Tanya Dutt

Oxytocin Is More Than Just A 'Love Hormone', All About Its Effects On Body

Oxytocin, often referred to as the "<span>love hormone</span>," has been touted for ages as the hormone that facilitates romance and attachment between parents and children. While this powerful neurotransmitter plays a role in these very important areas, its simplicity is far from the depth of its complexity. From stress response to social behaviors, to even medical treatments, oxytocin is the linchpin in numerous physiological and psychological processes. 

Oxytocin is both a hormone and a neurotransmitter that is produced in the hypothalamus, which is a small but essential area of the brain located at its base. It is secreted by the pituitary gland, affecting many different systems throughout the body. Its most well-known function is its role in reproduction, facilitating labor in women and assisting sperm movement in men.

But oxytocin’s reach extends far beyond reproduction. Found in cells across the body, oxytocin interacts with other key neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, often referred to as the "<a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/friends-happy-hormones-and-detox-how-crying-can-boost-your-health-article-151005006" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">happy hormones</a>" Together, these chemicals shape our emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being. 

Many studies have supported the connection between oxytocin and love. The most notable of these was the 2012 study when scientists found that oxytocin levels significantly rose in couples at early stages of a romantic relationship than in single individuals. In couples who remained with their partners for more than six months, the increased levels stayed up, indicating that oxytocin has a place in long-term attachment.

Oxytocin also plays a critical role in <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/what-is-orgasm-gap-and-why-does-it-exist-article-151068337" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">sexual</a> activity, making the orgasm more intense and intimate. It helps in creating feelings of trust, empathy, and good memories, which are important elements for a strong foundation in relationships. 

<h2>Relaxation from Stress and Pain Management</h2>

Oxytocin's effects are not limited to emotional bonding; it is also a key player in stress relief. A 2021 study found that oxytocin levels start to increase even before the onset of stress-causing events, such as exams, as the body prepares itself to cope with increased cortisol levels. In this regard, oxytocin is a natural buffer during mental strain.

Additionally, oxytocin has been proven to produce pain relief and is hence an area of potential therapeutic application in conditions characterized by chronic pain or intense stress.

<a href="https://www.healthandme.com/fitness/5-signs-that-hormones-not-habits-are-behind-your-weight-struggles-article-151073899" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Also Read: 5 Signs That Hormones, Not Habits, Are Behind Your Weight Struggles</a> 

<h2>Labor, Breastfeeding, and Maternal Bonding</h2>

Oxytocin's most widely known role is that of its function in delivery and breastfeeding. Oxytocin levels surge during labor, enhancing the uterine contractions that will deliver the baby. Medical science has also used synthetic oxytocin, often referred to as Pitocin, to initiate or enhance labor. 

Just as essential <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/navigating-postpartum-the-emotional-and-physical-impact-on-new-mothers-article-151033101" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">postpartum</a>, the hormone stimulates milk letdown and deepens the maternal bond between the mother and her infant. 

It has often been called the "social glue" because of its intense effect on human behavior. Many researches have indicated that oxytocin boosts our ability to empathize, trust, and bond with others. All these social behaviors are integral for building communities and fostering relationships between people.

Oxytocin also seems to impact generosity and altruism. According to research by the American Psychological Association, oxytocin seems to promote selfless behaviors and therefore strengthens its role in fostering a more cooperative and compassionate society. 

Oxytocin's medical potential is wide and still being explored. It has more than labor induction as its promise in treating developmental and <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/ptsd-symptoms-how-trauma-alters-the-structure-of-your-brain-article-151104994" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">psychiatric disorders</a>. A 2017 study pointed out the benefits of oxytocin in managing <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/role-of-ai-in-spotting-autism-early-heres-what-study-says-article-151033881" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">autism spectrum disorders</a> and other conditions that impair social interaction.

Researchers are also investigating the use of oxytocin as a treatment for postpartum depression. Some of the findings are mixed, though: a few studies indicate synthetic oxytocin may cause more <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/how-anxiety-impacts-your-body-physically-article-151109451" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">anxiety</a> and depression among new mothers. The science is also looking at the use of oxytocin to help with substance abuse disorders and possibly be an alternate option for those suffering through addiction.

