Health and Me

Ishita Roy

This Habit Gave A Man A Fungal Lung Infection—Know What It Is

This Habit Gave a Man a Fungal Lung Infection—Know What Is It

Many people have weird habits, however, some of these could put your life at risk. This is what happened with a man from Chongqing, China, identified as Li Qui. 

The man had a habit of regularly sniffing his socks after a long day of work. While it seems like an ugly habit, some people actually follow it daily, including him. This cost him his health, and led to serious medical issues. He began to experience severe coughing fits and also led to bloodshot eyes. 

When Li experienced coughing fits, he initially went ahead with some over-the-counter cough syrups. However, his symptoms only worsened. This is what led to a detailed investigation on his conditions. 

As per Dr Liang Peiqiang, who is the chief physician in the hospital's Department of Respiratory Medicine, Li Qui's CT scan and MRI scans revealed signs of infections and inflammation in the lower right lung. 

Li Qui was recommended for a detailed bronchoscopy, which revealed that he was suffering from a fungal infection caused by Aspergillus. 

As per the Centers of Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC), aspergillosis is a disease which is caused by breathing spores from Aspergillus, which is a common mold. CDC, however, also notes that most people do not get sick from aspergillus. 

Aspergillosis is an infection, which is caused by common mold. It can cause mild to severe illness, especially in people with weakened immune system or pre-existing lung diseases. 

It can cause different types of infections, including chronic lung conditions and widespread infections. Symptoms could be mild to severe. 

According to Dr. Peiqiang, Li's sock-sniffing habit could have exposed his lungs to spores of the fungus. “After hearing what he said, we realized that this habit of Li Qi might be the culprit that caused his lung inflammation,” he noted, as per <em>The Sun</em>.

Experts explain that wearing shoes for extended periods creates a warm, humid environment ideal for fungal growth. Inhaling the fungi from contaminated socks can allow them to enter the lower respiratory tract through the nose or mouth.

Doctors reported that the patient responded positively to antifungal medication and has since been discharged from the hospital. Strangely, this isn’t the first case of its kind in China. A few years ago, another unusual incident involved a 37-year-old man who was also hospitalized with a persistent cough and chest pain. Medical staff later discovered that he had developed a habit of smelling the socks he had worn, which was believed to have contributed to his condition.

<ul><li>Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis</li><li>Aspergilloma</li><li>Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis</li><li>Invasive aspergillosis</li></ul>

<ul><li>Severe coughing, sometimes even blood</li><li>Breathlessness</li><li>Noisy breathing and wheezing</li><li>Chest pain</li><li>High fever</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Weight</li></ul>

Health Conditions A-Z

health

fungal lung infection

health and wellness

health news

sock sniffing habit

lung infection

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Many people have weird habits, however, some of these could put your life at risk. This is what happened with a man from Chongqing, China, identified as Li Qui. The man had a habit of regularly sniffing his socks after a long day of work. While it seems like an ugly habit, some people actually follow it daily, including him. This cost him his health, and led to serious medical issues. He began to experience severe coughing fits and also led to bloodshot eyes. What Happened To Li Qui?When Li experienced coughing fits, he initially went ahead with some over-the-counter cough syrups. However, his symptoms only worsened. This is what led to a detailed investigation on his conditions. As per Dr Liang Peiqiang, who is the chief physician in the hospital's Department of Respiratory Medicine, Li Qui's CT scan and MRI scans revealed signs of infections and inflammation in the lower right lung. Li Qui was recommended for a detailed bronchoscopy, which revealed that he was suffering from a fungal infection caused by Aspergillus. What Is Aspergillus?As per the Centers of Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC), aspergillosis is a disease which is caused by breathing spores from Aspergillus, which is a common mold. CDC, however, also notes that most people do not get sick from aspergillus. Aspergillosis is an infection, which is caused by common mold. It can cause mild to severe illness, especially in people with weakened immune system or pre-existing lung diseases. It can cause different types of infections, including chronic lung conditions and widespread infections. Symptoms could be mild to severe. According to Dr. Peiqiang, Li's sock-sniffing habit could have exposed his lungs to spores of the fungus. “After hearing what he said, we realized that this habit of Li Qi might be the culprit that caused his lung inflammation,” he noted, as per The Sun.Experts explain that wearing shoes for extended periods creates a warm, humid environment ideal for fungal growth. Inhaling the fungi from contaminated socks can allow them to enter the lower respiratory tract through the nose or mouth.A Similar Case BeforeDoctors reported that the patient responded positively to antifungal medication and has since been discharged from the hospital. Strangely, this isn’t the first case of its kind in China. A few years ago, another unusual incident involved a 37-year-old man who was also hospitalized with a persistent cough and chest pain. Medical staff later discovered that he had developed a habit of smelling the socks he had worn, which was believed to have contributed to his condition.Types of AspergillosesAllergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosisAspergillomaChronic pulmonary aspergillosisInvasive aspergillosisSigns of Aspergilloses:Severe coughing, sometimes even bloodBreathlessnessNoisy breathing and wheezingChest painHigh feverFatigueWeight

