Duke Health Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Preventing Rotator Cuff Injuries

The AHA! Team — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 05:38:15 +0000

Morgan deBlecourt via Duke Health – Rotator cuff tears are more common than you may think. About 10% of people in their 50s and half over the age of 70 will have one. While many rotator cuff tears are related to aging, they can occur in younger people as a result of overuse, poor shoulder mechanics, or injury. Rotator cuff injuries affect all types of people — sedentary adults, weekend warriors, and elite athletes. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your risks. “Good posture in the shoulder blades, stretching, and some very simple strengthening exercises will help prevent many of the shoulder problems you could have,” said Jocelyn Wittstein, MD, a shoulder specialist at Duke Health. “Also, modifying lifting and exercise practices can reduce the risk of shoulder injury or reinjury.” Overhead Activity Leads to Shoulder Injuries It’s true that baseball pitchers suffer rotator cuff tears — or rather, fraying on the edges of some tendons — because of the extreme position of the shoulder and the tremendous force they exert on their shoulders every time they throw the ball. But overhead activity of all kinds is what tends to injure people: reaching up repeatedly to paint a wall, putting a heavy suitcase in an overhead bin, or serving a tennis ball. “Any time your arms are raised up over your head, the rotator cuff might be in an awkward position,” said Dr. Wittstein, a Duke orthopaedic surgeon. “This in combination with lifting or lowering something heavy away from the body really strains the rotator cuff.” The first sign of a rotator cuff injury is often nagging shoulder pain when performing everyday activities such as washing your hair, lifting a gallon of milk, or reaching for something on the back seat of the car. Pain is usually felt at the side of the shoulder and can often radiate toward the elbow. Injured shoulders can also be troublesome at night when lying down allows the inflamed joint to stretch or when sleeping on your side. Occasionally, nighttime pain can get so bad that sleep is possible only in a reclining chair — and some patients can’t sleep at all. Exercises Can Prevent Rotator Cuff Injuries The shoulder has more range of motion than any other joint. Most of its stability and movement relies on the small rotator cuff muscles and the larger muscles that surround the shoulder joint. Traditional weightlifting and aerobic exercise provide many benefits but typically do not focus on strengthening and stretching the complicated assembly of muscles that keep the shoulder joint stable and healthy. Dr. Wittstein said that a shoulder exercise program should work the muscles that retract the shoulder blades, stretch the chest and the back of the shoulder joint, and strengthen all the muscles of the rotator cuff. These exercises will strengthen your rotator cuff and help prevent injury, whether you are active or inactive, young or old. Treatment Options for Torn Rotator Cuffs If you tear your rotator cuff, there are several treatment options. The type of treatment depends not only on the extent of the injury but also on your age and functional demands. While many complete rotator cuff tears benefit from surgical repair, surgery is not always necessary. Cortisone injections can reduce pain but should be used sparingly, as they can affect the ability of the rotator cuff to heal if you decide to have a surgical repair in the near future. Other medications like Tylenol and anti-inflammatories may also help. People with a partial tear or who want to avoid surgery can benefit from physical therapy, which they are encouraged to continue at home. Sometimes, strengthening is all that’s needed, even if your rotator cuff is torn. That’s because “four separate rotator cuff tendons surround the shoulder,” Dr. Wittstein explained. “If you have torn half of one tendon, you still have three and a half tendons left. If those are strong, it can often fully compensate for the torn part.” However, rotator cuff tears that involve the full thickness of the tendon and remain painful may enlarge over time. “Those are the rotator cuff tears we are more likely to repair with surgery early on,” she says. She added, “Many people with a small tear can have a pain-free, strong, healthy shoulder with full ability to do an overhead activity. That’s why keeping those muscles strong is so important.” If you think you may have a rotator cuff injury, consider scheduling an appointment with a Duke shoulder specialist. To read the original article click here.

