Neurology is the branch of medicine relating to diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the Brain, Spine, peripheral nerves in the arms and legs and disorders affecting muscles.

A wide range of medical conditions and symptoms fall within the area of expertise of the neurologist. These include:

  • Headaches and migraine
  • Facial pain
  • Memory problems  and disorders of intellect such as Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia
  • Stroke and Transient Ischaemic Attacks (TIA)
  • Dizziness and blackouts
  • Epilepsy and seizures
  • Parkinson's disease, tremor (shaking) and other disorders affecting walking and movement
  • Multiple Sclerosis and other inflammatory disorders of the nervous system
  • Balance disorders (ataxia)
  • Tingling, pins and needles and numbness or problems caused by ‘trapped nerves' or peripheral neuropathy
  • Muscle weakness, pains or cramps

Neurologists work in conjunction with other specialists including neurosurgeons, clinical neurophysiologists, nurse specialists and therapists such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists.

What is involved in making a neurological diagnosis?

A careful history of your symptoms is the most important aspect of making an accurate diagnosis. This will include reviewing previous medical problems, medications taken, and family history.

 

Examination will depend on the nature of the problem and may include assessment of memory and intellectual function, examination of the eyes and ‘cranial nerves', assessment of muscle tone strength, reflexes, co-ordination and sensation in the limbs. Examination of gait and balance and general examination including assessment of heart, lungs and blood pressure may also be required.

 

©Dr Paul Jarman, 2008




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