Most people are aware of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but did you know there is a type 3 diabetes as well! It is a more obscure term. Although it is not an accepted medical diagnosis, type 3 diabetes has been discussed in the literature as a possible relationship between insulin resistance in the brain and Alzheimer's disease. This link has been described to help explain how metabolic disorders impact brain health, causing cognitive decline and dementia.

What is Type 3 Diabetes?

Type 3 diabetes is more of a misnomer because it should not be confused with type 3c diabetes, which relates to pancreatic dysfunction. The term "type 3 diabetes," on the other hand, has been loosely used by some scientists to analogously propose that Alzheimer's disease is strongly implicated with insulin resistance in the brain.

This concept was conceptualized by Dr. Suzanne de la Monte and Dr. Jack Wands of Brown University in the year 2008. This hypothesis postulated that Alzheimer's disease may be called type 3 diabetes for it bears many similarities with glucose metabolism disorder type 2 diabetes. Their concept arises from the basic principle that insulin is fundamental to blood sugar regulation, but it is also the case with the brain. When brain cells become insulin-resistant, they lose access to glucose, impairing their function.

Research published in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology supports this hypothesis by indicating that insulin resistance can be a significant contributor to the occurrence of dementia, also referred to as Alzheimer's. The symptoms of memory loss and diminished reasoning are associated with impaired glucose metabolism in the body, especially in the cerebral tissue.

Symptoms of Type 3 Diabetes

Although type 3 diabetes is not a "medical term," its symptoms correlate well with Alzheimer's diseases that are known to reduce the ability to think in an efficient manner and bring down brain health. These signs are:

- Loss of memory, especially short-term.

- Poor judgment and judgment ability

- Failure in recognizing people or places familiar once.

- Failure in the process of reading, writing or processing numbers

- Anxiety, agitation, or mood changes.

- Disorganized thoughts or confusion

- Lack of impulse control

As the disease advances, patients may be afflicted with severe complications including an inability to swallow or control their bodily functions. In the final stages, most patients die from fatal complications such as aspiration pneumonia.

Causes of Type 3 Diabetes

This may not be well understood with regards to type 3 diabetes, or the exact link between insulin resistance and Alzheimer's disease. Some identified contributing factors include the following:

1. Insulin Resistance

Insulin acts as an important regulatory mechanism of brain functions such as memory and cognition. The reduction in insulin signaling may impair metabolism of brain cells, thus bringing about neurodegeneration.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

These diseases show a strong relationship and those individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes have double chances of getting Alzheimer's. In the two, the main causes can be chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and a defect in glucose metabolism.

3. Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

Insulin resistance associated with obesity, stress, and an unhealthy diet is considered a cause that may increase the chances of Alzheimer's disease.

Researches in Frontiers in Neuroscience and The Lancet Neurology have also highlighted that drugs used for antidiabetic medication may be crucial for the prevention or at least slowing down the course of Alzheimer's.

Treatments for Type 3 Diabetes

In 2022, in a study in Pharmaceuticals, researchers studied biomarker uptake in brain regions implicated in the faulty uptake and metabolism of blood sugar in Alzheimer’s patients.

Emerging Therapies

Research into such treatments as intranasal insulin has also been promising. Intranasal delivery of insulin directly to the brain has been reported to enhance glucose uptake by brain cells, improve memory, and boost cognitive performance. While such clinical trials have been shown to be successful, additional research is needed for safety and efficacy.

Medications

For patients being aggressive or agitated, antipsychotic drugs may be prescribed; however, therapies such as cognitive rehabilitation as well as cognitive stimulation therapy serve to preserve memory and executive function.

Lifestyle Interventions

Diet, exercise, and stress management are critical in preventing and managing insulin resistance. A review in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease also highlighted the benefits of Kirtan Kriya meditation, which can regulate genes involved in insulin and glucose metabolism, improve sleep, and reduce inflammation.

Can Type 3 Diabetes Be Prevented?

Although type 3 diabetes is not officially recognized, its connection to Alzheimer’s disease underscores the importance of proactive measures for brain health. Some prevention strategies include:

1. Healthy Diet

Consuming a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, whole grains, and healthy fats may support brain health.

