Neuro Care Centre

14/07/2025

Did you know diabetes can harm your brain long before symptoms show up?
Read this eye-opening article by Dr Bikash Kumar Mishra, one of India’s leading neurologists.


Beyond Sugar: How Diabetes Silently Damages Your Brain and Nerves

When we think of diabetes, we usually picture sugar. Glucose meters, insulin shots, skipping desserts, that’s the typical image. But what if I told you that diabetes is quietly doing something far more dangerous behind the scenes? Something that doesn’t just spike your sugar, but chips away at your memory, slows down your thinking, and numbs your nerves—sometimes before you even feel anything?
That’s the hidden story. Diabetes, while very visible in the way it affects lifestyle, is also a silent attacker of the brain and nervous system. And most of us don’t even realize it until the damage has already begun.

The Bigger Picture of Diabetes

Let’s start with the basics. Diabetes comes in two main forms:
• Type 1 diabetes: This is when the body’s immune system attacks the pancreas, so it stops making insulin altogether.
• Type 2 diabetes: This is far more common, and it means your body either doesn’t use insulin properly or doesn’t make enough of it.
With more than 537 million people living with diabetes globally, it’s not just a medical condition anymore, it’s a full-blown epidemic. But while we’re all focused on managing blood sugar levels, we often miss what’s going on in places we can’t see, like the brain and nerves.

Your Brain Runs on Sugar but Not Too Much

Your brain is kind of a sugar addict. It needs glucose to function, it’s basically the brain’s fuel. But here’s the catch: too much sugar, especially when it's floating around unchecked for long periods (as in diabetes), is toxic.
Excess sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels that feed your nerves and brain cells. And when your cells become resistant to insulin (as in Type 2 diabetes), your brain can’t use that glucose efficiently. This leads to inflammation, stress on nerve cells, and ultimately, slow deterioration.

It’s like trying to drive a car with a flooded engine too much fuel, but still not going anywhere.

Memory Fog, Slower Thinking- It’s Not Just "Getting Older"
Many people with diabetes begin to notice subtle changes: misplacing keys more often, struggling to remember conversations, feeling mentally foggy, or just not thinking as clearly. Often, these signs are brushed off as “just aging” or stress.

But research tells us otherwise. Diabetes significantly increases your risk of Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Some scientists even call Alzheimer’s “Type 3 diabetes” because of how insulin resistance affects the brain.

Brain scans of diabetics often show shrinkage in the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for memory. That’s why those “little forgetful moments” might actually be your brain’s cry for help.
The Nerve Damage You Can’t Always Feel
One of the trickiest parts of diabetes is something called diabetic neuropathy. That’s a fancy way of saying: your nerves are getting damaged. And it’s not always painful or noticeable at first.

There are different types of neuropathy:
• Peripheral neuropathy causes tingling or numbness in your hands and feet.
• Autonomic neuropathy messes with the nerves that control things like your heartbeat, digestion, and bladder.
• Proximal and focal neuropathies affect muscle strength or specific nerves.
What’s scary is that some people feel nothing at all while the damage builds up. By the time the symptoms are obvious- loss of balance, burning pain, or complete numbness “the damage may already be permanent”.

When the Body’s “Autopilot” Starts to Malfunction
Our bodies are incredible machines, and the autonomic nervous system is our autopilot. It takes care of things we don’t even think about, such as breathing, heart rate, digestion, and blood pressure.
Diabetes can mess up this autopilot without much warning. Some signs are subtle: you might feel dizzy when standing up, experience constant bloating, or have sudden changes in your heartbeat. Other times, it’s more serious, like an increased risk of sudden cardiac events.
And here’s the tough part: because these symptoms don’t scream “diabetes,” they’re often blamed on other things-stress, aging, or "just being tired."

The Slow Burn: Why Damage Goes Unnoticed

One of the cruellest things about diabetes is how quietly it progresses. The human body is incredibly adaptable. You might lose a little sensation in your feet and just start walking differently without realizing it. Or you may feel mentally foggy and blame a busy schedule.
Even if your sugar levels look “okay” on a home monitor, the damage might still be happening under the surface at a microscopic level. That’s why early awareness and regular screening are so crucial.

The Gut-Brain Connection: An Unexpected Culprit

Here’s something you may not expect: your gut plays a big role in your brain and nerve health.
The gut is full of bacteria; some good, some not-so-good. In people with diabetes, this delicate balance is often thrown off, leading to something called dysbiosis. When that happens, the bad bacteria can release toxins that increase inflammation, disrupt nerve signals, and even contribute to brain fog or depression.
Researchers are now discovering that protecting your gut could help protect your nerves and brain. Yep, your morning bowl of curd or fiber-rich meal might be doing more than just helping digestion, it could be shielding your nervous system.

