It can be nerve-racking to have your brain examined. You want to ensure that your brain is as healthy as it can be and do everything possible to prevent a serious illness.
It’s crucial to understand the top 10 brain diseases in order to get the correct diagnosis.
Meningiomas
Meningiomas, or brain tumors, are caused by the membranes surrounding the meninges.
These tumors are classified as benign or malignant. Malignant tumors are characterized with cellular abnormalities, increased pressure in the skull and atypical morphology. Some symptoms include headaches, memory loss, vision problems and difficulty speaking. Most are benign.
Meningiomas tend to grow slowly. The treatment usually involves the removal of tumors, which can be done through surgery or radiotherapy.
Surgery is determined by the size of tumor. Radiation therapy is often used to treat smaller meningiomas instead of surgery.
Biopsy is used to diagnose meningioma. A pathologist examines the tissue using a microscope. A neuropathologist determines the type and grade of the tumor.
World Health Organization (WHO) classifies meningiomas according to their histopathological characteristics. The grade 3 tumors tend to be more malignant while the grade 2 tumors grow slowly. The likelihood of recurrence is higher for more malignant tumor types.
Meningiomas malignant can cause damage. It can affect walking, balance, and speech. Others may also suffer from seizures, vision impairment or swallowing problems. They may also develop hydrocephalus – a condition where the contents of the skull build up.
Meningioma can cause headaches, seizures and memory loss. Tumors can press on the brain, spinal cord, and other important parts.
Patients are encouraged to seek treatment immediately due to the potential for complications. Sometimes, tumors can invade nearby bones and tissues. Surgery is often needed to prevent this.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disorder that progresses. Memory loss and other issues are caused by the disease, which damages brain cells. Scientists believe that the changes in gene are the cause, even though the cause is unknown.
Alzheimer’s patients develop tau fiber tangles in their brain. These tangles interfere with the normal function of nerve cells. The nerve cells transmit messages between different parts of the mind. This message is essential for people to think clearly.
Alzheimer’s is not curable. There are treatments that can slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s. You or someone close to you who has this condition can seek help from a social worker or doctor. You can participate in clinical studies to determine if certain medications will help.
Some patients initially experience mild cognitive impairment. This stage is between normal aging, and dementia. MCI is common in people who do not show any signs of Alzheimer’s.
As the disease advances, Alzheimer’s patients lose the ability to carry out simple daily activities. Disorientation and difficulty dressing or getting up are common symptoms.
Alzheimer’s is characterized by memory loss. Patients may have trouble remembering recent events or identifying their family members. Memory loss can be severe in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease. People are unable to converse or react to their surroundings.
Alzheimer’s symptoms can be difficult to distinguish from other illnesses. It can also be difficult to diagnose. Consult a doctor. There are tests that can detect Alzheimer’s.
Vascular Malformations
Vascular malformations occur when the blood vessels of the body become distorted or deformed. These malformations can be benign or life-threatening. Treatment for a vascular lession is dependent on the type and age of the vessel.
They can occur in the brain, or other parts of the human body. They can affect normal functioning. The treatment aims to minimize symptoms and prevent recurrence.
A malformation of the veins within the brain is the cause of brain vascular malformations. They can rupture when they become unstable and leak blood into the head, leading to a number of complications. They can cause stroke and brain hemorrhage.
High venous pressure within the brain is usually responsible for malformations of the brain vascular system. This can cause headaches and brain swelling. Stroke-like symptoms can also be caused by high venous blood pressure. Seizures and mental changes are also symptoms of unruptured malformations.
The brain vascular malformations that can cause serious complications are not cancerous. A vascular malformation can rupture in the brain and cause numbness, or even loss of consciousness, when it releases blood.
They can be a cause of symptoms when they bleed and expand, but can also occur on their own. Those with vascular malformations can have symptoms or no symptoms.
Most vascular lesions require treatment. It may require multiple treatments depending on the location and size of the lesion.
Autoimmune Brain Diseases
Autoimmune diseases of the brain are caused by a malfunctioning immune system.
These conditions can be caused either by a genetic mutation or an infection. These conditions can affect various brain regions. Symptoms vary according to the type of autoimmune disorder.
Autoimmune brain diseases are often caused by infections and head injuries. Examples include amebas, the herpes virus (HSV), malaria protozoa and the herpes simplex.
