dlsmhsi-medical-center1a1aac4b

Save More, Worry Less—Get Checked!

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 08:28:50 GMT

Drop by anytime—no appointment needed.
Just walk in, mention the lab package you need,
and our team will take care of the rest!

For fasting, other requirements prior the lab tests, and for more information:

Contact us : 481-8000 or (02) 8988-3100, local 1207
Visit us: DLSUMC Laboratory, Building 3

Taking care of your health doesn’t have to be costly. DLSUMC now offers more affordable laboratory test packages for outpatients—so you can stay on top of your wellness without straining your budget. Prioritize your health with reliable tests that fit your needs and your wallet.

By: ICMO

CANCER

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:07:33 GMT

Cancer is a broad term used for a large group of diseases that starts in any organ where cells grow abnormally and may spread to other organs.

Cancerous cells can form tumors, affect the immune system, and prevent your body from functioning properly.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, and third in the Philippines. The key to surviving cancer is early detection, quality management and treatment, and survivor follow-up care.

By: ICMO

Most Common Cancers

For Men

Lung
Liver
Colorectal
Prostate
Stomach
Leukemia

For Women

Breast
Cervical
Lung
Colorectal
Ovarian
Liver

Risk factors that may increase the chance of developing cancer:

Cancer is caused by DNA mutations in cells. These mutations may be inherited and may be influenced by risk factors

Age
Family history
Existing health conditions
Lifestyle

Cigarette smoking
Excessive alcohol intake
Unhealthy diet
Obesity

Sedentary lifestyle
Environment
Exposure to chemicals and other substances
Exposure to radiation

Diagnosis and Treatment

Early diagnosis and treatment is key to surviving cancer

Consult with your doctor about the best screening test for your condition.

Physical Examination
Laboratory tests
Imaging tests
Biopsy

Here are some general signs and symptoms associated but not limited to cancer:

The symptoms of cancer vary depending on the affected

part of the body

Changes in bowel or bladder habits
Difficulty swallowing
Chronic tiredness
Hoarse voice

Lump or area of thickening that can be felt beneath the skin
Persistent cough or trouble breathing
Persistent indigestion or discomfort after eating
Persistent, unexplained muscle or joint pain

Persistent, unexplained fevers or night sweats
Skin changes (color, sores, or moles)
Unexplained bleeding or bruising
Unintentional weight gain or loss

DLSUMC’s Oncology, Hematology, and Rheumatology unit can be your partner in healing. This unit specializes in treatment of cancers, blood disorders and rheumatological disorders.

Cancer Treatments

Services

Chemotheraphy

A treatment using powerful drugs to kill or shrink cancer cells.

Biological Therapy

Uses natural substances to boost the body’s immune system to fight disease.

Blood Transfusion

The process of transferring blood or blood components to a patient.

Treatment aimed at improving bone health, often in cases of bone disease or damage.

Bone Theraphy

A type of treatment that helps the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.

Immunotheraphy

For inquiries, you may call (046) 481-8000 or (02) 8988-3100 local 1086.

Prevention

There is no definite way to prevent cancer. However, doing these can reduce your risk of developing cancer:

Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Limit sun exposure
Eat a healthy diet
Exercise
Maintain healthy weight
Drink alcohol moderately
Undergo early cancer screenings
Get immunized against vaccine-preventable diseases that increases the risk for certain cancers

For expert medical advice, see a DLSUMC oncologist. Visit http://findyourdoctor.dlshsi.edu.ph/ to know our doctors’ clinic schedules and telemedicine options or call the Information desk at (046) 481-8000 local 2001 or 1206.

Resources:

Department of Health

https://doh.gov.ph/philippine-cancer-control-program

https://doh.gov.ph/Health-Advisory/Cancer

World Health Organization

https://www.who.int/health-topics/cancer#tab=tab_1

Mayo Clinic

https://www.ucihealth.org/blog/2017/02/how-to-strengthen-heart

Revere Health

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20370588

HEART HEALTH

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:07:33 GMT

Our organs need blood, oxygen and other nutrients to function

A healthy cardiovascular system is the key for these to reach our organs. A healthier lifestyle means a healthier heart.

