Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Early Puberty And Childhood Could Be Signs Of Faster Aging: Study

First period, also known as menarche, marks the beginning of a girl’s reproductive years. The age when it begins varies from person to person. Typically, it happens between the ages of 12 and 14 and if you get your periods before this age, it is known as <span>early periods</span>. 

However, this early period also signifies concerning health issues. Researchers have been looking into whether how early you get your period affect your lifespan. 

Scientists are exploring a theory of aging called antagonistic pleiotropy. This idea suggests that some genes that are good for us when we're young like those that help us grow and reproduce early) can actually have negative effects later in life, causing us to age faster and get sick. While there hasn't been much clear proof of this in humans until now, a new study has looked at the connection between a woman's reproductive timing and her long-term health to find more answers. 

<h2>What Do Our Genetics Reveal About Aging? </h2>

To find out if this theory is true, researchers used a special method called Mendelian randomization. This method uses genetic information to find connections between different traits, like the age of a woman's first period (menarche) and when she has her first child. 

They looked at how these events were genetically linked to a woman's overall lifespan and a variety of diseases that are common as we get older. The researchers also used a huge health database called the UK Biobank, which has information from almost 200,000 people, to double-check their findings. 

<h2>Do Women Who Get Their Periods First Age Faster? </h2>

The study found strong evidence supporting a theory that genes helping us in our youth may harm us later. It showed that women who had their first period and first child later were genetically more likely to live longer and age more slowly. They also had a lower risk of several serious diseases, including Alzheimer's, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. On the flip side, having a first period before age 11 or a first child before age 21 was linked to a much higher risk of these same diseases. This included a nearly doubled risk for diabetes and heart failure and a quadrupled risk for obesity. 

<h2>Are There Other Long-Term Health Risks of Early Periods? </h2>

Yes, research suggests that early menarche is connected to several other long-term health problems. Girls who get their periods at a younger age may be more likely to develop chronic diseases later in life. 

Getting a period early can have lasting physical effects. It can limit a girl's final adult height. It's also been linked to a higher risk of obesity, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Additionally, these women face a higher chance of developing metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease. 

Studies show a clear connection between early menarche and an increased risk of certain cancers. Women who got their period at a younger age have been found to have a higher risk of breast cancer, as well as endometrial and ovarian cancers. 

The health risks aren't just physical. Girls who go through puberty early may face more emotional and social challenges. They can be more vulnerable to anxiety, depression, and bullying during their teenage years. Early periods have also been linked to a higher risk of engaging in risky behaviors.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

womens health

reproductive health

Signs Of Faster Aging

early puberty

early periods

early menarche health issues

Neurologist Shares How Using Your Non-Dominant Hand For Daily Simple Activities Can Boost Brain Health

Is There A 'Natural' Ozempic Hiding In Your Gut?

Health & Wellness

What Does Mental Health Support Look Like At Work?

Long Stretches You Should Do To Unwind From Your Day

Colon Cancer In Young Adults: Early Symptoms You Should Know

Health Benefits Of Eating Dry Fruits Everyday

Are You At Risk For Fried Rice Syndrome?

These Tests Reveal How Well You Are Aging

Lower-Back Exercises You Should Do After A Long-Day's Work

Children’s Diet – What Kids Need To Eat For Immunity Building

Common Diabetes Myths That Could Hurt Your Health

Love Spicy Food? Here’s How It Affects Your Health

Superfood List: Veggies And Fruits You Must Have For Immunity

Foods People With IBS Should Avoid

Exercises To Improve Digestion

Easy Work Lunches You Can Make In The Morning

Hunger Vs Craving: Difference Explained In 60 seconds

These Things Can Cause Your Heart To Age Faster

High Carb Foods That Are Actually Healthy

Superfoods That Support Your Gut Health

Immune-Boosting Foods To Have During Rainy Season

Potato Based Dishes You For Week-Long Meal Prep

Weight Loss Dishes With Fruits You Should Try

Stress Vs. Anxiety: Difference Explained In 60 seconds

Can You Get Heatstroke In Monsoon?

You’re Not Lazy! Women Do Need More Sleep Than Men

How To Ditch Daytime Sleepiness In Office?

Common Mistakes People Make While Eating Flaxseeds

Toddlers In India Are Missing Development Milestones: Study

Yoga Poses You Should Do For Back Pain

Healthy Brunch Ideas For A Lazy Weekend Meal

Balancing Exercises You Should Do For Stability

How Much Can Food Affect Menstruation?

