What Are the Most Common Brain Diseases

There are many different types of brain diseases, but here's a quick review of the most common ones. These conditions include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, and Epidural hematoma. Read on to learn more about treatments of brain diseases. Also read this article about the dangers of Alzheimer's disease. And be sure to read about other diseases like Epidural hematoma, which can cause swelling and pain in the brain.

Alzheimer's disease

The brain's neurons function like mini factories, receiving supplies, generating energy, and constructing equipment in order to process information and communicate with other cells. This coordination and vast supply of oxygen and fuel is essential for brain cells to do their jobs. Scientists believe that Alzheimer's disease results from a breakdown in these cell factories, as damaged cells can no longer do their jobs. Scientists believe that abnormal brain structures may also contribute to the loss of nerve cells in patients with the disease.

Although there's no single test to confirm or rule out Alzheimer's, a combination of standard medical tests can rule out other possible causes of memory loss. A brain scan, also known as a CT scan, can provide detailed images of the brain, allowing doctors to rule out other possible causes of symptoms. The results may be repeated to collect additional information about changes in cognitive function. If Alzheimer's disease is suspected, patients and families should see a doctor as soon as possible to prevent symptoms and manage the disease.

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease

Creutzfeldt-Jakob (CJD) is a progressive disease of the brain that causes loss of memory, thought, and language. It is caused by a buildup of proteins in the brain called prion. Early symptoms of the disease include failing memory, behavioral changes, and problems with vision and coordination. Over time, these symptoms may progress to involuntary movements. In most cases, the disease results in death within a year of onset. In addition to the rapid onset and progression of the disorder, it is hereditary in five to 10 percent of cases.

Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease is a rare but fatal brain disorder caused by a prion. This protein causes abnormal folding of other proteins in the body. The resulting abnormal folding of the prion protein then causes damage to brain cells and eventually death. Although CJD is not related to Mad Cow disease, it is fatal, and no cure exists.

Epidural hematoma

Although it may be asymptomatic in its early stages, epidural hematoma can quickly expand and increase the pressure on the brain, which can cause significant damage. Once the hematoma begins to spread, it can result in a rapidly progressive set of symptoms, and even coma or death. As it grows, however, treatment options for this disease are more limited than those for other types of brain injuries.

Initial treatment for epidural hematoma includes an aspiration, a procedure in which a small hole is made in the skull and the hematoma is suctioned out. Anti-seizure medications may also be prescribed, as seizures are often a complication of head injuries. During rehabilitation, patients may need to take several months of anti-seizure medication.

Vascular malformations

Vascular malformations are brain diseases caused by a disorder of blood vessels. If left untreated, they can cause symptoms ranging from headaches to stroke-like symptoms. Other symptoms include seizures, numbness, and changes in motor function. In severe cases, these diseases can be fatal. Although a doctor can usually make the diagnosis through a physical examination, further examination may require imaging tests to determine the underlying cause.

Another type of vascular malformations in the brain is cavernoma, also known as a cavernoma. These vascular masses are filled with slow-moving blood and can leak. While cavernomas typically occur in the pons, they can be present anywhere in the brain. AVMs may also occur in the spine or arachnoid tissue. Although these disorders can lead to seizures and focal neurological deficits, they are rare.