Neurological disorders can affect your movement, coordination, sensation, cognition, communication and overall independence. Depending on the specific disorder and its severity, it can potentially cause challenges with activities like:
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Driving
- Eating
- Maintaining relationships
- Speaking
- Working
Specialized neurological care and physical, occupational and speech therapy help maximize function and quality of life for patients living with disorders.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder with no exact known cause or cure. Initial signs may seem minor yet worsen over time, or they may come and then not return for months. While MS can vary greatly from person to person, patients first report symptoms such as:
- An increase in trips, slips or general clumsiness
- Double vision or blindness in one eye
- Slurred speech or trouble with choosing words
- Weakening or numbness
A CT or MRI of the brain and spine can uncover any potential lesions. If lesions are found, specialists perform a spinal tap to test spinal fluid to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment is available to help patients successfully manage their MS symptoms.
Deep brain stimulation can be a life-transforming procedure for patients living with movement disorders, Parkinson disease, tremors and dystonia. While this surgery does not offer a cure, it is effective at easing symptoms, decreasing medications you need and improving your quality of life.
This safe and effective surgical procedure equips you to manage some of the most disabling symptoms, such as tremors, stiffness, difficulty walking and slowed movement. Ask your doctor if a referral is right for you.
Taking care of your brain is just as important as caring for your body. The brain affects how we think, feel and act. By keeping your brain active and engaged, you can maintain or improve your brain health.
Getting enough sleep and regular exercise provides a good foundation for your brain health, including your mental health. Avoiding unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive alcohol use helps too.
If you’re noticing issues with cognition, such as memory loss, visual spatial function issues and speech, be sure to bring this up to your doctor in a timely manner. Addressing mental and cognitive health issues early on is the best way to keep your brain functioning well throughout your lifetime.
