Brain Health
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Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a common learning disorder that affects the brain’s ability to process language and reading. It is estimated that between 10-20% of the population may have some form of dyslexia, making it one of the most widespread learning disabilities worldwide, including in Canada. Despite its prevalence, dyslexia is often misunderstood. It is a lifelong condition that does not indicate a lack of intelligence or effort but rather results from differences in how the brain handles language-based tasks.
Dyslexia is believed to be linked to genetic factors that affect how the brain processes reading and language. It tends to run in families, suggesting a hereditary component that can be passed down from one generation to another. The condition arises from variations in the brain’s structure and function, particularly in the areas responsible for reading. This difference affects the ability to decode words, which is the foundational skill for reading comprehension and fluency. People with dyslexia may struggle with recognizing words quickly, spelling, and breaking words into sounds, which can lead to difficulty with accurate and fluent reading.
The symptoms of dyslexia can vary widely, but some of the most common signs include slow reading, difficulty in spelling words correctly, problems with writing and sentence structure, and challenges in pronouncing words correctly. Individuals with dyslexia may read well below the expected level for their age, struggle with processing and understanding what they hear, and find it hard to memorize sequences or complete tasks that involve reading. It is important to understand that dyslexia is not a result of laziness, lack of motivation, or low intelligence. In fact, many people with dyslexia are highly creative and excel in areas that do not rely heavily on reading and writing.
Dyslexia can have several significant impacts on an individual’s life, particularly if left untreated. One of the main problems associated with dyslexia is the difficulty it causes in learning. Since reading is a core skill for most subjects in school, children with dyslexia are often at a disadvantage in many areas of education. They may struggle to keep up with their peers, which can be frustrating and lead to a sense of failure. This ongoing struggle can also result in low self-esteem, anxiety, and behavioural issues, as children may feel embarrassed or ashamed about their difficulties.
Moreover, dyslexia is linked to a higher risk of certain social and emotional challenges. Individuals with untreated dyslexia may withdraw from social interactions, experience heightened anxiety, and even exhibit aggression or behavioural problems due to feelings of inadequacy or frustration. These social consequences can persist into adulthood, impacting relationships, self-confidence, and professional opportunities. Adults with dyslexia who were not adequately supported as children may still face challenges in reading and comprehension, which can limit their career choices and overall potential. Another important aspect to consider is the co-occurrence of dyslexia with other conditions, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Children with dyslexia are more likely to also have ADHD, and vice versa. ADHD can make it difficult to sustain attention, leading to impulsive behaviour and hyperactivity, which can further complicate the challenges of dyslexia. The combination of these conditions can make reading and learning even more challenging, as individuals may struggle not only with language processing but also with maintaining focus and managing impulsive actions. It is crucial to identify and address both conditions to provide effective support and improve outcomes.
Dyslexia is not curable, but with the right interventions, people with dyslexia can develop effective reading skills and achieve success in both education and life. Early diagnosis and specialized instruction tailored to the individual’s needs can make a significant difference. Techniques such as multi-sensory learning approaches, structured literacy programs, and individualized education plans are effective strategies that help individuals with dyslexia build the skills necessary for reading, spelling, and writing. It is also helpful for families and caregivers to understand dyslexia, as supportive environments can boost self-confidence and promote progress.
Visit dyslexiacanada.org for more information and helpful resources.
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Preventing Concussions
With thousands of children and teenagers now back to school and also partaking in after-school activities, it’s not uncommon to see contact sport-related injuries on the rise such as sprains, bone fractures and concussions. A concussion occurs when the brain impacts the inside of the skull, usually the result of direct trauma to the head, and causes damage that ultimately changes how your brain cells function.
