Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Triangle Of Death - How A Pimple Can Lead To Brain Damage?

As satisfying popping pimples can be, dermatologists often recommend not doing so. However, it is not just about having pimple scars and pigmentation, it is about serious damage to your brain. 

Think twice before popping a pimple in what doctors call the "<span>danger triangle</span>" on your face. Although many people are not aware of it, this area on your face that stretches from the top of your nose and stretches on both sides of the nose, is not safe for pimple popping as the likeliness of things going wrong is much more. 

<h2>Why the "Danger Triangle" Poses a Risk </h2>

Picking or squeezing pimples in this part of your face can push bacteria deeper into your skin, potentially causing a severe infection. This facial region is considered particularly dangerous due to its direct connections to the brain. According to a 2023 study published in the Journal of Morphological Sciences, cavernous sinus (CS) is a small, important space in your head, roughly 5-7 millimeters wide and 5-8 millimeters tall. It collects blood from various parts of your head and face, including the veins around your eyes and nose, and some smaller brain veins. 

Because of this connection, infections on your face, especially in an area known as the "danger triangle" or "<span>triangle of death</span>," can easily spread to your brain. This "danger triangle" is a triangular area on your face that starts at the bridge of your nose and goes down to your upper lip, covering the area around your eyes. 

The main concern is a serious, though rare, condition called <span>cavernous sinus thrombosis</span> (CST). This involves a blood clot that can form in the cavernous sinuses, which are large veins behind your eyes responsible for draining blood from your brain. If an infection from a pimple in the danger triangle spreads to these sinuses, it can trigger a clot, blocking vital blood flow from your brain. 

An infection stemming from a pimple on the nose, for instance, has a relatively direct path to the brain, making any infection in this area a higher risk. Recognizing CST symptoms early is crucial. Watch out for: 

<ul><li>Fever</li><li>Headache</li><li>Difficulty moving your eyes</li><li>Swelling around your eyes</li></ul>

<h2>Other Potential Problems from Popping Pimples </h2>

Even if you avoid the severe risk of CST, popping pimples can still lead to other issues: 

Squeezing a pimple can force bacteria, dead skin cells, and oil further into your skin. This often results in more swelling and redness, making the pimple look more prominent and feel more painful. 

As your skin heals after a popped pimple, you might develop scars or dark spots (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). Some dark spots can take up to a year to fade back to your natural skin tone, and some may even be permanent. 

The best approach to dealing with acne in the danger triangle—and elsewhere on your face—is to keep your hands away. The American Academy of Dermatology explains that it's best not to pop pimples, especially deep and painful ones, there are effective ways to treat them at home. The right care can lessen the pain and reduce the pimple's size, swelling, and redness. 

You don't need to do these for every small blemish, as acne often gets better with proper medicine and skincare. However, when you have a large or painful spot, it's tempting to pick at it. Don't! That can actually make things worse and take longer to heal. Here are three things you can do to help your skin clear up more quickly:

<ul><li>Don't touch your face</li><li>Touching, picking, and popping pimples can make your acne worse.</li><li>Use ice to soothe pain</li><li>If you have painful acne, like deep bumps or cysts, applying ice can help reduce the swelling and ease the pain.</li><li>Treat your acne with the right products </li></ul>

Many people can clear their acne using treatments they can buy online or at a drugstore. Just remember that these treatments take time to work. If you don't see an improvement in 4 to 6 weeks, it might be a good idea to see a skin doctor for help. 

<h2>Some Tips That Help Keep Your Skin Clear </h2>

<ul><li>Adopt a simple daily routine</li><li>Cleanse your face with a gentle, non-drying cleanser once or twice daily, and after exercising.</li><li>Avoid using harsh products like rubbing alcohol or toners, which can dry out your skin.</li><li>If you have long hair, keep it off your face while you sleep.</li><li>Only use products labeled "non-comedogenic," meaning they are designed not to clog pores.</li></ul> 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Skin & Hair

