Neurological disorders can stem from a number of factors, ranging from genetic predispositions to environmental influences. Chronic inflammation or immune system dysfunctions may contribute to the development of certain conditions over time. Additionally, genetic mutations, environmental exposures, and lifestyle choices play pivotal roles in shaping neurological health.
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, brain tumours occur when certain genes in a cell's chromosomes are damaged, affecting their function. These genes regulate cell division, repair damaged genes, and trigger cell self-destruction if needed. Sometimes, people are born with gene defects, which can be worsened by environmental factors.
Neurological disorders are health conditions that affect the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. These disorders present in diverse ways, with symptoms varying based on the specific disorder and its severity, says Dr Anmol Nagaraj, Senior Consultant in Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery at Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur.
Dr Nagaraj highlights several significant symptoms that may indicate an underlying neurological cause or are commonly associated with various neurological disorders. These include:
Headaches: Persistent or severe headaches such as migraines, tension headaches, or brain tumours, can be a symptom of various neurological conditions.
Vomiting: Constant or projectile vomiting may be indicative of any mass lesion in the brain or infection or obstruction in the flow of brain fluid due to raised intracranial pressure.
Seizures: Seizures, typically presenting as involuntary body movements, changes in behaviour, and consciousness, are due to sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. They are characteristic of epilepsy but can also occur in other neurological disorders.
Weakness or numbness: Weakness or numbness in the limbs, often on one side of the body, may indicate conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy, or tumors.
Tremors: Involuntary shaking or trembling of the hands, arms, legs, or other parts of the body can be a symptom of Parkinson's disease, which is an essential tremor, or dystonia.
Dizziness or loss of balance: Sensations of dizziness, vertigo (spinning sensation), or loss of balance may occur due to inner ear problems or disorders of the vestibular system and migraines.
Changes in coordination: Difficulty with coordination, balance, or fine motor skills may be a sign of ataxia, cerebral palsy, or certain types of brain injury.
Memory loss or cognitive impairment: Memory problems, confusion, difficulty concentrating, or other cognitive changes can be indicative of Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or traumatic brain injury.
Poor vision: Blurred vision, double vision, eye pain, or other visual disturbances may result from conditions affecting the eyes, optic nerve, or visual processing areas of the brain, such as optic neuritis, glaucoma, stroke, or tumors.
Speech and language difficulties: Difficulty speaking, slurred speech, or problems understanding language may occur due to conditions like aphasia, dysarthria, or speech apraxia.
Sensory disturbances: Abnormal sensations such as tingling, burning, or numbness in the skin can be symptoms of peripheral nerve disorders, neuropathies, tumors, or conditions such as fibromyalgia.
Mood regulation: Neurological disorders can sometimes affect mood regulation, leading to symptoms such as depression, anxiety, irritability, or personality changes.
Insufficient sleep: Insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, or disrupted sleep patterns may be associated with sleep apnoea, restless legs syndrome, or narcolepsy.
Things to keep in mind:
Factors like chronic inflammation, immune system dysfunction, genetics, and lifestyle choices can also play a role in tumor development. The symptoms listed aren't exclusive to neurological disorders but can stem from various medical issues, adds Dr. Nagaraj. “The presence of one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate a neurological disorder. Seeking prompt evaluation from a specialist is vital for accurate diagnosis and treatment, as some untreated conditions may raise the risk of brain tumors over time. Therefore, timely assessment and management are essential for proper care and potential prevention of serious health complications.” he explains.
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