Eye Disorders

Clinical Overview: Understanding the Crisis of Vision Loss

The human eye is often described as the most complex organ in the body after the brain, a marvel of biological engineering that serves as our primary interface with the world. It processes over 80% of the information we receive, turning photons of light into the vivid reality we experience. However, in the modern era, we are witnessing a silent but devastating epidemic of visual impairment. From young children developing high myopia (nearsightedness) due to excessive screen time and lack of sunlight, to the elderly resigning themselves to cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration as "inevitable" consequences of aging, the narrative surrounding eye health has become one of decline, dependency, and surgical intervention.

Conventional ophthalmology largely treats the eye as an isolated optical instrument—a camera made of flesh. When the focus breaks, they prescribe lenses (crutches). When the lens clouds, they surgically replace it. When the pressure rises, they prescribe chemical drops to force it down. While these mechanical interventions can manage symptoms and provide temporary relief, they rarely, if ever, address the underlying systemic dysfunctions that cause these disorders in the first place. This symptom-centric approach ignores a fundamental biological truth: the eye is not an island. It is deeply integrated with the body's vascular, neurological, and metabolic systems.

At Dr BRC Clinic, led by the pioneering work of Dr. Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury, we challenge this limited perspective. We view eye disorders not as localized defects, but as systemic failures manifested in the visual system. Whether it is the clouding of the lens in cataracts, the optic nerve damage in glaucoma, or the retinal deterioration in diabetic retinopathy, the root cause invariably lies in metabolic chaos, oxidative stress, and compromised microcirculation throughout the body. The eye, being highly vascular and metabolically active, is often the first organ to suffer when the body's internal environment becomes toxic or inflamed.

Our Clinical Overview reveals a stark and uncomfortable reality: millions of eye surgeries performed annually could be avoided. The World Health Organization (WHO), in its landmark World Report on Vision 2019, acknowledges that a significant portion of visual impairment is preventable or treatable through early intervention. Yet, the mainstream approach remains reactive, waiting for disease to progress to a surgical threshold. We propose a radical paradigm shift—from "managing blindness" to "restoring sight" through the rigorous application of the GRAD System (Gravitational Resistance and Diet). By treating the patient as a whole entity, rather than just treating the eye, we have documented thousands of clinical success stories where patients have discarded their glasses, reversed early-stage cataracts, and halted the progression of glaucoma, all without a single surgical incision. This is not magic; it is the physiology of the body returning to homeostasis.

Mechanism of Disease: Why Vision Fails

To understand how to reverse eye disorders naturally, one must first deeply understand the mechanism of their development. Why does a clear lens become cloudy? Why does the pressure inside the eye rise? Why do retinal vessels leak? The answers lie not in the eye itself, but in the quality of the blood and the efficiency of the body's waste disposal systems. Dr. Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury identifies three primary pillars of mechanism failure: Microvascular Congestion, Oxidative Stress, and Glycation.

The complex vascular network of the retina requires unobstructed blood flow for optimal vision.

1. Microvascular Congestion & Lymphatic Blockage

The retina is fed by some of the thinnest and most delicate capillaries in the human body. These vessels are so narrow that red blood cells must often pass through them in single file. When the blood becomes viscous and "sludgy" due to a diet high in animal proteins, refined fats, and processed sugars, these capillaries become clogged. This is analogous to a traffic jam in a narrow alleyway. The delivery of oxygen and vital nutrients is compromised, leading to a state of cellular hypoxia (oxygen starvation). In a desperate attempt to survive, the eye may release growth factors (VEGF) to grow new, unstable blood vessels (angiogenesis). These new vessels are weak and prone to leakage, causing hemorrhage—the hallmark of Diabetic Retinopathy. Similarly, the eye relies on a drainage system (the trabecular meshwork) to cycle aqueous humor. If this drainage is blocked due to systemic inflammation and accumulation of metabolic waste, intraocular pressure rises, crushing the delicate fibers of the optic nerve. This mechanical crushing is the basis of Glaucoma.

2. Oxidative Stress and the Lens

The lens of the eye is a unique tissue. It is made of crystallin proteins that must remain perfectly clear to transmit light. Unlike skin cells which slough off and regenerate, the cells in the center of the lens are there for a lifetime. Over decades, exposure to UV radiation, blue light from screens, and most importantly, internal free radicals generated by a toxic diet, causes these proteins to oxidize. Imagine a piece of apple turning brown when left open; that is oxidation. In the lens, this oxidation causes the proteins to unfold and clump together. This clumping scatters light instead of focusing it, resulting in the opacity we call a Cataract. Conventional medicine waits for the cataract to "ripen" before surgically removing the lens. Our mechanism asserts that by flooding the body with antioxidants (electrons) from living foods and Earthing (Zero Volt Therapy), we can halt this oxidation process. In early stages, the body can even re-fold proteins and dissolve the aggregates, restoring clarity.

3. Glycation and Molecular Mimicry

High blood sugar is a poison to the eyes. Glucose molecules wandering in the blood can bind to proteins without enzyme action, a process called glycation. This forms sticky structures called Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs). These AGEs stiffen the blood vessels and the lens, reducing elasticity. This loss of flexibility is a primary driver of presbyopia (age-related far-sightedness) and contributes to cataract formation. Furthermore, in autoimmune conditions affecting the eye (like Uveitis or Iritis), the concept of Molecular Mimicry comes into play. When we consume foreign proteins like casein (from milk) or gluten (from wheat), the immune system may create antibodies to attack them. Unfortunately, some eye tissues structurally resemble these proteins. The immune system, in a case of mistaken identity, attacks the eye tissues, causing chronic inflammation. By eliminating these dietary triggers, the autoimmune attack ceases, allowing the eye to heal.

Therefore, the failure of vision is not a localized "eye problem" but a systemic failure of blood chemistry, fluid dynamics, and immune regulation. Treating the eye with drops while ignoring the toxic state of the blood is, as Dr. BRC often says, "mopping the floor while the tap is still running."

Types and Stages of Eye Disorders

Eye disorders manifest in various forms, each representing a different failure mode of the visual system. Understanding the specific type and stage is crucial for tailoring the natural treatment protocol effectively. We categorize them based on the affected structure and the progression of the disease.

• Refractive Errors (The Modern Epidemic):This is the most common category, affecting millions of children and adults.
  • Myopia (Nearsightedness): The eye elongates, causing distant objects to blur. This is largely driven by environmental factors—lack of sunlight and excessive near-work—rather than just genetics.
  • Hyperopia (Farsightedness): Difficulty focusing on close objects due to a shorter eyeball or flatter cornea.
  • Astigmatism: Irregular curvature of the cornea or lens leading to distorted or double vision at all distances.
  • Presbyopia: Age-related hardening of the lens, making reading difficult. This is often accepted as "normal aging" but is actually accelerated by glycation and oxidative stress.
• Cataract (Lens Opacity):
  • Early Stage (Immature): Characterized by slight cloudiness, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night. Reversal is highly probable at this stage with the DIP diet.
  • Late Stage (Mature/Hypermature): The lens becomes completely opaque and white. While harder to reverse completely, progression can be stopped, and surrounding eye health improved to prevent post-surgical complications like secondary cataracts.
• Glaucoma (The Silent Thief of Sight):
  • Open-Angle Glaucoma: The slow clogging of drainage canals. Pressure rises gradually, damaging the optic nerve over years. It is often asymptomatic until significant peripheral vision is lost ("tunnel vision").
  • Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A sudden blockage causing rapid pressure spikes. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate stabilization, which we support with acute protocols alongside standard care if needed.
  • Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage occurs even with normal pressure readings, indicating severe vascular weakness and poor blood supply to the nerve head.
• Retinal Disorders:
  • Diabetic Retinopathy: Damage to blood vessels in the retina caused by chronic high blood sugar. Stages range from mild non-proliferative (micro-aneurysms) to severe proliferative (growth of new, fragile vessels).
  • Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Deterioration of the macula, the center of the retina responsible for sharp vision. Dry AMD (accumulation of waste deposits called drusen) and Wet AMD (leaky blood vessels) are the two main types.
• Inflammatory Conditions:
  • Conjunctivitis (Eye Flu): Inflammation of the outer membrane (conjunctiva). Dr. BRC treats this acutely with the "Cure @ 72hrs" protocol, viewing it as a mechanism of the body trying to eject toxins.
  • Uveitis/Iritis: Inflammation of the middle layer of the eye, often linked to systemic autoimmune conditions.

Understanding the stage is crucial. While acute conditions like conjunctivitis can resolve in 3 days, chronic structural changes like cataracts or optic nerve damage require months of disciplined metabolic correction to show significant improvement.

The Dr BRC Clinic Treatment Methodology: Reversing Vision Loss

Our treatment protocol acts as a complete "factory reset" for the body's metabolic processes. We do not rely on laser surgeries that burn tissue, steroid injections that suppress immunity, or lifelong eye drops that often cause dry eye and irritation. Instead, we use the GRAD System (Gravitational Resistance and Diet) combined with specific, time-tested ocular therapies. The goal is to restore the natural blood flow, reduce oxidative stress, and retrain the eye muscles to function without artificial aids.

1. The DIP Diet: The Biochemical Foundation

The "Loading Phase" of raw fruits floods the body with living water and enzymes.

The cornerstone of our therapy is Dr. Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury's DIP Diet (Disciplined and Intelligent Person's Diet). For eye patients, this is non-negotiable. It is designed to minimize the metabolic load on the body and maximize the intake of living nutrients.

Phase 1 (Elimination Protocol): We strictly remove all inflammatory triggers. This means ZERO animal proteins (no meat, fish, eggs, and especially no dairy/milk products). Animal proteins contain growth hormones and inflammatory markers that exacerbate conditions like diabetic retinopathy. We also eliminate refined oils, packed foods, and refined sugar.

Phase 2 (The Loading Phase):
- Morning (Till 12 PM): The patient consumes ONLY raw fruits. Any 3-4 types of seasonal fruits. The quantity is calculated as: Body Weight (kg) × 10 = grams of fruits. For a 60kg person, this is 600g of fruits. This floods the body with hydration and fructose, which nourishes the cells without spiking insulin.
- Lunch & Dinner: Before any cooked meal, the patient MUST consume a plate of raw vegetable salad (cucumber, tomato, carrot, radish, spinach). Quantity: Body Weight (kg) × 5 = grams. For a 60kg person, 300g of salad. This fiber acts as a mesh, preventing glucose spikes from the cooked food that follows.

Mechanism: This high load of living enzymes and nitric oxide precursors (found in greens and beets) causes vasodilation. It dilates the micro-vessels of the eye, flushing out toxins and delivering oxygen to the starving retina and optic nerve. It essentially "scrubs" the blood vessels clean.

2. Zero Volt Therapy (Earthing)

The eye is an electrical organ; visual signals are electrical impulses transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve. Inflammation in the eye can be physically understood as a deficiency of electrons or a buildup of positive charge (protons/free radicals).

The Protocol: Patients are required to connect their bodies to the earth. This can be done by walking barefoot on green grass or damp soil for 30-45 minutes daily. For more intensive treatment, we use a conductive "Zero Volt Sheet" (a copper/silver threaded sheet connected to the ground port of an electrical socket) during sleep.

Impact: The earth is an infinite reservoir of electrons. When you ground yourself, these electrons flow into the body, neutralizing free radicals instantly. For conditions like Glaucoma and Macular Degeneration, where oxidative stress is the primary driver of cell death, Zero Volt Therapy acts as the most potent, natural anti-inflammatory agent available. It reduces the viscosity of blood (zeta potential), improving circulation to the eye.

3. Specific Eye Exercises (Retraining the Muscles)

Trataka (Candle Gazing) improves focus and strengthens the optic nerve.

Just as we train our body muscles in a gym to stay fit, the eye muscles (ciliary muscles and extraocular muscles) need training to maintain focus and flexibility. Wearing glasses acts like a cast for a broken leg—if you keep the cast on forever, the muscles atrophy and never recover.

Trataka (Candle Gazing): A powerful yogic practice. The patient gazes at a candle flame in a dark room without blinking until tears form. This practice cleanses the tear ducts, improves concentration, and strengthens the connection between the eye and the brain (pineal gland).

Pencil Pushups: Used to correct convergence insufficiency. The patient focuses on a pencil tip while moving it closer to the nose and then away. This trains the lens to change focus rapidly (accommodation), combating presbyopia.

