Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

PTSD In Combat Veterans Could Be Treated With This African Drug - Study Finds

Being in the military means you may witness things or be involved in combat or missions that are life-threatening and horrible to deal with. There are accidents, training injuries, or difficult situations that place them under immense stress. All of these things lead to <span>PTSD</span>, or post-traumatic stress disorder. According to the US National Center for PTSD, at some point in their lives, 7 out of 100 <span>veterans</span> will have PTSD. This number increases to 13 for the female veterans. Dealing with this can take a lifetime, with them experiencing symptoms for years. 

Combat veterans also often struggle with anxiety, and depression after experiencing traumatic brain injuries (TBI). These struggles can leave them feeling hopeless and even suicidal. However, a surprising new treatment might offer hope: a psychedelic drug called <span>ibogaine</span>. 

Ibogaine comes from the roots of an African shrub. A recent study, published in Nature <span>Mental Health</span>, suggests that this drug can safely and effectively treat the long-term effects of TBI in veterans. Thirty veterans took part in the study, traveling to Mexico for the treatment because ibogaine is not legal in the U.S. 

Researchers discovered that ibogaine changes brain activity in ways that can reduce stress and help veterans better deal with their past trauma. A lead researcher from Stanford Medicine noted that no other drug has been able to ease the brain and mental health symptoms of TBI in this way. He called the results "dramatic" and plans to study the compound further. 

People who take ibogaine often say the experience is like a "waking dream," where they think about memories and see strong images. This compound is used in African religious ceremonies and has also been looked at as a possible treatment for depression and to help people overcome drug addiction. 

<h2>Journey to Mexico and Positive Outcomes </h2>

For this study, researchers worked with a small group of 30 special operations veterans. These veterans had lasting symptoms from TBIs and had been exposed to many explosions. The veterans chose to receive ibogaine treatment at a clinic in Mexico on their own. The clinic gave them ibogaine by mouth, with medical supervision. They also received a dose of magnesium, which helps prevent heart problems sometimes linked to the drug. 

Before the treatment, doctors from Stanford checked the veterans. Many had PTSD, anxiety, or issues with alcohol. About half had thought about suicide at some point, and some had even attempted it. Within just one month of ibogaine treatment, the improvements were significant: 

<ul><li>PTSD symptoms dropped by 88%</li><li>Depression symptoms dropped by 87%</li><li>Anxiety symptoms dropped by 81%</li></ul>

The veterans also reported less disability and better focus, thinking skills, memory, and impulse control. Another veteran in the study, who served in the U.S. Navy for 27 years, shared that his thinking abilities were "fully restored" after ibogaine, which helped him at work and improved his family life. 

Brain scans helped researchers understand why the drug might be effective. Veterans whose planning and organizing skills improved after treatment showed an increase in certain brain waves called theta rhythms. Stronger theta rhythms might help the brain adapt and be more flexible. Similarly, those with fewer PTSD symptoms showed less complicated brain activity, suggesting the drug helps calm the intense stress response associated with PTSD. These brain scans might also help doctors find out which patients would benefit most from ibogaine. 

The study reported no serious side effects, and no heart problems occurred. Veterans did mention typical symptoms like headaches and nausea during treatment. 

Partly because of these positive findings, Texas recently approved a $50 million plan to fund more studies of ibogaine. This program will help match private money for ibogaine trials, which could lead to the drug being approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

Researchers believe ibogaine could become a broader drug for brain recovery. They think it works on unique brain pathways and could help us better understand how to treat other forms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression that aren't necessarily connected to TBI. 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

