Dr Chandril Chugh

6 Foods That Help Nerve Regeneration Naturally – Backed by a Neurologist

When it comes to cravings, it's tough to resist our favorite foods. But for those dealing with nerve damage or chronic pain, it’s crucial to be mindful of what you eat. Some foods can exacerbate nerve pain, while others can actually help heal damaged nerves. By incorporating specific foods into your diet, you can support nerve health and reduce pain and discomfort.

In this article, we’ll explore 6 Food for Nerve Repair and provide insights into how you can adjust your diet to support nerve regeneration and overall well-being.

Understanding Nerve Damage and Its Impact

Nerve damage can occur due to various reasons, including injuries, chronic conditions like diabetes, or nutritional deficiencies. Symptoms can include pain, tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness. While treatments are available, adjusting your diet to include Food for Nerve Repair can play a significant role in your recovery.

Consulting a healthcare professional before making any dietary changes is important, especially if you’re dealing with chronic nerve issues. If you’re in Patna, consider seeking advice from a Best Neurologist In Patna who can provide tailored guidance on how to manage and repair damaged nerves.

6 foods for nerve repair Naturally

1. Foods Rich in Vitamin B: The Power of B-Complex

One of the most effective ways to support nerve health is by ensuring an adequate intake of B vitamins. Vitamin B-Complex includes B6, B12, and B1, all of which are essential for nerve function and repair. These vitamins can reduce nerve pain and enhance sensory perception.

• Vitamin B12: Found in sardines, salmon, tuna, mackerel, and cod, Vitamin B12 is crucial for nerve regeneration.
• Vitamin B1: Green peas, black beans, and lentils are great sources of Vitamin B1, which helps prevent nerve damage.
• Vitamin B6: Tuna and salmon are rich in Vitamin B6, which plays a role in neurotransmitter production and nerve health.

Vegetarians can opt for fortified foods to meet their B vitamin needs. However, before starting any new supplements, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider to ensure you’re taking the right dosage for your needs.

2. Green and Leafy Vegetables: Nature's Nerve Healers

Green leafy vegetables are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that support nerve health. They are especially rich in alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), a powerful antioxidant that helps relieve neuropathic pain and promotes nerve regeneration.

Incorporating vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, spinach, and kale into your daily diet can aid in the recovery of damaged nerves and reduce the symptoms of neuropathy. Regular consumption of these vegetables can also enhance overall well-being and support other aspects of health.

3. Ginger: The Anti-Inflammatory Superfood

Ginger, a common spice in many Indian households, is not just great for flavoring food—it's also a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. The active compound in ginger, gingerol, helps reduce nerve pain and inflammation.

For those suffering from neuropathy or nerve-related discomfort, incorporating ginger into your diet can provide significant relief. Ginger oil is also often used topically to reduce pain and irritation caused by nerve damage.

4. Low-Fat Dairy: Fuel for Nerve Repair

Low-fat dairy products are a staple in many diets, but they’re also packed with nutrients that support nerve health. Dairy contains acetyl-L-carnitine, an amino acid that functions as an antioxidant in the body and promotes the creation of healthy nerve cells.

Including low-fat options like milk, yogurt, and cheese in your diet can provide your body with the amino acids needed to repair damaged nerves and reduce nerve pain. The recommended dosage is about three grams of acetyl-L-carnitine daily for eight weeks to notice significant improvements.

5. Fruits: The Antioxidant Powerhouses

Fruits are a delicious way to boost nerve health. They are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and support the healing of damaged nerves. Including a variety of fruits in your diet ensures that your body gets the necessary nutrients to combat oxidative stress and repair nerve damage.

Some of the best fruits for nerve health include apples, berries, oranges, and grapes. These fruits contain flavonoids like quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe neuropathy pain and promote nerve healing.

6. Seeds: Small but Mighty Nerve Healers

Seeds like pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are nutritional powerhouses that support nerve health. They are rich in Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids and essential micronutrients like potassium and magnesium, which are crucial for nerve function and repair.

Incorporating these seeds into your diet can help ease nerve pain and support the regeneration of damaged nerves. They’re easy to add to smoothies, salads, or even as a topping on yogurt, making them a convenient and effective way to boost your nerve health.

Foods to Avoid for Nerve Health

While incorporating the right foods into your diet is essential, it’s equally important to avoid foods that can aggravate nerve pain. Here are some tips:

• Gluten: If you have a gluten allergy, avoid gluten-containing foods as they can worsen nerve pain.
• Refined Grains: Switch to whole grains to maintain stable blood sugar levels, which can help reduce nerve pain.
• Added Sugars: Opt for natural sugars found in fruits rather than added sugars, which can increase inflammation.
• Saturated Fats: Choose lean alternatives and healthy fat sources to manage inflammation and reduce the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes, which can lead to nerve damage.

