Charu Bhatia, Senior News Editor, Business Remedies, in conversation with Dr. Shyam Sunder Lakshkar, Senior Neurologist at Metro MAS Hospital, Jaipur
The human brain remains one of the most fascinating and complex organs in the body, governing everything from movement and memory to emotions and decision-making. As neurological disorders continue to rise globally, the need for timely diagnosis, advanced treatment, and greater public awareness has become more important than ever. Conditions such as stroke, epilepsy, migraine, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia can significantly impact quality of life, yet many people continue to ignore early warning signs or fall prey to misconceptions about brain health.
In this exclusive conversation, Dr. Shyam Sunder Lakshkar, Senior Neurologist at Metro MAS Hospital, Jaipur, shares his inspiring journey from a small village in Rajasthan to becoming a specialist in neurology. He discusses the challenges faced by neurologists, the role of technology and artificial intelligence in modern medicine, emerging treatments for neurological disorders, and practical lifestyle measures that can help individuals protect their brain health.
Question: You are a renowned neurologist at Metro MAS Hospital, Jaipur. How has your journey been till now?
Answer: My journey has been shaped by determination, hard work, and a desire to contribute to society through medicine. I come from Diggi village in Tonk district and belong to a simple family background. I completed my schooling in a government school and was always inclined towards academics. My family’s financial condition was average, but they encouraged me to pursue my dreams.
After completing a year of coaching in Kota, I successfully cleared the PMT examination. I pursued my MBBS from Surat Medical College and later completed my MD in Internal Medicine from SMS Medical College, Jaipur. Thereafter, I obtained my DM in Neurology from the prestigious GB Pant Institute in Delhi.
In 2019, I joined Metro MAS Hospital in Jaipur. After serving there for about five years, I briefly worked at Indus Hospital before returning to Metro MAS Hospital. Since then, I have continued my practice here, focusing on providing the best possible neurological care to patients.
Question: According to you, what kind of challenges does a neurologist face?
Answer: One of the biggest challenges neurologists face is the lack of awareness among people regarding neurological disorders. Many patients fail to recognise early symptoms and often delay consulting a specialist. By the time they reach a neurologist, the disease may have progressed to an advanced stage, making treatment more difficult.
For instance, in stroke cases, there is a crucial treatment window. If a patient is brought to the hospital within four and a half hours of symptom onset, the chances of effective treatment and recovery are significantly higher. Unfortunately, many people ignore early warning signs or seek inappropriate treatment, which delays proper medical intervention.
There are also several myths associated with neurological diseases. Epilepsy, for example, is still misunderstood by many people who seek help from unqualified practitioners rather than consulting a neurologist. Similarly, persistent headaches are often dismissed as stress-related problems, whereas they may indicate a deeper neurological issue. Increasing awareness remains one of the biggest priorities in our field.
Question: How has neurology as a branch of medicine evolved over the years?
Answer: Neurology has witnessed tremendous growth and development over the years. Diagnostic technologies have become far more advanced, enabling earlier and more accurate detection of neurological disorders. Treatment options have also improved significantly. Conditions such as epilepsy and migraine can now be managed more effectively than ever before. Surgical procedures have become safer and more precise, while recovery rates for many neurological conditions have improved considerably.
Although diseases such as Alzheimer’s still do not have definitive cures, ongoing research is providing new insights into their causes and progression. The field continues to evolve rapidly, offering hope to patients suffering from complex neurological disorders.
Question: What are your views on the role of technology and AI in neurology?
Answer: Technology has transformed healthcare and continues to create new possibilities for diagnosis and treatment. In neurology, advanced imaging technologies such as MRI and CT scans have become indispensable tools for identifying and evaluating neurological disorders.
Artificial Intelligence is also emerging as a valuable asset in medicine. AI can assist doctors in analysing medical data, identifying disease patterns, and improving diagnostic accuracy. As technology continues to advance, it is likely to play an even greater role in personalised treatment planning and patient care.
Question: What are the common neurological issues that you come across in your patients?
Answer: In the outpatient department, I frequently encounter patients suffering from headaches, migraines, back pain, vertigo, numbness, tingling sensations, and stroke-related symptoms.
