Neurosciences - December 2013 Archives

A new study suggests that a history of concussion involving at least a momentary loss of consciousness may be related to the buildup of Alzheimer’s-associated ...

The hustle and bustle of the holidays can bring unexpected medical concerns, including increased risk for heart attack and stroke. Several studies have shown that the incidence of heart attack and stroke increase in December and January, particularly on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. To minimize the risk of an unexpected visit to the emergency room, Kevin Barrett, M.D., vascular neurologist at Mayo Clinic in Florida and co-director of the Mayo Clinic Primary Stroke Center, offers these tips: Reduce stress. Eat and drink in moderation. Be vigilant with medication. Exercise — and get rest. Know the symptoms for heart attack and stroke, and don’t delay in seeking medical attention. Taking time to be mindful of stress and the triggers of heart attack and stroke can hopefully help safeguard an enjoyable and pleasant holiday season. Read news release. http://youtu.be/0Xit1Son1PI

People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are about twice as likely to develop mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – and chances are that it will include memory loss. First author of the Mayo Clinic study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings Balwinder Singh, M.D., says, “COPD is reversible in early stages, especially in smokers. These findings are important because they highlight the importance of COPD as a potential risk factor for MCI and will hopefully lead to early intervention to prevent incidence or progression of MCI.” Mayo Clinic researchers looked at about 2,000 people 70-89 year olds in the Mayo Clinic Study on Aging. Click here for news release.