Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Heart Failure Patients Should 'Not Do' THESE Things For Better, Faster Recovery

Heart Failure Patients Must Avoid THESE Things During Their Recovery

<span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/heart-failure">Heart failure</a></span> is a progressive condition in which a person’s heart slowly becomes weaker because of an injury, whether it is due to a heart attack or high blood pressure. It makes one’s heart gradually lose the ability to pump enough blood for your body. <span>Cardiovascular diseases</span> are one of the leading causes of death globally. The annual number of heart failure cases according to the Heart Failure Society of America (HFSA) is 960,000. 36% of all cardiovascular deaths have been attributed to heart failure, it is also mentioned as a cause of death every one in eight death certificates. 

A recent study shows that sitting too long and too often after a heart attack can be dangerous. People who spent over 14 hours a day sitting in the year following their heart attack faced a much higher risk of another heart problem or even death. In fact, those who were least active were 2.5 times more likely to experience another cardiac event. So, taking it easy for too long can actually set you back. 

<h2>What Helps You Heal After Heart Failure?</h2>

The good news from the study is that you don't need to become an athlete overnight to see benefits. Even small increases in activity or sleep can make a significant difference. According to lead researcher Keith Diaz, simply sitting less and either moving a bit more or getting more sleep can dramatically improve your health after a heart attack. This suggests that a flexible and personalized approach to physical activity, which considers sitting less and moving more, is beneficial for patients recovering from heart attacks or chest pain.

For this important study, researchers followed more than 600 individuals who had been treated for a heart attack or chest pain at a New York City hospital between 2016 and 2020. The participants ranged in age from 21 to 96. To accurately track their activity levels, each person wore a special device on their wrist for about a month after leaving the hospital. This allowed the researchers to estimate how much they moved. The team then monitored these individuals for a full year after their initial hospital visit, comparing their activity levels with their subsequent <span>heart health</span>. 

<h2>How Activity and Sleep Benefits Your Heart?</h2>

Simply swapping half an hour of sitting time for half an hour of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each day could reduce the risk of another heart attack, stroke, or death by a remarkable 61%. Even lighter physical activity offered significant benefits, lowering the risk by 50% for the same amount of time. Surprisingly, replacing sedentary time with sleep also proved beneficial, reducing the risk by 14%.

HFSA explains that heart failure can happen at any age, it becomes much more common as people get older, especially after age 65. Here are some other risk factors. 

<ul><li>High blood pressure</li><li>Blocked heart arteries (coronary artery disease)</li><li>Having had a heart attack</li><li>Damaged heart valves or a history of a heart murmur</li><li>Heart muscle disease or an enlarged heart (cardiomyopathy)</li><li>Heart defects present at birth (congenital heart disease)</li><li>A family history of an enlarged heart</li><li>Diabetes</li><li>Obesity</li><li>Sleep apnea</li><li>Severe lung disease</li></ul>

 This factors highlight that sleep and activity are a crucial part of recovery, helping the body and mind heal after a major health event like a heart attack.

Health Conditions A-Z

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Is It Safe When You Skip Your Period While On Birth Control?

