The lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is approximately 1 in 25 for both men and women. However, an individual’s risk may vary based on specific factors. Fortunately, modern screening methods—such as colonoscopy—can detect early abnormalities, significantly improving the chances of effective prevention and treatment. 

Lt. Col. Dr. Chanyawat Sangsomwong, a specialized surgeon in colorectal surgery at Vejthani Hospital, explained that colon cancer occurs from polyps in the walls of the colon. In the early stages, these polyps typically do not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, if the polyps grow larger or change abnormally, they can lead to symptoms like blood or mucus in the stool, smaller stools, alternating constipation and diarrhea, bloating, abdominal distension, or a palpable mass in the abdomen.

The exact cause of colon polyps is still unknown at present, but the risk factors can be divided into two types:

Individual Risk Factors:

• Age: In the past, over 90% of colon cancer patients were found to be over 50 years old, with the average age ranging between 60 and 65 years. However, in the last 10 years, the incidence of colon cancer in patients under 50 has been steadily increasing. The youngest patient reported is 18 years old.
• Family history and genetics: Approximately 20% of colon cancer patients have a family history of the disease. 
• History of intestinal polyps: Studies have shown that certain types of polyps can develop into colon cancer. However, early detection and treatment—while the polyps are still benign—can significantly reduce the risk of progression to cancer.

Environmental Risk Factors:

• Overweight and lack of exercise: Studies have shown that body weight is closely linked to the risk of developing colon cancer, while regular exercise boosts metabolism and supports healthy bowel function. Over time, these benefits can contribute to a reduced risk of colon cancer.
• Food: Some types of food contain hidden carcinogens, especially processed foods such as sausage, bacon, fermented pork, meatballs, Chinese sausage, and red meat that has been cooked at high temperatures until charred, like grilling or barbecuing.

• Smoking: Studies have found that 12% of individuals who died from colon cancer had a history of smoking.
• Alcohol: Drinking alcohol combined with smoking increases the risk of developing cancer.

Currently, doctors can detect polyps in the colon using advanced technology like colonoscopy. This allows for early detection, even if the polyps are as small as 2 millimeters—about the size of a mung bean. Additionally, a specialized technique called Magnified Digital Chromoendoscopy is used to assess the surface color and blood vessels of the polyps. This helps determine the type of polyp, whether it has progressed into malignant, and whether it has spread into deeper tissue layers, ensuring the most appropriate treatment. Moreover, if a polyp is detected during a colonoscopy, doctors can remove it immediately, reducing the risk of it developing into colon cancer in the future.

Moreover, with the endoscopic surgical technique known as Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD), it is possible to remove large polyps—even those with early cancerous changes— as long as the cancer has not spread to deeper tissue layers or lymph nodes.

This procedure is performed using a colonoscope, eliminating the need for abdominal incisions. In some cases, it also helps patients avoid unnecessary colostomy (opening of the colon through the abdomen). However, after undergoing this procedure, patients should have regular follow-up endoscopies as advised by their doctor.

However, colonoscopy to detect polyps is like a health check-up that should be done before any abnormalities occur. This is especially important for individuals over 50 or those with a family history of colon cancer, as they should have regular gastrointestinal screenings. It is advisable to undergo these screenings with experienced doctors who specialize in endoscopic technology to ensure accurate diagnosis. At the same time, it is essential to reduce risk factors that may contribute to abnormalities in the colon, such as consuming charred grilled foods, frozen meals, and processed foods such as red meat and sausages.

For more information, please contact

Colorectal Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 4500, 4501
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

The post Colonoscopy: Your Key to Colon Cancer Prevention appeared first on Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand..

Knee replacement surgery can significantly relieve pain and enhance the quality of life for people with severe knee osteoarthritis or serious injuries that impair joint function. However, when a previously implanted knee prosthesis fails or develops complications, a second procedure—known as revision knee replacement—may be necessary. Although revision knee replacement is more complex than the initial surgery, the use of advanced robotic-assisted technology, such as the ROSA Knee System, enhances surgical precision and reduces the risk of complications.

