Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Unhealthy Weekend Habits Linked To Sleeping Disorders - Why You Health Cannot Take A Day Off

After long work weeks, all we look forward to is a nice weekend, whether you like spending it relaxing or spending time with your friends. People use these days to catch up on different things, whether it is their time with their families, friends or overdue work. Since you do not have the pressure to wake up for work the next day, you have the luxury of staying awake for as long as you want. However, many people think this applies to their healthy habits as well. Eating healthily throughout the week so that they can eat junk at the end of it or sleep early every day so that you can stay awake. However, the 2-day de-stressor you take could be the reason why you reset all your progress to zero, especially those who have pre-existing conditions like <span>sleep apnea</span>. 

For many, the weekend means going into social overdrive—but a recent study suggests this can come at a cost to your health. Researchers have found that the bad habits that often go with partying, like overeating, drinking, smoking, and staying up late, can worsen a serious condition called <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/obstructive-sleep-apnea">obstructive sleep apnea</a></span>. 

Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder where a person's breathing repeatedly stops and starts while they sleep. This can lead to gasping for air and loud snoring. A new study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine which was based on data from over 70,000 people across 23 countries, found that participants were 18% more likely to have moderate to severe sleep apnea on weekends compared to weekdays. Researchers are calling this phenomenon "social apnea." 

<h2>How Do Weekends Affect Sleep Apnea? </h2>

The study also found that men were at a higher risk for this "social apnea" than women, and people under 60 were more affected than those over 60. The study suggests several reasons why our weekend routines can make sleep apnea worse. 

On weekends, many people sleep in later and longer, which can shift their body clock. This is similar to the effects of jet lag and can increase the risk of worse sleep apnea. In fact, sleeping an extra 45 minutes or more on weekends raised the risk of severe sleep apnea by 47%. 

Alcohol relaxes the throat muscles, making it easier for the airway to collapse and block breathing. It also makes it harder for the brain to wake a person up when breathing stops, so these events last longer. Smoking also makes the condition worse by causing swelling and inflammation in the airway. 

Gaining weight from overeating on the weekends can put pressure on the throat and make it harder to breathe. 

People often get more REM sleep on weekends, which is a deep sleep phase where throat muscles can become almost paralyzed, making the airway more likely to collapse. 

Sleep apnea is a serious health condition that affects at least 30 million adults in the U.S. When breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, it can lead to a variety of serious health risks, including:

<ul><li>Diabetes</li><li>Strokes</li><li>Heart attacks</li><li>Dementia</li><li>Depression</li></ul>

To avoid the negative effects of "social apnea" on your health, experts recommend a few simple changes like keeping a consistent sleep schedule. Try to go to bed and wake up at similar times, even on the weekends. Try to limit alcohol and avoid smoking, especially on weekends. If you use a CPAP machine or another medical device for sleep apnea, make sure to use it every night, including on the weekends. 

By being mindful of your weekend habits, you can improve your breathing and overall health without needing more medical help. If you have concerns about sleep apnea, you should talk to your doctor. 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Sleeping Disorders

sleep apnea

Unhealthy Weekend Habits

obstructive sleep apnea

why is sleep important

Sleep Apnoea

Invasive New Tick Species Could Spread Little-Known Infectious Disease, Scientists Warn

This Common Component Recently Found In Glass Could Be The Reason Behind Your Inflammation

Health & Wellness

Are You At Risk For Fried Rice Syndrome?

These Tests Reveal How Well You Are Aging

Lower-Back Exercises You Should Do After A Long-Day's Work

Children’s Diet – What Kids Need To Eat For Immunity Building

Common Diabetes Myths That Could Hurt Your Health

Love Spicy Food? Here’s How It Can Affects Your Health

Superfood List: Veggies And Fruits You Must Have For Immunity

Foods People With IBS Should Avoid

Exercises To Improve Digestion

Easy Work Lunches You Can Make In The Morning

Hunger Vs Craving: Difference Explained In 60 seconds

These Things Can Cause Your Heart To Age Faster

High Carb Foods That Are Actually Healthy

Superfoods That Support Your Gut Health

Immune-Boosting Foods To Have During Rainy Season

Potato Based Dishes You For Week-Long Meal Prep

Weight Loss Dishes With Fruits You Should Try

Stress Vs. Anxiety: Difference Explained In 60 seconds

Can You Get Heatstroke In Monsoon?