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Heart failure is a progressive condition in which a person’s heart slowly becomes weaker because of an injury, whether it is due to a heart attack or high blood pressure. It makes one’s heart gradually lose the ability to pump enough blood for your body. Cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death globally. The annual number of heart failure cases according to the Heart Failure Society of America (HFSA) is 960,000. 36% of all cardiovascular deaths have been attributed to heart failure, it is also mentioned as a cause of death every one in eight death certificates. A recent study shows that sitting too long and too often after a heart attack can be dangerous. People who spent over 14 hours a day sitting in the year following their heart attack faced a much higher risk of another heart problem or even death. In fact, those who were least active were 2.5 times more likely to experience another cardiac event. So, taking it easy for too long can actually set you back. What Helps You Heal After Heart Failure?The good news from the study is that you don't need to become an athlete overnight to see benefits. Even small increases in activity or sleep can make a significant difference. According to lead researcher Keith Diaz, simply sitting less and either moving a bit more or getting more sleep can dramatically improve your health after a heart attack. This suggests that a flexible and personalized approach to physical activity, which considers sitting less and moving more, is beneficial for patients recovering from heart attacks or chest pain.For this important study, researchers followed more than 600 individuals who had been treated for a heart attack or chest pain at a New York City hospital between 2016 and 2020. The participants ranged in age from 21 to 96. To accurately track their activity levels, each person wore a special device on their wrist for about a month after leaving the hospital. This allowed the researchers to estimate how much they moved. The team then monitored these individuals for a full year after their initial hospital visit, comparing their activity levels with their subsequent heart health. How Activity and Sleep Benefits Your Heart?Simply swapping half an hour of sitting time for half an hour of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each day could reduce the risk of another heart attack, stroke, or death by a remarkable 61%. Even lighter physical activity offered significant benefits, lowering the risk by 50% for the same amount of time. Surprisingly, replacing sedentary time with sleep also proved beneficial, reducing the risk by 14%.Risk Factors of Heart Failure HFSA explains that heart failure can happen at any age, it becomes much more common as people get older, especially after age 65. Here are some other risk factors. High blood pressureBlocked heart arteries (coronary artery disease)Having had a heart attackDamaged heart valves or a history of a heart murmurHeart muscle disease or an enlarged heart (cardiomyopathy)Heart defects present at birth (congenital heart disease)A family history of an enlarged heartDiabetesObesitySleep apneaSevere lung disease This factors highlight that sleep and activity are a crucial part of recovery, helping the body and mind heal after a major health event like a heart attack.

heart failure patients should 'not do' these things for better, faster recovery

Tanya Dutt

Is IVF After 50 Possible? Expert Breaks Down Safety and Success Rate

is ivf after 50 possible? expert breaks down safety and success rate

Losing Weight= Losing Health? Ozempic Risks You Can’t Afford To Ignore

losing weight= losing health? ozempic risks you can’t afford to ignore

Nutrition

Ozempic Without The Side Effects? Try This Drug-Free Method

ozempic without the side effects? try this drug-free method

What You’re Losing Every Morning While 'Snoozing' Is Harming Your Brain And Body

what you’re losing every morning while 'snoozing' is harming your brain and body

Periods can be a mild inconvenience for some and for others, they're a cause of disabling pain, mood swings, or health complications. As medical science continues to advance, one question keeps raising eyebrows and eyebrows: Is it actually safe to miss your period on the pill? The short answer? Yes, and in many cases, it can even be beneficial but before tossing aside your placebo pills, it’s important to understand what’s happening to your body, the science behind <span>menstrual suppression</span>, and the myths versus facts surrounding it.

For many people, the motivation to skip a period is rooted in convenience. Maybe you’re planning a beach vacation, attending a wedding, or simply want to avoid the monthly disruption that comes with cramps and mood swings.

Beyond lifestyle, others find relief from more severe health conditions. Painful cramps, mood swings, endometriosis, anemia, and even fibroids are all legitimate reasons for wanting to control or prevent menstruation.

People with chronic pelvic pain, hormonal issues, or neurological conditions like menstrual migraines can also benefit from less frequent menstruation.

<h2>What Happens When You Skip a Period on Birth Control?</h2>

The menstrual cycle induced while on the pill is not actually a period it's a withdrawal bleed from the placebo (hormone-free) week. If you avoid that week and stick with active pills or use other continuous birth control like the ring or implant without interruption, you stop that withdrawal bleed.

"There is no medical need for the body to bleed each month with the use of hormonal birth control. It's a pattern created decades ago to imitate the natural cycle not because the body requires it.

By keeping the hormones at a steady level through continuous use, users can actually abolish regular bleeding altogether.

Even with the evidence for menstrual suppression, falsehoods prevail in cyberspace. Social media influencers such as those on TikTok advise against "suppressing natural processes" or assert that long-term hormonal birth control causes infertility.

Medical practitioners warn against such a tide of online misinformation. There is no scientific evidence that avoiding periods through birth control negatively impacts fertility. These stories usually come without context, are not peer-reviewed, and give rise to unnecessary fear.

Depending on anecdotal guidance rather than medical experience can be hazardous particularly when it impacts reproductive choices.

Though missing your period with birth control is safe medically for most, it's not completely side effect-free. One typical problem is breakthrough spotting or bleeding, particularly if you miss several cycles consecutively.

