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[understanding-neuro-disorders]

Autism Spectrum Disorder

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? 

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that begins in childhood and lasts throughout a persons life. This disorder affects how a person acts and interacts with others and communicates and learns. It was once called Asperger Syndrome. Autism is a spectrum disorder because people with ASD can have a range of symptoms and behaviors. 

Who is at risk of ASD?

This disorder affects children of all races and backgrounds. The sex of the child can play a factor, boys are about 4 times more likely to have autism than females. It is also harder to diagnose females with ASD because there is no criteria to go off of and their diagnosis will typically occur in their teen years. 

Family history also plays a role, if one child has the disorder, there is risk for the other children in the family. Parent ages can also be a risk, if parents are older when they give birth, there is more risk for their children.

Extremely preterm babies, babies born before 26 weeks. 

What causes ASD?

It is not definite on what causes ASD. It is widely said that it could be genetic, caused by environmental factors, or by issues at birth or during the pregnancy. 

What are the symptoms of Autism?

Each person with ASD is likely to have a unique pattern of behavior and level of severity- low to high functioning. 

* social communication and interaction

       * failing to respond to their names or appearing not to hear you

       * resist cuddling or holding 

       * preferring to play alone or be “in their own world”

       * poor eye contact

       * lacking facial expression 

       * delayed speech or won’t speak 

       * looses ability to say words

       * trouble starting conversations or keeping them going

       * repeating words without understanding how to use them

       * speaking with an abnormal tone such as robot like speech

       * not understanding simple questions

       * trouble expressing emotions

       * trouble understanding other peoples feelings

       * could be passive, aggressive, or disruptive

* Patterns of behavior

        * performing repetitive movements like rocking or spinning

        * could perform activities causing self-harm like biting

        * develop specific routines or rituals that can be disturbed by slight change

        * problems with coordination 

        * fascinated by details of an object

        *  sensitivity to light, sound, or touch, but may be indifferent to pain or temperature

        * doesn’t engage in make believe play

        * fixating on an object with abnormal intensity or focus

        * specific food preferences, like only eating a few foods or disliking certain foods because of their texture. 

What are the treatment options for ASD?

There is no cure for ASD or one set standard treatment for it. 

Some treatments include:

         * behavioral management therapy

         * cognitive behavior therapy 

         * early intervention

         * educational and school-based therapies 

         * joint attention therapy

         * medical treatments

         * occupational therapies

         * parent-mediated therapy

         * speech language therapies

         * social skills training

Sources:

https://medlineplus.gov/autismspectrumdisorder.html#:~:text=Autism%20spectrum%20disorder%20(ASD)%20is,syndrome%20and%20pervasive%20developmental%20disorders.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/autism-spectrum-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20352928#:~:text=Risk%20factors&text=Autism%20spectrum%20disorder%20affects%20children,spectrum%20disorder%20than%20girls%20are.

https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/autism/conditioninfo/treatments

[understanding-neuro-disorders]

Epilepsy

What is Epilepsy? 

Epilepsy is a central nervous system disorder in which brain activity becomes abnormal, causing seizures or periods of unusual behavior, sensations, and sometimes loss of awareness. 

Who is at risk of Epilepsy? 

Anyone can develop Epilepsy. It can affect both males and females of all races, ethnic backgrounds, and ages. 

What are the causes of Epilepsy?

* Some causes of genes could run in families; however, genes are only part of the cause. Certain genes may make a person more sensitive to environmental conditions that trigger seizures. 

* Head trauma 

* Brain conditions such as tumors or strokes that cause damage to the brain

* Infectious diseases like meningitis, AIDS, and viral encephalitis

* Prenatal injuries such as lack of oxygen, poor nutrition, or infection in the mother

* Developmental disorders like Autism 

What are the symptoms of Epilepsy? 

Symptoms can vary. 

         * staring blankly during a seizure 

         * twitching arms or legs during a seizure

         * temporary confusion

         * loss of consciousness or awareness

         * psychic symptoms like fear, anxiety, or deja vu

What are the treatment options for Epilepsy?

         * medicines called anti-epileptic drugs (AEDS) are used to help control the seizures

         * surgery to remove a small part of the brain that is causing the seizures

         * a procedure to put a small electrical device inside the body that can help control seizures 

         * a special diet (Ketogenic Diet) that can help control seizures.

