Neurological Conditions

Overview

Neurological conditions impair cognitive ability and prompt confusion. In medical terms, neurological disorders are classified as disorders that target the brain, spinal cord and nerves. Neurological disorders occur as a result of biomechanical changes or electrical disruptions affecting the brain, spinal cord and nerves.

 

Major Types of Neurological Disorders

  • Stroke
    A stroke is considered a direct attack on the brain. Typically, the condition occurs due to restricted blood supply to the brain. The brain requires an abundant supply of nutrients and oxygen to thrive. Poor blood supply is detrimental to the brain, even for a short time. Insufficient blood can cause brain cells to deplete quickly. As these cells depreciate, the patient loses brain function.
  • Headaches
    While headaches are common, persistent and unexpected headaches are a cause for concern. A sudden, chronic headache signifies an underlying medical issue. On the other hand, the onset of an incredibly painful headache accompanied by sensitivity to light (photophobia), fever, and a rigid neck are signs of a more severe condition such as meningitis or intracranial bleeding.
  • Epilepsy
    Epilepsy is a neurological ailment characterised by involuntary seizures. Typically, epilepsy occurs due to irregular electrical activity in the brain. As a result, seizures happen unexpectedly and suddenly. More than two seizures characterise epilepsy. Therefore, you must always remember to visit your doctor after every seizure. These check-ups are to ensure you have not injured yourself during the seizure. Repeat seizures that last longer than five minutes grow concerning.
  • Spinal cord diseases
    Spinal cord diseases are a result of autoimmune disorders, inflammatory conditions, degenerative ailments, infections (polio and meningitis) and tumours in or around the spinal cord. Spinal cord diseases cause pain, muscle weakness and tingling or numb sensations.

Symptoms

Neurological disorders lead to widespread symptoms such as:

  • Muscle weakness or paralysis
  • Issues with coordination
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Seizures
 

Treatment 

Medication therapy serves as the first line of defence against neurological disorders. Certain types of medications are prescribed to treat traumatic brain injuries, stroke and other related disorders. In severe circumstances, surgery is required, in which case, medical practitioners from specialised fields will participate in the surgery.

If you suspect any neurological conditions, seek medical attention immediately. Dr Kapp cares for each condition uniquely, helping to restore bodily function and ease symptoms. 

FAQ

  1. How do neurological disorders occur?
    The causes of neurological deficits vary. However, the most common causes include congenital abnormalities, genetics, infections, malnutrition and injuries affecting the spinal cord, brain and nerves.

  1. How does a physician treat stroke?
    For an ischemic stroke, Dr Kapp works quickly to restore blood flow to the brain. Upon arrival at the hospital, Dr Kapp will identify the type of stroke the patient has. A CT scan or another imaging test can help confirm a diagnosis. Then, emergency medication is administered intravenously to disintegrate the blood clot. Intravenous therapy can only be given from the first four and a half hours when symptoms begin. IV medication must be administered soon to reduce the risk of associated complications. Alternatively, the blood clot can be surgically removed using a stent. Stent retrieval is only considered when the blood clot is too large or cannot dissolve using a tissue plasminogen activator (TPA).

  1. How are migraines linked to neurological disease?
    Migraines occur due to neurological abnormalities as a result of genetic mutations affecting the brain.