Neurological Conditions

A multifocal approach is required to address the symptoms and treat the cause while providing relief to the patient. Underlying Cause: This entails detecting and treating the original cause of the neuropathy, as that can then lead to recovery by first healing the damaged nerves and regrowth of destroyed nerves. For instance if it is a complication of diabetes, regulating the blood sugar levels, losing weight and exercising morewill be the aim of treatment. For vitamin deficiency, start on B12…

Neuropathy can have a major impact on one’s quality of life, hence incorporating daily management techniques along with treatment can be very helpful. These can be: Dietary changes to include healthy well-balanced meals rich with nutrients and vitamins to fulfill any deficiencies. Quitting alcohol and tobacco use can have immense benefits for the heart, kidney and liver. Loss of excessive body weight is known to greatly improve mobility and health. Daily exercise to strengthen weak muscles is…

A clinical examination is essential to the diagnosis of neuropathy. This will include a thorough medical history (social habits, alcohol/tobacco use, risk of infections, family history etc.), physical exam, and a neurological exam to test the reflexes of the motor and sensory nerves. If suspected of any specific diseases, a blood test may be ordered for diabetes, vitamin deficiency, liver and kidney function etc. In addition, scans such as CT or MRI may be done to investigate the cause of…

Lifestyle changes can prevent risk factors that are likely to induce neuropathy; these include smoking and alcohol cessation, avoiding exposure to toxins, losing weight, eating healthy and correct vitamin deficiencies. If you have a known chronic kidney, systemic or autoimmune disease, make sure to keep it under check. For diabetics, tight control of blood sugar level and daily foot care can be very advantageous. Early recognition and treatment of neuropathy can slow down progression and even…

Types and Complications of Neuropathy There are numerous types of neuropathies identified, based on the types of nerves damaged. There are 3 types of nerve fibers that can be affected and most doctors will use these terms to describe the diagnosis: Motor: these are nerves that control muscle movement e.g. walking, talking, holding etc. Sensory: these are nerves that transmit sensations e.g. pain, touch, temperature etc. Autonomic: these are nerves responsible for regulating unconscious…

The types of nerves affected reflect the symptoms and signs experienced by the patient. Motor Sensory Autonomic Weakness Tingling Sweat excessively or not at all Cramps Numbness Difficulty swallowing Spasms Pain (shooting or stabbing) Nausea and vomiting Difficulty walking or moving Sensitivity to touch (burning sensation) Dizziness or fainting Loss of balance and coordination Difficulty sleeping due to pain Diarrhea or constipation Loss of reflexes Sensation of wearing…

Injury is the most common cause of nerve trauma from accidents, falls, medical procedures, recurring pressureon a nerve etc. Other causes for nerve injury include slipped discs, broken bones, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, ligament/tendon problems etc. Diabetes is the foremost cause of polyneuropathy seen in 60-70% of diabetic patients. Studies show that high blood sugar levels slowly damage the nerves and the blood vessels that supply the nerves with oxygen. Poor glycemic control is the…

Neuropathy (also known as Peripheral neuropathy) is a condition wherein the nerves of the body are damaged (from injury or disease) and thus fail to function normally. This affects the communication between the nerves and the brain. It is a fairly common condition and can affect people of all ages. It is however, more common in men and the elderly, and those with a family history of inherited neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is not a single condition but an umbrella term for several disorders…

Stroke or Cardiovascular accident or CVA is a real medical emergency. Quick and timely intervention helps. Dr. Shital Raval tells what you should do to help someone having a stroke.  Stroke, also called Cardiovascular accident or CVA, is a Medical emergency! It occurs when blood flow to the brain or part of the brain become restricted or blocked. This may lead to damage or death of the brain cells from lack of oxygen causing temporary or permanent impairment of the functioning of the brain…

When A Chitra, 38 from Bengaluru started having seizures, she was initially treated for epilepsy but was eventually diagnosed with Malignant Glioma, a type of brain tumour. She shares how she handled the gamut of treatment and the emotional distress with the support of her team of doctors, family and friends and employer.  Chitra, please tell us a bit about your condition  I was diagnosed with brain tumour called Anaplastic Astrocytoma Grade III. It is a rare, malignant tumour…