Vedobi - 100% Herbal Product Market Place - Best Online Price

Use Code VEDOFFER20 & Get 20% OFF on orders of ₹2000+ & 5% Extra on Prepaid!

No Extra Charges on Shipping & COD

What is Brain Hemorrhage, its Symptoms & Causes and treatment

Posted 08 May, 2025

What is Brain Hemorrhage, its Symptoms & Causes and treatment

A brain bleed, also known as a brain hemorrhage, refers to bleeding between the brain tissue and the skull or inside the brain tissue. This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Brain bleeds can limit the oxygen supplied to the brain, causing headaches, nausea, vomiting, tingling in the extremities, or facial paralysis.

 

Types of Brain Bleeds

1.Bleeding within the skull but outside the brain tissue

The brain consists of three membrane layers called meninges. The meninges cover and shield the brain from injury. These layers are located between the skull bone and the brain tissue itself. A brain hemorrhage can happen anywhere within these three membranes: the dura mater, arachnoid, and pia mater.

  • Epidural hemorrhage: This type of bleed occurs between the skull bone and the dura mater (outermost) membrane level.
  • Subdural hemorrhage: The brain bleed takes place between the dura mater (outermost) and the arachnoid membrane.
  • Subarachnoid hemorrhage: This type of brain bleed occurs between the arachnoid membrane and the pia mater.
2.Bleeding inside the brain tissue

Two types of brain bleeds can occur inside the actual brain tissue. This is referred to as a cerebral hemorrhage or a hemorrhagic stroke.

  • Intracerebral hemorrhage: Bleeding that occurs in the cerebellum of the brain (including the brainstem).
  • Intraventricular hemorrhage: Bleeds that originate in the brain cavities where cerebrospinal fluid is produced.

Signs & Symptoms of Brain Bleed

The symptoms of a brain bleed can vary. It depends on which part of the brain is affected.

 

Common brain bleed symptoms include:
  • Weakness, numbness, tingling, and facial paralysis. Often these symptoms affect the arm and leg on one side of the body.
  • Sudden, severe headaches are known as “thunderclap” headaches. These headaches occur with subarachnoid hemorrhages. They are extremely painful and abrupt, with intense pain lasting from one to five minutes. This type of headache is not always dangerous; however, it could indicate a more serious, underlying condition involving a brain hemorrhage.
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Feeling lightheaded and dizzy
  • Seizures
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Impaired vision or loss of vision, sensitivity to light
  • Difficulty with balance and coordination
  • Stiff neck
  • Slurred or unusual speech
  • Feeling lethargic and sleepy
  • Coma

What Causes a Brain Hemorrhage?

Though a brain hemorrhage can come on suddenly, there are underlying factors that can contribute. The most common causes of a brain hemorrhage are:

  • Head trauma: Injuries to the head are the most common reason for a brain hemorrhage to occur in people younger than 50 years old.
  • High blood pressure: High blood pressure, if left untreated, can weaken the blood vessel walls and lead to a brain hemorrhage.
  • Aneurysm: An aneurysm occurs when a blood vessel wall weakens and swells. A burst aneurysm can cause bleeding in the brain and lead to stroke.
  • Blood vessel abnormalities: An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) causes blood vessels in and around the brain to become weak. It may be present at birth but is only discoverable when symptoms appear.
  • Amyloid angiopathy: This blood irregularity usually occurs among older adults with high blood pressure. It may produce small bleeds that go unnoticed until finally causing a larger bleed.
  • Blood or bleeding disorders: People who have diseases such as hemophilia and sickle cell anemia are more likely to experience brain bleeds. Their conditions contribute to lower levels of blood platelets and clotting. Additionally, patients on blood thinners have an increased risk of brain bleeds.
  • Liver disease: People with liver conditions have an increased risk of bleeding issues
  • Brain tumors: Those who have had brain tumors are at a higher risk of developing a brain hemorrhage.

Who is at Risk for Brain hemorrhages?

A brain bleed can happen to anyone, no matter how young or old you are. But some of the reasons that it’s likely to happen are:

  • You have high blood pressure.
  • You have a substance use disorder.
  • You use tobacco.
  • You take blood thinners.
  • You have a brain tumor.
  • You injure your head.

Treatment

Surgery may be necessary to treat a severe brain hemorrhage. Surgeons may operate to relieve some of the pressure on the brain.

If a burst cerebral aneurysm causes a hemorrhage, a surgeon may remove part of the skull and clip the artery. This procedure is called a craniotomy.

Other treatment options include anti-anxiety drugs, anti-epileptic drugs, and other medications to control symptoms, such as seizures and severe headaches.

People can recover from a brain hemorrhage, although it is vital that they receive the correct treatment as soon as possible. Rehabilitation can help an individual adjust to life after a brain hemorrhage.

Rehabilitation treatment includes:
  • physical therapy
  • speech therapy
  • occupational therapy
  • lifestyle changes to limit the risk of another hemorrhage

Can Brain Hemorrhages Be Prevented?

Most brain hemorrhages are linked to specific risk factors, so there are steps you can take right now to protect yourself, such as:

  • Treat high blood pressure.
  • Quit tobacco.
  • Stop using drugs. Cocaine, for example, can increase the risk of bleeding in your brain.
  • Keep an eye on cholesterol. Cholesterol can build up in your blood vessels and damage them. Men between the ages of 45 and 65 years and women between the ages of 55 and 65 years should get a cholesterol test every 1-2 years.
  • If you take blood-thinning drugs, follow up regularly with your doctor to make sure your blood levels are in the correct range.
Sources:
Read More
What is a migraine? Learn about its Symptoms and Treatment

Posted 24 February, 2025

What is a migraine? Learn about its Symptoms and Treatment

A migraine is a type of headache that is caused by a disorder of the nervous system in the brain. This pain is very painful. When a person has a migraine, nausea and sensitivity to light and sound increase in a person. The duration of its pain can range from a few hours to several days. Migraines are also considered to be genetic.

Migraines are complex problems related to neurology and are often painful headaches. It causes unbearable pain with tingling on one side of the head or sometimes on both sides. During a migraine, the arteries below the head become enlarged, and sometimes there is swelling in the painful area. This problem usually starts at puberty.

According to Ayurvedic doctors, a migraine is a pain caused by disturbances in the blood vessels of the brain or face. Apart from this, migraine can also be caused by changes in diet, increased stress, or sleeping more.

 

Types of migraine

There are two types of migraine: classic migraine and non-classic migraine. Both are described in detail below.

Classic Migraine

Classic migraine has many such symptoms that indicate that the patient is having a migraine attack, such as blurred vision before the onset of a headache. In some cases, symptoms of shoulder stiffness and burning are also seen. In the case of classic migraine, the blood vessels in the patient's body start constricting. In such a situation, it is best to contact the doctor immediately.

Nonclassic migraine

In a non-classic migraine, there is a severe headache from time to time, but other symptoms are not visible. During a non-classic migraine, the onset of headache as well as taking pain relievers provides relief to the patient.

 

Causes of Migraine

Hormonal changes—

Major hormonal changes that occur in the body of women can cause the onset of migraines. A lot of hormonal changes take place in the body for various reasons, like menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Fluctuating hormonal levels can also sometimes be the cause of headaches. According to a medical study, migraines affect women more than men due to hormonal changes.

Changing environment—

Changes in the environment are also considered to be one of the main causes of migraines. Sometimes the sensory arousal is aggravated by loud noises, unstable lighting, excessive smells, or noises that can cause migraines. Changes in temperature, such as strong sunlight, extreme heat, or extreme cold, can also cause migraines.

As a side effect of alcohol smoking-

A hangover after drinking alcohol or excessive smoking also causes migraines. Apart from this, sweet foods and extremely spicy foods can also trigger migraines.

