Neurological

Dementia is a term used to describe a group of neurological disorders that affect cognitive functioning, memory, and the ability to perform daily activities. It is caused by several underlying diseases or injuries that progressively destroy nerve cells and damage the brain, leading to significant cognitive decline beyond what is expected from normal ageing. Dementia has substantial physical, psychological, social, and economic impacts on individuals, their caregivers, families, and society as a whole.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It affects approximately 50 million people worldwide and can lead to various symptoms, including convulsions, changes in behaviour, and loss of consciousness. Treatment options are available to help manage seizures and improve the quality of life for those living with epilepsy.

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness and fatigue in voluntary muscles, particularly those controlling eye movements, facial expressions, and limb and respiratory functions. The condition occurs when the body's immune system produces antibodies that interfere with the communication between nerves and muscles, leading to muscle weakness that worsens with activity and improves with rest.

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behaviour. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-70% of cases. The disease is characterised by the accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain, leading to the death of brain cells and a decline in cognitive function.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease, affecting the central nervous system. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibres, known as myelin. This damage disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to various symptoms. While the exact cause of MS is unknown, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder with possible genetic, environmental, and infectious triggers.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement, balance, and coordination. It is caused by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, leading to a deficiency in dopamine, a neurotransmitter essential for motor control. The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is still unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

A brain aneurysm, also known as a cerebral aneurysm, is a bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain. It occurs when there is a weakness in the wall of a blood vessel, which can cause it to stretch and balloon out. If the aneurysm ruptures, it can lead to a life-threatening condition called a subarachnoid haemorrhage.

Neuropathic pain, or nerve pain, is a chronic condition caused by damage to the nervous system. It is characterised by shooting, stabbing, burning, or electric shock-like sensations and can be challenging to treat. Various factors, such as diabetes, shingles, multiple sclerosis, and injuries, can lead to neuropathic pain.

Vertigo is a condition characterised by a sensation of spinning, swaying, or feeling off balance. It is a type of dizziness where individuals feel as though they or their surroundings are moving when there is no actual movement. Vertigo can significantly impact daily life, causing difficulties in maintaining balance and performing everyday tasks.

Migraine is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent episodes of severe headaches, often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. It affects millions of people worldwide, causing significant disability and impacting daily life. Migraines involve the activation of nerve fibres within the wall of brain blood vessels, leading to throbbing pain on one side of the head.