Work on your heart health every day through these simple changes:

Eat a balanced and healthy diet full of whole grains, whole foods, nutrients, vitamins, healthy fat and lean meat.
Maintain a healthy weight within your Body Mass Index (BMI).
Exercise regularly.
Have a regular health check for blood pressure and blood sugar.
Avoid salty, sweet, and processed foods.
Avoid smoking and drinking of alcohol.
Avoid stress.
Common types of heart disease

By: ICMO

Coronary Artery Disease

Blockage or narrowing of blood vessels which may result to heart attack

Arrhythmias

Irregular rhythm of the heart

Cardiomyopathy

Thickening or stiffening of heart muscle

Congestive Heart

Weakening of the heart due to high blood pressure or coronary artery disease

These are the major risk factors for developing heart disease

Age
Cigarette smoking
Weight
Family history

Poor diet
High blood cholesterol
Unregulated high blood pressure
Uncontrolled diabetes
Sedentary lifestyle
Uncontrolled stress and anger
Poor dental health

Other factors that may contribute to the development of heart disease

Heart Check

Routine screening tests are recommended to prevent, diagnose, and treat heart diseases

Depending on their heart condition, people as young as 20 years old need to have their heart health checked regularly, while some start having their hearts consistently monitored later in life.

It is best to consult with a cardiologist to know what tests you might need and to know how your heart health should be managed.

Consult with a DLSUMC cardiologist now! To view the schedules of our expert clinicians, visit https://findyourdoctor.dlshsi.edu.ph/ or call the Information Section at (046) 481-8000 or (02) 8988-3100 local 1206 / 2001.

References:

World Health Organization

Healthline

https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-heart-tips

https://www.healthline.com/health/heart-health/scheduling-heart-health-checkup#types-of-tests

UCI Health

https://www.ucihealth.org/blog/2017/02/how-to-strengthen-heart

Revere Health

https://reverehealth.com/live-better/protecting-your-heart-the-importance-of-heart-health/

Nutralife

https://www.nutralife.com.au/why-is-the-heart-and-circulatory-system-so-important/

BLOOD DISORDERS

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:07:33 GMT

Blood disorders are conditions that impair the blood's normal function

Thes e disorders can involve problems with the blood cells (like red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets), the blood vessels, or the proteins in the blood that help with clotting.

By: ICMO

Types of Blood Disorders

Anemia

Anemia is a condition where the body does not have enough red blood cells (RBC). This is caused by the bone marrow’s ability to create RBC; conditions or infection that affects the production of RBC, iron and vitamin B poor nutrition; and bleeding.

Symptoms of Anemia

Pale skin
Headache
Dizziness
Weakness
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Irregular heartbeat
Difficulty in concentration

Hemophilia is a genetic blood condition where the clotting factor of blood is affected.

Hemophilia

Symptoms of Hemophilia

Easy bruising
Unexplained nose bleeds
Bleeding gums
Heavy bleeding from minor cuts during dental works
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Bleeding into joints
Excessive bleeding following surgery

Erythrocytosis is a condition where the body creates too much red blood cells (RBCs). This condition may also be called polycythemia. A condition where there is too much white blood cells and platelets in the blood. It may be caused by genetic mutations, certain diseases and medications, smoking, and living in high altitudes.

Erythrocytosis

Symptoms of Erythrocytosis

Headaches
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Itching
Nosebleeds
Shortness of breath
Increased blood pressure
Skin flushing
Weakness and fatigue
Pain in fingers

Leukopenia is a condition where the blood has reduced white blood cells. This is caused by bone marrow conditions, auto-immune disorders, cancer and cancer treatment, certain medications, and malnutrition.

Leukopenia

Symptoms of Leukopenia

Fever
Chills
Sweating

Leukocytosis is a condition where the blood has elevated levels of white blood cells. It is caused by infection, surgery, certain medications, certain illnesses, cancer, exercise, emotional stress, and smoking.