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5 Steps to Keeping the Aging Voice Healthy

The AHA! Team — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:34:46 +0000

Morgan deBlecourt via Duke Health – As we get older, gradual voice changes, such as hoarseness or vocal weakness, can take a toll on our ability to communicate. But this doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of aging. Here are a few simple suggestions to help keep your voice healthy and strong for years to come. Your Voice Matters Difficulty communicating can lead to social withdrawal and even depression. While most people understand that hearing loss is an important consideration as we age, it’s just as critical to evaluate and treat voice problems related to getting older. Vocal fold atrophy (or “thinning”), diminished lung power, and overall health decline can contribute to aging voice problems, also known as presbyphonia or presbylaryngis. Duke Health speech pathologist Cristen Paige explains how you can keep your voice in tiptop shape. 1. Be Aware Knowledge is power. Even if you haven’t begun experiencing voice changes, knowing the signs can help you nip them in the bud if they begin. These include being asked to repeat yourself more often, having to strain your voice to be heard, or feeling like you are running out of air as you talk. Being proactive can help you keep your voice stronger in the long run. 2. Maintain Your Overall Health You may be surprised to learn that conditions that affect breathing, like asthma, allergies, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) can affect your voice. Breath is what powers your voice, so maintaining good lung function is vital to keeping your voice strong. Keeping the rest of your body in shape and moving is also important for the voice. Regular exercise helps increase overall stamina, build muscle tone, and improve posture — all of which contribute to a healthier voice. 3. Practice Good Vocal Hygiene As you can imagine, how you treat your throat and larynx (voice box) affects your voice. The larynx should stay moist and flexible, so drink six to eight glasses of water a day. Limit caffeine and alcohol, which dry out your throat. Incorporate “wet snacks — things like grapes, melons, cucumbers — that have a lot of water content,” said Paige. Use a humidifier at home to keep the air moist. And, of course, don’t smoke! 4. Use It or “Lose It” If you are retired or living alone, you may be talking less. But just like the rest of the body, the voice needs exercise to keep it in good shape. Read aloud, talk to pets, join a choir, or sing in the shower. Look for social opportunities and participate in conversation. 5. Voice Therapy Many older adults with voice problems can benefit from professional help. A comprehensive voice evaluation can rule out any other causes for voice issues (like tumors or lesions). Your ENT voice specialist may suggest voice therapy, which is like physical therapy for the voice to improve its function, quality, and stamina. Voice therapy is typically covered by insurance, but check with your provider to confirm. To read the original article click here.

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Do I Need an Epileptologist?

The AHA! Team — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 05:37:03 +0000

Morgan deBlecourt via Duke Health – An epileptologist is a neurologist who specializes in caring for people with epilepsy. Epileptologists have completed an additional one to two years of subspecialty training in epilepsy care. Most people with epilepsy can see a primary care doctor or general neurologist to manage their seizures. However, you may need more advanced care if your seizures are not under control, if you have certain medical issues, or if you want a second opinion. An epileptologist is a neurologist who specializes in caring for people with epilepsy. Epileptologists have completed an additional one to two years of subspecialty training in epilepsy care. When to See an Epileptologist To confirm your epilepsy diagnosis If your seizures are not under control after three months of care by your primary care physician or after one year of care by a general neurologist If your seizures are not under control despite trying two or three different medications If you are experiencing unwanted side effects from medications If you have other medical conditions or considerations that affect or are affected by epilepsy If you are pregnant or want to become pregnant Seek Care at an Epilepsy Center “An epileptologist typically works in a designated epilepsy center, which is capable of evaluating people whose seizures are not under adequate control. An epilepsy center provides a very comprehensive approach to care,” said Duke epileptologist Aatif Husain, MD. An epilepsy center is staffed by specialists who use sophisticated testing to pinpoint your diagnosis, offer the latest treatments, address possible side effects of medications, recommend surgical options if appropriate, and help you manage the social and emotional aspects of epilepsy. “Advances over the past decade have enabled more personalized epilepsy care,” said Duke epileptologist Birgit Frauscher, MD. “With new options now available, regular re-evaluation of treatment is essential.” As a Level 4 Epilepsy Center, Duke is recognized by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers for providing the highest level of diagnostic, treatment, and surgical options. To read the original article click here.

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When Your Loved One has Aphasia

The AHA! Team — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 05:28:22 +0000

