The wise men of this world were right when they said that “all diseases come from nerves.” This statement has a basis in reality. Any minor malfunction of the nervous system will lead to a malfunction of several organs or the entire body. Neurology has been known as an independent branch of medicine since ancient times. As early as 300 years BC, in the works of Greek and Indian healers one can find descriptions of methods for diagnosing and treating neurological diseases.
In modern medicine, neurology occupies one of the leading positions. This science is based on the study of the occurrence of diseases of the nervous system, the mechanisms of development of such diseases, methods of reliable diagnosis, and methods of treatment and prevention.
Development of neuroscience
The dawn of the study of neurology occurred in the late years of the 18th century. During this period, previous studies are intensively studied and systematized, and new treatment methods are put forward.
The accumulated knowledge and experience, as well as subsequent discoveries in this area, give rise to the identification of subspecialties that study in detail individual sections of this science. Modern neurology is a complex of medical and biological areas that make it possible to find out the functionality of the nervous system, in a normal state, and in the presence of pathologies:
- Neuroanatomy - it is responsible for the study of the structure of the central (brain and spinal cord) and peripheral nervous system (nerves, ganglia, plexuses), as well as pathways.
- Neurophysiology studies the mechanism of activity and the principle of information processing by the nervous system.
- Neurohistology studies the structure of tissues and cells of the nervous system.
- Neuroendocrinology studies the interaction of the nervous and endocrine systems in the processes of regulating metabolism.
- Neuropsychology studies the connection between the brain and mental states.
Neuropathology is an independent field in clinical medicine, which deals with the etiology (origin), pathogenesis (course), and symptoms of nervous diseases, and also develops methods for their recognition (diagnosis) and treatment.
Neurological diseases
The human nervous system is a collection of various nervous tissues and structures. Conventionally, it is divided into: -
- Central nervous system - spinal cord, brain.
- Peripheral nervous system - all nerve formations located outside the central nervous system (nerves, ganglia (nodes), plexuses, receptors).
The functions performed by the nervous system are to quickly transmit information to cells, organs and tissues. It does:
- Regulation of the vital functions of all systems and organs,
- Unites the body into a single whole,
- Defines mental activity as the basis of human existence.
Causes of diseases
Neurological diseases have different origins. This may be a congenital pathology, heredity, complications after injuries or infections, degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
Recent studies have shown that the environmental situation and human lifestyle have a strong negative impact on the nervous system. More and more people suffer from various neurological diseases, the anamnesis of which includes: -
Just as various pathologies can cause diseases of the nervous system, the state of the nervous system affects the course of concomitant diseases in our body. Breaking this vicious circle is the goal of neurologists.
Such a strong relationship causes a wide range of neurological diseases, the most common today are: -
Symptoms of NEUROLOGICAL DISEASES
The manifestation of neurological diseases is extensive in its symptoms. But there are a number of similar indicators that indicate problems with the nervous system or in any part of it. These symptoms include:
*Muscle pain in the cervical, thoracic or lumbar regions, pain radiating to the arms or legs, pain in the abdomen or chest.
*All types of headaches, migraines.
*Insomnia, depression, asthenia, hyperanxiety.
*Increased fatigue, frequent dizziness, fainting, tinnitus, general weakness.
*Impaired vision, hearing, smell and taste.
*Memory disorder, decreased attention.
*Persistent anemia, convulsions, tremor (trembling of the limbs).
*Decreased or absent sensitivity.
*Speech disorders.
*Breathing problems and weakened swallowing reflex.
*Increased sweating, involuntary movements, lack of coordination.
Incontinence of urine and stool.
It should be remembered that the symptoms described are characteristic not of one disease, but of many, the cause of which is a disorder of the nervous system. The most common representatives of neurological diseases characterized by these conditions are strokes, ischemic and hemorrhagic (hemorrhage), autoimmune and oncological diseases, hematomas of the cerebral cortex and spinal cord membranes.
Also, neurological abnormalities can provoke the appearance of symptoms of diseases of internal organs: stomach, intestines, immune and endocrine systems, infectious diseases.
If you have neurological problems, you should contact a neurologist.
