The human brain is one of the most complex structures known to man.
Popular opinion is that even with years of study and research and now, with the help of modern imaging, doctors and scientists have only succeeded in decoding 5-10% of this organ. But the fact that our brains contain the entirety of who we are is not far from the truth.
With an organ so vital and central to our being, any problems or diseases must be treated promptly.
Dr. Muhammad Shahid Iqbal, Consultant of Neurology and Stroke Medicine, conducted a Facebook Live session to raise awareness about common neurological disorders, ranging from migraine to epilepsy.
What is a migraine?
Migraine is a craniovascular disorder that affects up to one billion people worldwide. It arises due to the cranial vessels and nerve-ending inflammation inside the brain. While causes may vary for each case, most patients are genetically predisposed to develop migraine if even one parent suffers from this condition. Treatment plans are usually customised to patients’ level of discomfort and attack frequency.
What is a stroke?
Stroke is a leading cause of disability and the third largest cause of death worldwide. While the incidence of being affected by a stroke can be significantly reduced by making good lifestyle choices like a good diet, sleep and exercise, it is essential to recognise the signs of a stroke and to take action to save the patient’s life. Call the emergency line to report a medical emergency in case of facial drooping, loss of control of arms, and impediment in speech.
As humans grow older, the brain degenerates, thus putting a halt to the activities in which a person may have engaged. Even simple tasks like going to the bathroom, eating one’s food, and remembering people become difficult.
Degenerative conditions can be grouped under two major diseases that usually affect the elderly, Alzheimer’s, and Dementia.
Patients with Alzheimer’s have trouble learning new tasks, remembering everyday jobs, and in advanced or end-stage cases, the patient may even lose urinal control and the ability to eat. While there is no cure for these two conditions, there are medications to help mitigate the symptoms.
Epilepsy, while taboo, is easy to manage once its underlying cause has been determined. This condition, too, requires a personalised treatment plan, as different stimuli may trigger other people.
The same is the case for Parkinson’s, where a combination of medications may be used to treat this condition. The brain is a delicate, vital organ, and diseases related to the brain and nervous system can seriously impact a person’s life and quality of life.
Therefore, a specialist practitioner’s quick, correct, and decisive action is necessary for the patient’s welfare.