Excessive consumption of caffeine-

People who use caffeine excessively complain of headaches if they suddenly stop taking it. That is, abruptly stopping excessive consumption of coffee can also be a cause of migraines.

 

Symptoms of Migraine

  • The main symptom of migraine is severe tingling on one side of the head, or sometimes on both sides.
  • People suffering from migraine headaches often experience an inability to perform routine activities, eye pain, nausea, and vomiting.
  • Migraine sufferers may be hypersensitive to changes in light, sound, and smell.
  • During a migraine, there is a terrible pain in the eyes, and there is also a burning sensation in the blinking of the eyelids.
  • Migraine headaches cause rapid mood changes. In such a situation, some patients suddenly feel very sad or become more excited for no reason.
  • Migraine pain gets worse with regular activities such as walking or climbing stairs.
  • Frequent urination can also be a symptom of migraine, but this symptom is not seen in everyone.

 

Home Remedies for Migraine

The following home remedies are usually used to get rid of the problem of initial migraine:

Ice pack

With the help of ice packs, it is beneficial to relax the swollen muscles due to migraine. For this home remedy, place a few pieces of ice in a clean towel and apply it to the back of the head, neck, and forehead for 10-15 minutes.

Massaging the head

Head massage is a very effective way to relieve stress. By doing this, the blood circulation in the body increases, which helps to reduce the pain of migraine. Massaging the back of the head of a person suffering from a migraine provides relief from pain.

Peppermint is beneficial.

Peppermint has anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps to stabilize and calm the mind. Drinking tea made from peppermint and mixing a few drops of peppermint oil with honey in water provides relief from migraines. Apart from this, massaging the head and forehead with peppermint oil also benefits the patient.

Ginger is helpful.

Ginger helps in relieving symptoms of migraine such as nausea or vomiting. Apart from this, the use of ginger also provides relief from swelling and pain caused by migraines. Boil the pieces of ginger in water and let them cool down. Drinking a few drops of honey and lemon in this water provides relief from migraines.

Basil oil is effective.

Basil oil relaxes the muscles. This reduces stress and gives relief from pain. For this reason, using basil oil provides great relief from migraine pain.

 

Measures to prevent migraine

  • Try to avoid changing temperatures. In the summer, use the air conditioner. Do not go out in the cold or hot weather.
  • Avoid direct sunlight and use goggles or an umbrella while going out in the summer.
  • Avoid eating too much chili or very oily, spicy food.
  • Do yoga or exercise regularly for 30 minutes.
  • Avoid the consumption of alcohol and smoking.
  • Make it a habit to walk barefoot on the grass every morning. Along with working stress, it also balances hormones, due to which the risk of migraine is reduced.

 

When to go to the doctor?

Migraines usually get better on their own within a few days, but if you experience any of the following serious symptoms, you should go to the doctor immediately.

  • Unbearable headache on one side of the head.
  • Headache with mental confusion and stiff neck.
  • Difficulty in normal activities such as climbing stairs and commuting.
  • Blindness of eyes due to strong sunlight or severe headache due to loud sounds, smell, etc.
Read More
क्या है पोस्ट ट्रॉमेटिक स्ट्रेस डिसऑर्डर ? जानें कारण और लक्षण

Posted 17 September, 2023

क्या है पोस्ट ट्रॉमेटिक स्ट्रेस डिसऑर्डर ? जानें कारण और लक्षण

ट्रॉमा क्या है ?

ट्रॉमा का अर्थ है गहरा आघात या क्षति। यह गहरा आघात या क्षति शारीरिक, मनोवैज्ञानिक, सामाजिक, मानसिक और भावनात्मक किसी भी रूप में हो सकती है। प्रत्येक के अलग-अलग कारण होते हैं। इसे आधुनिक समय की महामारी की संज्ञा दी गई है। अगर लोगों को आपातकालीन स्थितियों में इससे निबटने के उपायों के बारे में जानकारी और जरूरी प्रशिक्षण दिया जाए तो इन मौतों और विकलांगता को रोका जा सकता है।

 

पोस्ट स्ट्रेस ट्रॉमेटिक डिसॉर्डर के प्रकार-
शारीरिक

इसका अर्थ है शरीर को कोई भी क्षति पहुंचना। यह क्षति कई कारणों से पहुंच सकती है। सड़क दुर्घटना, आग, जलना, गिरना, हिंसा की घटनाएं, प्राकृतिक आपदाएं आदि इसमें प्रमुख हैं। इन सब कारणों में से पूरे विश्व में ट्रॉमा का सबसे प्रमुख कारण सड़क दुर्घटनाएं हैं। प्रतिवर्ष पूरे विश्व में लगभग 50 लाख लोग चोटों के कारण मर जाते हैं और लगभग 2 करोड़ लोगों को हॉस्पिटल में भर्ती करवाना पड़ता है। भारत में ही हर साल 10 लाख लोगों की मृत्यु विभिन्न दुर्घटनाओं में हो जाती है।

भावनात्मक-मनोवैज्ञानिक

भावनात्मक और मनोवैज्ञानिक ट्रॉमा का कारण शारीरिक और मानसिक चोट, कोई रोग या सर्जरी हो सकता है, लेकिन कई बार बिना कोई शारीरिक क्षति हुए भी लोग भावनात्मक और मनोवैज्ञानिक पोस्ट ट्रॉमेटिक स्ट्रेस डिसऑर्डर के शिकार हो सकते हैं। परिवार के किसी सदस्य या प्रियजन की अचानक मृत्यु, अलगाव या तलाक, पारिवारिक झगड़े आदि इसका कारण हो सकते हैं। पुरुषों की तुलना में महिलाएं भावनात्मक पि.टी.एस.डी. की शिकार अधिक होती हैं।

 

दर्दनाक घटनाओं के उदाहरणों में शामिल है-

  • परिवार के सदस्य, प्रेमी, मित्र, शिक्षक, या पालतू की मौत तलाक
  • शारीरिक दर्द या चोट (जैसे गंभीर कार दुर्घटना)
  • गंभीर बीमारी
  • युद्ध
  • प्राकृतिक आपदा आतंक
  • नए स्थान पर जाना
  • माता-पिता द्वारा त्यागना
  • घरेलू हिंसा

लोग विभिन्न तरीकों से दर्दनाक घटनाओं का जवाब देते हैं। अक्सर कोई स्पष्ट संकेत नहीं होते हैं, लेकिन लोगों की गंभीर भावनात्मक प्रतिक्रियाएं हो सकती हैं। घटना के तुरंत बाद सदमा और इनकार एक सामान्य प्रतिक्रिया है। सदमे और इनकार का इस्तेमाल अक्सर घटना के भावनात्मक प्रभाव से स्वयं को बचाने के लिए किया जाता है। आप सुन्न या अलग महसूस कर सकते हैं। प्रतिक्रियाओं में शामिल हैं -चिड़चिड़ापन अचानक,मूड बदलता है चिंता और घबराहट गुस्सा इनकार डिप्रेशन फ़्लैश बैक या घटना की दोहराई गई यादें।

 

पोस्ट ट्रॉमेटिक स्ट्रेस डिसऑर्डर के लक्षण-

पोस्ट ट्रॉमेटिक स्ट्रेस डिसऑर्डर के लक्षण हल्के से लेकर गंभीर तक हो सकते हैं। ये व्यक्ति के गुणों, उसकी मेंटल कंडिशन, पहले के ट्रॉमेटिक इवेंट्स के साथ एक्सपोजर, इवेंट के प्रकार और व्यक्ति के इमोशन को हेंडल करने के बैकग्राउंड पर निर्भर करते हैं। आइए जानते हैं के शारीरिक और भावनात्मक लक्षण।

 

पि.टी.एस.डी. के भावनात्मक लक्षण
  • स्तब्ध हो जाना, इनकार और अविश्वास
  • भ्रम, ध्यान केन्द्रित करने में परेशानी
  • गुस्सा, चिड़चिड़ापन, मूड का बदलना
  • चिंता और डर
  • अपराध बोध की भावना, शर्म महसूस करना और खुद को दोष देना
  • दूसरों से दूर रहना
  • दुखी और निराश रहना
  • दूसरों से कटा-कटा महसूस करना या सुन्न होना
पि.टी.एस.डी. के शारीरिक लक्षण
  • अनिद्रा या बुरे सपने आना
  • थकान
  • मांसपेशियों में खिंचाव
  • हृदय गति का बढ़ना
  • दर्द और पीड़ा का एहसास होना
  • आवेश और उग्रता की भावना
  • किसी बात पर आसानी से चौंक जाना या कांप उठना
  • सिर में दर्द
  • पाचन तंत्र का ठीक से काम न करना
  • पसीना आना
  • बता दें कि सिर्फ व्यस्कों में ही नहीं होता। बच्चे भी इससे पीड़ित हो सकते हैं।
बच्चों में पि.टी.एस.डी. क्या है?

