Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Ophthalmologist Warns You Can Go Blind, If You Do Not Quit 'Smoking & Drinking'

Have you ever considered how your daily routines affect your vision? While we all link smoking and drinking to lung disease or liver damage, their impact on <span>eye health</span> is commonly disregarded. But these habits may be quietly stealing your vision.

Imagine this: You smoke a cigarette or have some cocktails after work, having no idea that the behaviors are speeding along the development of such conditions as cataracts, macular degeneration, and even blindness. Research indicates that smokers are four times more likely to have age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the most prevalent cause of vision loss. At the same time, excessive drinking removes vital nutrients that promote healthy eyes, causing blurry vision, <span>optic nerve damage</span>, and an increased risk of cataracts.

According to Dr. Ajay Sharma, top ophthalmologist, "The toxicants present in cigarette smoke have the potential to irreversibly damage sensitive eye tissues, and alcohol misuse speeds up vision loss in the long run.

The best news? Saving your eyesight begins with knowledge. Knowing how smoking and drinking affect your vision is the beginning of making better decisions. So go ahead, reach for that next drink or cigarette, and ask yourself: Is it worth risking your eyesight? Let's take a look at the true effect of these habits on your eyes.

We hear plenty about the ill effects of smoking and heavy drinking when it comes to heart disease, lung diseases, and liver disease. Their effects on the eyes, however, are much less talked about. Our eyes, just like all other organs, are prone to harm brought about by these bad habits. Smoking brings with it poisonous chemicals that damage crucial eye structures, and heavy drinking causes nutritional deficiencies and nerve damage, both of which have severe effects on the eyes.

<h2>Effects of Smoking on Eye Health</h2>

<h4>1. Risk of Blinding Eye Diseases</h4>

Smoking is a significant risk factor for several diseases that can lead to blindness, including:

Cataracts: Cigarette smoke releases toxic chemicals that speed up oxidative stress, which causes clouding of the lens of the eye. Research indicates that smokers are twice more likely to develop cataracts than non-smokers. Ophthalmologist Dr. Ajay Sharma says, "The harmful substances in cigarette smoke directly harm the lens, and there is a greater chance of cataract formation at an earlier age."

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): The macula, the retina's central region, which is used for clear vision, degenerates as a result of chronic smoking. Smokers are up to four times more likely than non-smokers to develop AMD, according to research. This condition progressively blurs central vision, making ordinary activities like reading and identifying faces more difficult by the day.

Glaucoma and Optic Nerve Damage: Smoking leads to high eye pressure, weakening the optic nerve and risking glaucoma. "The long-term eye effects of smoking are grave and irreversible, which is why quitting smoking as early as possible is very important," Dr. Sharma adds. 

<h4>2. Dry Eye Syndrome and Increased Tear Reduction</h4>

Smoking interferes with tear production and quality, causing chronic dry eye syndrome. The symptoms are redness, irritation, and discomfort. The cigarette smoke exposure also increases inflammation, which makes it hard for the eyes to stay moist.

<h4>3. Diabetic Retinopathy Aggravation</h4>

For diabetics, smoking also aggravates diabetic retinopathy, a disease that destroys blood vessels in the eye. This will result in progressive visual impairment, further emphasizing why diabetics should eschew smoking.

<h2>Effects of Alcohol on Eye Health</h2>

<h4>1. Nutritional Deficiencies Leading to Vision Impairment</h4>

Long-term drinking drains vital vitamins and nutrients needed for eye health, especially:

Vitamin A Deficiency: Causes night blindness and dry eyes.

B-Complex Deficiency: Compromises optic nerve function, which raises the risk of vision loss.

Zinc Deficiency: Compromises retinal function, lowering clarity and contrast sensitivity.

Excessive alcohol consumption impairs the body's capacity to absorb these vital nutrients, hastening the loss of eye health.

<h4>2. Alcohol-Induced Optic Neuropathy</h4>

Alcohol abuse may lead to toxic optic neuropathy, which is a condition that involves blurred vision, impairment in color perception, and progressive vision loss. Chronic excessive drinking destroys the optic nerve over a period of time, causing permanent vision loss.

<h4>3. Transient and Permanent Blurred Vision</h4>

Whereas frequent drinking of alcohol may temporarily cause blurred vision through dehydration and insufficient oxygen flow to the eyes, long-term abuse of alcohol can result in sustained vision complications such as double vision and limited peripheral vision.

Yes, smoking and excessive drinking for many years can result in permanent vision loss. As Dr. Sharma points out, "Smokers are much more likely to get cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, both of which will result in permanent blindness if untreated."

Smoking-related eye disease symptoms are:

<strong>Cataracts</strong>: Dull vision, blurred color vision, and difficulty with vision in low light.

