What is Deep Brain Stimulation? Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a neurosurgical procedure where electrodes are implanted into specific areas of the brain. These electrodes produce electrical impulses that regulate abnormal brain activity. Essentially, the idea is to “turn off” parts of the brain without damaging them. This treatment is commonly associated with movement disorders… Continue reading Q&A: Deep Brain Stimulation for Multiple Sclerosis
Maternal Mental Health Worsening, Study Finds
Maternal mental health issues have become the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States. This has surpassed other factors contributing to the alarming rise in maternal mortality rates. A comprehensive review found that mental health disorders, including suicide and opioid overdose, account for nearly a quarter of maternal deaths. This rate is almost… Continue reading Maternal Mental Health Worsening, Study Finds
Arthritis Pain: Why Does it Happen and What Can You Do?
Arthritis, a common condition affecting millions of people, causes pain and inflammation in the joints. There are different types of arthritis, but two of the most common are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Understanding where the pain comes from is important to managing it. Are you one of the over 595 million people worldwide who live… Continue reading Arthritis Pain: Why Does it Happen and What Can You Do?
Experts Alarmed by Rising Diabetic Amputations for Black Patients
The number of people with diabetes needing amputations is rising, and it’s affecting Black and Latino individuals more. This means more people are having their limbs removed due to diabetes complications. According to the American Diabetes Association, every 3 minutes and 30 seconds a limb is amputated due to diabetes in the United States. Each… Continue reading Experts Alarmed by Rising Diabetic Amputations for Black Patients
Using Scent Therapy to Help With Depression
A small trial suggests that “scent therapy” may help people with depression recall specific autobiographical memories (AMs) that are often challenging to access. The study involved 32 adults with major depressive disorder who were prompted to recall memories using familiar scents like coffee grounds, oranges, and Vicks VapoRub. The trial, described in the journal JAMA… Continue reading Using Scent Therapy to Help With Depression
The Effect of Smoking on the Immune System
A recent study published in the journal Nature has revealed the harmful effect of smoking tobacco. It not only harms the body but also has a lasting impact on the immune system. It makes individuals more susceptible to diseases and infections even after quitting. Despite a decline in rates since the 1960s, it remains the… Continue reading The Effect of Smoking on the Immune System
What is Sundowning?
Sundowning, also known as “sundown syndrome” or “nocturnal delirium,” is a phenomenon characterized by increased confusion, agitation, and anxiety that tends to occur in the late afternoon, evening, or night. This condition is often observed in individuals with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other cognitive impairments. What are the key things to know about sundowning? Let’s… Continue reading What is Sundowning?
Understanding Muscle Weakness From MS
Muscle weakness is a prevalent symptom of multiple sclerosis, and it occurs due to the damage to the nerves that control muscle movement. The immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, called myelin, leading to disruptions in the communication between the brain and muscles. As a result, individuals with MS may experience… Continue reading Understanding Muscle Weakness From MS
Link Found Between Loneliness and Mortality
A recent study, published in December 2023, has unveiled the severe consequences of loneliness on senior health. The research, involving 9,032 patients with a median follow-up of over 10 years, indicates that individuals experiencing loneliness have a significantly higher risk of mortality. The mean age of study participants was 63.99 years. Notably, those reporting loneliness… Continue reading Link Found Between Loneliness and Mortality
Root Problem: Hair Loss from Lupus
Hair loss because of a medical condition is distressing. Unfortunately, this is one aspect of living with lupus. As an autoimmune disease, lupus affects various organs and systems in the body. This can lead to inflammation, affecting the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood cells, and more. One of the ways lupus can impact health… Continue reading Root Problem: Hair Loss from Lupus