Our nervous system is like the command centre of our body, controlling everything from movements to thoughts. But did you know that certain every day habits can silently harm your nerves? Dr Bing, a neurologist warns that some common mistakes can cause serious nerve damage over time. Here are six things you should never do if you want to protect your nervous system.


Avoid overusing painkillers
Many people rely on over-the-counter painkillers for headaches and body pain, but using them too often can backfire. Dr Bing warns that excessive use of painkillers, like ibuprofen or paracetamol, can cause "rebound headaches." This happens when your body becomes dependent on the medication, leading to more frequent and severe headaches when you stop taking it. Instead, try natural remedies like hydration, stretching, or stress management techniques before reaching for pills.



Don’t skip balance exercises
Good balance is essential for preventing falls and injuries, especially as we age. But skipping balance exercises can weaken your nervous system's ability to coordinate movements. Simple exercises like standing on one foot, heel-to-toe walking, or yoga can strengthen nerve connections and improve stability. Neurologists say that regularly practicing balance exercises keeps your brain and body in sync, reducing the risk of falls and nerve damage.


Stop scrolling social media before bed

Do you check your phone right before sleeping? This might just be a big mistake! Scrolling through social media at night keeps your brain in a hyperactive state, making it harder to relax and fall asleep. The blue light from screens also interferes with melatonin production, the hormone that controls sleep. Poor sleep can lead to nerve inflammation and cognitive decline over time. Try reading a book or meditating instead to help your brain unwind.


Never use a massage gun on our neck

Massage guns have become popular for relieving muscle tension, but using them on your neck is extremely dangerous. Neurologists warn that applying strong pressure to the neck can lead to "arterial dissection" – a tear in the blood vessels that supply blood to the brain. This can increase the risk of stroke and serious nerve damage. If you have neck tension, opt for gentle stretching or consult a physical therapist instead.


Don’t blast music in your ears
Listening to loud music through headphones can damage the delicate nerve cells in your ears. Dr Bing explains that prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to hearing loss, which is linked to a higher risk of dementia later in life. The auditory nerves, which help you process sound, can get permanently damaged by excessive noise. To protect your hearing and brain health, keep the volume at 60% and take breaks while using headphones.




Never hold in a sneeze

Many people hold in sneezes to avoid making noise, but experts say this can be risky. When you stop a sneeze forcefully, the built-up pressure can damage the delicate nerves in your head and even cause small blood vessel ruptures. In severe cases, it can lead to ear or throat injuries. Instead, let your body sneeze naturally – it's a protective reflex meant to clear irritants from your system!