Chronic neurological conditions are a silent epidemic that affects millions worldwide. Moreover, these invisible killers, significantly impact a person’s quality of life. 

The victim may suffer debilitating symptoms to emotional challenges.

Also, it is very challenging to live with a chronic neurological condition. 

In this blog post, we are unveiling the intricacies of these conditions, shedding light on their prevalence, causes, symptoms, and potential treatments. 

Read along to understand the complexities of chronic neurological conditions that will empower you to understand treatment options, how to manage the diseases, and consult the best neurologist in Guwahati

What Are Neurological Disorders?

Our nervous system is a complex network that controls everything our body does. It includes our brain, spinal cord, nerves, and the connections between our nerves and muscles.

Therefore, a neurological disorder develops when something goes wrong with your nervous system. Consequently, these disorders have a big impact on how we feel and function and can affect any part of our nervous system.

Some reasons behind Neurological disorders:

• Problems that are present at birth.
• Inherited traits.
• Damage to the brain, spinal cord, or nerves.
• Diseases caused by germs.
• Not getting enough nutrients.

Also, there are over 600 common neurological disorders and more than 5,000 rare ones with its own set of symptoms.

Common Neurological Conditions List

Check out the list of common neurological conditions that affect people globally among the more than 600 types of neurological disorders that have been identified. 

Stroke

In the simplest of terms, a stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain gets disrupted. Consequently, this leads to brain cell damage. Also, the two primary types are ischaemic stroke which is caused by a blood vessel blockage, and haemorrhagic stroke which is caused by bleeding from a blood vessel.

Epilepsy

When a person has recurring seizures it is Epilepsy a neurological condition. The reason behind these seizures is altered electrical activity in the brain. Consequently, a person may show various symptoms, including convulsions (fits), sensory disturbances, and loss of consciousness. 

Parkinson’s disease

When a person has a progressive neurological condition that affects movement it is called Parkinson’s disease. Doctors still don’t understand the cause behind this, however,  it is related to the degeneration of brain cells that produce dopamine. Also, dopamine is a brain chemical that’s important for many body functions, including movement control. Consequently, symptoms of Parkinson’s disease may include, stiffness, slowed movements, tremors, balance problems, speech issues, swallowing, and cognitive function.

Multiple sclerosis (MS)

When our immune system mistakenly attacks the protective layer surrounding nerve pathways in the brain and spinal cord, the condition is called MS. Therefore, MS an autoimmune condition can lead to a wide range of symptoms. These may include fatigue, muscle weakness, balance and coordination problems, and cognitive difficulties.

Alzheimer’s disease

This progressive neurological disorder is characterized by a build-up of abnormal protein deposits in the brain. Consequently, it creates brain cell damage and death. Unfortunately, Alzheimer’s disease also affects memory, thinking, and behavior.

Migraine

This painful chronic neurological disorder is characterized by persistent moderate to severe headaches. Also, a person having a migraine attack has other symptoms such as nausea, visual disturbances, and hypersensitivity to light and sound.

Peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy causes damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves either the nerves connecting the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body.  A person may show symptoms that include pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected areas. 

Motor neurone disease

This progressive neurological disorder affects the nerve cells involved in controlling voluntary movement. Consequently, it leads to muscle weakness and problems with speech, swallowing, and breathing. Another name for this condition is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS.

Huntington’s disease

This is an inherited neurological condition that causes progressive brain cell degeneration. Consequently, it leads to difficulties with movement, cognition, and mental functioning.  A person may show symptoms that include involuntary movements, coordination problems, and mood and behavior changes.

Tourette syndrome

Tourette syndrome is characterized by repetitive involuntary movements and vocalizations (known as tics).  Also, Tics can be mild to severe and sometimes affect everyday function.

Symptoms of neurological conditions

There is no one-size-fits-all-all for neurological disorder symptoms. Moreover, the symptoms vary widely because the nervous system is complex and extends to every part of our body. Therefore, the symptoms depend on the nerves involved. Also, how severe the condition is, and the cause.

Some common symptoms of neurological conditions can include:

• sudden persistent headaches
• tingling or numbness
• reduced muscle strength
• balance or coordination problem
• double vision
• memory or concentration problems
• difficulty in speaking or understanding
• altered consciousness level
• unexplained pain or stiffness
• tremors
• seizures.

Also, there are similar symptoms for many neurological conditions. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult a neurological specialist to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

What causes neurological disorders?

Various conditions can affect the nervous system and lead to neurological symptoms. Moreover, the cause may vary based on the type of neurological disorder. And there may be unknown causes.

Common causes of neurological conditions include:

• blood vessel disorders
• inherited conditions
• autoimmune disorders
• degeneration
• structural problems
• injury or trauma
• infections.

• Abnormal development of your nervous system (congenital conditions).
• A tumor.
• A stroke.

Types of Neurological Disorders

Neurological disorders fall into several categories:

• Diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease are neurodegenerative conditions
• Muscular dystrophy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis fall under neuromuscular conditions
• Epilepsy, migraines, headache disorders, stroke, and traumatic brain injury are brain conditions.
• Spina bifida, spinal cord injury, and spinal muscular atrophy are Spine conditions
• Peripheral neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome, and Bell’s palsy are Peripheral nerve conditions

You may see neurological disorders grouped into more than one category due to what symptoms they cause.

What are Nerve diseases?

Nerve diseases are those conditions that affect the nerves in the body. Also, nerve diseases can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, numbness, weakness, and difficulty moving. 

