RELATIONSHIP STRESS AND DEMENTIA – Search Videos

As the mind’s delicate gears interlock and whirl, anxiety and stress lurk like saboteurs, potentially hastening the onset of dementia’s fog. This poignant imagery encapsulates the complex interplay between mental health and cognitive decline, a relationship that has garnered increasing attention from researchers and healthcare professionals alike. The connection between anxiety, stress, and dementia is not merely coincidental but represents an intricate web of neurological and physiological processes that can significantly impact an individual’s cognitive health over time.

Anxiety and dementia, while distinct conditions, often intertwine in ways that can profoundly affect a person’s quality of life. Anxiety, characterized by persistent worry and fear, is a common mental health disorder that affects millions worldwide. Dementia, on the other hand, is a broad term encompassing various neurodegenerative disorders that lead to cognitive decline, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most prevalent form. The prevalence of anxiety in dementia patients is strikingly high, with studies suggesting that up to 71% of individuals with dementia experience significant anxiety symptoms.

Understanding the relationship between anxiety, stress, and dementia is crucial for several reasons. First, it can help in early identification of individuals at higher risk of developing dementia. Second, it opens up new avenues for potential interventions that could slow down or even prevent cognitive decline. Lastly, it underscores the importance of mental health in overall brain health, challenging the traditional view that cognitive decline is an inevitable part of aging.

The Link Between Anxiety and Dementia

The connection between anxiety and dementia is multifaceted, involving various physiological and psychological mechanisms. Understanding anxiety and its effects on cognitive function is crucial to grasping this relationship. Anxiety can impact cognitive performance in several ways, including:

1. Impaired attention and concentration
2. Reduced working memory capacity
3. Slower processing speed
4. Difficulties in decision-making

These cognitive effects, when persistent over time, may contribute to an increased risk of developing dementia. Several studies have shown a correlation between anxiety and dementia risk. For instance, a meta-analysis published in the journal Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy found that individuals with anxiety had a 57% higher risk of developing dementia compared to those without anxiety.

The potential mechanisms connecting anxiety and dementia are still being investigated, but several theories have emerged:

1. Chronic stress response: Anxiety triggers a prolonged stress response, leading to elevated cortisol levels that can damage brain cells over time.

2. Inflammation: Anxiety is associated with increased inflammation in the body, including the brain, which is a known risk factor for dementia.

3. Vascular changes: Anxiety can affect cardiovascular health, potentially leading to reduced blood flow to the brain and increasing the risk of vascular dementia.

4. Sleep disruption: Anxiety often interferes with sleep quality, and poor sleep has been linked to an increased risk of cognitive decline.

5. Neuroplasticity: Chronic anxiety may impair the brain’s ability to form new neural connections, a process crucial for maintaining cognitive health.

Can Stress Make Dementia Worse?

To understand how stress impacts dementia, it’s essential to first define stress and its effects on the brain. Stress is the body’s response to any demand or challenge, triggering a cascade of physiological changes. While acute stress can be beneficial in certain situations, chronic stress can have detrimental effects on brain health.

Research has shown that stress can indeed exacerbate dementia symptoms. The hidden link between stress and memory loss becomes more apparent in individuals with dementia. Stress can worsen cognitive symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with problem-solving. Moreover, it can amplify behavioral symptoms like agitation, anxiety, and depression in dementia patients.

The physiological changes in the brain due to chronic stress are significant and can contribute to the progression of dementia:

1. Hippocampal atrophy: Chronic stress can lead to shrinkage of the hippocampus, a brain region crucial for memory formation and already vulnerable in dementia.

2. Amyloid-beta accumulation: Stress has been shown to increase the production of amyloid-beta, a protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

3. Tau protein aggregation: Stress can accelerate the formation of tau tangles, another hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.

4. Oxidative stress: Chronic stress increases oxidative stress in the brain, leading to cellular damage and potentially accelerating cognitive decline.

5. Neuroinflammation: Stress triggers inflammatory responses in the brain, which can exacerbate neurodegenerative processes.

The Impact of Stress on Dementia Progression

The effects of stress on cognitive decline in dementia patients are profound and multifaceted. The complex relationship between stress and Alzheimer’s disease reveals that stress can accelerate the rate of cognitive decline in individuals already diagnosed with dementia. This acceleration is thought to occur through various mechanisms:

1. Exacerbation of existing pathology: Stress can worsen the underlying neurodegenerative processes in dementia.

2. Cognitive reserve depletion: Stress may deplete cognitive reserve, reducing the brain’s ability to compensate for damage.

3. Behavioral changes: Stress-induced behavioral changes can interfere with daily functioning and quality of life.

Stress-induced inflammation plays a significant role in dementia progression. Chronic stress activates the body’s inflammatory response, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These inflammatory molecules can cross the blood-brain barrier and contribute to neuroinflammation, a key factor in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

Several case studies have demonstrated the effects of stress on dementia. For example, a study published in the journal Neurology followed a group of dementia patients over two years and found that those experiencing high levels of stress showed a more rapid cognitive decline compared to those with lower stress levels. Another study in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry reported that dementia patients exposed to acute stressors, such as hospitalization or the death of a spouse, experienced significant worsening of cognitive symptoms in the following months.

Managing Anxiety and Stress in Dementia Patients

Given the significant impact of anxiety and stress on dementia, managing these factors is crucial in dementia care. Non-pharmacological interventions for anxiety reduction in dementia patients have shown promising results and include:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Adapted for individuals with cognitive impairment, CBT can help manage anxiety symptoms.

2. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: These practices can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

3. Music therapy: Listening to familiar music can reduce anxiety and improve mood in dementia patients. 

4. Art therapy: Engaging in creative activities can provide a sense of accomplishment and reduce stress.

5. Pet therapy: Interaction with animals has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve mood in dementia patients.

Lifestyle changes to minimize stress are equally important for both dementia patients and their caregivers:

1. Establishing routines: Predictable daily schedules can reduce anxiety and confusion.

2. Regular physical exercise: Exercise has been shown to reduce stress and improve cognitive function.

3. Maintaining social connections: Social engagement can provide emotional support and cognitive stimulation.

4. Engaging in enjoyable activities: Participating in hobbies and pleasant activities can reduce stress and improve quality of life.

5. Ensuring adequate sleep: Good sleep hygiene is crucial for managing stress and supporting cognitive health.

The importance of support systems for patients and caregivers cannot be overstated. Understanding the link between stress and dementia is crucial for caregivers to provide effective support. Support groups, respite care, and educational resources can help both patients and caregivers manage stress and anxiety more effectively.

Prevention Strategies: Reducing Anxiety and Stress to Lower Dementia Risk

While managing anxiety and stress in dementia patients is crucial, prevention strategies aimed at reducing these factors in the general population may help lower the risk of developing dementia. Early intervention for anxiety disorders is key. Treating anxiety early in life may potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline later on. This can involve:

1. Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other forms of talk therapy can effectively manage anxiety.

2. Medication: When necessary, anti-anxiety medications can be used under medical supervision.

3. Lifestyle modifications: Incorporating stress-reduction techniques into daily life from an early age.

Stress management techniques for long-term brain health are essential for everyone, regardless of their current cognitive status. These techniques include:

1. Mindfulness meditation: Regular practice can reduce stress and improve cognitive function.

2. Physical exercise: Regular aerobic exercise has been shown to reduce stress and support brain health.

3. Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can support brain health and reduce inflammation.

4. Adequate sleep: Prioritizing good sleep hygiene is crucial for stress management and cognitive health.

5. Time management: Effective time management can reduce daily stress and improve overall well-being.

The role of cognitive stimulation in preventing dementia should not be underestimated. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities throughout life can build cognitive reserve, potentially delaying the onset of dementia symptoms. Such activities include:

1. Learning new skills or languages
2. Engaging in challenging puzzles or games
3. Reading and writing
4. Participating in social activities and discussions
5. Pursuing creative hobbies

Conclusion

The relationship between anxiety, stress, and dementia is complex and multifaceted. Understanding stress-induced anxiety and its potential long-term consequences on cognitive health is crucial for both prevention and management of dementia. Anxiety and chronic stress can significantly impact cognitive function, potentially increasing the risk of developing dementia and accelerating its progression in those already diagnosed.

Addressing anxiety and stress in dementia care is of paramount importance. By implementing strategies to manage these factors, we may be able to improve the quality of life for dementia patients and potentially slow the rate of cognitive decline. Moreover, focusing on anxiety and stress reduction in the general population could serve as a preventive measure against dementia.

Future research directions in this field are promising and may lead to better treatments and preventive strategies. Areas of interest include:

1. Developing more targeted interventions for anxiety in dementia patients
2. Investigating the long-term effects of early anxiety treatment on dementia risk
3. Exploring the potential of stress-reduction techniques in slowing cognitive decline
4. Studying the genetic and epigenetic links between anxiety, stress, and dementia

As our understanding of the intricate relationship between mental health and cognitive decline continues to grow, there is hope for better treatments and prevention strategies. By addressing anxiety and stress throughout the lifespan, we may be able to support better brain health and reduce the global burden of dementia.

Learning how to deal with anxiety and manage stress effectively is not just about improving current quality of life, but also about investing in long-term cognitive health. As research progresses, the importance of mental health in maintaining cognitive function becomes increasingly clear, offering new avenues for intervention and prevention in the fight against dementia.

Anxiety, Stress, and Dementia Explained

References

1. Gimson, A., Schlosser, M., Huntley, J. D., & Marchant, N. L. (2018). Support for midlife anxiety diagnosis as an independent risk factor for dementia: a systematic review. BMJ Open, 8(4), e019399.

2. Gulpers, B., Ramakers, I., Hamel, R., Köhler, S., Oude Voshaar, R., & Verhey, F. (2016). Anxiety as a Predictor for Cognitive Decline and Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 24(10), 823-842.

3. Justice, N. J. (2018). The relationship between stress and Alzheimer’s disease. Neurobiology of Stress, 8, 127-133.

4. Machado, A., Herrera, A. J., de Pablos, R. M., Espinosa-Oliva, A. M., Sarmiento, M., Ayala, A., … & Cano, J. (2014). Chronic stress as a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. Reviews in the Neurosciences, 25(6), 785-804.

5. Mah, L., Binns, M. A., & Steffens, D. C. (2015). Anxiety symptoms in amnestic mild cognitive impairment are associated with medial temporal atrophy and predict conversion to Alzheimer’s disease. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 23(5), 466-476.

6. Orgeta, V., Qazi, A., Spector, A. E., & Orrell, M. (2014). Psychological treatments for depression and anxiety in dementia and mild cognitive impairment. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (1).

7. Sindi, S., Kåreholt, I., Johansson, L., Skoog, J., Sjöberg, L., Wang, H. X., … & Kivipelto, M. (2018). Sleep disturbances and dementia risk: A multicenter study. Alzheimer’s & Dementia, 14(10), 1235-1242.

8. Terracciano, A., Sutin, A. R., An, Y., O’Brien, R. J., Ferrucci, L., Zonderman, A. B., & Resnick, S. M. (2014). Personality and risk of Alzheimer’s disease: New data and meta-analysis. Alzheimer’s & Dementia, 10(2), 179-186.

9. Wilson, R. S., Begeny, C. T., Boyle, P. A., Schneider, J. A., & Bennett, D. A. (2011). Vulnerability to stress, anxiety, and development of dementia in old age. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 19(4), 327-334.

10. Yaffe, K., Vittinghoff, E., Lindquist, K., Barnes, D., Covinsky, K. E., Neylan, T., … & Marmar, C. (2010). Posttraumatic stress disorder and risk of dementia among US veterans. Archives of General Psychiatry, 67(6), 608-613.

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is one of the toughest jobs 
in the world. “It is stressful, physically and emotionally draining, and very expensive, as almost 15 million unpaid caregivers for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias can attest,” says Dr. Scott McGinnis, medical editor of the Harvard Special Health Report A Guide to Coping with Alzheimer’s Disease.

How to take care of a person with dementia

Learning how to take care of a person with dementia can be a trial-and-error process. Every person with dementia and every caregiver is unique, and so is their relationship. However, the following general tips may be useful in helping people with dementia remain physically healthy and connected to the world.

• Help people with dementia by speaking simply and patiently. To get the person’s attention, begin by using his or her name. Use simple phrasing and short sentences, but be careful to avoid talking to the person as if he or she were a child. Give someone with Alzheimer’s time to complete a sentence or thought, and try not to interrupt. 

• Make mealtimes less stressful. Reduce sensory confusion at meals. See that the dining area is well lit. Make sure the person is comfortably seated and doesn’t need to use the bathroom. Keep items that may be mistaken for food, like dog biscuits or flower bulbs, out of sight.

• Serve nourishing, manageable meals. Use a plate color that contrasts with the food. Remove condiments from the table. Limit choices by putting only one food on the plate at a time and offering only one utensil. (Curved spoons, divided plates, and straws can make it easier for people to feed themselves.)  Don’t serve food or drink that is too hot. Cut food into small pieces. Remind the person to eat slowly and chew each bite thoroughly. If he or she chokes easily, switch to soft foods. Serve foods containing fiber to help prevent constipation.
• Reduce resistance to bathing. Avoid discussing whether a bath is needed. Prepare everything in advance. Lay out towels, soap, shampoo, and clothes. Have the water ready and at the right temperature before bringing him or her into the bathroom. Be calm, gentle, and reassuring. If the person seems disturbed at this invasion of privacy, cover portions of his or her body with a towel. Encourage him or her to do as much as possible without hands-on help. Talk through each step. If the person refuses to get into the tub or shower, be flexible and suggest an alternative. If all else fails, try again later. 

• Accident-proof the bathroom. Use rubber tub mats, tub seats, grab bars, nonslip bath mats, etc. Do not use bath oil or products that make the tub slippery. Put razors and electrical appliances out of reach. Take the lock off the bathroom door.
• Incorporate skin care into bath time. Check the skin for rashes and sores. Use powder or cornstarch to prevent chafing, and apply body lotion to dry skin.
• Simplify dental care. Prepare the toothbrush and demonstrate how to brush. If the person will not brush and refuses assistance, give him or her a cloth moistened with mouthwash and tell the person to rub it over his or her teeth. 


Dementia is a disease that affects millions of people across the globe every year. It is often a highly misunderstood condition that is marred by numerous misconceptions, which make the condition difficult to understand and study.

You should know that dementia is not a name for an illness, rather it is a collective term that describes a broad range of symptoms that relate to declining thinking, memory, and cognitive skills. These symptoms have deteriorating effects that usually affect how a patient acts and engages in the day-to-day activities.

In advanced dementia stages, affected persons may experience symptoms that bring out a decline in rational thought, intellect, social skills, memory, and normal emotional reactivity. It is something that can make them powerless when it comes to living normal, healthy lives.

Relatives, caregivers, spouses, siblings, children and anyone close to a person who has dementia need to know how to deal with behavioral problems that surface because of the illness. Examples of dementia problems may include aggressiveness, violence and oppositional behaviors. Find out some of the vital Do and Don’ts when dealing with a dementia patient.

Dealing with Dementia Behavior: Do’s

We have identified a list of 9 Do’s that you should keep in mind when dealing with behavior problems associated with dementia. They are as follows:

Do Try and Identify the Trigger that Causes Behavior Change

After spending some time with a patient who has dementia, caregivers may be in a position to identify some of the things that make dementia sufferers yell, get physical, or change their mood. For some, it may be something simple such as taking a bath or even getting dressed.

