Endocrinology in Nepal

Endocrinology is the field of medicine that relates to the endocrine system, which is the system that controls hormones. Endocrinologists are specifically trained physicians who diagnose and treat diseases related to hormones, the glands, and tissues that produce them, as well as complications that may be caused by them. They work closely with other specialists, such as specialists in ophthalmology, obstetrics, radiation oncology, and otolaryngology. The conditions that endocrinologists commonly treat are as follows:

• Diabetes​​​​​​
• Menopause
• Osteoporosis
• Metabolic disorders
• Thyroid diseases
• Certain types of cancers
• Short stature
• Excessive or insufficient production of hormones
• Infertility
• Transplantation
• Gender dysphoria

Endocrinology treatment usually involves controlling the amount of hormone the body produces. The goal of the treatment is to restore the normal balance of hormones found in a person’s body. The following are some of the procedures that an endocrinologist perform:

• Bariatric procedures (such as gastric bypass surgery)
• Adrenalectomy
• CT scan
• MRI
• Pancreas transplant
• Thyroidectomy
• Thyroid fine-needle aspiration
• Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy
• Brain stereotactic radiosurgery
• Home enteral nutrition
• Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS)
• Lipid management
• Transnasal endoscopic procedures
• Wound care
• Feminizing hormone therapy
• Facial feminization surgery
• Feminizing surgery
• Top surgery for transgender men/women
• Voice feminizing therapy and surgery.

How Long Should I Stay in Nepal?

Your length of stay in Nepal depends on the type of procedure you underwent. In general, you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days after treatments, particularly after surgery, then plan to stay in Nepal for at least 7 to 14 more days. During your stay, you will attend follow-up checkups where your endocrinologist monitors your healing progress and, if needed, will remove any stitches. For diagnostic procedures, you may be able to leave the hospital on the same day, then plan to stay in Nepal for 3 to 7 days until the results are available.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

While the recovery time can vary from one person to another, depending on the procedure you underwent and your overall health, you may be advised to take a week or two off of work. It may also take around 6 weeks until you fully recover and are allowed to perform strenuous activities, such as exercise. Your endocrinologist will give you a detailed recovery timeline.

What Aftercare is Required?

Your endocrinologist will give you a set of instructions that you need to follow after your treatment. In general, you may need to take the medicine (if any) as prescribed and have a healthy lifestyle, such as having enough sleep, follow a healthy and balanced diet, and exercise regularly. You may also need to attend regular checkups to check on your condition with your local doctor.

What's the Success Rate?

The field of endocrinology has advanced, with cutting-edge technology, new medicines, sophisticated imaging and diagnostic equipment, and innovative therapies that have helped to increase the success rate of endocrinology procedures. There are risks of side effects and complications which include infection, allergic reaction to the anesthesia, bleeding, and injury to nearby organs.

Are there Alternatives?

There is no alternative to endocrinology. If you have any conditions mentioned above, you may need to see an endocrinologist. If your condition is found out to be caused by other problems unrelated to endocrinology, your endocrinologist will refer you to the relevant specialist.

Endocrinology in and around Nepal

Introduction

Nepal is a country in South Asia, sandwiched between India and China. Home to the mighty Mount Everest, this incredible country has diverse landscapes, from the Himalayan Mountains in the north to the sprawling plains in the south. Towering mountains, charming hill villages, golden mountains, and jungle wildlife, Nepal is truly one of the world’s best travel destinations. Beyond its nature and culture, this country is also increasingly popular for its healthcare. With its affordable high-quality medical facilities, Nepal is considered to have immense potential for medical tourism, due to the availability of good infrastructure, highly trained specialists, modern medical equipment, and relatively cheaper medical treatment. In fact, it’s currently the fastest-growing segment of the country’s tourism. Medical tourists coming to Nepal are usually seeking exceptionally high medical treatment at competitive rates. Some of the most sought after procedures are dental treatments, cardiac services, and neurological treatments. 

Popular Cities and Regions in Nepal

Kathmandu, the capital and largest city in Nepal, is historic, enticing, spiritual, and vibrant. One of the most famous attractions in the city is the old town, where tourists can find the most popular Tibetan pilgrimage site, the Kathesimbhu Stupa. Another top attraction is Kumari Bahal, which is the home of the Kumari, the girl who is selected to be the town’s living symbol of Devi. Tourists looking to relax in a more laid-back vibe usually go to Pokhara. Stretching along the shore of an idyllic lake, it offers spectacular scenery. It also boasts a thriving adventure-sports industry, from paragliding to paddle boats. Anyone who wants to experience an ancient way of life should visit Bhaktapur, which is filled with artisan weave cloths, amazing cuisine, and beautiful temples.

Transport in Nepal

The main international airport in Nepal is Tribhuvan International Airport, which serves flights to and from numerous cities in Asia, such as Delhi, Hong Kong, and Dubai. Getting around the country can be a challenge, but public transportation is available. Buses are affordable, however, they tend to be overloaded. Tourist buses are the best way to travel around as they are in good condition. 

Visas in Nepal

Citizens of India do not need a visa to enter Nepal without restrictions. Citizens of almost all nations, including the US and all EU countries, can obtain a visa on arrival that is valid for up to 90 days. Only holders of passports from 12 countries, need to have a visa in advance.

Weather in Nepal

Nepal has five seasons. Spring starts in March until May, it offers pleasant weather that is not too cold nor too hot. Summer arrives in June and ends in August, bringing hot temperatures of around 28°C. Monsoon from June to September receives rain almost every day. Autumn and pre-winter bring sunny and pleasant weather, while winter can be very cold. 

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: Nepali rupee (NPR) is the official currency. 1 USD converts to 115 NPR. 

2. Money & Payments: ATMs are available in major cities, such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants. Tipping is expected.

3. Local Language: The official language is Nepali. English is mainly spoken in tourism areas. 

4. Local Culture and Religion: Hinduism and Buddhism coexist in Nepal peacefully. Islam, Kiratism, and Christianity are in the minority.

5. Public Holidays: Some of the most celebrated public holidays are Maha Shivaratri, Buddha Jayanti, Sambidhaan Diwas, and Bhaitika.