Skip to main content

Brain and nerves

There's a common myth that we only use around 10% of our brain, when in fact it's an organ that's working on overdrive every second of the day. That is of course, until something goes wrong. A problem in your brain is often a serious one, so we've gathered some expert minds and picked their brains to provide you with useful advice.

Blue line drawing of brain on four connected jigsaw pieces against a blue background.

Explore this topic

Jump to

Featured articles

Migraine

Brain and nerves

Migraine

by Dr Doug McKechnie, MRCGP

Multiple sclerosis

Brain and nerves

Multiple sclerosis

by Dr Hayley Willacy, FRCGP

Motor neurone disease

Brain and nerves

Motor neurone disease

by Dr Rachel Hudson, MRCGP

Parkinson's disease

Brain and nerves

Parkinson's disease

by Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP

Brain disorders

Not every brain condition fits a neat label. Explore other brain disorders such as tumours or encephalitis and when to seek expert help.

Back to top

Epilepsy and seizures

A seizure is a single, temporary event of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, whereas epilepsy is a neurological disorder diagnosed by two or more unprovoked seizures. While all epilepsy involves seizures, not everyone who has a seizure has epilepsy.

Back to top

Head injury

A blow to the head should never be ignored. Understand the signs of concussion and more serious injuries, and what to do if it happens.

Back to top

Headache

Headaches are extremely common and range from mild tension-type pains to severe cluster headaches. Most are harmless, stemming from stress, dehydration, poor posture, or lack of sleep.

Back to top

Limb weakness and numbness

Numbness and tingling in the limbs is a common symptom usually caused by nerve or circulation issues. While "pins and needles" from sitting awkwardly is harmless, persistent or spreading sensations require medical evaluation.

Back to top

Memory loss and dementia

Memory loss can range from minor, temporary forgetfulness to early signs of dementia. While it can be a natural part of aging or caused by stress, fatigue, or sleep deprivation, it may also indicate an underlying medical condition.

Back to top

Migraine

A migraine is a complex disorder characterized by recurring, intense headaches. It typically causes moderate to severe throbbing pain along with nausea, vomiting, and heightened sensitivity to light, sound, and smells.

Back to top

Movement disorders

Movement disorders are a group of neurological conditions that disrupt the nervous system’s ability to control body movements, leading to involuntary twitches, spasms, or sluggish, limited motion.

Back to top

Nerve disorders

Peripheral nerve disorders (neuropathy) occur when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord are damaged. Symptoms vary by the affected nerve and include numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain.

Back to top

Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences (like how the brain processes information, learns, and behaves) are natural human variations rather than deficits.

Back to top

Speech

Changes to your speech can feel frightening. Learn about the possible causes—from strokes to neurological conditions—and the therapies that can help recovery.

Back to top

Stroke

A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or a blood vessel in the brain bursts. It requires immediate medical attention to minimise brain damage and long-term disability.

Back to top

Join the conversation

Looking for answers, reassurance, or people who understand your situation? Patient Communities bring together thousands of members to talk about health and wellbeing. You can browse discussions by topic, ask your own questions, and share personal experiences - all in a trusted, supportive environment.