10 Common Diseases of the Nervous System

10 Major Nervous System Disorders: A Medical Overview

The nervous system acts as the body's control hub, sending signals from the brain to every corner. It allows us to think, move, feel and even breathe. When this system is affected by a disease, it can lead to serious physical and mental issues. Understanding the common nervous system diseases is crucial to managing a healthy lifestyle.

What are the 10 common diseases of the nervous system?

Our nervous system facilitates communication between the brain and other body parts. However, nervous system diseases can disrupt this function. Here are the most common diseases affecting the nervous system:

1. Alzheimer’s Disease : This condition causes a steady decline in memory, thinking, and behaviour. Approximately 7.4% of older Indians suffer from Alzheimer's. In this condition, people may forget names, faces and how to perform basic actions. There is no known cure, but treatments such as cholinesterase inhibitors, NMDA receptor antagonists, and cognitive stimulation therapy may help manage symptoms.
2. Epilepsy : Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder that causes repeated seizures. These seizures occur due to unusual electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can manifest in many ways, including involuntary muscle movements, loss of awareness, staring spells, sensory disturbances, or unusual behaviors. Over 1.2 crore people in India suffer from epilepsy.
3. Stroke : A stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die. Symptoms include sudden weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, and loss of coordination. It is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is critical to minimize brain damage. 
4. Bell’s Palsy : Bell’s palsy causes sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face. It is a temporary condition which goes away within months. The exact cause is unknown, but it is often linked to viral infections (like herpes simplex) that cause inflammation and swelling of the facial nerve. Corticosteroids and other medicines can help manage symptoms.
5. Motor Neurone Disease (MND) : Motor neurone disease weakens parts of the nervous system and eventually affects speech, movement, and breathing. It is a rare condition, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is one of the most common forms of MND. Certain therapies and devices can support day-to-day function.
6. Parkinson’s Disease : This progressive condition mainly affects movement. Symptoms include tremors, stiffness, and slower movements. Parkinson’s happens when the brain cells that produce dopamine begin to die. Medication (e.g., levodopa) is the primary treatment to manage symptoms. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and regular exercise are also fundamental to maintaining mobility, balance, and quality of life.
7. Neurofibromatosis : This is a group of genetic disorders that cause tumours to form on nerve tissue. The tumours are usually non-cancerous, but they can affect hearing, vision, and bone development depending on their location. Regular check-ups and early treatment can help manage complications.
8. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) : MS is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerves. It leads to problems with balance, coordination, and vision. The symptoms can come and go or get worse over time. Although there is no cure, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are available to reduce the frequency of relapses and slow disease progression. Additional treatments help manage specific symptoms.
9. Cerebral Palsy : Cerebral palsy affects muscle tone, movement, and posture. This condition is caused by abnormal development or damage to the brain before, during, or shortly after birth. Children with cerebral palsy may have delayed milestones, poor coordination, or trouble walking. Doctors treat it with physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and special education.
10. Migraine : Migraine is a common neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, often debilitating headaches that are frequently accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Some people experience an "aura" before the headache, which can include visual disturbances, tingling, or speech difficulties. It is believed to involve abnormal brain activity affecting nerve signals, chemicals, and blood vessels. While there is no cure, treatments include acute medications to stop attacks and preventive therapies to reduce their frequency and severity. 

Diseases of the nervous system can deeply affect a person's quality of life. However, early diagnosis and the right treatment plan can make a significant difference.