Our brain is just like a muscle and it thrives on exercise. Moreover, it is the fastest-aging organ in the body. Studies show that brain volume naturally decreases with age due to neuronal loss, starting as early as your late 20s or 30s. This process accelerates over time, leading to a decline in cognitive functions such as memory, processing speed, and decision-making.

However, there is a way to counter it. Neurologists across the world agree that frequently playing brain games can prevent brain ageing. Backing them up is research showing that brain-training games may help improve attention levels, memory, response time, logic skills, and other measures of cognitive function if played over a long period.

And the good news is that these brain games are affordable and easily accessible to all. you just need a pen and paper for sudoku and the same goes on for crosswords. However, if you are someone who is up for a high-tech, options for brain games are plentiful.

To give your brain a workout while having fun, try these games and activities:

Sudoku

Crosswords

Elevate

Peak

Happy Neuron

Happy Neuron is another game that organizes its games into memory, attention, language, executive functions, and visual/spatial categories. Training is personalized, and progress tracking is available. While a subscription is required, a free trial lets you explore its offerings. The app is available only for Android users.

Braingle

Queendom

Queendom features personality tests, puzzles, and "brain tools" for cognitive improvement. Free accounts provide limited access, while full reports require payment.

My Brain Trainer

My Brain Trainer offers an online "brain gym" with games and puzzles to boost mental fitness. It recommends 10 minutes of training twice a day. Subscription plans are more affordable than similar platforms and free trials are available.

The much-feared “winter vomiting disease,” commonly known as norovirus, is once again spreading rapidly across the United States.

Norovirus is an extremely contagious stomach virus that triggers sudden and intense episodes of vomiting and diarrhea. Anyone who has had it knows how abruptly it strikes. You can feel normal one moment and then find yourself completely incapacitated by stomach distress the next. With the holiday season nearing and people gathering indoors, norovirus infections are climbing nationwide.

Winter Vomiting Disease In The US

Data from WastewaterSCAN, a program that tracks disease levels through municipal wastewater, shows that norovirus activity is currently classified as “high” across the U.S., with a sharp rise over the past three weeks. Marlene Wolfe, Ph.D., a professor at Emory University and director of WastewaterSCAN, told TODAY.com that the upward trend is clear and concerning.

At present, the highest levels are being recorded in the Midwest, the South, and the Northeast. States reporting notable spikes include Alabama, Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, Massachusetts, and Michigan.

In Bedford, Massachusetts, an elementary school shut down for two days this week after more than 130 students were absent with stomach-related symptoms, prompting officials to suspect a norovirus outbreak, according to NBC10 Boston. Cruise ships are also seeing a rise in outbreaks, with norovirus spreading quickly among passengers at sea.

This year’s increase appears to be arriving slightly earlier than usual and is likely linked to a newer strain of the virus, which drove a particularly severe 2024–2025 season. Last winter, norovirus cases reached their highest levels in more than a decade.

Norovirus GII.17 Variant

Since the early 2000s, most norovirus outbreaks have been linked to a strain known as GII.4, according to previous reports from NBC News. Roughly a decade ago, another strain called GII.17 first appeared in Asia and has expanded significantly in recent years. During the 2024–2025 season, GII.17 accounted for 75 percent of norovirus outbreaks in the U.S., compared with less than 10 percent in 2023, a CDC study found.

“When a new strain appears, it can spread very quickly,” Roberts says. “That is exactly what happened last year.”

Experts are unsure whether GII.17 spreads more easily than GII.4. However, they say more people may be vulnerable because they lack immunity to this newer variant.

Infection with norovirus does offer some level of immune protection, but it is incomplete, Schaffner explains.

“We do not know how long that immunity lasts,” Roberts says. “And it likely does not protect you against a different strain.”

If a large portion of the population is susceptible, the virus may have more opportunities to circulate widely. How this season unfolds remains uncertain.

Winter Vomiting Disease: Norovirus Symptoms

“This is not a subtle illness,” Roberts says. Symptoms typically appear suddenly, usually within 12 to 48 hours of exposure.

Some common signs of norovirus are:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Stomach pain and cramping

Some people may also experience a mild fever, chills, or headache, according to the CDC.

“The good news is that it does not usually last long,” Schaffner says. “Most people feel terrible for about two days, then recover.”

In most cases, symptoms resolve on their own within one to three days.

However, the virus can cause significant fluid loss, increasing the risk of dehydration. Certain groups face a higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization, including children under 5 and adults over 85.

