Neurology: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Numbness and Tingling
How neurologists approach the common problem of numbness and tingling.
How neurologists approach the common problem of numbness and tingling.
When Dizziness is Serious
Dizziness is a common symptom which sometimes indicates a serious problem. How can you tell when your dizziness is serious?
Dizziness is a common symptom which sometimes indicates a serious problem. How can you tell when your dizziness is serious?
White Matter Hyperintensities
Many people are alarmed to hear that their MRI shows several small spots, which they are told is associated with aging. What causes these spots and what do they mean? Are they dangerous? Learn more here.
Many people are alarmed to hear that their MRI shows several small spots, which they are told is associated with aging. What causes these spots and what do they mean? Are they dangerous? Learn more here.
Understanding MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)is a tool frequently used by neurologists to take images of the brain and spinal cord. How can you best learn about how to interpret these images?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)is a tool frequently used by neurologists to take images of the brain and spinal cord. How can you best learn about how to interpret these images?
Do You Need Neurology?
Neurology is the medical specialty that focuses on the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles. Neurologists deal with a large number of different problems. Do you need a neurologist?
Neurology is the medical specialty that focuses on the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles. Neurologists deal with a large number of different problems. Do you need a neurologist?
What's Causing Your Tremor?
All of us have some degree of tremor. So how do we know when a tremor means something more? Learn what you should pay attention to in order to help your neurologist determine the cause of your tremor.
All of us have some degree of tremor. So how do we know when a tremor means something more? Learn what you should pay attention to in order to help your neurologist determine the cause of your tremor.
MRI vs. CT
When they need to get a picture of the brain, why do doctors sometimes order a CT scan, and other times order an MRI? Which is best?
When they need to get a picture of the brain, why do doctors sometimes order a CT scan, and other times order an MRI? Which is best?
Understanding Brain Death
There is more to a loss of consciousness than simply not being awake. States such as coma, persistent vegetative state, and normal sleep all involve a loss of consciousness, and all have different degrees of severity. Even in cases as severe as persistent vegetative state, there are rare cases of people awakening. Brain death is different. As the term suggests, in brain death there is no hope of recovery. Learn more here.
There is more to a loss of consciousness than simply not being awake. States such as coma, persistent vegetative state, and normal sleep all involve a loss of consciousness, and all have different degrees of severity. Even in cases as severe as persistent vegetative state, there are rare cases of people awakening. Brain death is different. As the term suggests, in brain death there is no hope of recovery. Learn more here.
Symptoms of a Stroke
Stroke is one of the most serious neurological illnesses, but many people never recognize what's happening in time to treat the problem. Learn how to tell if you're having a stroke.
Stroke is one of the most serious neurological illnesses, but many people never recognize what's happening in time to treat the problem. Learn how to tell if you're having a stroke.
Psychosomatic Disorders
Psychosomatic disorders are frequently misunderstood. The term is used when a psychiatric problem such as depression, anxiety or other disturbance manifests itself as seemingly unrelated physical symptoms.
Psychosomatic disorders are frequently misunderstood. The term is used when a psychiatric problem such as depression, anxiety or other disturbance manifests itself as seemingly unrelated physical symptoms.
Lumbar Puncture Q&A
Some common questions about lumbar punctures, or spinal taps, are addressed.
Some common questions about lumbar punctures, or spinal taps, are addressed.
Aseptic Meningitis
The most common cause of inflammation in the tissues that surround the brain is not a bacterial infection, but a virus.
The most common cause of inflammation in the tissues that surround the brain is not a bacterial infection, but a virus.
Understanding CT Scans
CT scans are frequently ordered by neurologists and other doctors, especially in emergency situations. What do the images show, and how are they interpreted?
CT scans are frequently ordered by neurologists and other doctors, especially in emergency situations. What do the images show, and how are they interpreted?
Treatment of Elevated ICP
When pressure gets too high around your brain, very bad things can happen. Fortunately, there are a number of different ways neurologists can control that pressure, usually in a neuro-ICU.
When pressure gets too high around your brain, very bad things can happen. Fortunately, there are a number of different ways neurologists can control that pressure, usually in a neuro-ICU.
Types of Tremor
When evaluating someone who has a tremor, neurologists attempt to put the tremor into one of several categories. Each category is associated with different disease types, and therefore also associated with different types of treatments. Everyone has some kind of tremor. What sort of tremor do you have?
When evaluating someone who has a tremor, neurologists attempt to put the tremor into one of several categories. Each category is associated with different disease types, and therefore also associated with different types of treatments. Everyone has some kind of tremor. What sort of tremor do you have?
Elevated ICP
Neurologists have good reason to worry when pressure surrounding the brain gets too high. Headaches, vision changes, and eventually coma and death can result. How can we tell when the pressure is building? And what can we do about it?
Neurologists have good reason to worry when pressure surrounding the brain gets too high. Headaches, vision changes, and eventually coma and death can result. How can we tell when the pressure is building? And what can we do about it?
What is a Coma?
The term coma has terrifying connotations to most people. In reality, many things can cause coma, and the probability of recovery can range from practically certain to almost no chance of meaningful recovery. It's not enough to know whether someone is in a coma. You need to know why and how bad the coma is. Start learning more here.
The term coma has terrifying connotations to most people. In reality, many things can cause coma, and the probability of recovery can range from practically certain to almost no chance of meaningful recovery. It's not enough to know whether someone is in a coma. You need to know why and how bad the coma is. Start learning more here.
Could You Have Postconcussive
Postconcussive syndrome is a controversial medical diagnosis, but few would dispute that many people suffer from similar symptoms following a head injury. These can include headache, dizziness, mood changes, and sleep problems.
Postconcussive syndrome is a controversial medical diagnosis, but few would dispute that many people suffer from similar symptoms following a head injury. These can include headache, dizziness, mood changes, and sleep problems.