danger triangle

cavernous sinus thrombosis

blood clots causing brain damage

Pimple and brain infection

Triangle Of Death

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As satisfying popping pimples can be, dermatologists often recommend not doing so. However, it is not just about having pimple scars and pigmentation, it is about serious damage to your brain. Think twice before popping a pimple in what doctors call the "danger triangle" on your face. Although many people are not aware of it, this area on your face that stretches from the top of your nose and stretches on both sides of the nose, is not safe for pimple popping as the likeliness of things going wrong is much more. Why the "Danger Triangle" Poses a Risk Picking or squeezing pimples in this part of your face can push bacteria deeper into your skin, potentially causing a severe infection. This facial region is considered particularly dangerous due to its direct connections to the brain. According to a 2023 study published in the Journal of Morphological Sciences, cavernous sinus (CS) is a small, important space in your head, roughly 5-7 millimeters wide and 5-8 millimeters tall. It collects blood from various parts of your head and face, including the veins around your eyes and nose, and some smaller brain veins. Because of this connection, infections on your face, especially in an area known as the "danger triangle" or "triangle of death," can easily spread to your brain. This "danger triangle" is a triangular area on your face that starts at the bridge of your nose and goes down to your upper lip, covering the area around your eyes. The main concern is a serious, though rare, condition called cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST). This involves a blood clot that can form in the cavernous sinuses, which are large veins behind your eyes responsible for draining blood from your brain. If an infection from a pimple in the danger triangle spreads to these sinuses, it can trigger a clot, blocking vital blood flow from your brain. An infection stemming from a pimple on the nose, for instance, has a relatively direct path to the brain, making any infection in this area a higher risk. Recognizing CST symptoms early is crucial. Watch out for: FeverHeadacheDifficulty moving your eyesSwelling around your eyesOther Potential Problems from Popping Pimples Even if you avoid the severe risk of CST, popping pimples can still lead to other issues: Worsened Appearance and Pain Squeezing a pimple can force bacteria, dead skin cells, and oil further into your skin. This often results in more swelling and redness, making the pimple look more prominent and feel more painful. Scarring As your skin heals after a popped pimple, you might develop scars or dark spots (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). Some dark spots can take up to a year to fade back to your natural skin tone, and some may even be permanent. Safe Ways to Manage Acne The best approach to dealing with acne in the danger triangle—and elsewhere on your face—is to keep your hands away. The American Academy of Dermatology explains that it's best not to pop pimples, especially deep and painful ones, there are effective ways to treat them at home. The right care can lessen the pain and reduce the pimple's size, swelling, and redness. You don't need to do these for every small blemish, as acne often gets better with proper medicine and skincare. However, when you have a large or painful spot, it's tempting to pick at it. Don't! That can actually make things worse and take longer to heal. Here are three things you can do to help your skin clear up more quickly:Don't touch your faceTouching, picking, and popping pimples can make your acne worse.Use ice to soothe painIf you have painful acne, like deep bumps or cysts, applying ice can help reduce the swelling and ease the pain.Treat your acne with the right products Many people can clear their acne using treatments they can buy online or at a drugstore. Just remember that these treatments take time to work. If you don't see an improvement in 4 to 6 weeks, it might be a good idea to see a skin doctor for help. Some Tips That Help Keep Your Skin Clear Adopt a simple daily routineCleanse your face with a gentle, non-drying cleanser once or twice daily, and after exercising.Avoid using harsh products like rubbing alcohol or toners, which can dry out your skin.If you have long hair, keep it off your face while you sleep.Only use products labeled "non-comedogenic," meaning they are designed not to clog pores.   

triangle of death - how a pimple can lead to brain damage?

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Nutrition

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There's a remarkable change taking place within your brain every single day and chances are, you don't even realize it. Every time you overcome a bad habit, acquire a new skill, or have a new idea, your brain remaps itself. This isn't poetic, it's science and it is called <span>neuroplasticity</span>.

For decades, scientists thought the adult brain was static, hardwired after childhood but over the last few decades, that's been completely rewritten by futuristic science. Today we know that the brain is dynamic, a changing entity that continues to adapt throughout life. Whether you're healing from trauma, creating new habits, or attempting to hone focus, your brain has the capacity to change—structurally and functionally.

What makes it even more intriguing is the way all this occurs unseen, as if a sculptor is working quietly, remolding clay with every experience, feeling, and deed. Neurons are reconfigured, synapses grow or dissolve. Large areas of the brain expand or contract based upon usage.

You're not tied to the brain you were born with. Neuroplasticity is possibility, and opening it up doesn't involve miracle tablets—it takes regular, conscious effort. From mindfulness exercises to movement and mindset changes, tiny habits can result in huge rewiring. Let's see how it works—and what it might do for your mental health.

Neuroplasticity is the brain's capacity to reorganize its structure and function as a result of learning, experience, or injury. It's a process by which new connections are created among neurons or the existing ones are stabilized, enabling the brain to change. Says Dr. Prajwal Rao, Professor and Head of Neurology at Pune's Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, "Neuroplasticity is the brain's built-in mechanism for recovery.". It's how the nervous system adapts, compensates, and—even when injured—develops new ways of working." 

