Raj and Meera always felt blessed by their baby boy, Aarav, who seemed to radiate happiness. His giggles and endless smiles made every day a joy for them. Strangers in the supermarket often remarked on how cheerful he seemed, making Meera and Raj proud of their bubbly little boy. One day, while grocery shopping, they bumped into Dr. Gupta, an old acquaintance who happened to be a pediatrician.

Dr. Gupta admired Aarav's bright smiles but seemed to study him a bit too intently. Politely, she asked if they had noticed any other unusual behavior.

Raj and Meera were taken aback when Dr. Gupta gently suggested they visit a doctor, not out of concern for Aarav’s happiness, but because she had noticed something off about his behavior. Dr. Gupta made it clear that she didn’t want to worry them, but from her medical perspective, Aarav’s constant, almost involuntary smiling could be more than just happiness. "Sometimes, things aren't what they seem," she said kindly, "and it wouldn’t hurt to rule out any underlying issues, just to be safe."

Despite their initial shock and fear, Meera and Raj took her advice seriously. Little did they know that Dr. Gupta’s careful observation would lead to a life-changing diagnosis. Aarav was eventually diagnosed with a benign brain tumor, which had been affecting certain parts of his brain responsible for facial expressions. Though it was a difficult journey, catching the tumor early helped them get Aarav the care he needed. Raj and Meera learned the importance of trusting their instincts but also listening when a medical professional raises a red flag, no matter how subtle it may seem.

Pediatric Brain Tumors: What Every Parent Should Know

Pediatric brain tumors are abnormal growths of cells that begin in or around the brain in children. These growths, called tumors, can press on nearby areas of the brain, which can lead to a range of symptoms, including headaches, nausea, and in some cases, more subtle changes like irritability or vision problems. While any brain tumor diagnosis can be overwhelming, it’s important for parents to understand the different types of brain tumors and the treatment options available for their children.

Brain tumors in children vary widely in terms of growth rate and severity. Some tumors are fast-growing and aggressive, while others grow slowly over time. Tumors can also be classified as cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign). However, it’s important to note that even benign tumors can cause significant health issues if they grow large enough or are located in sensitive areas of the brain.

The type of brain tumor, along with its location and whether it has spread beyond the brain, plays a key role in determining the best treatment plan for a child.

Other factors that healthcare providers consider when planning treatment include the child’s age, overall health, and the size of the tumor. Pediatric brain tumors require specialized care, as the treatments for children are often different from those used for adults. This is why it’s essential to seek medical advice from a center that has experience treating pediatric brain tumors, where the team will be better equipped to manage the unique needs of children.

Signs and Symptoms of Pediatric Brain Tumor

The signs and symptoms of pediatric brain tumors can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor, as well as how quickly the tumor is growing. Some common signs to watch for include frequent headaches, which may become progressively worse. For children who are too young to communicate, parents might notice increased irritability as a sign of discomfort. Another common symptom is nausea and vomiting, which can occur without any other signs of illness.

Vision problems are also a red flag. Children may develop double vision or other changes in how they see. Non-verbal children may squint, rub their eyes frequently, or even cover one eye when trying to focus on something. Other symptoms include balance problems, confusion, and changes in personality or behavior. Parents may also notice their child struggling to walk, slurring their speech, or having trouble swallowing.

In babies, signs of a brain tumor can be even more subtle. A fuller-than-usual soft spot on the head or abnormal eye movements can be early indicators. Seizures, especially if they occur in a child who has never had one before, should also prompt immediate medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Help

It’s important for parents to act promptly if they observe any of the warning signs of a brain tumor. Symptoms like frequent headaches, vomiting, vision changes, or unexplained irritability should not be ignored. If a child is showing any of these symptoms, parents should make an appointment with their pediatrician or another healthcare provider. Early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in a child’s prognosis and quality of life.

While the idea of a brain tumor is frightening, it’s important to remember that treatment options have advanced significantly. With early diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan, many children with brain tumors can lead full and healthy lives.

As parents, it’s crucial to stay informed and attentive to any changes in your child’s health, as early intervention is key in managing pediatric brain tumors effectively.

After a short spell of clearer skies, Delhi’s air quality worsened again on Thursday, with the city’s overall AQI climbing to 264, squarely in the “poor” category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Unfortunately, forecasts suggest that the situation will deteriorate further to the “very poor” zone in the coming days.

A dense layer of smog has settled over much of the capital, and pollution-related illnesses are being reported every day. Many residents have also complained of migraine attacks over the past week, prompting the question: can pollution trigger migraines?

To understand this better, we spoke to Dr. Khusboo Hatekar, Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology, DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri Pune.

What’s Behind Delhi’s Rising Air Pollution?

Meteorologists attribute the worsening pollution to a western disturbance that has slowed wind speed and created atmospheric stagnation, ideal conditions for pollutants to accumulate.

