Neurology

Neurologists treat disorders of the nervous system, brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles. A neurosurgeon also treats disorders of the nervous system, brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles, using surgical techniques in conjunction with non-surgical practices.

Neurological disorders are diseases of the brain, spine and nerves; there are more than 600 diseases of the nervous system, such as brain tumors, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson's disease and stroke.

A neurologist will review your patient health history, paying special attention to the condition that you are currently experiencing. Then you will have an examination, which typically tests your vision, strength, coordination, memory, reasoning and puzzle-solving abilities, reflexes and ability to feel physical objects, smell odors and hear sounds. The results of your test will help your neurologist determine if your problem stems from the brain or nervous system. You may need further tests to confirm a diagnosis or determine which treatment is best for you.

The best way to determine if someone is having a stoke is to think F.A.S.T.

1. Face: Does the face look uneven? Ask the person to smile.

2. Arms: Does one arm drift down? Ask the person to raise both arms.

3. Speech: Does their speech sound strange? Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase.

4. Time: If you observe any of these signs, it is time to call for emergency medical help.

High blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke, so hypertension should be treated with medications and possibly with anticoagulants if patient had a problem with blood clots. Lifestyle changes are important to prevent a stroke; stopping smoking, eating a healthy diet, getting enough exercise and proper sleep and eliminating stress can all contribute to avoiding stroke.

A migraine is often a disabling and recurring headache that frequently occurs only on one side of the head. You may experience pulsing or throbbing sensations in one area of your head, as well as nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light or sound. A tension headache is a mild, dull pressure without other symptoms. A cluster headache can deliver a severe, “stabbing” pain behind one eye and may be accompanied by congestion in your sinuses.

A concussion starts with a blow or injury to the head or a fall or other mishap that may cause your head to be shaken violently. Symptoms of a concussion include problems with thinking clearly and remembering, unusual changes in moods and emotions, alterations in sleep patterns and physical symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, headache, blurred vision, light and noise sensitivity and balance and dizziness problems.

• Persistent or sudden onset of a headache.

• A headache which changes.

• Loss of feeling or tingling.

• Weakness or loss of muscle strength.

• Sudden loss of sight.

• Forgetfulness.

• Lack of coordination.

• Muscle rigidity.

• Muscle spasms or tics.