How to improve your mental abilities? Studies show that this can be achieved using electrical brain stimulation devices that are freely available on the Internet. Now scientists are calling to regulate the increasingly popular technology.
It may sound too good to be true, but scientists talk about the great promise of transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS). The method involves exposure of the brain to electrical impulses sent through the scalp. This is done to stimulate nerve cells in the brain.
The method is not invasive and is used even by the military to improve the brain of the human pilots who control the drones.
The effect of electric current “ignites” neurons, having a positive effect on cognitive functions not only in healthy people, but also in patients with impaired brain function. Previous studies have shown an improvement in mathematical abilities in people to whom TDCS therapy has been applied. This effect was observed six months after the procedure.
By acting with a weak electric current on the right side of the brain, we can change the threshold of neurons that transmit information in our brain, and, as a result, improve cognitive functions. Commercial companies became interested in this technology and began to promote it among gamers, promising them a head start over rivals in the game.
One of these companies advertises a hoop with electrodes, which will help “disperse” the brain, “increasing its productivity by 20-40 percent.” The gadget “improves overall well-being and relieves fatigue,” reads an ad that refers to research results.
Unexpected results
However, improper use of stimulating devices can be harmful to health, and not good. Games and treatment are two different things, the researchers warn.
One of these devices (shown in the photo below) stimulates areas of the brain localized behind the forehead. They are responsible for attention.
In the laboratory, such stimulation lasts no more than 20 minutes at a time. And to participate in the experiment are allowed only those people who have previously undergone a strict physical examination.
In the end, devices are used in the brain of the subjects, which, according to scientists, can give unexpected results. For example, exposure to other areas of the brain or changing the polarity of the electrodes can not only help but also harm a person.
You can harm yourself. It is important to know how to use this method correctly, choose the appropriate time and power of the current, warn scientists at Oxford University.
Their colleagues at Swansea University agree. According to them, brain pacemakers can cause convulsions and mood swings. The group of increased risk includes people under the age of 20 years - the most fruitful period of brain development.
But most of all scientists are alarmed by the fact that many technically gifted children assemble such gadgets with their own hands. On the Reddit.com forum, you can find messages with complaints about “burned scalp” and “outbursts of anger” after brain stimulation using TDCS therapy.
This can happen when the dosage is exceeded. Unlike patients, ordinary people are less aware of the risks involved, ”says researcher Nick Davies of Swansea University.
Marketing ahead of science
Oxford scientists are calling for more control over brain pacemakers. Some companies position these gadgets as gaming, although they refer to medical devices that are subject to appropriate registration and control.
Scientists do not want to ban or restrict access to devices to improve cognitive abilities. They want users to know what risks they will have to take in pursuit of potential benefits.
Another concern is that the technology is not yet ready for commercial use. According to neurologist Steven Novella from Yale University, companies often take unproven technologies from laboratories and try to bring them to the market, calling them "sexy."
Any device with medical functionality should be adjusted accordingly. Regulation is the only thing that motivates spending money and time on research, says Novella.
According to scientists, interest in technology will only grow. But until more research is done, they recommend using brain pacemakers with caution.
Based on BBC.com
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