Sources: 

Definitions from Oxford Dictionary

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/symptoms-causes/syc-20350093#:~:text=Brain%20conditions%20that%20cause%20damage,viral%20encephalitis%2C%20can%20cause%20epilepsy.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/epilepsy/treatment/#:~:text=medicines%20called%20anti%2Depileptic%20drugs,that%20can%20help%20control%20seizures

[understanding-neuro-disorders]

ADHD and ADD

What is ADHD and ADD?

Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a disorder marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity- impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. ADD is a form of ADHD thats primary focus is in inattentiveness. 

What causes ADHD and ADD? 

The exact cause of ADHD is not known. Factors that may be involved in the development of ADHD could be genetics, the environment or problems with the central nervous system during key moments of development. 

Who is at risk of ADHD or ADD? 

Males have been more commonly found to have ADHD then females. Females are more likely to have issues with inattentiveness (ADD).

Risk factors may include:

           * a blood relative (like a parent or sibling) with ADHD or another mental health disorder

          * Exposure to environmental toxins (like lead)

          * Maternal drug use (like smoking or drinking pregnancy).

          * Premature birth or low birth weight

         * brain injuries 

What are the symptoms of ADHD and ADD?

Children with ADHD could show symptoms through:

          * daydreaming a lot

          * forget or loose things often

          * squirm or fidget 

          * more careless mistakes

          * talk a lot

          * take unnecessary risks

          * hard time resisting temptation 

          * trouble taking turns 

          * trouble getting along with others

Inattention Symptoms:

           * overlook details, make careless mistakes in schoolwork

           * have problems sustaining attention in tasks, like conversations, lectures, or long reading. 

           * not listening when spoken to directly 

           * getting side tracked when working on tasks

           * problems organizing

           * trouble keeping materials in order

           * messy work 

           * poor time management

           * failing to meet deadlines

           * avoidance of tasks that require sustained mental effort

           * loosing things needed for tasks 

           * easily distracted by thoughts or stimuli

           * forgetful in daily activities 

Hyperactivity- Impulsivity:

          * Fidget and squirm

          * leaving their seats when they should be seated 

           *  run around or climb things at inappropriate times

           * engage in hobbies quietly

           * constantly being “on the go”

           * talk nonstop

           * blurt out answer before question is fully asked

           * trouble waiting for turn

           * interrupting others often

What are the treatment options for ADHD and ADD?

There is no cure but there are medications to help with the symptoms. 

          * Amphetamines are used (Adderall ZR, Dexedrine, Mydayis, Vyvanse).

          * Methylphenidates are used (Concerta, Ritalin, and Focalin).

Other medications:

          * Strattera 

          * Antidepressants like Wellbutrin SR

          * Intuniv

          * Catapres, Kapvay 

Sources: 

Definitions from Oxford Dictionary 

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.html

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/index.shtml

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889#:~:text=While%20the%20exact%20cause%20of,at%20key%20moments%20in%20development.

[understanding-neuro-disorders]

Alzheimer’s

What is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s is a progressive mental deterioration that can occur in the middle or old age, due to generalized degeneration of the brain. This type of dementia affects memory, thinking, and behavior. The symptoms will eventually grow severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. 

This disorder is also the most common cause of premature senility. Premature senility is a rare genetic disorder in childhood that is characterized by rapid onset of the physical changes of typical old age, usually resulting in death before the age of 20. 

Who is at risk of Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases. Alzheimer’s is also the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. 

The most common risk factor for the is disease is age, with the majority of people with Alzheimer’s being 65 or older; however, old age is not the only factor. In fact, about 200,000 American’s under the age of 65 have Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease. 

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s gradually worsen overtime. Early on, the disease causes mild memory loss, but as it continues, individuals loose the ability to carry out conversations and respond to their environment. The average life expectancy for someone with Alzheimer’s disease is 4-8 years, but depending on some factors, someone can live up to 20 years. 

What causes Alzheimer’s? 

Studies have shown that most people with Alzheimer’s develop far more plaques and tangles in their brains that begins in areas important for memory that eventually spreads to other regions. 

           * Plaques are deposits for a protein fragment called beta-amyloid that build up in the spaces between nerve cells. 

           * tangles are twisted fibers of another protein called Tau that build up inside cells. 

While scientist are not exactly sure what role these two proteins play, it is believed that they are responsible for the blocking of communication between nerve cells as well as disturbing processes that cells need to survive. Destruction and death of these nerve cells will cause memory failure, personality changes, and problems with carrying out everyday activities. 