Parasitic CNS Infections
Parasitic infections can invade practically any part of the body imagineable. Those that infect the nervous system are potentially the most damaging, and the most disturbing.
Parasitic infections can invade practically any part of the body imagineable. Those that infect the nervous system are potentially the most damaging, and the most disturbing.
Brain in Love
Love was once thought to be beyond our understanding, or at least relegated to the realm of philosophers and poets. Now neuroscientists are also gaining a new appreciation for how our brain changes when in love.
Love was once thought to be beyond our understanding, or at least relegated to the realm of philosophers and poets. Now neuroscientists are also gaining a new appreciation for how our brain changes when in love.
Spinocerebellar Ataxia
When people discuss spinal cerebellar ataxia (SCA), they are actually referring to a group of neurodegenerative disorders that cause progressive clumsiness. Learn more about these inherited disorders here.
When people discuss spinal cerebellar ataxia (SCA), they are actually referring to a group of neurodegenerative disorders that cause progressive clumsiness. Learn more about these inherited disorders here.
Nerve Roots
One of the most common problems in neurology is when a spinal nerve root is compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and sometimes weakness. To understand the problem, we first need to understand the anatomy of the spine.
One of the most common problems in neurology is when a spinal nerve root is compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and sometimes weakness. To understand the problem, we first need to understand the anatomy of the spine.
Motor Neuron Disease
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is part of a larger family of motor neuron diseases in which the nerves responsible for movement degenerate, leading to weakness and other problems. Learn more about these diseases here.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is part of a larger family of motor neuron diseases in which the nerves responsible for movement degenerate, leading to weakness and other problems. Learn more about these diseases here.
Fungal CNS infections
To be infected by a spore, mold or fungus has a uniquely nasty feeling about it. This is particularly the case when the fungus invades something as prized and private as our brains. Fungal infections of the central nervous system are not particularly common, but when such infections occur, the results can be devastating.
To be infected by a spore, mold or fungus has a uniquely nasty feeling about it. This is particularly the case when the fungus invades something as prized and private as our brains. Fungal infections of the central nervous system are not particularly common, but when such infections occur, the results can be devastating.
Frontal Lobotomy
The frontal lobotomy was an early example of psychosurgery, a surgical procedure intended to alter someone's mood, thoughts or behavior. Controversial even in its time, the lobotomy has become emblematic of many important questions in medical ethics.
The frontal lobotomy was an early example of psychosurgery, a surgical procedure intended to alter someone's mood, thoughts or behavior. Controversial even in its time, the lobotomy has become emblematic of many important questions in medical ethics.
The Musical Mind
We are our brains, and few things affect us, and therefore our brains, like music can. How do sound waves moving our eardrums lead to tapping feet or teary eyes? Why can a particular piece of music make our friend smile but leave us cold?
We are our brains, and few things affect us, and therefore our brains, like music can. How do sound waves moving our eardrums lead to tapping feet or teary eyes? Why can a particular piece of music make our friend smile but leave us cold?
Hyponatremia
Many neurological disorders cause the blood's sodium concentration to drop. In general, this is not a good thing. Hyponatremia can cause brain swelling, seizures, and coma. So how do doctors treat this problem?
Many neurological disorders cause the blood's sodium concentration to drop. In general, this is not a good thing. Hyponatremia can cause brain swelling, seizures, and coma. So how do doctors treat this problem?
Reflexes
What are reflexes, and why do neurologists and other doctors keep whacking our knees with that hammer?
What are reflexes, and why do neurologists and other doctors keep whacking our knees with that hammer?
EMG and NCS Interpretation
Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCSs) are tools that help neurologists locate and find the cause of diseases of muscle and peripheral nerves.
Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCSs) are tools that help neurologists locate and find the cause of diseases of muscle and peripheral nerves.
Cranial Nerves
The cranial nerves relay important information to and from the brain without going through the spine. Diseases of the cranial nerve cause very distinctive symptoms.
The cranial nerves relay important information to and from the brain without going through the spine. Diseases of the cranial nerve cause very distinctive symptoms.
Delirium
Delirium is a common but concerning state of confusion in sick hospital patients. Family members and friends can be helpful in reducing the symptoms of delirium.
Delirium is a common but concerning state of confusion in sick hospital patients. Family members and friends can be helpful in reducing the symptoms of delirium.
What Causes Seizures?
An allegory to describe what happens in the brain during a seizure.
An allegory to describe what happens in the brain during a seizure.
Treatment of Guillain-Barre
Guillain-Barre can be a serious, even life-threatening disease that can lead to total paralysis. However, with medical therapies, most people not only survive, but have impressive recoveries of their ability to move as they previously did.
Guillain-Barre can be a serious, even life-threatening disease that can lead to total paralysis. However, with medical therapies, most people not only survive, but have impressive recoveries of their ability to move as they previously did.
Uncommon Causes of Chronic Dizziness
For many, dizziness doesn't come in spurts, but instead is a constant: something that needs to be managed every minute of every day. Unfortunately, clear causes for this dizziness are the exception rather than the rule. Someone with chronic dizziness and no apparent cause may be diagnosed with chronic subjective dizziness. First, though, other potential causes should be ruled out.
For many, dizziness doesn't come in spurts, but instead is a constant: something that needs to be managed every minute of every day. Unfortunately, clear causes for this dizziness are the exception rather than the rule. Someone with chronic dizziness and no apparent cause may be diagnosed with chronic subjective dizziness. First, though, other potential causes should be ruled out.
Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures
Conversion disorders occur when a psychiatric stress makes itself known by acting out like a neurological illness. Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures are an example. Although there is no abnormal electrical activity in the brain as is present in epilepsy, these patients act and feel like they are having epileptic seizures. Rather than treating with anticonvulsive medications, these patients improve either on their own once the diagnosis is made, or with the help of a psychiatrist.
