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How can I make a same-day appointment with a Neurologist in Atlanta?
On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Neurologist in Atlanta, book an appointment, and see the Neurologist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Neurologists in Atlanta who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.
How can I find an Atlanta Neurologist who takes my insurance?
Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Atlanta Neurologist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.
How can I book an appointment online with a Neurologist in Atlanta?
Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Neurologists in Atlanta and book appointments instantly. You can search for Atlanta Neurologists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.
How can I find a female Neurologist in Atlanta?
When you search for Atlanta Neurologists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Neurologists in Atlanta who match your preferences.
How can I find an Atlanta Neurologist who sees patients after hours?
On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Atlanta Neurologists with availability after 5 p.m.
How can I find a top-rated Neurologist in Atlanta?
You can use Zocdoc to find Neurologists in Atlanta who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.
How can I find a video visit with a Neurologist online in Atlanta?
Neurologists in Atlanta on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Neurologists who offer video visits.
Are video visits with a Neurologist online covered by my insurance?
Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Neurologists in Atlanta who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.
How can I find a Neurologist in Atlanta who sees patients in the morning or evening?
Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Neurologist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.
How can I find a Neurologist in Atlanta who sees patients during the weekend?
Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Neurologists in Atlanta. Many Neurologists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.
Who is a neurologist?
A neurologist is a certified medical doctor specializing in diagnosing and treating medical issues affecting the central and peripheral nervous systems, which include the brain, nerves, and spinal cord. These problems could be injuries, diseases, or disorders of any kind. A neurologist attends medical school after attaining a college degree. Medical school lasts four years, followed by a year of internship and three years of special training in neurology.
Neurologists are experts in the anatomy and functioning of the nervous system. However, they do not perform surgeries. The neurologist will refer you for expert care if your condition requires operative measures.
Areas of specialization of a neurologist
Four years of medical school is mandatory to become a neurologist, as is the case for any other medical specialty. The next step of education and training is a 4-year residency, out of which a year goes into internal medicine or pediatrics training. Some neurologists pursue further subspecialty training, usually lasting 1-3 years.
Many neurologists concentrate on treating patients with specific neurological diseases of the complex nervous system. The following are some examples of neurology subspecialties:
- Epilepsy
- Neuromuscular medicine
- Sleep medicine
- Vascular neurology
- Autonomic disorders
- Pediatric or child neurology
- Neurodevelopmental disabilities
- Neuropsychiatry
- Brain injury medicine
- Hospice and palliative care neurology
- Pain medicine
- Headache medicine
- Neurocritical care
- Movement disorders
What is the difference between a neurosurgeon and a neurologist?
There are many differences between a neurologist and a neurosurgeon. However, there is also a considerable overlap between their roles.
Neurosurgery and neurology are closely related since both involve specialized knowledge of the nervous system. Both neurosurgeons and neurologists may employ advanced neurological tests such as EEG, MRI, and CT scans to monitor the brain. They may also use minimally invasive treatments to repair blood vessels in the brain.
While both neurologists and neurosurgeons diagnose and treat neurological conditions, neurologists cannot perform surgery. Neurologists diagnose neurological disorders that require close monitoring or treatment with drugs or alternative therapies. However, if your diagnosis reveals a physical explanation for a neurological disorder, a neurologist may recommend you to a neurosurgeon if surgery is required to cure the condition.
Consult your primary care doctor in case of a nerve, spinal, or brain problem. Your doctor may refer you to a neurologist or a neurosurgeon based on your situation.
What conditions do neurologists treat?
Neurological conditions and disorders can affect any age group, including adults and young children. It is vital to start treatment on time to avoid complications at a later stage. Neurologists treat a variety of neurological problems:
- Alzheimer's disease (a disease that affects memory
- Peripheral neuropathy (a condition that affects nerves)
- Epilepsy (a condition with unusual electrical activity in the brain causing seizures)
- Brain tumor
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Infection or injuries to the brain or spinal cord
- Parkinson's disease
- Multiple sclerosis (an ailment that causes problems with vision, essential body functions, maintaining balance or muscle control)
- Stroke or seizures
- Pinched nerves, tremors, headaches, or uncontrollable back pain
Neurologists also have expertise in specific subspecialties that they study after residency. It makes them proficient in treating and managing diverse conditions that affect proper neurological functions. Their sub-specialties could be geriatric neurology, neuro-oncology, pediatric neurology, vascular neurology, neurocritical care, etc.
