Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

'Ovarian Cancer Nearly Took Her Life'- Caregiver Husband Reveals 3 Symptoms They Overlooked

When it comes to cancer screenings, women generally keep themselves in check. Pap smears pick up cervical cancer early, mammograms detect breast cancer, and colonoscopies are routine as we get older. But ovarian cancer—although the fifth-deadliest among women—frequently goes largely unnoticed.

More than 22,000 women a year are diagnosed with <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/ovarian-cancer">ovarian cancer</a></span> in the U.S., and more than 12,000 die of it, reports the American Cancer Society. The true tragedy? The condition is extremely hard to diagnose during early stages.

No test screens for ovarian cancer routinely. The widely referred to CA 125 blood test is not accurate enough for making early diagnoses because benign conditions cause a rise in CA 125, too. Therefore, over 80% of ovarian cancers are diagnosed late in their stage, when the process of treatment becomes more intricate and survival diminishes. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Ovarian Cancer Symptoms</span> They Overlooked</h2>

Matt Cauli, aka The Dedicated Caregiver took to Instagram to share his wife's journey, he had no idea the small, apparently unrelated symptoms his wife had would be precursors to ovarian cancer. Overnight, their life changed after she developed two massive strokes—a heart-breaking result of late-stage, undiagnosed ovarian cancer.

The strokes put Matt's wife into bed and paralyzed her on the left side. Matt is now balancing caregiving duties for his wife and their young son. As his story receives attention on Instagram, Matt's viral video has resonated with millions of families everywhere.

In the tearful video, Matt speaks about the three symptoms they didn't know were ovarian cancer—a harsh reminder of how easily symptoms can be overlooked, dismissed, or misdiagnosed:

"One time it was her elbow. Then her knee," Matt explained in the video. "They tested her for Lyme disease, but it came back negative."

Suffy joints are hardly ever associated with ovarian cancer, and so are almost always mislaid as being caused by autoimmune diseases or trauma. Still, cancerous inflammation may arise in unpredictable manifestations. Some individuals with ovarian cancer experience fluid retention or inflammatory responses, which could manifest as local swelling of the joints.

Matt's message is unequivocal: if something does not feel right in the body—and will not resolve—don't dismiss it.

"She had this heavy, clotty period about a month before her stroke," Matt disclosed. "It just wasn't normal."

Heavy, irregular, or abnormally clotty menstrual bleeding is usually caused by hormonal imbalance, fibroids, or perimenopause. But when the symptoms suddenly occur and are unusual, they warrant immediate medical care.

Physicians indicate abnormal bleeding, particularly when accompanied by bloating or pelvic tenderness, might be the body's response to hidden reproductive system problems, such as ovarian cancer. Again, however, too frequently these variations are accepted or downplayed—particularly in busy women attempting to juggle work and motherhood.

"I have to laugh at this one," Matt says with gallows humor, "because what young mom isn't tired?

It's a feeling many women can identify with. Exhaustion is almost worn as a badge of honor in our busy world. But ongoing, unexplained exhaustion—the kind that doesn't subside with rest or isn't related to lifestyle—can be one of the first indications of cancer.

In ovarian cancer, this kind of fatigue can have its roots in anemia, inflammation, or even the increased metabolic needs of a developing tumor. But due to how universal fatigue is, particularly among mothers, it commonly goes unnoticed and is blamed on burnout. 

<h2>Why Ovarian Cancer Is Still So Dangerous?</h2>

One of the major difficulties with diagnosing ovarian cancer is that its early signs are similar to very normal and benign conditions: constipation, bloating, back pain, and being too full too quickly after eating. Since there is no one test or scan to have faith in, most women remain undiagnosed until the cancer has spread beyond the ovaries.

And while genetic mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and Lynch syndrome are responsible for about 20% of ovarian cancer, that still leaves a high percentage with no hereditary risk, making education all the more important.