Meredith Nye, CCC-SLP, MS, via Duke Health – Speech pathologists can help relatives and friends work with a loved one who has aphasia and find ways to communicate effectively. Aphasia is a language disorder that can affect comprehension and communication. Although it is most often caused by a stroke, aphasia can also result from traumatic brain injury, brain tumors, or progressive neurological disorders such as primary progressive aphasia (PPA). These conditions damage the language centers of the brain, leading to difficulties with speaking, understanding, reading, and/or writing. Learning to communicate with someone who has aphasia can positively impact that person’s social interactions, relationships, medical decision-making, and overall wellbeing. “We work with patients and their care partners to provide customized treatment plans focusing on life participation and maximizing communication success,” says Meredith Nye, CCC-SLP, MS, a Duke speech-language pathologist. “Aphasia doesn’t impact a person’s hearing or thinking skills like memory. Rather,” she says, “people with aphasia may use the wrong word, like ‘mother’ instead of ‘daughter’ or ‘yes’ instead of ‘no.’ Or they may make up words, unintentionally repeat themselves, or only be able to say a few words or sounds when they are trying to communicate. Or they may have a hard time understanding what you’re saying.” How to Communicate with Someone with Aphasia Speech pathologists can help relatives and friends work with a loved one who has aphasia and find ways to communicate effectively. Nye recommends keeping these tips in mind: Focus Their Attention If possible, move your conversation to a quiet, well-lit room where there are no distractions. Turn off background disturbances like the radio or television. It’s best to limit conversation to one or two people at the most. Use All Forms of Nonverbal Communication Rather than rely on words, use a wave to say “goodbye” or “hello.” Thumbs up can be used to say “good job” or “yes.” Your facial expressions can show anger, sadness, or elation. Exchange written or drawn messages. Have Patience Sometimes it takes longer for a person with aphasia to communicate. Count to 10 slowly before providing help or choices. Many times it takes that much time or longer for them to get their message out. Confirm Your Understanding After an exchange with your loved one, make sure you understand by verbally repeating or by writing a synopsis of the message’s key points. If they wanted coffee, write “coffee” and draw a picture. Use intonation in your voice when you ask, “You want coffee?” and point to the picture. Have them answer yes or no. Use Technology Computers, smart devices, and other forms of technology can help people with aphasia return to hobbies, read, and converse with others. Icons and emojis can enhance email and social media conversations. Encourage your loved one to listen to audiobooks in addition to reading the print versions. Speech pathologists can also recommend programs that enable your loved one to use word-prediction or speech-to-text capabilities. Get Help Speech pathologists can help people make progress even years after they are originally diagnosed with aphasia, says Nye. “We can help them focus on their strengths and find ways to better engage with family and their community. We can offer tools to help them socialize and have a better quality of life through communication.” Find Aphasia Support Groups There are many groups and resources in the community to support people with aphasia and their families. Nye says a speech-language pathologist is your best resource for identifying groups in your area. To read the original article click here.

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New E-Cigarette Products Contain Highly Potent Sweeteners

The AHA! Team — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 05:23:42 +0000

Eric-Sven Jordt, Ph.D. via Duke Health – As of now, neither federal nor state regulations address the increasing presence of artificial sweeteners in tobacco products. e-cigarettes tested by Duke researchers A majority of popular disposable e-cigarettes tested by Duke researchers contain a potent, unregulated artificial sweetener that may enhance the appeal to young and first-time users. The additive neotame is up to 13,000 times sweeter than table sugar and is often used in e-cigarettes that also feature fruity, candy and cool mint flavors. Clinical studies have found that candy flavors and sweeteners increase the appeal, preference, and abuse potential of e-cigarettes and other tobacco products. “The addition of a potent sweetener may increase the potential for addiction by facilitating initiation and chronic use,” said Eric-Sven Jordt, Ph.D., associate professor in the departments of Anesthesiology and Pharmacology and Cancer Biology at Duke and senior author of a study appearing June 2 in JAMA. “The presence of neotame also raises toxicity concerns,” Jordt said. “While approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in food, it is not known whether it is safe to inhale neotame heated and vaporized by an e-cigarette.” Jordt and colleagues — including co-lead authors Hanno C. Erythropel, Ph.D., an analytical chemist at Yale School of Medicine and Sairam V. Jabba, Ph.D., senior research scientist in Duke’s Department of Anesthesiology – analyzed 55 disposable e-cigarettes marketed in 2024, including the popular brands Elfbar, Geekbar, Mr. Fog and Breeze, and products that contained no nicotine or a nicotine-mimicking substance called 6-methylnicotine. Of the 55 disposable e-cigarettes tested all contained neotame, with an average neotame content that was nearly five times higher than in a mentos mint candy. Disposable e-cigarettes containing the nicotine analog 6-methylnicotine had even higher neotame content. “Our study demonstrates that the artificial sweetener neotame is a ubiquitous ingredient in popular disposable e-cigarettes sold in the United States,” Jabba said. “Interestingly, less popular FDA-authorized ENDS products such as Vuse or those awaiting an authorization decision that were introduced before 2021 such as Juul do not contain this additive. The addition of neotame to disposable cigarettes may give these products a competitive edge. Youth and young adults strongly favor sweetened products, especially in combination with candy flavors.” As of now, neither federal nor state regulations address the increasing presence of artificial sweeteners in tobacco products. “FDA and state regulators need to rein in the spread of heavily sweetened, disposable e-cigarettes that have not been authorized for marketing by the FDA, but are nevertheless available in local stores and from online vendors,” Jordt said. “Otherwise, gains made in the reduction of e-cigarette use by youth may be reversed.” In addition to Jabba, Jordt and Erythropel, study authors include Remi A. Mellinghoff, Victor Garcia-Gallet, Peter Silinski, and Julie B. Zimmerman. Funding for the study was provided by the Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, the National Institute on Drug Abuse, part of the National Institutes of Health (U54DA036151, R01DA060884), and the Center for Tobacco Products of the FDA. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the NIH or the FDA. To read the original article click here.