While concussions are common among athletes and school-aged children, kids and adolescents are also at higher risk of developing a concussion due to the fact that their brains are still growing. Symptoms of conclusions can be physiological (including headaches, dizziness and nausea, cognitive (including lack of concentration, memory loss and slurred speech), as well as emotional (depression and anxiety.) As concussions can have serious and sometimes life-altering effects, it is important that these symptoms are taken seriously and treated immediately. It is also important to watch out for late signs of a concussion, as symptoms can take as long as hours, days, or even weeks to develop. If left untreated, a concussion can lead to a traumatic brain injury (500 out of every 100,000 Canadians are diagnosed with a TBI each year), and can even be fatal.
Children are not the only age group at high-risk of developing concussions, however. Seniors are also susceptible to developing concussions, usually the result of a fall, something that is quite common with age. Studies have also shown that seniors with concussions had a greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease as opposed to those who have not had any previous head injuries. Seniors that do develop a concussion may require hospitalization and long-term rehabilitative care depending on the severity of the injury.
In order to prevent a concussion, one should always ensure that they are taking appropriate steps to reduce that risk. These steps include wearing the proper headgear and padding during sports, wearing appropriate footwear, wearing a seatbelt while in a vehicle, and keeping your home safe by moving any clutter and keeping dark spaces well lit. Regular, low-impact exercise in older individuals will also help to strengthen the bones and muscles, improve balance, and decrease the risk of falls.
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Melatonin
Made by the pea-sized pineal gland, melatonin is a type of natural hormone (often referred to as the “sleep hormone”) that helps regulate your circadian rhythm and tells your body when it’s time to go to sleep and when to wake up. While many people don’t have any issue getting to sleep at night, there are other individuals who might have a hard time falling or staying asleep, which is also commonly referred to as insomnia – and if you happen to be one of those people, then your body may need additional melatonin, which can be obtained through taking a melatonin supplement. Aside from treating insomnia, melatonin has also been known to help with the treatment of other sleep disorders, including delayed sleep phase, and even jet lag. It also acts as an antioxidant and can improve or reduce the risk of many different health conditions.
While melatonin is considered safe for both short and long-term use, it is typically recommended to only be taken on a short-term basis due to the potential for developing side effects, including headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, anxiety, irritability, confusion/disorientation, and low blood pressure. In addition to these side effects, it’s also possible to become dependent on melatonin the longer you take it – and it may even have a decreased effect over time. Melatonin can also interact with certain medications, including anti-depressants, blood pressure medication, blood thinners, diabetes medications, contraceptive drugs, and immunosuppressant drugs (just to name a few.) Therefore, if you are taking medication and are considering adding in a melatonin supplement, you should always first check with your physician or pharmacist to ensure that there won’t be any interactions between it and any of the medication in which you’ve been prescribed.
Before trying melatonin, you may be able to get a good night’s rest simply by figuring out why you aren’t getting a good night’s rest. One of the most common reasons why people have such a hard time falling and staying asleep at night is due to spending too much time in front of a computer, their smartphone, or watching TV before bed. By cutting down your screen time and avoiding it at least 2 hours prior to going to bed, you may find yourself able to sleep better. Another mistake people make is drinking coffee late at night. Coffee contains caffeine, which is a stimulant – so unless you actually need to stay awake for all hours of the evening (i.e. if you’re cramming for an important test), then coffee is something I would suggest avoiding late at night. As an alternative, you can try tea. Tea has not only been known to help people fall asleep (chamomile, especially), but one cup of tea also contains less caffeine than a cup of coffee.
Something else you can consider looking into is magnesium, which is a natural muscle relaxant and also blocks the production of cortisol in the brain, which then causes the body to experience an overall calming effect and help you fall asleep. When you don’t have enough magnesium, the opposite occurs, and you may find yourself feeling more excitable or irritable, nervous, or stressed out than you usually would. Many of the North American population has less than the suggested levels of magnesium in their body, so it might not be a bad idea to start. In addition to helping you get better sleep, magnesium can also help fight depression, decrease high blood pressure, boost exercise performance, prevent migraines, and even has anti-inflammatory benefits.
