Neurology Specialists | What Are They And What Do They Do?

There are so many branches of medicine that it can be hard to remember which -ology does what. So here's what you need to know about neurology specialists.

What Is a Neurology Specialist?

A neurology specialist, or neurologist, is someone who specializes in nerves. In other words, they focus on disorders and injuries of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. This branch of medicine is very important because the nervous system controls everything from muscle movement to organ function. A neurologist may also be referred to as a 'nerve doctor' or a 'brain doctor.'

What Does a Neurologist Do?

During a typical day, a neurologist might see patients in the office, perform neurological examinations, order and interpret diagnostic tests such as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT scans (computed tomography), perform surgery, and consult with other physicians about treatment plans.

What Conditions Does a Neurologist Typically Treat?

Because the nervous system travels throughout the body and controls everything from muscle movement to organ function, there are many different conditions that a neurologist can treat, including:

  • Headaches. There are many types of headaches, including tension, migraine, cluster, and sinus headaches. While a headache every now and then is normal, recurring headaches are not. A neurologist can help determine the cause of your headaches and recommend treatment options.
  • Seizures. Seizures occur when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They can be caused by many different conditions, such as epilepsy, infection, head injury, stroke, or brain tumor.
  • Vertigo. Vertigo is the sensation of spinning or tilting even when you are still. At first glance, vertigo, an inner ear problem, would seem to require the services of an otolaryngologist, an ear, nose, and throat specialist. However, vertigo can also be caused by other conditions, such as stroke or head injury, requiring a consultation with a neurology specialist.
  • Concussions. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury from a "sudden movement ... creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells." Concussions can occur during sports, car accidents, falls, or other traumatic events. The Mayo Clinic states that concussion symptoms can last anywhere from three months to a year or more, with each subsequent concession being worse and harder to recover from. A neurologist can help you recover from your concussion and manage any related symptoms.

If you are experiencing any neurological issues, you should see a neurology specialist right away. These experts can diagnose the cause of your condition and recommend treatment options to help you get back to feeling like yourself again. 

For more information, contact a local clinic like North Texas Neuroscience Center PA.


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