This stagnant air has intensified health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, senior citizens, and people with chronic respiratory conditions. Doctors have urged Delhiites to reduce outdoor exposure, particularly during early morning and late evening hours when pollution levels are at their peak.

What Is a Migraine?

A migraine is a neurological condition marked by severe, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. It often comes with nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light or sound. Attacks can last anywhere from a few hours to several days, often disrupting daily routines.

In some individuals, warning signs known as auras appear before or during a migraine episode. These may include visual disturbances like flashes of light or blind spots, as well as tingling sensations on one side of the face or body and even temporary difficulty speaking, as described by the Cleveland Clinic.

Can Air Pollution Trigger Migraines?

Air pollution is now increasingly recognised as a powerful environmental trigger for migraine — a complex neurological disorder that causes recurring, often debilitating headaches. The connection lies in how pollutants interact with the brain’s blood vessels and nerves, setting off inflammatory reactions that heighten pain sensitivity.

The Neurological Link

Under normal circumstances, this system remains stable. But when it becomes overactive, it releases neuropeptides such as substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). These chemicals cause inflammation and dilation of blood vessels, leading to the throbbing pain typical of migraines.

How Polluted Air Affects the Brain?

Common air pollutants like fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), ozone (O₃), carbon monoxide (CO), and sulphur dioxide (SO₂) can activate this same system. When inhaled, these pollutants enter the body through the lungs or nasal passages and create oxidative stress and inflammation in the nervous system.

Dr Hatekar said, “This process triggers immune cells in the brain known as microglia, which then release pro-inflammatory molecules that heighten nerve sensitivity and increase the likelihood of migraine attacks.”

Beyond the Brain: Blood Flow and Hormones

Air pollution can also disturb normal cerebral blood flow and alter levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, a key regulator of mood and pain. At the same time, exposure to polluted air stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, the body’s stress response network, which further interacts with the trigeminal system to intensify symptoms.

Research has shown a clear association between spikes in air pollution and higher numbers of migraine-related emergency room visits, underlining how environmental conditions can influence neurological health.

The Role of Weather and Genetic Sensitivity

Weather changes often accompany high pollution days, and together, they can worsen the risk of migraines. Fluctuations in barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity, combined with exposure to pollutants, can make certain individuals more prone to attacks.

Some people may also be genetically predisposed to this heightened sensitivity, which explains why not everyone responds to pollution in the same way.

The Broader Health Impact

Dr Hatekar suggested, for people who frequently suffer from migraines, exposure to polluted air can lead to more frequent and intense episodes. This not only reduces their quality of life but also increases the burden on healthcare systems due to repeated consultations and treatments.

Experts believe that improving air quality through strong public health measures could significantly reduce migraine cases in heavily polluted urban regions.

Air pollution appears to trigger migraines through a mix of neuroinflammatory, vascular, and autonomic mechanisms. It activates the trigemino-vascular system, increases oxidative stress, and disrupts the body’s natural balance.

This growing understanding reveals how deeply environmental factors influence neurological conditions and why controlling pollution is not only a matter of clean air but also of reducing the hidden toll it takes on our brains.

Sharing a health update of the beloved actor Bruce Willis, his wife Emma Hemmings opened up about how the condition is affecting the actor. In an interview with NewsNation, she spoke on the misconception that the Die-Hard superstar had Alzheimer’s.

“FTD isn’t Alzheimer’s,” she stressed. She clarified that while Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) affects his ability to communicate and behave, “Bruce doesn’t have Alzheimer’s. So, he does know who we are.”

She noted that while he struggles to verbalize his love, words are not necessary for their family. "We don’t need words," she said. "We have a very deep connection, and we have learned to sort of meet him where he’s at." FTD symptoms can include difficulty with speech, changes in personality, and slow movements, and there is currently no cure.

The Alzheimer’s Research Association explains that dementia is an "umbrella term" used to describe problems with memory, thinking, and reasoning. It's not a single disease. Instead, diseases like Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) and Alzheimer's are two different causes that lead to similar, but different symptoms.

It is very important for doctors to know the differences between FTD and Alzheimer's. Getting the correct diagnosis early helps patients get the right treatment sooner. This can greatly improve their health and overall quality of life.

How Is FTD Different from Alzheimer’s Disease?

The biggest difference between these two conditions is which part of the brain they damage first. This difference explains why the early symptoms are so distinct.

What Part of the Brain Does FTD affect?

Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), as its name suggests, mainly affects the front (frontal) and sides (temporal) of the brain. These areas are like the control center for your personality, behavior, and language skills. For example, the frontal lobe handles judgment and controlling your emotions, and the temporal lobe helps you process what you hear and form memories.

What Part of the Brain Does Alzheimer’s Affect?

