Neurology

What Is Neurology?

Neurology is a specialized medical field focused on diagnosing, treating, and managing disorders of the nervous system, which encompasses the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Neurologists are skilled professionals who address a wide spectrum of neurological conditions, from common issues like headaches to complex diseases such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and migraines.

When to See a Neurologist

Neurologists address issues impacting everything from movement and balance to sensation, cognition, and autonomic functions. Common scenarios include:

• Persistent or severe headaches

• Memory problems or dementia

• Epilepsy and seizure disorders

• Movement disorders like Parkinson’s disease

• Stroke or mini‑stroke symptoms

• Muscle weakness, nerve pain, or neuropathy

• Sleep disorders and dizziness

• Brain or spinal tumors

How Neurologists Diagnose

Here’s how neurologists investigate and reach a diagnosis:

1. Clinical evaluation – They review your medical and family history, symptoms, and perform a detailed neurological exam (testing reflexes, strength, coordination, sensation, vision, speech, and cognition).

2. Further testing may include:

   • Imaging: MRI, CT scans, or Doppler ultrasound

   • EEG: Brain electrical activity

   • EMG/NCS: Muscle and nerve conduction

   • Lumbar Puncture: Spinal fluid analysis

   • Sometimes, Genetic Testing

Common Conditions Treated

Neurologists manage a vast array of disorders, such as:

• Dementias (including Alzheimer’s disease)

• Stroke and related conditions

• Epilepsy and seizure disorders

• Multiple sclerosis and autoimmune neurologic disorders

• Movement disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s, tremor)

• Neuromuscular diseases (e.g., ALS, myasthenia gravis)

• Headache and migraine

• Sleep disorders and autonomic dysfunction
  
  A neurologist will refer you to a neurosurgeon when there is a structural condition that needs or would benefit from surgery. Examples include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, brain tumors, traumatic brain injuries, intracerebral hemorrhage, vascular malformations, hydrocephalus or nerve compression syndromes