रिसर्च के अनुसार बच्चों में पि.टी.एस.डी. का जोखिम अधिक होता है, क्योंकि उनके मतिष्क का विकास जारी होता है। बच्चे डरावनी या भयानक घटनाओं के दौरान तनाव की उच्च अवस्था का अनुभव करते हैं और फिर उनका शरीर तनाव और भय से संबंधित हॉर्मोन रिलीज करता है। बच्चों में इस प्रकार का सामान्य मस्तिष्क विकास को बाधित कर सकता है। इसके परिणामस्वरूप लंबे समय तक चलने वाला बच्चे के भावनात्मक विकास, मानसिक और शारीरिक स्वास्थ्य को प्रभावित कर सकता है।

इसके चलते डर और लाचारी की भावना वयस्क होने तक बनी रह सकती है और भविष्य में भी पि.टी.एस.डी. होने का रिस्क बना रहता है। छोटे बच्चों में पि.टी.एस.डी. के लक्षण की पहचान ऐसे करें।

 

0-3 साल के शिशु में ट्रॉमा के लक्षण
  • ठीक से खाना न खाना
  • नींद में रुकावट या नींद बार-बार खुलना
  • चिड़चिड़ा होना / परेशान करना
  • बच्चे का डरा हुआ रहना
  • किसी भी बात पर चौंक जाना
  • बोलने में देरी
  • आक्रामक व्यवहार
  • ट्रॉमेटिक इवेंट के बारे में बात करना और उसे याद करते रहना
3-6 साल के बच्चे में ट्रॉमा के लक्षण
  • टालमटोल करना, चिंता में रहना
  • हमेशा डरा हुआ महसूस करना
  • निराश रहना और खुद को बेबस समझना
  • सिर में दर्द होना
  • समझने में मुश्किल होना कि उन्हें क्या परेशान कर रहा है
  • दिन में सपने देखना और हमेशा चिड़चिड़ा रहना
  • आक्रामक व्यवहार
  • दुखी या चिंता में रहना
  • दोस्त न बनाना और अकेले रहने का प्रयास करना
कैसे उबरें पोस्ट ट्रॉमेटिक स्ट्रेस डिसऑर्डर की स्थिति से?
  • अपनी दिनचर्या शुरू करें।
  • परिवार के सदस्यों, मित्रों से इस बारे में बात करें।
  • अपना दृष्टिकोण सकारात्मक रखें।
  • कॉमेडी फिल्में और शो देखें। परिवार के साथ समय बिताएं, चुटकुले पढ़ें, सुनें और सुनाएं।
  • प्रतिदिन कम से कम 30 मिनट डीप ब्रीदिंग, योग और ध्यान करें।
  • 7 से 9 घंटे की नींद लेने का प्रयास करें।
  • शराब के सेवन और धूम्रपान से बचें। यह के लक्षणों जैसे अवसाद, एंग्जाइटी और अकेलेपन के एहसास को बढ़ाते हैं।
थेरेपी द्वारा पि.टी.एस.डी का इलाज-
कागनीटिव थेरेपी

इस टॉक थेरेपी में आपके सोचने के तरीके को पहचानने में सहायता की जाती है। इसमें आपको एहसास कराया जाता है कि नकारात्मक सोच के कारण आपके जीवन की गुणवत्ता प्रभावित हो रही है।

 

एक्सपोजर थेरेपी

इस थेरेपी में उस स्थिति का सुरक्षित सामना करने में आपकी सहायता की जाती है, जिससे आपको डर लगता है, ताकि आप सीखे सकें कि प्रभावकारी तरीके से इसका सामना कैसे किया जाता है। एक्सपोजर थेरेपी का एक आयाम वर्जुअल रियलिटी प्रोग्राम है, जिसमें आपको उस सेंटिंग में प्रवेश कराया जाता है, जिसमें आप पि.टी.एस.डी अनुभव करते हैं।

 

ग्रुप थेरेपी

इसमें उन लोगों का एक समूह बनाया जाता है, जो एक समान अनुभवों से गुजर रहे हों।

 

दवाइयां

कई दवाएं इससे उबरने में सहायता करती हैं, जैसे एंटी डिप्रेसेंट्स, एंटी एंग्जाइटी मेडिकेशन, अनिद्रा के लिए ली जाने वाली दवाएं।

 

कब जाएं साइकिएट्रिस्ट के पास?
  • अगर आप उदासी, एंग्जाइटी या हताशा से उभर नहीं पा रहे हैं।
  • ट्रॉमैटिक घटना के छह सप्ताह बाद भी अनुभव कर रहे हैं कि आप सामान्य नहीं हैं।
  • आप रात में ठीक से सो नहीं पाते और आपको दु:स्वप्न आते हैं।
  • आपका व्यवहार आपके करीबी लोगों के साथ अच्छा नहीं है।
Read More
What is Encephalitis: Know its Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Posted 15 September, 2023

What is Encephalitis: Know its Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Encephalitis is an acute inflammation of the brain, often caused by a viral infection. It can also be caused by a bacterial infection, non-infectious inflammatory condition, or an abnormal immune response in which the immune system mistakenly attacks brain tissue. Mild cases of encephalitis mostly recover fully with treatment. However, it may be life threatening and very serious in certain cases, therefore, prompt treatment is required. It can affect people of all ages, but mostly young and old are at higher risk.

 

Types of Encephalitis

There are basically two types of encephalitis-

Infectious-

Infectious encephalitis is also known as primary encephalitis. It occurs as a result of seizure of the brain by pathogens. The most common cause is a virus. Other organisms that can cause encephalitis include bacteria, parasites and fungi.

 

Autoimmune-

This type of encephalitis is caused when the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain. This is called autoimmune encephalitis.

According to the medical research, it is estimated that 40% of cases of encephalitis are infectious, 20% are autoimmune and about 40% are caused by unknown causes.

 

Causes of Encephalitis

Encephalitis can be caused by viruses and bacteria, including those transmitted by mosquitoes and other arthropods. Depending on what is causing the infection, the condition can develop suddenly or slowly. Following are the causes of Encephalitis-

Arbovirus-

This refers to viruses carried by insects and ticks. There are several types of mosquito-borne arboviral encephalitis. These include Western Equine, Eastern Equine, St. Louis and LaCross encephalitis. Arboviral encephalitis is often mild, it can be very severe and is often associated with permanent neurological damage.

 

Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE)-

Herpes simplex can lead to encephalitis in some people. It is considered the most serious type because it can cause significant neurological dysfunction. It often affects the elderly and very young children.

 

Rabies-

In some underdeveloped and developing countries, cases of encephalitis can be caused by rabies, a virus that is transmitted by certain animals including dogs, raccoons, and foxes. If left untreated, this condition can lead to severe encephalitis, which can be fatal.