This concept has transformed the treatment of injury to the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain and spinal cord. Following a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or spinal cord injury (SCI), rehabilitation efforts now center upon retraining the brain through neuroplastic principles.

<h2>What is The Common Thread Between Birth Injury to Neurodegeneration?</h2>

On the surface, cerebral palsy and Parkinson's disease seem worlds apart. One is a motor disorder due to brain damage in utero or in the first moments after birth; the other is an otherwise healthy neurological disease that typically happens later in life. But both have damaged brain circuits—and that's where neuroplasticity comes in.

As Dr Rao explains, "Cerebral palsy, usually resulting from brain damage at birth, and Parkinson's disease, an incurable condition that degrades brain cells responsible for movement, are worlds apart. But both have something in common: both are the result of damage to brain circuits. And that's where neuroplasticity becomes relevant.".

The brain's neural network is able to create new paths or reinforce old ones, particularly when they are stimulated by activity, learning, or therapy. In cerebral palsy individuals, this rewiring is able to improve coordination and movement. In Parkinson's patients, the brain can be persuaded to tap into alternative pathways to make up for motor deficits by doing targeted exercises or activities."

In children with cerebral palsy, it is possible to train the brain to redirect impaired motor functions to healthier areas. With age, neuroplasticity makes it possible to enhance movement despite the damage being static. In Parkinson's disease patients, therapies involving targeted movement, rhythm, and coordination exercises can restore or even recover motor functions by facilitating alternate neural pathways to assume lost functions.

When you learn something new—how to ride a bike, how to play the piano, or even how to type—your brain is making certain links between neurons stronger. That's neuroplasticity in action. But here's the kicker- this very principle will work even after neural damage, provided the brain is stimulated with regular and targeted activity.

Consider for instance the mechanism of task-specific repetition. In order for neuroplastic changes to occur, the task needs to be:

Repetitive: The more it's practiced, the more efficient and instinctive it becomes.

Whether it's a child learning to walk again or an adult trying to regain hand coordination after a stroke, neuroplasticity makes progress possible—not perfect, but often meaningful. "Modern rehabilitation approaches are now designed to tap into this power. Tools like robot-assisted therapy, virtual reality, and non-invasive brain stimulation are showing promise in helping patients recover brain functions. It’s like giving the brain a second chance to learn what it lost. The key, is timing and repetition, the earlier and more consistently someone engages their brain through goal-directed activity, the better the chances of building new neural pathways. Think of it as physical therapy for your brain," adds Dr Rao.

<h2>What Are Some New Technologies Leveraging Brain Plasticity?</h2>

Rehabilitation in today's world is more than walking along parallel bars or doing puzzles. Advanced therapy is capitalizing on the plasticity of the brain. Some of these include:

Virtual Reality (VR): Engaging surroundings assist patients in moving and balancing in interactive, real-time situations.

Robot-Assisted Therapy: Machines assist limbs by guiding them through movement to facilitate neuromuscular retraining.

Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation: Methods such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) increase plasticity by altering neural activity.

These are not sci-fi tools—these are already being used in clinics, aiding individuals in regaining control over their body and life following neurological injury.

<h2>How Neuroplasticity Can Help Treat <span rel="noindex">Neurological Disorders</span>?</h2>

One of the most robust outcomes in neuroplasticity research is that sooner is better. The earlier therapy begins—particularly after trauma—the more plastic the brain will be. Speed is only part of it, however. Consistency and intensity are also crucial. Working on highly structured, goal-driven activities daily reinforces new neural pathways and promotes sustained change.

It's physical therapy for your brain: challenge, repeat, get used to it, repeat once again.

It's crucial to understand: neuroplasticity is no panacea. It does not reverse damage to the brain or stop diseases in their tracks. Parkinson's disease continues to progress, and cerebral palsy is still a life-long affliction. But accessing the brain's capacity to reorganize provides a means to improvement, not merely management.

Neuroplasticity cannot reverse all symptoms but can enhance function, independence, and most importantly quality of life.

We’re still scratching the surface of what neuroplasticity can do. But what’s clear is this: the brain is not a static organ. It’s dynamic, responsive, and, with the right tools and persistence, capable of remarkable change. From the neonatal ICU to nursing homes, this concept is reshaping neurological care.