Dr. Premstien Sirithanapipat, a total joint reconstruction surgeon specializing in knee and hip replacement surgery at Vejthani Hospital, explains that, in general, patients who have undergone knee replacement surgery can typically use their artificial joint for many years without needing another operation. However, in some cases, complications may develop with the artificial knee, affecting everyday tasks. When this occurs, revision surgery may be necessary to help restore the patient’s natural movement and stability in walking. Depending on the underlying cause, the procedure may involve either a partial or complete revision.

Reasons why patients may need to undergo revision knee replacement surgery include:

1. Degeneration of Artificial Knee Joint:  Most artificial knees have a lifespan of about 15-20 years, but in some cases, they may deteriorate faster than usual due to heavy use.
2. Loosening of the Artificial Knee Joint: Over time, the bone supporting the artificial joint may lose its density, loosening the joint and causing pain and abnormality in movement.
3. Periprosthetic Fracture: The bone surrounding the artificial joint may be injured or fractured due to accidents, such as a fall.
4. Knee Malalignment and Instability: If the artificial knee is installed in the wrong position from the initial surgery, it may cause imbalanced pressure, leading to instability and faster wear and tear.
5. Periprosthetic Joint Infection (PJI): This is a serious complication that can occur within months after surgery or later due to the spread of infection from another part of the body to the knee joint.

Symptoms that may indicate the need for revision knee replacement surgery: 

1. Chronic knee pain that doesn’t improve with medication
2. Feeling that the knee joint is loose or hearing abnormal sounds during movement
3. Swelling, redness, or inflammation around the knee which could signal an infection
4. Inability to fully extend or fold the knee and bow-legged deformity due to osteoarthritis

If these symptoms occur, the doctor may recommend an in-depth investigation to diagnose and assess the suitability of treatment or the possibility of revision knee replacement surgery.

Revision knee replacement surgery is a highly complex procedure because it involves managing the remaining bone and the appropriate positioning of the artificial joint. Nowadays, technology like the Rosa Knee or CORI robotic-assisted surgery is being used to assist in this procedure. The Rosa Knee or CORI robotic surgical robot consists of two robotic arms that help control and determine the position for shaping the knee surface, measure equipment, and determine the size of the artificial knee. It also has software that helps plan and simulate the surgery in advance, making the procedure more accurate and precise. In addition, with the use of the Rosa Knee or CORI robot, large incisions, like in the past, are no longer needed, and the surgery does not require invasive procedures within the bone cavity, which can cause pain and excessive blood loss for the patient. 

Followings are the benefits of the Rosa Knee or CORI robotic knee replacement surgery:

• High Precision: Robotic arms assist surgeons in performing surgeries with high accuracy, reducing the chances of human error
• Small incisions: The incisions are smaller than traditional surgery
• Less blood loss: Less blood loss compared to traditional surgery
• Minimal pain: Patients feel less pain
• Fast recovery: Patients recover quickly, with a shorter recovery time, and can stand and walk within 12 hours
• Better mobility: Patients regain improved mobility

Although revision knee replacement surgery is crucial for those experiencing problems with their initial knee replacement, having effective surgery from the start may help reduce the need for future procedures.

For more information, please contact

Hip and Knee Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 2222, 2223
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

The post Revision Knee Replacement Surgery: Restores Your Stability and Helps You Move Without Pain appeared first on Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand..

Heart surgeons at Vejthani Hospital are highly experienced in both complex and minimally invasive heart valve repair and replacement procedures. Heart valve problems that benefit from surgery include congenital valve disorders, leaky valves that do not close properly (regurgitation), infected valves, and narrowed valves that do not open fully (stenosis).

Our cardiac surgeons in Bangkok aim to repair malfunctioning heart valves before opting for total heart valve replacement. Heart valve repair may involve sewing damaged valve flaps or strengthening the “ring” that holds the valve in place. If valve repair is not a viable option, our trained cardiac surgeons can perform heart surgery to replace the faulty heart valve(s) with an artificial or biological one based on a case-by-case assessment.

At Vejthani Hospital, our cardiac surgeons regularly take on challenging cases, such as those that involve the repair or replacement of more than one heart valve at a time, or they perform “revision” operations to correct unsuccessful valve surgeries. Many of our patients are considered high-risk, including people who have had several prior heart surgeries, those with co-existing medical conditions, elderly and overweight patients.

