Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

What Really Clogs Your Arteries? Tips To Keep Your Heart Healthy

You've heard of "clogged arteries," but do you truly understand what is going on in your body? It's not merely a matter of consuming too many cheeseburgers. Something known as atherosclerosis—a gradual, insidious accumulation of plaque composed of cholesterol, fats, calcium, and other materials—lies beneath the surface, often the true cause of heart attacks and strokes.

Cardiovascular disease is still among the biggest killers globally, and a lot of the risk comes from its invisibility. Atherosclerosis, which is sometimes referred to as the silent killer, slowly plugs up arteries and lays the groundwork for heart attacks and strokes well before they manifest. The best news? With the proper information and preventive actions, you can shield your arteries and heart.

This is the thing: this toxic buildup doesn't present symptoms until it has already done substantial harm. Cardiovascular disease, says the American Heart Association, is the number one cause of death worldwide, and atherosclerosis is at the center of the epidemic.

But the good news is: atherosclerosis can be prevented, even reversed in some instances—if you know how it comes about, how to detect its signs early on, and what changes in lifestyle can actually safeguard your heart.

Atherosclerosis is a disease where plaque accumulates on the arteries' walls. This plaque is composed of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances moving through the blood. Eventually, these deposits harden and constrict the arteries, decreasing blood supply to organs.

"Atherosclerosis is a devious, even lethal illness wherein artery walls get clogged with plaque," describes Dr. Paneendra S, Orthopedic Surgeon. "Atherosclerosis develops over the course of many years and usually is without symptoms until it leads to a life-threatening event such as a heart attack or stroke."

The illness usually starts when the lining of the arteries inside, the endothelium, is damaged. A number of reasons are responsible for this damage, such as:

<ul><li>Smoking</li><li>High cholesterol</li><li>Diabetes</li><li>High blood pressure</li><li>Chronic inflammation</li></ul>

"Once the endothelium has been hurt, LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol can filter through the arterial wall," says Dr. Paneendra. "White blood cells rush in to break down the cholesterol, but this reaction creates fatty nodules called atheromas."

These atheromas may develop and then rupture, producing clots that either occlude the artery in which they were formed or embolize to a different location within the body, obstructing an organ elsewhere.

<h2>Warning Signs and Where They Appear</h2>

Although dangerous, atherosclerosis typically develops silently. Its warning signs first become apparent only when blockage is complete. Depending on the arteries involved, the signs are variable:

<strong>Heart (Coronary Arteries):</strong> Chest pain or discomfort, also referred to as angina.

<strong>Legs (Peripheral Arteries): </strong>Pain that occurs during walking (claudication), numbness, or non-healing sores.

<strong>Brain (Carotid Arteries): </strong>Slurred speech, numbness, or weakness—often stroke warning signs.

<strong>Feet and Toes:</strong> Burning, color changes, or chronic ulcers caused by inadequate circulation.

These symptoms indicate that one of the primary arteries has already experienced extensive narrowing or blockage. Early treatment and control are important to avert permanent damage.

<h2>Role of Inflammation and Lifestyle For Heart Damage</h2>

Chronic inflammation is a key contributor to the formation of atherosclerosis. Obesity, lack of exercise, and dietary factors cause chronic inflammation, which further accelerates arterial damage.

The diet rich in saturated and trans fats raises the level of LDL cholesterol, while fruits, vegetables, and fiber intake ensures your body has natural ant-inflammatory power.

<h2>How You Can Prevent This Life-Threatening Heart Condition?</h2>

Because atherosclerosis progresses silently, prevention is more important. Here's how you can regain control of your <span>heart health</span>:

Emphasize whole grains, leafy greens, berries, nuts, and healthy fats such as olive oil. Reduce your intake of processed foods, red meat, and sweetened drinks.

Strive for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise a week, including brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors. Quitting dramatically reduces the risk of arterial plaque buildup.

Chronic stress can raise blood pressure and trigger inflammation. Practice mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing techniques.

<h4>5. Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol</h4>

Routine health checkups can help detect high cholesterol or hypertension early, allowing for timely intervention.