The best approach to handle this is not to force the patient to do something that they do not want to do. Try and distract them with something else that allows them to relax and calm down. Once they are not a danger to themselves or anyone around them, try going back to the subject, but this time reassuringly and calmly.

Do Keep Eye Contact When Speaking

Communicating with a dementia patient requires a lot of patience, especially during later stages of dementia. It is vital to ensure that you talk in a place that has good lighting, a place that is quiet and without too many distractions. Do not try to stand over the person you are talking to, but rather try to be at their level and keep eye contact at all times. Take care to make sure that body language is relaxed and open. Prepare to spend quality time with the person so that they do not feel rushed or like they are a bother.

Do Introduce Yourself

It does not matter how many times you have to do it. Dementia comes with memory loss which means that the patient may forget your name. When starting a conversation, always remind them your name and tell them something nice that will make them smile.

Do Stick to Routine

Scientists state that habits belong to their own memory structure, which remains intact for long periods even when the patient loses their most recent memory skills. Routine helps dementia patients to know what to do on a daily basis. Caregivers should strive to include meaningful activities in the routine for as long as possible as a way of ensuring that the person with the condition has a sense of independence and purpose in life.

Remember to continually re-examine the routine to remove things that may agitate, depress or make the dementia patient feel unsettled. Sadly, it may reach a point where people with dementia may not be able to keep up with a basic routine. However, as long as they still can, be sure that they do things every day that make them happy.

Do Offer Assurance Often

Many times, people with dementia may experience feelings of isolation, fear, loneliness or confusion. They may not be able to express this in the right way and thus may wander off or keep saying that they want to go back home, especially if they are in a senior living facility. This is not the time to shut them out. It’s a good idea to assure them that they are safe and in a good place.

If you are close enough, provide a comforting hug every once in a while and remind them that they are in a place that has their best interest at heart. Where possible, engage in exercise or take a walk as even light physical activity may help to reduce agitation, restlessness and anxiety.

Do Make Sure That the Dementia Patient Gets Enough Rest, Food and Water

Fatigue, hunger and thirst may cause combativeness. Ensure that the person with dementia is well fed, hydrates enough, and gets adequate sleep and rest. In line with this, they should also have enough bathroom breaks. Research also shows that it may help to reduce loud noises as well as clutter in the space where the patient spends most of his/her time, as both loud noises and clutter tend to over-stimulate people with dementia.

Do Share Photos

At times, the behavior that dementia patients exhibit is because they are missing a person or place they love. Experts suggest for caregivers to go through as many photos as possible with the person with the illness. It is a tool that helps to stimulate happy memories while the dementia sufferer goes down the memory lane.

Going through family photos has been known to play a significant role when it comes to the patients remembering the pleasant times they had. Family photos also help people with dementia to remember special people in their lives. It is best to use large pictures that have clear labels because many people who have dementia often have declining or poor eyesight. Try and select meaningful moments, and you can also make it an activity where patients can create scrapbooks with the people they love.

Do Try to be Pleasant

Caregivers are also humans who are prone to emotions like anger, stress, impatience, and irritation. Even when one goes through caregiver burnout, it is best that the patient does not get wind of it. It is better to step out of the room and try some breathing exercises to calm down before going back to deal with the dementia patient. Where possible, shelve the “bad” feelings and try to deal with them later. Dementia patients deal with a lot and they do not need more on their plate if they are to lead fulfilling and happy lives.

Do try to be Forgiving and Patient

Do not forget that dementia is the condition that results in irrational behavior and causes dementia sufferers to act the way they do. The patients demand plenty of patience and forgiveness from the people looking after them. Have the heart to let things go instead of carrying grudges around for something that the patient may not be in control of.

Dealing with Dementia Behavior: Don’ts

There are certain actions you should not take and certain things you should not do when you are dealing with dementia behavior problems. We have identified a list of 10 such Don’ts, and they are:

Do Not Engage in Arguments

One of the worst things a person can do to an individual who has dementia is to start an argument or even force them to do something that makes them upset or angry. When the discussion or argument is too heated, it may be better to walk away to create an environment where everyone can remain calm. Experts agree that one of the ways that can yield results when it comes to dementia behavior problems is to get rid of the word no when dealing with patients. Avoid forcibly restraining a dementia sufferer at all costs.

Do Not Be Impolite

Communication and language often become difficult over time for individuals who have dementia. It is therefore very important to use polite language when speaking with someone who has dementia. Do not use sharp or threatening voices. Do not feel frustrated when you have to repeat words or phrases several times because the person you are conversing with does not catch them or understand as fast as they should. Restrain from ridiculing or patronizing the patients about what they say.

Do Not Keep Correcting the Patient

People with dementia do not like it when someone keeps correcting them every time they say something that may not be right. It makes them feel bad about themselves and can make them drift out of the conversation. Discussions should be humorous and light and one should always speak slowly and clearly using simple and short sentences to capture and keep the interest of the dementia patients.

Do Not Get Angry or Upset

When looking after persons with dementia, practicing self-control is of utter importance. Learn how to breathe in and just relax without taking things personally or getting angry and upset. Remember that dementia patients do not act the way they do out of their own accord. It is the illness that makes them behave the way they do.

Do Not Try and Alter Undesirable Behavior

Lack of understanding may push one to try and change or stop any undesirable behavior from patients who have dementia. Keep in mind that it is almost impossible to teach new skills or even reason with the patient. Try instead to decrease frequency or intensity of the behavior. For instance, respond to emotion and not the changes in behavior. If a patient insists on always asking about a particular family member reassure them that he or she is safe and healthy as a way of keeping them calm and happy.

Do Not Try to Stop a Person Who Wants to Leave a Room

Staying in one place for long periods may result in behavior problems in the dementia patient. It is essential to have a safe environment where they can enjoy the outdoors without any problem. When someone tries to leave a room, do not force them to stop. Doing this may result in an extreme reaction such as severe distress or injuries.

Instead, it is best to accompany the patient so that they are safe. You can even suggest going for a drive around the block so that they can experience a new environment for a short period. If they do not want company, just let them go but stay close by to make sure that the patient is safe at all times.

Do Not Expect Too Much

It helps to have an open mind when dealing with an individual who has dementia. Try and keep up with their pace without having to rush them too much. It is advisable to avoid trying to teach new information or ask the affected individuals to do something that they have not previously done.

Do Not Shy Away From Asking For Help

No one may have all the answers especially when it comes to taking care of a person with dementia. Try doing research on how their behavior changes and what needs to be done to help them live their lives without too many complications. Hire help when it becomes too much as it also ensures that you do not become too frustrated or drained.

When you have multiple family members who can help, ask everyone to pitch in and look after the patient so that you can get some personal space to breathe and re-energize when it is your time to look after the patient. When you feel like you can no longer look after your loved one at your own home, it may be time to consider assisted living. In such cases, look into dementia care homes that can provide specially trained professionals.

Do Not Panic

When a dementia patient becomes aggressive or agitated, try to remain in control without breaking down, panicking and using physical force. Try other approaches that may help to make them calm. These can include holding their hand firmly but gently, singing them their favorite song, or patting their pack gently. Note that some people do not like to be touched; thus, it is best to give them some space by sitting away from them or leaving the room until they calm down.

Do Not Ignore Physical Abuse

As much as one needs to be tolerant, kind, forgiving, and patient with older adults who have dementia, it does not mean that they have to excuse the patients when they become physically aggressive and allow the abuse to continue. It is not to be accepted, and if it happens, it is best to alert your doctor who will work on the solution to make sure it stops. It will keep both the patient and caregiver in safety.

From physical manifestations to angry outbursts, taking care of an individual with dementia may not be easy. However, working with the tips above can help caregivers and loved ones to get through it. Remember that there are plenty of treatments, interventions and special care providers who can help; therefore, you should never be shy about getting help when you need it. 

Infographic: Do’s and Don’ts: Communicating With a Person Who Has Alzheimer’s Disease

People with Alzheimer’s disease may have trouble finding the right words or remembering what they want to say. This can make communication difficult. Use the tips below to better communicate with a person who has Alzheimer’s.

To share the image, right-click on it and select “save image as” to save the file to your computer. We encourage you to use the hashtag #NIAHealth in your social media posts to connect with people and organizations with similar goals.

You may also be interested in

• Reading more about communication changes in Alzheimer’s disease
• Downloading or ordering a tip sheet about how to deal with agitation, aggression, and sundowning
• Finding out more about managing personality and behavior changes in Alzheimer’s
• If you don’t give someone attention with dementia they will act out. – Search
• Exercise can boost your memory and thinking skills – Harvard Health
• Anxiety, Stress, and Dementia Explained

Story by Anne E. White  © Eli Lilly and Company

Alzheimer’s made my mom unable to recognize her grandkids. Breakthroughs too late for her can change the disease’s trajectory—if diagnosis and treatment start early

My mother, Margaret, was the heart of our family. When my twins were born prematurely, she moved in with us to help care for them. Her support allowed me to take on being a new mom of two and a busy career during a challenging time. And her selflessness stayed with me as I helped care for her later in life when she needed it most. gns of cognitive impairment. Within a few years, Alzheimer’s disease stole her joy for cooking, love of music, and ability to recognize her grandchildren.   

My father, sisters, and I shared caregiver duties, watching her with vigilance, and balancing a new dynamic in our family. I found myself sleeping on my mother’s bedroom floor to prevent her from wandering in the night. We were a private family and did not discuss my mom’s illness very much outside our immediate circle. When caring for her, our world became small, our routine focused on keeping her safe. My sisters and I wondered, Will we be next?

It would be different if my mom were diagnosed today. Nearly two decades later, we know so much more about this disease. Improvements in detection, diagnosis, and medicines are offering new hope for slowing its progression. 

 Related video: The Doctor Is In: Recognizing the difference between Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia and daily habits that can impact long-term brain health (FOX 2 Detroit) – Search

Studies have confirmed we have the greatest opportunity to impact this disease in its earliest stages, when some people may initially show only subtle changes in memory and thinking that differ from normal aging. People in this state, often with mild cognitive impairment, may encounter minor challenges in everyday living, and may be younger and appear healthier than society has traditionally portrayed.

Innovations in diagnostics are now able to identify underlying disease pathology—clumps of amyloid plaques in the brain. And emerging blood tests hold promise to speed and simplify diagnosis with remarkable accuracy. Just years ago, for patients like my mom, a confirmed diagnosis wasn’t even possible until after death.

Changing perceptions of Alzheimer’s disease

Moving forward, it will take all of us—people with Alzheimer’s disease, providers, and families—to change how we view this disease and how we treat it.

More people need to be aware about the importance of the early detection of symptoms, often in the primary care setting, and reducing the stigma surrounding the disease so that more people are diagnosed.

Today it can take more than two years on average to diagnose Alzheimer’s after the first symptom is detected. We need health care providers to include cognitive assessments and advanced diagnostics routinely in their clinical practice when Alzheimer’s disease is suspected. And we must advocate for access and reimbursement for diagnostic tests as well as treatments. 

We need greater equity across disease states, races, genders, and generations. Promoting available and affordable options across geographic and socioeconomic boundaries and allowing care close to home should be a priority. As a new generation of caregivers begin to take responsibility for their mothers, fathers, and families, we should make sure these newly diagnosed individuals are helped as early in their disease as possible.

The progress we are now realizing will lead to more investment and research in Alzheimer’s disease that will unlock further understanding and open the door to address other neurodegenerative conditions. This moment will be a catalyst to drive progress toward understanding diseases such as ALS, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis.

This is all within our reach: What were breakthroughs in science and care in cancer and cardiovascular disease in previous decades are now routine in how we treat these patients today. The same can be true in neurodegenerative disease.

Looking back on my mom’s experience, I remain deeply grateful that she continued to recognize my dad, my sisters, and me through the end of her life. When I held her hand and looked into her eyes as she passed away, I found comfort in knowing that she did not see a stranger, but a loving daughter who had felt a lifetime of love and care.

Scientific breakthroughs came too late for my mom. but they are not too late for people diagnosed today. The story of Alzheimer’s is now being rewritten. We have the chance to truly change the trajectory of this disease for many people, and we need to act with urgency to help them and those that love them.

I would have given so much to have more time with my mom, and I am so glad that many families now have that chance for more time.   

More must-read commentary published by Fortune:

• I’m nearing 65 and am better than ever at my job. With more boomers opting not to retire, I’m not alone
• I’ve been practicing medicine at a renowned institution for 40 years. Society isn’t ready for us to reverse the aging process across an entire population
• My 2-year-old daughter needed a pacemaker. That spurred me to engineer a virtual heart, and now customized 3D simulations are saving lives
• I cared for my dad under ‘hospital at home’ in his final weeks. The program is missing one big piece
• For Your Patients: The Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease

The opinions expressed in Fortune.com commentary pieces are solely the views of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of Fortune.

Learn its history and what Alzheimer’s research has discovered so far.

Also, consider investigating an Alzheimer’s clinical trial here.

Minor abnormalities, so-called amyloid plaques, and tau tangles that form in the brain and are found in specific locations throughout are two distinguishing hallmarks of Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia. Advanced testing, such as PET scans, MRI, DNA, and spinal fluid analysis, can shed invaluable light on the probability of Alzheimer’s.

Alois Alzheimer was a German psychiatrist who discovered the pathological condition of Dementia and diagnosed the disease that bears his name. Alois was born in Marktbreit, Germany, in 1864 and showed an early aptitude for science.

After obtaining his medical degree, he worked in hospitals in Frankfurt, where he met Auguste Deter, a 51-year-old woman suffering from progressive short-term memory loss. He was eventually able to isolate the pathological causes of severe Dementia, work so extensive that the condition became known as Alzheimer’s disease.

Source: click here.

Today, it is believed that “Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of Dementia among older people. Dementia is a brain disorder that seriously affects a person’s ability to carry out daily activities.

AD begins slowly. It first involves the parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language. People with AD may have trouble remembering recent events or the names of people they know. A related problem, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), causes more memory problems than usual for people of the same age. Many, but not all, people with MCI will develop AD.

In AD, symptoms get worse over time. People may not recognize family members or have trouble speaking, reading, or writing. They may forget how to brush their teeth or comb their hair. Later, they may become anxious or aggressive or wander away from home. Eventually, they need total care, which can cause great stress for family members who must care for them.

AD usually begins after age 60. The risk goes up as you get older. Your risk is also higher if a family member has had the disease. No treatment can stop the disease. However, some drugs may help keep symptoms from worsening for a limited time.”

Source: click here.

You may also be interested to read about the IDEA Study and how the results suggested that about a third of those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in the past, now, due to recent advancements in imaging, were found not to have Alzheimer’s disease. Yes, they may have had significant cognitive impairments, but their cause was not necessarily Alzheimer’s disease, and the treatment plan was altered accordingly.

Source: click here.

Lastly, a well-known study of nuns, lasting decades, has indicated that some individuals can live cognitively intact, showing no signs or clues to significant degenerative changes, despite having the hallmarks of a Dementia pathology seen at their autopsy.

Source: click here.

Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia

Mild Cognitive Impairment

Mixed Dementia | Dementia Society of America®

Dementia Like Conditions

Vascular Dementia

Young Onset Dementia

Lewy Body Disease | Dementia Society of America®

Frontotemporal Dementia | Dementia Society of America

AIDS Dementia Complex

Huntington’s Disease With Dementia

Multiple Sclerosis

Parkinson’s Disease Dementia

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy

Traumatic Brain Injury

Down Syndrome Dementia | Dementia Society of America

Posterior Cortical Atrophy | Dementia Society of America

Primary Progressive Aphasia | Dementia Society of America

Alzheimer’s Disease Information: Facts, Causes, Definition, and More

Creutzfeldt Jakob Disease

Corticobasal Degeneration | Dementia Society of America

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy

Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy: MedlinePlus Genetics

Sanfilippo Children’s Foundation

Batten Disease: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Dementias | National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

Types of Childhood Dementia Disorders

Scientist Discover Key Longevity Difference in Blood of Those Who Live Past 90

Discover the Countries With the Longest Life Expectancy | Watch

Tammy and Paul Maida go on frequent bike rides. – © Provided by CNN

November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a time to also heighten awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and show support for the more than 6.2 million Americans living with it. There are a number of quick and easy ways you can help raise awareness, show support, and fight Alzheimer’s disease!

Why Teal?

Teal is the Alzheimer’s Awareness color of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA). AFA uses teal because it has been shown in color psychology studies to be a calming color. This is helpful when designing and decorating spaces and events to be welcoming and comforting to those living with Alzheimer’s. So, next time you see someone dressed in teal, remember the more than 6 million people living with Alzheimer’s and the help they need.

‘A study to give us hope’: Lifestyle changes improve Alzheimer’s symptoms for some

Story by Sandee LaMotte and A. Chris Gajilan, CNN

Editor’s note: CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s documentary“ CNN original series – The last Alzheimer patient documentary as part of  “The Whole Story With Anderson Cooper.” – Search Videos

Looking back, Tammy Maida, 67, said things started to change in her late 50s. At first, she would lose track of her belongings: her keys multiple times a day, a ring, eyeglasses, her purse.

She would drive to the grocery store in her hometown of San Jose, California, and forget where she parked the car. At home, she couldn’t remember where she had put the groceries. Her husband, Paul, would sometimes find them in the garage.

A lifelong, avid reader, Maida stopped picking up books because she couldn’t remember the last chapter she had read or the major characters.

“I honestly thought I was losing my mind, and the fear of losing my mind was frightening,” she told CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta for the CNN documentary “The Last Alzheimer’s Patient.”

Today, Maida is back to devouring short novels and helping with the family finances.

Another patient, Mike Carver, 71, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at age 64 while working as a business executive. Doctors told him to put his affairs in order with little hope for the future. Carver eventually learned that he was a carrier of both copies of the APOE4 gene, which carries the highest-known genetic risk for Alzheimer’s.

Now, however, Carver is back to reconciling the family finances and keeping track of investments. “It’s kind of like doing a happy dance,” he said with a laugh. “It was kind of hard saying that part of me was just gone. And so a lot of self-worth has come back.”

How did Maida and Carver gain back what dementia had stolen from them?

By participating in what researchers call the first randomized controlled clinical trial to use lifestyle interventions and show cognitive improvement in people with mild cognitive impairment or early dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease.

CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta, left, talks to Mike Carver, right and his wife, Pat. –   © Provided by CNN

‘A study to give us hope’

The study, published Friday in the journal Alzheimer’s Research and Therapy, was small, with only two dozen people receiving treatment and a similar number serving as controls over a short, five-month period. Not everyone showed improvement. Still, for some participants and their families, there were remarkable changes.

The thinking skills of a majority of people in the intervention group stayed the same, a boon since most in the control group declined. Ten people saw their cognition actually improve, while a blood test found levels of amyloid, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease, were retreating, said lead study author Dr. Dean Ornish, a clinical professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco.

“This is a study to give us hope,” said journalist and former California first lady Maria Shriver, founder of the Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, which provided early seed funding for the new research.

“This study finally gives us scientific data to support what many of us in this field have believed instinctively for years, that lifestyle interventions may determine the trajectory of people’s Alzheimer’s journeys,” Shriver said in a statement.

Because the clinical trial was only five months long, the results were “astounding,” said co-senior study author Rudy Tanzi, an Alzheimer’s researcher and professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School in Boston.

“If you picture a brain full of damage as a sink full of water, when you just turn off the tap, it takes a long time for that sink to slowly drain, right?” said Tanzi, director of the McCance Center for Brain Health at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.

“If you want the amyloid to go down in 20 weeks, as we found on one blood test, you’re going to need a Roto-Rooter.”

That’s exactly what the study did — provide people with a carefully constructed, multipart, intensive lifestyle intervention that targets multiple contributors to cognitive decline. And those who put in the most effort saw the best results.

“There was a statistically significant dose-response relationship between the degree of adherence to our lifestyle changes and the degree of improvement we saw on measures of cognition,” said Ornish, creator of the Ornish diet and lifestyle medicine program, founder and president of the nonprofit Preventive Medicine Research Institute and coauthor of “Undo It!: How Simple Lifestyle Changes Can Reverse Most Chronic Diseases.”

Dr. Dean Ornish speaks to CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta in the documentary “  The Last Alzheimer’s Patient,” streaming June 18 on MAX. – © A. Chris Gajilan/CNN  

“I would describe this as a really positive, small pilot study, a starting point for additional research,” said Dr. Suzanne Schindler, an associate professor of neurology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

“I wish we could do a program like this for everyone, not just people with mild cognitive impairment or early stage Alzheimer’s,” said Schindler, who was not involved in the study.

‘Eat well, move more, stress less and love more’

The lifestyle intervention Ornish created — “eat well, move more, stress less and love more” — has been tested before. In 1990, Ornish showed for the first time in a randomized clinical trial that coronary artery disease could often be reversed with nothing more than diet, exercise, stress reduction and social support.

Since then, research has shown the same four-part program can lower blood sugars and heart disease risk in patients with diabetes, reduce prostate cancer cell growth, improve depression and reduce “bad cholesterol.”

“How is it that these same four lifestyle changes stop, and often reverse, the progression of such a wide spectrum of the most common and costly chronic diseases?” Ornish asked.

“It’s because they all share many of the same underlying biological mechanisms: chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, changes in the microbiome, changes in gene expression, changes in immune function and so on,” he said.

“And the lifestyle choices we make every day — what we eat, how we respond to stress, how much exercise we get, how much love and social support we have — can activate or downregulate these different mechanisms.”

Taking care of the heart and the brain

Since what’s good for the heart is good for the brain, Ornish asked, why couldn’t this intervention also work on early Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia?

“If we found patients didn’t improve at all, that would be disappointing but an important finding — people need to know that,” Ornish said. “But if we found that we could slow, stop or even reverse the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, that would be an important finding as well.”

To find out, Ornish and professors from other leading academic centers began recruiting patients into a new study. Covid-19 hit, which stalled progress until the team realized it could offer the intervention via video conference calls.

“That was a game changer because before you had to live near a hospital or clinic that we trained in our program, and most people don’t,” Ornish said. “Now you can live anywhere, even a food desert or rural area.”

Fifty-one people were selected for the study, then randomized into two groups: One group would consume a vegan diet, do daily aerobic exercise, practice stress reduction and engage in online support groups for 20 weeks, while the control group would not.

A nutritionist held hour-long video classes on diet, while a therapist led equally lengthy group sessions three times a week in which participants shared their feelings and received support.

Each day a fitness instructor led online strength training exercises and encouraged 30-minute daily walks. Meditation, deep breathing, yoga and other ways to reduce stress took up another hour every day. The program also encouraged participants to prioritize good quality sleep.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids to Fight Dementia – Search

Supplements were provided to everyone in the intervention group. They took a daily multivitamin, omega-3 fatty acids with curcumin, coenzyme Q10, vitamin C and B12, magnesium, a probiotic and Lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus).

Omega 3 fatty acids to fight metastatic cancer – Search

To be sure the vegan diet was followed, all meals and snacks for both the participant and spouse were delivered to their homes. Calories were unrestricted, but protein and total fat were about 18% of the daily caloric intake — experts say the average American eats twice the amount of protein they need and obtains 36% of daily calories from total fat.

Complex carbs found in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, tofu, nuts and seeds made up most of the diet. 

Sugar, alcohol and refined carbs found in processed and ultra processed foods were taboo.

“A minimally processed diet is key,” said Tanzi, who tests potential treatments for dementia on tiny organoids composed of human brain cells that develop signs of Alzheimer’s.

“The gut microbiome loves all the fiber from the whole grains, fruits and vegetables,” Tanzi said. “My lab has shown in animals that a happy gut can trigger metabolites to the brain, which induce microglial cells to eat more of the amyloid in the brain.”

Microglial cells are the brain’s housekeepers, responsible for tidying up synapses, taking out cellular trash and gobbling up nasties such as amyloid. They do most of their work at night during key stages of sleep.

But when neurons die due to injury, age or a disease such as Alzheimer’s, microglia become sidetracked, turning into killers to fend off whatever seems to be damaging the brain, Tanzi said. Doing so can unleash a cytokine storm, ramping up inflammation and causing further brain injury.

Lifestyle changes can help microglia get back on track, Tanzi said. Besides a high-fiber diet, aerobic exercise and plenty of good quality sleep also encourage microglial cells and other amyloid-clearing enzymes to do their jobs.

“Exercise and sleep induce clearance of amyloid in different ways than the gut microbiome,” Tanzi said. “Combining them is a powerful tool.”

In fact, microbiome tests of the study participants found two of the organisms that increase the risk of Alzheimer’s went down in the intervention group and up in the control group, Ornish said.

“At the same time, microorganisms believed to be protective against Alzheimer’s went up in the intervention group and down in the control group,” he added.

Improvement for some but not all

Five months into the program, the rest of the results were in. For some, such as Mike Carver and Tammy Maida, the program was life-changing.

In addition to an improvement in his cognition, Carver and his wife, Pat, lost weight and reduced their cholesterol numbers and resting heart rates. Mike’s PSA levels, a test for prostate cancer, looked better than ever before.

Mike Carver told Gupta that he is able to think more clearly and his physical health has improved. – ©  A. Chris Gajilan/CNN

Maida is sleeping better and back to accomplishing the tasks she thought she had to give up due to Alzheimer’s: doing laundry, cooking, voraciously reading books, keeping track of household finances and small business bookkeeping.

“The cloud of the Alzheimer’s diagnosis slowly started to lift,” she told CNN’s Gupta. “Honestly, I am more me than I had been for the years prior to starting Dr. Ornish’s program.”

However, not everyone in the intervention improved. Two people dropped out — one couldn’t give up McDonald’s on the way home from his daily walks.

“It was only a 20-week intervention period with a small sample size of just 24 people,” said John Morris, distinguished professor of neurology and codirector of the Knight Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Washington University School of Medicine.

“Only 10 out of 24 people in the intervention group seemed to improve and that meant 14 did not,” said Morris, who was not involved in the study. “Overall, it’s interesting, but it would need to be a larger study, with a more representative sample and a longer treatment period to draw any definite conclusions.”

For people who did the intervention, a blood test called plasma Aβ42/40 showed an “extremely” significant improvement, the study found. The test measures the level of amyloid in the blood, a sign that the microglia in the brain are doing their job. Tests that measure amyloid in different ways did not show improvement, however.

“Unfortunately, not all the biomarkers were showing consistent effects,” said Washington University’s Schindler, who specializes in blood biomarkers.

There was no significant change in a test for amyloid called p-tau 181, considered to be a superior measure of Alzheimer’s risk, Schindler said. Nor was there any change in glial fibrillary acidic protein, or GFAP, another blood biomarker that seems to correlate reasonably well with Alzheimer’s disease.

“If one of these markers improves, you typically see all of them improve, so the fact they did not makes me wonder whether this effect is real,” she said. “If they were to repeat the study with a much larger population for a longer period of time, perhaps more change could be seen.”

Need for empowerment

One of the earliest patients recruited to the study was Cici Zerbe, now in her mid-80s. Six years ago, a neurologist diagnosed her with mild cognitive impairment and dementia due to Alzheimer’s. She knew what that meant.

“My grandmother, she would sit forever and just twiddle her thumbs and stare into space and wouldn’t talk too much,” Zerbe told Gupta, who tracked her progress for five years in the documentary.

“Her mother, they finally put her in a home because her father couldn’t take care of her,” said Zerbe’s husband, John. “My greatest fear was she would end up like her mother and grandmother, where I couldn’t take care of her.”

A lifelong runner, retired educator and matriarch of a large family, Zerbe joined Ornish’s study in 2019. Nearly 5 years later, Zerbe and her husband, who live in Novato, California, are still doing the program, and believe the intervention has turned her life around.

“It’s really helped. I think it’s slowed it down,” her daughter Alicia Manzoni told Gupta.

“I think she’s doing very well,” her husband added. “I was afraid by this time she would be in a home or something.”

After all, it’s the improvement in daily life, not blood or cognitive tests, that is most meaningful to a person with Alzheimer’s and their family, said Washington University’s Morris.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta speaks to CiCi and John Zerbe’s entire family. CiCi is shown wearing white. – 

© A. Chris Gajilan/CNN  

“What matters to the patient in the family is whether they’re able to do the things they normally do,” Morris said. “If they couldn’t read and now, they can read, that’s great. That’s an outstanding achievement.”

For Ornish, who has watched members of his family die from Alzheimer’s, the study’s results are important for one key reason — hope.

“So often when people get a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s, they are told by their doctors that there is no future, ‘It’s only going to get worse, get your affairs in order.’ That’s horrible news and is almost self-fulfilling,” Ornish said.

“I’m not about false hope, and I’m not saying that everyone will get better,” he added. “I’m here to empower people with the knowledge that if you do change, there is a reasonably good chance that you may slow the progression of the disease and often improve it.”

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Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is one of the toughest jobs
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Anxiety, Stress, and Dementia Explained

“It is stressful, physically and emotionally draining, and very expensive, as almost 15 million unpaid caregivers for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias can attest,” says Dr. Scott McGinnis, medical editor of the Harvard Special Health Report:

 A Guide to Coping with Alzheimer’s Disease. – Search

How to take care of a person with dementia

Learning how to take care of a person with dementia can be a trial-and-error process. Every person with dementia and every caregiver is unique, and so is their relationship. However, the following general tips may be useful in helping people with dementia remain physically healthy and connected to the world.

• Help people with dementia by speaking simply and patiently. To get the person’s attention, begin by using his or her name. Use simple phrasing and short sentences, but be careful to avoid talking to the person as if he or she were a child. Give someone with Alzheimer’s time to complete a sentence or thought, and try not to interrupt. 

• Make mealtimes less stressful. Reduce sensory confusion at meals. See that the dining area is well lit. Make sure the person is comfortably seated and doesn’t need to use the bathroom. Keep items that may be mistaken for food, like dog biscuits or flower bulbs, out of sight.

• Serve nourishing, manageable meals. Use a plate color that contrasts with the food. Remove condiments from the table. Limit choices by putting only one food on the plate at a time and offering only one utensil. (Curved spoons, divided plates, and straws can make it easier for people to feed themselves.)  Don’t serve food or drink that is too hot. Cut food into small pieces. Remind the person to eat slowly and chew each bite thoroughly. If he or she chokes easily, switch to soft foods. Serve foods containing fiber to help prevent constipation.
• Reduce resistance to bathing. Avoid discussing whether a bath is needed. Prepare everything in advance. Lay out towels, soap, shampoo, and clothes. Have the water ready and at the right temperature before bringing him or her into the bathroom. Be calm, gentle, and reassuring. If the person seems disturbed at this invasion of privacy, cover portions of his or her body with a towel. Encourage him or her to do as much as possible without hands-on help. Talk through each step. If the person refuses to get into the tub or shower, be flexible and suggest an alternative. If all else fails, try again later. 