Heart Valve Surgery

Our surgeons are highly trained to perform a full suite of complex procedures, as follows:

Aortic Valve Regurgitation Treatment

• Repair: Aortic valve repair typically focuses on reshaping the valve leaflets or tightening the surrounding structures to improve their coaptation. In certain cases, surgeons may reconstruct parts of the valve using the patient’s own pericardial tissue. This option is often chosen for younger patients or those with congenital abnormalities, where preserving native tissue offers better long-term durability.

• Replacement: When the valve is severely damaged or calcified to be repaired, aortic valve replacement becomes necessary. This can be done via traditional surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR), a major open-heart surgery that involves making an incision in the chest to access the heart. Surgeons decide whether to use a biological valve or a mechanical valve, each having its own advantages and disadvantages. Factors like age, personal preferences, and specific medical needs play a crucial role in determining the most suitable valve replacement.

• Non-surgical treatment: Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) offers a scarless, catheter-based solution for severe aortic stenosis. The procedure involves inserting a balloon-expandable valve through the femoral artery, reducing pain and accelerating recovery. It is primarily reserved for elderly patients or those at high surgical risk.

Mitral Valve Regurgitation Treatment

• Repair: Mitral valve repair involves delicate techniques to reshape and tighten the valve to restore its function. The procedure often includes chordal reconstruction or shortening, as well as implantation of an annuloplasty ring to stabilize the valve opening. This is usually the preferred approach when the valve anatomy is favorable, offering better long-term outcomes and fewer complications than replacement.  

• Replacement: In cases of extensive valve damage or severe calcification, replacement with a mechanical or tissue valve is necessary. Mitral valve replacement may involve excising the diseased valve and implanting a prosthetic one via open-heart surgery, however some cases may qualify for a minimally invasive approach. The procedure ensures the restoration of one-way blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle. 

Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation Treatment

• Repair: Tricuspid valve repair aims to restore valve competency by reshaping or suturing the leaflets and applying an annuloplasty ring to reinforce the valve’s perimeter. This procedure is commonly chosen when the regurgitation results from annular dilation due to right-sided heart strain rather than primary valve disease. It’s frequently performed alongside mitral or aortic valve surgery.  

• Replacement: When the valve is irreparably damaged—often due to endocarditis or previous failed repair—tricuspid valve replacement may be indicated. A specially designed mechanical or tissue valve is used to accommodate the lower pressure environment on the right side of the heart. The procedure is technically complex and often reserved for patients with severe symptoms unresponsive to medical treatment or repair.

Pulmonary Valve Treatment

• Repair: Pulmonary valve repair often involves reshaping the valve leaflets or using a patch to widen a narrowed opening, particularly in cases stemming from congenital heart disease. Annuloplasty may also be applied to support the valve ring. Repair is typically considered for younger patients or those with isolated right-sided valve defects.  

• Replacement: Pulmonary valve replacement is most often indicated in patients with congenital defects, such as Tetralogy of Fallot, or after previous surgical repairs that have degenerated. The valve may be replaced with a homograft (human donor valve), bioprosthetic valve, or a transcatheter pulmonary valve, depending on the anatomy and prior interventions. This helps restore normal blood flow from the right ventricle to the lungs.  
• Additional Procedures:  Treatment may also include clot removal in patients with pulmonary hypertension or right heart dysfunction, which can alleviate pressure on the valve and improve overall heart function.

Minimally Invasive Heart Valve Surgery

Minimally invasive valve surgery is an advanced approach for treating heart valve disease with less trauma and quicker recovery. Instead of opening the chest by making a large incision through the breastbone (sternum), this approach uses specialized instruments to perform the procedure through small incisions on the side of the chest. In many cases, the surgery is further enhanced with robotic assistance, providing surgeons with exceptional precision and control during operation. At Vejthani Hospital, we offer minimally invasive options for a wide range of procedures, including aortic, mitral, and tricuspid valve repair or replacement.

Visit Vejthani Heart Center

Cardiac Center at Vejthani provides world-class, comprehensive heart valve repair and replacement surgical procedures. 

If you’ve been diagnosed with heart valve problems or would like more information on the range of heart surgery, schedule an appointment for a consultation at Cardiac Center at Vejthani today. 

The post Expert Heart Valve Treatment for Long-Term Cardiac Health appeared first on Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand..