For individuals with diabetes or prediabetes, blood sugar control is essential to minimize inflammation and artery damage.

Even if you don't have symptoms, if you have several risk factors—like a history of heart disease in your family, smoking, or high cholesterol levels—it's crucial to see a healthcare professional. Tests for screening purposes such as cholesterol panels, blood pressure checks, and even coronary calcium scans can evaluate your risk.

"Overall, atherosclerosis is frequently unsuspect, progressive disease that can be severely damaging to cardiovascular health," cautions Dr. Paneendra. "Because symptoms only typically appear after widespread damage, early detection and prevention are critical."

<em>Dr. Paneendra S is an Orthopedic Surgeon at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore in India</em>

Health Conditions A-Z

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You've heard of "clogged arteries," but do you truly understand what is going on in your body? It's not merely a matter of consuming too many cheeseburgers. Something known as atherosclerosis—a gradual, insidious accumulation of plaque composed of cholesterol, fats, calcium, and other materials—lies beneath the surface, often the true cause of heart attacks and strokes.Cardiovascular disease is still among the biggest killers globally, and a lot of the risk comes from its invisibility. Atherosclerosis, which is sometimes referred to as the silent killer, slowly plugs up arteries and lays the groundwork for heart attacks and strokes well before they manifest. The best news? With the proper information and preventive actions, you can shield your arteries and heart.This is the thing: this toxic buildup doesn't present symptoms until it has already done substantial harm. Cardiovascular disease, says the American Heart Association, is the number one cause of death worldwide, and atherosclerosis is at the center of the epidemic.But the good news is: atherosclerosis can be prevented, even reversed in some instances—if you know how it comes about, how to detect its signs early on, and what changes in lifestyle can actually safeguard your heart.What is Atherosclerosis?Atherosclerosis is a disease where plaque accumulates on the arteries' walls. This plaque is composed of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances moving through the blood. Eventually, these deposits harden and constrict the arteries, decreasing blood supply to organs."Atherosclerosis is a devious, even lethal illness wherein artery walls get clogged with plaque," describes Dr. Paneendra S, Orthopedic Surgeon. "Atherosclerosis develops over the course of many years and usually is without symptoms until it leads to a life-threatening event such as a heart attack or stroke."The illness usually starts when the lining of the arteries inside, the endothelium, is damaged. A number of reasons are responsible for this damage, such as:SmokingHigh cholesterolDiabetesHigh blood pressureChronic inflammation"Once the endothelium has been hurt, LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol can filter through the arterial wall," says Dr. Paneendra. "White blood cells rush in to break down the cholesterol, but this reaction creates fatty nodules called atheromas."These atheromas may develop and then rupture, producing clots that either occlude the artery in which they were formed or embolize to a different location within the body, obstructing an organ elsewhere.Warning Signs and Where They AppearAlthough dangerous, atherosclerosis typically develops silently. Its warning signs first become apparent only when blockage is complete. Depending on the arteries involved, the signs are variable:Heart (Coronary Arteries): Chest pain or discomfort, also referred to as angina.Legs (Peripheral Arteries): Pain that occurs during walking (claudication), numbness, or non-healing sores.Brain (Carotid Arteries): Slurred speech, numbness, or weakness—often stroke warning signs.Feet and Toes: Burning, color changes, or chronic ulcers caused by inadequate circulation.These symptoms indicate that one of the primary arteries has already experienced extensive narrowing or blockage. Early treatment and control are important to avert permanent damage.Role of Inflammation and Lifestyle For Heart DamageChronic inflammation is a key contributor to the formation of atherosclerosis. Obesity, lack of exercise, and dietary factors cause chronic inflammation, which further accelerates arterial damage.The diet rich in saturated and trans fats raises the level of LDL cholesterol, while fruits, vegetables, and fiber intake ensures your body has natural ant-inflammatory power.How You Can Prevent This Life-Threatening Heart Condition?Because atherosclerosis progresses silently, prevention is more important. Here's how you can regain control of your heart health:1. Eat a Heart-Healthy DietEmphasize whole grains, leafy greens, berries, nuts, and healthy fats such as olive oil. Reduce your intake of processed foods, red meat, and sweetened drinks.2. Exercise RegularlyStrive for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise a week, including brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.3. Quit SmokingSmoking is one of the most significant risk factors. Quitting dramatically reduces the risk of arterial plaque buildup.4. Manage StressChronic stress can raise blood pressure and trigger inflammation. Practice mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing techniques.5. Monitor Blood Pressure and CholesterolRoutine health checkups can help detect high cholesterol or hypertension early, allowing for timely intervention.6. Control Blood SugarFor individuals with diabetes or prediabetes, blood sugar control is essential to minimize inflammation and artery damage.When to Seek Medical Help?Even if you don't have symptoms, if you have several risk factors—like a history of heart disease in your family, smoking, or high cholesterol levels—it's crucial to see a healthcare professional. Tests for screening purposes such as cholesterol panels, blood pressure checks, and even coronary calcium scans can evaluate your risk."Overall, atherosclerosis is frequently unsuspect, progressive disease that can be severely damaging to cardiovascular health," cautions Dr. Paneendra. "Because symptoms only typically appear after widespread damage, early detection and prevention are critical."Dr. Paneendra S is an Orthopedic Surgeon at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore in India

