In recent years, telemedicine has transformed the landscape of healthcare, offering patients greater access and convenience. At DRO Health, we are proud to be at the forefront of this revolution, utilizing cutting-edge technology to enhance patient care.

Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare practitioners from the comfort of their homes, breaking down geographical barriers and reducing the need for in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility challenges. DRO Health’s telehealth platform is designed with user experience in mind. Our intuitive interface ensures that scheduling appointments, accessing medical records, and communicating with healthcare professionals is seamless and efficient.

Our telemedicine platform allows virtual consultations with qualified practitioners, specialists and therapists via chat, audio, and video calls. Patients can select which doctor they want to consult with based on their profile and price. Prices are set very low and are a wide range so care is affordable for all. The app also has trackers for several health-related needs, such as blood pressure, blood sugar and weight tracking. This is part of our wellness programs to help manage chronic illness including Cardiovascular disease (Heart Health) and Mental Health.

Our commitment to personalized care remains strong. Each patient receives tailored treatment plans that consider their unique health needs. Our team of dedicated healthcare practitioners is just a click away, ready to provide guidance and support.

As we look to the future, DRO Health is excited about the potential of telehealth to improve outcomes. By continuing to innovate and adapt, we aim to make healthcare more accessible and effective for everyone. Join us on this journey as we redefine what healthcare can be!

The post The Future of Telemedicine: How DRO Health is improving Patient Care. appeared first on DRO Health.

Unfortunately, men often suffer from depression in silence due to the social stigma attached to mental health issues. Another reason is that men who are depressed sometimes appear to be angry, irritable, or aggressive instead of sad. This makes it more difficult for their loved ones and sometimes, even their doctors to recognize the anger or aggression as depression symptoms.

What Are Some Major Signs Of Depression In Men?

Everybody gets sad, exhausted, or unmotivated once in a while. Life has its ups and downs, and during the downs, it could feel as if you don’t have the will to go on. Most of the time, this feeling doesn’t last, and we dust ourselves and move on after a few days. Although the word “depression” is often used to express fleeting feelings of fatigue and disillusionment with life, depression is deeper than that. It is important to be aware of the signs of depression to seek help if needed. Here are five signs of depression in men:

Sign #1: Changes in Mood or Behaviour.

One of the most telling signs of depression in men is changes in their mood and behaviour. Men who are suffering from depression often exhibit mood swings, loss of interest, irritability, fatigue, and uncharacteristic anger or aggressiveness. Some of the changes in mood include:

● Lack of motivation

● Loss of interest in work, family, or desire to do things previously enjoyed

● Problems with sexual desire and performance

● Overeating or not wanting to eat at all

Some behaviour changes you may notice in a depressed man are:

● Not being able to concentrate or remember details

● Low energy and poor concentration

Sign #2: Physical Aches and Insomnia.

Depression can cause physical aches like headaches and body aches, digestive problems, and cramps. It can also cause insomnia or uneasy sleep. Disturbances in sleep patterns can take on many forms. You may:

● Have trouble falling asleep even when you’re exhausted

● Experience interrupted sleep regularly

● Often wake up multiple times throughout the night

● Sleep for long hours and still wake up tired

90% of people suffering from depression report overwhelming fatigue, which could result from a lack of quality sleep.

Sign #3: Low Self-Esteem and Self-Doubt.

Depression may cause a man’s self-esteem to plummet. A man who was once extremely confident can become riddled with low esteem and self-doubt. This leads to a pessimistic view of the future and a negative outlook on life that can manifest in the form of continuous feelings of worthlessness, guilt, sadness, anxiety, restlessness, hopelessness, and guilt.

Sign #4: Risky Behaviours.

Men who are depressed may engage in dangerous, high-risk, and self-destructive behaviours as a way to cope with emotions that are too painful or to escape from their tumultuous feelings. Some of the risky behaviours you may notice in a depressed man are:

● Reckless Driving

● Alcohol and Drug Abuse

● Gambling

● Engaging in unsafe sex practices

Sign #5: Withdrawal From Family and Friends.

Men who are depressed tend to withdraw from their loved ones, isolating themselves from people. Although the isolation is usually self-inflicted, they also feel lonely and alone. Isolation can be dangerous and increases the risk of early death.

What You Can Do To Help a Man Showing Signs Of Depression?

Men who are depressed often fear the social stigma of accepting their condition. You must also bear in mind that it is not a feeling they can easily shake off. You can help by offering understanding, patience, encouragement, and support.

Additionally, if you suspect that a loved one is depressed, provide a listening ear, encourage them to seek a professional diagnosis, and help them to increase their physical and social activity by inviting them out for walks and events. To also help a man showing signs of depression, you can encourage them to speak to a professional therapist. We offer affordable therapy through the DRO Health mental health package and it can be accessed at anytime.

