Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Diabetes Could Be Affecting More Than Your 'Blood Sugar Balance'; What Is Charcot Foot?

Diabetes Could Be Affecting More Than Your 'Blood Sugar Balance'— What Is Charcot Foot?

When most of us hear the word "<span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/diabetes">diabetes</a></span>," the first word that pops into our minds is blood sugar but the long-term illness can sneakily damage things behind our backs, particularly in places we hardly pay attention to—such as our feet. One such overlooked complication is <span>Charcot foot</span>, a rare-seen yet serious diabetes side effect.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 29 million Americans now have diabetes and 86 million have prediabetes. In 2012, complications from diabetes cost the nation $245 billion in healthcare expenses and lost productivity.

A recent study in Clinical Diabetes and Endocrinology has uncovered a startling knowledge deficit: a majority of general doctors and non-podium specialists do not know about this life-threatening condition. That degree of ignorance is worrisome, given that when left untreated, Charcot foot has the potential to result in permanent deformity, amputation, or life-threatening infection.

Charcot foot is a potentially severe, though uncommon, complication of <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/diabetic-neuropathy">diabetic neuropathy</a></span>, an ongoing high blood glucose level condition that injures nerves—usually in the feet. These damaged nerves cause pain not to be felt, so an otherwise small injury or infection can be ignored and left untreated. Eventually, that undetected injury will launch a chain reaction of bone and joint deterioration, resulting in swelling, structural abnormalities, and in very bad instances, even permanent disability or amputation.

The connection is all in the nerves. With diabetic neuropathy blunting the body's sense of pain, individuals don't even know they've hurt their foot. They just keep going, keep utilizing the damaged limb, and unwittingly continue to traumatize it. The end result? The bones get weaker, joints get knocked out of place, and the foot structure caves in—often called the "rocker-bottom foot."

In advanced stages, Charcot foot, if left untreated, can result in chronic ulcers, infections that penetrate the bone, and ultimately, amputation. Scarier still? Most physicians acknowledge that they aren't aware of the initial signs, allowing the condition to go undiagnosed and treated.

Charcot foot (also <span>Charcot arthropathy</span>) is a serious diabetic complication that results when damage to nerves—diabetic neuropathy—removes sensation in the feet. When there is no pain to warn of injury, a minor break or infection can escalate into a disastrous erosion of joint and bone framework in the foot or ankle. In extreme situations, it results in a total collapse of the arch of the foot, leading to severe deformity.

The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society reports that the injuries can be painless, but the damage can be limb- or life-threatening if not treated quickly. 

<h2>How Diabetes Sets the Stage for Charcot Foot?</h2>

Diabetic neuropathy causes peripheral nerve damage and typically affects the legs and feet. With time, the damage to nerves results in loss of sensation and makes it difficult—or even impossible—to feel pain, pressure, or heat.

Now let's say you've broken a bone in your foot but you never experience the pain. You just keep walking. Gradually with each step, the damage increases, causing joint malalignment, bone resorption, and distorted foot architecture. That's basically how Charcot foot starts and develops—quietly, insidiously, and frequently undiagnosed.

<h2>Why Most Doctors Miss Charcot Foot?</h2>

In the survey of 400 non-foot-specialist clinicians, more than two-thirds of them confessed to knowing "little to nothing" about Charcot arthropathy. General <span>diabetic foot care</span> is taught commonly, but specific complications such as Charcot foot are not yet included in general medical knowledge for many specialties.

This implies patients may remain undiagnosed until the condition is well advanced. Authors of the study emphasize the importance of greater awareness and renewed training, particularly given diabetes diagnoses continue to increase worldwide.

<h2>Charcot Foot Symptoms to Watch For</h2>

While Charcot foot is uncommon, it does have early warning signs. The problem is spotting them before the damage is permanent. Symptoms are:

<ul><li>Redness or skin color change</li><li>Swelling, with little or no pain</li><li>A feeling of warmth in the foot (especially if one foot feels noticeably warmer than the other)</li><li>Changes in foot shape or structure</li><li>Instability when walking</li></ul>

Remember: even if it doesn’t hurt, it doesn’t mean it’s not serious.

How Charcot Foot Is More Than A Health Complication?

Charcot foot itself is a complication of diabetes, but it can lead to an alarming range of further health issues:

Permanent deformity: The foot can change shape permanently, leading to mobility problems and inability to find shoes.

Ulcers and infections: Changes in the structure of the feet increase the risk of non-healing wounds that develop into severe infections.

