Migraine is a pulsating headache, usually seen as recurrent attacks of moderate to severe intensity and is often lifelong. Untreated attacks last from 4 to 72 hours.Migraine attacks typically include headache, which is:Of moderate/ severe intensityOn one-side or behind the eyeIs pulsating in qualityAggravates with physical activityHas a sensitivity to light and soundsAccompanied by nausea.Factors that can increase Migraine headache:There are multiple factors, which may vary from person to person. 3 main factors include: 1. Certain environmental changes:i) Sudden change in weatherii) Too much or not enough sleepiii) Strong smellsiv) Loud sound or bright/ flashing lightv) Skipped meals 2. Mental Health concerns:i) Certain emotionsii) Stressiii) Depressioniv) Anxiety 3.Medical reasons:i) Motion sicknessii) Low blood sugariii) Hormonal changesiv) ) OverexertionWho is more likely to have Migraine?Worldwide around 1.1 billion people are suffering with migraine headaches.Migraines occur both in children and adults. But it has been seen that adult women are affected by this three times more than men. In women, migraine often relates to changes in hormones.Treatment of Migraine:Relieving symptoms and preventing additional attacks is the main treatment of Migraine. Quick tips to ease symptoms include:Having a cup of coffeeNapping or resting with eyes closed in a quiet, dark roomPlacing a cool cloth/ ice pack on foreheadDrinking lots of fluidNatural treatments for migraine include Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), magnesium, coenzyme Q10, and a medicinal plant butterbur.Medicinal Treatment for Migraine:There are two different types of medications for Migraine:Acute medications: Taken as soon as symptoms occur to relieve pain.Preventive medications: Taken daily to reduce future attacks and their severity.Lifestyle changes that can help reduce or prevent migraine attacks:ExercisingAvoiding food/ beverages that trigger headachesEating regularly scheduled mealsAdequate hydrationA consistent sleep schedule.Maintaining a healthy weight.Everyone with migraine needs effective treatment at the time of the headaches. Try our simple ways and get rid of this recurring pain.Source:-1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8904749/ 2. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/migraine

Loving yourself is nowhere wrong, but going to an extent when you start suffering from a disorder. This is worrisome.If you or anyone you know suffer from these symptoms:Excessive sense of self importanceFantasies of success, power, beauty or loveHaving a special feeling of special for oneselfUrge for extra admirationSense of being authoritativeBeing selfish to achieve one’s own endsLack of empathyBeing jealous of othersBeing arrogantDon’t take it lightly. These might be symptoms of Narcissistic Personality DisorderCauses of Narcissistic Personality DisorderThese symptoms sound disturbing. Isn’t it? What can cause somebody to have such kind of emotions and feelings:This can be led by some early childhood experiences like:Feeling of rejectionExcessive praise given by parents or caregiversExcessive judgement done by parents or caregiversAny kind of trauma or abuseTreatment for Narcissistic Personality DisorderThe treatment involves a talk with the mental health professional. Talking in a positive manner can help in overcoming this disorder.There is no FDA approved medication for Narcissistic Personality Disorder. However, some medicines, like antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotic medicines, may help in relieving the symptoms.It is always good to know early about any disorder that can impact us and seek help as and when required.Source:-1. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/biking-and-sex-avoid-the-vicious-cycle-201209145290 2. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/cycling-health-benefits

Did you know that several Indian celebrities have struggled with Sleep Apnea? Big names like Bappi Lahiri and Badshah have faced this condition. Bappi Lahiri, the legendary singer and music composer, even lost his life in 2022 due to complications from Sleep Apnea. This isn't just about celebrities—Sleep Apnea can affect anyone.What is Sleep Apnea?Sleep apnea is a condition where your breathing stops and starts repeatedly while you are asleep. This happens because your airway gets blocked. When the airway gets blocked, oxygen levels in the body drop causing the person to wake up and begin breathing normally again. These awakenings are often very brief, sometimes only a few seconds, interrupting the sleep cycle.How to find out Sleep Apnea?Before seeing a doctor, you can take the first step by using our Sleep Calculator to understand your sleep patterns better. It can help you determine if you might be at risk for Sleep Apnea.To confirm Sleep Apnea, doctors usually recommend a sleep study called Polysomnography (PSG). This test monitors:Brain wavesBlood oxygen levelsHeart rate and breathingEye and leg movements.However, this sleep test itself does not provide the location of the obstruction, so further evaluation of the upper airway are necessary to identify potential sites of blockage. These include:i) Nasopharyngoscopy: A procedure in which a flexible fiberoptic endoscope is introduced through the nose and throat to observe structures that narrow the airway and compromises airflow.ii) Sleep endoscopy is similar to Nasopharyngoscopy, however performed under mild sedation. The objective of this test is to reproduce what occurs to the patient's upper airway in a sleep state, and identify areas and structures causing the obstruction.Treating Sleep ApneaThere are some non-surgical and surgical treatment options to treat Sleep Apnea. These include:Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine: This machine blows air into your nose and mouth to keep your airway open. This method might involve, losing weight, avoiding alcohol, and sleeping on your side to help further.Surgery: In some cases, surgery can be helpful to improve airway.If you think you might have Sleep Apnea, don't ignore the signs. 936 million people worldwide are suffering from mild to severe Sleep Apnea, yet many remain undiagnosed. Talk to your doctor and take the first step towards better sleep and a healthier life.Source:-1. https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/sleep/obstructive-sleep-apnea/treatments.html 2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31300334/

