The neurology department of Swastham Medicare- A Multispecialty Hospital stands as a beacon of excellence in neurological care, equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic facilities and advanced neuroimaging laboratories. Our department is committed to providing world-class services in diagnosing and treating a wide array of neurological conditions. Our advanced imaging services, including MRI, CT enable us to visualise the brain and nervous system with exceptional clarity. This precision in imaging is critical for early detection and accurate diagnosis, allowing us to develop effective, individualised treatment plans for our patients.

In addition to our state-of-the-art facilities, our neurologists are at the forefront of ground breaking research, particularly in the field of stroke management. Strokes, which occur when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or when a blood vessel bursts within the brain, require immediate and expert intervention. Our team at Swastham Medicare- A Multispeciality Hospital has successfully performed thrombolysis, a life-saving procedure that dissolves blood clots, on numerous patients. Our 24×7 stroke management facility ensures that patients receive prompt and effective treatment, significantly improving their chances of recovery and reducing long-term disability.

Here at Swastham Medicare- A Multispecialty Hospital, our doctors are renowned for their specialised expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of nervous system disorders. We offer comprehensive medical therapies and rehabilitation treatments for conditions such as:

• Stroke
• Epilepsy
• Vertigo
• Parkinsonism
• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Dementia
• Dystonia
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
• Migraine
• Sleep Disorders
• Neuromuscular Conditions
• Neuropathic Pain
• Diabetic Neuropathy

At Swastham Medicare – A Multispecialty Hospital, we are dedicated to advancing neurological care through innovation, research, and compassionate patient care. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures that each patient receives the highest standard of care tailored to their specific needs.

Who all are more prone to neurological diseases?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing neurological diseases. These include:
• Elderly Population: Aging is a significant risk factor for many neurological diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke. The prevalence of these conditions increases with age due to the natural decline in neurological function and the accumulation of various risk factors over time.
• Individuals with Genetic Predisposition: Family history and genetic mutations can play a crucial role in the susceptibility to neurological disorders. Conditions like Huntington’s disease, certain forms of epilepsy, and some types of hereditary neuropathies are directly linked to genetic factors.
• People with Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and smoking are well-known risk factors for stroke and other cerebrovascular diseases. These conditions can lead to the development of vascular dementia and other neurological complications.
• Patients with Autoimmune Disorders: Autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, and myasthenia gravis involve the immune system attacking the nervous system. These individuals are inherently at higher risk for developing neurological symptoms and conditions.
• Individuals Exposed to Environmental Toxins: Exposure to certain toxins, heavy metals (like lead and mercury), and industrial chemicals can increase the risk of developing neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases and peripheral neuropathies.
• Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Individuals who have suffered from TBIs are at higher risk for developing long-term neurological problems such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), epilepsy, and other cognitive impairments.
• People with Chronic Infections: Chronic infections such as HIV/AIDS, Lyme disease, and syphilis can affect the nervous system, leading to various neurological complications over time.
• Individuals with Poor Lifestyle Habits: Lack of physical activity, poor diet, chronic stress, and excessive alcohol consumption are associated with an increased risk of neurological diseases, including dementia and stroke.

What are some of the common symptoms of neurological diseases?

