Don’t Let Tobacco Hack Your Brain and Spine – A Neurosurgeon’s Perspective on the Silent Damage

adminbrain stroke, Brain, Neurosurgeon Bangalore, Neurosurgeon in Bangalore, Neurosurgeon near me, Spine Surgeons in Bangalore, Top Neurosurgeon in Bangalore

🔴 Tobacco – The Silent Hacker of the Brain

When we think of tobacco, most people imagine damaged lungs, yellow teeth, or bad breath. But as a neurosurgeon, I want to share the truth that often goes unnoticed — tobacco is one of the most dangerous threats to your brain and spine.

It doesn’t shout.
It doesn’t show symptoms right away.
But it silently shrinks blood vessels, starves brain cells, damages nerves, and rewires your brain into becoming its slave.

1️⃣ Tobacco Reduces Brain Blood Flow — Silent Strangulation

 
Your brain uses 20% of your body’s oxygen. But tobacco constricts the blood vessels that supply this vital oxygen.
Over time, it causes:
•Brain fog
•Poor memory and attention
•Early cognitive decline
•Higher stroke risk
 
Even young people who smoke or vape occasionally are at risk.
As a neurosurgeon, I’ve seen patients in their 30s come in with massive strokes — their only risk factor: tobacco use.

Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah

Consultant – Neurosurgeon, Neurointerventional Surgery, Spine Surgeon (Neuro)
23+ Years Experience Overall (17+ years as Neuro Specialist)

Available for Consultation: Jayanagar 9th Block & Kauvery Hospital, Electronic City 

Book An Appointment

2️⃣ Tobacco Increases Stroke and Aneurysm Risk — A Time Bomb in Your Brain

Every puff of smoke raises your blood pressure, inflames your artery walls, and weakens brain blood vessels.
This increases the risk of:
•Ischemic Stroke (due to clots)
•Hemorrhagic Stroke (due to bleeding)
•Aneurysm rupture (a life-threatening brain bleed)
 
I’ve seen lives shattered by sudden aneurysm rupture — in patients with no prior symptoms, but a history of regular smoking.

3️⃣ Tobacco Slows Brain Healing — The Enemy After Surgery

When the brain is healing — after trauma, tumor surgery, or stroke — it needs clean,a oxygen-rich blood.
But tobacco:
•Reduces oxygen to brain cells
•Shrinks healing blood vessels
•Increases risk of infection and re-surgery
•Slows recovery by weeks or even months
 
Even minor brain surgeries recover slower in smokers. It’s like watering a plant with poison and expecting it to bloom.

4️⃣ Tobacco Damages Spinal Discs and Bones — A Hidden Spine Killer

Tobacco silently dries out spinal discs — your spine’s shock absorbers — making them brittle and prone to collapse.
It also:
•Weakens spinal bones
•Increases risk of disc prolapse and spinal stenosis
•Delays healing after spine surgery
•Doubles the risk of spinal fractures and failed fusions
 
Smokers often need spine surgery a decade earlier than non-smokers — and recover much slower.

5️⃣ Tobacco Causes Nerve Damage — Burning, Numbness, and Weakness

Tobacco doesn’t stop at the brain or spine. It also:
•Starves nerves of oxygen
•Damages their protective coating (myelin)
•Causes tingling, burning feet, numbness, or poor balance
•Worsens diabetic neuropathy
•Delays nerve healing after surgery
 
I’ve seen patients with simple foot numbness progress to permanent nerve damage — all linked to tobacco use.

6️⃣ Tobacco Increases Spine Surgery Risk — And Reduces Its Success

In surgeries like spinal fusion or decompression:
•Smokers have higher risk of poor bone fusion (nonunion)
•More infections
•Slower nerve recovery
•Longer hospital stays
 
Even after a technically perfect surgery, tobacco undoes your surgeon’s effort from the inside.

7️⃣ Tobacco Addiction Alters Brain Chemistry — Your Mind Gets Hijacked

Nicotine triggers dopamine — the brain’s reward chemical — making you feel good temporarily.
But over time, tobacco:
•Creates dependence
•Increases anxiety
•Reduces focus and memory
•Dulls decision-making and self-control
🎥 Analogy from Cinema:
 
Just like in Robot (2010) — where Dr. Vaseegaran’s brilliant creation Chitti is corrupted by Dr. Bohra —
Tobacco disables your brain’s “ethical governor”. It reprograms your brain to crave what’s killing it.
Eventually, your own brain starts working against you.
 
