Aastha Hospice

Aastha Hospice Aastha is a Hospice and Palliative Care Center for those whose illness may no longer be curable. It may be provided at home, hospital or hospice.

It enables them to achieve the best quality of life especially during the final stages of their illness.

28/02/2026

Dr. Abhishek Shukla explained that the patient has developed a wound over the heel, which is a Grade I–II bedsore (pressure ulcer). The heel is a dependent area of the body, meaning it bears continuous pressure when a patient lies in bed.
In bedridden patients, especially those who are unconscious or seriously ill for many days, certain dependent areas of the body are at high risk for pressure sores. These areas include the head, shoulders, hips, and heels, as they bear the maximum body weight while lying down.
In this patient, the skin over the heel has turned black and is starting to deteriorate. This indicates poor blood circulation in that area. Due to continuous pressure, the capillaries are unable to supply adequate blood and oxygen to the tissue. As a result, the skin and underlying tissue of the heel have become damaged.
To prevent further worsening, proper nursing care is essential. One method is to place a water-filled glove or water bag under the heel. The movement of water helps reduce continuous pressure and allows slight movement, thereby improving circulation and preventing further tissue damage.
It is the responsibility of the nursing staff to carefully monitor the patient, provide proper pressure care, regularly change the patient’s position, and promptly inform the doctor during rounds about any changes in the patient’s condition.

Today is a very special day for me.Happy Birthday, Amita.You are the heart of our home, a caring mother who nurtures wit...
28/02/2026

Today is a very special day for me.

Happy Birthday, Amita.

You are the heart of our home, a caring mother who nurtures with patience, a wonderful life partner who has stood beside me in every phase, and a daughter in law who brings dignity and warmth to the entire family.

As a doctor, I have seen the way patients look at you, with trust, relief and gratitude. You don’t just treat illness, you comfort people. For many, you truly are God’s blessing in a white coat.

Behind every long day, every responsibility, every challenge, you remain calm, composed and strong. I know how much you balance quietly, and I deeply respect you for that.

On your birthday, I pray for your happiness, good health and peace. May you continue to heal lives and spread kindness the way you always do.

Grateful for you, always.

27/02/2026

Patient: "Dr. Abhishek Shukla sir, what disease have I developed? I am unable to walk—is this paralysis or something else?"

Dr. Abhishek Shukla, Geriatrician: "I understand your concern. You're a 40-year-old who was completely fine 4-5 days ago, but suddenly lost strength in your hands and legs, making it hard to move them. Importantly, you're fully conscious and able to speak clearly. In such cases, two main conditions come to mind: stroke or Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). After evaluation, you have Guillain-Barré Syndrome, an acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. It causes symmetrical ascending muscle weakness starting from the legs and moving upward, often with pain in the back or limbs. You might notice autonomic changes like increased sweating, faster pulse, blood pressure fluctuations, or even arrhythmias.

To differentiate from stroke: Strokes typically leave patients unaware or confused, with asymmetrical weakness (one side affected more), and early bowel or bladder dysfunction. In GBS, like yours, consciousness is usually intact, weakness is symmetrical across both sides, and bladder/bowel function remains normal initially. The prognosis is good—85% of patients make a complete recovery, returning to normal daily activities within 2-4 weeks with proper treatment like IVIG or plasma exchange, supportive care, and physiotherapy. We'll monitor you closely here at Aastha Centre for Geriatric Medicine. Rest assured, early intervention makes a big difference."

26/02/2026

Dr. Abhishek Shukla describes what old age As Loss Of Independence. Dr. Shukla explained that old age is a natural biological process that occurs as part of the human life cycle. It is not a disease, but a gradual decline in the body’s physiological functions over time. As we grow older, the cells, tissues, and organs slowly lose their regenerative capacity, leading to visible and functional changes. Synonyms of old age include senescence, aging, elderly stage, later life, and geriatric age.

