Neurology
Neurology is a specialist branch of medicine focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the nervous system; which regulates and co-ordinates the body’s activities and affects our brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles.
Neurological symptoms
Neurological disorders can affect our brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles and impact the body’s ability to function effectively, causing symptoms that range from lack of sensation or control of a limb, to a headache or memory loss.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may benefit from seeing a neurologist, these include:
- Balance problems
- Blackouts
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Speech and language problems
- Tingling
- Tremor
- Visual problems
- Weakness
Neurological conditions
A consultant neurologist treats a wide range of disorders that affect the brain, spinal cord and nerves, including:
- Seizures, epilepsy and mimics
- Headache and migraine disorders
- Neuromuscular disorders including neuropathy, myopathy and myasthenia
- Movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease
- Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Central nervous system (CNS) inflammatory conditions including multiple sclerosis
- Neurometabolic disorders
- Cerebrovascular disease, such as stroke
Diagnosis and treatment options
The type of neurological treatment you receive will depend on your symptoms. Your neurologist will do a full assessment of your condition and give you a specialist opinion.
You may be required to have further diagnostic tests:
- CT or CAT scan
- Electroencephalogram (EEG)
- Electrodiagnostic tests, such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS)
- Lumber puncture
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Neurosonograph e.g carotid artery ultrasound
Neurologists do not perform surgery. If you do require surgery, you will be referred to a Neurosurgeon. Our neurologist works closely with consultants across a range of specialties, giving you tailored care, whatever your condition.