As Dr. Rao concludes, “This doesn’t mean neuroplasticity is a magical cure. Conditions such as Parkinson's remain progressive, and cerebral palsy is accompanied by a lifetime of difficulties but tapping the brain's own malleability provides clinicians and patients with an extraordinary tool to enhance quality of life. Briefly, neuroplasticity is becoming one of medicine's most promising frontiers. Whether in a child with cerebral palsy learning to walk, or an older person with Parkinson's learning to balance again, the brain's capacity to rewire itself might be one of its most powerful assets.

world brain day

brain health

neurological disorders

neuroplasticity

brain heal itself

neurological treatment

parkinsons therapy

alzheimers research

brain rewiring

natural brain healing

There's a remarkable change taking place within your brain every single day and chances are, you don't even realize it. Every time you overcome a bad habit, acquire a new skill, or have a new idea, your brain remaps itself. This isn't poetic, it's science and it is called neuroplasticity.For decades, scientists thought the adult brain was static, hardwired after childhood but over the last few decades, that's been completely rewritten by futuristic science. Today we know that the brain is dynamic, a changing entity that continues to adapt throughout life. Whether you're healing from trauma, creating new habits, or attempting to hone focus, your brain has the capacity to change—structurally and functionally.What makes it even more intriguing is the way all this occurs unseen, as if a sculptor is working quietly, remolding clay with every experience, feeling, and deed. Neurons are reconfigured, synapses grow or dissolve. Large areas of the brain expand or contract based upon usage.You're not tied to the brain you were born with. Neuroplasticity is possibility, and opening it up doesn't involve miracle tablets—it takes regular, conscious effort. From mindfulness exercises to movement and mindset changes, tiny habits can result in huge rewiring. Let's see how it works—and what it might do for your mental health.What Is Neuroplasticity?Neuroplasticity is the brain's capacity to reorganize its structure and function as a result of learning, experience, or injury. It's a process by which new connections are created among neurons or the existing ones are stabilized, enabling the brain to change. Says Dr. Prajwal Rao, Professor and Head of Neurology at Pune's Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, "Neuroplasticity is the brain's built-in mechanism for recovery.". It's how the nervous system adapts, compensates, and—even when injured—develops new ways of working." This concept has transformed the treatment of injury to the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain and spinal cord. Following a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or spinal cord injury (SCI), rehabilitation efforts now center upon retraining the brain through neuroplastic principles.What is The Common Thread Between Birth Injury to Neurodegeneration?On the surface, cerebral palsy and Parkinson's disease seem worlds apart. One is a motor disorder due to brain damage in utero or in the first moments after birth; the other is an otherwise healthy neurological disease that typically happens later in life. But both have damaged brain circuits—and that's where neuroplasticity comes in.As Dr Rao explains, "Cerebral palsy, usually resulting from brain damage at birth, and Parkinson's disease, an incurable condition that degrades brain cells responsible for movement, are worlds apart. But both have something in common: both are the result of damage to brain circuits. And that's where neuroplasticity becomes relevant.".The brain's neural network is able to create new paths or reinforce old ones, particularly when they are stimulated by activity, learning, or therapy. In cerebral palsy individuals, this rewiring is able to improve coordination and movement. In Parkinson's patients, the brain can be persuaded to tap into alternative pathways to make up for motor deficits by doing targeted exercises or activities."In children with cerebral palsy, it is possible to train the brain to redirect impaired motor functions to healthier areas. With age, neuroplasticity makes it possible to enhance movement despite the damage being static. In Parkinson's disease patients, therapies involving targeted movement, rhythm, and coordination exercises can restore or even recover motor functions by facilitating alternate neural pathways to assume lost functions.When you learn something new—how to ride a bike, how to play the piano, or even how to type—your brain is making certain links between neurons stronger. That's neuroplasticity in action. But here's the kicker- this very principle will work even after neural damage, provided the brain is stimulated with regular and targeted activity.Consider for instance the mechanism of task-specific repetition. In order for neuroplastic changes to occur, the task needs to be:Novel: It stimulates new circuits.Challenging: It keeps the brain engaged.Repetitive: The more it's practiced, the more efficient and instinctive it becomes.Whether it's a child learning to walk again or an adult trying to regain hand coordination after a stroke, neuroplasticity makes progress possible—not perfect, but often meaningful. "Modern rehabilitation approaches are now designed to tap into this power. Tools like robot-assisted therapy, virtual reality, and non-invasive brain stimulation are showing promise in helping patients recover brain functions. It’s like giving the brain a second chance to learn what it lost. The key, is timing and repetition, the earlier and more consistently someone engages their brain through goal-directed activity, the better the chances of building new neural pathways. Think of it as physical therapy for your brain," adds Dr Rao.What Are Some New Technologies Leveraging Brain Plasticity?Rehabilitation in today's world is more than walking along parallel bars or doing puzzles. Advanced therapy is capitalizing on the plasticity of the brain. Some of these include:Virtual Reality (VR): Engaging surroundings assist patients in moving and balancing in interactive, real-time situations.Robot-Assisted Therapy: Machines assist limbs by guiding them through movement to facilitate neuromuscular retraining.Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation: Methods such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) increase plasticity by altering neural activity.These are not sci-fi tools—these are already being used in clinics, aiding individuals in regaining control over their body and life following neurological injury.How Neuroplasticity Can Help Treat Neurological Disorders?One of the most robust outcomes in neuroplasticity research is that sooner is better. The earlier therapy begins—particularly after trauma—the more plastic the brain will be. Speed is only part of it, however. Consistency and intensity are also crucial. Working on highly structured, goal-driven activities daily reinforces new neural pathways and promotes sustained change.It's physical therapy for your brain: challenge, repeat, get used to it, repeat once again.It's crucial to understand: neuroplasticity is no panacea. It does not reverse damage to the brain or stop diseases in their tracks. Parkinson's disease continues to progress, and cerebral palsy is still a life-long affliction. But accessing the brain's capacity to reorganize provides a means to improvement, not merely management.Neuroplasticity cannot reverse all symptoms but can enhance function, independence, and most importantly quality of life.We’re still scratching the surface of what neuroplasticity can do. But what’s clear is this: the brain is not a static organ. It’s dynamic, responsive, and, with the right tools and persistence, capable of remarkable change. From the neonatal ICU to nursing homes, this concept is reshaping neurological care.As Dr. Rao concludes, “This doesn’t mean neuroplasticity is a magical cure. Conditions such as Parkinson's remain progressive, and cerebral palsy is accompanied by a lifetime of difficulties but tapping the brain's own malleability provides clinicians and patients with an extraordinary tool to enhance quality of life. Briefly, neuroplasticity is becoming one of medicine's most promising frontiers. Whether in a child with cerebral palsy learning to walk, or an older person with Parkinson's learning to balance again, the brain's capacity to rewire itself might be one of its most powerful assets.

