Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Woman Thought It Was Just Grief And Anxiety, Until ChatGPT 'Diagnosed' Her With Blood Cancer

What if an AI chatbot could diagnose your illness before a doctor can? That's what happened to Marly Garnreiter, a woman who suspected grief was behind her symptoms—until ChatGPT intimated blood <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/cancer">cancer</a></span>. Could AI become the key to early diagnosis, or was this a fluke guess?

Marly Garnreiter, a 27-year-old Parisian strategist, initially shrugged off her night sweats, prickly skin, and weight loss as manifestations of sorrow. Having lost her father, Victor, to colon cancer in January 2024, she thought that her body was responding to the emotional distress. When the symptoms did not disappear, she consulted ChatGPT, typing in her worries into the AI platform. To her astonishment, the answer leaned toward blood cancer.

Doubtful, Marly dismissed the AI's recommendation. Yet, as the condition in her body deteriorated—with the increasing weakness and a constant tightness in her chest—she went in search of medical help. A visit to a doctor and subsequent imaging showed a tumor in her left lung, and after that, came a biopsy that concluded in February 2025 that she had Hodgkin's lymphoma, a form of blood cancer.

<h2>When Grief Masks a Serious Illness</h2>

Marly's quest started with a logical presumption—grief produces physical manifestations. The death of a loved one can create stress-related illnesses, such as sleeplessness, indigestion, weight loss, and even dermatitis. Even her physician at first conceded that her symptoms were a product of emotional suffering. Standard blood tests came back within normal parameters, supporting the contention that she was suffering the customary physical impact of grief.

Yet over time, Marly started to wonder if there was more than just a straightforward cause. Though she ate regularly, she just kept losing weight. Her sweats at night became more pronounced, and fatigue dominated her every day. By Christmas 2024, she experienced a constant tightness in her chest that would not disappear.

I knew something was not right," she said. "Initially, I brushed it aside. But as it worsened, I knew I needed to have answers."

In May 2024, driven by mere curiosity, Marly asked ChatGPT what she was feeling. The AI offered a list of potential reasons—among them, blood cancer. She scoffed at the suggestion as being far-fetched and passed it along to her friends, who like her were of the view that AI could not replace qualified medical opinion.

But AI symptom checkers are increasingly being used for early diagnosis. Though they are less subtle than human physicians, they can pool huge amounts of medical information to bring up possibilities. Marly's case highlights the promise of such technology—not as a final diagnostic but as an early alert system that ought not to be dismissed.

When Marly did see her doctor again in January 2025, however, she was listened to more seriously. Scanning found a big tumor on her left lung, and she was immediately referred to a specialist. In February, a biopsy confirmed the diagnosis: Hodgkin's lymphoma.

"I felt a lot of anger," Marly admitted. "It felt so unfair. I had just lost my dad to cancer, and now I had to deal with this too."

Even with the grim news, she soon turned her attention to treatment. Before commencing chemotherapy in March, she had an egg retrieval procedure to cryopreserve her eggs so that she would have future fertility. She is currently going through four to six cycles of chemotherapy, taking the fight on with determination.

Hodgkin's lymphoma is an uncommon form of blood cancer that works on lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that is in charge of immunity. The illness is also more common in people aged between 20 and 40, as well as above the age of 75. In contrast to the more prevalent non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma works on approximately 2,100 individuals each year in the UK.

The disease develops when B-lymphocytes begin to proliferate abnormally, clogging the lymph nodes and weakening the body's immune system against infections. Although the symptoms may differ, the general signs of warning are:

<ul><li>Swellings in lymph nodes without pain (usually in the neck, armpits, or groin)</li><li>Chronic fatigue</li><li>Night sweats</li><li>Sudden weight loss</li><li>Worsening or persistent coughing or shortness of breath</li><li>Persistent skin itching</li></ul>

<h2>Why it is Important to Listen to Your Body?</h2>

Marly's case is a compelling reminder that we need to remain sensitive to our bodies. Although anxiety and grief do come out physically, we should not write off continuing symptoms. Her case is an example of the increased use of AI in medicine, not to replace doctors but as one more awareness tool.