Conversion disorders occur when a psychiatric stress makes itself known by acting out like a neurological illness. Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures are an example. Although there is no abnormal electrical activity in the brain as is present in epilepsy, these patients act and feel like they are having epileptic seizures. Rather than treating with anticonvulsive medications, these patients improve either on their own once the diagnosis is made, or with the help of a psychiatrist.
The Autonomic Nervous System
The autonomic nervous system controls vital functions like blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, sweating, and other things beyond our direct conscious control.
The autonomic nervous system controls vital functions like blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, sweating, and other things beyond our direct conscious control.
Consciousness
The term consciousness is one of those things that seems obvious until you actually try to define it. Maybe like so many other things in life, consciousness is best understood when it is lost. By studying various causes of diminished consciousness, neurologists can determine what structures and chemicals of the brain are important in maintaining alertness and awareness of your surroundings.
The term consciousness is one of those things that seems obvious until you actually try to define it. Maybe like so many other things in life, consciousness is best understood when it is lost. By studying various causes of diminished consciousness, neurologists can determine what structures and chemicals of the brain are important in maintaining alertness and awareness of your surroundings.
B12 Deficiency
A low vitamin B12 level can cause changes in thinking, sensation, and even the ability to walk. Despite being frequently found in most diets, a low B12 level is not uncommon. Learn why here.
A low vitamin B12 level can cause changes in thinking, sensation, and even the ability to walk. Despite being frequently found in most diets, a low B12 level is not uncommon. Learn why here.
Newer Antiepileptic Medications
Between 2007 and 2012, eight new anticonvulsant medications became available in Europe or the United States, offering new options to those with poorly controlled seizures. No medication is without some risks, and it's important to learn about the good and the bad of any new pharmaceutical agent.
Between 2007 and 2012, eight new anticonvulsant medications became available in Europe or the United States, offering new options to those with poorly controlled seizures. No medication is without some risks, and it's important to learn about the good and the bad of any new pharmaceutical agent.
Balint Syndrome
Balint's syndrome results from damage to the parietal lobes, and restricts someone's ability to direct their eyes appropriately in space. The result is something that resembles an eye problem, but really results from damage to the brain.
Balint's syndrome results from damage to the parietal lobes, and restricts someone's ability to direct their eyes appropriately in space. The result is something that resembles an eye problem, but really results from damage to the brain.
EMG and NCS Studies
Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCSs) are helpful tools neurologists use to investigate diseases of the peripheral nervous system and muscles. Learn more about how these tests are done here.
Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCSs) are helpful tools neurologists use to investigate diseases of the peripheral nervous system and muscles. Learn more about how these tests are done here.
Treatment of Bell's Palsy
Bell's palsy involves sudden loss of facial nerve function. This leads to face weakness on one side. Fortunately, most people recover well from Bell's palsy, but there are some ways to heal more and faster, as well as preventing further problems.
Bell's palsy involves sudden loss of facial nerve function. This leads to face weakness on one side. Fortunately, most people recover well from Bell's palsy, but there are some ways to heal more and faster, as well as preventing further problems.
TBI Treatment
The term traumatic brain injury covers a wide spectrum of severity, from minor concussions to severe injuries requiring neurosurgery. Treatment of traumatic brain injury must be tailored to the individual. Learn more here.
The term traumatic brain injury covers a wide spectrum of severity, from minor concussions to severe injuries requiring neurosurgery. Treatment of traumatic brain injury must be tailored to the individual. Learn more here.
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
Even small head injuries can have large consequences if there's many of them over time. Learn about chronic traumatic encephalopathy here.
Even small head injuries can have large consequences if there's many of them over time. Learn about chronic traumatic encephalopathy here.
Peripheral Nervous System
Understanding the peripheral nervous system is critical to understanding many causes of numbness, tingling, and weakness.
Understanding the peripheral nervous system is critical to understanding many causes of numbness, tingling, and weakness.
Introduction to Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Guillain-Barre is an autoimmune disorder of the peripheral nervous system that causes weakness, numbness, and other symptoms. Guillain-Barre can be a life-threatening syndrome that leads to total paralysis, including the muscles required to breathe.
Guillain-Barre is an autoimmune disorder of the peripheral nervous system that causes weakness, numbness, and other symptoms. Guillain-Barre can be a life-threatening syndrome that leads to total paralysis, including the muscles required to breathe.
ALS comfort
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a terribly debilitating disease. As people with ALS get weaker, many serious, life-threatening changes occur that need to be addressed by a team of medical professionals. In addition, there are changes that are not life-threatening, but nevertheless have an impact on the day-to-day lives of those with ALS. Addressing these components of ALS can help improve the quality of life of those who suffer from this devastating neurological illness.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a terribly debilitating disease. As people with ALS get weaker, many serious, life-threatening changes occur that need to be addressed by a team of medical professionals. In addition, there are changes that are not life-threatening, but nevertheless have an impact on the day-to-day lives of those with ALS. Addressing these components of ALS can help improve the quality of life of those who suffer from this devastating neurological illness.
Essential Tremor
Many people worry that their tremor may be due to Parkinson's disease, but there's a less serious cause of tremor that's more common. Essential tremor isn't life-threatening, but the symptoms can interfere with your quality of life. Start learning more about essential tremor here.
Many people worry that their tremor may be due to Parkinson's disease, but there's a less serious cause of tremor that's more common. Essential tremor isn't life-threatening, but the symptoms can interfere with your quality of life. Start learning more about essential tremor here.
Additional Tests for Brain Death
Like any other form of death, brain death can usually be diagnosed at the bedside by a qualified physician. Under some conditions, though, additional testing is called for. Learn more about those additional tests and when they might be needed.