Amputation: In severe cases, part or all of the foot must be amputated.

Systemic infection: If infection spreads to beyond the foot, it becomes life-threatening.

These complications highlight the importance of early detection, appropriate footwear, and proactive diabetes management.

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes, regular foot checks should become part of your daily routine. Early detection is your best line of defense.

If Charcot foot is treated early, walking and mobility can be maintained—albeit with rest, elevation, and not putting pressure on the foot. Swimming or cycling are good substitutes for walking or running. For advanced stages, medical treatment may involve custom orthotic devices, immobilization, or even surgery. Coordination with a podiatrist or diabetes care team is critical in order to avoid permanent damage.

Although we always discuss high blood sugar, the complications downstream thereof—including those that influence your nerves, kidneys, eyes, skin, and yes, your feet—receive no less notice.

It's time to think beyond blood sugar levels. Charcot foot is a good example of how diabetes can quietly ruin your body in ways that will never be reversible if it isn't detected on time. The best part? With heightened awareness, early detection, and ongoing care, many of the worst consequences can be prevented.

If you or a loved one lives with diabetes, don’t overlook the feet. What seems like a little swelling could be a big red flag. Speak to your healthcare provider, schedule regular foot screenings, and remember: feeling nothing doesn't mean there's nothing wrong.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

diabetes

charcot foot

diabetes foot complications

diabetic neuropathy

foot deformity diabetes

diabetes-related nerve damage

charcot arthropathy

diabetic foot care

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When most of us hear the word "diabetes," the first word that pops into our minds is blood sugar but the long-term illness can sneakily damage things behind our backs, particularly in places we hardly pay attention to—such as our feet. One such overlooked complication is Charcot foot, a rare-seen yet serious diabetes side effect.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 29 million Americans now have diabetes and 86 million have prediabetes. In 2012, complications from diabetes cost the nation $245 billion in healthcare expenses and lost productivity.A recent study in Clinical Diabetes and Endocrinology has uncovered a startling knowledge deficit: a majority of general doctors and non-podium specialists do not know about this life-threatening condition. That degree of ignorance is worrisome, given that when left untreated, Charcot foot has the potential to result in permanent deformity, amputation, or life-threatening infection.Charcot foot is a potentially severe, though uncommon, complication of diabetic neuropathy, an ongoing high blood glucose level condition that injures nerves—usually in the feet. These damaged nerves cause pain not to be felt, so an otherwise small injury or infection can be ignored and left untreated. Eventually, that undetected injury will launch a chain reaction of bone and joint deterioration, resulting in swelling, structural abnormalities, and in very bad instances, even permanent disability or amputation.The connection is all in the nerves. With diabetic neuropathy blunting the body's sense of pain, individuals don't even know they've hurt their foot. They just keep going, keep utilizing the damaged limb, and unwittingly continue to traumatize it. The end result? The bones get weaker, joints get knocked out of place, and the foot structure caves in—often called the "rocker-bottom foot."In advanced stages, Charcot foot, if left untreated, can result in chronic ulcers, infections that penetrate the bone, and ultimately, amputation. Scarier still? Most physicians acknowledge that they aren't aware of the initial signs, allowing the condition to go undiagnosed and treated.What Is Charcot Foot?Charcot foot (also Charcot arthropathy) is a serious diabetic complication that results when damage to nerves—diabetic neuropathy—removes sensation in the feet. When there is no pain to warn of injury, a minor break or infection can escalate into a disastrous erosion of joint and bone framework in the foot or ankle. In extreme situations, it results in a total collapse of the arch of the foot, leading to severe deformity.The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society reports that the injuries can be painless, but the damage can be limb- or life-threatening if not treated quickly. How Diabetes Sets the Stage for Charcot Foot?Diabetic neuropathy causes peripheral nerve damage and typically affects the legs and feet. With time, the damage to nerves results in loss of sensation and makes it difficult—or even impossible—to feel pain, pressure, or heat.Now let's say you've broken a bone in your foot but you never experience the pain. You just keep walking. Gradually with each step, the damage increases, causing joint malalignment, bone resorption, and distorted foot architecture. That's basically how Charcot foot starts and develops—quietly, insidiously, and frequently undiagnosed.Why Most Doctors Miss Charcot Foot?In the survey of 400 non-foot-specialist clinicians, more than two-thirds of them confessed to knowing "little to nothing" about Charcot arthropathy. General diabetic foot care is taught commonly, but specific complications such as Charcot foot are not yet included in general medical knowledge for many specialties.This implies patients may remain undiagnosed until the condition is well advanced. Authors of the study emphasize the importance of greater awareness and renewed training, particularly given diabetes diagnoses continue to increase worldwide.Charcot Foot Symptoms to Watch ForWhile Charcot foot is uncommon, it does have early warning signs. The problem is spotting them before the damage is permanent. Symptoms are:Redness or skin color changeSwelling, with little or no painA feeling of warmth in the foot (especially if one foot feels noticeably warmer than the other)Changes in foot shape or structureInstability when walkingRemember: even if it doesn’t hurt, it doesn’t mean it’s not serious.How Charcot Foot Is More Than A Health Complication?Charcot foot itself is a complication of diabetes, but it can lead to an alarming range of further health issues:Permanent deformity: The foot can change shape permanently, leading to mobility problems and inability to find shoes.Ulcers and infections: Changes in the structure of the feet increase the risk of non-healing wounds that develop into severe infections.Amputation: In severe cases, part or all of the foot must be amputated.Systemic infection: If infection spreads to beyond the foot, it becomes life-threatening.These complications highlight the importance of early detection, appropriate footwear, and proactive diabetes management.Is Charcot Foot Preventable?If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes, regular foot checks should become part of your daily routine. Early detection is your best line of defense.If Charcot foot is treated early, walking and mobility can be maintained—albeit with rest, elevation, and not putting pressure on the foot. Swimming or cycling are good substitutes for walking or running. For advanced stages, medical treatment may involve custom orthotic devices, immobilization, or even surgery. Coordination with a podiatrist or diabetes care team is critical in order to avoid permanent damage.Although we always discuss high blood sugar, the complications downstream thereof—including those that influence your nerves, kidneys, eyes, skin, and yes, your feet—receive no less notice.It's time to think beyond blood sugar levels. Charcot foot is a good example of how diabetes can quietly ruin your body in ways that will never be reversible if it isn't detected on time. The best part? With heightened awareness, early detection, and ongoing care, many of the worst consequences can be prevented.If you or a loved one lives with diabetes, don’t overlook the feet. What seems like a little swelling could be a big red flag. Speak to your healthcare provider, schedule regular foot screenings, and remember: feeling nothing doesn't mean there's nothing wrong.