<h2>Oxytocin's Complex Interplay with the Body</h2>

The effects of oxytocin on the body are complex and multifaceted, arising from its interaction with neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. When you feel attracted or in love, oxytocin, <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/how-to-get-your-daily-d-o-s-e-of-happiness-article-151043070" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">dopamine</a>, and serotonin combine to build up a positive feeling of bonding. 

The impact of oxytocin reaches into numerous physiological processes, including:

<strong>Cilia Function in the Respiratory System: </strong>Oxytocin helps move the cilia, which are short hair-like structures, that aid in ridding the respiratory tract of pathogens. 

<strong>Immune System Support:</strong> It contributes to stress response regulation. Stress response is a potential modulator of immune function and hence of health.

While oxytocin is often romanticized as the “love hormone,” its contributions to human health and behavior are far-reaching. From aiding childbirth to fostering empathy and reducing stress, this hormone underpins many aspects of daily life.

Understanding the complexities of oxytocin reveals the intricate interlocking systems that govern the body. Oxytocin will continue to surprise in what its full use is; perhaps it has something crucial to say about mental disorders, social disorders, even chronic illness. 

By nature, oxytocin is more than the "hormone of love." It's the hormone of connection, healing, and indeed humanity.

<em><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2021.742236/full" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank">The Role of Oxytocin and the Effect of Stress During Childbirth</a>. Frontiers. 2021.</em>

<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3936960/" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank">Oxytocin during the initial stages of romantic attachment: relations to couples' interactive reciprocity</a>. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2012

<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3935449/" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank">Could intranasal oxytocin be used to enhance relationships?</a> Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2013

Health Conditions A-Z

health

hormonal health

oxytocin effects

love hormone benefits

oxytocin health impact

oxytocin stress relief

social bonding hormone

oxytocin medical uses

Love hormone

Happy hormone

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Oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone," has been touted for ages as the hormone that facilitates romance and attachment between parents and children. While this powerful neurotransmitter plays a role in these very important areas, its simplicity is far from the depth of its complexity. From stress response to social behaviors, to even medical treatments, oxytocin is the linchpin in numerous physiological and psychological processes. What exactly is Oxytocin?Oxytocin is both a hormone and a neurotransmitter that is produced in the hypothalamus, which is a small but essential area of the brain located at its base. It is secreted by the pituitary gland, affecting many different systems throughout the body. Its most well-known function is its role in reproduction, facilitating labor in women and assisting sperm movement in men.But oxytocin’s reach extends far beyond reproduction. Found in cells across the body, oxytocin interacts with other key neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, often referred to as the "happy hormones" Together, these chemicals shape our emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being. Oxytocin and Its Role in LoveMany studies have supported the connection between oxytocin and love. The most notable of these was the 2012 study when scientists found that oxytocin levels significantly rose in couples at early stages of a romantic relationship than in single individuals. In couples who remained with their partners for more than six months, the increased levels stayed up, indicating that oxytocin has a place in long-term attachment.Oxytocin also plays a critical role in sexual activity, making the orgasm more intense and intimate. It helps in creating feelings of trust, empathy, and good memories, which are important elements for a strong foundation in relationships. Relaxation from Stress and Pain ManagementOxytocin's effects are not limited to emotional bonding; it is also a key player in stress relief. A 2021 study found that oxytocin levels start to increase even before the onset of stress-causing events, such as exams, as the body prepares itself to cope with increased cortisol levels. In this regard, oxytocin is a natural buffer during mental strain.Additionally, oxytocin has been proven to produce pain relief and is hence an area of potential therapeutic application in conditions characterized by chronic pain or intense stress.Also Read: 5 Signs That Hormones, Not Habits, Are Behind Your Weight Struggles Labor, Breastfeeding, and Maternal BondingOxytocin's most widely known role is that of its function in delivery and breastfeeding. Oxytocin levels surge during labor, enhancing the uterine contractions that will deliver the baby. Medical science has also used synthetic oxytocin, often referred to as Pitocin, to initiate or enhance labor. Just as essential postpartum, the hormone stimulates milk letdown and deepens the maternal bond between the mother and her infant. Social Bonding and AltruismIt has often been called the "social glue" because of its intense effect on human behavior. Many researches have indicated that oxytocin boosts our ability to empathize, trust, and bond with others. All these social behaviors are integral for building communities and fostering relationships between people.Oxytocin also seems to impact generosity and altruism. According to research by the American Psychological Association, oxytocin seems to promote selfless behaviors and therefore strengthens its role in fostering a more cooperative and compassionate society. Applications of OxytocinOxytocin's medical potential is wide and still being explored. It has more than labor induction as its promise in treating developmental and psychiatric disorders. A 2017 study pointed out the benefits of oxytocin in managing autism spectrum disorders and other conditions that impair social interaction.Researchers are also investigating the use of oxytocin as a treatment for postpartum depression. Some of the findings are mixed, though: a few studies indicate synthetic oxytocin may cause more anxiety and depression among new mothers. The science is also looking at the use of oxytocin to help with substance abuse disorders and possibly be an alternate option for those suffering through addiction.Oxytocin's Complex Interplay with the BodyThe effects of oxytocin on the body are complex and multifaceted, arising from its interaction with neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. When you feel attracted or in love, oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin combine to build up a positive feeling of bonding. The impact of oxytocin reaches into numerous physiological processes, including:Cilia Function in the Respiratory System: Oxytocin helps move the cilia, which are short hair-like structures, that aid in ridding the respiratory tract of pathogens. Immune System Support: It contributes to stress response regulation. Stress response is a potential modulator of immune function and hence of health.While oxytocin is often romanticized as the “love hormone,” its contributions to human health and behavior are far-reaching. From aiding childbirth to fostering empathy and reducing stress, this hormone underpins many aspects of daily life.Understanding the complexities of oxytocin reveals the intricate interlocking systems that govern the body. Oxytocin will continue to surprise in what its full use is; perhaps it has something crucial to say about mental disorders, social disorders, even chronic illness. By nature, oxytocin is more than the "hormone of love." It's the hormone of connection, healing, and indeed humanity.The Role of Oxytocin and the Effect of Stress During Childbirth. Frontiers. 2021.Oxytocin during the initial stages of romantic attachment: relations to couples' interactive reciprocity. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2012Could intranasal oxytocin be used to enhance relationships? Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2013

