• Published on: Apr 20, 2020
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Dr Rajan Choudhary

COVID-19 MYTHBUSTER

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MYTHBUSTER

There are many rumours, theories and suggestions that are being spread on Facebook, WhatsApp and social media. Most of these have no truth to them, do not work as treatment, or can be dangerous to your health. They use language that makes them sound scientific, and usually claim to come from a reputable institute, medical journal or doctor. Many people will automatically trust this, without questioning whether the legitimacy of the advice given. We have covered the dangers of these social media posts in our blog: https://www.secondmedic.com/blogs/the-dangers-of-social-media-blind-forwards secondmedic blog

Here we will go over some common myths about COVID-19 and Coronavirus that you will encounter. If you have come across any new myths or theories, or you want to check something you have read or been sent, email us at info@secondmedic.com

5G mobile networks DO NOT spread COVID-19

This is a myth that has been spreading recently, claiming that the new 5G towers being erected are spreading COVID-19. This is not true and there is no scientific evidence to support this.

Coronavirus spreads on small droplets that are coughed up by infected people. It is possible to prove this by looking at these droplets under an electron microscope. 5G networks use radio waves to operate, similar to 4G networks and other mobile network technologies. Radio waves cannot carry or transmit viral particles.

Another theory is that 5G radio waves cause damage to the human body. Radio waves have very little energy and pass through the human body without causing any harm. They have less energy than sunlight, and we are exposed to sunlight daily without harm.

People are claiming that 5G and coronavirus arrived at the same time, and so must be connected. Simply linking two things together does not mean one causes another. 5G technology does not exist in many countries with COVID-19, and yet some of these countries have been hit harder than well developed countries.

Destroying masts because of this conspiracy theory is harmful, as these masts carry mobile network signals that allow people to phone in emergencies, and for emergency responders to communicate with hospitals, fire stations and the police. Destroying these masts can cause serious harm to others.

Coronavirus WAS NOT developed in a laboratory as a weapon by China/Russia/US

Multiple reputable labs and universities across the world have analysed the coronavirus responsible for COVID-19, and have determined there is no evidence it was produced by humans. It is very similar to pre-existing coronaviruses that have caused the SARS and MERS pandemics. Conspiracy theories such as these are being used to shift the blame to others and gain political points in the news, rather than focus on what is important – preventing the spread of the virus and treating those that are ill.

Holding your breath for 10 seconds or more without coughing DOES NOT prove you are free of COVID-19

One popular test that has spread on WhatsApp states you can see whether you have COVID-19 with one simple test. If you can hold your breath for more than 10 seconds without coughing or feeling any discomfort, you do not have COVID-19 and are safe. It says that COVID-19 causes fibrosis in your lungs and this can stop you from holding your breath. There is no evidence supporting this theory.

Many people who have had COVID-19 can hold their breath for 10 seconds, and many people who are virus free are unable to hold their breath. The only way to determine if you have had the virus is through a nose or throat swab to check for the virus. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, dry cough, feeling tired, shortness of breath), you should assume you have the virus and isolate yourself.

Drinking alcohol DOES NOT protect you against COVID-19

Alcohol is a disinfectant. Washing your hands with alcohol based hand gels can destroy the bacteria. However drinking alcohol is not the same. When you drink alcohol it is processed by your body to release energy, and it loses its disinfectant properties. Drinking too much alcohol can cause alcohol poisoning and damage your liver.

Hundreds of people have died as a result of drinking methanol, a dangerous form of alcohol.

Spraying alcohol over your body will kill any virus that is on your skin. But you should only use alcohol based hand gels, as they have the right amount of alcohol that does not harm your skin. Alcohol based gels will not cure COVID, as the virus causing the symptoms is in your lungs, not your skin.

Drinking bleach DOES NOT protect you against COVID-19. IT CAN KILL YOU

Just like alcohol, disinfectants and bleach can kill the virus if sprayed onto a surface that has the virus. But drinking them is highly dangerous and can be lethal. If ingested bleach will destroy your stomach just like it destroys the virus, and it will continue to destroy your body depending on how much is ingested.

DO NOT DRINK BLEACH.

Similarly do not spray disinfectant or bleach on your skin. It is  highly irritating and can cause a lot of damage, especially if it gets in your eyes, nose or mouth.

