White Matter Disease

In this episode of I CARE FOR YOUR BRAIN with Dr. Sullivan, Dr. Karen D. Sullivan discusses white matter disease: what it is, how it affects your brain health and what you can do about. Learn more at www.icfyb.com or follow us on Facebook at icareforyourbrain

[@sanddollar252]

In my 63 years, it’s become very clear to me that most doctors have little interest in prevention and prefer to wait until a disease has progressed to the point of being able to satisfy the insurance company where additional tests & treatments are concerned. I’m sure there’s exceptions, but not usually.

[@luvfunstuff2]

🎯 yes! I was told a nephrologist would laugh us out of the office if we showed up asking for help with a sudden, significant & persistent reduction in kidney function because it wasn't bad (enough) yet (in an otherwise healthy appearing young person). Yet when consulting "Dr Google" it said treat kidney disease early to prevent further damage!! What is wrong with doctors today that they aren't interested in the mystery of how to keep one healthy? They aren't interested in finding any causes early on to *prevent* progression of disease? 🤦‍♀️

[@sabyasachisen5351]

THAT'S BCOS THE SICKER AND SICKER YOU CAN BECOME OR THEY CAN MAKE YOU, THEY MAKE MOOOOORE MONEY

[@Ms.Candie_]

@sanddollar252 omg you are so right I have this and a three inch cyst on my brain but they won't do nothing till I get worse they put me on med so I don't get seizures until it does worse they drain the cyst....smh

[@luvfunstuff2]

@@Ms.Candie_ now that's just absurd! What damage could be occurring in the brain while your cyst is deciding what to do next. I'd get a 2nd and 3rd opinion. Sending you lots of luck & hugs!

[@HeatherBeller]

i have a growing arcnid cyst in the angle between the pons and cerebellum and all they did was an mri every couple of years. well now they are doing it yearly because it's still growing. at first, they said not to be concerned because it wasn't large enough to need any treatment. well, that was almost 6 years ago. it just keeps growing. now they say oh well it's not grown enough. first, the doctors' take was, that if it grows then we'll consider a treatment. Now, it's oh well, it's growing but not large enough to consider treatment. Never mind the symptoms with my vision continually declining and the pain from chronic (5-6 days per week) migraines and pressure just getting increasingly painful each year. they literally were only focus on the IF it starts to grow, and now WHEN it becomes larger ENOUGH. All I want is for them to admit that this mass in my brain needs to be addressed since it is of concern to my vision. I mean living with the pain is awful, but I'd like them to find a course of action that would treat my vision from continuing to decline, even more. At least let me claim partial blindness during parts of my days. i have a feeling that next they well say well you havnt loss ENOUGH vision YET, for it be of a concern for us to consider any type of treatment.

[@ashleystipes11]

I'm 43yrs old and just got diagnosed. Can't think or get words out alot of the times and constant idk what to do feeling. No emotions or being able to take responsibility for my own self. It's frustrating when you've always been a single working providing momma and now a nothing. It needs more awareness for sure. Thank you thank you for this information ❤

[@josephkane2312]

Same here. I also have horrible brain fog, and at times I get disassociation attacks.

[@leaveittolefty]

me? i simply dont care anymore. about anything

[@theconsciouscat4782]

I’m 54 years old and going thru the same thing. MRI with and w/o contrast indicated small foci of increased T2 weighted blah blah blah deep in the subcortical white matter.🥴

[@amorl4520]

Your not a nothing. Your everything to your child. I have been there. I am now 58 and got this white matter crap to! It's not b the worse thing that can happen as my brother had a fatal brain tumor. Your.doing the work of 2 parents. Pat yourself on the back !!

[@GrandmaKrista]

Ashley, You are NOT a “nothing”! God made you a miraculous woman who loves her wonderful children, extended family and friends. Read my comment. Our bodies may fail us, but this doesn’t change our importance in this life. Take rest that God has us in His loving hands.❤ Krista

[@judyjohnson7644]

I have moderate white matter disease. Everything you have said in this presentation has been helpful. I am 76 and had frequent migraines start up again last spring every day for almost two months. Had the MRI and was diagnosed. My BP varies and is normal while resting. I am a retired RN working in surgery, Long term care and later in my career , did case management, teaching PNs. I have been having frequent falls and need now to focus on my walking---just as you mentioned, My physicians at Vanderbilt are wonderful in helping me. I will start water therapy soon as I love to exercise in the pools. Thank you so much for your lecture. May God Bless you richly for this support. Judy .

[@sadieannegracebrewer7582]

May God bless you richly too🙏🏼🤲🏼😇

[@beverlyhorner1064]

Excellent talk! What hit me most was the lack of self-initiation. I just refuse, it seems, to do things and it has resulted in my feeling really bad about myself. This causes even more ingrained non-initiation and resulting emotions of guilt and shame. Knowing it's 'not me' but a physical manifestation of my brain it has caused my mental energy level to increase and gets me off my buns and starting to do the things I really want to do. Oh, I'm a 77 yr female with hereditary heart disease and have had 1 heart attack and 2 mild strokes. All I can say is thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

You are welcome, Beverly! Keep trying!

[@OscarGarcia-yk6gq]

Thanksto you to this explanation in 1998 I took a brindar MRI the diagnosis was atrophy both parietalwith White matters but I WAS 40 years ols I WAS working with chemicals but no explanationand is Boeing continuos no explanationuntil now I took severas times CT sean and MRI and lastima week I took another because I have pernicious anemia and dizziness it came the same you explanation but the neurologist said it does not mean nothing for him even it was diagnosed microvascular disease but he said no meaning for him is the second one iam pre-diabetic and diagnosed with MAS multiple autoinmune disease alopecia universal hashimoto and pernicious anemia what I can do

[@MyMistakeBut]

@@OscarGarcia-yk6gqOscar, please find another doctor who is willing to engage with you as a patient. They are often hard to find now, but they are out there! I have dealt with multiple issues for many years, and my faith and family have kept me grounded. Yet, when you need medical help, there is no substitute. Look for referrals among those you trust. Do research, read, travel if you must to a University Hospital setting for a specialist. But you cannot expect a stranger to do what you won’t do for yourself. PLEASE, keep up the good fight until you partner up with a great doctor! You will be so happy that you did. God bless you, Oscar! 💗

[@artstamper316]

@@OscarGarcia-yk6gq I can relate. It seems like Drs don’t know what to do with it so they either throw a chemical at it or ignore it as a normal sign of aging. 😢

[@katherenewedic8076]

yeah, and then they just want to throw psych meds down your throat; which, in my observation as a professional, just make everything worse, if not a large contributing factor for many.