What Should Fitness Look Like For A 13-18 Year Old

Food For Diabetes: What Should A Diabetic Diet Contain

You Don’t Always Need Weights For Strength Training

Feel Sleepy After Lunches - Light And Healthy Office Lunches

Positive Thinking Practice – How Does It Help You?

MIND Diet – Is This A Healthy Diet Or Another Trend?

Yoga Prop Essentials To Improve Your Exercise Session

Should Potatoes Be The Part Of A Healthy Diet?

Best And Worst Foods To Lower Blood Pressure

First period, also known as menarche, marks the beginning of a girl’s reproductive years. The age when it begins varies from person to person. Typically, it happens between the ages of 12 and 14 and if you get your periods before this age, it is known as early periods. However, this early period also signifies concerning health issues. Researchers have been looking into whether how early you get your period affect your lifespan. Scientists are exploring a theory of aging called antagonistic pleiotropy. This idea suggests that some genes that are good for us when we're young like those that help us grow and reproduce early) can actually have negative effects later in life, causing us to age faster and get sick. While there hasn't been much clear proof of this in humans until now, a new study has looked at the connection between a woman's reproductive timing and her long-term health to find more answers. What Do Our Genetics Reveal About Aging? To find out if this theory is true, researchers used a special method called Mendelian randomization. This method uses genetic information to find connections between different traits, like the age of a woman's first period (menarche) and when she has her first child. They looked at how these events were genetically linked to a woman's overall lifespan and a variety of diseases that are common as we get older. The researchers also used a huge health database called the UK Biobank, which has information from almost 200,000 people, to double-check their findings. Do Women Who Get Their Periods First Age Faster? The study found strong evidence supporting a theory that genes helping us in our youth may harm us later. It showed that women who had their first period and first child later were genetically more likely to live longer and age more slowly. They also had a lower risk of several serious diseases, including Alzheimer's, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. On the flip side, having a first period before age 11 or a first child before age 21 was linked to a much higher risk of these same diseases. This included a nearly doubled risk for diabetes and heart failure and a quadrupled risk for obesity. Are There Other Long-Term Health Risks of Early Periods? Yes, research suggests that early menarche is connected to several other long-term health problems. Girls who get their periods at a younger age may be more likely to develop chronic diseases later in life. Physical Health Getting a period early can have lasting physical effects. It can limit a girl's final adult height. It's also been linked to a higher risk of obesity, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Additionally, these women face a higher chance of developing metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease. Cancer Risk Studies show a clear connection between early menarche and an increased risk of certain cancers. Women who got their period at a younger age have been found to have a higher risk of breast cancer, as well as endometrial and ovarian cancers. Mental and Social Health The health risks aren't just physical. Girls who go through puberty early may face more emotional and social challenges. They can be more vulnerable to anxiety, depression, and bullying during their teenage years. Early periods have also been linked to a higher risk of engaging in risky behaviors.

early puberty and childhood could be signs of faster aging: study

Tanya Dutt

Health News

Ozempic Vulva To Ozempic Smell – Unexpected Ways Of Weight Loss Jabs Change Your Body

ozempic vulva to ozempic smell – unexpected ways of weight loss jabs change your body

‘Ozempic Vulva’: The Bizarre Side Effect Affecting Women’s Health

‘ozempic vulva’: the bizarre side effect affecting women’s health

How To Identify A Counterfeit Ozempic? Look For These Signs, Details Inside

how to identify a counterfeit ozempic? look for these signs, details inside

Ozempic has been a household name for the last two years. The injectable medication, which was initially designed to treat type 2 diabetes, has now been making the news for its incredible weight loss properties. It functions by doing the same thing as a natural hormone, called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), that controls blood sugar and suppresses hunger.

But here's the surprise: your gut might already contain the secret to a similar effect—no needle in sight. A recent study says that some gut bacteria and their products can induce GLP-1 production in manners that mirror what Ozempic does, with implications of a more natural, side effect-free alternative to the drug's effects.

GLP-1 is one of the body's own hunger and blood sugar controllers. It's manufactured by specialized gut cells called enteroendocrine cells (EECs), which detect nutrients and initiate hormonal signals that retard digestion, stabilize blood sugar levels, and make you feel full.