Even with the bleak statistics, there is cause for optimism on the horizon. Previously, the choices were essentially surgery and chemotherapy. But today, there are over 1,350 ongoing clinical trials in ovarian cancer, including vaccine-based treatments to prevent recurrence and enhance long-term survival.

Scientists are also looking at targeted treatments and immunotherapy to customize treatment to the specific tumor biology of each individual patient. These advances could provide women with improved chances in the years to come—but early detection is still the first and most important step.

Perhaps one day there'll be a simple blood test, or an annual screening, for ovarian cancer. But you are the only person who knows your body. And if something feels wrong—persisting bloating, unusual cycles, sudden tiredness—talk. Demand to know.

As Matt expresses it, "From what I know… Ovarian cancer is very hard to detect. But you know your body best. So talk with your doctor if you think something's going on." Since the sooner it gets detected, the better the chances are. And when lives are at stake, awareness is everything.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

ovarian cancer

ovarian cancer symptoms

early signs of ovarian cancer

ovarian cancer diagnosis

caregiver story ovarian cancer

ovarian cancer fatigue

hidden cancer symptoms

ovarian cancer swollen joints

Kids’ Tongues Show Signs Of Illness, Reveals Study

Cancer Diagnosis Under 50s Have Been Fueled By These Lifestyle Factors

The Four Phases Of A Migraine

Health & Wellness

Ways To Ease Nighttime Anxiety

Smoothie Ideas That Can Help With Weight Loss

Low Fat Foods That Are Actually Unhealthy

All Suryanamaskar Poses And How To Do Them

Do Changing Seasons Affect Your Weight?

Can Heatwave Affect Your Diet?

Heatwave To Monsoon: Health Concerns With Seasonal Changes

Standing Exercises That Help You Burn Calories

Reasons To Do Dancing As A Workout

Why Summer Fruits Are A Great Addition To Your Diet?

What Should You Avoid For Your Bladder?

Lower-Body Exercises For Strong Foundation

Healthy Drinks That Improve Your Digestion

World Tobacco Day: Unexpected Ways Smoking Can Affect You

Seasonal Mood Swings? How Weather Affects Mental Health

Is Calorie Counting Healthy? Dos And Don’ts

Heat-Related Illnesses That You Should Know

Menstrual Hygiene Day: Tips On Period Hygiene

​Add These High Protein Vegetarian Meals To Your Diet​

Top 10 Workouts That Burn Most Calorie

Makhana Season – Healthy &amp; Quick Foxnut Recipes

Monsoon Ahead – Tips On Building Rainy Season Immunity

Do You Have Prickly Heat Rash – Symptoms, Causes And Treatment

Healthy No-Cook Recipes You Can Try

How Do You Calorie Count – Numbers And Nutrients

Unexpected Signs Of Dehydration – Safety And Precaution Measures

Leg Exercises You Can Do At Home To Build Strength

Foods That Promote Skin Elasticity

Must-Do Chest Exercises You Can Try At Home

What Are The Symptoms Of JN.1 COVID-19 Strain?

Why Does Sleeping Become Harder As You Age?

