top of page

If you or a loved one suffer from anxiety, you are probably all too familiar with searching for ways to ease the symptoms. Whether trying different techniques to relax or looking for the perfect medication, it can be a difficult and long journey. Unfortunately, some of the most commonly prescribed anxiety medications may do more harm than good in the long run.


Anxiety Medications Lorazepam, Alprazolam and Diazepam May All Increase Risk Of Alzheimer's Disease

Anxiety Medication: Good For Short-Term Use, But Not Prolonged!


While anxiety medications are often prescribed for short-term use, some people end up taking them for much longer. Prolonged use of anxiety medication can have a number of negative side effects, including an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.


According to a study published in The BMJ by researchers from France and Canada, taking the drugs for three months or longer may significantly increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease years later. The drugs have been linked to short-term cognitive impairment, but the link to Alzheimer's disease has been less clear. The new study discovers a convincing, and seemingly strong link between benzodiazepines and Alzheimer's disease.


Example of benzodiazepine

Benzodiazepines work by binding to GABA receptors in the brain. This increases the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that inhibits nerve cell activity. This action makes benzodiazepines effective at reducing anxiety and inducing sleep. Some benzodiazepines example:

  • alprazolam

  • chlordiazepoxide

  • clorazepate

  • diazepam

  • halazepam

  • lorazepam

  • oxazepam

  • prazepam

  • quazepam


Anxiety Attacks Can Be Triggered By Many Things - Here's What You Need To Know


For many people, anxiety is a normal and even healthy part of life. But for some, anxiety can become so overwhelming that it triggers an anxiety attack. These attacks can be extremely frightening and may even feel like a heart attack or stroke.


It's important to understand what can trigger an anxiety attack so that you can be prepared to manage the symptoms. Anxiety attacks are often caused by a combination of environmental, and internal life stressor factors. Common triggers include:


Internal factors:

Stress is the most common internal factor that triggers anxiety attacks. People may experience anxiety as a result of a variety of life stressors. These are not universal and can have different effects on different people.


When you are under a lot of stress, your body produces more adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can cause your heart to race and your breathing to become shallow. This can lead to an anxiety attack.


Extreme fatigue & lack of sleep is another trigger for anxiety attacks. When you're tired, your body is more vulnerable to stress and anxiety. This can create a vicious cycle - you're anxious because you're not sleeping, and then you can't sleep because you're anxious.


Medical problems. Some heart, lung, and thyroid conditions can cause symptoms that are similar to or worsen anxiety symptoms.


Environmental factors:

Environmental factors, such as noise or a change in routine, can also be a trigger of an anxiety attack.


People who suffer from anxiety often live in fear of having another attack. They may avoid places or activities that they associate with the attack. This can make it difficult to go about their everyday lives.


Hidden Signs of Anxiety: What You Should Know

Hidden Signs of Anxiety: What You Should Know


You may feel like you're doing just fine, but what if there's something going on behind the scenes? Something that's affecting your work, your relationships, and your day-to-day life? Many of us suffer from hidden anxiety. It's a sneaky condition that can creep up on us slowly and take hold before we even realize it. But there are warning signs. If you're aware of them, you can get help before anxiety takes over.


Here are some hidden signs of anxiety that you should know about.


  1. Feeling restless or on edge: If you find yourself feeling wound up and unable to relax, it could be a sign of anxiety.

  2. Difficulty concentrating: An anxious mind can be a wandering mind. If you’re having trouble focusing on tasks or conversations, it could be due to anxiety.

  3. Changes in sleep patterns: Anxiety can cause insomnia or make it difficult to fall asleep. It can also lead to daytime fatigue.

  4. Muscle tension: Do you find yourself clenching your jaw or shoulders? Or maybe you get headaches more frequently than usual? Muscle tension is a common symptom of anxiety.


Anxiety Treatment at Home


There are several ways to treat anxiety at home that can be very effective.


One way to treat anxiety at home is to exercise regularly. Exercise has been shown to be an effective treatment for anxiety and can help to reduce stress levels. Exercise can also help to improve sleep quality, which can be helpful for people with anxiety.


Another way to treat anxiety at home is to practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises. These activities can help to calm the mind and body and can be very helpful in reducing anxiety symptoms.