Obese individuals tend to have fewer EECs and reduced GLP-1 activity, making it harder to control appetite. That's one of the reasons why GLP-1 receptor medications like Ozempic work so well—they substitute for what the body isn't currently making in sufficient amounts.

The question has been: how can we make the gut increase GLP-1 levels naturally, without man-made medication?

<h2>What Is Natural 'Ozempic' In The Gut?</h2>

Scientists at Marshall University in West Virginia think the answer could be affirmative. Their recent study, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, concluded that gut bacteria and their metabolites can persuade the gut to release more EECs—and by association, more GLP-1.

The researchers homed in on tryptophan, an amino acid perhaps most famously associated with turkey dinners. When gut microbes break down tryptophan, they produce a metabolite known as indole. That chemical, they found, behaves like a kind of stimulus for the gut, triggering a cascade that results in the creation of new GLP-1-producing cells.

The major mechanism involved is the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a receptor that assists in the control of those cells' response to various molecules. After indole activates AhR, the gut seems to increase its level of EECs, restoring a balance of GLP-1 that can assist in regulating appetite and metabolism.

Thus far, the evidence is from rat tests and cell-cultured "mini-guts" (organoids). Both times, adding tryptophan and indole pushed the gut toward GLP-1 production. But that's still a work in progress to apply to humans.

Obesity and metabolism are mediated by a network of molecular pathways, diet, and lifestyle. What is effective in a rat's gut need not be so in ours. The researchers admit that "the molecular players and signaling pathways involved in the regulation of EEC differentiation could be different in normal and obese conditions.

Nevertheless, the science suggests a thrilling therapy: activating gut microbes, diet, and specific supplementation to push the body to produce its own appetite-controlling hormones.

<h2>Is This Ozempic's Natural Equivalent?</h2>

Ozempic and other medications in this class are effective, but they come with trade-offs. Nausea, gastrointestinal problems, and worse side effects have occurred. They're costly, too, and, in most nations, difficult to obtain.

A biological route to GLP-1 production—through diet, supplements, or probiotics—may even provide a more secure, less expensive option. Tryptophan is already plentiful in foods such as poultry, eggs, cheese, and some seeds. If scientists can dial in the way that these foods or supplements are utilized to best maximize GLP-1 function, what they create might resemble a "<span>natural Ozempic</span>."

<h2>Can You Eat Your Way to the Same Effect As Ozempic?</h2>

Although research is in its infancy, history provides a clue that the solution may be nearer than we imagine. Well before semaglutide injections became popular, people across the globe were consuming foods naturally in their diets to support blood sugar balance, hunger regulation, and weight health.

<h4>Traditional Diets That Acts Can Mimic Ozempic Weight Loss</h4>

The Mediterranean diet—rich in olive oil, fish, legumes, and colorful plants—has long been linked to improved insulin sensitivity and lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Its balance of healthy fats, fiber, and lean proteins naturally slows digestion and helps control appetite.

In Japan, meals centered on rice, vegetables, fermented foods, and small portions have a similar effect. Fermented foods themselves can increase diversity of the gut microbiome, and in turn support GLP-1 activity indirectly.

In Okinawa, purple sweet potatoes and bitter melon have been consumed for hundreds of years. Both are high in compounds that promote <span>gut health</span> and can activate hormones related to GLP-1.

<h4>Daily Tweaks You Can Make To Your Plate for Weight Loss</h4>

You don't have to transform your diet overnight. Gradual change can coax the gut along the same routes. For instance:

<ul><li>Having 200–250g of roasted or steamed sweet potato as part of lunch or dinner promotes satiety.</li><li>Incorporating bitter greens like kale or bitter melon into stir-fries could promote gut peptides associated with GLP-1.</li><li>Turmeric incorporated into soups or teas provides an anti-inflammatory kick that promotes general gut health.</li><li>No diet can exactly mimic Ozempic, but these food choices can tune your gut microbiome to the body's built-in appetite controls.</li></ul>

The Marshall University study contributes to a large and expanding area of research that investigates how the gut and its microbes affect obesity and metabolism. What comes next will be required to try these findings in human subjects, determine the ideal dose of tryptophan or indole, and establish safety in various populations.