FAQs About Foods That Can Heal Damaged Nerves

1. Can diet alone heal damaged nerves?
Diet plays a crucial role in supporting nerve health and can aid in the healing process. However, it’s important to combine a healthy diet with proper medical treatment and lifestyle changes for the best results.

2. How quickly can I expect to see results from dietary changes?
Results vary depending on the individual and the extent of nerve damage. Consistently following a diet rich in nerve-healing foods, along with medical guidance, can lead to improvements within a few weeks to a few months.

3. Are supplements necessary for nerve healing?
Supplements can be beneficial, especially if you’re not getting enough nutrients from your diet. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements to ensure they’re appropriate for your needs.

4. Is it safe to make dietary changes without consulting a doctor?
While making healthy dietary choices is generally safe, it’s best to consult with a doctor or nutritionist, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are on medication.

5. How can I incorporate these nerve-healing foods into my daily diet?
Start by adding these foods to your meals in small, manageable ways—like incorporating leafy greens into your salads, adding seeds to your smoothies, or using ginger in your cooking.

Conclusion

Healing damaged nerves requires a comprehensive approach that includes the right diet, medical treatment, and lifestyle changes. By incorporating these 6 food for nerve repair into your daily routine, you can support your body’s natural healing process and reduce the symptoms of nerve damage. Remember, always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or starting new supplements to ensure that your approach is safe and effective.

by Dr Chandril Chugh

Nerves Impact The Intensity Of Alzheimer’s : How?

Alzheimer’s is a neurological disorder that impedes the brain’s memory and ability to function. More commonly known as the memory loss disease, the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease is worldwide.  A person grappling with Alzheimer’s disease, the brain cells start to deplete to a stage where the brain’s size shrinks and the person’s memory is completely diminished. In Alzheimer’s disease, nervous system development is  severely affected. 

Who Does Alzheimer’s affect? 

Generally, it is people above the age of 65 who are at the risk of having this illness. This is because, with ageing, the brain shrinks along with loss of neurons. However, in case of Alzheimer’s patients, the neurons start degenerating rapidly, thus causing cognitive impairment and memory loss. Apart from this,  genetics too can be a factor that leads to Alzheimer’s. If Alzheimer’s runs in your family, you’re at a risk of it developing in you too. Neurological problems, such as stroke, head injuries, and other health conditions too, can affect the brain and lead to Alzheimer’s. In some serious cases, severe Alzheimer’s can lead to hemorrhage in the brain. 

Neuropathology of Alzheimer’s Disease 

Neurofibrillary tangles and Beta-amyloid plaques are mainly responsible for the damage caused to the brain cells. Apart from this, another important feature of this neurological disorder is depletion of nerves and loss of connection between the neurons. With time, the brain eventually shrinks and its normal way of working is impeded. Depending upon the intensity and severity of the disease, there are three types of Alzheimer’s disease - mild, moderate, and severe. A person goes through each of these stages as time progresses. 

The symptoms of Alzheimer’s intensify over the years. Some of them are given below- 

• Lack of energy or the zest to work
• Forgetting to carry out simple tasks
• Withdrawal from social life, signs of depression 
• Trouble understanding or interpreting words, symbols, etc.
• Struggling in solving problems, remembering directions 
• Slurred speech, and trouble putting words to thoughts 
• Confusion about the time and place, difficulty in remembering faces. 
• Wandering
• Delusions

How does Alzheimer’s affect the body?

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, meaning that the symptoms keep getting worse as time passes by. While the cognitive effects of Alzheimer’s disease are known to everyone, very few know how debilitating effect Alzheimer’s can have on the person’s body. Alzheimer’s disease kills you slowly over a period of time. It doesn’t hit you all at once, it is a slow burn, which at first affects the memory and gradually all of you.  Hence, many a time, one may miss the early signs of this disorder. 

Some of the physical challenges that a patient may notice are - 

• • Loss of balance and poor coordination 
  • Trouble in movements such as standing, sitting 
  • Shuffling or dragging feet while walking 

• Problems sleeping 

• Weak or stiffened muscles 
• Fatigue 
• Problems with bladder and bowels 
• Difficulty in chewing or swallowing food 
• Seizures or twitches 

Physical symptoms start showing up during the moderate stage of Alzheimer's. 