Leukocytosis

Symptoms of Leukocytosis Depending on Condition

Fever and pain or other symptoms at the infection site
Fever, easy bruising, unintentional weight loss, and night sweating for leukemia and other cancers
Hives, itchy skin, and rashes on skin caused by an allergic reaction
Wheezing and difficulty in breathing due to an allergic reaction in your lungs

Thrombocytopenia is a condition where the blood has a low platelet count. This is caused by bone marrow conditions, certain medications, or problems of the liver or spleen.

Thrombocytopenia

Symptoms of Thrombocytopenia

Easy bruising
Prolonged bleeding from wounds
Frequent and prolonged bleeding of nose and gums
Blood in stool or urine
Prolonged and heavy menstrual flow

Thrombocytosis is a condition where the blood contains a high platelet count. It is caused by bone marrow conditions or certain medical conditions.

Thrombocytosis

Symptoms of Thrombocytosis

Dizziness
Chest pain
Headache
Pain in fingers

Leukemia is a type of blood cancer where abnormal white blood cells are rapidly produced by the bone marrow. The risk factors of developing leukemia are previous cancer treatments, genetic disorders, exposure to certain chemicals, smoking and family history of leukemia.

Leukemia

Symptoms of Leukemia

Fever or chills and other flu-like symptoms
Persistent weakness and fatigue
Frequent or severe infections
Swollen or bleeding gums
Headaches
Enlarged liver or spleen
Swollen lymph nodes
Swollen tonsils
Easy bleeding or bruising
Recurrent nosebleeds
Tiny red spots in your skin (petechiae)
Excessive sweating, especially at night
Bone pain
Unintentional weight loss

How can our hospital help you?

Our Laboratory offers precise, accurate and efficient testing services for the initial diagnosis of hematologic disorders.

You may call (046) 481-8000 or (02) 8988-3100 local 1207 for inquiries.

We offer the following tests

Bleeding time
Blood typing (ABO & RH)
Bone marrow smear (Wright’s Strain)
Clotting time
Clot Retraction Time (CRT)
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Differential count
Hemoglobin
Hematocrit
Platelet count
Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count

Red cell indices
White Blood Cell (WBC) Count
Coomb’s test
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)
Lupus Erythematosus (L.E.) Preparation
Malarial smear
Peripheral smear
Quantitative malaria
Prothrombin Time (PT)
Reticulocyte count
Toxic granulation

References:

American Society of Hematology

https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/bleeding-disorders

https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/blood-cancers/leukemia

Philippine Council for Health and Research Development

Mayo Clinic

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anemia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351366

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thrombocytosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20378315

Healthline

https://www.healthline.com/health/erythrocytosis

https://www.healthline.com/health/leukocytosis#types

https://www.healthline.com/health/leukopenia#diagnosis

https://www.healthline.com/health/thrombocytopenia#symptoms

Facebook : Ohh My Blood by Dr. Anne Kristine H. Quero-Taggaoa

REHABILITATION AFTER COVID

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:07:33 GMT

Survivors of critical COVID-19 cases may need rehabilitation

Due to the effects of extended periods of immobilization, ventilatory support and intubation such as reduced muscle strength, reduced physical functions, and impairments on swallowing and communicating.

Rehabilitation therapy will aid COVID-19 survivors in regaining independence and achieving their highest functional potential.

By: ICMO

Types of Rehabilitation Therapies

Physical Therapy

This program focuses on disabilities related to motor and sensory impairments and restoring physical functioning. Factors such as movement, balance, and coordination are being evaluated to be able to create exercises for strengthening muscles, improving coordination, regaining range of motion and relearning simple motor activities.

Occupational Therapy

This program focuses on enabling patients to perform routines and self-directed activities that are important to them and expected of them at a given time. This program aims to promote independence, restoring pre-morbid skills and functions, using of tools and equipment modified to present condition, creating strategies for coping with demands at home, work, and community, and continuing improvement of current skills and functions through carry-over techniques.