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Overcoming Mental Fatigue
When it comes to overexerting yourself, both the body and mind can be affected. According to psychologists, we all have limits when it comes to our cognition, and when we take on more than what we can handle that can ultimately result in mental fatigue – also known as exhaustion. In fact, it’s one of the reasons why we’re seeing more and more athletes and celebrities being hospitalized, because their scheduled are either too jam packed or they’ve taken on more than their bodies allow.
To avoid mental fatigue, it’s important that you not overcommit yourself to things. If you’re being pulled in a million different directions, you’re going to burn out – that’s just how the mind and body work – and when you’re burnt out, you can’t be as productive or even as alert as you want to be. Whether you’re at work, school, at home, or in social settings, one person can have a lot of pressure put on them – from work meetings to project deadlines, to dealing with family matters that are particularly stressful (i.e. parenting or marital problems), to constantly having friends ask for favours. It can all take a toll. Over time, mental fatigue isn’t the only issue you’ll be dealing with, as this can also lead to chronic stress and anxiety.
There are several defining symptoms associated with mental fatigue, including irritability, loss of interest in activities, change in appetite, as well as lack of concentration and sleep problems. If you’re not getting enough sleep, you’re at an even higher risk of suffering exhaustion. Your mental health can also be impacted by mental fatigue. As mentioned, stress and anxiety can occur, but you can also develop symptoms of depression including low mood, withdrawal, and negative thoughts. All of these aforementioned symptoms can lead to further problems at work or in school, as well as with personal relationships. Therefore, if you are feeling mentally tired, it’s important to remember that you need to take breaks. Furthermore, you shouldn’t feel guilty for doing so. You can only be your best self (for yourself and for others) when your own health and wellbeing is in top notch shape.
To reduce mental fatigue, the first thing you should start by doing is getting a good night’s rest. While some people get just a few hours of sleep each night, you need at least 8 hours of sleep for the body to fully function at peak level. This will help to recharge the brain, so to speak. Secondly, make sure you’re eating properly. When we’re feeling too tired or rushed, we often tend to skip meals – such as breakfast, which just so happens to be one of the most important meals of the day as it gives our body the fuel we need to function throughout the day. If you don’t eat properly, it’s going to impact you regardless of whether you believe it will or won’t. Along with eating healthy, it’s also important to get regular exercise. While exercise it might not seem like a fun activity or one you necessarily want to partake in, it’s still a crucial part of our overall health and well-being. Physical activity can help to reduce levels of stress and anxiety, and it’s also great for many other aspects of your health, too.
Next, you also need to pay attention to what might be causing your mental fatigue. If you’re overworked, try talking to your boss about reducing your hours or allowing you to take longer breaks. If it’s school that’s causing you fatigue, such as studying for finals, try to allow yourself X amount of hours to get your studying in but also make sure you’re going to bed at a decent hour so you’re able to get enough sleep. If family matters are the culprit, such as parenting, some families may actually benefit from signing their children up for after-school activities, such as a sport or other fun class. This will give parents a guilt-free break, as well as allow the kids to have fun. When it comes to personal relationships, such as marriage or friendships, these are things that the involved parties need to work on resolving. However, you may benefit from involving a third party as well, such as a counsellor, to help you through certain issues.
Once you have identified what’s causing your mental fatigue, it will be that much easier to treat and you’ll be able to get back to feeling like yourself that much quicker.
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Brain Injuries in Canada
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) represents one of the most significant public health concerns in Canada. By 2031, TBI is expected to be among the most prevalent neurological conditions affecting Canadians, alongside Alzheimer’s disease, other dementias, and epilepsy. The impact of TBI on individuals and society is profound, given its role as a leading cause of disability both globally and domestically. In Canada, approximately 2% of the population lives with a TBI, leading to about 18,000 hospitalizations annually. One-third of these individuals are women, with a notable prevalence of TBI during the early reproductive years (15-24 years), primarily due to intimate partner violence and accidents. Women with TBI are also more likely to experience mental health issues post-injury compared to men.
