All posts by Sumana Rao

Don't worry about the people in your past; There's a reason they didn't make it to your future.
Treatment, Prevention And Cure For Dementia

Treatment, Prevention And Cure For Dementia

For Alzheimer’s -There are currently no cures for Alzheimer’s. Treatments aim to slow progression and manage symptoms.

Medications:

  • Cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) – improve communication between nerve cells.
    • Memantine – regulates glutamate, supports memory/learning.
    • Newer drugs (like lecanemab) target amyloid plaques, but only slow early disease progression

Non-drug therapies:

Image credit Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay (Free to use under Pixabay content license)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: September 18, 2025
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Other Types Of Dementias And Non -Dementia Memory Loss

Other Types Of Dementias And Non -Dementia Memory Loss

There are other types of less common types of Dementias classified based on symptoms.

  • Vascular Dementia – Slow thinking, focus issues, after strokes.
  • Lewy Body Dementia – Hallucinations, sleep disturbance, movement issues
  • Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) –Behavior changes, poor impulse control, language loss
  • Parkinson’s Dementia – Movement problems first, then memory/thinking issues
  • Mixed Dementia -A combination of two or more types of dementia – like Alzheimer’s plus Vascular dementia.
  • Creutzfeldt–Jakob Disease (CJD) – rare, rapidly progressive, caused by prion proteins.

Non-dementia types that can result in memory loss: Some memory problems that look like dementia can be reversible.

These types of dementia are reversible in some cases.

  • Depression – pseudodementia
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Alcohol-related brain damage
  • Medication side effects
  • Sleep disorders like sleep apnea and insomnia.

Image credit: Image by Silvia from Pixabay (Free to use under Pixabay content license)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Alzheimer’s Disease – The Most Common Dementia

Alzheimer’s Disease – The Most Common Dementia

A progressive, degenerative brain disease and the most common cause of dementia (60–80% of cases). Not all dementia types are Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s disease is result of abnormal buildup of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain.

Symptoms: usually gradual and worsening over years-

  • Early: Subtle short-term memory loss, repeating questions, misplacing items
  • Middle: Confusion about time/place, trouble recognizing familiar people, poor judgment, difficulty with speech and reading
  • Later: Severe memory loss, loss of mobility, inability to conduct basic self-care, personality changes, hallucinations
    • Dementia = is umbrella term for symptom category
    • Alzheimer’s = one disease within that category

Image credit: Image by Gundula Vogel from Pixabay (Free to use under Pixabay content license)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Dementia -Types, Symptoms, Prevention And Cure

Dementia -Types, Symptoms, Prevention And Cure

Dementia is not a disease itself but a syndrome. Dementia is an umbrella term for a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to conduct daily activities.

Dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning — thinking, remembering, and reasoning — to such an extent that it interferes with a person’s daily life and activities (https://www.nia.nih.gov/). 

Dementia is the result of changes in certain brain regions that cause nerve cells and their connections to stop working properly. Scientists are still investigating how the underlying disease processes in different forms of dementia start and influence each other.

General Symptoms:

  • Memory loss interfering with daily life.
  • Difficulty with planning, problem-solving, or decision-making
  • Language problems (finding words, following conversations, using unusual words)
  • Confusion about time/place, acting impulsively.
  • Mood, behavior, or personality changes
  • Difficulty with coordination or movement (in some types)
  • Difficulty with everyday tasks (cooking, managing money, personal care)
  • Not caring about others or family feelings

References:

  1. https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia
  2. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia
  3. https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/types-dementia/what-is-dementia
  4. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-and-dementia/what-dementia-symptoms-types-and-diagnosis
  5. Image credit: Image by Udo Voigt from Pixabay (Free to use under Pixabay content license)

Alzheimer’s Disease – The Most Common Dementia – Click Here

Alzheimer’s Disease – The Most Common Dementia

Other Types Of Dementias And Non -Dementia Memory Loss – Click Here

Other Types Of Dementias And Non -Dementia Memory Loss

Treatment, Prevention And Cure For Dementia – Click Here

Treatment, Prevention And Cure For Dementia

Vascular Dementia Prevention – Click Here

Vascular Dementia Prevention

Prevention – Risk Reduction Strategies – Click Here

Prevention - Risk Reduction Strategies
Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Constipation and back pain relief