this habit gave a man a fungal lung infection—know what it is

Tanya Dutt

Health News

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We all have body aches and pains from time to time, be it from a grueling workout, a small fall, or just the wear and tear of life. Most of the time, these pains subside with rest or mild treatments, and we go on. But what if that nagging ache in your bone isn't "just an injury"? What if it's your body's way of telling you something much more sinister, a warning sign easily ignored?

<span>Bone cancer</span> is one of those hidden yet serious conditions that tends to cloak itself with frequent symptoms. Its beginnings can disguise themselves as anything from an athletic injury to arthritis, so it's intensely difficult to detect until it's quite far along. This stealthiness causes millions of people to unknowingly overlook vital symptoms, postponing detection and treatment.

Bone <span>cancer</span> is usually eclipsed by more common cancers, but its early diagnosis is a make-or-break issue. The problem is that it quietly develops and exhibits symptoms that look exactly like common injuries or orthopedic problems. What may begin as a nagging pain could really be the body's initial indication of something much more sinister. Being aware of these underappreciated signs and knowing the value of early diagnosis can alter the treatment course—and save lives.

<h2>How Bone Cancer Hurts More Than a Pain of an Injury</h2>

One of the greatest challenges with bone cancer is that its beginning signs are too readily confused with normal injuries.

<ul><li>Ongoing pain</li><li>Swollen areas around joints</li><li>Pain that is believed to be a result of sports or daily activities</li></ul>

These tend to make individuals and sometimes physicians write off the issue as trivial. The discomfort is dull, sporadic, and does not necessarily affect movement right away, thus slowing down the urgent seeking of medical help.

Dr. Ashish Bangar, a Surgical Oncology Assistant Professor at D. Y. Patil Hospital, points to the importance of pain patterns. "Bone pain that isn't relieved by rest or regular painkillers, especially if it increases at night, should never be taken lightly. What may appear to be a minor injury may turn out to be an initial warning sign of bone cancer," he says. This nighttime rise in pain is an indication or red flag that is many times ignored.

Aside from pain, swelling around joints without apparent injury or trauma is also a sign of malignancy. Even fractures caused by low-impact incidents—something that would not otherwise crack bones—can be signs of cancer-caused bone weakening. However, these signs usually go undetected or are blamed on less severe conditions until the disease has advanced.

<h2>Why Early and Correct Diagnosis Is Critical?</h2>

Early diagnosis of bone cancer is not merely about finding it but doing so with accuracy and comprehensiveness. Advanced technologies for imaging, such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans, have advanced the diagnostic process, enabling doctors to identify suspicious lesions with greater precision. It is not merely the removal of barriers to such technology that is required.

Expert opinion is key. Biopsies or misdiagnosis by nonspecialized personnel can drastically curtail treatment options. A botched biopsy, for instance, may disqualify the patient for limb-salvage procedures that attempt to save as much of the patient's limb as possible instead of resorting to amputation.

Multidisciplinary treatment including radiologists, surgical oncologists, pathologists, and medical oncologists is the need of the hour. This kind of integration guarantees that imaging, biopsy, and systemic treatment modalities are optimized to suit the patient's individual condition. In D. Y. Patil Hospital in Pune, a tertiary care center, this has resulted in improved survival and overall quality of life for patients through more successful, limb-sparing treatments.

<h2>Why Are Bone Cancer Patients Diagnosed Late?</h2>

One of the biggest challenges to bone cancer treatment is delayed access to specialist cancer centers. Although urban tertiary hospitals are well-endowed with good diagnostics and multidisciplinary expertise, a lot of patients do not get referred to specialists in time. The reasons are diverse—poverty of information, attribution of symptoms to benign conditions, or distance and cost.

