Is There No Cure for Neuroasthenia in the Elderly?

Is it impossible to completely cure neurosis of the brain?

My grandmother is 80 years old and often complains of frequent dizziness.
The doctor diagnosed her with "cerebral nerve weakness" and said it cannot be cured.
Despite taking medication, there has been no improvement.
Is this true? Thank you.

Jasmine, 80~89 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/08/01

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology

There are many potential causes for dizziness in elderly individuals over 80 years old, including medications, insomnia, low blood pressure, cerebrovascular diseases, and inner ear imbalances.
It is recommended to visit a neurology specialist and bring the current medications for a thorough examination by the physician to rule out other causes, which will help determine if it is due to cerebral nerve weakness.
With appropriate medication, treatment should be possible.

Reply Date: 2002/08/01

More Info

Neuroasthenia, often referred to as "neurasthenia," is a term that describes a condition characterized by chronic fatigue, weakness, and various physical and mental symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. In the elderly, this condition can be particularly challenging due to the interplay of age-related changes, comorbidities, and the psychological impact of aging.

In your grandmother's case, at 80 years old, her complaints of frequent dizziness and the diagnosis of neuroasthenia suggest that she may be experiencing a combination of factors. It's important to note that while neuroasthenia itself may not have a definitive cure, there are ways to manage and alleviate its symptoms, especially in elderly patients.

Understanding Neuroasthenia in the Elderly
1. Age-Related Changes: As people age, their bodies undergo various changes that can affect neurological function. This includes decreased blood flow to the brain, changes in neurotransmitter levels, and the cumulative effects of chronic illnesses. These factors can contribute to symptoms like dizziness and fatigue.

2. Comorbid Conditions: Elderly individuals often have multiple health issues, such as hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular diseases, which can exacerbate feelings of fatigue and dizziness. It's crucial to evaluate and manage these underlying conditions to improve overall well-being.

3. Psychological Factors: Anxiety, depression, and stress can significantly impact the elderly, leading to or worsening symptoms of neuroasthenia. Addressing mental health through therapy, social support, and possibly medication can be beneficial.

Treatment and Management Options
While there may not be a "cure" for neuroasthenia, several strategies can help manage symptoms:
1. Medication: Depending on the specific symptoms your grandmother is experiencing, doctors may prescribe medications to help alleviate dizziness or anxiety. Antidepressants or anxiolytics can sometimes be effective, but they need to be carefully monitored in elderly patients due to potential side effects.

2. Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging a balanced diet, regular physical activity (as tolerated), and adequate hydration can help improve overall health. Gentle exercises like walking or tai chi can enhance balance and reduce dizziness.

3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This form of therapy can help address the psychological aspects of neuroasthenia. It can provide coping strategies for managing anxiety and stress, which may, in turn, alleviate some physical symptoms.

4. Physical Therapy: If dizziness is a significant issue, a physical therapist can work with your grandmother on exercises that improve balance and coordination, potentially reducing her risk of falls.

5. Regular Follow-ups: Continuous monitoring by healthcare professionals is essential. Regular check-ups can help adjust treatment plans based on her evolving needs and response to therapies.

Conclusion
In summary, while neuroasthenia in the elderly may not be curable in the traditional sense, it is manageable. A comprehensive approach that includes medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and psychological support can significantly improve your grandmother's quality of life. It is essential to maintain open communication with her healthcare providers to ensure that her treatment plan is tailored to her specific needs and circumstances. If her current treatment is not yielding results, seeking a second opinion or consulting a specialist in geriatric medicine or neurology may provide additional insights and options.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Myasthenia Gravis: Recurrence, Treatment, and Life Expectancy

Hello Dr. Chen: I would like to ask about myasthenia gravis. I previously underwent surgery for a thymoma; is there a chance of recurrence? Is it not curable? What is the expected lifespan for someone with this condition? Best regards, Dai Fuyuan.

Dr. Chen Shunsheng reply Rare Disease
Myasthenia Gravis Introduction: Over 95% of cases of Myasthenia Gravis (MG) are classified as autoimmune diseases. In simple terms, this condition arises when T lymphocytes in the body fail to recognize the acetylcholine receptors (ACh receptors) at the neuromuscular junction, le...

Understanding Myasthenia Gravis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

My wife has been experiencing weakness in her hands since giving birth, and it has been over a year without improvement despite seeing various traditional and Western medicine practitioners. Recently, she has also had some difficulty walking. She visited Taichung Veterans General...

Dr. Lai Lunxiang reply Neurology
Myasthenia gravis is an issue related to the transmission of signals between muscles and nerves. Most cases are treated with medication, but based on your description, I believe further examination is warranted to rule out other potential issues.

Understanding Myasthenia Gravis: Treatment Options and Blood Washing Explained

My family member (male, 27 years old) recently had difficulty opening one of his eyelids and was diagnosed at the hospital with a condition called "myasthenia gravis." Initially, the hospital prescribed medication, and his condition gradually improved. However, after mo...

Dr. Zeng Kongyan reply Neurology
Dear Ms./Mr. An, Myasthenia gravis is caused by a problem in the body's autoimmune system, where acetylcholine antibodies, which should not be present in the body, occupy the binding sites at the neuromuscular junction, leading to a sensation of muscle weakness. There are m...

Is There a Cure for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Yet?

Currently, there are no medications available that can completely cure amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Dr. Chen Shunsheng reply Rare Disease
The same question was answered yesterday.