Deep Brain Stimulation

Brain diseases

Last Updated November 2nd, 2023

What is deep brain stimulation?

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a medical procedure that involves placing stimulating electrodes in the brain as a treatment for movement disorders.

These include essential tremor, Parkinson’s disease, and dystonia. Your primary care provider may elect to use DBS as the treatment of choice for neuropsychiatric conditions or movement disorders.

This is if side effects from other treatments are affecting your daily activities or when the medication prescribed is less effective.

The procedure involves the delivery of electrical current to a particular section of your brain to stimulate brain cells.

Your surgeon implants a small programmable generator under the skin in your upper chest for the control of brain stimulation.

While DBS is not a cure for the underlying condition, it allows for effective management. It also means you require less medication for your condition and hence fewer side effects.

Who needs deep brain stimulation?

Before you can undergo DBS surgery, your primary healthcare provider will have conducted a battery of tests, procedures, and evaluations to determine that you are the right candidate for this procedure.

You will also have to undergo a series of post-surgery consultations and evaluations to ensure the procedure went on successfully.

This may involve a lot of travel to and from the healthcare facility where DBS is conducted for such appointments. It means also that DBS can be an expensive procedure.

Most insurance products can cover DBS but the extent of coverage is determined by the insurance policy you have taken.

Your primary care provider will prepare you to have realistic expectations regarding this procedure.

DBS can considerably improve the quality of your life besides eliminating or minimizing movement problems. However, it is not a guarantee for the resumption of perfect health.

You may need deep brain stimulation to treat the following conditions:

Essential tremors

A tremor can occur because of various disorders, including inherited conditions. Essential tremors could also be because of a stroke or head injury

DBS has proven to be an effective therapy for the treatment of severe essential tremors, especially where shaking interferes with a person’s daily activities or is disabling

DBS allows such individuals to function normally and their overall health improves significantly.

Parkinson’s disease

Individuals with the following forms of Parkinson’s disease will benefit from DBS:

  • Individuals suffering from uncontrollable tremor that does not improve with medication
  • Individuals suffering from severe motor fluctuations after medication, as the effects of drugs wear off
  • Persons who would benefit from higher mediation dosages but who experience severe side effects from medication adjustments

Psychiatric conditions

DBS surgery can be effective for persons diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, or Tourette’s disorder.

Dystonia

Dystonia handsThis is a rare movement disorder that is characterized by unusual twisting and posture movements.

Patients with dystonia respond well to DBS surgery after medication cannot offer sufficient relief.

Different people respond differently to DBS based on whether dystonia is drug-induced or genetic.

In case your doctor cannot identify the cause of your dystonia, he or she will conduct additional tests as part of the DBS procedure.

Other conditions that DBS can help with:

  • Addictions
  • Anxiety
  • Eating disorders
  • Medication-resistant depression

Reasons why you may not be a good candidate for DBS

You may not make a good candidate for DBS surgery if you present with one or more of the following symptoms:

  • In case of speech difficulty
  • Problems with walking or balance
  • Ongoing problems with thinking, memory, and confusion
  • If your anxiety or depressive condition fails to stabilize or improve despite other treatments
  • In case you have an underlying condition that puts you at risk of surgery complications

Preparing for DBS

Before DBS surgery, your primary healthcare provider will arrange an initial evaluation with the movement disorder team.

This team comprises a neurologist, a neurosurgical physician assistant, a neurosurgeon, a DBS nurse coordinator, a neuropsychologist, and a movement disorders specialist.

The goal of this team is to establish that DBS surgery is the most appropriate treatment for your conditions.

During the evaluation appointment, your primary healthcare provider will order the following tests:

  • Urine and blood tests – These tests are essential for the identification of abnormalities and toxins
  • A neuropsychologist will conduct a detailed emotional and physical readiness evaluation for DBS
  • A cognitive evaluation allows the surgical team to ascertain that you can take part in the DBS surgery

Such an assessment provides your surgeon with feedback throughout surgery and across the neurostimulator adjustment process.

A cognitive assessment informs the medical team of a risk such as cognitive problems or worsened confusion after DBS surgery.

A specialist in movement disorders will also undertake a comprehensive assessment of your movements.

Once the team has concluded with the evaluation, you will meet with them and explore whether DBS is the right medical procedure for you, and the likely risk factors that might accompany this procedure.

The next medical visit is with a neurosurgeon. If you have questions regarding the surgical risks or options, feel free to ask your neurosurgeon.

This meeting will help you decide on whether to pursue DBS surgery. Your psychiatrist may assess you for anxiety, depression, or other psychiatric problems that require treatment before undergoing the DBS surgery.

Your healthcare provider may also conduct swallowing, speech, or language evaluation

Before DBS, your healthcare provider will be interested in:

Whether you are on any medication: If you are taking any medication including blood thinner, you will be asked to stop taking these.

In case you are taking other medication such as supplements and vitamins, let your healthcare provider know of this too.

Bathing – You will be instructed on how to bathe before DBS surgery. You will be provided with a special shampoo that will prepare your skin for DBS surgery.

Fasting – your healthcare provider will ask you to fast before DBS surgery due to the use of general anaesthesia.

You may not take any solid foods for at least 8 hours before DBS surgery.

Avoid taking any liquids two hours before the procedure.

Instructions on bathing and grooming – Your doctor will recommend a special shampoo for bathing.

Fasting – For at least 8 hours before DBS

During DBS

DBS surgery consists of two procedures administered at varying times.