what really clogs your arteries? tips to keep your heart healthy

Can't Stop Doomscrolling? Here Are Smarter Ways To Keep Up With News Without The Anxiety

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If it feels like the news cycle has become an emotional treadmill you can’t get off, you’re not alone. The sheer volume of distressing headlines—from war zones to natural disasters, political unrest to climate collapse—can make staying informed feel like an endurance test. And yet, turning away often feels impossible. For many, following the news is more than a habit; it’s a moral choice. So how do you stay connected to what matters without spiraling into anxiety or hopelessness?

Human brains are hardwired to prioritize threats. This survival mechanism means we’re naturally drawn to negative news—but it also makes us vulnerable to the mental and physical consequences of repeated exposure. <span>Doomscrolling</span>, the habit of endlessly consuming grim headlines, can lead to anxiety, fatigue, irritability, trouble sleeping, and even symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress.

Graphic images and videos shared on social media often carry more emotional weight than traditional reporting. While TV and print journalism tend to follow editorial standards, your social feed delivers raw, sometimes disturbing content with little filter. And research shows the psychological impact can be significant.

Even knowing the risks, many people feel compelled to stay plugged in. If your loved ones are in a conflict zone, if your identity is linked to ongoing social issues, or if you simply feel that tuning out would be irresponsible—these are all valid reasons to follow the news. But here's the thing: the line between responsible consumption and emotional overload can be thin.

<h2>What <span rel="noindex">Mindful News Consumption</span> Actually Looks Like?</h2>

Instead of attempting to detox entirely from the news (which isn’t always realistic), experts recommend learning to engage with it mindfully. That means paying close attention to your motivations, your emotional responses, and your mental bandwidth before, during, and after consuming news. Here’s how to start:

Pause first. Take a few deep breaths and check in with yourself. Are you already anxious or overstimulated? Are you opening the news app to learn something specific or just out of habit?

Notice your reactions. While reading or watching, ask: How is this making me feel physically and emotionally? Are my shoulders tense? Is my heart racing? Are my thoughts spiraling?

Process, don’t just scroll. After a news session, take time to reflect. Did you learn something useful? Did it change your perspective? Do you feel informed, or just drained?

Even small moments of self-awareness can help you regain a sense of control over what and how you consume.

<h2>Red Flags That It’s Time to Step Back</h2>

Sometimes, the signs that news consumption is affecting your <span>mental health</span> can sneak up on you. Watch out for:

<ul><li>Obsessively checking news updates</li><li>Difficulty sleeping</li><li>Fatigue or mental fog</li><li>Feeling hopeless or overly irritable</li><li>Digestive issues or physical tension</li><li>Emotional swings, panic shopping, or impulsive behavior</li></ul>These are signals your nervous system is overwhelmed. The solution? Step away.

If you’re feeling saturated by the weight of current events, take a break. That might mean muting notifications for an hour, deleting social media apps for a weekend, or creating clear boundaries (no news after 7 p.m., for example).