Speech therapy

This program focuses on assessing and treating communication problems and speech disorders. It aims to improve communication through articulation therapy and language intervention activities and improve the ability to swallow.

Prosthetics/Orthotics & Assistive Technology

Outsourced program in providing prosthetics and orthoses needed to assist and augment activities of daily living such as wrist hand function, spinal stability, transfers, ambulation and mobility needs.

Our hospital’s Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Unit offers these Services

Services

Physiatry disability & pain assessment
Special services by physiatrists (EMG-NCV; Diagnostic & Interventional MSK US)
Physical therapy
Occupational therapy
Speech therapy
Prosthetics and orthotics
Assistive technology (wheelchair prescription and canes/bedside commode)

For inquiries, you may call (046) 481-8000 or (02) 8988-3100 local 1044.

References:

World Health Organization – Europe

Pan American Health Organization

https://iris.paho.org/bitstream/handle/10665.2/52035/NMHMHCOVID19200010_eng.pdf?sequence=6&isAllowed=y

University of the Philippines

EPILEPSY AND SEIZURES

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:07:33 GMT

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent unprovoked seizures

A seizure is a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain that usually happens in a short span of time. Two (2) unprovoked seizures with no known or other medical conditions may mean that you have an epilepsy.

By: ICMO

General Seizure Symptoms

In general, seizure symptoms are:

Uncontrollable jerking and shaking
Staring blankly into space
Stiffing
Loss of awareness or consciousness

Focal (Partial) Seizure

Different ways seizures can manifest, depending on the area of the brain affected and the severity of the episode. They are primarily categorized into two groups

This seizure only affects one part of the brain.

Types of Seizures

These seizures affect all areas of the brain.

Generalized Seizures

Focal (Partial) Seizure

Simple partial seizure

Simple partial seizures do not include loss of consciousness or awareness. This may alter emotions or how something looks, tastes, feels, smells or sounds. Also, involuntary jerking of a body part, tingling sensations, dizziness and seeing flashing lights are results of this seizure.

01

02 Complex partial seizure

Complex partial seizures include loss of consciousness or awareness. This may include staring blankly, being unresponsive to the environment and performing repetitive movements.

General Seizures

Absence Seizures

This seizure causes a short loss of awareness, staring blankly into space and subtle repetitive movements.

01

02 Tonic Seizures

This seizure usually affects your back, arm and leg muscles causing it to become stiff.

Atonic Seizures

This seizure makes you lose control of your muscles.

03 Clonic Seizures

This seizure usually affects the neck, face and arms causing repetitive, jerking or rhythmic movements.

04

05 Myoclonic Seizures

This seizure causes sudden, brief jerking or twitching of arms and legs.

Tonic-clonic Seizures

This seizure causes abrupt loss of consciousness, stiffening and shaking of the body, and sometimes, loss of bladder control and biting of the tongue.

06 Blood Count and Blood Chemistry

Diagnostic Procedures for Epilepsy

These tests will show infections or conditions that may cause seizures.

Seizures may be the main symptom of epilepsy but there are other factors that may have caused it. Your doctor might require these tests to rule out other seizure causes.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

This test measures the electrical activity of your brain. Changes in normal brain activity patterns are common in people with epilepsy.

Computed Tomography Scan (CT-Scan)

This test shows cross-section images of the brain that reveal abnormalities that may be causing seizures.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

This imaging test shows a more detailed images of the brain where lesions or abnormalities that are causing seizure may be detected.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET Scan)

This test uses a small amount of low-dose radioactive material injected in the vein to visualize abnormal and injured areas of the brain and to detect abnormalities.

Hospital Services

We offer accurate, precise and efficient diagnostic tests that may cater your needs.

For inquiries, you may call

(046) 481-8000 or (02) 8988-3100 | Laboratory Department – local 1208 | Radiology Services – local 1301 | Electroencephalogram (EEG) Unit – local 1069

References:

Epilepsy Foundation

https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/about-epilepsy-basics/what-epilepsy

Healthline

https://www.healthline.com/health/epilepsy

Mayo Clinic

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/symptoms-causes/syc-20350093#:~:text=Epilepsy%20is%20a%20central%20nervous,Anyone%20can%20develop%20epilepsy.

