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.

People experiencing certain symptoms are being urged to stay at home as a highly contagious virus spreads quickly across England. Fresh figures from the UK Health Security Agency show a 47% rise in cases during the first two weeks of 2026. This sudden jump has led the agency to remind the public about basic hygiene steps that play a key role in limiting the spread. Data suggests that norovirus is affecting people aged 65 and above the most, and although overall activity remains within normal seasonal levels, there has been a noticeable increase in outbreaks in hospital settings.

The latest UKHSA surveillance update also points to falling levels of flu, COVID-19, and RSV in the opening week of the year. While all winter virus levels are currently where they would be expected for this time of year, people are being encouraged to continue following simple precautions to help keep infections on a downward path.

What Is Norovirus?

Norovirus Symptoms

Common symptoms of norovirus include:

• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Diarrhoea.
• Stomach pain.

You may also experience:

• Headache.
• Fever.
• Body aches.

Symptoms usually develop between 12 and 48 hours after exposure and typically last for one to three days.

Doctors Report New Symptoms Of Norovirus

Both flu and norovirus can behave unpredictably, with case numbers rising and falling throughout the season. This makes simple preventive steps especially important. For illnesses affecting the stomach or respiratory system, such as norovirus, regular handwashing remains one of the most effective measures.

Health experts stress that alcohol-based hand sanitisers do not work against norovirus. Washing hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, along with cleaning surfaces using bleach-based products, is far more effective in reducing the spread. Good ventilation indoors can also help limit the transmission of respiratory viruses like flu. Anyone who develops symptoms is advised to stay at home whenever possible.

If going out cannot be avoided, wearing a face covering may help, particularly when around people who are more vulnerable.

Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at the UKHSA, said, according to the Mirror: “We have seen a clear rise in norovirus cases in recent weeks, particularly among people aged 65 and over, alongside an increase in hospital outbreaks. Although levels are still within what we would normally expect, there are simple actions people can take to stop norovirus spreading further.

“Washing hands with soap and warm water and cleaning surfaces with bleach-based products are key steps. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus, so they should not be relied on alone.

“If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, do not return to work, school, or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped, and avoid preparing food for others during this time. If you are unwell, please stay away from hospitals and care homes to protect those most at risk from infection.”

Scoliosis is a fairly common spinal condition that is most often detected during adolescence. Each year, nearly 3 million new cases are diagnosed in the United States, and most of these fall under idiopathic scoliosis, a form that typically develops during the teenage years without a clear cause. In many cases, structural changes in the spine go unnoticed by parents until they begin to show outward physical signs. Scoliosis and kyphosis are among the most frequently seen spinal disorders, both involving abnormal curvature of the spine.

Scoliosis refers to a sideways curve of the spine and is most commonly seen in children and teenagers, though it can affect people at any age. Congenital scoliosis, in particular, may not be visible at birth. It can remain hidden for years and often becomes noticeable during periods of rapid growth. What begins as a minor internal change can gradually turn into a clearly visible curve as a child enters puberty.

To understand this condition better, we spoke with Dr Saraswati Viswanathan, Consultant – Orthopaedics at Manipal Hospital, Kanakapura Road, who shared her insights.

What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves from side to side, unlike the spine’s normal front-to-back shape. In many cases, the curve is mild and may not cause noticeable symptoms, but it can sometimes lead to back discomfort and changes in posture. The condition is most commonly diagnosed during adolescence. According to the Cleveland Clinic, treatment options may include physical therapy, the use of braces, or surgery, depending on the severity.

Symptoms Of Scoliosis

As noted by the Cleveland Clinic, scoliosis often does not cause obvious symptoms. However, when symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Back pain.
• Trouble standing straight.
• Weakness in the core muscles.
• Pain in the legs, or sensations such as numbness or weakness.

What Are The Types Of Scoliosis?

There are three main types of scoliosis:

• Idiopathic scoliosis: This is the most common form. The term “idiopathic” means that the exact cause is unknown. Research suggests it can run in families and may have a genetic connection.
• Congenital scoliosis: This is a rare condition caused by abnormal spinal development before birth. It occurs when the vertebrae do not form properly during early embryonic growth.
• Neuromuscular scoliosis: This type is linked to conditions that affect the muscles and nerves supporting the spine. It is often seen alongside neurological or muscular disorders such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, or after certain injuries.