Knee pain can affect individuals of all ages and interfere with everyday tasks. If left untreated, the condition may progress to osteoarthritis, causing ongoing pain and reduced mobility. Currently, medical advancements offer safe, non-surgical treatment options that help reduce inflammation, restore joint function, and enhance knee flexibility, allowing individuals to regain confidence in their movement.

Assoc.Prof.Leut.Col. Bura Sindhupakorn, a total joint reconstruction (arthroplasty) surgeon at Vejthani Hospital, explains that osteoarthritis of the knee occurs due to the degeneration of cartilage, which serves as a cushion between bones. As the cartilage wears down, increased friction between bones leads to pain, swelling, and restricted movement. While this condition is most commonly associated with aging, it can also develop in younger people, particularly those with high-risk lifestyles.

Recently, there has been a noticeable rise in knee osteoarthritis cases among younger adults. This is often linked to activities that involve excessive knee flexion beyond 90 degrees, such as sitting cross-legged or frequently bending the knees. These habits contribute to cartilage thinning, surface roughness, and gradual deterioration. Over time, the weight-bearing nature of the knee joint may lead to further cartilage collapse and reduced elasticity, increasing friction during movement.

Signs of Knee Osteoarthritis:

1. Knee pain, especially when standing up or kneeling
2. Difficulty walking up or down stairs or getting up from a seated position
3. A cracking sound in the knee joint during movement
4. Swelling and inflammation of the knee
5. Knee deformity or misalignment
6. Stiffness, limiting full extension or flexion of the knee

If you experience persistent knee pain, Early diagnosis and treatment to prevent the symptoms from getting worse is crucial. Currently, there are non-surgical treatments available to alleviate symptoms and slow cartilage deterioration.

1. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
   PRP therapy involves extracting the patient’s blood and processing it to concentrate platelets, which contain growth factors that promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. This method is particularly beneficial for individuals with severe knee pain who may not tolerate steroid injections or who wish to delay surgery. However, PRP therapy may not be suitable for certain patients, such as those with low platelet counts or pregnant women.
2. Stem Cell Therapy for Cartilage Regeneration
   Stem Cell therapy is an innovative approach to repair and regenerate damaged cartilage. Stem cells have the potential to develop into different types of cells, helping to restore lost tissue. This treatment serves as an effective alternative to surgery, aiding in the repair of worn-out cartilage, reducing inflammation, and enhancing flexibility in the knee joint. However, stem cell therapy should only be performed under the supervision of a specialized doctor, as patient suitability must be carefully assessed.

Knee osteoarthritis can significantly impact the quality of life. If left untreated, pain and joint stiffness may worsen, making movement increasingly difficult. Taking care of the knee through lifestyle modifications, avoiding excessive knee strain, and seeking appropriate treatment can slow disease progression, reduce pain, and improve joint function. Regardless of the treatment approach, all treatments should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor to ensure optimal safety and effectiveness. By taking proactive steps toward knee health, individuals can regain mobility and enjoy a more active, pain-free lifestyle.

For more information, please contact

Hip and Knee Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 2222, 2223
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

The post Is Surgery Your Only Option? Non-Surgical Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis Exists appeared first on Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand..

Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic issue; they could also cause pain, swelling, and heaviness in the legs. If left untreated, they may lead to complications. Laser treatment is one of the safe and effective options for treating varicose veins, offering quick recovery and restoring smooth skin.

Dr. Supachai Chanvitan, a vascular surgeon at Vejthani Hospital, explained that varicose veins are dilated, twisted veins near the skin surface. They appear as bulging, serpentine veins due to blood accumulation, often visible as green or deep purple. While they can occur in various parts of the body, such as the esophagus, uterus, pelvis, and anus, they most commonly affect the legs or feet.

Varicose veins can arise from several factors, including aging, genetics, prolonged sitting or standing, impact or compression, obesity, and wearing high heels for extended periods. These factors impair blood circulation, leading to blood pooling in the veins and resulting in varicose veins. These veins can appear as bulges or spider-like veins. There are two main types of varicose veins:

1. Spider Veins: These are early-stage varicose veins on the legs, appearing as red or purple spider-like veins due to twisted capillaries.
2. Varicose Veins: These occur when vein walls lose elasticity, causing the veins to bulge and twist, typically appearing green or a mix of green and purple.

