When someone has a neurological disorder, it affects their brain, spinal cord, or nerves. These body parts control everything we do, from moving and talking to thinking and feeling.
Sometimes, these disorders are so serious that people need special care in a hospital. This is called inpatient treatment.
Let’s talk about neurological disorders and common inpatient neurological disorder treatments.
What Are Neurological Disorders?
Neurological disorders are problems that affect the nervous system. Here are some common ones that require inpatient treatment:
Stroke
A stroke happens when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing brain cells to die. This can lead to sudden problems like trouble speaking, paralysis, or loss of coordination.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) occurs when a sudden impact or jolt to the head damages the brain. This can result in symptoms like confusion, headaches, memory loss, and difficulty with movement.
ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
ALS is a disease that weakens your muscles because the cells in your brain and spinal cord die. It gets harder to move, talk, and even breathe over time.
Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis is when your body’s defense system attacks the connection between nerves and muscles. This causes severe muscle weakness that worsens when you do things, but can get better if you rest.
Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Guillain-Barre syndrome is a rare illness where the immune system attacks the nerves, making people suddenly have weak muscles or even not be able to move at all. Most people get better after weeks or months.
Paraplegia
Paraplegia means you can’t move your legs because of an injury to your spine. People with paraplegia often use wheelchairs.
Quadriplegia
Quadriplegia means both arms and legs don’t work because of an injury to the spine.
What is Inpatient Treatment?
Inpatient treatment means staying in a hospital to receive intensive medical care and therapy. This type of treatment is usually needed when someone has a serious neurological disorder that requires close monitoring and specialized care.
At an inpatient facility, patients get 24/7 care from a team of healthcare professionals.
Types of Treatments Offered for Neurological Disorders
In an inpatient treatment program for neurological disorders, various therapies are provided to help patients recover and improve their abilities. Here are some common types of therapies:
Medications
Sometimes, people with neurological problems are given medications to help them feel better. These medications can play different roles:
- Symptom Relief: Some medicines help reduce the symptoms, making the patient feel more comfortable. For example, pain relievers can help with headache pain.
- Disease Control: Other medications can slow down or stop the progression of the disorder. For instance, drugs used for multiple sclerosis (MS) can help prevent new attacks.
Surgery
For some neurological problems, doctors may recommend surgery as an advanced treatment option. Surgery can be helpful for:
- Removing Tumors: Surgeons can remove brain or spinal cord tumors causing problems.
- Relieving Pressure: Sometimes, surgery is needed to relieve pressure on the brain or spinal cord, such as in cases of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).
- Correcting Structural Issues: Operations can correct structural abnormalities like aneurysms or certain types of epilepsy.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy helps people get stronger and move better. The therapist gives exercises and activities to help with walking, balance, and other movements for people with brain or nerve problems.
Speech Therapy
Speech therapy is for patients who have trouble speaking or swallowing due to their neurological disorder. Therapists work with them to improve their communication skills and ensure they can eat and drink safely.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy helps patients with neurological disorders perform everyday activities more independently. Therapists work with patients on tasks like dressing, eating, and bathing.
If patients struggle with these tasks, therapists show them new ways to do them. For example, they might suggest using special tools or changing the way a task is done. The goal is to help patients with neurological disorders lead a more independent and fulfilling life.
Cognitive Therapy
Cognitive therapy focuses on improving thinking skills that might have been affected by neurological disorders. It involves:
- Memory Exercises: Therapists use activities and exercises to help improve the patient’s memory.
- Attention Training: They work on tasks that require concentration, helping patients improve their attention span.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Therapists help patients practice solving problems and making decisions, which are crucial for daily life.
This type of therapy is particularly important for patients who have had a stroke or brain injury, helping them regain mental functions and independence.
Benefits of Inpatient Treatment
Being an inpatient (staying at the hospital) can help people with neurological disorders in many ways:
- You will have doctors and nurses watching over you all the time who know how to help with your disorder.
- Each person gets their own special treatment plan for their specific disorder so they can recover better.
- Being around other people who are going through similar things can be comforting. Also, the staff will understand what you are going through and give you support.
Neurological Disorder Treatment Near Me
Inpatient treatment for neurological disorders offers essential support and care for those facing serious conditions affecting their brain, spine, or nerves. With the help of a dedicated team of medical professionals and various therapies, patients can work towards regaining their strength, independence, and well-being.
At Carrus Health Specialty Hospital, we provide specialized inpatient care for an extended period for patients who need it. Our doctors and medical staff create individualized neurological disorder treatment plans to help restore patients’ health and quality of life. Whether you have a routine check-up or a more complex procedure, you can be assured that you will receive the highest quality of care.
To learn more about our inpatient services, call us today at (903) 870-2600. We look forward to serving you!