• Accident-proof the bathroom. Use rubber tub mats, tub seats, grab bars, nonslip bath mats, etc. Do not use bath oil or products that make the tub slippery. Put razors and electrical appliances out of reach. Take the lock off the bathroom door.
• Incorporate skin care into bath time. Check the skin for rashes and sores. Use powder or cornstarch to prevent chafing, and apply body lotion to dry skin.
• Simplify dental care. Prepare the toothbrush and demonstrate how to brush. If the person will not brush and refuses assistance, give him or her a cloth moistened with mouthwash and tell the person to rub it over his or her teeth. 


Dementia is a disease that affects millions of people across the globe every year. It is often a highly misunderstood condition that is marred by numerous misconceptions, which make the condition difficult to understand and study.

You should know that dementia is not a name for an illness, rather it is a collective term that describes a broad range of symptoms that relate to declining thinking, memory, and cognitive skills. These symptoms have deteriorating effects that usually affect how a patient acts and engages in the day-to-day activities.

In advanced dementia stages, affected persons may experience symptoms that bring out a decline in rational thought, intellect, social skills, memory, and normal emotional reactivity. It is something that can make them powerless when it comes to living normal, healthy lives.

Relatives, caregivers, spouses, siblings, children and anyone close to a person who has dementia need to know how to deal with behavioral problems that surface because of the illness. Examples of dementia problems may include aggressiveness, violence and oppositional behaviors. Find out some of the vital Do and Don’ts when dealing with a dementia patient.

Dealing with Dementia Behavior: Do’s

We have identified a list of 9 Do’s that you should keep in mind when dealing with behavior problems associated with dementia. They are as follows:

Do Try and Identify the Trigger that Causes Behavior Change

After spending some time with a patient who has dementia, caregivers may be in a position to identify some of the things that make dementia sufferers yell, get physical, or change their mood. For some, it may be something simple such as taking a bath or even getting dressed.

The best approach to handle this is not to force the patient to do something that they do not want to do. Try and distract them with something else that allows them to relax and calm down. Once they are not a danger to themselves or anyone around them, try going back to the subject, but this time reassuringly and calmly.

Do Keep Eye Contact When Speaking

Communicating with a dementia patient requires a lot of patience, especially during later stages of dementia. It is vital to ensure that you talk in a place that has good lighting, a place that is quiet and without too many distractions. Do not try to stand over the person you are talking to, but rather try to be at their level and keep eye contact at all times. Take care to make sure that body language is relaxed and open. Prepare to spend quality time with the person so that they do not feel rushed or like they are a bother.

Do Introduce Yourself

It does not matter how many times you have to do it. Dementia comes with memory loss which means that the patient may forget your name. When starting a conversation, always remind them your name and tell them something nice that will make them smile.

Do Stick to Routine

Scientists state that habits belong to their own memory structure, which remains intact for long periods even when the patient loses their most recent memory skills. Routine helps dementia patients to know what to do on a daily basis. Caregivers should strive to include meaningful activities in the routine for as long as possible as a way of ensuring that the person with the condition has a sense of independence and purpose in life.

Remember to continually re-examine the routine to remove things that may agitate, depress or make the dementia patient feel unsettled. Sadly, it may reach a point where people with dementia may not be able to keep up with a basic routine. However, as long as they still can, be sure that they do things every day that make them happy.

Do Offer Assurance Often

Many times, people with dementia may experience feelings of isolation, fear, loneliness or confusion. They may not be able to express this in the right way and thus may wander off or keep saying that they want to go back home, especially if they are in a senior living facility. This is not the time to shut them out. It’s a good idea to assure them that they are safe and in a good place.

If you are close enough, provide a comforting hug every once in a while and remind them that they are in a place that has their best interest at heart. Where possible, engage in exercise or take a walk as even light physical activity may help to reduce agitation, restlessness and anxiety.

Do Make Sure That the Dementia Patient Gets Enough Rest, Food and Water

Fatigue, hunger and thirst may cause combativeness. Ensure that the person with dementia is well fed, hydrates enough, and gets adequate sleep and rest. In line with this, they should also have enough bathroom breaks. Research also shows that it may help to reduce loud noises as well as clutter in the space where the patient spends most of his/her time, as both loud noises and clutter tend to over-stimulate people with dementia.

Do Share Photos

At times, the behavior that dementia patients exhibit is because they are missing a person or place they love. Experts suggest for caregivers to go through as many photos as possible with the person with the illness. It is a tool that helps to stimulate happy memories while the dementia sufferer goes down the memory lane.

Going through family photos has been known to play a significant role when it comes to the patients remembering the pleasant times they had. Family photos also help people with dementia to remember special people in their lives. It is best to use large pictures that have clear labels because many people who have dementia often have declining or poor eyesight. Try and select meaningful moments, and you can also make it an activity where patients can create scrapbooks with the people they love.

Do Try to be Pleasant

Caregivers are also humans who are prone to emotions like anger, stress, impatience, and irritation. Even when one goes through caregiver burnout, it is best that the patient does not get wind of it. It is better to step out of the room and try some breathing exercises to calm down before going back to deal with the dementia patient. Where possible, shelve the “bad” feelings and try to deal with them later. Dementia patients deal with a lot and they do not need more on their plate if they are to lead fulfilling and happy lives.

Do try to be Forgiving and Patient

Do not forget that dementia is the condition that results in irrational behavior and causes dementia sufferers to act the way they do. The patients demand plenty of patience and forgiveness from the people looking after them. Have the heart to let things go instead of carrying grudges around for something that the patient may not be in control of.

Dealing with Dementia Behavior: Don’ts

There are certain actions you should not take and certain things you should not do when you are dealing with dementia behavior problems. We have identified a list of 10 such Don’ts, and they are:

Do Not Engage in Arguments

One of the worst things a person can do to an individual who has dementia is to start an argument or even force them to do something that makes them upset or angry. When the discussion or argument is too heated, it may be better to walk away to create an environment where everyone can remain calm. Experts agree that one of the ways that can yield results when it comes to dementia behavior problems is to get rid of the word no when dealing with patients. Avoid forcibly restraining a dementia sufferer at all costs.

Do Not Be Impolite

Communication and language often become difficult over time for individuals who have dementia. It is therefore very important to use polite language when speaking with someone who has dementia. Do not use sharp or threatening voices. Do not feel frustrated when you have to repeat words or phrases several times because the person you are conversing with does not catch them or understand as fast as they should. Restrain from ridiculing or patronizing the patients about what they say.

Do Not Keep Correcting the Patient

People with dementia do not like it when someone keeps correcting them every time they say something that may not be right. It makes them feel bad about themselves and can make them drift out of the conversation. Discussions should be humorous and light and one should always speak slowly and clearly using simple and short sentences to capture and keep the interest of the dementia patients.

Do Not Get Angry or Upset

When looking after persons with dementia, practicing self-control is of utter importance. Learn how to breathe in and just relax without taking things personally or getting angry and upset. Remember that dementia patients do not act the way they do out of their own accord. It is the illness that makes them behave the way they do.

Do Not Try and Alter Undesirable Behavior

Lack of understanding may push one to try and change or stop any undesirable behavior from patients who have dementia. Keep in mind that it is almost impossible to teach new skills or even reason with the patient. Try instead to decrease frequency or intensity of the behavior. For instance, respond to emotion and not the changes in behavior. If a patient insists on always asking about a particular family member reassure them that he or she is safe and healthy as a way of keeping them calm and happy.

Do Not Try to Stop a Person Who Wants to Leave a Room

Staying in one place for long periods may result in behavior problems in the dementia patient. It is essential to have a safe environment where they can enjoy the outdoors without any problem. When someone tries to leave a room, do not force them to stop. Doing this may result in an extreme reaction such as severe distress or injuries.

Instead, it is best to accompany the patient so that they are safe. You can even suggest going for a drive around the block so that they can experience a new environment for a short period. If they do not want company, just let them go but stay close by to make sure that the patient is safe at all times.

Do Not Expect Too Much

It helps to have an open mind when dealing with an individual who has dementia. Try and keep up with their pace without having to rush them too much. It is advisable to avoid trying to teach new information or ask the affected individuals to do something that they have not previously done.

Do Not Shy Away From Asking For Help

No one may have all the answers especially when it comes to taking care of a person with dementia. Try doing research on how their behavior changes and what needs to be done to help them live their lives without too many complications. Hire help when it becomes too much as it also ensures that you do not become too frustrated or drained. When you have multiple family members who can help, ask everyone to pitch in and look after the patient so that you can get some personal space to breathe and re-energize when it is your time to look after the patient. When you feel like you can no longer look after your loved one at your own home, it may be time to consider assisted living. In such cases, look into dementia care homes that can provide specially trained professionals.

Do Not Panic

When a dementia patient becomes aggressive or agitated, try to remain in control without breaking down, panicking and using physical force. Try other approaches that may help to make them calm. These can include holding their hand firmly but gently, singing them their favorite song, or patting their pack gently. Note that some people do not like to be touched; thus, it is best to give them some space by sitting away from them or leaving the room until they calm down.

Do Not Ignore Physical Abuse

As much as one needs to be tolerant, kind, forgiving, and patient with older adults who have dementia, it does not mean that they have to excuse the patients when they become physically aggressive and allow the abuse to continue. It is not to be accepted, and if it happens, it is best to alert your doctor who will work on the solution to make sure it stops. It will keep both the patient and caregiver in safety.

From physical manifestations to angry outbursts, taking care of an individual with dementia may not be easy. However, working with the tips above can help caregivers and loved ones to get through it. Remember that there are plenty of treatments, interventions and special care providers who can help; therefore, you should never be shy about getting help when you need it. 

Infographic: Do’s and Don’ts:

Communicating With a Person Who Has Alzheimer’s Disease

People with Alzheimer’s disease may have trouble finding the right words or remembering what they want to say. This can make communication difficult. Use the tips below to better communicate with a person who has Alzheimer’s.

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You may also be interested in

• Reading more about communication changes in Alzheimer’s disease
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“Understanding the infinity of knowledge is the first step in learning to live.” 

Kelly Clarkson’s Weight Loss Journey: How She Lost 60 Pounds With Medication, Eating Protein, And Walking

“Everybody thinks it’s Ozempic. It’s not.”

We love that Kelly Clarkson has the voice of an angel, yet she’s still so relatable. Prime example: her journey to get healthier. The Grammy winner recently revealed she’d been ignoring a prediabetes diagnosis for two years before she saw a fateful video of herself. “I was like, ‘Who is that?”” she shared with Whoopi Goldberg on a May 2024 episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show.

While I don’t agree with Whoopi the loudmouth liberal of The View insight into politics. The two discussed what led Kelly to make very down-to-earth changes and drop about 60 pounds. Now, experts say making similar lifestyle tweaks can potentially help millions of us transform our bodies for the better. Keep reading to find out how.

– ALLISON NEMETZ

Discover The Kelly Clarkson Show star’s success secrets-and why experts say they can help the rest of us boost fat burn by up to 900%. The first things most women do to try to get in shape are eating a little better and walking more. Turns out, Kelly really is like us. The number-one strategy she credited with her leaner physique: simply putting one foot in front of the other.

The 42-year old mom, who relocated her show to New York after a messy divorce, began taking her dogs for jaunts in the park, strolling to local shops and restaurants and sauntering through famous museums with daughter River, 10, and son Remy, 8. “Walking in the city is quite the workout,” Kelly explained to People magazine. While she didn’t reveal exactly how much she walks, a New York Times report found people are so likely to walk rather than drive in the Big Apple, the average person logs over 10,000 steps a day-with many getting more than 19,000 steps daily!

Now, walking alone often isn’t enough to move the scale as much as we want it to. For her part, Kelly added other techniques proven to significantly enhance the exercise.

Kelly Clarkson’s 60-Lb. Weight Loss: How Walking Helped Her Slim Down and How You Can, Too

Combining exercise with weight loss meds can supercharge results

By Jenna Fanelli and Allison Nemetz Updated: February 7, 2025

Articles by Allison Nemetz’s Profile | Woman’s World Journalist | Muck Rack 

Kelly Clarkson Lost 60 Lbs by Walking More Get Tips to Boost Your Calorie Burn

After Kelly Clarkson debuted her striking weight loss in 2023, many suspected her success was due to Ozempic. While the Grammy Award-winning musician hasn’t shared which weight loss drug she used, she’s been relatively open about her health journey overall. And it turns out a few simple daily habits—like walking—supercharged her calorie burn and helped her drop weight. Here we break down how walking helped Clarkson lose weight and how you can start reaping the health benefits of regular strolls, too. 

Did Kelly Clarkson take Ozempic for weight loss?

While walking did help Clarkson reportedly shed 60 pounds, she also got a boost from using weight loss medication. “I am doing that wonderful shot that works for folks who need some help, and it’s been really good for me,” Clarkson revealed in  an episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show last year. “Everyone thinks it’s Ozempic. It’s not,” she clarified, though didn’t share which medication she has taken. 

However, she did explain that it helped “break down the sugar—obviously my body doesn’t do it right.” 

Ozempic and similar medications (including options like Mounjaro and Zepbound) work by mimicking GLP-1, a hormone that helps control blood sugar and turn off hunger. 

Because synthetic GLP-1 doesn’t break down as easily as the real thing, it can “help create the feeling that you just ate dinner, so you don’t want more food,” according to Weill Cornell Medicine obesity expert Louis Aronne, MD, whose most recent research on the drugs appeared in the Journal of the American Medical Association in November 2024.

Did Kelly Clarkson use Ozempic?

Whoopi Goldberg Reflects On ‘Sister Act’ & Admits She ‘Had No Business’ Being In Musicals

Kelly says she did not take the type 2 diabetes medication Ozempic for weight loss. During a May episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, the singer discussed her weight loss with guest Whoopi Goldberg. After Whoopi raved about taking Mounjaro, Kelly opened up about her own experience with taking weight-loss medication.

Kelly shared that she’s lost “a lot” of weight, saying, “Mine is a different one than people assume, but I ended up having to do that too because my bloodwork got so bad.” She added that she did not take Ozempic.

Kelly didn’t name the medication but said that it’s “something that aids in helping break down the sugar—obviously my body doesn’t do it right.”

Kelly said her doctor “chased [her] for, like, two years” to take the medication, but she was nervous of the effects on her thyroid. But ultimately, she decided to take it after she watched a birthday special that she planned to release.“All of a sudden I paused it, and I was like, ‘Who is f*ck is that?’” she said. “You see it and you’re like, ‘Well, she’s about to die of a heart attack,’” Kelly said. Kelly shared that she was 203 pounds at “my heaviest,” but “was never insecure about it.” “I was happy,” she added.

What diagnosis did Kelly Clarkson have?

Kelly had a prediabetes diagnosis, she previously shared on her show.On January 29, Kelly told King of Queens star Kevin James that she “was told I was prediabetic.”“That was literally what happened,” she continued. “They were like — and I was, well, I wasn’t shocked. I was a tiny bit overweight. So, yeah, but I wasn’t shocked by it. But they did. They were like, ‘You’re prediabetic. You’re right on the borderline.’” (Prediabetes means your blood sugar levels are “higher than normal,” but not high enough for a type 2 diabetes diagnosis, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)

What dress size is Kelly Clarkson?

Kelly hasn’t publicly shared her dress size—and, of course, she doesn’t need to. But an insider told Life & Style that she went from a size 14 to a size 8. “Kelly feels good and is having fun switching up her wardrobe!” the insider added.