“If something feels off, don’t ignore it,” Marly advises. “We often lose connection with our own bodies. It’s important to listen.”

AI technology continues to advance, and although it cannot be substituted for human physicians, it is a rich source of initial guidance. The application of ChatGPT in Marly's case represents a trend toward increased use of digital health technology for early identification. But medical consultation cannot be replaced entirely with AI, warns experts.

Marly's tale is not one of just cancer detection, but of self-advocacy in healthcare. If she had gone on ignoring her symptoms, her diagnosis could have been too late. Her case reiterates an important point: technology can only lead the way, but the real thing that saves lives is paying attention to our bodies and visiting a professional.

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cancer

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early cancer detection

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What if an AI chatbot could diagnose your illness before a doctor can? That's what happened to Marly Garnreiter, a woman who suspected grief was behind her symptoms—until ChatGPT intimated blood cancer. Could AI become the key to early diagnosis, or was this a fluke guess?Marly Garnreiter, a 27-year-old Parisian strategist, initially shrugged off her night sweats, prickly skin, and weight loss as manifestations of sorrow. Having lost her father, Victor, to colon cancer in January 2024, she thought that her body was responding to the emotional distress. When the symptoms did not disappear, she consulted ChatGPT, typing in her worries into the AI platform. To her astonishment, the answer leaned toward blood cancer.Doubtful, Marly dismissed the AI's recommendation. Yet, as the condition in her body deteriorated—with the increasing weakness and a constant tightness in her chest—she went in search of medical help. A visit to a doctor and subsequent imaging showed a tumor in her left lung, and after that, came a biopsy that concluded in February 2025 that she had Hodgkin's lymphoma, a form of blood cancer.When Grief Masks a Serious IllnessMarly's quest started with a logical presumption—grief produces physical manifestations. The death of a loved one can create stress-related illnesses, such as sleeplessness, indigestion, weight loss, and even dermatitis. Even her physician at first conceded that her symptoms were a product of emotional suffering. Standard blood tests came back within normal parameters, supporting the contention that she was suffering the customary physical impact of grief.Yet over time, Marly started to wonder if there was more than just a straightforward cause. Though she ate regularly, she just kept losing weight. Her sweats at night became more pronounced, and fatigue dominated her every day. By Christmas 2024, she experienced a constant tightness in her chest that would not disappear.I knew something was not right," she said. "Initially, I brushed it aside. But as it worsened, I knew I needed to have answers."Role of AI in Early DiagnosisIn May 2024, driven by mere curiosity, Marly asked ChatGPT what she was feeling. The AI offered a list of potential reasons—among them, blood cancer. She scoffed at the suggestion as being far-fetched and passed it along to her friends, who like her were of the view that AI could not replace qualified medical opinion.But AI symptom checkers are increasingly being used for early diagnosis. Though they are less subtle than human physicians, they can pool huge amounts of medical information to bring up possibilities. Marly's case highlights the promise of such technology—not as a final diagnostic but as an early alert system that ought not to be dismissed.When Marly did see her doctor again in January 2025, however, she was listened to more seriously. Scanning found a big tumor on her left lung, and she was immediately referred to a specialist. In February, a biopsy confirmed the diagnosis: Hodgkin's lymphoma."I felt a lot of anger," Marly admitted. "It felt so unfair. I had just lost my dad to cancer, and now I had to deal with this too."Even with the grim news, she soon turned her attention to treatment. Before commencing chemotherapy in March, she had an egg retrieval procedure to cryopreserve her eggs so that she would have future fertility. She is currently going through four to six cycles of chemotherapy, taking the fight on with determination.What is Hodgkin's Lymphoma?Hodgkin's lymphoma is an uncommon form of blood cancer that works on lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that is in charge of immunity. The illness is also more common in people aged between 20 and 40, as well as above the age of 75. In contrast to the more prevalent non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma works on approximately 2,100 individuals each year in the UK.The disease develops when B-lymphocytes begin to proliferate abnormally, clogging the lymph nodes and weakening the body's immune system against infections. Although the symptoms may differ, the general signs of warning are:Swellings in lymph nodes without pain (usually in the neck, armpits, or groin)Chronic fatigueNight sweatsSudden weight lossWorsening or persistent coughing or shortness of breathPersistent skin itchingWhy it is Important to Listen to Your Body?Marly's case is a compelling reminder that we need to remain sensitive to our bodies. Although anxiety and grief do come out physically, we should not write off continuing symptoms. Her case is an example of the increased use of AI in medicine, not to replace doctors but as one more awareness tool.“If something feels off, don’t ignore it,” Marly advises. “We often lose connection with our own bodies. It’s important to listen.”AI technology continues to advance, and although it cannot be substituted for human physicians, it is a rich source of initial guidance. The application of ChatGPT in Marly's case represents a trend toward increased use of digital health technology for early identification. But medical consultation cannot be replaced entirely with AI, warns experts.Marly's tale is not one of just cancer detection, but of self-advocacy in healthcare. If she had gone on ignoring her symptoms, her diagnosis could have been too late. Her case reiterates an important point: technology can only lead the way, but the real thing that saves lives is paying attention to our bodies and visiting a professional.