Nerve inflammation is a result of an autoimmune reaction. This inflammation can be seen as seizures or encephalomyelitis. This occurs when the immune systems attacks the myelin layer, which covers the nerves.
A autoimmune disorder can lead to confusion, fatigue, headaches, and irritability. It can also cause vision loss in children and abnormal movements. Patients with cancer or a neurologic illness may experience more severe symptoms. Paranoia and depression can develop in children.
Cancer and autoimmune diseases of the brain can occur together. Autoantibodies directed against synaptic receptors or cell insulation may be present in these cases. Patients with myasthenia graveis can also have these types of antibodies.
Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) affects the central nervous systems. Patients can suffer from vision loss and inflammation of their optic nerves. NMO can be misdiagnosed for multiple sclerosis.
Anti-Ri antibody is often associated with anti PCA2 antibody. Both antibodies were shown to be harmful in vitro and vivo. There have also been reports that a high percentage of infections occur before MOG-antibody related disease.
First, a radioimmunoassay is used to screen for antibodies against the synaptic surface. Second, a Western Blot Assay is used.
Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injury can lead to cognitive difficulties, confusion, and unsteadiness. Recovery is possible. Most people with TBIs recover their functional abilities in two to four weeks.
Mild TBIs are often treated with medication, but moderate and severe TBIs may require more invasive treatments and longer rehabilitation. Each year, approximately 235,000 people receive hospital treatment for moderate-to-severe head injuries.
Each person has a different level of severity and symptoms. Others are in a state of coma while some patients have significant disabilities.
TBI can be classified into two types: primary and secondary. Primary injuries can occur at the moment of impact, and they may affect the entire brain. The secondary injury occurs weeks or even months after the initial trauma.
Primary and secondary injuries are both life-threatening. Consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible if you suspect a TBI. They can check the blood flow to the brain and its oxygen levels.
Mild TBI can be treated with pain relievers available over the counter and gradual return to regular activities. The symptoms may be mild, and they might not show up until days later.
TBIs that are moderate or severe can have a long-term impact on a person’s mental and physical health. These injuries may cause long-term behavior problems and an increased risk of developing dementia.
The severity of the damage to the brain can be determined by a CT scan. Counseling and therapy can help patients with TBIs deal with their recovery.
Patients can expect to stay in hospital for several weeks or even months, depending on the severity. The swelling in the brain can be reduced by surgery.
Parkinson’s Disease
It can affect anyone, but it is most common among older adults.
Parkinson’s disease symptoms usually begin slowly and progress over time. The symptoms can include muscle stiffness and sleep issues. The condition is treated with a variety of medications that stimulate the dopamine-producing brain cells.
It is not known what causes the disorder. Scientists think that environmental and genetic factors work together to cause this disease. A single gene mutation may be responsible for approximately five percent of all inherited cases.
Researchers are trying to understand the causes of PD. According to one theory, oxidative stress or misfolding of proteins may be responsible. The sympathetic nervous system may also play a part in this condition.
Parkinson’s disease is progressive, chronic and degenerative. There is no cure for Parkinson’s, but there are treatments which can slow down or stop its progression. Follow the recommendations of your healthcare provider for medication and treatment.
Parkinson’s is a movement disorder affecting millions of brain nerve cells. These neurons usually produce dopamine which is a chemical that aids in coordination of movements.
These neurons eventually stop producing dopamine. This causes uncontrollable movements. Some of these changes may be manageable, while others may not.
Some people who have PD also develop dementia. This is a more serious form of the condition. Other symptoms of PD include sleep disorders, depression and cognitive impairment.
Epilepsy
It is a neurological condition that is caused abnormal brain activity. Recurrent seizures are the hallmark of epilepsy.
The condition can be caused in many ways, including brain injuries, abnormalities of the wiring in the brain, metabolic disorders and brain infections. Overall, epilepsy has a favorable prognosis. Misdiagnosis, however, can cause premature death.
Epilepsy is classified into two types. General onset seizures and focal seizures. Focal seizures occur more frequently than generalized seizures. They affect more brain areas.
Seizures can be caused by a variety of factors, such as brain infections, autoimmune diseases, head injuries and metabolic disorders. You can treat them with medication, surgery and special diets.
Around 50 million people suffer from epilepsy worldwide. It is manageable, even though it’s a condition that will last a lifetime. Most patients are seizure-free after taking anti-seizure medications.