The insidiousness of NSAIDs
With long-term use of NSAIDs, especially in large doses, the risk of developing side effects from the gastrointestinal tract, as well as other organs and systems, increases.
When using any NSAIDs, the development of undesirable reactions is possible. It is believed that selective COX inhibitors are much less likely to cause side effects, which is directly related to the mechanism of action.
The main side effects of NSAIDs are:
- problems with the gastrointestinal tract. The drugs can cause abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, the formation of erosions and ulcers mainly of the stomach and duodenum. In order to reduce the risk of such situations, it is recommended to combine NSAIDs with drugs that protect the mucous membrane. These include Misoprostol or Omeprazole;
- nephrotoxicity. NSAIDs constrict the renal vessels and impair renal blood flow. Due to this, urine formation decreases, nitrogenous waste accumulates, edema and increased blood pressure may occur;
- toxic effect on blood cells. It is most pronounced for NSAIDs of the pyrazolone group. They are able to reduce the number of leukocytes and erythrocytes until the development of anemia or agranulocytosis;
- bleeding (due to decreased platelet aggregation);
- toxic effects on liver cells, due to which the content of liver enzymes in the blood increases;
- allergic reactions, including the development of bronchospasm (usually while taking Aspirin) and photodermatitis (when the skin breaks out in a rash in response to exposure to sunlight).
You need to understand that side effects do not always occur. With proper treatment planning, compliance with the dosage regimen, timing of use, and taking into account the patient’s concomitant pathology, the negative effects of NSAIDs can be minimized.
Neuropathologist
A neurologist is involved in the identification, treatment, and prevention of diseases affecting the nervous system anywhere, but not mental disorders.
Since neuropathology is closely related to many other areas of medicine (surgery, virology, allergology, psychiatry, oncology, pediatrics, and others), a neurologist works in constant contact with doctors of other specialties. Making a diagnosis and prescribing a course of treatment is impossible without consulting specialists whose area is affected by the nervous system in each specific case.
At the same time, specialists in other fields of medicine prescribe treatment for diseases affecting the nervous system only after consultation with a neurologist.
Examination and diagnostic methods
During preventive examinations, the doctor checks reflexes and sensitivity using a special hammer and needle. These manipulations are necessary to determine the conduction of nerve impulses and identify diseases in the early stages. By regularly undergoing examination by a neurologist, you will protect yourself from many problems, and most importantly, this will prevent the development of serious diseases.
In addition to a preventive examination, you should contact a neurologist if the symptoms described above appear.
The variety of neurological symptoms, and their close connection with diseases of other systems and organs, poses a challenge for the doctor to differentiate, that is, to distinguish neurological problems from manifestations not related to the nervous system.
Today, a number of effective methods have been developed to detect neurological diseases at various stages of their development. To make a reliable diagnosis, the following studies are used: -
Based on all the studies conducted, and taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient, the doctor draws up a plan of treatment procedures.
How do NSAIDs work?
The human body contains a special enzyme - COX, which is involved in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are substances that influence the appearance of pain, inflammation, increased body temperature and many other reactions. COX has several varieties:
- COX-1 controls the production of substances that ensure the normal structure of the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract, platelet adhesion and blood circulation through the kidneys;
- COX-2 is responsible for inflammation processes;
- COX-3 provides a febrile reaction, that is, an increase in body temperature. Some researchers believe that COX-3 is part of COX-1, and do not distinguish it as a separate variety.
NSAIDs can block COX, which means they reduce the amount of prostaglandins. Due to this, pain and signs of inflammation are reduced, and platelet aggregation is inhibited. At the same time, some of the NSAIDs suspend the work of all COX fractions, that is, they are non-selective, and the other part are selective in this process, turning off only COX-2 (they are selective). Due to such multidirectional effects, NSAIDs have different properties, which are realized in practice. Thus, those NSAIDs that suppress COX-1 and COX-2 can cause ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract and impair renal blood flow. It is this fact that determines the indications and contraindications for the prescription of certain NSAIDs, causes adverse reactions, and also determines the market cost of the drugs. Based on all this, classification based on the selectivity of the action of NSAIDs has become more widespread than the chemical one.
