Health

Physicians say snoring may be sign of erectile dysfunction

Published

9 months ago

March 12, 2024

Snoring may seem normal to some and an embarrassment to a few, especially if it disturbs the sleep of others. However, no matter how it is viewed, medical experts say it is a condition that should not be ignored as it might be a sign of erectile dysfunction.

They noted that though nearly everyone snores subtly once in a while, however, the deep guttural or loudly disruptive type should be a cause for concern, warning that it should not be taken for granted as it requires immediate visits to the physicians.

They noted that people who snore loudly are prone to sleep apnea, a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts, reiterating that such conditions may advance to male impotency when not properly examined and treated.

According to an online medical portal, Mayo Clinic, snoring is the hoarse or harsh sound that occurs when airflows pass relaxed tissues in the throat, causing the tissues to vibrate as you breathe.

It noted that it may also indicate a serious health condition that the risk factors include age and obesity, and that it is more common in men.

Mayo Clinic stated, “Snoring can be caused by several factors, such as the anatomy of one’s mouth and sinuses, alcohol consumption, allergies, a cold, and weight.

“When you doze off and progress from a light sleep to a deep sleep, the muscles in the roof of your mouth (soft palate), tongue and throat relax. The tissues in your throat can relax enough that they partially block your airway and vibrate.

“The more narrowed your airway, the more forceful the airflow becomes. This increases tissue vibration, which causes your snoring to grow louder.

“Habitual snoring may be more than just a nuisance. The snorer might be at a greater risk of high blood pressure, heart conditions and stroke.”

The health and well-being website advised snorers to seek medical intervention when it becomes loud enough to disrupt other people’s sleep as this may indicate an association with obstructive sleep apnea and erectile dysfunction.

Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Healthwise in different interviews, the experts said male deep snorers should always seek help when they notice that it has become deep and cease for a few seconds before it starts again.

A Consultant Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Kwara State, Dr Olanrewaju Idris, said snoring should not be taken for granted, insisting that the condition when not properly studied and treated may cause impotence in men.

He also noted that snoring could lead to social problems, like causing marital or relationship crises.

Idris added, “Even if one is dating a lady or a man and in the process before one gets married, realises that the person snores deeply, that alone could affect the relationship.

“Snoring is abnormal because either awake or at sleep, individual breathing should not be associated with any sound or noise. People who snore shouldn’t take it for granted.”

Speaking on High Blood Pressure and erectile dysfunction, a Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine with the University of Abuja, Augustine Odili, said elevated blood pressure is responsible for erectile dysfunction in men.

Health

UNICEF to vaccinate 3.8 million children in Northern Nigeria

Published

3 weeks ago

November 3, 2024

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The United Nations Children’s Fund has disclosed that no fewer than 3.8 million children would be vaccinated against measles across four Northern states.

The UNICEF Health Officer in Bauchi state, Patrick Ako, disclosed this in a news conference on Friday, noting that the vaccination exercise would commence on Saturday and run for seven days.

He highlighted that the four Northern states where the integrated measles campaign would take place include Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, and Plateau.

“For the measles campaign, we have a target of 3.8 million children from nine months to 59 months, which we are targeting across the four states.

“We have received in all the states a total of over 4 million doses of measles vaccines which have been supplied across the four states,” Ako stated.

The Health Officer explained that UNICEF is also going to launch an oral vaccination campaign against polio across five Northern states.

He said, “For the oral polio vaccination, we have a target of 6.8 million children that we are going to reach from zero to 59 months, which is less than five years across five states of Taraba, Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe,e, and Adamawa.

“The total number of vaccines that have already gotten to them is 7.4 million doses across these five states.

“We are looking at it that no child should be left behind; all children of an eligible age group should be reached and be vaccinated.”

Also speaking, a Social Behavioural Change Specialist at UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, George Eki, said it became imperative for UNICEF to support the Nigerian government in protecting children against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

Health

5 questions to ask your doctor before starting birth control

Published

3 weeks ago

November 2, 2024

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

It’s normal to have questions about what birth control method is right for you.

Starting birth control is a big decision, and it can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure what questions to ask your doctor.

With so many options available, from pills and patches to implants and IUDs, it’s understandable if you’re feeling confused or anxious.

Finding the right method isn’t just about preventing pregnancy; it’s also about making sure you feel comfortable and healthy with your choice. Your doctor is there to guide you, but it’s important to come prepared with questions that address your concerns, lifestyle, and future plans.

1. What types of birth control are available?
When it comes to birth control, one size does not fit all. Ask your doctor about the different methods available, such as the pill, IUD (intrauterine device), patch, ring, implant, or shot.

Your doctor can explain how each method works, how effective they are, and what the pros and cons are. For example, if you prefer something long-term, an IUD might be a better option. But if you like having more control, the pill could work well.

2. What are the possible side effects?
Every type of birth control has possible side effects. Some people may experience nausea, headaches, weight changes, or mood swings, while others have no side effects at all. It’s important to ask your doctor about what you might expect. If you’re sensitive to hormones, your doctor can suggest non-hormonal options, like the copper IUD. Being aware of side effects in advance can help you know what to look out for and decide what you’re comfortable with.

3. How will birth control affect my period?
Birth control can change your menstrual cycle in different ways. Some methods may make your periods lighter or stop them completely, while others may cause irregular bleeding at first.

If having regular periods is important to you, make sure to mention this to your doctor. They can help you choose a method that aligns with your preferences. If your periods are painful or heavy, certain types of birth control may even help reduce those symptoms.

4. Will birth control interact with my current medications or health conditions?
If you have existing health issues, like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of blood clots, some birth control options may not be safe for you. Also, if you’re taking medication for any condition, ask whether it might affect how well your birth control works. Your doctor can guide you to options that won’t interfere with your health or current treatments. Safety should always come first when choosing birth control.

5. What happens if I want to get pregnant in the future?
You’ll need to ask how quickly you can become fertile again after stopping birth control. Some methods, like the pill or the patch, allow for a quick return to fertility, while others, like the shot, may take longer.

If you’re thinking about starting a family in the future, talk to your doctor about which birth control options will work best for your timeline. Planning ahead can make transitioning easier when the time comes.

Health

Cholera claims 10 lives in Enugu

Published

1 month ago

October 22, 2024

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The Enugu State Ministry of Health has confirmed the death of 10 people following a cholera outbreak in the state.

In a letter addressed to the Guild of Medical Directors on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Emmanuel Obi, Dr Egwuonwu Samuel, Director of Medical Services, announced the outbreak and the swift actions being taken to prevent further spread.

The ministry reported several alarming cases of cholera, resulting in 10 fatalities so far. Efforts are already underway by the State Ministry of Health and its partners to contain the outbreak.

“Health facilities and personnel are advised to stay alert for symptoms like acute diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting,” said Dr. Egwuonwu.

“We are calling for the immediate implementation of heightened Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures in all medical facilities to stop the spread.”

He urged medical practitioners to take extra precautions and report suspected cases swiftly.

“This outbreak poses a significant public health threat, as cholera is a highly contagious disease typically spread through contaminated water or food. The ministry’s swift action is critical to containing the outbreak and protecting public health.”

Dr. Egwuonwu also appealed to the public to practice strict hygiene measures, including boiling water before drinking, frequent hand washing, and avoiding poorly handled food.

He noted that the Enugu State government would provide further guidelines and updates as the situation develops, while efforts continue in collaboration with local and international health partners to mitigate the outbreak.

(NAN)