Dr Rajan Choudhary, UK, Chief Product Officer, Second Medic Inc

www.secondmedic.com

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Lipid Profile Test

Lipid Profile Test – Normal Range and Risks

Keeping your heart healthy isn’t just about staying active or eating green veggies. It also means knowing what’s going on inside your body—especially your cholesterol levels. One of the best ways to track this is through a lipid profile test.

If you’re wondering what this test means, what the numbers should be, and what risks you face if they're abnormal—this blog is for you.

Let’s dive into lipid profile test – normal range and risks in easy and clear language.

 

What Is a Lipid Profile Test?

A lipid profile test is a blood test that measures the amount of fat (lipids) in your blood. These lipids include different types of cholesterol and triglycerides.

The test helps evaluate your risk of heart disease, stroke, and clogged arteries.

 

What Does the Lipid Profile Test Measure?

A complete lipid profile usually measures:

  1. Total Cholesterol – the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood
     

  2. LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) – the “bad” cholesterol that can block arteries
     

  3. HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) – the “good” cholesterol that protects your heart
     

  4. Triglycerides – a type of fat that provides energy but can cause heart issues in high amounts
     

Sometimes, the test also calculates VLDL and a cholesterol/HDL ratio to better assess your health risks.

 

Lipid Profile – Normal Range

Understanding what your numbers mean is key. Here are the recommended normal ranges:

Test Component

Normal Range

Total Cholesterol

Less than 200 mg/dL

LDL (Bad Cholesterol)

Less than 100 mg/dL

HDL (Good Cholesterol)

40 mg/dL or more (men), 50+ (women)

Triglycerides

Less than 150 mg/dL

Note: Values may vary slightly depending on labs and age. Always consult your doctor for interpretation.

 

Why Is This Test Important?

High cholesterol usually shows no symptoms. That’s why it's called a silent threat.

Your arteries may slowly get clogged without you knowing it, increasing the risk of:

  • Heart attacks
     

  • Strokes
     

  • Peripheral artery disease
     

  • High blood pressure
     

A lipid profile gives an early warning so you can make timely changes to protect your heart.

 

Risks of Abnormal Lipid Profile

Here’s what happens when the results are not in the normal range:

High LDL Cholesterol

  • Builds plaque in your arteries
     

  • Increases risk of heart attack or stroke
     

Low HDL Cholesterol

  • Reduces protection for your heart
     

  • Makes it easier for bad cholesterol to stick to artery walls
     

High Triglycerides

  • Can lead to pancreatitis and diabetes
     

  • Often linked with obesity and poor lifestyle
     

High Total Cholesterol

  • General risk marker for cardiovascular diseases
     

 

Causes of High Cholesterol or Triglycerides

  • Unhealthy diet (high in fried, fatty, and sugary foods)
     

  • Lack of physical activity
     

  • Smoking and alcohol consumption
     

  • Obesity
     

  • Diabetes or thyroid problems
     

  • Genetic/family history of high cholesterol
     

 

How to Improve Your Lipid Profile Naturally

If your test results are abnormal, you don’t always need medicine right away. Often, small changes in your lifestyle can bring big improvements.

Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

  • Choose whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
     

  • Avoid processed food, red meat, and fried items
     

  • Include omega-3 rich foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts
     

Exercise Regularly

  • 30 minutes of walking, yoga, cycling, or swimming at least 5 days a week
     

Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol

  • These habits lower HDL and increase LDL
     

Maintain a Healthy Weight

  • Losing even 5–10% of body weight can improve lipid levels
     

 

How and When to Take the Lipid Profile Test

When to Take:

  • Once every 12 months for adults above 30
     

  • More often if you have heart disease, diabetes, obesity, or a family history
     

Fasting Required?

Yes, you should fast for 8–12 hours before giving the blood sample for the most accurate results.

 

Can I Get This Test at Home?

Yes! Platforms like SecondMedic.com offer home sample collection for the Lipid Profile Test, powered by trusted labs like Thyrocare.

You just book the test online, and a technician collects the sample from your doorstep. Results are available digitally within 24–48 hours.

Total cholesterol over 240 mg/dL, LDL over 160 mg/dL, and triglycerides over 200 mg/dL are considered high-risk levels.

 

Conclusion

A lipid profile test is a simple yet powerful tool that gives deep insights into your heart health. Knowing the normal range and understanding the risks of abnormal levels can help you take control early and live a longer, healthier life.

Stay proactive about your health. Book a lipid profile test – normal range and risks checkup today and make heart-smart choices.

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