And like Ramakrishna (Queen Sivagami’s husband) in Baahubali, whose mind was poisoned by whispers and manipulation —
Tobacco too pretends to help, but silently steals your peace, memory, and control.
 
By the time you realize it, it’s often too late.
 
🛑 In Simple Words:
 
Tobacco doesn’t just cause cancer or lung disease.
It is a neurovascular villain — one that weakens your memory, decision-making, balance, healing, and even the success of your brain or spine surgery.
 
✅ You Can Still Stop It
 
Even if you’ve been smoking for years — your body can begin to heal the moment you quit:
•Brain blood flow improves within weeks
•Stroke risk drops within months
•Spine bones regain strength
•Nerve function may improve
 
🚭 This No Tobacco Day (May 31), let’s pledge:
 
🧠 “I will protect my brain and spine.”
💪 “I will not let tobacco control my mind.”
🚫 “I will break free before it breaks me.”
 
🖥️ Written by
Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah
Head of Department – Neurosurgery
Kauvery Hospital, Electronic City | NeuroWellness India
Book A Consultaton

FAQs:

1. How does tobacco affect the brain and nervous system?
Tobacco restricts blood flow to the brain, causing poor memory, brain fog, and increased risk of stroke and aneurysm. It also alters brain chemistry, leading to addiction and poor decision-making.

2. Can smoking cause spine problems or back pain?
Yes. Tobacco damages spinal discs, weakens bones, and increases the risk of disc prolapse and spinal stenosis. Smokers often need spine surgery earlier and recover more slowly.

3. Why is smoking risky before or after brain or spine surgery?
Smoking reduces oxygen supply, delays healing, increases infection risk, and can lead to poor surgical outcomes like failed fusions and slower nerve recovery.

4. Does quitting smoking improve brain and spine health?
Absolutely. Quitting smoking improves brain blood flow within weeks, reduces stroke risk, strengthens spinal bones, and helps nerves heal better over time.

5. Can tobacco use cause nerve damage or neuropathy?
Yes. Tobacco starves nerves of oxygen, damages their protective coating (myelin), and leads to symptoms like numbness, burning, and poor balance—especially in diabetics.

Brain - I too have golden hour!

Brain – I too have golden hour!

adminAdvanced Stroke treatment in Bangalore, Top Neurosurgeon in Bangalore

A brain stroke, also known as a brain attack, occurs when the supply of blood to the brain is reduced or stopped. This condition is similar to a heart attack. What happens here? Due to blockage inside vessel   there will be stoppage of blood and oxygen  reaching the brain.

The most common symptoms of brain stroke are facial weakness, arm and leg weakness, speech dysfunction, blurring of vision, and imbalance while walking. What risk factors are make brain  predisposes to stroke? hypertension, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, obesity, ischemic heart disease, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Brain too has GOLDEN HOUR like  heart!?

Brain stroke is like a heart attack. What one will do if suddenly develops chest pain ? People will reach the hospital as early as possible , get ECG and ECHO and will take opinion of cardiologist. Am I saying correct?  Dear people – Brain attack is similar to heart attack. If warning signs are recognised soon and  person reach the hospital in GOLDEN HOUR   complications that arise from brain stroke can be prevented or minimise the disability that can arise from stroke.

Dear all Let us know -How brain stroke happens?

Let us imagine heart -The heart pumps blood into the brain through blood vessels or channels called carotid arteries, which include right and left carotids. If there is a lack of supply or blockage to one side of the brain, it causes brain stroke. During a brain stroke, 1.9 million neurons die every minute due to lack of blood supply and if not treated immediately. What that means – that means the important centres of brain can get damaged parmanently.

Based on damage happens to brain -What all of us should know is Brain stroke is classified into mini-stroke and major stroke. This  Mini stroke is also known as TIA-Transient ischemic attack- we will see usually improve within 24 hours.  On contrast what happens in major stroke is – A person affected with a major stroke will take time to get better and the weakness or neurological deficits persists for a longer duration. Which results what happens? person may  become permanently disabled.