The treatment is tailored to the individual. Some patients may benefit from surgery or the implanting of a neurostimulator. Some patients are enrolled in drug trials. Epilepsy sufferers should avoid triggers which can cause seizures.
If anti-seizure medications do not work, they can be stopped. Consider both personal and clinical factors when deciding whether to stop taking the drug.
Epilepsy is a condition that can be treated but the stigma attached to it may discourage some people from seeking help. Anti-seizure medication can reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. 60-70% people with epilepsy are seizure-free with this medication.
Multiple Sclerosis
MS is an autoimmune disease that affects both the brain and spinal chord. It is the most common cause of non-traumatic disabilities in young adults living in Europe and North America.
The symptoms of schizophrenia can vary greatly from one person to another. Some of the most common symptoms are fatigue, poor concentration, memory loss, and emotional instability.
MS can be treated. MS attacks can be made less severe by medications, such as steroids. Physical therapy is also helpful in maintaining physical function.
The central nervous system’s myelin is damaged by the immune system. Myelin loss prevents nerve messages from travelling along. Patients can experience a variety of symptoms depending on the severity of the damage.
MS is diagnosed using an MRI. A MRI can detect lesions of the brain or spinal chord. You can also perform other tests, such as a lumbar puncture and spinal tap.
A blood test can also confirm the diagnosis of MS. A blood test can be used to exclude other immune-deficient conditions.
A neurologist will recommend medication to reduce pain and inflammation depending on the severity of the disease. The disease can be slowed down by corticosteroids.
MS management is a part of managing stress. Stress can lead to fatigue and interfere with sleep. Yoga and exercise can reduce stress. Healthy eating, including fruits, vegetables and whole grains, is also recommended.
A disease-modifying program is the most effective way to treat MS. These therapies have been FDA-approved for long-term treatment of MS. These therapies can delay the growth of new lesions.
Stroke
Stroke is a serious medical problem that occurs when blood flow to a part of the cerebral cortex is disrupted. The brain can be permanently damaged. The symptoms vary according to the location of brain damage.
Ischemic strokes are the most common. The arteries that supply oxygen-rich brain blood become narrowed or blocked. Hemorrhagic strokes are also common. They’re caused by a ruptured blood vessel or bleeding.
You should contact your local emergency service immediately if you suspect you are having a stroke. You will be given a neurological exam and diagnostic imaging to determine if you are suffering from a stroke.
Each treatment for stroke has its own benefits. The thrombolytic treatment, for example, can break up blood-clots to reduce the risk of stroke complications.
Other treatments include medications that lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Physical therapy can also improve balance and muscle control.
Stroke is not rare, but it’s not as common as heart disease or diabetes. A stroke affects approximately 15 million people each year. Women and men are more prone to strokes than others.
Three main types of stroke exist: haemorrhagic and hemorrhagic. Each type of stroke has its own symptoms. Hemorrhagic symptoms include bleeding in the brain.
The most common type of stroke is an ischemic stroke, which is caused by a blood clot that blocks an artery within the brain. According to the size of a clot in the brain, one side of the brain can experience weakness, difficulty speaking or swallowing, or numbness.
Brain Tumors – Gliomas
Gliomas, or brain tumors, are among the most common. They are often fatal but can be treated. The treatment options are dependent on the location, type, and age of the glioma.
The majority of patients with a glioma require surgery to remove their cancer. The surgeon will create an opening in the head to examine and remove the tumor.
Radiation can be used to treat brain tumors after surgery. This treatment is typically given after the diagnosis of a tumor.
Chemotherapy is another way to treat gliomas. The use of chemotherapy involves strong drugs that stop the growth of abnormal cell. Often, the drugs are administered via an IV. They can be placed in the fluid around the brain via a shunt.
A person can also participate in clinical studies to receive new treatments. You can feel more confident about your decision by getting a second opinion.
Gliomas can be increased by a genetic disorder or chemical exposure. You can discuss these tests with your doctor or genetic counselor if you are interested.
Gliomas are difficult to remove. It is difficult to remove a glioma because they often grow within the normal brain tissue. You doctor may recommend another surgery to remove the glioma.
Gliomas are also treated using targeted therapy. Targeted therapy is known to be effective for certain types of gliomas. This treatment focuses on the parts of the cancer cells that differ from healthy cells. This treatment is less damaging to healthy cells.