diabetes could be affecting more than your 'blood sugar balance'; what is charcot foot?

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As the summer sun rises high, everyone anticipates relief from seasonal sniffles. Yet increasingly, more and more people are falling ill with cold-like symptoms in warmer weather too. The twist? A new Covid strain—NB.1.8.1—is spreading low-key around the world, from Asia to America and the UK. The challenge is distinguishing between a run-of-the-mill summer cold and a COVID-19 infection.

Typically, respiratory illnesses peak in the colder months when more time is spent indoors and dry air allows viruses to be more easily susceptible. Summer, however, is not virus-free. Parainfluenza virus Type 3, enteroviruses, adenoviruses, and even rhinoviruses are still causing issues in warmer climates. Social events, travel, lack of rest, more alcohol consumption, and air conditioning all set the stage for infections.

Complicating the situation further this summer is the discovery of the NB.1.8.1 Covid strain. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) only recently started monitoring it, scientists are closely monitoring its trajectory and possible implications.

Initially discovered in China in January 2025, NB.1.8.1 has a number of mutations that have caught the eye of the world's health authorities. The good news? There is as yet no evidence to suggest it results in more serious disease. In fact, U.K. Health Security Agency statistics indicate a modest rise in COVID cases with 5.2% of patients positive—up from 4.5% last week.

To date, just 13 of the confirmed NB.1.8.1 cases in the U.K. have been sequenced, the majority of them in April and May. While uncommon at present, the fact that it shares features with other variants of Covid means caution is still crucial.

<h2>Summer Colds vs. NB.1.8.1 Covid: Why It's Hard to Tell the Difference?</h2>

Both summer colds and Covid-19 have common symptoms such as:

<ul><li>Sore throat</li><li>Nasal congestion or runny nose</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Muscle aches</li><li>Nausea or vomiting</li></ul>

However some symptoms will tend more towards Covid, such as:

<ul><li>Fever or chills</li><li>Shortness of breath</li><li>Loss of taste or smell, new</li><li>Gastrointestinal illness such as diarrhea</li></ul>

There is no guaranteed way to tell the difference between a summer cold and Covid without doing a diagnostic test. Mild COVID-19 symptoms are easily mistaken for other seasonal viruses.

