Basal Ganglia Disorders
Our brain has different structures that perform various functions. One such structure is the basal ganglia. These are groups of several structures that are present inside the brain. Their main function is to control the movement of the body. All the movements made by the body are governed by the basal ganglia, and any condition that affects their normal functioning is known as a basal ganglia disorder.
Causes of Basal Ganglia and Cerebral Palsy
Basal ganglia are small, irregular structures that are present in the brain. These not only help the body to start a movement but also determine how fast a person will move. Although it has not yet been proved, it is thought that the basal ganglia also plays a role in the process of thought and emotions. There are several disorders that have an impact on the basal ganglia. Some of these disorders are mentioned below.
A type of brain damage usually found in children, known as cerebral palsy, can cause basal ganglia disorders. These children, apart from having difficulties in movement, also have a difficulty in learning and concentrating.
Another disease called Creutzfeldt-Jacob, believed to be related to mad cow disease in some manner, makes people predisposed to basal ganglia disorders. This is usually a genetic disease but can be also caused due to prolonged exposure to contaminated substances. The condition becomes severe quite rapidly.
Huntington disease is another condition caused due to genetics. This is a condition that takes time to worsen. This disease can cause major alterations in the personality of a person.
When a new born has symptoms of jaundice, this might be a condition known as Kernicterus. This condition is a rare complication of a liver disease.
Children, who have rheumatic fever, may suffer from a chorea known as Sydenham chorea. This is caused due to an infection by the streptococcus bacteria and is quite rare.
Another genetically transmitted disease that could cause basal ganglia disorders is Wilson disease. This condition not only causes problems in movement but also makes a child undergo various personality changes. Apart from that, emotional changes and liver problems are also symptomatic of this condition.
Some of the medicines used to treat common psychological disorders can also have several side effects that cause basal ganglia disorders. Some medicines, especially those that are used to treat psychosis, can cause these disorders.
A stroke can often cause brain damage, due to lack of oxygen. Any part of the brain could be affected by a stroke. A stroke could also affect the basal ganglia.