[@DEBBIEAM57]

Thanks for covering this issue so well!!! Your calm and respectful explanation of white matter disease has relieved a concern of mine. Finally getting a CPAP has made a huge difference in my ability to function. Sleep and oxygen are SO important!!! Thanks again. Have a blessed holiday.

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

That's wonderful Debbie!

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

I appreciate your kind words, Debbie.

[@kathymorris4553]

I was just diagnosed with White Matter disease. You’ve given me back hope, thank you🙏🏻❤️

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

I'm so glad.

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

Yay Kathy!

[@kjfairchild9924]

Thank you for this. Got a type 1 CSVD diagnosis from an MRI one year ago, along with high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and obesity. Immediately stopped all added sugars, went whole food, plant based w addition of salmon and eggs. Began a walking program. I Fast 12 hrs overnight. Have gone from a 2x to a L. All blood work in normal range. My memory and multitasking have improved, my arthritis also, and I am happier and more motivated and serene than I have been in decades! Your explanation of this scary issue is so perfect! I watched my mom increase her drinking and take to her chair as she began her decline, and the proactive lifestyle I chose has lessened my fears and shown amazing results! It was so so worth it!

[@corinnevickey4634]

WOW. Impressive. Kudos to You. Most encouraging. Thank You.

[@hvac4u2]

Excellent! Keep up the good work!

[@lindaperry9950]

Great job! You are on the right tract for quality of life.

[@kimberlyhayestaylor1785]

You’ve done an amazing job. Your testimony was inspiring. Big congratulations to you! 🎉🎉🎉

[@cyndy338]

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👍🤩

[@timmatheny-lo9ze]

My wife was diagnosed in 2017 with Alzheimer’s 52 years old. Brain scan showed some white matter. She was put on meds to slow progression. I believe today her condition would be called FTD. She had lots of headaches,stress with job and not a very good diet. She loved chocolate and Coke. But she did love to go for walks often. By 2022 she had deteriorated so much I could not properly care for her, and found a good care facility. This is a very devastating disease. Later that year she passed away. I am sharing this information in the hope that it may help others. Thank you Dr. Sullivan for all your work and dedication. 😇

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

You are most welcome. It's a very difficult set of diseases for many reasons.

[@Acts-1322]

Alzheimer's/certain other dementias are so intertwined with insulin resistance, they're calling it type 3 diabetes. Not that it's a separate type, just should be recognized like retinopathy and kidney/heart disease are to follow diabetes. I'm sorry to hear it

[@sadieannegracebrewer7582]

My deepest condolences to you🤲🏼🙏🏼🤲🏼🙏🏼🙇🏻‍♀️

[@kim.in.nature.]

I wonder is something as simple as Vit B3 aka Niacin (the flushing type) would help. It is well know to vaso-dilate the small capillaries.

[@erindowling8540]

I know B1 is great for your brain, and being low and it can cause all kinds of problems with your brain

[@jancross9226]

I had a dramatic presentation of “numbness” and harsh tingle and clumsiness right arm, leg, then head and neck. Not a stroke. Told it was cerebral small vessel disease. But it’s have continued with many parasthesias, sudden weak feelings, feeling “stoned”, sleeping way too much, episodes sea of brain fog. Illness, “stress”, heat, “overdoing” exercise all case se it to be worse. I have searched and searched for examples in f other people with my symptoms who have small vessel disease and cannot find any examples. I’m 66, this first occurred when I was 60.

[@ajwerner6639]

Thank you! You answered so many of my questions. I was recently incidentally diagnosed with mild white matter disease. I am 61 and I’m hoping I can move forward and make the lifestyle changes that I need to, to stop the progression. I feel more hopeful after watching your video.

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

Yay!

[@d.w.6476]

Unfortunately for me and my family, statins have caused us severe cognitive side effects. My father was told that his episode of being so confused that he sat on a laundry basket and used it as a toilet was dementia and we were told to put him in a nursing home. We asked the doctor to review his medications and found that he had reported problems with confusion when taking statins and had been taken off them but another doctor put him back on them. He was admitted to the hospital and taken off the statins for the final time and eventually regained his memory and ability to take care of himself and his financial matter as normal. However, he said he never felt the same. I hope there will be something else besides statins to help with vascular health for those of us who can't tolerate them.

[@kmjansen]

Something similar happened to my friend's father. Best of luck to your father and you.

[@theresabanks65]

There is an alternative. I have genetic CYP450 Defects that includes toxic build up of statin medications. Instead I take the rx ezetimibe. It reduces bad cholesterol 25% and has been effective for me.

[@hvac4u2]

Statins are bad. A main stream medical relic of the pharma. Plenty of evidence based research solutions are available that have surpassed this form of treatment.