So, What Can You Actually Do About It?

Here’s the hopeful part. A lot of this damage is preventable and sometimes even reversible, if caught early and managed properly.
• Keep blood sugar in check. This is still the most important step. Monitor regularly, follow your treatment plan, and aim for steady, balanced numbers.
• Feed your brain and nerves. Eat a diet rich in antioxidants (like berries, greens, and nuts), healthy fats (like omega-3s), and whole grains.
• Move your body. Regular exercise improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and helps with insulin sensitivity.
• Sleep and de-stress. Your nerves recover during rest. Chronic stress and sleep deprivation only speed up the damage.
• Explore supplements—carefully. Nutrients like alpha-lipoic acid, B12, and benfotiamine have shown promise in supporting nerve health. Talk to your doctor before starting anything new.
• Don’t skip check-ups. A yearly neurological exam can catch changes early, before they become serious.
In Conclusion: Listen to the Whispers Before They Become Shouts
Diabetes doesn’t always knock loudly—it often whispers, slowly disrupting vital systems while we carry on, unaware. By the time we notice the memory loss, numb feet, or erratic heartbeat, the damage may be well underway.

But knowledge is power. Understanding how diabetes affects your brain and nerves is the first step to protecting them. The goal isn’t just to manage your sugar—it’s to preserve your quality of life, your independence, your sharpness, and your confidence.

So, if you or someone you love is living with diabetes, take this as a gentle reminder: it’s not just about what’s on your plate or your glucose reading—it’s about the bigger picture. Stay informed, stay proactive, and don’t ignore the silent signs. Your brain and nerves will thank you.

01/07/2025

At Neuro Care Centre, we salute the healers who go beyond medicine to bring comfort, hope, and strength.

On this Doctor’s Day, we express our deepest gratitude to all doctors for their tireless dedication and compassionate care.

Happy Doctor’s Day to the real heroes who make a difference every single day.

28/06/2025

Click on the link below to BOOK your appointment with Dr Bikash Kumar Mishra at Neuro Care Centre, Bhubaneswar.
👇👇👇👇👇👇👇

To be a leading center of excellence in neurological care, driving innovation and transforming lives through compassionate and cutting-edge treatment.

27/06/2025

Neuro Care Centre Wishes You a Blessed Rath Yatra!

As Lord Jagannath embarks on His divine journey, may He guide us all towards healing, harmony, and higher consciousness.
Just as the mind leads the body, may faith lead our hearts to peace and purpose.

On this sacred occasion, let the chariot of devotion roll forward- with strength, clarity, and compassion.

From the team at Neuro Care Centre - nurturing minds, uplifting lives.
Jai Jagannath!

21/06/2025

Sharing this insightful article authored by Dr Bikash Kumar Mishra Chief Consultant, Neurology, Apollo Hospitals and Founder of Neuro Care Centre, Bhubaneswar.

Drawing from years of clinical experience, Dr. Mishra sheds light on one of the most underdiagnosed yet debilitating complications of diabetes-Diabetic Neuropathy. With India now home to over 101 million diabetics, this article is a timely reminder of why neurological evaluations must be integrated into diabetic care.

From understanding the different forms of neuropathy to decoding early symptoms, diagnostic tools, and treatment strategies, Dr. Mishra provides a neurologist’s perspective that is both clinical and compassionate.

📖 Read the full article to explore the critical intersection of diabetes and nerve health.

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Diabetic Neuropathy: A Neurologist’s Insight into the Silent Nerve Threat

By Dr. Bikash Kumar Mishra | Neuro Physician, Founder – Neuro Care Centre | Chief Consultant (Neurology) Apollo Hospital, Bhubaneswar

Diabetes is often viewed through the lens of sugar levels, dietary restrictions, and insulin management. But behind these familiar markers lies a more insidious complication, one that doesn't scream for attention but silently deteriorates quality of life: Diabetic Neuropathy. From a neurologist's desk, this condition represents, one of the most complex and underrecognized threats in diabetes management, one that demands timely attention, expert evaluation, and multidisciplinary care.

The Hidden Burden of Diabetes: Nerve Damage
Globally, diabetes mellitus affects over 537 million adults (as per the International Diabetes Federation, 2021), and this number is projected to rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. India alone is home to over 101 million diabetics, making it the country with the second-highest diabetic population in the world (ICMR-INDIAB study, 2023).