It's also worth mentioning that since menstruation is a visual indicator of <span>pregnancy</span> detection, becoming period-free could make it more difficult to detect an unplanned pregnancy early on. That is why correct and consistent use of your contraceptive is paramount.

In exceptional circumstances, long-term use of hormonal birth control can marginally boost the risk of blood clots or cardiovascular problems, particularly in smokers or those with existing conditions but missing your period doesn't add to those risks above the baseline created by the birth control itself.

If you're thinking about missing your period consistently, talk to a health care provider. You'll figure out the best option together — whether that is extended-cycle pills, hormonal IUDs, rings, patches, or implants.

Your health care provider will also assess if you're a good fit based on your history, lifestyle, and general wellness objectives. Most importantly, they'll walk you through what to anticipate and how to watch for any unusual symptoms.

Skipping your period using hormonal birth control is not only safe, it can be incredibly beneficial for many people. Whether you’re looking to gain more control over your schedule, reduce painful symptoms, or manage a chronic health issue, menstrual suppression is a validated, doctor-approved choice.

Nevertheless, it is a personal choice that can be made with a doctor's counsel. With proper information and assistance, you can gain control over your cycle according to your lifestyle and health.

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Periods can be a mild inconvenience for some and for others, they're a cause of disabling pain, mood swings, or health complications. As medical science continues to advance, one question keeps raising eyebrows and eyebrows: Is it actually safe to miss your period on the pill? The short answer? Yes, and in many cases, it can even be beneficial but before tossing aside your placebo pills, it’s important to understand what’s happening to your body, the science behind menstrual suppression, and the myths versus facts surrounding it.For many people, the motivation to skip a period is rooted in convenience. Maybe you’re planning a beach vacation, attending a wedding, or simply want to avoid the monthly disruption that comes with cramps and mood swings.Beyond lifestyle, others find relief from more severe health conditions. Painful cramps, mood swings, endometriosis, anemia, and even fibroids are all legitimate reasons for wanting to control or prevent menstruation.People with chronic pelvic pain, hormonal issues, or neurological conditions like menstrual migraines can also benefit from less frequent menstruation.What Happens When You Skip a Period on Birth Control?The menstrual cycle induced while on the pill is not actually a period it's a withdrawal bleed from the placebo (hormone-free) week. If you avoid that week and stick with active pills or use other continuous birth control like the ring or implant without interruption, you stop that withdrawal bleed."There is no medical need for the body to bleed each month with the use of hormonal birth control. It's a pattern created decades ago to imitate the natural cycle not because the body requires it.By keeping the hormones at a steady level through continuous use, users can actually abolish regular bleeding altogether.Even with the evidence for menstrual suppression, falsehoods prevail in cyberspace. Social media influencers such as those on TikTok advise against "suppressing natural processes" or assert that long-term hormonal birth control causes infertility.Medical practitioners warn against such a tide of online misinformation. There is no scientific evidence that avoiding periods through birth control negatively impacts fertility. These stories usually come without context, are not peer-reviewed, and give rise to unnecessary fear.Depending on anecdotal guidance rather than medical experience can be hazardous particularly when it impacts reproductive choices.What Are The Risks Involved?Though missing your period with birth control is safe medically for most, it's not completely side effect-free. One typical problem is breakthrough spotting or bleeding, particularly if you miss several cycles consecutively.It's also worth mentioning that since menstruation is a visual indicator of pregnancy detection, becoming period-free could make it more difficult to detect an unplanned pregnancy early on. That is why correct and consistent use of your contraceptive is paramount.In exceptional circumstances, long-term use of hormonal birth control can marginally boost the risk of blood clots or cardiovascular problems, particularly in smokers or those with existing conditions but missing your period doesn't add to those risks above the baseline created by the birth control itself.If you're thinking about missing your period consistently, talk to a health care provider. You'll figure out the best option together — whether that is extended-cycle pills, hormonal IUDs, rings, patches, or implants.Your health care provider will also assess if you're a good fit based on your history, lifestyle, and general wellness objectives. Most importantly, they'll walk you through what to anticipate and how to watch for any unusual symptoms.Skipping your period using hormonal birth control is not only safe, it can be incredibly beneficial for many people. Whether you’re looking to gain more control over your schedule, reduce painful symptoms, or manage a chronic health issue, menstrual suppression is a validated, doctor-approved choice.Nevertheless, it is a personal choice that can be made with a doctor's counsel. With proper information and assistance, you can gain control over your cycle according to your lifestyle and health.

is it safe when you skip your period while on birth control?

