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What Does a Neurologist Treat?

Neurologists are specialists who treat a number of conditions related to the nerves and the nervous system. These conditions can affect any part of your body, and they can be very painful, cause weakness, and make it difficult to function. Here are some of the conditions that a neurologist may treat and what they can do to help you get your life back on track.

Neurological Disorders

Neurological disorders come in many forms, but they all affect the nervous system. Some affect the peripheral nerves, while others may affect the spinal cord or your brain. Some common neurological disorders including epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, ALS, and Tourette’s Syndrome. A neurologist will help you manage these disorders to the best of their ability and may even work with you to try experimental treatments. Some other common nervous system disorders can’t really be treated, but the side effects and symptoms must be dealt with. These include things such as stroke, brain trauma, and other nerve injuries. A neurologist will help you regain some or all functions that were lost due to these conditions.

That’s not to say that no neurological disorder can be treated. Some can. Migraines and brain tumors, for example, can often be treated through medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.

Neurological Diseases

There are some specific diseases that attack the nervous system. Some of these are infections, including viral and bacterial infections. Infections can be life-threatening, especially if they are not treated. Some of the most common neurological diseases include meningitis, Lyme disease, encephalitis, and HIV. Cancer may also be considered a neurological disease. Again, some of these diseases can be treated and cured, while others can only be managed. There are also steps you can take to prevent or at least reduce your risk of infection against some of them.

Symptoms that Indicate Your May Need to See a Neurologist

Because there are a wide range of different neurological disorders and diseases, it can be difficult to immediately tell if you are suffering from one. Often, your primary care doctor will need to run tests and rule out other causes. For example, headache, numbness, sleep problems, and dizziness can occur with a wide number of conditions. If you have multiple signs of a neurological disorder, though, you can expect to be referred to a neurologist.

Symptoms that may indicate a neurological disorder include, in addition to the above, chronic pain, tingling, weakness, vision problems, seizures, memory issues, confusion, and speech difficulties. If you have any of these symptoms, you may want to talk to a neurologist. They will do a number of tests, including MRI, PET, and CT scans, in order to diagnose your condition and determine a course of treatment.

In some cases, your neurological disorder can stem from an accident on the job or from an auto accident. In that case, you need to work with a neurologist who is also familiar with injuries from these accidents. Dr. Jeff Mollins has experience in both of these areas and can treat your conditions. Contact his office today to book an appointment.

Posted in: Blog, Diagnostic Testing, Orthopedics, Physical Examinations, Uncategorized, Work Injuries, Workers Compensation