Don’t Let Your Brain Cry for Help Silently

Article by Dr. Luu Duy Khanh – Neurologist, No. 1 People’s Hospital, Shanghai

As a neurologist with more than 16 years of experience, I have seen hundreds of patients – from young to old – come to the clinic with fatigue, persistent headaches, insomnia, memory loss, or even seizures or strokes without warning. They often come when the condition is severe, when the nerve damage has been silently developing for many years.

I write this article not to make you worry, but to remind you that neuro-brain health is the core of life and alertness. And sadly, most of us only pay attention to the brain when it has started to… fight back.

Remarkable Statistics – And Full of Warnings

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1 billion people worldwide are living with neurological diseases, the most common of which are migraines, epilepsy and sleep disorders.

Every year, the world records about 15 million cases of stroke, of which 5 million people die and another 5 million suffer severe neurological sequelae.

In China, the number of people with chronic sleep disorders accounts for 38% of the adult population – an alarming number.

These numbers are not just data – but real people, real families are affected by declining neurological health.

The Brain – A Masterpiece and a Weakness

The brain is an organ that accounts for only about 2% of the body’s mass, but consumes up to 20% of the body’s oxygen and energy. All emotions, memories, movements, thinking, heart rate regulation, even the immune system – all have a “central controller” located here. However, neurons do not have the ability to regenerate like other tissues in the body. Once damage occurs, recovery becomes extremely difficult. Therefore, early detection – early intervention is the key to survival in our specialty.

Causes of common neurological problems

1. Migraine

Causes: Often related to vascular, hormonal, stress or genetic disorders.

Age of influence: Most common in the 20–45 age group, especially in women.

Effects: Decreased productivity, mood disorders, and the ability to care for children.

2. Sleep disorders

Causes: Work pressure, overuse of electronic devices, anxiety, melatonin disorders.

Effects: Decreased memory, increased risk of dementia, depression, cardiovascular disease.

Age: Occurs at all ages, but is especially common after age 35.

3. Stroke

Causes: High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, lack of exercise.

Age: Usually occurs after the age of 50, but is currently getting younger - many cases are recorded under the age of 40.

Harm: High mortality, or leaving hemiplegia, loss of language, severe memory disorders.

4. Epilepsy

Causes: Traumatic brain injury, genetics, encephalitis, cerebrovascular malformations.

Harm: Affects learning, work, potentially dangerous when driving, swimming.

Age: Appears from young children to the elderly, often starting in adolescence.

So what can you do to prevent and protect your brain?

Don't take headaches, insomnia or prolonged dizziness lightly.

These symptoms can be early warning signs of a serious neurological disorder.

Exercise regularly - at least 30 minutes/day

Especially exercises that increase cerebral blood circulation such as walking, swimming, tai chi, yoga.

Maintain a stable circadian rhythm and sleep

Get enough sleep 7-8 hours every night, avoid using the phone 1 hour before going to bed.

Eat scientifically

Supplement omega-3, green vegetables, fruits, reduce fast food, avoid alcohol and tobacco.

Get regular check-ups if you have a history of high blood pressure, diabetes or a relative who has had a stroke

Early detection can reduce the risk of stroke recurrence by up to 80%.

Get medical advice when there are unusual signs

If you experience anxiety, fatigue, forgetfulness, insomnia - do not hesitate to contact a neurologist for proper guidance.

Message from a doctor

The brain does not make a sound when it hurts. It just silently deteriorates day by day, until you feel like you are no longer yourself. Don't wait until then.

I believe that taking care of your nervous system is as important as taking care of your heart, because it is where all your actions, emotions, and memories come from.

If you or a loved one is experiencing sleep problems, headaches, memory loss, seizures, or is at risk for stroke, I am here to help you on your journey to brain health – whether in person or via remote consultation.

Give your brain a break, a chance to be understood – and a chance to heal.