Latest news with #MAIINS
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Business Standard
2 days ago
- Health
- Business Standard
From stress to habits: Why some people walk or talk in their sleep
Stress, fatigue, and erratic schedules can all trigger sleepwalking or sleep talking; doctors explain what happens in your brain and when to worry New Delhi Ever had a friend tell you that you were muttering in your sleep, or worse, caught you pacing around the house in the middle of the night? Might feel spooky, but doctors say sleepwalking and sleep talking, collectively known as parasomnias, are quite common. In fact, stressed-out adults with erratic schedules, and habits like late-night binge-watching, and alcohol and substance use, might be more vulnerable than they realise. Why do people speak while sleeping? According to Dr Saurabh Pahuja, sleep medicine specialist and pulmonologist at Amrita Hospital in Haryana's Faridabad, sleep is not just switching off but a series of stages. Sometimes the brain does not move between them smoothly, she said. 'In sleepwalking, the areas that control movement wake up, while the regions responsible for awareness and memory remain asleep. That's why people can walk, eat, or even talk without any recollection the next morning. Sleep talking is similar, the speech muscles briefly switch on while the rest of the brain stays in sleep mode,' he said. Is it linked to deep sleep or dreams? According to experts, most sleepwalking occurs during deep non-REM sleep (slow-wave sleep), often within the first two hours. 'Deep sleep has a high arousal threshold. If the brain partially wakes up, motor systems may activate without full awareness,' said Dr Pahuja. Dream-heavy REM sleep is different. Here, the body is paralysed to prevent us from acting out our dreams. 'When this paralysis fails, it leads to a condition called REM Behaviour Disorder, not typical sleepwalking,' explained Dr Gupta. Why do kids sleepwalk more than adults? According to Dr Pahuja, children are the real "champions" of sleepwalking and sleep talking. 'Kids spend more time in deep sleep, and their sleep–wake systems are immature. That makes them more vulnerable to partial awakenings,' said Dr Pahuja. According to Dr Praveen Gupta, chairman, MAIINS, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, 'Sleepwalking affects up to 15 per cent of children but only 2–4 per cent of adults. Sleep talking is reported in about 50 per cent of children but becomes much less frequent after 25.' Most children tend to outgrow it as their sleep cycle stabilises. Can lifestyle choices and stress trigger it? "Yes, and this is where adults need to pay attention," warned Dr Gupta. 'Stress, sleep deprivation, fevers, or medications can all act as triggers. Add to that lifestyle factors like alcohol and caffeine, especially late in the evening, and you're disturbing the very architecture of sleep." Dr Pahuja agreed, 'Irregular sleep schedules, jet lag, or night shifts destabilise the body clock. That makes parasomnias more likely. A midnight caffeine hit or alcohol binge can fragment deep sleep and set off episodes.' Is sleepwalking hereditary? The odds are higher if it runs in your family. 'Studies show that if one parent has a history of sleepwalking, the child's risk nearly doubles. If both parents do, the chances can go as high as 60 per cent,' said Dr Gupta. Common triggers behind sleepwalking and talking Experts says these are the causes of sleepwalking and sleep talking: Stress and anxiety – mental strain can fragment deep sleep. Sleep deprivation – lack of rest increases chances of partial arousals. Fever or illness – body stress can trigger night-time episodes. Alcohol and caffeine – especially late in the evening, they disrupt sleep cycles. Irregular sleep schedules – night shifts, jet lag, or erratic bedtimes destabilise sleep. Medications – sedatives or certain prescriptions can interfere with sleep stages. Genetics and family history – higher risk if one or both parents have a history. Underlying sleep disorders – like sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, or epilepsy. Environmental factors – noise, light, or an uncomfortable sleep environment. Developing nervous systems in children – immature brain regulation makes them more prone. When should you seek medical help? The doctors said that occasional episodes are not usually a big deal. But doctors caution that you shouldn't ignore it if: You're an adult with frequent episodes You injure yourself or leave the house while asleep You snore heavily or feel unusually sleepy during the day You suddenly start having episodes in adulthood 'New or frequent sleepwalking in adults may indicate an underlying sleep disorder like sleep apnea, neurological changes, or even a side effect of medication,' said Dr Praveen Gupta. Beyond physical injury, what are the risks? While tripping over a table or walking out the door half-asleep is risky, but there is more. 'Sleepwalking can create psychological distress, embarrassment, or strain in relationships,' said Dr Praveen Gupta. 'In rare cases, people have engaged in risk-taking behaviours like driving or cooking while asleep, which can have serious consequences.' How can it be treated or managed? Doctors emphasise good sleep hygiene as the first step: Stick to regular bedtimes and wake-up times Avoid alcohol and caffeine in the evening Reduce late-night screen time De-stress before bed with calming routines Make the sleep environment safe (lock doors, clear obstacles) 'If episodes are frequent or dangerous, medications like low-dose benzodiazepines may be considered, but only under specialist care,' said Dr Pahuja. A sleep study (polysomnography) can also help. 'It records brain waves, breathing, muscle activity, and heart rhythm. With video and audio, we can see exactly when and why an episode happens,' said Dr Gupta. 'This allows us to rule out conditions like epilepsy or sleep apnea and tailor the treatment.'