Our final words,

Men and women both experience depression. Although it affects a large number of men, men are less likely to recognize the signs and seek treatment for depression. If you recognize depression in a man, encourage them to get professional help. You can also give them understanding, encouragement, and a listening ear. Remember to keep trying if they decline your help. Depression causes men to push away their loved ones and isolate themselves, which could be detrimental.

On the DRO Health app, we offer affordable and professional mental health packages to all our customer. To book a session, visit our website today.

The post Major Signs of Depression In Men And Ways To Help. appeared first on DRO Health.

Diabetes also called Diabetes Mellitus is a severe disease that happens in the human body when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of persons diagnosed with diabetes rose from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014. Year after year, this number continues to increase in every country around the world.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

The most common symptoms of diabetes are intense thirst, intense hunger, frequent urination, weight gain or loss, intense fatigue, numbness in some body parts and erectile dysfunction. Diabetes can however be treated or managed through eating healthy, engaging in some physical activities, taking prescribed medications, regular screening and treatments.

Healthy Nigerian Foods For Diabetic Patients.

Today’s post will focus on some healthy food options for diabetic patients living in Nigeria. Diabetic patients are always advised to avoid foods that are starchy in nature and to consume fibre-rich foods, that are mostly unprocessed like vegetables, fruits, nuts, etc. Some of these healthy foods include:

1.Unripe plantains: Unripe plantains are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and they are low carb foods. Unripe plantains have many health benefits like helping to manage diabetes, cure stomach ulcers, prevent constipation, manage weight loss, etc. Unripe plantains can be boiled, mashed, cooked into a porridge, made as moimoi, or grilled for diabetic patients in Nigeria.

2. Beans: Beans is a great food food choice for people with diabetes and it is a popular food in Nigeria. Beans is a source of protein, fiber and minerals. It also contains carbohydrates but it is low on the Glycemic Index (GI) scale and causes no increase in one’s blood sugar level.

The benefits of beans are reduces the risks of diabetes, helps in weight loss, aids digestion, increases energy in the body, improves heart health, etc. Beans can be cooked plainly and served with vegetables, it can be turned into a pottage and served with unripe plantains, it can also be mashed, it can be cooked to become moimoi, etc.

3. Bambara Nuts: Bambara Nuts is widely consumed by different tribes in Nigeria. It is called Ókpa by the Igbos, Gurjiya by the Hausas and Epa Riro by the Yorubas. Bambara Nuts contains vital nutrients and minerals like magnesium, manganese, fat, fiber, minerals, protein and carbohydrates. Bambara Nuts helps to reduce blood sugar, manage heart health, manage blood pressure, boost kidney functions, manages ulcer, aids digestion, reduces inflammation and manages some types of cancer.

4. Water Yam: Water Yam is a healthy type of yam usually purple or pure white in color. It is shorter than the normal Nigerian yam, yet it is packed with many nutrients and benefits, especially for diabetic patients. Water Yam has nutrients like potassium, iron, calcium, vitamins C & E, carbohydrates and dietary fiber.

The benefits of water yams includes helps to manage diabetes, reduces blood pressure, aids digestion, improves one’s eyesight, improves bone health, boosts the human immune system. Water Yam can be cooked plainly and paired with healthy stews or sauce, palmoil or grilled for a diabetic patient in Nigeria.

5. Ofada Rice: Ofada rice is a popular type of rice in Nigeria, however not many people like to eat it because of its smell or nature. Ofada rice is also called unpolished rice because it is unprocessed and is packaged as it is for consumption. Ofada rice is healthier than white rice, which is mostly eaten by many Nigerians. Ofada rice contains healthy nutrients especially vitamins, fiber and minerals like zinc, phosphorus and folate.

Some health benefits of ofada rice are serves as a great food choice for diabetic patients, good for bone health, lowers cholesterol level in the body, prevents constipation, manages the risk of breast cancer. Ofada rice can be boiled plainly and paired with ofada or ayamase sauce, vegetable, soup or healthy stews.

6. Corn meal : Corn meal is a Nigerian food also called Agidi by the Igbos or Eko by the Yorubas. Corn meal is made from Pap and boiled in a healthy leaf wrap till it forms a solid consistency. It is packed with fiber, protein, minerals like manganese, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, etc.

The health benefits of this meal are to fight diabetes, helps to improve eyesight, aids in proper digestion, and also a great meal option for pregnant women in Nigeria. Corn meal can be eaten with peppersoup, vegetable soups, beans, or it can be eaten alone.

Some other Nigerian food options for diabetic patients in Nigeria are:

• Plantain flour swallow

• Garden egg sauce

• Quaker oats

• Vegetable salad

• Healthy soups and stews

Diabetic Patients should always have a healthy and balanced diet. Diets play a major part in the recovery and treatment process for many patients. The foods listed above can be cooked and served in different forms.

On the DRO Health app, we have expert Diabetologists you can speak to, to help you live a healthier life. You can also book a diabetes test on the app and get your results as soon as possible. To use these services on the DRO Health app, visit www.drohealth.com to get started.