Finally, it is important to make sure that you are getting enough sleep each night.


If You Are On Anxiety Medications Such As Lorazepam, Alprazolam and Diazepam


If you are currently taking anxiety medication, you should be aware that some research has found that these medications may be linked to Alzheimer's disease. However, it is important not to stop immediately. Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms.


If you are concerned about the potential link between anxiety medication and Alzheimer's, talk to your doctor. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits of continuing your medication.



Related Read:

In Malaysia, it is common for couples to wait until they are financially stable before starting a family. This can often be later in life, which can make conceiving a child difficult. Couples who do struggle with fertility often feel like they are alone, as there is little public discussion of the topic. This article discusses some of the most common causes and treatments for infertility.


Fertility Struggles in Malaysia

Is Infertility A Growing Problem In Malaysia?


In Malaysia, infertility is a major health concern affecting 10-15% of the married population. Despite the high prevalence of infertility, there is still a lack of awareness and understanding of the condition among the general public.


Infertility can be a very emotionally and financially draining experience. However, with the right support and treatment, many couples are able to overcome this challenge and go on to have healthy children.


What's Causing Your Infertility? Here are the Possibilities!


Infertility in men

It’s often thought that fertility problems are only a woman’s issue, the truth is that infertility is just as likely to be a man’s problem as it is a woman’s. Some causes include:

  • Sperm Disorders - Sperm problems can be caused by inherited traits or by lifestyle choices. Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using certain medications can all reduce sperm count or unhealthy sperm health. Long-term illness (such as kidney failure), childhood infections (such as mumps), and chromosome or hormone problems are all possible causes of low sperm counts (such as low testosterone).

  • Varicoceles - Varicoceles are swollen scrotal veins. They inhibit sperm growth by preventing proper blood drainage. Varicoceles may cause blood to flow back into your scrotum from your belly. The testicles are then too hot to produce sperm. This can result in low sperm counts.

  • Immunologic Infertility - Sometimes a man's body produces antibodies that attack his own sperm. They prevent sperm from moving and working normally. This is not a common cause of male infertility.

  • Obstruction - Repeated infections, surgery (such as vasectomy), swelling, or developmental defects can all cause sperm tubes to become clogged. Sperm from the testicles cannot leave the body during ejaculation if there is a blockage.

  • Hormones - Hormones produced by the pituitary gland instruct the testicles to produce sperm. Sperm growth is hampered by low hormone levels. Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and it plays a vital role in sperm production and libido. When testosterone levels are low, sperm production can be affected. While low sex = lower chance of conceiving also.

  • Medication - Certain medications have the potential to alter sperm production, function, and delivery. These medications are commonly prescribed to treat health issues such as arthritis, depression, digestive problems, anxiety or depression, infections, high blood pressure, and cancer.


Infertility in women

In women, the cause of infertility can be due to a variety of factors, including:

  • Age - As a woman gets older, her chances of getting pregnant decrease. This is because the quality and quantity of her eggs decline with age.

  • Hormones - Hormonal imbalances can prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs or make it difficult for the fertilized egg to implant in the uterus.

  • Weight - Being either overweight or underweight can affect hormone levels and interfere with ovulation.

  • Medical conditions - Certain medical conditions like endometriosis, damage to the fallopian tube, PCOS, and thyroid problems can impact fertility.


Infertility Treatment

Infertility Treatment


There are many different types of infertility treatments, and the best course of action for each couple depends on the specific cause of their infertility.


Some common types of infertility treatments include assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). In IVF, eggs are retrieved from the woman’s ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryos are then transferred to the woman’s uterus, where they hopefully implant and grow into a healthy pregnancy.


Other types of fertility treatments include medication to stimulate ovulation, surgery to correct anatomical problems that are preventing pregnancy, and intrauterine insemination (IUI), which is a procedure in which sperm is directly inserted into the woman’s uterus.


Supplement for Infertility


There are many different factors that can contribute to infertility, and often it is a combination of several factors. One factor that is often overlooked is the role of nutrients and supplements in fertility. Here are some suggestions:


Supplement in MEN


CoQ10 is an important nutrient for overall health, but it's also critical for reproductive health. This antioxidant helps to protect sperm from damage and improve their motility.


Zinc is an important mineral for men, and it's often deficient in those with infertility. Zinc plays a role in sperm production, so supplements may improve fertility.