Medical care should be sought if symptoms continue beyond a few days, if there is blood in vomit or stool, or if signs of dehydration appear, such as dizziness or dark urine, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Winter Vomiting Disease: Norovirus Treatment

There is no medication that directly treats norovirus. Care focuses on managing symptoms through rest and fluid replacement, Roberts says. Drinks that replenish electrolytes can be helpful.

“It is better to take small sips,” Schaffner advises. “Drinking too much at once can make vomiting worse.”

In more serious cases, intravenous fluids may be necessary to prevent dehydration. Anyone with concerns should contact a health care provider, Schaffner adds.

There is currently no approved vaccine for norovirus, though a Moderna vaccine candidate is undergoing phase 3 clinical trials.

Winter Vomiting Disease: How Does Norovirus Spread?

“It is an especially troublesome virus because it spreads so easily and in so many ways,” Schaffner says. An infected person can release billions of virus particles through vomit or stool. “It only takes one to ten particles to cause an infection,” he notes. Norovirus usually spreads through the fecal-oral route, Roberts explains, when virus particles from feces make their way into the mouth, often via unwashed hands.

Some common ways how the virus spread are:

• Close contact with someone who is infected
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth
• Eating or drinking contaminated food or beverages
• Breathing in or swallowing particles released during vomiting

People are most contagious from the time symptoms begin until a few days after they feel better. However, the virus can continue to be shed in stool for up to two weeks after recovery, Roberts says.

Norovirus can survive on surfaces, objects, and foods for extended periods. Foods frequently linked to outbreaks include leafy greens, fresh produce, and shellfish, according to the CDC.

Does Hand Sanitizer Kill Norovirus?

Norovirus is especially difficult to eliminate. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers and cleaners are largely ineffective because the virus has a tough outer shell that alcohol cannot break down. “The only way to remove it from your hands is to physically wash it away,” Schaffner says. “Soap and water lift the virus off the skin and rinse it down the drain.”

A doctor has highlighted a common kitchen spice that may work just as effectively as omeprazole in relieving heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion. Omeprazole is often prescribed for these conditions as a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI), helping to reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

About 15% of the UK population takes a PPI like omeprazole. In England alone, over 73 million PPI prescriptions were issued in 2022–23, with omeprazole among the most commonly prescribed.

What Is Omeprazole Used For?

Omeprazole is a drug that lowers the amount of acid the stomach produces. Part of a class of medicines called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), it is used to treat and prevent a range of acid-related problems, as per Mayo Clinic.

The length of treatment with omeprazole, as advised by your doctor, depends on the condition being treated and the prescribed dosage. Following your healthcare provider’s instructions and completing the full course of medication, even if symptoms improve, is important.

However, long-term use of omeprazole can increase the risk of various health issues, making regular consultations with your GP important, reports the Mirror. Prolonged acid suppression and changes in gut bacteria caused by extended use can result in several complications.

Lower stomach acid can reduce the body’s ability to absorb key nutrients, potentially causing deficiencies in magnesium, vitamin B12, calcium, and iron. Long-term use may also raise the risk of bone fractures and kidney problems. Other possible issues include growths in the stomach, dementia, and liver or heart problems.

Suppressing stomach acid, which normally kills harmful bacteria, can make the body more prone to infections such as community-acquired pneumonia or Clostridioides difficile infection, which causes severe diarrhoea and stomach pain.

Omeprazole Alternative: What Is The Spice, And How Can It Help?

Experts suggest that one kitchen spice could match omeprazole’s effectiveness while avoiding its health risks. Dr Michael Ruscio, DC, DNM, says curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, may be “just as effective,” according to research.

Dr Ruscio, a naturopathic practitioner, clinical researcher, and author, has published work in peer-reviewed medical journals. He is the Chief Health Officer and Head of Research at RIFM, and Founder and CEO of DrRuscio.com.

In a YouTube video for his 145k subscribers, Dr Ruscio explained that curcumin may help manage heartburn and acid reflux without relying on PPIs. He said: “Let me show you an important study demonstrating the power of anti-inflammatory interventions. You’ve probably heard of curcumin, this anti-inflammatory spice. A 2023 randomized control trial compared omeprazole to curcumin at two grams per day for one month.”

Quoting the study, “Curcumin and omeprazole showed similar effectiveness for functional dyspepsia,” a term covering symptoms like fullness, GORD, and indigestion. Dr Ruscio added, “It’s remarkable that curcumin, which also has benefits such as reducing joint pain, can be as effective as omeprazole. And it doesn’t carry the long-term risks of acid suppression that come with omeprazole.”

Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may reduce oesophageal inflammation caused by stomach acid. Animal studies suggest it can protect the stomach lining from damage caused by certain medications and other irritants.

