Low hemoglobin levels may make you feel overwhelmed, especially when you know low hemoglobin can be associated with cancer. However, it is important to know that the two are not always interconnected. Understanding the relation between low hemoglobin levels and cancer can help guide next steps.
Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that helps carry oxygen throughout the body. If the protein level drops, the body doesn’t get the oxygen it needs to work well. Anemia can be the reason for this drop, which is a serious blood disorder that can develop due to underlying medical conditions, iron or vitamin deficiencies, liver or kidney failure, or cancer. Opting for pathology Glenroy would be the right way to determine how low the hemoglobin level is. A blood test called a complete blood count or CBC can identify low hemoglobin levels. Through the reports, you will know whether hemoglobin levels are below the normal range.
Take a look at the table below showcasing different hemoglobin level classifications:
| Category | Men (g/dL) | Women (g/dL) | Description |
| Normal | 13.2-16.6 | 11.6-15.1 | It is a healthy range. |
| Mildly Low | 11-13.7 | 10-12 | It may indicate mild anemia. |
| Moderately Low | 8-10.9 | 8-9.9 | It may indicate more pronounced anemia. |
| Severely Low | 6-7.9 | 6-7.9 | It is considered risky and needs medical attention. This low level of hemoglobin can affect organ and heart function. |
| Dangerously Low | <7.0 | <7.0 | If your hemoglobin level falls in this range, you may need medical emergency. |
There are different types of cancers that can cause low hemoglobin:
Blood cancers are among the most common reasons for cancer-related anemia. These cancers develop in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. They include lymphoma, leukemia, and multiple myeloma. In this situation, abnormal cells grow and reduce the body’s ability to produce red blood cells. Generally, people notice anemia as the first symptom. Rare bone marrow disorders, such as myelodysplastic syndrome, can also result in low hemoglobin levels because they prevent blood cells from developing properly.
When breast cancer spreads to the bone marrow, it can cause anemia, affecting the production of blood cells. Sometimes, although it’s rare, breast cancer is only found after an anemia diagnosis results in further testing.
An early sign of colon cancer is iron-deficiency anemia. Tumors in the colon may bleed gradually over time, resulting in blood loss that is not always visible.
Many people with cervical cancer often have anemia at the time of diagnosis. This is because of tumors that bleed, but anemia may also be caused by poor nutrition or cancer spreading to the bone marrow.
A hormone which is produced by the kidneys tells the bone marrow to make red blood cells. This process is disrupted by cancer in the kidneys, resulting in reduced red blood cell production and anemia. Some medications used to treat kidney cancer can also lead to low hemoglobin levels.
Lung cancer is usually linked to anemia, especially when cancer-related inflammation interferes with the production of red blood cells or when cancer spreads to the bone marrow.
Anemia is a common condition in advanced prostate cancer, which could be the first sign. Treatments such as hormone therapy can also reduce hemoglobin levels.
A low blood count doesn’t mean cancer. While cancers that affect the bone marrow or bleeding tumors can cause low blood cell counts, far more common causes include infections, nutritional deficiencies, medication side effects, or chronic diseases.
Most causes of low hemoglobin in cancer might be difficult to prevent. However, you can reduce the risk of cancer by:
Low hemoglobin can be commonly found in many cancers. However, low hemoglobin doesn’t always mean cancer, as it can be due to various reasons. If you notice symptoms of low hemoglobin, you can reach out to Glenroy Medical Centre doctors.
In a gluten-free diet, you are likely to avoid eating foods that have the protein gluten, which is found in barley, wheat, spelt, and rye. A gluten-free diet may include foods like vegetables, fruits, meats, and other gluten-free products.
Gluten is a protein that gives flour a sticky consistency when you mix it with water. It is also related to the chewy texture of bread. The term gluten comes from the Latin word for glue. It is usually found in products such as pasta, bread, and baked goods. If you struggle with uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms after eating gluten-rich foods, then you may be recommended to stick to a gluten-free diet.
People who have celiac disease are often recommended to avoid eating gluten because it can damage the lining of the small bowel and can cause serious health problems. It is important for both adults and children with celiac disease to avoid eating gluten and follow a gluten-free diet to reduce the risk of further complications. For a proper gluten-free diet, you can get in touch with dietitian Glenroy at Magnus Medical Centre.
