Brain disorders and treatment
Brain Disorders
What Are Brain Disorders?
Your brain is your body’s control center. It’s part of the nervous system, which also includes the spinal cord and a large network of nerves and neurons. Together, the nervous system controls everything from your five senses to the muscles throughout your body.
When your brain is damaged, it can affect many different things, including your memory, your sensation, and even your personality. Brain disorders include any conditions or disabilities that affect your brain. This includes those conditions that are caused by illness, genetics, or traumatic injury.
This is a broad category of disorders, which vary greatly in symptoms and severity. Keep reading to learn about some of the largest categories of brain disorders.
TYPES
Your brain is your body’s control center. It’s part of the nervous system, which also includes the spinal cord and a large network of nerves and neurons. Together, the nervous system controls everything from your five senses to the muscles throughout your body.
When your brain is damaged, it can affect many different things, including your memory, your sensation, and even your personality. Brain disorders include any conditions or disabilities that affect your brain. This includes those conditions that are caused by illness, genetics, or traumatic injury.
This is a broad category of disorders, which vary greatly in symptoms and severity. Keep reading to learn about some of the largest categories of brain disorders.
TYPES
What Are the Different Types of Brain Disorders?
Brain Injuries
Brain injuries are often caused by blunt trauma. Trauma can damage brain tissue, neurons, and nerves. This damage affects your brain’s ability to communicate with the rest of your body. Examples of brain injuries include:
- hematomas
- blood clots
- contusions, or bruising of brain tissue
- cerebral edema, or swelling inside the skull
- concussions
- strokes
Examples of the symptoms of a brain injury include:
- vomiting
- nausea
- speech difficulty
- bleeding from the ear
- numbness
- paralysis
- memory loss
- problems with concentration
Later, you may develop:
- high blood pressure
- a low heart rate
- pupil dilation
- irregular breathing
Depending on the type of injury you have, treatment might include medication, rehabilitation, or brain surgery. About half of people with severe brain injuries need surgery to remove or repair damaged tissue or to relieve pressure. People with minor brain injuries may not need any treatment beyond pain medication.
Many people with brain injuries need rehabilitation. This can include physical therapy, speech and language therapy, and psychiatry.
Brain injuries are often caused by blunt trauma. Trauma can damage brain tissue, neurons, and nerves. This damage affects your brain’s ability to communicate with the rest of your body. Examples of brain injuries include:
- hematomas
- blood clots
- contusions, or bruising of brain tissue
- cerebral edema, or swelling inside the skull
- concussions
- strokes
Examples of the symptoms of a brain injury include:
- vomiting
- nausea
- speech difficulty
- bleeding from the ear
- numbness
- paralysis
- memory loss
- problems with concentration
Later, you may develop:
- high blood pressure
- a low heart rate
- pupil dilation
- irregular breathing
Depending on the type of injury you have, treatment might include medication, rehabilitation, or brain surgery. About half of people with severe brain injuries need surgery to remove or repair damaged tissue or to relieve pressure. People with minor brain injuries may not need any treatment beyond pain medication.
Many people with brain injuries need rehabilitation. This can include physical therapy, speech and language therapy, and psychiatry.
Brain Tumors
Sometimes, tumors form in the brain and can be very dangerous. These are called primary brain tumors. In other cases, cancer somewhere else in your body spreads to your brain. These are called secondary or metastatic brain tumors.
Brain tumors can be either malignant (cancerous) or benign (noncancerous). Doctors classify brain tumors as grades 1, 2, 3, or 4. Higher numbers indicate more aggressive tumors. The cause of brain tumors is largely unknown. They can occur in people of any age.
Symptoms of brain tumors depend on the size and location of the tumor. The most common symptoms of brain tumors are:
- headaches
- seizures
- numbness or tingling in your arms or legs
- nausea
- vomiting
- changes in personality
- difficulty with movement or balance
- changes in your hearing, speech, or vision
The type of treatment you’ll receive depends on many different factors, such as the size of the tumor and your age and overall health. The main types of treatment for brain tumors are surgery, chemotherapy (medication), and radiation therapy.
