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Neurologist

AIIMS Delhi neurologist warns ‘clean your air purifiers’; shares tips to protect your lungs amid rising air pollution

by jummy84 November 29, 2025

written by jummy84

Published on: Nov 29, 2025 04:02 pm IST

With pollution levels rising in Delhi and Gurgaon, neurologist Dr Priyanka Sehrawat shares essential tips on air purifier care, masks, hydration, and diet.

With the winter season settling in, Delhi and Gurgaon are once again witnessing a surge in air pollution, with AQI levels frequently climbing into the “very unhealthy” range. Smoggy mornings, thick haze, and rising cases of respiratory issues have made it difficult for residents to breathe easy. Many people are turning to air purifiers at home and masks while stepping outside, but not everyone is aware of the correct precautions to take. (Also read: Longevity doctor warns ‘sleeping less than 6 hours raises heart attack risk by 200%’; shares 5 habits for heart health )

Dr Sehrawat shares tips for staying healthy amid rising air pollution. (Google Gemini)

Dr Priyanka Sehrawat, a neurologist and general physician, AIIMS Delhi, shares key advice in her November 28 Instagram post for residents relying on air purifiers and masks during this high-pollution season.

How often should you change your air purifier filter

“This video is for people in Delhi and Gurgaon. If you are using air purifiers at home, many people do, but you need to pay attention. Our lungs filter pollutants like PM 2.5, and the filter in the purifier gets blocked. So it’s necessary to change the air purifier filter once every 2–3 weeks,” Dr Sehrawat said.

She added, “If pollution levels are very high, say above 500 AQI, you might even need to change it every 10 days. Also, if you’re going outside frequently, make sure to wear an N95 mask. Cloth masks or the regular blue surgical masks will not protect you from pollutants.”

What other precautions can help protect your health

Alongside air purification, Dr Sehrawat stressed the importance of staying hydrated and maintaining a nutritious diet. “Cases of flu are also increasing, so drink enough water, eat vitamin C-rich foods, and maintain a high-protein diet. Take care of yourself,” she advised.

Following these simple yet vital precautions can help residents navigate the worsening air quality while protecting their respiratory and overall health.

Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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November 29, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

AIIMS-trained neurologist shares why you shouldn’t self-prescribe vitamin B12 supplements if you have numbness, tingling

by jummy84 November 15, 2025

written by jummy84

In an age where supplements trend on social media and popular brands promise instant fixes, it’s easy to assume that every symptom points to a deficiency – especially vitamin B12. Many people start taking supplements simply because others are doing so, or because they seem harmless. But self-diagnosing and self-medicating can be risky, particularly when symptoms like numbness or tingling may have completely different underlying causes.

Always consult a medical professional before starting supplements.(Unsplash)

Also Read | AIIMS-trained neurologist shares warning signs of stroke you should never ignore: ‘Numbness in one hand and…’

Dr Rahul Chawla, a neurologist trained at AIIMS, New Delhi, consultant neurologist at IBS Hospital, Lajpat Nagar, and founder of HealthPil.com, is explaining why vitamin B12 supplements should never be taken without proper medical guidance. In an Instagram video posted on 15 November, the neurologist notes that numbness and tingling aren’t always signs of a vitamin B12 deficiency – they may indicate other underlying issues. For this reason, he warns against jumping to conclusions or self-medicating.

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency

According to Dr Chawla, deficiency of vitamin B12 might cause “fatigue, weakness, pale skin, dizziness, numbness or tingling in hands and feet, and even memory problems. In severe cases, it can also cause mood changes or difficulty walking.” However, he stresses the importance of checking your B12 levels before drawing any conclusions or starting supplements on your own, especially without a doctor’s guidance.

Vitamin B12 supplements

Dr Chawla cautions that taking vitamin supplements without testing your levels can mask the real cause of your symptoms, interfere with other nutrients, and often provide only trace amounts of vitamin B12 – far too little to tackle a deficiency.