Like any other form of death, brain death can usually be diagnosed at the bedside by a qualified physician. Under some conditions, though, additional testing is called for. Learn more about those additional tests and when they might be needed.
Disorders of Consciousness
A person’s level of consciousness is a measure of how alert and oriented they are. Consciousness is a spectrum with many shades. While the best known alteration of consciousness is the infamous coma, meaning someone is unarousable with their eyes closed, there are many other ways that a persons’ consciousness can be impaired. Some may mimic coma, whereas others appear quite different but are still very concerning to the friends and family of the afflicted patient.
A person’s level of consciousness is a measure of how alert and oriented they are. Consciousness is a spectrum with many shades. While the best known alteration of consciousness is the infamous coma, meaning someone is unarousable with their eyes closed, there are many other ways that a persons’ consciousness can be impaired. Some may mimic coma, whereas others appear quite different but are still very concerning to the friends and family of the afflicted patient.
Managing Essential Tremor
While essential tremor isn't as serious as Parkinson's disease, the shaking can be annoying, embarrassing, and even debilitating. Learn about different ways to manage the symptoms of essential tremor.
While essential tremor isn't as serious as Parkinson's disease, the shaking can be annoying, embarrassing, and even debilitating. Learn about different ways to manage the symptoms of essential tremor.
Guillain-Barre Diagnosis
Guillain-Barré is a potentially dangerous syndrome with weakness that spreads up the body. Learn more about how doctors can tell if you have this disorder.
Guillain-Barré is a potentially dangerous syndrome with weakness that spreads up the body. Learn more about how doctors can tell if you have this disorder.
Carotid Artery Stenosis
Carotid artery stenosis is a narrowing of the arteries in the neck that deliver blood to most of the brain. Stenosis can lead to stroke, but what is the best way to deal with it? Learn more here.
Carotid artery stenosis is a narrowing of the arteries in the neck that deliver blood to most of the brain. Stenosis can lead to stroke, but what is the best way to deal with it? Learn more here.
Bell's Palsy
Bell's palsy involves the sudden weakness of half the face. It can mimic more serious diseases like stroke, but is itself not dangerous. Learn more here.
Bell's palsy involves the sudden weakness of half the face. It can mimic more serious diseases like stroke, but is itself not dangerous. Learn more here.
Introduction to ALS
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurologically devastating disease in which patients slowly lose their ability to move. Learn more about the signs, symptoms, and therapies for ALS here.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurologically devastating disease in which patients slowly lose their ability to move. Learn more about the signs, symptoms, and therapies for ALS here.
Ataxia
Ataxia is the medical term for clumsiness. Lack of coordination can be caused by many things, but is usually associated with the cerebellum.
Ataxia is the medical term for clumsiness. Lack of coordination can be caused by many things, but is usually associated with the cerebellum.
Serious ALS Symptoms
If you've been recently diagnosed with ALS, you've probably got some questions and concerns regarding your future. While ALS has no cure, that doesn't mean you can't get help. There are lots of resources available to help you live the best life possible in spite of your disease. Knowing about these resources could not only make a difference in your quality of life, but even how long you are able to live.
If you've been recently diagnosed with ALS, you've probably got some questions and concerns regarding your future. While ALS has no cure, that doesn't mean you can't get help. There are lots of resources available to help you live the best life possible in spite of your disease. Knowing about these resources could not only make a difference in your quality of life, but even how long you are able to live.
Klüver-Bucy Syndrome
The classical combination of hyperphagia, hyperorality, hypersexuality, and docility result from lesions of bilateral temporal lobes, including the amygdala, and was first described in the 1930s. While not common, Klüver-Bucy syndrome taught us a lot about how the brain works.
The classical combination of hyperphagia, hyperorality, hypersexuality, and docility result from lesions of bilateral temporal lobes, including the amygdala, and was first described in the 1930s. While not common, Klüver-Bucy syndrome taught us a lot about how the brain works.
Functional MRI
Functional MRI is a technique that depicts brain activity by showing brightly lit areas in the brain. These images are often used in research that is frequently seen on television and newspapers. This technique is also becoming increasingly popular in hospital settings. But how reliable are these images, and how exactly are they made? Learn more here.
Functional MRI is a technique that depicts brain activity by showing brightly lit areas in the brain. These images are often used in research that is frequently seen on television and newspapers. This technique is also becoming increasingly popular in hospital settings. But how reliable are these images, and how exactly are they made? Learn more here.
Tics
Tics are abnormal movements or behaviors that are preceded by an irresistible urge. Despite their association with Tourette's syndrome, tics are very common in childhood, and do not usually signify something more serious.
Tics are abnormal movements or behaviors that are preceded by an irresistible urge. Despite their association with Tourette's syndrome, tics are very common in childhood, and do not usually signify something more serious.
Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus
Most of us think of seizures as causing convulsive movements, but some seizures instead mimic changes of consciousness like delirium and even coma. How can we know when someone is seizing?
Most of us think of seizures as causing convulsive movements, but some seizures instead mimic changes of consciousness like delirium and even coma. How can we know when someone is seizing?
Intracerebral Hemorrhage
About 15 percent of stroke is hemorrhagic, meaning that a ruptured artery leads to bleeding in the brain. Although hemorrhagic stroke is more rare than ischemic stroke, it is also more deadly, with only about half of victims surviving. Learn more about intracerebral hemorrhage here.
About 15 percent of stroke is hemorrhagic, meaning that a ruptured artery leads to bleeding in the brain. Although hemorrhagic stroke is more rare than ischemic stroke, it is also more deadly, with only about half of victims surviving. Learn more about intracerebral hemorrhage here.
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Complications
Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a frightening disorder in which blood ruptures from an artery in the brain and leaks into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). As if that weren't enough, life-threatening complications after the bleed go on for days afterwards.
Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a frightening disorder in which blood ruptures from an artery in the brain and leaks into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). As if that weren't enough, life-threatening complications after the bleed go on for days afterwards.
Berry Aneurym Treatment
Cerebral aneurysms sometimes rupture, leading to dangerous bleeding known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Sometimes invasive surgical interventions are required to prevent this kind of bleeding. Learn more here.
Cerebral aneurysms sometimes rupture, leading to dangerous bleeding known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Sometimes invasive surgical interventions are required to prevent this kind of bleeding. Learn more here.
The Social Brain
Humans are social creatures. We depend on each other to survive, but also to learn, play, and accomplish. The human brain is built for this kind of interaction, and helps define who we are in society. Why do we act the way we do around other people?
Humans are social creatures. We depend on each other to survive, but also to learn, play, and accomplish. The human brain is built for this kind of interaction, and helps define who we are in society. Why do we act the way we do around other people?
ManagingPDSx
Parkinson's disease comes with unique problems that require unique solutions. Tips on dealing with common Parkinson's symptoms here.
Parkinson's disease comes with unique problems that require unique solutions. Tips on dealing with common Parkinson's symptoms here.
Dangerous Causes of Dizziness
What are the potentially life-threatening causes of dizziness?
What are the potentially life-threatening causes of dizziness?
Introduction to TBI
An introduction to Traumatic Brain Injury, an increasingly notorious neurological problem that can affect anyone of any age.
An introduction to Traumatic Brain Injury, an increasingly notorious neurological problem that can affect anyone of any age.
Hallucinations
Hallucinations can be cause us to question the very nature of our reality. What causes us to see or hear what others don't?
Hallucinations can be cause us to question the very nature of our reality. What causes us to see or hear what others don't?
Introduction to Dystonia
Dystonia is when both agonist and antagonist muscles of a body part unintentionally contract, resulting in uncomfortable posturing of that body part. Dystonia can be embarrassing and disabling. Learn more about dystonia here.
Dystonia is when both agonist and antagonist muscles of a body part unintentionally contract, resulting in uncomfortable posturing of that body part. Dystonia can be embarrassing and disabling. Learn more about dystonia here.
Ultrasound in Neurology
Most people associate the medical use of ultrasound as being a method for checking on an unborn fetus during pregnancy, but ultrasound has many uses in neurology as well. Learn more about these techniques here.
Most people associate the medical use of ultrasound as being a method for checking on an unborn fetus during pregnancy, but ultrasound has many uses in neurology as well. Learn more about these techniques here.
Serious Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common reasons why people come to see a doctor. The vast majority of the time, the problem will either resolve on its own or requires little treatment. Sometimes surgery is required, but even then back pain is rarely an emergency. Other times, though, back pain can signify very serious trouble that may go even beyond the back itself.
Back pain is one of the most common reasons why people come to see a doctor. The vast majority of the time, the problem will either resolve on its own or requires little treatment. Sometimes surgery is required, but even then back pain is rarely an emergency. Other times, though, back pain can signify very serious trouble that may go even beyond the back itself.
PDCoping
Adjusting to a diagnosis of any chronic disease can be challenging, and Parkinson's disease also poses unique problems. Here are some common solutions and tips for coping with Parkinson's.
Adjusting to a diagnosis of any chronic disease can be challenging, and Parkinson's disease also poses unique problems. Here are some common solutions and tips for coping with Parkinson's.
Olfaction
The sense of smell is important but underappreciated by most of us. Those who lose this sense can suffer from depression and more.
The sense of smell is important but underappreciated by most of us. Those who lose this sense can suffer from depression and more.
Computerized Brain Training
There's a lot of computerized brain training programs being marketed to help improve cognitive performance. Are they worth your time and money?
There's a lot of computerized brain training programs being marketed to help improve cognitive performance. Are they worth your time and money?
The Frontal Lobes
The frontal lobes are responsible for many of the things that make us who we are-- our ability to plan, control basic emotions, and even shape our personality.
The frontal lobes are responsible for many of the things that make us who we are-- our ability to plan, control basic emotions, and even shape our personality.
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Subarachnoid hemorrhage is one of the most severe neurological illnesses. This intracranial bleeding can occur suddenly and dramatically in people who may have seemed healthy just beforehand, killing about half of those afflicted and leaving many others with lasting neurological deficits. Learn more about this disorder here, including how to recognize the symptoms and what risk factors to avoid.
Subarachnoid hemorrhage is one of the most severe neurological illnesses. This intracranial bleeding can occur suddenly and dramatically in people who may have seemed healthy just beforehand, killing about half of those afflicted and leaving many others with lasting neurological deficits. Learn more about this disorder here, including how to recognize the symptoms and what risk factors to avoid.
Generic Antiepileptics
The FDA has stated that there is no significant difference between brand name antiepileptic medication and less expensive generic equivalents. But some people have noticed an increase in seizure frequency or other adverse effects after switching.
The FDA has stated that there is no significant difference between brand name antiepileptic medication and less expensive generic equivalents. But some people have noticed an increase in seizure frequency or other adverse effects after switching.
Transverse myelitis
Transverse myelitis is when the body's immune system attacks the spinal cord, resulting in inflammation that leads to rapid sensory changes and paralysis. While this disorder can be devastating, it is also often treatable.
Transverse myelitis is when the body's immune system attacks the spinal cord, resulting in inflammation that leads to rapid sensory changes and paralysis. While this disorder can be devastating, it is also often treatable.
Vestibular Migraine
Migraine can mimic almost any neurological problem, and among those is dizziness. People with migraine often complain of nausea and a sense of spinning. Learn more here.
Migraine can mimic almost any neurological problem, and among those is dizziness. People with migraine often complain of nausea and a sense of spinning. Learn more here.