This delay frequently results in patients seeking care with advanced disease, when the choices are fewer and the prognosis is poorer. Extensive bone destruction or metastasis has already taken place in many instances by the time patients come to specialized centers.

Closing this access gap involves system changes—not only in health infrastructure, but in education of the public. Individuals must appreciate that chronic or unexplained bone pain is not something to be ignored or waited out.

Promisingly, therapeutic and diagnostic advances are revolutionizing the prognosis for bone cancer patients. Limb-conserving surgeries are now much more possible, thanks to advanced imaging and refined surgical methods. Targeted systemic treatments and chemotherapy regimens specific to certain bone cancers have further increased survival rates.

Early detection is still the foundation of these advances. If detected early, treatment can be minimally invasive, more efficient, and greatly enhance patients' quality of life. This improvement emphasizes the need for vigilance—both by patients and healthcare professionals.

<span>Bone Cancer Awareness</span> is a timely reminder that ongoing bone pain and swelling should never be taken lightly. If you or someone you know has ongoing or unexplained bone pain, swelling around joints, or fractures from minor trauma, it's important to have evaluation beyond the general practitioner level. Orthopedic or oncology specialists have the training to pick out subtle warning signs and get appropriate tests started.

Bolstering public awareness and education initiatives can break the cycle of delayed diagnosis. No less vital is empowering the primary care physician to recognize such signs early and refer patients to specialists in a timely manner.

Bone cancer is uncommon, but the consequences are high. What might start as a seemingly harmless pain can be the initial sign of a critical illness. Early identification of symptoms, professional diagnosis, and coordinated treatment plans can be the difference between disability and health.

From chronic pain to a potentially life-saving diagnosis, the word is out: don't ignore the pain. Early detection saves lives, saves limbs, and gives patients their best hope at a healthy future. If your bone pain doesn't resolve or gets worse without good reason, seek out a specialist. Your bones could be saying something more than mere injury.