Rotational Exercises: Moving the eyes in clockwise and anti-clockwise directions, and up/down/left/right extremes. This stretches and strengthens the extraocular muscles, improving blood flow to the sclera and cornea.

Sun Gazing: Staring at the rising or setting sun (ONLY when UV index is safe/zero, typically first 15 mins of sunrise and last 15 mins of sunset) for 10-15 minutes. This stimulates the photoreceptors and resets the circadian rhythm, which is vital for hormonal balance affecting eye health.

4. Heat and Cold Hydrotherapy

To further stimulate circulation, we utilize alternating hot and cold packs over the eyes. The patient places a warm compress for 3 minutes, followed by a cold compress for 1 minute. This cycle is repeated 3 times. The heat dilates the blood vessels, bringing in fresh blood, while the cold constricts them, pushing out stagnant blood. This "pumping" action forces circulation into the stagnant capillaries of the eye. This is particularly effective for Dry Eye Syndrome, Eye Strain, and Blepharitis.

5. Manav Guru’s 45 Days Protocol (Optional Integration)

In certain complex or treatment-resistant cases, we integrate elements of vibrational therapy and universal energy alignment through the Manav Guru protocol. This ensures that the patient's environment (home/office energy) supports their healing journey, removing external stressors that may be hindering recovery.

Timeline of Recovery and Monitoring Progress

Natural healing is a biological process, not a magic trick. It follows the laws of physiology and cellular regeneration. While symptom relief can be rapid, structural repair takes time. We set realistic, honest expectations for our patients to ensure compliance and perseverance. The timeline can vary based on the severity of the condition and the patient's strict adherence to the protocol.

Monitoring Parameters:We do not rely on subjective feelings alone. We believe in evidence-based tracking. We use standard ophthalmic metrics to track progress:

• Visual Acuity Test (Snellen Chart): Checked monthly to track improvements in distance and near vision. We encourage patients to keep a chart at home.
• Intraocular Pressure (IOP): For Glaucoma patients, monitored regularly to ensure it stays within the safe range (10-21 mmHg) without drops. The goal is to see a gradual decline in baseline pressure.
• Retinal Imaging (Fundoscopy/OCT): Essential for diabetic patients and AMD patients to visualize the healing of retinal vessels and the macula. We look for reduction in edema and hemorrhage.
• Grid Test (Amsler Grid): For Macular Degeneration patients to track the distortion of central vision. Patients self-monitor daily for any changes in the grid lines.

We empower patients to self-monitor. Understanding their own vision chart and feeling the reduction in eye strain gives them the confidence to continue the lifestyle changes permanently. The goal is independence from doctors, including us.

Nutritional Framework: Feeding the Eyes

The eye has the highest metabolic rate of any organ in the body. It consumes massive amounts of oxygen and nutrients relative to its size. The Standard American Diet (or modern Indian diet of roti/curry/dairy) fails to provide these specific micronutrients in adequate amounts. The DIP Diet is not just about calories; it's about Nutrient Density and Bioavailability. We focus on specific nutrients that target ocular tissues.

The Concept of "Living Water" vs. Dead Water

A critical aspect of the DIP Diet often overlooked is hydration. However, we are not talking about tap water or RO water, which Dr. BRC refers to as "Dead Water." We focus on "Living Water"—the water contained naturally inside raw fruits and vegetables.

This cellular water is structured (H3O2) and is rich in electrolytes and information. When you eat a watermelon or a cucumber, you are consuming water that is already filtered by nature and charged with life force. This structured water penetrates the cellular membranes much more efficiently than plain water. For the eye, which is largely composed of water (the vitreous humor is 99% water), maintaining this hydration is crucial to prevent shrinkage (posterior vitreous detachment) and maintain the shape of the eyeball.