2. Regular Exercise

Physical activity improves insulin sensitivity, reduces inflammation, and enhances overall metabolic health.

3. Stress Reduction

Mindfulness practices, including meditation, have been shown to lower stress levels, which can reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

The term type 3 diabetes brings out the complex relationship between metabolic disorders and brain health. Even though it is not a recognized medical condition, the concept emphasizes the crucial role of insulin in brain function and its possible contribution to Alzheimer's disease. Continued research will hopefully provide hope for therapies such as intranasal insulin and lifestyle modifications.

For some people, getting inked is more than a passion—it is a form of self-expression. And tattoos are nothing short of an addiction; it is not easy to stop at one. Despite being a painful procedure that requires a great deal of caution—using fresh needles and safe ink, for instance—several incidents come to light where getting a tattoo goes wrong in irreversible ways. In a recent case, a man developed a weeping, black ulcer of dead flesh on his neck months after getting a tattoo. In this case, doctors blamed this reaction on the colour of the tattoo ink—it may have triggered inflammation that caused the skin to blacken and die.

A reaction from the tattoo ink

A 20-year-old man had a red cross tattoo on the base of his neck. After three months, it faded away spontaneously and was replaced by scars and bumps on either side of the neck, accompanied by a necrotic ulcer. In this case, when the tissue blackens and dies, it results in a painful wound. The unnamed man was hospitalised five months after getting his first tattoo. Doctors examining the patient found that the lymph nodes, which help fight infections, were swollen and hard. Doctors also examined a large crusted ulcer, which had spread across the base of the neck and had seeped into deeper layers of skin.

Read more: Tattoos May Increase Cancer Risk, Study Suggests

Doctors also performed an MRI and found large lumps around the ulcer that measured up to 5 cm. There were two blood clots in the jugular vein as well. Two biopsies were taken of the necrotic ulcer, but they did not reveal what may have triggered the necrosis. The team was then concerned about the scan results and how fast the patient's condition was progressing. He was then rushed into surgery, where doctors removed the ulcer along with masses on the neck. His neck was then reconstructed using fat from the thighs. The patient was then diagnosed with necrotising granulomatous lymphadenitis.

What is necrotising granulomatous lymphadenitis?

Necrotising granulomatous lymphadenitis is an inflammatory condition wherein the lymph node tissues die and form clumps of immune cells known as granulomas. This can develop in response to an injury, and in this case, doctors said that the tattoo was to blame.

Doctors said that heavy metals like cadmium and mercury in organic tattoo ink can result in an immune response. From surgery to recovery, the patient's case is published in the journal JAMA Otolaryngology. Experts say that this is only the second known case of necrosis after a tattoo.

What are the riskiest spots for a tattoo?

Getting a tattoo can be painful, but for some people, the pain is worth it. However, according to experts, there are some spots that are not ideal for getting a tattoo. These are:

1. Eyes—can lead to partial or complete blindness
2. Genitals – heightened risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases and infections
3. Spine – a tattoo on the spine is extremely painful, and if it goes wrong, there could be irreversible repercussions

As winter transitions into warmer summer months, many people notice a sudden worsening of dandruff. During colder months, dandruff often appears as dry, fine flakes due to scalp dryness. However, as temperatures rise and humidity increases, dandruff can become oily and sticky because of increased sweating and sebum production. This seasonal shift highlights that dandruff is not limited to a particular time of year; rather, changes in climate can disrupt scalp balance and trigger flare-ups. Dr. Anupriya Goel, MBBS, MD, DPD (UK) – Dermatology, answered this for us.

Why does dandruff recur?

Many people struggle to understand why dandruff keeps recurring. It is often treated as a temporary cosmetic concern, but in reality, dandruff is a chronic scalp condition that requires consistent care and appropriate treatment. The primary cause of dandruff is a yeast called Malassezia globosa, which naturally resides on the scalp. This microorganism feeds on sebum (the natural oils produced by the scalp). As it breaks down these oils, it releases by-products that can irritate the scalp, leading to inflammation, itching, and visible flaking.