Medical Tests for Dysautonomia
Problems with the autonomic nervous system can lead to several complaints including dizziness, cold insensitivity, nausea and more. There are many different tests that explore dysautonomia.
Problems with the autonomic nervous system can lead to several complaints including dizziness, cold insensitivity, nausea and more. There are many different tests that explore dysautonomia.
Mirror Neurons
Mirror neurons are neurons that are activated both when performing an action (including feeling a sensation or emotion), and when someone else performs that action. Much has been written about these neurons in the last few years. Does the reality live up to the hype?
Mirror neurons are neurons that are activated both when performing an action (including feeling a sensation or emotion), and when someone else performs that action. Much has been written about these neurons in the last few years. Does the reality live up to the hype?
Carotid Artery Stenting
Carotid stenosis is a narrowing of neck arteries that increases stroke risk. The usual way of correcting stenosis is with surgery, but a less invasive option, carotid artery stenting, is available under certain conditions.
Carotid stenosis is a narrowing of neck arteries that increases stroke risk. The usual way of correcting stenosis is with surgery, but a less invasive option, carotid artery stenting, is available under certain conditions.
Vitamins and the Spine
Lack of vitamin B12 isn't the only thing that can cause such a myelopathy. Deficiencies of copper, folate, or vitamin E can also cause problems with the spinal cord.
Lack of vitamin B12 isn't the only thing that can cause such a myelopathy. Deficiencies of copper, folate, or vitamin E can also cause problems with the spinal cord.
Episodic Ataxia
Episodic ataxia is a rare group of genetic disorders that cause to attacks of clumsiness which may be associated with dizziness.
Episodic ataxia is a rare group of genetic disorders that cause to attacks of clumsiness which may be associated with dizziness.
Spinal Cord Infections
The spinal cord, like any other part of the nervous system, can become infected. Paralysis, numbness, and worse can result.
The spinal cord, like any other part of the nervous system, can become infected. Paralysis, numbness, and worse can result.
Problems in the Neuro-ICU
Patients with neurological diseases are more prone to specific complications. Staff in the neuro-ICU watch carefully for these problems so they can managed quickly if seen.
Patients with neurological diseases are more prone to specific complications. Staff in the neuro-ICU watch carefully for these problems so they can managed quickly if seen.
Brains and Zombies
Two researchers have constructed a model of the fictional zombie brain, using the undead to liven up interest in neuroscience.
Two researchers have constructed a model of the fictional zombie brain, using the undead to liven up interest in neuroscience.
Carotid Endarterectomy
When the carotid arteries are narrowed, it increases the risk of stroke. Carotid endarterectomy can widen the arteries again, reducing stroke risk.
When the carotid arteries are narrowed, it increases the risk of stroke. Carotid endarterectomy can widen the arteries again, reducing stroke risk.
Weakness
When someone is weak, neurologists try to figure out exactly where the source of weakness lies. All other steps in determining the cause of weakness follow this crucial step.
When someone is weak, neurologists try to figure out exactly where the source of weakness lies. All other steps in determining the cause of weakness follow this crucial step.
Amoeba and the CNS
Amoeba are one-celled organisms that usually harmlessly coexist with humans. Occasionally, though, these small creatures can cause serious problems to the central nervous system.
Amoeba are one-celled organisms that usually harmlessly coexist with humans. Occasionally, though, these small creatures can cause serious problems to the central nervous system.
Delusions in Dementia
Delusions commonly occur is psychiatric diseases such as schizophrenia or delusional disorders. They can also result from strokes, seizures, trauma to the brain, brain infections and as a side effect of some illicit and prescription drugs. In addition, delusions are common manifestations of dementia.
Delusions commonly occur is psychiatric diseases such as schizophrenia or delusional disorders. They can also result from strokes, seizures, trauma to the brain, brain infections and as a side effect of some illicit and prescription drugs. In addition, delusions are common manifestations of dementia.
Treatment of Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis used to be uniformly disabling and usually fatal, but can now usually be well controlled with medical therapy.
Myasthenia gravis used to be uniformly disabling and usually fatal, but can now usually be well controlled with medical therapy.
Benign Seizures of Infancy
Watching their newborn baby have a seizure is a terrifying experience for parents, but not all seizures portend a serious outcome for the child. Here are some of the less severe forms of infant epilepsy.
Watching their newborn baby have a seizure is a terrifying experience for parents, but not all seizures portend a serious outcome for the child. Here are some of the less severe forms of infant epilepsy.
Delusion
Delusions are strong beliefs that do not hold truth in reality and are negated by evidence to the contrary. Delusions occur in various psychiatric and neurological disorders and manifest in many different flavors.
Delusions are strong beliefs that do not hold truth in reality and are negated by evidence to the contrary. Delusions occur in various psychiatric and neurological disorders and manifest in many different flavors.
Uncommon Causes of Vertigo
If you're suffering from acute attacks of dizziness and the most common problems have been ruled out, there are more places to look. Learn about other causes of dizziness here.
If you're suffering from acute attacks of dizziness and the most common problems have been ruled out, there are more places to look. Learn about other causes of dizziness here.
Rare Prion Diseases
All prion diseases are thought to be rare, but most cases that do appear are instances of Creutzfeldt-Jakob. Many people don't know that other forms of prion disease exist, but these rare forms of prion diseases are equally interesting and unsettling.
All prion diseases are thought to be rare, but most cases that do appear are instances of Creutzfeldt-Jakob. Many people don't know that other forms of prion disease exist, but these rare forms of prion diseases are equally interesting and unsettling.
Delirium Management
Delirium is a common and concerning problem in hospital patients. Fortunately, family and friends can play an important role in reducing the symptoms of delirium. Learn how to do this here.