cancer

bone cancer

bone cancer symptoms

persistent bone pain

early bone cancer signs

bone swelling causes

bone cancer diagnosis

limb salvage surgery

bone cancer awareness

We all have body aches and pains from time to time, be it from a grueling workout, a small fall, or just the wear and tear of life. Most of the time, these pains subside with rest or mild treatments, and we go on. But what if that nagging ache in your bone isn't "just an injury"? What if it's your body's way of telling you something much more sinister, a warning sign easily ignored?Bone cancer is one of those hidden yet serious conditions that tends to cloak itself with frequent symptoms. Its beginnings can disguise themselves as anything from an athletic injury to arthritis, so it's intensely difficult to detect until it's quite far along. This stealthiness causes millions of people to unknowingly overlook vital symptoms, postponing detection and treatment.Bone cancer is usually eclipsed by more common cancers, but its early diagnosis is a make-or-break issue. The problem is that it quietly develops and exhibits symptoms that look exactly like common injuries or orthopedic problems. What may begin as a nagging pain could really be the body's initial indication of something much more sinister. Being aware of these underappreciated signs and knowing the value of early diagnosis can alter the treatment course—and save lives.How Bone Cancer Hurts More Than a Pain of an InjuryOne of the greatest challenges with bone cancer is that its beginning signs are too readily confused with normal injuries.Ongoing painSwollen areas around jointsPain that is believed to be a result of sports or daily activitiesThese tend to make individuals and sometimes physicians write off the issue as trivial. The discomfort is dull, sporadic, and does not necessarily affect movement right away, thus slowing down the urgent seeking of medical help.Dr. Ashish Bangar, a Surgical Oncology Assistant Professor at D. Y. Patil Hospital, points to the importance of pain patterns. "Bone pain that isn't relieved by rest or regular painkillers, especially if it increases at night, should never be taken lightly. What may appear to be a minor injury may turn out to be an initial warning sign of bone cancer," he says. This nighttime rise in pain is an indication or red flag that is many times ignored.Aside from pain, swelling around joints without apparent injury or trauma is also a sign of malignancy. Even fractures caused by low-impact incidents—something that would not otherwise crack bones—can be signs of cancer-caused bone weakening. However, these signs usually go undetected or are blamed on less severe conditions until the disease has advanced.Why Early and Correct Diagnosis Is Critical?Early diagnosis of bone cancer is not merely about finding it but doing so with accuracy and comprehensiveness. Advanced technologies for imaging, such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans, have advanced the diagnostic process, enabling doctors to identify suspicious lesions with greater precision. It is not merely the removal of barriers to such technology that is required.Expert opinion is key. Biopsies or misdiagnosis by nonspecialized personnel can drastically curtail treatment options. A botched biopsy, for instance, may disqualify the patient for limb-salvage procedures that attempt to save as much of the patient's limb as possible instead of resorting to amputation.Multidisciplinary treatment including radiologists, surgical oncologists, pathologists, and medical oncologists is the need of the hour. This kind of integration guarantees that imaging, biopsy, and systemic treatment modalities are optimized to suit the patient's individual condition. In D. Y. Patil Hospital in Pune, a tertiary care center, this has resulted in improved survival and overall quality of life for patients through more successful, limb-sparing treatments.Why Are Bone Cancer Patients Diagnosed Late?One of the biggest challenges to bone cancer treatment is delayed access to specialist cancer centers. Although urban tertiary hospitals are well-endowed with good diagnostics and multidisciplinary expertise, a lot of patients do not get referred to specialists in time. The reasons are diverse—poverty of information, attribution of symptoms to benign conditions, or distance and cost.This delay frequently results in patients seeking care with advanced disease, when the choices are fewer and the prognosis is poorer. Extensive bone destruction or metastasis has already taken place in many instances by the time patients come to specialized centers.Closing this access gap involves system changes—not only in health infrastructure, but in education of the public. Individuals must appreciate that chronic or unexplained bone pain is not something to be ignored or waited out.Promisingly, therapeutic and diagnostic advances are revolutionizing the prognosis for bone cancer patients. Limb-conserving surgeries are now much more possible, thanks to advanced imaging and refined surgical methods. Targeted systemic treatments and chemotherapy regimens specific to certain bone cancers have further increased survival rates.Early detection is still the foundation of these advances. If detected early, treatment can be minimally invasive, more efficient, and greatly enhance patients' quality of life. This improvement emphasizes the need for vigilance—both by patients and healthcare professionals.Bone Cancer Awareness is a timely reminder that ongoing bone pain and swelling should never be taken lightly. If you or someone you know has ongoing or unexplained bone pain, swelling around joints, or fractures from minor trauma, it's important to have evaluation beyond the general practitioner level. Orthopedic or oncology specialists have the training to pick out subtle warning signs and get appropriate tests started.Bolstering public awareness and education initiatives can break the cycle of delayed diagnosis. No less vital is empowering the primary care physician to recognize such signs early and refer patients to specialists in a timely manner.Bone cancer is uncommon, but the consequences are high. What might start as a seemingly harmless pain can be the initial sign of a critical illness. Early identification of symptoms, professional diagnosis, and coordinated treatment plans can be the difference between disability and health.From chronic pain to a potentially life-saving diagnosis, the word is out: don't ignore the pain. Early detection saves lives, saves limbs, and gives patients their best hope at a healthy future. If your bone pain doesn't resolve or gets worse without good reason, seek out a specialist. Your bones could be saying something more than mere injury.

why that persistent ache might not be ‘just an injury’, overlooked signs that could signal bone cancer

Supriya Ramesh

Single Fatty Meal Can Disrupt Brain Blood Flow, Study Warns

Credits: Canva

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We all know deep down that greasy burgers, cheesy pizzas and creamy milkshakes are not exactly health food. But a new study suggests that even a single fatty blowout could momentarily trip up the <span>brain</span>’s blood supply, possibly nudging the risk of <span>stroke</span> and <span>dementia</span>.

Dietary fat is not evil. In fact, it is essential, as it fuels our bodies, ferries vitamins around, cushions our organs and even acts as built-in insulation. But not all fats are created equal. The two main types, saturated and unsaturated, behave differently in the body.

Saturated fats, found in things like butter, fatty cuts of meat, and indulgent pizzas, are infamous for their role in clogging arteries and stressing the heart. And, it turns out, the trouble they stir up may not stop at the chest.

<h3>The Brain’s Delicate Fuel Line</h3>

Your brain is a high-maintenance organ with minimal energy reserves. To keep thoughts, memories and reflexes firing, it depends on a steady stream of oxygen and glucose carried by the blood.

