Q and A: about health and research

Despite decades of effort, ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) and Long COVID remain poorly understood. One possible reason may be the continued underrepresentation of neurochemical research in these fields. In biomedical science, certainty comes only when cause and effect are demonstrated through rigorous laboratory and imaging tools—yet much of the research on these conditions still skirts around the complex interplay of brain function, hormonal regulation, and psychological symptoms. The Neurobiology of Depression: A Parallel Worth Revisiting There’s a familiar pattern in research on chronic, poorly-defined illnesses: a search for answers that tends to overlook what's been apparent for years—the central role of the brain in both physiological and psychological dysfunction. Beyond well-documented cases of direct brain infections from pathogens, the underlying mechanisms of hormonal and neurochemical imbalance—particularly involving the hypothalamic-pitu...

Update: Amygdala–liver signalling orchestrates glycaemic responses to stress "...we show that acute stress activates medial amygdala (MeA) neurons that innervate the ventromedial hypothalamus (MeAVMH neurons)" https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09420-1 Sleep is essential for overall health, but stress can significantly impact its quality—especially REM sleep , the stage associated with vivid dreams, memory consolidation, and emotional processing. When stress hormones like adrenaline, cortisol, and ACTH are elevated, they can disrupt REM sleep and overactivate the amygdala , the brain’s emotional center. This imbalance may lead to restless nights, frequent awakenings, and even nightmares. Understanding REM Sleep and Its Role in Brain Function REM ( Rapid Eye Movement ) sleep is one of the most important sleep stages, characterized by: Increased brain activity (similar to wakefulness) Vivid dreaming Muscle paralysis (atonia) to prevent acting out dreams Memory pro...

Hormones are powerful chemical messengers that control many critical processes in the body. Produced by various glands and organs, these hormones regulate everything from metabolism and growth to mood and reproductive functions. When hormonal levels become too low or too high, a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms can arise, often making diagnosis and treatment a complex process. In this article, we will explore the effects of hormonal imbalances, focusing on key hormones like catecholamines, cortisol, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), adrenaline, and growth hormone (GH). We'll break down both the physical and psychological symptoms associated with low and high levels of each hormone. 1. Catecholamines: Dopamine, Epinephrine (Adrenaline), and Norepinephrine (Noradrenaline) Catecholamines are produced by the adrenal glands and are essential for the body’s response to stress, particularly the "fight or flight" reaction. They include dopamine , epinephrine (a...

Skin conditions can be both physically painful and emotionally distressing, often prompting individuals to seek multiple medical consultations to find relief. However, despite visiting several doctors, some patients find that their concerns, especially those involving specific nutrients like zinc, are overlooked. This article explores the intricate relationship between aldosterone, zinc, and cortisol, and how these elements contribute to skin health and broader bodily functions. Zinc and Skin Health: Overlooked by Many Physicians Zinc is a crucial trace mineral involved in numerous bodily processes, including immune function, wound healing, and protein synthesis. Despite its importance, it is often overlooked in clinical practice, particularly concerning its impact on skin conditions. This omission is surprising given the well-documented symptoms of zinc deficiency, which include: Hair loss Changes in skin and hair texture Eye problems Increased susceptibility to infections Wounds that...

Why Has Progress in Psoriasis Treatment Been Slow? There is a concerning trend among some medical professionals who adopt a somewhat superficial attitude toward the dangers of excessive salt intake, often citing its harms without fully grasping the complex clinical implications or delving deeply into the underlying science. This lack of nuanced understanding can be particularly frustrating for patients dealing with chronic conditions. As someone who has lived with genetically inherited psoriasis and Adrenal insufficiency for 64 years, I am deeply frustrated by the slow pace of scientific progress in treating these conditions. It's disheartening to see how little has changed since psoriasis was first formally described. In 1809, English physician Robert Willan (1757–1812) provided one of the earliest diagnostic descriptions of psoriasis, categorizing its various forms, including guttate, scalp, and palmar psoriasis. At that time, he referred to it as "lepra vulgaris," a te...

  Weight Gain and Resistant Hypertension: Causes and Connections to Cortisol Levels Low ACTH and high cortisol levels often point to Cushing’s syndrome caused by adrenal overproduction, where excess cortisol suppresses ACTH through negative feedback. A similar pattern can also result from long-term corticosteroid use, which reduces ACTH production while maintaining high cortisol levels.  Elevated cortisol, the hallmark of Cushing’s syndrome, can significantly impact the brain, leading to mood changes, cognitive difficulties, and emotional distress. These effects stem both from cortisol’s direct impact on brain function and the psychological strain of managing a chronic illness. Depression , anxiety, irritability, and rapid mood swings are among the most common psychological manifestations, with some individuals experiencing severe outcomes such as manic episodes, hallucinations, or psychosis.  Cognitive functions are also frequently impaired—many patients report memory ...