Alzheimer’s and Phantom pain

Phantom pain is a condition where one perceives or imagines the pain from the part of the body which no longer exists. It is a common condition amongst dementia patients to perceive pain. The degeneration of brain cells makes it difficult for Alzheimer's patients to explain or articulate pain. There’s no specific diagnosis of phantom pain, doctors can still identify them and treat them. 

Autonomic Dysfunction and Alzheimer’s 

Autonomic dysfunction is the medical condition where the nerves in the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) are damaged. This condition is usually common in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Autonomic nervous system regulates several involuntary movements in the body such as digestion, heart rate, respiratory rate, urination, etc. The effects of this disease can range from mild symptoms to severe life threatening conditions. 

Some of the symptoms of Autonomic Dysfunction are - 

1. Dizziness and fainting
2. Urinary problems, bladder issues, incontinence, etc.
3. Sexual problems in both men and women
4. Sweating abnormalities which indirectly affect the regulation of temperature in the body
5. Blurry vision, sluggish pupil reaction. 
6. Difficulty in digesting and other digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, diarrhoea  
7. Problems with heart rate. Exercise intolerance where there is difficulty in maintaining heart rate. 
8. Tremors and muscle weakness 

Researchers have observed that Alzheimer’s disease can lead to autonomic dysfunction. The nerve damage in this disease interrupts the messages sent between the brain and the other organs, as well as areas of the autonomic nervous system. It is necessary to seek consultation from a professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Consult the best neurologist in Delhi for quick recovery and enhanced treatment.  

Alzheimer’s is a disease where the rapid loss of neurons affects the person, both mentally and physically. Simple, routine activities become a challenge. Going through the day, constantly forgetting stuff can make the patient moody, and frustrated. Living with Alzheimer’s is a difficult task. Not only is the person’s ability to remember is lost, there are other functions in the body that are impaired. It becomes necessary for the caretaker and the family members to give attention and care for people with Alzheimer’s. 

Also Read: 

• What Is Parkinson's Disease?

• 5 Tips To Cope With Tragic Flashbacks

• The Effects Of Depression In Your Body

by Dr Chandril Chugh

Caring For A Person With Epilepsy: 10 Ways

Caring For A Person With Epilepsy: 10 Ways

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by seizures. The nerve cell activity in the brain is disturbed, thus causing the frequent outbursts of electrical energy. Caring for someone with epilepsy can be difficult as one does not know when or where the seizures occur. Epilepsy depends from person to person. While some people can live on their own and manage their seizures by themselves, others on the other hand may need a lot of care and attention. 

Epilepsy seizures can be different for different people. There are several reasons why a seizure can be triggered. Sometimes bleeding or haemorrhage in the brain can lead to seizures. The two major types of seizures are- 

• Focal onset seizures- These seizures at first start in the brain and later spread to other parts of the body. A person may experience sudden movement or twitching which is out of their control. They might zone out or not remember anything after the seizure. 

• Generalized seizures -These seizures affect multiple parts of the brain at the same time. People are barely aware of what’s happening around them. These can be dangerous and frightening to watch. 

Such sudden outbursts can make living with someone with epilepsy difficult. 

How to support someone with epilepsy?

The sudden seizures and the effect it has on the person, makes caring for them an arduous task. One needs to be calm and ready when it comes to looking after someone with this disorder. Here are a few tips that will come in handy while caring for someone with epilepsy. 

• Always be prepared

The seizures are irregular and unpredictable, hence, it’s important that the caretaker is ready for anything that they might have to face in the future. The best way to be prepared is to know what the other person is going through. You can do this by reading more about epilepsy and talking to the doctors and gaining more information about what type of seizure the person has and what to do when someone has a seizure. 

• First Aid 

Since the seizures are so unpredictable, it’s safer to keep a first aid box handy as the patient may hurt themselves. The first thing to do is to ease the person out of the epileptic seizure. Keep them away from other people and let them calm down. In case of any injuries, cover them up. Remove all the obstacles in front of them to avoid clashes. Practice breathing with them. If things get worse, provide them with the required medications or call for help. 

• Observe and take notes 

As a caregiver, one of the best ways to support someone is observing their seizures. Doctors can’t be with the patient the whole day, however, as someone who is usually around the patient, you can observe them and their seizures and take notes of them. You can note down how long the seizure lasts, when and how it takes places, what triggers the seizures, etc. Maintaining a record of all these points will help you and the patient in future treatment. 

• Medications  

It is vital that you provide the person suffering their medications on time. Ensure what dosage they’re having and at what time. It is necessary that the person suffering has their medicines on time for their effective working. Medications will help the person recover and have a better life.