<strong>AMD</strong>: Altered or absent central vision, trouble reading, and trouble with identifying faces.

The initial phases of such conditions usually show no signs and symptoms, so frequent eye examinations are essential for early detection and treatment.

<h2>Stopping Smoking and Cutting Down Alcohol Consumption</h2>

The silver lining is that quitting smoking and cutting down on alcohol intake will substantially reduce the chances of eye-related ailments. Research indicates that people who quit smoking find their eye diseases to progress gradually. On the same note, having moderate alcohol intake and following a balanced diet can safeguard long-term eye health.

Important Steps to Safeguard Your Vision:

<ul><li>Stop smoking to lower the chance of cataracts, AMD, and optic nerve damage.</li><li>Restrict alcohol use to avoid optic neuropathy and preserve vital vitamins.</li><li>Eat a balanced diet filled with vitamin A, B-complex vitamins, and antioxidants for healthy vision.</li><li>Have regular eye exams to detect and treat vision issues early on.</li></ul>

<em>Dr. Ajay Sharma, Ophthalmologist, Founder and Chief Medical Director of Eye-Q Eye Hospitals in India</em>

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Have you ever considered how your daily routines affect your vision? While we all link smoking and drinking to lung disease or liver damage, their impact on eye health is commonly disregarded. But these habits may be quietly stealing your vision.Imagine this: You smoke a cigarette or have some cocktails after work, having no idea that the behaviors are speeding along the development of such conditions as cataracts, macular degeneration, and even blindness. Research indicates that smokers are four times more likely to have age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the most prevalent cause of vision loss. At the same time, excessive drinking removes vital nutrients that promote healthy eyes, causing blurry vision, optic nerve damage, and an increased risk of cataracts.According to Dr. Ajay Sharma, top ophthalmologist, "The toxicants present in cigarette smoke have the potential to irreversibly damage sensitive eye tissues, and alcohol misuse speeds up vision loss in the long run.The best news? Saving your eyesight begins with knowledge. Knowing how smoking and drinking affect your vision is the beginning of making better decisions. So go ahead, reach for that next drink or cigarette, and ask yourself: Is it worth risking your eyesight? Let's take a look at the true effect of these habits on your eyes.We hear plenty about the ill effects of smoking and heavy drinking when it comes to heart disease, lung diseases, and liver disease. Their effects on the eyes, however, are much less talked about. Our eyes, just like all other organs, are prone to harm brought about by these bad habits. Smoking brings with it poisonous chemicals that damage crucial eye structures, and heavy drinking causes nutritional deficiencies and nerve damage, both of which have severe effects on the eyes.Effects of Smoking on Eye Health1. Risk of Blinding Eye DiseasesSmoking is a significant risk factor for several diseases that can lead to blindness, including:Cataracts: Cigarette smoke releases toxic chemicals that speed up oxidative stress, which causes clouding of the lens of the eye. Research indicates that smokers are twice more likely to develop cataracts than non-smokers. Ophthalmologist Dr. Ajay Sharma says, "The harmful substances in cigarette smoke directly harm the lens, and there is a greater chance of cataract formation at an earlier age."Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): The macula, the retina's central region, which is used for clear vision, degenerates as a result of chronic smoking. Smokers are up to four times more likely than non-smokers to develop AMD, according to research. This condition progressively blurs central vision, making ordinary activities like reading and identifying faces more difficult by the day.Glaucoma and Optic Nerve Damage: Smoking leads to high eye pressure, weakening the optic nerve and risking glaucoma. "The long-term eye effects of smoking are grave and irreversible, which is why quitting smoking as early as possible is very important," Dr. Sharma adds. 2. Dry Eye Syndrome and Increased Tear ReductionSmoking interferes with tear production and quality, causing chronic dry eye syndrome. The symptoms are redness, irritation, and discomfort. The cigarette smoke exposure also increases inflammation, which makes it hard for the eyes to stay moist.3. Diabetic Retinopathy AggravationFor diabetics, smoking also aggravates diabetic retinopathy, a disease that destroys blood vessels in the eye. This will result in progressive visual impairment, further emphasizing why diabetics should eschew smoking.Effects of Alcohol on Eye Health1. Nutritional Deficiencies Leading to Vision ImpairmentLong-term drinking drains vital vitamins and nutrients needed for eye health, especially:Vitamin A Deficiency: Causes night blindness and dry eyes.B-Complex Deficiency: Compromises optic nerve function, which raises the risk of vision loss.Zinc Deficiency: Compromises retinal function, lowering clarity and contrast sensitivity.Excessive alcohol consumption impairs the body's capacity to absorb these vital nutrients, hastening the loss of eye health.2. Alcohol-Induced Optic NeuropathyAlcohol abuse may lead to toxic optic neuropathy, which is a condition that involves blurred vision, impairment in color perception, and progressive vision loss. Chronic excessive drinking destroys the optic nerve over a period of time, causing permanent vision loss.3. Transient and Permanent Blurred VisionWhereas frequent drinking of alcohol may temporarily cause blurred vision through dehydration and insufficient oxygen flow to the eyes, long-term abuse of alcohol can result in sustained vision complications such as double vision and limited peripheral vision.Yes, smoking and excessive drinking for many years can result in permanent vision loss. As Dr. Sharma points out, "Smokers are much more likely to get cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, both of which will result in permanent blindness if untreated."Smoking-related eye disease symptoms are:Cataracts: Dull vision, blurred color vision, and difficulty with vision in low light.AMD: Altered or absent central vision, trouble reading, and trouble with identifying faces.The initial phases of such conditions usually show no signs and symptoms, so frequent eye examinations are essential for early detection and treatment.Stopping Smoking and Cutting Down Alcohol ConsumptionThe silver lining is that quitting smoking and cutting down on alcohol intake will substantially reduce the chances of eye-related ailments. Research indicates that people who quit smoking find their eye diseases to progress gradually. On the same note, having moderate alcohol intake and following a balanced diet can safeguard long-term eye health.Important Steps to Safeguard Your Vision:Stop smoking to lower the chance of cataracts, AMD, and optic nerve damage.Restrict alcohol use to avoid optic neuropathy and preserve vital vitamins.Eat a balanced diet filled with vitamin A, B-complex vitamins, and antioxidants for healthy vision.Have regular eye exams to detect and treat vision issues early on.Dr. Ajay Sharma, Ophthalmologist, Founder and Chief Medical Director of Eye-Q Eye Hospitals in India

