Dr. Bredesen Believes That Alzheimer’s Disease is Becoming Optional SANTA MONICA, CA, April 16, 2024 – Pacific Neuroscience Institute® (PNI) is thrilled to announce that Dale Bredesen, MD, has joined the Pacific Brain Health Center. Over the past four months, as the senior director of the nascent Precision Brain Health program, he and his colleagues have been intensely focused on developing what promises to be the world’s first formalized system to comprehensively address neurodegenerative disease. While not quite ready for primetime, the excitement around the clinical implications for patient ..read more

Preparation for ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) involves several key components aimed at ensuring the safety and efficacy of the treatment, as well as preparing the patient mentally and emotionally for the experience. At the Treatment & Research In Psychedelics (TRIP) Center at Pacific Neuroscience Institute® our expert team takes a holistic approach to treating patients with a wide array of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. Here are some common elements involved in a preparation session for ketamine-assisted psychotherapy: Initial Assessment ..read more

Cushing’s disease, a complex endocrine disorder, is characterized by excessive cortisol production. Often misunderstood and underdiagnosed, Cushing’s disease presents a myriad of symptoms that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. At the Pituitary Disorders Center at Pacific Neuroscience Institute® our expert team provides a holistic approach to treating Cushing’s disease and other pituitary adenomas. In this article we provide a concise overview of the optimal management of Cushing’s disease and highlight both surgical and medical advances. What is Cushing’s Disease? Cushi ..read more

In recent years, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) has emerged as a promising treatment for various mental health conditions, offering new hope to individuals who have not found relief through conventional therapies. This innovative approach combines the therapeutic effects of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, with psychotherapy to address a range of psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. For those considering this treatment option, understanding what ketamine-assisted psychotherapy entails and what to expect is an important step. At the Treatment &am ..read more

March is Essential Tremor Awareness Month, shedding light on a neurological condition that affects millions worldwide. Essential tremor, often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, can significantly impact daily life. Here are seven frequently asked questions about this condition: What is essential tremor?Essential tremor (ET) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary shaking movements, typically affecting the hands, arms, head, and sometimes the voice. These tremors can range from mild to severe, causing difficulties with tasks such as eating, writing, or even holding objects. The ter ..read more

A guide to informed healthcare decision-making for people living with acoustic neuroma (aka vestibular schwannoma) Introduction Receiving a diagnosis of acoustic neuroma (AN) can be overwhelming and frightening. However, taking an active role in your healthcare journey is crucial to ensuring the best possible outcome. As an AN patient, becoming educated and prepared for your appointments is essential for making informed decisions about your treatment. In this article, we will discuss the importance of being well-informed and provide valuable tips on how to prepare for your physician consultati ..read more

Finding a path of brain wellness for patients recently diagnosed with dementia. Has a loved one recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia? Receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or mild cognitive impairment is challenging, both for the individual affected and their family members. Navigating the journey of these cognitive decline diseases alongside a loved one can be an emotionally taxing experience, marked by uncertainty and profound changes. If a loved one has received a recent diagnosis (0-2 years), it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, but it’s important to remember ..read more

Your gut microbiome could be the key to your Alzheimer’s disease risk. New research links gut microbiome to Alzheimer’s disease risk. People with early markers of Alzheimer’s disease had similar gut microbiome compositions that were different from those without early signs of the condition. Experts explain the findings. Alzheimer’s disease is a complex condition, and scientists are still trying to figure out why people develop the disease. Now, a new study suggests the bacteria in your gut may play a role in whether you develop Alzheimer’s. The study, which was published in the journal ..read more

Janna was 21 when her college journey took an unexpected detour. She experienced severe and sudden hearing loss in one ear. An MRI scan revealed that she had a left vestibular schwannoma, also known as an acoustic neuroma. A rare brain tumor, these benign growths are highly treatable, with care from experienced neurosurgeons. The Turning Point in Janna’s Medical Journey Initially overwhelmed by the diagnosis, Janna and her family considered consulting various specialists for opinions. However, their first visit to the Pacific Neuroscience Institute® (PNI®) marked a pivotal moment in her journe ..read more

Discover simple and practical tips to help you care for a loved one with dementia. Learn how to create a safe environment, encourage healthy eating, improve communication, manage their mental health, and more. What is Dementia? “Dementia is an overall decline in cognitive ability, usually impacting short-term memory (learning/recalling new information) and another cognitive ability (or more), such as decline in executive skills (organization, decision making) or language, or visual-spatial skills,” says Karen Miller, PhD, neuropsychologist, geropsychologist and senior director of the Brai ..read more