world brain day 2025: could your brain heal itself? why scientists are betting on neuroplasticity to treat neurological disorders

Supriya Ramesh

The Quiet Anxiety in High Achievers and Why Success Does Not Silence FOMO

Credits: Canva

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<span>High performers</span> are typically seen as the gold standard of confidence, clarity, and control. They are the ones with packed schedules, flooded inboxes, and achievements that look impressive on paper. Yet, behind this polished exterior lies a quiet undercurrent of anxiety, a sense that despite all their success, they’re somehow falling behind.

This isn’t your usual fear of missing out on parties or holidays. Pritika Singh, a <span>mental health</span> expert, explains that this is a more internalised form of FOMO, driven by self-comparison. It’s not about others having more fun; it’s about thinking, “Maybe I should’ve done things differently, moved faster, started earlier.” These thoughts tend to creep in during long commutes, late nights, or while scrolling through yet another announcement of someone else’s achievement.

In the world of high performance, such feelings rarely find a voice. Singh observes that the conversations in these circles stay surface-level—productivity, KPIs, market trends. But beneath it all is an emotional toll: the weight of constant <span>ambition</span>, the pressure to do better, and the fear that someone else is inching ahead. And it’s not about craving praise either. Most of these professionals stopped chasing external validation long ago. What rattles them is the subtle sense of sta when growth feels slow and someone else’s story feels shinier.

Why is this happening? Singh points to the nature of the environment these individuals work in. When excellence is expected, achievements that once thrilled now feel ordinary. An idea that was groundbreaking five years ago may now seem outdated. Constant exposure to others’ polished highlight reels can skew one’s perspective, leaving even top-tier professionals feeling behind.

The high-functioning brain is always buzzing with “What more could I have done?” Left unchecked, this becomes more draining than motivating. Ms Singh notes how this mental churn can blur decision-making. Success doesn’t feel like success. Taking a break feels like laziness. And even milestones are accompanied by a haunting urgency to get to the next one.

There’s also the cultural expectation that leaders must always be strong, focused, and future-oriented. As Singh puts it, the higher someone climbs, the fewer spaces they find to express vulnerability. And as everyone else’s life appears increasingly curated and perfect, the loneliness grows. The internal struggle becomes more isolated, more silent.