The first of these procedures is known as lead placement. It entails inserting the stimulation lead into the brain.

The second procedure is called pulse generator and involves inserting a stimulator battery under the skin.

Before any of these procedures, your healthcare provider starts by inserting an IV line for administering medication during surgery.

Lead placement

Before the lead placement procedure, you will be sedated.

You will be shaven and your head placed on a frame with four pins to keep your head still.

After the frame has been set in place, the surgical team takes images of your brain using an intra-operative CT scanner.

The goal of these images is to reveal the trajectory adopted for placing the electrode.

After identifying the entry point, the surgical team will clean your head with surgical prep.

You will be injected with a local anaesthetic. This will numb the skull and scalp.

Your surgeon makes an incision on your scalp and makes a small opening using a surgical drill. This will aid in inserting the leads.

Your neurosurgeon may wake you up to undergo awake testing, based on the reason for DBS surgery.

After the leads have been placed, your neurosurgeon will ask you questions, and ask you to move your hands, legs, or arms in particular directions.  The goal is to assist the neurosurgeon in ascertaining that the leads are in place.

Your surgeon will order a further CT scan to ascertain the accuracy of the lead placement.

After your surgeon has confirmed your electrodes are secure, he or she will insert plastic caps at the ends of the electrodes for further protection. This is followed by cleaning of the incisions before closing.

As you recover, you will undergo another CT scan to reveal if there is any blood. This also helps to confirm electrode placement.

Your neurosurgeon may ask that you remain in the hospital overnight so that the surgical team can continue to monitor you closely.

Placement of pulse generator

This is the second procedure in DBS surgery.

The procedure is administered under general anaesthesia. It means you will not experience the discomfit or pain that accompanies the procedure.

The pulse generator placement begins with your surgeon making a small incision beneath your collarbone.

The surgeon creates a small space in the form of a punch beneath your skin. This space will hold the purse generator in place.

The next step is inserting an extension wire that is connected to the pulse generator on one end and the DBS electrodes on the other end.

Your neurosurgeon places the extension wire in the punch-like space.

The surgeon will close the incision. You will be allowed to go home on the same day of the procedure.

After DBS surgery

Brain diseasesA few weeks after the pulse implantation procedure, your doctor will organize a follow-up appointment. 

 

The aim of this follow-up appointment is to begin programming the pulse generator.

 

The device comes with an inbuilt wireless antenna. That way, your healthcare provider can access the pulse generator from outside your body and program it accordingly.

 

You may require more than one visit to your healthcare provider for the right settings of this device.

 

Most pulse generators do not require battery replacement. They are equipped with special batteries that can last for a very long time.

 

Other pulse generators come with rechargeable batteries with a lifespan of nine years. You will need to undergo a surgical procedure to replace the battery.

 

Such a procedure is quicker and shorter compared to the initial procedure when the pulse generator is implanted.

 

After battery replacement, you will be allowed to go home later in the day.

Benefits of DBS surgery 

A DBS surgery is associated with several benefits: 

 

A life-changing procedure – DBS treats various conditions that interfere with our daily routine activities.

 

A DBS procedure improves your symptoms, resulting in an overall improvement in the quality of your life.

 

Symptoms reduction: DBS surgery is associated with a considerable reduction in symptoms. For example, tremors, slowness, and stiffness.

 

For patients diagnosed with medication-resistant epilepsy who cannot undergo surgical resection, DBS minimizes the number of seizures.

 

Reversible – Your surgeon can remove the pulse generator or leads during a follow-up procedure if DBS is not working. The procedure can also be reversed if you can no longer handle the side effects.

 

It is an alternative when medication is no longer working: In case medication proves ineffective, DB can be an alternative to treatment.

 

With movement conditions like Parkinson’s disease, your healthcare provider needs to increase the dosage over time as the medication loses its effectiveness.

 

DBS surgery helps to increase the effectiveness of lower medication dosages. 

 

Minimal damage – Compared to other surgical procedures, DBS is not associated with the removal of nerve cells or damage to parts of the brain.

 

Individualized treatment – Your neurosurgeon may alter the frequency and intensity of stimulation and electrodes to suit your medical needs 

Risks 

DBS surgery may be accompanied by certain risks and complications.

 

Talk to your healthcare provider about the likely risks and complications that may accompany this procedure.

 

Some complications that may come with DBS surgery include:

 

Failure to address all the symptoms: DBS surgery may not resolve all the symptoms triggered by the movement syndrome you have been diagnosed with.

 

Invasive procedure – You are likely to be awake during DBS surgery and this can be scary for some patients.

The procedure is also invasive as the surgeon uses a scalp to access to deeper section of our brain.

 

Surgical side effects – DBS surgery is linked to such risks as bleeding, infection, stroke, fluid accumulation, swelling around the brain, and coma. 

 

Electrode malfunction and battery replacement – Shifting electrodes and wire disconnections can lead to hardware malfunction.

 

Also, you will need frequent monitoring of the controller and battery life.

 

Costly – Most insurance companies will cover DBS surgery fully or in part. It is still expensive to attend post-surgical appointments. 

Recovery 

Your recovery time after DBS surgery differs based on several factors such as your overall health, individual circumstances, and whether you have an underlying health condition.

Most patients remain in the hospital overnight after lead placement.

You will also be allowed to go home the same day the pulse generator is implanted.

