Neurology is a specialty branch of medicine pertaining to disorders of the nervous system and brain. Neurologists are responsible for analyzing symptoms, making diagnosis, forming treatment plans and helping patients manage neural disorders. Often, patients are referred to neurologists by primary care physicians for consultation. Others are under the direct primary care of a neurologist for chronic neurological and brain disorders, such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s Disease.
Neurological Symptoms and Conditions
Because neurology is a specialty practice, patients typically first present with symptoms before consulting with a physician. In some cases, the symptoms onset slowly and are subtle, such as headaches, tremors or chronic pain. In other cases, patients are advised to seek the care of a neurologist for health management following a stroke, seizure or concussion. Neurology may involve diagnosis and treatment of such conditions as brain tumors, epilepsy, nervous system injuries and sleep disorders – although any disorder of the nerves, spinal cord or brain requires the attention of a neurologist. The goal is to find treatments that will help patients live with neurological conditions by managing symptoms and slowing the development of disease. Many patients achieve a much better quality of life thanks to medications, lifestyle changes, and various medical treatments.