ophthalmologist warns you can go blind, if you do not quit 'smoking & drinking'

Is There A Limit To How Far Female Fertility Can Be Extended?

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Over the past century, social progress has greatly altered the age at which women opt to have children. Whereas most women in the past gave birth in their early twenties or teens, the trend has since dramatically changed. Women in nations such as the U.S., South Korea, and in Europe are now delaying motherhood to well into their 30s. Indeed, the average age of first-time mothers in most OECD countries now stands at about 30.

But biology has not kept pace with society. Women's fertility is still tied to the natural aging of a woman's reproductive apparatus – something that modern medicine is always trying to get around. With career aspirations, education, and individual choice rewriting the schedules of motherhood, an urgent question presents itself: how far can we push back <span>female fertility</span>?

<h2>How Does The Biological Clock Work?</h2>

At the very center of female fertility is a game of numbers – one that is decided even before a girl is born. Women are born with a limited number of eggs, usually one million. By the time they reach puberty, this count drops to about 300,000. Of these, only some 300 to 400 will ever develop and get released during ovulation.

By age 37, egg stores decrease to around 25,000, and by age 51 – the average age of menopause in the United States – only 1,000 are left. Yet, ovulation and fertility do not necessarily persist up to menopause. In the majority of women, natural fertility declines sharply 7 to 10 years before, typically by the early 40s.

Though this fall has been around for some time, its raw statistics still stun: natural conception chances fall from about 25% per cycle during a woman's 20s to less than 5% per cycle by her 40s.

<h2>What Does the Egg Supply Do at Each Age?</h2>

More important than the declining egg quantity is the sharp decline in egg quality with advancing age. Each egg contains chromosomes that make up the DNA map for a new life. When egg quality falls, so does the chance for a successful pregnancy.

By age 30, nearly 25–30% of a woman’s eggs may carry chromosomal abnormalities. By 35, this rises to 40%, and after 40, it spikes dramatically. Studies show that beyond age 40, up to 75% of eggs may have abnormalities. Such eggs are less likely to fertilize, implant, or lead to a healthy baby.

The dangers posed by low quality of eggs are miscarriage, unsuccessful fertility treatment, and chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome.

<h2>How Far Can Science Go in Extending Fertility?</h2>

With the help of improvements in assisted reproductive technologies (ART), the limits of biological fertility are gradually being extended. Methods like egg freezing (oocyte cryopreservation), in vitro fertilization (IVF), and the employment of donor eggs have helped many women give birth well into their 40s – and, in some instances, even their 50s.

Egg freezing, specifically, has been a game-changer. It enables women to save their younger, healthier eggs to use later in life. It's not a surefire insurance policy, though. Success is dependent on age at the time of freezing, number of eggs saved, and overall health.

Nevertheless, though technology may provide additional time, it will not halt the natural aging of the ovaries or enhance the genetic quality of aging eggs. There is still a biological limit.