mental health

veterans

PTSD

PTSD In Combat Veterans

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD treatment

Ibogaine

psychedelic treatment

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Being in the military means you may witness things or be involved in combat or missions that are life-threatening and horrible to deal with. There are accidents, training injuries, or difficult situations that place them under immense stress. All of these things lead to PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder. According to the US National Center for PTSD, at some point in their lives, 7 out of 100 veterans will have PTSD. This number increases to 13 for the female veterans. Dealing with this can take a lifetime, with them experiencing symptoms for years. Combat veterans also often struggle with anxiety, and depression after experiencing traumatic brain injuries (TBI). These struggles can leave them feeling hopeless and even suicidal. However, a surprising new treatment might offer hope: a psychedelic drug called ibogaine. How Ibogaine Might Help Ibogaine comes from the roots of an African shrub. A recent study, published in Nature Mental Health, suggests that this drug can safely and effectively treat the long-term effects of TBI in veterans. Thirty veterans took part in the study, traveling to Mexico for the treatment because ibogaine is not legal in the U.S. Researchers discovered that ibogaine changes brain activity in ways that can reduce stress and help veterans better deal with their past trauma. A lead researcher from Stanford Medicine noted that no other drug has been able to ease the brain and mental health symptoms of TBI in this way. He called the results "dramatic" and plans to study the compound further. What Ibogaine Is?People who take ibogaine often say the experience is like a "waking dream," where they think about memories and see strong images. This compound is used in African religious ceremonies and has also been looked at as a possible treatment for depression and to help people overcome drug addiction. Journey to Mexico and Positive Outcomes For this study, researchers worked with a small group of 30 special operations veterans. These veterans had lasting symptoms from TBIs and had been exposed to many explosions. The veterans chose to receive ibogaine treatment at a clinic in Mexico on their own. The clinic gave them ibogaine by mouth, with medical supervision. They also received a dose of magnesium, which helps prevent heart problems sometimes linked to the drug. Before the treatment, doctors from Stanford checked the veterans. Many had PTSD, anxiety, or issues with alcohol. About half had thought about suicide at some point, and some had even attempted it. Within just one month of ibogaine treatment, the improvements were significant: PTSD symptoms dropped by 88%Depression symptoms dropped by 87%Anxiety symptoms dropped by 81%The veterans also reported less disability and better focus, thinking skills, memory, and impulse control. Another veteran in the study, who served in the U.S. Navy for 27 years, shared that his thinking abilities were "fully restored" after ibogaine, which helped him at work and improved his family life. How Ibogaine Changes the Brain Brain scans helped researchers understand why the drug might be effective. Veterans whose planning and organizing skills improved after treatment showed an increase in certain brain waves called theta rhythms. Stronger theta rhythms might help the brain adapt and be more flexible. Similarly, those with fewer PTSD symptoms showed less complicated brain activity, suggesting the drug helps calm the intense stress response associated with PTSD. These brain scans might also help doctors find out which patients would benefit most from ibogaine. The study reported no serious side effects, and no heart problems occurred. Veterans did mention typical symptoms like headaches and nausea during treatment. Partly because of these positive findings, Texas recently approved a $50 million plan to fund more studies of ibogaine. This program will help match private money for ibogaine trials, which could lead to the drug being approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Researchers believe ibogaine could become a broader drug for brain recovery. They think it works on unique brain pathways and could help us better understand how to treat other forms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression that aren't necessarily connected to TBI. 

ptsd in combat veterans could be treated with this african drug - study finds

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‘Fight through cancer’, ‘you can’t let cancer kick you down’ are things survivors and people who have had recent cancer diagnosis. While it is a good sentiment, one must understand that cancer is difficult a difficult process to go through. However, this young college student did not let this stop her. 

<span>LaShae Rolle</span>, a 27-year-old competitive powerlifter, can squat a massive 441 pounds, bench press 292 pounds, and deadlift 497 pounds. Last year, <span>breast cancer</span> threatened her dreams of competing against the best. But Rolle didn't let it stop her. She powered through her cancer treatment, maintaining an intense strength training program all along. And then, she wrote a study about her experience. 

Rolle, who is studying public health sciences at the University of Miami, became the subject of her own unique study. She documented her journey of elite-level strength training while undergoing chemotherapy, a mastectomy (breast removal surgery), and radiation. 

Her study, published in the journal <span>Lifestyle Medicine</span>, challenges the common belief that cancer patients should only do low or moderate exercise. Rolle explained that strength training was key to her identity as an athlete and researcher. During her cancer journey, it helped her feel connected to herself and in control of her body and mind. 

By the end of her treatment, Rolle had managed to keep almost all the strength she had before her cancer diagnosis. She proudly stated that she kept going, adapting her workouts around her chemotherapy cycles to train safely. This physical activity gave her a sense of normalcy when everything else felt uncertain. 

Previous studies have shown that moderate exercise can help cancer patients by reducing tiredness, improving physical ability, and easing treatment side effects. However, that research usually focused on average people doing regular workouts, not elite athletes trying to maintain high-intensity efforts during treatment. 

In the Miller School of Medicine news release, Tracy Crane, a director at the University of Miami's Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and Rolle's mentor, emphasized that Rolle's story is a powerful reminder that recovery from cancer isn't just about getting better; it's about regaining strength, identity, and purpose. She added that Rolle's commitment to powerlifting shows how movement can be a way to heal, empower, and advocate for oneself. 

