Condition Neurological conditions

Condition Neurological conditions

What are neurological conditions?

If you experience a sudden onset of neurological symptoms, call 999 for an ambulance or go to the nearest Accident and Emergency (A&E) department.

A neurological condition is a disorder affecting the brain, spinal cord, and/or nerves.

Neurological conditions can affect the whole body, so there’s a wide range of symptoms, such as:

  • feeling very tired a lot of the time (fatigue)
  • vision problems or eye pain
  • numbness or a tingling feeling in different parts of your body
  • problems with coordination (feeling off-balance, dizzy, or clumsy)
  • muscle cramps, spasms, and stiffness
  • seizure (fit)
  • problems with memory or concentration
  • weeing unintentionally (incontinence)
  • involuntary shaking (tremors)
  • sexual problems, including a dry vagina or erection problems
  • weak hands, legs and/or feet
  • personality changes

What causes neurological conditions?

Risk factors vary depending on the condition but can include:

  • genetics (having a close relative who has the condition)
  • smoking
  • being overweight
  • exposure to certain viruses
  • brain damage after a head injury, stroke, or infection.

In many cases, it may not be clear what the cause is.

Some neurological conditions are present from birth (congenital), such as cerebral palsy, while others are more likely to develop in certain age ranges. For example, multiple sclerosis (MS) often starts between the ages of 20 and 50, while symptoms of Parkinson’s disease usually develop when you’re over the age of 50.

Next steps

Step 1. Check out our external support

Browse our recommended external support resources to learn more about your condition and ways to manage it.
Step 2. Contact a Healthcare Professional

If you need further support or have concerns, a Healthcare Professional is here to help. Reach out for professional medical advice tailored to you.
Step 3. View our services

Discover services and support options available to help you with your health and wellbeing.

Stroke Specialist Rehabilitation Service

  • Adults

Earlier Supported Discharge Service providing rehabilitation at home or in the community following a stroke.

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Community Based Neuro-Rehabilitation Service

  • Adults

Specialist rehabilitation for neurological conditions, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, or head or spinal injuries.

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Neuropsychology Service

  • Adults

Support for difficulties with memory and thinking skills (cognition) due to a neurological condition.

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External support

Further information on the NHS UK website

Berkshire MS Therapy Centre 

Support for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) in Berkshire 

Brain & Spine Foundation

Support for people with a neurological condition 

Epilepsy Action 

Support for people living with epilepsy 

Epilepsy Society 

Information and research about living with epilepsy

Huntington’s Disease Association 

Information and support to help people living with Huntington’s disease 

MND Association

Access to research, care, and support groups for people with motor neurone disease

MS Society

Support for people with multiple sclerosis and their carers 

MS Trust

Information and research about living with multiple sclerosis 

Parkinson's UK

Information about Parkinson's disease, the latest research, and fundraising projects 

The Migraine Trust 

Information and support for people living with migraines