News from the WORLD OF MEDICINE

STROKE RECOVERY: NERVE STIMULATION CAN HELP

- Samantha Rideout

After surviving a stroke, there’s a 50 to 60 per cent chance you’ll lose arm function. In addition to physical therapy, some patients with this symptom are benefiting from a treatment called vagus nerve stimulation. The procedure requires implanting a small box-type device under the skin on the chest. When activated using a wireless transmitter, it stimulates the left vagus nerve, which runs from the abdomen to the brain stem. Scientists think this works because the stimulation helps to strengthen certain neural circuits, making it easier for the brain to relearn lost movements.

Is Work Shortening Your Life?

Partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, between 2016 and the beginning of 2021, the percentage of Canadian employees working from home rose from four to 32 per cent. The rise in teleworking can lead to overworking, as it blurs the line between professional life and home life. The World Health Organization cautions that regularly working more than 55 hours per week is associated with a 35 per cent higher risk of stroke and a 17 per cent higher risk of dying from heart problems caused by narrowed or blocked arteries. This is compared to maintaining boundaries around work and clocking 35 to 40 weekly hours. Working long hours does more than raise your stress level; it makes it harder to lead a healthy lifestyle with sufficient sleep, plenty of exercise and a balanced diet.

Don’t Place Smart Phones Next to Cardiac Implants