Neurologists are doctors who have received specialized training to diagnose and treat disorders of the nervous system. Your nervous system is comprised of your brain, spinal cord, nerves, and other parts throughout your body. Your primary doctor will likely refer you to a neurologist if you experience symptoms that suggest a problem in your nervous system. These are just a few of the many reasons you should see a neurologist.
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Existing Neurological Disorders
South Valley Neurology should be consulted if you have a neurological disorder. Even if you have your symptoms under control, it may still be necessary to monitor them regularly. You might need to see a neurologist regularly for the following conditions
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
- Stroke history
Permanent Headaches
While most people have headaches from time to time, if you experience persistent or severe headaches, it’s worth seeing a neurologist. There are many causes of headaches. A doctor should examine you to make sure that there aren’t any serious conditions causing your headaches.
Migraine
Migraines are a common type of headache that can affect many people. Migraines can be a serious condition if you experience frequent, persistent headaches that are accompanied by other symptoms. Migraine symptoms include:
- Headache either on one side or both
- Physical activity can worsen headaches
- Pulsating or throbbing pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light
- Sensitivity to sounds
- Sensitivity to smells
The American Migraine Foundation states that migraine affects more than 37 million Americans and 144 million worldwide. A neurologist is recommended if you experience migraine symptoms that your primary physician cannot treat.
Blackouts
A blackout is a temporary glitch in the nervous system. A blackout is when the person is unaware of what is going on and enters a trance-like state. Sometimes, a person may twirl around like they are having a seizure. Sometimes they may be unresponsive and motionless. You should see a neurologist if you have frequent blackouts.
Seizures
A neurologist is needed if you experience a seizure and have not been diagnosed as having epilepsy. There are many types of epilepsy, including those that occur in childhood and infanthood. However, adult-onset epilepsy is a different kind. Seizures can also be a sign of other conditions, such as meningitis and a brain tumor.
Dizziness
Vertigo is also known as dizziness. It is the feeling that the world is spinning about you. It can feel like the world is spinning around, but you’re not. Vertigo can cause you to lose your ability to do everyday tasks, such as caring for your family and going to work. Although vertigo can resolve on its own, it is important to see a neurologist to rule out underlying conditions. Although many of these causes aren’t life-threatening, they can be associated with more serious conditions such as stroke. Vertigo and dizziness are two conditions that can be linked.
Neuropathy
A group of conditions known as peripheral neuropathy (or simply neuropathy) refers to a group that affects the body’s nerves. The peripheral nervous system is the link between the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the rest of your body.
- Chronic pain
- Balance is difficult
- Poor coordination
- Feel the heat
- Tingling, weakness or numbness in the affected body parts
- Paralysis
Many conditions can lead to neuropathy. These include autoimmune diseases and vitamin deficiencies. Due to the high prevalence of diabetes in the United States, diabetic neuropathy is a common type of neuropathy.
