What are neurological disorders?
Neurological disorders are disorders of the brain, spinal cord and nerves, which together control the workings of the body.
Neurological problems can cause problems with speaking, moving, swallowing and breathing, and can also cause problems with memory, sense and mood.
How common are neurological disorders?
Ten per cent of the population in the UK go to their GP’s with a neurological problem every year. There are more than 600 neurological disorders.
The major types are diseases caused by faulty genes like muscular dystrophy, problems with the development of the nervous system, degenerative diseases like Parkinson’s, diseases of the blood vessels that supply the brain like strokes, injuries to the spinal cord and brain, seizure disorders, cancers and infections.
How can neurological disorders be prevented?
Whilst neurological disorders cannot be completely prevented, there are lifestyle changes you can make to lower your chances of suffering some of them.
If you have high blood pressure, try to get it under control to prevent a stroke. Do not smoke, eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Additionally, avoid prolonged exposure to pesticides, herbicides and other chemicals.
How are neurological disorders treated?
Unfortunately there are very few medications that can provide absolute relief from symptoms induced by neurological problems. Most medications provide a gradual but restricted relief from symptoms.