woman thought it was just grief and anxiety, until chatgpt 'diagnosed' her with blood cancer

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For many health-conscious people, sugar is the biggest health mistake they can make. Having earned a bad reputation, many people avoid sugary foods and opt for sweet fruit drinks instead. However, these juices and sugary drinks may be worse for your health than sweet desserts are. New research suggests that how you get your sugar might be just as important as how much you have. 

A new study published in the journal Advances in Nutrition, indicates that drinking sugary beverages like soda may increase your risk of type 2 diabetes more than eating sugary foods such as cookies and cakes. 

Experts say this research is important because it shows the way sugar is consumed really matters. Instead of just saying "cut all sugar," we now have strong proof that where the sugar comes from, its form, and what it's eaten with are key to your health risk. 

<h2>Surprising Findings About Sugar </h2>

The study found that at how different types of sugar affect health, researchers reviewed the habits of over 500,000 people. Their main finding was surprising: sugar from solid foods wasn't linked to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, but sugar from drinks was. 

Specifically, for every extra 12-ounce sugary drink you had daily, your risk of developing type 2 diabetes went up by 25%. Even fruit juice had an effect, with an extra 8-ounce serving raising the risk by 5%. 

Interestingly, sugar from food not only didn't connect to diabetes risk, but in some cases, it seemed to offer some protection. Having a small amount of table sugar or total sugar (including natural sugar) daily was actually linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. 

These findings together show that "not all sugars are the same." 

It's important to remember that this study only shows a connection between sugary drinks and type 2 diabetes, not that they directly cause it. While most studies considered things like body weight and smoking, other lifestyle habits could still play a role. For example, people who drink a lot of these beverages might also be less active, which can affect diabetes risk. Still, experts say the study is very thorough. 

<h2>Why Liquid Sugar Might Be Worse </h2>

Sugary drinks might be more harmful because they don't have the fiber, protein, or fat that typically slow down digestion in solid foods.

This means liquid sugar gets into your bloodstream very quickly. This causes a sudden jump in blood sugar and insulin levels, and your brain doesn't get the signal that you're full. This fast intake can also make it hard for your liver to process the sugar, especially the fructose part. 

In large amounts, fructose turns into fat in your liver. This buildup of fat is linked to metabolic problems that lead to type 2 diabetes. Other things in sugary drinks, like chemical additives and artificial colors, can also mess with your body's balance. Basically, sugary drinks like sports drinks, sodas, and cocktails are generally "bad for your health and should be had with care—or ideally, not at all." 