Hi everyone, today, we'll be exploring what dementia is, and some lifestyle factors that can reduce the risk of Dementia.Currently, more than 55 million people have dementia worldwide and every year, there are nearly 10 million new cases adding in. Dementia is currently the seventh leading cause of death.This sounds like a real big number impacting the lives of several people!!What is Dementia?Dementia is a condition that brings decline in mental abilities of an individual and makes it harder for him to remember things, think clearly. It impacts the overall daily tasks.While it's more commonly seen in older people, not everyone will get it.Things like age, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, being overweight/ obese, no physical activity, old set bad habits of alcohol and smoking, and also being socially isolated and depression makes it more likely for one to get dementia.It is interesting to know that certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of Dementia, even for the people with a family history of dementia.3 lifestyle changes to prevent Dementia 1. Aerobic exercises: Aerobic exercises like walking, running, swimming, cycling or even dancing are good for the brain because theyIncreases blood flow: They nourish brain cells and reduce the risk of blood vessel damage.Reduces inflammation: As it contributes to the buildup of abnormal proteins beta-amyloid protein.It is recommended for adults to do at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each week. 2.Eating Right for a Healthy Brain: There are some special diets that helps in keeping our brain healthy. Like the Mediterranean, DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diets.These diets focus on eating foods that are good for brain, like:Fruits and vegetables: These contain antioxidants, which can help protect the brain cells.Fatty fish: This is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, a nutrient important for brain health.By eating these foods and avoiding red meat and processed foods, you can help reduce inflammation in your brain and keep it healthy. 3. Take quality sleep. Sleep is important for brain health. When you sleep, your brain cleans itself of harmful substances. But if you don't get enough sleep or wake up often during the night, your brain can't clean itself properly. This can lead to problems over time.If you often feel tired when you wake up or have trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor. They can help you find out why you're not sleeping well and they may also suggest ways to improve your sleep.Dementia is killing a lot of people. It is important to provide care and support to a person living with dementia because this can be challenging, and impacts the overall health and well-being.Source:-1. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia 2. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/how-to-lower-your-dementia-risk#:~:text=Aerobic exercise.&text=Another common form%2C vascular dementia,risk of blood vessel damage.

Living with dementia can be challenging, but there are ways to help individuals enjoy their daily lives and maintain independence.3 Tips to Help People with Dementia:Staying Healthy and Active:Exercise helps improve both physical and mental health—try simple activities like walking or yoga.Eating balanced meals, rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins, supports brain health.Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can worsen symptoms.Regular health check-ups help track any changes and ensure proper care.Keeping the Mind Engaged:Using lists or calendars helps remember important tasks and reduces stress.Hobbies like painting or gardening help keep the mind active and boost mood.Puzzles, games, or learning something new can slow down cognitive decline.Staying socially connected through family, friends, or groups provides emotional comfort and support.Planning Ahead:Designate trusted people to help with decision-making when needed.Write down your preferences for future care, ensuring your wishes are known.Carry ID and emergency contact information to stay safe when going out.Joining support groups offers emotional strength and shared experiences.Even though dementia has no cure, these tips can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life, promoting independence and well-being.Source:-1.https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia

How to Calm a Panic AttackAccording to the World Health Organization (WHO), panic disorder is the most common mental health condition globally. It has affected over 300 million people in the world.It is estimated that around 2-3% of the global population experience panic disorder every year.Panic attacks can leave one breathless and terrified.What is a Panic Attack?A sudden feeling of intense fear or discomfort is called Panic Attack. This phase is often accompanied by certain physical and emotional symptoms like:Rapid heartbeatSweatingShortness of breathChest painNauseaDizzinessFearAnxietyBut remember, there are some effective ways to manage these panic attacks.Techniques to manage Panic Attacks:Deep Breathing:4-7-8 Breathing: Panic attacks can cause rapid breathing and chest tightness, making the breaths shallow. Therefore, deep breathing techniques help at this time. Therefore, Inhale slowly for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and exhale slowly for 8 seconds and repeat as needed.Grounding Techniques:5-4-3-2-1 Method: Identify 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste. This technique is a type of mindfulness which helps direct the person’s focus away from stress.Positive Affirmations:Repeat calming phrases like "I am safe," "This feeling will pass," or "I am strong." These positive affirmations can help counter negative thoughts. When you focus on saying a short, calming phrase over and over, your body can start to relax. This can help slow down your breathing and make your muscles feel less tense.Reach to your Calm Place:Close your eyes and find yourself in a peaceful, serene place. Imagine the sights, sounds, and feelings in this calming environment. Calmer environments have fewer distractions which can help to lessen the intensity of panic symptoms.Seeking SupportConnect with Loved Ones: Share your feelings with someone you trust.Professional Help: Consider seeking therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to learn effective coping strategies. In some cases, medication may also be helpful.If people can learn to control or avoid things that trigger their panic attacks, they might have fewer attacks and the attacks might not be as bad.Remember, you're not alone. With the right tools and support, you can manage panic attacks and live a fulfilling life.Source:- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321510