The incidence of TBI in Canada is alarmingly high, with an annual occurrence rate of 500 out of every 100,000 individuals. This translates to approximately 165,000 Canadians suffering from TBI each year, equating to 456 people each day or one person every three minutes. These statistics highlight the extensive reach of TBI, affecting Canadians across various demographics and regions. Notably, TBI occurs at a rate 100 times higher than spinal cord injuries, underscoring its widespread impact.
When considering brain injuries from both traumatic and non-traumatic causes, nearly 4% of the Canadian population is affected. This means over 1.5 million Canadians live with acquired brain injury (ABI), encompassing conditions such as stroke and other non-traumatic causes. The prevalence of concussions in Canada is equally concerning, with around 200,000 concussions occurring annually. Sports-related concussions are particularly challenging to diagnose, assess, and manage due to the complexity of the injury. Despite advancements in medical science, there is currently no single test that can definitively diagnose a concussion, necessitating a multi-faceted approach for effective management.
Living in rural or remote communities in Canada increases the likelihood of experiencing a concussion. Rates of concussion in these areas can be as high as 1,400 per 100,000 people, significantly higher than in urban centres. This disparity highlights the need for targeted interventions and resources in rural areas to address the higher incidence of TBIs.
Youth and sports-related activities are common contexts for TBIs. Among males aged 5 to 14 years, rugby is the most frequent sport associated with concussions and other TBIs. For females aged 10 to 19, ringette and equestrian sports are prevalent causes of such injuries. Sledding and tobogganing are also notable activities leading to TBIs among children aged 5 to 9 years, ranking third among boys and second among girls for sports and recreation-related concussions.
The use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) is a leading cause of moderate to severe TBIs among children and youth, except for females aged 5 to 9, where equestrian sports are more common, and males aged 10 to 14, for whom baseball is the primary cause. In response to the high incidence of concussions in youth sports, Hockey Canada implemented a rule in 2013 to prohibit body checking in the peewee age group (11 and 12-year-olds) and younger. This change has resulted in a 70% reduction in the risk of concussion, translating to about 4,800 fewer concussions across Canada.
Children under five years old are the most susceptible demographic to concussions, followed closely by women over the age of 65. This vulnerability among the youngest and oldest members of society necessitates focused preventive measures and healthcare resources. In Ontario, the number of pediatric visits to physician offices or emergency rooms for concussion-related complaints has quadrupled since 2010, indicating a growing awareness and need for medical attention in managing concussions among children.
Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Traumatic brain injury occurs when an external force injures the brain. This can happen through various mechanisms, including falls, motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, and violence. The severity of TBI ranges from mild, such as a concussion, to severe, which can result in long-term disability or death. The brain’s complexity makes it particularly vulnerable to injury, and the consequences can be wide-ranging, affecting cognitive, emotional, and physical functions.
In Canada, the demographic most affected by TBI includes young adults aged 15-24, primarily due to the high risk of accidents and sports-related injuries in this age group. Additionally, intimate partner violence is a significant cause of TBI among women, highlighting the intersection of health and social issues in addressing TBI.
The Socioeconomic Impact of TBI
The burden of TBI extends beyond the individual to the broader society. Individuals living with TBI often require long-term care, rehabilitation, and support services, placing a significant strain on healthcare systems and family resources. The economic cost includes direct medical expenses, lost productivity, and the long-term care required for individuals with severe disabilities. Moreover, the psychological impact on both patients and their families is profound, necessitating comprehensive support systems to address the multifaceted challenges of living with TBI.
Gender Differences in TBI Outcomes
Research indicates that women are more likely than men to experience mental health problems following a TBI. This gender disparity suggests the need for tailored approaches in the treatment and support of women with TBI. Factors contributing to this difference may include the nature of injuries sustained, the context of injury (e.g., intimate partner violence), and differences in biological responses to brain injury. Understanding these nuances is crucial for developing effective interventions and support systems that cater to the specific needs of women with TBI.