How To Get Relief From Constipation Induced Back Pain

Constipation can sometimes be associated with back pain, particularly lower back pain. It is important to note that while constipation and back pain can be related, they can also be symptoms of separate underlying issues. Chronic or severe constipation accompanied by persistent back pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Here are few reasons why constipation and back pain – two issues might be interconnected:

  • Nerve compression: When constipated, it can cause distention and pressure in the abdomen. This pressure can sometimes irritate the nerves that radiate out from the lower back, leading to back pain.
  • Muscle tension: Chronic constipation can lead to increased muscle tension in the pelvic floor and lower back muscles as the body strains to pass stool. This tension can contribute to back pain.
  • Posture changes: Constipation can alter your posture and how you position yourself, which may put additional strain on your back muscles and spine, leading to discomfort or pain.
  • Inflammatory conditions: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) or other conditions that contribute to constipation can also cause inflammation that affects nearby structures, potentially leading to back pain.
  • Medication side effects: Some of the medications used to treat constipation can have side effects like muscle cramps or spasms, which might contribute to back pain.

Managing constipation-induced back pain involves addressing both the constipation itself and the resulting back discomfort.

Below are ten tips to how manage constipation and back pain:

  1. Increase fluid intake: Drink enough water throughout the day to keep your digestive system hydrated, which can help soften stools and make them easier to pass.
  2. Fiber-rich diet: Consume a diet high in fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Fiber helps promote regular bowel movements and relieve constipation.
  3. Physical activity: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking or other forms of exercise, which can stimulate bowel function and help alleviate back pain by strengthening core muscles.
  4. Stool softeners: Consider using over-the-counter stool softeners or laxatives under the guidance of a healthcare professional to help ease constipation.
  5. Probiotics: Studies suggest that probiotics may help regulate bowel movements and improve digestive health. Discuss with your doctor if probiotic supplements are suitable for you.
  6. Good toilet habits: Establish a regular routine for bowel movements and avoid delaying the urge to go to the bathroom.
  7. Warm compress or bath: Applying a warm compress or taking a warm bath can help relax muscles and relieve discomfort in the lower back.
  8. Posture and body mechanics: Pay attention to your posture when sitting or standing to reduce strain on your back. Use proper body mechanics when lifting heavy objects.
  9. Medication for pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate back pain temporarily. Always follow dosage instructions and consult with a healthcare professional if needed.
  10. Consult a healthcare professional: If constipation and back pain persist or worsen despite these measures, it is important to seek medical advice. Your healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms, rule out underlying conditions, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

It is crucial to address both constipation and back pain comprehensively for effective relief and to prevent future occurrences. Tailor these strategies based on your individual health needs and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Image credit: Woman, Sitting, Back pain image. Image by fairpharma from Pixabay (Free for use, Published Oct 10th 2023).

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Gen Z and elders

How Elders Can Establish A Healthy Relationship With Gen Z

Families are made up of many generations, and each one brings unique values and ways of seeing the world. With Gen Z born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, now growing up and entering adulthood, many parents and grandparents are finding that the younger members of the family think—and communicate—differently. Instead of letting this create distance, earlier generations – parents, grandparents -can take steps to bridge the gap and strengthen family bonds.

1. Learn their communication style:

Gen Z often prefers texting, quick chats, or sharing memes over long phone calls. While older family members might favor more traditional conversations, meeting Gen Z halfway shows respect and interest. Mixing both styles—digital and face-to-face—keeps connections strong.

2. Listen to their concerns:

Gen Z is deeply aware of issues like climate change, inclusiveness, and mental health. Even if older family members don’t always agree, listening without dismissing helps build trust. When young people feel heard, they are more likely to open about personal challenges too.

3. Be flexible with traditions:

Family traditions are valuable, but being open to current ideas keeps them alive. Maybe holiday gatherings include plant-based dishes, or family activities involve both board games and interesting videos. Small adjustments can make everyone feel included.

