A study has investigated the link between cognitively stimulating activity and the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. The results suggest that participating in activities, such as reading, writing, and playing games, could make the brain more resilient to the condition. The researchers say that older adults who participate in these activities could delay the onset of […]
A study suggests that in the United States in 2020, around a third of COVID-19 survivors were diagnosed with a neurological or mental health condition within 6 months of their COVID-19 diagnoses. Anxiety and mood disorders were the most common diagnoses. Neurological conditions, such as stroke and dementia, occurred less often but were more common […]
Multiple sclerosis (MS) causes a wide range of symptoms involving the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Research is only just beginning to reveal who is at risk and what causes the condition. MS is a chronic condition affecting 2.8 million people worldwide. While treatment options are currently limited, trials of several new approaches are […]
Star-shaped brain cells called “astrocytes” are key in regulating the development of other nerve cells. However, malfunctioning astrocytes can play roles in inflammation and the deterioration of nerve cells. A new study in mice has identified a previously undescribed type of astrocyte, which, the researchers say, may actually protect against inflammation. The study has also […]
Brain images from people experiencing loneliness show distinct features within certain neural regions, suggesting that those who feel lonely may be able to fill their desire for human connection by imagining social contexts and interactions. Human connection is a key factor in people’s physical and mental health. However, the impacts of COVID-19 and the need […]
Researchers may now have gained a better understanding of how the brain causes the disorienting, disruptive sensation of being outside of one’s body. Most of the time, the mind and body operate seamlessly as a single entity. At times, however, a person may experience a disconcerting sense of “disassociation,” during which they feel as if […]
A new study finds that spinal cord stimulation could represent an alternate therapy for people with Parkinson’s disease that is resistant to conventional treatments. The researchers claim that this emerging technology may help decrease pain and improve mobility. Close to 1 million people may be living with Parkinson’s disease in the United States. This long-term […]
A study suggests a type of nerve cell derived from stem cells can make the right connections when implanted into the brain, restoring lost motor function. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive degenerative disorder that affects muscular control. Its symptoms include tremor, rigidity, slowness of movement, and impaired balance. Difficulties with swallowing and speaking are also […]
Researchers have identified differences in how the brains of people with Alzheimer’s process a key protein. The discovery could lead to new diagnostic tests and possibly even treatments. Alzheimer’s disease, which involves a progressive loss of memory and thinking skills, is the most common form of dementia. In 2014, around 5 million people in the […]
Welcome to the latest edition of our Medical Myths series. Today, to mark World Alzheimer’s Day, we will be tackling myths relating to both Alzheimer’s disease and dementia at large. Today, an estimated 5.8 million people aged 65 years or older in the United States have dementia. Due to the fact that the average lifespan […]