National Health Service

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/epilepsy/

TAKE CARE OF YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:07:33 GMT

What is Mental Health?

Mental health is our emotional, psychological, and social well-being which enables us to handle stress, make decisions, relate well with others, work productively and contribute to our community. Sometimes it also involves our sense of spirituality and is important in every stage of life, from childhood to adulthood.

By: ICMO

Symptoms of Mental Health Problems

Mental health problems can be caused by the interaction of several factors and there is never just one cause. Some of those factors may be:

Biological

i.e. genetics, biochemical imbalance in the brain, physical illness, use of alcohol & illicit substances

Social

i.e. rapid social change, trauma, abuse, human rights violations, gender discrimination, social exclusion

Socioeconomic

i.e. loss of job, dissatisfaction or stress with work, lack of money

i.e. personality traits, coping mechanisms, lifestyle choices

Psychological

Spiritual

i.e. lack of faith, no purpose in life

Mental health involves our thoughts, feelings and actions

Early warning signs might show when someone is having mental health issues, such as:

Increase or decrease appetite to the point of losing or gaining weight
Changes in sleep pattern (i.e. sleeping a lot or not at all, inability to fall asleep, waking up in the middle of the night)
Isolating self from family and friends, disconnecting self from social media sites
Feeling heavy, lazy, lethargic and no energy to carry out daily responsibilities
Losing interest in previously enjoyable hobbies or recreational activities
Unable to concentrate or focus with studies or work, often forgetful and confused
Having disturbing thoughts, painful memories or frightening dreams that persist and recur
Feeling helpless, hopeless, worthless or guilty most of the time

Feeling on edge, anxious, nervous, worried, scared or sad that is overwhelming
Easily irritated and impatient to the point of yelling or quarrelling with people
Experiencing severe mood swings, restlessness, crying
Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual
Having unexplained aches and pains
Hearing voices or seeing things that no one else hears or sees
Being suspicious of people i.e. talking, gossiping, laughing, belittling, disliking, judging you
Considering hurting yourself or others

The first step to getting better is getting help. Mental health problems should be addressed and treated. Treatment and therapy can be obtained through a variety of approaches:

Mental Health Treatments

Psychotherapy or Talking Therapies

Psychotherapy focuses on improving well-being through exploring emotions, thoughts and behaviors. It helps you understand yourself and usually carried out by trained mental health professionals such as psychologists, psychotherapists and psychiatrists.

Medication

Medication helps by correcting the biochemical imbalances in the brain and helps to relieve symptoms of mental health problems so you can resume social interaction and normal school/work routine. These are prescribed and managed by psychiatrists.

Combination of Psychotherapy & Medication

Quite often there is a need to combine the 2 modalities of treatment either by 2 persons or 1 and the same mental health professional.

Case Management

Coordinated assessments, plans, services and strategies that is carried out by a case manager (i.e. primary mental health professional or others) to facilitate recovery.

Hospitalization

In some cases, when the mental health condition worsens to the point where there is a need to closely monitor the patient (i.e. ensure he/she is sleeping and eating well or has the potential to hurt self or others), bring that person to the emergency room for possible admission to the hospital.

Self Help/ Support Group

A support group is composed of peers who lived or are living under similar circumstances and share the same goal towards recovery.

DLSUMC is one with the community in promoting mental health!

Our Medical Arts Center houses psychiatrists that could help you with your mental health concerns. You may call (046) 481-8000 or (02) 8988-3100 local 1206/2001, or visit http://findadoctor.dlshsi.edu.ph/ for their clinic schedules.

References:

Mental Health America

https://www.mhanational.org/mental-health-treatments#:~:text=Psychotherapy,effective%20way%20to%20promote%20recovery.