High-Fiber Healthy Drinks You Should Try

10 Dumbbell Exercise Variations For Upper-Body Strength

A Parent’s Guide To Pets: Important Points To Consider For Your Child’s Health

Food Anxiety Is Real – How Your Food Intake Affects Your Anxiety

World Osteoporosis Month: Ways To Strengthen Your Bones

Brain Exercises To Keep You Cognitively Sharp

Easy Recipes To Make When You Don’t Wish To Cook

Physical Signs Of High Cortisol

9 Healthy Plant-Based Protein Rich Dishes To Try

When it comes to cancer screenings, women generally keep themselves in check. Pap smears pick up cervical cancer early, mammograms detect breast cancer, and colonoscopies are routine as we get older. But ovarian cancer—although the fifth-deadliest among women—frequently goes largely unnoticed.More than 22,000 women a year are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the U.S., and more than 12,000 die of it, reports the American Cancer Society. The true tragedy? The condition is extremely hard to diagnose during early stages.No test screens for ovarian cancer routinely. The widely referred to CA 125 blood test is not accurate enough for making early diagnoses because benign conditions cause a rise in CA 125, too. Therefore, over 80% of ovarian cancers are diagnosed late in their stage, when the process of treatment becomes more intricate and survival diminishes. Ovarian Cancer Symptoms They OverlookedMatt Cauli, aka The Dedicated Caregiver took to Instagram to share his wife's journey, he had no idea the small, apparently unrelated symptoms his wife had would be precursors to ovarian cancer. Overnight, their life changed after she developed two massive strokes—a heart-breaking result of late-stage, undiagnosed ovarian cancer.The strokes put Matt's wife into bed and paralyzed her on the left side. Matt is now balancing caregiving duties for his wife and their young son. As his story receives attention on Instagram, Matt's viral video has resonated with millions of families everywhere.In the tearful video, Matt speaks about the three symptoms they didn't know were ovarian cancer—a harsh reminder of how easily symptoms can be overlooked, dismissed, or misdiagnosed:1. Random Swollen Joints"One time it was her elbow. Then her knee," Matt explained in the video. "They tested her for Lyme disease, but it came back negative."Suffy joints are hardly ever associated with ovarian cancer, and so are almost always mislaid as being caused by autoimmune diseases or trauma. Still, cancerous inflammation may arise in unpredictable manifestations. Some individuals with ovarian cancer experience fluid retention or inflammatory responses, which could manifest as local swelling of the joints.Matt's message is unequivocal: if something does not feel right in the body—and will not resolve—don't dismiss it.2. Abnormal Menstrual Changes"She had this heavy, clotty period about a month before her stroke," Matt disclosed. "It just wasn't normal."Heavy, irregular, or abnormally clotty menstrual bleeding is usually caused by hormonal imbalance, fibroids, or perimenopause. But when the symptoms suddenly occur and are unusual, they warrant immediate medical care.Physicians indicate abnormal bleeding, particularly when accompanied by bloating or pelvic tenderness, might be the body's response to hidden reproductive system problems, such as ovarian cancer. Again, however, too frequently these variations are accepted or downplayed—particularly in busy women attempting to juggle work and motherhood.3. Fatigue"I have to laugh at this one," Matt says with gallows humor, "because what young mom isn't tired?It's a feeling many women can identify with. Exhaustion is almost worn as a badge of honor in our busy world. But ongoing, unexplained exhaustion—the kind that doesn't subside with rest or isn't related to lifestyle—can be one of the first indications of cancer.In ovarian cancer, this kind of fatigue can have its roots in anemia, inflammation, or even the increased metabolic needs of a developing tumor. But due to how universal fatigue is, particularly among mothers, it commonly goes unnoticed and is blamed on burnout. Why Ovarian Cancer Is Still So Dangerous?One of the major difficulties with diagnosing ovarian cancer is that its early signs are similar to very normal and benign conditions: constipation, bloating, back pain, and being too full too quickly after eating. Since there is no one test or scan to have faith in, most women remain undiagnosed until the cancer has spread beyond the ovaries.And while genetic mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and Lynch syndrome are responsible for about 20% of ovarian cancer, that still leaves a high percentage with no hereditary risk, making education all the more important.Even with the bleak statistics, there is cause for optimism on the horizon. Previously, the choices were essentially surgery and chemotherapy. But today, there are over 1,350 ongoing clinical trials in ovarian cancer, including vaccine-based treatments to prevent recurrence and enhance long-term survival.Scientists are also looking at targeted treatments and immunotherapy to customize treatment to the specific tumor biology of each individual patient. These advances could provide women with improved chances in the years to come—but early detection is still the first and most important step.Perhaps one day there'll be a simple blood test, or an annual screening, for ovarian cancer. But you are the only person who knows your body. And if something feels wrong—persisting bloating, unusual cycles, sudden tiredness—talk. Demand to know.As Matt expresses it, "From what I know… Ovarian cancer is very hard to detect. But you know your body best. So talk with your doctor if you think something's going on." Since the sooner it gets detected, the better the chances are. And when lives are at stake, awareness is everything.