Neurological diseases encompass a wide range of conditions that can affect the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Some common symptoms that may indicate a neurological disorder include:
• Headaches: Persistent or severe headaches, including migraines, cluster headaches, and tension headaches, can be a symptom of various neurological conditions.
• Chronic Pain: Neuropathic pain, characterised by a burning or tingling sensation, is often seen in conditions like multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and neuropathies.
• Dizziness and Balance Issues: Problems with balance, coordination, and vertigo can be indicative of conditions affecting the cerebellum or inner ear, such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, or vestibular disorders.
• Weakness or Paralysis: Sudden weakness or paralysis, especially on one side of the body, can be a sign of a stroke or multiple sclerosis.
• Seizures: Episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain can manifest as seizures, which are common in epilepsy and other neurological disorders.
• Numbness or Tingling: These sensations, often referred to as paresthesia, can be symptoms of neuropathies, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries.
• Memory Problems: Issues with memory, thinking, and cognitive function are common in Alzheimer’s disease, other dementias, and traumatic brain injuries.
• Vision Problems: Blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision can be symptoms of conditions like multiple sclerosis, migraines, or brain tumours.
• Movement Problems: Tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement) are typical symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders.
• Speech and Language Difficulties: Problems with speaking, understanding, reading, or writing can occur in conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases.
• Fatigue: Extreme and persistent fatigue is a common symptom in multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and other neurological conditions.
• Sleep Disorders: Neurological diseases can disrupt normal sleep patterns, leading to insomnia, restless legs syndrome, or sleep apnea.
• Mood Changes: Depression, anxiety, and mood swings can be associated with many neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and dementia.
Procedure for Neurological Care offered at Swastham Medicare:
The Department of Neurology offers the following services:
• Highly specialised expertise in caring for the unique needs of people with disorders of the nervous system
• Advanced Neurolab with modern facilities, such as, –
• Electroencephalogram (EEG)
• Electromyography (EMG)
• Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV)
• Somatosensory Evoked Potential (SSEP)
• Brain Evoked Response Auditory (BERA)
• Visually Evoked Potential (VEP)
• Diagnostic neuro-imaging with medical, surgical, rehabilitation therapy, and neuro-interventional capabilities

FAQs

What are the common symptoms of neurological disorders?
Neurological disorders can present with a wide range of symptoms depending on the specific condition. Common symptoms include headaches, chronic pain, dizziness, balance issues, weakness or paralysis, seizures, numbness or tingling, memory problems, vision problems, movement disorders, speech and language difficulties, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and mood changes.

How are neurological disorders diagnosed?
Diagnosis of neurological disorders typically involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical and neurological examinations, and diagnostic tests. Common tests include neuroimaging (MRI, CT scans), electroencephalograms (EEG), electromyography (EMG), lumbar punctures, and blood tests. Advanced imaging and laboratory facilities help in accurately diagnosing various neurological conditions.

What causes neurological disorders?
Neurological disorders can be caused by a variety of factors including genetic mutations, autoimmune responses, infections, traumatic injuries, strokes, tumours, toxins, metabolic disturbances, and degenerative diseases. The specific cause varies with each disorder, and sometimes multiple factors may contribute to the development of a neurological condition.

Can neurological disorders be cured?
Many neurological disorders cannot be cured, but their symptoms can often be managed effectively with treatment. Some conditions, like certain types of epilepsy, can be well-controlled with medication. For others, such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis, treatments focus on slowing disease progression and improving quality of life. Advances in medical research continue to offer hope for new and more effective treatments.

What treatments are available for neurological disorders?
Treatment options vary widely depending on the specific neurological disorder. Common treatments include medications (for pain relief, seizure control, and inflammation reduction), physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, lifestyle modifications, surgical interventions (such as deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease), and psychological support. Multidisciplinary care is often necessary to address the complex needs of patients with neurological disorders.

Are neurological disorders hereditary?
Some neurological disorders have a genetic component and can be inherited. Conditions like Huntington’s disease, certain types of epilepsy, and some forms of muscular dystrophy are known to have genetic links. However, many neurological disorders are influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Genetic counselling may be recommended for individuals with a family history of certain neurological conditions.

How can I reduce my risk of developing a neurological disorder?
While not all neurological disorders can be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of some conditions. Key preventive measures include maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity, managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, wearing protective gear to prevent head injuries, managing stress, and controlling chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

What should I do if I suspect I have a neurological disorder?
If you experience symptoms that suggest a neurological disorder, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Start by consulting your primary doctor, who may refer you to a neurologist for further evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing symptoms effectively and preventing complications. Keep a record of your symptoms, their duration, and any triggering factors to help your neurologist make an accurate diagnosis.