Defrag Blues Feb 1 – April 30, 2023

I had a rude awakening yesterday morning after getting out of a very full , hot and long bath. I got out of the bath and felt like I was going to faint, even though this was a horribly unpleasant feeling I wasn’t concerned as much as I should have been mainly due to the fact that I had never officially fainted. To be honest I didn’t know what to do so I started breathing deeply which didn’t seem to do anything but I thought that if I could get some oxygen to my brain than I might come good.

I didn’t.

I was sitting on our solid wooden stool in the bathroom struggling with my out of control body. I called out to Georgie, just her name but in a feeble, half hearted manner that had absolutely no urgency. The next thing that I am aware of was her panicked voice calling “Gazza”. Unbeknownst to me I had gone unconscious and fallen off my perch and landed very unceremioniuosly on the cold slate tiles. She came rushing in and all I could think of was that I had fallen asleep and dropped to the floor. It took a few seconds to put 2 and 2 together and realise that I had fainted. Georgie helped me to lay on my back on the cold tiles which felt so bloody comforting and grounded that I just wanted to stay there in that position for as long as possible. I closed my eyes and stretched out not giving too much of a damn about anything. All I could think off was that this felt good. 

All sorts of thoughts come up when something like this happens. It is frightening in its own way, too easy to blame the catalyst which in this case was the hot bath. Something is underlying this, a bit like when I was getting dizzy before I got diagnosed with cancer. 

I did a big interaction with Chat GPT in regard to this “situation”, here it is.

This is a medical question. Yesterday I fainted after stepping out of a very hot and long bath. I was only unconscious for a second but I feel that there is more underlying cause for this happening. Lately I have been feeling light headed and occasionally get buzzy flashes that feel like tiny space ships rushing through my brain. I am taking 1-2 teaspoons of salt a day because I am on a low carb diet but even today I feel light headed and wonky. I am 71 years old, fit, lean and overall healthy. I recently have recovered from squamous cell carcinoma, a cancer that manifested in my lymph node. I had PETSCAN in January that pronounced that I was cancer free. I wear bluetooth earbuds

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I’m sorry to hear that you’ve been experiencing these symptoms. Fainting or syncope can have many potential causes, ranging from benign to more serious conditions. Given your age and medical history, it would be prudent to seek medical attention and have a thorough evaluation.

The symptoms you’ve described, including lightheadedness and buzzing sensations, can be associated with various medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disorders, metabolic imbalances, neurological disorders, and medication side effects. It is possible that your low-carb diet and salt intake may be contributing to your symptoms, but it’s important to rule out other potential causes as well.

I would recommend that you schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or a specialist, such as a neurologist or cardiologist, to have a comprehensive evaluation. They may perform a physical exam, take your medical history, and order tests, such as blood work, imaging studies, or cardiac testing, to help identify the underlying cause of your symptoms.

In the meantime, it may be helpful to avoid activities that could trigger syncope, such as hot baths, standing up quickly, or prolonged periods of standing or sitting. Also, make sure to stay well-hydrated and to eat a well-balanced diet that meets your nutritional needs.

Please take care and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

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My blood pressure is 79/119 which is normal. My percentage SpO is 97 and resting heart rate is 63. I have been having regular 80 degree celsius saunas for the past 2 months, almost every second day, sometimes every day and have stayed in for 3 sessions up to one hour and sweated profusely, I have also just returned from Bali where I have walked an average of 15000 steps a day in hot and humid conditions and have sweated profusely every day. Would any of this potentially contribute to my light headedness.

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It is possible that your recent activities, such as frequent sauna use and prolonged exposure to hot and humid conditions, could be contributing to your symptoms of lightheadedness. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause dehydration, which can lead to decreased blood volume and blood pressure, and potentially contribute to syncope or fainting.

Additionally, the use of saunas can cause vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which can also lead to decreased blood pressure and lightheadedness. While sauna use can have many potential health benefits, it’s important to use them in moderation and to stay well-hydrated.

However, it’s important to note that there may be other underlying causes of your symptoms, and a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is recommended to rule out any other potential causes.

It’s also worth noting that your blood pressure reading of 79/119 is not within the normal range, as normal blood pressure readings are typically less than 120/80 mmHg. While your reading is not extremely high, it is worth discussing with your healthcare provider to ensure that it is properly managed.

Overall, it’s important to stay well-hydrated and to avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially if you are experiencing symptoms of lightheadedness. I would recommend scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and any potential underlying causes.

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I made a mistake. My blood pressure is 119/79 not the other way around.

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Thank you for clarifying that your blood pressure reading is actually 119/79, which is within the normal range. That being said, it’s still important to monitor your blood pressure regularly and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

In terms of your lightheadedness, it’s possible that the recent activities you mentioned, such as frequent sauna use and exposure to hot and humid conditions, could still be contributing factors. Dehydration and vasodilation can still occur, even with normal blood pressure readings.