[@SparkingLife111]

This is why i looked at the comments my jaw dropped when she praised statins and I know for a fact the statins messed up my mother I told her years ago to get off it that it's going to cause her diabetes and dementia guess what I'm dealing with I have to clean up this mess and the rest of my life is ruined caretaking it is 24/7 and at this point taking her off it hasnt helped. Shes w me now in my 1 bdrm apt. She doesnt want to stay in her condo its been 2 yrs nonstop and tge last 3 months, entire summer at my house. The damage these medications do is criminal

[@keke8880]

Thanks for sharing this. I've been trying to convince my relative to stop theirs since they are declining too. But they won't because they do whatever the docs tell them to. They stopped for a period of time and their cognition and memory restored. Their depression improved. About 6 months later they went back to the doc and the doc asked why they weren't taking them and so my relative went back on them. They don't even need them, their cholesterol is only barely on the the high side

[@ematawfik9314]

I am 36 years old and I get diagnosis with Mild subcortical areas of chronic white matter disease.

[@janicehellzen8765]

I just got the same diagnosis. What info have you found out about this from your Dr?

[@melissaisaac6973]

I was just recently advised that I have this after having an MRI of the brain. This video has been so very informative and now I'm not as afraid as I was when I read the report. Thank you for being a blessing

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

You are welcome!

[@christineolsen4166]

I feel the same way. I don’t feel as afraid anymore after watching your easy to understand video. Your house is beautiful and your skin is as well. May God bless you

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

That's wonderful, thank you for sharing!

[@MikeyIvers]

Hi Melissa hope your doing good. I've just got my report but can't see neurologist for 8 weeks. Did your report look like this at all as I'm lost as got no answers about it. REPORT: The axial, basal and sylvian cisterns have normal characteristics. The cortical sulci retain their usual conformation. The supra - and infratentorial ventricular system preserves its topography. Multiple punctate hierinthenic lesions in Flai and T2 in the subcortival white matter and appeared microangiopathic. The brainstem does not present signal alterations No restrictive effects are evident in the brain diffusion sequence. ONCLUSION: Microangioopathic lesions Signed: Mariano Magallanes

[@mrmattyd]

Hi Karen - I'm hearing that common triggers such as gluten and dairy can be responsible for white matter hyperintensities in some people... any truth to this?! Thanks

[@Jojoma449]

I had white matter lesion and doctors dismissed as nothing . They said from migraines which I never had. I have other issues almost that look like MS. But no one takes it seriously. I don’t have high blood pressure. I’m suspecting Lyme infection.

[@amberdawn7426]

Get a 🧬 test done! My father has Lesions from Fabry Disease. Which is 🧬

[@cynthiarender9116]

Thank you so much for this very important information. You have an excellent way of explaining these complicated issues. 💕

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

You are so welcome!

[@cynthiag3065]

I was 48 when my MRI showed White Matter there were several white patches; however, the report stated this was "normal". These were clearly formed shapes that were 2-3cm, I am confident this was a stage 2 problem. Since then my physical modalities have progressed; I've addressed this with my Neologist, but the response was referred back to the MRI report. This is extremely frustrating, I realize this will only progress without intervention, and this isn't a concern to my M.D. or N.P. After this video, I understand the only help will be outside of my doctor's office or conventual medicine. Thank you for this informative video.

[@soldier2152]

I’m 42yr old and I have white matter I feel confused and panic all the time hopefully I will make it

[@SparkingLife111]

​@@soldier2152did u ever have a concussion? Also thyroid and hormones can cause your issues. Get a full panel thyroid test not just tsh and t3

[@joemurphy710]

I echo your experience almost exactly. They either don’t know what to do or don’t want to deal with it. We shouldn’t be searching the internet after paying good $ for insurance…

[@ronniewetherington509]

Thank you very much for taking the time to explain this. My wife was recently diagnosed with WMD as a result of scanning for possible balance and other issues. Her diagnosis was mild hyperentsities. She is experiencing minor balance issues, memory, multi tasking and increasing urinary incontinence problems. She is 68 and a smoker who refuses to give it up. At this time she isn't truly convinced the disease is contributing to her problems which I understand. She is scheduled for a sleep study and then some cognitive tests before we follow-up with her neurologist.

[@charles2675]

I am 72 I found out I have white matter I'm not going to worry about it.

[@normaparfitt2614]

Thank you so much. I was in hospital recently for an unrelated matter. I had an MRI and it said 'advanced cerebral small vessel disease'. No other comments, no recommendations. I've been trying everywhere to make sense of this and have just ended up scared. Thanks to this video I now understand why my ability to multi-task has almost disappeared. Why I just can't be bothered to do the things I like to do and why I need a walking stick these days. Just knowing this would make me depressed, but your comments on getting fitter etc make me hope I can fight this thing. I'm 77 but not out yet!

[@mountainhappy847]

6/6/23: Thank you, Dr. Sullivan for this excellent video! So clear and to the point. I am 81 and a recent CT scan mentioned this white matter issue. And have recent falls, balance issues, multi-tasking difficulty, difficulty starting things, etc. I recently started walking and have a walking buddy in France. We report in by text after our walks. Helps tremendously with motivation. I have also discussed with my sister setting up a buddy system about the healthy eating. That should be a great help in starting it and sticking to it. I’m also going to look online for the balance training that you mentioned. And… I will be sharing your video with my 6 siblings. Can’t thank you enough!

[@lindathompson3109]

Great video. It is a shame that this stuff is not talked about in highschool health class. Our daily behaviours are vital long term.

[@user-tm2vc6fj8q]

Carnivore also should be taught in school... proper human diet dr ken berry...shocking and oxalates - sally norton...wow 😢

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

So true, Linda!

[@janrandles8683]

Thank you for covering this as most primary physicians just blow this off as either migraine induced or age related. I have never had such a concise explanation for what concerned me and still does at the age of 70. I was extremely active as far as hiking and exercise during my 60's but during the pandemic was less active and can tell a difference on many levels. Could you talk about the significance of pulsatile tinnitus as I have developed this in the last year in my left ear and it is driving me crazy!!!

[@tinabutler7293]

My question is, are migraines occurring because of the lack blood supply or are migraines causing the damage to the brain?