Then reconnect with your body and environment. Activities that require your hands or physical movement can be grounding: gardening, baking, walking outside, even tidying up a messy drawer.

Connecting with others can help too. Whether it's through conversation, humor, or shared silence, human connection can buffer the effects of emotional overwhelm.

And if your distress is interfering with your work, relationships, or daily functioning, it’s time to talk to a mental health professional.

<h2>Stay Informed Without Losing Yourself</h2>

You don’t have to choose between ignorance and overwhelm. It’s possible—and necessary—to find a middle path.

Set intentional limits: Check the news once or twice a day, from a trusted source. Avoid doomscrolling before bed. Be selective with your exposure, especially to graphic content.

And remember, staying informed is important, but staying regulated is essential. You are more capable of helping others and engaging in meaningful change when you’re not running on emotional fumes. News doesn’t have to wreck your day. With a bit of awareness, you can learn to read the world without losing yourself in the headlines.

mental health

doomscrolling

news anxiety

mindful news consumption

stress from news

how to stop doomscrolling

emotional impact of news

If it feels like the news cycle has become an emotional treadmill you can’t get off, you’re not alone. The sheer volume of distressing headlines—from war zones to natural disasters, political unrest to climate collapse—can make staying informed feel like an endurance test. And yet, turning away often feels impossible. For many, following the news is more than a habit; it’s a moral choice. So how do you stay connected to what matters without spiraling into anxiety or hopelessness?Human brains are hardwired to prioritize threats. This survival mechanism means we’re naturally drawn to negative news—but it also makes us vulnerable to the mental and physical consequences of repeated exposure. Doomscrolling, the habit of endlessly consuming grim headlines, can lead to anxiety, fatigue, irritability, trouble sleeping, and even symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress.Graphic images and videos shared on social media often carry more emotional weight than traditional reporting. While TV and print journalism tend to follow editorial standards, your social feed delivers raw, sometimes disturbing content with little filter. And research shows the psychological impact can be significant.Even knowing the risks, many people feel compelled to stay plugged in. If your loved ones are in a conflict zone, if your identity is linked to ongoing social issues, or if you simply feel that tuning out would be irresponsible—these are all valid reasons to follow the news. But here's the thing: the line between responsible consumption and emotional overload can be thin.What Mindful News Consumption Actually Looks Like?Instead of attempting to detox entirely from the news (which isn’t always realistic), experts recommend learning to engage with it mindfully. That means paying close attention to your motivations, your emotional responses, and your mental bandwidth before, during, and after consuming news. Here’s how to start:Pause first. Take a few deep breaths and check in with yourself. Are you already anxious or overstimulated? Are you opening the news app to learn something specific or just out of habit?Notice your reactions. While reading or watching, ask: How is this making me feel physically and emotionally? Are my shoulders tense? Is my heart racing? Are my thoughts spiraling?Process, don’t just scroll. After a news session, take time to reflect. Did you learn something useful? Did it change your perspective? Do you feel informed, or just drained?Even small moments of self-awareness can help you regain a sense of control over what and how you consume.Red Flags That It’s Time to Step BackSometimes, the signs that news consumption is affecting your mental health can sneak up on you. Watch out for:Obsessively checking news updatesDifficulty sleepingFatigue or mental fogFeeling hopeless or overly irritableDigestive issues or physical tensionEmotional swings, panic shopping, or impulsive behaviorThese are signals your nervous system is overwhelmed. The solution? Step away.What To Do When the News Is Too Much?If you’re feeling saturated by the weight of current events, take a break. That might mean muting notifications for an hour, deleting social media apps for a weekend, or creating clear boundaries (no news after 7 p.m., for example).Then reconnect with your body and environment. Activities that require your hands or physical movement can be grounding: gardening, baking, walking outside, even tidying up a messy drawer.Connecting with others can help too. Whether it's through conversation, humor, or shared silence, human connection can buffer the effects of emotional overwhelm.And if your distress is interfering with your work, relationships, or daily functioning, it’s time to talk to a mental health professional.Stay Informed Without Losing YourselfYou don’t have to choose between ignorance and overwhelm. It’s possible—and necessary—to find a middle path.Set intentional limits: Check the news once or twice a day, from a trusted source. Avoid doomscrolling before bed. Be selective with your exposure, especially to graphic content.And remember, staying informed is important, but staying regulated is essential. You are more capable of helping others and engaging in meaningful change when you’re not running on emotional fumes. News doesn’t have to wreck your day. With a bit of awareness, you can learn to read the world without losing yourself in the headlines.