That stability is maintained by a process called <span>dynamic cerebral autoregulation</span>, the brain’s own “shock absorber” that keeps <span>blood flow</span> steady despite everyday changes in blood pressure, like when you stand up too fast or hit the treadmill. When this safety system falters, blood flow can fluctuate wildly, depriving the brain of oxygen one moment and flooding it the next. Over time, that instability can pave the way for strokes or dementia.

To see how <span>saturated fat</span> affects this process, researchers recruited 41 men — 20 aged 18 to 35 and 21 aged 60 to 80. They tested how well the participants’ <span>blood vessels</span> performed before and four hours after eating a meal loaded with saturated fat.

And the test meal? A milkshake nicknamed “the brain bomb”, made mostly of heavy whipping cream, packing 1,362 calories and 130 grams of fat. That’s a fat load worthy of a fast-food feast.

Before and after the milkshake, the researchers measured how well arm blood vessels could widen in response to increased blood flow (an indicator of heart health) and how well brain vessels managed blood pressure swings. For the brain test, participants did body-weight squats while ultrasound tracked their blood flow.

The results were sobering. The study published in Science Direct says that both young and older participants showed reduced ability for blood vessels linked to the heart to expand after the fatty shake. And the brain’s “shock absorbers” were weaker too, meaning blood flow regulation suffered.

Older adults fared worse, with about a 10 per cent greater decline than the younger group. That suggests ageing brains are more vulnerable to the short-term effects of saturated fat, a problem given that older adults are already at greater risk for stroke and neurodegenerative disease.

The study did not test mental performance directly, but previous research by the same team found that a high-fat meal can spike <span>free radicals</span> (unstable molecules that damage cells) and reduce <span>nitric oxide</span> (a key player in relaxing blood vessels). Together, these changes could explain why blood flow regulation took a hit.

While one occasional takeaway would not doom you, the researchers stress that every <span>fatty meal</span> has an immediate, measurable effect on the body and the brain.

<h3>Why This Matters More Than You Think</h3>

The NHS advises men to keep saturated fat intake under 30 grams a day and women under 20 grams. Yet many of us overshoot that regularly, especially on weekends. And we spend much of our day in a “post-prandial” state, the hours after eating when fat levels in the blood are elevated. If those hours are when our brains are most vulnerable, that is a lot of potential exposure.

Interestingly, the study only looked at men. It is still unknown how women’s brains respond to a high-fat meal, even though women have a higher lifetime risk of stroke and dementia. The effects of unsaturated fat in a single meal are also a mystery, though foods like oily fish, walnuts and seeds are linked to better brain and heart health over time.

This research serves as a reminder that diet does not just shape our long-term health; it changes our body and brain in real time. 