 

Risk Factors for Encephalitis

Factors that can increase your risk of disease include-

  • Age- Infants and the elderly have a higher risk of developing encephalitis. It is more common than the herpes simplex virus in people in the 20-40 age group.

  • Low immunity- Patients who have HIV/AIDS, take drugs to suppress immunity, or have other conditions that cause a weakened immune system are at higher risk.

  • Geographical Distribution and Season- Encephalitis is more susceptible in geographic areas where mosquitoes or tick-borne viruses are common. They also contribute to the spread of encephalitis.

Symptoms of Encephalitis

Mild cases of encephalitis usually cause fever, joint and muscle pain, headache and a general feeling of weakness. Some patients also experience sore throat, muscle rigidity, upper respiratory infection, confusion, and lethargy.

In severe cases, the patient may suffer from-

  • Cramps.
  • Personality changes.
  • Double vision.
  • Crossed eyes.
  • Increased intracranial pressure.
  • Motor dysfunction.
  • Partial paralysis.
  • Seizures or loss of consciousness.
  • Hearing or speech problems.
  • Nausea.
  • Irritability.
How to diagnose Encephalitis?

To diagnose encephalitis, the doctor reviews the patient's medical history and performs a physical examination. Patients are also frequently asked about their travel history to identify the cause of their disease. Depending on the results of these tests, your doctor may also prescribe-

  • Blood and urine test.
  • Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain- showing detailed images of brain structures and showing abnormalities.
  • Electroencephalogram (EEG) is used to detect irregularities in the electrical activity of the brain.
  • Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) Capture ELISA (MAC-ELISA) can identify which virus causes encephalitis immediately after infection.
  • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), can be used to identify viral DNA.
  • Spinal tap, also called lumbar puncture, collects a small amount of fluid (cerebrospinal fluid) that surrounds the brain and spine. The sample is then examined in the laboratory for infectious agents.
Treatment for Encephalitis

Mild Encephalitis requires the following treatment-

Bed rest-

Several medications are prescribed by doctors to the patient during bed rest. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium may be used to relieve headache and fever.

 

Antiviral drugs-

Encephalitis caused by several viruses requires antiviral treatment. The antiviral drugs listed below are used to treat encephalitis-

  • Acyclovir.
  • Ganciclovir.
  • Foscarnet.

Some viruses, including insect-borne viruses, do not respond to this treatment. Antiviral drugs are well tolerated. Kidney damage is rare as a side effect to it.

Treatment for Severe Encephalitis includes-

  • Breathing support.
  • Ensure adequate hydration and essential minerals.
  • Corticosteroids help reduce swelling and pressure in the skull.
  • Phenytoin helps to stop or prevent seizures.
  • Physical Therapy is also useful to improve strength, flexibility, balance and mobility.
  • Occupational Therapy uses adaptive products to support you in your daily activities.
  • Psychotherapy is also a great measure to acquire behavioral skills to improve mood disorders and personality changes.
When to see a doctor?

If you experience severe symptoms of encephalitis, seek medical attention immediately. Do not ignore severe headache and impaired consciousness with this disease. If an infant or child has signs of encephalitis, make an appointment with a doctor.

Read More
Dementia: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Posted 19 May, 2023

Dementia: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Dementia: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Dementia is a condition that is described as a decrease in brain function. To have dementia, your brain function needs to become deficient in at least two areas. The facets of brain activity that may be affected by dementia are thinking, memory, judgment, behavior and language. Besides this, dementia is not a disease, but a condition caused by another illness or injury.

Some types of dementia are progressive and can get worse over time. The condition can result in mild to severe mental impairment. However, some types are treatable or reversible if you get the right kind of medical help early.

 

Types of Dementia

There are four main types of dementia-

Alzheimer's disease-

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. For most people, the first signs of Alzheimer's are problems with memory, perception, thinking or language.

 

Vascular dementia-

Vascular dementia is the second most frequent type of dementia. Common early signs of vascular dementia include problems with planning or organizing, decision making, or problem solving.

 

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB)-

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is mainly caused by Lewy body disease. Symptoms of DLB include difficulty concentrating, delusions, and problems with movement and sleep. It is closely related to Parkinson's disease.

 

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD)-

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is one of the least common types of dementia. It is sometimes referred to as Pick's disease or frontal lobe dementia.

Common symptoms of FTD include changes in personality and behavior and/or language difficulties.

 

Mixed dementia-

It is said to be a combination of two or more types of dementia. Alzheimer's disease with vascular dementia is the most common combination. It is most common in people of s80 years and older.

 

Causes of Dementia

Dementia occurs due to the degeneration of neurons in the brain. Neurons are cells that carry messages from the brain and spinal cord in the form of impulses.

The degeneration can occur due to several reasons including diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Neurodegenerative diseases responsible for dementia include-

  • Parkinson’s.
  • Alzheimer’s.
  • Damage caused by chronic alcoholism.
  • Vascular dementia.
  • Infections of the brain.
  • Tumors inside the brain.

Other possible causes for dementia are-

1. Metabolic disorders such as-

  • Vitamin B12 deficiency.
  • Hypothyroidism.
  • Liver disorders.

2. Structural brain disorders such as subdural hematoma.

3. Exposure to toxins such as lead.

 

Risk factors of Dementia

Factors that can increase your chances of developing dementia include-

  • High blood pressure.
  • Physical inactivity.
  • Drinking too much alcohol.
  • Hearing loss.
  • Poor diet.
  • Smoking.

Symptoms of Dementia

Symptoms of dementia depend on the stage you are experiencing.

Mild dementia symptoms include-

  • Personality changes.
  • Feeling angry frequently.
  • Depression.
  • Forgetfulness.
  • Difficulty in problem solving.
  • Short term memory lapses.
  • Struggling to express ideas or emotions.

Moderate dementia symptoms are more serious and might require help from others to deal with. They include-

  • Poor judgment.
  • Significant personality and mood changes.
  • Significantly large memory loss.
  • Increased frustration and confusion.
  • Inability to perform simple tasks such as bathing.

Mental faculties continue to decline in severe dementia, leading to symptoms such as-

  • Inability to communicate.
  • Inability to perform regular body functions.
  • Greater risk of infections.
  • Requiring help for all kinds of daily activities.

Prevention for Dementia

Certain measures may help to lower the risk of dementia-

  • Regularly exercising.
  • Avoiding smoking.
  • Consuming a healthy diet.
  • Maintaining a moderate weight.
  • Seek treatment for conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar.
  • Limiting alcohol consumption.
  • Wearing a protective cap for contact sports can also reduce the risk of recurrent head injury, which can be a risk factor for dementia.

Treatment for Dementia

Treating dementia typically means making symptoms easier to live with by making them less harmful. Dementia treatment is not designed as a cure but as a way of managing the condition. Treatment include-

Medications such as memantine and cholinesterase inhibitors are common in Alzheimer’s treatment. These help patients slow down the progression of the disease and maintain mental function for a while longer.

Other treatments include changing your lifestyle to better manage dementia-

  • Reduce clutter in your environment to improve focus.
  • Modify common tasks into something more manageable.
  • Take part in occupational therapy.

When to see a doctor?

If you suspect you or your family member has signs and symptoms of dementia, you should see a dementia specialist.

Read More
What is Trauma & how does it differ from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? Know its Causes and Symptoms

Posted 05 September, 2022

What is Trauma & how does it differ from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? Know its Causes and Symptoms

A time based emotional response to a particular event is known as trauma that causes deep damage or impact on the mind. This profound trauma or damage can be in any form, such as physical, psychological, social, mental and emotional. There are different reasons for each of these. Trauma can occur once, twice, or on multiple occasions, and more than one type of trauma can also be experienced at a given point of time.

The inability to recover from a traumatic experience can lead to long term emotional damage, leading to susceptibility to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This may sometimes lead to deaths, and disabilities. These can be prevented if people are given proper information and necessary training about ways to deal with it.

