Explain it to me!

Essential tremor is a common neurological disorder characterized by involuntary rhythmic shaking, typically in the hands, although it can affect other parts of the body as well. This condition is often hereditary and may worsen with stress or intentional movements. While essential tremor is generally not associated with serious underlying health issues, it can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and may be managed with medication or other treatments to reduce the tremors.

Bell's palsy is a sudden, often temporary, facial nerve disorder that causes muscle weakness or paralysis on one side of the face, resulting in facial drooping and difficulty with facial expressions, such as smiling or closing the eye. The exact cause is usually unknown, but it is often linked to viral infections. While most individuals recover fully over time, treatment may involve medications like corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.

Brain tumors are abnormal cell growths within the brain, which can be either benign or malignant. These tumors can lead to a range of neurological symptoms, including headaches, seizures, cognitive changes, and motor deficits. Diagnosis involves imaging and often requires a biopsy for accurate classification. Treatment options encompass surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies, with the choice depending on the tumor's characteristics. The prognosis varies widely, but early detection and a personalized treatment approach are essential in improving outcomes for individuals with brain tumors.

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury typically caused by a blow to the head or a violent shaking of the head and body. It results in a temporary disruption of normal brain function, leading to various symptoms such as headache, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, and sometimes loss of consciousness. While most concussions resolve on their own with rest, repeated concussions or failing to manage them properly can lead to long-term cognitive and neurological issues, emphasizing the importance of prompt and appropriate medical evaluation and care for individuals who experience a concussion

Migraines are very common. Migraine headaches can cause throbbing in one particular area that can vary in intensity. Nausea and sensitivity to light and sound are also common symptoms. More about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Amongst all the things advertised on social media, what actually is important for brain health? More about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Aphasia is a disorder that affects communication- verbal, written, comprehension and repetition. What causes aphasia? More about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

The cerebellum is primarily responsible for muscle control, including balance and movement. It also plays a role in other cognitive functions such as language processing and memory. More about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

What is epilepsy? What differentiates having seizures from having epilepsy? What are the different types of seizures that someone might have and how are they classified? Those questions answered and more- audio from a webinar I gave last month. Please follow my socials for updates on future webinars! Like what you hear? Spread the word!  More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

WHAT IS THE LEFT-BRAIN/RIGHT-BRAIN MYTH? The myth is that everyone has a dominant hemisphere (or side) of the brain. Left-brained people are thought to be logical and good with math and language, while right-brained people are thought to be more creative and artistic. However, now we know that although there is some dominance to the side of the brain between individuals, there is no such thing as this split brain theory. More about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Hemorrhagic strokes are more likely to result in seizures. Seizures can also be more likely if you had a severe stroke. Some people will have repeated seizures, and be diagnosed with epilepsy. The chances of developing epilepsy is greater if it is a larger stroke, involving higher cortical regions and if the first seizure is at least 2 weeks after the stroke. More about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Per CDC: TIAs are sometimes known as “warning strokes.” It is important to know that A TIA is a warning sign of a future stroke. A TIA is a medical emergency, just like a major stroke. Strokes and TIAs require emergency care. Call 9-1-1 right away if you feel signs of a stroke or see symptoms in someone around you. There is no way to know in the beginning whether symptoms are from a TIA or from a major type of stroke. Like ischemic strokes, blood clots often cause TIAs. More than a third of people who have a TIA and don't get treatment have a major stroke within 1 year. As many as 10% to 15% of people will have a major stroke within 3 months of a TIA.1 More about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Hemorrhagic stroke happens when an artery in the brain leaks blood or ruptures (breaks open). This can put pressure on the brain, leading to brain cell death. More about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Stroke is a leading cause of death in the United States and is a major cause of serious disability for adults. Ischemic strokes result from lack of blood flow to the brain, leading to death of the brain cells in that area. Strokes are preventable and treatable. More about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Infantile spasms, sometimes called West syndrome, are a type of seizure that occurs in babies. The spasms look like a sudden stiffening of muscles, and the baby's arms, legs, or head may bend forward. Infantile spasms most often begin between 4 and 7 months, but can start any time in the first few years of life. Later onset spasms may also occur but are rare. https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

What exactly is electroencephalography (EEG)? https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Sorry for the delay- I have had a few life changes which required I take a small break...but I'm back. Neuroimaging focuses on imaging of the brain and nervous system. There are some specific imaging modalities we use in neurology and epilepsy care. This episode discusses a few of them. https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

The main function of Sensory Neurons is to send sensory signals from sensory organs to the central nervous system. Motor Nerves are responsible for sending motor commands from the central nervous system to the sensory organs to initiate actions. https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Focal Cortical Dysplasia (FCD) is a term used to describe a focal area of abnormal brain cell (“neuron”) organization and development. It is a common cause of focal epilepsy.

