Dr. Consultancy

Liver cancer

Symptoms of Liver Cancer

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Loss of appetite

  • Pain in the upper abdomen

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • General weakness and fatigue

  • Abdominal swelling (ascites)

  • Jaundice – yellowing of the skin and eyes

  • White or chalky stools

Note: Liver cancer can progress silently in its early stages. Regular check-ups, imaging tests, and blood tests (like AFP – alpha-fetoprotein) are important for early detection, especially in high-risk individuals (those with cirrhosis, hepatitis B or C, or heavy alcohol use).

Medicine

Nose Cancer

Nasal and Sinus Cancer

Overview

Nasal and sinus cancer affects the nasal cavity (the space behind the nose) and the sinuses (air-filled cavities within the nose, cheekbones, and forehead).

It is a rare type of cancer, most often seen in men over the age of 40. In many cases, early stages do not produce noticeable symptoms, which makes diagnosis difficult. Because of this, nasal and sinus cancers are often detected at later stages, sometimes when patients are being treated for common sinus problems such as sinusitis.

Symptoms

Symptoms may resemble benign sinus conditions but can include:

  • A persistent blocked nose (usually affecting one side)

  • Frequent nosebleeds

  • Reduced or lost sense of smell

  • Mucus discharge from the nose

  • Postnasal drip (mucus draining into the throat)

  • Partial loss of vision or double vision

  • Bulging or persistently watering eye

Effects (Complications)

If untreated or diagnosed late, nasal and sinus cancer can cause:

  • Spread of cancer to nearby tissues (eyes, brain, or bones of the skull)

  • Chronic sinus obstruction and infections

  • Facial deformity due to tumor growth or surgery

  • Vision problems or blindness

  • Neurological complications if the tumor spreads to the brain

  • Metastasis (spread) to lymph nodes or other parts of the body

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Options include:

1. Surgery

  • Main treatment for most nasal and sinus cancers

  • Removes the tumor and sometimes nearby tissues or lymph nodes

2. Radiation therapy

  • High-energy beams target and destroy cancer cells

  • Often used after surgery to reduce recurrence risk

3. Chemotherapy

  • Uses drugs to kill cancer cells, sometimes combined with radiation for advanced cases

4. Targeted therapy / Immunotherapy (in selected cases)

  • Helps block cancer cell growth or boost the immune system response

5. Supportive care

  • Pain management, reconstructive surgery, speech/swallowing therapy after treatment

Homeopathic Support (Complementary Care)

(To be taken only under professional guidance as supportive, not curative)

  • Thuja occidentalis – for tumor-like growths

  • Calcarea fluorica – helps in abnormal tissue growth and hard swellings

  • Phosphorus – for bleeding and post-treatment weakness

  • Hydrastis canadensis – supports mucous membrane healing

Note: Early detection is key. Persistent one-sided nasal blockage or bleeding should always be checked by an ENT specialist to rule out serious causes.

 

Medicine

Ovarian cancer

Overview

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. The ovaries, each about the size of an almond, are located on either side of the uterus. They produce eggs (ova) and the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Ovarian cancer is often called a “silent killer” because it usually goes undetected until it has spread to the pelvis or abdomen. At this advanced stage, treatment is more challenging. However, when diagnosed at an early stage (confined to the ovaries), ovarian cancer is much more likely to be treated successfully.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

  • Abdominal bloating or swelling

  • Feeling full quickly when eating

  • Unexplained weight gain or sometimes weight loss

  • Pelvic discomfort or pain

  • Changes in bowel habits (such as constipation)

  • Frequent or urgent need to urinate

  • Changes in menstruation or abnormal vaginal bleeding

  • Fatigue, indigestion, or back pain (in some cases)

Effects

  • Spreading (metastasis) to nearby organs like the uterus, bladder, intestines, or distant organs in advanced stages

  • Fertility issues if both ovaries are affected or removed during treatment

  • Chronic fatigue, pain, and emotional stress

  • In advanced disease, complications such as bowel obstruction, fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites), and difficulty breathing may occur

  • Significant impact on quality of life due to both the disease and its treatments

Treatment

Treatment depends on the stage, type of ovarian cancer, and overall health of the patient:

1. Surgery

  • Primary treatment for most cases

  • May involve removal of one or both ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and surrounding tissues if cancer has spread

2. Chemotherapy

  • Often given after surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells

  • Sometimes given before surgery to shrink tumors (neoadjuvant therapy)

3. Targeted Therapy

  • Drugs that attack specific cancer cell mechanisms (e.g., PARP inhibitors, angiogenesis inhibitors)

4. Hormone Therapy

  • Used in certain types of ovarian cancer (e.g., stromal tumors) to block hormones that fuel cancer growth

5. Immunotherapy (in selected cases)

  • Helps the immune system recognize and fight cancer cells

6. Supportive Care

  • Pain management, nutritional support, counseling, and fertility preservation options for younger women

 

Medicine

Ovarian cysts

Ovarian Cysts

Overview

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in or on an ovary. Women have two ovaries, each about the size and shape of an almond, located on either side of the uterus. The ovaries produce eggs (ova), which mature and are released in monthly cycles during the childbearing years.