What are the symptoms of Alzheimer’s? 

The most common symptom is trouble with learning and remembering new information (this is an early symptom due to this disease typically starting in the part of the brain that affects learning). 

More severe symptoms:

            * disorientation 

            * confusion about events

            * mood changes

            * behavioral changes

            * confusion about time

            * confusion about places

            * suspicions about family, friends, or caregivers

            * more serious memory loss

            * difficulty speaking and swallowing 

            * difficulty walking

What are the treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease?

Medications called Cholinesterase inhibitors are used to help with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s. These drugs are supposed to help reduce some of the symptoms and help control behavioral changed. These medications, according to research, help prevent the breakdown of Acetylcholine, which is a chemical believed to be important for memory and thinking. Eventually these drugs may have less effect due to the disease causing the brain to produce less and less Acetylcholine. 

Drugs used: 

           * Razadyne

           * Exelon

           * Aricept

Namenda is an NMDA antagonist that is used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer’s. This drug allows for some people to maintain certain daily functions for a while longer, such as going to the bathroom without aid. Namenda helps regulate Glutamate which is an important neurotransmitter. Too much Glutamate can result in cell death, which is why regulation is needed. 

Drugs used for moderate to severe: 

          * Aricept

          * Excelon Patch

          * Namzaric- a combination of Namenda and Aricept

Sources: 

Definitions from Oxford Dictionary

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers#:~:text=Alzheimer's%20is%20a%20progressive%20disease,and%20respond%20to%20their%20environment.

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/how-alzheimers-disease-treated#:~:text=Medications%20called%20cholinesterase%20inhibitors%20are,and%20Aricept%C2%AE%20(donepezil).

[understanding-neuro-disorders]

Schizophrenia

What is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a long term mental disorder involving a breakdown in the relation between thought, emotion, and behavior, leading to faulty perception, inappropriate actions and feelings, withdrawal from reality and personal relationships into fantasy and delusions, and a sense of mental fragmentation. 

Who is at risk of Schizophrenia?

Risks include a family history of the disease (greater risk coming from a first-degree relative like a parent), autoimmune system abnormalities, and drug abuse during adolescence. Complications during pregnancy are also linked, such as exposure to toxins or viruses, premature labor, low birth weight, and lack of oxygen at birth. People in low income families are also at higher risk. 

What causes Schizophrenia? 

It is not yet known what causes Schizophrenia, but it is believed that a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental factors contribute to the developing of this disease. 

Problems with neurotransmitters such as Dopamine and Glutamate may be a cause. Studies have shown a difference in brain structure in people with Schizophrenia. 

What are the symptoms of Schizophrenia?

The symptoms range from cognitive, behavioral, and emotional. 

            *  Hallucinations, most often auditory

            *  Delusions of grandeur, persecution, etc.

            * Bizarre behaviors

            *  Disordered thought processes

            * Flat affect (blunted emotional responses)

            * Anhedonia (loss of pleasurable feelings)

            * Reduced motivation, poor focus on tasks

            *  Alogia (reduced speech output)

            * Catatonia (reduced movement)

            *  Difficulty paying attention

            *  Difficulty with learning

            * Difficulty completing tasks

            * Memory problems

Symptoms in teenagers:

            * withdrawal from friends and family

            *  a drop in performance at school

            *  trouble sleeping

            *  irritability or depressed mood

            *  lack of motivation 

Teens may be less likely to experience delusions and more likely to experience visual hallucinations. 

What are the treatment options for Schizophrenia?

There is no cure for Schizophrenia, but there are medications used to help with the symptoms. These medications include:

            * Aripiprazole

            * Asenapine

            * Brexpiprazole

            * Cariprazine

            *  Clozapine

            *  Iloperidone

            *  Lurasidone

            * Olanzapine

            *  Paliperidone

            *  Quetiapine

            * Risperidone

            *  Ziprasidone

The following are medications that have significant side effects:

             * Chlorpromazine

             * Fluphenazine

             * Haloperidol

             * Perphenazine

Injectable Antipsychotics:

             * Aripiprazole

             * Fluphenazine decanoate

             * Haloperidol decanoate 

             * Paliperidone 

             * Risperidone 

Therapies:

             * Individual therapy

             * Social skills training

             * Family therapy

             * Vocational rehabilitation

             *  Electro-convulsive therapy- to be used when medications are not working

If symptoms get to be too much, hospitalization may be necessary.