<h2>Decrease in Male Fertility Level</h2>

Men, too, experience a decline in fertility – but it tends to occur more gradually. Starting around age 40 to 45, men see a drop in sperm quality and volume, but they often retain the ability to father children into their 60s and beyond. Unlike women, men continuously produce new sperm, whereas women are working from a non-renewable stockpile of eggs.

This disparity implies that while more and more couples are opting to wait to have children, the responsibility of the "biological clock" remains mostly on women.

Although most of the discussion about female reproductive aging centers on wanting to have children, it is important to note that it also marks more general changes in a woman's health – specifically the onset of menopause and its attendant risks. Perhaps one of the most important but most underappreciated is the increasing significance of regular reproductive screenings, particularly as women get older.

Among these, cervical cancer screening stands out as a powerful tool to protect women’s health beyond their childbearing years.

Pap smears and HPV testing are able to pick up on abnormal cell changes before they develop into cancer. Because the immune system shifts with age and hormonal changes impact cervical health, regular screening is even more important. Women in their 30s and 40s – the same time frame when fertility is actively shifting – need to continue to be vigilant about their yearly OB-GYN checkups.

Actually, while women are thinking of or undergoing fertility treatments or assessing their reproductive future, this is the ideal opportunity to make sure their cervical health is under surveillance. New technologies in at-home HPV testing, liquid-based cytology, and co-testing provide more convenient and precise diagnoses ever before.

So is there a boundary beyond which female fertility can be prolonged? Biologically, yes. Despite incredible scientific strides, the natural aging of eggs and of the ovaries places limits that technology can only stretch so far.

Yet reproductive health is more than fertility. By broadening the story to encompass cervical screenings and preventive care, we give women the ability to take holistic control of their reproductive path – whether they opt to become mothers at 25, 35, or older because prolonging fertility isn't merely about having the capacity to conceive, it's about maintaining a lifetime of reproductive health.

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female fertility decline

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Over the past century, social progress has greatly altered the age at which women opt to have children. Whereas most women in the past gave birth in their early twenties or teens, the trend has since dramatically changed. Women in nations such as the U.S., South Korea, and in Europe are now delaying motherhood to well into their 30s. Indeed, the average age of first-time mothers in most OECD countries now stands at about 30.But biology has not kept pace with society. Women's fertility is still tied to the natural aging of a woman's reproductive apparatus – something that modern medicine is always trying to get around. With career aspirations, education, and individual choice rewriting the schedules of motherhood, an urgent question presents itself: how far can we push back female fertility?How Does The Biological Clock Work?At the very center of female fertility is a game of numbers – one that is decided even before a girl is born. Women are born with a limited number of eggs, usually one million. By the time they reach puberty, this count drops to about 300,000. Of these, only some 300 to 400 will ever develop and get released during ovulation.By age 37, egg stores decrease to around 25,000, and by age 51 – the average age of menopause in the United States – only 1,000 are left. Yet, ovulation and fertility do not necessarily persist up to menopause. In the majority of women, natural fertility declines sharply 7 to 10 years before, typically by the early 40s.Though this fall has been around for some time, its raw statistics still stun: natural conception chances fall from about 25% per cycle during a woman's 20s to less than 5% per cycle by her 40s.What Does the Egg Supply Do at Each Age?More important than the declining egg quantity is the sharp decline in egg quality with advancing age. Each egg contains chromosomes that make up the DNA map for a new life. When egg quality falls, so does the chance for a successful pregnancy.By age 30, nearly 25–30% of a woman’s eggs may carry chromosomal abnormalities. By 35, this rises to 40%, and after 40, it spikes dramatically. Studies show that beyond age 40, up to 75% of eggs may have abnormalities. Such eggs are less likely to fertilize, implant, or lead to a healthy baby.The dangers posed by low quality of eggs are miscarriage, unsuccessful fertility treatment, and chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome.How Far Can Science Go in Extending Fertility?With the help of improvements in assisted reproductive technologies (ART), the limits of biological fertility are gradually being extended. Methods like egg freezing (oocyte cryopreservation), in vitro fertilization (IVF), and the employment of donor eggs have helped many women give birth well into their 40s – and, in some instances, even their 50s.Egg freezing, specifically, has been a game-changer. It enables women to save their younger, healthier eggs to use later in life. It's not a surefire insurance policy, though. Success is dependent on age at the time of freezing, number of eggs saved, and overall health.Nevertheless, though technology may provide additional time, it will not halt the natural aging of the ovaries or enhance the genetic quality of aging eggs. There is still a biological limit.Decrease in Male Fertility LevelMen, too, experience a decline in fertility – but it tends to occur more gradually. Starting around age 40 to 45, men see a drop in sperm quality and volume, but they often retain the ability to father children into their 60s and beyond. Unlike women, men continuously produce new sperm, whereas women are working from a non-renewable stockpile of eggs.This disparity implies that while more and more couples are opting to wait to have children, the responsibility of the "biological clock" remains mostly on women.Although most of the discussion about female reproductive aging centers on wanting to have children, it is important to note that it also marks more general changes in a woman's health – specifically the onset of menopause and its attendant risks. Perhaps one of the most important but most underappreciated is the increasing significance of regular reproductive screenings, particularly as women get older.Among these, cervical cancer screening stands out as a powerful tool to protect women’s health beyond their childbearing years.Pap smears and HPV testing are able to pick up on abnormal cell changes before they develop into cancer. Because the immune system shifts with age and hormonal changes impact cervical health, regular screening is even more important. Women in their 30s and 40s – the same time frame when fertility is actively shifting – need to continue to be vigilant about their yearly OB-GYN checkups.Actually, while women are thinking of or undergoing fertility treatments or assessing their reproductive future, this is the ideal opportunity to make sure their cervical health is under surveillance. New technologies in at-home HPV testing, liquid-based cytology, and co-testing provide more convenient and precise diagnoses ever before.So is there a boundary beyond which female fertility can be prolonged? Biologically, yes. Despite incredible scientific strides, the natural aging of eggs and of the ovaries places limits that technology can only stretch so far.Yet reproductive health is more than fertility. By broadening the story to encompass cervical screenings and preventive care, we give women the ability to take holistic control of their reproductive path – whether they opt to become mothers at 25, 35, or older because prolonging fertility isn't merely about having the capacity to conceive, it's about maintaining a lifetime of reproductive health.

