Q. What causes melena?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Melena is typically caused by bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, and the upper part of the small intestine. The dark, tarry appearance of melena is due to the digestion and breakdown of hemoglobin from the blood as it passes through the digestive system. There are several possible underlying causes of bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract that can lead to melena, including:

1. Peptic Ulcers: Ulcers in the stomach or duodenum can cause bleeding, and this blood may then appear as melena in the stool.

2. Gastritis: Inflammation or irritation of the stomach lining can lead to bleeding and melena.

3. Esophageal Varices: These are enlarged veins in the esophagus, often associated with liver disease, and can bleed, resulting in melena.

4. Mallory-Weiss Tears: Tears in the mucous membrane at the junction of the esophagus and stomach can cause bleeding.

5. Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus can lead to bleeding and melena.

6. Gastrointestinal Cancers: Certain cancers of the stomach, esophagus, or small intestine can cause bleeding and melena.

7. Vascular Lesions: Abnormal blood vessels, such as angiodysplasia or Dieulafoy lesions, can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding and melena.

8. Medications: Some medications, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause irritation and bleeding in the stomach lining.

9. Blood Disorders: Conditions that affect blood clotting or platelet function may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and melena.

It's important to emphasize that melena is a concerning symptom, and its underlying cause should be promptly investigated and treated by a healthcare professional. Diagnostic tests, such as endoscopy, imaging studies, or blood tests, may be necessary to determine the source of the bleeding and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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