How Can We Identify This Condition Early?

According to Dr Viswanathan, while a visible S-shaped or C-shaped curve is a well-known sign of scoliosis, one of the earliest indicators parents can look for at home is uneven shoulder height. If one shoulder consistently appears lower than the other, it may suggest an underlying spinal curve. Other signs to watch for include a noticeable hump on the back, uneven rib or chest appearance, or hips that look tilted or asymmetrical when the child is standing straight.

If you notice any of these changes, there is no need to panic, but it is important to take action. One simple screening method is Adam’s Forward Bend Test. Ask your child to bend forward at the waist and look for any unevenness in the shoulders or a raised area on one side of the back. Early screening and timely care can make a significant difference in managing spinal health and preventing the condition from worsening. Scheduling a visit with a pediatrician or orthopaedic specialist for proper physical and clinical evaluation can help rule out structural issues and ensure your child gets the right support as they grow into adulthood.

Last week, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) advised the public to not use nasal decongestant for more than seven days. The guidelines said that it contains xylometazoline or oxymetazoline. Prolonged use of which could cause 'rebound congestion' or increase dependency on these sprays to breathe easily.

Recently, with the flu cases rising, flu-like symptoms, including nose congestion too have gone up. It is because of this reason, many are using nasal spray continuously, which could cause rebound congestion.

To understand this better, Health and Me spoke to Dr Pranita Bauskar, ENT, Apollo Spectra, Pune.

What Did The Doctor Say About Nasal Spray Usage?

Nasal sprays are widely used by many people to relieve a blocked or stuffy nose caused by colds or allergies. Dr Bauskar explained, "These nasal sprays are known to provide immediate relief. Using decongestant nasal sprays for more than 5 to 7 days could worsen the congestion and steal the piece of mind."

Read: Nasal Spray Warning Over 'Rebound Congestion'; Experts Say It Should Not Be Used For More Than 7 Days

What Does Rebound Congestion Mean?

Doctor says that as the nose becomes more blocked once the medication wears off, this creates a cycle of dependency. "Hence, it is necessary to limit the use of decongestant sprays to a few days only."

What Can Be Used Instead?

Dr Bauskar says, "you can try safer alternatives such as saline nasal sprays or rinses to keep nasal passages moist." Furthermore, the doctor suggests to not to forget to take steam "at least two times a day". "Doing so will help to ease congestion. Ensure to take warm showers, and you will feel better," noted Dr Bauskar.

It is imperative to have allergy medications like antihistamines if allergies persist, as prescribed by the doctor, noted the doctor.

"Everyone is also advised to stay hydrated by drinking enough water and liquids. Try to use a humidifier at home. If a person has congestion for over a week and is unable to breathe ,then don’t rely on nasal sprays and consult the doctor to rule out infections or other underlying problems," said Dr Bauskar.

Is Rebound Congestion Preventable?

It is a preventable condition, and is scientifically known as rhinitis medicamentosa, which causes the symptoms to worsen. Patients become depended on the sprays to breathe more easily.

RPS survey of 300 pharmacists found that 59% think the public is not aware of the risks, while 75% said packaging should be clearer about the seven-day limit. 63% said they had intervened in cases of suspected overuse.

Professor Amira Guirguis, chief scientist at RPS told the ITV News, "Nasal decongestant sprays can be helpful for short-term relief, but using them for longer than seven days can make your congestion significantly worse. Our research shows that many people are unaware of this risk, which means they may continue using these sprays without realizing they could be prolonging their symptoms. We'd like to see clearer warnings on the packaging which you can't miss and greater awareness of the seven-day limit. If your congestion lasts more than a week, speak to your pharmacist. There are safe and effective alternative options to help you manage your symptoms."

Another survey by ITV News suggests that more than a fifth of adults have used the products for longer than seven days. This means 5.5 million people in the UK may have risked developing a dependency.