According to Singh, what helps is clarity, not the kind that fills spreadsheets or timelines, but the one that comes from knowing your personal direction. Without this, even ambitious pursuits can feel empty. It’s important to filter what truly deserves your attention. Every achievement that pops up on your feed is not your missed opportunity. “Momentum, when borrowed, rarely lasts,” she warns. That buzz of external inspiration often leads people away from what really matters.

Instead of reacting constantly, Singh recommends carving out time for honest reflection. Ironically, some of the best leadership decisions happen in the quiet seasons. It’s not always about doing more, she says. Sometimes, it’s about doing what’s right with intention.

This silent form of FOMO is widespread but rarely acknowledged. High performers are often expected to have it all figured out. But Singh warns that when the pressure builds from within slowly, subtly, and without expression, it chips away at the very edge that made them excel in the first place.

It’s not about whether someone else is racing ahead. Singh closes with a powerful reminder: “The better question is whether the current direction still feels right.” Because when it does, the outside noise starts to fade.

high performers

silent fomo

ambition

mental health

burnout

internal comparison

leadership pressure

success anxiety

productivity culture

emotional exhaustion

High performers are typically seen as the gold standard of confidence, clarity, and control. They are the ones with packed schedules, flooded inboxes, and achievements that look impressive on paper. Yet, behind this polished exterior lies a quiet undercurrent of anxiety, a sense that despite all their success, they’re somehow falling behind.FOMO, But Not the One You ThinkThis isn’t your usual fear of missing out on parties or holidays. Pritika Singh, a mental health expert, explains that this is a more internalised form of FOMO, driven by self-comparison. It’s not about others having more fun; it’s about thinking, “Maybe I should’ve done things differently, moved faster, started earlier.” These thoughts tend to creep in during long commutes, late nights, or while scrolling through yet another announcement of someone else’s achievement.What No One Talks AboutIn the world of high performance, such feelings rarely find a voice. Singh observes that the conversations in these circles stay surface-level—productivity, KPIs, market trends. But beneath it all is an emotional toll: the weight of constant ambition, the pressure to do better, and the fear that someone else is inching ahead. And it’s not about craving praise either. Most of these professionals stopped chasing external validation long ago. What rattles them is the subtle sense of sta when growth feels slow and someone else’s story feels shinier.The Environment of Ever-Rising BarsWhy is this happening? Singh points to the nature of the environment these individuals work in. When excellence is expected, achievements that once thrilled now feel ordinary. An idea that was groundbreaking five years ago may now seem outdated. Constant exposure to others’ polished highlight reels can skew one’s perspective, leaving even top-tier professionals feeling behind.The Mental Churn of ‘What More?’The high-functioning brain is always buzzing with “What more could I have done?” Left unchecked, this becomes more draining than motivating. Ms Singh notes how this mental churn can blur decision-making. Success doesn’t feel like success. Taking a break feels like laziness. And even milestones are accompanied by a haunting urgency to get to the next one.Why It Feels So Lonely at the TopThere’s also the cultural expectation that leaders must always be strong, focused, and future-oriented. As Singh puts it, the higher someone climbs, the fewer spaces they find to express vulnerability. And as everyone else’s life appears increasingly curated and perfect, the loneliness grows. The internal struggle becomes more isolated, more silent.What Actually HelpsAccording to Singh, what helps is clarity, not the kind that fills spreadsheets or timelines, but the one that comes from knowing your personal direction. Without this, even ambitious pursuits can feel empty. It’s important to filter what truly deserves your attention. Every achievement that pops up on your feed is not your missed opportunity. “Momentum, when borrowed, rarely lasts,” she warns. That buzz of external inspiration often leads people away from what really matters.Make Space for QuietInstead of reacting constantly, Singh recommends carving out time for honest reflection. Ironically, some of the best leadership decisions happen in the quiet seasons. It’s not always about doing more, she says. Sometimes, it’s about doing what’s right with intention.When the Inner Edge Begins to FrayThis silent form of FOMO is widespread but rarely acknowledged. High performers are often expected to have it all figured out. But Singh warns that when the pressure builds from within slowly, subtly, and without expression, it chips away at the very edge that made them excel in the first place.Ask the Right QuestionIt’s not about whether someone else is racing ahead. Singh closes with a powerful reminder: “The better question is whether the current direction still feels right.” Because when it does, the outside noise starts to fade.

the quiet anxiety in high achievers and why success does not silence fomo

Ishita Roy

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Every July, <span>Sarcoma Awareness Month</span> reminds us of a cancer that’s often sidelined in public discourse. However, <span>sarcoma</span> is not just one disease, it is a group of rare cancers with over 150 subtypes, many of which can mimic everyday health complaints or go completely unnoticed until they’re dangerously advanced.