is there a limit to how far female fertility can be extended?

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Gemma Illingworth was only 31 when she died from a rare and aggressive type of <span>dementia</span>. A bright, independent artist who painted, traveled the world, and valued life's creative liberties, Gemma's life is not only tragic — it's a valuable lesson in the crucial need to recognize subtle neurological symptoms early on. Diagnosed at 28 with posterior cortical atrophy (PCA), a rare dementia that attacks the brain's visual processing area, Gemma's condition worsened quickly.

Her premature death highlights an increasing public health issue: overlooked early warning signs of cognitive and neurodegenerative impairment. For policymakers, healthcare professionals, and family members, her tale is both a warning and a reminder.

<h2>What is Posterior Cortical Atrophy?</h2>

Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) is a rare, progressive neurodegenerative illness usually regarded as a subtype of Alzheimer's disease. In contrast to normal Alzheimer's, which first compromises memory, PCA attacks the rear portion of the brain — the occipital and parietal lobes — that are involved in visual and spatial processing. Some of the symptoms are:

<ul><li>Trouble reading, identifying objects, or estimating distances</li><li>Visual confusion or disorientation</li><li>Hand-eye coordination difficulties</li><li>Trouble with daily visual activities</li></ul>

Because of its atypical presentation, PCA often goes misdiagnosed as depression, anxiety, or even ophthalmological issues. This diagnostic challenge delayed Gemma’s care for years, despite her early struggles with sight, time perception, and coordination — red flags that now, in hindsight, point clearly to the disease’s onset.

<h2>The Missed Signs of Early-Onset Alzheimer's</h2>

Gemma's family recalls her as "ditsy," a girl who was unusual but self-reliant. From an early age, she had difficulty with her eyesight, telling the time, and coordination. Her difficulties were attributed to her character and not taken as possible signs of a neurological disorder.

It was not until 2020, during the COVID-19 lockdown, that her condition progressed quickly. She was no longer able to process visual information on her computer screen, and she had to cease working. Her symptoms were first blamed on anxiety and depression. It was not until thorough neurological testing in 2021 that PCA was diagnosed. By this time, the disease had progressed significantly.

This delay in diagnosis had a devastating impact — and it serves as a powerful reminder that even subtle neurological symptoms should not be ignored or dismissed.

Once diagnosed, Gemma's ability to live independently quickly declined. She began needing help with basic tasks: dressing, using the stove, managing appointments. She would call her mother up to 20 times a day. Eventually, she returned home, requiring full-time care.

Her sister Jess remembered, "She didn't know what [PCA] really meant, but that was obviously a blessing in disguise." Even with the dire prognosis, Gemma was relieved at first, believing she could now "fix" whatever was amiss.

But there was no cure. Her illness affected her ability to eat, swallow, talk, and walk. Her family took care of her at home until she died in November 2023, surrounded by loved ones. Her sense of humor, they reported, never left her — one of the few things the disease couldn't steal.

In Gemma's memory, her best friend and siblings completed the 2024 London Marathon, raising more than $47,000 for the National Brain Appeal and Rare Dementia Support (RDS).