oxytocin is more than just a 'love hormone', all about its effects on body

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People have the ability to come up with great, unique, and different ideas from the rest. However, we have all had days when brainstorming doesn't fruit any good ideas for us. So, the natural next step is to look on the internet. However, doing this is not only ruining your thought process but it is also killing your creativity. A new study shows that if you are looking for new ideas, you should stay off the internet. 

Using the internet to find new ideas during group brainstorming sessions might actually stifle creativity, according to a study published on June 30 in the journal Memory &amp; Cognition. Researchers found that internet searches can hinder a group's ability to generate truly original ideas 

<h2>Internet's Impact on Creativity </h2>

The internet isn't making us less intelligent, but we might not be using it in the best ways for brainstorming. Researchers believe the internet can limit creativity because of something called "fixation effects." This means that when people see ideas from a search engine, they tend to think of other similar ideas. At the same time, these suggestions can block them from coming up with completely new or different answers. 

For example, if someone is trying to list things you might "spread" and sees "butter" or "jam" from the internet, they're more likely to think of other foods like "cream cheese." They'll be less likely to think of non-food ideas, like "disease" or "rumors." 

In a lab experiment with nearly 250 people, researchers looked at how groups came up with new uses for umbrellas and shields. They knew that there are many alternative uses for umbrellas online, but very few for shields. 

Groups that had internet access struggled to find new ideas for umbrellas. This was probably because seeing so many suggestions online narrowed their thinking. On the other hand, because there weren't many pre-existing ideas for shields, groups had more room for their creativity to grow. This study provides the first proof that internet searches can cause this "fixation effect. 

The results also showed that people who didn't use the internet were more imaginative. Those who used Google often came up with the same common answers, sometimes even in the same order. People who didn't use Google came up with more unique answers. 

However, researchers don't think we should avoid the internet when brainstorming. Instead, we need to find better ways to use search engines to boost our creative thinking. 

The hope is to understand how human thought interacts with technology so we can get the most out of the internet while reducing its downsides. For instance, doing some brainstorming without the internet first could help avoid getting stuck on existing ideas. The goal isn't to give up the power of online search, but to learn how to use it more effectively. 

Creativity blocks are normal, especially for people like designers writers as well as artists. However, due to the vagueness of this process, it is difficult to know when it will end or how to go about it. Here are some ways you can deal with it. 

Pinpoint the core reason for your creative block. Is it a lack of inspiration, confidence, or clarity? Understanding if it's personal, professional, or environmental, and whether it's temporary or chronic, helps you address the issue effectively. 