Ovarian cysts are very common. Most are harmless, painless, and resolve on their own within a few months. However, in some cases, cysts may cause pain, complications, or indicate an underlying condition such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Symptoms

  • Pelvic pain — dull or sharp ache in the lower abdomen, often on the side of the cyst

  • Fullness or heaviness in the abdomen

  • Abdominal bloating or swelling

  • Sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain (possible cyst rupture or torsion)

  • Pain with fever or vomiting (can signal infection or emergency)

  • Changes in menstrual cycle (irregular or heavy bleeding in some cases)

Effects

  • Most cysts disappear naturally without causing harm.

  • Large or ruptured cysts may lead to severe pain or internal bleeding.

  • Ovarian torsion (twisting of the ovary) can cut off blood supply, causing a medical emergency.

  • Rarely, some cysts may be linked to reduced fertility or ovarian cancer (especially after menopause).

  • Emotional stress and anxiety due to recurrent cysts or fear of complications.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type, size, and symptoms of the cyst:

1. Watchful Waiting

  • Small, simple cysts often resolve naturally.

  • Doctors may recommend follow-up ultrasounds to monitor them.

2. Medications

  • Hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills) may prevent new cysts from forming.

  • Pain relievers (NSAIDs) to manage discomfort.

3. Surgery

  • Cystectomy: removal of the cyst while preserving the ovary.

  • Oophorectomy: removal of the entire ovary (if the cyst is large, recurrent, or suspicious for cancer).

4. Lifestyle & Supportive Care

  • Heat therapy (warm compress or heating pad) for pain relief.

  • Healthy diet and exercise to support hormonal balance.

  • Stress management practices like yoga or meditation.

Medicine

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic Cancer

Overview

Pancreatic cancer begins in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ located in the abdomen behind the stomach. The pancreas plays a vital role by:

  • Producing enzymes that help digest food.

  • Releasing hormones, including insulin, that regulate blood sugar levels.

Pancreatic cancer is considered one of the most aggressive cancers, as it often spreads rapidly to nearby organs and is usually diagnosed at a late stage due to the absence of early symptoms.

People with pancreatic cysts or a family history of pancreatic cancer may benefit from screening and monitoring, which can sometimes help detect the disease earlier.

One warning sign can be new-onset diabetes, especially when it occurs alongside weight loss, jaundice, or abdominal/back pain.

Symptoms

  • Pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the back

  • Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss

  • Depression or mood changes

  • New-onset diabetes or worsening of existing diabetes

  • Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

  • Nausea, vomiting, or digestive problems in some cases

Effects

  • Rapid progression: The cancer often spreads to the liver, lungs, and abdominal lining.

  • Nutritional issues: Poor digestion and malabsorption due to reduced pancreatic enzyme function.

  • Severe pain in advanced stages, often requiring strong pain management.

  • Emotional impact: Anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life.

  • Complications: Bile duct obstruction, liver dysfunction, or diabetes-related problems.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the stage, location of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health:

1. Surgery (for early-stage cancer)

  • Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) – removal of part of the pancreas, duodenum, and nearby tissues.

  • Distal pancreatectomy – removal of the body and tail of the pancreas.

  • Total pancreatectomy – removal of the entire pancreas (less common).

2. Radiation Therapy

  • High-energy beams target and kill cancer cells, often combined with chemotherapy.

3. Chemotherapy

  • Drugs (alone or in combination) help shrink tumors or slow progression.

  • May be used before surgery (neoadjuvant) or after surgery (adjuvant).

4. Targeted Therapy

  • Drugs that focus on specific genetic mutations in pancreatic cancer cells.

5. Immunotherapy (in select cases)

  • Helps the immune system recognize and fight cancer cells.

6. Palliative and Supportive Care

  • Pain management, enzyme supplements to improve digestion, psychological support, and nutritional counseling.

 

Medicine

Prostate cancer

Prostate Cancer

Overview

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate gland, a small, walnut-shaped gland in men that produces semen, which nourishes and transports sperm.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. It often grows slowly and may initially remain confined to the prostate, causing little or no harm.

However, some prostate cancers are aggressive, grow rapidly, and can spread to other parts of the body, such as bones and lymph nodes, if not detected and treated early.