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In Nigeria, the annual recorded number of cervical cancer cases are 12,075 while 7,968 cases lead to deaths. Unfortunately, most sexually active men and women have already been exposed to HPV infection. There are over 100 different types of HPV but the low risk types cause no health danger. However, there are medically tested vaccines that can prevent HPV from being contracted.

HPV (types 6 & 11) are major causes of genital warts, but they are regarded as low-risk HPV. While HPV (types 16 & 18) are the major causes of HPV related cancers and are regarded as high-risk HPV. Medically, there is currently no cure for HPV but there is a vaccine that can prevent infection and help to keep you safe. Also, regular HPV screening can help detect infection early and manage/prevent complications.

What are the causes of Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?

As mentioned earlier, HPV infection is transmitted through sexual intercourse including oral sex. It is passed through skin-to-skin contact and you can contract HPV even though your partner shows no symptoms.

Apart from sexually Transmitted HPV infections, a pregnant woman can transfer HPV to her baby during child birth; however this happens in rare cases. This makes the child to develop a respiratory issue called Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis, where the child has HPV related warts in their throat or airways.

What are the symptoms of Human Papillomavirus?

Most sexually active people have had common HPV at some point in their lives and it disappears after two years without any symptoms. While HPV has no major symptoms, it only shows other symptoms when it has caused another life threatening problem like cancer. For this reason, it is medically advisable to take regular HPV tests early enough or get the vaccine. You should speak to a doctor on the DRO Health app if you notice any growth around your genital area. Early detection and regular tests can help to prevent future complications.

What are the prevention methods to avoid contracting Human Papillomavirus?

• Get a HPV vaccine.

Getting HPV vaccinated protects you from any HPV related issues. However vaccination is not advised for adults older than 26 years. If you decide that you want to take the vaccine and you’re older than 26, you should speak to a doctor first to get a professional view. Vaccines work best for people between the ages of 9-25 years. You can book to get the HPV vaccine on the DRO Health app.

• Get screened for cervical cancer.

For women aged 30-65 years, regular cervical cancer screening tests can help to identify HPV infection early enough before it becomes a case of cancer. If you get an abnormal pap test result, you should speak to a doctor immediately to get advise on the next steps to take.

• Always stay safe and protected during sexual intercourse.

The best way to stay safe while having sex is to use a condom. Although condoms do not fully protect against HPV, because it can infect areas that are not covered by condom. However safe sexual practices, early screening and vaccination can protect one from HPV.

There are many types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), some go away on their own, while other types cause serious health challenges. The best way to avoid contracting a threatening type of HPV is to get vaccinated. The HPV vaccine serves as a preventive measure for every form of the virus. On the DRO Health app, you can book for the HPV vaccine or a cervical cancer screening test. Simply visit www.drohealth.com to download the app and get started.

The post Human Papillomavirus (HPV): The Symptoms and Preventions. appeared first on DRO Health.

The changes that occur inwardly- your digestive and respiratory systems- should be monitored carefully and routinely through diagnostic tests and checkups. Getting diagnostic tests helps to detect any lurking diseases or conditions early enough.

Some diagnostic tests cost more than others, however, you can book affordable diagnostic tests through the DRO Health app.

In this post, you’ll learn about 7 important diagnostic tests every adult should take. These tests are vital to your wellbeing and shouldn’t be ignored.

1. Blood pressure test:

A blood pressure test is bound to save your heart from a log of future health complications like a heart attack, stroke, heart disease, and others. Your blood pressure is connected to the most vital organs in the human body – The heart. The blood pressure also connects to the arteries, brain, kidneys and eyes.

If you’re under 40 years old, you should take a blood pressure test at least every 2 years. However at over 40 years, you are prone to a higher blood pressure. Take constant blood pressure tests and regulate your lifestyle. High blood pressure is the biggest cause of a heart disease.

2. Diabetes test:

As an adult, you should ensure that you get tested for diabetes at least every 2 years. A diabetes test involves a fasting blood sugar level test. This test measures the amount of glucose in your blood after fasting (the time before you have breakfast). If you’re over 40 years of age or your family has a history of diabetes, it’s best to get tested every year. Getting tested for diabetes helps to prevent a lot of future complications in your digestive system early enough.

3. Sexually transmissible infection (STI) test:

If you’re already sexually active as an adult, it is important to get tested regularly. The most common type of STI is Chlamydia, and it is important to get tested for it every year. Other STIs like HIV/AIDS, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Herpes, require a more complicated set of tests with a doctor’s recommendation.

4. Cervical Screening test:

Early cervical screening tests help detect and prevent cervical cancer. This screening test, aka The pap smear test, checks for human papilloma virus in a woman’s body system. The HP virus is the cause of cervical cancer, but if detected early enough can be prevented or treated.