If you are diagnosed with celiac disease, it is suggested that you follow a lifelong gluten-free diet. This is because you might be sensitive to gluten, which will never disappear. Gluten can damage your small bowel if you eat it, even in tiny amounts. Your dietitian may suggest to follow a gluten-free diet for other reasons – for instance, if you have irritable bowel syndrome, wheat allergy, or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. This refers to various symptoms caused by eating gluten, such as dermatitis herpetiformis. It is advised to seek help from a dietitian to get personalised gluten-free diet plan, especially if you have other health problems or dietary needs. A dietitian can:
If you experience any of the following symptoms after eating foods that have gluten, then you need to speak to a healthcare provider:
There are various gluten-free options that will allow you to enjoy delicious meals. If you are on a gluten-free diet, you can eat:
In simple words, traditional couscous is not gluten-free. It is generally made from semolina, derived from durum wheat. It has a significant amount of gluten, making it unsafe for people with gluten sensitivity.
Yes, buckwheat is gluten-free because it is a nutrient-rich seed, not a cereal grain. It is safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Pure corn flour is gluten-free because it is made from maize. It is a versatile thickener for soups, desserts, and sauces. However, make sure to check the label for gluten-free certification.
Sushi is not inherently gluten-free, although its base ingredients – fish, rice, and seaweed – are. The main risk for gluten contamination includes imitation crab, soy sauce, tempura, and sauces.
Traditional soy sauce is not gluten-free as it is brewed with soybeans, wheat, water, and salt.
Most icing sugar is naturally gluten-free. It is made from sugar and an anti-caking agent, usually potato starch, corn starch, or tricalcium phosphate, which are usually safe.
Conclusion
If you are looking to follow a gluten-free diet, you need to completely avoid the protein gluten, which is found in baked goods, pasta, and other wheat-based foods. If you are not sure about how to plan balanced meals, you can speak to a professional dietitian at Magnus Medical, which is a trusted Glenroy Medical Centre.
If you are struggling with numbness, pain, and tingling in your wrists or hands, you might have carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects many people. It is a nerve disorder that happens when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the wrist. If you struggle with carpal tunnel syndrome, you will notice a range of symptoms that could affect your daily life. The good news is that there are many ways to manage discomfort and pain caused by this condition. Through this blog, we’ll explain different approaches used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome.
You might be looking for the answer to the question: How to treat carpal tunnel syndrome? In this blog post, we’ll discuss every aspect related to this condition. Let’s get started.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed or comes under pressure in your wrist. Generally, the median nerve carries the sense of touch to your thumb and the next two fingers, and it can control movement for some of your hand muscles. The median nerve passes down your arm and through the carpal tunnel in your wrist. This is a narrow passageway with just sufficient space for your tendons and nerves to pass through. When your tendons thicken or swell, they take up more space in the carpal tunnel. As a result, it does not leave enough space for the median nerve, and it can become squeezed or compressed.
Here are the most common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome:
The tingling sensation in your fingers and hands can feel like needles and pins. It generally occurs in the:
Carpal tunnel syndrome can affect both of your hands. Symptoms may worsen in your dominant hand and at night. Over time, this condition can affect strength and movement in your hand and wrist. Therefore, you can speak to Physio Glenroy if you think you may have carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by anything that makes tendons or nerves larger or smaller. This includes:
Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome is based on its cause. These can include:
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that can significantly affect one’s quality of life. However, there are several ways that can help reduce the pain and discomfort related to this condition. If you notice carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, you can speak to our physiotherapists at Magnus Medical.
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Ignoring lactose intolerance can worsen the symptoms or cause additional health issues. Lactose intolerance can be caused by the inability to break down lactose properly, which usually develops in childhood or early adulthood. It can lead to digestive problems, such as diarrhea and gas. With dietary modifications and supplements, these symptoms can be managed, and a Glenroy GP doctor at Magnus Medical can also advise you about any underlying health problems.
Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk and milk products, such as yogurt, cheese, butter, and ice cream. The human body produces an enzyme called lactase, which helps us digest lactose properly.
Lactose intolerance is a condition that exacerbates the symptoms when someone eats or drinks products that have lactose. It is a sugar that occurs naturally in dairy products like cheese, milk, and yogurt. An enzyme digests the sugar in dairy products, which helps the body absorb and use it. However, people with lactose intolerance generate either insufficient lactase or none at all. A lack of the enzyme leads to lactose malabsorption, which results in unpleasant digestive symptoms. Lactose intolerance is not the same as a dairy allergy. Food allergies involve an inappropriate immune response to certain foods.
