prone to hypertension, Dr. Manjinder Sandhu, Director Cardiology & Artemis Cardiac Care said, “It is a big myth that children do not have hypertension, rather a significant number of children do have it. In fact, paediatricians these days routinely check the blood pressure of children. When children or young adults have hypertension, we need to explore secondary causes. This is very important because earlier blood pressure of children would not be checked, and they would go undetected. By the time it was detected, it would have already created a lot of damage in the body due to the constant high pressure exerted.”

He also added that patients of hypertension are not necessarily more prone to contracting COVID-19 or developing severe symptoms but bear the same risks as a healthy person.

Adding to the discussion by focusing on how early detection can help prolong lives, Prof Dr. Raman Puri, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital and Chairman, Lipid Association of India said, “If parents have a history of premature coronary artery disease then the child comes at high risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. In such a case, the cholesterol test should be done at least at the age of 11 or at least at 18. For children born with a family history of high cholesterol, it can be done as early as 2 years of life. It may seem surprising, but it is the right age to detect. Detecting high cholesterol in the younger age group and bringing it down to a normal range will prolong their life. I request parents to screen their child’s blood sugar and lipid profile at least at ages 18 or 20. Preventable and treatable disorders like high cholesterol, diabetes and hypertension when detected early can make life comfortable and disease-free for these children.”

He further added that cardiovascular mortality in Europe and America has reduced by 50% while in India it has increased by 41%. Almost 40% of those approaching doctors with heart problems are less than 40 years of age and 20% of those dying of heart diseases are less than 40 of age highlighting the high prevalence of coronary artery disease in the country.

The expert panel unanimously agreed that those suffering from hypertension, diabetes and other cardiovascular diseases, can easily bring it under control through regular exercise, weight control and by learning better management of internal and external stress. Regular monitoring and continuation of prescribed medicines can keep these conditions from developing into high-risk factors.

Mr Anil Rajput, Chairman, ASSOCHAM CSR Council, reiterating the prevalence of hypertension and the importance of raising awareness around it said, “It is estimated that over 1.3 billion people worldwide are affected by hypertension. If you do not have it under control, it can lead to several complications. The rise in cases over the decade has been worrisome. Thus, we can see the importance attached to having greater knowledge and awareness about this disease. The most common cause is often pointed to an unhealthy diets such as excessive salt consumption, a diet rich in trans fats and a lower intake of fruits and vegetables. In poor countries, having a balanced and healthy diet becomes an extremely challenging task. Therefore, it is important for people to have ample awareness of the importance of having a healthy lifestyle.”

Dr. Rajesh Kesari, Founder and Director Total Care Control acted as the moderator of the event and raised pertinent questions before the panellists to guide the discussion into a strong knowledge-sharing, myth bursting and information-heavy webinar. His smart manoeuvring of the discussions helped reap health foresight from the veteran cardiologists.

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Don’t Ignore Symptoms like Chest Pain, Exhaustion even if there is no Fever: Experts at ASSOCHAM’s ‘Illness to Wellness’ Series

Sep 5, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #chestpain, #Dr. Ashok Seth, #Dr. K. K. Aggarwal, #Dr. Mohsin Wali, #Dr. Rajesh Kesari, #Dr. Wali, #exhaution, #Mr. Anil Rajput, #The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India

New Delhi, 05 September 2020: The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), one of the apex trade associations of India concluded the fifth edition of the ‘Illness to Wellness’ series themed ‘Heart Wellness During COVID-19’. The event saw an illustrious panel of cardiologists from across the country hold active dialogues on the best preventive measures to be taken for heart patients during COVID-19. The discussion saw the panellists put forth a plethora of measures like increasing safety precautions, eating right, exercising regularly and knowing when to reach out to doctors as symptoms develop for citizens to take up during the pandemic.

Supported by the hygiene brand SAVLON, the programme which promotes healthy living with focus on wellness and preventive health through healthy habits, diet, exercise, and holistic health saw the speakers discuss at great length why patients should not be scared to reach out to doctors or hospitals in fear of contraction, rather they should be on the lookout for symptoms other than fever to be for early detection of COVID-19.