Challenges in Diagnosing and Managing Concussions
Concussions, a form of mild TBI, present unique challenges in diagnosis and management. Unlike more severe forms of TBI, concussions often do not show visible signs on imaging tests, making diagnosis reliant on clinical evaluation and patient-reported symptoms. The lack of a definitive diagnostic test further complicates the management of concussions, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach involving neurologists, neuropsychologists, and other healthcare professionals.
In sports, the management of concussions is particularly critical due to the high risk of recurrent injuries and the potential for long-term consequences, such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The complexity of concussion management in sports underscores the importance of robust protocols, education, and prevention strategies to protect athletes at all levels.
Prevention and Public Health Initiatives
Preventing TBI and mitigating its impact requires a comprehensive approach involving education, policy changes, and community engagement. Public health initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the risks and prevention of TBI are essential. These initiatives can include safety campaigns targeting high-risk activities such as driving, sports, and recreational activities. Additionally, policies such as the prohibition of body checking in youth hockey demonstrate the potential impact of regulatory measures in reducing the incidence of TBIs.
Efforts to improve helmet design and promote their use in sports and recreational activities are critical components of TBI prevention. For instance, advancements in helmet technology aim to better protect against impacts that can cause concussions and other TBIs. Public health campaigns promoting helmet use in activities such as cycling, skiing, and horseback riding are vital in reducing the risk of head injuries.
Support and Rehabilitation for TBI Survivors
Rehabilitation and support services play a crucial role in the recovery and long-term well-being of TBI survivors. Multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs that include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and psychological support are essential in addressing the diverse needs of individuals with TBI. These programs aim to restore functional abilities, improve quality of life, and support the reintegration of individuals into their communities.
Support groups and community resources provide additional avenues for assistance, offering emotional support, information, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by TBI. Peer support programs, in particular, can be valuable in helping TBI survivors navigate the challenges of recovery and adaptation to life post-injury.
Research and Future Directions
Ongoing research is critical in advancing our understanding of TBI and improving outcomes for those affected. Areas of research include the development of better diagnostic tools, understanding the long-term effects of TBI, and exploring innovative treatment and rehabilitation approaches. Advances in neuroimaging, biomarkers, and neuroprotective therapies hold promise in enhancing the diagnosis and management of TBI.
Additionally, research into the social determinants of health and their impact on TBI outcomes can inform targeted interventions that address disparities in TBI incidence and recovery. Understanding the role of factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, and social support is essential in developing equitable strategies for TBI prevention and care.
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Early Psychosis and Schizophrenia Awareness
Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health condition marked by disruptions in thought processes, perceptions, emotional responsiveness, and social interactions. One of the key phases in the onset of schizophrenia is the early psychosis stage, a critical period during which initial symptoms of the condition start to appear. Understanding both early psychosis and schizophrenia can shed light on the complex nature of these disorders and highlight the importance of early intervention.
What is Early Psychosis?
Early psychosis, also known as the prodromal phase, refers to the initial phase of illness before the disease fully manifests. This phase usually occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood, a developmental period when individuals are making significant life transitions.
Early psychosis can present with a wide array of symptoms that can be subtle and may not appear alarming at first. These might include:
– Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
– Disturbed sleep patterns
– Social withdrawal or isolation
– Unusual, peculiar behaviors or beliefs
– Reduced motivation or energy
– Mood changes, such as depression or irritability
– Mild, unfocused paranoia or suspicionThese early symptoms are typically nonspecific, meaning they could be linked to a variety of conditions, not just psychosis. As a result, early psychosis can often go undetected, leading to a delay in receiving appropriate care.
The Connection Between Early Psychosis and Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a type of psychotic disorder characterized by persistent symptoms of psychosis. These include hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there), delusions (strong beliefs that are not based in reality), and disorganized thinking or behavior. The early psychosis phase represents the beginning of these symptoms, making it an integral part of the schizophrenia trajectory.