"RDS couldn't cure Gemma, but they supported us through it the best way possible," her brother Ben explained. Their aim now is not to let other families endure the same suffering.

The funds raised support research, education, and family care for those with rare dementias — a community frequently ignored in popular discussions of memory decline and aging.

<h2>Why Early Detection is Important?</h2>

Dementia is commonly regarded as an old person's disease. Gemma's experience shatters the stereotype. Although PCA is uncommon, dementias in younger people are increasingly being diagnosed by neurologists globally.

Cognitive decline does not necessarily begin with memory loss. It may begin subtly — in the guise of visual problems, coordination problems, repeated disorientation, or even mood swings. That's why it's important that clinicians, educators, and families realize early symptoms can be disguised as behavioral idiosyncrasies or psychological problems. Early diagnosis can:

Give time for appropriate care planning and lifestyle changes

Halt progression with cognitive therapies or medications (where indicated)

Provide emotional relief and clarity for patients and families

<h2>How to Recognize and Prevent Early Memory Decline?</h2>

Although prevention of dementia is not always possible, early identification can dramatically enhance quality of life. Following are the preventive steps anyone can take:

<h4>1. Be Alert to Atypical Symptoms</h4>

Observe sudden or progressive change in visual-spatial awareness, particularly in young adults. Difficulty judging distances, recognizing objects, or maneuvering in familiar spaces may require neurological assessment.

<h4>2. Prioritize Complete Health Evaluations</h4>

When symptoms occur, push for full testing. This should involve neuroimaging (MRI or CT), cognitive screening, and — if necessary — spinal fluid analysis.

Work with experts like neuropsychologists, neurologists, and occupational therapists early on. They can offer tools and coping strategies to deal with daily activities.

A diet high in antioxidants (berries, greens), exercise, mental stimulation, and adequate sleep all help improve brain function and lower the risk of cognitive impairment. 

Certain dementias are linked to genetics. If family history exists, don't wait on neurological evaluation if symptoms develop.

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dementia

young-onset alzheimer’s

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alzheimer’s under 65

memory loss in young adults

dementia in young people

early alzheimer’s symptoms

alzheimer’s early diagnosis

Gemma Illingworth was only 31 when she died from a rare and aggressive type of dementia. A bright, independent artist who painted, traveled the world, and valued life's creative liberties, Gemma's life is not only tragic — it's a valuable lesson in the crucial need to recognize subtle neurological symptoms early on. Diagnosed at 28 with posterior cortical atrophy (PCA), a rare dementia that attacks the brain's visual processing area, Gemma's condition worsened quickly.Her premature death highlights an increasing public health issue: overlooked early warning signs of cognitive and neurodegenerative impairment. For policymakers, healthcare professionals, and family members, her tale is both a warning and a reminder.What is Posterior Cortical Atrophy?Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) is a rare, progressive neurodegenerative illness usually regarded as a subtype of Alzheimer's disease. In contrast to normal Alzheimer's, which first compromises memory, PCA attacks the rear portion of the brain — the occipital and parietal lobes — that are involved in visual and spatial processing. Some of the symptoms are:Trouble reading, identifying objects, or estimating distancesVisual confusion or disorientationHand-eye coordination difficultiesTrouble with daily visual activitiesBecause of its atypical presentation, PCA often goes misdiagnosed as depression, anxiety, or even ophthalmological issues. This diagnostic challenge delayed Gemma’s care for years, despite her early struggles with sight, time perception, and coordination — red flags that now, in hindsight, point clearly to the disease’s onset.The Missed Signs of Early-Onset Alzheimer'sGemma's family recalls her as "ditsy," a girl who was unusual but self-reliant. From an early age, she had difficulty with her eyesight, telling the time, and coordination. Her difficulties were attributed to her character and not taken as possible signs of a neurological disorder.It was not until 2020, during the COVID-19 lockdown, that her condition progressed quickly. She was no longer able to process visual information on her computer screen, and she had to cease working. Her symptoms were first blamed on anxiety and depression. It was not until thorough neurological testing in 2021 that PCA was diagnosed. By this time, the disease had progressed significantly.This delay in diagnosis had a devastating impact — and it serves as a powerful reminder that even subtle neurological symptoms should not be ignored or dismissed.Once diagnosed, Gemma's ability to live independently quickly declined. She began needing help with basic tasks: dressing, using the stove, managing appointments. She would call her mother up to 20 times a day. Eventually, she returned home, requiring full-time care.Her sister Jess remembered, "She didn't know what [PCA] really meant, but that was obviously a blessing in disguise." Even with the dire prognosis, Gemma was relieved at first, believing she could now "fix" whatever was amiss.But there was no cure. Her illness affected her ability to eat, swallow, talk, and walk. Her family took care of her at home until she died in November 2023, surrounded by loved ones. Her sense of humor, they reported, never left her — one of the few things the disease couldn't steal.In Gemma's memory, her best friend and siblings completed the 2024 London Marathon, raising more than $47,000 for the National Brain Appeal and Rare Dementia Support (RDS)."RDS couldn't cure Gemma, but they supported us through it the best way possible," her brother Ben explained. Their aim now is not to let other families endure the same suffering.The funds raised support research, education, and family care for those with rare dementias — a community frequently ignored in popular discussions of memory decline and aging.Why Early Detection is Important?Dementia is commonly regarded as an old person's disease. Gemma's experience shatters the stereotype. Although PCA is uncommon, dementias in younger people are increasingly being diagnosed by neurologists globally.Cognitive decline does not necessarily begin with memory loss. It may begin subtly — in the guise of visual problems, coordination problems, repeated disorientation, or even mood swings. That's why it's important that clinicians, educators, and families realize early symptoms can be disguised as behavioral idiosyncrasies or psychological problems. Early diagnosis can:Give time for appropriate care planning and lifestyle changesHalt progression with cognitive therapies or medications (where indicated)Provide emotional relief and clarity for patients and familiesHow to Recognize and Prevent Early Memory Decline?Although prevention of dementia is not always possible, early identification can dramatically enhance quality of life. Following are the preventive steps anyone can take:1. Be Alert to Atypical SymptomsObserve sudden or progressive change in visual-spatial awareness, particularly in young adults. Difficulty judging distances, recognizing objects, or maneuvering in familiar spaces may require neurological assessment.2. Prioritize Complete Health EvaluationsWhen symptoms occur, push for full testing. This should involve neuroimaging (MRI or CT), cognitive screening, and — if necessary — spinal fluid analysis.3. Get Early InterventionWork with experts like neuropsychologists, neurologists, and occupational therapists early on. They can offer tools and coping strategies to deal with daily activities.4. Emphasize Brain HealthA diet high in antioxidants (berries, greens), exercise, mental stimulation, and adequate sleep all help improve brain function and lower the risk of cognitive impairment. 5. Know Your Family HistoryCertain dementias are linked to genetics. If family history exists, don't wait on neurological evaluation if symptoms develop.