National Alliance on Mental Illness

https://www.nami.org/blogs/nami-blog/october-2017/9-ways-to-fight-mental-health-stigma

Mental Health.gov

COMMON LUNG CONDITIONS

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:07:33 GMT

What do our lungs do?

Our lungs play a major role in our respiratory system. Its main function is to supply the needed oxygen of every organ in our body and to get rid of carbon dioxide. Our lungs have its own defense system and is also self-cleaning. However, it is still possible to have a lung disorder or lung disease.

By: ICMO

What are the common lung conditions?

Asthma

Asthma is a lung condition where airway narrowing occurs due to swelling of the lining or mucosa, sputum production and construction of the smooth muscle surrounding it as a response to a trigger such as allergens (dust, pollen, insects, animal dander, etc.) This could result into coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

Bronchitis

It is a bacterial or a viral main airway infection. In acute cases, the infection can spread into the lungs.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Also called chronic bronchitis, this may be caused by air pollution, chemicals, smoking or genetic condition.

COPD gets worse over time and may lead to disability and even death.

It is an infection of bronchioles and alveoli. This may cause difficulty in breathing because of the pus and mucus build-up and swelling of the lungs. This can happen to anyone, but children, elderly, smokers and ill people are at a higher risk of acquiring this infection.

Pneumonia

Tuberculosis

It is a bacterial infection spread through droplets from a cough or a sneeze. It can be serious and may lead to lung scarring.

Lung diseases may require going through series of tests in order to know its origin and condition, and for treatment and monitoring.

Laboratory Examinations
Complete blood count (CBC)
This is used to evaluate your blood cells and detect infections.
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of body fluid
This is used for white blood and red blood cells count, and to measure sugar and protein content of the fluid collected from your lungs.
Lung tissue biopsy
This is used to evaluate your lung tissue for damage or cancer.
Gram stain / Culture sensitivity ( This is used to identify bacteria in the sample taken from your lungs and its sensitivity to identify how it is can be treated)
Anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) (This is used to detect auto-immune disorder)
Radiology Procedures
Chest X-ray (This is used to analyze your lung structure and chest cavity. It is the most common test to detect and diagnose abnormalities in the lungs such as edema, pneumonia, tumors, cancers and other chest conditions.)
CT Scan (This is used for a more detailed image of the organs and structures inside your chest. It is used to detect conditions such as infection, lung cancer, pulmonary embolism and other lung problems.)
MRI (This is used for detailed imaging of organs, chest wall and blood vessels in the chest.)
Ultrasound (This is used to assess organs and structures within the chest such as lungs, mediastinum and pleural space.)

Common Test for Lung Diseases

References:

Healthline

https://www.healthline.com/human-body-maps/lung#lung-function

Lab Tests Online

https://labtestsonline.org/conditions/lung-diseases

TREATMENT AND PREVENTION OF TUBERCULOSIS

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:07:33 GMT

What is Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacterium that usually attacks the lungs but can attack any part of the body. These bacteria are spread through droplets released in the air from a cough or a sneeze.

By: ICMO

Latent TB

The bacteria remain inactive in your body and cause no symptoms. While inactive, a person with latent TB infection cannot infect others. However, inactive TB can become active thus making treatment integral to control the spread of infection.

A person with Active TB displays noticeable symptoms and is capable of spreading the infection to others.

Active TB

Coughing for three or more weeks
Coughing up blood
Chest pain, pain when breathing or coughing
Unintentional weight loss
Fatigue
Fever
Night sweats
Chills
Loss of appetite

Symptoms and Signs of Active TB

TB is a potentially serious infectious disease and would need medical attention and treatment. It is treatable and curable with standard treatment lasting for 6 months.

Clinical and Physical Exam

Tests are needed to confirm TB infection.

Your physician will ask for the symptoms that you are experiencing, check your lymph nodes if there is swelling, and listen to the sound of your lungs while you are breathing using a stethoscope.

Testing and Diagnosis

Chest x-ray is a rapid and sensitive imaging tool for screening TB. This may show white spots or may reveal changes in your lungs caused by an active TB infection.