Sources: 

Definitions from Oxford Dictionary 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354443

https://www.psycom.net/schizophrenia-signs-causes/#:~:text=Risk%20factors%20for%20schizophrenia%20include,birth%20are%20linked%20to%20schizophrenia.

[understanding-neuro-disorders]

Helplines for Depression and Anxiety:

Many people suffer from depression and anxiety. It is important to know that you are never alone. There are many helplines and resources that are available. Never feel embarrassed or ashamed to reach out if you feel like you need help and never feel scared to reach out to someone if you believe a loved one is also struggling. 

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

For those who are hearing impaired: 1-800-799-4889

https://www.betterhelp.com/

Better Help offers online therapy through chats, video calls, and phone calls. 

The Samaritans: 877-870-4673

The Samaritans offers emotional support to anyone who may be feeling depressed, suicidal, or just needs someone to talk to. You can text or call at anytime.

Trevor Project Lifeline: 866-488-7386

The Trevor Project supports LGBT youth.

National Teen Dating Violence Hotline: 1-866-331-9474 or text “loveis” to 22522

For concerns relating to violence and relationships

Boys Town National Hotline: 800-448-3000

For at risk teens and children

Crisis Text Line: text “HOME” to 741741

For those who may not wish to speak on a phone call

Child Help USA National Helpline: 1-800-422-4453

For youth who are suffering child abuse.

https://www.imalive.org/

Provides help through online crisis chats.

https://www.mentalhelp.net/depression/hotline/

Provides resources for depression as well as addiction

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-6264

Provides help if you are in crisis or looking for more information

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 800-622-4357

Provides help in English and Spanish facing substance abuse and mental health disorders

talkspace.com 

Is another online therapy resource 

[understanding-neuro-disorders]

Huntington’s Disease

What is Huntington’s Disease?

Huntington’s Disease (sometimes referred to as Huntington’s Chorea) is a hereditary disease marked by degeneration of the brain cells causing chorea, progressive dementia, and other psychiatric disorders. 

Chorea is a neurological disorder characterized by jerky involuntary movements affecting especially the shoulders, hips, and face. 

Who is at risk?

Symptoms of Huntington’s Disease can develop at any time; however, it is most common for symptoms to appear when people are in their 30s and 40s. 

Juvenile Huntington’s Disease is when symptoms occur before the age of 20, usually if the symptoms appear this early they are a little different and often progress faster. 

Progression and duration varies. Time from the beginning of the disease to death is anywhere from 10 to 30 years. If the person has juvenile Huntington’s, life expectancy is about 10 years. Eventually, Huntington’s disease will cause a person to need help with all activities involved in living. Even further progression of the disease will lead to the person being confined to bed and not able to speak. 

What causes Huntington’s Disease?

This neurological disease is caused by a single defective gene on chromosome 4. The defective gene is dominant, which means that people who inherit it from a parent that has Huntington’s will eventually develop the disease (only one parent has to have it). The gene is supposed to code for the Huntington protein; however, it is not yet known what this protein is supposed to do because scientists have only been able to identify its defective form. 

What are the symptoms of Huntington’s Disease?

For Huntington’s Disease:

     Movement issues like: 

          * chorea

          * muscle rigidity or dystonia

          * slow or abnormal eye movements

          * impaired posture & balance

          * issues with speech or swallowing 

     Cognitive issues like:

           * problems organizing, focusing, & prioritizing tasks

           * issues with getting stuck on thoughts, behaviors, or actions

           * lack of impulse control, outbursts, acting without thinking, sexual promiscuity 

           * not being aware of their own behaviors

           * trouble finding words or show processing of thoughts

           * trouble learning new information

      Psychiatric issues like:

           * feeling sad or irritable

           * withdrawing socially 

           * loss of energy & fatigue

           * insomnia

           * thoughts of death or suicide 

           * bipolar disorder

           * mania

           * obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Juvenile Symptoms:

     Behavioral changes:

           * trouble paying attention

           * a drop (a rapid one) in school performance

           * behavioral issues

     Physical changes:

           * rigidity in muscles that affects gait

           * tremors & involuntary movements

           * falls & clumsiness

           * seizures

What are the treatment options for Huntington’s Disease?

As of now, there is no cure and no way to slow the progression of Huntington’s. 

           * Olansapine (an antipsychotic drug) used to help with chorea. 