On the whole, you will probably take several weeks to recover from DBS surgery.

During recovery, your healthcare provider will ask you to do the following:

  • Avoid engaging in high-intensity or moderate exercise for several weeks
  • Do not engage in household chores and other activities like sexual activity for about a fortnight after each surgery
  • You will have any staples or stitches removed about two weeks following the procedure
  • You will be advised to cover the pin sites on your head with bandages to permit in drying of the site. You will need to change the bandages daily
  • Avoid scratching the site of incision to minimize the risk of infection or causing wound damage
  • When showering make sure the water runs over your head

If you experience the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

  • In case the site of the incision is bleeding
  • In case of loss of vision or blurred vision
  • If the area around the incision feels swollen or appears red
  • Severe headache does not subside with time
  • Fever of 38.3°C and above

Cost of DBS in India  

The cost of DBS surgery in India is between Rs. 8,000,000 and Rs. 15,00,000. The price difference is based on several factors including:

  • The location of hospital – Hospitals located in metro cities that offer DBS surgery charge more for this procedure than similar healthcare facilities located in remote regions
  • Admission fee – The admission fee differs from one healthcare facility to another and this will affect the overall cost of DBS surgery
  • Diagnostic tests – Your healthcare provider will order various tests, including ECG and X-ray, and this will impact the overall cost of the DBS procedure
  • Admission room chosen – If you choose to be admitted to a deluxe room, you will pay more than someone sharing a room with another patient
  • Doctor’s fee – The doctor’s fee differs based on the level of experience and educational qualifications of the surgeon
  • Age of the patient – Older patients could be at a higher risk of developing complications after DBS surgery
  • This may necessitate extra medical attention to correct such risks and hence an increment in the overall cost of DBS surgery

 

Want to live a healthy lifestyle?

Subscribe to free FactDr newsletters.

REVAMP YOUR

LIFE

HEALTH

WELLNESS

If you're enjoying our website, we promise you'll absolutely love our new posts. Be the first one to get a copy!

Get factually correct, actionable tips delivered straight to your inbox once a week.

I want the latest scoop on :

We hate spam too. We will never share your email address with anyone. If you change your mind later, you can unsubscribe with just one click

By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the FactDr Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy and understand that I may opt out of FactDr subscriptions at any time.

Test Your Knowledge

Welcome to your Human Anatomy Quiz

Which part of the human body grows the fastest among these?
Which is the largest organ in the human body?
Where is the smallest bone in the human body located?
How much does your hair grow in a month?
What is the size of the smallest muscle of the human body?
Which is the largest bone in the human body?
Occurrence of calcium crystals is normal in this part of the body.
How many taste buds are there on the human tongue?
How many bones do new born babies have?
The anatomical name for the "windpipe" is

Take the full quiz

 

 

 