Colds—seasonal or not—are viral illnesses that are transmitted by respiratory droplets, fomites (contaminated surfaces), or close proximity. The main culprits are rhinoviruses, especially during the winter months, but the warmer months experience an upsurge in viruses such as parainfluenza, enteroviruses (coxsackie and echovirus), and adenoviruses.

Summer activities—weddings, concerts, holidays—promote intimate contact between groups, and typical summer behaviors such as drinking, bad sleep, and poor diet compromise immune systems. Air conditioning units, by dehydrating nasal passages, also impair the body's resistance to viral invaders.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges anyone with cold-like symptoms to monitor closely. Covid-19 symptoms can appear two to 14 days after exposure and vary from mild to severe. The virus can be contagious two days before symptoms emerge and up to 10 days—or more—in immunocompromised individuals.

If you’re feeling unwell, the best course of action is to:

<ul><li>Stay home and rest</li><li>Wear a mask if around others</li><li>Get a COVID-19 test</li><li>Talk to your healthcare provider</li></ul>

Timely treatment, such as antiviral therapy with Paxlovid, is ensured through accurate diagnosis, particularly among high-risk individuals.

<h2>Can Vaccines Protect Against NB.1.8.1?</h2>

While a newer vaccine aimed at fall variants is being developed, the existing vaccines remain protective against NB.1.8.1. The variant is of the "drifter" type from the Omicron lineage, which indicates earlier immunity could still help prevent severe disease.

Dr. Aaron Chen, a Johns Hopkins University virologist, observes, "Although mutation is unavoidable, current vaccines remain effective in preventing hospitalization and complications from new variants, such as NB.1.8.1."

<h2>How To Avoid Getting Sick This Summer?</h2>

There's no surefire way to completely avoid viruses, unfortunately. But here are some practical tips from experts:

<ul><li>Drink plenty of water and moderate your booze</li><li>Consume a nutrient-dense diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins</li><li>Get good rest and reduce stress levels</li><li>Clean those surfaces that are touched most often such as airplane trays, phones, and exercise equipment</li><li>Supplement with vitamin D if one is deficient since it enhances immune function</li><li>Wash hands frequently, do not share food or beverages, and wear a mask in public indoor areas</li></ul>

Most people recover from summer colds and mild Covid-19 at home. Supportive care—hydration, over-the-counter pain relief, and rest—is typically enough. Nasal decongestants and lozenges can ease symptoms, while more serious or persistent cases warrant medical consultation.

If you suspect Covid, getting tested is crucial—not only for your health but for the wellbeing of those around you.