You’re Not Lazy! Women Do Need More Sleep Than Men

How To Ditch Daytime Sleepiness In Office?

Common Mistakes People Make While Eating Flaxseeds

Toddlers In India Are Missing Development Milestones: Study

Yoga Poses You Should Do For Back Pain

Healthy Brunch Ideas For A Lazy Weekend Meal

Balancing Exercises You Should Do For Stability

How Much Can Food Affect Menstruation?

What Should Fitness Look Like For A 13-18 Year Old

Food For Diabetes: What Should A Diabetic Diet Contain

You Don’t Always Need Weights For Strength Training

Feel Sleepy After Lunches - Light And Healthy Office Lunches

Positive Thinking Practice – How Does It Help You?

MIND Diet – Is This A Healthy Diet Or Another Trend?

Yoga Prop Essentials To Improve Your Exercise Session

Should Potatoes Be The Part Of A Healthy Diet?

Best And Worst Foods To Lower Blood Pressure

Low-Impact Cardio Workouts You Should Try

10 Healthy Pasta Salad Dressing For Weight Loss

Breathing Exercise You Should Do To Relieve Stress

Headache vs. Migraine: Difference Explained In 60 Seconds

After long work weeks, all we look forward to is a nice weekend, whether you like spending it relaxing or spending time with your friends. People use these days to catch up on different things, whether it is their time with their families, friends or overdue work. Since you do not have the pressure to wake up for work the next day, you have the luxury of staying awake for as long as you want. However, many people think this applies to their healthy habits as well. Eating healthily throughout the week so that they can eat junk at the end of it or sleep early every day so that you can stay awake. However, the 2-day de-stressor you take could be the reason why you reset all your progress to zero, especially those who have pre-existing conditions like sleep apnea. For many, the weekend means going into social overdrive—but a recent study suggests this can come at a cost to your health. Researchers have found that the bad habits that often go with partying, like overeating, drinking, smoking, and staying up late, can worsen a serious condition called obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder where a person's breathing repeatedly stops and starts while they sleep. This can lead to gasping for air and loud snoring. A new study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine which was based on data from over 70,000 people across 23 countries, found that participants were 18% more likely to have moderate to severe sleep apnea on weekends compared to weekdays. Researchers are calling this phenomenon "social apnea." How Do Weekends Affect Sleep Apnea? The study also found that men were at a higher risk for this "social apnea" than women, and people under 60 were more affected than those over 60. The study suggests several reasons why our weekend routines can make sleep apnea worse. Social Jetlag On weekends, many people sleep in later and longer, which can shift their body clock. This is similar to the effects of jet lag and can increase the risk of worse sleep apnea. In fact, sleeping an extra 45 minutes or more on weekends raised the risk of severe sleep apnea by 47%. Alcohol and Smoking Alcohol relaxes the throat muscles, making it easier for the airway to collapse and block breathing. It also makes it harder for the brain to wake a person up when breathing stops, so these events last longer. Smoking also makes the condition worse by causing swelling and inflammation in the airway. Overeating Gaining weight from overeating on the weekends can put pressure on the throat and make it harder to breathe. REM Sleep People often get more REM sleep on weekends, which is a deep sleep phase where throat muscles can become almost paralyzed, making the airway more likely to collapse. Health Risks of Sleep Apnea Sleep apnea is a serious health condition that affects at least 30 million adults in the U.S. When breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, it can lead to a variety of serious health risks, including:DiabetesStrokesHeart attacksDementiaDepressionCan You Combat Social Apnea? To avoid the negative effects of "social apnea" on your health, experts recommend a few simple changes like keeping a consistent sleep schedule. Try to go to bed and wake up at similar times, even on the weekends. Try to limit alcohol and avoid smoking, especially on weekends. If you use a CPAP machine or another medical device for sleep apnea, make sure to use it every night, including on the weekends. By being mindful of your weekend habits, you can improve your breathing and overall health without needing more medical help. If you have concerns about sleep apnea, you should talk to your doctor. 

unhealthy weekend habits linked to sleeping disorders - why you health cannot take a day off

Health News

UK Heatwave Warning: This Common Fan Mistake Could Raise Your Heart Attack Risk, Study Warns

uk heatwave warning: this common fan mistake could raise your heart attack risk, study warns

Missouri Resident Hospitalized With 97% Fatal 'Brain-Eating' Infection While Water-skiing: How Real Is The Risk At Home?

missouri resident hospitalized with 97% fatal 'brain-eating' infection while water-skiing: how real is the risk at home?

