The Aga Khan University Hospital

Aslam was 58 when he noticed he was getting breathless walking to his car. He told himself he was out of shape. A few weeks later, his ankles were swollen and he was walking at night unable to breathe lying flat. By the time he saw a doctor, his heart was functioning at less than 30% of its normal capacity. Heart failure does not usually announce itself dramatically. It creeps in gradually — a little more breathlessness here, slightly swollen feet there — until the signs become impossible to ignore. The trouble is that by the time most people seek help, the condition has already progressed significantly. This article explains the early heart failure symptoms you should know, why they happen, and exactly when to act. What Is Heart Failure — and Why Do Symptoms Develop? Heart failure does not mean the heart has stopped. It means the heart muscle has become too weak or too stiff to pump blood efficiently around the body. As a result, blood backs up, fluid leaks into tissues, and orga...

Pregnancy comes with many exciting milestones. One of the most important ones is getting your pregnancy scans done on time. These scans help your doctor keep a close eye on how your baby is growing inside the womb. One scan that every expecting mother should know about is the anomaly scan . It is also called the mid-pregnancy scan or Level 2 scan. Doctors use it to check your baby's overall development in detail. Timing plays a big role here. Getting this scan at the right time gives the most accurate results. So let's understand everything about it — simply and clearly. What Is an Anomaly Scan? An anomaly scan is a special ultrasound done during the middle part of your pregnancy. The word "anomaly" means something that is not normal. So this scan checks whether your baby is developing normally. The doctor uses this scan to look at your baby's organs and body parts. It gives a clear picture of how everything is forming inside. Think of it as a detailed healt...

Finding out you're pregnant is exciting! One of the first things you'll want to do is see your baby for the very first time. Getting an ultrasound in pregnancy is an important step in your prenatal care. But when exactly should you get your first ultrasound? Let me walk you through everything you need to know. What Is a Pregnancy Ultrasound? Before we talk about timing, let's understand what an ultrasound actually is. An ultrasound in pregnancy is a safe test that uses sound waves to create pictures of your baby inside your belly. Think of it like taking a photo, but instead of light, doctors use special sound waves that we can't even hear. The machine shows these pictures on a screen, and your doctor can see how your baby is growing. The best part? It's completely safe for both you and your baby. Unlike X-rays, ultrasounds don't use any harmful radiation. When Should You Get Your First Ultrasound? Most doctors in Pakistan recommend getting your first ultra...

Living with heart failure may sound scary, but with the right habits and care, most people lead active and meaningful lives. The goal is to manage your symptoms, protect your heart, and avoid complications. Follow Your Treatment Plan Always take medications as prescribed. These help your heart pump more effectively, reduce swelling, and prevent fluid buildup. Keep a daily record of your weight and symptoms to share with your doctor. Watch What You Eat Reduce salt, processed food, and sugary drinks. Salt makes your body hold water, which can worsen swelling and shortness of breath. Choose fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Stay Active - But Smart Light exercise like walking, yoga, or stretching helps strengthen your heart. Always ask your doctor before starting a new routine. Take rest breaks and avoid pushing yourself too hard. Track Your Symptoms Note if your weight suddenly increases or if you feel more tired than usual. Early action helps prevent hosp...

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, yet it remains one of the most preventable. This form of cancer begins in the cells of the cervix—the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Despite modern medical advances and the availability of vaccines, thousands of women are still diagnosed with cervical cancer every year. The key to reducing this number lies in awareness—knowing the early warning signs of cervical cancer can truly save lives. For many women, cervical cancer develops silently. In its early stages, it often shows no symptoms at all. This makes regular check-ups and screenings extremely important. Understanding how cervical cancer starts, what causes it, and what signs to look out for can make the difference between early detection and late diagnosis. Understanding Cervical Cancer Cervical cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lining of the cervix. These cells can become cancerous over time, typic...

 Nose surgery, also known as rhinoplasty, has become increasingly popular in Karachi for both cosmetic enhancement and medical reasons. Whether you're looking to refine the shape of your nose or correct a breathing issue, understanding the different types of procedures available can help you make an informed decision. In this blog post, we’ll explore the main types of nose surgery in Karachi , the difference between cosmetic and medical rhinoplasty , and what you need to know before going under the knife. 🔍 Cosmetic Nose Surgery in Karachi Cosmetic rhinoplasty focuses on improving the appearance of the nose . It’s often chosen by individuals who are unhappy with the size, shape, or symmetry of their nose. Common Cosmetic Procedures: Reduction Rhinoplasty: Shrinks the size of the nose or nostrils. Augmentation Rhinoplasty: Builds up areas of the nose using cartilage or implants. Tip Rhinoplasty: Reshapes the tip of the nose for a more refined look. Nose Bridge C...