Treatment for varicose veins varies depending on the severity and size of the affected veins. One effective method is minimally invasive surgery using laser or radiofrequency ablation. This precise and safe technique involves inserting a small catheter into the vein and using laser or radiofrequency to heat and diminish the affected vein, causing it to shrink. This method minimizes damage to surrounding skin and tissue, reducing the risk of scarring. The procedure takes about 45 to 60 minutes, and patients can return home immediately afterward.

The advantages of this treatment include:

1. High effectiveness with excellent clinical outcomes
2. Small incisions with only 2 mm
3. Targets the underlying causes of varicose veins, reducing the risk of recurrence
4. Fast recovery with a short length of stay at the hospital

To prevent varicose veins, individuals should avoid prolonged standing or sitting, refrain from wearing tight clothing or stockings, limit the use of high heels, and engage in regular exercise to improve circulation. While varicose veins may not always be dangerous, if left untreated, they can lead to complications such as chronic leg ulcers, skin inflammation, venous rupture, or deep vein thrombosis. If you notice symptoms, it is essential to consult a medical specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment before the condition affects your quality of life.

For more information, please contact

Surgery Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 4500, 4501
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

The post The Light Touch: Erasing Varicose Veins with Laser Precision appeared first on Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand..

Knee osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in the knee joint wears down over time. Usually, this cartilage acts as a cushion, allowing smooth movement, reducing friction, and supporting the body’s weight. As the joint deteriorates, stiffness develops—often felt as difficulty moving the knee after waking up or prolonged inactivity. Other symptoms may include pain, swelling, weakness, and a cracking or grinding sensation in the knee. Robotic knee replacement surgery has become the ultimate treatment method for severe knee osteoarthritis. 

Native Alignment (Anatomical Alignment) is a breakthrough approach designed to significantly reduce this discomfort in post-knee replacement surgery by preserving the natural structure and movement of the knee, such as pre-arthritic changes or similar to how your knee felt before it began to degenerate.

Why Native Alignment is an Ultimate Goal for Knee Replacement Surgery?

• Restores Natural Knee Function – The knee feels and moves as it did before degeneration or deformity.
• Brings the knee Back to its Natural Angle – Aligns the joint in a way that mimics its original positioning.
• No Restrictions in Movement – Patients regain full functionality without limitations in everyday life.

Key Benefits of Native Alignment:

• Preserves the Natural Shape & Alignment – The goal is to maintain the knee’s pre-arthritic anatomy, reducing the risk of discomfort.
• Minimizes Postoperative Pain – By aligning the knee naturally, it prevents strain from excessive walking or movement.
• Boosts Patient Satisfaction – Increases overall success rates, with patient satisfaction rising from 80% to an impressive 95-98%.
• Enhances Mobility & Stability – Patients experience better movement and balance, allowing them to return to everyday life more confidently.
• Mimics Original Joint Function – Maintains individual movement patterns, making the artificial joint work more like a natural knee.

For more information, please contact

Hip and Knee Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 2222, 2223
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

The post Native Alignment in Knee Replacement Surgery: Brings Back the Natural Movement of Your Knee appeared first on Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand..

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition among middle-aged and older men. While it’s a widespread health issue, several misconceptions persist, leading many to either neglect self-care or become overly concerned.

Q. Does an enlarged prostate mean prostate cancer?

• An enlarged prostate is not cancer and does not increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. However, in some cases, both conditions can occur simultaneously.

Q: An enlarged prostate gland only occurs in older adults.

• Although an enlarged prostate gland is more common in men over 50, symptoms can begin as early as age 40, especially in those with risk factors such as genetics or unhealthy lifestyles.

Q. Mild symptoms do not require treatment.

• Mild symptoms, such as frequent urination at night, may seem harmless, but if left untreated, they can affect quality of life and lead to more serious issues like bladder infections or kidney failure.

Q: Self-care does not prevent an enlarged prostate gland.

• Lifestyles such as reducing fatty foods, exercising, and drinking the right amount of water can help reduce the risk and alleviate symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

Q: Surgery is always required for an enlarged prostate.