natural ozempic

gut health

weight loss breakthrough

appetite control

glp 1 gut hormones

diabetes treatment alternative

natural weight management

Ozempic has been a household name for the last two years. The injectable medication, which was initially designed to treat type 2 diabetes, has now been making the news for its incredible weight loss properties. It functions by doing the same thing as a natural hormone, called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), that controls blood sugar and suppresses hunger.But here's the surprise: your gut might already contain the secret to a similar effect—no needle in sight. A recent study says that some gut bacteria and their products can induce GLP-1 production in manners that mirror what Ozempic does, with implications of a more natural, side effect-free alternative to the drug's effects.GLP-1 is one of the body's own hunger and blood sugar controllers. It's manufactured by specialized gut cells called enteroendocrine cells (EECs), which detect nutrients and initiate hormonal signals that retard digestion, stabilize blood sugar levels, and make you feel full.Obese individuals tend to have fewer EECs and reduced GLP-1 activity, making it harder to control appetite. That's one of the reasons why GLP-1 receptor medications like Ozempic work so well—they substitute for what the body isn't currently making in sufficient amounts.The question has been: how can we make the gut increase GLP-1 levels naturally, without man-made medication?What Is Natural 'Ozempic' In The Gut?Scientists at Marshall University in West Virginia think the answer could be affirmative. Their recent study, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, concluded that gut bacteria and their metabolites can persuade the gut to release more EECs—and by association, more GLP-1.The researchers homed in on tryptophan, an amino acid perhaps most famously associated with turkey dinners. When gut microbes break down tryptophan, they produce a metabolite known as indole. That chemical, they found, behaves like a kind of stimulus for the gut, triggering a cascade that results in the creation of new GLP-1-producing cells.The major mechanism involved is the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a receptor that assists in the control of those cells' response to various molecules. After indole activates AhR, the gut seems to increase its level of EECs, restoring a balance of GLP-1 that can assist in regulating appetite and metabolism.Thus far, the evidence is from rat tests and cell-cultured "mini-guts" (organoids). Both times, adding tryptophan and indole pushed the gut toward GLP-1 production. But that's still a work in progress to apply to humans.Obesity and metabolism are mediated by a network of molecular pathways, diet, and lifestyle. What is effective in a rat's gut need not be so in ours. The researchers admit that "the molecular players and signaling pathways involved in the regulation of EEC differentiation could be different in normal and obese conditions.Nevertheless, the science suggests a thrilling therapy: activating gut microbes, diet, and specific supplementation to push the body to produce its own appetite-controlling hormones.Is This Ozempic's Natural Equivalent?Ozempic and other medications in this class are effective, but they come with trade-offs. Nausea, gastrointestinal problems, and worse side effects have occurred. They're costly, too, and, in most nations, difficult to obtain.A biological route to GLP-1 production—through diet, supplements, or probiotics—may even provide a more secure, less expensive option. Tryptophan is already plentiful in foods such as poultry, eggs, cheese, and some seeds. If scientists can dial in the way that these foods or supplements are utilized to best maximize GLP-1 function, what they create might resemble a "natural Ozempic."Can You Eat Your Way to the Same Effect As Ozempic?Although research is in its infancy, history provides a clue that the solution may be nearer than we imagine. Well before semaglutide injections became popular, people across the globe were consuming foods naturally in their diets to support blood sugar balance, hunger regulation, and weight health.Traditional Diets That Acts Can Mimic Ozempic Weight LossThe Mediterranean diet—rich in olive oil, fish, legumes, and colorful plants—has long been linked to improved insulin sensitivity and lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Its balance of healthy fats, fiber, and lean proteins naturally slows digestion and helps control appetite.In Japan, meals centered on rice, vegetables, fermented foods, and small portions have a similar effect. Fermented foods themselves can increase diversity of the gut microbiome, and in turn support GLP-1 activity indirectly.In Okinawa, purple sweet potatoes and bitter melon have been consumed for hundreds of years. Both are high in compounds that promote gut health and can activate hormones related to GLP-1.Daily Tweaks You Can Make To Your Plate for Weight LossYou don't have to transform your diet overnight. Gradual change can coax the gut along the same routes. For instance:Having 200–250g of roasted or steamed sweet potato as part of lunch or dinner promotes satiety.Incorporating bitter greens like kale or bitter melon into stir-fries could promote gut peptides associated with GLP-1.Turmeric incorporated into soups or teas provides an anti-inflammatory kick that promotes general gut health.No diet can exactly mimic Ozempic, but these food choices can tune your gut microbiome to the body's built-in appetite controls.The Marshall University study contributes to a large and expanding area of research that investigates how the gut and its microbes affect obesity and metabolism. What comes next will be required to try these findings in human subjects, determine the ideal dose of tryptophan or indole, and establish safety in various populations.

is there a 'natural' ozempic hiding in your gut?