Top Stories

Trending Topics

Congestive Heart Failure ekg
EKG – Electrocardiogram An electrocardiogram, abbreviated as an ECG or an EKG, measures the electrical activity in the…
EMA antibodies
Endomysial Antibodies (EMA) Test EMA test is an investigative blood examination to locate the presence of certain antibodies, called…
rubella IgG test
Rubella IgG Test The rubella IgG test is a blood test that checks for the rubella virus IgG…
beautiful smiling woman enjoying high fiber energy bar with roughage
The importance of roughage in diet Eat these high fiber foods to increase your dietary roughage. Quick tips to boost daily…
serum electrolyte test
Serum Electrolyte If there is an electrolyte imbalance in the body, a serum electrolyte test will help…
abdominal-CT-scan- image
Abdominal CT scan Abdominal CT scan is a diagnostic imaging technique that provides a clear picture of the…
occupational hazards types
Occupational Hazards: How to vouch for your health at your workplace Occupational hazards affect millions worldwide. Chemical spills, faulty wires, deadly pathogen, and work-stress can happen…
anti-thyroglobulin antibody
Anti-Thyroglobulin Antibody test Anti-thyrogloubin antibody test measures the level of antibodies that attack the thyroid gland cells and…
thyroglobulin test
Thyroglobulin (TG) Test Thyroglobulin test helps in measuring and monitoring the concentration of thyroglobulin. This test can be…
diabetes symptoms in women
FBS Test – Fasting Blood Sugar FBS or fasting blood sugar test is a blood test that is used to determine…
DHEAS test
DHEA Sulfate (DHEAS) Test DHEAS or DHEA Sulfate test is prescribed if an individual shows symptoms of abnormal adrenal…
lp-pla2
LP-PLA2 Test The LP-PLA2 test is a test which is carried out to assess the levels of…
Hysteroscopy_procedure
Hysteroscopy Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive tool to help specialists view the uterus to diagnose and…
Tight phimosis ring
Phimosis Read to know everything about phimosis, types, symptoms, treatment, risks and prognosis for patients with…
serum zinc test
Serum Zinc Test The serum zinc test is a blood test performed to assess the zinc level in…
random blood sugar test
Random Blood Sugar Test The random blood sugar or RBS test is prescribed mainly to check the level of…
Helicobacter pylori IGA
Helicobacter Pylori – IgA Test The H.pylori IgA test is a blood test used to identify the level of IgA…
EEG
Electroencephalogram – EEG EEG or electroencephalogram is a diagnostic tool used to access the functioning of neurons and…
lifestyle diseases
The Big 5 lifestyle diseases: How your everyday living might be killing you You'd be shocked to know how unhealthy and potentially fatal your everyday routine could be.…
Maltitol: Things you must know about this artificial sweetener Sugar alcohols are produced by fruits and vegetables. Maltitol is an artificially produced sugar alcohol…
Isagenix diet weight loss
How are BMI and BMR different and what do these numbers mean? BMI and BMR are two important metrics that provide a clear picture of your body's…
Quinine: How gin and tonic came to be known as a potent health elixir The discovery of quinine-containing tree bark is sometimes considered the most serendipitous medical discovery of…
MCT oil athletes
MCT Oil : The kind of fats you should be eating MCT oil or Medium Chain Triglycerides is the new buzzword in the fitness industry. What…
Poop chart: Top things you didn’t you your poop could reveal about you Bristol poop chart was designed during the 1990s in order to help doctors identify various…
Squid-ink-spaghetti
Squid Ink: A unique food coloring and flavoring agent Want to add a unique black color to your pasta, noodles and ice-creams? How can…
Squid-ink-spaghetti
Squid Ink: A unique food coloring and flavoring agent Want to add a unique black color to your pasta, noodles and ice-creams? How can…
Squid-ink-spaghetti
Squid Ink: A unique food coloring and flavoring agent Want to add a unique black color to your pasta, noodles and ice-creams? How can…
liver detox facts
7 liver detox facts and why ignoring these could kill you! Are you taking care of this organ that handles over 500 different vital functions in…
AUTOIMMUNE HEPATITIS liver
Hepatitis Profile A hepatitis profile or a hepatitis panel is a blood test that checks for markers…
Tachycardia heart
Cardiac Profile Cardiac profile is panel of blood tests performed to check cholesterol level and other heart…
Cystoscopy Cystoscopy is intended to look at the abnormalities in the ureters, bladder, and urethra, to…
Echocardiogram
Echocardiography – ECHO Echocardiography (commonly known as ECHO) is an imaging modality (similar to ultrasonography) used to visualize…
top 10 deadliest diseases
What are the top 10 deadliest diseases and what is causing them? What are the largest killers of human lives across the globe? Which diseases are the…
Lectin: The common link of proteins between peas and people Lectins are a type of protein that are found majorly in legumes. Most people are…
CLA: A breakthrough weight loss supplement with minimal side effects Tried every weight loss supplement in the market with no substantial gain? Why not try…
Ferritin blood test
Ferritin Test Ferritin test is a blood test that provides vital information on the level of RBCs…
Beets: Top reasons why these nutrient-dense roots should be a staple Beets:These crunchy pink roots are brimming with healthy goodness. Blend these for an instant-energy smoothie…
Chest X-Ray A chest x-ray is a diagnostic test that uses x-rays to visualize the structures inside…
bilirubin-test-result
Bilirubin Test Bilirubin is a substance produced in the body as a result of red blood cell…
BRAT Diet: What is the right way to follow this diarrhea-relieving diet? BRAT diet, a simple diet consisting of just bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, can help…
sodium blood test
Blood Sodium Test A blood sodium test measures the amount of sodium (an important electrolyte) in your body.…
How cooking with CLA safflower oil can help you lose weight? Read and discover more about CLA safflower oil and how it can aid faster fat…
TPAB test
Treponema Pallidum Antibody(TPAB) test Treponema pallidum bacteria a gram-negative bacteria that has helically coiled, corkscrew-shaped cells, responsible for STDs…
arterial-blood-gas
Arterial Blood Gas Analysis Arterial blood gas analysis is a diagnostic procedure used to determine the volume of oxygen…