Combat creative blocks by changing your routine. Alter your environment, schedule, tools, or methods to introduce new stimuli. Working differently sparks fresh ideas, refreshes your mind, and prevents boredom from stifling creativity. 

Sometimes, stepping away is best. Relax, recharge, and distract yourself from creative frustration. Engage in unrelated activities like reading, listening, or exercising. This helps you return with a fresh perspective, but avoid procrastination. 

Overcome blocks by experimenting and iterating. Try different ideas and variations without attachment to perfection. Sketch, prototype, and revise to explore creative potential, discover new possibilities, and learn from any mistakes along the way. 

Accept creative block as a natural part of the process, not a failure. Embracing it helps overcome fear and self-doubt, motivating continued progress. Acknowledge, reframe, learn, and even celebrate the challenge to improve skills. 

Creativity block

Internet hinders creativity

Brainstorming ideas

Internet Kills Creativity

How internet impacts creativity

though process

People have the ability to come up with great, unique, and different ideas from the rest. However, we have all had days when brainstorming doesn't fruit any good ideas for us. So, the natural next step is to look on the internet. However, doing this is not only ruining your thought process but it is also killing your creativity. A new study shows that if you are looking for new ideas, you should stay off the internet. Using the internet to find new ideas during group brainstorming sessions might actually stifle creativity, according to a study published on June 30 in the journal Memory & Cognition. Researchers found that internet searches can hinder a group's ability to generate truly original ideas Internet's Impact on Creativity The internet isn't making us less intelligent, but we might not be using it in the best ways for brainstorming. Researchers believe the internet can limit creativity because of something called "fixation effects." This means that when people see ideas from a search engine, they tend to think of other similar ideas. At the same time, these suggestions can block them from coming up with completely new or different answers. For example, if someone is trying to list things you might "spread" and sees "butter" or "jam" from the internet, they're more likely to think of other foods like "cream cheese." They'll be less likely to think of non-food ideas, like "disease" or "rumors." What the Study Showed In a lab experiment with nearly 250 people, researchers looked at how groups came up with new uses for umbrellas and shields. They knew that there are many alternative uses for umbrellas online, but very few for shields. Groups that had internet access struggled to find new ideas for umbrellas. This was probably because seeing so many suggestions online narrowed their thinking. On the other hand, because there weren't many pre-existing ideas for shields, groups had more room for their creativity to grow. This study provides the first proof that internet searches can cause this "fixation effect. The results also showed that people who didn't use the internet were more imaginative. Those who used Google often came up with the same common answers, sometimes even in the same order. People who didn't use Google came up with more unique answers. Smarter Ways to Brainstorm However, researchers don't think we should avoid the internet when brainstorming. Instead, we need to find better ways to use search engines to boost our creative thinking. The hope is to understand how human thought interacts with technology so we can get the most out of the internet while reducing its downsides. For instance, doing some brainstorming without the internet first could help avoid getting stuck on existing ideas. The goal isn't to give up the power of online search, but to learn how to use it more effectively. Dealing With Creativity Blocks Creativity blocks are normal, especially for people like designers writers as well as artists. However, due to the vagueness of this process, it is difficult to know when it will end or how to go about it. Here are some ways you can deal with it. Identify the Root Cause Pinpoint the core reason for your creative block. Is it a lack of inspiration, confidence, or clarity? Understanding if it's personal, professional, or environmental, and whether it's temporary or chronic, helps you address the issue effectively. Break the Routine Combat creative blocks by changing your routine. Alter your environment, schedule, tools, or methods to introduce new stimuli. Working differently sparks fresh ideas, refreshes your mind, and prevents boredom from stifling creativity. Do Something Else Sometimes, stepping away is best. Relax, recharge, and distract yourself from creative frustration. Engage in unrelated activities like reading, listening, or exercising. This helps you return with a fresh perspective, but avoid procrastination. Experiment and Iterate Overcome blocks by experimenting and iterating. Try different ideas and variations without attachment to perfection. Sketch, prototype, and revise to explore creative potential, discover new possibilities, and learn from any mistakes along the way. Embrace the Challenge Accept creative block as a natural part of the process, not a failure. Embracing it helps overcome fear and self-doubt, motivating continued progress. Acknowledge, reframe, learn, and even celebrate the challenge to improve skills. 

internet kills creativity – study finds using the internet while brainstorming can hinder thought process

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Known for her iconic role as Claire in the Modern Family, Julie Bowen who is a versatile American actress, recently spoke about the rare heart condition she's was diagnosed with at 29. 

