What is a neurologist?
Neurologists are medical specialists who focus on identifying and treating various conditions that impact parts of the spinal cord, brain, and the entire nervous system. The human and central nervous systems comprise the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system consists of a huge network of nerve cells. Given the diverse nature of the field of neurology, your doctor may refer you to a subspecialist within neurology, depending on your specific condition. Some examples of subspecialties within neurology include autonomic disorders, neuroimaging, headache medicine, vascular neurology, and child neurology.
What does a neurologist do?
Neurologists have the experience to diagnose and treat an array of diseases and disorders, including but not limited to epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and brain tumors. While they do not conduct surgical procedures, they can guide you on your medical issue and refer you to a neurosurgeon when necessary. Your neurologist may perform a series of examinations to know the underlying cause of your condition. They will ask about your previous medical history and symptoms, so jotting down any pertinent health information before your appointment is advisable. Additionally, making a list of questions for your neurologist may be helpful.
Educational qualifications of a neurologist
Individuals aspiring to become neurologists typically begin their educational journey by completing an undergraduate degree focusing on biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Subsequently, they must enroll in medical school and undergo a comprehensive four-year program. The initial two years are dedicated to theoretical learning in classrooms and laboratories, followed by two years of practical training in medical settings such as clinics and hospitals. During this period, hands-on experience is acquired in diagnosing and treating various illnesses and conditions under the guidance of experienced doctors and specialists.
Upon completing medical school, aspiring neurologists earn either a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or a Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.) degree. The next step involves a one-year internship, which may cover various medical fields, including neurology. Following the internship, individuals proceed to a three-year residency program, focusing specifically on neurology, where they further enhance their diagnostic and treatment skills.
Some neurologists opt for specialization in a specific area of neurology. To achieve the expertise, they undergo an additional three-year fellowship, which includes specialized training in a neurology subspecialty. The duration of training extends in cases where neurologists choose multiple subspecialties.
Do neurologists treat mental health conditions?
Neurologists focus on treating physical conditions related to damage or disease in the nervous system, such as seizures and concussions, but not mental health conditions like depression, which involve brain function and chemicals.
A neuropsychologist is a specialist who treats mental health conditions. They study the relationship between the brain and human behavior and help patients manage their issues through intervention and strategies. However, neuropsychologists do not prescribe medication.
It is imperative to discuss your mental health with your neurologist, even though they do not treat mental health conditions. Informing your neurologist about your mental health diagnosis is crucial as it could be causing symptoms that are similar to neurological disorders.
For instance, depression can result in unexplained memory problems.
Why should you visit a neurologist for your migraine issues?
A neurologist specializes in treating, diagnosing, and managing ailments of the brain and nervous system, such as concussions, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), migraine, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and stroke, among others.
A pediatric neurologist treats neurologic diseases in children from birth through adolescence. Some disorders are similar to those seen by adult neurologists, while others are specific to this age group. Many conditions that affect adults include migraine, epilepsy, stroke, and Tourette's. Pediatric neurologists treat these.
How does a neurologist diagnose your nerve problems?
Neurologists are highly trained physicians and utilize a complete medical history and physical examination to analyze complicated problems, including mental state, vision, speech, strength, sensation, coordination, reflexes, and gait.
As medical progress is made, the neurological exam will continue to be essential for patient evaluation.
The following are some examples of standard neurologic tests that are performed:
- CT scans (computed tomography) or CAT scans (computer-assisted tomography)
- MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- An EEG is an electroencephalogram (EEG)
- Nerve conduction investigations (NCS/EMG) and electromyography
- Lumbar puncture (LP) for examination of the cerebral spinal fluid
A neurologist works with the brain, cranial nerves, spinal cord, nerve roots, peripheral nerves, autonomic nervous system, neuromuscular junction, and muscles to treat problems in the central and peripheral nervous systems. The following are examples of common nervous system disorders:
- Epilepsy - A neurological illness characterized by aberrant electrical activity in the brain that results in spontaneous seizures and loss of consciousness.
