People with (ADD)Attention Deficit Disorder or(ADHD) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder may have it harder, but many of them do find successful and rewarding lives. Here are five things you can do to be one of the winners who happen to have ADD or ADHD:

1.Have a vision for your life

Stephen Covey, in First Things First, suggests that each of us should have a vision for ourselves based on our need to live, love, learn, and leave a legacy. Most likely, when you think about your purpose, you will go back to the basics: your family, the people around you, and you yourself. Once you are clear about your purpose, it is easier to work towards what is really important in your life, and not scatter your efforts in ways many of us with
ADD or ADHD do.

2.Take responsibility

I know one young man diagnosed with ADD or ADHD as a child who went through a succession of special schools and even got into trouble with the law. No one expected him to make much of his life, but he was lucky to find teachers who did not accept his excuses of a poor family life and a defect in his brain for his bad behavior. After he accepted that he was responsible for his own life, he turned his life around. He learned carpentry at a vocational school and now successfully runs his own shop and a small carpentry school.

3.Do what you love

For those of us with ADD or ADHD it is easier if we find job where we are paid for doing what we love. Those with ADD or ADHD are often capable of hyperconcentration when they do things they are interested in. When we do what we love, we are using all our strengths instead of struggling to compensate for our weaknesses
and mistakes half of our working lives.

4.Nurture your assets

Which brings us to the next point – take care of the things which are your strengths: your talents, you health, and your relationships. We with ADD or ADHD tend to be careless in this – maybe we don’t know what we are good at, or we are too disorganized to exercise consistently or eat right, and we seem constantly have trouble getting along.

One part of nurturing is looking for things within our control that hold us back. Sometimes something as simple as a eliminating milk and sugars from your diet will make you feel better.

5.Plan to succeed

Some of us distractible, disorganized ADD or ADHD adults are lucky enough to find spouses who are fanatically organized. If you are not so lucky, do your own personal planning. This is actually not so difficult when you have a vision for your life. Ask your self, is this important or urgent? Does this help me fulfill my vision for my life? Concentrate on what you have power or influence over.

So there is no excuse for using ADD(attention deficit disorder) or ADHD(attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ) as an excuse. Take charge of your life, and good luck!

How did Lewis Carroll produce the fantasy world of Alice in Wonderland and become famous?

Alice’s wonderland of rushing rabbits, magical brews, queen of hearts, shrinking sizes, Cheshire cats, pool of tears, knaves and tumbling cards did not blossom merely from Lewis Carroll’s imagination. Experts opine that the author who weaved the Wonderland has recreated, in his fantasy yarn, some of his experiences while grappling with migraine.

“Many of the descriptions conjured for Carroll’s stories were based on classic migraine experiences,” says neurologist Mary Ann Mays, M.D, of the Cleveland Clinic. “Only a person who had experienced these phenomena would be able to describe them.”

Today, “Alice in Wonderland syndrome” is a term used by neurologists to refer to a perception disorder that is characterized by hallucinations and visual disturbances –symptoms that are associated with the ‘aura’ that precedes a migraine.

A migraine is a traumatic experience, which the sufferer usually hates to recall. It is an intense, throbbing pain affecting one or both sides of the head. A migraine episode may last for a few hours or may extend for days; some are so severe that it incapacitates the sufferers, leaving them bed-ridden

It is still not clear why migraines occur although several triggers have been identified such as stress, pollution, noise, odors, certain medications, caffeine, champagne, red wine, processed meat, old cheese and chocolates. Hormonal changes and change in routine schedules are also known to usher in migraines.

Migraines seem to favor women, as they are three times more likely to suffer from the condition, compared to men. And it also observed that there is a genetic predisposition involved- the chances of the victims’ children being affected is higher than the children of normal individuals.

All about Aura

The word ‘aura’, which conjures up a surreal vision of subtle splendor, is actually an array of psychologic or neurologic disturbances that precedes a migraine episode.

Auras have a short life span; they may last for 5 to 20 minutes with their frequencies varying among individuals. Some experience it once in a lifetime while others experience it every day.

Auras comprise of symptoms such as vertigo, imbalance, confusion or numbness. Another intriguing feature of the aura is the dramatic visual effects or ‘special effects’-flashing lights, floaters, zigzag lines, complex colors and shapes.

Migraines are broadly classified into two- those with and those without aura. Although migraines with aura are less common , they are more challenging, medically, and can be more unsettling for the affected individuals.

