The nervous system controls every aspect of your body from muscle movement to the senses of touch and taste, as well as digestion and other important functions. If you experience symptoms that are related to your brain or spinal cord, such as headaches, weakness, numbness, or changes in vision or speech, a neurologist can help you find the source of these issues and offer treatment.
While they are best known for their work on the brain and spine, a neurologist is trained to diagnose and treat conditions that affect the entire nervous system. This large network of nerve cells includes the brain, the spinal cord, and a network of branches throughout your body.
A neurologist can help you deal with a variety of problems, from minor to serious, such as strokes and carpal tunnel syndrome to epilepsy and migraines. They can also provide treatments to alleviate symptoms, such as medications, physical therapy, and mental health therapy.
If you see a neurologist, they will start by asking about your medical history and any symptoms you have been experiencing. They will want to know what other health conditions you have and any medication you take, as well as your family’s medical history. A neurologist will then perform a physical examination, which may include tests such as assessing your balance and how well you move. They will also ask you questions about your feelings, including whether your symptoms are mild, moderate, or severe and how long they have been occurring.
Depending on the nature of your symptoms, the neurologist may order other tests to check how your nervous system is functioning. These might include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT scan), and an electroencephalogram (EEG), which uses electrodes on your scalp to record electrical activity in the brain. Other tests might be blood and urine analyses or a lumbar puncture, where your back is numbed and fluid is withdrawn from the spinal column.
Once they have a clear diagnosis, your neurologist will develop a treatment plan, which might include medication and/or surgery. If they think your condition is severe, they will refer you to a neurosurgeon.
Most neurologist work in the same places as other doctors, including public and private hospitals and clinics. They can also be found working on critical care teams, helping to provide diagnosis and treatment right at the time of a medical emergency. Need more information? Visit https://universalneurocare.com/ to know more!
If you are interested in becoming a doctor, and a career in neurology appeals to you, consider applying for the RUSM MD Program. Our dedicated team of experienced faculty and staff will ensure you receive the training and support you need to achieve your goals.
If you need a neurologist, look for one who is licensed in your state and area. You can use websites such as DocInfo to check a neurologist’s background and credentials, and look for online reviews and patient feedback. You should also make sure your neurologist is in your health insurance provider’s network.
You can visit us if you have any questions:
Universal Neurological Care, P.A.
8823 San Jose Blvd Ste. 209, Jacksonville, FL 32217
(904) 404-7044