<h2>Rolle's Training Plan and Impressive Results </h2>

Rolle was diagnosed with stage 2B breast cancer in 2024. Her cancer was fueled by female hormones, and she didn't have a genetic link to the disease. Her colleagues at the University of Miami helped her create a strength training plan that fit around her chemotherapy schedule: 

<ul><li>High-intensity days were planned before her chemo sessions, focusing on squats, bench press, and deadlifts.</li><li>Moderate days between chemo cycles included exercises like rows and shoulder presses.</li><li>Recovery days immediately after chemo involved light movement and therapy.</li></ul>

By the end of her treatment, Rolle had retained an incredible 93% of her squat strength and 87% of her bench press and deadlift strength. These are remarkable numbers for someone going through chemotherapy. Rolle kept herself accountable by documenting everything with videos and in a training diary, which reminded her of her ongoing strength. She expressed amazement looking back at videos of herself lifting over 400 pounds while on chemotherapy. 

Researchers note that these specific findings mainly apply to elite athletes who already have a background in high-intensity training, rather than the average cancer patient. However, Rolle believes her study highlights the importance of creating treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. She is motivated to continue lifting and to advocate for evidence-based exercise as a key part of cancer care. 

Breast Cancer

lifestyle medicine

College Student Beats Breast Cancer

Active Recovery

Breast Cancer Treatment

LaShae Rolle

‘Fight through cancer’, ‘you can’t let cancer kick you down’ are things survivors and people who have had recent cancer diagnosis. While it is a good sentiment, one must understand that cancer is difficult a difficult process to go through. However, this young college student did not let this stop her. LaShae Rolle, a 27-year-old competitive powerlifter, can squat a massive 441 pounds, bench press 292 pounds, and deadlift 497 pounds. Last year, breast cancer threatened her dreams of competing against the best. But Rolle didn't let it stop her. She powered through her cancer treatment, maintaining an intense strength training program all along. And then, she wrote a study about her experience. Lifting Through Treatment Rolle, who is studying public health sciences at the University of Miami, became the subject of her own unique study. She documented her journey of elite-level strength training while undergoing chemotherapy, a mastectomy (breast removal surgery), and radiation. Her study, published in the journal Lifestyle Medicine, challenges the common belief that cancer patients should only do low or moderate exercise. Rolle explained that strength training was key to her identity as an athlete and researcher. During her cancer journey, it helped her feel connected to herself and in control of her body and mind. By the end of her treatment, Rolle had managed to keep almost all the strength she had before her cancer diagnosis. She proudly stated that she kept going, adapting her workouts around her chemotherapy cycles to train safely. This physical activity gave her a sense of normalcy when everything else felt uncertain. Why This Research Matters Previous studies have shown that moderate exercise can help cancer patients by reducing tiredness, improving physical ability, and easing treatment side effects. However, that research usually focused on average people doing regular workouts, not elite athletes trying to maintain high-intensity efforts during treatment. In the Miller School of Medicine news release, Tracy Crane, a director at the University of Miami's Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and Rolle's mentor, emphasized that Rolle's story is a powerful reminder that recovery from cancer isn't just about getting better; it's about regaining strength, identity, and purpose. She added that Rolle's commitment to powerlifting shows how movement can be a way to heal, empower, and advocate for oneself. Rolle's Training Plan and Impressive Results Rolle was diagnosed with stage 2B breast cancer in 2024. Her cancer was fueled by female hormones, and she didn't have a genetic link to the disease. Her colleagues at the University of Miami helped her create a strength training plan that fit around her chemotherapy schedule: High-intensity days were planned before her chemo sessions, focusing on squats, bench press, and deadlifts.Moderate days between chemo cycles included exercises like rows and shoulder presses.Recovery days immediately after chemo involved light movement and therapy.By the end of her treatment, Rolle had retained an incredible 93% of her squat strength and 87% of her bench press and deadlift strength. These are remarkable numbers for someone going through chemotherapy. Rolle kept herself accountable by documenting everything with videos and in a training diary, which reminded her of her ongoing strength. She expressed amazement looking back at videos of herself lifting over 400 pounds while on chemotherapy. Researchers note that these specific findings mainly apply to elite athletes who already have a background in high-intensity training, rather than the average cancer patient. However, Rolle believes her study highlights the importance of creating treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. She is motivated to continue lifting and to advocate for evidence-based exercise as a key part of cancer care. 

college student beats breast cancer by lifting through recovery - how active recovery helped her treatment

-Grieving The Loss Of A Loved One Too Intensely Can Double The Risk Of Early Death

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Grieving is different for everyone; some people grieve in private, while others grieve by sharing their love and stories with others. It is a natural process one goes through after a loss. While you are eventually expected to move on and find peace with the absence, it isn’t easy for many. Some people grieve for years and others spend their lifetimes looking for peace after the loss. 