How did Kelly Clarkson lose weight?

Kelly’s weight-loss journey was sparked by a cross-country move from Los Angeles to New York. “I was very unhappy in L.A. and had been for several years. I needed a fresh start,” Kelly told People earlier this year. “We told NBC, ‘I’m not trying to sound ungrateful, I just can’t stay here anymore for my mental health; for me and my kids.’ They weren’t doing well either. For the past few years, I’d just been showing up and smiling and doing what I’m supposed to do, but you can only compartmentalize so long until you break.”

But Kelly said that she felt “good” going into season five of her show. “Knowing my kids feel good—and the dust has settled. Season five is my first season to actually enjoy every minute of it.”

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How many children does Kelly Clarkson have?

Kelly has two children with her ex-husband Brandon Blackstone: Daughter River Rose, 10, and son Remington, 8. Kelly’s kids recently made an appearance on her show, where they seemed super comfortable in front of the camera. Remy even adorably belted out Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” in front of a live studio audience:

“Like their mama, both my kids love singing,” Kelly shared. “And when Remy got to set, he surprised us. He wanted his chance at the microphone, and he literally said, ‘Who do I have to talk to to sing my song?’ I was like, ‘Okay.’ So of course, we made it happen.”

Kelly changed her diet.

Kelly has revamped her diet and is focusing on eating lots of protein. “I eat a healthy mix,” she told People. “I dropped weight because I’ve been listening to my doctor—a couple years I didn’t. And 90 percent of the time I’m really good at it because a protein diet is good for me anyway. I’m a Texas girl, so I like meat—sorry, vegetarians in the world!”

As Kelly noted, her diet is a “healthy mix,” meaning she still allows space for treats.

“I still splurge. The other night I had frozen yogurt with my daughter, and it was magical,” she added.

While on a weight-loss journey in 2018, Kelly said that she would tweak the ingredients in foods to make her meals healthier. “It’s the same stuff you eat—I just use different ingredients,” she said. “Even like fried chicken, I use cassava flour, tapioca, or almond flour, and you use non-hormone chicken.”

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But Kelly admitted this isn’t the easiest route to go for most people. “I’m going to be real with you: It’s really expensive to do,” she added.

Kelly later clarified that she’d lost weight following The Plant Paradox by Dr. Steven Gundry. The Plant Paradox Diet is a lectin-free diet that eliminates beans, legumes, whole grains, certain vegetables, and dairy.

“I literally read this book, and I did it for this autoimmune disease that I had and I had a thyroid issue, and now all my levels are back up,” Kelly told Extra that same year. “I’m not on medicine anymore because of this book. It’s basically about how we cook our food, non-GMO, no pesticides, eating really organic…Literally, I haven’t worked out at all!”

Kelly started prioritizing her wellness practices.

In addition to diet and exercise, Kelly shared she’s been indulging in infrared saunas, which have been found to improve sleep, relieve stress and pain, and help clear skin.

She’s also started dabbling in cold plunges. “I just got a cold plunge because everybody wore me down,” Kelly added. Cold plunges are also known to help with cardiovascular health and can boost your metabolism, per Healthline.com.

She keeps a healthy mindset about weight loss.

When Kelly was at her lowest weight in the early 2000s, she was having dark thoughts, per Page Six. “I was miserable, like inside and out, for four years of my life. But no one cared, because aesthetically, you make sense,” she said to Attitude.

“It was a very dark time for me. I thought the only way out was quitting,” she added. “I wrecked my knees and my feet because all I would do is put in headphones and run. I was at the gym all the time.”

Kelly, who has struggled with mental health, has opened up about going to therapy.

“They give you so many tools for how to navigate certain situations and also to have somebody outside your circle that doesn’t know anything, but just knows what’s happening in the now,” she told Entertainment Tonight Canada.

Ultimately, Kelly told People that she’s learned to be kinder to herself, offering this advice to her 15-year-old self: “I’ve always been that kind of person that’s a little hard on oneself. I’d be like, ‘It’s not going to happen anytime soon, but eventually it’ll get easier. Around 41, you’re really going to get your shit together.'”

Kelly hopes to change the way people talk about weight.

Kelly has had to field a lot of talk about her weight over the years. But she told Glamour UK that being thin doesn’t make her feel more confident.

Kelly shared that, at once point in her career, she was asked to have a body like other women in the industry. “It was more of magazines shoved in front of you and, ‘This is what you’re competing with and we’ve got to compete with it,’” she said. “I can’t compete with that. That’s not even my image. That’s not who I am. That’s who they are. We’re all different and it’s okay. I fought more when I was thinner than I do now, because now I just walk in and I just look at them like, ‘I dare you to say something. I’m happy in my life. I’ll work on me in my time!’”

She also pointed out that she got her coaching role on The Voice after she gained weight. “I got on the No. 1 television show at my heaviest point, because it was right after I had kids, and they didn’t care,” she said.

Paul Telegdy, the chairman of NBC Entertainment, hired her “because he loved my personality, he loved that I connect with people and I’m really raw and real,” she said.

“It had nothing to do with my sex appeal or my look aesthetically,” she said. “It had to do with me as a person. I think it’s really up to artists to force people to have that mentality.”

Now, Kelly has gotten rid of the “negative people” in her life, instead embracing the positive ones.

“It was a case of turning around, facing them and walking toward the light,” she told Attitude.

Kelly Clarkson in 2022 and 2023  Weight Loss

What an Rx boost can do

When Kelly began to get noticeably smaller, rumors circulated that she was on weight-loss drugs. She soon confirmed the rumor was true. “Everyone thinks it’s Ozempic-it’s not. It’s something else,” she shared with Whoopi. Kelly added that at first she resisted a prescription: “My doctor chased me for like two years, and I was like, ‘No, I’m afraid of it.’ What changed her mind? “My blood work got so bad,” she said.

Protein is Key Too

Doctors tend to recommend that those of us at risk for diabetes should avoid excess carbohydrates. which can wreak havoc on blood sugar levels. European research shows that those on a protein rich diet that limit starch and sugar experience biochemical shifts that naturally increase GLP-1 production. Plus when you cut back on carbs  you begin to turn fat into fuel called ketones. Ketones increase fat burn up to 900% and help destroy appetite. Also pair a low carb diet with walking and you should see awesome results with no prescriptions needed. 

Does Kelly use a crazy strict Keto Diet?

Nope. She has shared that her menus are a healthy mix and she aims to make good choices 90% of the time/ So if you want to follow Kelly’s lead, start walking and take other steps to improve your health. But also enjoy every step of the way no matter how far you are from your goal. Because Kelly just doesn’t just walk to get fit, she’s all about walking toward the light to a better life. Another life lesson Kelly learned id that the kinder you are to yourself — getting healthier or anything you want is much easier.

Foods that work like Ozempic

Ozempic, Wegovy and Zepbound quiet “food noise” by increasing levels of the hormone GLP-1. The drugs can be especially helpful for those with type 2 diabetes or who struggle to keep their blood sugar levels in check, like Clarkson. 

But if you’d rather try a natural approach, you can mimic the effect of GLP-1 meds with certain foods. A Norwegian study found a low-carb diet keeps GLP-1 high specifically in women—and a free app like Carb Manager can help you hit healthy carb goals for your body. To further enhance the effect, incorporate the following options:

• Protein and calcium. Calcium from dairy or greens pairs with amino acids in any protein source to “potently stimulate GLP-1 release,” per a 2021 study in the journal Advanced Nutrition.
• Antioxidant bombs. Polyphenol antioxidants in colorful produce, spices, nuts, coffee, tea and cocoa have been shown to seriously spike GLP-1 levels.
• Allulose. Zero-cal sweetener allulose (found in trace amounts in figs) is proven to rev GLP-1 and speed weight loss.

How did Kelly Clarkson lose weight? 

Before divulging whether she took weight loss injections, The Since U Been Gone singer also revealed that she was prediabetic, something that kick-started her new healthier lifestyle. “I wasn’t shocked,” Clarkson admitted on her talk show. “I was a tiny bit overweight…they were like, ‘You’re prediabetic. You’re right on the borderline.’”

“My heaviest, I was like 203 [pounds], and I’m 5 foot 3 and a half,” she continued. “My doctor chased me for like two years, and I was like, ‘No I’m afraid of it.’” But when her blood work got “so bad”, she changed her mind and reconsidered weight loss drugs.

To help shed unwanted pounds and work toward reversing her prediabetes, Clarkson pointed to infrared saunas, a balanced, protein-centric diet (that includes the occasional sweet treat) and an active lifestyle as the forces behind her progress. 

“Walking in the city is quite the workout,” Clarkson told People while discussing how her life has changed since moving to New York City. The Kelly Clarkson Show relocated to NBC Studios in Manhattan in October 2023 after shooting the first four seasons in Los Angeles. 

After winning American Idol in 2002, “I wrecked my knees and my feet because all I would do is put in headphones and run. I was at the gym all the time,” Clarkson told the magazine Attitude. Her switch to walking—a low-impact, high-reward form of exercise—is an example of the many ways she’s learned to go easier on her body while still hitting her goals. 

Now, when she’s not filming, Clarkson spends her days with her son and daughter, walking all over the big apple, from visiting museums to bringing their dogs to the park, she shared. 

And that’s something that has supercharged her results. Both walking and meds work separately, but it’s together that they tend to make magic. In fact, research shows that combining walking, a healthy diet and an Ozempic-style weight-loss med can help people lose up to 22 percent of their body weight. 

How walking aids weight loss 

Generally speaking, New York City it’s extremely pedestrian-friendly and traveling on foot is part of everyday life for most people. 

“Living in a city like NYC  incorporates a lot of walking into daily activities, which is great for your overall health,” says Chris Mohr, PhD, RD, fitness and nutrition advisor at Fortune Recommends Health. “All movement counts, and research suggests those who move more regularly are not just fitter, but generally weigh less as well.” 

Because walking inherently fits into (and is sometimes even required for) errands, activities, socialization and commuting in the city, it’s an accessible option for most people, he explains. 

“Instead of dedicating an hour or two a day to exercise and being sedentary otherwise, walkable cities encourage you to perform what are called exercise snacks: short bouts of activity spread throughout the day,” adds Jake Dickson, CPT-NASM, Certified Personal Trainer at BarBend.

These manageable spurts can serve as building blocks to reach your goal. No matter where you live, Steven Shamah, MD, Chief of Endoscopy at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, encourages his patients to log at least 10,000 steps a day. Once you start consistently achieving 10,000 steps every day, you can gradually increase it for even more health benefits, if you’re able, he suggests. 

“Though walking is not the complete puzzle for weight loss, it is an important one to couple with a healthy diet, quality sleep and stress relief,” Dr. Shamah says. 

How to make walking for weight loss easier 

While it’s inarguably simpler to get more steps in if you live in a walkable city like Clarkson does, it’s still possible to infuse more walking into your daily life in other creative ways. Here’s how:

Does Walking Help You Lose Weight? Here’s What the Experts Say

Bookend your days with a walk

One thing that can be helpful is dedicating some time at the start and finish of your day to walk. In the mornings before breakfast and evenings after dinner, walk for 10 to 30 minutes, advises Dickson. These increments will depend on how much free time you have, but they ultimately add up (and can even improve digestion, too, he adds.) 

Get more out of short distances 

When possible, parking your car farther away than you need to and taking stairs instead of elevators or escalators is also beneficial, experts say. If you use public transportation, have some time to spare and the distance is not too far, see if you can disembark your bus or train one stop early and walk the rest of the way to your destination to burn more calories. 

Walk and talk

You can also try swapping in some walking when you’d normally be sitting. Grabbing coffee with a friend? Chat and sip while you stroll. When talking on the phone, stand up and move around during the call. 

We know and love how convenient online shopping can be, but when you’re able, opt to go to the store and explore while walking up and down the aisles instead. Work in an office? Take mini breaks to take a lap or two around the building throughout the day. And if you’re logging some time on your computer or watching a TV show at home, invest in a walking pad or treadmill so you can multitask!

Which Weight Loss Medicine Did Kelly Clarkson Take? – Search

Kelly Clarkson clarified that she is not taking Ozempic, which is an FDA-approved prescription medication for people with type 2 diabetes. Although she did not name the specific medication she was prescribed, it was previously revealed that she used Mounjaro, which also treats Type 2 Diabetes. people.com+1

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GMOs (genetically modified organisms) are plants, animals, or microorganisms whose DNA has been altered using biotechnology to introduce desirable traits, such as resistance to pests or improved nutritional content. While GMOs have been praised for their potential to increase food security and reduce the need for chemical pesticides, they are also controversial. Critics raise concerns about environmental impact, health risks, and ethical considerations. However, scientific consensus generally supports that GMOs are safe to eat and can offer significant agricultural benefits when properly regulated. 

GMOs (genetically modified organisms) are plants, animals, or microorganisms whose DNA has been altered using biotechnology to introduce desirable traits, such as resistance to pests or improved nutritional content. While GMOs have been praised for t – Search

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Lip Reader Deciphers Taylor Swift’s Five-Word Response to the Boos ~

Lip reader reveals Taylor Swift’s five-word reaction after getting booed.

It’s sad in our country how Americans focus on the negative and often overlook the good things We The People Do for Others.

Taylor Swift is one of the world’s richest and most powerful women, crossing over into billionaire territory in 2023 thanks to her blockbuster Eras Tour and record-selling Taylor’s Version releases. In fact, Billboard estimated in December 2023 that Swift earned nearly $2 billion that year through her music, tour and accompanying tour film and merch — before even accounting for additional revenue from things such as syncs and sponsorships.

The “Anti-Hero” singer has put her hard-earned wealth to personal use. She’s spent hundreds of millions of dollars on properties in New York City, California, Nashville, Rhode Island and more. She frequently travels via private jet, reportedly owning not just one, but two Dassault Falcon aircrafts. And her much-studied sense of style is aided by pricey, oftentimes designer pieces.

But for those who have crossed her path, Swift has also long been generous with her riches. Through the years, the pop superstar has supported various causes, donated to charities and struggling individuals alike, and showered her fans with lavish presents in a 2014 gift-giving extravaganza known by her fandom as “Swiftmas.”

Swift has been known to be generous with her time.

Whether it’s meeting fans after almost every show of her pre-Eras tours completely free of charge, or making surprise appearances at unsuspecting Swifties’ weddings, bridal showers or engagement parties. There have also been times where fans have opened their front doors to find the musician waiting outside, as well as days spent dropping in to cheer up patients at hospitals.  Not to mention, she donated generously to various food banks around the globe where her Eras Tour touched down.

Keep reading to see some of Swift’s most notable acts of generosity below: Taylor Swift’s Charity Donations: A Timeline

In the fifth and last Super Bowl, the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs by a score of 40-22, destroying any possibility of the Chiefs creating history.

In spite of the fact that the Chiefs were attempting to make history by becoming the first team to win a championship three times in a row, they struggled throughout the game, with Travis Kelce having a particularly quiet night.

While attending the event to show her support for her boyfriend Kelce, pop icon Taylor Swift found herself at the focus of unanticipated reaction. This added to the tension that was already present.