Selenium is a mineral that is essential for good health, but it is also important for fertility. Selenium plays a role in the production of sperm and in the development of the reproductive organs. It is also involved in the metabolism of testosterone, which is important for sperm production.


Testofen® is a natural extract derived from the Fenugreek plant. It helps to improve libido function and increase testosterone levels. AndroGuard is one of the brands with Testofen® which is designed to help men boost their testosterone levels naturally, without the use of steroids or other synthetic hormones.


Supplements for WOMEN


Folic acid is essential not only for women who are trying to conceive but also during the first three months of pregnancy. Folic acid can help you become pregnant and is an important nutrient in ensuring that your baby's spine develops normally. It is advised that women who are trying to conceive take at least 400 micrograms of folic acid daily and continue to take this supplement for the first three months of their pregnancy.


Omega 3 Fatty Acid has been scientifically proven to aid fertility by regulating hormones, promoting ovulation, and increasing cervical mucus, as well as the flow of blood to the reproductive organs (thereby improving the overall quality of the uterus).


CoQ10 not only helps to improve sperm health. It may also help to improve egg quality and increase fertilization rates.


Vitamin D is important for many aspects of health, including fertility. A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to a number of problems, including anovulation (the absence of ovulation), which can make it difficult to get pregnant.


DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone that is produced naturally by the body. It plays an important role in fertility. levels of DHEA decline as we age, which may contribute to age-related infertility.



The Link Between Stress and Infertility

The Link Between Stress and Infertility


When it comes to fertility, stress can be a major roadblock. Studies have shown that stress can have a negative impact on both men's and women’s fertility.


For women, stress can interfere with ovulation and prevent the uterus from being able to properly support a pregnancy. For men, stress can lower sperm count and quality.


While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to managing stress, there are some things you can do to help reduce its impact on your fertility. Taking breaks during the day to relax, getting regular exercise, having a good sleep and eating a healthy diet are all good ways to help manage stress levels.


How do You Know When to See a Fertility Specialist?


When you’re trying to conceive, you may wonder when to seek help from a fertility specialist. Here are some signs that it may be time to consult with a fertility doctor.


If you’ve been trying to get pregnant for more than a year without success, it’s probably time to see a fertility specialist. Age is also a factor; women over 35 may want to seek help sooner rather than later.


Other red flags include irregular or long menstrual cycles, a history of pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis, and a family history of infertility.


You should also consult a fertility specialist if you or your partner:

  • Has had three or more miscarriages

  • Struggles to achieve or maintain an erection

  • Has a history of sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea


The Bottom Line


There are many factors that you cannot control when dealing with infertility, including genetics, age, and an unpredictable cycle, to name a few. And you might not even know if the issue is on you or your partner's side.


However, providing your body with the best nutrition possible — including vitamins or herbs — is one area where you have control.


Certainly, you may consider working with a healthcare professional or specialist to find the right method to increase the chances of having a healthy pregnancy.




Related read:

Do you toss and turn all night, only to wake up feeling exhausted? Do you rely on caffeine to get through your days? You're not alone. In fact, 1 in 3 adults reports struggling with some sleep issue.


It can be challenging to get enough sleep if you can't fall asleep or wake up frequently during the night. And when you're not rested, it can affect your mood, energy levels, and overall health.


Worried About Your Sleepless Nights?

Are You at Risk for Sleepless Disorder? What are the Potential Causes?


If you find yourself tossing and turning at night, if you wake up feeling exhausted instead of rested, you may be at risk for sleepless disorder. The sleepless disorder can have many causes:


1. Stress

Your cortisol levels are high in the morning and gradually decrease throughout the day. But if your cortisol levels stay high all day, you may have trouble sleeping at night. This is because cortisol can keep you awake and interfere with your sleep cycle. Too much cortisol can also lead to anxiety and stress.


2. Physical issues

Physical issues such as body pain can keep you awake by causing discomfort and disrupting your sleep patterns. Suffering from body pain can make it tough to get a good night's sleep. You toss and turn, trying to find a comfortable position, but nothing seems to help. You wake up feeling groggy and unrested, which can make it difficult to get through your day.