• There are various treatment options, including medication, lifestyle adjustments, or non-surgical technologies like Rezum Water Vapor Therapy. This method is done through the use of a specialized instrument with a camera, inserting it through the urethra into the prostate. Steam at a temperature of 106°C is then injected into the prostate 6–10 times, each lasting 9 seconds. This method is safe, takes only 10–15 minutes, requires no general anesthesia, no hospital stay, and does not cause post-treatment side effects like surgery.

For more information

Urology and Men’s Health Center, Vejthani Hospital.
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 ext. 4501
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888 

The post 5 Misconceptions About Enlarged Prostate You May Not Know appeared first on Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand..

Kidney transplants can help people with end-stage renal disease regain their quality of life, but proper self-care is essential to prevent complications and prolong the life of the new kidney.

Kidney transplantation offers patients the chance to live without dialysis, but proper post-transplant care is crucial. By following your doctor’s instructions diligently, you can minimize the risk of complications and ensure your new kidney functions optimally.

1. Adhere Strictly to Your Immunosuppressant Medication Routine

After a kidney transplant, your body may attempt to reject the new kidney. To prevent this, doctors prescribe immunosuppressant medications that must be taken consistently and on time every day. Stopping or missing doses on your own can increase the risk of kidney rejection and serious complications.

Tip: Set daily reminders or use a medication tracking app to help you stay on schedule.

2. Attend Regular Follow-Up Appointments

After a kidney transplant, regular check-ups are essential for monitoring how your body responds to the new kidney, adjusting medication levels, and assessing potential complications. Missing appointments is not an option, as follow-up visits play a crucial role in maintaining your kidney’s health.

Tip: If you are unable to attend a scheduled appointment, inform the hospital in advance to reschedule immediately.

3. Be Aware of Infections and Maintain Proper Hygiene

Immunosuppressants increase the body’s susceptibility to infections.

To protect against infections, patients should:

• Wash hands frequently with soap or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Avoid crowded places, especially during disease outbreaks
• Avoid direct contact with pets

4. Stay Hydrated, But Don’t Overdo It

After a kidney transplant, it’s essential to drink enough water to support kidney function. However, excessive water intake can lead to volume overload, which may strain the kidneys. Follow your doctor’s guidance on the right amount of water for your daily needs.

Tip: Pay attention to the color of your urine – dark-colored urine may signal dehydration and the need to drink more water.

5. Maintain a Balanced Diet

• Following a kidney transplant, it’s important to choose foods that promote kidney function and prevent potential complications. Focus on:
• High-quality proteins like fish and eggs
• Low-sodium options to reduce the risk of high blood pressure
• Avoid raw foods like sushi or raw meat to lower the risk of infections.

6. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

Both alcohol and smoking can significantly impact the health of your new kidney, increasing the risk of complications like high blood pressure and kidney failure.

7. Maintain a Healthy Weight and Exercise Regularly

Carrying excess weight can elevate the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure, which can negatively impact kidney health. Engaging in light exercises like brisk walking or yoga can help maintain overall wellness and support kidney function.

Tip: Always consult your doctor before starting any exercise routine to ensure it is safe and suitable for you.

8. Avoid Medications and Herbs that May Harm the Kidneys

Certain medications, such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) and some herbs, can damage your kidneys.

Advice: Always consult your doctor before taking any medications or herbs.

9. Beware of Complications such as Diabetes and High Blood Pressure

Kidney transplant patients are at a higher risk of developing diabetes and high blood pressure due to the side effects of immunosuppressive medications. Regular health check-ups are essential to control blood sugar and blood pressure levels within normal ranges.

10. Take Care of Your Mental Health and Manage Stress

After a kidney transplant, patients may experience stress or depression. It’s essential to have the support of family and friends, as well as to engage in activities that promote relaxation, such as meditation or yoga.

Kidney transplantation offers patients a chance to live a quality life, but diligent post-surgery self-care is vital. Adhering to immunosuppressive medications, attending regular follow-up appointments, and managing lifestyles are essential to ensuring the new kidney functions well in the long term.

If you or a loved one is preparing for a kidney transplant, Vejthani Hospital is here to offer comprehensive care. Our skilled medical and multidisciplinary transplant team is dedicated to supporting your health every step of the way.

For more information, contact

Internal Medicine Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 ext. 2200, 2272
English Hotline:(+66)85-223-8888 

The post 10 Key Facts Every Kidney Transplant Patient Needs to Know appeared first on Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand..