Types of Trauma

  • Physical or Acute Trauma-This results from any damage to the body due to a stressful or dangerous event. This damage can happen due to many reasons. Out of all these reasons, road accidents are the major cause of trauma all over the world.
  • Emotional or Chronic Trauma-Emotional and psychological trauma can be caused by repeated and persistent physical and mental injury, such as child abuse, bullying, etc. but sometimes people can suffer emotional and psychological trauma without any physical damage. Women are more prone to emotional trauma than men.
  • Complex trauma-Complex trauma is described as exposure to multiple traumatic incidents, often severe and prevalent. This is generally associated with kids, which tends to disrupt their mental growth. Examples include sexual abuse, incest, ongoing physical or emotional abuse, mental torture or being held captive, abandonment, etc.

Causes of Trauma

  • Divorce or traumatic grief.
  • Death of a Family Member, Lover, Friend, Teacher, or Pet.
  • Physical pain or injury (such as a serious car accident).
  • Serious illness/ Medical trauma.
  • Natural disaster.
  • War or military trauma.
  • Natural disaster.
  • Community violence (interracial, police, gang-related, etc.).
  • School violence or bullying.
  • Moving to a new place or forced displacement.
  • Being a witness to any of the above traumatic events.
  • Drug overdose.
  • Abandonment by parents or feeling neglected.
  • Domestic violence or Sexual abuse.

Symptoms of Trauma

People respond to traumatic events in different ways. There are often no obvious signs, but people can have severe emotional reactions. Shock and denial are a common reaction soon after the incident. Shock and denial are typically used to protect oneself from the emotional impact of the event.

Symptoms of Trauma can range from mild to severe. These depend on the person's characteristics, mental condition, exposure to past traumatic events, the type of event, and the background of how the person handles the emotion.

Emotional Symptoms of Trauma

  • Numbness, denial, and disbelief.
  • Confusion or trouble in concentrating.
  • Anger, irritability, mood swings.
  • Worry and fear.
  • Feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame.
  • Staying aloof.
  • Be sad and disappointed.
  • Feeling cut off or numb from others.

Physical Symptoms of Trauma

  • Insomnia or nightmares.
  • Fatigue.
  • Hamstring strain.
  • Increased heart rate.
  • Feeling aches and pains.
  • Feeling of passion and ferocity.
  • To be easily startled or trembled.
  • Headache.
  • Poor digestive system.
  • Sweating profusely.

An important thing to note is that trauma doesn't just happen in adults. Children can also suffer from this.

What is Trauma in children?

According to research, children are at higher risk of trauma as their brain continues to develop. Children experience high states of stress during frightening or terrifying events, and then their body releases hormones related to stress and fear. This type of trauma in children can disrupt normal brain development. The resulting long-lasting trauma can affect a child's emotional development, mental and physical health. Because of this, the feeling of fear and helplessness can persist until adulthood and there is a risk of getting trauma in the future too.

Symptoms of Trauma in 0-3 year olds

  • Not eating properly.
  • Frequent sleep disturbances.
  • Irritable behavior.
  • Child being scared.
  • To be surprised at something.
  • Delayed speaking.
  • Aggressive behavior.
  • Talking about and remembering the traumatic event.

Symptoms of Trauma in 3-6 year old child

  • Procrastination and worrisome thoughts.
  • Feeling scared all the time.
  • Feeling hopeless and helpless.
  • Headache.
  • Having a hard time understanding what's bothering them.
  • Daydreaming and always being irritable.
  • Aggressive behavior.
  • Be sad or worried.
  • Not making friends and trying to be alone.

How does Trauma differ from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Although, often used interchangeably, trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) differ from each other in their degree of time. Trauma is a specific time based phenomena which when worsens takes the form of a disorder known as PTSD.

How to Recover from situation of Trauma

  • Follow a healthy routine.
  • Talk to family members, friends about your troubled situation.
  • Maintain positive attitude towards things & situations.
  • Watch comedy movies and shows. Spending time with family, reading, listening and sharing jokes proves to be of great help.
  • Practice deep breathing, yoga and meditation for at least 30 minutes every day.
  • Try to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep.
  • Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking. These increase the symptoms of trauma such as depression, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness.

Therapeutic Treatments for Trauma

  • Cognitive therapy-This talk therapy helps you identify your way of thinking. In this, you are made to realize that your quality of life is being affected due to negative thinking.
  • Exposure therapy or Somatic experiencing-This therapy helps you to safely face the situation that scares you, so that you can learn how to deal with it effectively. One dimension of exposure therapy is a virtual reality program, in which you are introduced to the setting in which you experience trauma.
  • Sensorimotor psychotherapy-It combines psychotherapy with certain body-based techniques that could help the patient to turn their trauma into a source of strength.
  • Acupoint stimulation-Acupoint stimulation involves a trained practitioner apply pressure to specific points on the body, which induces relaxation & provide a calming effect, releasing the stress out of the body.
  • Touch therapies-Certain touch therapies such as Reiki, healing touch, and therapeutic touch therapy helps a person gather positive vibes from a practitioner performing these therapies.
  • Group therapy-It consists of creating a group of people who are going through similar experiences so that they can share their experiences & be vocal about their miseries. This helps to overcome traumatic situations.

When to visit a Psychiatrist?

  • If all the efforts to cope up with the traumatic events fail and the condition doesn’t get better, then they should seek help from a mental healthcare professional. It is particularly important to seek help if the symptoms of trauma interfere with routine life or impacting relationships.
  • Even those with low to mild symptoms can talk to someone about how they feel to have a better hold on themselves and feel better.
Read More
Vertigo: All You Need To Know

Posted 01 August, 2022

Vertigo: All You Need To Know

Vertigo is a medical condition characterized by a spinning sensation, in which a person feels that they or the objects around them are moving or rotating. The spinning sensation may be barely noticeable or maybe so intense making normal life very difficult. Attacks of vertigo can occur suddenly and last for several hours or very long or even days. It can happen at any age, but is common in older people about 65 years and above.

Types of Vertigo

There are different types of vertigo

  • Peripheral vertigoIt usually occurs as a result of a disturbance in the organs of the inner ear.
  • Central vertigoCentral vertigo is connected to the problem in the central nervous system. It is usually associated with a disturbance in either the brainstem or the cerebellum.

Causes of Vertigo

Different diseases and conditions can cause vertigo. They include

  • LabyrinthitisLabyrinthitis is inflammation of the inner ear.
  • Meniere’s diseaseA buildup of fluid in the inner ear can cause vertigo.
  • Benign paroxysmal positional vertigoCertain head movement triggers vertigo. It usually affects older adults.
  • Brainstem diseaseStroke.

Other causes include

  • Head injuries or trauma.
  • Ear surgery.
  • Migraine headache..
  • Prolonged bed rest.
  • Certain medications.
  • Syphilis.

Signs and Symptoms of Vertigo

Some common signs and symptoms of vertigo include

  • Vomiting.
  • Nausea.
  • Dizziness.
  • A loss of balance that makes standing or walking difficult.
  • Lightheadedness.
  • Headache.
  • A feeling of fullness in the ear.

Risk factors of Vertigo

Certain risk factors can increase your chances of vertigo. These include

  • Being over the age of 50.
  • Being a woman.
  • Experiencing a head injury.
  • Taking certain medications, especially antidepressants or antipsychotics.
  • Experiencing any medical condition that affects balance or your ears.
  • Having a previous episode of vertigo.
  • Family history.
  • Experiencing an inner ear infection.
  • Having high levels of stress.
  • Alcohol consumption.

Diagnosis of Vertigo

During an evaluation, the doctor may obtain a full history of symptoms and events including medications that have been taken, migraine headache and recent head injury or ear infection.