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Business Standard
6 days ago
- Health
- Business Standard
Can positive affirmations rewire your brain? Here's what doctors say
'I am confident', 'I deserve success', or 'I am enough', you have probably seen these short, punchy lines on Instagram, heard them on podcasts, or even stuck them to your laptop screen or mirror. They sound uplifting, but can these tiny mantras actually change the way your brain works, or is it all just feel-good fluff? Is there science behind affirmations rewiring the brain? Yes, and it is more than just 'think happy thoughts'. According to Dr Mrinmay Kumar Das, principal consultant, Behavioural Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Noida, neuroscience studies using functional MRI scans show that self-affirmation tasks light up brain regions linked to self-processing and reward, like the medial prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, and ventral striatum. Over time, repeated affirmations can strengthen neural connections in these circuits, a process called neuroplasticity, essentially the brain's ability to rewire itself based on what you repeatedly think or do. 'Affirmations can increase activity in areas linked to positive emotions and self-awareness, while reducing activity in regions associated with stress and self-criticism, They also decrease activity in areas associated with negative emotions, stress, and self-criticism (example, amygdala, default mode network), strengthen neural connections and pathways related to positive thinking and behaviour,' said Dr Das. Dr Dar further explained that repeating affirmations can lead to changes in brain activity and neural pathways over time, including: Increased grey matter volume in areas associated with positive emotions and self-awareness. Enhanced neural connectivity and communication between different brain regions. Reduced stress and anxiety-related activity in the brain. Can affirmations change thought patterns? Affirmations influence the default mode network (the brain's mind-wandering hub) by reducing negative self-talk and promoting balanced thinking. Psychologically, they help challenge and replace harmful mental loops with more empowering ones. Dr Praveen Gupta, chairman - Marengo Asia International Institute of Neuro & Spine (MAIINS), Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, said, 'From a psychological perspective, affirmations reinforce positive self-values and counteract negative biases, slowly reshaping neural pathways and promoting resilience.' The experts explained that affirmations are a simpler, less structured cousin of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Both aim to challenge negative thinking, but CBT uses systematic techniques, while affirmations lean on repeating value-based, positive statements. Dr Das said, affirmations can: Influence the default mode network (DMN) by reducing self-referential thinking and negative self-talk. Improve self-perception by promoting positive self-views and self-acceptance. Reduce cognitive biases by challenging negative thought patterns and promoting more balanced thinking. For example, children and adolescents may benefit from affirmations as a way to develop positive thought patterns and behaviours, older adults may benefit from affirmations as a way to promote positive ageing and well-being. Can affirmations erase negative beliefs? Both doctors explained that affirmations alone cannot entirely erase deeply ingrained beliefs. If your negative core beliefs come from childhood or trauma, affirmations can help soften them, but deeper work, like CBT or trauma-focused therapy, is often needed for lasting change. Who benefits most from positive affirmations? According to Dr Das, affirmations work best for: People with mild stress or anxiety Those committed to practicing them regularly Individuals who align affirmations with personal core values But, they can backfire if: One has very low self-esteem and use unrealistic present-tense affirmations ('I am perfect' might trigger more self-doubt) One treats them as a quick-fix instead of addressing deeper issues Can affirmations replace therapy for anxiety or depression? No. Both experts stressed that affirmations are not a standalone treatment for mental health conditions. They are best used as a complementary tool alongside therapy, medication, mindfulness, or journaling. What's the best way to practice them for brain impact? While research is still emerging, here's what experts suggests works: Frequency: Daily repetition Timing: Right after waking up or before sleep, when the brain is more receptive Delivery: Mix it up — speak them aloud, write them down, or visualize them Context: Tailor affirmations to your cultural background and personal values for authenticity Social media often oversimplifies mental health issues and the complexity of neuroplasticity and sells affirmations as a magic fix. In reality, their impact is modest and best understood as one piece of a broader mental health toolkit. Affirmations no substitute for real therapy As Dr Gupta cautioned, 'Social media creates unrealistic expectations about the effectiveness of affirmations and thus, distracts from more comprehensive therapeutic approaches that may be necessary to address underlying issues. If we expect affirmations to be magic rewiring methods, we risk neglecting proper mental health care.'
Indian Express
6 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Does watching reels have the same effect as alcohol on the brain? Neurologist explains a new study
Is watching short videos in between your workday dulling your brain and building addictive behaviour similar to alcohol and substance abuse? Worse, it may rewire the brain, which adapts to the instant gratification and constant novelty, leading to impulsive decisions. 'Short-form video addiction is a global public health threat with users in China spending 151 minutes daily on average, and 95.5 per cent of internet users engaged. This high-intensity 'instant reward' consumption not only impairs attention, sleep and mental health but also increases depression risk,' said study author Qiand Wang, a professor of psychology at Tianjin Normal University. Other research has shown how short-form videos can negatively impact attention spans, cognitive skills and even short-term memory. 'Since these are rapid-fire in nature, the brain seems overwhelmed in processing them. Short videos deliver high dopamine experiences with minimal effort, which can overstimulate the brain's reward pathways, the circuits which are also involved in addictive substances. Over a period of time, this can reduce sensory, natural rewards and increase impulsive behaviour,' says Dr Praveen Gupta, chairman, Marengo Asia International Institute of Neuro & Spine (MAIINS), Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram. How are short videos addictive? Habitual usage of short videos has been linked to reduced attention capacity. Because reels serve up constant novelty, you flit from moment to moment seeking novelty than doing some deep-focussed thinking. As short videos are of varied content, there is frequent context-switching. This can impair the brain's prefrontal cortex, which guides our thoughts, behaviours and emotions based on the information it receives. Scrolling can affect its ability to hold and manipulate the information due to constant switching. MRI studies have shown that increased screen usage in adolescents correlated with a thinner cortex. Since the prefrontal cortex is still developing in our mid-20s, short-form videos can distort our sense of judgment and regulation of information. How do short videos impact sleep? Night-time screen exposure, especially those linked with emotionally-arousing content, disrupts circadian rhythm or the body's sleep-wake cycle. This affects the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory. The hippocampus is crucial for forming new memories. It is also a temporary storage area, where short-term memories are transferred to long-term memories. The hippocampus plays a key role in navigating our surroundings, remembering routes and understanding spatial relationships. Can scrolling be compared to alcohol addiction? While there is no direct scientific measure that equates brain damage from these videos with that from alcohol or tobacco, both alcohol and nicotine have been associated with direct neurotoxic effects, which these videos are also causing. Pinching short videos floods the brain's reward system with a dopamine hiss, training it to crave constant novelty. Over a period of time, this erodes sustained attention and reshapes neural pathways in ways similar to addictive substances, especially in younger brains which are still under maturation. While it is not the same as chemical brain damage from alcohol or nicotine, the long-term rewiring of motivation and focus is a real concern.