The neurologist points out, “Do you know what the actual level of B12 is inside that supplement? It is only 15 micrograms. However, the amount we need daily to overcome a deficiency is 500 to 1500 micrograms. While 15 micrograms is acceptable for the daily requirement, if you have a deficiency, you must take appropriate dosages. Therefore, do not take supplements on your own; you must consult a doctor. If a deficiency is identified, the supplement must be taken in appropriate dosages, and it must also be confirmed whether this deficiency is truly dietary or if there is some other underlying reason.”

Causes of vitamin B12 deficiency

The neurologist outlines the causes of B12 deficiency as follows:

Poor diet (especially if you’re vegetarian or vegan)
Long-term consumption of acidity medicines
Intestinal problems that affect absorption
Certain autoimmune conditions

However, Dr Chawla stresses that numbness and tingling sensations do not always signal a vitamin B12 deficiency – they can also be signs of nerve compression, diabetes-related nerve issues or even early symptoms of neurological problems. He recommends consulting a neurologist if you experience these symptoms, instead of self-medicating.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

November 15, 2025 0 comments

$Neurologist explains why resistance training is important for all ages: ‘Keeps bones dense, reduces fracture risk…’$

Lifestyle

Neurologist explains why resistance training is important for all ages: ‘Keeps bones dense, reduces fracture risk…’

by jummy84 November 14, 2025

written by jummy84

Bone density naturally declines as we age, but the good news is that regular exercise can slow this process and protect you from serious injuries later in life. If you’ve been putting off strength training, consider this your sign – your stability, balance, and overall strength depend on it. Simple, consistent resistance work can make the difference between fragile bones and a resilient, healthy body as you grow older.

According to Dr Bing, resistance training is important for everyone. (Unsplash)

Also Read | Neurologist warns against these 3 simple habits that can damage your brain: ‘Wearing headphones to bed leads to…’

Dr Bing, a neurologist, biostatistician, brain-health advocate, and health content creator, has explained why resistance training is essential at every age to maintain strong, healthy bones and muscles. In an Instagram video shared on November 12, the neurologist explains how lack of exercise weakens bones and makes them susceptible to fractures, and emphasises how resistance training helps build strength, stability, and long-term bone health.

Why is resistance training important?

Dr Bing highlights the importance of regular exercise, especially resistance training, for optimal bone health, no matter what age you are. He narrates the story of one of his patients – “I recently saw a patient in her 70s who came in after a simple fall at home. She tripped on a step, didn’t even fall from a height and she broke her femur and also suffered a brain bleed from hitting her head and then she had seizures from that. She was then found to have osteoporosis which is when your bones become weaker and more brittle.”

He notes that, unfortunately, cases like this are quite common because of a lack of physical activity. If we fail to challenge our muscles, our bones lose strength, and the balance and stability that naturally wane with age deteriorate even more quickly. The neurologist stresses the importance of resistance training and explains, “But why is resistance training particularly important? Well, because it loads the skeleton and stimulates your bone growth and it signals your body to keep your bones dense and that would drastically reduce hip and femur fracture risk.”

Dr Bing highlights the importance of resistance training.(Image generated via ChatGPT)

What happens when you skip resistance training?

Dr Bing emphasises, “If you don’t do resistance training in your lower body or your core, you won’t have strong quads, glutes, and core. And your body would have a hard time stabilising itself when you trip. And weak muscles mean that you have slower protective reactions as well. And you can’t catch yourself in time if you fall.”

The neurologist clarifies that you don’t need to be an Olympic-level weightlifter or squat 200 pounds. The key is routine muscle engagement – resistance bands, your own body weight, light dumbbells, or anything that makes your muscles work against some resistance.

November 14, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Neurologist warns against these 3 simple habits that can damage your brain: ‘Wearing headphones to bed leads to…’

by jummy84 November 11, 2025

written by jummy84

Brain health is a crucial element of your overall wellbeing, as your brain controls all bodily functions and mental processes, including movement, thoughts, emotions, and memory, among others.

If you are one of those people who wear headphones to bed, you should know that loud sounds can damage the hair cells in your inner ear and over time can raise your risk of hearing loss and dementia. (Freepik)

Also Read | AIIMS-trained gastroenterologist warns ‘stop putting cotton buds in your ears’; can cause 70% ear injuries, hearing loss

While diet, exercise, and rest are important components of maintaining brain health, your lifestyle habits also significantly impact your brain’s well-being. Sometimes, however, there are some inconsequential practices that we believe do no harm, but are risking cognitive decline and brain disorders.