Seasonal factors further aggravate this process. In winter, cold air, low humidity, indoor heating, and frequent hot showers can strip the scalp of its natural moisture and weaken the skin barrier, resulting in dryness and flaking. In contrast, summer brings increased sweat and oil production. The combination of humidity, sweat, and sebum creates an ideal environment for Malassezia to multiply, which can worsen dandruff symptoms.

Read here: Simple Secrets To Establishing The Right Winter Hair Care Routine

What are the external factors responsible for dandruff?

Environmental factors such as pollution can also settle on the scalp and contribute to irritation. In addition, daily habits like wearing helmets for long hours, tying up damp hair, or not cleansing the scalp regularly can further disrupt scalp health. The transition period between seasons is often the most challenging, as the scalp has limited time to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Because dandruff is often mistaken for a temporary issue, many people rely on occasional treatments or home remedies. However, effective management typically requires regular scalp-focused care using clinically proven active ingredients.

Treating dandruff

One such ingredient commonly used in anti-dandruff formulations is Piroctone Olamine, an antifungal agent that helps control the growth of Malassezia on the scalp. By reducing fungal proliferation, it helps address the underlying cause of dandruff and can assist in decreasing flaking, itching, and scalp irritation. It also helps cleanse the scalp by removing excess oil and buildup while being relatively gentle on the hair and scalp.

Read more: 7 Ayurvedic Hair Health Tips You Should Try For Healthy Locks

For optimal results, individuals experiencing recurrent dandruff may benefit from incorporating an anti-dandruff shampoo containing Piroctone Olamine into their regular hair care routine. Consistent use is important for maintaining scalp balance. During periods of increased sweating, such as in hot and humid weather, washing frequency may be increased as needed. Maintaining hygiene practices such as regularly cleaning helmets, pillowcases, and hair accessories can also help minimise recurrence.

In addition to controlling dandruff, well-formulated shampoos containing Piroctone Olamine are often combined with conditioning and moisturising ingredients that help maintain hair softness and scalp comfort while supporting long-term scalp balance.

World Autism Awareness Day is observed on April 2 every year, a day to spread awareness about autism, its causes, symptoms, and what parents can do to help their children. But even when it comes to autism, there is a great deal of prejudice surrounding the disorder, which often forces parents into a state of denial. A condition which initially comes across as a personality trait—shyness, for instance—is usually diagnosed late. Dr Hamza Hussain, Head of the Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, in an interview with Health and Me, explained how parents can spot the signs of autism early in their children.

How to know if your child is autistic or just shy?

It is completely understandable for parents to feel worried when they notice delays in their child’s speech, social engagement, or behaviour. That said, it is important to recognise the differences between early indicators of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental patterns or conditions.

Read more: World Autism Awareness Day 2026: Can Cell Therapy Be The Future Of Autism Treatment?

Children who may be on the autism spectrum often display ongoing difficulties with social communication and interaction. They might avoid making eye contact, not consistently respond when their name is called, show delays in speech, or find it challenging to engage in two-way conversations. Repetitive actions—such as hand movements, arranging toys in a particular order, or insisting on strict routines—can also be early indicators. On the other hand, children with ADHD are usually more socially responsive but may struggle with focus, impulsive behaviour, and high activity levels. A speech delay alone does not necessarily point to ASD, especially if the child shows good non-verbal communication like gestures, expressions, and social interest.

What are ASD patterns?

One important way to tell the difference is by observing patterns over time. Signs of ASD tend to be consistent across different situations and environments, whereas other behaviours may change depending on the child’s mood, surroundings, or level of stimulation.

Support at home plays a vital role in a child’s development. Simple, consistent interactions can go a long way. Spending time in face-to-face play, encouraging eye contact, and talking through daily activities can strengthen communication skills. Reading stories, singing rhymes, and using gestures can further aid language development. It is also helpful to limit screen exposure, as too much screen time can impact attention span and social learning.

Read more: Why Autism In Women Is Often Overlooked And Misdiagnosed

How can parents help?

Having a structured daily routine can help children feel more secure, while encouraging and praising positive behaviours can reinforce learning. Above all, recognising concerns early and seeking timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes. If parents feel uncertain about their child’s development, consulting a professional early on can provide clarity and the right support for the child’s growth.