nb.1.8.1 covid variant

summer cold vs covid

new covid strain symptoms

summer virus outbreak

covid testing summer

is it covid or cold

nb.1.8.1 symptoms

As the summer sun rises high, everyone anticipates relief from seasonal sniffles. Yet increasingly, more and more people are falling ill with cold-like symptoms in warmer weather too. The twist? A new Covid strain—NB.1.8.1—is spreading low-key around the world, from Asia to America and the UK. The challenge is distinguishing between a run-of-the-mill summer cold and a COVID-19 infection.Typically, respiratory illnesses peak in the colder months when more time is spent indoors and dry air allows viruses to be more easily susceptible. Summer, however, is not virus-free. Parainfluenza virus Type 3, enteroviruses, adenoviruses, and even rhinoviruses are still causing issues in warmer climates. Social events, travel, lack of rest, more alcohol consumption, and air conditioning all set the stage for infections.Complicating the situation further this summer is the discovery of the NB.1.8.1 Covid strain. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) only recently started monitoring it, scientists are closely monitoring its trajectory and possible implications.Initially discovered in China in January 2025, NB.1.8.1 has a number of mutations that have caught the eye of the world's health authorities. The good news? There is as yet no evidence to suggest it results in more serious disease. In fact, U.K. Health Security Agency statistics indicate a modest rise in COVID cases with 5.2% of patients positive—up from 4.5% last week.To date, just 13 of the confirmed NB.1.8.1 cases in the U.K. have been sequenced, the majority of them in April and May. While uncommon at present, the fact that it shares features with other variants of Covid means caution is still crucial.Summer Colds vs. NB.1.8.1 Covid: Why It's Hard to Tell the Difference?Both summer colds and Covid-19 have common symptoms such as:Sore throatNasal congestion or runny noseFatigueMuscle achesNausea or vomitingHowever some symptoms will tend more towards Covid, such as:Fever or chillsShortness of breathLoss of taste or smell, newGastrointestinal illness such as diarrheaThere is no guaranteed way to tell the difference between a summer cold and Covid without doing a diagnostic test. Mild COVID-19 symptoms are easily mistaken for other seasonal viruses.What Exactly Is a Summer Cold?Colds—seasonal or not—are viral illnesses that are transmitted by respiratory droplets, fomites (contaminated surfaces), or close proximity. The main culprits are rhinoviruses, especially during the winter months, but the warmer months experience an upsurge in viruses such as parainfluenza, enteroviruses (coxsackie and echovirus), and adenoviruses.Summer activities—weddings, concerts, holidays—promote intimate contact between groups, and typical summer behaviors such as drinking, bad sleep, and poor diet compromise immune systems. Air conditioning units, by dehydrating nasal passages, also impair the body's resistance to viral invaders.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges anyone with cold-like symptoms to monitor closely. Covid-19 symptoms can appear two to 14 days after exposure and vary from mild to severe. The virus can be contagious two days before symptoms emerge and up to 10 days—or more—in immunocompromised individuals.If you’re feeling unwell, the best course of action is to:Stay home and restWear a mask if around othersGet a COVID-19 testTalk to your healthcare providerTimely treatment, such as antiviral therapy with Paxlovid, is ensured through accurate diagnosis, particularly among high-risk individuals.Can Vaccines Protect Against NB.1.8.1?While a newer vaccine aimed at fall variants is being developed, the existing vaccines remain protective against NB.1.8.1. The variant is of the "drifter" type from the Omicron lineage, which indicates earlier immunity could still help prevent severe disease.Dr. Aaron Chen, a Johns Hopkins University virologist, observes, "Although mutation is unavoidable, current vaccines remain effective in preventing hospitalization and complications from new variants, such as NB.1.8.1."How To Avoid Getting Sick This Summer?There's no surefire way to completely avoid viruses, unfortunately. But here are some practical tips from experts:Drink plenty of water and moderate your boozeConsume a nutrient-dense diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteinsGet good rest and reduce stress levelsClean those surfaces that are touched most often such as airplane trays, phones, and exercise equipmentSupplement with vitamin D if one is deficient since it enhances immune functionWash hands frequently, do not share food or beverages, and wear a mask in public indoor areasWhat If You Do Get Sick?Most people recover from summer colds and mild Covid-19 at home. Supportive care—hydration, over-the-counter pain relief, and rest—is typically enough. Nasal decongestants and lozenges can ease symptoms, while more serious or persistent cases warrant medical consultation.If you suspect Covid, getting tested is crucial—not only for your health but for the wellbeing of those around you.

is it just a summer cold or the nb.1.8.1 covid variant? how to tell when the symptoms are nearly identical

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The terrifying crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad killing 241 people with just one British passenger surviving has sent shockwaves around the world. Although flying is statistically one of the safest ways to travel, such traumatic incidents can revive old terrors in even the most experienced of travelers. To the 25 million Americans who already suffer from <span>aerophobia</span>, the technical name for the <span>fear of flying</span>, this awful news might be more than just upsetting. It might be debilitating.

<span>Mental health</span> experts caution that such events can amplify already-existing anxiety, fueling catastrophic thinking and resulting in severe avoidance of travel. And yet, despite the fear, there are ways to deal with <span>flight anxiety</span> that are evidence-based and even get over it.

Aerophobia refers to a severe, irrational fear of flight. While some may equate it with fear of a plane crash, most individuals afflicted by the condition actually fear more the sense of intense panic that grips them before or in transit. This encompasses fear of confinement in an airplane, losing control of one's flight, or experiencing a panic attack at altitude.

"Aviophobia or aerophobia is very prevalent," states Clinical Psychologist Akansha Tayal. "Prevalence rates are 10% to 35%, and most people feel very uncomfortable, particularly when faced with reports of aviation accidents. The fear itself is usually irrational and disproportionate to the real danger posed." 

Symptoms tend to occur across three areas:

Physical: Palpitations of the heart, sweating, dizziness, nausea.

Emotional: Irritability, restlessness, overwhelming fear.

Cognitive: Catastrophic thinking, obsessive worry, avoidance activities.

Even as frightening as crashes might appear, aviation safety has only enhanced. According to a 2023 analysis by MIT scientists, the probability of being killed in a commercial airline accident around the world is approximately 1 in 13.7 million. Even so, the public eye and emotional intensity of aviation disasters often overshadow their statistical infrequency when it comes to those suffering with aerophobia.