Taylor Alison Swift was born on December 13, 1989, in West Reading, Pennsylvania.^[1] She is named after the singer-songwriter James Taylor.^[2][3] Her father, Scott Kingsley Swift, was a stockbroker for Merrill Lynch, and her mother, Andrea Gardner Swift (née Finlay), worked as a mutual fund marketing executive.^[4] Swift’s younger brother, Austin, is an actor.^[5] Their maternal grandmother, Marjorie Finlay (née Moehlenkamp), was an opera singer,^[6] whose singing in church became one of Swift’s earliest memories of music that shaped her career.^[4] Swift is of Scottish, English, and German descent, with distant Italian and Irish ancestry.^[7][8][9]

Swift spent her early years on a Christmas tree farm in Pennsylvania that her father had purchased from one of his clients,^[10] and she spent her summers at her family’s vacation home in Stone Harbor, New Jersey, where she occasionally performed acoustic songs at a local coffee shop.^[11] 

She is Christian^[12] and attended preschool and kindergarten at a Montessori school run by the Bernardine Sisters of St. Francis before transferring to the Wyndcroft School.^[13][14] When her family moved to Wyomissing, she attended Wyomissing Area Junior/Senior High School.^[15][16] 

As a child, she performed in Berks Youth Theatre Academy productions^[17] and traveled regularly to New York City for vocal and acting lessons.^[18] Her early love for country music was influenced by Shania Twain, Patsy Cline, LeAnn Rimes, and the Dixie Chicks,^[14] and she spent weekends performing at local festivals and events.^[19][20] After watching a documentary about Faith Hill, she became determined to pursue a country music career in Nashville, Tennessee.^[21]

At 11, Swift traveled to Nashville with her mother to visit record labels and submit demo tapes of Dolly Parton and Dixie Chicks karaoke covers.^[22] She was rejected by all the labels, which led her to focus on songwriting.^[23] She started learning the guitar at 12 with the help of Ronnie Cremer, a computer repairman and local musician who also assisted Swift with writing an original song.^[24] 

Matthew 7:7 “Continue to ask, and God will give it to you. Continue to search, and you will find. Continue to knock, and the door will open for you.”

In 2003, Swift and her parents started working with the talent manager Dan Dymtrow. With his help, Swift modeled for Abercrombie & Fitch and had an original song included on a Maybelline compilation CD.^[25] After performing original songs at an RCA Records  showcase, 13-year-old Swift was given an artist development deal and began to travel regularly to Nashville with her mother.^[26][27] 

To help Swift break into the country music scene, her father transferred to Merrill Lynch’s Nashville office when she was 14 years old, and the family relocated to Hendersonville, Tennessee.^[28][29] 

Swift attended Hendersonville High School^[30] before transferring to Aaron Academy after two years, which better accommodated her touring schedule through homeschooling. She graduated one year early.^[3][31] The 11 Youngest Stars to Make it Big in Country Music

Taylor Swift – Wikipedia, had previously demonstrated her enthusiasm for the Eagles. In fact, she was even seen wearing a Philadelphia Eagles hoodie while she was out and about in New York City.

On the other hand, when she started dating Kelce, her loyalty gravitated toward the Chiefs out of natural instinct. She has been a regular at Chiefs games ever since their connection became public knowledge, and she has been seen applauding from the fans when they play.

In spite of her unflinching backing, the crowd in New Orleans did not demonstrate the same level of warmth. An audience that was cheering for the Eagles erupted in loud boos when the cameras in the stadium panned to Taylor Swift.

Everything Taylor Swift Has Been Called Out For Borrowing From Other Artists | Watch

The scene was instantly picked up by social media, and admirers began to speculate about her reaction to the situation there. Swift reportedly turned to others surrounding her and asked, “Aww what, what’s going on?” With a genuine expression of surprise on her face, as reported by multiple media outlets.

The occurrence generated debate almost immediately.

There were others who believed that the boos were due to her shift in her allegiance to the squad, while others, including the former President Donald Trump, took a different approach.

In an article that he published on Truth Social.

Trump asserted that the reaction was spurred by his followers. He wrote, “The only one that had a tougher night than the Kansas City Chiefs was Taylor Swift.” As she was leaving the stadium, she was booed. It is really difficult to forgive MAGA!

Those who disagreed with this viewpoint were not unanimous. Serena Williams, a tennis legend, rushed to Swift’s rescue and posted on X, “I love you @taylorswift13 don’t listen to those booo!!” Swift immediately responded to Williams’s tweet.

While We All Have a Favorite Taylor Songs Back to December 🙂

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In the meantime, numerous rumors circulated prior to the game on whether or not Kelce would make a marriage proposal to Swift in the event that the Chiefs achieved a historic victory. By contrast, Kelce was observed leaving the arena by himself, while Swift was nowhere to be found as the night came to a disappointing conclusion for Kansas City.

Swift Songs – Search Videos

Local Man Has Bird Flu

First human case in Ohio, 69th nationally, risk still low

By Daily Standard Staff

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI, or bird flu) is a contagious disease most common among birds.

By WILLIAM KINCAID and ABIGAIL MILLER

newsroom@dailystandard.com

CELINA – A Mercer County farm worker has been infected with the first probable human case in Ohio of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly referred to as bird flu.

The unidentified man was in contact with dead commercial poultry that were infected with the virus, according to an Ohio Department of Health news release on Wednesday. Mercer County Health District confirmed that it received notification from the ODH that a Mercer County resident has tested positive for influenza A (H5N1).

This marks the 69th human case of HPAI nationally since the beginning of 2024.

No other details about the case were revealed, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers the current risk of bird flu for the general public to be low. However, people with close and prolonged contact with infected birds are at greater risk, according to the release. Farm workers, veterinarians and those who may have close contact with infected birds or other animals should take extra precautions.

The Mercer County Health District also issued a news release, underscoring that it’s been in communication with ODH.

“We have provided healthcare providers with up-to-date information on HPAI and testing details. We are monitoring those who have been exposed to the virus for symptoms,” the release states.

One of the 69 confirmed human cases of HPAI resulted in the death of a Louisiana man who was older than 65, had underlying medical problems and had been in contact with sick and dead birds in a backyard flock. Moreover, a genetic analysis had suggested the bird flu virus had mutated inside the patient, which could have led to the more severe illness.

All but three of the cases involved exposures related to commercial agriculture and related operations or wild birds, according to ODH. There are no known cases of human-to-human transmission to date.

Mercer County remains the epicenter of this year’s bird flu outbreak. As of Wednesday, there have been 38 confirmed detections within the county in 2025, affecting 5,562,166 commercial birds, or 63.2% of Mercer County’s commercial poultry, based on the size of the county’s commercial inventory reported in the USDA’s 2022 Agriculture Census.

As required, the commercial facilities in Mercer County where HPAI was detected are under quarantine and the involved poultry have been depopulated.

“While the risk to Ohioans is low, the best way to prevent bird flu is to avoid unprotected exposures to sick or dead birds or to their environment,” ODH Director Bruce Vanderhoff said in a statement. “People should avoid direct contact with poultry or wild birds and take proper precautions, including reaching out for guidance regarding personal protection and safe handling, if you must be around sick or dead birds.”

Mercer County had a commercial inventory of 8.8 million turkeys, layers, pullets and broilers, according to USDA’s 2022 Ag Census.

“Ohio is experiencing the largest outbreak of positive detections in commercial poultry to date, which requires critical action from our department and our federal partners, to contain and prevent the spread of disease,” ODA Director Brian Baldridge said in a statement. “As we continue to respond to these incidents, our staff on site continues to educate farmers and their workers on best biosecurity practices. We strongly encourage all Ohio farmers to use good biosecurity to help keep the disease away from the farm.”

Dozens of people have been placed under monitoring for bird flu symptoms since the outbreak began earlier this year in Mercer County, according to health district epidemiologist Deb Scheer.

“Currently the risk to the general public is going to be low, but we’re always going to be taking full precautions and working, definitely, with the Ohio Department of Health, who works very closely with CDC,” Scheer stressed.

The health district’s board of health members on Wednesday morning heard about bird flu monitoring protocols for humans. The CDC in late December said eye redness has been the predominant symptom among recent U.S. cases of avian influenza A (H5N1) virus infection. Respiratory symptoms and fever were also reported.

ODH’s Bureau of Infectious Diseases lets the health district know when there’s an outbreak at a commercial poultry operation, noted Michelle Kimmel, who was promoted from registered environmental health specialist to full-time administrator of the Mercer County Health District in December.

“If there are particular workers that have been exposed, those names are given to Deb and she interviews (them),” she said.

Biosecurity guidance for poultry workers

• Prevent contact with wild birds and waterfowl. Keep birds indoors when possible. Add wildlife management practices around your farm.

• Keep visitors to a minimum. Only allow those who care for your poultry to have contact with them and make sure they follow biosecurity principles.

• Wash hands before and after contact with live poultry. Use soap and water. If using a hand sanitizer, first remove manure, feathers and other materials from your hands.

• Provide disposable boot covers (preferred) and/or disinfectant foot baths for anyone having contact with a flock. If using a foot bath, remove all droppings, mud or debris from boots and shoes using a long-handled brush before stepping in. Always keep it clean.

• Establish a rodent and pest control program. Deliver, store and maintain feed, ingredients, bedding and litter to limit exposure to and contamination from wild animals.

• Use drinking water sourced from a contained supply (well or municipal system). Do not use surface water for drinking or cleaning.

• Clean and disinfect tools and equipment before moving them to a new poultry facility. Trucks, tractors, tools and equipment should be cleaned and disinfected prior to exiting the property. Do not move or reuse anything that cannot be cleaned.

• Look for signs of illness in birds. Monitor egg production and death loss, discoloration and/or swelling of legs, wattles and combs, labored breathing, reduced feed/water consumption.

SOURCE: Ohio Department of Agriculture

The workers are asked about their last exposure to birds, whether they were wearing personal protective equipment and if they were experiencing any signs or symptoms of illness.

There are three tiers of monitoring protocols based on levels of potential exposure. Individuals who had no exposure to potentially infectious animals or their environment are considered lower risk.

Individuals who had some exposure to potentially infectious animals or their environment but were wearing PPE at the time are considered tier 2, while those not wearing PPE under similar circumstances are elevated to tier 3.

Those under the first two tiers are educated and told to self-monitor for 10 days, Scheer said. Tier 3 monitoring involves daily phone calls from the health district to learn if symptoms have emerged.

“Now if they were exposed and they’re ill, we definitely would recommend that the appropriate specimens are collected,” Scheer said. “If somebody would test positive, we’re definitely going to monitor them very closely, and their contacts.”

As of Wednesday, there have been 58 commercial premises in Ohio in 2025 where HPAI was confirmed: 38 in Mercer County, 18 in Darke and one each in Van Wert and Auglaize counties. A total of 10,635,797 commercial poultry have been affected.

The current HPAI outbreak began in the United States in February 2022 in a commercial flock, per USDA. Since then, around 157.8 million commercial and backyard poultry have been affected.

Bird flu is primarily spread by wild birds such as ducks and geese as they migrate. While it is fatal to a variety of animals, including chickens, those species can generally carry it without getting sick, which offers the virus a chance to mutate and thrive.

From wild birds, avian influenza then spreads to other hosts, such as domestic poultry, pets, dairy cattle and more.

The virus was detected for the first time in U.S. dairy cattle in March 2024. It has infected more than 950 herds in 16 states. California has been the hardest hit, with around 736 cases in dairy herds, though several other states have had dozens of cases, including Colorado, Texas and Michigan. One dairy herd in Ohio was confirmed with bird flu, but that was in April 2024.

Ohio Department of Agriculture maintains that it is safe to eat properly cook poultry and pasteurized dairy products. Generally, people should follow food safety practices and cook poultry, eggs and beef to a safe internal temperature in order to kill bacteria and viruses. The proper handling and cooking of all poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165 degrees is recommended as a general food safety precaution.

If people are exposed to a sick or dead bird, they should monitor themselves for any new respiratory symptoms and contact their health care provider or local health department should they develop symptoms.

Sick or dead wild birds can be reported to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources at 1-800-WILDLIFE. Sick or dead poultry can be reported to the Ohio Department of Agriculture at 614-728-6220.

-The Associated Press contributed to this report.

US eggs prices hit a record high of $4.95 and are likely to keep climbing

Story by JOSH FUNK

Egg Prices© Stephen Smith

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Egg prices hit a record high as the U.S. contends with an ongoing bird flu outbreak, but consumers didn’t need government figures released Wednesday to tell them eggs are terribly expensive and hard to find at times.

The latest monthly consumer price index showed that the average price of a dozen Grade A eggs in U.S. cities reached $4.95 in January, eclipsing the previous record of $4.82 set two years earlier and more than double the low of $2.04 that was recorded in August 2023.  

The spike in egg prices was the biggest since the nation’s last bird flu outbreak in 2015 and accounted for roughly two-thirds of the total increase in food costs last month, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Of course, that is only the nationwide average. A carton of eggs can cost $10 or more in some places. And specialized varieties, such as organic and cage-free eggs, are even more expensive.

“We do use eggs a little less often now. You know, because of the price,” said Jon Florey as he surveyed his options in the egg case at Encinal Market in Alameda, California. “I was going to make a quiche that I like to make and it’s about six eggs, so I figured I’d do something else.”

When are egg prices expected to go down?

Embed-Chart-Egg-Prices© Kevin S. Vineys

Relief is not expected any time soon. Egg prices typically spike around Easter due to high holiday demand. And the U.S. The Department of Agriculture predicted last month that egg prices were likely to go up 20% this year.

Egg Prices© Nam Y. Huh

Even if shoppers can afford eggs, they may have difficulty finding them at times. Some grocers are having trouble keeping their shelves stocked, and customers are encountering surcharges and limits on how many cartons they can buy at a time.

Encinal Market owner Joe Trimble said he has a hard time getting all the eggs he orders from his suppliers, so most of the time his shelves are only about 25% full.

“It’s something you don’t think about until you look at the shelf and it’s nearly empty,” Trimble said. Eggs are “just expected to be there in the same way you expect there to be milk. It’s a key item to have in a grocery store because people don’t go out looking for something else to eat on a Saturday morning. They want it. They want to have some scrambled eggs or over-easy eggs on a Saturday morning.”

How bad is the bird flu outbreak?

The main reason that eggs are more expensive is the bird flu outbreak. When the virus is found on a farm, the entire flock is killed to limit the spread of disease. Because massive egg farms may have millions of birds, just one outbreak may put a dent in the egg supply. Nearly 158 million birds have been slaughtered overall since the outbreak began.  

The Agriculture Department says more than 23 million birds were slaughtered last month and more than 18 million were killed in December to limit the spread of the bird flu virus. Those numbers include turkeys and chickens raised for meat, but the vast majority of them were egg-laying chickens.

And when there is an outbreak on a farm, it often takes several months to dispose of the carcasses, sanitize the barns and raise new birds until they are old enough to start producing eggs, so the effects linger.

Bird flu cases often spike in the spring and fall when wild birds are migrating because they are the main source of the virus, but cases can pop up any time of year. The virus has also spread to cattle and other species, and dozens of people — mostly farmworkers taking care of ill animals — have been sickened.

But health officials say the threat to human health remains low and eggs and poultry are safe to eat because sick animals aren’t allowed into the food supply. Plus, properly cooking meat and eggs to at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit kills any virus, and pasteurization neutralizes bird flu in milk.

What else is driving egg prices up?

Egg farmers also face higher feed, fuel and labor costs these days because of inflation. Plus, farmers are investing more in biosecurity measures to try to protect their birds.

Ten states have passed laws allowing the sale of eggs only from cage-free environments. The supply of those eggs is tighter and focused in certain regions, so the effect on prices can be magnified when outbreaks hit cage-free egg farms.