Dr. Shukla further explained that aging happens due to multiple factors such as genetic programming, cellular damage, oxidative stress, hormonal changes, and environmental influences. However, old age is more than just wrinkles or grey hair. It is often associated with certain geriatric syndromes. These include loss of independence, immobility, instability (frequent falls), intellectual impairment, incontinence, frailty, sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass), anorexia of aging (reduced appetite), social isolation, and loneliness.

He emphasized that these conditions are interconnected and may lead to a higher burden of disease and mortality. Social, mental, and physical health factors all play a significant role in determining the quality of life in elderly individuals. Early detection of these syndromes and timely intervention can significantly reduce disability, hospitalization, and mortality.

Dr. Shukla concluded by telling the student that aging should be understood with compassion and scientific awareness. With proper medical care, emotional support, nutrition, and physical activity, elderly individuals can maintain dignity, independence, and a good quality of life even in advanced age.

. Abhishek Shukla
25/02/2026

. Abhishek Shukla

25/02/2026

स्टूडेंट डॉ. अभिषेक शुक्ला सर से पूछती है, “सर, मैं लंबे समय से स्टेरॉयड ले रही हूँ और मुझे शरीर में बहुत कमजोरी महसूस हो रही है। क्या मैं इसे जारी रखूँ या बंद कर दूँ?”

डॉ. अभिषेक शुक्ला, जो कि एक अनुभवी जेरियाट्रिशियन हैं, समझाते हैं कि स्टेरॉयड (विशेषकर कॉर्टिकोस्टेरॉयड) बहुत उपयोगी दवाएं हैं, लेकिन इनके कई दुष्प्रभाव भी हो सकते हैं, खासकर जब इन्हें लंबे समय तक या अधिक मात्रा में लिया जाए। वे बताते हैं कि स्टेरॉयड से वजन बढ़ना (विशेषकर चेहरे और पीठ पर), शरीर में सूजन, त्वचा का पतला होना, आसानी से चोट लगना, और घाव का धीरे भरना जैसे शारीरिक प्रभाव हो सकते हैं।

इसके अलावा हड्डियाँ कमजोर होना (ऑस्टियोपोरोसिस), मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी, उच्च रक्तचाप, ब्लड शुगर बढ़ना, मधुमेह, और कोलेस्ट्रॉल का बढ़ना भी देखा जा सकता है। मानसिक रूप से मूड स्विंग, चिड़चिड़ापन, चिंता, अवसाद और अनिद्रा की समस्या भी हो सकती है। लंबे समय तक उपयोग से इम्युनिटी कम हो जाती है, जिससे संक्रमण का खतरा बढ़ जाता है। आँखों में मोतियाबिंद या ग्लूकोमा का जोखिम भी हो सकता है।

डॉ. शुक्ला विशेष रूप से समझाते हैं कि स्टेरॉयड को कभी भी अचानक बंद नहीं करना चाहिए, क्योंकि इससे थकान, अत्यधिक कमजोरी, जोड़ों में दर्द और हार्मोनल असंतुलन हो सकता है। यदि दवा बंद करनी हो तो यह केवल डॉक्टर की निगरानी में धीरे-धीरे डोज कम करके की जानी चाहिए।

अस्वीकरण: यह जानकारी केवल शैक्षिक उद्देश्य के लिए है। किसी भी दवा को शुरू या बंद करने से पहले अपने चिकित्सक से परामर्श अवश्य करें।

24/02/2026

Dr. Abhishek Shukla, a geriatrician at Aastha - Centre for Geriatric Medicine, Palliative Care Hospital & Hospice in Lucknow, explained to the student that corticosteroids are synthetic drugs mimicking cortisol, the natural hormone that curbs inflammation, swelling, pain, and excessive immune activity. These medications alter gene transcription to dampen immune responses, providing rapid symptom relief in various conditions though they do not address underlying causes and demand cautious use owing to side effects like osteoporosis, hyperglycemia, hypertension, and infection risk—especially heightened in the elderly.

