A stroke, also known as cerebrovascular disease, occurs when the blood flow to the brain is interrupted or significantly reduced, which deprives brain tissue of nutrients and oxygen. Brain cells begin to die within minutes of oxygen deprivation. An interruption is typically due to a burst blood vessel or a blood clot. A stroke can be life threatening, so getting immediate treatment is crucial. Early intervention may minimize brain damage and reduce the risk of possible complications. Cause of S[...]

Brain tumors occur when abnormal cells develop within the brain. Medicine has yet to identify the origin behind most brain tumors, but tumors are known to be more frequent in patients who suffer from inherited conditions like neurofibromatosis or who have been exposed to external conditions, like specific types of radiation or industrial chemicals. While suspecting a tumor or being diagnosed with one can be a frightening prospect, there are plenty of resources to help you better understand the c[...]

Alzheimer’s disease is an illness that affects the brain. It is the most common cause of dementia, a cluster of symptoms including short- and long-term memory loss, poor judgment, and a decline in a person’s ability to manage the tasks of everyday living. The Course of Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s disease progresses or gets worse over time. During the earliest stages, the affected person experiences short-term memory loss, problems finding the right word in conversation, losing [...]

An aneurysm can occur in different parts of the body, but the most common type occurs in the aorta. The aorta carries blood enriched with oxygen to the rest of the body from the heart. An aneurysm can also occur in the brain. Aneurysms are caused by weak spots in an artery or blood vessel, when the wall of it is weakened or injured. Once there is a weakened spot, it will tend to balloon outward, possibly leading to a rupture, or a dissection. A dissection occurs when there is a split in one o[...]

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease caused by the immune system attacking myelin, a protective covering over the nerves. This disrupts important communication that is needed between the brain and the rest of the body. Over time, the nerves may deteriorate completely. The exact cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown. It is considered an autoimmune disease. There are some factors that increase a patient’s risk of developing it—for example, individuals between the ages of 15 and 60 years ar[...]