Symptoms

Prostate cancer may not show symptoms in its early stages. When present, symptoms can include:

  • Trouble urinating or decreased force of urine stream

  • Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)

  • Weak or interrupted urine flow

  • Difficulty or straining to empty the bladder

  • Blood in urine or semen

  • New onset of erectile dysfunction

  • Pain or burning during urination (less common)

  • Discomfort or pain while sitting due to an enlarged prostate

Effects

  • Urinary obstruction leading to bladder and kidney problems

  • Sexual dysfunction, including erectile difficulties

  • Spread (metastasis) to bones, lymph nodes, or other organs

  • Pain in the pelvic area, lower back, or hips when cancer spreads

  • Reduced quality of life due to urinary and sexual complications

Treatment

1. Active Surveillance:

  • For slow-growing cancers, monitoring may be recommended without immediate treatment

2. Medications:

  • Hormone therapy (androgen deprivation therapy) to reduce testosterone levels that fuel cancer growth

  • Chemotherapy for advanced or aggressive prostate cancer

3. Procedures and Surgery:

  • Radical prostatectomy to remove the prostate gland

  • Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells

  • Targeted therapy or immunotherapy for specific cases

4. Lifestyle Measures:

  • Healthy diet and exercise to support overall health

  • Regular follow-ups with a urologist to monitor disease progression

Medicine

Salivary glands

Salivary Gland Tumors

Overview

Salivary gland tumors are rare growths that originate in the salivary glands. These glands produce saliva, which:

  • Aids in digestion

  • Keeps the mouth moist

  • Supports healthy teeth

Types of Salivary Glands:

  • Major salivary glands (3 pairs):

    • Parotid glands: located in front of the ears

    • Sublingual glands: under the tongue

    • Submandibular glands: beneath the jaw

  • Minor salivary glands: located in lips, cheeks, and throughout the mouth and throat

These tumors can affect nearby nerves and structures due to the close anatomical relationships.

Symptoms

  • A lump or swelling in the mouth, cheek, jaw, or neck

  • Pain in the mouth, cheek, jaw, ear, or neck

  • Asymmetry in face or neck size/shape

  • Numbness in part of the face

  • Weakness of facial muscles on one side

  • Difficulty opening the mouth widely

  • Fluid draining from an ear

  • Trouble swallowing

Effects / Complications

  • Facial nerve damage leading to partial facial paralysis

  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking

  • Spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes if malignant

  • Recurrence after incomplete treatment

  • Pain and discomfort affecting quality of life

Treatment

  1. Surgery (Primary treatment)

    • Removal of the tumor while preserving as much normal tissue as possible

    • Parotidectomy for tumors in the parotid gland

    • Nerve-sparing techniques if feasible

  2. Radiation Therapy

    • Used if tumors are malignant, aggressive, or cannot be fully removed surgically

  3. Chemotherapy

    • Less commonly used, generally for advanced or metastatic tumors

  4. Supportive Care

    • Pain management, physical therapy for facial weakness, and speech therapy if needed

  5. Follow-up & Monitoring

    • Regular imaging and clinical exams to check for recurrence or metastasis

Medicine

Skin cancer

Overview

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide. It often develops due to excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or tanning beds.

  • Risk factors:

    • Fair-skinned individuals (less melanin to protect against UV light)

    • Outdoor workers or athletes

    • Frequent sunburns

    • Family history of skin cancer

  • While more common in fair-skinned people, skin cancer can occur in any skin type and in areas not exposed to the sun.

Types of Skin Cancer

  1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) – slow-growing, usually occurs on sun-exposed areas like the face and neck.

  2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – may appear as scaly patches or open sores, can spread if untreated.

  3. Melanoma – the most dangerous type, develops from moles or pigment cells, can spread rapidly to other organs.

Symptoms

  • New moles or growths on the skin

  • Changes in existing moles or growths (size, shape, color)

  • Lesions that itch, bleed, or fail to heal

  • Unusual skin patches that change over time

Effects / Complications

  • Local tissue damage and disfigurement if untreated

  • Metastasis (spread to other organs), especially with melanoma

  • Recurrence after treatment if not fully removed

  • Increased risk of developing additional skin cancers

Treatment

  1. Surgical Options

    • Excision of the tumor with surrounding healthy tissue

    • Mohs surgery for precise removal of cancerous cells (common for facial lesions)

  2. Non-Surgical Options

    • Cryotherapy (freezing cancer cells)

    • Topical medications (for superficial lesions)

    • Radiation therapy (for tumors that are hard to remove surgically)

  3. Advanced Cancer Treatment

    • Immunotherapy (boosts immune system to attack melanoma)

    • Targeted therapy (for genetic mutations in melanoma)

    • Chemotherapy (less common, mainly for advanced cases)

  4. Prevention & Lifestyle

    • Limit UV exposure and wear protective clothing

    • Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+)

    • Avoid tanning beds

    • Regular skin self-exams and dermatologist check-ups

Medicine

Diseases

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