Ep 12. There's Something in Grandpa's Head

There's Something in Grandpa's Head is the twelfth episode of the first season of Monsters Inside Me: Brain Invaders, a show that explores cases of parasitic infections that affect the human brain. In this episode, viewers are introduced to the shocking story of a man named Harold, a loving grandfather who begins to experience some unusual symptoms. At first, Harold and his family assume that he is simply suffering from the effects of old age, but soon they realize that something far more sinister is at play.

Harold begins experiencing intense headaches, dizziness, and blurred vision, which become progressively worse over time. Though he tries to ignore his symptoms at first, he is eventually forced to seek medical attention. After several rounds of tests and scans, doctors discover a large mass in Harold's brain, and they believe that it could be cancerous.

Harold undergoes a risky surgery to have the mass removed, but when the doctors open up his skull, they are stunned to find that the mass is not cancer, but actually a parasitic worm that has burrowed deep into Harold's brain tissue. The worm, known as a neurocysticercosis, is a common parasitic infection found in many parts of the world, but is particularly prevalent in rural regions of Latin America, Asia, and Africa.

The episode delves into the science behind neurocysticercosis, explaining how the parasitic worm is contracted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water. Once inside the body, the worm travels to the brain, where it attaches to the tissue and begins to lay eggs. These eggs hatch into larvae, which then migrate further into the brain, causing tissue damage and inflammation that can lead to a range of neurological symptoms.

As the episode progresses, viewers witness the extremely complex and difficult surgical procedure that is required to remove Harold's parasitic invader. Through interviews with medical experts and Harold's family members, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the steps involved in treating this rare condition, as well as the long road to recovery that many patients face after undergoing such an invasive procedure.

Throughout the course of the episode, viewers come to appreciate the resilience and bravery of individuals like Harold, who must overcome tremendous challenges in order to regain their health and quality of life. The show ultimately serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of vigilance and caution when it comes to potential hazards that exist within our world, and the crucial role that modern medicine can play in helping us overcome them.

Overall, There's Something in Grandpa's Head is a riveting and informative episode of Monsters Inside Me: Brain Invaders, providing viewers with a fascinating glimpse into the world of parasitic infections and the incredible efforts required to combat them. With its blend of scientific insights, personal narratives, and gripping medical drama, this episode is sure to captivate and educate audiences of all ages.