What is the right way to take a pregnancy test? A pregnancy test is undertaken to determine if you have conceived. A home pregnancy test…
Tamarind: The top health benefits of this staple Asian ingredient Did you know this sweet and sour pulpy fruit does more than just add a…
chia seeds weight loss
Chia seeds: How to consume this staple Aztec food to get a leaner body Chia seeds: What is the actual reason for its sudden popularity? Why are celebrities swearing…
beta alanine energy powder
Beta-alanine: A powerhouse of proteins to charge up your workout How can a simple amino acid be a crucial health supplement for champion athletes? Find…
shiitake mushrooms healthy
What are Shiitake Mushrooms and why should you eat them? Shiitake Mushrooms are well known for their smoky and robust taste. However, did you know…
dhea adrenal
Androstenedione Test Androstenedione is produced by the adrenal gland, the test of the levels of Androstenedione helps…
Period sanitary napkin-menstruaion-blood-colors
Period blood – what it says about your health Your period blood color and consistency indicate what is happening in your body. Is your…
ketoacidosis diabetes
HB1Ac Test HB1Ac test is an important blood test that is used to measure the levels of…
Erythritol: A healthy sugar substitute or yet another marketing ploy? Erythritol is a popular choice of a healthy alternative sweetening agent in foods. But how…
leptospira Igm test
Leptospira-IgM Test A Leptospira-IgM test is a blood test which is carried out to detect anti-Leptospira IgM…
Coffee Enema: Turn your favorite morning beverage into a powerful colon cleanser The wonders of coffee are not just limited to waking you up every morning. You…
RHEUMATOID_FACTOR_(RF)
Rheumatoid Factor (RF) Rheumatoid factor or RF is a blood test used to diagnose painful joint conditions such…
blood ketone test
Blood Ketone (D3HB) Test The Blood Ketone Test measures and monitors the levels of ketone in the blood which…
copper serum test
Copper Serum Test Copper serum test checks for abnormal levels of copper in the body. Both high and…
Green, brown, & bitter: The instant advantages of including fenugreek in your diet Did you know the earliest usage of fenugreek can be traced back to the Egyptian…
How can berberine supplements help you live longer and healthier? Berberine is a turmeric look-alike herbal extract that is credited with numerous health benefits ranging…
hsv igg test
Herpes Simplex Virus I (HSV)-IgG Test Herpes Simplex Virus I (HSV)-IgG is used to detect the presence of the herpes virus…
glucose-tolerance
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test – GTT Glucose tolerance test (or Oral GTT) is used to detect the onset of diabetes or…
Eustachian Tube : Functions and top home remedies to prevent its infection Pressure equalization, mucus drainage and protecting the middle ear from bacteria and viruses are the…
Gynecomastia breast reduction surgery
Breast Reduction Surgery Breast reduction or reduction mammoplasty is a reconstructive procedure to reduce the size of large…
apple cider vinegar weight loss
Apple cider vinegar: Weight loss, shinier hair, and more! Did you know that apple cider vinegar, produced by the simple fermentation of apple juice,…
Yerba Mate: Could the national drink of Argentina successfully replace coffee? Yerba Mate is used for making tea-like beverage which contains caffeine. It is a herb…
Low fat diets
A complete list of low-fat diets and how to follow them Low-fat diets help you lose weight in a healthy way, but it works only with…
vdrl test syphilis
VDRL Test The VDRL test is a blood test that is used to diagnose sexually transmitted or…
Abortion
Termination of pregnancy Abortion or termination of pregnancy helps to end pregnancy. Learn about the safe treatment options,…
Mood swings
The real reasons for your mood swings and how to overcome them Are you prone to heated moods frequently? Do you also feel bouts of depressive feeling…
Kava: Is it the healthy substitute for alcohol you have been waiting for? Native to the beautiful South Pacific islands, Kava is a famous beverage rooted in the…
Crossfit with rope
CrossFit: Now get the perfectly sculpted body with this explosive gym routine CrossFit is a fitness regimen that makes use of high-intensity exercises in a shorter period…
Doppler Ultrasound Doppler ultrasound can detect the nature of blood flow and can spot places where blood…
lung-damage
Lung Transplant Lung transplant is a procedure to replace one or both lungs that are diseased with…
TBHQ: A carcinogen lingering in your child’s favorite snacks TBHQ - Why you should shun the practice of eating instant noodles or microwave popcorn…
diverticulitis diet
Diverticulitis diet: The right way to eat if you suffer from the disease Are you suffering from diverticultis but clueless about your diet ? Read this complete plan…
BULIMIA NERVOSA vomiting
Can you get addicted to food? Learn everything about food addiction What is food addiction? How can people get addicted to eating? Is it an unhealthy…
The real reason why you shouldn’t be eating ramen noodles Instant ramen noodles might be your go-to snack for your hunger pangs. But with each…
antinuclear antibody test
Antinuclear Antibody Test – (ANA) Antinuclear antibody or ANA test is a blood test that measures the level of ANA…
hidden causes obesity
8 hidden causes of obesity you probably didn’t know! Did you know that around 2 billion people worldwide are either overweight or obese? Are…
carrageenan seaweed
Carrageenan: How a simple seaweed extract could better your gut health & immunity Eat more ice cream to prevent cold and flu? –With carrageenan you get one simple…
fructosamine test
Fructosamine Test A fructosamine test measures blood sugar glucose content. Fructosamine level can indicate blood sugar level…
dengue-test
Dengue NS1 test Dengue NS1 is a blood test used to determine the onset of dengue fever. Dengue…
CT-scan-machine
CT – Computed Tomography Scan CT scan or computed tomography scan is an diagnostic imaging technique where cross-sectional images of…
Anti-CCP Test – Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Anti-ccp or ACCP test is a blood test that is primarily employed to diagnose the…
dance health benefits
5 unbelievable effects of dance on your overall health! You enjoy dancing, but did you know what else it does to your body? Dancing…
woman with abdominal pain holding ovulation calendar