• Be supportive and encouraging

As a caregiver one of the best ways you can help a person with epilepsy, is by encouraging them. A few words of daily encouragement can help them overcome the disorder and get better. The frequent seizures have a great impact on the person and can affect them severely. Hence, it becomes necessary that you take good care of them and help them relieve their anxiety and frustration. Help them focus on the positive aspects of life and engage in activities that will keep them busy and shift their attention. 

• Ensure they get enough rest

Seizures can be exhausting, both mentally and physically. Therefore, sleep is necessary. Ensure that the person is getting enough and sound sleep. Sleep deprivation is one of the triggers of seizures. Hence a sound and peaceful sleep is a must. 

• Make them communicate 

Being dependent on someone and having frequent seizures can deeply affect the mental state of a person. Thus, talking to them and having a conversation can comfort the person, and help in managing epilepsy. 

• Take care of their diet 

When a person has a seizure they’re barely aware of what happens around them. They may tend to skip their meals or ignore their diet. Some may even resort to alcohol in order to overcome this disorder. However, alcohol will only cause further damage to the patient’s body and health. 

• Keep emergency contact ready 

Safety is of most importance. Therefore, in case of any emergency, such as times when the person has a seizure longer than usual, or anything unusual you notice, keep the emergency contact nearby. This way you can immediately call for help without wasting much time. Consult the best neurologist in Delhi for better treatment and care of a person with epilepsy. 

• Teach them relaxing techniques

In order to get someone to overcome their seizure, you should help them relieve their stress and anxiety. Teaching them relaxing techniques will help them soothe themselves and calm them down. Stress is one of the reasons for seizures. By learning relaxing techniques such as meditation or yoga, you can ease out the stress. 

Caring for someone with this disorder can be overwhelming and exhausting. However, it is important to note that this is just as hard for them as it is for you. With proper love, care and medical attention, one can take control of their life. 

Also Read: 

• What Is Parkinson's Disease?

• 5 Tips To Cope With Tragic Flashbacks

• The Effects Of Depression In Your Body

by Dr Chandril Chugh

Development Of Nervous System In A Child :Its Importance

Development Of Nervous System In A Child :Its Importance

A newborn child is a universe in itself. The initial years are of most importance and require great care and attention. There are several changes taking place in the body as the growth takes place at an exponential rate. Most of the development in a child takes place in the first five years. Similarly, the development of the nervous system too, takes place in the initial years, which later helps the child to learn, speak, think and carry out several activities. 

The spinal cord, the brain and the nerves make up the nervous system. There are two types of nervous system, the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. A child goes through four stages of nervous system development. At birth, the bones in the skull of the newly born baby are soft and flexible. Later, as the baby grows, the bones become strong and hard. The development of the central nervous system which comprises the brain and the spinal cord, starts right when the child is in the womb. 

The development of the brain in childhood depends on various factors such as the child’s environment, relations and experiences. At birth itself, the brain has approximately 100 billion to 1 trillion neurons. The well development of the brain depends upon the proper nutrition and brain building activities. 

The 6 stages of Development Of Nervous System are - 

As mentioned earlier, the development of the nervous system begins in the womb itself. There are millions of nerves present all over the body which help in carrying out several functions of the body. The neurons are responsible for major functions such as learning and memorizing, and thus their development continues for lifetime. The formation of neurons in children is as follows :

• Stage 1- Neurogenesis

This is the first step in the formation of neurons in the body. The cells undergo mitosis, in order to produce neuroblasts, or stem cells which ultimately can be differentiated into neurons. 

• Stage 2- Cell Migration 

At this stage, things start getting a bit complex. Here, the cells start moving to great distances in order to form distinct nerve cell populations. For example- layers of cerebral cortex, nuclei in the central nervous system. 

• Stage 3- Cell Differentiation 

In the process of cell differentiation, the cells form into distinctive types of neurons or glial cells. 

• Stage 4- Synaptogenesis 

As the name suggests, synaptogenesis is the establishment of synaptic connections as axons and neurons grow. The synapses, axons and the dendrites all help in communication. The formation of synaptic connection starts right from the second trimester and continues throughout childhood and adult life.  

• Stage 5 - Neuronal Cell Death 

This is the selective death of nerve cells. 

• Stage 6- Synapse Rearrangement 

In this stage, some synapses are lost whereas, on the other hand, other synapses are developed in order to refine synaptic connections. 