However, there could be other underlying causes of your symptoms, such as medication side effects or underlying medical conditions. It’s best to discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider to rule out any potential concerns.

In the meantime, continue to stay well-hydrated and be mindful of activities that may trigger lightheadedness, such as sudden changes in position or prolonged exposure to high temperatures. If you experience any concerning symptoms, such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

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I am taking 240 mg of melatonin every night. I have been taking this for over a year as a medication to prevent and combat cancer.

I’m sorry, but I must inform you that taking 240 mg of melatonin every night is an extremely high dose and is not recommended. The usual recommended dose of melatonin for adults is 1-5 mg per day, taken before bedtime to help regulate the sleep-wake cycle.

While melatonin is generally considered safe in the recommended doses, taking such a high dose could lead to side effects, including dizziness, headaches, nausea, and daytime sleepiness. There is also limited evidence to support the use of melatonin as a cancer prevention or treatment strategy.

It’s important to discuss your use of melatonin with your healthcare provider, especially given your recent history of cancer. Your healthcare provider can advise you on the appropriate use of melatonin or other medications or supplements to help manage your cancer risk.

In the meantime, I strongly recommend that you do not continue taking such a high dose of melatonin without first consulting with your healthcare provider. They may be able to recommend alternative strategies to help you manage your cancer risk or other health concerns.

I have also been doing resistance training at the gym over the past 3 months. I do every day or at least every second day and do a basic workout to attempt to increase my muscle mass. In recent times my muscle mass has increased by 2.5% and my body fat has decreased by 2.5%

It’s great to hear that you’ve been incorporating resistance training into your routine and have seen improvements in your muscle mass and body fat percentage. Resistance training can have many potential health benefits, including increased muscle strength and endurance, improved bone density, and a decreased risk of chronic diseases.

However, it’s important to make sure that your training routine is safe and effective. Working out every day or every other day without proper rest and recovery can lead to overtraining and increased risk of injury. It’s generally recommended to have at least one rest day per week and to vary your workouts to target different muscle groups.

Additionally, it’s important to ensure that you are using proper form and technique during your workouts to minimize the risk of injury. It’s also important to gradually increase the weight or resistance used in your workouts to avoid sudden increases in stress on your muscles and joints.

If you are new to resistance training or have any underlying medical conditions, it’s a good idea to work with a qualified fitness professional or healthcare provider to develop a safe and effective workout plan. They can also help you monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your routine.

Overall, resistance training can be a great way to improve your overall health and fitness, but it’s important to approach it in a safe and effective manner.

Based on the data I have supplied would it be OK to go for a long walk today or do a workout at the gym?

Based on the information you’ve provided, it appears that your vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation) are within normal ranges. However, if you are still experiencing lightheadedness, buzzy flashes, or any other concerning symptoms, it may be best to avoid intense exercise until you’ve had a chance to speak with your healthcare provider.

If you feel well enough to exercise, a long walk or a moderate workout at the gym may be appropriate. Just be sure to listen to your body and avoid overexertion. Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

It’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before starting or changing your exercise routine, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns. They can provide personalized guidance and help you determine what level of activity is safe and appropriate for you.

I have been wearing bluetooth earbuds at night when I sleep. I listen to podcasts and go to sleep with them still going, some nights I spend half of my sleeping time with a podcast playing in my ears. Can this have an adverse effect on my health or the quality of my sleep.

Wearing bluetooth earbuds at night and listening to podcasts while sleeping may have some potential drawbacks that can affect the quality of your sleep and overall health.

Firstly, listening to sounds or voices while sleeping can disrupt the natural sleep cycle, particularly during the stages of deep sleep, which is crucial for physical restoration and brain recovery. Continuous auditory stimulation can also increase the time it takes to fall asleep and reduce the total amount of sleep, leading to feelings of fatigue and irritability the next day.

Additionally, using earbuds for extended periods of time can increase the risk of developing ear infections, particularly if they are not cleaned regularly. Wearing earbuds for prolonged periods of time can also contribute to earwax build-up, which can affect hearing and cause discomfort.

Furthermore, some research suggests that exposure to electromagnetic radiation from wireless devices such as Bluetooth earbuds may have negative health effects, although the evidence is still inconclusive.

In summary, it’s generally not recommended to use Bluetooth earbuds while sleeping, particularly for extended periods of time. If you need to listen to something before sleep, it may be better to use a traditional radio, white noise machine, or speaker instead of wearing earbuds. It’s also a good idea to practice good hygiene and regularly clean the earbuds to reduce the risk of infection.

My plan is to stop taking melatonin, stop wearing blue tooth earbuds all night, take in more water and salt, eat a well balanced diet and rest more than I normally do. I will make an appointment with my GP and do any appropriate tests that he recommends. What do you think?

It sounds like you have a good plan in place to address the concerns you’ve mentioned. Stopping the use of melatonin and reducing your exposure to Bluetooth earbuds at night are both positive steps that may help improve your sleep quality and overall health.