Structural epilepsy is a common cause of epilepsy and is defined by abnormalities which can be seen on brain imaging. It can be either congenital or acquired. https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Can anti-seizure medications be properly managed and safely utilized in pregnancy? The answer is 'yes', but make sure you're following with a adult epileptologist who is well equipped to manage and answer any questions that may come up. Not all medications are equal however, and ultimately, everyone's path during pregnancy will vary.  https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Due to hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, stress and other triggers, the postpartum period can be difficult when predicting seizure frequency.  More about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Rescue medications are given on an 'as needed' basis for prolonged seizures or clusters of seizures. Everyone's rescue medication and action plan are different as everyone's epilepsy can be variable.  The ideal rescue medicine  is easy to use and works quickly/effectively without much notable side effects.  Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

About 3-5% of people may have a seizure during their lifetime. That means seizures are common, and one day you might need to help someone during or after a seizure.  Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

A seizure is an emergency if it lasts longer than usual or clusters in a way that is not typical for the person. Everyone's epilepsy is different and so is what is considered an emergency for them. Here are a few things to keep in mind.  Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Being on call+ holiday= unexpected delay. Sorry! Part 4 of 4. Pregnancy can often times be anxiety provoking, especially if you have epilepsy. Here is some basic information to help maneuver this time. Like what you hear? Spread the word! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Sorry for the delay. Part 3of 4. Pregnancy can often times be anxiety provoking, especially if you have epilepsy. Here is some basic information to help maneuver this time. Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Part 2 of 4. Pregnancy can often times be anxiety provoking, especially if you have epilepsy. Here is some basic information to help maneuver this time. Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Part 1 of 4. Pregnancy can often times be anxiety provoking, especially if you have epilepsy. Here is some basic information to help maneuver this time. Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Diets like Ketogenic diet, modified Atkins diet and low glycemic index diet are useful for seizure control. With guidance from a nutritionist, these diets can be helpful! Have you tried any of these diets? Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Catamenial epilepsy is when seizures are influenced by hormones. Many women suffer from catamenial epilepsy, but few are diagnosed as their is no definite way to track it. Is this something that applies to you? More about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Tracking your seizures is important for both you and your doctors to understand your epilepsy. For more info about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Triggers for epilepsy can differ from person to person. Here, we discuss some common triggers as well as how to identify them.  Like what you hear? Tell a friend- https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Generalized tonic-clonic seizure is a type of seizure that involves the entire brain and body. They can either start from focal seizures (focal to bilateral tonic clonic) and just start from both sides of a brain at once. If they last longer than 5 mins or start to cluster, these can be dangerous for status epilepticus.  Like what you hear? Tell a friend- https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Focal epilepsy is the most common type of epilepsy. Seizures in focal epilepsy come from one particular area of brain or one "focus". The etiology is either something you're born with (congential: dysplasia, heterotopia, perinatal stroke etc.) or something that acquired (i.e stroke, trauma, infection, etc).  Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Generalized epilepsy causes seizures which occur from both halves of the brain at once. An EEG will show "generalized spike wave" discharges. These are usually seen earlier in life and can have a genetic component.  Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Population-based studies indicate that we all face a 3-5% lifetime risk of one seizure but only about 30% of those people will go onto have epilepsy.  A first seizure caused by an acute disturbance of brain function (acute symptomatic or provoked) is unlikely to recur. If a first seizure is unprovoked, however, meta-analyses suggest that 30% (even up to 50%) will recur; and after a second unprovoked seizure, 70-80% will recur, justifying the diagnosis of epilepsy. Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition which affects up to 65 million worldwide. 1 in 26 people will receive this diagnosis.  Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

You have 12 different cranial nerves that control your sensory and motor functions. They connect your brain to different parts of the body. Here are 7-12. Pardon the street noise! I live and work in midtown Manhattan! https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

You have 12 different cranial nerves that control your sensory and motor functions. They connect your brain to different parts of the body. Here are the first 6. https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Neurotransmitters are the body's chemical messengers. They are the molecules used by the nervous system to transmit messages between neurons, or from neurons to muscles. https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

There are four lobes of the brain: frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital. There are two of each, one on each side. Each lobe has a different purpose and affects a different function. Listen to learn more! https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

The autonomic nervous system consists of the sympathetic and the parasympathetic nervous systems. The sympathetic nervous system is important for your 'fight or flight' responses- the sympathetic nervous system directs the body's rapid involuntary response to dangerous or stressful situations. Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

The autonomic nervous system consists of the sympathetic and the parasympathetic nervous systems. The parasympathetic nervous system is important for your 'rest and digest' responses- the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for the body's rest and digestion response when the body is relaxed, resting, or feeding. Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

The autonomic nervous system is an important part of the peripheral nervous system. It regulates involuntary physiologic processes including heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, digestion, and sexual arousal. It is key for your "fight-fight, rest-digest" responses.  Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd

Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Behind every successful neuron are glial cells. Glial cells are non-neuronal cells. They are a diverse range of cells which allow the neuron to do its job. They provide metabolic support to neurons, including neuronal insulation, communication, nutrient transport and even act as immune support. For instance, issues with microglia (a type of glial cells that is helpful for waste transport/immune support for neurons) has been implicated in Alzheimer's disease.  Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Neurons are the primary component of the nervous system. They are electrically excitable cells which communicate with other electrically excitable cells (i.e other neurons) via synapses. A synapse is an electrochemical signal exchanged by neurons to pass along a message- whether it be from the brain to your body or vice versa. Without neurons, there cannot be a nervous system as the brain would have no way of transmitting information! Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

The human brain is the most complex organ in the body. Made up of millions of neurons, the brain is responsible for everything you feel, see, do and don't do. Learn more about the human brain with this episode! Like what you hear? Spread the word! More information about me: https://linktr.ee/Drbillakotamd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app