Food and Nutrition for the Development Of Nervous System

Food is the fuel for the human body. It is quintessential that a growing child gets the right nutrition supplement in order to ensure their robust growth. Some of the food items that serve as good nourishments are - eggs, greek yogurt, green leafy vegetables, fish, nuts and seeds such as peanuts and sunflower seeds, oatmeal, fruits such as apples, bananas and plums. All of these foodstuffs will aid in enhancing memory and improving cognitive skills. 

Children are prone to harm or nerve damage. While it’s not that common for a nerve damage there’s always a possibility. Given below is the list of best food for nerve repair. 

• Food rich in magnesium and potassium help in curbing the nerve pain. Leafy vegetables, pumpkin seeds, fresh fruits, almonds, avocado, tofu, salmon, etc. are rich in magnesium and potassium. 
• Foods high in Omega 3 such as sardines, walnuts, salmon, etc.  
• Vitamins such as b12, b6, b2.
• Anti inflammatory foodstuffs such as ginger can heal the nerve damage pain
• Turmeric, a spice easily found in every household has several medicinal properties.  

The importance of Development Of Nervous System

The nervous system is the engine of the human body. It controls every cell, tissues and organ system in the body. Hence, it’s crucial that no harm is caused to the nervous system.  If the nervous system is harmed, there can be grave repercussions. Every part of the nervous system carries out major functions in the body. The spine, the skull and the vertebrae, thus exist in order to protect these fragile systems.

A child is just a delicate being as the nervous system. Thus, one needs to take utmost care while bringing them up. At times, because of some complications, or heredity and environmental factors, there is the late development process of the nervous system. In cases such as these, it is important that you seek guidance and treatment from a neurologist. Seek treatment from the best neurologist in Delhi for the well being of your child. 

Also Read: 

• What Is Parkinson's Disease?

• 5 Tips To Cope With Tragic Flashbacks

• The Effects Of Depression In Your Body

by Dr Chandril Chugh

7 Possible Causes For Lower Back Pain

Often, we may feel a stinging and sudden pain in the lower back. It can because of sitting for long hours in the same position. Lower back pain is a common condition and usually, there is no cause for concern as it gets better on its own. Almost everyone, at some point in their life, has faced it. However, at times the pain can be as a result of injuries or straining of muscles or because of some diseases, one can feel intense pain or ache in their lower back. 

Symptoms of Lower Back Pain

One can easily detect lower back pain as they feel a dull ache in their back. The pain can be acute or chronic, varying from person to person and what injury they have.  Symptoms can aggravate over time, some of them are -

• Dull ache- The pain is felt in the lower back, usually when there is a minor injury or a muscle strain. One can experience severe spasms, and difficulty in moving. 
• Stinging back pain that affects the buttocks, pelvis, hip, legs and the feet. 
• Pain that intensifies as you sit for long hours, etc. 

What causes lower back pain? 

The human body is an intricate design and is prone to injuries if not taken care of.  There are numerous reasons why one may have a backache. Factors such as age, gender, etc. too can cause lower back pain. The pain can range from minor, dull ache in the back to intense pain that hurts when you move and hampers your daily life. 

Some of the possible causes are -  

• Injuries  

Many a time, one can get severely injured while playing sports, driving or during road accidents or a fall that can inflict injury one. Receiving such a painful blow on the lower back can damage the spinal cord, or leave you with vertebral fractures. In cases such as these, it’s important to seek lower back pain treatment, to avoid any further complications. 

• Sprains and strains

Sprains and strains of the ligaments and muscles, can occur in the lower back suddenly because of some heavy work. This can be as a result of overstretching or tearing in muscles and ligaments. Symptoms can include muscle spasms, pain and stiffness in the back. 

• Disc Injury

The discs are the spongy cushions that are located between the vertebral column. These discs are delicate and are prone to injury as they can tear or herniate. The soft material in the discs can rupture or bulge and affect a nerve. Disc injury can occur after twisting your back or while lifting something heavy. Disc injury may go unnoticed or only seen during an X-ray. 

• Sciatica

A person with sciatica can fell stinging pain that runs down from the lower back to one or both the legs. This is because the pain radiates along the path of the sciatica nerve. Symptoms may include burning pain or piercing of sharp needles. At home, for quick pain relief, one should use an ice pack at the sight of pain. 

• Spinal stenosis 

In spinal stenosis, the spinal canal starts narrowing, which in return can add pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves in the spine. This condition is common amongst people over the age of 50 years. Spinal stenosis occurs due to the degeneration of the discs between the vertebral column. One may experience symptoms such as numbness, cramping and weakness in the legs. The very first symptoms that one may notice is difficulty while walking or standing.

