Most Common Diseases in India: Lets Understand Them Better

The thought of the common diseases in India generally brings the name of diseases like fever and diarrhea in the mind. But that is surely not true! In India recently, some most dangerous diseases in India have upsurged, becoming the most common diseases and are also quite deadly in advanced cases. Due to the uninterrupted drastic change in the lifestyles of maximum the population of the country, the major diseases in India have increased relentlessly compared to past scenario. 

With more than 1.3 billion people, India is one of the most populous countries in the world. Unfortunately, due to its large population and lack of proper medical services, India is also home to some of the world's deadliest diseases. To fight these diseases, it is important to increase awareness of preventive measures and the availability of medical care. Vaccines, antimicrobial medicines and reuired preventaion can help reduce the spread of many of these diseases, while good sanitation and hygiene practices can help prevent the spread of deadly diseases. With the right measures, we can work together to protect the people of India from common diseases. 

Despite the commendable development in the health sector, certainly some diseases are still common in India. The cost of treating such major diseases is very high and affects the productivity and income of an individual. You don't just get sick from bacteria or viruses. The way you live your life, the habits you have and the things you do have a big impact on the kind of diseases you can get. 

1. Stroke

A stroke, one of the Common Diseases in India, is caused by a blockage or leak of any kind in an artery in the brain. Confusion, numbness and disorientation are common symptoms of stroke. It can also cause severe weakness and vision loss in patients.  

The causes of stroke are mostly diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, cerebral hemorrhage, genetic diseases,  smoking, etc. It is important to follow a strict diet to prevent stroke. Specialists often prescribe plain yogurt, milk and a high-fiber diet. 

2. Diseases of the heart and blood vessels 

These are many diseases that affect heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart dysfunction. Unfortunately, diseases of the heart and blood vessels are considered amongst common health problems. Cardiovascular diseases are one of the major health diseases in India, becoming the prime reason of death in India. Lifestyle deterioration and socio-economic adversities have led to such an extreme increase in such diseases in our country. 

Chest pain, pain or numbness in the extremities (legs and arms), shortness of breath, pain in the throat, jaw pain, neck ache, and back ache are some of the common symptoms of this disease. The main causes of cardiovascular diseases include smoking, over-alcohol consumption, poor exercising habits, poor diet, high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, family history of heart disease, etc. Stay physically fit and active, following a proper diet and sleep schedule, exercise regularly, and manage your weight control to prevent this disease. However, controlling cardiovascular risk factors, eating healthy foods and avoiding fatty foods can help keep the disease at bay. 

3. Respiratory diseases 

Respiratory tract infections, one of the most common health issues in India, include lung abscess, pneumonia and acute bronchitis. And these diseases are one of the main causes of death in the country. In addition, respiratory problems can be caused by excessive exposure to smoke, weak immunity, air pollution, dust pollution, etc. 

Some of the common symptoms are runny nose, fever, nasal congestion, cough, shortness of breath, weakness, etc. Exercising regularly, following your diet, wearing a surgical mask when outside and staying active can help you stay away from such diseases. But unfortunately it is one of the 10 most common  diseases in India.

4. Tuberculosis (TB) 

Tuberculosis is one of the infectious and contagious diseases that usually affects the lungs. However, it can also affect other parts of the body such as ears, throat, and more. The only good news about tuberculosis is that it is now 100% treatable and also preventable, unlike past times. 

Fatigue, chills, coughing up blood, fever, loss of appetite, and sudden weight loss are some of the common symptoms of this one of the communicable diseases. A weak immune system and  contact with another TB affected individual are its common causes. This can be prevented by avoiding contact with TB patients. 

5. Diabetes 

Diabetes is a very common disease in the country that affects the secretion and usage of insulin in the body. There are basically two types of diabetes, type 1, in which the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, and type 2, in which the body fails to make or use insulin optimally.

Unexplained weight loss, frequent hunger, fatigue, surge in thirst, and frequent urination are some of the common symptoms of diabetes. Diabetes may happen due to obesity, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, unhealthy eating, etc. Exercising regularly, following a strict healthy diet, and ceasing smoking can help to keep this disease at bay.

Read in Hindi : Diabetes Symptoms and Causes in Hindi

6. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, is not only a common disease in the country, but it is also deadly. It is a lung disease  that lasts for a long time. Therefore, it can cause breathing problems in  patients. However, COPD accounts for many deaths worldwide throughout the year. Lack of energy, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath are some of the more common symptoms of COPD. Active or passive smoking, family history and air pollution are some of the common causes of COPD. Proper nutrition plays a big role in fighting the disease. 

7. Alzheimer's Disease

In Alzheimer's disease and dementia, the patient can experience complete memory loss and in some cases even death. This disease can destroy memory and  also interfere with normal human activities such as thinking, reasoning etc. Difficulty doing common household chores, misplacing things, forgetting important dates, not being able to manage your budget, etc. are some of the common symptoms. Unfortunately, there are no preventive measures for this disease as such. 

8. Malignant tumors 

Malignant tumors are  cancerous  and  develop when body cells begin to grow uncontrollably. Malignant tumors can grow anywhere and can be fatal if not treated in time. Tests such as MRI are usually performed inside the patient's body to detect the tumor. 
There are no possible symptoms of this disease. However, patients may develop a painless lump. These tumors can be caused by pathogens, exposure to toxic compounds, radiation and genetics. However,  a healthy lifestyle, stopping smoking and consuming alcohol and maintaining a healthy weight can prevent the development of such tumors. 

9. Diarrhea 

Diarrhea is a disease in which a person has at least three loose stools in one day. Diarrhea can reduce the ratio of salt and water in the body and weaken it. Prolonged diarrhea can even lead to death if not treated in time. Loose stools, mucus in the stool, nausea and abdominal pain are  the most common causes of this disease. Regular hand washing, proper disinfection and  a healthy diet are some  ways to prevent diarrhea. 

Read in Hindi: Diarrhea Symtoms, Causes and Treatment (Diarrhea ke Lakshan)

10. Malaria 

Malaria is one of the fatal diseases and can be deadly in severe cases and is caused by the Plasmodium parasite and spreads through mosquito bites. Malaria is quite a common infection in rural India. And it generally affects people who stay in tropical and subtropical areas, because the parasite develops there. 
Nausea, muscle pain, fever, headache, and diarrhea are some of the common symptoms associated with malaria. Staying in a well-lit surroundings,removing standing water from your home, wearing full-sleeved clothes, and sleeping under mosquito nets may help you to stay away from Malaria.

A best lot has changed in India as the medical and healthcare industry has progressed. Many deadly diseases have been eradicated through the invention of effective vaccines and treatment regimens. However, the country is still challenged by some deadly diseases that just don't seem to escape. But you can stay informed and stay away from it. Medflick is always with you in the journey.