Why Does Traditional Chinese Medicine Discourage Women From Using Tampons On Their Periods?

why does traditional chinese medicine discourage women from using tampons on their periods?

Why Allergies Are Almost Nonexistent In Children From THIS Community

why are amish children less likely to have allergies?

Microplastics have been a major cause of concern for many people. Not only have many people made the switch to paper straws, plates or glass bottles, but people are also changing what kind of packages enter their homes. However, was that enough? It may not have been. 

Many of us assume that drinking from a glass bottle is better than a plastic one. However, a new study suggests this might not be true. The research found that some beverages in glass bottles actually have more microplastics—tiny plastic particles—than those in plastic bottles or cans. Scientists believe the caps on the glass bottles may be the main reason for this surprising finding. 

Microplastics are everywhere: in our oceans, soil, air, and even our bodies. They have been linked to health problems like infertility, hormone issues, and even cancer. This study challenges the idea that glass is automatically the safest option, and highlights that seemingly small parts of packaging, like caps, can be a big source of <span>microplastic exposure</span>. 

<h2>What Has Higher Chances Of <span rel="noindex">Microplastic</span> Exposure? </h2>

To see how different containers affect microplastic levels, French researchers tested various drinks in different types of packaging. They looked at water, soda, iced tea, lemonade, wine, and beer. The results were surprising: 

<h4>Cola, Iced Tea, Lemonade, and Beer </h4>

These drinks contained significantly more microplastics when they were in glass bottles. In some cases, there were nearly 50 times more microplastics than in plastic bottles and cans. 

Water in glass bottles had slightly more microplastics, but it was the least contaminated drink overall, no matter the container. 

Wine in cardboard "brick" cartons had more microplastics, but generally, all the wines tested had very low levels of contamination. 

The study showed that the amount of microplastics a person is exposed to can vary widely depending on what they drink and what container it comes from. For example, a single liter of lemonade from a glass bottle might have over 100 microplastics, while the same amount of water from a plastic bottle might have only about 1.6. 

It’s important to note that the study only tested for microplastics and not even smaller particles called nanoplastics, which might have gone undetected. 

<h2>Why Are Glass Bottles Contaminated With Microplastics? </h2>

It seems strange that a glass bottle would be more contaminated than a plastic one. The researchers were surprised by their own findings, but they have a theory: the cap. 

They believe the paint used on the metal caps of glass bottles may be the source. During testing, they noticed that the microplastics found in the drinks often had the same color and material as the paint on the caps. They also saw tiny scratches on many of the caps, suggesting that friction during bottling, storage, or sealing could cause the paint to flake off as microplastic particles. 

When the researchers cleaned the caps, the amount of microplastics in the drinks dropped significantly. The use of a cork on most wine bottles may also explain why wine had a much lower level of contamination. 

While cleaning the caps won't completely solve the problem—microplastics can also come from airborne particles, contaminated water, or factory equipment—the findings suggest that beverage companies should rethink their packaging to protect consumers. 

<h2>How Do Microplastics Affect Our Health? </h2>

According to Association of American Medical Colleges although we don't have proof that microplastics harm humans, scientists are concerned. A study on mice found that even "clean" plastic particles caused negative effects. The worry is that real-world plastics contain <span>harmful chemicals</span> that disrupt hormones, which can affect important body functions like growth and reproduction. Experts suggest reducing plastic exposure as much as possible, especially for pregnant women and children. 

<h2>How to Reduce Your Microplastic Exposure?</h2>

Given that microplastics are everywhere, it's almost impossible to avoid them completely. The study found that even bottled and tap water contain them. However, you can take steps to reduce your exposure: 

<ul><li>Use cups made of glass, stainless steel, or bamboo.</li><li>Avoid putting plastic containers in the dishwasher or microwave, as heat can cause them to release microplastics into your food and drinks.</li><li> When you buy a drink, consider switching between different types of packaging, like plastic, glass, and cans.</li><li>The ultimate goal, experts say, is to reduce our overall dependence on packaged drinks and snacks in general.</li></ul>

Microplastic

Microplastic Exposure

How does Microplastic affect our health

Do glass bottles have microplastics

harmful chemicals

clean plastic particles

Microplastics have been a major cause of concern for many people. Not only have many people made the switch to paper straws, plates or glass bottles, but people are also changing what kind of packages enter their homes. However, was that enough? It may not have been. Many of us assume that drinking from a glass bottle is better than a plastic one. However, a new study suggests this might not be true. The research found that some beverages in glass bottles actually have more microplastics—tiny plastic particles—than those in plastic bottles or cans. Scientists believe the caps on the glass bottles may be the main reason for this surprising finding. Microplastics are everywhere: in our oceans, soil, air, and even our bodies. They have been linked to health problems like infertility, hormone issues, and even cancer. This study challenges the idea that glass is automatically the safest option, and highlights that seemingly small parts of packaging, like caps, can be a big source of microplastic exposure. What Has Higher Chances Of Microplastic Exposure? To see how different containers affect microplastic levels, French researchers tested various drinks in different types of packaging. They looked at water, soda, iced tea, lemonade, wine, and beer. The results were surprising: Cola, Iced Tea, Lemonade, and Beer These drinks contained significantly more microplastics when they were in glass bottles. In some cases, there were nearly 50 times more microplastics than in plastic bottles and cans. Water Water in glass bottles had slightly more microplastics, but it was the least contaminated drink overall, no matter the container. Wine Wine in cardboard "brick" cartons had more microplastics, but generally, all the wines tested had very low levels of contamination. The study showed that the amount of microplastics a person is exposed to can vary widely depending on what they drink and what container it comes from. For example, a single liter of lemonade from a glass bottle might have over 100 microplastics, while the same amount of water from a plastic bottle might have only about 1.6. It’s important to note that the study only tested for microplastics and not even smaller particles called nanoplastics, which might have gone undetected. Why Are Glass Bottles Contaminated With Microplastics? It seems strange that a glass bottle would be more contaminated than a plastic one. The researchers were surprised by their own findings, but they have a theory: the cap. They believe the paint used on the metal caps of glass bottles may be the source. During testing, they noticed that the microplastics found in the drinks often had the same color and material as the paint on the caps. They also saw tiny scratches on many of the caps, suggesting that friction during bottling, storage, or sealing could cause the paint to flake off as microplastic particles. When the researchers cleaned the caps, the amount of microplastics in the drinks dropped significantly. The use of a cork on most wine bottles may also explain why wine had a much lower level of contamination. While cleaning the caps won't completely solve the problem—microplastics can also come from airborne particles, contaminated water, or factory equipment—the findings suggest that beverage companies should rethink their packaging to protect consumers. How Do Microplastics Affect Our Health? According to Association of American Medical Colleges although we don't have proof that microplastics harm humans, scientists are concerned. A study on mice found that even "clean" plastic particles caused negative effects. The worry is that real-world plastics contain harmful chemicals that disrupt hormones, which can affect important body functions like growth and reproduction. Experts suggest reducing plastic exposure as much as possible, especially for pregnant women and children. How to Reduce Your Microplastic Exposure?Given that microplastics are everywhere, it's almost impossible to avoid them completely. The study found that even bottled and tap water contain them. However, you can take steps to reduce your exposure: Use cups made of glass, stainless steel, or bamboo.Avoid putting plastic containers in the dishwasher or microwave, as heat can cause them to release microplastics into your food and drinks. When you buy a drink, consider switching between different types of packaging, like plastic, glass, and cans.The ultimate goal, experts say, is to reduce our overall dependence on packaged drinks and snacks in general.

this common component recently found in glass could be the reason behind your inflammation

Tanya Dutt

Davina McCall On The Brain Tumour Diagnosis That Redefined Her Outlook On Life: Two Symptoms She Ignored

Billie Shepherd Opens Up About 'Horrendous' Diagnosis That Left Her Bed Bound

billie shepherd opens up about 'horrendous' diagnosis that left her bed bound

Wyoming Health Officials Hunt for 200 Exposed Tourists After Bat-Infested Cabins Spark Rabies Scare

wyoming health officials hunt for 200 exposed tourists after bat-infested cabins spark rabies scare

Dozens Sickened, Four Dead In New York City Legionnaires’ Outbreak: Are NYC’s Cooling Towers Really The Problem?

dozens sickened, four dead in new york city legionnaires’ outbreak: are nyc’s cooling towers really the problem?

TV presenter Davina McCall first received news of a brain tumour during a routine health check tied to her menopause advocacy work, her world tilted. Though doctors confirmed the tumour was benign, the 57-year-old star spiraled into a deep fear that her time was running out. What followed was both sobering and transformative: she began preparing an end-of-life checklist—an exercise she now describes as the “best gift” she could have given herself and her family.

This story is not just about one woman’s health scare. It’s about how facing mortality reshapes priorities, strengthens family bonds, and forces conversations many of us spend a lifetime avoiding.

The growth, identified as a <span>colloid cyst</span>, was discovered in November 2024. For months, McCall admits she lived in denial. It wasn’t until her fourth neurosurgeon gave a blunt assessment—warning that if she didn’t act quickly, she could die—that she finally moved toward surgery.

“He told me it was a big tumour and that if it grew any more, I’d risk water on the brain,” McCall recalled. “Even flying could have triggered a medical emergency.”

That stark warning snapped her out of hesitation. By the time she went into surgery, she had already reorganized her personal life, written letters to her children, and found peace with the possibility of not waking up.

The procedure to remove a colloid cyst is no small undertaking. Surgeon Kevin O’Neill, who performed McCall’s operation, described it as “like defusing a bomb.” The team drilled into her skull and used GPS-guided precision to excise the cyst without damaging her memory pathways.

The risks were real, if anything went wrong, she could have faced a stroke or permanent short-term memory loss—an outcome that would have ended her television career. Yet the alternative was equally grim. Leaving the cyst untreated meant the risk of sudden death remained.

When McCall woke up, she was disoriented, even believing for a time that her late father was still alive. But once her mind cleared, she felt something remarkable: her mental fog had lifted. The “fuzziness” she once attributed to menopause, she now believes, was partly the tumour pressing on her memory.

What makes McCall’s story resonate so deeply is not just the surgery, but the way she prepared herself and her family beforehand. She created what she calls her end-of-life checklist, ensuring her children would be supported and that her affairs were in order.

“I had to make sure my kids would be okay if I didn’t make it. That’s all I really cared about,” she said. Her daughter Holly eventually reassured her: “You’re not dying.”

By confronting her fears head-on, McCall says she gave herself a profound sense of peace. “I could go to sleep on the operating table knowing they’d be okay. It was the best gift, I am not afraid of dying.”

Davina’s diagnosis underscores a crucial point about brain tumours: not all are cancerous, but even benign ones can be dangerous.

Benign tumours, like colloid cysts, grow slowly and do not spread. Still, their location can cause life-threatening complications if they press against vital structures in the brain.

Malignant tumours are cancerous, often fast-growing, and can spread to other organs through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

Pre-cancerous tumours sit in a gray area, not malignant yet but carrying the potential to develop into cancer if untreated.

Colloid cysts are rare but potentially fatal. Though benign, they can block cerebrospinal fluid, leading to hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain). According to NHS data, non-cancerous brain tumours are more common in people over 50 and often present with headaches, drowsiness, and vision problems.

One of the most striking aspects of McCall’s experience is how it shifted her relationship with mortality. She now hosts Begin Again, a podcast focused on helping people live lives without regret—so that when the time comes, they can face death without fear.

“I have lived the life I wanted,” she explained. “I’m not lying there thinking, ‘I wish I’d done that thing, that job, or left that relationship.’ Begin Again is about starting over and living the life you want.”

Her words point to something bigger than her diagnosis: how health crises can catalyze clarity. For McCall, the fear of dying was replaced by gratitude for living.

McCall now admits she overlooked two warning signs: brain fog and memory issues. Initially, she dismissed them as symptoms of menopause. Only later did she realize they were likely caused by the cyst pressing on her short-term memory pathway.

This misinterpretation is not uncommon. Brain tumours can mimic other conditions, making early detection difficult. Her story serves as a reminder to take persistent or unusual symptoms seriously, especially as we age.

Perhaps the most enduring lesson from McCall’s journey is the value of facing death directly. The very act of writing her checklist—organizing her thoughts, her finances, and her farewells—brought her calm rather than despair.

In Western cultures, conversations about death often remain taboo. Yet McCall’s openness reframes these discussions as empowering rather than morbid. Preparing for the inevitable, she argues, isn’t about expecting the worst but about ensuring peace of mind.

Now fully recovered and with her final MRI scan showing no recurrence, McCall describes herself as profoundly changed. She is closer to her children, grateful for her health, and more committed than ever to advocating for women’s wellbeing. She has also formed an unlikely bond with the surgeon who saved her life.

davina mccall brain tumour

davina mccall surgery

davina mccall health scare

colloid cyst

menopause health check

davina mccall emergency surgery

davina mccall diagnosis

TV presenter Davina McCall first received news of a brain tumour during a routine health check tied to her menopause advocacy work, her world tilted. Though doctors confirmed the tumour was benign, the 57-year-old star spiraled into a deep fear that her time was running out. What followed was both sobering and transformative: she began preparing an end-of-life checklist—an exercise she now describes as the “best gift” she could have given herself and her family.This story is not just about one woman’s health scare. It’s about how facing mortality reshapes priorities, strengthens family bonds, and forces conversations many of us spend a lifetime avoiding.The growth, identified as a colloid cyst, was discovered in November 2024. For months, McCall admits she lived in denial. It wasn’t until her fourth neurosurgeon gave a blunt assessment—warning that if she didn’t act quickly, she could die—that she finally moved toward surgery.“He told me it was a big tumour and that if it grew any more, I’d risk water on the brain,” McCall recalled. “Even flying could have triggered a medical emergency.”That stark warning snapped her out of hesitation. By the time she went into surgery, she had already reorganized her personal life, written letters to her children, and found peace with the possibility of not waking up.The procedure to remove a colloid cyst is no small undertaking. Surgeon Kevin O’Neill, who performed McCall’s operation, described it as “like defusing a bomb.” The team drilled into her skull and used GPS-guided precision to excise the cyst without damaging her memory pathways.The risks were real, if anything went wrong, she could have faced a stroke or permanent short-term memory loss—an outcome that would have ended her television career. Yet the alternative was equally grim. Leaving the cyst untreated meant the risk of sudden death remained.When McCall woke up, she was disoriented, even believing for a time that her late father was still alive. But once her mind cleared, she felt something remarkable: her mental fog had lifted. The “fuzziness” she once attributed to menopause, she now believes, was partly the tumour pressing on her memory.What makes McCall’s story resonate so deeply is not just the surgery, but the way she prepared herself and her family beforehand. She created what she calls her end-of-life checklist, ensuring her children would be supported and that her affairs were in order.“I had to make sure my kids would be okay if I didn’t make it. That’s all I really cared about,” she said. Her daughter Holly eventually reassured her: “You’re not dying.”By confronting her fears head-on, McCall says she gave herself a profound sense of peace. “I could go to sleep on the operating table knowing they’d be okay. It was the best gift, I am not afraid of dying.”What Is Colloid Cysts?Davina’s diagnosis underscores a crucial point about brain tumours: not all are cancerous, but even benign ones can be dangerous.Benign tumours, like colloid cysts, grow slowly and do not spread. Still, their location can cause life-threatening complications if they press against vital structures in the brain.Malignant tumours are cancerous, often fast-growing, and can spread to other organs through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.Pre-cancerous tumours sit in a gray area, not malignant yet but carrying the potential to develop into cancer if untreated.Colloid cysts are rare but potentially fatal. Though benign, they can block cerebrospinal fluid, leading to hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain). According to NHS data, non-cancerous brain tumours are more common in people over 50 and often present with headaches, drowsiness, and vision problems.One of the most striking aspects of McCall’s experience is how it shifted her relationship with mortality. She now hosts Begin Again, a podcast focused on helping people live lives without regret—so that when the time comes, they can face death without fear.“I have lived the life I wanted,” she explained. “I’m not lying there thinking, ‘I wish I’d done that thing, that job, or left that relationship.’ Begin Again is about starting over and living the life you want.”Her words point to something bigger than her diagnosis: how health crises can catalyze clarity. For McCall, the fear of dying was replaced by gratitude for living.Symptoms Davina IgnoredMcCall now admits she overlooked two warning signs: brain fog and memory issues. Initially, she dismissed them as symptoms of menopause. Only later did she realize they were likely caused by the cyst pressing on her short-term memory pathway.This misinterpretation is not uncommon. Brain tumours can mimic other conditions, making early detection difficult. Her story serves as a reminder to take persistent or unusual symptoms seriously, especially as we age.Perhaps the most enduring lesson from McCall’s journey is the value of facing death directly. The very act of writing her checklist—organizing her thoughts, her finances, and her farewells—brought her calm rather than despair.In Western cultures, conversations about death often remain taboo. Yet McCall’s openness reframes these discussions as empowering rather than morbid. Preparing for the inevitable, she argues, isn’t about expecting the worst but about ensuring peace of mind.Now fully recovered and with her final MRI scan showing no recurrence, McCall describes herself as profoundly changed. She is closer to her children, grateful for her health, and more committed than ever to advocating for women’s wellbeing. She has also formed an unlikely bond with the surgeon who saved her life.