Essential Nutrients & Sources

• Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Known as "internal sunglasses," these carotenoids accumulate in the macula and protect it from blue light damage and oxidative stress. They filter out harmful high-energy light waves.
  Sources: Spinach, Kale, Broccoli, Peas, and other dark leafy greens. In the DIP diet, these are consumed RAW in the lunch salad, ensuring the enzymes are intact. Cooking often destroys these delicate compounds.
• Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene): Crucial for the retina's photoreceptors (rods and cones) to function, especially in low light. Deficiency leads to night blindness and dry eyes.
  Sources: Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, Pumpkin, Papaya, Mango. The orange-colored fruits in the breakfast platter are rich in this precursor.
• Vitamin C: A powerful water-soluble antioxidant that protects the lens from oxidative damage (Cataracts). The concentration of Vitamin C in the eye fluid is 20 times higher than in the blood, indicating its vital role.
  Sources: Amla (Indian Gooseberry), Guava, Citrus fruits, Bell Peppers. Dr. BRC often recommends a shot of fresh Amla juice daily.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential for the structural integrity of the retina and for preventing Dry Eye by improving oil gland function.
  Sources: Flaxseeds, Walnuts, Chia seeds. (Note: We avoid fish oil to strictly adhere to the plant-based protocol; plant sources are sufficient when the metabolic pathway is clear of interference from processed fats).
• Zinc: Vital for transporting Vitamin A from the liver to the retina and for producing melanin, a protective pigment in the eye.
  Sources: Pumpkin seeds, Sesame seeds, Chickpeas, Lentils.

The Science of Nitric Oxide

Dr. Louis Ignarro won the Nobel Prize for discovering Nitric Oxide (NO) as a signaling molecule. NO is a potent vasodilator—it relaxes the inner muscles of your blood vessels, causing them to widen. This increases blood flow and lowers blood pressure.

Raw green leafy vegetables (Spinach, Beetroot tops, Celery) are high in dietary nitrates. When chewed (not just swallowed), bacteria in the mouth convert these into nitrites, which the stomach acid then converts to Nitric Oxide. This "gas" travels to the eye and opens up the microscopic capillaries of the retina and choroid. For conditions like Glaucoma and Diabetic Retinopathy, where blood flow is restricted, boosting NO production via green salads is a medical intervention, not just "eating healthy."

Foods to Strictly Avoid

Recovery is impossible if you continue to poison the system. We strictly forbid:
1. Dairy Products: Milk proteins can mimic eye tissues (molecular mimicry) and cause autoimmune flare-ups (Uveitis). They also contribute to mucus and lymphatic congestion.
2. Refined Sugar: Spikes insulin, leads to glycation of lens proteins (cataracts), and directly damages retinal vessels.
3. Refined Oils: Cause endothelial inflammation, blocking the tiny capillaries of the eye.
4. Caffeine & Alcohol: Dehydrate the body and increase intraocular pressure.

The "Green Blood" transfusion: Fresh spinach and citrus juice to boost Nitric Oxide.

The "Green Juice" Protocol (3-Day Detox Menu):To jumpstart the healing process, especially for conditions like inflammatory eye flu or sudden vision blurring, Dr. BRC recommends a 3-day detox.

Day 1: Only citrus fruit juices (Mosambi, Orange, Kinnow) and Coconut water. Quantity: Body weight / 10 = number of glasses. (e.g., 60kg = 6 glasses).
Day 2: Half the quantity of juices as Day 1, plus raw tomatoes and cucumbers for lunch and dinner.
Day 3: Morning juice, Lunch fruits, Dinner raw salad + light khichdi (no oil).

This protocol rapidly lowers systemic inflammation and is often the "Pattern Interrupt" needed for the body to start healing chronic conditions.

Lifestyle Alignment: Living for Vision

In our evolutionary history, humans spent their days outdoors, looking at distant horizons, bathed in natural light. Today, we spend our lives indoors, staring at screens 12 inches from our faces, under artificial LEDs. This "mismatch" between our biology and our environment is the root of the myopia epidemic. Aligning your lifestyle with your biology is critical for recovery.

1. Circadian Rhythm & Sleep:The eyes have their own circadian clock. They regenerate during sleep. Melatonin, the sleep hormone, is also a powerful antioxidant for the eye. Exposure to blue light from phones late at night suppresses melatonin, leaving the eyes vulnerable to damage.
Action: No screens 2 hours before bed. Sleep in pitch darkness. If you must use screens, use blue-light blocking glasses or software (f.lux).