<h2>How to Cut Back on Sugary Drinks </h2>

Sugary drinks can feel addictive. If you find yourself hooked, try to slowly reduce how much you drink, just like you would with alcohol or tobacco. It helps to plan ahead for when you usually crave a soda. 

You can start by mixing plain sparkling water with an equal amount of fruit juice or soda. Then, week by week, slowly reduce the amount of the sugary drink until you're mostly just drinking sparkling water. If it helps, add a little lemon or lime juice for flavor. Make this your new habit. 

Liquid sugar is worse than solid sugar

Drinking Sugary Drinks

Liquid vs Solid Sugar

how sugar affects your health

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For many health-conscious people, sugar is the biggest health mistake they can make. Having earned a bad reputation, many people avoid sugary foods and opt for sweet fruit drinks instead. However, these juices and sugary drinks may be worse for your health than sweet desserts are. New research suggests that how you get your sugar might be just as important as how much you have. Liquid vs. Solid Sugar A new study published in the journal Advances in Nutrition, indicates that drinking sugary beverages like soda may increase your risk of type 2 diabetes more than eating sugary foods such as cookies and cakes. Experts say this research is important because it shows the way sugar is consumed really matters. Instead of just saying "cut all sugar," we now have strong proof that where the sugar comes from, its form, and what it's eaten with are key to your health risk. Surprising Findings About Sugar The study found that at how different types of sugar affect health, researchers reviewed the habits of over 500,000 people. Their main finding was surprising: sugar from solid foods wasn't linked to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, but sugar from drinks was. Specifically, for every extra 12-ounce sugary drink you had daily, your risk of developing type 2 diabetes went up by 25%. Even fruit juice had an effect, with an extra 8-ounce serving raising the risk by 5%. Interestingly, sugar from food not only didn't connect to diabetes risk, but in some cases, it seemed to offer some protection. Having a small amount of table sugar or total sugar (including natural sugar) daily was actually linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. These findings together show that "not all sugars are the same." It's important to remember that this study only shows a connection between sugary drinks and type 2 diabetes, not that they directly cause it. While most studies considered things like body weight and smoking, other lifestyle habits could still play a role. For example, people who drink a lot of these beverages might also be less active, which can affect diabetes risk. Still, experts say the study is very thorough. Why Liquid Sugar Might Be Worse Sugary drinks might be more harmful because they don't have the fiber, protein, or fat that typically slow down digestion in solid foods.This means liquid sugar gets into your bloodstream very quickly. This causes a sudden jump in blood sugar and insulin levels, and your brain doesn't get the signal that you're full. This fast intake can also make it hard for your liver to process the sugar, especially the fructose part. In large amounts, fructose turns into fat in your liver. This buildup of fat is linked to metabolic problems that lead to type 2 diabetes. Other things in sugary drinks, like chemical additives and artificial colors, can also mess with your body's balance. Basically, sugary drinks like sports drinks, sodas, and cocktails are generally "bad for your health and should be had with care—or ideally, not at all." How to Cut Back on Sugary Drinks Sugary drinks can feel addictive. If you find yourself hooked, try to slowly reduce how much you drink, just like you would with alcohol or tobacco. It helps to plan ahead for when you usually crave a soda. You can start by mixing plain sparkling water with an equal amount of fruit juice or soda. Then, week by week, slowly reduce the amount of the sugary drink until you're mostly just drinking sparkling water. If it helps, add a little lemon or lime juice for flavor. Make this your new habit. 

drinking sugary drinks is worse than eating sugar - how you consume it matters more than how much

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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.

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>

heart health

what clogs arteries

atherosclerosis causes

heart health tips

artery plaque buildup

signs of blocked arteries

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cholesterol and heart disease

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

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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.

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news anxiety

mindful news consumption

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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

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