4. Share wisdom without lecturing:

Gen Z may have access to endless information online, but they still benefit from life experience and perspective. Rather than lecturing, elders can share stories, lessons, and advice in ways that encourage conversation, not resistance.

5. Celebrate differences:

Every generation faces its own struggles and strengths. Embracing the differences—whether in values, habits, or tastes—can bring families closer. A spirit of curiosity and respect helps transform generational gaps into opportunities for learning.

5. Focus on connection:

Bridging the gap isn’t about changing who we are; it’s about building understanding. Empathy, patience, and curiosity go a long way in strengthening relationships across generations.

Ultimately, family harmony does not come from making Gen Z “fit” into older ways of living, but from finding balance. When wisdom meets fresh perspective, families grow stronger together. In the end, adjustment doesn’t mean giving up traditions or values—it means meeting Gen Z where they are. By doing so, elders can foster collaboration, mutual respect, and a society that benefits from both wisdom and innovation.

Image credit: Image by Ana Krach from Pixabay (Free to use under Pixabay content license, image published December 20, 2020)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Brain eating amoeba

Brain Eating Amoeba Infections And Deaths In Kerala India

There has been a significant increase in cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis -sometimes called “brain-eating amoeba” infection- in Kerala, India, with many cases and a number of deaths reported.

The “brain-eating amoeba” refers to Naegleria fowleri, a microscopic, single cell organism that lives in warm freshwater and soil. The disease it causes in humans is Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare but always fatal brain infection.

Number of cases and deaths: As of mid-September 2025, Kerala has confirmed 67 cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis this year, with 18 deaths. Among them are multiple deaths in just the past month or so. Cases have been reported from several districts including Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad, Thiruvananthapuram, etc.  While many infections are linked to swimming or bathing in untreated or stagnant fresh water, there are also reports of people getting infected even when they did not swim — by bathing, or use of ponds, or wells.

How dangerous is it?

  • Fatality rate: Over 95% of cases are fatal worldwide, even with treatment.
  • Speed: Symptoms appear within 1–12 days of exposure, and death often occurs within 5–10 days after symptoms start.
  • Rarity: Infections are rare, but the outcome is so severe that any suspected case is treated as a medical emergency.

Symptoms of infection (PAM)

Early signs often look like regular meningitis or flu, but worsen extremely fast:

  1. Initial symptoms (1–3 days after exposure):
    • Headache
    • Fever
    • Nausea, vomiting
    • Stuffy or runny nose
    • Sensitivity to light
  2. Progressive symptoms:
    • Stiff neck
    • Confusion or disorientation
    • Seizures
    • Hallucinations
    • Loss of balance
    • Coma

How it spreads?

  • Entry point: The amoeba enters the body when contaminated water goes up the nose (e.g., swimming, diving, bathing, or rinsing sinuses with unsafe water).
  • It does not spread by drinking water or from person to person.

Prevention tips:

Since treatment is difficult, prevention is the best protection:

Water safety

  • Avoid swimming or diving in untreated, stagnant, or warm freshwater (pond, lakes, rivers, wells) especially during hot weather.
  • Use chlorinated and well-maintained pools only.

Nasal protection

  • Don’t let water enter your nose when bathing, swimming, or playing in freshwater.
  • Use nose clips if swimming in natural water bodies.

Household hygiene

  • For nasal rinsing (like neti pot for sinus cleaning), use only sterile, distilled, or previously boiled water.
  • Chlorinate or disinfect wells and water tanks regularly.

Creating public awareness:

  • The Kerala health authorities have issued guidelines: chlorinate wells and swimming pools, ensure proper maintenance of water bodies, clean water storage, avoid letting water enter the nose during bathing/swimming.
  • Testing labs have been set up or strengthened (PCR labs capable of detecting several amoebae) to help diagnose earlier.
  • Public awareness campaigns are being emphasized.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if someone develops meningitis-like symptoms after freshwater exposure. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment improve survival chances.

References:

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: September 17, 2025
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