Health News

257 Active Cases of COVID-19 In India - What Is The New Strain And Safety Guidelines To Follow?

covid-19 update: 257 active cases in india, 2 new deaths in mumbai

FDA Approves New COVID Vaccine But Not Everyone Qualifies

fda approves new covid vaccine but not everyone qualifies

Covid Cases Surge In Singapore: What Do We Know About The New Variant On The Loose?

covid cases surge in singapore: what do we know about the new variant on the loose?

Longest Covid Infection Reported Lasted 505 Days Nonstop; What Are Persistent Infections?

longest covid infection reported lasted 505 days nonstop; what are persistent infections?

With the world continuing to inch away from the height of the <span>COVID-19</span> pandemic, a fresh wave of infections is again causing concern—this time fueled by new subvariants of the Omicron variant. Southeast Asia, more so urban areas in Singapore, Hong Kong, and sections of India, is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 infections propelled by the JN.1 variant and its sub-lineages LF.7 and NB.1.8 but is it a new pandemic in the making? 

How severe is the new variant? And what should you do if you become infected? All three of these countries have officially reported an increased surge in infections. In India, while numbers are still low by comparison, Kerala is the leader in new cases (69 as of mid-May), followed by Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Delhi. Experts explain the acceleration of cases not due to increased virulence but due to behaviors such as erosion of immunity and fatigue around prevention strategies.

Most recent data from Southeast Asian health ministries reveal a sudden surge in cases of Covid-19 in Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand. In Singapore, the Ministry of Health's rare update—its first since nearly a year ago—recorded a 28% jump in weekly cases to 14,200 for the week to May 3. The daily hospital admissions have also increased about 30%.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong is also experiencing a sharp peak. The Centre for Health Protection indicated the positivity rate of respiratory samples rose from 1.7% mid-March to 11.4%, greater than the August 2024 peak. There have been 30 fatalities in 81 severe adult cases in the past month, the majority involving individuals over 65 and with existing medical conditions.

The trend is concerning and part of a wider pattern sweeping across the region. Thailand experienced fresh clusters of infections following its heavily publicized Songkran holiday in April, and mainland China's test positivity rates have risen by over double since late March, approaching that of its summer 2024 wave.

The new wave of COVID has brought the JN.1 variant of Omicron into the spotlight, which is responsible for the latest surge in numbers. In India alone, there are 257 active cases, and the discussion about safety, new policies and health issues has started.

The present surge in COVID-19 cases is being majorly spurred by new Omicron subvariants, most notably JN.1. That variant and its offspring LF.7 and NB.1.8, are being found highly contagious. "These variants are too easy to spread and disrupt the body's immunity and cause another infection," says Dr. Harish Bhatia, Senior Chest Specialist &amp; Director &amp; Head Dept. Of Respiratory Medicine

The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified JN.1 as a "variant of interest," subsequently promoting it to a "variant of concern." Nevertheless, world health authorities continue to assert that the public health risk is low at this point.

<h2>Is JN.1 More Dangerous Than Previous Variants?</h2>

The JN.1 strain, though better at spreading, has not indicated signs of making healthy people sicker. "The good part," Dr. Bhatia explains, "is that this variant seems to produce milder disease in healthy individuals."

But there is an exception. The old, the immunocompromised, or those with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or heart disease are still at increased risk of developing complications. For them, even a "mild" strain could be a potentially deadly affair. It's a warning that COVID-19 is not yet "just another cold." 

<h2>Symptoms Of Covid-19 JN.1 Variant To Watch For</h2>

The symptoms of JN.1 and its sub-lineages are very similar to those of previous Omicron variants, affecting the upper respiratory system. Typical symptoms are:

<ul><li>High temperature</li><li>Runny nose</li><li>Sore throat</li><li>Headaches</li><li>Body aches</li><li>Exhaustion or tiredness</li><li>Mild gastrointestinal distress (in some individuals)</li></ul>

The majority of individuals recover with rest at home, but the duration and intensity depend on one's immune response and health condition.