It’s important to note that not everyone who experiences early psychosis will develop schizophrenia. Other psychotic disorders, such as schizoaffective disorder or bipolar disorder with psychotic features, can also have an early psychosis phase. Therefore, early psychosis acts as an indicator of a possible emerging psychotic disorder, but a definitive diagnosis can only be made based on the specific symptomatology and duration as described in diagnostic manuals like the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early detection and intervention in psychosis are critical. Research shows that the duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) – the time from the onset of psychotic symptoms to the commencement of treatment – is inversely related to prognosis. In other words, the longer psychosis goes untreated, the worse the overall outcome tends to be. Early intervention services aim to identify early psychosis and provide multidisciplinary treatment and support to prevent the full onset of schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders, or at least reduce the severity. These services can include psychoeducation, family support, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), and when necessary, pharmacological treatment. Early intervention can lead to a significant reduction in symptoms, improved social and vocational functioning, reduced hospitalization, and overall better quality of life for people experiencing early psychosis. Additionally, it may decrease the chance of developing a more severe form of psychotic disorder.
To learn more, visit www.schizophrenia.ca.
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Living with MS in Canada
Canada is recognized as having one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis (MS) globally, with an estimated 90,000 Canadians currently living with this debilitating disease. The gravity of the situation becomes apparent when considering that, on average, 12 Canadians are diagnosed with MS every single day. This chronic illness predominantly affects individuals between the ages of 20 and 49, marking the beginning of a lifelong struggle against its unpredictable and often progressive nature.
Multiple sclerosis is a complex neurological disorder that targets the central nervous system, encompassing the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Classified as an episodic disability, MS is characterized by its varying severity and duration of symptoms and disability, which can range from mild and transient episodes to more severe and permanent impairments. The disease fundamentally attacks myelin, the protective sheath that envelops nerve fibres, leading to inflammation and, in many cases, significant damage to this critical protective layer. Myelin is essential for the efficient transmission of nerve impulses across the nervous system; hence, even minor damage can cause disruptions in these impulses. In cases where the damage is extensive, scar tissue may form in place of myelin, completely disrupting nerve signal transmission and potentially causing irreversible damage to the nerve fibres themselves.
The unpredictability of MS manifests through a wide array of both physical and mental symptoms. Physically, individuals may experience extreme fatigue, lack of coordination, muscle weakness, tingling sensations, and impaired sensory perceptions. Vision problems, bladder issues, and difficulties with mobility are also common. Mentally, MS can lead to cognitive impairments and significant mood changes, severely impacting a person’s quality of life and their ability to perform daily activities. This variability in symptoms and their progression underscores the complexity of managing and living with the disease.
Diagnosing multiple sclerosis is a meticulous process that relies heavily on a thorough medical history and comprehensive neurological examination. While no single test can definitively diagnose MS, several diagnostic tools are instrumental in confirming the presence of the disease. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is often used to detect lesions in the central nervous system, indicative of MS-related damage. Additionally, evoked potential tests, which measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimuli, and lumbar punctures, which analyze cerebrospinal fluid, can provide further evidence to support a diagnosis. Critical to the diagnosis of MS is the requirement for evidence of disease activity separated by time (lesions that have formed at different points in time) and space (lesions in at least two distinct areas of the central nervous system). This criterion ensures that the diagnosis reflects the episodic nature of the disease, rather than a singular, isolated incident.
It is crucial to understand that diagnosing MS is a process of exclusion. Physicians must rule out other potential causes for the symptoms before confirming a diagnosis of MS. This comprehensive approach helps ensure that individuals receive an accurate diagnosis, allowing for more effective management and treatment of the disease. The journey to diagnosis can be long and fraught with uncertainty, but it is a vital step towards understanding and managing this complex neurological condition.
In conclusion, the high prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Canada highlights the need for continued research, awareness, and support for those affected by the disease. Understanding the intricacies of MS, from its impact on the nervous system to the diagnostic challenges it presents, is essential for healthcare providers, patients, and their families. As the medical community continues to advance in its knowledge and treatment of MS, there remains a hopeful prospect for better management strategies and, ultimately, a cure for this life-altering disease.