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Alternatives to Heart Transplant? You Have Options

The AHA! Team — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 05:53:37 +0000

Morgan deBlecourt via Duke Health – “The good news is there are new therapies coming out every day,” said Dr. DeVore. “We can help find the option that’s right for you.” Heart transplantation can be a life-saving treatment for severe heart failure, but it’s a serious operation that requires a lifelong commitment. As a result, a heart transplant is not the best option for everyone. Fortunately, there are alternatives. “There are new therapies coming out every day,” said Adam DeVore, MD, a Duke transplant cardiologist and heart failure specialist. These new therapies can improve or help take over the heart’s function and prolong life. What Does A Heart Transplant Require? Most people who are eligible for a heart transplant have significant heart failure — a chronic condition in which your heart has trouble pumping blood — or another severe type of heart disease that could lead to death within one year. You may not be eligible for heart transplantation if you are over 70 years old or have other major health problems. Taking care of your new heart after transplant is a lifelong effort. For this reason, a heart transplant requires certain commitments, including abstaining from tobacco and illegal substances and limiting alcohol, attending frequent follow-up appointments, and taking anti-rejection and other medications. People who get a heart transplant need a strong support network, not only to help with recovery after the transplant surgery itself, but also to help coordinate appointments and long-term medications. If you aren’t eligible or if now is not the right time for heart transplantation, one of several alternatives may fit your needs. Ventricular Assist Devices Implantable left ventricular assist devices (also called VADs or LVADs) are mechanical pumps that help your heart supply blood to the rest of the body. They can extend a person’s life for years, either as they await transplant or as a definitive therapy in itself. LVADs have internal and external components. The pump is inserted into the heart during surgery. It takes blood from the left ventricle, the largest chamber of the heart that is most often weakened in people with heart failure, and pumps it directly into the aorta toward the rest of the body. The pump is connected to a controller outside of your body by a thin cord that exits through a small incision in the abdomen. Battery packs attach to the controller to power the device. Together the controller and battery packs weigh about five pounds. Living with a VAD takes some getting used to. You’ll need to always have a reliable power source available. You’ll also need to keep an eye out for infection. And although you can shower, you won’t be able to swim or take a bath, since the device can’t be submerged. Smaller LVADs Although LVADs are often used as a “bridge” to heart transplantation (meaning it supports the rest of your body while you wait for a heart transplant), advances in technology have made LVADs smaller, more portable, and more viable as a final treatment; doctors sometimes refer to this as “destination therapy.” Depending on the severity of heart failure, most people with an LVAD are able to get back to living life pretty close to normal. “Duke has been a pioneer in LVAD therapy. We have constantly worked to understand how to best care for these patients as the pumps have become more durable, smaller, and easier to implant, which all results in making it easier to have a normal life. We’re continuing to push the envelope from a technological perspective as well as a best-practice perspective,” said Duke advanced heart failure specialist and transplant cardiologist Stu Russell, MD. Artificial Heart Duke recently became the second center in the world to successfully implant a new form of mechanical heart pump known as the BiVACOR Total Artificial Heart (TAH). For people with heart failure of both the left and right sides of the heart, this device provides complete blood circulation for the entire body. Currently, the BiVACOR total artificial heart is only available as a temporary stabilizing option for people awaiting heart transplant surgery. However, pumps like these may also eventually serve as a permanent solution, similar to current LVAD treatments. Other Surgical Options for Heart Failure According to Dr. Adam DeVore, “heart failure” is an umbrella term for several heart conditions that lead to the heart failing. Depending on the underlying cause of your heart failure, surgery may be an option. For example, heart failure caused by coronary artery disease may benefit from coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. It reroutes your heart’s blood flow around a blocked, damaged, or narrowed blood vessel. Damaged or diseased heart valves can be treated with valve surgery to improve the heart’s ability to move blood properly. Ultimately, these operations may not cure your heart disease, and you might still need an LVAD or heart transplant later. Heart Failure Medical Management Whether you have a transplant, get an LVAD, or undergo a different kind of heart surgery, you’ll still need to make lifestyle changes (healthy eating, exercise, etc.) and take medications that help slow your heart disease and reduce its symptoms. “The good news is there are new therapies coming out every day,” said Dr. DeVore. “We can help find the option that’s right for you.” To read the original article click here.

