HELLO FUJ,
Your sister is 76, and has been noticing forgetfullnss- for example difficulty using familiar appliances or managing money. Docots ruled out Alzheimer’s or dementia but some narrowing of veins in the brain has been noted. she also has a history of hypothyroidism, which is o longer treated. she has high blood pressure ad anxiety, for which she is on medications
HERE’S WHAT THIS MEANS
1) BRAIN BLOOD FLOW= narrow veins mean parts of her brain may get less oxygen and nutrients. This can slow thinking, cause confusion and make memory weaker
2) THYOID FUNCTION= low thyroid hormone can cause fatigue, poor memory, slow thinking, and mood changes. stopping medication may worsen these symptoms
3) AGE AND VATA INFLUENCE = In Ayurveda, aging is linked to vata imbalance, which can dry out and weaken the nervous site . this shows up as forgetfulness, anxiety and slower mental functions
4) OTHER FACTORS= medications, nutritional deficiencies, sleep issues, stress and diet can all affect cognition. Rare causes like old or parasites exist but are far less common
TREATMENT GOALS -restore thyroid balance -support brain function and memory -improve blood flow to the brain -reduce anxiety and stress -strengthen digestion and nutrient absorption -balance vata calm nervous system, reduce forgetfulness
INTERNAL MEDICATIONS
1) BRAHMI CAPSULES= 500mg cap twice daily after eals =iimproves memory, concentration, cognition
2) ASHWAGANDHA CHURNA= 1 tsp with warm milk at bedtime -reduces anxiety, strengthens nervous system
3) SHANKHAPUSHPI SYRUP= 10 ml twice daily after mels =enhances memory and clarity
4) GUDUCHI GHAN VATI= 1 tab twice daily after meals =boost m=immunity, supports metabolism
5) TRIPHALA CHURNA= 1 tsp with warm water at bedtime =gentle detox and digestive support
EXTERNAL THERAPIES
1) HEAD OIL MASSAGE = use ksheerbala taila . massage scalp gently for 10-15 min daily =improves brain circulation, calms vata
2) WARM OIL MASSAGE WHOLE BODY= use sesame oil gentle massage then warm shower =improves circulation, reduce stiffness
LIFESTYLE CHANGES -Routine=regular sleep, wake and meal times -Physical acitivity= gentle walking, stretching to improve blood flow -Reduce screen/stress= avoid unneccessry anxiety triggers -Mental stimulation= simple puzzles, reading or taking to family -Social iteraction= keeps cognition sharper
YOGA AND PRANAYAM -Sukshama vyayama- gentle joint exercise = improves circulation= daily, slow, painless movement
PRANAYAM= Anulom Vilom,== calms mind improves oxygenation
MEDITATION= reduces anxiety, improves concentration- 10-15 min daily
SIMPLE ASANAS - IF POSSIBLE -tadasana -vrikshasana -bhujangasana
DIET -favour warm, cooked easy to digest foods - soups, khichdi, dal, steamed vegetables, rice -Include healthy fats= ghee, sesame oil, nuts almonds, walnuts -brain nourishing foods= milk with turmeric or nutmeg fresh fruits seasonal, leafy greens -Avoid= cold/raw foods, processed foods, excessive coffee/tea, heavy fried meals -Hydration= sufficient warm water or herbal teas
HOME REMEDIES -Soaked almonds 5-6 overnight + warm milk in morning -Brahmi powder 1 tsp in warm milk at night for emory -ashwagandha milk before bed as advised for sleep and nervous system support -Ginger, turmeric, and honey in warm water for circulation and imunity
Thyroid removal is a major surgery and should only be done if absolutely necessary -At 76, supporting brain function, circulation, and metabolism naturally can prevent unnecccesary surgery -Regular observation of her memory, task performance, mood, and energy will help determine whether intervention is needed or if she can improve with therapy
DO FOLLOW
HOPE THIS MIGHT BE HELPFUL
THANK YOU
DR. MAITRI ACHARYA
Take second opinion from endocrinologist and neurosurgeon .
