Can Shock Trigger Diabetes?
Hardeep Kaur from Faridkot asked whether a severe emotional shock, such as the sudden death of a young sister, can cause diabetes in a person with no prior history of high blood pressure or diabetes. Dr Richa Chaturvedi, Endocrinologist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi, explained that a severe emotional shock does not directly cause diabetes but can unmask previously undiagnosed type 2 diabetes in those already at risk. Stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline can raise blood sugar levels, triggering the onset. Whether it can be reversed depends on the stage of diabetes. With healthy lifestyle changes, weight management, stress control, and treatment, some people may achieve remission, but regular monitoring remains essential.
Is Umbilical Hernia Hereditary?
Gurpreet Kaur from Mohali, whose maternal grandmother, maternal uncle, and mother all had umbilical hernia requiring surgery, asked about precautions to avoid developing it. Dr Atul Joshi, Director of General and Laparoscopic Surgery at Fortis, Mohali, confirmed that umbilical hernia can be hereditary. He advised maintaining normal body weight, eating healthy, avoiding smoking, and preventing increases in abdominal pressure from persistent constipation, chronic cough, or frequent straining. Heavy lifting and pressure on the belly button area should be avoided. Supervised exercise and strengthening core muscles help. Multiple pregnancies or stomach surgery may cause or worsen the condition.
Recurring Pilonidal Sinus After Surgery
Biragam Singh from Rajpura reported that two years after pilonidal sinus surgery, the wound reopened with white sticky discharge. Dr Pankaj Bhalla, Associate Director of GI Surgery at Livasa Hospital, Mohali, said reopening suggests recurrence, which can occur years after surgery if a small sinus tract persists, new tracts develop, or hair and bacteria re-enter. Antibiotics only temporarily control infection without eliminating the underlying sinus. He advised consulting a GI or General Surgeon for an ultrasound or MRI. Small recurrences may need a minor procedure; larger or complex ones may require flap surgery. Keeping the area clean, maintaining good hygiene, considering permanent hair removal, and avoiding prolonged sitting are recommended.
Low Energy Despite Healthy Lifestyle
Vikramjit Singh from Amritsar, a seafarer with a BMI of 29.07 (overweight), low testosterone, high triglycerides, pre-diabetic HbA1c, and previous vitamin D3 and B12 deficiencies, sought advice. Dr (Col) Vijay Dutta, Director of Internal Medicine at ISIC Multispecialty Hospital, New Delhi, noted that despite improved deficiencies, concerns remain. Excess body weight raises insulin resistance risk and may lower testosterone. His job may cause disturbed sleep, stress, and reduced sun exposure. He recommended strength training 2-3 times weekly, limiting junk food, sugar, and saturated fats, and consuming 80-85 grams of protein daily. Thyroid, liver functions, iron profile, and repeat testosterone tests should be done.