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Knee Arthroscopic Surgery for Meniscus Tears

The AHA! Team — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 05:36:09 +0000

Georgia M. Beasley, MD, MHSc, via Duke Health – The knee is one of the most commonly injured parts of the body, and meniscus tears are often the cause of knee pain and knee injury. The meniscus is the tough, rubbery cartilage that absorbs shock between the shin bone and thigh bone and distributes weight across the knee joint. When this cartilage tears, it can cause pain and instability in the knee joint. Meniscus tears can result from a twisting injury in sporting activities, such as football or soccer, or even something as simple as turning to put the dishes away. Symptoms of Meniscus Tears People of all ages can suffer from meniscus injuries, but each age has different types of tears and different ways to treat the tears. Almost all tears have similar symptoms, including: Pain Swelling Tenderness Giving way Mechanical symptoms, such as locking, popping, and catching Diagnosing a Meniscus Tear When you experience these symptoms, it is important to see an orthopaedic surgeon so your knee can be examined and an accurate diagnosis made. Occasionally, the diagnosis is obvious based upon a description of the injury and an examination of the patient. However, X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are frequently used to help identify any other associated injuries. Most common findings The most common findings on exam include tenderness over the joint line where the meniscus is torn, swelling, and sometimes loss of motion. The most important to report is whether you have mechanical symptoms such as episodes of feeling like your knee is caught or stuck. Once the diagnosis of a meniscus tear is made, you should discuss your treatment plan with your orthopaedic surgeon. For most people who have a symptomatic meniscus tear with mechanical symptoms, arthroscopic surgery is selected to remove or repair the torn tissue. However, if you have arthritis, you may benefit from injection and physical therapy without surgery. Arthroscopy has revolutionized how knee surgery is performed. In the past, a torn meniscus required a three- to four-inch incision and an overnight stay (or two) in the hospital. Now, the meniscus tear can be repaired with the arthroscope through two tiny (less than a half-inch) incisions. The surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis in less than an hour. Typically, the surgery can be performed under regional anesthesia with sedation, so there’s minimal anesthesia risk. Occasionally, small stitches can be placed into the torn meniscus to sew it back together; this technique can successfully treat large tears in younger people. If the tear is small, it may be removed. Quick Recovery Time Recovery from arthroscopic meniscus tear surgery is relatively quick, and most people can resume normal activities within a few weeks depending on the size of the tear and the repair involved. The pain relief is dramatic, and the postoperative incision pain is quite minimal. Physical therapy is often necessary in the recovery process. As with any surgery, there are risks, including the risk of infection or blood clots. Additionally, there are risks associated with anesthesia used during the surgical procedure. While meniscus tears are common, painful, and activity-limiting, these injuries can be quickly, easily, and successfully identified and treated. To read the original article click here.

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Early Detection of Melanoma

The AHA! Team — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 05:23:11 +0000

