The nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system) and the peripheral nerves that spread throughout the body. Because this system controls movement, sensation, speech, memory and balance, its diseases can show up with a wide variety of symptoms.
The list below is not for self-diagnosis: the same symptom can have very different causes. The aim is to know when to see a doctor and when to call an ambulance immediately.
Main symptoms of nervous system disorders
Sensory disturbances
- numbness, tingling or a feeling of «ants crawling» in the hands or feet;
- burning, stabbing or electric shock-like pains;
- reduced sensation in the feet.
Numbness is sometimes caused simply by a hand or foot being compressed for a long time and passes within a few minutes. However, persistent or recurring numbness needs a medical examination. We have covered this topic in detail in a separate article: numbness and tingling in the hands and feet.
Movement disorders
- weakness in the arms or legs;
- involuntary shaking — tremor;
- slowness of movement, stiffness of the limbs — sometimes related to Parkinson's disease;
- difficulty with balance and coordination, walking problems.
Headache and dizziness
Most headaches are not dangerous, but pain that recurs frequently, changes in character or occurs together with other symptoms should be checked by a doctor. We have a separate page on migraine, and this article on warning signs.
Episodes of altered consciousness and seizures
- sudden stiffening or going limp of the body, falling;
- rhythmic jerking or twitching movements;
- brief «freezing», not hearing people nearby;
- episodes of a strange smell or sudden numbness in part of the body.
These symptoms may be related to epilepsy; to clarify, the doctor often orders an EEG.
According to the NHS, involuntary passing of urine during an attack, or the person making strange movements without realising it (for example, fumbling with their hands), can also be signs of a seizure. A description of the attack by people close to you who saw it, or if possible a short video, is very valuable information for the doctor.
An ambulance should be called for a first-ever seizure, a seizure lasting longer than usual (more than 5 minutes if the person's condition is not known), if the person does not come round after the seizure, or if seizures repeat one after another without a break.
Balance and walking problems
Damage to the peripheral nerves (neuropathy) can show up not only as numbness but also as loss of balance and coordination and muscle weakness, especially in the feet. Changes such as frequent tripping, difficulty walking in the dark or not noticing a shoe slipping off should be reported to a doctor.
Changes in memory and thinking
Increasing forgetfulness, getting lost in familiar places, difficulty finding words and problems carrying out daily tasks can be signs of memory disorders. Keep in mind that mental health conditions such as depression can also affect memory — an examination determines the cause.
When to call an ambulance immediately
If the following symptoms start suddenly, call 103 without waiting until the next day:
- drooping of one side of the face, sudden weakness of an arm or leg;
- sudden speech problems, not understanding words;
- sudden loss of vision;
- a sudden and very severe headache;
- a first-ever seizure or a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes;
- sudden confusion, drowsiness.
Even if these symptoms go away, a hospital assessment is important — this may be a stroke or a warning sign of one. More details: early signs of stroke and the BE-FAST rule.
How is a neurological examination carried out?
During the appointment the doctor asks when and how the complaints started, about other conditions and the medicines you take. Then a detailed neurological examination is carried out: reflexes, muscle strength, sensation, coordination and walking are checked. If needed, EMG, EEG, blood tests or imaging are ordered.
It is useful to bring brief notes on your symptoms (when they start, how long they last, what relieves them), a list of your medicines and the results of previous tests to the appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Is every episode of numbness a nerve disease?
No. Brief numbness is often caused by a hand or foot being compressed and passes quickly. If numbness persists or recurs frequently, see a doctor to find out the cause.
Can stress cause nervous system symptoms?
Stress and anxiety can be accompanied by some physical complaints, but it is not right to dismiss symptoms as «just nerves». An organic cause must first be ruled out by a medical examination.
What are diseases of the central nervous system?
These are diseases that affect the brain and spinal cord; for example, stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, dementia and multiple sclerosis. Peripheral nerve diseases include neuropathies and nerve compression.
This article is for information only and does not replace a medical examination. A diagnosis can only be made by a doctor, based on listening to the complaints and an examination. If you have worrying symptoms, you can book an appointment with neurologist Dr. Elvin Niftaliyev at Ganja International Hospital via the contact page.