If thyroid hormone levels or normal and there are no suspicious, nodules surgery is usually not necessary, so getting a detailed endocrinology. Second opinion with lab results and imaging is essential. Get all thyroid tests ultrasounds and surgeons prescription where he has adviced surgery Cognitive changes can be used by vascular issues vitamin deficiencies or metabolic problems so a neurology review and tests for vit B12 folate iron and blood sugar can provide some important evidence Mild or parasites are less common causes Presenting clear medical documentation from multiple specialist is the safest way to question or delay surgery before it is performed
Thyroidectomy is only advisable if there’s a nodular growth or if it’s a case of thyroid cancer. Cognitive functions are more related to the brain. Get a detailed examination done by the Neurologist and movement specialist. They will guide you properly. Don’t just stick to one doctor. Take 2-3 opinion from different doctors.
Regards
Considering the situation, it’s important to approach this from both modern medicine and Ayurvedic perspectives. First, with the thyroid, hypothyroidism can indeed affect cognitive functions, but it’s usually managed with medication unless there’s a distinct issue with the thyroid itself, like nodules or cancer, warranting removal. Before any procedure, consulting with an endocrinologist for a second opinion might be prudent to ensure that the removal is truly necessary.
Exploring other causes such as mold exposure or parasites requires testing too. Mold can certainly lead to cognitive challenges, and air quality testing at home or specific mycotoxin tests might pinpoint exposure. Parasites are less likely, but a comprehensive stool analysis could rule this out. If findings indicate mold or parasites, addressing them can be impactful. Practically, ensuring proper ventilation and humidity control can minimize mold risks.
From an Ayurvedic view, it’s crucial to assess dosha imbalances, especially Vata, which can affect cognitive functions. A Vata-pacifying diet and routine might include warm, nourishing foods such as cooked grains, milk, and healthy fats. Incorporate spices like ginger and turmeric for their anti-inflammatory properties. Practicing grounding activities like yoga, meditation, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule can also support mental clarity.
Instead of focusing solely on proving others wrong, aim for a comprehensive, holistic evaluation and treatment angle. Documenting any improvements from lifestyle and dietary changes can support your case. Never hesitate to seek a complete medical assessment if symptoms persist or worsen.
In this context, it’s important to approach the issue of cognitive decline with caution. Traditional Siddha-Ayurvedic insights suggest that cognitive decline could stem from various imbalances, including vata disturbances or disruptions in the energy channels or nadis. Thyroid health is too deeply connected to metabolic and cognitive functions, as it regulates important aspects of the body’s energy use, influencing brain function. Before jumping to conclusions about mold or parasites, focus on understanding any underlying dosha imbalances.
Consider re-evaluating the current state of agni, or your digestive fire, as hypothyroidism can be connected to a sluggish agni leading to toxins or “ama” accumulation in tissues. Even though allopathic recommendations suggest surgery, exploring Ayurvedic assessments could provide complementary insights. Acharya Charaka and Subodha Bihari have shared Siddha traditions on cognitive enhancements through kantha satva (herbal formulas for brain function).
You might start with a simple routine that encompasses the following:
1. Diet: Follow a vata-pacifying diet rich in warm, cooked, easy-to-digest meals. Include herbs like ashwagandha and brahmi which are renowned for cognitive support. One could prepare a herbal tea by boiling these herbs with water and sip it twice daily.
2. Nadi Shodhan Pranayama (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Practice this to balance the mind and calm the nervous energies. Spend about 5-10 minutes daily, preferably early in the morning.
3. Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Regular full-body massage, especially using sesame oil, helps pacify vata and improve circulation, contributing to brain health over time.
Regarding the potential mold or parasites, these factors would usually have distinct symptoms—if present alongside hypothyroidism, they could contribute to existing issues, but they are not commonly primary causes for cognitive decline. It’s vital to talk to your healthcare provider for emergency thyroid symptoms rather than delaying essential treatments, if needed. Seeking a second opinion from a qualified medical practitioner may help if that’s something you feel you need.