This psychological effect availability bias is the reason why tragic headlines seem so close to home and threateningly personal. "Our brains are hardwired to respond to threat cues," says Ms Tayal. "Even an unlikely event will feel like a personal risk when it's sensationalized or emotionally jarring."

<h2>How to Recognize the Signs of Flight Anxiety?</h2>

If you're avoiding travel, unwilling to get on airplanes, or preoccupied with air safety, you might have clinical aerophobia. In addition to discomfort, you might experience:

<ul><li>Panic attacks during or prior to flying</li><li>Flight avoidance media</li><li>Overresearching crash records or airline safety</li><li>Repetitive behaviors (reviewing weather forecasts, switching seats)</li><li>Interference with sleep prior to departure or illness due to tension</li></ul>

<h2>Expert-Backed Strategies to Overcome Aerophobia</h2>

While aerophobia can feel paralyzing, it’s highly treatable. Experts recommend a mix of self-help techniques and professional interventions.

Challenge irrational fears by learning facts about flight safety. Avoid sensational news and instead focus on what you’re looking forward to. Keep a mental list of safe flight experiences.

Practice slow breathing with a soothing word such as "peace." It reduces the heart rate and quenches stress hormone activity. Mindfulness techniques and progressive muscle relaxation can also keep your body connected.

Rehearse a peaceful flight experience in your mind—from getting on the plane to arrival. Visualization can get your brain thinking about flying as an ordinary, safe thing.

Crossword puzzles, backward counting, reading, or soothing videos can break the worry loop mid-flight.

Travel with a supportive friend and inform them of your triggers. Advance briefing with sympathetic airline personnel can also smooth pre-flight anxiety.

Begin with short flights or utilize flight simulators to rewire gradually, exposing yourself to incrementally longer flights. Safe repetition is shown to decrease sensitivity over time.

<h4>7. Professional Assistance is Effective</h4>

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy are gold-standard treatments. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Virtual Reality Therapy are increasingly proving to be effective treatments.

"Any psychologist can help the person walk through CBT in order to cope with irrational thoughts," Ms Tayal says. "For tackling these maladaptive thoughts and irrational fears, we do graded exposure, EMDR, or virtual reality. Relaxation training, mindfulness, and grounding are all important too."

<h2>Coping Tools to Practice on the Ground</h2>

Grounding Techniques: Utilize the 5 senses to remain engaged in the moment.

Mindfulness: Practice non-judgmental attention to your thoughts and bodily sensations.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Release tension to decrease physiological arousal.

Professional Monitoring: When anxiety arises from underlying trauma or generalized anxiety disorder, a psychiatrist may assist in regulating underlying causes.

<h2>Can Aerophobia Come Back After Treatment?</h2>

Yes—but long-term results are promising. Research indicates that individuals treated with CBT tend to sustain outcomes for three years or longer. Occasional therapy "booster shots" or regular practice of coping techniques can ward off relapse.

<h2>How to Prevent and Manage Aerophobia?</h2>

There is no guaranteed way to prevent aerophobia, but there are some habits of daily living that can definitely minimize its effect. Steering clear of such stimulants as alcohol or caffeine prior to a flight will keep anxiety under control. Open discussion of your apprehension with intimate family members, friends, or a support group is also crucial, as it helps lessen the emotional load. Shying away from solitary confinement is equally crucial—sharing space with people who are going through the same thing can provide reassurance and confirmation. Finally, remaining attuned to your own mental health and being proactive in seeking assistance early, particularly if symptoms persist or intensify, can make a tangible difference in dealing with flight-related anxiety.

Flight anxiety exists, and tragedies such as the Air India crash can be daunting but you are not alone, and your fear is not something to be ashamed of. With appropriate tools, techniques, and support, the skies don't have to be so frightening.