[@clevelandgirl3226]

Thank you so much for posting this video. My husband has suffered cognitive decline over the past few years and refused to see a neurologist or have an MRI. He finally had an MRI several months ago and the neurologist said he has White Matter Dementia. There is next to no information out there about White matter dementia. All the discussion and research seems to be about Alzheimer’s. Thank you for explaining this disease. I had no idea that stroke is also a risk.

[@jltyndall1]

This was excellent! Thank You so Much! I do have a question though. If spikes in blood pressure cause small vessel damage in the brain how is it possible that exercise, which causes a blood pressure spike, cannot also damage the small vessels? For this reason, I am fearful of strenuous exercise, and no one has been able to clearly answer this question for me. Thank You!

[@SnarkasticSunny]

I have same fears & questions that you do...

[@anneb1750]

almost 2 years ago I had a cerebral infarction, instead of recovering well I felt increasingly tired, had problems with my memory and reading and writing went less and less. I got an MRI and was totally surprised by the results, I turned out to have extensive white matter abnormality and extensive research was done in the past 1.5 years. A new MRI was done 3 months ago and the white matter abnormality appeared to have expanded and I also appeared to have had 2 new small cerebral infarctions. no cause has been found, not genetic, no high blood pressure, no high sugar value. I just turned 50, my children are 13 and 15 years old, I don't have a partner and I'm exhausted, my short term memory is gone and I can't do all my hobbies anymore, my left side is weak and walking is very changing, reading and writing is very difficult and working is no longer possible. I walk the dog 4 to 5 times every day and go to physio, I also go to daytime activities, but sometimes it feels like I'm just sitting out my time, last week I had my 4th cerebral infarction and the neurologist doesn't know how he can help me other than blood thinners and pain meds i feel hopeless sometimes

[@Peshur]

You looked at sauna? Or at the least 20 min as hot as you can handle hot baths. Checkout Dr Rhonda Patrick

[@anneb1750]

@@Peshur thank you

[@mariablohm3140]

You sound exactly like me. I have cerebral small vessel disease, age 55 and have had two strokes despite normal weight, regular BP, sugar, cholesterol, etc. I too now have difficulty with my walking/gait, fatigue, balance, depression, etc. I am devastated.

[@paulabrown6840]

@@mariablohm3140 I’m so sorry! 🥺! That must feel hopeless. I’m 75 and I have some of these symptoms too. You’re so young maybe see a different neurologist..one that can offer hope..? Sending a hug! 🤗🌹

[@mariablohm3140]

Have you received any new options or suggestions? I found out that I have had more tiny strokes than they can count and am ridiculously fatigued.

[@henryamadi8727]

Thank you so much for breaking this down to the layman's term. This has been seen in my brain twice but they never really talk to me about it. I'm 36 years old and I feel like I'm too young to have white matter in my brain . It was tagged as mild, but the information you provided has been very helpful.

[@Hararetarumaki]

Same here

[@annsharley4538]

Why do you think many drs neglect to address this? You get the diagnosis and then left to find out what it means. You then need to find a way to minimise the spread and without guidance or referral to a specialist. Am interested to hear you perspective on this.

[@shicainasabir9982]

Hello my on is 2 year's old n getting white matter disease and findings Consisting with Dysmellination in MRI report, we are belonged from Pakistan, Karachi

[@rogerthat117]

The days I don’t want to exercise are the days I MUST

[@G.G.8GG]

Okay, that answers questions I've had for years! And provides some "what next?" Answers too. Wow. So much here that applies to me and why certain things are happening. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

You are so welcome, Esther!

[@bettysegarra7184]

Thank you! Your White Matter episode explained the disease brilliantly. Amlopdipine was prescribed for my husband, 85 years old with vascular dementia (MRI also said White Matter) shrinking brain. He has very high blood pressure. I'm seeing big improvements with Amlodipine medicine, his Dr said it will help reduce his BP & also help with blood flow to brain. Working for both issues. This is a miracle drug for us and our dementia journey.

[@vishalkasotia6703]

@Betty segarra,hi is your husband doing okay , does.he have lacunar infarcts ?

[@bettysegarra7184]

@@vishalkasotia6703 HI! Yes my husband is doing well. And yes his first brain CT scan showed infarcts or mini strokes. Amlodipine has lowered his BP as well as improved some short-term memory. Also he's taking 5mg of Lexapro, he's not combative & no anxiety, sleeping through the night. Both drugs have helped him & saved me. Best luck with your journey. If you're dealing with dementia, you might find KZbin channel "Dementia Care Blazer " helpful.

[@Hi22213]

@@vishalkasotia6703vishal bhai kya apko bhi issue hai aisa?

[@Elly3121]

I’m 36 & I found out today at the ER after getting a CT scan done that I have a white matter disease (patchy)! The Dr told me I have a brain of a 70 year old. They think it’s because I’ve been having Anorexia, depression, & PTSD for 20 years that it’s damaged my brain. I have an appointment with a neurologist in a month. I was wondering if mental illness has a role??!!

[@Hi22213]

What is the status now?

[@AhmadSarwary-c5q]

Please reply it is very important to me , cause i am suffering from depression for years. can you please tell me other than white matter disease what other changes doctor seen in your brain ?

[@globalfamily8172]

I think stress does. It can spike your bp.

[@sharondilloncavalierland954]

Thank you for your explanation of this. I use BEMER technology to help my circulation. Once a week I do my head. I have not been worked up yet as I am in an orthodontic process, nearly done, that does not allow complete viewing of the brain so once I am done with all the metal in my mouth I get to go to a neurologist. Your explanation gives me a direction to do research and form my questions. The balance and incontinence issues are interesting as I am scoliotic and it's hard to tell which is causing what. I am 68 now and doing better than most women my age. Life and my own genes keep throwing things at me! Getting old is not for sissies! Thanks again for all your efforts to help! Hugs from Washington State, USA

[@bronzefxspraytansswimwear6668]

i watched like 10 videos on this condition and this one is the only one that explained it to me properly. thank you

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

That's quite the compliment, thank you!