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Brain Tumour Awareness Month
In Canada, the month of May is recognized as Brain Tumour Awareness Month, a significant period dedicated to enhancing public understanding of brain tumours, advancing research, and providing support to those affected by this challenging condition. There is a concerted effort, encapsulated in the campaign #TurnMayGrey, aimed at raising awareness for brain tumours. This initiative seeks to unite Canadians, encouraging them to collectively raise their voices and foster positive changes that could lead to more effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
For those diagnosed with a brain tumour, the experience can be profoundly different from one person to the next. The symptoms that may present can vary greatly and influence each individual’s journey toward diagnosis. Some individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms early on, while others may face symptoms that progressively worsen, leading them to seek medical advice. There are also cases where individuals feel generally well until they suddenly experience severe symptoms, such as seizures, which prompt an immediate and often unexpected diagnosis.
It is important to recognize the array of symptoms that, whether occurring alone or in combination, could suggest the presence of a brain tumour—be it malignant or non-malignant. These symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Behavioural changes
- Cognitive impairments
- Dizziness or unsteadiness
- Double or blurred vision
- Frequent headaches
- Hearing impairment
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures
- Weakness or paralysis
Awareness of these symptoms is crucial for early detection and timely medical intervention, which can significantly affect the outcome of the treatment.
By observing Brain Tumour Awareness Month, we aim not only to educate the public about the signs and impacts of brain tumours but also to underscore the importance of research and community support in improving the quality of life for those diagnosed with this condition. As health professionals, our goal during this month and beyond is to empower patients, their families, and the broader community with knowledge and resources, facilitating a united front in the fight against brain tumours.
Visit braintumour.ca to learn more.
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Food’s Impact on the Brain
In order to stay as healthy as we can, we need to ensure that we’re always making healthy choices and be conscious of how we treat our bodies from both a mental and physical standpoint. This can mean doing things like getting regular exercise, getting adequate amounts of sleep each night, avoiding bad habits (such as smoking tobacco or drinking alcohol in excess), as well as having a diet that is rich in essential nutrients – including vitamins and minerals, proteins, healthy carbohydrates and fats, and water.
Eating well is fundamental for our overall health and wellbeing, as the healthier foods we eat, the less likely we are to develop serious health problems – including diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and even certain types of cancer. When we don’t eat healthy, there can be significant changes. For example, you might start to gain weight or find yourself feeling more fatigued and lacking the same level of energy you once had. Through making healthy meal choices, these are things that can be prevented.
Foods can also have a significant impact on your mood. This is because 90% of your serotonin receptors (which not only influence just your appetite but also influence other biological and neurological processes including memory, anxiety, cognition, and learning, just to name a few) are found in the gastrointestinal tract, and there is two-way communication that occurs via the gut and the brain via the vagus nerve, which is responsible for various internal organ functions, including digestion, as well as vasomotor activity. Our brains are also always on, which means they constantly require fuel, which we get from the foods that we eat. If you’ve ever heard the famous saying, “You are what you eat,” this is actually true, as the foods you put into your body affects the structure of your brain and the way it functions. If you’re constantly eating foods that are high in unhealthy fats or high in sugar, your brain is going to begin to feel deprived of those essential healthy nutrients that I mentioned before.
While you may not initially be aware that some of the foods you’re eating are playing a role in your mental wellbeing, it’s important to start paying close attention to determine how the different foods you eat make you feel. One day to do this is by giving your diet a do-over, so to speak, by cutting out things like sugar and processed foods from your diet – also known as an elimination diet – and then slowly start to reintroduce different foods, one by one, and see how you feel. If a certain food you’ve reintroduced makes you feel unhealthy in any way, eliminate that food again – and while it’s okay to indulge in a treat every now and then, it’s important to be mindful and not over-indulge, as this is where trouble begins. It’s also important to be aware of what foods are good for your mental health, vs. which foods are bad and should be avoided, as outlined below.