Supriya Ramesh

When To Worry About Headaches: How to Tell If That Sharp Ache Is Just Stress or a Medical Warning

Headache

9-Year-Old Passes Away In Kerala Due To 'Brain Eating Amoeba' Infection: How To Spot The First Symptom?

9-year-old passes away in kerala due to 'brain eating amoeba', symptoms, risk factors and treatment

Why Does My Stomach Hurt After Eating? Unique Symptoms Of Peptic Ulcer Causing Burning Pain

why does my stomach hurt after eating? unique symptoms of peptic ulcer causing burning pain

Unique Symptoms Of Lyme Disease In 2025 And How Long Infection Now Last

unique symptoms of lyme disease in 2025 and how long infection now last

Valley Fever Cases Rise In West Coast, California Health Officials Warn Residents To Stay Alert, Know Symptoms

valley fever cases rise in west coast, california health officials warn residents to stay alert, know symptoms

Unlike <span>heart palpitations</span>, <span>headaches</span> seem less concerning even though they are an everyday health problem for some. At times, headaches can be so intense, they ruin your plans and demand all your attention until they are totally gone. But while most headaches are just your brain’s way of saying “hydrate me” or “give me a nap”, some can signal something more serious. But how do you tell if that pounding ache is just stress or a medical red flag? Neurologists break it down.

<h3>Stress Headaches: The Everyday Problem We Ignore </h3>

According to Dr Pankaj Agarwal, Head of Neurology, a large number of people confuse stress headaches with <span>migraines</span>. Stress headaches, also known as <span>tension headaches</span>, usually feel like a tight band squeezing your head. 

“They are commonly caused by long working hours, lack of sleep, dehydration, or anxiety,” says Dr Agarwal. However, these headaches generally calm down with simple fixes, like rest, water, and relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation. Stress headaches are annoying, yes, but rarely dangerous. If you wake up after a good night’s sleep and feel relief, it was likely you just needed to slow down. 

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/this-is-the-only-right-way-to-store-leftover-rice-if-you-do-not-want-to-fall-seriously-sick-article-152487304" data-type="tilCustomLink">THIS Is The Only Right Way To Store Leftover Rice If You Do Not Want To Fall Seriously Sick</a>

<h3>Migraines: When Pain Becomes a Lifestyle</h3>

If stress headaches are irritating, migraines are downright torturous. “Migraines often cause throbbing pain on one side of the head, along with nausea, vomiting, or <span>sensitivity to light and sound</span>,” explains Dr Agarwal. Some people also experience visual disturbances known as ‘auras’, flashes of light or zigzag patterns, before the headache even begins.

Dr Jayendra Yadav, Senior Consultant Neurologist, adds that migraines are not to be brushed off. “They can last for hours or even days and may seriously impact quality of life. Unlike stress headaches, migraines often need specific medication and lifestyle management,” he says. Common triggers include hormonal changes, weather shifts, certain foods, and lack of sleep. If you are getting frequent attacks, do not self-medicate. Book that doctor’s appointment.

<h3>When Headaches Mean Something More Serious</h3>

Not every headache is about stress or migraines. Sometimes, a headache is a warning siren for something far more dangerous.

Dr Agarwal warns, “Headaches can also indicate conditions such as high blood pressure, <span>brain infections</span>, stroke, or tumours.” The red flags to look out for include:

<ul><li>Sudden, severe headache (often described as the ‘worst headache of your life’)</li><li>Headaches with vomiting, vision loss, or confusion</li><li>Headaches after a head injury</li><li>Headaches that worsen over time</li><li>Headaches linked with fever or neck stiffness</li></ul> 

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/fact-check-do-hot-drinks-really-give-you-oesophageal-cancer-article-152484158" data-type="tilCustomLink">Fact Check: Do Hot Drinks Really Give You Oesophageal Cancer?</a>

Dr Yadav lists another risk: stroke-related headaches, especially <span>haemorrhagic strokes</span> caused by bleeding in the brain. “These are often linked to uncontrolled high blood pressure,” he says. <span>Brain aneurysm headaches</span> can also come with severe neck stiffness, nausea, and pain behind the eyes. If you experience these, stop Googling remedies and get medical help immediately.