The ‘one-eyed’ monster

In the ocular variety, which is the rarest migraine, individuals experience the ‘bizarre’ associated with the aura, but only in one eye. These symptoms are temporary and do not cause permanent damage. This is commonly followed by a migraine headache.

Some patients see blind spots or “holes,” which is actually a reference to the missing segments in a normal visual field. Shades of black or gray over the visual field are also viewed by some. Some people draw a comparison between these visual phenomena and the faulty patterns produced by an old television, with compromised reception. Others believe it is like looking through wet glass.

Although the experiences are similar for patients who experience ocular migraine and conventional migraine, there are differences.

One key difference is the source of the visual disturbances in the two headaches. In case of ocular migraine, the retinal blood vessels, inside the eye, play the trick, while the occipital cortex of the brain is the source of visual disturbances in migraines with aura.

Therefore, there seems to be some instant remedy for those affected with the ocular migraine. All they need to do is to close the affected eyes to stop the symptoms.

Taking the bull by the horn

Visiting a neurologist is not a bad idea for people who suffer from ocular headache. This would help to rule out other conditions, such as stroke or retinal artery thrombosis that produce similar symptoms.

Traditionally, anti-inflammatory agents have been used to treat migraines. Although not ideal for ocular migraines, the recently discovered triptans, are believed to be God –sent. A healthy life style with consistent patterns holds the key to a migraine-free existence.

Suzanne is a 30 year old whose stunning beauty inspires poetry in male minds and transforms females into green-eyed monsters. Vivacious and good- natured, she is enormously liked by all. Two months ago she had got engaged to her boyfriend of five years. They had decided on an April wedding and were counting the days by the minutes!

Suzanne loves out – doors and never misses a chance to imbibe the goodness of nature, which she exudes as health and happiness. Only recently she had returned from a trip to the mountains, along with her boyfriend. But this time it was different!

Suzanne was completely out of her elements. She was uneasy and fatigued. In less than a week’s time she was unable to walk without help.

Her parents were terrified and sought medical help. At the hospital she went through the regular ritual of tests and scans. Then came the verdict, which stunned all those who loved her. Suzanne was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, an auto – immune disorder.

Alice’s wonderland of rushing rabbits, magical brews, queen of hearts, shrinking sizes, Cheshire cats, pool of tears, knaves and tumbling cards did not blossom merely from Lewis Carroll’s imagination. Experts opine that the author who weaved the Wonderland has recreated, in his fantasy yarn, some of his experiences while grappling with migraine.

“Many of the descriptions conjured for Carroll’s stories were based on classic migraine experiences,” says neurologist Mary Ann Mays, M.D, of the Cleveland Clinic. “Only a person who had experienced these phenomena would be able to describe them.”

Today, “Alice in Wonderland syndrome” is a term used by neurologists to refer to a perception disorder that is characterized by hallucinations and visual disturbances –symptoms that are associated with the ‘aura’ that precedes a migraine.

A migraine is a traumatic experience, which the sufferer usually hates to recall. It is an intense, throbbing pain affecting one or both sides of the head. A migraine episode may last for a few hours or may extend for days; some are so severe that it incapacitates the sufferers, leaving them bed-ridden

It is still not clear why migraines occur although several triggers have been identified such as stress, pollution, noise, odors, certain medications, caffeine, champagne, red wine, processed meat, old cheese and chocolates. Hormonal changes and change in routine schedules are also known to usher in migraines.

Migraines seem to favor women, as they are three times more likely to suffer from the condition, compared to men. And it also observed that there is a genetic predisposition involved- the chances of the victims’ children being affected is higher than the children of normal individuals.

All about Aura

The word ‘aura’, which conjures up a surreal vision of subtle splendor, is actually an array of psychologic or neurologic disturbances that precedes a migraine episode.

Auras have a short life span; they may last for 5 to 20 minutes with their frequencies varying among individuals. Some experience it once in a lifetime while others experience it every day.

Auras comprise of symptoms such as vertigo, imbalance, confusion or numbness. Another intriguing feature of the aura is the dramatic visual effects or ‘special effects’-flashing lights, floaters, zigzag lines, complex colors and shapes.

Migraines are broadly classified into two- those with and those without aura. Although migraines with aura are less common , they are more challenging, medically, and can be more unsettling for the affected individuals.