Speaking about it on the first episode of 'Inside of You' with host Micheal Rosenbaum, Julie revealed her condition 'shy sinus syndrome' that caused her to have a <span>low resting heart rate</span>. She also explained how, due to the condition, she also has had a pacemaker put in place. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Lifelong Low Heart Rate</span> and a Surprising Diagnosis </h2>

Bowen explained that she has always had a remarkably low resting heart rate, even around 30 beats per minute at times, a significant deviation from the normal range of 60 to 100 beats per minute for women. This was due to <span>sick sinus syndrome</span>, a <span>heart rhythm disorder</span> exacerbated in her case by hypervagotonia, an overactive vagus nerve. Despite being a competitive runner, her low heart rate was a constant, though initially unexplained, characteristic. 

The John Hopkins Medicine explains that sick sinus syndrome (<span>SSS</span>) occurs when your heart's natural pacemaker, the sinoatrial (SA) node in the upper right chamber, becomes damaged and can no longer regulate your heartbeat properly. This damage can result from underlying medical conditions or certain medications, leading to heartbeats that are too slow, too fast, or fluctuate between both extremes. 

You might have SSS with no symptoms at all, or only mild ones. However, if symptoms do appear, they can include: 

<ul><li>Dizziness</li><li>Fainting (syncope)</li><li>Shortness of breath, especially with physical activity</li><li>Heart palpitations (a fluttering or pounding sensation in your chest)</li><li>Chest pain</li></ul>

<h2>How Is Sick Sinus Syndrome Diagnosed? </h2>

The turning point for Julie came thanks to her sister, Annie Luetkemeyer, who had just graduated from medical school. During a family vacation, her sister, still in the habit of carrying a stethoscope, insisted on listening to Bowen's heart. "That is not what they've been telling you, and it's not runner's heart or whatever. That means you need to go to a cardiologist," her sister declared, refusing to let the issue drop 

Your healthcare provider might suspect SSS based on your symptoms, but these symptoms can be common to many other conditions. To confirm a diagnosis, your provider will likely perform an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records your heart's electrical activity, rate, and rhythm. If you're not experiencing symptoms during the ECG, the results may appear normal. Other diagnostic tests that may be used include: 

<strong>Stress test:</strong> An ECG performed while you exercise on a treadmill.

<strong>Holter monitor: </strong>A portable device you wear for over 24 hours to continuously record your heart's electrical activity.

<strong>Event recorder: </strong>A device worn for several days that records your heart rate only when symptoms occur.

<strong>Electrophysiologic testing:</strong> A hospital procedure where catheters are threaded into your heart through a vein in your thigh to study its electrical system.

<strong>Echocardiogram:</strong> An ultrasound of your heart to check for structural problems. 

About a month after her sister's crucial warning, Bowen was filming the pilot for "Ed" when she was faced with the reality of needing a pacemaker. Initially, the news was daunting. "I was like, 'Oh my God. My life is over. This is so weird. I'm gonna die,'" she recalled. However, doctors explained that while the condition wasn't immediately fatal, it would lead to her frequently passing out. 

Bowen described a sensation of lightheadedness, particularly when she was relaxed, feeling "like I'd been holding my breath for a while." The critical warning that solidified her decision was the risk of passing out while driving and potentially harming someone. "Oh, well, then give me the Goddamn pacemaker," she decided. 

Her pacemaker is now set to ensure her heart rate doesn't drop below 45 beats per minute. She shared that the surgical insertion was done discreetly through her armpit, leaving no visible scar. While she's had to have the batteries replaced three times, she largely forgets about it now, a testament to how seamlessly it has integrated into her life. 

While this is one way to treat her condition, here are some other ways your doctor may choose to go about your treatment, 

If certain medications are contributing to your SSS, your healthcare provider may change your prescription. 

Because SSS can increase the risk of blood clots forming in the heart and leading to a stroke, you may be prescribed blood thinners as a preventive measure. 

