One-sixth of the world’s population suffers from neurological conditions. While that may sound like a lot, neurological disorders are more common than you may realize. Some typical conditions that you know people with fall under the blanket of neurological conditions.
While they are common, neurological conditions can also be life-threatening. So it’s important to know the signs. Let’s take a look at some of the most common neurological disorders and their symptoms.
1. Frequent Headaches
Everyone gets headaches from time to time. But certain kinds of headaches had frequently can be a sign of an underlying condition.
If you repeatedly find yourself suffering from the same kind of headache, it’s worth talking to your doctor about it. You should especially seek help for migraines, cluster headaches, and tension headaches.
Some conditions that can result in frequent headaches are:
- Hypertension
- Infection
- Temporal arteritis
- Tumor
While you aren’t guaranteed to have any of these, it’s still worth seeing a doctor to rule out any neurological disorders and to receive treatment to manage symptoms.
2. Stroke
Every 40 seconds, someone in the US has a stroke. It’s no wonder that this is one of the most common neurological conditions.
When the arteries leading to the brain become impaired, you may experience damage to the brain which results in a stroke. While strokes often can’t be predicted ahead of time, these are the signs that someone is having a stroke that you should be aware of:
- Blurred vision
- Slurred speech
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Numbness on one side of the body especially on the face
- Intense headache
After a seizure, doctors focus on treating any lasting effects from the event with various therapies. The goal is also to prevent future strokes in the patient. Oftentimes, treatment to prevent future strokes is focused on improving heart health, thinning blood, and quitting smoking and drinking.
3. Seizures and Epilepsy
Seizures are caused by changes in the electrical activity in the nervous system. Seizures can occur at various levels of severity and can present as:
- Intense fear, anxiety, or deja vu
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion
- Uncontrollable jerking movements
After a seizure, you must see a doctor in order to prevent future seizures. A single seizure can be a sign of neurological disabilities. Avoiding future seizures can help prevent long-term effects such as memory loss.
4. Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a debilitating neurological condition that progressively attacks your body’s ability to control its movements. Most people suffering from Parkinson’s begin noticing symptoms around 60 years old, and they get worse over time.
With the help of a back and spine doctor, you can manage and alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson’s and continue having a full life.
5. Dementia
Dementia is not a single condition but a blanket term to describe multiple neurological disorders including Alzheimer’s. Dementia usually takes place as you age and your brain begins to lose brain tissue.
Dementia affects:
- Memory
- Emotions
- Behavior
- Logical thinking
- Perceptions
Sometimes dementia can be treated through medication, but a doctor can also provide support groups and resources for living with dementia.
Neurological Conditions to Watch Out For
By knowing the signs of common neurological conditions, you can catch problems early and seek treatment. Be aware of your own behaviors and feelings so that you can seek a doctor for help right away with a neurological disorder.
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