Your brain, spinal cord and nerves make up the nervous system, and together they control all the functions of the body. When something goes wrong with any part of it, the result can be problems with moving, speaking, swallowing, learning or breathing. Neurological disorders — diseases of the central or peripheral nervous system — affect hundreds of millions of people worldwide every year.
What causes neurological disorders?
The brain and spinal cord are insulated by membranes that can be vulnerable to force and pressure, and the peripheral nerves deep under the skin can also be damaged. Even a slight disturbance to a neuron's structural pathway can cause dysfunction. Causes are diverse and include:
- Lifestyle-related causes
- Infections
- Genetics
- Nutrition-related causes
- Environmental influences
- Physical injuries
What are the signs?
The signs vary with the type of disorder and the part of the body affected. Sometimes they appear as emotional symptoms, and in other cases as physical ones.
Emotional symptoms
People often look for physical symptoms first, but there can also be emotional ones — mood swings, sudden outbursts, depression or delusions. If you notice these in yourself or a loved one, seek help right away.
Physical symptoms
- Partial or complete paralysis
- Muscle weakness
- Partial or complete loss of sensation
- Seizures
- Difficulty reading and writing
- Poor cognitive abilities
- Decreased alertness
How to keep your brain healthy
Exercise regularly
Regular exercise greatly reduces the risk of neurological disorders and can slow the progression of existing conditions such as Alzheimer's — while improving energy, sleep and reducing anxiety and depression.
Avoid smoking, alcohol and drugs
Mood-altering substances impair thinking, focus and memory, lower motivation and slow cognitive processes — and can contribute to cancers.
Eat a nutrient-rich diet
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet supports healthy nerve function and overall brain health.
Meditate
Our brains need time to process information deeply. Integrating meditation and positive thinking into daily life helps manage chronic stress and supports well-being.
Stay active
A strong sense of purpose contributes to longevity and good brain health. Developing multiple skills and interests over your lifetime keeps the brain sharp.
