Tag:

Neck

How to Style a Silk Scarf Beyond Just Tying It Around Your Neck
Fashion

How to Style a Silk Scarf Beyond Just Tying It Around Your Neck

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Knowing how to style a silk scarf—beyond just tying it around your neck, of course—is a fashion skill that’ll be quite handy this fall. Delicate silk scarves are one of the biggest accessory trends for the season, taking center stage on the catwalks and in street style looks.

What’s most striking about this trend, though, is that it they’re being styled in a variety of ways beyond being worn around the neck. As a result, the piece is even more versatile than it ever was before. So, it’s high time to get your own silk scarves out of the back of the closet or invest in a new one. Whether you want to wear something eye-catching, elegant, or casual, there are countless ways to personalize your look via a silk scarf this season. The sky’s the limit.

Here’s how to style a silk scarf for fall 2025 in three different ways.

#1: With a baseball cap

Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
AIIMS orthopaedic surgeon reveals ‘best sleeping position’ to prevent neck, back and joint pain
Lifestyle

AIIMS orthopaedic surgeon reveals ‘best sleeping position’ to prevent neck, back and joint pain

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Published on: Oct 05, 2025 07:13 am IST

Many wake up with back or neck pain due to poor sleep posture. Orthopaedic surgeon Dr Dushyant shares simple positions to ease pain and protect your spine.

We spend nearly a third of our lives sleeping, yet many of us wake up with stiff necks, sore backs, or lingering aches. Poor sleeping posture can silently damage your spine over time. Dr Dushyant Chouchan, Orthopaedic and Sports Injury Surgeon, AIIMS Raipur, shares in his Instagram post the best positions for neck and back pain relief. (Also read: Orthopaedic surgeon shares surprising benefits of ‘backward walking’ for knee health on Food Pharmer podcast )

Dr Dushyant advises incorporating specific sleeping positions to alleviate joint strain and improve comfort.(Freepik)

How can your sleeping position affect joint pain

The way you sleep can actually make your joint pain worse,” says Dr Dushyant. He explains, “If you usually sleep on your side, placing a pillow between your knees can significantly reduce discomfort in your hips and lower body. For those who sleep on their back, it’s best to place a pillow under their knees. This simple adjustment helps relieve pressure on your spine and joints, easing pain in your lower back and hips.”

Dr Dushyant adds, “By incorporating these two easy sleeping positions into your nightly routine, you can prevent unnecessary strain and experience noticeable relief in your joints. Try it out, and you may find waking up less stiff and more comfortable a daily reality.”

Tips for better spinal health

In an earlier interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Arun Bhanot, Director of Spine Services at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, highlighted the importance of sleep posture for spinal health. He shared, “Your sleeping position helps minimise back strain, avoid stiffness, and maintain proper spine alignment.”

Dr Bhanot recommends a firm-to-medium mattress, a pillow that keeps your neck aligned, and advises against sleeping on your stomach or using a very high pillow. Following these tips can help reduce discomfort and support long-term spine health. Click here to read the full article.

Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!.

Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.

Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!.

Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.

News / Lifestyle / Health / AIIMS orthopaedic surgeon reveals ‘best sleeping position’ to prevent neck, back and joint pain

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
PCOS with regular periods? Gynaecologist says it's possible; shares 7 symptoms: Hair on stomach, dark patches on neck
Lifestyle

PCOS with regular periods? Gynaecologist says it’s possible; shares 7 symptoms: Hair on stomach, dark patches on neck

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is commonly associated with missed periods. Irregularity in the menstrual cycle is, in fact, regarded as one of the primary signs. But this is not always the case.

It’s not always true that PCOS happens only when you have irregular periods. (Shutterstock)

Dr Neha Abhijit Pawar, consultant, gynaecology at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, told HT Lifestyle it is possible for PCOS to be present even when periods are regular. She explained that PCOS is much more complex, and sometimes it may not reflect in the cycle.

ALSO READ: Can thin women get PCOD? Gynaecologist shares symptoms of lean PCOD: Dark skin patches, oily skin

Dr Pawar said, “PCOS is a complex hormonal and metabolic disorder in which the ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of androgens (male hormones) and the body may show resistance to insulin. These internal imbalances can exist even if the menstrual cycle appears to be normal.”

How can you have PCOS despite regular periods?

Even if your periods are regular, it does not mean the reproductive system is fully healthy. Revealing how ovulation may be compromised, she explained, “Ovulation occurs, but the egg quality may be poor, or ovulation may be inconsistent. This means that while bleeding happens at expected intervals, the underlying hormonal dysfunction that defines PCOS is still present.”

So it is very important not to rule out PCOS just because your periods are regular, since, as per the gyneacologist, “regular periods do not necessarily guarantee normal ovulation.”

