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Posted on 10/08/2023 9:03:28 AM PDT by ConservativeMind
The glymphatic system is the brain's self-cleaning mechanism. It wasn't discovered until 2012.
The glymphatic system is tied to the circadian system and sleep architecture, and both are implicated in the pathophysiology of concussions. I'll explain the glymphatic system's nature, how its dysfunction contributes to concussion pathology, and the crucial role of circadian therapy in mitigating this impact.
The glymphatic system was nicknamed "the garbage truck of the brain" by its discoverer.
Its fundamental role is to remove waste products from the brain.
Approximately 80–90% of glymphatic clearance occurs during "deep sleep."
As sleep transitions from deep sleep into the more tumultuous signals of REM sleep, the fluid is effectively flushed out. Thus, the rhythmic oscillation between deep sleep and REM parallels the "rinse-and-repeat" cycle of the glymphatic system.
Thus, a bidirectional relationship exists between the optimal operation of the glymphatic system and sleep architecture, which itself is governed by circadian oscillators.
When this equilibrium is disturbed, both systems become disordered and neurotoxic waste builds up in the brain, leading to the manifestation of neurological symptoms.
Concussions disrupt both the glymphatic and circadian systems
In concussions, we see a substantial decline in glymphatic system functioning. In experimental models, this decline in function approaches 60%. Concurrently, there's a significant drop in melatonin levels in both CSF and saliva, causing circadian system dysfunction.
This reveals the importance of implementing circadian therapy after each concussion.
Some specific include:
—Melatonin supplementation
—Screen time restriction
—Evening light restriction
—Morning blue light therapy
—Sleep hygiene measures
—Sleep apnea screening and treatment
—Omega oil supplementation
—Sleep cognitive behavioral therapy
—Prescribed exercise
Circadian therapy fits well in this new proactive care model and these tools should be implemented early in the recovery process, when glymphatic dysfunction is the worst.
(Excerpt) Read more at medicalxpress.com ...
The paper, as with virtually all study write ups I post, is available at the bottom of the linked page at Medical Xpress, in a hyperlink.
Biorhythms baby.... the 70s had it right.
So is this like a good or bad thing?
My Speculation Du Jour:
I have wondered if blind people are effected by Circadian rhythms as we sighted people are? I speculate that yes, their body is effected by light, the light that is absorbed from around them. Light can easily pass through our skin and other membranes, thus effecting the organs (guts) of the body system.
I may have injured one optic nerve with all the violent coughing I did with several months of bronchitis. I wonder if that is why I finally decided to add melatonin and Omega 3 to my daily supplements?
They are affected, from cells receiving light in their eyes.
Also, the moon may help, too.
That’s true. The Moon is always a factor, and for all of us.
Bump
My brain collects the garbage every 17 years.
Sure but who wants to eat cicadas??
Half the headline arent even real words.
Circadian therapy can optimize glymphatic clearance of concussion neurotoxins, accelerating recovery?
IOW, sleep it off.....................
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