All the subtleties of the mechanism of operation of NSAIDs are still not fully understood. In recent years, data have emerged on the COX-independent effect of NSAIDs, which determines the severity of the analgesic effect of this group of drugs. Therefore, non-selective NSAIDs retain their position in the treatment of many diseases, despite their side effects.
Treatment methods
Treatment of neurological diseases is carried out strictly individually, taking into account the effect of medications, possible complications and contraindications, dosage and interaction with other drugs are calculated.
In the presence of pain, first of all, the pain is relieved. Then the causes of the inflammatory process are eliminated, vascular patency and nutrition of nerve endings are restored.
Modern techniques include drugs, both general action and local blockades. The affected area is chipped around the periphery or the drug is injected directly into the source of pain.
A mandatory method is massage and manual therapy. Massage helps relieve pinched areas of nerve fibers from pressure, and manual therapy restores the functioning of the peripheral nervous system.
Physiotherapeutic treatment has become of great importance. His techniques allow drugs to quickly penetrate deep into the tissues of the body, restore the patency of affected areas, stimulate blood flow and movement in the lymphatic system.
In addition to physical therapy, reflexology helps a lot. Acupuncture, based on centuries of knowledge and experience, acts directly on nerve receptors, stimulates the functioning of nerve impulses, and improves conductivity.
Additionally, the course of treatment includes physical therapy and water procedures. It cannot be denied that water relieves stress, has a calming effect on the entire nervous system, helps to acquire calmness and tranquility, which is very important for the therapeutic effect.
But still, experts recommend preventing any diseases; it is much easier than treating them for a long time.
Treatment of intercostal neuralgia
For diseases of this type, painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs are usually prescribed:
- spazgan,
- spasmalgon,
- nize,
- ketoprofen,
- pentalgin.
In addition, the following ointments are used:
- nize,
- ortofen,
- voltaren,
- diclofenac.
Sometimes, with severe inflammation of the nerve endings and the patient’s unstable emotional state, some sedatives, such as Persen or Afobazole, may be prescribed. You can additionally read how complex treatment of intercostal neuralgia is carried out on the website of a clinic specializing in neurology..
Prevention of neurological diseases
You should not wait until the disease takes you by surprise; it is much easier to prevent its occurrence. Measures to prevent neurological diseases are not difficult.
First, it's reasonable exercise. Both lack of physical exercise and excessive exercise are a prerequisite for neurological diseases. Daily walking, with a set of exercises developed by a specialist, will help avoid many problems.
Secondly, nutritional culture is an important factor that must be observed. Statistics have confirmed that overweight people with an addiction to spicy and fatty foods are much more likely to suffer from neurological diseases.
And of course, a timely visit to a doctor for qualified help, and not self-medication, will help prevent the development of neurological diseases.
Our medical center provides the widest range of services. We are always happy to help you on issues of otolaryngology and reproductive psychology.
Neurology and NSAIDs
Patients with back pain due to osteochondrosis need NSAIDs.
Treatment of many neurological diseases cannot be done without NSAIDs, and often it is simply impossible. First of all, these drugs are indicated for:
- osteochondrosis of the spine (and its neurological manifestations - cervicalgia, thoracalgia, cervicobrachialgia, lumbodynia, lumbar sciatica, radiculopathy, myelopathy);
- headaches of various types;
- neuralgia of the trigeminal, occipital nerves;
- neuropathy of the facial nerve;
- compression-ischemic damage to nerve fibers (tunnel syndromes);
- ischemic stroke (as secondary prevention). In this case we are talking exclusively about Acetylsalicylic acid.
This is not the entire list of diseases for which NSAIDs may be needed. In general, we can say that almost any disease of the nervous system may require the use of NSAIDs. For example, in case of multiple sclerosis, during preventive therapy there may be a need for this group of drugs, although usually the treatment of this disease does not require their use.
Whether or not to use NSAIDs in the treatment of a particular disease should be decided by the attending physician. Independent regular use of drugs in this group can lead to serious complications. NSAID drugs are freely available in pharmacies (they do not require a prescription), but this does not mean they are absolutely harmless. What are the risks of using them?