<h3>Lifestyle Triggers You Did Not Think Of</h3>

Beyond stress and migraines, everyday habits also play a role. <span>Hunger headaches</span>, caffeine withdrawal, or simply not drinking enough water can be some of the factors. Poor posture from hunching over laptops is another modern-day trigger. Dr Yadav says, “Most headaches are harmless, but knowing what causes them can help you prevent them.”

Like a menstrual diary, keeping a headache diary, wherein you track when they occur, what you ate, how you slept, and your stress levels, can give your doctor valuable clues. Sometimes, just spotting a pattern helps prevent future episodes.

<ul><li>If the headache is mild and goes away with rest, hydration, or a short nap, it is likely stress.</li><li>If it is throbbing, one-sided, and keeps returning, it is probably a migraine that needs medical attention.</li><li>If it comes on suddenly, is unbearably severe, or comes with vision changes, weakness, or confusion, it is time to rush to a doctor.</li></ul> 

Headaches may be common, but they are not always ignorable. As Dr Agarwal stresses, “Do not ignore frequent or unusual headaches. Timely consultation helps prevent serious complications. 

<em>Dr Pankaj Agarwal is the HOD of Neurology at Gleneagles Hospital Parel, Mumbai</em>

Dr Jayendra Yadav is a Senior Consultant Neurologist at Medicover Hospitals, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai

headaches

When To Worry About Headaches

heart palpitations

migraines

tension headaches

sensitivity to light and sound

brain infections

Brain aneurysm headaches

haemorrhagic strokes

Hunger headaches

Unlike heart palpitations, headaches seem less concerning even though they are an everyday health problem for some. At times, headaches can be so intense, they ruin your plans and demand all your attention until they are totally gone. But while most headaches are just your brain’s way of saying “hydrate me” or “give me a nap”, some can signal something more serious. But how do you tell if that pounding ache is just stress or a medical red flag? Neurologists break it down.Stress Headaches: The Everyday Problem We Ignore According to Dr Pankaj Agarwal, Head of Neurology, a large number of people confuse stress headaches with migraines. Stress headaches, also known as tension headaches, usually feel like a tight band squeezing your head. “They are commonly caused by long working hours, lack of sleep, dehydration, or anxiety,” says Dr Agarwal. However, these headaches generally calm down with simple fixes, like rest, water, and relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation. Stress headaches are annoying, yes, but rarely dangerous. If you wake up after a good night’s sleep and feel relief, it was likely you just needed to slow down. Also Read: THIS Is The Only Right Way To Store Leftover Rice If You Do Not Want To Fall Seriously SickMigraines: When Pain Becomes a LifestyleIf stress headaches are irritating, migraines are downright torturous. “Migraines often cause throbbing pain on one side of the head, along with nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound,” explains Dr Agarwal. Some people also experience visual disturbances known as ‘auras’, flashes of light or zigzag patterns, before the headache even begins.Dr Jayendra Yadav, Senior Consultant Neurologist, adds that migraines are not to be brushed off. “They can last for hours or even days and may seriously impact quality of life. Unlike stress headaches, migraines often need specific medication and lifestyle management,” he says. Common triggers include hormonal changes, weather shifts, certain foods, and lack of sleep. If you are getting frequent attacks, do not self-medicate. Book that doctor’s appointment.When Headaches Mean Something More SeriousNot every headache is about stress or migraines. Sometimes, a headache is a warning siren for something far more dangerous.Dr Agarwal warns, “Headaches can also indicate conditions such as high blood pressure, brain infections, stroke, or tumours.” The red flags to look out for include:Sudden, severe headache (often described as the ‘worst headache of your life’)Headaches with vomiting, vision loss, or confusionHeadaches after a head injuryHeadaches that worsen over timeHeadaches linked with fever or neck stiffness Also Read: Fact Check: Do Hot Drinks Really Give You Oesophageal Cancer?Dr Yadav lists another risk: stroke-related headaches, especially haemorrhagic strokes caused by bleeding in the brain. “These are often linked to uncontrolled high blood pressure,” he says. Brain aneurysm headaches can also come with severe neck stiffness, nausea, and pain behind the eyes. If you experience these, stop Googling remedies and get medical help immediately.Lifestyle Triggers You Did Not Think OfBeyond stress and migraines, everyday habits also play a role. Hunger headaches, caffeine withdrawal, or simply not drinking enough water can be some of the factors. Poor posture from hunching over laptops is another modern-day trigger. Dr Yadav says, “Most headaches are harmless, but knowing what causes them can help you prevent them.”Like a menstrual diary, keeping a headache diary, wherein you track when they occur, what you ate, how you slept, and your stress levels, can give your doctor valuable clues. Sometimes, just spotting a pattern helps prevent future episodes.When Should You Worry?If the headache is mild and goes away with rest, hydration, or a short nap, it is likely stress.If it is throbbing, one-sided, and keeps returning, it is probably a migraine that needs medical attention.If it comes on suddenly, is unbearably severe, or comes with vision changes, weakness, or confusion, it is time to rush to a doctor. Headaches may be common, but they are not always ignorable. As Dr Agarwal stresses, “Do not ignore frequent or unusual headaches. Timely consultation helps prevent serious complications. Dr Pankaj Agarwal is the HOD of Neurology at Gleneagles Hospital Parel, MumbaiDr Jayendra Yadav is a Senior Consultant Neurologist at Medicover Hospitals, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai

when to worry about headaches: how to tell if that sharp ache is just stress or a medical warning

Russian President Putin Carries A 'Poop Suitcase' With Him: What Does Stool Reveal About One's Health?

russian president putin carries a 'poop suitcase' with him: what does stool reveal about one's health?

32-Year-Old Woman Ends Up In The Hospital After Popping A 'Triangle Of Death' Pimple

32-year-old woman ends up in the hospital after popping a 'triangle of death' pimple

A 35-year-old man from a rural area in India went to the eye doctor because his left eye had been red and blurry for eight months. What the doctors found was a complete shock: a worm was slowly moving inside his eye. The man's vision in his left eye was very poor (20/80), and the medical examination showed swelling and a fixed, enlarged pupil. 

This unusual case was shared in the New England Journal of Medicine, where doctors explained how they found and treated the infection. This rare and unusual case highlights how infections can sometimes lead to very strange and unexpected health problems. 

<h2>How the Worm Entered the Man's Body </h2>

The parasitic roundworm, identified as <span>Gnathostoma</span> spinigerum, is typically found in animals like cats and dogs. Doctors believe the man likely swallowed the worm's tiny larvae by eating undercooked freshwater fish or poultry, which are common sources of this parasite. The parasite then made its way through his body and, in a very unusual turn of events, traveled to his eye.

<h2>What Is Gnathostoma Spinigerum? Symptoms And Causes </h2>

Gnathostoma spinigerum is a parasite that can cause a serious brain infection, though this is rare. People can get this parasite by eating undercooked freshwater fish or poultry. 

The life of this parasite is quite complicated. It starts with adult worms living in the stomachs of animals like dogs and cats. Their eggs leave the host's body and hatch in water. These young worms are then eaten by small water creatures called Cyclops. 

Fish, frogs, or snakes eat these Cyclops, and the worms grow into an infectious stage inside them. When animals like birds, chickens, or even humans eat the undercooked meat of these infected creatures, the worms can travel through the body. They can end up in different places, including the stomach, liver, and sometimes even the brain or eyes, where they can cause serious health problems. 

<h2>How Serious Is Gnathostoma Spinigerum?</h2>

Gnathostoma spinigerum is known to cause serious eye problems and even vision loss. An ophthalmologist noted that the man's eye had conjunctival injection, which is a common sign of inflammation. 

Doctors performed a special surgery called a pars plana vitrectomy to successfully remove the worm from the man's eye. After the surgery, they used a microscope to confirm the worm's identity. To treat the severe inflammation, the man was given steroids and a deworming medication. Eight weeks later, his symptoms were gone, but his vision only partially improved to 20/40 because he had developed a cataract, which is a cloudy area in the lens of the eye. 

<h2>Worm In The Eye of A 42-Year-Old Indian Woman </h2>

Another 2018 case study published in the BJM Case Reports show, a A 42-year-old woman in India went to the eye doctor after a month of pain and blurry vision in her left eye. During the examination, the doctor was shocked to find a live, wriggling worm right inside her eye. This rare condition, known as "African eye worm," is caused by a parasite called Loa loa. 

The worms can move through the body's tissues, sometimes causing swelling under the skin. Although it's very rare, the worms can also move into the eye, causing pain, tearing, and the feeling of something being stuck in the eye. 

