Photo: Ron Lach

How long does the brain stay alive after death?

An unexpected discovery made by an international team, examining the results of an EEG on an elderly patient, who died suddenly of a heart attack while the test was in progress.

ibsafoundation.org - The brain lives on for 30 seconds after death - IBSA Foundation

Is 22 the most powerful number?

Numerology: What Does Master Number 22 Mean This Master Numbers in Numerology is considered to be the most powerful number out of the rest, and...

Last updated Dec 24, 2022

How long should you leave cinnamon on your face?

Keeps acne, pimples and blackheads at bay Leave it on for 20 minutes and wash off with warm water. However, do not use this treatment more than...

Last updated Mar 2, 2022

Awaken your dormant DNA ability to attract wealth effortlessly

The simple yet scientifically proven Wealth DNA method laid out in the report allows you to effortlessly start attracting the wealth and abundance you deserve.

Learn More »

Promotion

An unexpected discovery made by an international team, examining the results of an EEG on an elderly patient, who died suddenly of a heart attack while the test was in progress.

What happens in our brain when we make the transition from life to death? What is the physiological basis for the accounts of those who have so-called ‘near-death experiences’, which have very similar features but are, according to some experts, merely the fruit of our imagination?

A study (the result of pure chance) just published in the scientific journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience by an international team of researchers is beginning to answer these questions. Everything started, as mentioned above, with a coincidence. Neurologists were carrying out an electroencephalogram (EEG) on an 87-year-old patient who was brought to A&E after a fall and was operated on urgently to release the pressure of a cerebral haematoma. The man suddenly suffered a heart attack and died while the EEG was in progress. However, EEG recordings went on for a total of 15 minutes before and after death. When researchers focussed on the 30 seconds before and 30 seconds after death, they observed something very specific showing changes in wave patterns (particularly in gamma waves, as well as in alpha, beta and theta waves) like those seen in people who are dreaming, experiencing flashbacks, processing memories or meditating.

A replay of life before death?

The waves emitted by the dead patient seem to suggest that, just before the heart stops and up to 30 seconds later, experiences like those reported by many survivors of near-death situations are triggered in the brain, i.e. (usually positive) memories and visions of their lives. However, researchers have pointed out that it is clearly impossible to determine what kind of thoughts are formed from brainwaves alone, and in any case, processing memories is entirely subjective. The elderly patient examined by the international team was also suffering from brain trauma due to the fall, and from a series of epileptic seizures 'provoked' by neurosurgery, so he may have reacted in an unusual way. However, “Albeit the influence of neuronal injury and swelling, our data provide the first evidence from the dying human brain in a non-experimental, real-life acute care clinical setting and advocate that the human brain may possess the capability to generate coordinated activity during the near-death period,” the researchers write.

Tests on animals confirm this

In reality, another experiment carried out on rats nine years ago in the U.S. and again focusing on 30 seconds before death, also showed the exact same type of oscillations. It is therefore possible, researchers suggest, that there is a neurological mechanism preserved throughout evolution, still present in human beings, specific to the moments before and after death. Researchers have tried unsuccessfully to obtain other EEG recordings at the precise moment of death, while caring for the terminally ill. The hope, however, is that the study published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience will encourage other colleagues in similar situations to record and compare their findings. It will only be possible to say something with certainty when there are more examples. In any case, even though the theory that the dying relieve their lives in a positive way is not yet proven (an idea that may perhaps comfort us), it is now maybe less abstract and more plausible.

Which zodiac loves cooking?

Cancer. Cancer people are the best home cooks one would ever see. Their culinary techniques are outstanding, which somewhat acts as why this sign...

Last updated Dec 13, 2021

What to wear to look expensive?

How to Look Expensive in 25 Simple Ways Opt for Timeless Classic Cuts. Get Your Clothing Tailored. Change the Buttons. Stick to Neutral Tones. Wear...

Last updated Feb 22, 2022

Awaken your dormant DNA ability to attract wealth effortlessly

The simple yet scientifically proven Wealth DNA method laid out in the report allows you to effortlessly start attracting the wealth and abundance you deserve.

Learn More »

Promotion

What are signs of last days of life?

End-of-Life Signs: The Final Days and Hours Breathing difficulties. Patients may go long periods without breathing, followed by quick breaths. ... Drop in body temperature and blood pressure. ... Less desire for food or drink. ... Changes in sleeping patterns. ... Confusion or withdraw.

compassus.com - End-of-Life Signs: The Final Days and Hours - Compassus

Hospice patients may want to eat, but experience difficulty swallowing or with nausea. Medications and disease can also change the taste of food. Food is often associated with nurturing and keeping up our strength. For many people approaching death, food can cause stomach and digestive problems. Avoid forced or pressured eating by allowing loved ones to eat softened versions of food, when they want it. As the body transitions to active dying, it often signals it has less need for food. “The issue of nutrition is probably one of the most guilt-inducing and emotionally charged issues for patients and families, said Synthia Cathcart, R.N., BSN. There will come a time when a patient no longer feels any desire to eat. No matter how upsetting to the family, the patient should not be pressured or forced into eating.”

Solutions

Offer small meals to those who still have a desire to eat. Serve meals during a time when patients experience less pain or agitation. Travel mugs with a straw enable patients to drink on their own schedule. If someone is refusing food or drink, flavored or plain ice chips can keep the mouth moist.

How to overcome fear and anxiety spiritually?

In summary Practice stress reduction techniques, such as mindfulness meditation or aerobic exercise. Shift your focus to the positive emotions in...

Last updated Apr 13, 2018

What color do rich people like?

Gold is the most powerful color if you are thinking of attracting affluence, fame, and wealth. Due to all these things, it is the most powerful...

Last updated Feb 20, 2021

Awaken your dormant DNA ability to attract wealth effortlessly

The simple yet scientifically proven Wealth DNA method laid out in the report allows you to effortlessly start attracting the wealth and abundance you deserve.

Learn More »

Promotion

How do I get my $144 back from Medicare?

How do I qualify for the giveback? Are enrolled in Part A and Part B. Do not rely on government or other assistance for your Part B premium. Live...

Last updated Jan 14, 2021

Awaken your dormant DNA ability to attract wealth effortlessly

The simple yet scientifically proven Wealth DNA method laid out in the report allows you to effortlessly start attracting the wealth and abundance you deserve.

Learn More »

Promotion

What men should carry?

Here are 9 EDC items we consider essential. Cell Phone. In today's modern world, your cell phone is your lifeline. ... Charger. Alongside your cell...

Last updated Apr 29, 2018