• Abnormal spinal curvature  

When seen in an X-ray, the spinal cord looks like a ‘S’ from the side. This is the normal spine curvature. However, some people are born with deformities. Abnormal curve can cause poor posture and pain as it puts pressure on the tendons, vertebrae, muscles and ligaments. Some of the abnormal spinal curvatures that are detected during childhood or early adolescence are- scoliosis, kyphosis and lordosis. 

• Health conditions. 

There are several health conditions that can be a cause for lower back pain. Some of them are as follows :

• Arthritis is a medical condition wherein there is an inflammation of the joints. It is usually common among people of old age. 
• Pregnancy, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, cancer, etc are the lower back pain causes in females. 
• Spondylitis is another type of inflammation between the joints of the spinal cord. 

Can a neurologist help with lower back pain? 

The answer is YES. A neurologist can help with lower back pain. Very often people go to a chiropractor for back pain, however, what is not known is that even a neurologist can diagnose and treat diseases of the back. A neurologist specializes in conditions affecting the brain, nervous system and the spinal cord. They can detect the symptoms and causes for your back pain. 

While lower back pain is a common condition, it is necessary that you seek the proper treatment from an expert. 

by Dr Chandril Chugh

Are You Stroke Smart? Calculate Your Stroke Smart Score

Let’s see if you are stroke smart. Below are eleven questions based on general knowledge about stroke. Try and answer them and then score yourself to see if you are a Stroke Novice or a Stroke GOD.  Every question is one point.

1. What is Stroke?

• Is it how you swim?
• Related to cricket?
• A brain emergency
• A heart disease.
• Its bad, but I don’t know what it is exactly

Answer: Stroke is rapid and sudden damage to the brain. Also known as brain attack or paralytic attack.

2. How common is a stroke?

• Very rare, I haven't heard anything about it.
• It's common but I will never see it in my life.
• Who cares!!!
• It’s so common that someone close to me might be having one right now.

Answer D: Stroke is the third leading cause of death, after coronary heart disease and cancer. On average, someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds. More women die of stroke than of breast cancer.

3. Which organ does stroke affect?

• Brain
• Heart
• Lungs
• Muscles
• Cricket bat

Answer A: Brain, Brain, Brain.

4. How do you diagnose Stroke?

• Stroke is painful, chest pain may occur.
• Stroke can cause a lot of symptoms like weakness, numbness, slurred speech etc.
• Stroke can’t be diagnosed; it is happening quietly inside the body.
• Only doctors can diagnose it.

Answer B: Stroke can cause a lot of symptoms like weakness, numbness, slurred speech etc.  Most of the strokes are painless. Stroke can be diagnosed reliably by patients and their relatives. In fact, its easy to diagnose stroke, keep reading....

STROKE: REMEMBER THE 7 S METHOD TO DIAGNOSE STROKE

SUDDEN (symptoms usually start suddenly)

SLURRED SPEECH ( speech is not clear, as if drunk)

SIDE WEAK ( face, arm or leg or all three can get weak)

SPINNING (VERTIGO) and disbalance.

SEVERE HEADACHE

Sight ( sudden loss of vision)

SECONDS (note the time when the symptoms start and rush to the hospital).

5. Who is at risk of having Stroke?

• Stroke affects old people only.
• Stroke affects unhealthy old people.
• Stroke can affect the young and the old generation.
• Babies don’t have a stroke.

Answer C: Up to one-third of stroke patients belong to the age group of 20 to 60. Even babies can have a stroke.

6. Is paralysis/ stroke treatable?

• No way. It’s permanent.
• Ayurveda or homeopathy may help.
• Yes,  Yes, Yes

Answer C: Yes. Newer treatment modalities have changed the paradigm of stroke treatment. Stroke is very much treatable and the patients do extremely well.

7. What should you do if someone close to you has a stroke?

• Lay them on the floor and get them some water.
• Wait for the symptoms to get better.
• Ask them to sleep, maybe they are tired.
• Rush to the hospital.

Answer D: Rush to the hospital immediately. Don’t waste time. The longer you wait the more brain injury happens. Brain loses 1900000 brain cells every minute.

8. How bad is stroke?

• Not really, no one dies of a stroke.
• Stroke can kill you!
• The stroke will get better, just stay calm.
• Stroke is like the flu. It will pass over.

Answer B: Over 15% of people who have had a stroke die within 30 days, and 15-30% of people who survive a stroke are permanently disabled.

9. Is it worse in women or men?

• Doesn’t matter.
• Men
• Women
• Men have more strokes but women die more often.

