The human brain is remarkable, and a healthy one is crucial to our overall well-being. The National Library of Medicine has a very informative article about the brain. And the piece begins by explaining it’s “about the size of two clenched fists and weighs 1.5 kilograms.”
Yet, it contains approximately 100 billion nerve neurons and over a trillion supporting cells. It regulates our bodies and manages our heart and breathing. It’s constantly receiving and process information. Some of that information we use (such as learning), and some of it we store (such as memory). It does so much more, and science is still researching it. Yes, the human brain is the most powerful tool we are privileged to own. It is beautifully complex. And as hard-working and resilient as our brains can be, they are also quite fragile. Some things within our control affect our brain, including what we eat, whether we smoke and drink, or the lifestyle we lead. And sometimes our brains are affected by things we have very little control over, such as being genetically predisposed to diseases like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.
As a holistic healthcare professional, Doctor Justine Davis is constantly amazed by how the brain responds to treatments like ketamine infusions. The drug supports a better quality of life for those who suffer from dementia. In some cases, researchers have noticed that the drug may slow down brain deterioration. Dementia occurs due to a protein that builds up in brain cells leading to the death of these cells. Studies from the University of Oregon show that the use of ketamine can “clean up” this brain plaque or slow its progression. And while this is terrific news, it also serves as a cautionary tale. When choosing to try the drug, it must be managed and administered by a medical professional. Because ketamine is a Schedule 3 controlled substance, which means it is addictive. Possible side effects of continued unmonitored use are hallucinations, sleepiness, and confusion.
Ketamine infusions can clear up brain fog, depression, and pain
Among its myriad functions, the brain also serves as a transmitter for pain. Ketamine is called a “dissociative anesthetic” because it separates an individual from their pain. This happens by ketamine blocking the NMDA neurotransmitter for pain and mood regulation. It’s commonly used to lift depression. The drug has also been used recreationally in the past, primarily due to the euphoric, dreamy high individuals receive from it.
Science has discovered many illegal drugs can serve the medical community and provide great patient outcomes, too. We use ketamine infusions for therapeutic reasons to help treat illnesses and stimulate brain function. Individual responses to ketamine can differ. It’s key for a medical professional to monitor the doses. And for many, the correct dose is a game-changer for their well-being. We’ve found ketamine infusions to be an invaluable tool for many of our patients.
Dr. Davis and the clinic team enjoy discussing options for integrative medicine and finding the right match for our patients. We are ready to listen and help find answers to successful pain management in Gainesville, Florida.