Lactase is an enzyme that helps the body digest lactose, a sugar found mainly in milk and other dairy products. When the body doesn’t produce enough lactase—or when the enzyme doesn’t work properly—lactose isn’t fully broken down, which can lead to digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. This condition is called lactose intolerance. People who are lactose intolerant have difficulty digesting lactose found in milk and dairy foods.
Babies are usually able to digest lactose easily because breast milk contains it, which is why lactose intolerance is rare in children under five. However, as we grow older, some people gradually lose the ability to produce enough lactase, and lactose intolerance can develop. Today, around 75% of the global population experiences some level of lactose intolerance. So how can you tell if you might be lactose intolerant?
Ignoring lactose intolerance can result in uncomfortable digestive problems like bloating and gas, which become harder to manage. Long-term nutritional deficiencies and digestive issues can impact overall quality of life and increase the risk of various health problems, such as osteoporosis. Moreover, chronic and unpredictable digestive problems can also lower energy, mood, and self-esteem.
You will be asked to tell a doctor about your diet and symptoms. There are various tests performed for lactose intolerance. A doctor might suggest you do a lactose test. This is where you see what happens when you drink or eat something with a large amount of lactose. For instance, drinking a milkshake.
You may be asked to check what happens if you follow a lactose-free diet for a while. During this time period, you will need to notice if your symptoms get better or worse. If you notice that your symptoms get worse after eating or drinking lactose again, you might have lactose intolerance. Here are some tests that can be requested by a doctor:
People who ignore lactose intolerance and continue to eat dairy products risk worsening their symptoms and developing further health issues. You can seek help from professional doctors or dietitian Glenroy at Magnus Medical to manage your condition.
Adenoids are among the lymph nodes that help the body combat disease and infection. They play an important role in keeping the body healthy. However, when germs attack adenoids, they can cause problems. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to diagnose enlarged adenoids, their symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Adenoids are lymphatic tissue located at the back of your nasal cavity. They are also known as the pharyngeal tonsil, made up of different cell types that help fight off infection and keep allergens out. They have a good blood supply and very few pain fibers, little fat in them, and contain a number of lymph nodes. They are present at birth and remain throughout your lifespan. Kids have two sets of lymph nodes. One set is found in the neck, while the other set is in the groin. Lymph nodes in the neck are very small, but they are crucial for fighting germs. These nodes drain the mouth, nose, and throat. The nodes present in the groin are part of the lymphatic system that regulates fluids in your child’s body.
After the age of 7, adenoids start to shrink in most people. They affect how you breathe in different ways, as they have functions that help clean your nasal cavity by trapping bacteria, dirt, allergens, and dust.
Individuals with enlarged adenoids may have the following symptoms:
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Sore throat
• Difficulty sleeping
• Feeling like your ears are blocked
• Difficulty swallowing
• Snoring
• Swollen neck glands
• Snoring
• Bad breath or chapped lips (because of breathing through the mouth)
You can also speak to our Glenroy GP for a physical exam to check for enlarged adenoids. They will check the back of your throat. This may be done by inserting a flexible and thin scope with a mirror through your nose and down the back of your throat. This process may be uncomfortable but should not be painful. You need to tell your doctor if you have a sore throat, stuffy nose, or if your ears hurt. You may also be suggested to get a blood test done to see if you have an infection. Your doctors may also order a sleep study to check if you have sleep apnea. This helps determine whether enlarged adenoids are the main cause of your sleep problems.
Treatment for enlarged adenoids depends on how long your adenoids have been enlarged and your age. A doctor will monitor their size over time, and may prescribe medicines or a nasal spray to alleviate swelling. Surgery to remove your tonsils and adenoids at the same time is common. This is common if you have frequent throat and ear infections, sleep apnea, or trouble breathing.
Many adults who have had their enlarged adenoids removed have reported an improvement in their snoring.
Many adults with enlarged adenoids experience recurrent ear infections that don’t resolve with antibiotics or have accumulated fluid in their ears, and you may need adenoid removal surgery.
Your adenoids may be infected if you snore or breathe loudly while sleeping. In most cases, these symptoms indicate that the adenoids are enlarged.
Enlarged adenoids can contribute to the following problems:
• Ongoing sinusitis
• Difficulty sleeping
• Difficulty breathing through the nose, which can cause children to breathe through their mouth, which may cause bad breath
• Ear infection: Enlarged adenoids can block the tubes that drain the middle ear, which can cause fluid to build up in the ear, leading to infections
Enlarged adenoids cause children to breathe through the mouth, which can cause obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). They may also snore.
