Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

What Is Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy? The Rare Brain Swelling In Kids That Is Linked To Flu

Flu-linked brain swelling

Influenza can look like a run-of-the-mill childhood illness, but in an occasional patient it can cause a life-threatening illness known as acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE). This isn't a normal fever or headache—it's a catastrophic neurologic emergency characterized by out-of-control brain swelling and an incessant immune attack.

A new JAMA review illuminates 41 pediatric cases of ANE in the U.S. from late 2023 through spring 2025. In nearly all cases, the patients had previously been healthy before developing acute and severe flu-like symptoms. Of these cases, 27% ended in death, and 63% of survivors had moderate to severe neurologic disability three months after the illness.

<h2>What Is Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy (ANE)?</h2>

ANE occurs when the body’s immune system goes into overdrive during an influenza infection. Dr. Thomas LaRocca, co-senior author of the study and pediatric critical care specialist at Stanford, describes it as “similar to the sepsis response” in which the immune system causes damage to the brain instead of fighting infection.

Typically, after a few days of flu symptoms—fever, congestion, vomiting—kids suddenly develop neurologic signs like seizures, altered mental status, or coma. In all 41 cases, children suffered significant brain swelling. 95% had fevers, while 68% experienced seizures.

ANE resembles the worst-case scenario of flu complications—fast, deadly, and difficult to treat once it spreads.

<h2>Pandemic-Level Numbers During Two Severe Flu Seasons</h2>

While ANE is rare historically, researchers identified 41 confirmed cases across 23 U.S. pediatric hospitals over two flu seasons, an unusually high incidence tied to aggressive influenza activity in 2023–2025.

The majority of children were 5 years old, previously healthy, and almost all infections were associated with influenza A (39 of 41), with only two cases attributed to influenza B. Disturbingly, only six children had been vaccinated against the flu that year—fewer than 16%, versus about 55% national pediatric vaccination coverage.

This stark gap raises a critical warning: even though ANE is rare, it’s heavily preventable through vaccination.

<h2>Why Timing and Early Treatment Is Important?</h2>

ANE progresses quickly. Nearly half of the fatal cases occurred within eight days of hospitalization; survivors spent an average of 22 days in hospital, with 11 days in ICU.

Treatment must start fast. As Dr. Keith Van Haren, pediatric neurologist at Stanford and co-author, stresses: early intensive care—combining steroids to calm the immune system and plasma exchange (replacement of a child’s plasma with donor plasma)—can significantly improve chances.

Despite ANE’s reputation as nearly always fatal, about 70% of survivors regained some mobility: 19 could sit, 16 could stand, and 13 could walk independently within three months—even after severe brain swelling.

Dr. LaRocca and Van Haren also point out that intensive neurocritical care, careful immunotherapy, and early support increase recovery odds even when the diagnosis appears grim.

ANE represents just one extreme of flu’s neurological impact. During the 2024–25 season, 13% of pediatric flu deaths involved encephalopathy or encephalitis (IAE), with ANE being the most severe subtype. Historically, the average rate has been around 9% of child flu deaths—ranging from 0% in the mild 2020–21 season to 14% in 2011–12.

These statistics remind us that while ANE is rare, brain complications from flu are not negligible—and they disproportionately affect young children under 5.

<h2>Why Vaccination Is The Best Prevention For Kids?</h2>

Both experts and study authors emphatically agree: prevention is better than cure.

“Vaccinate,” Van Haren said plainly. Not only does the flu shot reduce typical risks like respiratory failure—but it also prevents extreme complications like ANE. For children who survive one episode of ANE, vaccination becomes even more critical to avoid recurrence.

Given that only a small fraction of affected children had been vaccinated, these deaths and disabilities were arguably avoidable.

Here’s what families and healthcare providers should know:

<ul><li>Monitor flu symptoms closely—especially in kids who develop neurological signs like confusion or seizures.</li><li>Act early, don’t wait for symptoms to escalate. Ensure transfer to hospitals equipped for neurocritical care and plasma exchange.</li><li>Remember that ANE progresses fast—every hour counts.</li><li>If your child survives, rehabilitation is possible. Many children regain functional abilities despite initial severe outcomes.</li><li>Don't let hope fade early; survival is real when aggressive care is delivered promptly.</li></ul>

The unusual spike in ANE during the 2023–2025 flu seasons serves as a wake-up call to both the medical community and families: even previously healthy children are vulnerable. While ANE remains a rare complication, early recognition and intervention can dramatically alter its course.

More broadly, this work underscores the hidden dangers of influenza—and why simple preventive steps matter so much.

Flu-Linked brain swelling in children is rare but when it does strike, it can be fatal or leave lifelong disability. Vaccination, vigilant symptom awareness, and rapid access to advanced care are key to prevention and survival. In cases where the immune system spirals out of control, timely and aggressive treatments like steroids and plasma exchange can make the difference between recovery and tragedy.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

kids health

flu in kids

brain swelling

flu complications

pediatric flu symptoms

flu vaccine

encephalitis children

fatal flu cases

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Influenza can look like a run-of-the-mill childhood illness, but in an occasional patient it can cause a life-threatening illness known as acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE). This isn't a normal fever or headache—it's a catastrophic neurologic emergency characterized by out-of-control brain swelling and an incessant immune attack.A new JAMA review illuminates 41 pediatric cases of ANE in the U.S. from late 2023 through spring 2025. In nearly all cases, the patients had previously been healthy before developing acute and severe flu-like symptoms. Of these cases, 27% ended in death, and 63% of survivors had moderate to severe neurologic disability three months after the illness.What Is Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy (ANE)?ANE occurs when the body’s immune system goes into overdrive during an influenza infection. Dr. Thomas LaRocca, co-senior author of the study and pediatric critical care specialist at Stanford, describes it as “similar to the sepsis response” in which the immune system causes damage to the brain instead of fighting infection.Typically, after a few days of flu symptoms—fever, congestion, vomiting—kids suddenly develop neurologic signs like seizures, altered mental status, or coma. In all 41 cases, children suffered significant brain swelling. 95% had fevers, while 68% experienced seizures.ANE resembles the worst-case scenario of flu complications—fast, deadly, and difficult to treat once it spreads.Pandemic-Level Numbers During Two Severe Flu SeasonsWhile ANE is rare historically, researchers identified 41 confirmed cases across 23 U.S. pediatric hospitals over two flu seasons, an unusually high incidence tied to aggressive influenza activity in 2023–2025.The majority of children were 5 years old, previously healthy, and almost all infections were associated with influenza A (39 of 41), with only two cases attributed to influenza B. Disturbingly, only six children had been vaccinated against the flu that year—fewer than 16%, versus about 55% national pediatric vaccination coverage.This stark gap raises a critical warning: even though ANE is rare, it’s heavily preventable through vaccination.Why Timing and Early Treatment Is Important?ANE progresses quickly. Nearly half of the fatal cases occurred within eight days of hospitalization; survivors spent an average of 22 days in hospital, with 11 days in ICU.Treatment must start fast. As Dr. Keith Van Haren, pediatric neurologist at Stanford and co-author, stresses: early intensive care—combining steroids to calm the immune system and plasma exchange (replacement of a child’s plasma with donor plasma)—can significantly improve chances.Despite ANE’s reputation as nearly always fatal, about 70% of survivors regained some mobility: 19 could sit, 16 could stand, and 13 could walk independently within three months—even after severe brain swelling.Dr. LaRocca and Van Haren also point out that intensive neurocritical care, careful immunotherapy, and early support increase recovery odds even when the diagnosis appears grim.ANE represents just one extreme of flu’s neurological impact. During the 2024–25 season, 13% of pediatric flu deaths involved encephalopathy or encephalitis (IAE), with ANE being the most severe subtype. Historically, the average rate has been around 9% of child flu deaths—ranging from 0% in the mild 2020–21 season to 14% in 2011–12.These statistics remind us that while ANE is rare, brain complications from flu are not negligible—and they disproportionately affect young children under 5.Why Vaccination Is The Best Prevention For Kids?Both experts and study authors emphatically agree: prevention is better than cure.“Vaccinate,” Van Haren said plainly. Not only does the flu shot reduce typical risks like respiratory failure—but it also prevents extreme complications like ANE. For children who survive one episode of ANE, vaccination becomes even more critical to avoid recurrence.Given that only a small fraction of affected children had been vaccinated, these deaths and disabilities were arguably avoidable.What Parents Should Watch For?Here’s what families and healthcare providers should know:Monitor flu symptoms closely—especially in kids who develop neurological signs like confusion or seizures.Act early, don’t wait for symptoms to escalate. Ensure transfer to hospitals equipped for neurocritical care and plasma exchange.Remember that ANE progresses fast—every hour counts.If your child survives, rehabilitation is possible. Many children regain functional abilities despite initial severe outcomes.Don't let hope fade early; survival is real when aggressive care is delivered promptly.The unusual spike in ANE during the 2023–2025 flu seasons serves as a wake-up call to both the medical community and families: even previously healthy children are vulnerable. While ANE remains a rare complication, early recognition and intervention can dramatically alter its course.More broadly, this work underscores the hidden dangers of influenza—and why simple preventive steps matter so much.Flu-Linked brain swelling in children is rare but when it does strike, it can be fatal or leave lifelong disability. Vaccination, vigilant symptom awareness, and rapid access to advanced care are key to prevention and survival. In cases where the immune system spirals out of control, timely and aggressive treatments like steroids and plasma exchange can make the difference between recovery and tragedy.

what is acute necrotizing encephalopathy? the rare brain swelling in kids that is linked to flu

Supriya Ramesh

Credits: Canva

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You spot an itchy patch, a flaky scalp, or a rash after a bad week and think, “It’s probably nothing. Maybe I just need a better moisturiser.” But sometimes, skin changes are like quiet signs from your immune system, and ignoring them could mean missing a chronic condition hiding in plain sight: psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease whose symptoms are often mistaken for everyday skin issues. For light skin tones, it can show up red or pink with a silvery white scale; on darker skin tones, it might look purplish, grey, or dark brown, with scaling that’s less obvious.

Dr K R Sharmatha, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, SIMS Hospital, Chennai, says that because psoriasis often hides behind myths, it’s misdiagnosed as something else. So, let’s debunk nine common misconceptions that are actually signs you might have psoriasis, not just a skin infection.

1. It’s dry skin; a moisturiser will fix it

Early psoriasis can look like stubborn red or scaly patches on knees, back, scalp, or elbows, resulting in silvery-white scales on inflamed skin. Moisturisers won’t cut it; targeted treatments and light therapy are the real solutions.

2. If it itches, it’s probably eczema

Psoriasis can itch like eczema, but it’s not just a surface problem. The itching can cause burning and pain, with flare-ups that feel deep and relentless.

3. Flaky scalp = dandruff

Scalp psoriasis is thicker, with defined plaques and red blotches. Medicated shampoos containing coal tar or salicylic acid can help, but it needs proper diagnosis first.

4. Temporary allergy rash after illness or stress

After a sore throat, fever, or a rough life event, small teardrop-shaped red lesions might appear. This is often misread as an allergy rash, but it could be guttate psoriasis, triggered by immune stressors and treatable with immune-regulating medication and UV therapy.

5. Nail crumbling means vitamin deficiency

Yellow nails, tiny dents, or separation from the nail bed could mean nail psoriasis. It can even signal psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory joint condition.

6. Shiny red patches are sweat rash or fungal infections

Inverse psoriasis shows up as red, shiny patches without scaling, often in the groin, underarms, or under breasts. Its appearance fools people into thinking it’s a sweat rash or fungal infection. Gentle cleansers and prescription creams can help.

7. Skin issues and joint pain aren’t connected

Think again. Persistent stiffness or pain in fingers and knees can be psoriatic arthritis, which may show up without visible skin patches.

8. If it’s not visible, it’s not serious

Psoriasis can affect hidden spots like the inner thighs or inside the mouth, severely impacting quality of life and requiring customised treatment.

9. If it runs in the family, you’re stuck with it

Genetics can play a role, but early intervention reduces severity and prevents complications.

Dr Vaaruni Ravishankar, Consultant Dermatologist, MGM Healthcare, Chennai, explains that psoriasis can be silent, sometimes showing up as fissured palms and soles, oozing skin, persistent groin or armpit rashes, or rough, pitted nails. It can even come disguised as arthritis or link up with autoimmune gut issues.

However, don’t panic, self-treat, or ignore it. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition triggered by factors like hormonal changes, metabolic issues, genetics, stress, certain medications, infections, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or alcohol. But it’s not contagious.

Diagnosis often involves a clinical exam and, if needed, a skin biopsy to confirm. Dr Ravishankar recommends lifestyle adjustments, stress management, and targeted treatment, from topical formulations to immune-modulating medications or biologics that tackle inflammation. Daily care with pH-balanced cleansers, barrier-repair emollients, and sun protection can keep symptoms under control.

And if skin problems last more than two to four weeks, don’t keep guessing. Persistent discomfort, lack of improvement with fungal creams, or worsening skin could be subtle signs of psoriasis. Myths only delay care and in the case of psoriasis, early attention can change everything.

psoriasis

autoimmune

skin patches

silvery scales

eczema

scalp plaques

guttate psoriasis

nail changes

psoriatic arthritis

early intervention

You spot an itchy patch, a flaky scalp, or a rash after a bad week and think, “It’s probably nothing. Maybe I just need a better moisturiser.” But sometimes, skin changes are like quiet signs from your immune system, and ignoring them could mean missing a chronic condition hiding in plain sight: psoriasis.Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease whose symptoms are often mistaken for everyday skin issues. For light skin tones, it can show up red or pink with a silvery white scale; on darker skin tones, it might look purplish, grey, or dark brown, with scaling that’s less obvious. Dr K R Sharmatha, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, SIMS Hospital, Chennai, says that because psoriasis often hides behind myths, it’s misdiagnosed as something else. So, let’s debunk nine common misconceptions that are actually signs you might have psoriasis, not just a skin infection.1. It’s dry skin; a moisturiser will fix itEarly psoriasis can look like stubborn red or scaly patches on knees, back, scalp, or elbows, resulting in silvery-white scales on inflamed skin. Moisturisers won’t cut it; targeted treatments and light therapy are the real solutions.2. If it itches, it’s probably eczemaPsoriasis can itch like eczema, but it’s not just a surface problem. The itching can cause burning and pain, with flare-ups that feel deep and relentless.3. Flaky scalp = dandruffScalp psoriasis is thicker, with defined plaques and red blotches. Medicated shampoos containing coal tar or salicylic acid can help, but it needs proper diagnosis first.4. Temporary allergy rash after illness or stressAfter a sore throat, fever, or a rough life event, small teardrop-shaped red lesions might appear. This is often misread as an allergy rash, but it could be guttate psoriasis, triggered by immune stressors and treatable with immune-regulating medication and UV therapy.5. Nail crumbling means vitamin deficiencyYellow nails, tiny dents, or separation from the nail bed could mean nail psoriasis. It can even signal psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory joint condition.6. Shiny red patches are sweat rash or fungal infectionsInverse psoriasis shows up as red, shiny patches without scaling, often in the groin, underarms, or under breasts. Its appearance fools people into thinking it’s a sweat rash or fungal infection. Gentle cleansers and prescription creams can help.7. Skin issues and joint pain aren’t connectedThink again. Persistent stiffness or pain in fingers and knees can be psoriatic arthritis, which may show up without visible skin patches.8. If it’s not visible, it’s not seriousPsoriasis can affect hidden spots like the inner thighs or inside the mouth, severely impacting quality of life and requiring customised treatment.9. If it runs in the family, you’re stuck with itGenetics can play a role, but early intervention reduces severity and prevents complications.Dr Vaaruni Ravishankar, Consultant Dermatologist, MGM Healthcare, Chennai, explains that psoriasis can be silent, sometimes showing up as fissured palms and soles, oozing skin, persistent groin or armpit rashes, or rough, pitted nails. It can even come disguised as arthritis or link up with autoimmune gut issues.However, don’t panic, self-treat, or ignore it. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition triggered by factors like hormonal changes, metabolic issues, genetics, stress, certain medications, infections, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or alcohol. But it’s not contagious.Diagnosis often involves a clinical exam and, if needed, a skin biopsy to confirm. Dr Ravishankar recommends lifestyle adjustments, stress management, and targeted treatment, from topical formulations to immune-modulating medications or biologics that tackle inflammation. Daily care with pH-balanced cleansers, barrier-repair emollients, and sun protection can keep symptoms under control.And if skin problems last more than two to four weeks, don’t keep guessing. Persistent discomfort, lack of improvement with fungal creams, or worsening skin could be subtle signs of psoriasis. Myths only delay care and in the case of psoriasis, early attention can change everything.

9 signs your skin changes could be psoriasis, according to experts

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When robotic surgery was first introduced in India, it was considered an advanced and largely inaccessible technique, reserved for high-end hospitals and select cases. Over time, it has evolved into an important tool in women’s healthcare, transforming gynaecologic procedures by making them safer, more precise, and significantly less invasive.

Now, if you’re imagining a machine operating on you while your surgeon takes a break, hit the brakes. This is not sci-fi. In reality, the surgeon is in full control, seated at a console, guiding robotic arms with the finesse of human wrists and the added bonus of 3D vision.

As Dr Rooma Sinha, Founder and President of AGRS and Senior Mentor at Vattikuti Foundation, explains, the advantages of robotic surgery shine brightest in complex cases like hysterectomies, myomectomies, endometriosis excision, and cancer surgeries, especially when factors like obesity, previous surgeries, or deep pelvic adhesions come into play. Public perceptions, however, are still catching up. “There is still a need for greater public clarification that robotic procedures are not only precise and minimally invasive but also safe when performed by trained specialists,” she says.

Even in the US, she points out, 85 per cent of women with large or multiple fibroids still undergo open surgery, largely because traditional laparoscopy proves tricky. “Doing 1000+ benign gynaecological surgeries in my career is the testimony of my belief in this technology as a game-changer in surgery for women,” she says.

<h3>Babies, Blood Loss, and Better Scars</h3>

One unexpected benefit is fertility. Robotic myomectomy allows for precise fibroid removal and meticulous suturing, increasing the chances of full-term pregnancy, something not always guaranteed with traditional surgery. Endometriosis patients, too, benefit from improved pelvic anatomy restoration, reduced pain, and a better shot at conceiving naturally.

And while the upfront cost of robotic surgery still raises eyebrows, Dr Sinha points out that it’s an investment with returns: shorter hospital stays, fewer complications, and speedier returns to daily life. “Within a few days, many patients are back on their feet and return to work,” she says.

According to Dr Sinha, today’s Indian woman is informed, outcome-driven, and unwilling to settle for outdated surgical methods. She asks better questions and demands better options and robotic-assisted surgery is increasingly stepping up as a modern, evidence-based choice rather than an unattainable luxury.

Over in the oncology wing, Dr Arun Kumar Giri, Director of Surgical Oncology at Aakash Healthcare, sees similar misconceptions playing out. “Beliefs about autonomous robotic surgery or its applicability to complex cases may dissuade people from pursuing this revolutionary treatment,” he says.

MYTH: Robotic surgery is experimental and unsafe for gynaecological operations.

FACT: Dr Giri points out that robotic surgery has been around for more than two decades, backed by substantial research and clinical trials. In disciplines including gynaecology, it has shown lower complication rates and better patient outcomes than standard open surgery.

MYTH: Robotic surgery is completely automated and doesn’t need a surgeon.

FACT: “This is not correct,” Dr Giri says firmly. Robotic systems are sophisticated tools, nothing more, nothing less, always operated by a trained surgeon from a console. The robot doesn’t make decisions or perform surgery on its own; instead, it enhances a human surgeon’s precision and control.

From fibroids to fertility and from pelvic pain to complex cancer care, robotic surgery is quietly proving itself as one of the most effective, least invasive ways forward. Sure, it’s not a sci-fi robot saving the world single-handedly, but maybe that’s for the best. The best surgeries happen when human skill and robotic precision work hand in hand.

Robotic Surgery

hysterectomies

myomectomies

endometriosis excision

cancer surgeries

laparoscopy

fertility

Robotic myomectomy

Endometriosis

pelvic anatomy

When robotic surgery was first introduced in India, it was considered an advanced and largely inaccessible technique, reserved for high-end hospitals and select cases. Over time, it has evolved into an important tool in women’s healthcare, transforming gynaecologic procedures by making them safer, more precise, and significantly less invasive.Now, if you’re imagining a machine operating on you while your surgeon takes a break, hit the brakes. This is not sci-fi. In reality, the surgeon is in full control, seated at a console, guiding robotic arms with the finesse of human wrists and the added bonus of 3D vision.As Dr Rooma Sinha, Founder and President of AGRS and Senior Mentor at Vattikuti Foundation, explains, the advantages of robotic surgery shine brightest in complex cases like hysterectomies, myomectomies, endometriosis excision, and cancer surgeries, especially when factors like obesity, previous surgeries, or deep pelvic adhesions come into play. Public perceptions, however, are still catching up. “There is still a need for greater public clarification that robotic procedures are not only precise and minimally invasive but also safe when performed by trained specialists,” she says.Even in the US, she points out, 85 per cent of women with large or multiple fibroids still undergo open surgery, largely because traditional laparoscopy proves tricky. “Doing 1000+ benign gynaecological surgeries in my career is the testimony of my belief in this technology as a game-changer in surgery for women,” she says.Babies, Blood Loss, and Better ScarsOne unexpected benefit is fertility. Robotic myomectomy allows for precise fibroid removal and meticulous suturing, increasing the chances of full-term pregnancy, something not always guaranteed with traditional surgery. Endometriosis patients, too, benefit from improved pelvic anatomy restoration, reduced pain, and a better shot at conceiving naturally.And while the upfront cost of robotic surgery still raises eyebrows, Dr Sinha points out that it’s an investment with returns: shorter hospital stays, fewer complications, and speedier returns to daily life. “Within a few days, many patients are back on their feet and return to work,” she says.The New-Age PatientAccording to Dr Sinha, today’s Indian woman is informed, outcome-driven, and unwilling to settle for outdated surgical methods. She asks better questions and demands better options and robotic-assisted surgery is increasingly stepping up as a modern, evidence-based choice rather than an unattainable luxury.The Truth Behind the MythsOver in the oncology wing, Dr Arun Kumar Giri, Director of Surgical Oncology at Aakash Healthcare, sees similar misconceptions playing out. “Beliefs about autonomous robotic surgery or its applicability to complex cases may dissuade people from pursuing this revolutionary treatment,” he says.MYTH: Robotic surgery is experimental and unsafe for gynaecological operations.FACT: Dr Giri points out that robotic surgery has been around for more than two decades, backed by substantial research and clinical trials. In disciplines including gynaecology, it has shown lower complication rates and better patient outcomes than standard open surgery.MYTH: Robotic surgery is completely automated and doesn’t need a surgeon.FACT: “This is not correct,” Dr Giri says firmly. Robotic systems are sophisticated tools, nothing more, nothing less, always operated by a trained surgeon from a console. The robot doesn’t make decisions or perform surgery on its own; instead, it enhances a human surgeon’s precision and control.From fibroids to fertility and from pelvic pain to complex cancer care, robotic surgery is quietly proving itself as one of the most effective, least invasive ways forward. Sure, it’s not a sci-fi robot saving the world single-handedly, but maybe that’s for the best. The best surgeries happen when human skill and robotic precision work hand in hand.

how safe is robotic surgery when it comes to women’s health and complex cancer care?

What Eating Sugar Does to Your Teeth and Why Oral Health Could Shape Your Whole Body’s Wellbeing

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In today’s world, things move very fast. Our meals are rushed, and food choices often lean toward convenience. Supermarkets overflow with ready-to-eat snacks, sugary drinks, and packaged meals. These quick bites may save time, but they come at a hidden cost, especially to our teeth. While these usually dominate health discussions, one silent victim of modern diets is often ignored, which is our smiles.

<h3>How Sugar Affects Teeth</h3>

According to Dr. Sanyukta Rege, Periodontist, Laxmi Dental Limited, sugar is in almost everything we consume. From breakfast to dinner, it shows up in cereals, sauces, juices, and snacks. When we eat sugary food, mouth bacteria feed on it. As they feed, they release acid which eats away the enamel. As enamel wears down, cavities form. Over time, untreated cavities lead to deeper decay, infections, and even tooth loss.