To treat the patient, doctors performed a surgery to remove the worm. They gave her a local anesthetic to numb the area, then carefully made a small cut to take out the worm. The worm was about a third of an inch long 

Although these cases are rare, sometimes the answer to simple problems can be difficult solutions. One must take care and ensure to visit their healthcare professional if their condition is getting worse or not getting better. 

gnathostoma

Worm in eye

Parasitic worm in body

Blurry vision causes

can worms enter your body

Worm infestation

A 35-year-old man from a rural area in India went to the eye doctor because his left eye had been red and blurry for eight months. What the doctors found was a complete shock: a worm was slowly moving inside his eye. The man's vision in his left eye was very poor (20/80), and the medical examination showed swelling and a fixed, enlarged pupil. This unusual case was shared in the New England Journal of Medicine, where doctors explained how they found and treated the infection. This rare and unusual case highlights how infections can sometimes lead to very strange and unexpected health problems. How the Worm Entered the Man's Body The parasitic roundworm, identified as Gnathostoma spinigerum, is typically found in animals like cats and dogs. Doctors believe the man likely swallowed the worm's tiny larvae by eating undercooked freshwater fish or poultry, which are common sources of this parasite. The parasite then made its way through his body and, in a very unusual turn of events, traveled to his eye. What Is Gnathostoma Spinigerum? Symptoms And Causes Gnathostoma spinigerum is a parasite that can cause a serious brain infection, though this is rare. People can get this parasite by eating undercooked freshwater fish or poultry. The life of this parasite is quite complicated. It starts with adult worms living in the stomachs of animals like dogs and cats. Their eggs leave the host's body and hatch in water. These young worms are then eaten by small water creatures called Cyclops. Fish, frogs, or snakes eat these Cyclops, and the worms grow into an infectious stage inside them. When animals like birds, chickens, or even humans eat the undercooked meat of these infected creatures, the worms can travel through the body. They can end up in different places, including the stomach, liver, and sometimes even the brain or eyes, where they can cause serious health problems. How Serious Is Gnathostoma Spinigerum?Gnathostoma spinigerum is known to cause serious eye problems and even vision loss. An ophthalmologist noted that the man's eye had conjunctival injection, which is a common sign of inflammation. Doctors performed a special surgery called a pars plana vitrectomy to successfully remove the worm from the man's eye. After the surgery, they used a microscope to confirm the worm's identity. To treat the severe inflammation, the man was given steroids and a deworming medication. Eight weeks later, his symptoms were gone, but his vision only partially improved to 20/40 because he had developed a cataract, which is a cloudy area in the lens of the eye. Worm In The Eye of A 42-Year-Old Indian Woman Another 2018 case study published in the BJM Case Reports show, a A 42-year-old woman in India went to the eye doctor after a month of pain and blurry vision in her left eye. During the examination, the doctor was shocked to find a live, wriggling worm right inside her eye. This rare condition, known as "African eye worm," is caused by a parasite called Loa loa. The worms can move through the body's tissues, sometimes causing swelling under the skin. Although it's very rare, the worms can also move into the eye, causing pain, tearing, and the feeling of something being stuck in the eye. To treat the patient, doctors performed a surgery to remove the worm. They gave her a local anesthetic to numb the area, then carefully made a small cut to take out the worm. The worm was about a third of an inch long Although these cases are rare, sometimes the answer to simple problems can be difficult solutions. One must take care and ensure to visit their healthcare professional if their condition is getting worse or not getting better. 

Man Suffered Blurry Vision For 8 Months, Until Doctor Found A Parasite Living In His Eye

man suffered blurry vision for 8 months, until doctor found a parasite living in his eye

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

Early Puberty And Childhood Could Be Signs Of Faster Aging: Study

Quick Stories

Neurologist Shares How Using Your Non-Dominant Hand For Daily Simple Activities Can Boost Brain Health

Is There A 'Natural' Ozempic Hiding In Your Gut?

When To Worry About Headaches: How to Tell If That Sharp Ache Is Just Stress or a Medical Warning

Health Conditions A-Z

Neurologist Shares How Using Your Non-Dominant Hand For Daily Simple Activities Can Boost Brain Health

Is There A 'Natural' Ozempic Hiding In Your Gut?

Early Puberty And Childhood Could Be Signs Of Faster Aging: Study