Neurology is a field of medicine that deals with the causes of diseases of the peripheral and central nervous system, studies their development mechanisms and symptoms, and develops methods of their treatment, diagnosis, and prevention.

A neurologist is a specialist who conducts diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system and the musculoskeletal system. They develop treatment options for pathologies of the brain and spinal cord, pain syndrome in the spinal column, sleep disorders, cognitive disorders, and neuroses. Additionally, a neurologist assists in the rehabilitation of patients who have suffered head injuries and strokes.

  • It is recommended to consult a specialist in cases of:

    • Headaches and dizziness, especially if accompanied by nausea and high blood pressure;
    • Shooting pains in the facial area;
    • Pain in the limbs, back, and neck;
    • Decreased sensitivity (pain, temperature);
    • Progressing muscle weakness;
    • Stiffness in the body;
    • Trembling, tingling, and numbness of the limbs;
    • Uncontrolled movements of the hands or head;
    • Seizures, fainting states;
    • Insomnia or excessive sleepiness;
    • Constant night awakenings;
    • Apathy, depression;
    • Increased nervousness, irritability;
    • Panic attacks;
    • Chills or hot flashes;
    • Loss of balance and coordination, unsteady gait;
    • Memory impairment;
    • Disturbances in taste and smell;
    • Periodic loss of vision;
    • Appearance of noise in the ears;
    • Speech disorders;
    • Weakness in the limbs.
  • The doctor specializes in the treatment of neurological disorders:

    • Intracranial hypertension;
    • Nervous tics, tremors;
    • Skull and spinal injuries, as well as their consequences;
    • Multiple sclerosis;
    • Stroke and its aftermath;
    • Paresis and paralysis;
    • Neuralgia, neuritis, plexitis;
    • Migraines, headaches;
    • Pain in the neck and back;
    • Painful descents, caused by nerve damage;
    • Seizures, epilepsy;
    • Torsion dystonia;
    • Encephalopathy;
    • Osteochondrosis;
    • Radiculitis;
    • Intervertebral hernia;
    • Myasthenia gravis;
    • Neurofibromatosis;
    • Blepharospasm;
    • Meningitis, encephalitis;
    • Insomnia;
    • Tumors of various etiologies.

    These diseases are often accompanied by changes in psyche and behavior. In such cases, consultation with a psychiatrist or psychotherapist may be necessary.

  • How does the consultation proceed?

    The patient's examination begins with collecting the medical history. The doctor determines which symptoms are troubling the patient, how long they have been present, their intensity, and factors that cause discomfort, as well as the presence of chronic and hereditary diseases. If the patient is unable to communicate effectively, they should be accompanied. Following the interview, the neurologist conducts a physical examination. The doctor pays attention to the symmetry of the limbs, posture peculiarities, detects limb and body tremors, and assesses motor activity. The specialist also examines pupil, skin, and other reflexes. A series of different tests are conducted during the examination to identify potential lesions of the central and peripheral nervous systems.

    If necessary, the neurologist may order additional instrumental and functional diagnostics or refer the patient to other specialists for further examination and precise diagnosis.

  • How to prepare for a neurologist's examination?

    No special preparation for the neurologist's examination is required. It is important to bring all medical records and information about previous operations, treatments, and their results. If possible, it is advisable to refrain from taking painkillers, muscle relaxants, or psychostimulants on the day of the appointment. This is important so the doctor can accurately assess reflexes, muscle tone, and other indicators.

  • Diagnostics in neurology:

    To determine the correct diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition, followed by prescribing necessary medications, the specialist may refer to additional procedures and tests.

    • Computed Tomography (CT);
    • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI);
    • Echoencephalography;
    • Cerebral angiography;
    • Ultrasound of the spine, soft tissues, and blood vessels;

    Doctors also order laboratory blood and urine tests.