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The nervous system is the command center of our body that controls everything, ranging from our visibility, smell, speech, sensitivity to touch, swallowing, breathing, movement, bladder function, and more. It is composed of an intricate network of interconnected organs such as the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. 

Sometimes, things go wrong in the nervous system, leading to neurological disorders. In fact, millions of people are affected each year and are completely unaware of that. This is mainly due to a lack of awareness about the topic, resulting in their inability to understand the symptoms associated with neurological disorders.

Neurological Disorder Statistics in Odisha

In Odisha, there is a considerable impact of neurological disorders. These disorders, which are not caused by infections, contribute to 82.8% of the total Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) due to all neurological disorders in India in 2019. DALYs represent the years of healthy life lost due to illness, disability, or early death. This indicates a significant health burden in Odisha, particularly in terms of non-communicable neurological conditions affecting the quality of life and overall well-being.

In an urban area of Burla, Odisha, very few elderly people (4.5%) reported neurological issues. The most prevalent cardiovascular illness among the elderly was hypertension (56%).In terms of neurologists in Odisha, there were 164 neurologists in the state as of December 4, 2023.

Although, The Health and Family Welfare Statistics in India 2019-20 report does not provide specific statistics on neurology-related issues in Odisha, the Directorate of Economics & Statistics, Government of Odisha, has released a report based on the State Sample Data NSS 75th Round (July 2017 – June 2018), which includes information on health and well-being in the state, giving more insights on neurology-related statistics in Odisha.

Undoubtedly, we as people must pay more focus on the neurological disorders that remain unaddressed.

Following Are Five Important Signs Or Symptoms Of Neurological Disorders, Recognizing Which Can Help You With Accurate Diagnosis And Treatment.

Headaches

Headaches are one of the most common signs of neurological disorders that may affect people of all ages. While a headache could be benign most of the time, headaches that come suddenly and more frequently need a visit from a board-certified neurologist. If you are in Odisha, BCure can help you with an appointment with the best neurologist in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Kendrapara.

According to Neurologists, the sudden onset of severe headaches followed by a fever, stiff neck, and sensitivity to light can be a sign of something as serious as intracranial bleeding or meningitis. Meanwhile, headaches like tension headache and migraines aren’t life-threatening, it’s advisable to visit a neurologist for treatment options.

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Stroke

Stroke due to neurological conditions is a significant health concern, not only in Odisha, but all over India. According to a study conducted in Cuttack, Odisha, stroke was one of the top non-communicable diseases and the third-leading cause of death in the country. 

A stroke often results from inadequate blood flow to the brain, commonly caused by a clot or artery blockage. Timely intervention is crucial.

Remember B.E. F.A.S.T.: Balance issues, Eyesight changes, Face or Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time are the symptoms of neurological-related headaches While these signs may not always indicate a stroke, visiting a certified neurologist near you is essential for proper evaluation. 

Epilepsy and seizures

Epilepsy is a disorder in CNS where you may face recurrent seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Mainly, epileptic seizures are unprovoked. That means the reason behind these seizures cannot be explained. 

For instance, provoked seizures happen due to triggering factors such as due to withdrawal from drugs or alcohol, high blood sugar, severe electrolyte imbalance, and other medical issues.

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Memory Loss

Memory loss is common, especially in older adults, as a normal part of aging. However, certain signs may indicate more serious conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. These signs include getting lost, financial challenges, difficulties in daily activities, safety concerns, forgetting names, language problems, and behavioral changes.

Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are significant health concerns in Odisha, India. According to a study conducted in rural Odisha, 58.3% of the study participants had a risk of dementia, with a higher prevalence among females. The Dementia India Report 2018, published by the Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Society of India (ARDSI), estimated that Odisha would have 2,15,800 people living with dementia by 2031.

Motor Neuron Disease

The prevalence of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in India is estimated to affect five in every lakh Indians, with approximately 1.5 lakh Indians losing their life each year from complications associated with ALS. Research has shown that people in India tend to develop motor neuron disease like ALS at a younger age compared to those in Western countries, with limb-onset being more common than bulbar-onset.

Also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) is a rare neuromuscular condition related to the brain’s nerve cells and spinal cord. The reason behind ALS is not exactly known, but doctors believe it has something to do with genetics and environmental factors.

Symptoms of ALS include muscle weakness, twitching, stiffness and tightness in muscles, difficulty breathing, slurred speech, and inability to swallow properly. 

There is currently no known cure for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). However, various treatments and therapies aim to slow the progression of the disease, manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and extend survival.

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Seek Immediate Help

Neurological problems in Odisha affect many people and have a big impact on their health. The lack of awareness often leads to late identification of issues. Headaches, strokes, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, dementia, and ALS are common problems. It’s important to notice signs early for better treatment. We need to spread awareness, get regular health check-ups from the best neurologist in Bhubaneswar & Cuttack, and have easy access to neurology services. Although some issues don’t have a cure, getting help in time can control problems, make life better, and possibly help people live longer.