Business Standard
18-07-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Marengo Asia Hospitals Sets New Benchmark in Neuro & Spine Care with Launch of MAIINS
VMPL New Delhi [India], July 18: Marengo Asia Hospitals announced the launch of the Marengo Asia International Institute of Neuro & Spine (MAIINS) in Gurugram, marking a pioneering step in transforming neuroscience and spine care. The hospital has also onboarded internationally renowned neurologist Dr. Praveen Gupta to lead this institute and head the neurology department. With a multidisciplinary clinical model, MAIINS brings together neurologists, spine surgeons, psychiatrists, psychologists, pain specialists, and rehabilitation experts to provide collaborative, comprehensive, protocol-driven care across a wide range of neurological and spine conditions. Dr. Praveen Gupta is one of India's most awarded and respected neurologists. A gold medallist from AIIMS, New Delhi, Dr. Gupta has introduced several pioneering neurological treatments in the country, including Asia's first brain pacemaker for epilepsy, deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's, and stem cell transplants for multiple sclerosis. Dr. Raajiv Singhal, Founding Member, Managing Director & Group CEO, Marengo Asia Hospitals, said,-- "At Marengo Asia Hospitals, we believe patients need to have the ease of accessing comprehensive care under one roof. With the launch of this institute, we take another significant step toward building specialised, outcome-driven Centres of Excellence that redefine accessibility, clinical leadership, and patient trust in neuro care across the region. Dr. Praveen Gupta brings not only deep clinical expertise but also a strong commitment to patient-first care, which aligns seamlessly with our vision." The institute is equipped with robotic-assisted spine surgery systems, advanced neuro-monitoring, dedicated neuro ICUs, and integrated rehabilitation services, enabling seamless pre-operative, operative, and post-operative care. Dr. Praveen Gupta, Chairman, MAIINS and Chief of Clinical Strategy, Growth and Innovation, Marengo Asia Hospitals, said, "It is a pleasure to join Marengo Asia Hospitals and head the Marengo Asia International Institute of Neuro & Spine (MAIINS). With MAIINS, our objective is to bring together clinical depth, advanced infrastructure, and preventive approach to neurological and spine health. Together, we aim to improve early diagnosis, deliver long-term disease management, and integrate mental health and geriatric neurology into mainstream care." MAIINS also introduces a clinic-based funnel model aimed at early detection and outpatient-to-inpatient continuity. Specialized clinics for memory disorders, vertigo, movement disorders, and chronic neuro-pain are designed to identify conditions at early stages and manage them proactively. Adding his views, Dr. Saurabh Lall, Facility Director, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, said, "The launch of MAIINS marks a major leap in neurological and spine care delivery in Gurugram and surrounding regions. Located at a prime location of golf course extension road in Gurgaon, the facility is strategically positioned to serve not just the Millennium City but also key catchment areas across Delhi NCR and North India. The institute is aligned with our vision to expand our community outreach and establish clinic-based programs across residential clusters, educational institutions, and corporate hubs." A strong focus has also been placed on community-based mental health and geriatric neurology. The institute's Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) model will offer outpatient psychological and psychiatric support for stress, anxiety, and neuropsychological resilience, targeting schools, workplaces, and residential communities. In parallel, its geriatric neurology program will deliver hyperlocal engagement and follow-up pathways for elderly patients, improving access, compliance, and outcomes. With the launch of MAIINS in Gurugram, Marengo Asia Hospitals reinforces its position as a leader in high-acuity, protocol-led healthcare provider.
Time of India
17-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Marengo Asia Launches Neuro & Spine Institute in Gurugram
New Delhi: Multi-specialty hospitals chain Marengo Asia Hospitals has announced the launch of the Marengo Asia International Institute of Neuro & Spine (MAIINS) in Gurugram. It is indicated that the hospital has also onboarded neurologist Dr. Praveen Gupta to lead this institute and head the neurology department . Dr. Gupta is a gold medallist from AIIMS, New Delhi. He has introduced several neurological treatments in the country, including pacemaker for epilepsy, deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's, and stem cell transplants for multiple sclerosis. MAIINS states to bring together neurologists, spine surgeons, psychiatrists, psychologists, pain specialists, and rehabilitation experts to provide collaborative, comprehensive, protocol-driven care across a wide range of neurological and spine conditions. It is also stated that the institute is equipped with robotic-assisted spine surgery systems, advanced neuro-monitoring , dedicated neuro ICUs, and integrated rehabilitation services, enabling seamless pre-operative, operative, and post-operative care. In addition to this, it is stated that MAIINS has also launched a clinic-based funnel model aimed at early detection and outpatient-to-inpatient continuity. Specialized clinics for memory disorders, vertigo, movement disorders, and chronic neuro-pain are designed to identify conditions at early stages and manage them proactively.