davina mccall on the brain tumour diagnosis that redefined her outlook on life: two symptoms she ignored

Nutrition

Why a Top Gut Doctor Says Bacon Should Be Banned from Breakfast Plates

why a top gut doctor says bacon should be banned from breakfast plates

Parenting

Paracetamol During Pregnancy Could Cause Neurodevelopment Disorders In Newborns – Study

paracetamol during pregnancy could cause neurodevelopment disorders in newborns – study

Able-bodied people take many things for granted, whether it is their ability to function their limbs, hear or speak. These things make up for a huge part of one’s life and it is only when you lose it that you understand how valuable it was. Many people go through losing their voice or speech, it could be after a stroke, an accident or other health issues. Communicating with them after a traumatic event as such can be difficult and make them feel handicapped in many ways. So, what if we could hear them, without the extra effort, almost like looking into their minds? 

Scientists have made a big leap forward by creating a brain implant that can turn a person's thoughts into spoken words. This special device isn't about mind-reading; it's the first of its kind that can actually "hear" and speak the words a person is only imagining in their head. 

Developed by a team at <span>Stanford University</span>, this technology could be a huge help for people with severe paralysis who cannot speak on their own. For the very first time, researchers can understand what the brain is doing when someone is just thinking about speaking, offering a much more natural way for those with severe speech issues to communicate. 

The study involved four individuals who had paralysis from conditions like ALS or a brainstem stroke. A device called <span>BrainGate</span>, which uses tiny sensors called electrode arrays, was implanted in their brains. Specifically, the implant was placed in the motor cortex, the area responsible for controlling speech. The participants were asked to either try to speak or simply imagine speaking certain words. 

The device then picked up on the brain signals related to phonemes—the small, basic sounds that make up words (like the "c" sound in "cat" or the "a" sound). An advanced artificial intelligence (AI) program then took these brain signals and stitched them together to form full sentences. 

The researchers found that even the signals from imagined speech were strong enough for the device to recognize words with up to 74% accuracy in real-time. This is a huge step forward because, as senior author <span>Frank Willett</span> explained, trying to speak for someone with paralysis can be exhausting and difficult. This new method could one day allow them to communicate fluently just by thinking.

The researchers explained how this tool could be very useful for people who have paralysis, as it would make communication easier. One of the biggest issues people with paralysis face is the change in communication style, and it has a huge impact on their daily life. 

To understand how much impact it had a 2019 study published in the Disability and Rehabilitation journal looked at real life experiences of people with a neck-level spinal cord injury who did not use a ventilator. They were interviewed about how their communication changed and how it affected them. 

This study explores what it's like to experience communication changes after a spinal cord injury in the neck. People shared how their voice and speech were different, the challenges they faced in being understood, and how these changes impacted their daily activities and social lives. The research shows that these communication issues have a wide-ranging effect, not just on a person's body but on their ability to interact with the world around them. 

It would suffice to say that a device that could accurately communicate what they want could significantly impact their quality of life. 

<h2>Addressing Privacy and Future Potential </h2>

The research team also considered the important issue of privacy. They were surprised to find that the device could sometimes pick up on words the participants weren't trying to imagine, such as numbers they were silently counting. To solve this, they created a unique "password" system. 

The device only starts decoding thoughts when the user consciously "unlocks" it. In the study, simply imagining the phrase "chitty chitty bang bang" worked almost perfectly—98% of the time—to prevent unintended decoding. This shows that the technology can be designed with user privacy and control in mind. 