fatty meal

brain

blood flow

stroke

dementia

saturated fat

blood vessels

nitric oxide

free radicals

dynamic cerebral autoregulation

We all know deep down that greasy burgers, cheesy pizzas and creamy milkshakes are not exactly health food. But a new study suggests that even a single fatty blowout could momentarily trip up the brain’s blood supply, possibly nudging the risk of stroke and dementia.Dietary fat is not evil. In fact, it is essential, as it fuels our bodies, ferries vitamins around, cushions our organs and even acts as built-in insulation. But not all fats are created equal. The two main types, saturated and unsaturated, behave differently in the body.Saturated fats, found in things like butter, fatty cuts of meat, and indulgent pizzas, are infamous for their role in clogging arteries and stressing the heart. And, it turns out, the trouble they stir up may not stop at the chest.The Brain’s Delicate Fuel LineYour brain is a high-maintenance organ with minimal energy reserves. To keep thoughts, memories and reflexes firing, it depends on a steady stream of oxygen and glucose carried by the blood.That stability is maintained by a process called dynamic cerebral autoregulation, the brain’s own “shock absorber” that keeps blood flow steady despite everyday changes in blood pressure, like when you stand up too fast or hit the treadmill. When this safety system falters, blood flow can fluctuate wildly, depriving the brain of oxygen one moment and flooding it the next. Over time, that instability can pave the way for strokes or dementia.What the Study DidTo see how saturated fat affects this process, researchers recruited 41 men — 20 aged 18 to 35 and 21 aged 60 to 80. They tested how well the participants’ blood vessels performed before and four hours after eating a meal loaded with saturated fat.And the test meal? A milkshake nicknamed “the brain bomb”, made mostly of heavy whipping cream, packing 1,362 calories and 130 grams of fat. That’s a fat load worthy of a fast-food feast.Before and after the milkshake, the researchers measured how well arm blood vessels could widen in response to increased blood flow (an indicator of heart health) and how well brain vessels managed blood pressure swings. For the brain test, participants did body-weight squats while ultrasound tracked their blood flow.What They FoundThe results were sobering. The study published in Science Direct says that both young and older participants showed reduced ability for blood vessels linked to the heart to expand after the fatty shake. And the brain’s “shock absorbers” were weaker too, meaning blood flow regulation suffered.Older adults fared worse, with about a 10 per cent greater decline than the younger group. That suggests ageing brains are more vulnerable to the short-term effects of saturated fat, a problem given that older adults are already at greater risk for stroke and neurodegenerative disease.The study did not test mental performance directly, but previous research by the same team found that a high-fat meal can spike free radicals (unstable molecules that damage cells) and reduce nitric oxide (a key player in relaxing blood vessels). Together, these changes could explain why blood flow regulation took a hit.While one occasional takeaway would not doom you, the researchers stress that every fatty meal has an immediate, measurable effect on the body and the brain.Why This Matters More Than You ThinkThe NHS advises men to keep saturated fat intake under 30 grams a day and women under 20 grams. Yet many of us overshoot that regularly, especially on weekends. And we spend much of our day in a “post-prandial” state, the hours after eating when fat levels in the blood are elevated. If those hours are when our brains are most vulnerable, that is a lot of potential exposure.Interestingly, the study only looked at men. It is still unknown how women’s brains respond to a high-fat meal, even though women have a higher lifetime risk of stroke and dementia. The effects of unsaturated fat in a single meal are also a mystery, though foods like oily fish, walnuts and seeds are linked to better brain and heart health over time.This research serves as a reminder that diet does not just shape our long-term health; it changes our body and brain in real time. 

single fatty meal can disrupt brain blood flow, study warns

Inner Child: When Children Know Who They Are, Yet Cannot Live That Truth

Parenting

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<em><span rel="noindex">Inner Child</span>’ is Health and Me's new <span rel="noindex">mental health</span> series where we deep dive into lesser-known aspects of child <span rel="noindex">psychology</span> and how it shapes you as you grow up. Often unheard, mistaken, and misunderstood, in this series we talk about the children’s perspective and their mental health, something different than you might have read in your parenting books. After all, parenting is not just about teaching but also unlearning.</em>

For many children, growing up is a journey of discovery, figuring out who they are, what they like, and how they fit into the world. But for some, there is a deeper, more painful truth they recognize early on yet cannot express: that the gender assigned to them at birth does not match the person they know themselves to be inside.

Bruna, a Delhi-based tattoo artist, now 33, remembers that awareness vividly. “It just didn’t come one day,” she says. “There was always a little girl inside me.” Her words echo a reality that experts confirm, children often understand their gender identity far earlier than most adults think. Yet, societal taboos, lack of awareness, and fear of rejection force many of them to live a life in hiding, carrying a burden far heavier than their years.

<h4>Recognizing the Truth at an Early Age</h4>

Psychologists say that by the age of two or three, most children begin to identify themselves as a boy or girl. Between the ages of two and five, they understand that this identity is permanent. By the age of six to eight, they start learning the social rules and expectations attached to gender.

“Many children between three and five start realizing that their internal sense of self does not match the gender label given to them at birth,” explains Dr. Rahul Chandhok, Senior Consultant and Head of Psychiatry at Artemis Lite NFC, New Delhi. “This awareness can show in different ways, gravitating towards clothes, toys, or activities linked to the opposite gender, discomfort with their own body, or rejecting rigid gender roles.”

Bruna’s childhood memories reflect this early self-awareness. She recalls being drawn to the skirts her classmates wore, the way her female teachers dressed, and the jewellery and perfume her mother used. “When I applied the perfume, it felt like me,” she says. “But when I wore men’s clothes, I felt disconnected. My behavior to act like a man was forced.”

For children like Bruna, the lack of awareness meant there was no safe space to share their feelings. Conversations around LGBTQ+ identities were rare, often clouded with stigma. “I didn’t know who to talk to,” she says. “I thought trans meant only the Hijra community, and I had a stereotypical image of them. I was scared, scared of becoming someone people would not accept.”