Sometimes, tumors form in the brain and can be very dangerous. These are called primary brain tumors. In other cases, cancer somewhere else in your body spreads to your brain. These are called secondary or metastatic brain tumors.
Brain tumors can be either malignant (cancerous) or benign (noncancerous). Doctors classify brain tumors as grades 1, 2, 3, or 4. Higher numbers indicate more aggressive tumors. The cause of brain tumors is largely unknown. They can occur in people of any age.
Symptoms of brain tumors depend on the size and location of the tumor. The most common symptoms of brain tumors are:
- headaches
- seizures
- numbness or tingling in your arms or legs
- nausea
- vomiting
- changes in personality
- difficulty with movement or balance
- changes in your hearing, speech, or vision
The type of treatment you’ll receive depends on many different factors, such as the size of the tumor and your age and overall health. The main types of treatment for brain tumors are surgery, chemotherapy (medication), and radiation therapy.
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Neurodegenerative diseases cause your brain and nerves to deteriorate over time. They can change your personality and cause confusion. They can also destroy your brain’s tissue and nerves.
Some brain diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, may develop as you age. They can slowly impair your memory and thought processes. Other diseases, such as Tay-Sachs disease, are genetic and begin at an early age. Other common neurodegenerative diseases include:
- Huntington’s disease
- amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- all forms of dementia
Some of the more common symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases include:
- memory loss
- forgetfulness
- apathy
- anxiety
- agitation
- a loss of inhibition
- mood changes
Neurodegenerative diseases cause permanent damage, so symptoms tend to get worse as the disease progresses. New symptoms are also likely to develop over time.
There’s no cure for neurodegenerative diseases, but treatment can still help. Treatment for these diseases tries to reduce symptoms and maintain quality of life. Treatment often involves the use of medications to control symptoms.
Neurodegenerative diseases cause your brain and nerves to deteriorate over time. They can change your personality and cause confusion. They can also destroy your brain’s tissue and nerves.
Some brain diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, may develop as you age. They can slowly impair your memory and thought processes. Other diseases, such as Tay-Sachs disease, are genetic and begin at an early age. Other common neurodegenerative diseases include:
- Huntington’s disease
- amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- all forms of dementia
Some of the more common symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases include:
- memory loss
- forgetfulness
- apathy
- anxiety
- agitation
- a loss of inhibition
- mood changes
Neurodegenerative diseases cause permanent damage, so symptoms tend to get worse as the disease progresses. New symptoms are also likely to develop over time.
There’s no cure for neurodegenerative diseases, but treatment can still help. Treatment for these diseases tries to reduce symptoms and maintain quality of life. Treatment often involves the use of medications to control symptoms.
Mental Disorders
Mental disorders, or mental illnesses, are a large and diverse group of conditions that affect your behavior patterns. Some of the most frequently diagnosed mental disorders are:
- depression
- anxiety
- bipolar disorder
- post-traumatic stress disorder
- schizophrenia
The symptoms of mental disorders vary based on the condition. Different people can experience the same mental disorders very differently. You should talk to your doctor if you notice a change in your behavior, thought patterns, or moods.
The two major types of treatment for mental disorders are medication and psychotherapy. Different methods work better for different conditions. Many people find that a combination of the two is the most effective.
If you think you might have a mental disorder, it’s important to talk to your doctor to come up with a treatment plan that works for you. Don’t try to self-medicate.
RISK FACTORS
Mental disorders, or mental illnesses, are a large and diverse group of conditions that affect your behavior patterns. Some of the most frequently diagnosed mental disorders are:
- depression
- anxiety
- bipolar disorder
- post-traumatic stress disorder
- schizophrenia
The symptoms of mental disorders vary based on the condition. Different people can experience the same mental disorders very differently. You should talk to your doctor if you notice a change in your behavior, thought patterns, or moods.
The two major types of treatment for mental disorders are medication and psychotherapy. Different methods work better for different conditions. Many people find that a combination of the two is the most effective.
If you think you might have a mental disorder, it’s important to talk to your doctor to come up with a treatment plan that works for you. Don’t try to self-medicate.
RISK FACTORS
What Are the Risk Factors for Brain Disorders?
