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Due to the ageing population in India, cases of non-communicable neurological disorders are increasing, affecting their quality of life. Overall, neurological disorders contribute to 10% of the total disease burden. Among these disorders, headache, epilepsy, and stroke are the leading contributors, with stroke also being the third leading cause of death1. Understanding the adaptability of the brain to these disorders is crucial for developing effective treatments and improving patient outcomes. This blog will explore neurological disorders, how the brain adapts and changes in response to these conditions, and the implications for treatment and recovery.
Synopsis
About Neurological Disorders
The conditions that affect the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system (central and peripheral) are called neurological disorders. The major risk factors behind these nervous system disorders are high blood pressure, air pollution, high fasting plasma glucose, a high body mass index, and dietary risks. These diseases are mostly the result of infections, congenital anomalies, genetic abnormalities, traumatic injuries, or environmental health problems. These disorders can be divided into two categories: those affecting the CNS and the PNS.
Common Neurological Disorders
The list of the most common neurological disorders or diseases is:
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Alzheimer’s disease
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Parkinson’s disease
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Migraine
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Huntington disease
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Multiple sclerosis
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Epilepsy and seizures
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Diabetic neuropathy
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Guillian-Barre syndrom
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Bell’s Palsy
Book an appointment with our best Neurology Doctor in Bhubaneswar to map your perfect treatment plan.
How Your Brain Adapts and Changes in Neurological Diseases
The brain can change, adapt, and reorganise itself when it experiences damage or disease. This process of the brain’s adaptability to recover from neurological disorders is called neuroplasticity or brain plasticity. Neuroplasticity can be of two main types:
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Structural plasticity: The brain changes its physical structure by forming new neural connections and pathways based on its experiences or memories.
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Functional plasticity: This is the brain's ability to move functions from damaged areas of the brain to other undamaged areas. This helps in maintaining cognitive and physical abilities despite any damage or injury.
How does Neuroplasticity help with Neurological Disorders?
Rapid brain growth is seen during the child's initial years, and with age, neurons develop stronger connections. The ones that are not used eventually die. This process of pruning away the weak ones and developing new connections helps the brain adapt to the environment.
Neuroplasticity also helps with serious conditions like stroke. During a stroke, the blood does not reach the brain properly, resulting in the damage or death of brain cells and leading to physical and cognitive disabilities. However, the brain can restore some of its functions by making new connections, or a healthy part of the brain may take over these functions, restoring the lost ability. Physical, cognitive, and occupational therapies help the brain regain lost motor functions and enhance this process.
However, in Parkinson’s disease, patients can benefit from cognitive therapies that enhance mental skills and exercises that help with motor functions, compensating for the decline in these areas due to this neurological condition. Adaptive strategies in the case of multiple sclerosis include using assistive devices and modifying daily routines to conserve energy and maintain independence. Whereas Alzheimer's disease uses a compensation mechanism, patients might use external aids like notes or rely on familiar routines to help manage daily tasks. This approach helps them cope with cognitive challenges like memory loss.
Conclusion
Understanding how the brain adapts and changes in response to neurological disorders is vital for developing effective treatments and rehabilitation strategies. Neuroplasticity plays a key role in helping patients recover from and adapt to the changes brought about by these conditions. While treating neurological disorders can be challenging, ongoing research and therapeutic advancements continue to provide hope for improved management and quality of life for those affected. Seek consultation at our Neurology Hospital in Bhubaneswar, to manage your neurological condition in a better way and enhance your overall well-being. Check out our blog page for all the latest updates in the medical world.
FAQ's
The brain's ability to adapt to disease changes can be improved in the following ways:
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Enrich your environment by stimulating the brain to learn a new language, travel, read, etc
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Take plenty of rest, as good sleep is essential for mental health
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Regular physical activity
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Practice mindfulness
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Playing different games
The symptoms may differ among individuals, but the common signs include:
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Numbness or tingling
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Unexplained weakness
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Loss of sight
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Persistent or sudden headache
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Memory loss
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Mood or behaviour changes
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Seizures
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Movement and coordination changes
Some neurological conditions, like stroke, may require immediate attention, so if you experience any of these symptoms, seek consultation promptly.
Three major types of brain scans are used for diagnosing diseases affecting the nervous system. These are computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positive emission tomography (PET).
Though neurological disorders cannot be fully cured, with therapies and medications, daily functioning can be restored. Also, making lifestyle changes, physiotherapy, and pain management can help minimise their effects on your overall health.
To schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, contact our Neurology Department or visit our website.
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