Among these millions, up to 50% are expected to develop some form of diabetic neuropathy in their lifetime. That means potentially more than 50 million people in India alone may suffer from this silent nerve threat. Unfortunately, many remain undiagnosed until the damage becomes irreversible , highlighting the urgent need for early detection and neurological intervention.
Understanding Diabetic Neuropathy

At its core, diabetic neuropathy is damage to the peripheral nervous system, the complex network of nerves that transmits signals between the brain/ spinal cord and the rest of the body. Unlike a singular illness, diabetic neuropathy is an umbrella term encompassing several distinct neurological syndromes, each affecting different regions and functions of the body.
Studies show that diabetic neuropathy is not just a late-stage complication; symptoms can begin to appear within 5 years of diagnosis in type 2 diabetics and even earlier in uncontrolled cases. The prevalence increases with the duration of diabetes, poor glycemic control, hypertension, smoking, and obesity; all of which are unfortunately rising in India.

The Four Faces of Diabetic Neuropathy
1. Peripheral Neuropathy (The Most Common)
First to affect: Feet and legs; later, hands and arms
Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, sharp shooting pains, burning sensation, and unsteadiness while walking
Risks: Loss of protective sensation → foot ulcers → infections → amputations
Studies in India report that around 26% to 35% of diabetic patients experience peripheral neuropathy. Lack of awareness and late presentation often leads to preventable complications such as non-healing ulcers, which account for 85% of diabetes-related amputations. This makes early neurological assessment not just valuable but potentially limb-saving.

2. Autonomic Neuropathy (The Invisible Disruptor)
Affects: Nerves controlling involuntary functions like digestion, heart rate, bladder, and sweating
Possible manifestations:
• Gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying)
• Orthostatic hypotension (drop in blood pressure upon standing)
• Urinary incontinence or retention
• Erectile dysfunction
Global studies estimate that up to 20% of diabetics may develop some degree of autonomic dysfunction. In India, where cultural factors often discourage discussion of symptoms like sexual dysfunction or digestive irregularities, autonomic neuropathy frequently goes underreported and underdiagnosed, further emphasizing the role of proactive neurological consultation.

3. Proximal Neuropathy (Diabetic Amyotrophy)
Who it affects: Usually older adults with Type 2 diabetes
Regions involved: Hips, thighs, or buttocks
Key features: Sudden, sharp pain and severe muscle weakness, often one-sided

Impact: Can lead to significant mobility impairment
While proximal neuropathy is less common (affecting less than 1% of diabetics), its sudden onset and disabling weakness make it a medical emergency. In countries like India, where older patients may attribute pain or weakness to “arthritis” or “old age,” diagnosis is frequently delayed. Early neurophysiological testing and physical rehabilitation can lead to significant improvement in such cases.

4. Focal Neuropathy (The Sneaky Attacker)
Onset: Sudden and localized
Involvement: Specific nerves in the head, torso, or leg
Symptoms: Double vision, Bell’s palsy (facial droop), or localized pain
Good news: Typically resolves over weeks to months, but distressing when it occurs

Although focal neuropathies are rare, their abrupt onset often mimics stroke or localized brain lesions. Globally, it's estimated to occur in 1–2% of diabetic patients. In India, with limited access to neurologists in rural areas, many of these cases are either undiagnosed or incorrectly managed, leading to avoidable anxiety or misdirected treatment.

A Neurologist’s Diagnostic Lens
The neurological assessment goes beyond asking, “Do your feet tingle?” It is a detailed exploration of the type, severity, and progression of nerve damage.
India’s expanding network of tertiary care centers and diagnostic labs now allows better access to Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and EMG, which help pinpoint the exact nature of nerve injury. Yet, utilization remains low, largely due to lack of referral, awareness, and cost concerns. Public awareness campaigns and diabetic screening drives can bridge this gap.

Treatment: Managing the Damage, Not Just the Diabetes
While there is no definitive cure for diabetic neuropathy, neurologists focus on controlling the progression and minimizing the symptoms.

Across the globe, studies show that intensive glycemic control can reduce the risk of neuropathy by up to 60%. Despite this, a large proportion of Indian diabetics remain poorly controlled, largely due to inconsistent follow-up, limited access to specialists, and financial constraints. A combined approach , education, early neurology referrals, and affordable care is key.

1. Glycemic Control
Tight regulation of blood sugar levels is non-negotiable
Helps slow or halt further nerve damage
In the Indian context, the average HbA1c in diagnosed diabetics is around 8.5%, far above the recommended

13/06/2025

Our hearts are heavy with sorrow as we mourn the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 on June 12, 2025. It's hard to put into words the pain of lives lost so suddenly, and the silence left behind in their absence.