When should you visit a neurologist?
Symptoms of underlying neurological conditions can affect anyone. If you are witnessing any of the below, you must see a neurologist:
- Feeling dizzy
Dizziness occurs for many reasons, including neurological and other reasons like heat stroke, dehydration, low blood pressure, fasting, etc. However, suppose you feel dizzy consistently without any other persisting condition. In that case, it could be a neurological reason like vertigo or disequilibrium. In vertigo, you will feel as if everything around you is spinning or that everything is still, but you are moving. In disequilibrium, the patient finds it difficult to maintain the balance of the body. Once you visit a general physician with your symptoms, he will refer you to a neurologist after diagnosis.
- Constant headaches
Headaches are common and can happen for several reasons. Sinuses, vision or dental issues, stress, lack of sleep, etc could cause them. Headaches caused by these problems last until the situation persists. However, some headaches are severe. You experience such headaches suddenly, and their intensity is excruciating. They get worse with each passing moment. Some periodic headaches come with a throbbing intensity, causing changes in vision, seizures, and vomiting.
- Vision issues
For vision-related issues, you visit an optometrist. Sometimes, your doctor would identify specific symptoms that do not come under the scope of optometry but neurology. For instance, if you are suddenly experiencing loss of vision power or complete blindness in one or both eyes, or if this condition happens with a throbbing headache, your doctor would advise you to see a neurology expert.
- Constant pain
If you are experiencing pain consistently without any particular reason, it is reason enough to visit a doctor. At times, certain illnesses or injuries cause accompanying pain. However, persistent pain can also have underlying neurological causes.
- Issues in maintaining movement or balance
Suppose you face tremors or jerks, uncontrollable reflexes, and difficulty managing routine tasks with proper control over movements like walking, talking, holding objects, standing still, etc.; in that case, you must see a neurologist. The problem could be associated with your nervous system, and timely intervention would make a difference.
- Brain fog or confusion
If you have difficulty remembering simple things, formulating words or sentences already known to you, or experiencing confusion, you may need help. Your primary healthcare provider will help you understand your symptoms and recommend you to a neurologist.
How do neurologists diagnose conditions?
Your neurologist will ask about your and your family's medical history, medication use, and symptoms. Additionally, they perform a neurologic examination which will test your:
- Vision, hearing, and speech
- Sensation
- Coordination, balance, reflexes, and gait
- Muscle strength
- Mental health
Your neurologist may also ask for blood, urine, or other fluid tests to determine the severity of the condition or to keep track of medication levels. Your doctor might also suggest imaging tests of your nervous system for proper diagnosis.
What examinations can a neurologist order?
Your provider may order neurologic tests to understand and diagnose your medical condition. Some of these tests include:
- Angiography
Angiography can detect blocked, damaged, or abnormal blood veins in your brain, head, or neck. It helps detect aneurysms and blood clots.
- Biopsy
It is the surgical removal of tissue from your body and is performed on your muscle, nerve, or brain tissue.
- Cerebrospinal fluid examination
This test involves removing a fluid sample surrounding your brain and spinal cord. It can detect brain bleeds, infections, multiple sclerosis, and metabolic problems.
- EMG or electromyography
This test measures muscle electrical activity and diagnoses nerve and muscle problems, spinal nerve root compression, and motor neuron disorders.
- Myelography
This test helps in the diagnosis of spinal and spinal cord malignancies, herniated disks, and fractures.
- Polysomnogram
This test examines brain and body activity while sleeping and helps diagnose sleep disorders.
Preparing for the first neurologist appointment
You must prepare to get the most out of your appointment with a neurologist near you. There are several ways to get ready for your appointment, including:
- Make a list of the crucial issues you want to discuss with your neurologist and bring it with you
- Talk about any changes to your overall health
- Talk about any new symptoms you're experiencing or any changes to old ones. Keep a symptom diary and keep it with you at all times. In it, you should note events such as when they occur, the duration they last, severity, possible causes, symptoms, and any method for relief undertaken. It is especially beneficial if you have Parkinson's disease, sleep apnea, headaches, or epilepsy.
- Bring copies of test results, such as a CD of images, and any lab work requested by a healthcare professional not part of your neurologist's healthcare network.
- Bring a list of your current medications. Include all prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, herbal, and dietary supplement products. Inform your neurologist of past treatments that didn't work or had unwanted side effects.
