WHAT DOES A NEUROLOGIST DO? UNDERSTANDING NEUROLOGY AND NEUROLOGICAL CARE
The nervous system helps control movement, memory, speech, sensation, balance, breathing and other essential functions. When the brain, spinal cord or nerves are not working as expected, symptoms may include headaches, tingling, weakness, dizziness, changes in walking or memory concerns.
Neurology is the medical specialty focused on diagnosing and managing conditions involving the nervous system. Neurologists use a patient’s history, symptoms, examination and selected testing to understand how that system is functioning and determine the appropriate next steps.
What is neurology?
Neurology is the branch of medicine concerned with the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves and muscles.
These structures work together to support movement, sensation, coordination, language, memory and awareness. The central nervous system includes the brain and spinal cord, while the peripheral nervous system includes the nerves connecting them to the rest of the body.
Because the nervous system affects so many functions, neurological symptoms can appear in several different ways.
What is a neurologist?
A neurologist is a medical doctor who diagnoses, treats and manages disorders of the brain and nervous system.
Neurologists combine information from a patient’s medical history, symptoms, neurological examination and diagnostic results. They may care for patients with migraines, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, memory disorders, stroke, neuropathy, multiple sclerosis and other conditions involving the brain, spinal cord, nerves or muscles.
What is the difference between a neurologist and a neurosurgeon?
A neurologist medically evaluates and manages neurological conditions. A neurosurgeon performs surgery involving the brain, spine or nerves.
Seeing a neurologist does not mean surgery is needed. Neurologists may manage conditions through medication, procedures, monitoring, rehabilitation or coordination with other specialists. When surgery may be appropriate, neurologists and neurosurgeons can work together.
More commonly asked questions:
Neurology looks for the pattern behind the symptoms
Symptoms such as tingling, weakness, dizziness or difficulty walking can have several possible causes. The practice of neurology relies on careful listening, examination and clinical problem-solving to determine what a symptom may reveal about the nervous system and what the patient may need next.
AVALA Neuro provides neurological evaluations and services in Covington and Metairie for patients on the Northshore and Southshore. The practice accepts new patients and physician referrals.