Many of the egg farms with recent outbreaks were cage-free farms in California. Cage-free egg laws have already gone into effect in California, Massachusetts, Nevada, Washington, Oregon, Colorado and Michigan.

Total demand for eggs is also up significantly in recent years. Consumers are buying more eggs, and the growth of all-day breakfast restaurants is adding to demand.

CoBank analyst Brian Earnest said the current cost of eggs could discourage some buying, which would ease the demand pressure but might not have a noticeable effect. It will likely take months for egg producers to fill the gaps in supply.

“As consumers continue to stock up on eggs, supplies at the store level will remain tight, and with Easter right around the corner, that could prolong the tighter supplies,” Earnest said.

While prices remain elevated, producers of baked goods and other food items that rely on eggs as a main ingredient will have to decide how much to increase prices or reduce production, he said.

Associated Press reporter Terry Chea contributed to this report from Alameda, California.

___

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Gut microbiome changes linked to onset of clinically evident rheumatoid arthritis

Story by Science X staff

Changes in the make-up of the gut microbiome are linked to the onset of clinically evident rheumatoid arthritis in those at risk of the disease because of genetic, environmental, or immunological factors, suggests research published online in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases.

It’s not clear if this instability is a cause or consequence of disease development, emphasize the researchers, but the findings might nevertheless help to identify those at risk as well as paving the way for preventive and personalized treatment strategies, they suggest.

Previously published research consistently shows an unfavorable imbalance in the gut microbiomes of those at risk as well as those diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis compared with the gut microbiomes of those without the disease.

But it’s not clear exactly which microbes might be involved.

To explore this further, the researchers tracked changes in the gut microbiome profiles of 124 people at risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis; in seven newly diagnosed people; and in 22 healthy people over a period of 15 months, by assessing their stool and blood samples at five different time points.

Those at risk were identified by the presence of precursor anti cyclic citrullinated protein (anti-CCP) antibodies, which attack healthy cells and are specific for rheumatoid arthritis, and by experience of joint pain in the preceding three months.

Weekly dietary intake was similar among all three groups, although alcohol intake and the amount of regular moderate to vigorous exercise taken differed.

During the study period, 30 of the 124 in the at risk group progressed to rheumatoid arthritis, and their microbial diversity was notably reduced compared with that of the healthy comparison group, particularly within specific areas—known as alpha diversity.

Alpha diversity was also reduced in both those who progressed and those who didn’t, and linked to anti-CCP antibody levels. In those with low anti-CCP antibody levels, microbial diversity was comparable with that of the healthy comparison group.

Recognized genetic, blood, and imaging risk factors for arthritis development were also significantly linked to lower microbial diversity, as was steroid use.

A specific strain of Prevotellaceae sp—(ASV2058) most likely P. copri—was abundant in the microbiomes of those who progressed as well as in those of the newly diagnosed, but not in the microbiomes of those in the healthy comparison group.

Another strain (ASV1867) of P. copri was also increased at the start of the study in those who progressed, possibly suggesting that different strains of P. copri might have different roles in rheumatoid arthritis progression, say the researchers.

Further analysis indicated that both enrichment (three) and depletion (five) of Prevotellaceae-specific strains were associated with progression.

While P. copri strains were most strongly associated with clinical risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis, other Prevotellaceae strains were also implicated, including Alloprevotella, Paraprevotella clara, Prevotella stercorea, Prevotellamassilia timonensis and Prevotella shahii.

The greatest instability in gut microbiome profile was seen among those who developed arthritis up to 10 months before diagnosis. But this profile was relatively stable in those diagnosed after this time—10–15 months before the development of rheumatoid arthritis. This suggests that changes in the gut microbiome are a late stage phenomenon, say the researchers.

This is an observational study, precluding any firm conclusions to be drawn about causal factors. And the researchers acknowledge various study limitations, including the small number of participants, the relatively short monitoring period, and the lack of direct one on one comparison between the at-risk and healthy participants.

But they conclude, “Individuals at risk of [rheumatoid arthritis] harbor a distinctive gut microbial composition, including but not limited to an overabundance of Prevotellaceae species. This microbial signature is consistent and correlates with traditional risk factors.

“Longitudinal examination shows a dynamic microbial environment preceding [rheumatoid arthritis] onset. Further research into this late phase of disease development is merited, especially given the potential of the gut microbiome as a target for prevention, including in high-risk individuals with imminent arthritis.”

More information: Dynamics of the gut microbiome in individuals at risk of rheumatoid arthritis: a cross-sectional and longitudinal observational study, Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (2024). DOI: 10.1136/ard-2024-226362

Provided by British Medical Journal

Dysbiosis means that you have an imbalance in the different types of microscopic organisms living in your body. If there are too many of some types and not enough of others, they don’t work with you as they should, and they might work against you. In particular, dysbiosis in your gut may have broad effects on your health.

What is dysbiosis?

Dysbiosis is an imbalance within a community of microorganisms living together — a microbiome. Our bodies are host to several distinct microbiomes — communities of microorganisms that live with us and assist us in various ways. A balanced microbiome is one where there’s a healthy diversity of microorganisms, where no single bacteria, virus or fungus dominates. Dysbiosis means there’s a lack of diversity and pH balance. When they’re imbalanced, it changes how they function in your body.

How does dysbiosis affect me?

In any microbiome, a lack of diversity and balance can pave the way for one type of microorganism to take over. Dysbiosis makes us more vulnerable to infections from germs living inside and outside of our bodies. It can also interfere with other important services that our microbiomes normally provide for us. For instance, your gut microbiome provides you with many services by interacting with your body in a multitude of ways.

What can gut dysbiosis lead to?

Bacterial dysbiosis in your gut is directly involved in various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases affecting your digestive system, including:

• Bacterial infections like H. pylori and C. difficile.
• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
• Inflammatory bowel diseases, like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
• General digestive difficulties, like diarrhea, constipation and gas.

But your gut microbiome also interacts with your brain and with many of your other body systems, including your:

• Immune system.
• Nervous system.
• Endocrine system.

Gut dysbiosis may be indirectly involved in a variety of other conditions, including:

• Malnutrition.
• Malabsorption.
• Food intolerances.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Atherosclerosis.
• Fatty liver disease.
• Metabolic syndrome.
• Chronic inflammation.
• Chronic fatigue.
• Mood disorders.

Symptoms and Causes

Dysbiosis may cause different symptoms in your gut, mouth, genitals or skin

What are the signs and symptoms of dysbiosis?

You might have dysbiosis in your mouth, on your skin, in your intestine or in your urinary system if you have signs or symptoms of a bacterial, viral or fungal infection or overgrowth there. These might include:

• Bleeding gums, tooth decay and cavities.
• Atopic dermatitis or acne.
• Bloating, gas and poop changes.
• Painful urination, genital discharge or itching.

Intestinal dysbiosis, in particular, may have broader effects — though it’s hard to tell when symptoms outside of your gut relate to your gut microbiome. If you’ve recently developed intestinal symptoms together with other symptoms, like mood changes or weight changes, they might be related.

What causes dysbiosis?

Different things in your internal and external environment can affect your microbiomes, including:

• Antibiotics and antimicrobial agents.
• Other drugs and medications.
• Smoking and alcohol use.
• Environmental toxins.
• Physical and psychological stress.
• Chronic inflammation.
• Chronic diseases.
• Food choices.

Microbiomes are resilient overall, but heavy or long-term exposure to one of these factors, or a combination of several, could cause significant changes. Environmental factors can harm some types of microorganisms while encouraging others, leading to an imbalance. Helpful types of microorganisms might not be able to do their jobs well enough, while the unhelpful types might do more damage.

Diagnosis and Tests

Is there a test to diagnose dysbiosis?

Healthcare providers can diagnose infections with various lab tests. They might take a sample of your blood, poop or urine (pee) or take a swab from your skin, mouth or genitals to test for infection or overgrowth. A pathologist examines the sample in the lab to make the diagnosis. For gut dysbiosis, sometimes a breath test is enough to tell providers about the types of bacteria dominating in your gut.

Management and Treatment

What is the treatment for dysbiosis?

Treatment for dysbiosis depends on the cause. If an underlying disease or condition causes it, you’ll need specific treatment for that condition. If environmental and lifestyle factors contribute to your dysbiosis, your healthcare provider will work with you to change these factors. Environmental and lifestyle changes can usually benefit anyone with dysbiosis, regardless of other causes involved.

If you have an infection or overgrowth, your healthcare provider might need to target it directly with antibiotics, antivirals or antifungals. These medications can diminish the infection or overgrowth, but they can also diminish the helpful types of microorganisms. Some microbiomes will bounce back after treatment, but others might need more follow-up care to help restore their diversity and health.

This might include:

• Probiotics.
• Targeted nutrition.
• In rare cases, fecal microbiota therapy.

Living With

Can I fix gut dysbiosis naturally?

With the right environmental conditions in place, most microbiomes can recover from dysbiosis naturally. You can help it along by making some long-term lifestyle changes, such as:

• Reducing substance use.
• Changing medications if necessary.
• Reducing exposure to environmental toxins.
• Managing stress and addressing its causes.
• Feeding your gut microbiome healthy foods.
• Using probiotics or other supplements, if recommended.

A healthcare provider can help you isolate the factors influencing your microbiome and what it might need to recover. They might recommend specific probiotics or supplements to support your gut health.

What kind of diet helps heal gut dysbiosis?

The simplest way to improve your gut health naturally is to make sure you’re feeding it a diverse and plant-rich diet. Different types of gut bacteria need different types of plant fibers and micronutrients to thrive, so diversity in your diet promotes diversity in your gut microbiome. Whole foods, like plants, also tend to be anti-inflammatory, which makes conditions in your gut friendlier to the friendly bacteria.

Foods to include:

• A variety of whole fruits and vegetables, rich in prebiotic fiber.
• Fermented foods, like yogurt, pickles, miso soup or sauerkraut, rich in probiotics.
• Healthy sources of fats, like fish, nuts and plant oils, which are anti-inflammatory.

Is apple cider vinegar (ACV) with the mother considered better

because it contains more nutrients from the apple, including pectins, malic acid, lactic acid, acetic acid, citric acid, vitamin C, and beta-carotene. “The mother” is probiotic and stimulates the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. Some studies also suggest that raw, unpasteurized ACV with “the mother” can help lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar levels, and provide beneficial antioxidants. 

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Foods to avoid:

• Fast and fried foods, high in inflammatory saturated fats.
• Candy, soda and sweets, high in added sugar.
• Packaged and convenience foods, high in additives and preservatives.

How Sugar throws off Gut microbiome – Search Videos

Articles • By Dr. Jessica Czuba

How Sugar Affects Your Gut and Why It Matters 

Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria that help with digestion, immunity, and even mood. But when you eat too much sugar, it can mess with the balance of these bacteria and lead to problems. Here’s how sugar can impact your gut and health:

1. Bad Bacteria Thrive on Sugar
   Too much sugar feeds harmful bacteria and yeast in your gut, like Candida. This can mess up the balance of good bacteria, causing digestive issues, inflammation, and even contributing to things like anxiety and depression.
2. Increased Inflammation
   Sugar can trigger inflammation in your gut, leading to a condition called “leaky gut.” This means harmful particles can leak into your bloodstream, causing bigger health issues over time.
3. Nutrient Absorption Problems
   Excess sugar can stop your gut from properly absorbing important nutrients like vitamins and minerals. This can leave you feeling drained and lower your immunity.
4. Impact on Mental Health
   Your gut is connected to your brain, so a messed-up microbiome can affect your mood. High sugar diets have been linked to mood swings, anxiety, and even depression.

How to Protect Your Gut
To keep your gut and body healthy, try to:

• Cut back on sugary foods and drinks.
• Eat more fiber-rich foods like fruits, veggies, and whole grains to feed good bacteria.
• Add probiotics (like yogurt or kimchi) to support healthy gut bacteria.

Keeping sugar in check and supporting your gut can help you feel better physically and mentally!

How to eat carbs without spiking your blood sugar, according to a nutrition researcher

Additional Common Questions

Is dysbiosis related to leaky gut syndrome?

Leaky gut syndrome isn’t yet a recognized medical diagnosis. But the theory does involve bad bacteria in your gut. Certain types of gut bacteria will attack and erode your gut lining, weakening your gut barrier. And certain types will produce toxins as byproducts. If these toxins leaked through your weakened gut barrier into your bloodstream, theoretically they might cause an inflammatory response.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

We’re still learning about the many ways that gut dysbiosis might affect our health. Beyond everyday gastrointestinal conditions, your gut microbiome may play a part in a wide range of chronic diseases. We don’t have it all figured out yet. But we do know that diet and lifestyle factors can have a major impact on your gut microbiome. If you think you might have gut dysbiosis, this is a great place to start.

The Role of the Gut Microbiota in Health, Diet, and Disease with a Focus on Obesity

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In her family, six members have been diagnosed with the same cancer.

Terri Ann DiJulio has been diagnosed with lung cancer three times. 

One of the most interesting parts of her story is that she never had any symptoms. Her lung cancer was discovered through an incidental pulmonary nodule found when she went to the emergency room due to feeling pressure in her chest.

With her survivorship comes a profound sense of responsibility to do something, to make a difference so that it can help other people. She believes she’s here for a reason and wants to do something meaningful with this gift of life.

In addition to Terri Ann’s narrative, The Patient Story offers a diverse collection of lung cancer stories. These empowering stories provide real-life experiences, valuable insights, and perspectives on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for cancer.

This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions

• Name: Terri Ann D.
• Diagnosis:
  • Lung Cancer
• Staging:
  • 1
• Initial Symptoms:
  • None; incidental lung nodule finding
• Treatment:
  • Lobectomy
  • Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)
  • Wedge resection

I’ve been diagnosed three times over many years of being stable so now, it’s always in the back of my mind.

Table of Contents

I never had symptoms. 

My lung cancer was discovered through an incidental pulmonary nodule found in the emergency room.

Interviewed by:

Alexis Moberger

I’m an avid cyclist. I actually use cycling as a fundraising tool for [the] lung cancer community.

I’m an artist. I have an art studio in my home. I had a 35-ish-year career in event planning and just dissolved my company to move into the next chapter.

I do a little bit of everything. I was considered a master craftsman in jewelry design and metalsmithing. But, unfortunately, that is a little bit toxic so after my second lung cancer diagnosis, I gave that up.

Right now, I’m working in encaustics, which is working with warm wax, and I’m also working with alcohol inks.

I like to write, read, art, and cycle.

First lung cancer diagnosis

No initial symptoms

The most interesting part is I never had symptoms. My lung cancer was discovered through an incidental pulmonary nodule found in the emergency room. Because it was early stage, my lung cancer had no symptoms whatsoever.

My primary care physician urged [me to go] to the emergency room because I was feeling pressure in my chest. My heart turned out absolutely fine. I was just a little stressed at work. Turned out to be anxiety. It was a blessing that I had a very stressful job and ended up in the emergency room.

They found a nodule in my right lung. They watched it every six months for a couple of years. It was a follow-up program now more formally called an IPN (incidental pulmonary nodule) management program that a lot of hospitals have.

When it changed, I was sent to a thoracic surgeon who was going to biopsy it while it was on the table. It was malignant [so] they removed the lower right lobe of my lung during surgery.

I was 42 when it was found and 44 when it was diagnosed. 

We watched it for two full years.

I knew nothing about lung cancer then. Everybody kept saying, “We think it’s something you were born with.” It hadn’t changed. Every time I went, it was stable so I actually didn’t think about it during those two years.