A new study reveals that people experiencing very strong grief after losing a loved one are almost twice as likely to die within ten years of that loss. This means their chances of dying early increase by 88%. 

The study, published in Frontiers in Public Health, looked at how grief affects people over a decade. It found that those with consistently high levels of grief in the first few years after a loss were not only more likely to die sooner but also: 

<ul><li>Nearly three times more likely to get mental health care, like talk therapy.</li><li>Over five times more likely to be prescribed antidepressants.</li><li>More than twice as likely to be given sedatives or anti-anxiety medications.</li></ul>

Researchers followed over 1,700 grieving men and women in Denmark. Their average age was 62. Most of them (66%) had lost their partner, 27% had lost a parent, and 7% had lost another close person. 

Participants answered questions about their grief levels over the first three years after their loss. The study found that about 6% of people had very high grief that didn't lessen over time. In contrast, 38% had consistently low grief, and 47% experienced strong or moderate grief at first, which then slowly decreased. 

<h2>How Does Grief Imapct Our Body? </h2>

According to the <span>US National Institute of Aging</span>, grief can affect you both physically and emotionally. As time goes by, you'll still miss your loved one, but for most people, the intense pain will slowly fade. You'll have good days and bad days. It's important to remember that feeling surprised or even guilty for laughing or enjoying time with friends is a common part of the grieving process. It's common to cry easily and experience things like:

<ul><li>Trouble sleeping</li><li>Lack of interest in food</li><li>Difficulty concentrating</li><li>Problems making decisions</li></ul>

<h2>Why Does <span rel="noindex">Intense Grief</span> Affect Mortality? </h2>

While the study clearly shows a link between strong, ongoing grief and an increased <span>risk of early death</span>, researchers aren't entirely sure why. Researchers mentioned that past research found connections between high grief and higher rates of heart disease, mental health problems, and even suicide, but more investigation is needed into the link with early death. 

However, the study did offer a clue: people in the "high grief" group were more likely to have prescriptions for mental health conditions even before their loved one passed away. This suggests they might have been more emotionally vulnerable, making the loss even harder to cope with. They explained that these individuals also generally had less education. 

It's normal to feel sad, numb, or lost for a while after a death. However, for some, grief can become so long-lasting or distressing that it turns into something unhealthy, known as complicated grief. People with this condition might struggle to understand or accept the loss, experience intense and ongoing sadness, and find it hard to get back to their daily life or plan for the future. Other signs include being overwhelmed by negative emotions, constantly thinking about the person who died or how they died, and feeling a lack of meaning or purpose in life. 

Complicated grief is a serious condition that may require extra help. If your sadness is making it difficult to live your daily life, please know that help is available. You can reach out to a support group, a mental health professional, or trusted loved ones. If cost is a concern, ask your doctor or healthcare provider about local programs or professionals who offer affordable or free help. 

Doctors might be able to identify people at risk for severe and prolonged grief by looking for previous signs of depression or other serious mental health conditions. If a doctor spots these signs, they can offer specific support, such as tailored follow-up appointments, referrals to therapists, or dedicated grief counseling. This proactive approach could help those most vulnerable navigate their grief and potentially improve their long-term health outcomes. 