can't stop doomscrolling? here are smarter ways to keep up with news without the anxiety

Aarushi Bhadury

You Are Three Times More Likely To Have Eye Diseases If You Are Dealing With This Health Condition

Silent Sign Of High Cholesterol Can Show Up In Your Eyes - Here's How You Can Identify It

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There are many conditions that barely show any symptoms, however, they can have devastating effects on our health. Conditions like high cholesterol often do not have symptoms, however, overtime it can increase our risk of developing heart conditions. 

New research suggests that people with <span>diabetes</span> who don't manage their blood sugar are three times more likely to develop serious eye problems later in life. Experts followed the health of over 5,600 people in England, averaging 66 years old, for 14 years to reach this conclusion. 

<h2>Link Between <span rel="noindex">Blood Sugar and Eye Health</span> </h2>

The study published in the BMJ found that individuals with uncontrolled diabetes (meaning their blood sugar levels were too high at the study's start) had a 31% risk of developing diabetic eye disease. This is a stark contrast to the 9% risk seen in participants whose diabetes was well-controlled, with glucose levels in the normal range. 

Diabetic eye disease often includes diabetic retinopathy, a condition where high blood sugar damages the light-sensitive area at the back of the eye called the retina. The research also linked high blood sugar levels—above 6.5% on an HbA1c test (which measures average blood sugar over two months)—to an increased risk of other eye conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration. 

Researchers highlighted the importance of these findings, especially as the number of people being diagnosed with diabetes continues to grow rapidly. They noted that the proportion of working-age individuals with a diabetes diagnosis more than doubled in the 2000s. 

According to the World Health Organization, 830 million people worldwide have diabetes, many of whom live in low to middle-income countries. Most people living in these conditions often do not have proper treatment available to them, and the number of people living with untreated diabetes has also increased steadily over the past decade. 

The research emphasizes how crucial it is for people with diabetes to be diagnosed and to receive support in managing their condition. This support can significantly reduce their chances of developing potentially serious eye disease. The study also underscored the importance of getting a diabetes diagnosis. People with diabetes who hadn't been diagnosed faced a higher risk of eye problems compared to those whose condition was known and managed. 

Researchers highlighted the importance of eye examinations for older individuals, particularly those with a diabetes diagnosis. They also noted that the findings support more widespread testing for diabetes in the general public. This wider testing could help find people who don't realize they have diabetes, potentially lowering their risk of eye disease that could otherwise go unnoticed. 

Experts stressed the vital importance of supporting people with diabetes to manage their condition, which helps them live well and prevent serious complications. They added that a key part of this involves having an annual review, including diabetic eye screening to catch any early signs of damage. If left untreated, this damage could lead to significant problems, including loss of sight. 

<h2>Ways to Manage Your Blood Sugar </h2>

Keeping your blood sugar in check is key for good health, and there are several simple ways to do it. Eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular physical activity are all very helpful. Other good tips include tracking your blood sugar to understand what affects it, and eating meals at regular times without skipping any. 

Choose foods that are lower in calories, unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt. Make sure to track what you eat, drink, and how active you are. It's also best to drink water instead of juice or soda, and limit alcoholic drinks (no more than two per day for men, and one for women). When you want something sweet, grab some fruit, and always control your food portions, perhaps by using the plate method to guide you. 

diabetes

Blood Sugar and Eye Health

Eye Health

how high blood sugar affects health

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can high blood sugar affect eyes