What is this  golden hour?

When brain stroke happens – we should take the patient to the stroke care hospital or seek immediate medication, within the golden period.  3.5 hours to 7.2 hours after the person has suffered a brain stroke is golden hour. The clot-bursting medication and mechanical thrombectomy if happens within this period blood circulation re-establishes. Why is is called golden hour?

After blood circulation re establishes – brain previously affected get blood circulation and nutrition and no of  neuronal death will reduce. This is possible by stent retrievers, it is a basket like device. Procedure is called Mechnical Thrombectomy.

Mechanical thrombectomy is a new modality of interventional stroke treatment, where mechanical force is applied to remove the clot by aspiration or by approaching through a basket-like device (stent retriever).

Treatment

In recent years, comprehensive stroke treatment units are helping people who are affected by stroke and maximum recovery is recorded. A comprehensive stroke unit or team consists of an emergency physician, a neurosurgeon, a neurologist, a neuroendovascular surgeon / interventional neuroradiologist, a neuro intensivist, a neuroradiologist, a neuro anesthetist and a physiotherapist.

Before Advanced Stroke treatment in Bangalore or endovascular stroke treatment came into the picture, what we were doing ?  the conservative treatment was only the option. It used showed many cases where the patients were suffered or lost their lives. The tendency to develop permanent weakness in the hands and legs, speech dysfunction, persistent vegetative state, high morbidities like the high probability of self-dependency on wheelchair or stretcher, dependence on family for a prolonged time, development of bedsore and sepsis, and death were more common in the conservative brain stroke treatment methods. If any patient comes after the golden hour period, the right treatment cannot be started.

On seeing symptoms like facial weakness, arm or leg weakness, speech dysfunction to name a few, the patient should be rushed to the hospital immediately without any delay, since every second count.

Hence remember and create the stroke awareness

FAST

FACIAL WEAKNESS

ARM WEAKNESS

SPEECH DYSFUNCTION

TIME TO REACH STROKE CARE CENTRE.

RISK FACTORS OF STROKE

Tips to prevent brain stroke

Tips to prevent brain stroke

adminTop Neurosurgeon in Bangalore, Advanced Stroke treatment in Bangalore, Paralysis treatment in Bangalore

What steps can you take to avoid a stroke? Having a mother, father, or other close relative who has had a stroke makes us more susceptible to having one.

Although you can’t turn back the clock or change your family history, you can control many other stroke risk factors if you’re aware of them. Knowledge is a powerful tool. You can take steps to mitigate the effects of a risk factor that is sabotaging your health and predisposing you to a higher risk of stroke if you are aware of it.

What is a stroke?

 When blood circulation to the brain fails, a stroke, also known as a “brain attack,” occurs. Reduced blood flow and the resulting lack of oxygen can cause brain cells to die. Strokes can be divided into two types: those caused by a blockage in blood flow and those caused by bleeding into the brain. Ischemic stroke, or a blockage of a blood vessel in the brain or neck, is the most common cause of stroke, accounting for about 80% of all strokes.

types of stroke

The formation of a clot within a blood vessel of the brain or neck, referred to as thrombosis; the movement of a clot from another part of the body, such as the heart, to the brain, referred to as embolism; or a severe narrowing of an artery in or leading to the brain, referred to as stenosis. The second type of stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, is caused by bleeding into the brain or the spaces surrounding the brain.

In brief, When the blood supply to a part of your brain is cut off, a stroke occurs. A clot or something else blocking the flow is the most common cause. Ischemic strokes are what they’re called. Bleeding in the brain is responsible for about 20% of the cases. Hemorrhagic strokes are what they’re called.

Prevention of a stroke:

  •  Lower your blood pressure

 Strokes are most commonly caused by high blood pressure. For more than half of them, this is the reason. Blood pressure readings of less than 120/80 are considered normal. If yours is consistently higher than 130/80, you may have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.

High blood pressure can make you 4-6 times more likely to have a stroke if it isn’t properly managed. This is due to the fact that it can thicken artery walls, causing cholesterol and other fats to build up and form plaques. If one of these breaks free, it can cut off the blood supply to your brain.

High blood pressure can also weaken arteries, making them more prone to burst and resulting in a hemorrhagic stroke.

Plaquue in Blood vessel

Work with your doctor to keep your blood pressure in a healthy range if you have high blood pressure. Medication and lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, may be beneficial.

  • Quit smoking

 If you smoke, you increase your chances of having a stroke by twofold. Cigarette smoke contains nicotine, which raises blood pressure and carbon monoxide, which reduces the amount of oxygen your blood can carry. Even inhaling second hand smoke can increase your risk of having a stroke.

Tobacco is also responsible for :

  1. Increase the amount of triglycerides in your blood.
  2. Reduce the amount of “good” HDL cholesterol in your body.
  3. Your blood will become sticky and more likely to clot as a result.
  4. Increase the likelihood of plaque formation
  5. Blood vessels thicken and narrow, causing damage to their linings.
  6. Consult your doctor about quitting smoking. Nicotine patches and counselling may be of assistance. If you don’t succeed the first time, don’t give up.

  • Manage your heart

 Some strokes are caused by blood clots and are caused by an irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation (AFib). AFib causes blood to pool in your heart, posing a clotting risk. If that clot travels to your brain, it can cause a stroke. You can have AFib because of high blood pressure, plaques in your arteries, heart failure, and other reasons.

Your heart can be put back into a normal rhythm with the help of medications, medical procedures, and surgery. Consult your doctor if you’re not sure if you have AFib but are experiencing heart flutters or shortness of breath.

  • Control your diabetes

 A stroke is 2-4 times more likely if your blood sugar is high. Diabetes can cause fatty deposits or clots in your blood vessels if it isn’t properly managed. This can narrow the ones in your brain and neck, potentially cutting off the brain’s blood supply.

If you have diabetes, make sure to check your blood sugar levels on a regular basis, take your medications as directed, and visit your doctor every few months so they can monitor your levels.

  • Exercise

 A sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure, all of which are risk factors for stroke. So get to work. You are not required to run a marathon. It is sufficient to exercise for 30 minutes five days a week. Before you begin exercising, consult your doctor.

  • Get proper diet

 Healthy eating can help you lose weight and reduce your risk of having a stroke. Every day, eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables (broccoli, Brussel sprouts, and leafy greens like spinach are ideal). Choose foods that are high in fibre and lean proteins. Trans and saturated fats can clog your arteries, so avoid them. Reduce your salt intake and stay away from processed foods. They’re frequently high in salt and trans fats, both of which can raise blood pressure.

  • Medications

Blood thinners are advised in medical conditions like stent in heart and neck vessels(angioplasty) and after bypass surgery of heart etc.  You may  be advised to manage blood parameters correctly.  Blood thinners are like double edged sword. If you don’t take correctly also cause problem,  if you won’t take/manage blood parameters properly also causes problem. Please follow doctors advise correctly – helps in stroke prevention.

Summary:

 Neuro Wellness spine and brain care centre does Advanced Stroke treatment in Bangalore with the best care. The specialists ensure cost effective and efficient treatment.

spine surgery

Questions to Ask Before Spine Surgery: A Complete Guide.

adminTop Neurosurgeon in Bangalore, Best spine surgeon in Bangalore

Spine surgery is a significant medical procedure often recommended when conservative treatments fail to alleviate severe pain or neurological symptoms. Making an informed decision about spine surgery is crucial. In this article, we explore the essential questions to ask your surgeon and the factors to consider before undergoing surgery. We also discuss the role of the best surgeon in Bangalore, alternative treatments, and why seeking a second opinion is important.

Questions Regarding Your Surgical Treatment

Understanding the specifics of your recommended procedure is the first step in making an informed decision. Ask your surgeon:

  1. Why is surgery necessary in my case?
    Ensure you know the exact reason for the procedure. For example, is it to relieve nerve compression, stabilize the spine, or correct deformities?
  2. What type of spine surgery are you recommending?
    Common procedures include laminectomy, discectomy, spinal fusion, and artificial disc replacement. Each has its purpose, risks, and benefits.
  3. What are the risks and complications?
    All surgeries carry risks, including infection, nerve damage, or failed back syndrome. Understanding these helps you prepare for potential outcomes.
  4. What is the expected recovery time?
    Recovery timelines can vary depending on the procedure and individual factors. Know how long it will take to resume daily activities.