'ovarian cancer nearly took her life'- caregiver husband reveals 3 symptoms they overlooked

Aarushi Bhadury

Health News

World Brain Tumor Day 2025: Theme, History, And Significance

world brain tumor day 2025: theme, history, and significance

World Brain Tumour Day 2025: When Kids Have Brain Tumours, Early Symptoms Parents Often Miss

world brain tumour day: when kids have brain tumours: early symptoms parents often miss

Fact Check: Is Taurine Really A Key Driver Of Healthy Ageing?

fact check: is taurine really a key driver of healthy ageing?

How Smoking, Alcohol, And Vaping Are Quietly Hurting Women’s Fertility

how smoking, alcohol, and vaping are quietly hurting women’s fertility

Being the leading cause of death worldwide, <span>cancer</span> diagnoses can change the trajectory of a person’s life. New cancer stats reveal that an estimate of 2,041,910 new cancer cases will be diagnosed in the US, and about 600,000 have been estimated to die due to the disease. As you may know, cancer is a generic term for a lot of different diseases that affect our health. A malignant <span>cancer diagnosis</span> means that there is a rapid growth in abnormal cell growth which can affect various parts of your body. 

According to the World Health Organization, cancer causes nearly 1 in 6 deaths globally and had accounted for 20 million deaths in 2020. The question remains, has the advancement in research and public education helped lower cancer cases or recognized any concerning patterns? 

New information from Cancer Research UK, looking at 50 years of health data, shows both good and bad news about cancer. On the one hand, the number of deaths from cancer has gone down by more than one-fifth, which is a positive sign. However, the number of people being told they have cancer has actually gone up by 50%, showing a worrying increase in new cases. 

<h2>More Young People Getting Cancer </h2>

One of the most concerning things we're seeing is how much more young people, under the age of 50, are getting cancer. Specifically, for those between 20 and 49 years old, cancer rates have shot up by 23% since the 1990s. Scientists are now working hard to understand why this is happening and what's causing this significant jump in cancer cases among younger individuals. Several factors are being explored as likely contributors to the rise in early-onset cancers: 

<h4>Obesity, Poor Diet, and Inactivity </h4>

These lifestyle choices are strongly linked to the increase. Research into the rise of colon cancer among young people, for instance, revealed that more than a third of those studied were obese. It has been observed that individuals developing cancer at a younger age tend to have significantly higher rates of obesity compared to those diagnosed later in life. 

The food we eat greatly affects our gut health. It's suggested that outside elements like microplastics or chemicals could be altering this balance, potentially contributing to cancer development. Experts stress how important it is to start healthy eating and exercise habits early. There's also a warning not to forget that certain drinks can be just as risky as unhealthy processed and sugary foods. 

It's interesting to note that smoking is probably not the reason for the increase in cancer among young people. Experts have actually seen a drop in cancers linked to smoking across almost all age groups. This suggests that while smoking is a known cause of cancer, its decreasing popularity means it's not behind the current rise in cases among younger generations. 

Despite more young people getting cancer, Cancer Research UK's report highlights that we are currently in a very positive time for cancer treatment. Thanks to advancements, one in two people diagnosed with cancer are now expected to live for at least 10 years. This is a huge improvement from the 1970s, when only one in four patients reached that milestone, showing great progress in saving lives. 