Conclusion
It’s common for children to have enlarged adenoids. However, it’s essential to get them examined if you notice that they are experiencing symptoms of enlarged adenoids. You can also speak to doctors at Magnus Medical Centre Glenroy.
In sports, ankle sprain is one of the most common ankle injuries. It can occur due to various reasons. The time it may take to heal may depend on the severity of the condition. In this blog, we’ll discuss what a sprained ankle is, what causes it, its symptoms, and how long it takes to heal. Let’s get started:
Your ligament may become stretched when an ankle turns, twists, or rolls awkwardly. Most commonly, your ankle ligament gets injured because of an inversion sprain. In this condition, the foot turns inward, and the ligaments on the outside of the ankle stretch beyond their usual range of motion. The ligaments are a band of fibrous tissue, which connects two bones for stability, and on the outside of the ankle – the calcaneofibular ligament, the anterior talofibular ligament, and the posterior talofibular ligament – can all be injured at the same time. When the foot turns out, a medial ankle sprain can happen. The eversion injury is far less common, but can affect the deltoid ligament, which is the main stabilizer on the inside of the ankle.
Symptoms of ankle sprain will vary depending on the severity of the injury.
During sprained ankle recovery, patients will notice isometric strengthening, range-of-motion exercises, and balance training. For those returning to physical activity before the ankle heals completely, taping or bracing may provide additional stability to the ankle. In rare cases of a full tear of multiple ligaments, a surgical option may allow an athlete to return to activity sooner.
Although it might be difficult to heal a sprained foot overnight, you can consult with a physiotherapist for physiotherapy in Glenroy or can opt for self-care at home.
Self-care at home: After having an ankle sprain, you can follow a self-care routine for the first two days:
You can walk, do gentle exercises, or bear weight on your sprained ankle. You can try walking as normally as you can. If you cannot put weight on your leg, you can seek help from a physiotherapist at Magnus Medical. During this time, you need to follow ‘NO HARM’ recommendations:
Physiotherapy
You can also reach out to a physiotherapist after your ankle injury. Physiotherapists can help you recover more quickly. They can work on ligaments and muscles in your ankle. As your ankle starts healing, a physiotherapist will create a personalised plan with exercises and stretches. Strengthening and functional exercises are used to help:
Conclusion
Now, you know the answer to the most commonly asked question: how long does a sprained ankle take to heal? It completely depends on the severity of your ankle injury when it comes to recovery time. You can also book an appointment with our physiotherapist at Magnus Medical Centre Glenroy.
You may have heard of ovarian cysts. Now, you may be wondering: What size of ovarian cyst is dangerous in mm? Ovarian cysts are usually harmless. They are filled with fluid and found on or inside the ovaries, and usually go away on their own. However, some cysts don’t go away on their own and grow larger over time, cause symptoms, or result in serious health problems. It’s essential to understand the types of ovarian cysts, their symptoms, and what size of ovarian cyst is dangerous. You will find all the answers to your questions in this blog.
Many women of reproductive age often struggle with ovarian cysts. They usually develop in or on an ovary, usually during ovulation, which occurs each month and is when an ovary releases an egg. Most cysts are related to the menstrual cycle and usually disappear within a few weeks. However, some cysts can grow larger or may need treatment.
If cysts are small, they don’t cause symptoms. However, if symptoms occur, they can include:
While many cysts are harmless and may go away on their own, understanding several types can help in identifying possible symptoms and seeking appropriate medical advice. Some of the most common types of ovarian cysts include:
The cyst size decides how risky it is, but most cysts are harmless and non-cancerous, or benign:
Around 50–60 mm cysts are considered dangerous and may increase the risk of complications like torsion or rupture. However, size alone can’t determine whether the cyst is dangerous.
Many women struggle with ovarian cysts. Here are certain factors that can cause ovarian cysts:
Birth control pills can stop monthly ovulation, which can further prevent functional cysts. However, this won’t prevent non-functional cysts, like dermoid cysts. For further procedures, you need to speak to a Glenroy GP, or they can also recommend further consultation with ovarian cyst specialists.
Conclusion
Many women suffer from ovarian cysts at some point during their lifetime. Most cysts don’t need surgery. However, if cysts don’t go away on their own, then surgery may be recommended. Moreover, if you are looking for a diet plan for PCOS, you can speak to our dietitian Glenroy at Magnus Medical.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides a detailed image of the body and its internal structures, making it an important medical diagnostic. These scans help doctors identify medical conditions, diseases, and injuries and can provide detailed information of a condition that will help with effective treatment planning. Now, you may be wondering: How long does an MRI take? In this blog, we’ll discuss every aspect of MRI.
An MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging, a scan which is a painless test that provides you with clear pictures of structures and organs inside your body. MRI uses radio waves, a large magnet, and a computer to generate these detailed images. X-rays are not used by MRI. It is the imaging test of choice when people need frequent imaging for treatment monitoring or diagnosis, especially of the brain.
An MRI scan can be done quickly. Sometimes, it may take as little as 15 minutes. However, the time duration it takes may vary depending on the part of your body being scanned, the number of images that need to be taken, and whether contrast dye is needed.
Here are some factors that determine how long your MRI will take:
Conclusion
Most types of MRIs could take between 15 and 90 minutes to complete the scan. Sometimes, your MRI might be longer or shorter, depending on different factors like the number of images required and the part of your body getting scanned. On the other hand, if your MRI needs contrast dye, it might usually last a little longer than MRIs without contrast dye. When you consult with any doctor at Magnus Medical Centre Glenroy, they may advise you whether you need to undergo an MRI scan or not for a specific health condition.
It might be difficult and disruptive to fall asleep with a blocked nose. A blocked nose at night may leave you turning, tossing, and breathing through your mouth, making it difficult to sleep properly. Whether it’s caused by a cold, allergies, or dry air, a stuffy nose at night can affect your sleep quality. If your nose gets blocked at night, there are various treatment options available that can help you unclog your nose and sleep comfortably. In this blog, we’ll discuss what causes a clogged nose and the most effective ways to treat it.
Your nose is an important part of your upper respiratory system. A stuffy nose is when your nose feels congested or blocked. Your nasal passages may be narrow or might have a lot of mucus. Nasal congestion usually feels worse at night. You may find it difficult to breathe through your nose. A stuffy nose can last for a short or a long time depending on the severity.
If you have a blocked nose, you may notice the following symptoms:
You might be wondering: Why is my nose blocked? There are different causes of a dry nose and they are related to either your health or the environment where you work or live, such as medications, allergies, dry indoor air, or cold weather. Here are health-related causes of dry nose:
Choosing the right treatment for unclogging the nose depends on the cause of it, but there are many effective ways to find relief. From simple home remedies to medications, here are some ways to help you breathe easier and sleep peacefully.
If you are worried about nasal congestion, it would be better to speak to a healthcare provider at Magnus Medical Centre Glenroy. If your nasal congestion continues for more than three weeks, get in touch with us.
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A bull ant bite can be one of the most painful experiences. These creatures are among the most dangerous insects. They can grow up to 40 mm in length. It’s essential to understand how to respond if you are bitten by a bull ant and when you need medical attention.
A bull ant bite looks like swollen, painful, red, warm skin with intense pain. You may also notice two fang marks with a central indentation where the stinger entered, usually causing a small blister within a day or two. You may need to wash the area immediately and apply a cold compress. It is usually characterised by severe pain and results in large swelling. If you observe these signs, you can consult with a GP Glenroy to get possible treatment. Bull ant bite symptoms may include:
Most bull ant bite pain increases within the first hour and gradually reduces over 2–6 hours. The pain caused by ant venom can vary in intensity based on individual sensitivity. However, some people experience discomfort for up to 24 hours. If swelling and pain worsen after the first few hours or persist for more than 24 hours, seek medical attention, as this may indicate an ongoing allergic reaction or infection.
You must be aware of first aid when a bull ant bites you or someone you know, which can reduce pain and prevent further complications. The bite may lead to significant pain, but bull ant bite treatment can help relieve pain. Here’s what first aid bull ant bite treatment includes:
Bull ants use their powerful jaws to bite. They sting using their venomous stinger on their abdomen, causing intense pain. The sting is the main source of causing intense swelling and burning. They can sting repeatedly, unlike a bee’s sting. While their bite is a strong nip, the venom from the sting can cause significant pain, so it’s both a sting and a bite.
Yes, a bull ant bite can be life-threatening, causing intense pain. Venomous stings are worse than bites, which can cause severe allergic reactions, dizziness, and a rapid heart rate. If you notice adverse symptoms, like widespread swelling or breathing difficulty, you need immediate medical attention. You can also get in touch with trusted doctors at Magnus Medical Centre Glenroy.
Now, you are aware of possible symptoms and treatment for a bull ant bite. If your symptoms worsen over time, you need immediate medical attention. You can also get in touch with GP doctors at Magnus Medical Centre.
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