He outlined five common indications. First, allergic conditions and anaphylaxis: steroids treat severe reactions like anaphylaxis, acute asthma attacks, urticaria (hives), and allergic rhinitis by swiftly reducing airway swelling and hypersensitivity. Second, autoimmune diseases: they manage chronic inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), vasculitis, and multiple sclerosis flares, helping induce remission without curing the disorder. Third, respiratory diseases: in exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, steroids lessen airway inflammation, improving breathing when bronchodilators alone fail.

Fourth, inflammatory skin conditions: topical or systemic forms alleviate eczema, contact dermatitis, and psoriasis by suppressing local immune overactivity, often via creams for targeted relief. Fifth, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): during flare-ups of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, they control gut inflammation, bridging to maintenance therapies. Dr. Shukla stressed short-term, lowest-effective doses in geriatrics, preferring topical/inhaled forms and monitoring for complications like fractures or infections prevalent in older patients.

23/02/2026

Nursing Officer Anshika asked Dr. Abhishek Shukla, the geriatrician, "Sir, how much food can I eat at one time? What's the maximum capacity of my stomach?" Dr. Shukla smiled and explained: Our gastrointestinal system is a remarkable journey starting from the mouth and ending at the a**s. It begins with chewing food in the mouth, which is then propelled through the esophagus—a muscular tube—into the stomach. The stomach serves as a temporary storage pouch, comfortably holding about 1-1.5 liters of food for 2-4 hours. Here, it mixes with digestive enzymes and acids to form a semi-liquid chyme, but absorption doesn't occur yet; instead, the stomach's powerful muscles churn and push it forward into the small intestine. The journey continues in the duodenum, where bile from the liver, fluids from the intestinal walls, and pancreatic enzymes blend with the chyme to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. This nutrient-rich mixture moves to the jejunum for further digestion into absorbable forms like carbs, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Finally, in the ileum, most nutrients and water are absorbed into the bloodstream. Undigested remnants and fluids then enter the large intestine, or colon, whose primary role is to absorb excess water and electrolytes, compacting the contents into solid stool. When stool accumulates and stretches the re**um, it signals the a**l sphincter muscles to relax, enabling voluntary discharge during a bowel movement. So, Anshika, while the stomach can stretch to hold around a liter, overeating leads to bloating—always eat mindfully and heed your body's satiety cues! . Abhishek Shukla

22/02/2026

Student's Question to Dr. Abhishek Shukla: "Sir, you explained street dog bites, but my friend was bitten by her pet dog at home. Will she need vaccines?"
Dr. Abhishek Shukla's Response: Yes, even bites from a pet dog demand immediate action because rabies can affect any dog, stray or not—it's a fatal risk that doesn't spare household pets. Start with thorough first aid: wash the wound vigorously with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes to flush out the virus, then disinfect it using alcohol, Dettol, or iodine. Head straight to a hospital for evaluation, as even minor bites can lead to serious infections.
Your doctor will likely recommend a teta**s booster if it's been over 5 years since your last one, followed by the anti-rabies vaccine (ARV) series—typically 5 doses on days 0, 3, 7, 14, and 28. For deeper bites, particularly on the face, neck, or hands, Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) is given alongside the first dose, aligning with CDC guidelines. Complete the full course without stopping early, unless advised after observation.
For the pet dog, confine it and monitor closely for 10 days for rabies symptoms like foaming at the mouth, unusual aggression, or abnormal behavior. Verify its rabies vaccination status with a veterinarian right away. If the dog shows signs or dies within this period, contact the vet immediately for testing. Rabies is nearly always deadly once symptoms emerge, so prompt steps save lives—visit Aastha Centre for Geriatric Medicine in Lucknow or your nearest hospital now.