Cancer

Cancer diagnosis

Cancer Diagnosis Under 50s

what causes cancer

cancer in young people causes

cancer in younger generation

Being the leading cause of death worldwide, cancer diagnoses can change the trajectory of a person’s life. New cancer stats reveal that an estimate of 2,041,910 new cancer cases will be diagnosed in the US, and about 600,000 have been estimated to die due to the disease. As you may know, cancer is a generic term for a lot of different diseases that affect our health. A malignant cancer diagnosis means that there is a rapid growth in abnormal cell growth which can affect various parts of your body. According to the World Health Organization, cancer causes nearly 1 in 6 deaths globally and had accounted for 20 million deaths in 2020. The question remains, has the advancement in research and public education helped lower cancer cases or recognized any concerning patterns? New information from Cancer Research UK, looking at 50 years of health data, shows both good and bad news about cancer. On the one hand, the number of deaths from cancer has gone down by more than one-fifth, which is a positive sign. However, the number of people being told they have cancer has actually gone up by 50%, showing a worrying increase in new cases. More Young People Getting Cancer One of the most concerning things we're seeing is how much more young people, under the age of 50, are getting cancer. Specifically, for those between 20 and 49 years old, cancer rates have shot up by 23% since the 1990s. Scientists are now working hard to understand why this is happening and what's causing this significant jump in cancer cases among younger individuals. Several factors are being explored as likely contributors to the rise in early-onset cancers: Obesity, Poor Diet, and Inactivity These lifestyle choices are strongly linked to the increase. Research into the rise of colon cancer among young people, for instance, revealed that more than a third of those studied were obese. It has been observed that individuals developing cancer at a younger age tend to have significantly higher rates of obesity compared to those diagnosed later in life. Diet and the Microbiome The food we eat greatly affects our gut health. It's suggested that outside elements like microplastics or chemicals could be altering this balance, potentially contributing to cancer development. Experts stress how important it is to start healthy eating and exercise habits early. There's also a warning not to forget that certain drinks can be just as risky as unhealthy processed and sugary foods. Smoking's Declining Role It's interesting to note that smoking is probably not the reason for the increase in cancer among young people. Experts have actually seen a drop in cancers linked to smoking across almost all age groups. This suggests that while smoking is a known cause of cancer, its decreasing popularity means it's not behind the current rise in cases among younger generations. Despite more young people getting cancer, Cancer Research UK's report highlights that we are currently in a very positive time for cancer treatment. Thanks to advancements, one in two people diagnosed with cancer are now expected to live for at least 10 years. This is a huge improvement from the 1970s, when only one in four patients reached that milestone, showing great progress in saving lives.  

cancer diagnosis under 50s have been fueled by these lifestyle factors

Ishita Roy

Fitness

Can Yoga Help You Improve Migraine And Headaches?

can yoga help you improve migraine and headaches?

Can Right To Die Be Practiced By Non-Terminally Ill Patients?

can right to die be practiced by non-terminally ill patients?

A Routine Sinus Rinse With Tap Water Led To Woman's Death After Brain-Eating Amoeba Infection

a routine sinus rinse with tap water led to woman's death after brain-eating amoeba infection

If you have ever had a <span>migraine</span> then you would know that it is not just a <span>headache</span>, but it comes in phases. It starts with you being sensitive to all noise, smell, and even taste, feeling a bit dizzy, and losing out on your energy. Then there is a throbbing pain, this is when you know your migraine has reached its peak. 

<h4>What Are The <span rel="noindex">Stages Of Migraine</span>?</h4>

There are four main stages of migraine, which starts from predrome, aura, headache, and then postdrome. 

This stage is like a warning stage where there may be certain physical and mental changes. These include feeling tired, excessive yawning, food cravings, changes in your mood. You may feel low or irritated. Your body feels dehydrated and you might feel thirsty, have stiffness around your neck and may pass more urine. 

This happens to a third of people with migraine, notes The Migraine Trust. There are various neurological symptoms that happens in this stage, which includes changes in sight. This means, one may see dark spots, coloured spots or sparkles, often described as stars and zigzag lines. There could also be numbness, feeling like pins and needles on your body, you may also feel weakness, dizziness, and have problems with speech and hearing. 

The Migraine Trust notes that aura is the result of wave of nerve activity that spreads over the brain, it is also known as cortical spreading depression. When this electrical wave spreads, the nerves fire in an abnormal way and this range of reversible neurological symptoms develop. 

This can last from five minutes to 60 minutes. 