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Sleep isn't simply a nightly routine, it's an important pillar of health that dictates everything from mood and energy levels to memory and brain structure. Although the risks of short sleep are well-known, increasing research indicates that sleeping too much is equally, if not more, troubling when it comes to the long-term health of your brain.

A recent study by Professor Jianfeng Feng at the University of Warwick has put forward a new understanding of the sleep-health connection: short and long sleep durations are both biologically different patterns with differing, but significant, risks to mental, emotional, and physical health. The results are a wake-up call for the way we consider our sleep behaviors—not only how much we're lacking, but how much we might be overdoing it.

The study team looked at data from about 500,000 UK Biobank adults aged 38 to 73 and measured how their sleep time corresponded to brain structure and function. Study participants were divided into short sleepers (fewer than 7 hours) and long sleepers (longer than 7 hours), with their brain imaging, genetic information, and health outcomes compared.

Short sleepers had less brain matter in areas of emotional regulation and complained of more depression symptoms, tiredness, and muscle-skeletal complaints.

Long sleepers, on the other hand, exhibited signs of more loss of brain matter in areas of memory, worse metabolic health, increased inflammation, and more risk markers for cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, and schizophrenia.

Professor Feng said, "Short sleep is usually an underlying cause of illness, while long sleep tends to be indicative of pre-existing conditions." Simply put, long sleep won't necessarily lead to disease—it could be an early warning sign for them.

<h2>Why Oversleeping Is a Red Flag, Not a Luxury?</h2>

Sleeping nine or more hours a night on a regular basis—and still feeling tired—is medically referred to as hypersomnia. Unlike occasional weekend lie-ins, hypersomnia signals something deeper. Individuals often report hitting snooze repeatedly, waking up unrefreshed, and struggling with concentration or memory throughout the day.

As per recent evidence in JAMA Neurology, long sleepers scored significantly worse on cognitive assessments such as the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) and self-reported lower cognitive abilities. The relationship was strongest in older populations, where sleep for more than 10 hours per night was associated with increased risks for dementia and cognitive disorders.