To break through the confusion and stigma surrounding sarcomas, Health and Me spoke exclusively with Dr. Mrinal Gounder, a globally recognized sarcoma expert and medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, who is also the Physician Ambassador to India and Asia

“When someone says they have a sarcoma, the real question is: what type?” says Dr. Gounder. “That’s the question that determines everything.”

<h4>What Is Sarcoma, And Why Don’t People Know About It?</h4>

Sarcomas are cancers of the body’s supporting structures, explains doctor. These include anything that supports the body's structure, a muscle, fat, bone, blood vessels, cartilage, and connective tissue. 

They can arise anywhere in the body, from a hair follicle on the scalp to deep inside an organ. Unlike most cancers that are linked to age or lifestyle, like smoking or pollution, sarcomas can affect anyone, from infants to the elderly.

Sarcomas make up just 1% of all cancers, which is why they’re often overshadowed by more common types like breast, lung, or colon cancer. Yet their rarity doesn't make them any less dangerous.

“Many assume sarcomas are benign tumors,” Dr. Gounder warns. “But most are malignant. And when left undiagnosed or mismanaged, they can be fatal.”

Unlike breast or lung cancer, sarcomas don’t have a “home base.” You can’t always scan one specific body part and expect to find them. 

Their symptoms can be misleading, ranging from a small lump under the skin to persistent leg pain or a mysterious cough. In young adults, especially, symptoms are often dismissed as sports injuries, growth pains, or hormonal changes.

“A teenager may say their leg hurts. People tell them it’s from playing football. But if that pain lingers for weeks or months, that’s a red flag,” explains Dr. Gounder.

He stresses the importance of listening to your body and trusting your instincts. Persistent or unexplained pain, swelling, or fatigue, especially in children or young adults, should prompt further medical evaluation.

<h4>The Right Diagnosis Is Everything</h4>

Getting a <span>sarcoma diagnosis</span> is complex. The location, biopsy technique, and pathology expertise all matter deeply.

“Not everyone should biopsy a suspected sarcoma,” says Dr. Gounder. “A wrong biopsy can cause serious complications or limit treatment options later.”

He recommends that any unusual mass or unexplained symptom, especially in young patients, should be assessed at a cancer center or specialist clinic with expertise in sarcoma. 

Diagnosis requires not just imaging but also molecular testing and precision pathology—and ideally, a team-based approach.

Surprisingly, most sarcomas aren’t linked to lifestyle, diet, or pollution. 

Around 20% of cases may be due to genetic predisposition, including inherited mutations or developmental changes that occur in utero. The remaining 80% are sporadic—essentially random, unexplained genetic misfires.

“They’re not preventable in the conventional sense.”

That said, anyone with a family history of young-onset cancers, even if not sarcomas, should consider genetic counseling and testing, especially if multiple relatives were affected in their 30s, 40s, or 50s.

<h4>The Biopsy Mistake People Keep Making</h4>

A key takeaway from Dr. Gounder’s experience is the urgency to pause, not rush. Often, the moment someone hears the word “tumor,” they panic, and quickly seek a biopsy or treatment at the nearest facility.

“But a rushed or poorly planned biopsy can do more harm than good,” he cautions.

Instead, he advises taking a few days or even weeks to seek guidance from a sarcoma specialist.

A well-thought-out plan—starting with the correct imaging, followed by expert-led biopsy and staging—can make all the difference.

There’s no sure way to prevent sarcoma. However, awareness and early detection remain our best tools. For those with a strong family history of early-age cancers, Dr. Gounder advises genetic testing—but only under the guidance of a trained counselor.

“Genetic testing can bring answers, but also anxiety,” he notes. “Do it only if you’re emotionally and medically prepared for the results.”

While lifestyle changes may not directly prevent sarcoma, maintaining a healthy body through movement, balanced diet, and avoiding processed foods, "anything that comes out of packaged boxes or bottles", tobacco and excessive alcohol reduces risk for other common cancers, which are now spiking among younger populations globally.

Sarcoma doesn’t follow rules. It doesn’t care about age or health. “If something feels off, don’t ignore it,” says Dr. Gounder. “You know your body better than anyone. If a symptom doesn’t go away after a few weeks, listen to that voice and seek help.”