Answer D: Women have a higher stroke mortality rate than men. Six in ten stroke deaths occur in women, largely due to strokes occurring later in life in women, when strokes are more dangerous.

10. Is it preventable?

• No, it’s your karma
• Yes, of course, you don’t need a doctor.
• I am not sure
• It's all in the genes.

Answer B: Yes, it is. Control BP, sugar and cholesterol. Stop smoking. Active lifestyle and daily exercise prevent stroke. Some strokes may be genetic though.

11. Until how long is the recovery possible?

• 1 week and then no recovery is seen.
• 1 month
• 1 year
• 2 years.

Answer D: People seem to think that recovery is only possible for the first few days after a stroke, however, patients can continue to recover with physical therapy for up to a year in most cases and sometimes recovery is seen even at 2 years.

Stroke SMART score:

0-4: Stroke Novice

5-7: Stroke Player

8-10: Stroke Pro

11: Stroke GOD

Originally Published On Max HealthCare - Are You Stroke Smart? Calculate Your Stroke Smart Score

Also Read: 

• Sleep Strategies For Complex PTSD

• 5 Tips To Cope With Tragic Flashbacks

• The Effects Of Depression In Your Body

by Dr Chandril Chugh

A Harmless Neck Massage Could Cause Stroke!

by Dr Chandril Chugh

Is Brain Attack Or Stroke An Emergency?

Is Brain Attack Or Stroke An Emergency?

Yes, a brain attack, commonly known as a stroke, is indeed a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and intervention. It can occur due to two main reasons: a blocked vessel (ischemic stroke) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke or subarachnoid hemorrhage).

Dr. Chandril Chugh, Senior Consultant and Head of Interventional Neurology of Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, says that stroke/brain attack may cause these following symptoms:

• Weakness and numbness on one side of the body
• Difficulty in speaking and understanding the words
• Drowsiness
• Loss of vision
• Severe headaches or in some cases Death.

The severity of a stroke cannot be overstated. Studies have shown that every minute during an ischemic stroke, a patient loses a staggering number of brain cells, nerve connections, and nerve fibers. This rapid loss of brain tissue can result in permanent neurological deficits, leaving the patient paralyzed and dependent for life.

*Symptoms depend on which part of the brain is affected and if not treated well in time, the weakness and other neurological defects may become permanent and extremely disabling.

How Severe Can Be A Stroke?

The severity of a stroke cannot be overstated. Findings from a 2006 study conducted in the USA revealed alarming statistics. For instance, a patient experiencing an ischemic stroke loses a staggering 190,000 brain cells per minute. Additionally, approximately 14 billion nerve connections are severed every minute, while 12 km (7.5 miles) of nerve fibers are lost within the same timeframe. These sobering figures often culminate in permanent paralysis and lifelong dependency, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

How Do You Recognise Stroke?

Recognizing the signs of a stroke is crucial for timely intervention. The "6 S Method" can help in diagnosing a stroke:

• Sudden Onset: Symptoms usually start suddenly.
• Slurred Speech: Speech may become unclear, resembling drunken speech.
• Side Weakness: Weakness may affect the face, arm, leg, or all three on one side of the body.
• Spinning Sensation: Vertigo or dizziness may occur.
• Severe Headache: A sudden and severe headache may indicate a hemorrhagic stroke.
• Seconds Count: Note the time when symptoms start and seek medical help immediately.

Is There Any Treatment For Stroke?

Treatment modalities vary based on the type of stroke. For ischemic strokes, intravenous administration of tPA (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator) within 3 to 4.5 hours of symptom onset is a viable option. Alternatively, patients with blockages in large blood vessels may benefit from Mechanical Thrombectomy, a minimally invasive procedure that restores blood flow by removing obstructions.

The cornerstone of effective stroke management lies in raising awareness among patients and their families. Given that most strokes are painless, individuals may disregard initial symptoms, leading to delays in seeking medical assistance. By educating individuals about stroke symptoms, we empower them to recognize warning signs promptly, facilitating timely intervention and enhancing overall outcomes.

Conclusion:

In addition to medical interventions, lifestyle modifications and preventive measures play a crucial role in reducing the risk of stroke. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco use, and limiting alcohol consumption, can significantly lower the risk of stroke. Managing underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels through medication and regular check-ups can also help prevent stroke. Furthermore, staying informed about stroke warning signs and seeking immediate medical attention in case of any symptoms can save lives and prevent long-term disability.

Originally Published On Max Health Care - Is Brain Attack Or Stroke An Emergency?

