We all notice changes in our hair, skin and joints as we age that indicate that we are growing older. Along with these visible changes, our brain and nervous system also face the process of ageing that can provoke neurological problems.
Neurological disorders are diseases of the nervous system that affect the brain, spinal cord and the nerves that connect them.
How do neurological disorders affect the body?
The nervous system controls all the functions of our body. A neurological disorder can affect the entire neurological pathway. When something goes wrong with your nervous system, you can face difficulties in moving, speaking, swallowing and breathing. You can also have trouble with your memory, senses or mood.
What are the various neurological conditions?
There are numerous nervous system disorders, such as brain tumours, epilepsy, Tourette syndrome, Parkinson's disease and stroke. Major types of neurological diseases include:
- Diseases caused by defective genes, such as Huntington's disease and down syndrome
- Undeveloped spinal cord called Spina Bifida
- Degenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease
- Diseases of the blood vessels such as stroke
- Spinal cord injury as a result of trauma
- Brain tumours such as Cancer
- Brain infections such as Meningitis
What are the signs and symptoms of neurological disorders?
Here are 5 neurological symptoms that you should not ignore:
- Sudden Weight Loss: A sudden and noticeable loss in weight can often happen after a stressful physical or mental event. In some cases, it can also be a sign of a serious health problem. These include hyperthyroidism, depression, Addison's disease, cancer and many other possible causes.
- Excessive Sleepiness: If you often feel tired and sleepy during the day, it could be a sign of depression, chronic inflammation, sleep deprivation or even multiple sclerosis.
- Loss of Sensitivity: A reduced sense of touch or sensation; or a partial loss of sensitivity to sensory stimuli, generally considered as numbness.
- Loss of Balance: Losing your balance while walking, or a feeling of unsteadiness can be related to an inner ear disorder.
- Muscle weakness: Muscle fatigue can be a symptom or the consequence of neurological conditions. You may also feel fasciculation signs such as spasms, twitching, and pain.
You can minimize the chances of neurological diseases by controlling the risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and inactivity.
There is a range of medications and techniques used to treat the painful effects of many neurological ailments.
If you have noticed any signs and/or symptoms of neurological problems in yourself or someone else, it is advised to ask for help as soon as possible.
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