Cervical screening test is recommended for women who are sexually active and are between the ages of 21 to 74 years. This screening test is best recommended every 3 years for women between 21-65 years old.

5. Breasts screening test:

This type of test is also called a Mammogram. It is the best type of test to detect breast cancer early enough. Yearly mammograms are recommended for women who are in there 40s and above. However, women in their 20s and 30s should get basic breast screening tests every 3 years.As a woman if you notice the slightest change in the way your breast looks or feels, see a doctor immediately or book a breast screening test.

6. Prostate cancer test:

Getting your prostate checked regularly as a man is medically advised. Prostate cancer mostly affects men who are above 45 years, however early routine checks can prevent future complications.

Prostate screening tests are of two types, which are:

• Digital rectal examination (DRE):

A Urologist or doctor inserts a finger into the rectum to feel if the prostate is enlarged or has lumps.

• Prostate-Specific antigen (PSA) test:

This test measures the blood level of a protein produced by the prostate gland.

7. Hepatitis B virus test:

Hepatitis B vaccine is best administered to a child from birth. The hepatitis B is an infection that affects the liver and can cause other life threatening diseases. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV).

Hepatitis B is mostly spread from mother to child at birth, but it can be spread through other unhealthy ways. There is no cure for hepatitis B, however a vaccine can help to prevent it. Also taking regular hepatitis tests is recommended to detect it early. You can book to take the vaccine that is safe and 100% effective on the DRO Health app today.

DRO Health has recently partnered with Chem Health to provide diagnostic tests for our users in Abuja, Nigeria. You can book a test on the DRO Health app courtesy of Chem Health and get the best service at home or at their lab. Getting routine diagnostic tests early enough prevents you from having health complications that involve spending heavily on treatments.

The DRO Health app is available for download on the app store (iOS) or on the Google playstore (android).

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September 1st-30th 2022 is recognized as World Suicide prevention month, and this year’s theme is “Creating Hope Through Action.” According to the World Health Organization (W.H.O) about 703,000 commit suicide yearly, and millions of people battle with suicidal thoughts and exhibit suicidal behaviors. According to a report, Nigeria has the highest number of suicide deaths compared to other African countries.

By encouraging and creating hope through action, we decided to speak to a suicide survivor and close relative of a person who committed suicide. In this post, she lets us in on how her brother’s death affected her, how she battled constant suicide thoughts, her recovery process and where she is mentally now. This is a story of survival and hope.

Before his suicide and death

My brother was the best thing that ever happened to me; he was my gift from heaven. We were twins and we did almost everything together. If I had a bad day he was the first to notice, if I had good news he was the first person I’d run to before anyone else in the world. I come from a Christian home where my parents are fanatics, especially my mother. My brother was the liveliest person that existed on earth and there was nothing you could do to piss him off. He was also a good Christian and he showed it and embodied Christian values.

Growing up, my father always wanted my brother to be a Doctor for reasons nobody understood. My brother was a bright student, so my father believed that he could be a doctor and he put his foot down on it. On the other hand, my brother wanted to be an Accountant, he had brains for Mathematics and all those calculations. He respected my father and went on to study Medicine, but after 7 years and constant strikes, he had spent almost 9 years in the University. My brother always pleaded with my father to let him switch courses but my father was more concerned about what people would say and how he wasn’t going to be the ‘father of a doctor.’

When he committed suicide

I always thought of suicide deaths as something that only existed in movies, and could never happen to me. On the day it happened, I woke up feeling sick and nauseous but I couldn’t tell why. We had our family devotion where my brother took the morning prayers and prayed for an extra 30 minutes, while my siblings and I were wondering why. My parents felt proud because he prayed fervently, while my other siblings and I teased him. Schools were on strike, so we were all home except my other siblings who followed my mother to the market. My brother and I mostly stayed at home because we were home buddies.

At exactly 3:27pm on a Tuesday five years ago, I came into my brother’s room and found him hanging from the rope tied to a ceiling fan in his room. I cannot remember what happened after that because after I screamed for help I fainted and woke up in a hospital two days later. That’s how traumatized I was, I can only remember what his face looked like and how I thought it was a ghost. The days after I left the hospital, I lived like a Zombie because I could hardly eat food or drink water or even talk to anybody. I wanted to die and I looked for ways to end my life. I thought life was tasteless without my brother.

My parents are fanatics, so everyone prayed, we weren’t allowed to blame God, they only asked God why and said it was his will. I was so mad at my parents and for those years, I hated them. At some point, my father blamed himself for pushing my brother to the wall and causing him to take his life. He went through his own torture, and I saw how much he suffered within himself for it. After my brother’s death, his things were moved, people came to visit us, Pastors came in and out and yet I couldn’t think of never seeing my brother again.

Finding Therapy and forgiving my parents

In March 2019, I attempted suicide.