Seeing flashes of light resembling lightning or camera flashes may be a symptom of Posterior Vitreous Detachment, a common eye condition. If left untreated, it could lead to serious complications.

Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) is a condition caused by changes in the vitreous humor, the clear gel-like substance inside the eye. The vitreous humor helps maintain the shape of the eye and transmits light to the retina. As we age or due to certain risk factors like severe nearsightedness, the vitreous humor may degenerate, causing its detachment from the retina and affecting vision. The symptoms include the following:

• Seeing spots or lines resembling worms or cobwebs that move along with your eye movements.
• Seeing vitreous floaters more clearly when looking at bright walls or the sky.
• Seeing flashes of light like lightning or a camera flash, especially in dim or dark places.

If Posterior Vitreous Detachment is not severe, the brain will be able to adjust to the black spots and the visibility of the black spots will decrease on its own, without treatment. However, if the vitreous degeneration is severe, it may lead to retinal tears or retinal detachment.

Doctors may treat this condition with laser therapy or cryotherapy to prevent retinal detachment. If detachment has already occurred, surgery may be performed to remove the vitreous, seal the tear with laser treatment, and use gas or oil to hold the retina in place.

If you experience any unusual eye symptoms, it’s essential to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and care.

For more information, please contact

Eye Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 ext. 3260
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

The post Seeing Floating Black Spots? It Could Be a Sign of Posterior Vitreous Detachment appeared first on Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand..

Some seemingly common symptoms, like severe headaches, seizures, or unexplained headaches in specific areas, could be warning signs of a severe underlying condition. It could be Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM), a cerebrovascular abnormality that can affect the nervous system and may be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Dr. Pongsakorn Pongsapas, a neurosurgeon at Vejthani Hospital, explained that Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM), occurs when blood vessels connecting arteries and veins in the brain become tangled. Arteries are responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood from the heart to nourish the brain, while veins carry oxygen-depleted blood from all parts of the body back to the heart. When AVM occurs, blood cannot flow normally. If the abnormal blood vessels exert strong pressure on the walls of the arteries and veins, these vessels can become fragile and prone to rupture, potentially leading to a brain hemorrhage.

Several studies have found that Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) can be present from birth and may develop during fetal development. AVM is commonly found in patients with Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT), also known as Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome. This condition typically affects blood vessel formation in various parts of the body, including the brain. However, the exact cause of AVM remains unclear.

AMV is more common in men than women, and there is an increased risk if there is a family history of this disease. Symptoms usually appear gradually between the ages of 10 and 40, becoming more noticeable in adulthood, or maybe no symptoms until a blood vessel ruptures, causing a brain hemorrhage. For some patients, symptoms only begin after a brain hemorrhage has occurred. Associated symptoms that may occur include:

• Seizures
• Headache in a specific area of the head
• Muscle weakness or numbness in a particular area of the body or paralysis
• Loss of vision
• Slurred speech
• Confusion, dizziness, or inability to communicate with others
• Complete loss of balance and movement

Diagnosis of AVM can be done through various methods, depending on the doctor’s discretion. One of the most precise diagnostic tests is Cerebral Angiography, which offers the highest resolution and is highly effective in identifying the location and characteristics of the affected arteries and veins. Other diagnostic methods include CT scan and MRI.

An MRI scan can pinpoint the location of AVM and provide detailed images of changes in brain tissue without causing pain, as it does not require the insertion of any catheters into blood vessels, and the patient is not exposed to radiation.

There are several treatment options for AVM, and the doctor will choose the most appropriate method based on the patient’s age and overall health. The primary objective is to prevent brain hemorrhage. Surgical removal of the abnormal blood vessels may be the best option for patients with a low risk of bleeding or seizures. In such cases, doctors may perform endoscopic surgery. Other treatment methods include Endovascular Embolization and Stereotactic Radiosurgery.

If you experience symptoms that may indicate AVM or have a brain hemorrhage, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible to receive timely treatment, as this could be life-threatening.

For more information, please contact

Neuroscience Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000  ext. 5400
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

The post Cerebrovascular Diseases: Silent Threats That Can Steal the Lives of Your Loved Ones appeared first on Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand..