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Speaker · Invited Talk
10th Annual Conference of API Telangana State
11–12 July 2026📍 ESCI, Gachibowli, Hyderabad
Organized by Association of Physicians of India – Telangana State, hosted by API Hyderabad Chapter.
Presented on: "Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia — An Innocent Bystander or a Menacing Foe?"
Dignitary
43rd Annual Conference API Karnataka
8–10 May 2026📍 SIMS, Shivamogga
KAPICON 2026 — Theme: "Inspiring Minds, Improving Care".
Radio Talk · On Air
Live Session on Fever 94.3 FM
A public awareness initiative by Dr. Reddy's on seasonal allergies and congestion for better breathing.
📅 27th June 2026⏰ 11 AM - 12 PM & 6 PM - 7 PM
Times of IndiaNovember 2026
Asbestos found in rangoli products abroad; Bengaluru doctors advise caution
Asbestos found in rangoli products abroad; Bengaluru doctors advise caution Jahnavi T R / Nov 05, 2026 Bengaluru: Ahead of Deepavali, concerns are being raised over the possible presence of cancer-causing asbestos in rangoli powders and children's play sand, after products sold in New Zealand and several other countries were found to be contaminated. Experts in Bengaluru have advised consumers to exercise caution while handling coloured powders, particularly around children, even as asbestos contamination in products sold in India remains unconfirmed. Since January, five rangoli products sold in New Zealand have been found to contain asbestos, while 24 coloured sand products have been recalled. Similar products have also been recalled in Australia, Japan, the US, the UK and parts of Europe. Research by Auckland University of Technology (AUT) found airborne asbestos in 90% of the play sand products tested. Doctors note that while a one-time, brief exposure is likely to carry a lower risk than repeated or prolonged exposure, the actual risk remains difficult to determine without knowing the extent of contamination and the circumstances of exposure. Asbestos exposure can cause asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma, which may take decades to develop. Dr Darshana Reddy, senior consultant in internal medicine at Altius Hospitals, said children's play habits and longer life expectancy meant precautions were important. "Their longer remaining lifespan also provides more time for asbestos-related diseases, which typically develop decades after exposure, to manifest," she said. She advised parents to discourage children from blowing, throwing or vigorously scattering coloured powders and to keep them away from products suspected of contamination. Doctors also advised families to work in well-ventilated areas and keep children away while making rangoli to minimise airborne dust. They cautioned against dry sweeping or vacuuming leftover powder, as this disperses fine asbestos fibres into the air, and to seek appropriate guidance on cleaning if contamination is suspected.
Vijaya KarnatakaAugust 2026
Chronic cough may not only be a symptom of TB disease, but also a sign of these 5 diseases!
Chronic cough may not only be a symptom of TB disease, but also a sign of these 5 diseases! Produced by: Manohar Shetti | Vijaya Karnataka Web · 11 Aug 2026 If the same cough persists for 3 to 4 weeks without easing, do not take it lightly — it can be a sign of a serious disease. A cough is often dismissed as a seasonal problem that appears in winter or during the rains, and many people try home remedies instead of seeking care. But a cough that lasts for weeks and does not respond to medicine should not be ignored. 1. Asthma — Asthma can present with shortness of breath, tightness in the chest and cough. 2. Chronic bronchitis — In chronic bronchitis the airways become inflamed and produce excess mucus, so the cough can last for months. 3. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) — Acid reflux may sound unrelated, but acidity can also trigger a persistent cough. 4. Allergy — People allergic to dust, pollen, pollution or a particular substance can develop a long-term cough. 5. Lung cancer — If there is blood in the cough, unexplained weight loss or constant fatigue, see a doctor and get tested immediately.
Times of IndiaJune 2026
Late nights, skipped meals — Bengaluru's daily routine triggering migraine attacks
Late nights, skipped meals — Bengaluru's daily routine triggering migraine attacks Bengaluru: The city's notorious traffic, endless work calls, late-night shifts, and irregular meal timings are doing more than just causing fatigue. Neurologists say Bengaluru's fast-paced urban lifestyle is leading to migraine attacks in people who are already predisposed to the condition. "Migraine is not merely a headache; it is largely a lifestyle disorder. People today are constantly chasing deadlines, spending hours commuting, working across time zones and getting very little time to relax. This combination of chronic stress, poor sleep, and lack of recovery is what drives migraine attacks," said Dr Satishchandra P, neurologist at Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Jayanagar. Migraine affects nearly 12-15% of adults globally, while a recent population-based study in Karnataka estimated that 14-25% of adults in both urban and rural areas suffer from the condition, according to Dr Santosh NS, consultant neurologist at Manipal Hospital Whitefield. He said migraines usually begin between 15 and 20 years of age and are most common among people aged 20-50 years. Diagnosis is clinical and based on the International Headache Society criteria, which includes recurrent headache episodes lasting between four hours and three days, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. Migraine patients are particularly sensitive to bright lights, loud sounds, hunger, emotional stress and even sudden weather changes, said Dr Santosh. ...
Times of IndiaFebruary 2026
13°C to 31°C: Weather flip-flop leaves Bengalureans sniffling and wheezing
13°C to 31°C: Weather flip-flop leaves Bengalureans sniffling and wheezing Jahnavi@timesofindia.com Bengaluru: The city's once-predictable weather has turned capricious. Mornings now arrive with a sharp chill — temperatures dipping to 13-14°C — only for afternoons to climb swiftly to a sweltering 31°C. The stark swing within a matter of hours is driving an uptick in visits to clinics across neighbourhoods. Doctors report a noticeable surge in respiratory illnesses, including bronchitis, viral flu, persistent cough, sore throat and fever. "Compared to last year, we're seeing a 50% rise in such cases. On an average day, we now consult 10-15 patients, reflecting a rise in both outpatient visits and inpatient admissions. This surge is largely driven by sharp weather fluctuations, worsening air pollution and unhealthy dietary habits," said Dr Ajay HR, consultant in internal medicine, Prakriya Hospitals. Doctors note children's immunity is still developing, while older adults — particularly those with diabetes, asthma or COPD — are more sensitive to temperature swings.
Times of India2025
K'taka Issues Advisory on HMPV; Taking Steps to Prevent Spread: CM
TWO CASES DETECTED, HAVE NO HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL K'taka Issues Advisory on HMPV; Taking Steps to Prevent Spread: CM Puran Choudhary Bengaluru: Two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) were reported in Bengaluru in two infants on Monday. The 3-month-old girl and 8-month-old boy were tested positive for the virus at the city's private Baptist Hospital. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said both cases had no history of international travel and while the girl has been discharged from the hospital, the boy is recovering. DOCTORS CALL FOR MORE TESTING "People need to understand that HMPV is no different from other respiratory viruses. If we follow these precautions, the risk of spread can be minimised," senior consultant of internal medicine and allergologist at Altius Hospital Darshana Reddy said. Early detection and timely treatment can help manage complications and avoid hospitalisation or ICU stays, she said. Reddy recommended that the government conduct rapid screenings. ...
Times of IndiaMay 2025
Rain & pain: Bengaluru hospitals see surge in viral infection cases
Rain & pain: Bengaluru hospitals see surge in viral infection cases Yahaswini.Sri@timesofindia.com Bengaluru: As pre-monsoon showers turn into full-blown rain across Bengaluru, city hospitals are witnessing a surge in viral infections, particularly respiratory illnesses. Doctors are reporting a spike in cases of cold, cough, fever, flu-like symptoms. They say key triggers are sudden temperature drops, rising humidity, and increased social mixing in closed environments. Dr Darshana Reddy, senior consultant in internal medicine at Altius Hospital in HBR Layout, said: "We're seeing an increase in upper respiratory tract infections, especially the common cold, cough, and flu-like illnesses. About 60-70% of my OPD is now respiratory viral cases. The sudden weather shifts and rise in humidity are creating the perfect recipe for viruses to thrive and spread." Alongside respiratory infections, there's also an uptick in cases of viral fevers accompanied by body aches, fatigue, sore throat, and even viral arthritis. Dr Reddy said she's treating about 7-8 such patients daily, with children, elderly, and adults with compromised immunity being the most vulnerable.
Times of IndiaMay 2025
Asthma cases on rise, doctors point to poor air quality & late diagnosis
Asthma cases on rise, doctors point to poor air quality & late diagnosis Yashaswini.Sri @timesofindia.com Bengaluru: Asthma tightening its grip on the city, hospitals reporting a 25% rise in cases and 15% increase in hospitalisation the past five years. Doctors attribute the spike to deteriorating air quality, rampant construction dust and frequent weather fluctuations, noting that the condition is becoming both more common and harder to manage. WORLD ASTHMA DAY Following Covid, recovery from viral infections is taking longer, and many people without prior asthma history are now developing post-viral wheeze requiring long-term inhalers. Either way, asthma outcomes are getting worse," said Dr Vivek Anand Padegal, director of pulmonology at Fortis Hospital. Dr Darshana Reddy, senior consultant at Altius Hospital, highlighted that over 70% of asthma cases in Bengaluru remain undiagnosed. "Prevalence has jumped from 9% to 25% in five years, especially due to air pollution and underdiagnosis. Symptoms like cough and wheezing often mistaken for other conditions. After the lockdown ended, increased vehicular emissions and low mixing worsened air quality. In children alone, it's as high as 19.4%," she said.
Times of IndiaFebruary 2025
Lingering illnesses rise, docs flag immunity issues
Lingering illnesses rise, docs flag immunity issues Yashaswini.Sri @timesofindia.com Bengaluru: Fever, cough, fatigue — which were once a passing seasonal flu — now seem to linger for weeks, leaving Bengalureans drained and frustrated. Gastrointestinal infections have tripled, with an alarming increase in stomach flu, rotavirus, salmonella, typhoid, and E. coli cases, according to Dr Darshana Reddy, senior consultant in internal medicine at Altius Hospital. "Compared to last year, respiratory illnesses have risen by at least 20%, including allergic rhinitis cases. Cases of influenza H1N1 are spiking, and post-viral coughs are lingering for weeks. Severe sinusitis and congestion are also leading to absenteeism and reduced productivity," she added.
Hindi News2024
Small Size Kidney (Hindi) — Expert Opinion
Hindi article on Small Size Kidney (renal hypoplasia). Dr. Darshana R, Consultant Internal Medicine, Altius Hospital, Bangalore quoted as medical expert.
Times of India2024
Deforestation and rapid urbanization — health impact
Deforestation and rapid urbanization is progressing at a fast pace at the cost of our planet, Dr. Darshana Reddy, Senior Consultant - Internal Medicine, Altius Hospital, Bangalore pointed out. "Rising temperatures increase the risk of extreme heat leading to headache, confusion, tiredness, and vomiting. Temperatures above 40 degrees result in heat strokes causing organ failure and hospitalization, sometimes even death," she explained.
Times of India2024
Candida auris fungal infection
"Candida auris is a formidable fungal pathogen causing outbreaks, particularly in healthcare facilities. It poses a significant threat due to its resistance to multiple antifungal drugs, rendering treatment challenging. Its ability to persist on surfaces and spread between patients makes containment efforts complex," says Dr Darshana Reddy, MBBS, MD, DNB Internal Medicine, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Altius hospital, HBR layout.