Chest X-ray

Sputum Test (Acid – Fast Bacillus (AFB) & Xpert MTB)

The mucus that comes up when coughing will be tested for TB bacteria.

Treatment

Medication is the most effective treatment for TB. The standard medication process lasts for at least 6 months. Proper intake, schedule and duration of medicine are crucial to avoid building resistance.

Who will guide you in your treatment?

Physician

TB DOTS Nurse

Treatment Partner

A relative assigned during TB DOTS Seminar who will guide you and who will ensure that you take your medications on schedule.

Side effects may be experienced during medication. Your pulmonologist will discuss this with you. If you are experiencing severe side effects, discuss it with your doctor immediately.

PROTECT YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

It takes a few weeks for an active TB to be not contagious anymore. During infectious state, follow these steps to protect your loved ones from getting infected:

Self Isolate

Stay at home and do not sleep in a room with other people.

Increase Ventilation

TB bacteria spread more easily on spaces where air does not move. Open windows and use fan to blow air outside.

01

02

03

Cover your Mouth

Practice cough and sneeze etiquette. Always cover your mouth when coughing, sneezing and even when laughing. Place used tissue in a bag, seal it and throw it away.

Wear a surgical mask, During the first weeks, wearing a mask minimizes the risk of transmission.

04

05

06

RABIES

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:07:33 GMT

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a vaccine-preventable viral disease transmitted through an infected animal’s bite, scratch or lick to an open wound.

This virus attacks the central nervous system leading to a disease on the brain. Since there is no effective treatment for rabies yet, this disease is virtually fatal once clinical symptoms appear.

By: ICMO

Avoid stray and wild animals.
Have your pets vaccinated regularly and keep them indoors.
If bitten, scratched or licked by an animal:
Wash the site immediately with soap and water for a minimum of 15 minutes.
Seek medical attention and post-exposure prophylaxis as soon as possible.

PREVENTION

SYMPTOMS

The incubation period before symptoms show may last for weeks or months. However, the exposure site, type of virus, and immunity also plays a role on how fast the symptoms would show. Once the symptoms of rabies show, treatment will no longer be effective. The first symptoms of rabies are similar to symptoms of flu that may last for days.

Later signs and symptoms:

Fever
Headache
Nausea
Vomiting
Agitation
Anxiety
Confusion
Hyperactivity
Difficulty swallowing
Fear of drinking
Hallucinations
Insomnia
Partial paralysis

Treatment

If you have been exposed to rabies, proceed to the nearest animal bite center immediately. You might need a series of shots to prevent the virus from infecting your nervous system.

DLSUMC’s Animal Bite Center is open 24 hours every day. Contact our Emergency Room at (046) 481-8000 or (02) 8988-3100 local 1201 / 1202 for inquiries.

References:

Global Alliance for Rabies Control

https://rabiesalliance.org/news/join-world-rabies-day-2020-collaborate-and-vaccinate#:~:text=It’s%20here!,Rabies%3A%20Collaborate%2C%20Vaccinate%E2%80%9D.

https://rabiesalliance.org/resources/search?type=914#teaser-6040

World Health Organization

https://www.who.int/rabies/about/en/

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/rabies

Department of Health

https://www.doh.gov.ph/national-rabies-prevention-and-control-program

Center for Disease Control and Prevention

https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/prevention/index.html

Mayo Clinic

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rabies/symptoms-causes/syc-20351821#:~:text=Rabies%20is%20a%20deadly%20virus,%2C%20foxes%2C%20raccoons%20and%20skunks.

NO TO MASKNE!

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:07:33 GMT

The New Normal: Face Masks On!

Our best defense against COVID-19 is wearing face masks together with practicing hand hygiene and social distancing. The importance of wearing face masks cannot be stressed enough. It shields the nose and mouth to lower the chances of getting and transmitting the virus.

With the regular wearing of face masks being the new norm, skin problems from wearing it arise.

By: ICMO

Why does wearing face masks ca use skin problems?