Delirium is a common and concerning problem in hospital patients. Fortunately, family and friends can play an important role in reducing the symptoms of delirium. Learn how to do this here.
Neuromuscular Junctional Disorders
The nerve communicates with muscle at the aptly-named neuromuscular junction, where the neurotransmitter acetylcholine travels a small distance from nerve to muscle to signal the muscle to contract. When something goes wrong with the neuromuscular junction, the result is weakness.
The nerve communicates with muscle at the aptly-named neuromuscular junction, where the neurotransmitter acetylcholine travels a small distance from nerve to muscle to signal the muscle to contract. When something goes wrong with the neuromuscular junction, the result is weakness.
Treating Dystonia
Dystonia involves involuntary muscle contractions that can be uncomfortable, disabling, and embarrassing. Sometimes, dystonia can be hard to treat, but there are a variety of different options available. Learn more here.
Dystonia involves involuntary muscle contractions that can be uncomfortable, disabling, and embarrassing. Sometimes, dystonia can be hard to treat, but there are a variety of different options available. Learn more here.
Brain Training
Scientists have done a lot of research into how to keep sharp as we age. Learn about how to keep your brain healthy as you get older.
Scientists have done a lot of research into how to keep sharp as we age. Learn about how to keep your brain healthy as you get older.
neurocysticercosis
Parasitic tapeworm larvae in the brain.
Parasitic tapeworm larvae in the brain.
Brown-Sequard Syndrome?
Brown-Séquard Syndrome is a combination of pain and temperature sensory loss from one half of the body, with weakness and other sensory losses on the other half, all from the same lesion. The cause is the organization of the flow of information in the spinal cord.
Brown-Séquard Syndrome is a combination of pain and temperature sensory loss from one half of the body, with weakness and other sensory losses on the other half, all from the same lesion. The cause is the organization of the flow of information in the spinal cord.
Wernicke-Korsakoff
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome consists of the triad of oculomotor changes, confusion, and ataxia. The syndrome can be reversed by giving thiamine (vitamin B1), and should be as soon as possible to prevent permanent memory loss.
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome consists of the triad of oculomotor changes, confusion, and ataxia. The syndrome can be reversed by giving thiamine (vitamin B1), and should be as soon as possible to prevent permanent memory loss.
The Neuro-ICU
Most people have an idea of what an intensive care unit is, but may be surprised to know that there are specialized ICUs for neurological problems. What does a neuro-ICU offer that regular ICUs don't?
Most people have an idea of what an intensive care unit is, but may be surprised to know that there are specialized ICUs for neurological problems. What does a neuro-ICU offer that regular ICUs don't?
Childhood Generalized Epilepsy
There are so many types of epilepsy syndromes that it is useful to divide them by age and severity. Here we look at generalized epilepsy syndromes in children over the age of two in which learning and development will likely be normal.
There are so many types of epilepsy syndromes that it is useful to divide them by age and severity. Here we look at generalized epilepsy syndromes in children over the age of two in which learning and development will likely be normal.
Dizzying Drugs
It’s no secret that medications used by doctors to treat diseases and alleviate discomfort can, in fact, have side effects that cause a new set of problems. Dizziness is one of the most common side effects associated with medications.
It’s no secret that medications used by doctors to treat diseases and alleviate discomfort can, in fact, have side effects that cause a new set of problems. Dizziness is one of the most common side effects associated with medications.
Pediatric Partial Epilepsy Syndromes
There are many types of childhood epilepsy. Some affect children over the age of two, and others only impact infants. Some cause the whole body to shake (generalized seizures), and others only initially shake part of the body (partial seizures). Some are associated with learning problems and developmental disability, though many are not. Here we investigate partial epilepsy syndromes of childhood without associated developmental or learning problems.
There are many types of childhood epilepsy. Some affect children over the age of two, and others only impact infants. Some cause the whole body to shake (generalized seizures), and others only initially shake part of the body (partial seizures). Some are associated with learning problems and developmental disability, though many are not. Here we investigate partial epilepsy syndromes of childhood without associated developmental or learning problems.
Symptomatic Pediatric Epilepsy
The words "symptomatic epilepsy" seem redundant together: epilepsy means to have recurrent seizures,
The words "symptomatic epilepsy" seem redundant together: epilepsy means to have recurrent seizures,
Dysautonomia
The autonomic nervous system controls vital functions like blood pressure, heart rate and more. So what happens when the autonomic nervous system goes wrong?
The autonomic nervous system controls vital functions like blood pressure, heart rate and more. So what happens when the autonomic nervous system goes wrong?
Myasthenia Gravis Diagnosis
Myasthenia gravis can cause life threatening weakness, but responds well to treatment. In order to treat the disease, though, first the diagnosis must be confirmed. Here are some techniques used by neurologists to investigate myasthenia gravis.
Myasthenia gravis can cause life threatening weakness, but responds well to treatment. In order to treat the disease, though, first the diagnosis must be confirmed. Here are some techniques used by neurologists to investigate myasthenia gravis.
Serious Infant Epilepsy
While some forms of epilepsy that affect children do not lead to serious problems down the road, others can cause developmental delay or even early death. Here are some of the epilepsy syndromes that can be the hardest on parents of newborn children.
While some forms of epilepsy that affect children do not lead to serious problems down the road, others can cause developmental delay or even early death. Here are some of the epilepsy syndromes that can be the hardest on parents of newborn children.
2011 Research
The editorial review of an American Academy of Neurology publication has listed what it considers to be the most important neurological research papers of 2011.
The editorial review of an American Academy of Neurology publication has listed what it considers to be the most important neurological research papers of 2011.
Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis causes weakness that can become life threatening, but is also a well understood disorder with available treatments. Learn more here.
Myasthenia gravis causes weakness that can become life threatening, but is also a well understood disorder with available treatments. Learn more here.