The ‘one-eyed’ monster

In the ocular variety, which is the rarest migraine, individuals experience the ‘bizarre’ associated with the aura, but only in one eye. These symptoms are temporary and do not cause permanent damage. This is commonly followed by a migraine headache.

Some patients see blind spots or “holes,” which is actually a reference to the missing segments in a normal visual field. Shades of black or gray over the visual field are also viewed by some. Some people draw a comparison between these visual phenomena and the faulty patterns produced by an old television, with compromised reception. Others believe it is like looking through wet glass.

Although the experiences are similar for patients who experience ocular migraine and conventional migraine, there are differences.

One key difference is the source of the visual disturbances in the two headaches. In case of ocular migraine, the retinal blood vessels, inside the eye, play the trick, while the occipital cortex of the brain is the source of visual disturbances in migraines with aura.

Therefore, there seems to be some instant remedy for those affected with the ocular migraine. All they need to do is to close the affected eyes to stop the symptoms.

Taking the bull by the horn

Visiting a neurologist is not a bad idea for people who suffer from ocular headache. This would help to rule out other conditions, such as stroke or retinal artery thrombosis that produce similar symptoms.

Traditionally, anti-inflammatory agents have been used to treat migraines. Although not ideal for ocular migraines, the recently discovered triptans, are believed to be God –sent. A healthy life style with consistent patterns holds the key to a migraine-free existence.

Dr. Reeja Tharu

It is a word that sends shivers through many a stalwart spine! A word that is synonymous with shame and prejudice! A word that the erudite and the unlettered are conditioned to fear! Yes, you have guessed right! We are discussing AIDS.

The microbe responsible for the ‘carnage’, the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), is blessed with the ability of existing as an integral part of the human genome. The biggest challenge in the treatment of AIDS is that the virus remains dormant, as a provirus, within the confines of the human DNA and develops resistance to anti-AIDS drugs.

Dr Indrani Sarkar’s PhD thesis is bound to cause a stir among HIV/AIDS patients and their doctors. Her thesis, based on her doctoral work done at the Max Planck Institute in Dresden, Germany, has thrown a beacon of light onto the despairing world of AIDS.

A cure for HIV should be based on completely removing the virus from the infected cells. Dr.Indrani, along with her enterprising colleagues have developed an enzyme that has the potency to permanently eradicate the AIDS virus from their cellular abode. This enzyme, christened the ‘Tre’, has been especially ‘tailor-made’ to function like a pair of biological scissors.

‘Tre’, belongs to a group of enzymes called the ‘recombinase’. It recognizes the viral sequences embedded in the infected human genome and binds to it through the process of recombination. The enzyme, then, excises the provirus and in about three months’ time, eradicates the disease permanently. It took a year and 126 cycles of mutation to genetically ‘engineer’ the enzyme.

Based on WHO reports, there are nearly 40 million people affected by AIDS. ‘Tre’ is a ground –breaking, epoch-making discovery but, it could be anywhere between five and twenty years, before it becomes suitable to save sinking lives. This is because ‘Tre’is a novel enzyme that needs to be designed, time-tested and ‘revoked’ outside the controlled laboratory conditions.

Although a permanent cure for this discriminating disease is not round the corner, Dr. Indrani’s worthy work may bear good tidings for those braving the dreaded disease and may prove to be a solace that make their spirits soar!

Mahesh Bhatt a film director of the Indian Bollywood is not unknown for creating controversy prior to release of his films and create a small stir on the media. A very cheap and sometimes effective way to seek pre-release free publicity. This time his stir has gone a little too far involving someone who loved him, confided in him and shared her most personal moments.

‘Who Lamhe’ his current release is partly based on his own intense relationship with the 70’s volumptuous diva Praveen Babi. The story is apparently about her schizophrenia, loneliness and depression.

To make the film noticed and get talked about the director has released bits from the personal notes that the lonely actress sent to him in all confidence. Mahesh has conveniently exploited these weak but very personal moments of the actress and released them to a newspaper in Mumbai.

In an interview to a news channel he claims that he was only trying to convey the message that schizophrenia can be treated by love and not ECT (Electro-Convulsive Therapy). Claiming that the dairy was his personal property he could use it anyway he
wanted. He felt there was nothing wrong in his act.