She remembers one rainy afternoon at her grandmother’s home when she was given a gown to wear because her clothes were wet. “I was so happy, dancing around in it,” she recalls. “But when I tried to step outside, my mother stopped me. She said I could not go out like that because I was a boy. I felt so bad.”

Dr. Chandhok explains that when such feelings are repeatedly dismissed, children begin to internalise the belief that there is something wrong with them. “The suppression of authentic identity lowers self-esteem, increases the risk of anxiety and depression, and often leads to social withdrawal,” he says.

Bruna kept her truth hidden for years. She masked her attraction to men by pretending to be interested in women. She endured the discomfort of clothing and even undergarments that felt alien to her. She dreaded the changes puberty brought, body hair, a masculine chest, all reinforcing a body that felt like a disguise.

This silence comes at a cost. “When a child cannot express their real self, they live in constant fear of being found out,” says Dr. Chandhok. “The stress builds up and can affect studies, friendships, and general well-being. In some cases, it leads to severe depression or even suicidal thoughts.”

<h4>Festivals and the Pain of Exclusion</h4>

While many children look forward to festivals, Bruna remembers them as the times she felt most disconnected. Seeing women dressed up in bright clothes, adorned with jewellery, only deepened her longing. “I should have been born a woman,” she thought, over and over again.

This isn’t just about clothes or appearances, it’s about belonging. For children whose gender identity does not match their assigned sex, these moments highlight the gap between how they see themselves and how the world sees them.

One of the most persistent myths about gender identity is that it is a matter of choice. Bruna is clear in her response: “It is a big lie. If it were a choice, all women would choose to be men because life for women in this society is so hard. Why would anyone choose heavy hormone therapy, surgeries, and the challenges of living as a woman if it were just a decision you could make and change?”

Gender identity, as experts confirm, is an innate part of who we are. A temporary wish to be another gender for reasons like safety or social convenience is different, and usually short-lived. True gender identity is a deep, consistent feeling that persists over time.

<h4>The Psychological Toll of Suppression</h4>

When a child’s identity is consistently denied, the consequences run deep. Dr. Chandhok warns that suppressing one’s true gender identity not only causes immediate emotional distress but also has long-term developmental effects.

“The child may feel trapped, ashamed, and lonely,” he explains. “They may avoid forming close bonds out of fear of rejection. Over time, this affects their social skills, their ability to trust, and their sense of self-worth.”

For Bruna, this meant navigating her school and college years with a constant internal struggle. Every interaction was filtered through the need to hide who she was. Every day brought a reminder that the world expected her to be someone else.

<h4>Creating Safe Spaces for Children</h4>

Experts agree that the first step to supporting children is listening without judgment. When a child expresses discomfort with their gender, parents and caregivers should focus on understanding whether this is a deeply felt identity or a reaction to temporary circumstances.

“A loving and accepting environment is crucial,” says Dr. Chandhok. “It allows children to explore their identity safely, without fear of punishment or ridicule. Early support can significantly reduce the mental health risks they face.”

Bruna eventually found the courage to live her truth, but the scars of her childhood remain. “I lost so many years pretending,” she says. “I wish someone had told me it was okay to be me.”