Questions Regarding Your Surgeon’s Skills and QualificationsYour surgeon’s expertise can significantly impact the success of your procedure. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What is your experience with this type of spine surgery?
    Choose a surgeon who has performed the recommended procedure frequently and successfully.
  2. Are you a board-certified neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine surgeon?
    Certification ensures that the surgeon has met stringent qualifications and training standards.
  3. What is your success rate for this surgery?
    Ask for statistics and patient outcomes specific to your condition. A high success rate is reassuring when choosing the best surgeon in Bangalore.

Questions About What to Expect After Surgery

Postoperative care and recovery are as important as the surgery itself. Ensure you address the following:

  1. What is the expected outcome of the surgery?
    Will it completely relieve your symptoms, or will some issues persist?
  2. What kind of rehabilitation will I need?
    Physical therapy is often necessary after spine surgery to restore strength and mobility.
  3. What limitations will I have post-surgery?
    Knowing what activities to avoid can prevent complications and aid recovery.

Choosing a Good Surgeon

Finding a skilled and reputable spine surgeon is critical. Here are tips to help you make the best choice:

  1. Research Reviews and Recommendations
    Look for reviews from previous patients and ask your general physician for recommendations for the best spine doctor near me.
  2. Verify Credentials
    Ensure the surgeon has certifications in neurosurgery or orthopedic spine surgery.
  3. Hospital Affiliation
    Choose a surgeon affiliated with a reputable hospital. For instance, Neurowellness is known for its team of experienced neurosurgeons in Bangalore and state-of-the-art facilities.

Spine Surgery Success Rate in India

India boasts advanced medical facilities and highly skilled spine surgeons. The success rate of spine surgery in India is between 85-95%, depending on the type of procedure and patient condition. For the best results, consult the best surgeon in Bangalore, who is experienced in handling complex cases.

Spine Surgery Cost

The cost of spine surgery in India varies widely based on factors like the type of surgery, hospital, and surgeon’s expertise. On average:

  • A minimally invasive surgery may cost between ₹1,50,000 to ₹3,50,000.
  • Complex procedures like spinal fusion can range from ₹5,00,000 to ₹7,00,000.

For personalized cost estimates, consult a spine doctor near me or visit Neurowellness for a detailed discussion.

What Are the Alternatives to Spine Surgery?

Before opting for surgery, consider non-surgical alternatives:

  1. Physical Therapy: Helps strengthen the spine and alleviate pain.
  2. Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and muscle relaxants.
  3. Epidural Steroid Injections: Reduces nerve inflammation.
  4. Chiropractic Care: Can improve alignment and mobility.
  5. Lifestyle Changes: Weight loss, ergonomic improvements, and regular exercise.

What Will Happen If I Don’t Have Surgery?

Ask your surgeon to explain the potential consequences of delaying or avoiding surgery. These may include:

  • Worsening pain and disability.
  • Progressive nerve damage, leading to loss of function.
  • Increased risk of permanent complications.

Questions About Spinal Fusion

If spinal fusion is recommended, inquire further:

  1. Why is fusion necessary?
  2. What are the long-term implications?
    Spinal fusion limits movement between vertebrae, which may affect flexibility.

Should I Seek a Second Opinion?

Yes, always consider a second opinion, especially for complex surgeries like spinal fusion. Consulting another neurosurgeon in Bangalore can provide clarity and reassurance.

Additional Questions to Ask

  • Will the procedure be minimally invasive or open surgery?
  • What is the expected hospital stay?
  • Will I need any special equipment at home post-surgery?

Conclusion

Spine surgery is a life-changing decision that requires careful consideration. By asking the right questions and consulting experienced professionals, you can make informed choices about your treatment.

At Neurowellness, our team of the best surgeons in Bangalore specializes in advanced spine care. Whether you need surgery or alternative treatments, we are committed to providing personalized, world-class care.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Don’t let back pain or spine problems hold you back. Consult the best neurosurgeon in Bangalore at Neurowellness. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a pain-free life.

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