Ovulation – facts to know about ovulation Learn how and when ovulation occurs, demystify common misconceptions, identify symptoms, methods of detection and…
Urologist: When should you visit one and why? A urologist can treat not only genitourinary problems of both men and women but also…
Sweeteners-good or bad?
Sweeteners – Are They Good or Bad for Our Health? Sweeteners can be artificial and natural. Learn about the different types of sweeteners and their…
ASTtest-liver
AST- Aspartate Aminotransferase Test AST test is a blood test that is used to measure the level of a…
What to eat, what not to eat in the South Beach Diet? The South Beach Diet is one among the most popular weight loss programs that have…
lose pregnancy weight
5 most effective ways you can lose those pregnancy pounds! Are you looking for ways to get back into shape? Scared of crash diets? Don't…
Weight loss man
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD-DS) Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD-DS) is a weight loss procedure that involves a duodenal…
Is bronchitis contagious? And how to prevent this infection? It is acute bronchitis that is contagious which means you can contract it from another…
Top 6 remedies to treat a razor burn at home Symptoms of razor burn include bumps on the skin, redness, and irritation of the skin.…
cystatin C
Cystatin C Test Cystatin C is a specific single-chain protein that is found in body fluids and is…
What is Qigong and how can it help you channelize you inner “Qi”? Qigong is an integrated way of performing a traditional exercise regimen that can help in…
Piaget stages: Do they accurately describe the way the human brain develops?  A common assumption was that children are less competent thinkers as compared to adults, but…
Propolis: Yet another amazing gift by the bees to the humans Bee propolis is yet another generous gift by the bees bestowed on the human race.…
vital organ diseases
Common diseases that could cripple your vital organs Brain, heart, kidney, lungs, and liver - these vital organs are indeed vital for your…
Latest findings on Kombucha; a teacup full of yeast and bacteria How can a tea consisting of a live culture of bacteria & fungi be healthy?…
Anhedonia: Does the chronic inability to feel joy affect you too? How often do you feel dragged down by an invisible force? Do you feel an…
alpha feto protein test
Alpha Feto Protein (AFP) Test AFP or alpha feto protein is a specific protein which is formed only in the…
Nitric oxide: Why is this heart-healthy supplement every sportsman’s first choice? Once considered a vastly toxic substance, nitric oxide is now deemed to be a great…
green tea benefits
Green Tea: Does it really aid weight loss and reverse aging? A centuries-old concoction of fresh green leaves, green tea holds the secret to healthy weight…
Neurologist: How can the specialist help you avert fatal diseases A medical doctor who specializes in the field of neurology is called the neurologist. Find…
autoimmune diseases facts
Autoimmune Diseases: Find out if your body is attacking you right now Did you know your body can harm itself? What are autoimmune diseases and why does…
hsv-igg
Herpes simplex virus (HSV)-IgG Test Herpes simplex virus I(HSV)-IgG is an Immunoglobulin protein that acts as an antibody which stays…
Dragon Fruit – Blessing from Nature’s Basket Dragon fruit is packed with nutrients but low on calories. It is the dream food…
passion fruit juice
Passion fruit: How one exotic fruit can help you fight infections and cancer! Passion fruit: Why does this exotic fruit have such an enticing name? And how can…
How seitan proved to be a blessing in disguise for vegans worldwide Can only meat-eaters enjoy delicious juicy steaks and burgers? With seitan, the best meat substitute…
Jackfruit: Slice your way into higher immunity, better digestion, & more… Native to the South East Asia, the jackfruit is a fruit brimming with thousands of…
HSV-1_IGG
Herpes Simplex Virus I (HSV)-IgG Test Herpes simplex virus I(HSV)-IgG is an Immunoglobulin protein that acts as an antibody & stays…
alcohol toxic
7 startling facts that will make you quit alcohol today Does drinking really make you friendly and happy? How many calories does a can of…
eating disorder anorexia
Eating Disorders: Lifestyle choice or a psychological condition? Is eating disorder just a harmless bad habit? Or does it represent grim psychological disorders?…
smelling-salts-benefits
The actual science behind smelling salts and how it helps in injury recovery Most smelling salts are a mixture of ammonium carbonate and some perfumes which are sniffed…
Cayenne: The remarkable benefits of these red hot chili peppers These may make you rush for a glass of water, but cayenne pepper is actually…
social media adddiction
Your health in the age of Social Media: Why is digital detox a necessity? Did you know that more than 400 million people are dangerously addicted to social media?…
Oxalates: How healthy greens can sometimes be bad news for your kidneys Oxalates are compounds present in a majority of healthy foods. However, at times an overconsumption…
Pulmonary Function Tests Pulmonary function tests (PFT’s) are non-invasive breathing tests employed for diagnosing and monitoring lung diseases…
urinary microalbumin test
Urinary Microalbumin Test The urine microalbumin test is a urine test that measures the level of microalbumin or…
phenytoin test
Phenytoin test Phenytoin is a drug that is administered mainly to epilepsy patients. The phenytoin blood test…
castor oil hair
Castor oil : A vitamin-rich oil for shiny locks and healthy bowels Castor oil bestows unlimited benefits, whether you use it for your hair or skin. But…
tonometry
Tonometry Tonometry uses a device called tonometer to measure the pressure inside the eye. This pressure…
cardiolipin antibody igm
Cardiolipin Antibody (ACL) –IgM Test This particular test measures the level of IgM type antibodies in the blood by using…
Trisodium Phosphate: How a paint thinner made its way into your breakfast Ever thought how toxic chemicals find their way into our foods? How can they harm…
ureteroscopy
Ureteroscopy Ureteroscopy is the diagnostic procedure which is used for the detection of the kidney stones…
iron food shellfish
Iron-Rich Foods: Eat these foods to keep fatigue and anemia away! How to ensure a muscles as strong as iron? Eat iron rich foods ! Iron…
maltodextrin sugar
Maltodextrin: What are the hidden health benefits of this food additive? Maltodextrin is one of the few food additives that has been relatively deemed safe. Many…