Wearing masks subjects our skin to constant pressure and friction, thereby causing irritation. It also exposes the covered skin to higher temperatures, trapped sweat, and more bacteria and microorganisms from our noses and mouths. These factors may trigger breakouts, irritation and other skin problems.

Things you can do to protect your skin

Moisturize.
Wearing light moisturizer can serve as a barrier against friction.
Wear light make-up.
Wearing light make up is acceptable. However, it is not advisable if you will be reusing N95 masks.
Cleanse and exfoliate.
Cleansing and exfoliating go hand-in-hand in removing the build-up of oil, dirt, bacteria and other particles our skin is exposed to. Cleanse daily and exfoliate two to three times per week, depending on your skin type.
Use prescription medication.
Dermatologists may prescribe medication for severe conditions.

OUR DERMATOLOGIST CAN HELP YOU

It is best to be guided by experts in dealing with skin conditions. Set your appointment with our dermatologists! You may visit http://findadoctor.dlshsi.edu.ph/ or call (046) 481-8000 or (02) 8988-3100 locals 2001 / 1206 for the clinic schedules.

References:

The Star

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/07/26/how-to-avoid-skin-problems-when-wearing-a-face-mask?fbclid=IwAR0UNi-WJjBdyMdnhcpEu2nBfDWG2xeQitBuC6ZNYhvE45k4unC7YoD7b6Q

Healthline

https://www.healthline.com/health-news/face-masks-may-be-irritating-your-skin#:~:text=Wearing%20a%20mask%20frequently%20can,medications%20can%20help%20control%20maskne.
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-often-should-you-exfoliate-your-face

Cleveland Clinic

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/the-struggle-with-maskne-is-very-real/

dlsmhsi-medical-center1a1aac4b

Save More, Worry Less—Get Checked!

CANCER

Cancer is a broad term used for a large group of diseases that starts in any organ where cells grow abnormally and may spread to other organs.

Most Common Cancers

For Men

For Women

Cancer is caused by DNA mutations in cells. These mutations may be inherited and may be influenced by risk factors

Diagnosis and Treatment

Early diagnosis and treatment is key to surviving cancer

The symptoms of cancer vary depending on the affected

part of the body

Cancer Treatments

Services

Chemotheraphy

Biological Therapy

Blood Transfusion

Bone Theraphy

Immunotheraphy

Prevention

Resources:

HEART HEALTH

Our organs need blood, oxygen and other nutrients to function

Coronary Artery Disease

Arrhythmias

Cardiomyopathy

Congestive Heart

These are the major risk factors for developing heart disease

Other factors that may contribute to the development of heart disease

Heart Check

Routine screening tests are recommended to prevent, diagnose, and treat heart diseases

References:

BLOOD DISORDERS

Blood disorders are conditions that impair the blood's normal function

Types of Blood Disorders

Anemia

Symptoms of Anemia

Hemophilia

Symptoms of Hemophilia

Erythrocytosis

Symptoms of Erythrocytosis

Leukopenia

Symptoms of Leukopenia

Leukocytosis

Symptoms of Leukocytosis Depending on Condition

Thrombocytopenia

Symptoms of Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytosis

Symptoms of Thrombocytosis

Leukemia

Symptoms of Leukemia

How can our hospital help you?

We offer the following tests

REHABILITATION AFTER COVID

Survivors of critical COVID-19 cases may need rehabilitation

Types of Rehabilitation Therapies

Physical Therapy

Occupational Therapy

Speech therapy

Prosthetics/Orthotics & Assistive Technology

Our hospital’s Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Unit offers these Services

Services

References:

EPILEPSY AND SEIZURES

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent unprovoked seizures

General Seizure Symptoms

In general, seizure symptoms are: ﻿

Focal (Partial) Seizure

Types of Seizures

Generalized Seizures

Focal (Partial) Seizure

Simple partial seizure

01

02

Complex partial seizure

General Seizures

Absence Seizures

01

02

Tonic Seizures

In general, seizure symptoms are:

Physician