The neurology is that sector of deputy medicine to the study and treatment of disorders which may manifest itself borne by the central or peripheral nervous system. Recall that the former includes the brain and spinal cord, while the latter consists of all the other nervous elements, including the structures present in the eyes, ears and skin.
What does the neurologist do?
The neurologist is a professional who specializes in neurology , responsible for diagnosing and treating problems that affect the brain, spinal cord and nerves. The neurologist does not have recourse to surgery, which instead falls within the scope of the neurosurgeon. Frequently neurologists are further specialized in a field of neurology, for example in the treatment of stroke, epilepsy, neuromuscular problems, sleep disturbances, pain, nervous system tumors or problems typical of old age.
What are the pathologies most often treated by the neurologist?
The neurologist is more frequently confronted with the following pathologies:
- headaches and other forms of headache
- speech disorders
- movement disorders
- epilepsy
- brain and peripheral nervous system infections, such as encephalitis, meningitis and brain abscesses
- cerebrovascular diseases, such as stroke
- neurodegenerative diseases , such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
- pathologies that lead to the loss of myelin in the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis
- spinal cord problems, including inflammatory and autoimmune diseases
What are the procedures most used by the neurologist?
After carrying out an in-depth anamnesis, the neurologist conducts a physical and neurological examination of the patient, considering his muscular strength, reflexes and coordination skills. To make the diagnosis more precise, the neurologist can prescribe one of the following tests:
- angiography
- electroencephalogram
- electromyography
- Pet
- lumbar puncture
- magnetic resonance imaging
- Tac
- Tensilon test
When to ask for an appointment with the neurologist?
An appointment with a neurologist is required when potential nervous system problems are suspected. The symptoms that can alert the patient are varied, and include coordination difficulties, muscle weakness, impaired sensory skills (including touch, sight, speech and smell), tingling and intestinal incontinence.