[@joybuell9236]

I am 62 and just read this on a old brain scan, it said mild, but I have had some very bad falls in the last 15 years, I do walk slower so this terrified me. Thank you so much for your report- I need to pay more attention to my blood pressure and over health. Would any vitamins help the brain in particular?

[@solraclarkin4375]

The B comlex vitamins. Maybe a bit more of B12 and B1. Also healthy fats for the brain ex. Coc oul, olive oil.

[@geraldinechadwick2246]

Would you recommend MCT 8 oil for the brain

[@dolores.t.hodgkins3140]

Thank you Dr Sullivan. My daughter 51yrs has just been diagnosed with "small vessel disease". I will pass on this valuable information to her. She has been absolutely shocked by this diagnosis, but i see a more positive for her with this information. God bless your work. 🙏🌿

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

Thank you Dolores, your message means a lot to me!

[@veemcg3682]

Thank you for sharing this video. I spent several months this year in intensive care critically ill with an infection which caused ulcers in my brain among other things. I was diagnosed way before covid with Functional neurological Disorder but never understood anything about it and presumably because of covid have received no follow up checks treatment or information other than being given a website to look up. . All I knew was that my speech and thought processes were affected and my walking. These have been worse since my illness earlier this year. I worked very hard to relearn how to stand walk and stay upright but still struggle with my balance gait and frequent falls causing multiple fractures and relentless ungoing pain all of which affects my mood. My eyesight, coordination, and ability to articulate what I'm trying to say or process what is said to me are also affected. I need help or advice but don't know how to get it. Please help if you can.

[@imho2278]

Get a walker and adapt to supported movement. Stop falling.

[@carolsmith2]

Thank you so much for this easily understandable explanation. I’d like to understand that if you have your blood pressure and blood sugar under control, how much exercise or how often do you need to bring your heart rate up to slow or stop the progression? Is white matter disease hereditary? And what are the markers for white matter disease?

[@linedallaire6637]

We went plant base according Dr. CALDWELL ESSELSTYN and Dean Ornish, and we noticed a increase in intelligence and better healh

[@patstats1]

I just shared this with my sister. Our mother passed away from the complications of brain atrophy. My sister and I were both informed we have these white spots ( my scan also showed a TIA sometime in my past) but nothing more was told about it to either of us. Thanks for this information. I’m 70 years old and rarely sprout a gray hair, so much for that information. When I was first informed, I resigned to the great possibility that this was inherited especially after learning my sister shows the same thing.

[@GG-td8ps]

Hi Dr. Sullivan! Thank you for posting this video. I have two questions: 1) How do radiologists distinguish between MS and white matter disease? 2) Keeping in mind that cells need nutrition and energy, isn't it correct to assume that hyperbaric threatment would be right for that disease? Thank you so much!

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

Hi, it's usually the pattern of the WMD that tells them about the cause and hyperbaric tx does not have enough evidence for the treatment for this condition as of yet.

[@mildredwinslow868]

I have been experiencing some memory issues for the last 8-10 years (I'm 53 now) which has concerned me enough to wonder if I may experience Alzheimer's disease at some point in my life. I recently found out that I have mild white matter disease and am meeting with a neurologist soon. Thank you for this informative video. It has helped to quell some of my worries and prepared me for my upcoming appointment.

[@sharonthepartyqueen5374]

I’m 58 and was just diagnosed with white matter disease. I get nauseous, dizzy, balance issues, brain fog and fatigue. My blood work has markers for Sjogrens and rheumatoid arthritis. How are you doing today? Did you get to see a neurologist? I’m so scared because I live alone and I have a long commute to my job. How will I support myself, if anything should happen to me. It’s my every day question these days. I’m hoping you’re doing well and would love to hear anything that you may be doing that has helped you.

[@mildredwinslow868]

@@sharonthepartyqueen5374 thank you for your message, makes me feel a little less alone. I experience all of the same issues you state as well. It’s very frustrating and worrisome for sure. I did see a neurologist (PA at the office) and she seemed to put me at ease by sharing that WMD is a common aging occurrence even with people my age. Im slightly doubtful still because 53 just seems rather young to me, but I’ll continue to watch my symptoms. I was told there’s no “cure” but that I can look at taking some supplements and helping with diet. Increase Omega 3 was one suggestion. Overall she didn’t seem very concerned, but being our own advocate is paramount. I will absolutely get a second opinion if I notice any increase in issues. Please keep me posted, if you don’t mind, if you learn anything new.

[@julieolson1402]

Like the previous comment, I, also seem to refuse to do certain things that never made me feel hesitant before. Sometimes, distraction is my only strategy. If I can put a podcast on speaker, I can engage in these activities (like washing dishes) without any difficulty. It doesn't help my motivation any if I misplace my speaker, though. I thought I was just getting pathological bored. Thanks for this video. Correctly identifying is huge!

[@ladypsinspiredhome604]

Thank you so much for covering this subject, I am 70 and just was diagnosed a month ago but do not know what stage, you have shared so much more than my primary Doctor, I have been all over the internet researching this disease, since then I have changed my eating mostly trying the Mediterranean diet, he did give me a slip for balancing therapy which is why I kept asking why I don’t walk straight, I finally got to go for a Ct Scan, and that was the result, he said it is nothing that can be done but with God there is always hope, my bloody pressure has lowered since I switched my food intake, I also joined the Y ( I am over weight). Listening to you also have given me hope, thank you for explaining so well and I am sorry for being so long, if you need to add something to me I appreciate it. Thanks again.❤

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

You got this! Keep going in the right direction and it will pay off!

[@zulli-bg4ht]

Can white matter disease make the person be sad and scared without any reason? or see something doesn't exist? If the person is under 18 years old?

[@solraclarkin4375]

Very informative, to the point, yet calming to us sufferers. Thankyou.