           * Antipsychotic drugs are recommended for severe anger or threatening behavior

           * For symptoms that are experienced by those who have Huntington’s, like anxiety, depression, and insomnia, it is recommended that regularly  prescribed medications that are often used to treat these disorders be used. 

Sources:

Definitions from Oxford Dictionary

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/huntingtons-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20356117

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/huntington-s-disease#:~:text=Huntington's%20disease%20is%20a%20progressive,will%20eventually%20develop%20the%20disease.

[understanding-neuro-disorders]

Parkinson’s Disease

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s is a disease of the nervous disorder that is marked by tremors, muscular rigidity, and slow movements (that are imprecise). 

Who is most likely to develop Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s Disease generally occurs in people around the age of 60, which is why age is one clear risk factor for developing this disease. Parkinson’s effects both men and women; however, research has shown that is 50% more likely to develop in men than in women. 5-10% of people who have Parkinson’s had early onset disease which can occur before the age of 50. Research on Parkinson’s has shown that some, but not all, people who develop early onset Parkinson’s inherited it and that some forms of this disease are linked to gene mutations. 

A prime example of early onset Parkinson’s can be seen by looking at the story of actor Micheal J Fox, famously known for the Back to the Future movies. Fox was diagnosed the early onset Parkinson’s in 1991 when he was just 29 years old. He came out about his diagnoses in 1998, which is also the time that he decided to campaign for Parkinson’s research. He launched the Michael J Fox foundation in 2000 and since then the foundation has raised over 900 million dollars. He is praised for his optimistic outlook on life despite having this disease and for all of his work in raising money through the foundation. 

What causes Parkinson’s Disease? 

Parkinson’s is caused by neurons in the part of the brain that controls movement, the Basal Ganglia- more specifically in the Substantia Nigra, become impaired or die. These neurons are responsible for the production of dopamine, which is a very important brain chemical. When these neurons die or are impaired, it causes less production of dopamine and the result of this causes the movement problems associated with Parkinson’s. 

Parkinson’s Disease also causes a loss in neurons in charge of the production of norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is the main neurotransmitter in the Sympathetic Nervous System, which is the system that is involved in many of the automatic functions in the body. The change in norepinephrine is believed to be the reason for non-movement systems of Parkinson’s, like changes in blood pressure when they stand up from being seated. 

What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease? 

Main Systems:

           * tremors in the hands. arms, legs, jaw, or the head

           * stiffness of the limbs & trunk

           * slowness of movement

           * impairments of movement & coordination

Other symptoms:

           * depression

           * problems swallowing, chewing, & speaking

           * constipation 

           * skin issues

           * sleeping problems

           * fatigue

           * memory problems

Progression of Parkinson’s disease differs among people. It is also very hard to diagnose because there are no definitive tests for it and the symptoms are similar to other disease which can lead to it being misdiagnosed. Also many people don’t go to the doctors when symptoms first occur because they believe they are just due to old age. 

Most of the symptoms begin on one side of the body, such as tremor in one hand, and eventually the symptoms affect both sides. Even though it does spread to both sides, it may still be more severe on one side. 

What are the treatment options for Parkinson’s Disease? 

There is no cure for Parkinson’s, but there are medicines, surgical options, & therapy options that are helpful in relieving symptoms. Some of the medicines used help to increase the dopamine levels as well as other brain chemicals and some that help control non-motor issues that are experienced. 

L-Dopa (levodopa) is a drug used to make dopamine in the brain. There are dopamine agonists that are used to mimic dopamine in the brain. MAO-B inhibitors are used to slow down the enzyme that breaks down dopamine. There are also Anticholinergic drugs are used to reduce the tremors and muscle rigidity experienced. 

Deep Brain Stimulation is often used for people who don’t respond to medications. This is a surgical procedure where electrodes are implanted into the brain and the electrodes are connected to a device that is implanted in the chest. These implants are meant to stimulate the brain resulting in stopping symptoms of Parkinson’s like tremors, rigidity, and slow movements. 

Therapies like physical, occupational, and speech are meant to help with reducing the effects of Parkinson’s such as the tremors and muscle rigidity. 

I hope this was informative! Also if you would like to read more about Michael J Fox’s Foundation or donate, here is the link to the Foundation website: 

https://www.michaeljfox.org/

Sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/parkinsons-disease

https://www.michaeljfox.org/michaels-story