anti ds dna test
Anti Ds-DNA antibody Test The  Anti Ds-DNA antibody test is used to diagnose the disease called lupus or more…
complement c4 test
Anemia Profile Anemia Profile test (Basic) is a blood screening test that measures the levels of important…
nutritional yeast bread
Nutritional Yeast : How can a fungi culture be good for your body? Nutritional yeast: How a simple culture of fungi can transform your skin, digestion, immunity ,…
Pescatarian Diet 101: What are the inherent health advantages of this diet? People opt to become a pescatarian in order to enrich their bodies with the essential…
GGt test
GGT – Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Test GGT or gammaglutamyl transferase test is a liver function test that is used to detect…
Thyroid disorders
Thyroid Profile Thyroid profile is a panel of blood tests performed to check if an individual is…
helping friend with depression
Support and care tips for helping people with depression Read to find out what is depression, its causes and symptoms. Also check out the…
bradycardia fainting
What does hypoglycemia look like when you don’t have diabetes? Hypoglycemia is not just a disease that co-occurs with diabetes. Non-diabetics could also become hypoglycemic.…
Dopamine: How dope is the chemistry that governs human emotions? Dopamine is not just any other chemical secreted by the brain, but a neurotransmitter that…
Endoscopy Endoscopy is a procedure where an illuminated probe with a camera attached to it is…
Grass-fed meat
Facts about grass-fed meat Grass-fed meat has a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and are low in fat and…
c peptide test
C-Peptide test C-peptide is a blood or urine test which is used to monitor and assess the…
How can Kegels help you overcome weak pelvic muscles & incontinence? Kegel exercises are pelvic floor strengthening exercises that can help you overcome incontinence issues that…
Beginner to Tai Chi? Find the right way to perform this exercise for best results According to the Chinese tradition, it is believed that practicing Tai chi helps in promoting…
The science behind daith piercing: Can it really cure migraine? Since the ear has several pressure points, it is believed that daith piercing activates the…
Ultrasound
Abdominal Ultrasound An abdominal ultrasound is used to visualize the organs inside your abdominal cavity including the…
Triglycerides: The most effective steps in bringing the levels down What are trigylcerides ? And how can they lead to the onset of several chronic…
carbamazepine
Carbamazepine / Tegretol test The carbamazepine is a drug that is used to treat epilepsy and the carbamazepine test…
Cilantro: 11 health reasons that will make you wanna use this garnish more! Call it cilantro or coriander, it remains as every chef's favorite garnish. How can this…
yoga health benefits
How to practice yoga for astounding health benefits Can a 5000-year-old system be the ultimate body healer? Did you know yoga can make…
General adaptation syndrome: Understanding stress, one step at a time The struggle of the body to produce hormones during a stressful situation is the main…
How to scrub away stress and fatigue with an Epsom salt bath? Epsom salt is a popular home remedy for many skin ailments. Though there is a…
What are the common mental health disorders in children and teens? Millions of children and teens are affected by a variety of mental health conditions. Statistically,…
18 instant steps to make your jogging routine more powerful Jogging is a form of Aerobic Endurance training which includes running at a slow pace.…
Electric toothbrush vs manual toothbrush: Who wins the dental war? Manual brushes are ideal for kids as it is important to start slowly unlike the…
Gatorade: Top things you need to know about this staple energy drink Gatorade is a popular (in fact the most popular) energy drink worldwide. But this power-packed…
LDL cholesterol level
Lecithin: Learn how you can utilize this fatty acid to improve your cholesterol count Lecithin is primarily a fatty acid found in common foods such as soy and eggs.…
calorie counter weight loss
Guaranteed ways to lose weight fast and shed those extra pounds! Read more to find a guaranteed step-by-step method to lose weight permanently. Losing weight was…
hemoglobin variant analysis
Hemoglobin Variant Analysis Hemoglobin variant analysis is a blood test that is used to detect the presence of…
Easy steps on how to do the plank for the perfect abs The plank exercise helps in several ways like strengthening your abs, shoulders, back and glutes.…
Bone marrow aspiration Bone marrow aspiration is a process where a sample of the bone marrow is withdrawn…
HSV-IgM test
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)-IgM Test The HSV-IgM class antibody is produced by the body a few days after an initial…
beta 2 glycoprotein 1 IgG
Beta 2 Glycoprotein 1 IgG Beta 2 glycoprotein 1 antibody test involves detecting and measuring the presence of the IgG…
Astaxanthin: Why experts believe it could be 550x more potent than vitamin E! What is astaxanthin and why is this new supplement on the block touted as the…
cytomegalovirus iGG
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)- IgG Test The cytomegalovirus IgG is the immunoglobulin protein produced by our immune system when the body…
POSTPRANDIAL-BLOOD-SUGAR
Post-Prandial Blood Sugar Postprandial blood sugar test is an important diabetes diagnosing tool. This simple blood test measure…
Hepatitis A virus infected liver
Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) Total Blood test to look for IgM antibodies to know if you are infected with Hepatitis…
17 OH Progesterone test The 17 OH progesterone test is a simple blood test that is mainly used to…
Inhale oxygen, exhale worries: The top breathing exercises and how to perform them Performing the breathing exercise is like becoming mindful of how you breathe.  Here is a…
rosacea-treatment--before-_-after
The best and safest ways to treat rosacea Rosacea is a skin disease that is characterized by reddish hives and rashes on the…
Hydroquinone: Is it the best topical treatment for hyperpigmentation? Darkening of the skin due to high melanin levels is called hyperpigmentation.  Hydroquinone interferes with melanin…
Coconut oil woman
Coconut Oil: How one oil dominates the kitchen and the medicine kit too Coconut oil has been a favorite in many Asian kitchens. But more than a cooking…
Salt dangers
