Your nervous system regulates and coordinates your body’s activities. It consists of two main parts, viz. central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. Central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord while the peripheral nervous system consists of peripheral nerves, autonomic nerves, and other neural elements. Neurological disorders affect the brain as well as nerves found throughout your body and spinal cord. These disorders can occur due to congenital abnormalities, injury to the brain and spinal cord, infections, malnutrition, and environmental health problems. Some of the common problems with the nervous system are discussed below:
Headache
It is one of the most common neurological disorders that can affect anybody. Normal headache is not a cause for worry but if it occurs suddenly and repeatedly, it could signify an underlying problem. If the headache is accompanied by fever, stiff neck and light sensitivity, it can indicate a more serious problem like migraine or meningitis. Although tension-type headaches and migraines aren’t life-threatening, dealing with chronic pain can be debilitating, and you should meet your healthcare provider to get back to a normal life.
Epilepsy and seizures
Seizure symptoms can vary, depending upon which part of your brain the seizures are coming from. If you have just one seizure in your life, it does not necessarily mean epilepsy, but if you have two or more seizures, it may be due to epilepsy. In case you experience two or more seizures, you should see a doctor who can help you get freedom from seizures and epilepsy.
Stroke
A stroke or brain attack happens when blood flow to your brain is stopped. Stroke can be of two types – ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic stroke happens when a major blood vessel in the brain is blocked due to the buildup of fatty deposits and cholesterol. Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in your brain bursts, spilling blood into nearby tissues. This results in a pressure build-up in nearby tissues that may cause even more damage and irritation. Risk factors of stroke include high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, smoking, obesity, and lack of exercise.
Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease most commonly begins with a tremor in one hand but can also result in stiffness or slowness of movement. You may experience resting tremors when your hand or foot shakes slightly when you are not using it. The person may also experience a freezing gait when they attempt to take a step forward but suddenly feel as though the foot is stuck to the floor. Your facial expressions may look flat or mask-like. Some patients may find it hard to remain upright, and feel as though they are tipping backward.
Alzheimer’s disease
It is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease that occurs when nerve cells in the brain begin to die. This condition can result in impaired memory and thinking, restlessness, personality and behavior changes, impaired communication, and language deterioration. The disease can occur due to certain genes, age and family history, problem with the immune system, and abnormal protein deposits in the brain. Warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease include memory loss, misplacing things, difficulty in performing familiar tasks, and changes in mood or behavior.
Neurological disorders can be treated by many types of healthcare providers. A neurologist treats acute strokes using endovascular techniques while a psychologist deals with emotional problems such as anxiety, irritability and mood swings. Radiologist diagnoses nervous system conditions using imaging techniques. A psychiatrist therapist helps you move and walk well, and an occupational therapist helps you to deal with your everyday activities.