2. Sunlight Exposure:The sun is not the enemy. Moderate exposure to natural sunlight triggers dopamine release in the retina, which inhibits the elongation of the eyeball (preventing myopia progression).
Action: Spend at least 1 hour outdoors daily. Practice "Sun Gazing" during the safe golden hours (sunrise/sunset) to directly stimulate the pineal gland and retinal cells.

3. The 20-20-20 Rule & Distance Looking:For those who must work on computers, this rule is mandatory. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This relaxes the ciliary muscles, preventing them from locking into a spasm (which causes pseudo-myopia and eventually permanent myopia). Additionally, make it a habit to look at the horizon or the furthest point possible whenever you are outside.

4. Blinking & Palming:Staring at screens reduces our blink rate from 15 times a minute to just 5. This causes the tear film to evaporate, leading to Dry Eye. Conscious blinking is a simple but effective therapy.
Palming Technique: Rub your hands together vigorously until they are warm. Cup your palms over your closed eyes without pressing on the eyeballs. Visualize total blackness. This relaxes the optic nerve and gives the retina a complete rest from light stimulation. Do this for 5 minutes every 2 hours of work.

5. Posture:Neck tension restricts blood flow to the head and eyes. Poor posture ("text neck") contributes to vision problems. Regular neck stretches and spinal alignment exercises are part of our holistic care.

Scientific Context & Institutional Research

The approach at Dr BRC Clinic is not based on folklore; it is deeply rooted in physiological science and corroborated by global health data. We bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern pathology.

WHO World Report on Vision (2019):The World Health Organization explicitly states that "eye conditions that can cause vision impairment and blindness—such as cataract, trachoma, and refractive error—are the main focus of prevention." The report emphasizes Integrated People-Centered Eye Care (IPCEC), advocating for care that addresses the full life course and systemic health needs of the individual, not just the eyes. This perfectly aligns with our holistic GRAD system, which treats the person, not the organ.

MOHFW & NPCBVI (India):Data from the National Program for Control of Blindness & Visual Impairment indicates that Cataract is responsible for 66.2% of blindness in India. While the government focus is on surgical camps to clear the backlog, the massive burden suggests a desperate need for preventive strategies. Our protocol addresses the risk factors (diabetes, hypertension, malnutrition) identified by the Ministry as precursors to these conditions.

Evidence on Nutrition & Vision (AREDS Study):Numerous studies published in journals like Ophthalmology and The Lancet confirm the role of antioxidants in delaying cataract progression and AMD. The landmark AREDS (Age-Related Eye Disease Study) by the NIH proved that high-dose antioxidants (Vitamin C, E, Beta-carotene, Zinc) significantly reduce the risk of advanced AMD and vision loss. The DIP Diet naturally provides these antioxidants in their most bioavailable form, far superior to the synthetic supplements used in the study, without the risk of toxicity.

Grounding Research:Research published in the Journal of Inflammation Research has shown that grounding (Earthing) reduces blood viscosity and inflammation. Since Glaucoma and Retinopathy are inflammatory and vascular diseases, the mechanism of Zero Volt Therapy is supported by the physics of electron transfer and its physiological effects on the human body.

Clinical Experience: Stories of Restored Sight

At Dr BRC Clinic, we don't just cite theories; we deliver results. We have documented thousands of cases where patients defied conventional prognosis. Here are composite examples of the success stories we witness daily.

These stories underscore a simple truth: The body heals when the interference is removed. Whether it is the mechanical pressure of Glaucoma or the opacity of a Cataract, the body has an innate intelligence to repair itself, provided the blood chemistry supports it.

Treatment Availability Across India

Our "Natural Vision Restoration" protocol is available at all Dr BRC Clinic Centers. We understand that consistent care is key, so we have established a network across the country. Each center is equipped with the necessary facilities for Zero Volt Therapy, Hot Water Immersion (for detox), and has trained yoga experts to guide you through the specific Eye Yoga protocols.

For patients traveling from other cities or countries, we highly recommend our residential programs. This immersion allows for a complete detox and intensive training in the exercises and diet preparation, ensuring you can successfully continue the protocol back home. We also conduct regular "Cure @ 72hrs" camps in various cities where you can experience the rapid effects of the diet firsthand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)