Neurological

Neurological conditions refer to any illnesses or problems to do with the nervous system. This naturally encompasses a wide range of conditions, from brain injuries to degenerative diseases. According to the latest estimates, roughly 16.5 million live with neurological conditions in the UK, however it is hard to be precise. Many neurological conditions go untreated and unnoticed, as they can be hard to diagnose at first.

There are a whole host of neurological conditions, each with their own symptoms and treatment options. Some of the most common conditions are:

• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Autistic Spectrum Disorder
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/ME
• Epilepsy
• Cluster Headaches
• Functional Neurological Disorder
• Migraines
• Motor Neurone Disease
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Restless Leg Syndrome
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Stroke

Neurological conditions vary widely, depending on what area of the nervous system they affect. Each condition often has its own unique symptoms, but some common ones associated with neurological conditions include:

• Seizures
• Dizziness
• Slurred speech
• Memory loss
• Nausea
• Weakness
• Changes in vision

Someone with a neurological condition may not experience all or even any of these. Neurological conditions can also lie dormant without symptoms for some time, making them often difficult to diagnose.

Treatment options are usually focused on managing symptoms, as many neurological conditions do not have a known cure. Instead, treatment will help the patient to live as happy, healthy a life as possible and attempt to reduce symptoms or alleviate them altogether. Nonetheless, there are still treatment options that can be useful for a range of neurological conditions. These include:

• Over-the-counter pain medication
• Prescription medication
• Antidepressants
• Talking therapy
• Nerve blocks
• Implantable devices
• Behavioural changes, such as exercising and encouraging healthy eating