Beyond the hidden ovulation issues, there’s also another reason why periods can appear normal in PCOS. The gynaecologist explained, “While excess androgens disrupt follicle development, estrogen and progesterone may still maintain a bleeding cycle. This ‘masking effect’ can mislead women into believing everything is normal, while the ovaries continue to show polycystic changes and the body continues to face risks like insulin resistance, weight gain, or difficulty conceiving.”

Signs of PCOS other than irregular menstrual cycle

Hormonal acnes happen in adulthood too.(Shutterstock)
Hormonal acnes happen in adulthood too.(Shutterstock)

Other than menstrual irregularity, here are the symptoms Dr Pawar shared:

  1. Excess hair growth (hirsutism) on the face, chest, or stomach.
  2. Persistent acne or oily skin that does not improve with usual treatments.
  3. Thinning hair or male-pattern baldness on the scalp.
  4. Unexplained weight gain, particularly around the waist and abdomen.
  5. Darkened patches of skin (acanthosis nigricans), often around the neck, groin, or underarms.
  6. Difficulty getting pregnant, even when cycles are regular.
  7. Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound, with multiple small follicles seen in the ovaries.

Should you visit a doctor?

With periods appearing normal, the question arises whether one should visit a doctor. Dr Pawar advised that PCOS should not be ignored, as untreated PCOS can worsen health. She said, “If you notice any of these symptoms, it is wise not to ignore them just because your menstrual cycles seem fine. PCOS, if left undiagnosed, can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, infertility, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial problems over time.”

She suggested that a gynaecologist or endocrinologist may guide with blood tests to check hormone levels, assess insulin sensitivity, and conduct an ultrasound if needed.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Can neck pain lead to an intense headache? Neurologist explains why it happens and how to deal with it
Lifestyle

Can neck pain lead to an intense headache? Neurologist explains why it happens and how to deal with it

by jummy84
written by jummy84

If you have ever felt a throbbing headache that starts at the base of your skull and travels up your head, your neck might be to blame. A lesser-known but significant cause of headaches is cervicogenic pain, headaches that originate from issues in the neck. Unlike migraines or tension headaches, these are secondary headaches, meaning they result from an underlying problem, often involving the spine or muscles in the neck. Long hours hunched over screens, poor posture, or even sleeping the wrong way can be enough to trigger this condition. We spoke to Dr Sheetal Goyal, consultant neurologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, who explains how neck pain and headaches can be more closely linked than you might think.

Neck pain and headaches are often connected!(Adobe Stock)

What is a cervicogenic headache?

A cervicogenic headache is a type of headache that starts in the neck and radiates to the head. Unlike primary headaches like migraines or tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches are secondary, meaning they result from another medical issue, specifically, problems in the cervical spine (neck).

“With a cervicogenic headache, the pain you feel in your head originates from the bony structures or soft tissues in your neck. It is a type of secondary headache, which is a headache caused by an underlying problem in your neck,” explains Dr Goyal to Health Shots.

In many cases, this is a form of referred pain, where the actual problem lies in one part of the body, but the discomfort is felt elsewhere. So, while the pain may feel like it is in your head, the root cause is actually your neck.

What are the symptoms of cervicogenic headache?

Cervicogenic headaches often begin with stiffness or tightness in the neck, followed by pain that spreads to the back of the head, the temples, or even behind the eyes. “This pain can be moderate to severe, but it won’t be extremely painful,” says Dr Goyal. You may also experience:

  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision
  • Limited range of motion in the neck

The headache may worsen with certain neck movements or when pressure is applied at the base of the skull. These symptoms can be easily overlooked or mistaken for a migraine or tension headache, which makes awareness and proper diagnosis all the more important.

Chronic headache can be very uncomfortable! (Pexels)
Chronic headache can be very uncomfortable! (Pexels)

Is poor posture the only cause of cervicogenic headache?

Poor posture is a major contributor, but not the only one. Long hours slouching over desks, laptops, or phones can strain the neck and upper spine. However, other factors include:

  • Sleeping in an unnatural position
  • Whiplash or sudden jerky neck movements
  • Cervical arthritis
  • Disc issues in the neck
  • Muscle strain

“Those who work for extended periods leaning forward over a computer or phone are particularly susceptible, as the frequent forward bend places constant stress on the cervical spine,” suggests Dr Goyal.

Neglecting these signs can lead to chronic neck issues, recurring headaches, and even reduced mobility over time. Long-term strain can also weaken neck muscles and reduce flexibility.

How to manage or treat cervicogenic headache at home?

Mild cases of cervicogenic headache can often be managed with simple, at-home remedies:

  • Warm compress: It can help loosen tight muscles.
  • Gentle stretching: It improves flexibility and reduces stiffness.
  • Proper posture: Sit upright and use a pillow that supports the neck well.
  • Frequent breaks: Avoid sitting for too long. Instead, get up and stretch regularly.
  • Over-the-counter painkillers: OTC pain relief can help, but only for short-term use. Always take a doctor’s advice before consuming any painkillers.
  • Physical therapy: A daily exercise plan from a physiotherapist can strengthen neck muscles and prevent recurrence.

