Our nervous system controls all that we do, see, feel and experience in our lives. It is a complex and highly specialized network that stores knowledge, transmits information and guides our actions. The core of the nervous system comprises of the brain, the spinal cord, muscles and the huge volumes of nerves that connect them. When something affects the functioning of the system, it can affect any aspect of life and any part of the body. When this happens, it is known as a neurological disorder. These ailments affect millions of people across the world, but many of those impacted by the condition remain unaware of it. The symptoms may be so slight that they do not affect normal life. However, in other cases, the minor effect of a neurological disorder can grow into a major physical and/or mental problem that could negatively impact any aspect of life.
As with all medical issues, the earlier a problem is detected, diagnosed and treatment begun, the greater the possibility of a full recovery. Unfortunately, since neurological disorders are associated with unfounded social and cultural stigma, people try to hide the fact that they are suffering. Another factor that complicates treatment and recovery is the widespread ignorance about mental conditions and the symptoms and treatments available. Neurological disorders are like any other form of illness – with proper diagnosis and treatment, in most cases, recovery and a return to normal life is possible.
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Once you know the common signs of a neurological condition, it becomes possible to contact a neurologist for diagnosis and treatment in the early stages of the condition, when recovery is faster.
The Common Signs of Neurological Disorders
It is important to note that neurological ailments can present themselves in many ways. Talking to a doctor during a regular medical checkup will make early diagnosis more likely. That said, these are among the most common symptoms of neurological ailments:
- Headaches: Everyone suffers from headaches occasionally. They are normally not a cause for concern. However, if headaches occur regularly or if the pain is severe enough to affect normal activities, a doctor should be consulted as it could be a sign of a neurological condition. If the headaches are accompanied by fever, sensitivity to light or a stiff or painful neck, the possibility of an underlying neurological condition being present increases. If the headaches are a regular occurrence and are relieved by over-the-counter medication, and this becomes a habit, it is not a condition to be ignored and a medical opinion should be obtained. Migraines and tension-related headaches are not life-threatening, but they can affect normal life and treatment can allow you to return to a pain-free life.
- Seizures: Seizures and fainting fits are a cause for concern. Many people will have one seizure at some point in their life. There are many reasons for it and while a one-off occurrence is not something that should be ignored, it is not generally a cause for concern. However, if the seizures, fits or fainting are frequent or regular occurrences, it could be a sign of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. The severity of the seizures may vary from one occurrence to the next, but the fact that they are happening means that a neurological examination is required. In many cases, medication can treat or at least manage the condition, unless the neurologist decides that surgery will be a better option.
- Strokes: This is one of the most common signs of a neurological disorder. It is caused by a restriction in blood flow to the brain. A stroke is a serious and often life-threatening condition. Urgent treatment can make recovery more likely. A stroke can occur without warning but if any of these signs are noticed, it could be the onset of a stroke:
- Problems with maintaining balance
- Sudden vision changes
- Weakness or numbness of the facial muscles
- Weakness of the arm or arms
- Difficulty in speaking
- Inability to read the time
In the case of a stroke, it is better to go through several false alarms rather than ignore a real stroke.
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): This is a not-so-common neuro-muscular condition that affects the nerve cells of the brain and spinal cord. The cause is still being studied but genetics and environmental factors are thought to be part of the reason for onset. Symptoms include twitching, weakness, stiff muscles, difficulty in breathing and swallowing and slurred speech. It is a difficult ailment to diagnose and while there is no cure presently available, early diagnosis can make it possible to manage the condition more effectively.
- Parkinson’s Disease: This is a disease of the nervous system that affects physical coordination. The severity of the condition generally increases with age. The onset is usually gradual and the symptoms include changes in walking and posture and alterations in facial expression in the early stages. As the disease progresses, changes in behaviour and cognitive difficulties are likely to develop. This is another condition for which there is presently no cure, but once again early detection of the symptoms can make managing the condition more effective.
- Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease: Some amount of memory loss is normal with aging. Normal age-related memory loss does not typically have a significant impact on normal life and activities. For example, a senior forgetting why he entered a room is common. However, if the symptoms are severe, it could be an indication of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. The common symptoms include:
- Getting lost or being unaware of the surroundings
- Difficulty in calculations or managing finances
- Inability to perform normal daily tasks
- Forgetting names and faces, even of close friends and relatives
- Forgetting to turn off lights, TVs, stoves, etc.
- Misplacing keys and other objects
- Change in behavioural patterns
These are not curable disorders, but early diagnosis and evaluation of the symptoms can enable effective management of the condition through medication and therapy.
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The stigma attached to neurological conditions is based on ignorance. Neurological disorders can be treated, just like any other illness or injury. In fact, those who suffer from these conditions may not display any outward symptoms and, because of the myths around these conditions, suffer in silence for years when in many cases treatment and a return to a normal, happy life are possible. If you suspect that you or someone you care for has a neurological disorder, consult a specialist. The right place to go to is the neurology department of a leading multispecialty hospital where world-class specialists and treatment will be available. Because neurological conditions may be connected to other physical ailments, going to a multispecialty hospital means that the best specialists from other medical disciplines will be available to support the treatment and recovery, if required.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are common symptoms of neurological disorders?
Common symptoms include frequent headaches, seizures, balance problems, and changes in vision or speech.
2. How can I tell if I might be having a stroke?
Warning signs of a stroke include sudden weakness, numbness in the face or arms, difficulty speaking, and trouble with balance.
3. What neurological disorders affect memory?
Disorders like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can cause significant memory loss and difficulty performing daily tasks.
4. What should I do if I experience repeated seizures?
If seizures occur frequently, consult a neurologist for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.
5. Can conditions like Parkinson’s and ALS be treated?
While there is no cure for Parkinson’s or ALS, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
6. Why is early detection of neurological disorders important?
Early detection leads to prompt treatment, which can slow progression, improve recovery outcomes, and enhance overall well-being.