There are many conditions that barely show any symptoms, however, they can have devastating effects on our health. Conditions like high cholesterol often do not have symptoms, however, overtime it can increase our risk of developing heart conditions. New research suggests that people with diabetes who don't manage their blood sugar are three times more likely to develop serious eye problems later in life. Experts followed the health of over 5,600 people in England, averaging 66 years old, for 14 years to reach this conclusion. Link Between Blood Sugar and Eye Health The study published in the BMJ found that individuals with uncontrolled diabetes (meaning their blood sugar levels were too high at the study's start) had a 31% risk of developing diabetic eye disease. This is a stark contrast to the 9% risk seen in participants whose diabetes was well-controlled, with glucose levels in the normal range. Diabetic eye disease often includes diabetic retinopathy, a condition where high blood sugar damages the light-sensitive area at the back of the eye called the retina. The research also linked high blood sugar levels—above 6.5% on an HbA1c test (which measures average blood sugar over two months)—to an increased risk of other eye conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration. Why This Matters Researchers highlighted the importance of these findings, especially as the number of people being diagnosed with diabetes continues to grow rapidly. They noted that the proportion of working-age individuals with a diabetes diagnosis more than doubled in the 2000s. According to the World Health Organization, 830 million people worldwide have diabetes, many of whom live in low to middle-income countries. Most people living in these conditions often do not have proper treatment available to them, and the number of people living with untreated diabetes has also increased steadily over the past decade. The research emphasizes how crucial it is for people with diabetes to be diagnosed and to receive support in managing their condition. This support can significantly reduce their chances of developing potentially serious eye disease. The study also underscored the importance of getting a diabetes diagnosis. People with diabetes who hadn't been diagnosed faced a higher risk of eye problems compared to those whose condition was known and managed. Eye Care and Diabetes Testing Researchers highlighted the importance of eye examinations for older individuals, particularly those with a diabetes diagnosis. They also noted that the findings support more widespread testing for diabetes in the general public. This wider testing could help find people who don't realize they have diabetes, potentially lowering their risk of eye disease that could otherwise go unnoticed. Experts stressed the vital importance of supporting people with diabetes to manage their condition, which helps them live well and prevent serious complications. They added that a key part of this involves having an annual review, including diabetic eye screening to catch any early signs of damage. If left untreated, this damage could lead to significant problems, including loss of sight. Ways to Manage Your Blood Sugar Keeping your blood sugar in check is key for good health, and there are several simple ways to do it. Eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular physical activity are all very helpful. Other good tips include tracking your blood sugar to understand what affects it, and eating meals at regular times without skipping any. Choose foods that are lower in calories, unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt. Make sure to track what you eat, drink, and how active you are. It's also best to drink water instead of juice or soda, and limit alcoholic drinks (no more than two per day for men, and one for women). When you want something sweet, grab some fruit, and always control your food portions, perhaps by using the plate method to guide you. 

you are three times more likely to have eye diseases if you are dealing with this health condition

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Your memories make you and forgetting them can mean changing your entire being. Many people believe that <span>dementia</span> is just when you forget things, but it is a lot more than that. It not only affects your memories, but your behavior and the way you think. 

Dementia, unlike what many people think it is, is a term used to define many different diseases that affect one's memory and ability to perform daily tasks. In 2021, 57 million people were affected with dementia, 60% of whom live in low- and middle-income countries with 10 million new cases. Being a cognitive degenerative disease, and it may take some time before there are symptoms and by the time you may notice them it 

The earliest stage of dementia is often called "<span>mild cognitive impairment</span>" (MCI). This means there can be small, subtle changes in everyday behavior, even in things like how someone reads. If you've always loved to read a lot but suddenly find it hard to focus, this could be a sign that dementia might be developing. 

<h2>Understanding Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) </h2>

Difficulty concentrating is often one of the very first noticeable changes with MCI. You might find it hard to focus on a single task, follow a TV show, or read a book, even if these activities were once easy and enjoyable for you. This persistent inability to concentrate can be a key early indicator. Other early signs can include: 

You might start feeling different emotionally than usual. This could mean becoming more easily frustrated, irritable, anxious, or even withdrawn from social situations, which can be unsettling for both you and your loved ones. 

You might find yourself getting mixed up about the current day of the week, the time of day, or even where you are. This can manifest as forgetting appointments or feeling disoriented in familiar surroundings, causing distress and impacting daily routines. 