Sodium chloride: The wonders and dangers of the simple table salt Sodium chloride is a salt containing sodium and chlorine ions at a 1:1 ratio. It…
Rheumatoid Arthritis xray
Arthritis Profile Arthritis profile is a panel of primarily blood tests used to detect the presence of…
Free T3 test
Free Triiodothyronine (FT3) Test The free triiodothyronine or FT3 test is an important blood test that is used to…
kidney stones
Kidney stones Kidney stones are solid substances made up of crystals. They can be of various sizes.…
free psa test
Free PSA Test The free PSA test is used to detect the level or percentage of free PSA…
BCAAs powder
BCAA: Now get more out of your workouts with this miracle protein BCAAs are counted as one of the best supplements for increasing your physical endurance. Find…
Love tea, hate tannins? Rooibos tea is just what you need The market is brimming with a multitude of herbal teas. But what makes rooibos tea…
Chromium Picolinate: An essential mineral supplement for faster weight loss Did you know that about 1.6 million deaths were directly linked to diabetes globally? How…
Surgery or home-remedy; what is the right way to treat a burn The treatment of a burn injury depends on its severity. You can save a life…
Coconut sugar: What is it and is it healthier than table sugar? In the long list of things that the wonderful coconut gives us, coconut sugar is…
Experts reveal the safest ways to perform an enema at home The idea of pushing some up your rectal area might make you queasy but an…
Echinacea: Why is this ancient herb re-emerging as an all-rounder supplement? Echinacea is a long-used herb that is finding ground as an immunity booster and perhaps…
Amnesia brain
Amnesia: It’s not just a blow on the head that can erase your memory Amnesia, a condition popularized by many a tv shows, is a condition of partial or…
LFT-test
Liver Function Test – LFT LFT or Liver Function Test is a blood test used to determine the levels of…
IGE test
IgE test – Immunoglobulin E IgE or immunoglobulin E test is a test that measures the level of IgE in…
Fluoride: An indispensible mineral or a potential toxin ? Fluoride, the main ingredient of toothpaste, has shown a great potential as a cleanser. However,…
Greek Yogurt: Discover the secret ingredient to the real Spartan strength Greek yogurt is probably the tastiest way you can enhance your gut microflora. Read more…
black seed oil benefits
Black Seed Oil: What secret benefits could it bestow on your health? Black seeds or nigella seeds are tiny packets of health brimming with amazing benefits. Find…
Garlic health benefits cloves
Garlic: Nature’s white pill as an effective home remedy What are the secrets hidden in these tiny white pills? Find out the immense health…
CBC blood test
CBC (Hemogram 6-part diff) blood test CBC (Hemogram 6-part diff) blood test refers to the test that measures the number of…
Ca 19.9 test
CA19.9 Test CA 19.9 is a cancer antigen that exists on the surface of cancer-causing cells. The…
post circumcision
Circumcision Check to know everything about open , laser, stapler circumcision, and about preparation, procedure, risks,…
solution infertility problems
IVF Treatment Read to know everything about IVF treatment for women, the procedure, cost, success rate, results…
solution infertility problems
IVF Treatment Read to know everything about IVF treatment for women, the procedure, cost, success rate, results…
ear surgery
Ear Surgery Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty is a minimally-invasive surgery done to reshape the ears.…
deep vein thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis Deep vein thrombosis or DVT occurs when blood clots form in the deep veins of…
sugar toxic health
Sugar: 7 new shocking truths revealed about the sweet poison Can drinking soda bring you closer to death? Is sugar slowly poisoning you and your…
anoscopy
Anoscopy Anoscopy is an invasive diagnostic procedure where a small device known as anoscope will be…
CBD oil safe
Cannabidiol benefits: Evaluating the “highs” of CBD Oil The word cannabis paints a picture of addicts. But did you know that CBD oil,…
The most effective tips on how to stay awake at work Do you often find yourself snoozing off at your work desk? This might be a…
The most effective tips on how to stay awake at work Do you often find yourself snoozing off at your work desk? This might be a…
kale
Kale: With more iron than beef, this superfood is the ultimate way to lose weight Checkmate meat-eaters; with kale, vegans now have the ultimate iron-rich superfood as their ally that…
green poop causes
Green poop : What are the reasons and how can you correct it Ever sneak a peek down the toilet only to shockingly find green poop? Why does…
ginger benefits healthy
Ginger: Why is it called the root of all remedies? Be it in form of tea or juice, ginger has a lot to offer when…
hYdroxycut pills
Hydroxycut: How safe are these so-called weight loss supplements? Hydroxycut is a blend of several different ingredients formulated to promote weight loss; powered by…
ADHD forgetful
ADD versus ADHD: What are the fundamental differences? Does every hyperactive child have ADHD? Do adults display symptoms of ADHD as well? What…

Top Stories

Want to live a healthy lifestyle?

Subscribe to free FactDr newsletters.

REVAMP YOUR

LIFE

HEALTH

WELLNESS

If you're enjoying our website, we promise you'll absolutely love our new posts. Be the first one to get a copy!

Get factually correct, actionable tips delivered straight to your inbox once a week.

I want the latest scoop on :

We hate spam too. We will never share your email address with anyone. If you change your mind later, you can unsubscribe with just one click

By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the FactDr Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy and understand that I may opt out of FactDr subscriptions at any time.

Test Your Knowledge

Welcome to your Human Anatomy Quiz

Which part of the human body grows the fastest among these?
Which is the largest organ in the human body?
Where is the smallest bone in the human body located?
How much does your hair grow in a month?
What is the size of the smallest muscle of the human body?
Which is the largest bone in the human body?
Occurrence of calcium crystals is normal in this part of the body.
How many taste buds are there on the human tongue?
How many bones do new born babies have?
The anatomical name for the "windpipe" is

Take the full quiz