<h2>Covid-19 JN.1: How Long Will You Be Sick?</h2>

Experts say that the average recovery period for a light COVID-19 disease caused by the JN.1 variant is 5 to 7 days. Yet, some of the symptoms—especially fatigue and cough—can persist for 2 to 3 weeks.

Dr. Bhatia suggests that in case of persistence of the symptoms beyond 10 days or deterioration—particularly high-grade fever or respiratory difficulty—medical help must not be delayed. "It is important to listen to your body and not overlook warning signs," he adds.

<h2>Covid-19 JN.1: What to Do If You Get Infected?</h2>

In case you test positive for COVID-19, here is what public health officials suggest:

Isolate for a minimum of 5 days, or until your symptoms resolve. For extra caution, isolate up to 10 days.

<ul><li>Drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Symptomatic treatment with paracetamol for fever and muscle pain is often adequate.</li><li>Keep track of your symptoms, particularly if you fall into a high-risk group.</li><li>Get professional assistance if you have difficulty breathing, chest discomfort, or unrelenting high fever.</li><li>Notify close contacts to watch for symptoms and test as necessary.</li><li>Prevent contact with high-risk individuals for a minimum of 10 days.</li></ul>

Although hospitalization is not necessary for healthy persons in most cases, early diagnosis and treatment are important to avoid complications.

<h2>Covid-19 JN.1: How to Stay Safe?</h2>

Though the world has transitioned away from the period of global emergency of the pandemic, the virus keeps mutating. Remaining guarded is still important—particularly during surges such as this one.

Dr. Bhatia points out, "Wearing a mask in public places, regularly washing your hands, keeping your vaccinations current—including booster shots—and keeping your distance from someone who is infected are still effective measures."

Besides, the immunocompromised individuals or those with vulnerable family members should take extra precautions and advise their healthcare professionals about preventive drugs or vaccines beyond the primary doses.

COVID-19 is frequently no longer making headlines as it did in 2020, but its presence is certainly not done yet. The advent of JN.1 and other subvariants is a grim reminder that the virus continues to mutate—and so must our strategy against it.

<em>Dr. Harish Bhatia is Senior Chest Specialist &amp; Director &amp; Head Dept. Of Respiratory Medicine with MGS Hospital and the Founder Director of Rebreathe Clinic.</em>