Brain disorders can affect anyone, but your risk factors are different for different types of brain disorders.
Traumatic brain injury is most common in children, young adults who are under 25 years old, and adults who are 65 and older.
Brain tumors can affect people at any age. Your personal risk depends on your genetics and your exposure to environmental risk factors like radiation.
Older age and family history are the most significant risk factors for neurodegenerative diseases.
Mental disorders are very common. About 1 in 5 American adults has a diagnosable mental health condition. Your risk may be higher if you:
- have a family history of mental illness
- have or have had traumatic or stressful life experiences
- have a history of alcohol or drug abuse
- have or have had a traumatic brain injury
- DIAGNOSIS
Brain disorders can affect anyone, but your risk factors are different for different types of brain disorders.
Traumatic brain injury is most common in children, young adults who are under 25 years old, and adults who are 65 and older.
Brain tumors can affect people at any age. Your personal risk depends on your genetics and your exposure to environmental risk factors like radiation.
Older age and family history are the most significant risk factors for neurodegenerative diseases.
Mental disorders are very common. About 1 in 5 American adults has a diagnosable mental health condition. Your risk may be higher if you:
- have a family history of mental illness
- have or have had traumatic or stressful life experiences
- have a history of alcohol or drug abuse
- have or have had a traumatic brain injury
- DIAGNOSIS
How Are Brain Disorders Diagnosed?
Your primary care physician or a neurological specialist can diagnose a brain disorder.
Your doctor will likely perform a neurological exam to check your vision, hearing, and balance. Your doctor might also get images of your brain to make a diagnosis. The most common diagnostic imaging tools are CT, MRI, and PET scans.
Your doctor might also need to study fluid from your brain and spinal cord. This helps them find bleeding in the brain, infection, and other abnormalities.
Mental health disorders are usually diagnosed based on an evaluation of your symptoms and history.
Your primary care physician or a neurological specialist can diagnose a brain disorder.
Your doctor will likely perform a neurological exam to check your vision, hearing, and balance. Your doctor might also get images of your brain to make a diagnosis. The most common diagnostic imaging tools are CT, MRI, and PET scans.
Your doctor might also need to study fluid from your brain and spinal cord. This helps them find bleeding in the brain, infection, and other abnormalities.
Mental health disorders are usually diagnosed based on an evaluation of your symptoms and history.
What Are the Types of Neurological Disorders?
There are many types of neurological disorders, including:
- Alzheimer’s disease (AD)
- Epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Migraines
The World Health Organization reports that various types of neurological disorders affect millions of people around the world, including 24 million that suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and 326 million who experience migraines.
What Causes a Neurological Disorder?
If you suspect that you or a loved one may be suffering from one of these issues, you may also be wondering about what causes a neurological disorder. The causes of such dysfunction can be quite diverse. Both the spinal cord and brain are insulated by numerous membranes that can be vulnerable to force and pressure. The peripheral nerves located deep under the skin can also be vulnerable to damage. Neurological disorders can affect an entire neurological pathway or a single neuron. Even a small disturbance to a neuron’s structural pathway can result in dysfunction. As a result, neurological disorders can result from a number of causes, including:
- Lifestyle-related causes
- Infections
- Genetics
- Nutrition-related causes
- Environmental influences
- Physical injuries
What Are the Signs of Neurological Disorders?
The signs of neurological disorders can vary significantly, depending upon the type of disorder as well as the specific area of the body that is affected. In some instances, you might experience emotional symptoms while in other cases physical symptoms may be the result.
Emotional Symptoms of Neurological Problems
While many people often first look for physical symptoms of a disorder, it is important to understand that there can also be emotional symptoms of neurological problems. For instance, you might experience mood swings or sudden outbursts. Individuals who suffer from neurological problems may also experience depression or delusions.
It should be understood that these symptoms could also be indicative of other disorders and conditions. If you have noticed these symptoms in yourself or someone close to you, it is important to seek help right away. Please contact us at 1-888-480-5593 to speak to someone about your situation.