Grief and loss

us national institute of aging

Risk Of Early Death

how does grief impact our health

grieving a loved one

Intense Grief

Grieving is different for everyone; some people grieve in private, while others grieve by sharing their love and stories with others. It is a natural process one goes through after a loss. While you are eventually expected to move on and find peace with the absence, it isn’t easy for many. Some people grieve for years and others spend their lifetimes looking for peace after the loss. A new study reveals that people experiencing very strong grief after losing a loved one are almost twice as likely to die within ten years of that loss. This means their chances of dying early increase by 88%. Long-Term Impact of Grief The study, published in Frontiers in Public Health, looked at how grief affects people over a decade. It found that those with consistently high levels of grief in the first few years after a loss were not only more likely to die sooner but also: Nearly three times more likely to get mental health care, like talk therapy.Over five times more likely to be prescribed antidepressants.More than twice as likely to be given sedatives or anti-anxiety medications.Researchers followed over 1,700 grieving men and women in Denmark. Their average age was 62. Most of them (66%) had lost their partner, 27% had lost a parent, and 7% had lost another close person. Participants answered questions about their grief levels over the first three years after their loss. The study found that about 6% of people had very high grief that didn't lessen over time. In contrast, 38% had consistently low grief, and 47% experienced strong or moderate grief at first, which then slowly decreased. How Does Grief Imapct Our Body? According to the US National Institute of Aging, grief can affect you both physically and emotionally. As time goes by, you'll still miss your loved one, but for most people, the intense pain will slowly fade. You'll have good days and bad days. It's important to remember that feeling surprised or even guilty for laughing or enjoying time with friends is a common part of the grieving process. It's common to cry easily and experience things like:Trouble sleepingLack of interest in foodDifficulty concentratingProblems making decisionsWhy Does Intense Grief Affect Mortality? While the study clearly shows a link between strong, ongoing grief and an increased risk of early death, researchers aren't entirely sure why. Researchers mentioned that past research found connections between high grief and higher rates of heart disease, mental health problems, and even suicide, but more investigation is needed into the link with early death. However, the study did offer a clue: people in the "high grief" group were more likely to have prescriptions for mental health conditions even before their loved one passed away. This suggests they might have been more emotionally vulnerable, making the loss even harder to cope with. They explained that these individuals also generally had less education. What Does Intense Grief Mean? It's normal to feel sad, numb, or lost for a while after a death. However, for some, grief can become so long-lasting or distressing that it turns into something unhealthy, known as complicated grief. People with this condition might struggle to understand or accept the loss, experience intense and ongoing sadness, and find it hard to get back to their daily life or plan for the future. Other signs include being overwhelmed by negative emotions, constantly thinking about the person who died or how they died, and feeling a lack of meaning or purpose in life. Identifying Those at Risk Complicated grief is a serious condition that may require extra help. If your sadness is making it difficult to live your daily life, please know that help is available. You can reach out to a support group, a mental health professional, or trusted loved ones. If cost is a concern, ask your doctor or healthcare provider about local programs or professionals who offer affordable or free help. Doctors might be able to identify people at risk for severe and prolonged grief by looking for previous signs of depression or other serious mental health conditions. If a doctor spots these signs, they can offer specific support, such as tailored follow-up appointments, referrals to therapists, or dedicated grief counseling. This proactive approach could help those most vulnerable navigate their grief and potentially improve their long-term health outcomes. 

grieving the loss of a loved one too intensely can double the risk of early death

Ishita Roy

Nutrition

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5 Surprisingly Easy Things You Can Do Daily to Start Reversing Fatty Liver

5 surprisingly easy things you can do daily to start reversing fatty liver

The liver is one of the largest and hardest-working organs in the human body. It plays a crucial role in keeping you healthy by filtering toxins from the blood, aiding digestion, storing energy, and performing hundreds of other vital tasks. When this powerhouse organ becomes damaged or starts to underperform, your body often gives off warning signs, and some of the earliest clues can show up on your skin.

Liver disease is a progressive condition that, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis or liver failure. The good news is that catching it early makes a big difference. According to experts, there are visible skin changes you can notice yourself that might hint at underlying liver trouble.

Here are four skin-related signs that could point to liver disease and why they happen, as per Dr Saurabh Sethi, MD, MPH, board-certified gastroenterologist, hepatologist, and interventional endoscopist trained at AIIMS, Harvard and Stanford.

<h4>Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes (Jaundice)</h4>

This is perhaps the most well-known sign of liver issues. Jaundice occurs when bilirubin, a yellowish pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells, builds up in the body. Normally, the liver processes bilirubin and flushes it out. But when the liver is damaged or inflamed, this process is disrupted, leading to yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. If you or someone you know notices this change, it’s a strong signal to get checked.

<h4>Spider Angiomas (Spider-like Blood Vessels)</h4>

These are small, web-like clusters of dilated blood vessels that often appear on the face, neck, upper chest, or arms. They get their name because they resemble tiny red spiders just under the surface of the skin. In liver disease, they tend to appear due to increased estrogen levels in the body, which the liver normally helps regulate. Their presence could be more than just a cosmetic concern—it may be a sign of liver dysfunction.

Palmar erythema refers to redness and sometimes swelling of the palms, particularly around the base of the thumb and little finger. This condition is also linked to elevated estrogen levels in the bloodstream and increased blood flow, both of which may result from impaired liver function. It can be a subtle symptom that’s easy to miss, but it’s worth noting if it persists without another explanation.