Among patients who require hospital admission, more serious conditions such as brain stroke, epilepsy, meningitis, brain tumours, and various neurological emergencies are commonly seen. The spectrum of neurological disorders is extensive, making every case unique and challenging.
Question: What lifestyle modifications do you suggest for maintaining good brain health?
Answer: A healthy lifestyle plays a crucial role in maintaining brain health. I recommend getting at least seven to nine hours of quality sleep every day, as proper rest is essential for cognitive function and overall well-being.
Managing stress is equally important. Chronic stress can negatively impact both mental and physical health. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, nuts, fruits, and vegetables supports healthy brain function, while excessive consumption of junk food should be avoided.
Regular exercise is another key component. Activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, or any form of physical activity for at least thirty minutes daily can significantly improve health. Monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar levels, reducing screen time, and following safety measures such as wearing helmets and seat belts can also help prevent neurological problems.
Question: Can you tell us some early signs of brain or nerve issues that should not be ignored?
Answer: Persistent headaches accompanied by vomiting, blurred vision, or numbness should never be ignored. These symptoms may indicate an underlying neurological disorder that requires immediate medical evaluation.
Similarly, sudden weakness in one arm or leg, difficulty speaking, facial drooping, or loss of coordination may be signs of a stroke and demand urgent medical attention.
Symptoms such as reduced or excessive sleepiness, feeling of hopelessness, forgetfulness and change in behaviour should also be discussed with a doctor, as they may point to more serious neurological condition.
Question: What are some of the latest developments in research regarding degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s?
Answer: Research in neurodegenerative diseases is progressing steadily. In Parkinson’s disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) has emerged as a promising treatment option for selected patients, particularly those who experience limitations or side effects from medications.
Scientists are also conducting extensive research on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease to develop therapies that can improve memory and slow disease progression. Stem cell research is another area that holds significant promise and may contribute to future treatment breakthroughs.
Question: What skills are important to become a good doctor according to you?
Answer: A good doctor must first be a good listener. In neurology, understanding a patient’s history often provides crucial clues about the diagnosis. Listening carefully to patients and reviewing their investigations thoroughly is extremely important.
Doctors should also possess qualities such as empathy, politeness, honesty, and integrity. Patients place immense trust in their doctors, and maintaining that trust requires transparency and genuine concern for their well-being.
Question: What are some common myths regarding brain diseases?
Answer: One of the most common myths concerns epilepsy. Many people believe that an object should be placed in a patient’s mouth during a seizure to prevent them from swallowing their tongue. This belief is completely incorrect.
It is physically impossible for a person to swallow their tongue during a seizure. Inserting objects into the mouth can actually cause injuries to the teeth, jaw, or mouth. The correct approach is to ensure the patient’s safety and seek medical help.
There are also misconceptions regarding stroke. Some people mistakenly view stroke as a mental health issue, whereas it is actually a neurological emergency caused by disruption of blood supply to the brain. Early recognition and immediate treatment are essential for recovery.
Question: How do you see the doctor-patient relationship in today’s times?
Answer: The doctor-patient relationship has evolved considerably. Today, some people believe that doctors recommend investigations or hospitalisation primarily for financial reasons. While there may be isolated instances, it is unfair to generalise such perceptions to the entire medical community.
Most doctors work with genuine dedication and a sincere desire to help patients. Building trust through effective communication and transparency remains crucial for maintaining a healthy doctor-patient relationship.
Question: What is your future vision?
Answer: My vision is simple—to continue serving society through my profession. Helping patients recover, improving their quality of life, and reducing their suffering gives me immense satisfaction.
Question: Lastly, what message would you like to give to the youth who wish to opt for neurology?
Answer: Neurology is an exciting and rewarding branch of medicine. It offers immense opportunities not only in clinical practice but also in research and innovation. The field is constantly evolving, making it intellectually stimulating and professionally fulfilling.
As a neurologist, you have the opportunity to improve patients’ lives and help them overcome complex neurological challenges. The satisfaction that comes from making such a difference is invaluable. I encourage young medical aspirants with curiosity and dedication to consider neurology as a career and contribute to the future of brain science.