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Every July, Sarcoma Awareness Month reminds us of a cancer that’s often sidelined in public discourse. However, sarcoma is not just one disease, it is a group of rare cancers with over 150 subtypes, many of which can mimic everyday health complaints or go completely unnoticed until they’re dangerously advanced.To break through the confusion and stigma surrounding sarcomas, Health and Me spoke exclusively with Dr. Mrinal Gounder, a globally recognized sarcoma expert and medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, who is also the Physician Ambassador to India and Asia.“When someone says they have a sarcoma, the real question is: what type?” says Dr. Gounder. “That’s the question that determines everything.”What Is Sarcoma, And Why Don’t People Know About It?Sarcomas are cancers of the body’s supporting structures, explains doctor. These include anything that supports the body's structure, a muscle, fat, bone, blood vessels, cartilage, and connective tissue. They can arise anywhere in the body, from a hair follicle on the scalp to deep inside an organ. Unlike most cancers that are linked to age or lifestyle, like smoking or pollution, sarcomas can affect anyone, from infants to the elderly.Sarcomas make up just 1% of all cancers, which is why they’re often overshadowed by more common types like breast, lung, or colon cancer. Yet their rarity doesn't make them any less dangerous.“Many assume sarcomas are benign tumors,” Dr. Gounder warns. “But most are malignant. And when left undiagnosed or mismanaged, they can be fatal.”Why Diagnosis Is So DifficultUnlike breast or lung cancer, sarcomas don’t have a “home base.” You can’t always scan one specific body part and expect to find them. Their symptoms can be misleading, ranging from a small lump under the skin to persistent leg pain or a mysterious cough. In young adults, especially, symptoms are often dismissed as sports injuries, growth pains, or hormonal changes.“A teenager may say their leg hurts. People tell them it’s from playing football. But if that pain lingers for weeks or months, that’s a red flag,” explains Dr. Gounder.He stresses the importance of listening to your body and trusting your instincts. Persistent or unexplained pain, swelling, or fatigue, especially in children or young adults, should prompt further medical evaluation.The Right Diagnosis Is EverythingGetting a sarcoma diagnosis is complex. The location, biopsy technique, and pathology expertise all matter deeply.“Not everyone should biopsy a suspected sarcoma,” says Dr. Gounder. “A wrong biopsy can cause serious complications or limit treatment options later.”He recommends that any unusual mass or unexplained symptom, especially in young patients, should be assessed at a cancer center or specialist clinic with expertise in sarcoma. Diagnosis requires not just imaging but also molecular testing and precision pathology—and ideally, a team-based approach.What Causes Sarcoma?Surprisingly, most sarcomas aren’t linked to lifestyle, diet, or pollution. Around 20% of cases may be due to genetic predisposition, including inherited mutations or developmental changes that occur in utero. The remaining 80% are sporadic—essentially random, unexplained genetic misfires.“They’re not preventable in the conventional sense.”That said, anyone with a family history of young-onset cancers, even if not sarcomas, should consider genetic counseling and testing, especially if multiple relatives were affected in their 30s, 40s, or 50s.The Biopsy Mistake People Keep MakingA key takeaway from Dr. Gounder’s experience is the urgency to pause, not rush. Often, the moment someone hears the word “tumor,” they panic, and quickly seek a biopsy or treatment at the nearest facility.“But a rushed or poorly planned biopsy can do more harm than good,” he cautions.Instead, he advises taking a few days or even weeks to seek guidance from a sarcoma specialist.A well-thought-out plan—starting with the correct imaging, followed by expert-led biopsy and staging—can make all the difference.Is There Any Way to Prevent It?There’s no sure way to prevent sarcoma. However, awareness and early detection remain our best tools. For those with a strong family history of early-age cancers, Dr. Gounder advises genetic testing—but only under the guidance of a trained counselor.“Genetic testing can bring answers, but also anxiety,” he notes. “Do it only if you’re emotionally and medically prepared for the results.”While lifestyle changes may not directly prevent sarcoma, maintaining a healthy body through movement, balanced diet, and avoiding processed foods, "anything that comes out of packaged boxes or bottles", tobacco and excessive alcohol reduces risk for other common cancers, which are now spiking among younger populations globally.Sarcoma doesn’t follow rules. It doesn’t care about age or health. “If something feels off, don’t ignore it,” says Dr. Gounder. “You know your body better than anyone. If a symptom doesn’t go away after a few weeks, listen to that voice and seek help.”

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