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• Sleep Strategies For Complex PTSD

• 5 Tips To Cope With Tragic Flashbacks

• The Effects Of Depression In Your Body

by Dr Chandril Chugh

Stroke Is The Number One Cause Of Disability

Stroke is the number one cause of disability and one of the leading causes of death in our country. Stroke disorder is sudden and severe damage to brain cells, resulting in paralysis, coma, and even death. There are three kinds of stroke: ischemic ( blockage of blood vessels), hemorrhagic( known as brain haemorrhage or blood clot in common language) and subarachnoid haemorrhage ( due to aneurysms). Below we discuss the common facts regarding the stroke diagnosis and treatment of brain stroke.

Yes, it is a medical emergency. A brain attack occurs due to a blocked vessel (medically known as ischemic stroke) or due to a ruptured blood vessel (medically known as hemorrhagic stroke or a subarachnoid haemorrhage) followed by stroke death.

• Weakness and numbness on one side of the body
• Difficulty in speaking and understanding the words
• Drowsiness
• Loss of vision
• Severe headaches or, in some cases, Death.

Symptoms and stroke complications depend on which part of the brain is affected, and if not treated well in time, stroke during sleep is also very common; the weakness and other neurological defects may become permanent and extremely disabling.

Can Stroke Be Really Serious?

If I were to say stroke disability is terrible, you will probably not believe me. Being in touch with a neurosurgeon in Patna is suggested. Luckily, some studies have made my job easier. According to a study done by researchers in 2006 in the USA, a patient with ischemic stroke loses 190,00,00 brain cells every minute, about 14000,000,000 nerve connections are destroyed every minute, and 12 km (7.5 miles) nerve fibers are lost every minute. The end result is, the patient gets paralyzed for life and becomes dependent. That’s pretty scary!!! One should be aware of symptoms that cause brain haemorrhage . If the caregiver does not understand english they   should be explained the brain attack symptoms in hindi. 

How Do You Recognise Stroke?

STROKE: REMEMBER THE 6 S METHOD TO DIAGNOSE STROKE

• SUDDEN (symptoms usually start suddenly)
• SLURRED SPEECH ( speech is not clear, as if drunk)
• SIDE WEAK ( face, arm or leg or all three on one side can get weak )
• SPINNING ( VERTIGO)

• Severe headache

• SECONDS ( note the time when the symptoms start and rush to the hospital)

Is There Any Treatment For Stroke?

• 85% of all strokes are ischemic (blocked blood vessels); the treatment depends on stroke classification or which kind of stroke the person has had. For stroke disease treatment there is an option of intravenous medication called tPA (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator), which is given to the patient 3 to 4.5 hours before the onset of the symptoms. The patients who have a blockage in a large blood vessel are offered a mechanical thrombectomy procedure, which involves removing the blockage in the blood vessel and restoring the blood supply. This procedure is performed by a brain specialist doctor in Faridabad using a small nick in the groin, and there is no open surgery involved. Recent trials have shown that patients do exceedingly well post mechanical thrombectomy and have a greater chance of living independently. It's better to consult a neurologist doctor in Jaipur or one amongst the top 5 neurologist in Patna beforehand.
• The most important part of stroke care is not the doctor or hospital; it is the Patient. As most stroke attacks that occur are painless, patients tend to ignore their symptoms and delay their treatment. The caretaker should make a list of the best food for strengthening nerves and follow diet accordingly. If the patient and family are aware of the stroke symptoms, they can reach the hospital in time and get themselves treated. One should be aware of the aspartame side effects on the brain. 

Till What Time Can You Do Mechanical Thrombectomy?

• Mechanical Thrombectomy can now be offered up to 24 hours from the onset of the symptoms but, the sooner it’s done better, the patient does. To know more, you shouldn’t hesitate consulting neuro physician in jaipur.

What Is The Single Most Important Factor In Stroke Care?

• The most important part of stroke care is not the doctor or the hospital; it’s the patient! As most strokes are painless, patients tend to ignore their symptoms and hence delay the treatment. If the patient and the family are aware of stroke symptoms, they can reach the hospital and get treated. One should also be aware of stroke facts like aspartame side effects on the brain and how aspartame slows metabolism.

For any queries or questions regarding stroke like can a neck massage cause a stroke, which mattress is good for spondylitis or other related health issues like elders dural one shouldn’t hesitate to consult a reputed online neurologist . You can also book teleconsultation services to treat further complications.

Originally Published On Max HealthCare – Stroke Is The Number One Cause Of Disability

Also Read: 

• Sleep Strategies For Complex PTSD

• 5 Tips To Cope With Tragic Flashbacks

• The Effects Of Depression In Your Body

by Dr Chandril Chugh