As per the American Migraine Foundation, the headache phrase of a migraine attack is characterized by pain on one or both sides of the head. This phase lasts from several hours to up to three days. 

This phase can vary from person to person. While some can experience mild pain, for others it could be a debilitating pain. 

The pain, in this phase, also shifts from one side of the person's head to other. In this phase, doing everyday activity like walking, turning on the lights, or any slight change, movement, sensory actions can aggravate the pain. 

This phase is also called "migraine hangover". This happens during the end of headache phase. The American Migraine Foundation notes that not everyone experiences this phase, however, it occurs in most cases, in about 80% of people. 

In this phase, the headache could be debilitating, but then it follows with fatigue, body aches, and trouble concentrating, dizziness and sensitivity to light. While in this phase the headache is ending, however, people could still be sensitive to smells, tastes and sensory actions. 

stages of migraine

health and wellness

migraine

headache

what is migraine

If you have ever had a migraine then you would know that it is not just a headache, but it comes in phases. It starts with you being sensitive to all noise, smell, and even taste, feeling a bit dizzy, and losing out on your energy. Then there is a throbbing pain, this is when you know your migraine has reached its peak. What Are The Stages Of Migraine?There are four main stages of migraine, which starts from predrome, aura, headache, and then postdrome. What Do These Stages Mean?Predrome This stage is like a warning stage where there may be certain physical and mental changes. These include feeling tired, excessive yawning, food cravings, changes in your mood. You may feel low or irritated. Your body feels dehydrated and you might feel thirsty, have stiffness around your neck and may pass more urine. This can last for 24 hours.AuraThis happens to a third of people with migraine, notes The Migraine Trust. There are various neurological symptoms that happens in this stage, which includes changes in sight. This means, one may see dark spots, coloured spots or sparkles, often described as stars and zigzag lines. There could also be numbness, feeling like pins and needles on your body, you may also feel weakness, dizziness, and have problems with speech and hearing. The Migraine Trust notes that aura is the result of wave of nerve activity that spreads over the brain, it is also known as cortical spreading depression. When this electrical wave spreads, the nerves fire in an abnormal way and this range of reversible neurological symptoms develop. This can last from five minutes to 60 minutes. HeadacheAs per the American Migraine Foundation, the headache phrase of a migraine attack is characterized by pain on one or both sides of the head. This phase lasts from several hours to up to three days. This phase can vary from person to person. While some can experience mild pain, for others it could be a debilitating pain. The pain, in this phase, also shifts from one side of the person's head to other. In this phase, doing everyday activity like walking, turning on the lights, or any slight change, movement, sensory actions can aggravate the pain. PostdromeThis phase is also called "migraine hangover". This happens during the end of headache phase. The American Migraine Foundation notes that not everyone experiences this phase, however, it occurs in most cases, in about 80% of people. In this phase, the headache could be debilitating, but then it follows with fatigue, body aches, and trouble concentrating, dizziness and sensitivity to light. While in this phase the headache is ending, however, people could still be sensitive to smells, tastes and sensory actions. 

the four phases of a migraine

How VR and Gaming Aid In Brain Surgery Rehab

How VR and Gaming Aid Brain Surgery Rehab

Teens Who Stay Up Late May Be Wired for Recklessness and Impulsiveness, Study Finds

teens who stay up late may be wired for recklessness and impulsiveness, study finds

Weight Loss Surgery Stigma Linked To Lingering Depression Symptoms

weight loss surgery stigma linked to lingering depression symptoms

Things are constantly changing and revolutionising in the health system. Thanks to technologies, there are now new ways to "heal". One such way is by indulging yourself in to the world of virtual reality and gaming, writes Dr Sathyanarayana LD, Consultant neurosurgeon at Narayana Health, Bengaluru for South First. 

He notes that many people undergo surgery to remove brain tumors, which are one of the most complex and could be life-altering conditions for someone to face. Brain tumors could be benign or malignant, however, both affects the person's speech, motor function, memory, and their ability to perform day-to-day activities. This is the reason why, post-surgery, patients may be left with impairments, including physical, cognitive, and emotional. But thanks to technological advancement in the field of health, virtual reality (VR) and gaming have become "powerful tools for neurorehabilitation". 