Ensuring that you’re adequately hydrated and getting enough electrolytes (such as salt) through your diet is also important, particularly if you’ve been experiencing lightheadedness and other symptoms. Eating a well-balanced diet with a variety of nutrient-rich foods can provide the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients your body needs to function optimally.

Finally, making an appointment with your GP to discuss your symptoms and undergo any recommended tests is an excellent idea. Your doctor can provide personalized guidance and help you determine the underlying cause of your symptoms, if any.

Overall, it’s great that you’re taking proactive steps to address your health concerns and improve your overall well-being. Remember to listen to your body, prioritize rest and self-care, and seek medical attention if needed.

Can we just look more in detail at the potential symptoms of taking 240 mg of melatonin every night for over one year.

While melatonin is generally considered safe when taken at recommended doses, taking large amounts of melatonin over an extended period of time can lead to potential side effects, such as:

1. Sleep disturbance: Surprisingly, taking too much melatonin can actually cause sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, vivid dreams, or nightmares.
2. Daytime drowsiness: Taking high doses of melatonin can also cause daytime drowsiness or fatigue, making it difficult to stay alert or focus during the day.
3. Headaches: Some people may experience headaches as a side effect of taking melatonin, particularly if they take high doses.
4. Nausea and dizziness: Taking too much melatonin may also cause nausea or dizziness in some people.
5. Hormonal imbalances: Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the body’s sleep-wake cycle, and taking large amounts of it over an extended period may interfere with other hormones, such as testosterone, estrogen, and cortisol.
6. Depression: Some studies have suggested that taking high doses of melatonin over a long period may increase the risk of depression, although more research is needed to confirm this association.
7. Increased risk of seizures: In rare cases, taking high doses of melatonin has been associated with an increased risk of seizures, particularly in people with a history of seizure disorders.

It’s important to note that these side effects are generally associated with high doses of melatonin over an extended period, and most people who take melatonin at recommended doses do not experience these symptoms. Nonetheless, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, including melatonin, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

The other thing is that I suffer from peripheral neuropathy. This manifests in my feet which are quite numb and feel dry and I also get burning sensations after walking considerable distances. I believe that my nervous system was damaged by an alcoholism over a long period. I was drinking a 750 ml bottle of vodka eery day although I have had absolutely no alcohol for 4 years and have reversed my negative lifestyle, normalized my blood sugar and lost 30 kg. At times I feel strange sensations in my body that lead me to believe that my nervous system is compromised and maybe unrepairable. Can you recommend anything.

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that results from damage to the peripheral nerves, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including alcoholism. While nerve damage can be irreversible in some cases, there are still steps you can take to manage your symptoms and potentially slow the progression of the condition.

Here are a few recommendations:

1. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: You have already made significant progress in improving your health by quitting alcohol and losing weight. Keep up the good work by maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and alcohol.
2. Manage your blood sugar: High blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage and worsen peripheral neuropathy, so it’s important to manage your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes or prediabetes.
3. Take care of your feet: People with peripheral neuropathy are at higher risk of developing foot problems, such as sores or infections, so it’s important to take extra care of your feet. Wear comfortable shoes that fit well, check your feet regularly for any signs of injury or infection, and see a podiatrist if you have any foot problems.
4. Consider physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve strength and balance, which can reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
5. Speak with your doctor about medications: There are several medications that can help manage the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, such as pain and tingling. Your doctor can help determine which medications may be appropriate for you.

It’s also important to note that while peripheral neuropathy can be a frustrating and sometimes debilitating condition, there is hope for managing the symptoms and maintaining your quality of life. Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you have about your condition and treatment options.

Oh, I forgot to tell you that I also take metformin each day as a medication for cancer. Can this cause dizziness. It hasn’t in the past.

Metformin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, but it has also been studied for its potential use in cancer treatment. While dizziness is not a commonly reported side effect of metformin, it is possible that it could cause dizziness in some individuals. However, there may be other factors at play that could be causing your dizziness, such as the other medications you are taking or changes in your lifestyle.

It’s important to discuss any concerns or symptoms you are experiencing with your healthcare provider, as they can help determine the cause of your dizziness and provide appropriate treatment if necessary. They may also be able to adjust your medication regimen if they feel that it could be contributing to your symptoms.

I just did a reading of my blood sugar and ketones. This is after eating lunch, seemed veggies a bulletproof coffee and several squares of Lindt 95% cocoa chocolate. Blood Sugar 5.2 and ketones 1.1

A blood sugar level of 5.2 mmol/L after eating lunch is within a normal range. Ketone levels of 1.1 mmol/L are considered to be in the nutritional ketosis range, which is a state that can be achieved through a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet such as the one you are following. Nutritional ketosis can have potential benefits for weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and brain function.

However, it’s important to note that measuring blood sugar and ketone levels alone may not provide a complete picture of your overall health. It’s always a good idea to discuss your diet and any concerns you may have with your healthcare provider, who can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual health status and needs.