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10 Common Neurological Conditions and Injuries in Ontario
A neurological condition or injury may make it difficult or impossible for an individual to maintain employment. When it impairs a person’s ability to earn a living wage, that individual may seek long-term disability benefits. Such benefits may offset the financial burden of being unable to earn a regular income.
Most common types of neurological conditions and injuries
As outlined by the Canadian Institute for Health Information, below are 10 of the most common types of neurological conditions and injuries that patients in Canada may experience:
1. Brain injury – A traumatic brain injury or acquired brain injury may occur as the result of an automotive crash, fall or sports accident. These injuries range in classification from mild to severe, depending on the patient’s level of functioning. A patient who has suffered brain injury may have difficulty concentrating or performing other work-related tasks.
2. Alzheimer’s disease – Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, degenerative condition and the most common form of dementia reported in Canada, according to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada. As symptoms progress, the patient will experience diminished memory and functional capacities.
3. Brain tumors – Malignant and benign brain tumors can affect an individual’s personality and capabilities. The most common type of malignant brain tumor is a glioma. About 10,000 new Canadians each year are diagnosed with a brain tumor, according to data from the Brain Tumor Foundation of Canada.
4. Cerebral palsy – This group of disorders affects a person’s body movement and posture. The neurological condition is the result of damage that occurs during pregnancy, childbirth or during early childhood. Cerebral palsy is the most commonly reported cause of physical disability among children.
5. Epilepsy – Epilepsy Canada reports that roughly 15,500 new cases of epilepsy are reported each year in Canada. Seizures are among the most serious symptoms associated with epilepsy. An individual with epilepsy may have trouble maintaining employment, depending on the frequency and severity of seizures.
6. Headaches (including migraines) – Headaches are among the most commonly experienced neurological conditions. Migraine and cluster headaches typically are the most debilitating category of headaches. A person who suffers chronic headaches may have a difficult time concentrating or performing other work tasks.
7. Multiple sclerosis – There are an estimated 55,000 to 75,000 patients living with multiple sclerosis in Canada, according to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada. This debilitating condition causes inflammation and damage to nerves in the brain and spinal cord.
8. Parkinson’s disease – This progressive neurological disease severely limits a person’s ability to work or engage in daily activities. While generally associated with older patients, Parkinson’s disease also may affect younger adults.
9. Stroke – Blood clots are among the most common causes of a sudden loss of brain function (stroke). This potentially fatal condition may affect individuals of all ages and result in permanent disability.
10. Autism – Autism may affect a child or adult’s ability to communicate or participate effectively in social and work activities.
Long-term disability benefits may be denied even to someone who cannot work because of a debilitating neurological condition. Take advantage of a free case consultation with a lawyer in Ontario at the Preszler Injury Lawyers if your claim has been rejected. Call us at 1-800-JUSTICE®.