Sleep isn't simply a nightly routine, it's an important pillar of health that dictates everything from mood and energy levels to memory and brain structure. Although the risks of short sleep are well-known, increasing research indicates that sleeping too much is equally, if not more, troubling when it comes to the long-term health of your brain.A recent study by Professor Jianfeng Feng at the University of Warwick has put forward a new understanding of the sleep-health connection: short and long sleep durations are both biologically different patterns with differing, but significant, risks to mental, emotional, and physical health. The results are a wake-up call for the way we consider our sleep behaviors—not only how much we're lacking, but how much we might be overdoing it.The study team looked at data from about 500,000 UK Biobank adults aged 38 to 73 and measured how their sleep time corresponded to brain structure and function. Study participants were divided into short sleepers (fewer than 7 hours) and long sleepers (longer than 7 hours), with their brain imaging, genetic information, and health outcomes compared.Short sleepers had less brain matter in areas of emotional regulation and complained of more depression symptoms, tiredness, and muscle-skeletal complaints.Long sleepers, on the other hand, exhibited signs of more loss of brain matter in areas of memory, worse metabolic health, increased inflammation, and more risk markers for cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, and schizophrenia.Professor Feng said, "Short sleep is usually an underlying cause of illness, while long sleep tends to be indicative of pre-existing conditions." Simply put, long sleep won't necessarily lead to disease—it could be an early warning sign for them.Why Oversleeping Is a Red Flag, Not a Luxury?Sleeping nine or more hours a night on a regular basis—and still feeling tired—is medically referred to as hypersomnia. Unlike occasional weekend lie-ins, hypersomnia signals something deeper. Individuals often report hitting snooze repeatedly, waking up unrefreshed, and struggling with concentration or memory throughout the day.As per recent evidence in JAMA Neurology, long sleepers scored significantly worse on cognitive assessments such as the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) and self-reported lower cognitive abilities. The relationship was strongest in older populations, where sleep for more than 10 hours per night was associated with increased risks for dementia and cognitive disorders.This inverted U-shaped relationship between sleep length and brain functioning—where too little and too much sleep are both associated with worse results—is repeatedly confirmed by various studies.Oversleeping and Mental HealthOversleeping isn't only a sign of cognitive problems—it's also associated with mental health. Hypersomnia and depression tend to go hand in hand. About 15% of people with major depressive disorder describe oversleeping as a symptom. Others use excessive sleep as a defense against emotional pain, but it boomerangs. Prolonged sleep worsens depressive symptoms and impairs daytime functioning, creating a vicious cycle.One big study of more than 24,000 U.S. adults discovered that those who slept more than 10 hours a day had a greater incidence of psychiatric disorders and higher psychological distress. These individuals also had higher rates of early life trauma and unhealed emotional wounds, indicating more profound psychological underpinnings for chronic oversleeping.Cardiovascular, Metabolic and Inflammatory RisksThe physical health consequences of excessive sleeping are just as disturbing. The American Heart Association research published in Circulation reported that long sleepers had as much as a 50% increased risk of cardiovascular mortality, especially among patients with coronary artery disease.Oversleeping also leads to:Obesity and Type 2 diabetesIncreased BMI and greater cholesterol imbalanceHigher pro-inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), which are linked to systemic inflammation and risk of diseaseDr. Arshed Quyymi, director of Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, highlights the risk: "There is almost a 40 to 50% higher risk of dying if you are sleeping too little or too much."What is the U-Shaped Curve?Many meta-analyses reproduce the U-shaped relation between sleep and cognition. Severe durations at both extremes of the curve have been related to increased brain aging. More sophisticated findings, however, indicate that short and long sleep may have an impact on various cognitive abilities. For instance:Short sleep has a damaging effect on attention, emotional processing, and working memoryLong sleep is related to impairment of decision-making, processing speed, and executive functionThese observations highlight the need for individually tailored sleep advice, considering both patient-specific genetic, psychological, and physiological factors.How to Identify and Address Oversleeping?So, what can you do if you think you're sleeping too much? Begin by assessing whether this habit has continued for longer than 6-8 weeks and whether you continually feel un-rested after "enough" hours. Prolonged hypersomnia should trigger a visit to a sleep specialist or healthcare provider to exclude underlying causes such as sleep apnea, depression, or thyroid disease.At-home remedies to reset your sleep habit are:Implementing a consistent wake-up time even on weekendsPositioning the alarm in an inaccessible location to deter snoozingPrioritizing early morning activities such as a walk or breakfast rendezvousBrushing teeth and washing face the moment you wake upProhibiting returning to bed after risingA well-organized, deliberate morning routine can facilitate a stronger, healthier circadian rhythm and better daytime alertness.Sleep is a keystone of mental and physical well-being, but moderation is required. While chronic sleep loss can impair emotional control and cardiovascular health, routine sleeping too much can herald early neurological deterioration, inflammation, and concealed psychological anguish.Health professionals are now urging us to shift our way of speaking about sleep—not just about avoiding too little, but about recognizing the dangers of too much. Individualized sleep profiles, according to age, lifestyle, and medical conditions, could provide the best way forward.If you’re waking up tired every day despite long hours of sleep, it may not be rest your body is craving—it may be time for a deeper health check-in.