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With the world continuing to inch away from the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a fresh wave of infections is again causing concern—this time fueled by new subvariants of the Omicron variant. Southeast Asia, more so urban areas in Singapore, Hong Kong, and sections of India, is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 infections propelled by the JN.1 variant and its sub-lineages LF.7 and NB.1.8 but is it a new pandemic in the making? How severe is the new variant? And what should you do if you become infected? All three of these countries have officially reported an increased surge in infections. In India, while numbers are still low by comparison, Kerala is the leader in new cases (69 as of mid-May), followed by Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Delhi. Experts explain the acceleration of cases not due to increased virulence but due to behaviors such as erosion of immunity and fatigue around prevention strategies.Most recent data from Southeast Asian health ministries reveal a sudden surge in cases of Covid-19 in Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand. In Singapore, the Ministry of Health's rare update—its first since nearly a year ago—recorded a 28% jump in weekly cases to 14,200 for the week to May 3. The daily hospital admissions have also increased about 30%.Meanwhile, Hong Kong is also experiencing a sharp peak. The Centre for Health Protection indicated the positivity rate of respiratory samples rose from 1.7% mid-March to 11.4%, greater than the August 2024 peak. There have been 30 fatalities in 81 severe adult cases in the past month, the majority involving individuals over 65 and with existing medical conditions.The trend is concerning and part of a wider pattern sweeping across the region. Thailand experienced fresh clusters of infections following its heavily publicized Songkran holiday in April, and mainland China's test positivity rates have risen by over double since late March, approaching that of its summer 2024 wave.The new wave of COVID has brought the JN.1 variant of Omicron into the spotlight, which is responsible for the latest surge in numbers. In India alone, there are 257 active cases, and the discussion about safety, new policies and health issues has started.The present surge in COVID-19 cases is being majorly spurred by new Omicron subvariants, most notably JN.1. That variant and its offspring LF.7 and NB.1.8, are being found highly contagious. "These variants are too easy to spread and disrupt the body's immunity and cause another infection," says Dr. Harish Bhatia, Senior Chest Specialist & Director & Head Dept. Of Respiratory MedicineThe World Health Organization (WHO) has classified JN.1 as a "variant of interest," subsequently promoting it to a "variant of concern." Nevertheless, world health authorities continue to assert that the public health risk is low at this point.Is JN.1 More Dangerous Than Previous Variants?The JN.1 strain, though better at spreading, has not indicated signs of making healthy people sicker. "The good part," Dr. Bhatia explains, "is that this variant seems to produce milder disease in healthy individuals."But there is an exception. The old, the immunocompromised, or those with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or heart disease are still at increased risk of developing complications. For them, even a "mild" strain could be a potentially deadly affair. It's a warning that COVID-19 is not yet "just another cold." Symptoms Of Covid-19 JN.1 Variant To Watch ForThe symptoms of JN.1 and its sub-lineages are very similar to those of previous Omicron variants, affecting the upper respiratory system. Typical symptoms are:High temperatureRunny noseSore throatHeadachesBody achesExhaustion or tirednessMild gastrointestinal distress (in some individuals)The majority of individuals recover with rest at home, but the duration and intensity depend on one's immune response and health condition.Covid-19 JN.1: How Long Will You Be Sick?Experts say that the average recovery period for a light COVID-19 disease caused by the JN.1 variant is 5 to 7 days. Yet, some of the symptoms—especially fatigue and cough—can persist for 2 to 3 weeks.Dr. Bhatia suggests that in case of persistence of the symptoms beyond 10 days or deterioration—particularly high-grade fever or respiratory difficulty—medical help must not be delayed. "It is important to listen to your body and not overlook warning signs," he adds.Covid-19 JN.1: What to Do If You Get Infected?In case you test positive for COVID-19, here is what public health officials suggest:Isolate for a minimum of 5 days, or until your symptoms resolve. For extra caution, isolate up to 10 days.Drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Symptomatic treatment with paracetamol for fever and muscle pain is often adequate.Keep track of your symptoms, particularly if you fall into a high-risk group.Get professional assistance if you have difficulty breathing, chest discomfort, or unrelenting high fever.Notify close contacts to watch for symptoms and test as necessary.Prevent contact with high-risk individuals for a minimum of 10 days.Although hospitalization is not necessary for healthy persons in most cases, early diagnosis and treatment are important to avoid complications.Covid-19 JN.1: How to Stay Safe?Though the world has transitioned away from the period of global emergency of the pandemic, the virus keeps mutating. Remaining guarded is still important—particularly during surges such as this one.Dr. Bhatia points out, "Wearing a mask in public places, regularly washing your hands, keeping your vaccinations current—including booster shots—and keeping your distance from someone who is infected are still effective measures."Besides, the immunocompromised individuals or those with vulnerable family members should take extra precautions and advise their healthcare professionals about preventive drugs or vaccines beyond the primary doses.COVID-19 is frequently no longer making headlines as it did in 2020, but its presence is certainly not done yet. The advent of JN.1 and other subvariants is a grim reminder that the virus continues to mutate—and so must our strategy against it.Dr. Harish Bhatia is Senior Chest Specialist & Director & Head Dept. Of Respiratory Medicine with MGS Hospital and the Founder Director of Rebreathe Clinic.

covid-19 returns? is the new variant worse and how long will you be sick with it?

Wonder Why Your Head Won’t Stop Pounding? Time To Check Your Oral Care Routine

wonder why your head won’t stop pounding? time to check your oral care routine

Activities To Keep Your Brain Active As You Age

activities to keep your brain active as you age

Sleep hygiene is the best way to ensure your brain’s well-being. When you stay awake for too long, or sleep for more than the usual hours, it throws off your body clock and affects your health. Sleeping for the recommended 7-9 hours improves your brain performance, mood, health as well as your long-term well-being. Not only does lack of sleep lead to heart diseases, but also obesity and other disorders like dementia. 

Other than these issues, sleep hygiene involves other things like your bedtime routine, what kind of mattress you sleep in as well as what position you sleep in. Different studies have been done on the same, and research shows sleeping on your back could also affect your brain 

A study showcased in the Alzheimer's Association International Conference indicates that sleeping on your back, called the supine position, might be linked to a higher risk of brain diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. While this research shows a strong connection, it doesn't yet prove that back sleeping causes these conditions. The study adds to earlier findings suggesting a link between back sleeping and neurodegenerative diseases. 