A physical examination is then performed, during a physical examination, the doctor may likely look for

Signs and symptoms of dizziness that are triggered by eye or head movements, Inability to control eye movements and involuntary movement of the eye from side to side.

If the cause is difficult to determine, additional testing may be performed

  • An MRI scan to visualize your head and body. Doctors can use the images to identify and diagnose a variety of conditions.
  • Videonystagmography (VNG) uses a camera to measure involuntary eye movement while the head is placed in a different position. This can help determine if the dizziness is due to an inner ear disorder. The patient wears glasses containing a video camera.
  • Electronystagmography (ENG) is similar to VNG. This procedure uses electrodes to detect abnormal eye movements. The patient wears a headset with electrodes placed around the eyes.

Treatment for Vertigo

Some types of vertigo resolve without treatment

  • Prescription drugs such as lorazepam, meclizine can be used to relieve the dizziness caused by Meniere’s disease.
  • Symptoms of nausea can be relieved by using drugs such as antihistamines.
  • Steroids, antiviral drugs or antibiotics may be prescribed for a patient with an acute disorder affecting the middle ear.
  • Sometimes, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) can be treated with an inner surgery, a bone plug is inserted into the inner ear to block the area triggering vertigo.
  • Avoiding caffeine, alcohol and tobacco smoking can also help.
  • The volume of the fluid retained in the body that can build up in the inner ear can also be reduced by restricting salt.

Home Remedies for Vertigo

  • Epley maneuverThe Epley maneuver is used in combination with medications to treat benign paroxysmal posterior vertigo (BPPV) and also to prevent its recurrence.

How to do

  • While sitting on bed, place a pillow behind you.
  • Turn your head 45° to the side of the affected ear.
  • Lie down with your head in the same position and rest your shoulders on the pillow. Your head should be bent over the bed for 30 seconds.
  • Tilt your head 90° to the opposite ear (without lifting your head).
  • Hold for 30 seconds and then rotate your entire body 90° to the side of the ear that is now down.
  • After 30 seconds, sit up slowly and keep your head in a neutral position.
  • Repeat the process three to four times a day.

Half somersault maneuver

The half somersault maneuver is an alternative to the Epley maneuver and is relatively more effective for some people. However, more than half a somersault is required to relieve benign paroxysmal posterior vertigo (BPPV).

How to do

  • Kneel on the floor, then sit on your calves until you place your palms on the floor directly in front of your bent knees.
  • Pull in your back and tilt your neck to look at the ceiling. This is the starting position.
  • Bring your body to the starting position of a somersault, touching the top of your head to the floor just in front of the knees.
  • While remaining in this somersault position, turn your head to the side most affected by the dizziness so that you are facing the corresponding elbow.
  • Lift your turned head and the rest of your upper body and sit back on your calves.
  • Stretch your neck to raise your head above body level.
  • Return to your starting position.

Brandt-Daroff exercise

The Brandt-Daroff exercise is very effective for vertigo caused by labyrinthitis or BPPV, especially for those who are sensitive to the redistribution maneuver or for whom other maneuvers have no positive effect.

How to do

  • Sit up straight, this will be your starting position.
  • Lie on your side with your nose facing up at an angle of about 45°.
  • Remain in this position for about 30 seconds or until the dizziness subsides before returning to the starting position.
  • Repeat the same exercise on the other side.
  • Ginkgo bilobaGinkgo biloba extract can also be used to relieve symptoms of dizziness or vertigo. Ginkgo biloba is widely used in Eastern medicine for its antioxidant properties. It can also help increase blood flow to the brain, thereby improving cognitive function. You can prepare a therapeutic tea with ginkgo biloba extract or ask your doctor to start a supplement.
  • AlmondsAlmonds are full of vitamins B and E, which obviously make them very effective in treating vertigo. Soak four almonds overnight in water. In the morning, make a paste of soaked almonds and add it to a glass of warm milk and consume it.
  • Ginger teaGinger is known for its healing properties, which can help relieve symptoms of vertigo. This can be done by increasing blood circulation in your body and relieving nausea. Boil 2 cups of water in a pan, add a few pieces of raw ginger, turn off the heat and cover the pot. Soak the ginger in hot water for about 10 minutes, then strain the tea into a cup. Add a few drops of honey or lemon to enhance the taste.
  • AcupressureAcupressure is a safe and inexpensive technique for treating vertigo caused by Meniere's disease. It involves pressing specific points of the body with fingers or a spoon to stimulate blood flow and relieve various ailments.

When to see a doctor?

See your doctor, if you experience severe dizziness or vertigo along with severe headache or chest pain.

Read More
Aneurysm: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Posted 14 June, 2022

Aneurysm: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Aneurysm is a fairly common medical condition that occurs when an artery wall weakens and leads to a bulge. The bulge can cause damage to the artery and lead to internal bleeding, which can prove to be fatal in certain circumstances. It can be caused by hereditary or acquired diseases.

Aneurysm can develop anywhere in the body, but are most commonly found in the brain, legs, aorta (vessel of heart) and spleen. As the aneurysm grows in size, the risk of ruptureincreaseswhich causes uncontrolled bleeding.

Types of Aneurysm

Aneurysms are classified by their location in the body or by their shape. Some of the most common aneurysm sites seen in the body are-

Aortic aneurysm-These aneurysms are found in the aorta, the main blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to other major organs in the body. The diameter of the aorta is 2-3 cm and the aortic aneurysm can bulge up to 5 cm or more. Within the aorta, aneurysms are usually seen in several areas, including-

  • Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)-This aneurysm occurs in the area of ​​the aorta that runs through the abdomen or stomach region. This is the most common aortic aneurysm.

  • Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm (TAA)-This aneurysm occurs in the area of ​​the aorta that runs through the chest.

  • Cerebral or brain aneurysm-This aneurysm occurs in the blood vessels that supply blood to the brain.

Peripheral aneurysm- This occurs in blood vessels that supply blood to other parts of the body such as legs, groin or neck. Types of peripheral aneurysm include-

  • Carotid artery aneurysm-This aneurysm occurs in an artery placed in the neck called the carotid artery.

  • Femoral artery aneurysm-This occurs in an artery of groin or thigh region called the femoral artery.

  • Mesenteric artery aneurysm-This aneurysm occurs in the artery that carries blood to the intestines.

  • Popliteal aneurysm-This is the most common peripheral aneurysm that occurs behind the knee.

  • Splenic artery aneurysm-This aneurysm occurs in an artery called the splenic artery, which supplies blood to the spleen.

  • Visceral aneurysm-This occurs in the arteries that supply blood to the bowel or kidneys.

Aneurysms are also classified according to the shape of the bulge-

Fusiform aneurysm-The bulge in this type of aneurysm forms on all sides of the blood vessel.

Sacral aneurysm-The bulge in this type of aneurysm only forms on one side of the blood vessel.

Berry aneurysm-The bulge in this type of aneurysm looks like a berry on a narrow stalk. This is the most common type of cerebral aneurysm.

Pseudoaneurysm or false aneurysm-Sometimes a rupture in the lining of the blood vessel wall causes internal bleeding. The leakage is retained by the surrounding soft tissue or the perivascular tissue of the blood vessel, creating a pseudo aneurysm.

Causes of Aneurysm

The exact cause of aneurysm is still unknown but certain factors can contribute to them which includes-

  • Tissue damage to the arteries can lead to aneurysm. The damage may be caused by blockages due to fatty deposits. The blockage can get the heart pumping faster, increasing the pressure on the arteries leading to damage.

  • Conditions such as high blood pressure and atherosclerotic disease can lead to aneurysm.

  • Several systemic conditions can cause vasculitis or inflammation of the blood vessels, which leads to damaging and weakening of the walls.

Risk factors of Aneurysm

Common risk factors associated with aneurysm are-

  • Being above the age of 60.

  • Being obese.

  • Smoking.