mental health

aerophobia

flight anxiety

fear of flying

air india crash 2025

coping with flight anxiety

The terrifying crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad killing 241 people with just one British passenger surviving has sent shockwaves around the world. Although flying is statistically one of the safest ways to travel, such traumatic incidents can revive old terrors in even the most experienced of travelers. To the 25 million Americans who already suffer from aerophobia, the technical name for the fear of flying, this awful news might be more than just upsetting. It might be debilitating.Mental health experts caution that such events can amplify already-existing anxiety, fueling catastrophic thinking and resulting in severe avoidance of travel. And yet, despite the fear, there are ways to deal with flight anxiety that are evidence-based and even get over it.What is Aerophobia?Aerophobia refers to a severe, irrational fear of flight. While some may equate it with fear of a plane crash, most individuals afflicted by the condition actually fear more the sense of intense panic that grips them before or in transit. This encompasses fear of confinement in an airplane, losing control of one's flight, or experiencing a panic attack at altitude."Aviophobia or aerophobia is very prevalent," states Clinical Psychologist Akansha Tayal. "Prevalence rates are 10% to 35%, and most people feel very uncomfortable, particularly when faced with reports of aviation accidents. The fear itself is usually irrational and disproportionate to the real danger posed." Symptoms tend to occur across three areas:Physical: Palpitations of the heart, sweating, dizziness, nausea.Emotional: Irritability, restlessness, overwhelming fear.Cognitive: Catastrophic thinking, obsessive worry, avoidance activities.Even as frightening as crashes might appear, aviation safety has only enhanced. According to a 2023 analysis by MIT scientists, the probability of being killed in a commercial airline accident around the world is approximately 1 in 13.7 million. Even so, the public eye and emotional intensity of aviation disasters often overshadow their statistical infrequency when it comes to those suffering with aerophobia.This psychological effect availability bias is the reason why tragic headlines seem so close to home and threateningly personal. "Our brains are hardwired to respond to threat cues," says Ms Tayal. "Even an unlikely event will feel like a personal risk when it's sensationalized or emotionally jarring."How to Recognize the Signs of Flight Anxiety?If you're avoiding travel, unwilling to get on airplanes, or preoccupied with air safety, you might have clinical aerophobia. In addition to discomfort, you might experience:Panic attacks during or prior to flyingFlight avoidance mediaOverresearching crash records or airline safetyRepetitive behaviors (reviewing weather forecasts, switching seats)Interference with sleep prior to departure or illness due to tensionExpert-Backed Strategies to Overcome AerophobiaWhile aerophobia can feel paralyzing, it’s highly treatable. Experts recommend a mix of self-help techniques and professional interventions.1. Cognitive RestructuringChallenge irrational fears by learning facts about flight safety. Avoid sensational news and instead focus on what you’re looking forward to. Keep a mental list of safe flight experiences.2. Relaxation TechniquesPractice slow breathing with a soothing word such as "peace." It reduces the heart rate and quenches stress hormone activity. Mindfulness techniques and progressive muscle relaxation can also keep your body connected.3. Cope Ahead VisualizationRehearse a peaceful flight experience in your mind—from getting on the plane to arrival. Visualization can get your brain thinking about flying as an ordinary, safe thing.4. Use Distraction ToolsCrossword puzzles, backward counting, reading, or soothing videos can break the worry loop mid-flight.5. Support SystemTravel with a supportive friend and inform them of your triggers. Advance briefing with sympathetic airline personnel can also smooth pre-flight anxiety.6. Gradual Exposure TherapyBegin with short flights or utilize flight simulators to rewire gradually, exposing yourself to incrementally longer flights. Safe repetition is shown to decrease sensitivity over time.7. Professional Assistance is EffectiveCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy are gold-standard treatments. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Virtual Reality Therapy are increasingly proving to be effective treatments."Any psychologist can help the person walk through CBT in order to cope with irrational thoughts," Ms Tayal says. "For tackling these maladaptive thoughts and irrational fears, we do graded exposure, EMDR, or virtual reality. Relaxation training, mindfulness, and grounding are all important too."Coping Tools to Practice on the GroundGrounding Techniques: Utilize the 5 senses to remain engaged in the moment.Mindfulness: Practice non-judgmental attention to your thoughts and bodily sensations.Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Release tension to decrease physiological arousal.Professional Monitoring: When anxiety arises from underlying trauma or generalized anxiety disorder, a psychiatrist may assist in regulating underlying causes.Can Aerophobia Come Back After Treatment?Yes—but long-term results are promising. Research indicates that individuals treated with CBT tend to sustain outcomes for three years or longer. Occasional therapy "booster shots" or regular practice of coping techniques can ward off relapse.How to Prevent and Manage Aerophobia?There is no guaranteed way to prevent aerophobia, but there are some habits of daily living that can definitely minimize its effect. Steering clear of such stimulants as alcohol or caffeine prior to a flight will keep anxiety under control. Open discussion of your apprehension with intimate family members, friends, or a support group is also crucial, as it helps lessen the emotional load. Shying away from solitary confinement is equally crucial—sharing space with people who are going through the same thing can provide reassurance and confirmation. Finally, remaining attuned to your own mental health and being proactive in seeking assistance early, particularly if symptoms persist or intensify, can make a tangible difference in dealing with flight-related anxiety.Flight anxiety exists, and tragedies such as the Air India crash can be daunting but you are not alone, and your fear is not something to be ashamed of. With appropriate tools, techniques, and support, the skies don't have to be so frightening.