<h4>Unexplained Itching, Especially at Night</h4>

If you're experiencing persistent itching that doesn’t seem to have a clear cause, and particularly if it gets worse at night, it could be linked to liver disease. This type of itching often stems from the buildup of bile salts under the skin, which happens when the liver struggles to eliminate waste properly. Unlike typical skin conditions, liver-related itching usually doesn't come with a rash, which makes it even trickier to identify.

<h4>Understanding Liver Disease and Its Stages</h4>

Chronic liver disease doesn’t develop overnight. According to the Cleveland Clinic, it typically progresses through four key stages: hepatitis (inflammation), fibrosis (mild scarring), cirrhosis (advanced scarring), and eventually liver failure if left untreated.

Globally, liver disease is responsible for around 2 million deaths each year, roughly 4 percent of all deaths. In the U.S., it affects about 4.5 million adults, with men being diagnosed almost twice as often as women.

Many symptoms of liver disease can be subtle or easily mistaken for other conditions. That’s why it’s so important to pay attention to changes in your body, especially your skin. If you notice any of these signs, consider speaking to a healthcare provider. Early detection and proper management can help prevent the disease from progressing and protect your long-term health.

Skin & Hair

health and wellness

skin problems

skin problems and liver related

liver health

The liver is one of the largest and hardest-working organs in the human body. It plays a crucial role in keeping you healthy by filtering toxins from the blood, aiding digestion, storing energy, and performing hundreds of other vital tasks. When this powerhouse organ becomes damaged or starts to underperform, your body often gives off warning signs, and some of the earliest clues can show up on your skin.Liver disease is a progressive condition that, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis or liver failure. The good news is that catching it early makes a big difference. According to experts, there are visible skin changes you can notice yourself that might hint at underlying liver trouble.Here are four skin-related signs that could point to liver disease and why they happen, as per Dr Saurabh Sethi, MD, MPH, board-certified gastroenterologist, hepatologist, and interventional endoscopist trained at AIIMS, Harvard and Stanford.Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes (Jaundice)This is perhaps the most well-known sign of liver issues. Jaundice occurs when bilirubin, a yellowish pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells, builds up in the body. Normally, the liver processes bilirubin and flushes it out. But when the liver is damaged or inflamed, this process is disrupted, leading to yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. If you or someone you know notices this change, it’s a strong signal to get checked.Spider Angiomas (Spider-like Blood Vessels)These are small, web-like clusters of dilated blood vessels that often appear on the face, neck, upper chest, or arms. They get their name because they resemble tiny red spiders just under the surface of the skin. In liver disease, they tend to appear due to increased estrogen levels in the body, which the liver normally helps regulate. Their presence could be more than just a cosmetic concern—it may be a sign of liver dysfunction.Palmar Erythema (Red Palms)Palmar erythema refers to redness and sometimes swelling of the palms, particularly around the base of the thumb and little finger. This condition is also linked to elevated estrogen levels in the bloodstream and increased blood flow, both of which may result from impaired liver function. It can be a subtle symptom that’s easy to miss, but it’s worth noting if it persists without another explanation.Unexplained Itching, Especially at NightIf you're experiencing persistent itching that doesn’t seem to have a clear cause, and particularly if it gets worse at night, it could be linked to liver disease. This type of itching often stems from the buildup of bile salts under the skin, which happens when the liver struggles to eliminate waste properly. Unlike typical skin conditions, liver-related itching usually doesn't come with a rash, which makes it even trickier to identify.          View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Saurabh Sethi (@doctor.sethi)]]>Understanding Liver Disease and Its StagesChronic liver disease doesn’t develop overnight. According to the Cleveland Clinic, it typically progresses through four key stages: hepatitis (inflammation), fibrosis (mild scarring), cirrhosis (advanced scarring), and eventually liver failure if left untreated.Globally, liver disease is responsible for around 2 million deaths each year, roughly 4 percent of all deaths. In the U.S., it affects about 4.5 million adults, with men being diagnosed almost twice as often as women.Why Early Detection MattersMany symptoms of liver disease can be subtle or easily mistaken for other conditions. That’s why it’s so important to pay attention to changes in your body, especially your skin. If you notice any of these signs, consider speaking to a healthcare provider. Early detection and proper management can help prevent the disease from progressing and protect your long-term health.

‘don’t ignore that itch’: 4 skin clues linked to liver disease, warns harvard doctor

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PTSD In Combat Veterans Could Be Treated With This African Drug - Study Finds

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