Since then, I’ve been diagnosed three times over many years of being stable so now, it’s always in the back of my mind.

A year after my first diagnosis, my mother was diagnosed with lung cancer [in] the exact same way.

The following year, they found something in my upper right lung so back to surgery I went. The good news is that turned out to be scar tissue from the first surgery. I was watched every six months for five years and then annually from then on.

I was no evidence of disease for 11 years between my first and second lung cancer diagnoses. Typically, at around the 10-year mark, you’re in the clear. But I wasn’t.

A year after my first diagnosis, my mother was diagnosed with lung cancer [in] the exact same way. She went to the emergency room thinking she was having a heart attack and it turns out that she had stage 3 lung cancer.

I’ve had lung cancer three times. I was the very first one in my family diagnosed. Six of us have been diagnosed with lung cancer. Two of us were diagnosed early. Two of us survived the disease.

We’ve never been able to participate in studies. When everybody was first diagnosed, they weren’t doing that so we don’t know. We did find out the mutations of one family member who died two years ago.

Find out your risk for hereditary cancer »

  

Based on where it was located, the surgeon told me the only surgical option was to remove my entire lung.

Second lung cancer diagnosis

Because I was in a management program, we also discovered the second early. My pulmonologist left clinical medicine [so] I had to find a new pulmonologist. We are lucky to have Penn Medicine in our backyard. My uncle was going to a pulmonologist there so I went [to] his pulmonologist.

I was on annual X-rays at that point and he said, “I can’t really see anything on an X-ray. Go get a CAT scan, come back, and we’ll probably just do annual screenings.” I got a CAT scan, went in for my appointment, and that’s when he told me I had lung cancer for the second time.

It was in my right lung. I’ve already had two surgeries [on] my right lung. It was small but based on where it was located, the surgeon told me the only surgical option was to remove my entire lung. The tumor was pretty small so we didn’t want that.

I met with radiation oncology and they were able to treat me with SBRT (stereotactic body radiation therapy), which is like targeted radiation. It pretty much obliterated the nodule.

When I was first diagnosed, that treatment was not available to me or my mother because they weren’t doing SBRT on a moving organ. You could have targeted radiation on your brain, but you couldn’t have targeted radiation on your lungs. But since the advances in treatment, I was able to have that.

I suffered an embolic stroke. Nobody really knows why other than it could have been related to my cancer diagnosis.

Differences in treatment options

My first surgeries were so difficult. I was in the hospital for over a week each time — very painful chest tubes, months of recovery, [and] thoracotomies. It was hard. 

[With] radiation, [on] my third day of treatment, I went for a 20-mile bike ride. Ten days after my treatment, I was exhausted and spent about two days in bed. That was the only side effect I had from radiation.

I’ve been so lucky because my first one was diagnosed early. We’ve been watching it so every diagnosis I have has been at an early stage.

Follow-up protocol

After about six months, they found a cloudy spot on one of the vertebrae in my spine. At that point, I was following up with my pulmonologist. They sent me to medical oncology because we weren’t sure if it was damage or metastasis.

I’m happy to say it wasn’t metastasis. It was from radiation.

[In January 2018], I suffered an embolic stroke. Nobody really knows why other than it could have been related to my cancer diagnosis because a blood clot shut down my internal right carotid artery. It took me probably eight months to recover.

From then, I was stable, [had] no evidence of disease, and followed up every six months for two and a half years. Then they discovered something else and I was switched to every three months until my third lung cancer diagnosis.

‘If I go with radiation, is it possible that that will hinder treatment down the road should I have a fourth diagnosis?’

Third lung cancer diagnosis

They found a tumor in my left lung, which was my good lung.

I was getting low-dose CT scans every three months. When they discover something they’re unsure of, I get a PET/CT to see if anything lights up.

They saw something suspicious; a solid nodule that wasn’t there before. We wanted to watch it until it comes to the point [that] we’re pretty sure this needs attention. Sometimes the treatment or the biopsy is harder on your body.

It got to the point [where] it’s changed. It’s grown. It needs attention. I met with a thoracic surgeon and all the different doctors. Then I came back to my pulmonologist to make the final decision.

Quite frankly, I didn’t want surgery. I had an awful experience with my first two surgeries. I wanted radiation.

My radiation oncologist said, “You’re strong and healthy. Surgery really is your best option. But if you want me to radiate this, I can get it. It’s your choice.”

I asked him one question that changed my mind. “If I go with radiation, is it possible that that will hinder treatment down the road should I have a fourth diagnosis?”

He said, “It’s possible that if you go with radiation, you won’t be able to have surgery down the road because of the damage radiation will do to your lung,” and that is all I needed to hear.

The surgeon felt confident that he could get it and that the surgery would be easier. I chose surgery.

‘A second tumor glowed that didn’t show up on any of your scans.’

Terri Ann’s surgeon

Participating in a clinical trial to study TumorGlow

When I asked how he was going to find the tumor, he said, “My fingers are small. We’re going to make the incision and then we feel around for it.” I said, “That’s what they were doing all those years ago.”

My surgeon was a principal investigator in a study [for] TumorGlow. He said, “I don’t know [if] it will really help you, but you can be in the study.” It was a randomized phase 3 trial for an imaging agent. They inject you with a fluorescent dye the night before your surgery.

He said, “We don’t know if you’ll get it or not. 

I located the tumor in the operating room. They open the envelope and if you get the study, we can use the special camera that allows the tumor to glow and we cut it out.” I said, “I’m in. Please sign me up.”

I’m a total lung cancer science geek now because of all the advocacy work I’ve done so I wanted to do it. I qualify.

I woke up from surgery and said, “Did I get the special envelope?” They said, “Not only did you get the special envelope, a second tumor glowed that didn’t show up on any of your scans.”

Find out more about clinical trials »

Both tumors were in my left lung. They’re really pretty close to each other.

Finding a second tumor

Both tumors were malignant. Because my doctor knows who I am and how active I am, he took out as little lung as he needed to with clean margins. I went right back into my world after I recovered from my surgery. I’m still able to cycle, be active, and do all the things that I love to do.

That imaging agent was just FDA-approved for lung cancer in December 2022 so it felt amazing to participate in that, that it helped me personally, and that now it can help all these other patients.

I have a picture of my glowing tumors. My best friend knows how much I love beautiful things. I sent her that image and she sent back these altered images of that surrounding it. We titled it “Beauty and the Beast” and I now have it as a piece of artwork.

Both tumors were in my left lung. They’re really pretty close to each other so he was able to get them both out in the same wedge. He checked my entire lung. At the time, these were the only tumors in my left lung.

I like to know how things are going to work. 

It’s just the type of patient I am. I don’t like surprises.

Participating in treatment decision-making

I wanted assurance that it wasn’t going to be the same. I also like to know how things work. I like to understand. I remember the first time asking my doctor, “Walk me through it,” and that’s when I learned.

He said, “We collapsed your lung.” I said, “How do I survive surgery if you collapse my lung?” Your other lung does all the work. When he was describing a thoracotomy, he said, “Then we cut and use a rib spreader.” I actually looked at him and said, “Okay, now I think I’ve asked one too many questions.”

I like to know how things are going to work. It’s just the type of patient I am. I don’t like surprises.

I’ve been blindsided a couple of times [when] I walked in thinking everything was going to be fine just to find out it’s not.

Reaction to a third lung cancer diagnosis

I always knew in the back of my mind that this is just part of my life, but it’s still really stressful. Even with early-stage lung cancer, knowing they can cut it out, radiate it, treat it, and you can still live, it’s still very stressful and weary, quite honestly.

It’s always in the back of my mind. It never leaves. In the cancer community, we fondly refer to it as scanxiety. You get your scan then you have to wait to find the results. Typically, I’m fine, but I’ve been blindsided a couple of times [when] I walked in thinking everything was going to be fine just to find out it’s not. That never leaves you.

Managing scanxiety

What I try and focus on is that there is nothing I can do. Until I know there is something that needs action, I’m not going to waste the precious time I have worrying about it. It can be in the back of my mind and I can acknowledge it, but I don’t have to allow it to be all-consuming.

I can continue to live my happy, beautiful, blessed life and worry about it when I have something to worry about. Otherwise, I try to put it in the back of my mind.

Exercise helps me clear my head. With everything that has happened in my family, I’ve done a lot of work on being present. I’ve done a lot of internal work. I’ve done a lot of reading. Being present and trying to bring myself into the present moment is what helps me when I’m dealing with uncertainty.

What am I doing right here [at] this moment? All I know is what’s happening [at] this very moment. Learning techniques to keep me in the present moment helps tremendously with scanxiety.

Advice from cancer patients on how to cope with scanxiety »

We desperately need advances in the lung cancer space. 

If I can do something to help those advances, then I’m happy to do it.

Preparing for the clinical trial

There were a ton of documents I had to sign. Quite frankly, for being such an informed patient, I didn’t read every word. You have to go through a book — all the things that can happen, all the things that might not happen. I just signed the papers.

The prep wasn’t that bad. I went the day before [and] was injected with the fluorescent dye, which took about half my day because I had to be monitored, then I got to go home. The next day, I came back for my surgery.

Deciding to participate in a clinical trial

This was an easy decision for me. It was enhancing a treatment that we felt confident was going to be successful.

I really didn’t think there would be any benefit to me other than assisting the surgeon. In this particular situation, not only did it benefit me but the fact that it could help other patients is what was most appealing to me. It was taking science to another level.

I imagine it’s scary for later-stage patients going into clinical studies where they’re hopeful it is going to work to slow down the progression of their cancer.

There are so many components to being involved in a clinical study. Putting my good result aside, the most appealing to me is that we desperately need advances in the lung cancer space. If I can do something to help those advances, then I’m happy to do it.

Thirty days after surgery, I went on a 30-mile bike ride to celebrate. 

I could never have done that 18 years ago.

Recovering after lung surgery

This surgery was so different than my first surgery. I was only in the hospital [for] three days. I came home, took it easy, and gradually worked my way up.

I started with walking. But 30 days after surgery, I went on a 30-mile bike ride to celebrate. I could never have done that 18 years ago. I was still in pain 30 days after surgery. I wasn’t cleared. That was pretty miraculous and something to be celebrated.

Follow-up protocol

I had COVID in August 2022 and had some lung damage so [I] was put back onto a three-month follow-up because we weren’t exactly sure what was going on.

I was just released back to a six-month follow-up and we’ll probably stay there for a couple of years as long as everything stays stable. I am considered NED and have no evidence of disease right now.

Every once in a while, I get a text or an email from one of my doctors saying they have a patient that’s interested in advocacy.

Being a patient advocate

I’m a pretty outspoken advocate for our community. I get really involved in fundraising and legislative policy.

I tell them all the things I’m involved with and that our community would welcome other patients. If any of their patients want to get involved, [they’re] free to pass along my information. Every once in a while, I get a text or an email from one of my doctors saying they have a patient that’s interested in advocacy.

I end up working with fellow patients of my doctors, telling them all the ways that they can get involved if they’re interested. I tell my doctors who I am, what’s important, how I can help, and how I want to help.

Cancer patients share how they advocated for themselves » 

How I Found Out I Had Lung Cancer: I had NO Symptoms At First | Terri Ann’s Story

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It Turned Out To Be Lung Cancer – Lung Cancer Survivor Story: Missy Spease – YouTube

As someone who has spent her career in healthcare helping others, Missy Spease never expected to become a patient. She credits her co-workers with insisting she have her persistent cough evaluated. It turned out to be lung cancer.

Lung Cancer care at Wake Forest Baptist: Lung Cancer care at Wake Forest Baptist: – Search

 Comprehensive Cancer Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina:  https://www.wakehealth.edu/cancer/ – Search

Find Us: Comprehensive Cancer Center Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center Medical Center Boulevard Winston-Salem, NC 27157 Request an Appointment: 336-716-WAKE TRANSCRIPT: MISSY SPEASE/CANCER SURVIVOR: Cancer’s not always a death sentence. Though when you are the patient and you’re diagnosed with cancer, the first thing you think of is: I’m going to die. And life becomes different. I had had a cough- a previous cough from having bronchitis. The nurse that I worked with said, Missy, you still have that cough.

And I was like, I’m good. I promise you I am good. And she’s like: No. Get back there and get a chest x-ray. I saw Dr. Guerrini. He ordered a chest x-ray for me. I had the chest x-ray and I went back to work. A couple hours later, Dr. Guerrini came to me and said: I need to speak to you for just a moment in private. I’m a little bit in shock. But you know, things like this don’t happen to me. So I didn’t think anything of it. It’s probably just an infection. My primary care doctor- Dr. Blake Long- scheduled me to see Dr. Chen in Pulmonary. I saw him, he did the biopsy.

And he informed me: We were able to swab inside the lung and there are definitely cancer cells. Immediately for me, it’s guilt. I was a smoker for 30 years- you know, what have I done to myself? So I met with the TOPS clinic to have the availability to go and to sit down with three doctors- my cardiothoracic surgeon, my oncologist, and my radiation oncologist.

And then the three got together and they spoke with each other- you know- what’s the plan? What should we do?

From three different aspects. They told me I had Stage IIIB lung cancer. And I knew that that was pretty serious- being in the medical field. So, they scheduled my surgery for February 1, Dr. Lata sat me down and explained to me that he needed to go into the mediastinal area and check those lymph nodes because those would not pick up on an MRI and he needed to check those to make sure.

So I went on February 1, which also ended up being the same day as my son’s last basketball game and homecoming. And I thought: Oh, my goodness! He’s a senior. I’m missing homecoming. It was a very trying day. My whole entire family was there at six o’clock in the morning to see me off to surgery.

I went in at six a.m. and I woke up at 5:30 p.m. The tumor was an aggressive tumor. He got it out. He removed the right upper lobe. And then he sent the lymph nodes for pathology and when those came back, all three lymph nodes were negative. With them being negative, it means I do not have to do chemo- I do not have to do radiation.

You know, now I’m recovering from surgery and it’s like: Wow. Really. So, I go from a Stage IIIB to a Stage IB. And this is all due to early detection. I am so thankful for the nurse that pushed me, the doctors that took care of me, my family, my friends that supported me, and where I’m at today. So, I’ve always wanted to be a runner. So I started training. We did the Tough Mudder in November, that very same year.

And now I am training with my older brother to do a full marathon in Honolulu December 13th of this year. There’s just so many things that we can do for ourselves to detect cancer early and the options are there. I didn’t think this would happen to me- but it does happen to us- mom, co-worker, wife. And it can happen to anyone. And during this time, I had friends whose niece was diagnosed with lung cancer one month after me that had progressed.

And she passed away the very same year- actually three months later. And you know, I took that really hard- knowing that could have been me. Without early detection, that would have been me. And you know, both my boys that year graduated, one graduated from high school, one graduated from college in May and I was informed that had it not been for my early detection, I would not have been here in May of 2013 to see my two boys graduate.  #lungcancersymptoms #thepatientstory #lungcancer

Terri Ann has been diagnosed with lung cancer three times. With her first diagnosis, she had no symptoms and it was only discovered when she went to the emergency room due to feeling pressure in her chest. Since her first diagnosis, six of her family members have also been diagnosed with lung cancer. In this conversation, she shares how she’s processed being diagnosed three times, being part of a clinical trial and how she’s been able to catch each diagnosis early. She also shares how her survivorship has made her a fierce lung cancer advocate. 4x Cancer survivor – Search

Full story & transcript → Terri Ann’s Lung Cancer Story – She had zero symptoms