Dr Sathyanarayana notes that these means are not just for entertainment anymore. Since these means offer a more immersive and interactive experience, they have the potential to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment and also speed up the healing process, post-surgery. 

The doctor notes that recovering from brain surgery is an intricate and lengthy journey. The brain does not return to full function immediately after the procedure; instead, it must gradually rebuild and rewire itself to regain what was lost.

This remarkable ability of the brain to reorganize and adapt, shaped by continuous learning and experience, is called neuroplasticity. It is through neuroplasticity that the brain creates new neural pathways to compensate for damaged areas and restore lost capabilities. In this complex process of rebuilding, gaming and virtual reality (VR) are emerging as powerful allies.

VR places patients in immersive, computer-generated environments that stimulate multiple senses at once—sight, sound, and even body awareness, known as proprioception. These rich sensory experiences actively engage different areas of the brain, sparking changes at the synaptic level, where neurons communicate with each other.

By simultaneously activating motor, sensory, and cognitive regions of the brain, VR encourages synaptic plasticity and broader neural reorganization. This multi-layered engagement fosters a more cohesive and efficient path to recovery, helping the brain rebuild its networks in a meaningful and impactful way.

<h4>Relearning Movement Through Virtual Play</h4>

Post-surgery, many patients face motor impairments like weakness or poor coordination. Virtual reality offers a safe and stimulating space to relearn movement through repetition and task-specific training—key elements for motor recovery.

For instance, VR games that simulate cricket—batting, catching, or goalkeeping—encourage repeated use of the shoulder, arm, and hand, helping restore motor skills. These games also adapt in difficulty and provide real-time feedback, keeping patients motivated while preventing fatigue.

Watching and participating in virtual activities also stimulates mirror neurons—cells involved in motor learning—which may strengthen communication between remaining healthy brain circuits and support recovery.

<h4>Training the Brain to Think Again</h4>

Beyond physical rehabilitation, brain surgery often impacts attention, memory, decision-making, and problem-solving. Gaming and VR can simulate real-life tasks in a structured, repeatable way, challenging cognitive functions in an enjoyable format.

Games involving memory recall, puzzles, and strategic decision-making push the brain to stay active. Over time, this improves working memory, executive function, and mental sharpness—key components of cognitive healing.

<h4>Emotional Healing in a Virtual World</h4>

Recovery is not just physical or cognitive—it’s deeply emotional too. Patients may feel anxious, depressed, or lose confidence. Immersive VR experiences can provide psychological comfort by offering calming spaces or achievement-oriented challenges.

These environments give patients a chance to see their progress, rebuild self-esteem, and stay hopeful—factors that are vital for long-term motivation and adherence to recovery routines.

<h4>Why VR and Gaming Work in Neurorehab</h4>

<strong>Repetition with engagement</strong>: Games make repetitive rehab feel enjoyable, which is essential for promoting neuroplasticity.

<strong>Customized progress: </strong>VR systems offer real-time biofeedback and adaptive difficulty, ensuring that challenges remain effective and engaging without overwhelming the patient.

<strong>Affordable and scalable: </strong>Innovations from institutions like IIIT Hyderabad’s Serious Games Lab are making VR solutions accessible and low-cost, even for rural and public healthcare settings.