Physical Symptoms of Neurological Problems
Physical symptoms of neurological problems may include the following:
- Partial or complete paralysis
- Muscle weakness
- Partial or complete loss of sensation
- Seizures
- Difficulty reading and writing
- Poor cognitive abilities
- Unexplained pain
- Decreased alertness
Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Neurological Instability
If left untreated, neurological disorders can result in a number of serious consequences. The short-term and long-term effects of neurological instability can vary greatly, depending upon the disorder and the severity of your condition. For instance, according to MSWatch, 50 percent of individuals who suffer from multiple sclerosis experience depression at least once. The University of Miami Health System reports that the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease become more severe over time, as this is a progressive disease. The most important step you can take if you believe that you or someone you care about may be suffering from a neurological disorder is to seek assistance without delay.
Is There a Test or Self-Assessment I Can Do?
If you are concerned about a possible neurological disorder, it is important to seek professional medical assistance. A number of medical examinations can be performed to diagnose the presence of a possible neurological condition. Such tests may include genetic screening, a neurological exam, brain scans and other tests. Even though all self-administered tests or self-assessments cannot positively identify the presence of a neurological disorder, if you have noticed any of the following complaints, you may wish to seek professional assistance:
- Headaches
- Blurry vision
- Fatigue
- Changes in behavior
- Numbness in the legs or arms
- Changes in coordination or balance
- Weakness
- Slurred speech
- Tremors
Medication: Drug Options for Neurological Issues
While it is understandable that the thought of being diagnosed with a neurological disorder may be frightening, it is important to understand that drug options for neurological issues are available. Such options can help you or your loved one to better manage your condition, reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Neurological Drugs: Possible Options
The type of medication that may be used for the treatment of your neurological disorder will depend on your condition. Possible options for neurological drugs may include corticosteroids, which are often indicated for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. This type of medication may assist with decreasing inflammation. Dopamine-affecting drugs, such as Levodopa, are commonly used in the treatment of Parkinson’s to help with rigidity and tremors.
Medication Side Effects
When taking medication for the treatment of any condition or disorder, it is important to understand that you may experience certain side effects. Medication side effects related to the treatment of neurological disorders can vary based on your own situation and the type of medication in question. In some instances, it may be possible to develop dependence to the medication you are taking. This can occur even if it is a prescription medication, and you are taking it for the treatment of a serious health problem, such as a neurological disorder.
Drug Addiction, Dependence and Withdrawal
If you have developed a drug addiction, dependence and withdrawal are two critical components you need to understand. Dependence can develop when you take medication over a period of time. Depending on the addictive nature of the medication and your own personal situation, dependence can sometimes develop quickly. If you do become dependent on your medication, you will experience withdrawal symptoms when you abruptly stop taking the medication. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea and tremors.
Addiction generally means you also have a psychological dependence on the medication in addition to a physical dependence.
Medication Overdose
The potential for medication overdose is quite real and should not be taken lightly. In instances where an individual has become dependent on a medication, they may begin taking increasingly larger doses of the medication in order to achieve the same effects. This can result in an overdose – a serious medical situation that can be fatal.
If you believe that you or someone you know may be taking too much medication and could be at risk for overdose, it is important to seek help right away. Please contact us at 1-888-480-5593.
Depression and Neurological Problems
Depression and neurological problems are often interrelated. Due to the debilitating nature of depression, individuals who suffer from it as well as neurological problems may find recovery to be challenging without professional assistance. Many different treatment options are available that can assist you with the treatment of your depression, including therapy in combination with medication.
Dual Diagnosis: Addiction and Neurological Disorders
Seeking help from a facility that offers the ability to make a dual diagnosis, such as a diagnose of an addiction compounded by a neurological disorder, is critical for achieving an optimal recovery. If one issue is treated but the other is left untreated, the chances of achieving a full recovery can be diminished. In a treatment facility that focuses on addressing both addiction and neurological issues, you will be able to receive the critical help you need for your addiction while at the same time ensuring that your neurological disorder is also treated.
Getting Help for a Neurological Issue
Regardless of how long you have suffered, it is important to know that assistance is available. With professional medical treatment, it is possible to manage your neurological disorder while also treating any other comorbid condition, such as addiction. The key is to choose a treatment facility that specializes in the treatment of neurological problems.
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