Neurologist:

A neurologist is a physician who focuses on diagnosing and treating disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Neurological conditions can impact almost any part of the body and can affect people of all ages, from children to adults.

Overview

Who is a Neurologist?

A neurologist is a medical doctor with specialized training in neurology. Their education includes completing a medical degree, followed by a residency program in neurology, and often additional fellowship training in sub-specialties. This rigorous training equips them with the knowledge and skills to diagnose and manage conditions of the nervous system.India has one of the best neurologists in the world.

What types of diseases and conditions does a neurologist treat?

• Parkinson’s disease.

• Peripheral neuropathy.

• Sleep disorders.

• Stroke.

• Tremor, 

• Dystonia.

• Meningitis.

• Mental and behavioral health disorders.

• Multiple sclerosis.

• Myasthenia gravis and myopathies.

• Neck Pain

• Back or Spine Pain

• Tumors of Brain

• Tumors of Spine 

• Tumors of nerves.

• Alzheimer’s disease 

• Other types of dementia.

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

• Brain injury 

• Spinal cord injury 

• Vascular malformations.

• Cerebral aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations.

• Cerebral palsy 

• Cerebral Spasticity

• Concussion

• Encephalitis

• Epilepsy

• Facial pain syndromes

• Headache/migraine

• Hydrocephalus

How do neurologists diagnose conditions?

Your neurologist will start by gathering information about your medical history, family history, medication use, and current symptoms. They will then perform a neurological examination, which may include tests of:

• Mental health

• Vision

• Speech

• Hearing

• Sensation

• Coordination

• Reflexes

• Balance

• Muscle strength

Additionally, your neurologist might order blood, urine, or other fluid tests to assess the severity of your condition or monitor medication levels. Genetic testing might be used to detect inherited conditions. Imaging studies of the nervous system may also be conducted to assist in the diagnosis.

Treatment from a neurologist may involve medications, physical therapy, or other therapeutic approaches.

What types of investigations does a neurologist prescribe?

Below are some investigations usually prescribed by a neurologist depending on the physical evaluation:

• Polysomnogram: This test monitors brain and body activity during sleep to help diagnose sleep disorders. It tracks various stages of sleep to identify abnormalities in sleep patterns.

• Electromyography (EMG): This procedure records electrical activity in muscles to diagnose nerve and muscle disorders, spinal nerve root compression, and motor neuron diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It helps in understanding how nerves communicate with muscles.

• Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), X-rays, and Ultrasound: These imaging methods provide detailed views of the body's structures to aid in diagnosis. CT and MRI offer cross-sectional images, while X-rays and ultrasound provide more straightforward views.

• Cerebrospinal Fluid Analysis: This test involves collecting a sample of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord to detect issues such as brain bleeds, infections, multiple sclerosis, and metabolic diseases. It can reveal abnormalities in the fluid’s composition.

• Thermography: This test measures temperature variations within the body or specific organs to assess pain syndromes, peripheral nerve disorders, and nerve root compression. It provides a visual map of temperature changes that can indicate inflammation or other issues.

• Electroencephalography (EEG): This test measures the brain's electrical activity to help diagnose conditions like seizures, infections (such as encephalitis), brain injuries, and tumors. It helps in understanding brain wave patterns and abnormalities.

• Myelography: This imaging test is used to diagnose spinal cord tumors, herniated discs, and fractures. It involves injecting a contrast dye into the spinal canal to improve the visibility of spinal structures.

• Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT): This imaging test helps diagnose tumors and infections and evaluates the location of seizures, degenerative spine diseases, and stress fractures. It provides three-dimensional images to assess functional activity in various parts of the body.

• Angiography: This imaging technique reveals if blood vessels in the brain, head, or neck are blocked, damaged, or abnormal and can identify conditions like aneurysms and blood clots. It involves injecting a contrast dye into the blood vessels for enhanced imaging.

• Biopsy: A biopsy involves removing a sample of tissue from the body, which may include muscle, nerve, or brain tissue. It allows for microscopic examination to confirm the presence of disease.

• Evoked Potentials: This test evaluates how quickly and completely electrical signals travel from the eyes, ears, or skin to the brain, assisting in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, acoustic neuromas, and spinal cord injuries. It measures the brain's response to specific sensory stimuli.

• Electronystagmography (ENG): This set of tests assesses involuntary eye movements, dizziness, and balance disorders. It helps in diagnosing vestibular system issues that affect balance and coordination.