air india crash may have triggered flight anxiety in millions, expert shares how to overcome aerophobia

Ishita Roy

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<span>Ananda Lewis</span>, celebrated TV host known for her authenticity and warmth, passed away at 52 after a long and brave battle with <span>breast cancer</span>. Once a beloved face on BET’s Teen Summit and MTV’s Total Request Live, she used her platform to engage young audiences with pressing social issues and celebrity interviews that left a mark.

Lewis first came into the spotlight through BET’s Teen Summit, where she led candid conversations on challenges facing Black youth. Her interviews with figures like Kobe Bryant, Tupac Shakur, and Hillary Clinton earned her critical acclaim, including an NAACP Image Award.

In 1997, she joined MTV, becoming a key voice on MTV Live, Hot Zone, and TRL. Though her move sparked criticism, she remained unapologetic. “Growth is necessary,” she told the Associated Press. “You’ve got to get out there and live your life.”

She later launched The Ananda Lewis Show in 2001, a daytime talk show aimed at real conversations, even if it followed a familiar format. The show lasted one season, but Lewis remained a powerful presence, later joining The Insider as a correspondent.

<h4>Breast <span rel="noindex">Cancer</span> Journey That She Shared With The World</h4>

In 2020, Lewis revealed that she had been living with stage 3 breast cancer since 2018—later advancing to stage 4. Her diagnosis came after years of ignoring persistent inflammation linked to mastitis from breastfeeding. A lump discovered in her right breast led to a biopsy, confirming it was invasive carcinoma.

Ananda Lewis, celebrated TV host known for her authenticity and warmth, passed away at 52 after a long and brave battle with breast cancer. Once a beloved face on BET’s Teen Summit and MTV’s Total Request Live, she used her platform to engage young audiences with pressing social issues and celebrity interviews that left a mark.A Powerful Presence on ScreenLewis first came into the spotlight through BET’s Teen Summit, where she led candid conversations on challenges facing Black youth. Her interviews with figures like Kobe Bryant, Tupac Shakur, and Hillary Clinton earned her critical acclaim, including an NAACP Image Award.In 1997, she joined MTV, becoming a key voice on MTV Live, Hot Zone, and TRL. Though her move sparked criticism, she remained unapologetic. “Growth is necessary,” she told the Associated Press. “You’ve got to get out there and live your life.”She later launched The Ananda Lewis Show in 2001, a daytime talk show aimed at real conversations, even if it followed a familiar format. The show lasted one season, but Lewis remained a powerful presence, later joining The Insider as a correspondent.Breast Cancer Journey That She Shared With The WorldIn 2020, Lewis revealed that she had been living with stage 3 breast cancer since 2018—later advancing to stage 4. Her diagnosis came after years of ignoring persistent inflammation linked to mastitis from breastfeeding. A lump discovered in her right breast led to a biopsy, confirming it was invasive carcinoma.Instead of following a conventional medical path, Lewis chose alternative treatments. “I wanted to understand why my body created cancer and how to change the terrain,” she explained. She focused on diet changes, stress management, detoxing, and holistic therapies like high-dose vitamin C, acupuncture, and cryoablation.A Different Kind of BattleLewis moved to Arizona in 2020 for 16 weeks of intensive integrative treatment. Her cancer reduced from stage 3 to 2 and was no longer in her lymph nodes. But the journey wasn’t without hardship—financial struggles and insurance lapses made consistent treatment difficult.In early 2023, a scan showed the tumor had grown slightly, but it had not spread. She underwent electrical ablation in Mexico, which unfortunately didn’t succeed. By October 2023, a PET scan confirmed the cancer had advanced to stage 4. Still, Lewis continued treatment and saw significant improvement by January 2024.Lewis was candid about her journey, using her story to raise awareness about early detection and holistic health. “Stage 4 doesn’t mean the end,” she said. “It means I have to do more.”Her message to women was clear: be proactive. Prioritize mammograms, manage stress, sleep well, and adopt a clean lifestyle. “If I had known what I know now ten years ago, perhaps I wouldn’t have ended up here,” she said.“I want to look back and say—I did that exactly how I wanted to,” Lewis reflected. Her legacy is one of resilience, wisdom, and an enduring belief in the right to choose one’s own path—even through cancer.

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