brain health

brain tumor

VR and gaming for brain healing

can gaming help after brain surgery

Things are constantly changing and revolutionising in the health system. Thanks to technologies, there are now new ways to "heal". One such way is by indulging yourself in to the world of virtual reality and gaming, writes Dr Sathyanarayana LD, Consultant neurosurgeon at Narayana Health, Bengaluru for South First. He notes that many people undergo surgery to remove brain tumors, which are one of the most complex and could be life-altering conditions for someone to face. Brain tumors could be benign or malignant, however, both affects the person's speech, motor function, memory, and their ability to perform day-to-day activities. This is the reason why, post-surgery, patients may be left with impairments, including physical, cognitive, and emotional. But thanks to technological advancement in the field of health, virtual reality (VR) and gaming have become "powerful tools for neurorehabilitation". Dr Sathyanarayana notes that these means are not just for entertainment anymore. Since these means offer a more immersive and interactive experience, they have the potential to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment and also speed up the healing process, post-surgery. How Does It Work? Why Does It Work?The doctor notes that recovering from brain surgery is an intricate and lengthy journey. The brain does not return to full function immediately after the procedure; instead, it must gradually rebuild and rewire itself to regain what was lost.This remarkable ability of the brain to reorganize and adapt, shaped by continuous learning and experience, is called neuroplasticity. It is through neuroplasticity that the brain creates new neural pathways to compensate for damaged areas and restore lost capabilities. In this complex process of rebuilding, gaming and virtual reality (VR) are emerging as powerful allies.VR places patients in immersive, computer-generated environments that stimulate multiple senses at once—sight, sound, and even body awareness, known as proprioception. These rich sensory experiences actively engage different areas of the brain, sparking changes at the synaptic level, where neurons communicate with each other.By simultaneously activating motor, sensory, and cognitive regions of the brain, VR encourages synaptic plasticity and broader neural reorganization. This multi-layered engagement fosters a more cohesive and efficient path to recovery, helping the brain rebuild its networks in a meaningful and impactful way.Relearning Movement Through Virtual PlayPost-surgery, many patients face motor impairments like weakness or poor coordination. Virtual reality offers a safe and stimulating space to relearn movement through repetition and task-specific training—key elements for motor recovery.For instance, VR games that simulate cricket—batting, catching, or goalkeeping—encourage repeated use of the shoulder, arm, and hand, helping restore motor skills. These games also adapt in difficulty and provide real-time feedback, keeping patients motivated while preventing fatigue.Watching and participating in virtual activities also stimulates mirror neurons—cells involved in motor learning—which may strengthen communication between remaining healthy brain circuits and support recovery.Training the Brain to Think AgainBeyond physical rehabilitation, brain surgery often impacts attention, memory, decision-making, and problem-solving. Gaming and VR can simulate real-life tasks in a structured, repeatable way, challenging cognitive functions in an enjoyable format.Games involving memory recall, puzzles, and strategic decision-making push the brain to stay active. Over time, this improves working memory, executive function, and mental sharpness—key components of cognitive healing.Emotional Healing in a Virtual WorldRecovery is not just physical or cognitive—it’s deeply emotional too. Patients may feel anxious, depressed, or lose confidence. Immersive VR experiences can provide psychological comfort by offering calming spaces or achievement-oriented challenges.These environments give patients a chance to see their progress, rebuild self-esteem, and stay hopeful—factors that are vital for long-term motivation and adherence to recovery routines.Why VR and Gaming Work in NeurorehabRepetition with engagement: Games make repetitive rehab feel enjoyable, which is essential for promoting neuroplasticity.Customized progress: VR systems offer real-time biofeedback and adaptive difficulty, ensuring that challenges remain effective and engaging without overwhelming the patient.Affordable and scalable: Innovations from institutions like IIIT Hyderabad’s Serious Games Lab are making VR solutions accessible and low-cost, even for rural and public healthcare settings.

how vr and gaming aid in brain surgery rehab

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.

'Ovarian Cancer Nearly Took Her Life'- Caregiver Husband Reveals 3 Symptoms They Overlooked

Quick Stories

Cancer Diagnosis Under 50s Have Been Fueled By These Lifestyle Factors

The Four Phases Of A Migraine

How VR and Gaming Aid In Brain Surgery Rehab

Health Conditions A-Z

Kids’ Tongues Show Signs Of Illness, Reveals Study

Cancer Diagnosis Under 50s Have Been Fueled By These Lifestyle Factors

The Four Phases Of A Migraine