  • Having a diet high in fat and cholesterol.

  • Pregnancy increases the chances of aneurysm developing in the spleen.

  • Family history of heart disease and heart attack.

Symptoms of Aneurysm

In most cases, the aneurysm can be clinically silent, ie. It does not present any symptoms unless it ruptures. However, if present, symptoms usually depend on the location of the aneurysm.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) can be difficult to detect because it is often asymptomatic and slow-growing. In some cases, the aneurysm may never rupture. AAA augmentation can be represented by-

  • Back pain.

  • Deep and constant pain in the abdomen or side of the abdomen.

  • Throbbing near the navel.

Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) can cause symptoms like-

  • Breathing difficulties.

  • Difficulty swallowing.

  • Pain in the jaw, chest and upper back.

  • Hoarseness.

  • Persistent cough.

  • Shortness of breath.

In case of an unruptured cerebral aneurysm, the following symptoms may occur-

  • Blurred or double vision.

  • Pain above and behind one eye and dilated pupil.

  • Numbness on one side of the face.

A ruptured aneurysm can occur with-

  • Blurred or double vision.

  • Confusion.

  • Increased heart rate.

  • Bleeding.

  • Drooping eyelids.

  • Loss of consciousness.

  • Nausea and vomiting.

  • Sensitivity to light.

  • Seizure.

  • Stiff neck.

  • Severe headache.

Diagnosis for Aneurysm

Diagnosing an aneurysm depends on its location. Based on where it is, your doctor might ask you to consult a vascular or cardiothoracic surgeon.

Ultrasound and CT scans are typically used to help diagnose irregularities in the blood vessels.

The CT scans take X-rays of different parts of the body and look for any blockages, disruptions or bulges in the circulatory system.

Treatment for Aneurysm

Treatment for aneurysm depends on its location-

For aneurysm in the chest or abdomen, an endovascular stent graft procedure may be required. Stent grafts are usually over open surgeries as they are less invasive and can be used to reinforce blood vessels and make them stronger.

Lowering blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels is important as well, and you might be recommended medication for that. Lowering blood pressure is important in keeping the aneurysm from rupture.

When to see a doctor?

You need to see a doctor immediately if you suddenly have a severe headache, loss of consciousness, or have other symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm.

Read More
क्या होता है अल्जाइमर रोग? जानें, इसके लक्षण, कारण और बचाव

Posted 24 May, 2022

क्या होता है अल्जाइमर रोग? जानें, इसके लक्षण, कारण और बचाव

अल्जाइमर रोग न्यूरोलॉजिकल (Neurological) अर्थात मस्तिष्क संबंधी विकार है। जो मस्तिष्क की तंत्रिका तंत्र को प्रभावित करता है। इस रोग से पीड़ित व्यक्ति के मस्तिष्क की कोशिकाएं नष्ट होने लगती हैं। जिससे व्यक्ति की याददाश्त कमजोर हो जाती है। साथ ही व्यक्ति का दिमाग ठीक तरह से कार्य नहीं कर पाता। अल्जाइमर यानी भूलने की बीमारी एक तरह का डिमेंशिया (मनोभ्रंश) का प्रकार है। जो मुख्य रूप से मस्तिष्क का दर्द कम करने वाली औषधि आदि का अधिक इस्तेमाल करने से, नींद की दवाओं का ज्यादा उपयोग या मनोवैज्ञानिक विकार आदि से होते हैं। शुरुआती दौर में अल्जाइमर के लक्षण कम नजर आते हैं। लेकिन समय रहते इसका इलाज न कराना या नजरअंदाज कर देने पर यह समस्या गंभीर रूप ले लेती है।

आमतौर पर अल्जाइमर रोग का खतरा वृद्ध आयु वाले लोगों में अधिक रहता है। यह रोग धीरे-धीरे याददाश्त जाना, संज्ञानात्मक क्षमता में कमी  और भूलने की समस्या पैदा करता है। अनुमान के अनुसार भारत में लगभग 40 लाख लोग डिमेंशिया (मनोभ्रंश) से पीड़ित हैं। इन 40 लाख लोगों में से लगभग 16 लाख लोग अल्जाइमर के शिकार हैं। अल्जाइमर जैसे तंत्रिका संबंधी विकार भी भूलने की बीमारी को जन्म देते हैं। भूलने की बीमारी मस्तिष्क के उन क्षेत्रों को नुकसान पहुंचने से होती है, जो याददाश्त के लिए महत्वपूर्ण होते हैं। भूलने की बीमारी स्थायी हो सकती है। इसका कोई विशेष उपचार नहीं है। लेकिन याददाश्त बढ़ाने और मनोवैज्ञानिक तकनीकों से भूलने की बीमारी से पीड़ित लोगों की सहायता की जा सकती है।

 
अल्जाइमर रोग के चरण

आमतौर पर, अल्जाइमर रोग को 7 चरणों में बांटा गया हैं।  आइए चर्चा करते हैं इन्हीं चरणों के बारे में:

 
चरण 1. नो कॉग्निटिव इंपेयरमेंट (No Cognitive Impairment)-

यह अल्जाइमर रोग का प्राथमिक चरण हैं। इस दौरान व्यक्ति के स्मृति से संबंधित किसी तरह की समस्या नहीं होती। यहां तक डॉक्टर भी इस स्टेज का पता लगाने में असमर्थ है। क्योंकि इस दौरान व्यक्ति में कोई लक्षण देखने को नहीं मिलते हैं।

 
चरण 2. मामूली गिरावट (Very Mild Decline)-

अल्जाइमर रोग के इस चरण में लोगों की याददाश्त में थोड़ी गिरावट आने लगती है। इस चरण में व्यक्ति अपने दोस्तों के नाम एवं जरूरत की चीजों जैसे चाबियां, चश्मा एवं अन्य रोजमर्रा की चीजों को रखने की जगह आदि भूलनें लगते हैं।

 
चरण 3. माइल्ड कॉग्निटिव डिकलाइन (Mild Cognitive Decline)-

अल्जाइमर के तीसरे स्टेज पर रोगी के मानसिक (संज्ञानात्मक) व्यवहार में बदलाव देखने को मिलते हैं। साथ ही व्यक्ति की याददाश्त और एकाग्रता में कमी होने लगती है। इस स्टेज को चिकित्सयी परीक्षण से पता लगाया जा सकता हैं।

 
चरण 4. माडरेट कॉग्निटिव डिकलाइन (Moderate Cognitive Decline)-

इस चरण तक पहुंचने पर व्यक्ति हाल ही में हुई घटनाओं को काफी हद तक भूल जाता है। इसके अलावा व्यक्ति खुद से जुड़ी हुई बीती बातों को भी भूलने लगता है।

 
चरण 5. मॉडेरटली सीवियर कॉग्निटिव डिक्लाइन (Moderately Severe Cognitive Decline)-

अल्जाइमर रोग के लक्षण इस चरण में काफी नजर आने लगते हैं। इस दौरान व्यक्ति को मोबाइल नंबर, घर का पता, तारीख, महीना और गिनती भूलना आदि की समस्याएं होने लगती हैं। पर इस स्टेज में व्यक्ति को अपना एवं अपने परिवार वालों का नाम याद रहता है। साथ ही व्यक्ति को भोजन करने और शौचालय इस्तेमाल करने में कोई समस्या नहीं होती।

 
चरण 6. गंभीर गिरावट (Severe cognitive decline)-

इस चरण में स्मृति से संबंधित समस्याएं गंभीर एवं जटिल हो जाती हैं। इस दौरान व्यक्ति के दैनिक गतिविधियां भी प्रभावित होने लगती हैं। कपड़े पहनने से लेकर बाथरूम इस्तेमाल करने में समस्या, यहां तक कि व्यक्ति अपने घरवालों का नाम तक भूल जाता है। साथ ही उसे अनिद्रा की परेशानी का भी सामना करना पड़ता है।