To the families, friends, and loved ones, please know that we are holding you in our thoughts and prayers. We can only imagine the grief you’re facing, and we send you all our love, strength, and solidarity.

At Neuro Care Centre, we stand beside every soul affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.

May those who left us find peace, and may those who remain find the courage to heal, one day at a time.

With all our hearts,
The Neuro Care Centre Family

11/06/2025

Wishing everyone a blessed Pabitra Deva Snana Purnima! May the sacred rituals bring peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth to all. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

09/06/2025

Monitoring Brain Electrical Activity with Precision at Neuro Care Centre

At Neuro Care Centre, we offer EEG (Electroencephalogram) testing, a crucial diagnostic procedure to assess and monitor brain activity. This non-invasive test helps detect neurological conditions such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, and other brain-related concerns.

Our trained professionals ensure that each test is conducted with the utmost care, accuracy, and patient comfort in mind. We are committed to providing advanced neuro-diagnostic services to support better brain health for all.

06/06/2025

🔵 “Why won’t my smile stay?”
For thousands battling Myasthenia Gravis (MG), everyday actions like smiling, speaking, or lifting a spoon can feel like uphill battles.

💡 Dr Bikash Kumar Mishra, renowned neuro physician and founder of Neuro Care Centre, Bhubaneswar, brings to light this silent and often misunderstood autoimmune condition in a powerful new article:

"Myasthenia Gravis: The ‘Hidden’ Muscle Weakness You Should Know About."

📖 In this insightful read, he explores:
🔹 What MG really feels like
🔹 How to spot the early, often-missed symptoms
🔹 Why awareness is the first step toward healing

🧠 MG may be invisible to the eye, but it impacts lives in very real ways. With better understanding, timely diagnosis, and the right support, patients can lead full, empowered lives.

👥 Let’s raise awareness. Let’s start conversations. Let’s make the invisible, visible.

👉 Read the full article and share to spread awareness.


Myasthenia Gravis: The “Hidden” Muscle Weakness You Should Know About

Imagine trying to smile, but only one corner of your mouth responds. Or starting a sentence with a strong, clear voice only to have your words trail off into a whisper by the end. For those living with Myasthenia Gravis (MG), these are not rare moments they can be daily challenges. MG is an autoimmune disorder that causes weakness in the voluntary muscles, the ones we control to move, speak, eat, and even breathe. It’s often misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and yet, with the right knowledge and care, entirely manageable.

So, let’s take a closer look. Not just through cold medical facts, but through real insight. Along the way, we’ll ask reflective questions because every health journey starts with awareness.

What If Your Muscles Stopped Listening to You?
Try this little exercise: raise your arms and hold them up for a full minute. Feel the burn? That tiredness is normal for now. But for someone with Myasthenia Gravis, even everyday tasks like brushing their hair or smiling at a friend can bring on that kind of muscle exhaustion. MG doesn’t weaken the muscles all the time it strikes when they’re used repeatedly. It's a condition of fluctuating fatigue, not constant frailty.
What makes it trickier is that MG symptoms can appear mild, and even vanish after rest, which is why many dismiss the early signs. But beneath the surface, the body’s immune system is mounting a quiet rebellion.

What Exactly Is Myasthenia Gravis?
Myasthenia Gravis, meaning “grave muscle weakness,” is a chronic autoimmune disorder. In simple terms, it blocks the communication between nerves and muscles. Normally, when your brain tells a muscle to move, it sends a signal through a chemical called acetylcholine. But in MG, the immune system creates antibodies that interfere with or destroy the receptors that receive this chemical at the muscle end. So, the muscles don’t get the message or get it too weakly to act.

Despite its name, MG isn’t necessarily “grave” or fatal anymore, thanks to medical advances. But it does demand attention, understanding, and care.

Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore
The symptoms of MG can be confusing because they fluctuate and often mimic other conditions. One of the earliest and most common signs is drooping eyelids (ptosis), followed by double vision (diplopia). These signs can appear after long periods of reading or looking at screens. Some people notice slurred speech, difficulty chewing, or trouble swallowing. Others experience generalized weakness in the limbs or neck, especially after activity. What’s unique about MG is that rest almost always helps—but only temporarily.

Have you ever experienced muscle weakness that seems to improve after a good rest or a nap? While that’s usually just fatigue, in the world of MG, it’s a major diagnostic clue.

What Causes It?
The cause of MG lies in an overreactive immune system. For reasons not fully understood, the body begins to treat acetylcholine receptors as foreign invaders. The thymus gland, which helps regulate immune activity, is believed to play a central role. In fact, many people with MG have an overactive thymus, and about 10–15% have thymomas, which are tumors of the thymus. Though mostly benign, thymomas often prompt the immune system to go awry.