What Did The Study's Findings Reveal?

The referenced research, published in BMJ Journals as “Curcumin and proton pump inhibitors for functional dyspepsia: a randomized, double-blind controlled trial,” found that a daily dose of curcumin provided relief from functional dyspepsia symptoms comparable to omeprazole.

No significant side effects were observed, though liver function tests showed some decline in overweight participants taking curcumin. The researchers noted limitations including the short study period and lack of long-term data.

They concluded, “This multicentre randomized controlled trial provides strong evidence for treating functional dyspepsia.”

Functional dyspepsia, or chronic indigestion, occurs as persistent or recurring discomfort in the upper abdomen. Symptoms may include bloating, burping, nausea, or feeling full too quickly, often signaling issues in the oesophagus, stomach, or duodenum.

Despite promising results, it is essential to consult your doctor before making major changes to your diet or replacing prescribed medication with supplements. A discussion with your GP can help identify the most effective approach to managing your health.

What Else Is Curcumin Good For?

Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to ageing and illnesses like heart disease and cancer. Studies suggest it may relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, easing joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

Some research indicates curcumin may be as effective as certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief.

It may also support brain health by raising levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a hormone important for memory and learning. Researchers are investigating its potential to protect cognitive function with age and against conditions like Alzheimer’s.

Additionally, curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, along with possible benefits for cholesterol and blood pressure, may reduce the risk of heart disease.

People who take methotrexate for different health conditions have been cautioned by the NHS that certain symptoms and side effects should not be ignored and may require urgent medical help, including a visit to A&E or calling 999. Methotrexate works as an immunosuppressant, meaning it dampens the immune system to help control inflammation in the body.

What Is Methotrexate?

Methotrexate belongs to a group of medicines known as antimetabolites. It helps manage rheumatoid arthritis by dampening the body’s immune response, controls psoriasis by slowing the rapid buildup of skin cells, and is used in cancer treatment to limit the growth and spread of cancer cells, as per Mayo Clinic.

Doctors commonly prescribe it for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and psoriasis. In some situations, it is also used as part of cancer treatment. Methotrexate is usually taken as a tablet, a liquid medicine that is swallowed, or as a pre-filled pen or syringe that is injected under the skin. While many people benefit from the drug, it can also cause serious side effects that may be worrying for some patients.

Side Effects Of Methotrexate And When To Call For Emergency?

Certain severe side effects linked to methotrexate are rare and affect fewer than 1 in 10,000 people. Even so, the NHS advises contacting your doctor or calling 111 if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Swelling in the hands, feet, or ankles along with shortness of breath, which may point to a kidney issue
• A long-lasting cough, chest discomfort, or trouble breathing, which could suggest lung inflammation
• Yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes, which can indicate liver damage
• Bleeding gums, vomiting blood, unexplained bruises, or blood in the urine, which may signal a blood disorder
• A high temperature, sore throat, or body aches, which could be signs of an infection

Symptoms of this can include:

• Swelling of the lips, throat, or tongue
• A tight sensation in the throat or difficulty swallowing
• Confusion
• Collapsing or fainting and being hard to wake
• Skin, lips, or tongue turning blue, pale, or grey
• Very rapid breathing or severe difficulty breathing

Methotrexate: What Should You Watch Out For While Taking This Medication?

See your care team regularly so they can monitor how the treatment is working. It may take a while before you notice any improvement. You may be asked to get routine blood tests during the course of treatment.

If your care team has prescribed folic acid along with methotrexate, they may advise you not to take folic acid on the same day as your methotrexate dose.

This medicine can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Try to stay out of direct sun exposure. If that is not possible, wear covered clothing and apply sunscreen. Avoid sun lamps, tanning beds, or tanning booths.

Contact your care team if you have severe diarrhea, ongoing nausea or vomiting, or heavy sweating. Losing too much fluid from your body can make this medicine unsafe. This drug can raise your chances of developing an infection. Call your care team if you develop a fever, chills, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms. Do not self-medicate. As far as possible, stay away from people who are unwell.

Discuss your cancer risk with your care team. Long-term use of this medication may increase the risk of certain cancers.

Speak to your care team if you or your partner could become pregnant. Methotrexate can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy or within six months after the last dose. A negative pregnancy test is required before starting treatment. Reliable contraception should be used while on this medication and for six months after stopping it. Your care team can guide you on suitable options.

If your partner can become pregnant, use condoms during sexual activity while taking this medication and for three months after the final dose. Do not breastfeed while using this medication and for at least one week after the last dose.

This medication may affect fertility. If this is a concern, discuss it with your care team.