Heart health

Modern Family Star Julia Bowen

Julia Bowen

Low Resting Heart Rate

Lifelong Low Heart Rate

heart rhythm disorder

Sick Sinus Syndrome

Known for her iconic role as Claire in the Modern Family, Julie Bowen who is a versatile American actress, recently spoke about the rare heart condition she's was diagnosed with at 29. Speaking about it on the first episode of 'Inside of You' with host Micheal Rosenbaum, Julie revealed her condition 'shy sinus syndrome' that caused her to have a low resting heart rate. She also explained how, due to the condition, she also has had a pacemaker put in place. Lifelong Low Heart Rate and a Surprising Diagnosis Bowen explained that she has always had a remarkably low resting heart rate, even around 30 beats per minute at times, a significant deviation from the normal range of 60 to 100 beats per minute for women. This was due to sick sinus syndrome, a heart rhythm disorder exacerbated in her case by hypervagotonia, an overactive vagus nerve. Despite being a competitive runner, her low heart rate was a constant, though initially unexplained, characteristic. The John Hopkins Medicine explains that sick sinus syndrome (SSS) occurs when your heart's natural pacemaker, the sinoatrial (SA) node in the upper right chamber, becomes damaged and can no longer regulate your heartbeat properly. This damage can result from underlying medical conditions or certain medications, leading to heartbeats that are too slow, too fast, or fluctuate between both extremes. Recognizing the Symptoms You might have SSS with no symptoms at all, or only mild ones. However, if symptoms do appear, they can include: DizzinessFainting (syncope)Shortness of breath, especially with physical activityHeart palpitations (a fluttering or pounding sensation in your chest)Chest painHow Is Sick Sinus Syndrome Diagnosed? The turning point for Julie came thanks to her sister, Annie Luetkemeyer, who had just graduated from medical school. During a family vacation, her sister, still in the habit of carrying a stethoscope, insisted on listening to Bowen's heart. "That is not what they've been telling you, and it's not runner's heart or whatever. That means you need to go to a cardiologist," her sister declared, refusing to let the issue drop Your healthcare provider might suspect SSS based on your symptoms, but these symptoms can be common to many other conditions. To confirm a diagnosis, your provider will likely perform an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records your heart's electrical activity, rate, and rhythm. If you're not experiencing symptoms during the ECG, the results may appear normal. Other diagnostic tests that may be used include: Stress test: An ECG performed while you exercise on a treadmill.Holter monitor: A portable device you wear for over 24 hours to continuously record your heart's electrical activity.Event recorder: A device worn for several days that records your heart rate only when symptoms occur.Electrophysiologic testing: A hospital procedure where catheters are threaded into your heart through a vein in your thigh to study its electrical system.Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of your heart to check for structural problems. Treatment Options For SSS About a month after her sister's crucial warning, Bowen was filming the pilot for "Ed" when she was faced with the reality of needing a pacemaker. Initially, the news was daunting. "I was like, 'Oh my God. My life is over. This is so weird. I'm gonna die,'" she recalled. However, doctors explained that while the condition wasn't immediately fatal, it would lead to her frequently passing out. Bowen described a sensation of lightheadedness, particularly when she was relaxed, feeling "like I'd been holding my breath for a while." The critical warning that solidified her decision was the risk of passing out while driving and potentially harming someone. "Oh, well, then give me the Goddamn pacemaker," she decided. Her pacemaker is now set to ensure her heart rate doesn't drop below 45 beats per minute. She shared that the surgical insertion was done discreetly through her armpit, leaving no visible scar. While she's had to have the batteries replaced three times, she largely forgets about it now, a testament to how seamlessly it has integrated into her life. While this is one way to treat her condition, here are some other ways your doctor may choose to go about your treatment, Medication adjustment If certain medications are contributing to your SSS, your healthcare provider may change your prescription. Blood thinners Because SSS can increase the risk of blood clots forming in the heart and leading to a stroke, you may be prescribed blood thinners as a preventive measure. 

modern family star julie bowen shares her rare heart condition - what does having a low resting heart rate mean?

Ishita Roy

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Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is a potentially life-threatening allergy to red meat and other products derived from mammals. Unlike typical food allergies that cause immediate reactions, AGS symptoms can appear several hours after consumption. These range from hives and nausea to anaphylaxis and, in rare cases, heart attacks. The syndrome is triggered by a sugar molecule called galactose-α-1,3-galactose (or alpha-gal), which is introduced into the human body through the bite of a lone star tick.