The idea that back sleeping could contribute to neurodegeneration isn't entirely new. It was first explored in mouse studies back in 2015. Later, in 2019, human studies involving individuals with neurodegenerative diseases showed that sleeping on their backs for more than two hours a night was connected to a higher risk of these conditions. The latest study further explored this by comparing healthy individuals with those experiencing mild cognitive impairment or various neurodegenerative disorders. They found that people with brain conditions spent significantly more time sleeping on their backs. 

<h2>Back Sleeping Doesn't Directly Cause Dementia </h2>

While these findings are certainly interesting and could point to sleep position as a factor we can change to reduce our risk of brain diseases, it's crucial to acknowledge some limitations. First, these results have only been presented at a scientific meeting and haven't yet gone through a thorough review by other experts before being published. Also, the groups of people in the study weren't perfectly matched in terms of age and gender, which could affect the findings. Finally, the study was sponsored by a company that sells sleep tracking devices, so there's a potential for bias. 

<h2>How Back Sleeping Might Impact Brain Health </h2>

Experts believe that sleeping on your back might harm brain health because it could hinder your body's ability to efficiently clear out harmful substances. During sleep, your brain has a "waste management system" called glymphatic clearance that flushes out neurotoxins. This process naturally becomes less efficient as we age. When you lie on your back, it might not allow blood to drain from your brain as effectively as it should, potentially slowing down this critical cleansing. In contrast, sleeping on your side appears to promote better blood flow and waste removal. Additionally, sleeping on your back can worsen sleep apnea, a condition that disrupts sleep and can lead to even more toxin buildup in the brain over time, further contributing to neurodegeneration. 

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do sleeping positions affect our health

Alzheimer's disease

Sleep hygiene is the best way to ensure your brain’s well-being. When you stay awake for too long, or sleep for more than the usual hours, it throws off your body clock and affects your health. Sleeping for the recommended 7-9 hours improves your brain performance, mood, health as well as your long-term well-being. Not only does lack of sleep lead to heart diseases, but also obesity and other disorders like dementia. Other than these issues, sleep hygiene involves other things like your bedtime routine, what kind of mattress you sleep in as well as what position you sleep in. Different studies have been done on the same, and research shows sleeping on your back could also affect your brain A study showcased in the Alzheimer's Association International Conference indicates that sleeping on your back, called the supine position, might be linked to a higher risk of brain diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. While this research shows a strong connection, it doesn't yet prove that back sleeping causes these conditions. The study adds to earlier findings suggesting a link between back sleeping and neurodegenerative diseases. The idea that back sleeping could contribute to neurodegeneration isn't entirely new. It was first explored in mouse studies back in 2015. Later, in 2019, human studies involving individuals with neurodegenerative diseases showed that sleeping on their backs for more than two hours a night was connected to a higher risk of these conditions. The latest study further explored this by comparing healthy individuals with those experiencing mild cognitive impairment or various neurodegenerative disorders. They found that people with brain conditions spent significantly more time sleeping on their backs.  Back Sleeping Doesn't Directly Cause Dementia While these findings are certainly interesting and could point to sleep position as a factor we can change to reduce our risk of brain diseases, it's crucial to acknowledge some limitations. First, these results have only been presented at a scientific meeting and haven't yet gone through a thorough review by other experts before being published. Also, the groups of people in the study weren't perfectly matched in terms of age and gender, which could affect the findings. Finally, the study was sponsored by a company that sells sleep tracking devices, so there's a potential for bias. How Back Sleeping Might Impact Brain Health Experts believe that sleeping on your back might harm brain health because it could hinder your body's ability to efficiently clear out harmful substances. During sleep, your brain has a "waste management system" called glymphatic clearance that flushes out neurotoxins. This process naturally becomes less efficient as we age. When you lie on your back, it might not allow blood to drain from your brain as effectively as it should, potentially slowing down this critical cleansing. In contrast, sleeping on your side appears to promote better blood flow and waste removal. Additionally, sleeping on your back can worsen sleep apnea, a condition that disrupts sleep and can lead to even more toxin buildup in the brain over time, further contributing to neurodegeneration. 

does sleeping in this position affect your brain?

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