Times of India2024
Water Bells — Expert Quote Close-up
The water bell initiative will improve concentration and learning outcomes, build a healthy lifelong habit, and is a low-cost intervention that can be integrated with nutrition & wellness programmes. A practical, non-disruptive schedule would be every 60-90 min, typically 3-4 times during school hours. Dr Darshana Reddy | Senior Consultant (Internal Medicine) & Medical Superintendent, Altius Hospital
Times of India2024
Move suggested by child rights panel — Water Bells (page 2)
Move suggested by child rights panel — Continued from page 1 The concept was introduced in the state by the then primary and secondary education minister S Suresh Kumar in 2019 on the suggestion of his colleague, the then tourism minister CT Ravi. This time, the decision to reintroduce water bells was taken on the recommendation of Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR) to the education department. Dr Darshana Reddy | Senior Consultant (Internal Medicine) & Medical Superintendent, Altius Hospital: "The water bell initiative will improve concentration and learning outcomes, build a healthy lifelong habit, and is a low-cost intervention that can be integrated with nutrition & wellness programmes. A practical, non-disruptive schedule would be every 60-90 min, typically 3-4 times during school hours."
Bangalore Mirror2024
Public feeding of pigeons: For or against?
Public feeding of pigeons: For or against? — CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 "Urban pigeon overpopulation has emerged as an under-recognised environmental health hazard. The fine particulate matter generated from droppings and feathers contaminates indoor air and predisposes residents to chronic respiratory illness. The immunologic response to avian proteins and fungal antigens found in pigeon debris can mimic other interstitial lung diseases, often leading to delayed diagnosis and progressive fibrosis. We are seeing an increasing subset of patients with unexplained dyspnea, hypoxia, and ground-glass opacities on imaging, later traced back to chronic pigeon exposure—highlighting the need for detailed environmental history in respiratory evaluation," said Dr Darshana Reddy, Altius Hospital. She noted that once pulmonary fibrosis develops secondary to pigeon exposure, the damage is largely irreversible making early recognition and cessation of exposure remain the only effective preventive strategies. "ICU admissions are necessary for severe respiratory failure following exposure to pigeon nests or droppings, especially in immunocompromised or elderly individuals, underscoring the potential for acute exacerbations," she said.
Times of India2024
Do school children need reminders for drinking water?
Do school children need reminders for drinking water? How harmful is dehydration in children? How important is the water-bell initiative? 3rd time lucky? Schools told to reintroduce water bells Times News Network Bengaluru: Failed in 2019 and 2022. Will the reintroduction of water bells — an attempt to encourage students to stay hydrated in schools — pass the test this time around? State govt has brought back water bells in all schools in the state — govt, aided and unaided schools. Water bells rang thrice a day — at 10.35am, 12 noon and 2pm in the first two attempts. According to experts, kids often do not recognise thirst early, especially when they are engaged in classes or playing. Say state govt initiative will build a healthy lifelong habit, and is a low-cost intervention.
Times of India2024
Move suggested by child rights panel — Water Bells
Move suggested by child rights panel — Continued from page 1 The concept was introduced in the state by the then primary and secondary education minister S Suresh Kumar in 2019 on the suggestion of his colleague, the then tourism minister CT Ravi. At that time, Kerala had launched the initiative. The Karnataka project was barely implemented when the Covid-19 pandemic ended physical attendance in schools for nearly two years. Dr Darshana Reddy | Senior Consultant (Internal Medicine) & Medical Superintendent, Altius Hospital: "The water bell initiative will improve concentration and learning outcomes, build a healthy lifelong habit, and is a low-cost intervention that can be integrated with nutrition & wellness programmes. A practical, non-disruptive schedule would be every 60-90 min, typically 3-4 times during school hours."
Times of India2024
3rd time lucky? Schools told to reintroduce water bells
3rd time lucky? Schools told to reintroduce water bells Times News Network Bengaluru: Failed in 2019 and 2022. Will the reintroduction of water bells — an attempt to encourage students to stay hydrated in schools — pass the test this time around? State govt has brought back water bells in all schools in the state — govt, aided and unaided schools. Water bells rang thrice a day — at 10.35am, 12 noon and 2pm — in the first two attempts. Water bells — short pauses between classes to remind students to stay hydrated — was first introduced in 2019 by the then primary and secondary education minister S Suresh Kumar.
