10 Common Brain Problems – When to Worry and When to See a Doctor
Here are 10 common brain problems; when to worry, and when to see a doctor:
1. Memory Loss
- Symptoms: Forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or events; repeatedly asking for the same information; trouble with problem-solving
- When to worry: If memory loss disrupts daily life, or if you notice changes in mood or behaviour
- When to see a doctor: If you experience persistent memory loss, or if you notice changes in cognitive function.
2. Brain Fog
- Symptoms: Lack of focus, poor memory, difficulty making decisions
- When to worry: If brain fog persists or worsens over time
- When to see a doctor: If brain fog affects daily life, or if you experience other symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or nausea. This can be a sign of, Long COVID, for example.
3. Stroke (CVA, cerebro-vascular accident)
- Symptoms: Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech; sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body (e.g. face, arm, or leg; or combination)
- When to worry: If you experience any symptoms of a stroke
- When to see a doctor: Immediately, a stroke is a medical emergency.
4. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI; complicating head injury)
- Symptoms: Loss of consciousness, confusion, difficulty focusing, memory loss
- When to worry: If you experience any symptoms after a head injury
- When to see a doctor: Immediately, as TBIs can be serious and require prompt medical attention.
Note. Most people with a mild brain injury do not need to see a doctor.
5. Migraines
- Symptoms: Severe headaches, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea and vomiting
- When to worry: If migraines interfere with daily life or are accompanied by other symptoms like confusion or weakness
- When to see a doctor: If you experience frequent or severe migraines.
6. Meningitis
- Symptoms: Severe headache, fever, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion or altered mental state, rash (in some cases)
- When to worry: If you or someone you know experiences severe symptoms, such as a severe headache, stiff neck, or sensitivity to light – especially if symptoms develop rapidly (over hours or days)
- When to see a Doctor: Immediately. If you suspect meningitis, seek medical attention right away. Meningitis can progress rapidly and lead to serious complications or death if left untreated. Call 999 or go to A&E.
7. Vertigo and Dizziness
- Symptoms: Sensation of spinning or imbalance
- When to worry: If symptoms persist or worsen over time
- When to see a doctor: If you experience persistent vertigo or dizziness, or if you notice other symptoms like hearing loss or tinnitus.
8. Seizure (epilpetic fit)
- Symptoms: Sudden loss of consciousness, convulsions, or changes in behaviour
- When to worry: If you experience any symptoms of a seizure
- When to see a doctor: If it is a first ever fit, or fits persist for over 20 minutes, you should see a doctor immediately, as a seizure can be a medical emergency.
9. Alzheimer’s Disease (commonest type of dementia)
- Symptoms: Persistent memory loss, confusion, changes in behaviour
- When to worry: If symptoms affect daily life or relationships
- When to see a doctor: If you experience persistent symptoms or if you are concerned about cognitive decline.
10. Parkinson’s Disease
- Symptoms: Tremors, slowing down, lack of facial movement, stiffness, loss of balance or falls
- When to worry: If symptoms affect daily life or mobility
- When to see a doctor: If you experience typical symptoms or if you are concerned about motor function.