What’s particularly puzzling is that MG can strike at any age, though it’s most commonly diagnosed in women under 40 and men over 60. It is not inherited or contagious, but it does require lifelong management.

How Is It Diagnosed?
Diagnosing MG can take time because its symptoms mimic other neurological or muscular conditions. Doctors typically begin with a physical and neurological exam, followed by blood tests to detect specific antibodies. A test called electromyography (EMG) may be used to measure how well nerves stimulate the muscles. In some cases, a CT scan or MRI is done to check for thymus abnormalities.
There’s also a fascinating quick test called the ice pack test. When a cold pack is placed over a drooping eyelid for a few minutes, the muscle weakness temporarily improves this is a simple and effective diagnostic trick for MG.

Is It Treatable?
The good news is that while MG has no cure, it is highly treatable. Medications such as cholinesterase inhibitors (like pyridostigmine) improve communication between nerves and muscles, offering temporary relief. Immunosuppressants such as corticosteroids help reduce the immune system’s attack on receptors. In more severe cases, treatments like plasmapheresis (which filters harmful antibodies from the blood) or IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) can provide faster relief.

If a thymoma or abnormal thymus gland is present, surgical removal (thymectomy) is often recommended and has shown to significantly improve symptoms in many patients.

Living with MG: A New Rhythm of Life
Living with Myasthenia Gravis means becoming more attuned to your body’s limits and learning to rest strategically. Stress, infections, and even extreme weather can trigger flare-ups. But with good treatment, a supportive care team, and awareness, most people with MG live full, active lives.

Here’s what one patient shared: "Before my diagnosis, I thought I was just lazy. My arms would tire halfway through brushing my hair, and I couldn’t keep my eyelids open by the evening. Now I understand it wasn’t in my head—it was MG. With the right treatment, I got my strength back, and my confidence too." Ananya, MG warrior, age 32

Why Awareness Matters
Myasthenia Gravis is often called an “invisible illness” because its symptoms aren’t always obvious to others. But early recognition is key to managing the disease and preventing crises. By talking about it whether in schools, communities, or healthcare spaces we help those silently suffering find answers sooner.

So the next time you feel an unusual fatigue, or know someone who is struggling with unexplained muscle weakness, remember: it might be more than just tiredness.

Myasthenia Gravis reminds us that strength isn’t just physical it’s also about resilience, understanding, and adaptation. Our bodies may falter, but our spirit, our science, and our support systems can lift us up again.

18/05/2025

May is National Stroke Awareness Month!

At Neuro Care Centre, we're committed to spreading awareness about stroke prevention, signs, and treatment. Know the signs, act FAST, and save a life!

F - Face drooping
A - Arm weakness
S - Speech difficulties
T - Time to call for help

Stay informed, stay safe!

Contact Us @ 09438871111

Like & Share our page to spread awareness!

Bikash Kumar Mishra

08/03/2025

Wishing all the incredible women out there a Happy International Women's Day!

At Neuro Care Centre, we recognize the strength, resilience, and beauty that women bring to our lives. Whether you're a mother, daughter, sister, or friend, your love, care, and compassion make a difference in the world.

Today, we celebrate you - your courage, your perseverance, and your unwavering commitment to your loved ones. We honor the women who have overcome incredible challenges, who have fought for their rights, and who have inspired us with their determination.

As a Neuro Care community, we've seen firsthand the impact that women have on the lives of those affected by neurological conditions. Your selflessness, empathy, and devotion are a beacon of hope and healing.

So on this special day, we want to say thank you. Thank you for being a source of strength, comfort, and inspiration. Thank you for being you.

Wishing you a day filled with love, joy, and celebration!

10/02/2025

Keep Your Nerves Healthy – 5 Mantras by Dr. BiBikash Kumar Mishraikash Kumar Mishra, Odisha’s leading neurologist and founder of NeNeuro Care Centreshares five simple yet powerful mantras to maintain healthy nerves and overall well-being:

1️⃣ Happiness is the Key – A positive mindset and joy contribute to better nerve health.
2️⃣ Physical Fitness – Regular exercise keeps your nervous system active and strong.
3️⃣ Stay Hydrated – Drinking enough water is essential for proper nerve function.
4️⃣ Balanced Diet – Nutritious food fuels your body and protects your nerves.
5️⃣ Be Stress-Free – Managing stress is crucial for a healthy nervous system.

Follow these simple steps to keep your nerves strong and lead a healthier life! 🌿💪