Following a group discussion or finding the right words to express yourself can become noticeably harder. You might pause frequently, repeat yourself, or use filler words, making communication frustrating and affecting social interactions. 

Familiar everyday activities, like managing finances, cooking a known recipe, or figuring out the correct change when shopping, might become confusing or difficult to complete without errors. These slips can impact independence and daily living. 

Forgetting things more often than before is a common concern. This might involve recently learned information, important dates, or even recurring events, leading to a noticeable increase in needing reminders or relying on others for memory support. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Common Form of Dementia</span> </h2>

Alzheimer's disease is a very common type of dementia. It often causes memory problems, like frequently forgetting recent events, names, and faces, and leads to asking questions repeatedly. People with Alzheimer's might also find it harder to organize tasks and plans and can easily get confused in new places. They may struggle to find the right words when speaking, have difficulty with numbers or handling money, and might become more withdrawn or anxious. 

While there's no cure for dementia, medicines can help with symptoms as they get worse. For Alzheimer's disease, common medications include acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and memantine. 

For people with mild to moderate dementia, cognitive stimulation therapy has shown some benefits. This involves group activities designed to boost memory, problem-solving skills, and language. 

Reminiscence work, which uses personal photos and music, can also help improve the mood of someone with dementia. There's also growing evidence that your diet can play a role in your chances of getting dementia. 

dementia

Early Dementia Sign

Mild Cognitive Impairment

how to identify dementia

Common Form of Dementia

Your memories make you and forgetting them can mean changing your entire being. Many people believe that dementia is just when you forget things, but it is a lot more than that. It not only affects your memories, but your behavior and the way you think. Dementia, unlike what many people think it is, is a term used to define many different diseases that affect one's memory and ability to perform daily tasks. In 2021, 57 million people were affected with dementia, 60% of whom live in low- and middle-income countries with 10 million new cases. Being a cognitive degenerative disease, and it may take some time before there are symptoms and by the time you may notice them it The earliest stage of dementia is often called "mild cognitive impairment" (MCI). This means there can be small, subtle changes in everyday behavior, even in things like how someone reads. If you've always loved to read a lot but suddenly find it hard to focus, this could be a sign that dementia might be developing. Understanding Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) Difficulty concentrating is often one of the very first noticeable changes with MCI. You might find it hard to focus on a single task, follow a TV show, or read a book, even if these activities were once easy and enjoyable for you. This persistent inability to concentrate can be a key early indicator. Other early signs can include: Changes in mood You might start feeling different emotionally than usual. This could mean becoming more easily frustrated, irritable, anxious, or even withdrawn from social situations, which can be unsettling for both you and your loved ones. Confusion about time and place You might find yourself getting mixed up about the current day of the week, the time of day, or even where you are. This can manifest as forgetting appointments or feeling disoriented in familiar surroundings, causing distress and impacting daily routines. Struggling with conversations Following a group discussion or finding the right words to express yourself can become noticeably harder. You might pause frequently, repeat yourself, or use filler words, making communication frustrating and affecting social interactions. Trouble with daily tasks Familiar everyday activities, like managing finances, cooking a known recipe, or figuring out the correct change when shopping, might become confusing or difficult to complete without errors. These slips can impact independence and daily living. Memory loss Forgetting things more often than before is a common concern. This might involve recently learned information, important dates, or even recurring events, leading to a noticeable increase in needing reminders or relying on others for memory support. Common Form of Dementia Alzheimer's disease is a very common type of dementia. It often causes memory problems, like frequently forgetting recent events, names, and faces, and leads to asking questions repeatedly. People with Alzheimer's might also find it harder to organize tasks and plans and can easily get confused in new places. They may struggle to find the right words when speaking, have difficulty with numbers or handling money, and might become more withdrawn or anxious. Managing Dementia While there's no cure for dementia, medicines can help with symptoms as they get worse. For Alzheimer's disease, common medications include acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and memantine. For people with mild to moderate dementia, cognitive stimulation therapy has shown some benefits. This involves group activities designed to boost memory, problem-solving skills, and language. Reminiscence work, which uses personal photos and music, can also help improve the mood of someone with dementia. There's also growing evidence that your diet can play a role in your chances of getting dementia. 

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