Common nerve diseases:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome affects the hand and wrist causing pain, numbness, and tingling.
• Multiple sclerosis damages the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers.
• Peripheral neuropathy hits crucial nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
• When blood flow to the brain is disrupted
• Injury due to physical blow to the head.

Symptoms of Nerve Disorder 

Generally, common symptoms of neurological diseases include:

• Tingling or numbness in the feet or hands without clear cause
• Feeling weak and muscles losing strength
• Sudden paralysis on one or several sides of the body
• Persistent headaches
• Lack of coordination
• Sharp stabbing pain in one foot
• Back pain 
• Vision disturbances such as double vision
• Slurred speech
• Frequent forgetfulness
• Seizures or tremors
• Changes in mental condition

1. Symptoms of Autonomic Nerve Disorders

Autonomic nerves control and regulate movements in organs, such as heart rate, body temperature regulation, and digestion. Therefore, any disruption in these nerves, symptoms may include:

• Inability to feel chest pain
• Excessive sweating or inability to sweat
• Dizziness
• Dry eyes and mouth
• Constipation
• Urinary disturbances
• Sexual dysfunction

2. Symptoms of Motoric Nerve Disorders

Motoric nerves regulate the body’s movement and transmit information from the brain to the muscles to enable movement. When these nerves are disrupted, some symptoms may include:

• Weakness
• Muscle damage or atrophy
• Twitching
• Paralysis affects parts of the body
• Difficulty moving limbs

3. Symptoms of Sensory Nerve Disorders

Sensory nerves convey information about pain and other sensations to the brain. When these are disrupted, some symptoms show up like:

• Pain in the affected body part
• Numbness
• Sensitivity
• Tingling
• Burning sensation

Common Causes of Nerve Disorders

Generally, several factors can cause nerve disorders, including:

• Accidents, injuries, or severe blows, especially to the head and spine
• Diabetes
• Stroke
• Blood flow disturbances or problems with blood vessels
• Congenital abnormalities
• Anxiety disorders, depression, or psychosis
• Exposure to toxins such as arsenic or carbon monoxide
• Diseases like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or Alzheimer’s disease
• Brain infections, such as encephalitis and meningitis
• Use of illicit drugs
• Brain tumors
• Organ failure
• Thyroid disorders

What are brain diseases?

The brain regulates growth, development bodily functions, thoughts, feelings, and actions. This controlling center is a part of our nervous system. Brain diseases cover diseases and disorders that affect our brains.  Sadly, these diseases can alter a person’s behavior, personality, and ability to process information and function and daily activities.

Types of brain diseases

Brain diseases include hundreds of rare brain diseases. Here is a list of the more common diseases:

Autoimmune Brain Diseases:

• Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic disease that damages the protective sheath around nerve cells, causing symptoms like weakness, numbness, and vision problems.
• Autoimmune Encephalitis condition happens when the immune system attacks the brain,. This leads to inflammation and symptoms like confusion, seizures, and hallucinations.

Epilepsy:

• This is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are sudden, abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Infections:

• Meningitis infection affects the meninges, which are the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Mental Illness:

These include conditions that affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases:

• These progressive conditions cause brain cells to deteriorate, leading to symptoms like memory loss, movement problems, and cognitive decline.

Neurodevelopmental Disorders:

• These are severe conditions that affect brain development and function.  Most are diagnosed in childhood and may include ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and dyslexia.

Stroke:

• This emergency is caused by a disruption of blood flow to the brain, which can lead to paralysis, speech difficulties, and other symptoms.

Traumatic Brain Injuries:

• These comprise injuries to the brain caused by a physical blow to the head, including a fall, accident, or sports injury.

Symptoms of brain disease

Some general symptoms of common brain diseases include:

• Fever.
• Headaches.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Seizures.
• Unconsciousness.

• Balance.
• Behavior.
• Breathing.
• Coordination.
• Focus.
• Memory.
• Mood.
• Movement.
• Personality.
• Physical sensations.
• Speech.
• Strength.
• Swallowing.
• Vision.

How are brain diseases diagnosed?

A neurologist may start with a patient history and physical exam, including motor, sensory, reflex, and thinking tests. 

Other testing may include:

• Biopsy:  The doctor collects a small sample of tissue for laboratory analysis. To detect cancerous brain tumors.
• Diagnostic testing: These includes electroencephalogram (EEG) to measure your brain’s electrical activity. 
• Imaging tests: CT, MRI, and PET scans take detailed images of your brain to detect brain activity and disease or damage.
• Laboratory tests: These include Blood, urine, stool, or spinal fluid testing to detect the cause.
• Genetic testing: This helps to identify gene mutations known to cause some brain diseases.
• Mental function tests: These allow your healthcare provider to evaluate your memory, thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Neurological exam: This shows changes in your balance, coordination, hearing, eye movement, speech, and reflexes.

What causes brain diseases?

Brain disease happens due to long-term exposure to toxic chemicals and radiation, certain genes and genetic mutations can cause or increase the risk of many brain diseases. Also, autoimmune brain diseases happen when your immune system attacks other cells in your body, Moreover, bacteria, viruses, and other organisms cause brain diseases such as meningitis. Also, accidents and injuries cause most traumatic brain injuries. Typically, poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and alcohol use are linked to stroke and Alzheimer’s disease.

Conclusion

Living with a chronic neurological condition can be a challenging journey, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. With the right support, information, and medical care, it is possible to manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and thrive.If you or someone you know is affected by a chronic neurological condition, consider seeking expert care from the Neurology Department at Apollo Clinic Ulubari Guwahati. Our team of experienced neurologists is dedicated to providing comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and support.