Georgia M. Beasley, MD, MHSc, via Duke Health – Melanoma can be cured if detected early. Here, Georgia M. Beasley, MD, MHSc, a surgical oncologist at Duke Health, talks about what to look for and how to know if you are at high risk. How to Detect Melanoma Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, responsible for the majority of all skin cancer deaths. Close to 100,000 new melanomas will be diagnosed this year. Fortunately, these cancers are usually curable if detected early. According to Dr. Beasley, patients diagnosed in the earliest stage of melanoma have over a 90% survival rate at five years, while those diagnosed at the most advanced stage have a 20 to 30% survival rate. Early detection is not always easy. Of all the moles in the United States, only one in 20,000 to 200,000 is a melanoma, so searching for an early-stage melanoma is a lot like looking for a needle in a haystack. The commonly recommended “ABCD” detection technique — looking for moles that are asymmetrical, have an irregular border, have uneven color, or a diameter larger than a pencil eraser — is quite helpful in detecting advanced melanomas, but to catch these cancers earlier, it’s important to take additional steps. Understand Your Risk Profile About half of melanomas occur in just 1 to 5% of the population. The average age of people when it is diagnosed is 65. But melanoma is not uncommon even among those younger than 30, said Dr. Beasley. In fact, it’s one of the most common cancers in young adults, especially young women. High-risk groups include people who have: A personal or family history of melanoma (two or more close relatives who have been diagnosed with invasive melanoma) Dysplastic (atypical) moles Numerous moles (generally more than 50) If you have one or more of these traits, regular skin checks may help save your life. Look Beyond Your Moles Many people are told that they have “pre-cancerous” moles, but this is a poor term: dysplastic (or atypical) moles may never progress to melanoma, and instead, are better considered a risk marker for melanoma. At least half of melanomas appear in normal skin. Look for Moles that Don’t Match Everyone’s moles are different, explained Dr. Beasley, so it’s hard to come up with a blanket description of normal moles versus early melanomas. If you see a new mole that looks different than your other (average) moles — a different color, irregular shape, a more pronounced border — you should have that different mole checked by a doctor. Look for Changes in Your Moles Identifying changing moles is one of the keys to early detection. All moles are new at some point, especially in young adults, so a new or enlarged mole is not necessarily a melanoma. However, if you note a changing mole, it is appropriate to seek medical advice. Don’t Rely on Memory If you have had a previous melanoma, dysplastic moles, or numerous moles, Dr. Beasley recommends asking your doctor about total-body photography. Instead of relying on memory to determine whether a mole has changed or is new, Duke dermatologists offer total-body photography to provide a baseline for comparison at future examinations. Total body photography CDs can be used in the clinic and at home to allow for comparisons. Heed Your Own Concerns If you are concerned about an area on your skin, that is enough reason for your doctor to be concerned as well. Don’t hesitate to ask for a second opinion if needed. To read the original article click here.

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9 Signs of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

The AHA! Team — Fri, 16 May 2025 05:08:42 +0000

Larissa Biggers via Duke Health – Narcissism vs. Narcissistic Personality Disorder Having narcissistic tendencies — like bragging or making yourself the center of attention — are normal when they occur occasionally. Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is different. Symptoms are more severe, occur across different situations and environments, and make relationships with others challenging, if not impossible. Here, Zachary Rosenthal PhD, a clinical psychologist at Duke Health, answers questions about NPD and what you can do if you suspect that you or a loved one has the condition. Dr. Zach Rosenthal discusses the symptoms of NPD, how it is diagnosed, and the individualized approach he takes for treating the disorder. What are the symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder? Use the acronym “SPECIAL ME” to remember the nine signs of NPD. SPECIAL ME Sense of self-importance Preoccupation with power, beauty, or success Entitled Can only be around people who are important or special Interpersonally exploitative for their own gain Arrogant Lack empathy Must be admired Envious of others or believe that others are envious of them How is NPD diagnosed? Trained mental health professionals conduct a structured interview to learn more about an individual’s typical behavior patterns. If someone consistently displays at least five of the SPECIAL ME traits, they meet the diagnostic criteria for the condition. Is NPD genetic? No, there is no gene for NPD, and people are not born with it. Like other mental health conditions, environment is a major factor. Children who are encouraged to believe they are extraordinary and always deserve the best — sometimes at the expense of others — could later develop NPD. In these children, traits like confidence are rewarded, while qualities like empathy are not. Are narcissists bad people? Narcissists are not bad people; it’s their behavior that’s problematic. They have been conditioned to believe that they are special and deserve to be treated better than others and approach the world accordingly. Can I have a relationship with someone with NPD? It depends. If your romantic partner, family member, or boss has NPD, they can make your life challenging. Because they put themselves first, you may feel belittled, and your mental health could suffer. Coping strategies include setting personal boundaries and gently walking away if they are breached. However, this is not always easy to do. Calling your partner a narcissist won’t help either. Instead, you should focus on your well-being and decide what you are willing to tolerate. Can people recover from NPD? Yes, but changing a learned behavior takes time and effort. People with NPD do not generally seek help on their own, and if they do, it is often because of a co-existing problem, like anxiety. Because there is no proven medication or therapy to treat NPD, providers take an individualized approach. Getting to know the patient and establishing a trusting relationship are key components of treatment. If a person is willing to change and their therapist can help them bridge the gap between their current and desired behaviors, there is hope for recovery. To read the original article click here.

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