21/02/2026

Great question from the student: the heart supplies blood to the body, but who supplies blood to the arteries? As Dr. Abhishek Shukla, Geriatrician at Aastha - Centre for Geriatric Medicine, Palliative Care Hospital & Hospice in Lucknow, let me explain. Our body operates a closed circulatory system, where blood circulates entirely within vessels without leaking out, and the heart serves as its powerhouse. The heart continuously contracts (systole) and relaxes (diastole), pumping oxygen-rich blood from its left side into the aorta—the body's largest artery—which then branches into smaller arteries spreading like a vast network across every organ, including the brain, kidneys, and limbs. These arteries carry blood away from the heart to deliver oxygen and nutrients. Meanwhile, veins collect oxygen-poor blood from tissues and return it to the heart's right side, which sends it to the lungs for reoxygenation before the cycle restarts. Thus, arteries don't need a separate "supplier"—they're directly fed by the heart in this endless loop. Both arteries and veins connect back to the heart, ensuring efficient flow. However, obstructions like clots or plaque can disrupt this: blood flow reduces or blocks entirely. In geriatric patients, we often witness a leg turning black, signaling a major artery or vein blockage and severe oxygen deprivation, leading to gangrene. Early intervention, such as angiography, is crucial to restore supply and prevent amputation.

20/02/2026

Student: Doctor Abhishek Shukla, my friend was heading home from the hospital when a street dog bit her. Does she really need rabies vaccines?

Dr. Abhishek Shukla (Geriatrician): Yes, absolutely—street dog bites are serious because rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms start, but vaccines can fully protect her if started right away. First things first: tell her to wash the bite wound immediately with soap and running water for 15 minutes. That helps remove the virus.

For someone never vaccinated before, like your friend, we follow the standard post-exposure plan (called PEP). It's usually 5 shots in the arm muscle (deltoid) on days 0 (today, as soon as possible), 3, 7, 14, and 28. Some places use 4 doses up to day 14, but 5 is safer, especially for street bites.

If the bite broke the skin or was deep (category III), she also needs rabies immunoglobulin (RIG)—a special shot injected around the wound on day 0 for extra protection.

If she's immunocompromised (weak immune system from meds or illness), stick to the full 5 doses, plus RIG, and test her blood 1-2 weeks after the last shot to check antibodies. She might need a booster on day 90 if levels are low.

Had she been vaccinated before? Then just 2 doses on days 0 and 3.

Rush to a doctor now for wound care and shots—don't wait. Rabies spreads through saliva, and street dogs can carry it. Better safe than sorry!

19/02/2026

In a thoughtful exchange at Max Super Specialty Hospital Saket, Delhi, Dr. Abhishek Shukla, a dedicated geriatrician, engaged Dr. Rohit Nayyar, an esteemed surgical oncologist with MBBS, MS, and MCh credentials, on the perils of long-term to***co use and its link to oral cancer. Dr. Shukla sought insights into diagnosis, confirmation tests, and treatment. Dr. Nayyar clarified that not everyone who chews or smokes to***co develops mouth cancer—many users escape it, while others succumb. Cancer arises from harmful cellular mutations, with to***co as a prime culprit. He urged regular self-exams: a white patch inside the mouth signals danger and demands attention. Dr. Shukla probed when quitting helps; Dr. Nayyar noted that cessation at the earliest stage slashes cancer risk by about 90%, per studies. But why do some non-to***co users get it? Chronic injuries from sharp teeth or ill-fitting dentures can fester into unhealing wounds, fostering malignancy. Prevention lies in stellar oral hygiene and routine dental check-ups. When Dr. Shukla asked about tests, Dr. Nayyar emphasized biopsy as the gold standard—simple, direct, and superior to blood tests, which aren't specific here. Diagnosis starts with visual inspection; biopsy confirms via tissue a**lysis. Treatment escalates from surgery for early lesions to radiation, chemo, or targeted therapies for advanced stages, tailored to tumor size, location, and spread. Early detection via vigilance saves lives.

Address

Aastha Geriatric Hospital & Hospice, B-52 J Park Mahanagar LKO
Lucknow
226006

Telephone

+919415015050

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