I felt that praying away my sadness would help because that is what my brother would have done. When praying and fasting wasn’t working, I found out about how people cut or hurt themselves to escape and feel pain at the same time. I started slicing my body with razors and I started doing drugs at the same time. My first introduction to drugs started with brownies and from there I graduated to chewing it or always taking it with my meals. During the Covid-19 lockdown, I was almost useless as I couldn’t live a day without weed or alcohol; it helped me get away from the pain and depression for a while. When the lockdown was easing a bit, one of my very close friends came to visit and her visit changed my life. I cried and lamented to her about my life. She was the first person to tell me that I had to see a Therapist because I was depressed and it could get worse if I attempted another suicide. She introduced me to a Therapist who I have been going to almost everyday since 2020.

After I started therapy, I found yoga and I have never been happier. I’m not where I was before my brother died, but I have definitely come a long way from who I used to be. I’ve forgiven my father because I saw that he couldn’t forgive himself, I’ve forgiven my mother for egging my father and never siding with my brother. My two siblings are being the best they can always be and we have bonded more than ever. I can say that my brother’s suicide led me to therapy and I’m on a conscious journey to a positive mental health.

Many persons in Nigeria struggle everyday with their mental health. In taking conscious steps to create a safe space for mental health patients in Nigeria, DRO Health offers a mental health package. On the DRO Health app, we have Therapists waiting to speak with and also help you on your journey. Visit the DRO Health app to speak to a therapist today.

The post My Brother’s Suicide Led Me to Therapy. appeared first on DRO Health.

The prostate is a male organ, small in size, yet very essential to the male reproductive part. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that is located between the base of your penis and bladder. The primary job of your prostate is to provide the seminal fluid that takes your sperm into your partner, that allows you to ejaculate or orgasm. As a man when you get older, the cells in your prostate may begin to malfunction resulting in health challenges. The most common condition that affects your prostate is the Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). However, the deadliest condition that affects a man’s prostate is prostate cancer.

If you want to keep your prostate healthy, here are a few tips to stay active and prevent future complications.

1. Get your prostate checked regularly.

According to statistics most Nigerian men don’t check their prostate till they are at least 40 years old. Most men only check their prostate when they start to have issues with urinating and maintaining water in their body systems. Getting your prostate checked regularly is the number one tip to having a healthy prostate. A prostate exam consists of a Digital Rectal Exam and a Urologist is the best medical expert to check your prostate. You can book a consultation with a Urologist on the DRO Health app.

2. Eat more green vegetables.

To keep your prostate healthy, you should eat more green and leafy vegetables. Most green vegetables contain necessary vitamins and antioxidants that help to keep your prostate healthy. For more vegetable options you should try to eat foods that have vegetables like Ugu , Efo Riro (spinach), Green, broccoli, lettuce, cabbage, and others.

3. Cut down on unhealthy habits.

Unhealthy habits generally reduce your life span, and the same applies to your prostate. Some popular unhealthy habits that most men engage in are smoking, drinking, eating excess red meat, not exercising regularly, unhealthy eating habits among others. Smoking is a major contribution to developing prostate cancer for people that smoke, and it also cause its own health problems. If you’re still young, the best time to get rid of these unhealthy habits is now so you can go on to enjoy your old age with a healthy prostate.

4. Maintain a positive mental health and manage your stress level.

The effects of constant stress over a long period of time is that it can weaken your body’s immune system, which in turn affects your hormonal balance. When your immune system is weak and unable to fight, your body system becomes vulnerable to diseases. One of the best ways to reduce your stress level is to always maintain a positive mental health state. You should actively figure out ways to help you stay positive and stress-free. One of our recommended ways is to subscribe to the DRO Health mental health package, where you can talk to a therapist and use our free in-app mood diary.

5. Have an active sex life with your partner.

According to statistics, men who are in their 40s and ejaculate up to 21 times in a month have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. While men in their 40s who don’t ejaculate up to ten times in a month have a higher risk of developing prostate related issues. Frequent ejaculation helps your prostate and plays a huge role in maintaining a healthy prostate gland.

Final words.

The topic of maintaining a healthy prostate is not yet a popular concern in Nigeria. However research shows that black men have a higher chance of developing prostate cancer. This should be a wakeup call to Nigerian men in their 30s, 40s, 50s and higher to adopt a healthy lifestyle for a healthier prostate. You can start adopting any of these 5 tips to ensure you don’t develop any prostate related problems in future.

On the DRO Health app, we have expert Urologists and General Practitioners who have the needed experience to give you the best medical advice about your prostate. You can book a virtual consultation today here.

The post 5 Vital Tips To Keep Your Prostate Healthy appeared first on DRO Health.

July 28th every year is a day set aside to raise awareness and encourage action about the virus called hepatitis. It is also a day to celebrate millions of people worldwide living with hepatitis and still surviving. For July 28th 2022, the World Health Organization tagged the theme as ‘Bringing Hepatitis Care Closer To You.’

According to research, 20 million Nigerians currently live with hepatitis. However, this years theme aims to raise more awareness about the virus and also to bring testing centers closer to rural communities worldwide.

What Is Hepatitis?

According to World Health Organization, hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that is caused by a variety of infectious viruses and non-infectious agents leading to a range of health problems, some of which can be fatal.

Hepatitis virus has 5 different types, A, B, C, D, E. All of these types affect the liver in the human body, however hepatitis B and C lead to chronic liver diseases and cause more deaths around the world.

Key statistics according to World Health Organization.

• 345 million people globally live with hepatitis B or C infection.

• Almost 3,000 people die from hepatitis B or C everyday.

• 90% of people living with viral hepatitis are unaware that they have it.

• Over 3,000 people die everyday from liver diseases caused by hepatitis.

• 5 million Nigerians lose their lives yearly from hepatitis related complications.

How To Protect Yourself From Hepatitis.

Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver in the human body. Viral hepatitis can be acute (lasts less than 6 months) or chronic (lasts longer). Viral hepatitis is a communicable virus and it is mostly gotten through sexual intercourse with an infected partner.

Most people recover from hepatitis, but more people die from its complications, as it:

• Destroys the liver tissue

• Weakens the body immune system

• Causes liver disease or cancer

• Leads to death

To protect yourself against getting infected with hepatitis, you should take these precautionary measures:

Avoid having sex with an infected person

Hepatitis B can be transmitted through sexual intercourse. It is transmitted through contact with vaginal fluid, semen or blood. However, using a condom can help protect against it. The best way to protect yourself from getting infected is to avoid having sex with anyone who has any strain of hepatitis.

Always use sterile injections or needles

Sharing unsterilized injections or needles can widen the spread of hepatitis C. To avoid this, it is best to always ensure than only sterilized objects are used to touch your skin in a hospital, clinic or laboratory. Hospitals should also also avoid reusing injections or needles for any reason.

Vaccinating a newborn child against hepatitis

An infected pregnant woman can infect her child with hepatitis if the baby isn’t vaccinated. The best way vaccination works with a newborn is to ensure your child is given the shots 12 hours immediately after he or she is born. The HBIG or hepatitis B vaccine shots can be given up to 4 times to a new born baby to protect them.

Get tested for hepatitis

A major way to protect yourself is to always get tested for hepatitis. If you suspect that you have been exposed to the virus, get tested immediately. You can book a test with us at DRO Health or you can go to a hospital nearest to you to get tested.

Every 30 seconds someone loses their life from an illness related to hepatitis. This years’ theme ‘ Bringing Hepatitis Care Closer To You’ is a wake-up call for people, health agencies, government bodies to bring testing centers and vaccines closer to the people who have no access to basic healthcare.

At DRO Health we are contributing our quota to ensure that we bring care closer to people. To book a test for hepatitis, simply download our app at www.drohealth.com . Click on ‘book a test’ and you have your test done conveniently and at an affordable rate.

Stay safe, get tested, stay healthy.

The post How To Protect Yourself From Hepatitis. appeared first on DRO Health.

In this post, we will explain who a mental health therapist is, why you should consider therapy and 5 signs to show that you need to talk to a therapist. At DRO Health, we have expert mental health therapists waiting to talk to you.

Who Is A Mental Health Therapist?

Some people call them Shrinks, others call them Psychotherapists, however they mean the same thing. A mental health therapist helps to treat patients dealing with mental health issues or behavioural disorders.

A mental health therapist is specialized in dealing with issues like grief, trauma, mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, addictions). Mental health therapists help to evaluate patients’ behavior and mental issues. They talk to them professionally about their thought, feelings and experiences. Doing this helps them to recommend treatment and rehabilitation plans for patients.

Why Should You Consider Mental Health Therapy?

Mental health therapy benefits people who are struggling with life issues, emotional challenges, behavioral disorders and mental health stressors. Seeing a Psychotherapist can help improve greatly mental health challenges.

With therapy you get to share your experience with a professional friend whose duty is to help you get better. Sometimes they recommend medications but constant therapy works more wonders than drugs. As with many mental health issues, sharing a problem can help the symptoms reduce overtime. Therapy teaches people to cope with and manage their symptoms on a long-term. These coping mechanisms last even after therapy ends.

5 Signs You Should See A Mental Health Therapist.

Deciding when to see a mental health therapist can be a challenge. You might be having a bad day or a slow week or even feeling a unmotivated to do anything, does that call for seeing a therapist?

We have highlighted 5 signs you should pick up on to know when you should book to speak to a mental health therapist. There are other signs you should look out for but these 5 are primary signs. They are:

You keep having anxiety or panic attacks.

As humans, it’s in our DNA to get worried sometimes. From work, family, friends, food choices, certain issues are beyond our control. But when anxiety or panic turns into a recurring cycle that affects your body and how you relate with people, it’s a sign that you need to speak with a mental health therapist immediately.