The researchers are very hopeful about the future of this technology. They believe it will one day restore communication for people with paralysis, allowing them to speak as easily and comfortably as a regular conversation. This new tool offers another option for individuals who rely on such devices, providing a path toward more fluent and natural communication. 

Communication device and brain waves

frank willett

stanford university

Thoughts into spoken word

BrainGate

accessibility device for paralyzed people

Able-bodied people take many things for granted, whether it is their ability to function their limbs, hear or speak. These things make up for a huge part of one’s life and it is only when you lose it that you understand how valuable it was. Many people go through losing their voice or speech, it could be after a stroke, an accident or other health issues. Communicating with them after a traumatic event as such can be difficult and make them feel handicapped in many ways. So, what if we could hear them, without the extra effort, almost like looking into their minds? Scientists have made a big leap forward by creating a brain implant that can turn a person's thoughts into spoken words. This special device isn't about mind-reading; it's the first of its kind that can actually "hear" and speak the words a person is only imagining in their head. Developed by a team at Stanford University, this technology could be a huge help for people with severe paralysis who cannot speak on their own. For the very first time, researchers can understand what the brain is doing when someone is just thinking about speaking, offering a much more natural way for those with severe speech issues to communicate. How the Technology Works The study involved four individuals who had paralysis from conditions like ALS or a brainstem stroke. A device called BrainGate, which uses tiny sensors called electrode arrays, was implanted in their brains. Specifically, the implant was placed in the motor cortex, the area responsible for controlling speech. The participants were asked to either try to speak or simply imagine speaking certain words. The device then picked up on the brain signals related to phonemes—the small, basic sounds that make up words (like the "c" sound in "cat" or the "a" sound). An advanced artificial intelligence (AI) program then took these brain signals and stitched them together to form full sentences. The researchers found that even the signals from imagined speech were strong enough for the device to recognize words with up to 74% accuracy in real-time. This is a huge step forward because, as senior author Frank Willett explained, trying to speak for someone with paralysis can be exhausting and difficult. This new method could one day allow them to communicate fluently just by thinking. Who Does This Tool Help? The researchers explained how this tool could be very useful for people who have paralysis, as it would make communication easier. One of the biggest issues people with paralysis face is the change in communication style, and it has a huge impact on their daily life. To understand how much impact it had a 2019 study published in the Disability and Rehabilitation journal looked at real life experiences of people with a neck-level spinal cord injury who did not use a ventilator. They were interviewed about how their communication changed and how it affected them. This study explores what it's like to experience communication changes after a spinal cord injury in the neck. People shared how their voice and speech were different, the challenges they faced in being understood, and how these changes impacted their daily activities and social lives. The research shows that these communication issues have a wide-ranging effect, not just on a person's body but on their ability to interact with the world around them. It would suffice to say that a device that could accurately communicate what they want could significantly impact their quality of life. Addressing Privacy and Future Potential The research team also considered the important issue of privacy. They were surprised to find that the device could sometimes pick up on words the participants weren't trying to imagine, such as numbers they were silently counting. To solve this, they created a unique "password" system. The device only starts decoding thoughts when the user consciously "unlocks" it. In the study, simply imagining the phrase "chitty chitty bang bang" worked almost perfectly—98% of the time—to prevent unintended decoding. This shows that the technology can be designed with user privacy and control in mind. The researchers are very hopeful about the future of this technology. They believe it will one day restore communication for people with paralysis, allowing them to speak as easily and comfortably as a regular conversation. This new tool offers another option for individuals who rely on such devices, providing a path toward more fluent and natural communication. 

New Device Could Allow Thoughts To Become Real Words - University Develops New Tech

new device could allow thoughts to become real words - university develops new tech

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

Unhealthy Weekend Habits Linked To Sleeping Disorders - Why You Health Cannot Take A Day Off

Quick Stories

This Common Component Recently Found In Glass Could Be The Reason Behind Your Inflammation

Davina McCall On The Brain Tumour Diagnosis That Redefined Her Outlook On Life: Two Symptoms She Ignored

New Device Could Allow Thoughts To Become Real Words - University Develops New Tech

Health Conditions A-Z

Unhealthy Weekend Habits Linked To Sleeping Disorders - Why You Health Cannot Take A Day Off

Invasive New Tick Species Could Spread Little-Known Infectious Disease, Scientists Warn

This Common Component Recently Found In Glass Could Be The Reason Behind Your Inflammation