<h4>Why are lone star ticks spreading?</h4>

Lone star ticks, named for the white dot found on the backs of females, have long been native to the southeastern United States. But in recent years, their range has expanded dramatically — now reaching as far north as Maine and westwards toward the central US. Experts say this is largely due to the warming climate, which has made previously inhospitable regions more suitable for tick survival and reproduction.

This spread is also helped by other factors such as:

<ul><li>Increased deer populations (which host ticks)</li><li>Urban development that pushes human dwellings closer to wild habitats</li><li>Lack of natural barriers, such as mountain ranges, in some regions</li></ul>

The true number of alpha-gal syndrome cases is difficult to determine due to inconsistent data collection and lack of awareness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has documented about 110,000 cases since 2010, but estimates suggest the actual number could be as high as 450,000. Many people may never realise their allergic reactions are linked to a tick bite.

<h4>What makes these ticks dangerous?</h4>

Lone star ticks are notoriously aggressive. They are capable of detecting humans by sensing heat and carbon dioxide and will actively pursue a host. They can even move quickly over short distances, increasing the chances of biting.

The concept of a “tick bomb” — a cluster of tiny juvenile ticks that swarm over anything they encounter — adds another terrifying element to their behavior.

For those diagnosed with AGS, life can change dramatically. Aside from cutting out red meat (beef, pork, lamb), many patients also have to avoid dairy, gelatin, and even some medications, toothpaste, and medical products derived from mammals. Food choices become limited and dining out risky. In severe cases, even airborne particles from cooking meat can trigger a reaction.

Support groups are growing rapidly, especially in affected regions like Virginia, where community members share coping strategies and advocate for clearer food labelling.

As the climate warms and tick populations expand, AGS may affect millions more. Other tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease, Babesia, and the deadly Powassan virus are also on the rise.

Yet, despite this growing threat, researchers warn that US funding for tick-borne disease research is shrinking. Experts stress the urgent need for better surveillance, education, and treatment options to confront what could become a nationwide health crisis.

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ticks in us

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Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is a potentially life-threatening allergy to red meat and other products derived from mammals. Unlike typical food allergies that cause immediate reactions, AGS symptoms can appear several hours after consumption. These range from hives and nausea to anaphylaxis and, in rare cases, heart attacks. The syndrome is triggered by a sugar molecule called galactose-α-1,3-galactose (or alpha-gal), which is introduced into the human body through the bite of a lone star tick.Why are lone star ticks spreading?Lone star ticks, named for the white dot found on the backs of females, have long been native to the southeastern United States. But in recent years, their range has expanded dramatically — now reaching as far north as Maine and westwards toward the central US. Experts say this is largely due to the warming climate, which has made previously inhospitable regions more suitable for tick survival and reproduction.This spread is also helped by other factors such as:Increased deer populations (which host ticks)Urban development that pushes human dwellings closer to wild habitatsLack of natural barriers, such as mountain ranges, in some regionsHow common is AGS?The true number of alpha-gal syndrome cases is difficult to determine due to inconsistent data collection and lack of awareness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has documented about 110,000 cases since 2010, but estimates suggest the actual number could be as high as 450,000. Many people may never realise their allergic reactions are linked to a tick bite.What makes these ticks dangerous?Lone star ticks are notoriously aggressive. They are capable of detecting humans by sensing heat and carbon dioxide and will actively pursue a host. They can even move quickly over short distances, increasing the chances of biting.The concept of a “tick bomb” — a cluster of tiny juvenile ticks that swarm over anything they encounter — adds another terrifying element to their behavior.Living with alpha-galFor those diagnosed with AGS, life can change dramatically. Aside from cutting out red meat (beef, pork, lamb), many patients also have to avoid dairy, gelatin, and even some medications, toothpaste, and medical products derived from mammals. Food choices become limited and dining out risky. In severe cases, even airborne particles from cooking meat can trigger a reaction.Support groups are growing rapidly, especially in affected regions like Virginia, where community members share coping strategies and advocate for clearer food labelling.What’s next?As the climate warms and tick populations expand, AGS may affect millions more. Other tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease, Babesia, and the deadly Powassan virus are also on the rise.Yet, despite this growing threat, researchers warn that US funding for tick-borne disease research is shrinking. Experts stress the urgent need for better surveillance, education, and treatment options to confront what could become a nationwide health crisis.

us sees sharp rise in dangerous ticks that trigger meat allergy

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