3 things that can harm your brain

In a November 4 Instagram post shared by Dr Bing, MD, MPH, a neurologist and biostatistician, he listed three things that he absolutely avoids as a neurologist and recommends others avoid as well. The habits include practices such as wearing headphones for extended periods or to bed, neglecting gum health, and sitting on the toilet for an excessive amount of time. Here’s how they damage your brain.

1. Wearing headphones to bed

Dr Bing cautioned against wearing headphones to bed. Here’s why: “If you are one of those people who wear headphones to bed, just make sure that the sounds that you’re playing are quiet and not loud because loud sounds can damage the hair cells in your inner ear and over time can raise your risk of hearing loss and dementia.”

Moreover, the neurologist emphasised that wearing earbuds and headphones for extended periods can trap moisture and bacteria. This can increase the risk of developing an ear infection.

“If you’re listening to loud sounds during sleep, it might interrupt your deep sleep and disrupt your lymphatic system, which is your brain’s nightly cleaning cycle that cleans out toxins,” he added.

2. Ignoring gum health

Next, the neurologist advised against ignoring gum health. Sharing his routine, Dr Bing revealed, “Every night, I floss and I water floss and then I brush because recent studies have shown that gum health might be related to someone’s brain health.”

Protect your grey matter. (Google Gemini)

The neurologist cited a 2025 study which found: “People with more gum disease and cavities had almost double the risk of stroke, and other studies have linked poor oral health to dementia and cognitive decline.”

3. Sitting on the toilet for more than 5 minutes

Lastly, the neurologist advised against sitting on the toilet for more than 5 minutes. He divulged, “This is because sitting too long and straining can cause blood to pool in your legs and drop your blood pressure, especially if you have certain underlying conditions, and not enough blood going to your brain can cause someone to faint.”

Unfortunately, the neurologist revealed that he sees such examples almost every week. However, he excused those with chronic bowel disease, as they might not have a choice, but otherwise, he cautioned, “Do not linger on the toilet.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

November 11, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Manipal Hospital neurologist reveals why strokes can happen even to healthy people

by jummy84 October 31, 2025

written by jummy84

Sometimes, despite any health issues, a major medical emergency like a stroke can strike. You may be doing everything right, or at least it may appear so, but still, you are at risk. To understand more about the hidden triggers that go unnoticed, HT Lifestyle reached out to Dr Satwant Sachdeva, senior consultant- neurology, Manipal Hospital, Patiala, who revealed that there are hidden culprits that quietly raise the risk of stroke in seemingly healthy individuals.

Brain stroke symptoms in women can be subtle and different from the classic signs. Here are some key signs to watch out for. (Freepik)

ALSO READ: Neurologist shares the 3S that silently increase your stroke risk

Describing how stroke occurs, he said, “A stroke strikes when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, reducing the amounts of oxygen and other essential nutrients that the brain needs.”

Among the many risk factors, hypertension and diabetes are well established. The neurologist added, “Hypertension and diabetes are two common culprits that lead to strokes, but hidden culprits like stress, dehydration, and genetic factors may also play a significant role.”

But there are some less obvious, hidden triggers which can quietly damage the body and slowly push one towards developing a stroke without showing any clear warning signs. So while the health parameters may look fine on paper, there are some silent factors which may be working in the background, increasing your stroke risks significantly.

Hidden triggers for stroke

Stress is one of the hidden triggers of stroke. (Picture credit: Shutterstock)

Elaborating on the lesser-known causes, Dr Sachdeva explained, “Chronic stress and insufficient sleep increase levels of cortisol, which can damage blood vessels and lead to increased blood pressure.” While you are regularly stressed, your body stays in the state of stress, producing stress hormone, cortisol, which weakens your blood vessels, making your blood pressure rise and subsequently increasing the risk of a stroke.

The next trigger is dehydration. As if you are dehydrated, the neurologist revealed that the blood gets thicker and one becomes vulnerable to clotting. “Dehydration can make blood thicker and more susceptible to clotting,” he said.

Unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as smoking, crash dieting or excessive exercise, according to Dr Sachdeva, may also cause a stroke.

5 preventive measures for stroke

Strokes can be prevented with the help of a few simple lifestyle changes. The neurologist recommended these:

Stay Hydrated: Drink enough water throughout the day to maintain healthy blood flow.
Monitor Heart Health: Get regular check-ups to detect conditions like atrial fibrillation early.
Know Your Family History: If strokes or clotting disorders run in your family, talk to your doctor about preventive screening.
Adopt a Balanced Lifestyle: Avoid smoking and crash diets; instead, focus on moderation, nutritious food, and regular physical activity.
Exercise Regularly: At least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days helps keep blood vessels healthy.

One of the reasons stroke is an emergency is that the initial signs are ignored. Dr Sachedva said, “Strokes usually begin quietly and with noticeable signs that can easily be ignored. A headache, sudden weakness or fatigue may seem benign, but they can all be the body signalling an urgent note.” He drew attention to how these warning signs often overlap with common issues like stress or exhaustion. Then they are often dismissed, until it’s too late.

October 31, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Medanta neurologist warns young adults in 20s are at big risk of severe burnout; reveals 6 early signs to watch out for

by jummy84 October 13, 2025

written by jummy84

At the cusp of adulthood, more and more young adults in their 20s are left with no energy. They are facing burnout, which is a state of chronic physical, mental and emotional exhaustion caused by prolonged exposure to stress. It is more than feeling tired. The exhaustion is far deeper and spans every part of life.

Young adults increasingly face the risk of burnout.(Picture credit: Freepik)

ALSO READ: Medanta cardiologist explains how poor gut health can increase your risk of heart disease: ‘Diets that support…’

To understand more about the early adulthood burnout, Dr Saurabh Mehrotra, Director of Neurosciences at Medanta, Gurugram, told HT Lifestyle that burnout is far beyond the ordinary tiredness but a ‘sustained state of stress’ which, if it is not treated, may have harmful repercussions on mental and physical health.

“Burnout, once considered a mid-career problem, is now increasingly affecting people in their early twenties. Many young adults are entering adulthood already feeling mentally drained, emotionally overwhelmed, and physically exhausted,” Dr Mehrotra added.

The neurologist cited findings from a May 2025 study published in The International Journal of Indian Psychology, which reported that Indian youth aged 18–32 experience moderate levels of burnout overall, but those in the younger age brackets (18–22 and 23–27) have significantly higher burnout scores compared to their older peers. Dr Mehrotra emphasised that this is a major crisis, as young adults are facing severe stress right at the beginning of their adult lives.

What are the causes of burnout?

Dr Mehrotra revealed that burnout in young adults happens because of a combination of many factors. The causes are relentless academic and career pressures, the mismatch between expectations and workplace realities, financial strain, constant digital connectivity, global uncertainty, social disconnection, and toxic work cultures with blurred boundaries.

With so much going on, Gen Z feels overstimulated as there is little room for rest or recovery. The pressures are often overlapping and continuous pressure, one after the other or even simultaneously. From competitive academics to early career hustle, young adults are stuck in a breakneck pace that triggers stress and makes them exhausted.

“For Gen Z, especially in countries like India, the collision of financial pressure, toxic work environments, digital overload, social isolation, and mismatched career expectations is creating an urgent mental health challenge,” the neurologist highlighted the major challenges.

While the signs of burnout may be subjective, there are some common, overlapping ones. Dr Mehrotra shared the 6 signs of burnout, along with 6 tips to help manage it:

6 signs of burnout

One of the signs includes a lack of motivation. (Picture credit: Pexels)

Persistent fatigue, even after rest
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability or mood swings
Loss of motivation or interest in activities
Sleep disturbances
Physical symptoms such as headaches or digestive issues

6 tips to prevent and manage burnout

Sleep is essential for good mental health. (Picture credit: Shutterstock)

1. Prioritise rest and recovery

Adequate sleep, ideally 7–9 hours a night, is essential.
Rest must be recognised as a non-negotiable component of productivity and health, not a luxury.

2. Set digital boundaries

Taking regular breaks from screens, limiting social media, and muting non-essential notifications.
This helps to reduce mental fatigue and reclaim attention.