3. Medical problems

If you’re an asthma sufferer, you may be at risk for a sleepless disorder. That’s the finding of a study that suggests people with asthma are twice as likely to suffer from insomnia. The study didn’t determine why asthma is linked to sleeplessness, but the researchers speculate that airway inflammation caused by the condition may lead to difficulty sleeping. Other potential medical issues that cause sleeplessness disorder include sleep apnea and menopause.


4. Mental health disorders

It's not just the physical act of sleeping that's crucial to our health – our mental health is just as important. And when that's out of balance, it can have a significant impact on our daily lives. Unfortunately, mental health disorders like depression and anxiety are often accompanied by sleeplessness.


Another potential cause of the sleepless disorder is narcolepsy, a neurological disorder that causes people to fall asleep suddenly and without warning.


5. Night shift

If you work a rotating or night shift, you are at risk for a sleepless disorder. Working these shifts can disrupt your body's natural sleep-wake cycle. This can lead to problems sleeping at night and excessive sleepiness during the day.


6. On medication

Certain medications can disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Examples of medications that can cause sleeplessness to include certain antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and allergy medications.


7. Alcohol

Alcohol can disrupt sleep patterns and make it difficult to fall and stay asleep. It can also lead to morning drowsiness, a condition that makes it hard to function during the day. Because alcohol can disrupt sleep and reduce REM sleep.


There is no one-size-fits-all solution for sleep troubles. However, by understanding the causes of your sleep problems, you may be able to find a better way to address them.


Don't Let Sleeping Problems Keep You Up at Night:  a Good Night's Sleep Solutions at Home

Don't Let Sleeping Problems Keep You Up at Night: a Good Night's Sleep Solutions at Home


One of the best ways to improve your sleep is to create a bedtime routine.

  • Make sure to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.

  • Avoid watching television or working on the computer in bed.

  • Winding down for 30 minutes before bed by reading or listening to calming music.

  • Get plenty of exercise during the day, but avoid strenuous activity within three hours of bedtime.

  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and don’t eat large meals within two hours of going to sleep.

  • Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.


Don't Let Sleeping Problems Keep You Up at Night:  a Good Night's Sleep Solutions at Home

End Your Battle With Sleeplessness/ Insomnia With These Treatment Options


The treatment for insomnia is determined by what is causing your sleep problems. Some people, for example, can help restore healthy sleep patterns by developing good sleep habits (also known as good sleep hygiene). People with medical conditions such as restless legs syndrome (RLS) or sleep apnea are likely to require medical assistance in addition to good sleep hygiene to better manage or resolve the medical condition.


Behavioural therapy

Behavioural therapy can an effective way for many people to resume getting a good night's sleep.


Behavioural therapy for sleeplessness includes:

  • Learning about good sleeping habits (sleep hygiene)

  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help you manage or eliminate worries.

  • Relaxation techniques

  • Managing the thoughts and activities (stimuli) that keep you awake

  • Reducing the amount of time you spend in bed when you are not sleeping

  • Light therapy, such as getting more sunlight or using a full-spectrum light box


Complementary approaches

While there are many prescription medications available to help, they can often come with unwanted side effects. There are also a number of complementary approaches that can be used to help overcome sleep problems. Example:

  • Certain plant remedies that help modulate the melatonin hormone for a better sleep routine.

  • Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves the use of needles to stimulate specific points on the body.

  • Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to improve health and well-being. These oils can be used in a variety of ways, including inhalation, topical application, and ingestion. Some essential oils that are known to help with sleeplessness include lavender oil, chamomile oil, and neroli oil.

  • Yoga is a great way to relax and de-stress, and it can be helpful in getting a good night's sleep.


Medication

If needed, your doctor may prescribe medication for a limited time to help you sleep. Sleeping pills are meant to help people sleep, but like all medications, they should be taken as directed by a doctor. While they can be helpful for some people, they can also be dangerous, especially if taken in high doses or for long periods of time. Some of the dangers of sleeping pills include addiction, dependency, and overdose.


Conclusion- Worried About Your Sleepless Nights?


If you are experiencing difficulty sleeping, it is important to consult with your doctor to rule out any underlying health issues. There are many things you can do to improve your sleep hygiene and help you get the rest you need.


You may also want to consider seeking professional help if sleeplessness is severely impacting your daily life.




Related read:

bottom of page