inner child

gender vs sex

psychology

mental health

Inner Child’ is Health and Me's new mental health series where we deep dive into lesser-known aspects of child psychology and how it shapes you as you grow up. Often unheard, mistaken, and misunderstood, in this series we talk about the children’s perspective and their mental health, something different than you might have read in your parenting books. After all, parenting is not just about teaching but also unlearning.For many children, growing up is a journey of discovery, figuring out who they are, what they like, and how they fit into the world. But for some, there is a deeper, more painful truth they recognize early on yet cannot express: that the gender assigned to them at birth does not match the person they know themselves to be inside.Bruna, a Delhi-based tattoo artist, now 33, remembers that awareness vividly. “It just didn’t come one day,” she says. “There was always a little girl inside me.” Her words echo a reality that experts confirm, children often understand their gender identity far earlier than most adults think. Yet, societal taboos, lack of awareness, and fear of rejection force many of them to live a life in hiding, carrying a burden far heavier than their years.Recognizing the Truth at an Early AgePsychologists say that by the age of two or three, most children begin to identify themselves as a boy or girl. Between the ages of two and five, they understand that this identity is permanent. By the age of six to eight, they start learning the social rules and expectations attached to gender.“Many children between three and five start realizing that their internal sense of self does not match the gender label given to them at birth,” explains Dr. Rahul Chandhok, Senior Consultant and Head of Psychiatry at Artemis Lite NFC, New Delhi. “This awareness can show in different ways, gravitating towards clothes, toys, or activities linked to the opposite gender, discomfort with their own body, or rejecting rigid gender roles.”Bruna’s childhood memories reflect this early self-awareness. She recalls being drawn to the skirts her classmates wore, the way her female teachers dressed, and the jewellery and perfume her mother used. “When I applied the perfume, it felt like me,” she says. “But when I wore men’s clothes, I felt disconnected. My behavior to act like a man was forced.”The Hidden StruggleFor children like Bruna, the lack of awareness meant there was no safe space to share their feelings. Conversations around LGBTQ+ identities were rare, often clouded with stigma. “I didn’t know who to talk to,” she says. “I thought trans meant only the Hijra community, and I had a stereotypical image of them. I was scared, scared of becoming someone people would not accept.”She remembers one rainy afternoon at her grandmother’s home when she was given a gown to wear because her clothes were wet. “I was so happy, dancing around in it,” she recalls. “But when I tried to step outside, my mother stopped me. She said I could not go out like that because I was a boy. I felt so bad.”Dr. Chandhok explains that when such feelings are repeatedly dismissed, children begin to internalise the belief that there is something wrong with them. “The suppression of authentic identity lowers self-esteem, increases the risk of anxiety and depression, and often leads to social withdrawal,” he says.The Weight of SecrecyBruna kept her truth hidden for years. She masked her attraction to men by pretending to be interested in women. She endured the discomfort of clothing and even undergarments that felt alien to her. She dreaded the changes puberty brought, body hair, a masculine chest, all reinforcing a body that felt like a disguise.This silence comes at a cost. “When a child cannot express their real self, they live in constant fear of being found out,” says Dr. Chandhok. “The stress builds up and can affect studies, friendships, and general well-being. In some cases, it leads to severe depression or even suicidal thoughts.”Festivals and the Pain of ExclusionWhile many children look forward to festivals, Bruna remembers them as the times she felt most disconnected. Seeing women dressed up in bright clothes, adorned with jewellery, only deepened her longing. “I should have been born a woman,” she thought, over and over again.This isn’t just about clothes or appearances, it’s about belonging. For children whose gender identity does not match their assigned sex, these moments highlight the gap between how they see themselves and how the world sees them.Why It Is Not a ChoiceOne of the most persistent myths about gender identity is that it is a matter of choice. Bruna is clear in her response: “It is a big lie. If it were a choice, all women would choose to be men because life for women in this society is so hard. Why would anyone choose heavy hormone therapy, surgeries, and the challenges of living as a woman if it were just a decision you could make and change?”Gender identity, as experts confirm, is an innate part of who we are. A temporary wish to be another gender for reasons like safety or social convenience is different, and usually short-lived. True gender identity is a deep, consistent feeling that persists over time.The Psychological Toll of SuppressionWhen a child’s identity is consistently denied, the consequences run deep. Dr. Chandhok warns that suppressing one’s true gender identity not only causes immediate emotional distress but also has long-term developmental effects.“The child may feel trapped, ashamed, and lonely,” he explains. “They may avoid forming close bonds out of fear of rejection. Over time, this affects their social skills, their ability to trust, and their sense of self-worth.”For Bruna, this meant navigating her school and college years with a constant internal struggle. Every interaction was filtered through the need to hide who she was. Every day brought a reminder that the world expected her to be someone else.Creating Safe Spaces for ChildrenExperts agree that the first step to supporting children is listening without judgment. When a child expresses discomfort with their gender, parents and caregivers should focus on understanding whether this is a deeply felt identity or a reaction to temporary circumstances.“A loving and accepting environment is crucial,” says Dr. Chandhok. “It allows children to explore their identity safely, without fear of punishment or ridicule. Early support can significantly reduce the mental health risks they face.”Bruna eventually found the courage to live her truth, but the scars of her childhood remain. “I lost so many years pretending,” she says. “I wish someone had told me it was okay to be me.”

inner child: when children know who they are, yet cannot live that truth

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