Alzheimer's Biomarkers
Recent years have seen the advance of new diagnostic techniques that can potentially help doctors with the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. But are these tests necessary? When are they really helpful?
Recent years have seen the advance of new diagnostic techniques that can potentially help doctors with the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. But are these tests necessary? When are they really helpful?
Common Causes of Sudden Vertigo
Vertigo is an illusionary sense of movement. When vertigo comes on suddenly, it can be uncomfortable, and sometimes dangerous. Learn more about causes of vertigo here.
Vertigo is an illusionary sense of movement. When vertigo comes on suddenly, it can be uncomfortable, and sometimes dangerous. Learn more about causes of vertigo here.
Endovascular Stroke Treatment
For a dozen years, the only FDA approved way to treat acute stroke was with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). Now, interest is growing in other, less restrictive ways to remove the clots that cause acute strokes in the brain.
For a dozen years, the only FDA approved way to treat acute stroke was with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). Now, interest is growing in other, less restrictive ways to remove the clots that cause acute strokes in the brain.
Spinal Cord Trauma
Traumatic spinal cord injury is a tragic event that can produce permanent disability often at a young age. Learn more about how doctors diagnose and treat traumatic spinal cord injury.
Traumatic spinal cord injury is a tragic event that can produce permanent disability often at a young age. Learn more about how doctors diagnose and treat traumatic spinal cord injury.
Deep Brain Stimulation
Deep brain stimulation may help treat Parkinson's disease, as well as essential tremor and dystonia. Learn how it works, how it is implanted, as well as potential complications of this procedure.
Deep brain stimulation may help treat Parkinson's disease, as well as essential tremor and dystonia. Learn how it works, how it is implanted, as well as potential complications of this procedure.
Talking with Hospital Workers
The hospital can be very stressful places, even if you weren't there due to a frightening illness. It's important for both patients and care providers to have grace under pressure. Here's a few tips.
The hospital can be very stressful places, even if you weren't there due to a frightening illness. It's important for both patients and care providers to have grace under pressure. Here's a few tips.
Kevin Sorbo Interview
Kevin Sorbo, the man who played Hercules in the well-known television series, suffered from stroke in 1997 at the young age of 38. He has not only overcome the physical limitations of the stroke, but is now an advocate for awareness about cerebrovascular disease.
Kevin Sorbo, the man who played Hercules in the well-known television series, suffered from stroke in 1997 at the young age of 38. He has not only overcome the physical limitations of the stroke, but is now an advocate for awareness about cerebrovascular disease.
HIV-Associated Dementia
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infects the immune system, particularly cells called CD4 positive T-cells. As these cells die, the body becomes more prone to infections and cancers that healthy people would be able to fight off. What some people don’t realize is that the HIV virus itself can cause serious problems even without other infections getting involved. One of these problems is HIV Associated Dementia (HAD), also known as HIV encephalopathy or AIDS dementia complex.
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infects the immune system, particularly cells called CD4 positive T-cells. As these cells die, the body becomes more prone to infections and cancers that healthy people would be able to fight off. What some people don’t realize is that the HIV virus itself can cause serious problems even without other infections getting involved. One of these problems is HIV Associated Dementia (HAD), also known as HIV encephalopathy or AIDS dementia complex.
Prion diseases
Prions are deformed proteins that cause normal proteins to change shape as well, transforming them into more prions. The result is a cascade of twisted proteins that lead to the death of brain cells, leading to a rapidly progressive dementia.
Prions are deformed proteins that cause normal proteins to change shape as well, transforming them into more prions. The result is a cascade of twisted proteins that lead to the death of brain cells, leading to a rapidly progressive dementia.
Neurology Highlights of 2012
A review of some of the most important findings and trends in neuroscience in 2012.
A review of some of the most important findings and trends in neuroscience in 2012.
Hereditary Ataxia
The lack of coordination called ataxia can be caused by environmental factors such as alcohol, but can also be inherited in several different ways.
The lack of coordination called ataxia can be caused by environmental factors such as alcohol, but can also be inherited in several different ways.
Aprosodia
Prosody is how we change the tone of our voice to convey different levels of meaning to the sentences we speak. In some cases, the brain areas controlling this ability can be damaged, resulting in what is often confused for depression or lack of caring, although the patient may actually be otherwise normal.
Prosody is how we change the tone of our voice to convey different levels of meaning to the sentences we speak. In some cases, the brain areas controlling this ability can be damaged, resulting in what is often confused for depression or lack of caring, although the patient may actually be otherwise normal.
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease is the most common form of prion disease. Prion diseases are caused by a mutated protein that causes more proteins to change shape, transforming them into more prions. The result is a cascade of deformed proteins that kills brain cells and leads to rapidly progressive dementia.
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease is the most common form of prion disease. Prion diseases are caused by a mutated protein that causes more proteins to change shape, transforming them into more prions. The result is a cascade of deformed proteins that kills brain cells and leads to rapidly progressive dementia.
West Nile Virus
Every year, West Nile Virus makes new appearances in hospitals and on the news. Do you really know the facts about West Nile?
Every year, West Nile Virus makes new appearances in hospitals and on the news. Do you really know the facts about West Nile?
The Empathic Brain
Can neuroscience help explain why we metaphorically feel another person's pain, or why we do not?
Can neuroscience help explain why we metaphorically feel another person's pain, or why we do not?
Taste
What is the neuroscience behind how we enjoy a meal?
What is the neuroscience behind how we enjoy a meal?
Scams and False Cures
Back in the old West, con artists would travel from town to town with bottles of strange elixirs that
Back in the old West, con artists would travel from town to town with bottles of strange elixirs that
Georges Naasan, MD
Georges Naasan's biography
Georges Naasan's biography