What Disease Attacks the Central Nervous System?

Understanding CNS Disorders: From Infections to Injury

The brain and spinal cord comprise the central nervous system (CNS), which commands all the actions of the human body. It controls an individual’s memory, emotion, sensation, and movement.

There are several diseases that affect the CNS and can have significant and, at times, severe consequences. They affect daily life and can be life-threatening in extreme situations. Thus, to maintain neurological health, one needs to understand these conditions, including their causes, symptoms, and preventative measures.

Keep reading for detailed insight!

What Are the Diseases That Attack Your Central Nervous System?

Various diseases can affect your central nervous system. Here are some of them:

1. Infections : Bacteria or viruses frequently cause diseases like encephalitis, which is an inflammation of the brain itself. They also cause meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. If these conditions are not treated right away, they can quickly become life-threatening, disrupting the functioning of your central nervous system.
2. Autoimmune Disorders : One of the best examples of autoimmune disorders is multiple sclerosis (MS). In this condition, the immune system unintentionally targets the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibres, impairing brain-to-body communication. Another autoimmune disease that involves inflammation of the blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord is CNS vasculitis.
3. Degenerative Diseases : Over time, nerve cells are gradually damaged by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer's disease, and other dementias, resulting in a loss of function.
4. Tumours : Neural tissue may be compressed or invaded by benign or malignant tumours that grow in the central nervous system (CNS), resulting in a range of symptoms.
5. Developmental and Genetic Disorders : Neurodevelopmental conditions like autism spectrum disorder involve atypical CNS function but are distinct from acquired or degenerative CNS diseases.
6. Traumatic Damage : CNS function may be affected immediately and permanently by accidents that result in traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury.
7. Additional Neurological Conditions : The central nervous system is also directly affected by movement disorders like Parkinson's disease, migraines, and epilepsy, which are characterised by recurrent seizures.

What are the symptoms of a weak nervous system?

Symptoms of CNS diseases may vary based on the condition and the area that has been affected. However, here are some of the common symptoms of central nervous system disorders:

• Persistent or sudden headaches
• Loss of feeling or tingling in limbs
• Weakness or loss of muscle strength
• Loss of sight or double vision
• Memory loss and impaired mental ability
• Lack of coordination or balance
• Muscle rigidity, tremors, or seizures
• Back pain radiating to other parts of the body
• Slurred speech or language difficulties
• Changes in personality or confusion

You may notice these symptoms suddenly, or they may develop gradually, resulting in mild to life-threatening consequences. Because the CNS controls so many body functions, a healthcare professional should evaluate even minor symptoms.

How to Keep Your Central Nervous System Healthy?

Though it is not possible to prevent all the diseases that attack the central nervous system, the following strategies can help maintain its health:

• Protection Against Injury : Severe injuries due to accidents or falling from a height often lead to diseases that can attack your central nervous system. Take preventative measures to avoid falls and accidents, and wear helmets and seat belts while riding a bike.
• Preventing Infections : Maintain current immunisations, proper personal hygiene, and, whenever feasible, stay away from infectious agents.
• Handle Chronic Conditions : To lower the risk of stroke and other vascular issues, manage blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices : Limit alcohol intake, avoid smoking, exercise frequently, and eat a balanced diet.
• Mental Health Care : Take care of stress, get treatment for anxiety or depression, and do things that make your brain work.
• Routine Checkup : Many CNS diseases can be prevented, or their progression can be slowed by early risk factor identification and management.
• Avoid Toxins : Limit exposure to harmful chemicals and avoid recreational drug use.

Diseases that attack the central nervous system are diverse and can be life-altering. They range from infections and autoimmune disorders to injuries, tumours, and degenerative conditions.

Recognising symptoms early, understanding the underlying causes, and adopting preventive measures are essential to protecting CNS health. With advances in medicine and increased awareness, many CNS diseases can be managed more effectively, helping individuals maintain a higher quality of life for longer.

Furthermore, having a comprehensive health insurance policy can help get timely medical care upon noticing symptoms without bearing the financial implications.

Contact Star Health today and get the best policy for your healthcare needs!