Stroke and Autoimmunity: What Patients Should Know

Doctor discussing stroke and autoimmune disease connection with older couple during consultation

Stroke and Autoimmunity The Hidden Link Patients Should Know About by Dr Anindita Santosa Autoimmune diseases are often thought of as conditions that mainly affect the joints, skin, or internal organs. But research has shown that their impact can extend much further, even influencing the risk of cardiovascular complications, including stroke. For patients and caregivers, […]

ANA Test and ENA Test in Autoimmune Diseases Diagnosis

ANA and ENA blood test tubes beside a microscope, representing autoimmune disease diagnostics

ANA Test and ENA Test in Autoimmune Diseases Diagnosis by Dr Anindita Santosa When doctors suspect an autoimmune condition, two common blood tests often come up: the ANA (antinuclear antibody) and the ENA (extractable nuclear antigen) tests. Many patients find these results confusing — and that’s understandable. These tests can give us important clues, but […]

How to Start Exercise for Seniors: A Safe, Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Senior woman doing wall push-up exercise with supervision in a fitness class for beginners

by Dr Anindita Santosa Disclaimer:The information shared in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only. It should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers should not rely solely on this content for managing health conditions. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance. The views expressed here […]

World Alzheimer’s Day: Autoimmunity & Brain Health

Elderly woman looking thoughtful by a window, symbolizing World Alzheimer’s Day and the connection between autoimmune disease, inflammation, and brain health

World Alzheimer’s Day: Understanding the Autoimmune Link to Brain Health Every year on September 21, World Alzheimer’s Day raises awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. These conditions affect millions worldwide — including families in Singapore. Alzheimer’s is primarily known as a progressive brain disorder that impacts memory, thinking, and behaviour. In recent […]

Women & Autoimmune Health: Hormones Across Life

Collage of women at different life stages representing hormonal changes and their impact on autoimmune disease

Women & Autoimmune Health: Hormonal Shifts Through Life Stages by Dr. Anindita Santosa Autoimmune diseases affect women far more often than men. In fact, nearly 80% of autoimmune conditions occur in women, often appearing during key life stages marked by hormonal change. These shifts — puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and menopause — can influence not […]

Parenting with Autoimmune Disease: Balancing Family & Self-Care

Mother with autoimmune disease spending time with young child at home, balancing parenting and self-care

Parenting with Autoimmune Disease: Balancing Family & Self-Care by Dr. Anindita Santosa Parenting is often described as one of life’s greatest joys, but it also comes with constant responsibilities. For those living with autoimmune conditions, the journey can feel doubly complex. Autoimmune diseases are long-term conditions in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy […]

Suprapubic Pain in Interstitial Cystitis: The Hidden Link to Allergic Inflammation

Person with pelvic pain holding bladder area, illustrating interstitial cystitis and allergic inflammation

Persistent lower abdominal pressure strikes millions of individuals diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS)—a chronic bladder condition that can force patients to urinate up to 60 times daily1. This debilitating disorder, characterised by suprapubic pain (discomfort located just above the pubic bone), creates a spectrum of symptoms ranging from mild bladder irritation to excruciating pelvic […]

Lupus Medication Side Effects: A Patient’s Complete Guide (2025)

Hand holding a variety of prescription pills with a pill organizer and notepad in the background, illustrating SLE medication management.

Every lupus patient faces the same dilemma: medications that control their disease often create new problems to manage. Lupus represents an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy organs and tissues throughout the body1. Medications form the foundation of effective lupus treatment, yet balancing their therapeutic benefits against potential side effects creates ongoing challenges for […]

Satay Sauce, Otah, Milo Mixes: Are You Reading the Labels?

Woman reading food label in a supermarket, checking ingredients for allergens.

Introduction Allergy risks aren’t limited to international packaged snacks or imported treats — they’re right here in our local fare too. In Singapore, where hawker culture and homegrown favourites shape daily meals, hidden allergens can quietly pose a threat — especially to those with autoimmune or allergic sensitivities. This blog unpacks three common Singaporean staples […]

Safe Stretches for Knee Pain: Gentle Mobility Guide

Smiling senior woman practicing yoga and stretching on a mat at home, promoting joint health and mobility.

How to Do Safe Stretches for Knee Pain: A Gentle Guide for Better Mobility Why stretches for knee pain? Forty percent of people over 70 develop osteoarthritis—a condition where joint cartilage (the smooth tissue covering bone ends) gradually wears down—with knee problems representing Singapore’s most prevalent age-related musculoskeletal concern.1 The idea of stretching when your […]