[@ScottSummerill]

Just found your channel. Excellent content. Regarding oxygen supply to the brain, is there any value to using these hyperbaric pods? I have one close by and have had a couple sessions. Stopped because of the expense ($70-80 a session) but it might just be worth the expense. Thanks!

[@Tony-pg9hx]

I'm 38 had a stroke in 2015 my MRI this week showed more white matter this exam than my last. That was the short answer I got over the phone, this video was much more helpful. Thanks

[@ellamaeloftus3493]

My son now 45 has had progressive white matter disease since age 32. He also has other medical issues. Do wish you the best with peace and happiness.

[@grantlawrence611]

Tony supposedly the white matter damage is irreversible but yours got better

[@lisaca323]

Love this. Thanks. I just had an MRI and have mild white matter disease. So what you say is spot on. I need to exercise more. So thanks!

[@zakidjebboudi1539]

I suffer from white matter in the brain and I feel pain in the head and eyes. Is there any help? I have not found a cure yet

[@eclecticcyclist]

On the other hand white matter could be new brain tissue replacing damaged tissue so white matter is not the thing doing the damage but the repair mechanism. Just because you find a lot of firemen at the scene of fires doesn't mean that they are the cause.

[@65fj45lpb]

This video was exactly what I was looking for. I've tried to schedule appointments with multiple Neurologists, but the wait time is several weeks to several months. This video gave me a good understanding of where I'm at and what to expect in the future.

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

I'm so glad, Rob.

[@Lola-mn9oz]

Hi there, you stated BP variability as most detrimental to the brain ..yet, doesn,'t exercise increase and therefore also decrease the blood pressure? ie create variability?

[@texesvail]

Can Aspirin helps with white matter disease?.

[@Grumpysusie]

Thank you so much for this inspiring video. Three weeks ago I experienced a violent fall in my bathroom that included a hard smack to my forehead, injuring my nose, eyebrow bone, neck, shoulder and many more areas of the body. After going to urgent care I was sent to radiology department for a CT scan. Next thing I know they say severe concussion and mild Microvascular ischemic Disease. I am 67 years old with existing memory deficit for about a year now. This diagnosis totally freaked me out. You have explained this so well, you are so kind to give the good news to me that my daily life habits can help me live the long life I have strived to live. As an artist, I have goals to paint as long as I can stand up and hold a paintbrush in my hand. You have given me so much hope now knowing that I will live to see the days where my collection of art will mean something. I look forward to continuing my daily walking routine and also working out with my PT. Thank you so very much. God bless you. SR Wolf Studio Arts.

[@ebonylamb4871]

The MRI I had last month said i have scattered foci of FLAIR hypersensity within the cerebral white matter. They say this white matter disease is nonspecified to etiology. That doesn't help the unexplained head pressure, feeling like I'm floating when I walk, unbalance, and the sensation of falling.

[@maryalicegonzales2701]

Helpful but what about the changes in ppl under 50..

[@nancybrewer5778]

I’ve had migraines for 45 years. My neurologist said after a recent MRI that I had some white matter, but not to worry about it, but I’ve been worrying about it ever since! I’ve also read that migraines cause scar tissue in the brain. Is this the same as white matter? I also have POTS, and I was wondering if low blood pressure and not being able to get enough blood to your brain would cause white matter disease as well. Thank you!

[@amethystkingdom3546]

Thank you! I have severe migraines and chronic fatigue, and I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and I had an MRI done, and it showed that I had small foci of matter , and microvascular ischemia disease, sequela. Neurologist set me up an appointment to see nurse practitioner, and I have questions for him.

[@sharonthepartyqueen5374]

Me too! Sjogrens and rheumatoid arthritis came up as markers in my blood as well.

[@GrandmaKrista]

I am 69. Had TBI and was found not breathing in 2006. Immediately following I had to start wearing glasses, started having decreased hearing and lost all my nursing knowledge ( I’m a RN) and had no Short term memory so unable to retrain. So in 2009 was put on 100% disabled. Now having extreme dizziness, poor balance, eyes get worse every year, decreased concentration and mental focus, falling & tripping. Now having severe BP fluctuating that got more severe about 3 mos ago( now getting under control.)HX of migraines, urinary incontinance, and lace of initiation. Forget to eat. Question: how fast will I get worse? Is this terminal? My Neurologist said my dead white matter is deep in the Front, top left & right, temples and the pond is not functioning well. THANK YOU for taking time to do your very educational videos. 💕Krista

[@cherylbridges4510]

Krista, my heart goes out to you! I experienced an mBTI 9 months ago and finally found a certified neuro-optometrist who has helped me significantly with my vision, cognition, and proprioception. We still have alot of work to do and ways to go, but it's worth the tiny improvements week to week. I hope you'll consider a neuro-optometry consult. 🙏💖

[@kathleenmaloney915]

Thank you for this very clear explanation, Dr. Like many of the other people commenting, I have been dealing with white matter lesions for several years now. MS was ruled out, but my neurologist did continue with follow up imaging. I have three autoimmune diseases that were not diagnosed until a few years after the first sign of these lesions (Lupus, Sjogren's and CIDP). It was all very confusing to me since these conditions can cause symptoms similar to MS.

[@NurseontheRun149]

Do you have any dietary guidelines and supplements to promote improved brain function.

[@shicainasabir9982]

He has walking issue, he can't walk and not sitting properly. Please give me any suggestion. I am waiting for your response

[@misseswheaton]

Just diagnosed due to crushing headaches getting worse over 2 years, now migraines. First video I've ever looked at was yours! Thank you!

[@jakobausterlitz8102]

I also have the small vessel disease, which they say is mild plus I now have the headaches.

[@apriljohnson7489]

I am 46 and was diagnosed with white matter disease. I went to my Dr. and asked for testing for early onset Alzheimer's as I have been struggling with my memory and my mom got sick at just 51 years old. He did an MRI and found white matter disease. Thanks for this video. I am anxious to see the neurologist next week.

