Posted On: September 21, 2015 by NARA in: Uncategorized
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Neurological disorders impact millions of Americans.[/caption]
Neurological disorders are slow-progressing disorders that begin to take away muscle function, motor skills and independence. Being diagnosed with a neurological disorder can be scary for patients, but at NARA, we believe knowledge is power. That is why we’re here to help you learn more about common neurological disorders, including their symptoms and treatment options.
Multiple Sclerosis
Commonly referred to as MS, multiple sclerosis has a two different types, or courses: relapsing-remitting and progressive. Patients diagnosed with a relapsing-remitting course of MS will not experience symptoms for long times, possibly years, although symptoms to eventually return. Progressive MS has no relapse in symptoms, which include body numbness, vision loss, tingling pain, fatigue and gait issues. Treatment options for MS include physical therapy to improve balance issues, maintain strength and reduce fatigue. MS has no known cure.
Parkinson’s Disease
Like MS, Parkinson’s disease has no known cure and is a progressive disorder. Parkinson’s disease causes damage to nerves, and symptoms include tremors. These tremors may be small at first, possible unnoticeable, but will become more pronounced as the disorder slowly progresses. Parkinson’s disease has several other symptoms, including muscle tightening, balance issues and changes in speech. Symptoms can be managed with medication and physical therapy that help improve flexibility and focus on everyday movements.
Stroke
Strokes are serious and can be potentially fatal without quick action. Stokes happen when blood flow to the brain is either stopped or disrupted. Symptoms include headaches, partial paralysis, impaired vision and acute onset speech issues. Recognizing symptoms of a stroke means you have to act FAST:
- Face Drooping: Facial paralysis will cause the face to droop or numbness to occur. This can be seen by asking the person to smile. An uneven smile could be the sign of a stroke.
- Arm Weakness: Ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm is weaker or drifting downward, the person may be having a stroke.
- Speech Difficulty: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. If their speech is slurred, they are unable to speak or they don’t understand you, call for help.
- Time to Call 911: A person experiencing any of these symptoms needs to receive immediate medical attention. Call 911 and be sure to make not of when the symptoms started.
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