 
चरण 7. लेट स्टेज (Very severe cognitive decline)-

यह अल्जाइमर रोग का अंतिम चरण होता है। जो सबसे खतरनाक एवं जटिल समस्या है। इस अवस्था में व्यक्ति प्रतिक्रिया करने, बोलने और शरीर को नियंत्रित करने की क्षमता खो देता है। यहां तक व्यक्ति को भोजन करने और शौचालय जाने में भी सहायता की जरूरत पड़ती है।

 
अल्जाइमर रोग के लक्षण-
  • याददाश्त कमजोर होना।
  • परिवार के सदस्यों या रिश्तेदारों को पहचान न पाना।
  • किसी भी प्रकार के कार्य करने में परेशानी होना।
  • बोलने व समझने में समस्या उत्पन्न होना।
  • समय और स्थान को लेकर भ्रम होना।
  • निर्णय लेने की क्षमता खत्म हो जाना।
  • सोचने की क्षमता में कमी या परेशानी होना।
  • अपने चीजों को खो देना।
  • बर्ताव में बदलाव होना।
  • व्यक्ति का मानसिक संतुलन बिगड़ जाना।
  • आत्मबल में कमी होना।
  • चिड़चिड़ापन होना।
  • समय के साथ चिंतित होना।
अल्जाइमर रोग के कारण-
संक्रमण का होना-

अल्जाइमर रोग का मुख्य कारण दिमाग में संक्रमण का होना होता है। जिसकी वजह से मस्तिष्क और नर्वस सिस्टम की तंत्रिका कोशिकाएं पूरी तरह से काम नहीं कर पाती या नष्ट हो जाती हैं।

 
नींद में कमी-

नींद की मात्रा और गुणवत्ता दोनों ही स्मरण शक्ति के लिए बेहद महत्वपूर्ण हैं। बहुत कम नींद लेने या रात में अक्सर जागने से अल्जाइमर की समस्या पैदा हो सकती है।

 
अवसाद और तनाव-

अल्जाइमर का एक लक्षण अवसाद एवं तनाव भी हैं। अवसाद होने से ध्यान बनाए रखने में परेशानी होती है। जो मस्तिष्क को प्रभावित करती है। तनाव और चिंता एकाग्रता में बाधक बनकर सोचने की क्षमता पर बुरा असर डालते हैं। इसलिए इसका इलाज लंबे समय तक न किया जाए तो तनाव की समस्या काफी हद तक बढ़ सकती है। 

 
अवसादरोधी दवाइयों के अधिक सेवन से-

कई अवसादरोधी दवाइयां जैसे एंटीडिप्रेससेंट, एंटीहिसटामाइंस, स्ट्रेस निवारक दवाइयां,  मांसपेशियों को ढीला करने वाली दवाइयां, ट्रांक्विलाइज़ेर्स, नींद की गोलियां और सर्जरी के बाद दी जाने वाली दर्द की दवाएं याददाश्त को कमजोर कर सकती हैं।

 
धूम्रपान और शराब पीने से-

अधिक शराब पीने से भूलने की बीमारी हो सकती है। इसके अलावा धूम्रपान भी मस्तिष्क में ऑक्सीजन की मात्रा को कम कर तंत्रिका तंत्र को हानि पहुंचाता है।

 
पोषक तत्वों की कमी-

अच्छे और उच्च क्वालिटी वाले प्रोटीन और वसा मस्तिष्क के कार्यों को ठीक रखने के लिए महत्वपूर्ण होते हैं। विटामिन बी 1, बी 12 एवं विटामिन डी की कमी विशेष रूप से मस्तिष्क के नर्व सेल्स को प्रभावित करती हैं।

 
सिर में चोट-

कई बार सिर की गंभीर चोट मस्तिष्क को घायल कर देती है। जिससे अल्जाइमर की समस्या उत्पन्न हो सकती है।

 
सिनैप्स लॉस-

सिनैप्स लॉस की वजह से भी अल्जाइमर रोग की समस्या हो सकती है। क्योंकि यह एक न्यूरॉनल जंक्शन होता है, जिनके माध्यम से न्यूरॉन्स एक-दूसरे से संवाद करते हैं।

 
अल्जाइमर से बचाव एवं घरेलू उपाय-
  • अल्जाइमर से बचने के लिए शारीरिक क्रियाएं जैसे जॉगिंग, डांसिंग, एरोबिक्स, बास्केटबॉल, स्विमिंग और साइकिलिंग करना बेहद फायदेमंद होता है। क्योंकि इससे शरीर में रक्त संचार सुचारू रूप से होता है। जिससे दिमाग को पर्याप्त ऑक्सीजन मिलती है। इससे शरीर में ऊर्जा बनी रहती है और अल्जाइमर का खतरा कम होता है।
  • रोजाना डाइट में विटामिन-ई और ओमेगा-3 फैटी एसिड युक्त भोजन जैसी हरी सब्जियां, फल, फिश, नट्स, ऑलिव ऑयल और विनेगर आदि शामिल करें। इसके अतिरिक्त ग्रीन टी, कॉफी, डार्क चॉकलेट आदि भी दिमाग की खुराक है। इनके सेवन से मस्तिष्क की कार्यक्षमता में सुधार होता है।
  • जिन्कगो बाइलोबा की पत्तियां को महीन पीसकर पेस्ट बना लें। अब इस पेस्ट से आधा कप जूस निकालकर पी लें। ऐसा करने से दिमाग को पर्याप्त ऑक्सीजन, रक्त एवं पोषक तत्व मिलते हैं। साथ ही एकाग्रता बढ़ती है।
  • अल्जाइमर रोग से कुछ हद तक राहत पाने के लिए नारियल तेल का उपयोगी साबित होता है। एनसीबीआई की वेबसाइट पर प्रकाशित एक रिसर्च के मुताबिक, नारियल का तेल मस्तिष्क की कार्यप्रणाली में सुधार करता है। इस तेल को भोजन बनाने हेतु उपयोग किया जाता है। इसके अलावा नारियल के तेल को हल्का गर्म करके सिर की मालिश करना भी अच्छा रहता है।
  • प्रतिदिन 7-8 घंटे की नींद जरूर लें। कम सोने से हिप्पोकैंपस (मस्तिष्क का एक हिस्सा) में नए न्यूरॉन्स का विकास प्रभावित होता है। इससे स्मृति, एकाग्रता एवं निर्णय लेने की क्षमता में कमी आती है। साथ ही शरीर में मौजूद प्रोटीन एमिलॉयड बीटा को असंतुलित करता है। जिससे अल्जाइमर हो सकता है। इसलिए भूलने की बीमारी से बचने के लिए पर्याप्त नींद लेना आवश्यक है।
  • प्राणायाम और ध्यान करें। इससे तनाव दूर होता है। एकाग्रता आती है, दिमाग को पर्याप्त ऑक्सीजन, रक्त एवं पोषक तत्व मिलते हैं।
  • अल्जाइमर से बचने के लिए दिमाग से संबंधित गतिविधियों में हिस्सा लें। क्योंकि ब्रेन गेम- सुडोकू या पहेली, क्विज, शतरंज, लॉजिकल या इलेक्ट्रॉनिक खेल भी दिमाग को तेज करने के हथियार हैं। इसलिए प्रतिदिन आधे से एक घंटे गेम्स खेलने से दिमाग की एक्सरसाइज होती है।
  • सामाजिक गतिविधियो में हिस्सा लें।
  • अवसाद, चिंता एवं तनाव से बचें।
  • धूम्रपान और अल्कोहल का सेवन न करें।
  • वजन को नियंत्रित रखें।
  • ब्लड शुगर, ब्लड प्रेशर और कोलेस्ट्रॉल के स्तर को मेंटेन रखें।
Read More