Best:
• Berries
• Bananas
• Walnuts
• Whole grains
• Yogurt
• Salmon
• Leafy Greens
• Sweet potatoes
• Green teaWorst:
• Refined white starches (rice, bread, crackers)
• High caffeine intake
• Fried foods
• Fast food
• Processed meats -
Functional Neurological Disorder
Understanding Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) necessitates a journey into the complexities of how our bodies and brains communicate. This condition, intricate in its nature, affects the nervous system’s functionality, specifically in how the brain and body send and receive signals. In essence, something goes awry in this communication network, leading to a plethora of symptoms that defy easy categorization under known diseases. FND is multifactorial, meaning it can be sparked by a variety of risk factors, both physical and psychological. These contributing elements can intertwine in a manner that makes it challenging to pinpoint a single cause. The resulting symptoms are undeniably real and can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, sometimes even more so than other neurological conditions that are better understood.
FND’s Unique Position in Medical Science
FND sits at a crossroads of medical disciplines, sharing elements with both neurology and psychiatry, yet not fully residing in either. This unique position underscores the need for a collaborative approach to diagnosis and treatment, one that respects the complexity of the disorder and the person experiencing it. FND is considered a rare condition, but its rarity does not diminish the profound effect it can have on those it touches. A critical aspect of understanding FND is recognizing that the symptoms experienced by patients are not under their conscious control. This is a vital point of clarification, as misconceptions abound regarding the nature of these symptoms.
Symptomatology and Its Impact
Symptoms of FND can appear suddenly and progress rapidly, displaying a tendency to wax and wane over time. This unpredictable pattern can include periods of complete remission, followed by sudden recurrences, adding an element of uncertainty to the lives of those affected. The range of symptoms associated with FND is broad and varied, encompassing chronic pain, cognitive changes (such as difficulties with memory and concentration), alterations in bladder and bowel function, challenges with gait and balance, headaches, involuntary movements, paralysis, weakness, seizures, sensory changes (including altered sensation or hypersensitivity), sleep disturbances, speech problems, and visual changes.
It’s not uncommon for these symptoms to be triggered or exacerbated by another illness or a physical injury. This overlap, often referred to as a ‘functional overlay’, complicates the clinical picture but should not deter the provision of comprehensive care. The presence of FND alongside another medical condition necessitates a nuanced approach to treatment, one that addresses both the symptoms of FND and the concurrent illness without prioritizing one at the expense of the other.
Navigating Treatment and Support
Addressing FND requires a multifaceted strategy, ideally involving a team of healthcare professionals who can offer a range of therapeutic options tailored to the individual’s specific needs. This team might include neurologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists, among others. The goal of treatment is not only to manage symptoms but also to improve the overall quality of life for the individual. This can involve physical therapy to address motor symptoms, cognitive-behavioural therapy to help manage the psychological aspects of living with FND, and medication to alleviate specific symptoms such as pain or seizures.
Education plays a crucial role in the management of FND. For patients, understanding the nature of their symptoms and the underlying disorder can be empowering, providing a foundation upon which to build an effective treatment plan. For healthcare providers, knowledge of FND is essential for accurate diagnosis and the development of an empathetic and effective approach to care.
Navigating the complexities of Functional Neurological Disorder calls for a partnership between patients and their healthcare teams, one that is grounded in mutual understanding and respect. The diversity of symptoms and their impact on daily life necessitates a treatment approach that is as unique as the individuals experiencing them. Advances in medical science and a deeper understanding of FND are lighting the path to more effective treatments and improved quality of life. Through collaborative care, embracing both neurology and psychiatry, we are moving toward a future where the challenges of FND can be faced with renewed hope and confidence. In this journey, education and empathy stand as pillars, supporting a framework where patients can navigate their symptoms with dignity and a sense of empowerment.
FND Resources
For comprehensive insights into Functional Neurological Disorder, including frequently asked questions and updates on current research, visit fndhope.org. This resource offers a wealth of information tailored to both individuals navigating the complexities of FND and their supporters, providing a thorough overview of the condition, practical advice, and the latest findings in the field.