This stand and attitude makes one wonder on the current values and examples that are set by our celebrities. It was one of the most pathetic display of vulgar sentiments in a interview that I have witnessed in recent times. How low can one get to win publicity one wonders.

Praveen Babi was a dignified and a very gracious lady suffering from Diabetes and Schizophrenia. She came from a royal background and in her time became the darling of the media and Bollywood so much so that even the magazine Time featured her on its cover. She always kept a distance from scandals and her illness seems to have made her a bit of recluse. She passed away quietly last year.

If Praveen Babi was looking down from the heavens she maybe wondering ‘why she trusted her life with a man like Bhatt’. Must make her wonder who is more sick – she or him.

In recent times it is usually the media that offers large sums to get the juicy bits of personal life of a celebrity- as was in the case of Princess Diana; but this is must be the first instance where a celebrity has exploited his own moments to get this type of cheap publicity. He cannot hood wink the public by giving statements on medical condition and talk about that beautiful word called love.

Mahesh to you love only has a commercial meaning even if it means putting your own love in the glare of media and creating sensationalism. Have some respect for the dead person you claim to have loved. Please leave them alone. At least don’t say to the whole wide world that by ‘love alone’ one can help a schizophrenic patient.

The entire world a stage, and we are mere actors, echoed The Bard, eons ago. As the curtains go down slowly for those in the grips of this crippling disease, today on World Alzheimera day, the stage is set for deep reckoning; it is time to take the bull by its horns and evolve better strategies for effective management of the disease.Alzheimer is a degenerative disease of the central nervous system marked by stark and untimely backslide in the patient mental capabilities. It is estimated that nearly 2 to 4 million persons suffer age related dementia, out of which nearly two-thirds have Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most notorious of dementias, which sets in gradually leading to an irreversible memory loss, abnormal behavioral and personality changes, combined with a steep fall in intellectual /thinking abilities.

The risks of Alzheimer’s disease go up with age, pronounced after the age of 65. Two main risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease include a strong family history of dementia and Down syndrome. Patients with Alzheimer’s disease encounter grave problems with memory, judgment, and structured thought process that make it extremely difficult to lead a normal life. Additionally there may be fluctuations in mood and changes in behavior. The rate of progression of the disease varies with each person; therefore it is important to diagnose early to realize better treatment outcomes.

Although there is no known cure for Alzheimer, research shows that the quality of care can have a far-reaching impact on the patients. Adopting a person-centered approach that promotes independence, taking adequate care not to crush the individuality of the person with dementia, is the corner stone of treatment measures. The caregivers should be suitably trained to handle patients suffering this disease. Perpetuation of care by the staff, which fosters trust and builds a relationship between the caregivers and the patient, is extremely crucial. As the patient advances into the disease, it is only the caregivers who can provide the security that a patient needs.

Care for a person with dementia can be extremely daunting, all the same, enhancing the role of the family members and caregivers for the person’s physical needs. In Alzheimer’s disease, the person could become completely dependant on the caregiver, and it is here that the role of education, support and training, helps the family cope with events that follow.

Presently there is no magic pill that can reverse the advancement of Alzheimer’s disease. The best bet so far combines the expertise of psychotherapy, environmental changes and medication. The pitfalls of drug therapy for patients who are already suffering memory impairment can get worse because of the inability to remember to take a drug, and more so if the drug is to be taken many times in the course of a day. Behavioral approaches are beneficial to calm down the intensity of certain difficult behaviors, often portrayed as aggressive and even unbecoming manifestations in conduct. It is here that the caregiver can play a proactive role in comprehending underlying triggers, and assist in keeping them at bay. Evolving methods to simplify complex tasks- such as dressing or feeding – into easy convenient activities, reducing clutter and confusion goes a long way in reducing the challenge of caring for patients with Alzheimer’s. Activities that induce pleasure such as games and music, is known to have a positive effect on the mood, allaying potential fears and depression.

Modifying the environment is extremely imperative for patients suffering from this disease. Potentially dangerous instruments, chemicals, and tools should be put away to ensure safe living environment of the patients. Finally, family members or care givers of patients are often at the receiving end, and may harbor feelings of resentment, guilt, frustration, and anger, also engulfed by an overwhelming sense of sadness at what has befallen a dear one. Not surprising that many of the caregivers end up depressed themselves. It is here that the support groups can rise to the occasion to uplift those who have selflessly cared for patients who are on the brink of sinking into oblivion.