- List any known allergies you have
- Bring a friend or relative you trust to the appointment to take notes and serve as an extra set of ears and eyes. This person can assist you in reviewing the discussion with your neurologist, ask inquiries, and remind you to schedule tests and follow-up appointments.
- Find out if you need to schedule a second appointment if you have any additional problems.
Tips to keep your nervous system healthy
The top tips that can help keep the nervous system healthy include the following:
- Eat foods that regulate neural activity
The minerals potassium and calcium help regulate the electrical signals generated and transmitted by the nerves. If these electrical signals are unregulated, they may lead to epilepsy or other nervous system diseases.
Eggs, milk, and green leafy vegetables are rich sources of calcium. Oranges, bananas, prunes, and pomegranates are rich sources of potassium. Dark chocolates are rich in amino acids that act as neurotransmitters and help effectively transfer nerve signals from one nerve to another.
- Increase your B vitamin intake
Each nerve has an outer coating called the myelin sheath. It acts as an insulator and an outer protective layer for the nerves. A worn-out myelin sheath is one of the leading causes of Alzheimer's disease.
B vitamins strengthen the nerves and protect them from chemicals that may cause damage. Foods like eggs, poultry, beef, and seafood are rich sources of vitamin B12. Spinach, beets, and pomegranates are rich sources of folate, a B vitamin.
- Regular exercise and yoga
Regular aerobic exercises like walking, cycling, swimming, jogging, and running increase blood flow to different body parts and strengthen the nervous system. Yoga, mindfulness meditation, and various breathing exercises also help to calm the body, regulate heart rate, and improve neural activity.
- Get enough sleep
Good, uninterrupted sleep recharges your mind and body and helps improve neural activity. An average adult requires about 7 to 8 hours of sleep daily for overall well-being and optimal nerve function. Therefore, evaluate your sleep hygiene and ensure you get ample sleep for a successful recovery of your mind and body.
- Stimulate your brain
Like your body, your brain also needs regular exercise to remain healthy and strong. Therefore, engage in various brain-stimulating activities. Solve puzzles, read a new book, write a diary, learn a new skill, or play a musical instrument. Such brain-stimulating activities help maintain strong connections between brain cells. They also promote cognitive health and prevent degenerative neurological conditions.
Finding the best neurologist near you in Atlanta
Finding a good neurologist requires a lot of care and research. Some appointments may take weeks of waiting. At Zocdoc, you can book instant appointments with neurologists. Finding the right neurologist is also very simple; type in your symptoms and the location in the search boxes on the Zocdoc website. You may also search for neurologists based on your insurance plan and the timing you prefer.
If you want to know your insurance plan, upload an image of the insurance card to your Zocdoc account, and we will find and display information regarding your insurance plan (this facility is not available for vision or dental plans). You can also check out Zocdoc's patient help center for more information and solutions related to insurance.
With Zocdoc, you can browse the curated list of the best neurologists near you and view their profiles before deciding. The profiles mention the practitioners' education, specialties, services offered, board affiliations, and even the languages they speak, among other information. Verified patient reviews are also displayed on each profile to help you make an informed decision. You can even schedule a same-day appointment with the neurologist of your choice in emergencies.
Zocdoc maintains patient confidentiality with the highest accord. All bookings with Zocdoc are free, fast, and secure.
Neurology statistics in Atlanta
According to the United Nations, one in six individuals suffers from a global neurological disorder. In the U.S. alone, millions of people suffer from neurological conditions. However, there needs to be more data on neurologists' workforce statistics. National estimates indicate that most neurologists must be more directly engaged in treating patients. They are actively pursuing teaching, research, or administration-related work.
A decade-old survey report by the American Academy of Neurology indicated that almost 73% of neurologists' professional time is spent seeing patients, and the remaining time is spent on other activities. However, the number of neurologists has grown slowly. Approximately 18,060 are projected to be in the country by 2025, which is very low compared to the million cases already prevalent.
Almost 35.8% of people above 85 years of age suffer from memory impairment of one kind or the other. Alzheimer's disease impacts nearly 21.4% of the population, and epilepsy cases affect 11.6%.
About 9,350 neurologists currently treat patients, a tiny percentage of whom are in Atlanta. However, Atlanta ranks among the top 10 highest-paying metropolitan areas for neurologists compared to other cities.
Sources
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
National Center for Biotechnology Information
Brain and Spine Neuroscience Institute
The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.