[@Hi22213]

How old is you mom now? My father also got sick now and he is just 59. My MRI showed white matter disease or microvascular changes at age of 35. I have visited 2 neurologists and they just told me that i am worrying a lot about these MRI findings and it is normal to have them just a part of wear and tear.

[@cindysalvitti8450]

Hi there, I’m sorry about your diagnosis, I’m 51 just had an mri yesterday and found moderate white matter with t2 flair, I had a sudden onset of vertigo 14 days ago that keeps me from doing normal daily things and since not getting better doctor ordered mri, I see neurologist Thursday but I am a wreck thinking there’s no help since I can’t even walk a straight line and not feel like everything is spinning. I hope you get answers.❤ This video was informative it I’m still scared.

[@Pete_YNWA]

How are you now

[@reginamay2767]

My brain mri shows that my brain has T2 hyperintensity in the subcortial and periventeicular white matter of the left frontal lobe. And my neurologists is booked up i cannot get in to see him until jan 2024. Unreal. 😡

[@Jojoma449]

Would ozone therapy or hyperbaric oxygen help ?

[@susanpicerno8113]

dr., I have cerebral palsy secondary to Periventricular leukomalacia. It always surprises me that people don’t think about people with cerebral palsy. We have a normal life span and live as long as you do but nobody thinks about an adult with this type of white matter disease. Could you say something about it? Thank you.

[@sherryglover2027]

Thank you for speaking to this concern. My MRI came back showing white matter and all the other terminology I was not familiar with. My doctor is unavailable until next week so this was extremely helpful to gain a better understanding.

[@Bripinlife]

Thank you so much for this content. I'm 43 yrs old and diagnosed of white matters last March. I'm so active person and do multi tasking then after I got co vid last feb 2021 my body deteriorate. Got easily exhausted and noticed my legs always shaking ang few times I fell on the ground. Last Sunday I tried to cut our backyard lawn using manual cutter after 5mins I took a glass of water and my left hands shaking almost I drop it. I have a question is this critical illness because as what I've watched we can't reverse at all x. Thank you so much

[@jonorochester2250]

There is zero evidence that statins improve microvascular cerebrovascular disease. Zero. It is inappropriate to suggest what is effectively an experimental use for statins in this context. Important to remember: medicines have both benefits and side effects. Patient trials and regulatory authorities try and ensure that ratio is optimal for patient care: information derived from those sources are relatively trustworthy and not an arbitrary opinion.

[@robinjonson4186]

What a blessing you are Dr. !!

[@froman1960]

What about Lion's Mane supplements and Ozone Therapy. I'm 63 and I had all kinds of tests to see if I had Parkinson's or early onset Dementia which my mother had. All came out negative. I have a history of Migraines and High Blood Pressure. A few years ago I had some Vertigo that lasted a few months and tinnitus which went away and then came back and I've had for at least two years now. Had the MRI done and the doctor said it's not in my ears, it's in my brain and there is nothing I can do about it. When I recently read the report, it said I had white brain matter disease and that is what has prompted me to research it and found this helpful video. Since I took care of my mother until recently my brain had been on multi task 24/7 since I had to remember all of my mother's stuff, and my own and many times my kids stuff even though they are grown. But I still found myself with memory issues getting worse and that's why I had myself tested. So now that mom is gone, I'm starting to exercise again, and looking into other things. I love to prove medical doctors wrong so, my hope is that I can reverse it because I have a strong will. After breast cancer surgery the doctor told me I would never raise my left arm straight up. I proved him wrong. My dad was told he would never walk well after they removed his varicose veins and they wanted to amputate him in the army, but my dad would walk miles every day. I aim to be like my father. It's a matter or mind over matter. Thanks to this video I will now get a copy of this last MRI and see how many white spots I have.

[@bonniek7228]

Thank you so much for explaining this! I was feeling so helpless and scared. I am in my 50s, have no high blood pressure and am physically active, so it was very confusing finding something wrong in my brain (MRI was done for tinnitus).

[@USMarineCorp95]

I have tinnitus also. Didn’t start having it until after Covid December 2023

[@TerrileeYO]

recommending statins just hurt my opinions i had formed about you dr Sullivan.

[@valeriecastro6023]

Hello Dr. Sullivan, so glad I came across your page it's what I needed to hear, I have been noticing all of the things you mentioned it started with my walk I thought it was just my weight and also my flat look on my face felt like heaviness on my brow, and it alarmed me. Also was easily put off by accounting on a tally sheet of simple addition of record of spending and dates because it seemed bigger the then the task itself. I started taking several different supplements and the one that seems to lift my brain activity is Magabrain it's magnesium L-threonate , and natural vitamin E the best is tocotreinol hard to find, but those seem to really help quickly. Both of these help brain circulation due to my diabetes I pay close attention to that in general. I noticed that fatigue is coming from the brain fog and that is where I need to push myself into light exercise like the pool or hot tub and sauna to get used to movement again. Plus lost 50pds and 80 more to go and this is my goal to prevent any more stress on my body and mind with the help of Mounjaro and a strict keto diet I feel much better. Hopefully this helps others. Thank you for your encouragement and good tips too. God bless

[@ground752]

essential oil 3 helps dissolve amaloid plaque. thank goodness this info is out.

[@bobketteringham4779]

I am 70. Just had. MRI. Told loss of white matter and small vessel constriction. I am a bit scared.

[@RiDankulous]

At age 48 I switched to whole food-plant based diet to lower total serum cholesterol and it worked. It just so happens to be very low in saturated fat. I am confident that my white matter disease will be much less. I am strict on the diet going on 8 years now. I heard a neuro-radiologist discussing this and he believes that most of dementia is due to chronic cerebral hypo-perfusion. It is just a hypothesis. I think we have a very sick population mainly due to diet and of course I have some permanent damage. I believe I've stopped it's progression.