<h3>Why Oral Health Affects the Whole Body</h3>

Your mouth does not work in isolation. It connects to your entire body. Studies show that poor oral health links to heart problems, diabetes, and even respiratory diseases. Dr. Rege explains that if gum disease causes inflammation, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to other organs.

Hence, tooth decay is not just about losing teeth. It is about how diet choices affect the body as a whole. What starts as a cavity can become a larger health issue, especially if ignored for years.

Stopping sugar damage is not just about brushing more. It takes a group effort by everyone and here is how we can start:

Children need to know that diet affects teeth. Schools should explain how sugar leads to decay. Lessons should include how to read food labels and choose better snacks. Dr. Rege says that instilling these lessons early makes healthier habits more likely to stick.

Help Parents Make Informed Choices

Parents shape early eating habits. By cooking more at home, checking labels, and offering fruits instead of packaged snacks, they can limit sugar exposure. Dr. Rege adds that this not only helps children’s teeth but also improves overall family health.

Make Dental Care Accessible

Regular check-ups can catch problems early. Sealants, fluoride treatments, and cleanings protect teeth. Free or affordable dental programmes in schools and communities can help reach more children. Dr. Rege stresses that prevention is far less costly than treating advanced dental issues.

Modern diets may be quick and tasty, but they often fail our long-term health. What we eat today shapes our bodies and our smiles tomorrow. The solution lies not just in brushing more but in eating smarter and acting earlier. As Dr. Rege reminds us, caring for your teeth is not just about avoiding cavities; it is an investment in your overall wellbeing.

sugar

teeth

enamel

cavities

gum disease

oral health

inflammation

prevention

bacteria

wellbeing

In today’s world, things move very fast. Our meals are rushed, and food choices often lean toward convenience. Supermarkets overflow with ready-to-eat snacks, sugary drinks, and packaged meals. These quick bites may save time, but they come at a hidden cost, especially to our teeth. While these usually dominate health discussions, one silent victim of modern diets is often ignored, which is our smiles.How Sugar Affects TeethAccording to Dr. Sanyukta Rege, Periodontist, Laxmi Dental Limited, sugar is in almost everything we consume. From breakfast to dinner, it shows up in cereals, sauces, juices, and snacks. When we eat sugary food, mouth bacteria feed on it. As they feed, they release acid which eats away the enamel. As enamel wears down, cavities form. Over time, untreated cavities lead to deeper decay, infections, and even tooth loss.Why Oral Health Affects the Whole BodyYour mouth does not work in isolation. It connects to your entire body. Studies show that poor oral health links to heart problems, diabetes, and even respiratory diseases. Dr. Rege explains that if gum disease causes inflammation, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to other organs.Hence, tooth decay is not just about losing teeth. It is about how diet choices affect the body as a whole. What starts as a cavity can become a larger health issue, especially if ignored for years.Escaping the Sugar TrapStopping sugar damage is not just about brushing more. It takes a group effort by everyone and here is how we can start:Teach Kids EarlyChildren need to know that diet affects teeth. Schools should explain how sugar leads to decay. Lessons should include how to read food labels and choose better snacks. Dr. Rege says that instilling these lessons early makes healthier habits more likely to stick.Help Parents Make Informed ChoicesParents shape early eating habits. By cooking more at home, checking labels, and offering fruits instead of packaged snacks, they can limit sugar exposure. Dr. Rege adds that this not only helps children’s teeth but also improves overall family health.Make Dental Care AccessibleRegular check-ups can catch problems early. Sealants, fluoride treatments, and cleanings protect teeth. Free or affordable dental programmes in schools and communities can help reach more children. Dr. Rege stresses that prevention is far less costly than treating advanced dental issues.Modern diets may be quick and tasty, but they often fail our long-term health. What we eat today shapes our bodies and our smiles tomorrow. The solution lies not just in brushing more but in eating smarter and acting earlier. As Dr. Rege reminds us, caring for your teeth is not just about avoiding cavities; it is an investment in your overall wellbeing.

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