Constant mental or physical fatigue.

A constant physical or mental fatigue is a symptom of early stage depression. It’s normal to feel tired on some days and unmotivated to go about your daily activities. However, when it goes on from days to weeks and even months, it might be time to book a session with a mental health therapist.

Losing interest in things you love.

Losing interest in activities you used to love is a sign of depression or anxiety. Maybe you used to love reading novels, playing football, cooking or traveling, but you’ve lost interest in these activities. It’s a major sign that you should talk to a professional to know if it’s a symptom of anxiety or depression.

Being constantly overwhelmed

Do you always feel like you have too many things to do at once, and you end up doing none? Constantly feeling overwhelmed is a sign of anxiety, which is a also a mental health issue. If you feel like you’re always tired from thinking about too many things, and your mind is always reeling; you should talk to a therapist.

A feeling of constant anger or resentment

Getting angry over certain events is a normal part of human existence. However, when anger or resentment becomes a constant occurrence it might be a sign to see a therapist. Anger or resentment might be as a result of a suppressed feeling or event. Take this as a sign to schedule a session with a mental health therapist today.

At DRO Health, we care about your total wellbeing inclusive of your mental health. In Nigeria, not many people are confident with sharing their mental health struggles with a stranger. However, talking to a professional mental health therapist goes a long way in eliminating symptoms. If you’ve ever questioned the need to see a Therapist, this post is the sign that you need to. If you’re also experiencing any sign listed above, you should speak to a mental health therapist on the DRO Health app. On the app, there are experts waiting to get you to a better place mentally. You’ve got this.

The post When Should You See A Mental Health Therapist? appeared first on DRO Health.

What Is a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a simple surgical procedure performed by a doctor (Urologist) in a hospital. A vasectomy is a birth control option for men, where the small tubes in the scrotum (vans deferens) that carry sperm are cut. Once the tubes are cut or blocked, your sperm can’t leave your reproductive organ to make a woman pregnant. Getting a vasectomy procedure is quick, safe, and effective, and you can decide to leave the hospital immediately after getting the procedure done. A vasectomy procedure has two types: the incision method and the non-scalpel or no-cut method.

Now that you know what a vasectomy procedure is, and what it involves, let’s get into answering those popular questions men ask about this birth control option. For this, we spoke to 3 Nigerian men (Chris-40, Alade-40 and Anonymous- 33) about their experiences and thoughts getting a vasectomy procedure done. They shared their triggers, positives and how it all happened.

1. How would you explain a vasectomy procedure to a layman?

Chris: “It is birth control method for men through a minor surgical procedure to cut or seal the tubes that carry a man’s sperm and permanently prevent pregnancy.”

Alade: “It is a medical procedure to remove a small section of a tube that connects your testicles to your penis, to stop sperm cells being released when you ejaculate.”

Anon: “A vasectomy is a procedure that reduces the risk of a pregnancy from unprotected sex. The tube that carries sperm from the testicles (balls) to the urethra (in the penis) is cut. After undergoing this procedure, a man will orgasm/cum as usual but without any of his sperm in it.”

2. Simple and precise! So, when did you decide you wanted to get a vasectomy procedure done?

Chris: “I’ve always wanted only 2 children and I knew we (my wife and I) would need some sort of birth control. Did some research on the side effects and I decided the best option for us was for me to get “the snip”.”

Alade: “I started thinking about it when my second child was born. My wife and I had always wanted two children and when my younger daughter turned three, I started looking into it seriously and decided to get a vasectomy done.”

Anon: “Once I realized I did not want to have any more children, I made the choice to get a vasectomy. Nothing triggered my decision but having one child I decided it was enough.”

3. As a Nigerian man, what convinced you to go ahead with getting a vasectomy? That is despite the many fears and rumors about it in our society?

Chris: “Most of my friends are non-Nigerians and some older guys had done it and they told me it was no big deal. I tell my cynical friends who are still playing the field that it is the sure fire way to prevent permanent offspring from temporary situations.”

Alade: “A close friend of mine had the procedure without any issues and we were in similar circumstances, so it reinforced that I was on the right path. Also, my outlook on life was shaped strongly by my Dad who encouraged, as far as possible, a clear-minded approach to making decisions, making them based on what suits the nuclear family best, not extended family/societal expectations. And I was living in the UK, where there’s a lot of information available and a well developed and trusted medical system. I had the confidence that things will go as planned (aided by some prayers of course!)”

Anon: “I did a lot of reading about the procedure and asked a lot of questions from the doctor before going ahead with it.”

4. What was the vasectomy procedure like?

Chris: ” I had the non-scalpel method and I was given a local anesthetic so I didn’t feel any pain during the procedure. There was some discomfort as the doctor tried to locate the tubes and the cauterizing part was a bit surprising. The cauterizing smelt faintly like burning smell. The doctor explained that he was applying heat to block the tubes- a bit like soldering iron. I didn’t feel a thing but the slight smell and the nurse explained what was going on”

Alade: “You go to see a family doctor (GP) who discusses with you, asks you whether you really want to do it, or if you’re making a knee-jerk decision after having a baby or something else, and if all goes well refers you to a surgeon. The surgeon then explains what it involves, and an appointment is booked. On the day, take a taxi to the clinic, undress, get the local anesthetic applied and then the surgeon/nurse does the procedure. The procedure takes about half an hour in total, and you get told not to drive, wear tight fitting underwear and to get enough rest.”

Anon: “The procedure lasted for about 20-30 minutes. There was some pain and discomfort but it was not anything I couldn’t chest.”

5. Okay, a straight to the point process. Does getting a vasectomy hurt and what is the healing process like?

Chris: “I was advised by my doctor not to have any alcohol 2 days before and 2 days after as that could affect blood pressure and lead to excessive bleeding. I tried not to move around for the next 2 days also. When I experienced any pain I used paracetamol. A good tip is to have a bag of ice or frozen peas at hand, it reduces the discomfort in the hours after the procedure.”

Alade: “In my case I felt some mild pain but that was because the anesthetic hadn’t kicked in enough. I’ve felt far more pain getting hit by a ball in the balls to give you a sense of the pain level. The healing process requires not wearing tight fitting briefs and avoiding any impact to the area. The dressing comes off after a few days and there’s no visible/noticeable scar at the end. I felt a dull aching pain for a few days afterwards but pain was mostly gone in a week or so.”

Anon: “Mine hurt, I can’t speak for others. I was sore for about two weeks and I had to walk carefully, plus no running or jumping. The pain disappeared over the following weeks. A year+ later, I’m completely fine.”

6. Before getting a vasectomy, what fears or concerns did you have?

Chris: “No major ones. I just hoped there would be no complications that would delay my return to a normal life, sports and other activities.”

Alade: “All medical procedures have a risk of complications, and my main fears were I might suffer from recurring pain in my testicles, and the pain putting me off sex afterwards. After doing some research I felt the risk of these were quite low and they generally got resolved. I was also concerned that my wife wouldn’t be onboard with the decision, and she initially was hesitant. After much discussion and research she reluctantly agreed it was the right thing for us to do.”

Anon: “I was afraid the doctor would make a mistake, touch something he’s not supposed to touch and things would stop functioning how they used to. If that happened, how would I explain myself?”

7. Many men are most concerned about ‘ ejaculation ‘. Does getting a vasectomy stop semen from coming out during ejaculation?

Chris: “Not at all! Zero difference, except for the absence of sperm in the cum (semen) that produces babies. An active sex life without worrying about more children in this economy is better.”

Alade: “It had no effect whatsoever. The semen is produced by the prostate and that isn’t affected by the procedure at all – the only thing is the sperm (army) cells aren’t deployed into the semen as used to happen before.”

Anon: “No there is no difference at all to any sexual experience.”

8. Has getting a vasectomy reduced your sex drive or had any effects on your sex life?

Chris: “Not at all! It has had no effect on my sex drive or sex life.”

Alade: “Getting a vasectomy has not reduced my sex drive, instead I’d say I feel quite liberated to have sex now without having to worry about the risk of a pregnancy. Sex is now fully a recreational activity for me now, and though work and life still get in the way of having as much as I’d like, I’m enjoying the freedom.”

Anon: “No, I haven’t experienced any difference in my sex life.”

9. Have you had any regrets about getting a vasectomy so far?

Chris: “None at all! I highly recommend a vasectomy as it is the most effective at 98% with the least side effects and disruption to general life. Only go ahead as a man if you’re sure you no longer want to have children.”

Alade: “None whatsoever. I think it’s one of the best adult decisions I’ve made. I initially worried that I might later think I wanted more children, but I haven’t. I think that’s because I didn’t rush into it and considered it sufficiently before going ahead. Men interested in a vasectomy should research, to find out as much as possible and try to get information about people’s real-life experiences.”

Anon: “I’ve had zero regrets so far.”

10. Okay, one more question. Where did you get your vasectomy procedure done and how much did it cost you in total?

Chris: “I was referred by my GP (General Practitioner) in the UK (United Kingdom) after an initial interview and the cost was covered by the NHS. Private procedures in the UK cost between £300 – £650 depending on location.”

Alade: “I had it done in the UK (United Kingdom), where I reside, so it was free on the health service.”

Anon: “I went to Marie Stopes clinic in Abuja, Nigeria. In total it cost me about N50,000 (fifty thousand naira).

Getting a vasectomy is not as complicated as it is thought to be in Nigeria. The conversation about birth control options doesn’t stop at the desks of women alone, as a man (father or husband) you can choose this safe procedure. We have Urologists on the DRO Health app that can give you a medical perspective and follow-up. Download our app and book a consultation in 30 minutes with #1,500 today.

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