8 Common Neurological Disorders

Did you know that nearly 1 billion people suffer from some sort of neurological disorder? This makes neurological disorders some of the most common disabilities in the world. In fact, they’re so common that chances are you know someone who is living with one.

Let’s take a look at eight of the most common neurological disorders.

1. Alzheimer’s Disease

This is the most common type of dementia, accounting for the vast majority of all cases. It usually affects older adults, with the risk increasing with age.

Early onset Alzheimer’s disease can occur in people as young as 40 or 50 years old, but it is much less common. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include problems with memory, language, and thinking. These problems worsen over time and can eventually lead to the inability to carry out even basic tasks of daily living.

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, treatments are available that can help to manage the symptoms and slow down the progression of the condition.

2. Parkinson’s Disease

This is a degenerative neurological disorder that affects the parts of the brain responsible for movement.

It typically develops slowly over a number of years and is most common in people over the age of 60. Those who experience a large number of head injuries or brain injuries are more at risk.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, and problems with balance. As the condition progresses, these symptoms can become more severe and may eventually lead to difficulties with speaking, swallowing, and walking.

As with Alzheimer’s, treatments are available that can help to manage the symptoms people experience.

3. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

This is a chronic, degenerative disease that affects the central nervous system. It is thought to be an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue.

Symptoms of multiple sclerosis can vary widely from one person to the next and may include problems with vision, movement, sensation, and balance. The course of the disease is also variable, with some people experiencing only mild symptoms and others progressing to more severe disability. Early signs of MS include fatigue and tingling or numbness in the limbs.

4. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

This is a degenerative disease that affects the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. These are the neurons that control muscle movement. ALS is also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, after the famous baseball player who was diagnosed with it in 1939.

Symptoms of ALS include weakness and paralysis, which eventually lead to the inability to move or breathe. The rate at which the disease progresses will vary from one person to the next, but the average life expectancy is only three to five years.

5. Epilepsy

This is a condition that affects the nervous system and is characterized by recurrent seizures. Seizures are episodes of abnormal brain activity that can cause a variety of symptoms, from staring blankly to loss of consciousness and convulsions.

Epilepsy can develop at any age, but it is most common in young children and older adults.

6. Migraine

This is a type of headache that is characterized by throbbing pain, often on one side of the head. Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound.

Migraine attacks can last for hours or even days and can be debilitating. While the exact cause of migraines is unknown, they are thought to be caused by changes in the brainstem and trigeminal nerve. These changes result in the release of chemicals that cause inflammation and pain.

Treatment for migraines typically involves a combination of medication and lifestyle changes.

7. Stroke

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, usually as a result of a blockage in an artery.

This can cause damage to the brain tissue and lead to a range of symptoms, from paralysis to problems with speech and vision. Strokes can be fatal, but many people survive and make a good recovery.

The sooner treatment is received, the better the chances of a successful outcome.

8. Dementia

Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in mental ability. It can affect memory, thinking, and language skills, as well as social and emotional functioning.

Dementia is most common in older adults, but it can occur at any age. As previously mentioned, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia.

What Should I Do if I’m Experiencing Symptoms of a Neurological Disorder?

If you’re experiencing any symptoms that are causing you concern, it’s important to see your doctor for a proper evaluation.

They will be able to rule out any other potential causes and refer you to a specialist if necessary. Many people make the mistake of thinking that their symptoms are just a normal part of aging, but this isn’t always the case.

Don’t hesitate to get help if you’re worried about your health. You can check out this resource to learn more about Neuro Injury Care, a reputable facility where you can see an experienced neurological disorder.

These Common Neurological Disorders Shouldn’t Be Overlooked

Common neurological disorders can be extremely debilitating and even life-threatening.

However, with early diagnosis and treatment, many people are able to live fairly normal lives. If you’re worried about your health, don’t hesitate to speak to your doctor. It will go a long way toward peace of mind.

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