Putting forth this suggestion, (Padma Shri) Dr. Mohsin Wali, Cardiologist and Former Physician to The President of India, said, “The most harmful feature of this virus is that it is uncertain. The virus either increases the heartbeat or decreases it, even if there is no fever. Patients need to be aware of their normal heart rate and any changes to it, they should inform their doctor. The first symptom of this disease is no symptom. In some people I noticed they would get tired easily. At such a stage if we are alert then we can be prepared for further possible damages. In working young people, we sometimes notice changes in their chest, even if they received a COVID negative report the previous day. It is important that patients reach out to doctors immediately for any symptoms. It is not necessary that you develop symptoms like fever, cough or severe pneumonia and then call for help. These might be there, but when you start to feel slowness, exhaustion or reduced oxygen level then you should reach out to a doctor.”

Dr. Wali also stressed on the importance of reaching out for mental health support and the increased need for psychological counselling now and in future as he expects a surge in its demand owning to the distress caused by COVID-19. He further stressed on the importance of keeping lungs active and increasing their capacities by undertaking activities like blowing conch shells, balloons and whistles.

Highlighting the multiple ways in which the heart gets affected by COVID-19, (Padma Bhushan) Dr. Ashok Seth, Chairman, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute and Chairman, Cardiology Council, Fortis Group of Hospitals, said, “There are multiple ways in which this virus attacks the heart. Clinical effecting of the heart can happen directly even in people with mild symptoms. The virus tends to form clots in the body. It is one of the ways in which the virus attacks the body. It also forms inflammations which can lead to heart attacks. Formation of clots in young people in the lungs can lead to severe breathlessness, low blood pressure and low oxygenations. The clotting tendency can even lead to stroke in young people. These are direct effects of the cardiovascular system. Inflammation can also affect the heart muscles leading to reduced pumping efficiency of the heart. The virus can also cause heart rate disturbances. There are multiple ways the heart gets affected by the virus. The more serious the patient gets, the more the heart gets affected.”

He further added that after a patient recovers from COVID-19 and gets discharged from hospital, they might suffer from After COVID Syndrome that will see the majority of them suffer from symptoms like breathlessness, tiredness, exhaustion, joint pains, coughs or inefficiency in performing daily activities for weeks or months. For complete recovery, they might need the support of cardiologists, internal medicine specialists, respiratory physicians, pulmonologists, physiotherapists and psychologist to be restored to life completely.

He also emphasized that precaution on part of citizens needs to be heightened if not increased further despite the economy opening as India is currently on the upward slope of its COVID track and its peak is yet to be reached.

Laying out the best diet to incorporate in meals during COVID-19 for healthy living, (Padma Shri) Dr. K. K. Aggarwal, Cardiologist, Physician and Former President of the Indian Medical Association, said, “Balanced food should involve all seven colours and six tastes of food in moderation and variety along with a non-inflammatory diet. The food we have during fasting season is non-inflammatory and inflammatory ingredients are like sugar, rice, refined flour or oil. Anything refined is inflammatory and should be avoided. Take up a non-inflammatory diet and add all supplements that are lost by the virus.” He further added that for individuals who are prone to inflammations, COVID-19 if contracted, can be harmful as the virus has a tendency to accelerate inflammations in the body leading to increased health complications.

Supporting the discussion, Mr. Anil Rajput, Chairperson, ASSOCHAM CSR Council, said, “The Illness to Wellness series has been sharing expert opinions on how to take care of your mental and physical health during the pandemic. The Coronavirus has set forth a wide range of damages and challenges for the world that doctors and researches are still struggling to get a grasp on. Therefore, the old and golden adage of prevention is better than cure is something we should all follow. As iterated by the veteran doctors today, masks need to be strictly worn in public spaces with adequate distancing measures to keep ourselves safe. We hope that the expert measures shared by the eminent panellists enlightened the attendees and the insightful information shared equipped them to fight the virus proactively.”

Dr. Rajesh Kesari, Founder and Director, Total Care Control, acted as the moderator of the event and raised pertinent questions before the panellists to guide the discussion into a strong knowledge-sharing webinar. His smart manoeuvring of the discussions helped reap health foresight from the veteran cardiologists. Dr. Kesari summed up the discussion at the end by focusing on the importance of masks in our precautionary measures for both heart patients and healthy citizens.

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