In contrast, Alzheimer's disease usually starts by damaging areas crucial for memory, such as the hippocampus. These are the parts of the brain that help you learn new things and retrieve old memories. As Alzheimer's gets worse, the damage spreads to more areas of the brain, affecting memory, behavior, language, and even how you see things.

What Ages Do FTD and Alzheimer’s Typically Start?

Another key difference is when people usually start showing symptoms.

FTD often begins when people are younger, typically between 40 and 60 years old. This is why it's sometimes called an earlier-onset dementia.

Alzheimer's is much more common in older adults, usually affecting people who are 65 and over. Getting older is the biggest risk factor for Alzheimer's, but remember, it is not a normal part of getting older or healthy aging.

How Are The Symptoms of FTD different from Alzheimer’s?

While both diseases cause dementia, the first symptoms are usually very distinct, which helps doctors tell them apart.

In early Alzheimer's, the main symptom is memory loss.

• Often forgetting recent conversations or events.
• Having trouble with spatial orientation, which means they might get lost in places they know well.
• Struggle to find the right word, their ability to speak clearly and understand others usually stays better for longer than in FTD.
• Delusions or hallucinations also happen more often as Alzheimer's gets worse.

In early FTD, the initial signs are usually behavioral changes or language problems.

• Acting impulsively
• Lose their filter in conversation
• Become very withdrawn.

This is common in the most frequent type of FTD, called behavioral variant FTD (bvFTD). In another type of FTD called Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA), the first problem is a difficulty with,

• Speaking
• Understanding language
• Writing.
• While people with advanced FTD will eventually have memory loss, it's not the primary symptom at the beginning.

How Has FTD Affected Bruce Willis?

In the interview Emma Hemmings admitted Bruce is unaware of his frontotemporal dementia (FTD) diagnosis.

She explained that it is a part of the disease itself for the person not to realize their health is declining. When asked about a fear that Willis might have voiced his distress about his condition, she confirmed:

"The person doesn’t realize that they are experiencing a decline in their health. So it’s not denial; this is just a part of the disease. So, it’s a blessing and a curse. But I am grateful that Bruce never tapped into the idea that he had FTD.”

Fatty liver disease and insulin resistance often go hand in hand. It is almost like a vicious cycle. What actually happens is when the fat builds up in the liver, it interferes with the body' ability to use insulin effectively. This then triggers insulin resistance, which could fuel fat accumulation, inflammation, and then lead to liver damage. This for a long time could lead to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is a severe form of fatty liver disease marked by liver inflammation and scarring.

Many experts, including diabetologist Dr Brijmohan Arora has pointed that there could be certain visible changes in your body that could help you detect the early signs of NASH, without having to take a blood test.

What Are The Signs You Should Not Ignore?

As per the doctor, who has over 24 years of experience and practices in Dwarka. He posted a video on Instagram titled ;How to detect a fatty liver without blood tests'. The signs he says include:

Excessive visceral fat — a hard, protruding belly or “belly paunch.”

• Skin tags: small, soft growths on the neck or armpits.
• Red or purple lines on the legs, especially near the ankles.
• A puffy or rounded face with less visible cheekbones.
• High blood pressure (readings above 140 mmHg).

These signs, he explained, can act as “clinical clues” for doctors, especially when patients refuse blood tests.

If You Have A Belly Paunch, It Is A Dangerous Sign

Dr Arora shared story of one of his patients who refused to undergo blood tests and wanted to know whether his liver was healthy. "He had fatty live once and managed to reverse it." However, the patient had returned to the doctor, but refused any testing, this is when the doctor conducted a full physical examination to assess him.

"If your stomach is very protruding and feels hard, it means fat has accumulated around and inside your organs. That is visceral fat. This is a strong indicator of fatty liver." He further added, "If you notice small warts or moles on your neck or armpits, these skin tags are often the number one sign of insulin resistance."

Are There Other Warning Signs Of Insulin Resistance?

Dr Arora also pointed out several other important indicators, including red or purple lines on the feet. He said, "If you see small red or purple lines on your feet, especially near your ankles, it may be a sign of insulin resistance. A puffy face, where your cheekbones are no longer visible, is another common clue."

He also noted that high blood pressure could be one of the most serious warning signs. "If your blood pressure is consistently above 140 or 145, that is quite dangerous. It is one of the most important clinical features of insulin resistance."

Why Is Early Detection Important?

Fatty liver disease and insulin resistance are not just metabolic issues, they can set the stage for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and severe liver conditions like NASH. Detecting these early signs can help you take timely steps through diet, exercise, and medical consultation.

Experts recommend maintaining a healthy weight, managing blood sugar, and limiting processed foods and alcohol to protect your liver.

Note: This piece is based on an Instagram post by Dr Arora. Health And Me does not, in any way, promote diagnosis without proper medical testing.