Times of India2024
Trouble in the air? B'lureans huff & puff as pollution surges
Trouble in the air? B'lureans huff & puff as pollution surges Yashaswini.Sri @timesofindia.com Bengaluru: Several Bengalureans are battling eye irritation, cough and respiratory discomfort. Many complain that what once was a seasonal irritation is now turning into a year-round challenge. The reason, according to doctors, is the alarming rise in levels of PM2.5 and PM10 in the city. Doctors highlight the growing link between pollution and these ailments, warning of potential long-term risks. PM10 levels have exceeded safe limits, while PM2.5 continues to rise. Dr Darshana Reddy | Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine and Allergologist, Altius Hospital: "PM10 affects the upper airways, triggering allergies, asthma and COPD, while PM2.5 leads to lung infections, inflammation and even genetic mutations linked to cancer. Long-term exposure increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, diabetes and cognitive decline in children. Pregnant women face risks of premature births and low birth weight babies. With vehicular emissions being the primary source, vulnerable groups like children and the elderly remain most affected."
Times of India2023
Dengue cases surge in Bengaluru
Dr Darshana Reddy, consultant, internal medicine, Altius Hospital, said they usually see a spurt in dengue cases by May and a peak in September-October each year. However, this year they have witnessed cases surge by early January-March. "It is probably because of ease in Covid restrictions and people stepping out. There have been about 1,417 cases of dengue in Karnataka up to early May this year with no deaths noted as per the National Centre for Vector-Borne Diseases. Almost 80% of the cases are from Bengaluru," Dr Reddy said.
Financial Express2022
Tomato flu — rare viral infection explained
"The name 'tomato flu' is a misnomer. It is a rare viral infection of uncertain origin that gets its name from the typical tomato-shaped red rashes that it causes on the body of infected individuals. It is not known if the fever is related to chikungunya or dengue that it mimicks in presentation," Dr. Darshana Reddy, Consultant — Internal Medicine, Altius Hospital, Bangalore told Financial Express.com.
Times of India2022
Omicron third wave — mild due to vaccination
Dr Darshana Reddy, consultant, Internal Medicine, Altius Hospital, Bangalore, who saw many young people who tested positive during the third wave, agreed with the report findings, saying that thankfully most of the cases were mild, as a result of a successful vaccination drive that had undoubtedly proved useful. "The number of people infected with Omicron was dramatically higher than at any other time in the pandemic. The infection is mild in most individuals, but those who have severe illness still represent a significant number," Dr Reddy said.
Bangalore Mirror / Times of IndiaJuly 2022
Tummy ache? Blame it on too many mangoes
Tummy ache? Blame it on too many mangoes Iffath.Fathima @timesgroup.com Bengalureans love their mangoes. But too many mangoes might just land you in the doctor's chamber as doctors are reporting an increase in the incidence of gastric and diarrhoea due to overconsumption of mangoes. Dr Darshana Reddy, senior consultant, internal medicine, Altius Hospitals, HBR layout said: "There are a few side effects of consuming mangoes in large quantities. The most common ones are diarrhoea and gastritis. I have patients who eat kilos of mangoes in a day." There are several reasons for this. Mango is rich in fibre and sorbitol, a type of sugar that enables gut motility, informed Reddy. "Diarrhoea does not ensue when mangoes are consumed in moderation. However excessive consumption may result in increased frequency of upset stomach. Ripening of commercially sold mangoes is not natural. Mangoes are picked before they achieve early ripening. There are several chemicals that are being used to achieve it like calcium carbide. These chemicals can be harmful to the gut. Treated mangoes soaked for 15 minutes in water releases a pungent smell," Reddy added.
WHO / Times of IndiaApril 2022
World Health Day 2022 — 'Our planet, our health'
World Health Day 2022 - theme — "Our planet, our health." Amid a pandemic, a polluted planet, increasing diseases like cancer, asthma, heart disease, on World Health Day 2022, WHO has claimed global attention on the interconnectedness between the planet and our health, urgent actions needed to keep humans and the planet healthy and foster a movement to create societies focused on well-being.
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