[@jhaan3707]

Just discovered white matter in my brain which the report says non-specific but may be related to microvascular ischemic changes amongst other etiologies. Thank you for the information that you shared. It gave me some hope and confidence. Going to make appointment Monday morning.

[@melodicguitarist821]

Hello, Can White Matter be caused by a untreated chronic infection? My MRI shows Scattered T2/FLAIR signal hyperintense foci within the subcortical, deep, and periventricular white matter of the frontal and parietal lobes without mass effect. I feel like I have some type of infection that has been chronic for several years now. Thank you.

[@monitortop]

Brilliant. How fortunate are your patients.

[@charles2675]

You know I lost my vision and my thought process meaning when I was pushing a cart at Walmart I went totally blank the only thing that woke me up when I banged into other people's cart's. Happened twice family Dollar store in my area So then I had my MRI discovered I had White Manner. I haven't seen neurologists So I'm kind of concerned about walking Dead the situation I had

[@juliehillebrand3920]

I had a hot on the head that required per my age a CT examination. I got this diagnosis and it scared me. My internist told me that it is quite common in people of my age 76. And a history of chronic hypertension. But I am still concerned so I watch every video that I can to inform me. You and another video has helped to educate me and make me feel better.

[@globalfamily8172]

I'm level 2 and not even retirement age. I'm going to exercise until my legs fall off - no high blood pressure, sugar problems, etc. Are there any macros for diet ideas?

[@carolhemingway2793]

whole food, plant based, become knowledgeable re and then avoid toxins. Avoid animal saturated fat of all kinds.

[@yvonnedyer5371]

Only a few MDs seem to know about functional medicine to cure this problem

[@juliewillard1367]

I just had a MRI scan that showed some ischemic changes in blood vessels age related in my white matter. I have lost some hearing which is why I had the scan. My GP has put me immediately on a statin and advised dietary changes and up my exercise to stop any progression. It sounds scary but your explanation really helped.

[@jakobausterlitz8102]

Beware of the statins!

[@sondranewall4462]

I am 79 years old and recently was in the hospital for vertigo and dizziness. An MRI stated there was white matter disease, but the Neurologist told me my MRI was completely normal. I read the report and became scared. My sister died 2 years ago of Alzheimers, and was brilliant her entire life. She received her masters degree on a full scholarship and taught the gifted. When I read that report I became frightened, since my father died at the age of 89 from vascular dementia, and he was brilliant, fluent in 9 languages, even though he was unable to complete high school, since he came to the US from Europe at the age of 16 and had to go to work. I have a masters degree, was a licensed mental health counselor and college professor for many years prior to retiring. I smoked from the age of 9 until 48, and for 10 years was married to a smoker. I also have a history of high blood pressure, which is under control with medication. I read a lot and do a lot of research into areas I enjoy, and hope that will prevent any cognitive decline. To date I have not noticed any cognitive decline. I am just scared, as my father and sister were also very intelligent, and died from dementia. Dad had vascular dementia, my sister had Alzheimer's disease.

[@madworld1962]

Much appreciate the technical improvements, especially the video, and the information you provide is always so helpful!

[@Lyn4817]

I would like to hear your opinion on calcified meningioma found by an incidental CT Scan and confirmed by an MRI and Neurologist. I am 70 and had migraines from the age of threeyears old and still require preventive and relief migraine medications after being on them for the last 20 years. My CM was discovered 12 years ago.

[@icareforyourbrainwithdr.su7103]

We usually say if a menigioma is found incidentally, it's not that concerning. It's all about growth and pressure impacts. How often are they scanning it to monitor its size?

[@lorrainerose5851]

Thank you so much!! I was diagnosed with vascular dementia by Neurologist. I felt like, well she is the doctor BUT I really wasn’t ever convinced about her diagnosis due to several things as I have trouble with word finding but not with much else. I am 73. Thank you so much for your presentation!! I am going to research this further until I am satisfied it’s a true diagnosis.

[@Tardaasa]

Thank you so much for this super informative video! My daughter (2.5 years) has some pretty spread out white matter changes. We've just found out it doesn't seem to be progressing, thankfully! But I never got it explained to me what it actually is. She has autism and balance and motor skills issues. Don't know if it's because of this "brain damage" that I gather white matter changes are? But I hope she can outgrow some of her symptoms! 🙏

[@ravengale]

This was on my MRI report today… Mild degree of T2 hyperintensity within the periventricular and to lesser degree subcortical white matter. Findings could be on the basis of mild chronic microangiopathy however correlate clinically to fully exclude a demyelinating etiology. Mild bilateral T2 hyperintensities within the periventricular and to lesser degree subcortical white matter which could represent sequelae of chronic microangiopathy however correlate clinically to fully exclude demyelination. My neurologist told me these results are “normal”. Ok so why am I so dizzy? Why does my head hurt so bad? Why am I losing the ability to walk and my balance? Why is my cognitive function getting worse. I’m 42 years old and I’m essentially disabled at this point. But it’s all normal? No. No it’s not. I do have issues with my cholesterol and have for years. I take 2 meds for that and with a change of diet I finally got everything in the normal range. I am also active, exercising just about everyday, but it’s getting much harder to do.

[@victoratanasov9680]

Thank you Karen! Can you please discuss how White Matter Disease is diagnosed. Do you think covid attack on the vasculature results in a form of white matter disease?

[@lukecuxton1514]

I'm 49 years old from India and have been diagnosed as chronic small vessel ischemic changes in the brain after a ct scan, I have balance issues, how can I keep my brain from further damage, my neurologist says my brain has shrunk a little but has not put me on medication.

[@Hi22213]

I am 35 from India and have mild ischemic changes in brian in periventricular area. 😔

[@bilaldar5228]

Very impressive......My child is suffering from T2/FLAIR hyperintensities. Is it serious... What kind of precautions I have to take.please also recommend diet for him.

[@masonhugh6834]

One of the best communicator's i've ever heard and, I'm a public speaker. Great topic and excellent information! I subscribed and shared! Thanks.