3. Maintain physical health

Consistent exercise, nutritious meals, and hydration are directly linked to better focus, emotional regulation, and resilience under stress.

4. Build supportive relationships

Human connection is vital.
Whether it’s through friendships, mentorship, or family, emotionally supportive relationships act as a buffer against burnout and isolation.

5. Seek help early

Therapy or counselling provides tools to manage stress, build coping skills, and gain perspective.
Addressing burnout early can prevent more serious mental health conditions down the line.

6. Redefine success

Success should not be measured solely by productivity, income, or status.
It must also include mental well-being, personal growth, balance, and fulfilment. Moving away from hustle culture allows room for a healthier, more sustainable path.

October 13, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Can neck pain lead to an intense headache? Neurologist explains why it happens and how to deal with it

by jummy84 September 11, 2025

written by jummy84

If you have ever felt a throbbing headache that starts at the base of your skull and travels up your head, your neck might be to blame. A lesser-known but significant cause of headaches is cervicogenic pain, headaches that originate from issues in the neck. Unlike migraines or tension headaches, these are secondary headaches, meaning they result from an underlying problem, often involving the spine or muscles in the neck. Long hours hunched over screens, poor posture, or even sleeping the wrong way can be enough to trigger this condition. We spoke to Dr Sheetal Goyal, consultant neurologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, who explains how neck pain and headaches can be more closely linked than you might think.

Neck pain and headaches are often connected!(Adobe Stock)

What is a cervicogenic headache?

A cervicogenic headache is a type of headache that starts in the neck and radiates to the head. Unlike primary headaches like migraines or tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches are secondary, meaning they result from another medical issue, specifically, problems in the cervical spine (neck).

“With a cervicogenic headache, the pain you feel in your head originates from the bony structures or soft tissues in your neck. It is a type of secondary headache, which is a headache caused by an underlying problem in your neck,” explains Dr Goyal to Health Shots.

In many cases, this is a form of referred pain, where the actual problem lies in one part of the body, but the discomfort is felt elsewhere. So, while the pain may feel like it is in your head, the root cause is actually your neck.

What are the symptoms of cervicogenic headache?

Cervicogenic headaches often begin with stiffness or tightness in the neck, followed by pain that spreads to the back of the head, the temples, or even behind the eyes. “This pain can be moderate to severe, but it won’t be extremely painful,” says Dr Goyal. You may also experience:

Dizziness
Blurred vision
Limited range of motion in the neck

The headache may worsen with certain neck movements or when pressure is applied at the base of the skull. These symptoms can be easily overlooked or mistaken for a migraine or tension headache, which makes awareness and proper diagnosis all the more important.

Chronic headache can be very uncomfortable! (Pexels)

Is poor posture the only cause of cervicogenic headache?

Poor posture is a major contributor, but not the only one. Long hours slouching over desks, laptops, or phones can strain the neck and upper spine. However, other factors include:

Sleeping in an unnatural position
Whiplash or sudden jerky neck movements
Cervical arthritis
Disc issues in the neck
Muscle strain

“Those who work for extended periods leaning forward over a computer or phone are particularly susceptible, as the frequent forward bend places constant stress on the cervical spine,” suggests Dr Goyal.

Neglecting these signs can lead to chronic neck issues, recurring headaches, and even reduced mobility over time. Long-term strain can also weaken neck muscles and reduce flexibility.

How to manage or treat cervicogenic headache at home?

Mild cases of cervicogenic headache can often be managed with simple, at-home remedies:

Warm compress: It can help loosen tight muscles.
Gentle stretching: It improves flexibility and reduces stiffness.
Proper posture: Sit upright and use a pillow that supports the neck well.
Frequent breaks: Avoid sitting for too long. Instead, get up and stretch regularly.
Over-the-counter painkillers: OTC pain relief can help, but only for short-term use. Always take a doctor’s advice before consuming any painkillers.
Physical therapy: A daily exercise plan from a physiotherapist can strengthen neck muscles and prevent recurrence.

Remember that persistent pain should never be ignored, and relying solely on painkillers without addressing the underlying issue may offer only temporary relief.

September 11, 2025 0 comments