Remember that persistent pain should never be ignored, and relying solely on painkillers without addressing the underlying issue may offer only temporary relief.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Cardiologist warns of high heart attack risks after menopause; shares 5 signs: Neck pain, irregular heartbeats and more
Lifestyle

Cardiologist warns of high heart attack risks after menopause; shares 5 signs: Neck pain, irregular heartbeats and more

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Menopause is one of the major health milestones in a woman’s life, a significant transition. It involves a lot of hormonal fluctuation as periods stop, bringing symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings that many are familiar with. But these hormonal shifts also tend to pose a more fatal risk, too: a heart attack.

Heart attack tendencies increase in women after menopause. (Shutterstock)

ALSO READ: Gynaecologist shares 5 tips to manage menopause symptoms: Eat flax seeds, exercise 150 minutes per week and more

To understand why menopausal women become vulnerable to heart attacks, HT Lifestyle spoke to Dr Anand R Shenoy, consultant- interventional cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, who revealed that the sharp decrease in estrogen after menopause is one of the culprits. Estrogen is a vital hormone that helps support heart health.

Explaining more about how estrogen’s dip plays a role in surging the risks, the cardiologist said, ”Estrogen helps keep blood vessels relaxed, increases blood flow, and lowers bad cholesterol levels. As estrogen levels fall dramatically, blood pressure rises, cholesterol levels shift, and fat increases around the heart, all of which lead to a greater risk of heart attack. Menopause-related symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats have been associated with cardiac disease.”

To add to this, heart attacks in women are stealthy and tricky. According to Dr Shenoy, women have a ‘lower perception of the risks.’ This is alarming as it leads to underdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis. Primarily because the symptoms are not always traditional, they are a bit different and may even overlap with other health conditions.

The cardiologist further added how women can be more aware,
“To help avoid cardiovascular event possibilities, women should track their blood pressure weekly; participate in annual comprehensive cardiac screenings; recognise the signs and symptoms of a heart attack; and follow advice with proactive lifestyle changes. Tracking of signs and symptoms can provide early intervention and heart attack prevention during these vulnerable periods.”

So, as a menopausal woman, what should you do? Be aware of the red-flag signs and follow a healthy lifestyle.

Dr Shenoy shared a brief guide, covering 5 signs to help detect early and 5 prevention tips:

5 warning signs menopausal women should know

Dizziness is one of the symptoms of a heart attack among women. (Shutterstock)
Dizziness is one of the symptoms of a heart attack among women. (Shutterstock)
  1. Chest pain or discomfort: Instead of the regular crushing pain, females tend to experience more of a typical chest discomfort in addition to pain in the back, neck, jaw, or arms.
  2. Shortness of breath: Breathing difficulty while engaging in light physical activity.
  3. Palpitations: Irregular heartbeats or feeling skipped heartbeats.
  4. Dizziness or light-headedness: Feeling faint and unsteady.
  5. Fatigue: Unusual tiredness or weakness.

Prevention and management tips

Ensure you are exercising at least 150 minutes every week.(Shutterstock)
Ensure you are exercising at least 150 minutes every week.(Shutterstock)

1. Exercise:

  • The aim is to be at the ideal body weight, BMI

2. Diet:

  • Have a balanced diet containing fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein.
  • Minimise consumption of saturated fat, sugars and sodium.

3. Stress:

  • Use stress-relieving techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing.

4. Sleep:

  • Good quality sleep will help manage stress and cardiovascular health.
  • It is essential to get good quality sleep (ideally 7-8 hours) each night.

5. Quit smoking

  • Giving up smoking will decrease your chances of heart disease and improve your overall health.

This risk factor is applicable to both peri and post-menopausal women, as the cardiologist said, “To decrease the risk of heart disease during menopause, all peri and post-menopausal women should be assessed for risk factors and educated on heart-healthy lifestyle interventions to attempt to have optimum cardiovascular health.”

For the uninformed, post-menopause means when a woman hasn’t had any periods for 12 consecutive months, while perimenopause is the stage leading up to menopause, when typical symptoms like hot flashes and irregular periods start to show up. This phase can span the last few years of a woman’s menstruating years. So, the risk factors extend not only to women who have stopped menstruating and already reached menopause but also to those who are about to reach it.

As per the Cleveland Clinic‘s report, the perimenopause stage begins 10 years prior to final menopause, narrowing down the age to around mid-forties, with the average period being from four to eight years. So for better precautions, women late 30s onwards need to embrace heart-healthy habits and also seek medical attention if they spot any worrisome signs.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail