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.

Endometriosis is a disease that affects about 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide, and it can have a significant impact on your physical, mental, and social well-being. But what exactly is Endometriosis and how does it affect your health? In this blog post, we’ll dive into what Endometriosis is and explore its impact on women’s health, what causes it, what are the symptoms and complications, and how it can be diagnosed and treated.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, typically in the pelvic area. It can grow on various organs in the pelvic area, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel, or rectum. In rare cases, it can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs or brain. This misplaced tissue continues to act as it would inside the uterus, thickening and breaking down during each menstrual cycle. However, since it’s located outside the uterus, it has no way to exit the body. As a result, it causes inflammation, scarring, and pain.

The ectopic endometrial tissue responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, just like the normal endometrium. This means that it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds every month. However, unlike the normal endometrium, which exits the body through the vagina as menstrual blood, the ectopic tissue has no way to escape. This causes inflammation, pain, scarring, and adhesions (abnormal attachments between organs) in the affected areas.

Endometriosis affects approximately 1 in 10 women worldwide, making it a prevalent condition. Unfortunately, it often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years, with an average delay of 7-10 years in diagnosis. This delay is due to a lack of awareness and the normalization of period pain in society. Women often suffer in silence, believing that severe pain is just a regular part of being a woman. A study conducted in Lagos revealed that 40% of women with infertility issues were diagnosed with Endometriosis. This suggests a significant impact on women’s reproductive health in Nigeria. With increased awareness and access to proper healthcare, we can empower women to seek timely diagnosis and treatment.

On the DRO Health app, you can speak to a General Practitioner or a Gynecologist if you need to speak to a professional about any pains you might be experiencing as a woman. Visit www.drohealth.com for more information on the next steps.

What causes Endometriosis?

The exact cause of Endometriosis is not known, as several factors may contribute to its development. Some of these factors include:

1. Retrograde menstruation: This occurs when menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows back through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity at the time that blood is flowing out of the body through the cervix and vagina during periods. Retrograde menstruation can result in endometrial-like cells being deposited outside the uterus where they can implant and grow.

2. Cellular metaplasia: This occurs when cells change from one form to another. Cells outside the uterus change into endometrial-like cells and start to grow.

3. Stem cells: These are cells that can give rise to different types of cells in the body. Stem cells may migrate from the bone marrow or other tissues to the pelvic area and differentiate into endometrial-like cells.

4. Genetic factors: Some women may inherit genes that make them more prone to developing endometriosis or having more severe symptoms.

5. Immune system dysfunction: Some women may have an impaired immune system that fails to recognize and eliminate the ectopic endometrial cells or produces inflammatory substances that aggravate the condition.

6. Environmental factors: Some chemicals or toxins in the environment may disrupt the hormonal balance or affect the immune system and increase the risk of Endometriosis.

What are the symptoms and complications of Endometriosis?

The most common symptom of Endometriosis is pain. The pain can vary in intensity, frequency, location, and timing. Some women may experience pain only during their periods (dysmenorrhea), while others may have pain throughout their cycle or even constantly. The pain can affect different body parts depending on where the ectopic tissue is located. Beyond the excruciating menstrual pain, Endometriosis can manifest through a variety of symptoms. For example, some women may have pain in their lower abdomen, pelvis, back, or legs; others may have pain during or after sex (dyspareunia), urination (dysuria), or bowel movements (dyschezia).

Other symptoms of endometriosis may include:

1. Chronic pelvic pain: Women with endometriosis often experience persistent pelvic pain that may worsen during menstruation or sexual intercourse.
2. Fatigue and low energy levels: The constant pain and inflammation can drain a woman’s energy, affecting her quality of life. Some women may have excessive bleeding during their periods (menorrhagia) or bleeding between periods (metrorrhagia). This can lead to anaemia (low red blood cell count) and fatigue.
3. Painful bowel movements and urination: Some women may have endometriosis in their bowel or bladder, which can cause symptoms such as constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, nausea, vomiting, blood in the urine or stool, or urinary tract infections. Endometriosis can cause pain and discomfort during bowel movements and urination, sometimes leading to misdiagnoses like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
4. Infertility: Endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility in women, affecting up to 50% of those struggling to conceive. This can be caused by scarring or adhesions that block or damage the fallopian tubes or ovaries; inflammation or hormonal imbalance that affects ovulation or implantation; or immune system dysfunction that interferes with fertilization or embryo development.
5. Other complications: In rare cases, endometriosis can cause serious complications such as bowel obstruction, bladder rupture, kidney damage, lung collapse, or brain haemorrhage due to the spread of the ectopic tissue to these organs.

The emotional and psychological toll of endometriosis cannot be overlooked. Coping with chronic pain, fertility concerns, and the impact on relationships can lead to anxiety, depression, and a decreased sense of well-being. It’s crucial to provide emotional support and resources to help women navigate these challenges.

How is Endometriosis diagnosed and treated?

If you suspect you might have endometriosis, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Your doctor will likely begin with a detailed medical history, and physical examination, and may recommend imaging tests or laparoscopy (a minimally invasive surgery) for a definitive diagnosis. Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows the doctor to see and biopsy the ectopic tissue inside the abdomen.

However, laparoscopy is not always available or affordable for many women, especially in low-resource settings. Therefore, some doctors may rely on other methods such as medical history, physical examination, ultrasound, blood tests, or empirical treatment to diagnose or rule out endometriosis.

To book an affordable diagnostic test anywhere in Nigeria, download the DRO Health app here. Book a test on your mobile phone, get your test done at a centre and receive your results within 7 days.

While there is no cure for endometriosis, various treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These may include pain medications, hormonal therapies, or in severe cases, surgery to remove endometrial tissue. Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual, taking into account factors like pain severity, desire for fertility, and overall health.

The key to overcoming endometriosis lies in raising awareness and breaking the silence. Educating ourselves and others can empower women to seek timely medical intervention, reduce diagnostic delays, and enhance their overall well-being. In Nigeria, organizations like the Endometriosis Support Group Nigeria (ESGN) are actively working to create awareness, provide support, and advocate for better healthcare services for women with Endometriosis.

Our final words to you,

Endometriosis is a common but often misunderstood condition that affects many women around the world. By understanding the symptoms, impact, and available treatment options, we can support women in their journey towards better health and well-being. Together, let’s break the silence, raise awareness, and ensure that no woman suffers in silence. Remember, your pain matters, and you deserve to live a life free from endometriosis.

If you suspect you may have endometriosis or know someone who does, please consult with a doctor or a Gynecologist by visiting our website www.drohealth.com. Our professionals are always ready to speak to you.

The post Beyond Period Pain: Understanding Endometriosis and Its Impact on Women’s Health appeared first on DRO Health.

As a result of the ‘need-to’ behavior exhibited by many adults, it has become important to bring the hospital closer to people, thereby making healthcare and medical related issues affordable and convenient. With the presence of telehealth companies like DRO Health, getting immediate access to a healthcare professional’s opinion is easier than it was 10 years ago. With the DRO Health app, all you need to do is download the app and speak to medical professionals and book diagnostic tests at anywhere and anytime in Nigeria, it’s that convenient. So, stop delaying on getting a medical check-up and visit our website once you understand why regular medical check-ups are important.

This post will discuss why regular medical check-ups are necessary and very important for your well-being.

1. Early detection of health issues.

When you embark on regular medical check-ups, you give room for early detection of health problems before they deteriorate to more severe conditions. For example, issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels are best detected in their early stages, thus preventing complications that arise when they reach an advanced stage. Likewise, with heart diseases, regular check-ups help to reduce the risks significantly, and statements by the American Heart Association back this.

2. Management of chronic conditions.

For persons with chronic conditions such as hypertension or diabetes, regular medical check-ups are crucial to help monitor and manage the situation effectively. These regular check-ups help your doctor or healthcare providers evaluate your present condition, adjust your medication or treatment plan, and detect and prevent any potential or oncoming complications. According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), regular check-ups can help persons with chronic conditions better manage their health and improve their quality of life.

3. Prevention of health issues.

With preventive healthcare practice, early identification of risk factors would enable you and your doctor to embark on preventive measures. For example, regular screenings for a type of cancer, such as breast and colon cancer, can help detect the presence of cancerous growth in its earliest stages. This then makes it much easier to treat. In addition, according to the American Cancer Society, regular screening can help detect certain cancers before symptoms develop, leading to better treatment outcomes. Regular blood pressure checks can also help prevent heart diseases, and cholesterol screenings can help prevent the occurrence of strokes and this is backed by statements from the American Heart Association.

4. Building long-term relationships with Healthcare providers.

Regular medical check-ups help build a relationship with your healthcare provider, which is crucial for your long-term health. A good relationship with your healthcare provider can help ensure that you receive personalized care that meets your unique needs. It also lets your healthcare provider know your medical history, family history, and lifestyle factors that may affect your health.

In the cases of emergencies, there would already be an established relationship and history that would make treatment easier and faster. Also, accessibility is better when there is an already-established relationship between the patient and the healthcare provider.

5. Improvement of mental health conditions.

Regular medical check-ups benefit not only physical health but also improves one’s mental health. For example, regular medical check-ups can help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in patients. In addition, regular check-ups can provide reassurance that you are in good health and reduce any worry or anxiety you may have about your health.

6. Cost-Effectiveness.

You can save the cost of healthcare by carrying out regular medical check-ups. This is because early detection helps prevent health issues from becoming severe and thus requires expensive medical treatments. Therefore, regular check-ups can lead to cost savings by reducing the need for hospitalizations and emergency room visits. In addition, by simply prescribing medication for more minor conditions, you save yourself the cost of spending on drugs for more severe conditions.

7. Peace of mind.

Regular medical check-ups can provide peace of mind by ensuring that you are in good health and addressing any concerns you may have. According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, regular medical check-ups are associated with lower stress and anxiety levels. In addition, a certain level of confidence exists when you are fully aware of your health condition due to a recent check-up. It puts you in control of your health and more in charge of how to conduct your life and nutrition with respect to the state of your health.

Our final words,

Regular medical check-ups are essential to preventive healthcare and are crucial for maintaining good health and preventing health issues from becoming severe. In addition, frequent check-ups allow healthcare providers to detect health issues early, manage chronic conditions, prevent health issues, build relationships with patients, and improve mental health. The importance of regular medical check-ups cannot be overstated, and everyone should make them a part of their healthcare routine. Therefore, it is essential to schedule regular medical check-ups to ensure that you are taking care of your overall health and well-being.

With the DRO Health mobile app, you get access to healthcare that is affordable, fast and convenient. Visit www.drohealth.com today.

The post The Importance and Need For Regular Medical Checkups. appeared first on DRO Health.

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.

For today’s post, we spoke to Anne, a 27 years old Nigerian woman who attributes having sex while on her period to being the best sex she has ever had. Read what she has to say.

DRO Health: There are many reservations with the topic of having sex while on your period. What were your own reservations or fears?

Anne: Before I tried it, I’d read so many tweets and opinions about it especially on Twitter. There is a certain viral video on Twitter where a babe said that she’d allow her man lick her out when she’s on her period, and Nigerian Twitter almost burned that day. It sounded weird to me, but I’m very open-minded and I understand that people love and explore different things when it comes to sex. My fears were only about if I was going to keep bleeding during sex and create a mess or if my partner was going to be open to the idea.

DRO Health: Was having sex on your period a sexual fantasy for you or it just happened randomly?

Anne: Honestly, I had thought of it but just on the surface. I mean, how many Nigerian men or women will agree to it? So I’d thought about it, but again my fears about it always overshadowed my thoughts. It happened so randomly, one minute I was horny and my body needed sex and the next minute someone was deep inside my vagina, blood or not.

DRO Health: Ah! For your menstrual flow, are you heavy or light?

Anne: Funny enough I bleed heavily. I sometimes have to wear two menstrual pads to avoid getting stained. So that also contributed to my fears about it. But on the day I had sex on my period, I was on my last day of menstrual cycle. I think that was why there was no mess and I didn’t have to clean up before sex.

DRO Health: Do you care to share how it went down?

Anne: Of course, that’s why we’re here! First off, it happened with a Nigerian man so that’s a shocker and I never expected it. It was one of those ‘come out, let’s chill’ situations and I told him I was on my period, so we couldn’t have sex as per normal. We decided to just go out, eat, watch a movie and go home. But after the movies, we made out so much and I became horny and we decided to just have sex. I didn’t wash up or anything, we got to his house and the next thing, he was deep in me and sliding in and out, very easily.

No need for lube or foreplay. We went 3 rounds and it was the best sex ever! I had to cleanup after though, but we didn’t create a mess or I didn’t stain the sheets. I use pads, so it was easier to remove my underwear without obstruction. If I had a tampon or a menstrual cup, we might not have continued.

DRO Health: Must be very nice o. Was being on your period part of what made it the best sex ever?

Anne: Yes o. I think the presence of the blood and my wetness made penetration so much easier. Before then, I had never experienced orgasm but that day I came twice. Everywhere was wet, so the sliding in and out was easier and sweeter. I have to mention that we only had sex in missionary and doggy styles, so that managed the messiness that could have happened.

DRO Health: You mentioned not experiencing an orgasm before then, do you know why?

Anne: Naturally, not many women will experience what an orgasm through penetration feels like in their lifetime. When I first started having sex at 23 years, I was really bothered about it but I had to stop stressing when I spoke to a doctor. The day I orgasmed, I almost fainted twice but a Queen must continue.

DRO Health: What does sex feel like for you nowadays? More sex on your period?

Anne: Yes, yes, yes! At the time I was with the guy we were only friends with benefits, but we got married last year. After that day he couldn’t leave me alone and now we’re married. So I’ll say it was the best sex for the both of us and we never get tired. Also, with having sex on my period I’ve never tried in within the first 3 days of my cycle. I only have period sex on the last day of my cycle, so there’s less mess and stains.

DRO Health: Congratulations! Regarding sex, do you have anything that you think you and your partner would never try?

Anne: The part about licking me out while I’m on my period can never happen. Oral sex when I’m on my period is a big no, so that’s one. We’re open to every other thing, including BDSM, not the fifty shades type though.

DRO Health: Thank you Anne!

DRO Health is a telehealth platform that allows anyone in Nigeria to speak to a doctor at anytime. We offer consultations with various medical practitioners and mental health therapists on the DRO Health app. You can speak to a doctor with only N2,000. Visit www.drohealth.com to get started today.

The post True story- I Had Sex On My Period and It Was The Best Ever! appeared first on DRO Health.

In a bid to spread more awareness to many Nigerian women, DRO Health spoke to a Nonye Ezeaka, a Nigerian woman who had a breast cancer scare when she was 19 years old. Read her story below.

1. How old were you when you felt lumps in your breast?

Nonye: I think I was around 19-20 years old when I felt it.

2. How did you feel and what was your reaction?

Nonye: Okay, so I didn’t want to believe it at first when I felt the lump. I was settling down to sleep so I brushed aside the thought. But when I woke up, I checked again and the lump was still there it was a call for panic.

3. On which breast did you feel the lump in?

Nonye: The lump was growing in my left breast.

4. Is there a history of breast cancer in your family? Has anyone in your family tree had breast cancer?

Nonye: No, no one in my family has had breast cancer before.

5. How did you find the lump at first? Through a breast self-exam or a diagnostic test?

Nonye: I was at home when I felt the lump, so I’ll say through a self breast exam. I went for an ultrasound later on.

6. What were the next steps for you after confirming there was a lump in your breast?

Nonye: I went to the breast clinic in Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) to confirm if the lump was benign or cancerous. Thankfully it was benign, so that was a relief. I just had to go through some more tests to confirm was really benign and had not spread.

7. How many more tests did you go through to confirm?

Nonye: I went through two more tests before a confirmation was given. I had to go through an ultrasound and I had a Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) procedure carried out.

8. What was the process to get the lump removed from your breast?

Nonye: The lump was removed through a surgical process. A simple lump excision or lumpectomy was carried out. The procedure was simple and pain free, I was given an anesthesia to numb any pain. The process took less than 2 hours in total. After the procedure I wasn’t given any drugs, just some instructions to let the wound heal properly.

9. Where did you have the lump removed and how much did it cost?

Nonye: The lump was removed at a private hospital in Ikeja, Lagos. The procedure cost around 80,000 Naira.

10. Nowadays are you taking any conscious efforts to ensure you’re healthy and safe in the future?

Nonye: Nothing specific. Nowadays, I just try to be more conscious about living a healthier lifestyle.

11. What’s your message to other Nigerian women about breast cancer?

Nonye: Learn how to perform breast self-examinations.

Some early signs of breast cancer are: swelling, bulging of the skin, redness, fluids from the nipples, inverted nipples, etc. You can perform a breast self-exam on yourself at home to detect these signs early enough. If you feel the need to speak to a professional at anytime, you can do so on the DRO Health app. You can also book for a breast cancer diagnostic test on the app or visit www.drohealth.com to start.

The post Breast Cancer Awareness: She found a lump in her breast at 19. 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.

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What is virtual therapy?

Virtual therapy is a branch of telemedicine which involves speaking with a therapist online. You can connect through video call, audio call, or even via chat. On the DRO Health app, you can choose the therapist you feel most comfortable with after viewing their profile, and attend a session from the comfort of your home.

Pros of Virtual Therapy in Nigeria 

Convenience: When it comes to telehealth in general, convenience is the biggest benefit. You get to consult with professionals without leaving your home or spending hours in transit. You’re also in your safe space, compared to being in a therapist’s office that’s unfamiliar.

Reduced stigma: Therapy in Nigeria is still very much frowned upon, even though that should not be the case. With virtual therapy, no one needs to know about your therapy sessions. You can choose to remain anonymous through online therapy networks, and no one can see you heading off to a therapy session unless you want them to.

More flexibility: Online counselling services are amazing for the high level of flexibility they are able to offer. An increased ability to choose from a wider variety of dates and times comes with teletherapy, and the opportunity to be able to have your session from anywhere there is privacy as well as an internet connection is a wonderful thing. 

Greater variety is available: Sometimes, a therapist and client pairing just does not mesh together well, and that is absolutely okay. With the increased utilisation and convenience of online therapy, clients now have a wider pool of counsellors to select from to help them find their perfect match. Gone are the days of not making progress in therapy due to an unfitting relationship, thanks to the internet.

At DRO Health, we recognize how important these benefits are to you, and how they go a long way towards making you take that step to see a therapist. Download the DRO Health App today to get access to licensed therapists. We value your privacy, and all sessions are protected by client confidentiality. Sessions are affordable and will definitely make a difference. We also have a number of mental health tools available, such as mental health assessments and the mood diary. The DRO Health app is available on the App Store (iOS) or Play Store (Android). 

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