- Alzheimer's disease (and other dementias) - Generalized brain degeneration causes progressive mental decline.
- Stroke (and other cerebrovascular diseases): A stroke happens when a blood clot or rupture blocks a blood artery that supplies essential nutrients and oxygen to the brain.
- Migraine (and other headache disorders) - A severe, recurrent headache frequently accompanied by nausea and blurred vision.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - A chronic disease of numbness, speech, and muscle dysfunction, extreme exhaustion, and impaired vision due to nerve cell destruction in the brain and spinal cord.
- Parkinson's disease - Tremor, muscular rigidity, and slow, imprecise movement are symptoms of this degenerative condition. It's linked to dopamine insufficiency and degeneration of the brain's basal ganglia.
- Brain tumors are abnormal cells that cause cognitive impairment.
- Brain trauma (and other nervous system injuries) - A damage caused by the external force to the brain, resulting in a permanent or temporary impairment of cognitive, physical, or psychosocial functions and an altered state of consciousness.
- Diseases of the Neurological System - A Neurologist will treat nervous system conditions, such as illnesses (bacterial, viral, fungal) and cancerous tumors (malignant, benign). Neurological disorders are prevalent, and the likelihood of having one rises as one gets older.
Neurologic illnesses, such as nervous system injury, are also somewhat prevalent. According to studies, up to 60 million people worldwide may experience a traumatic brain injury yearly. Recognizing the symptoms of neurological diseases and disorders is crucial because they're dangerous and can be fatal if left untreated. If one is facing the following symptoms, your primary care physician may suggest a visit to your neurologist:
- Headaches
- Suffering from chronic discomfort
- Dizziness
- Tingling or numbness
- Weakness
- Issues with movement
- Loss of consciousness or seizures
- Issues with vision
- Confusion or memory issues
- Sleep issues
- Problems with speech or language
Neurological system illnesses occasionally cause sensory dysfunction. Thus, people with sensory problems, including vision, smell, or touch, may be sent to a neurologist.
Here's what to expect if your primary care physician refers you to a Neurologist. A neurologist will ask you to get a physical assessment and a neurological evaluation done during your initial consultation.
Measure muscle strength, sensitivity, reflexes, and coordination during neurological exams. Undertake further tests due to the nervous system's intricacy. The following are examples of standard neurological tests:
- Lumbar puncture - A neurologist will only suggest this if they can find the reason for the symptoms in your spinal fluid. The area is numbed and sterilized during this operation. After that, a needle is carefully placed into the lower spine to remove a sample of the spinal fluid.
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) - Electrodes are put carefully on the scalp to measure brain electrical activity.
- Electromyography and nerve conduction studies (EMG/NCS): To test nerves, electrodes are placed on the skin, and needles are inserted into the muscle.
- CT, MRI, and PET scanning are examples of other popular tests. Sleep studies and angiography are two further diagnostic treatments (identifying blockages in blood vessels).
What is a neurological exam?
A neurological exam is a physical assessment designed to spot issues in your brain, spinal cord, and nerves (your nervous system). It’s the most effective way for healthcare providers to understand how well your brain and nervous system work and decide what tests you need.
Every exam varies depending on your symptoms and can take time, as the nervous system is quite complex. If you already have a known nervous system disorder, the exam helps track your progress and response to treatments.
How is a neurological exam performed?
A neurologist near you will begin with questions about your symptoms, how long you’ve had them, and how they affect your daily life. After this, the physical exam starts, and it may involve multiple subtests, including:
- Mental status check: To assess memory and cognition, you may be asked to recall the date, count, describe your mood, or repeat words.
- Cranial nerve test: This includes checking the movement of your face, eyes, and tongue, as well as testing your pupils, vision, hearing, and sense of smell.
- Movement and coordination: To test muscle coordination, you might be asked to touch your nose with your eyes closed, walk straight, or write your name.
- Reflexes: Tapping your knee with a rubber hammer or lightly touching your skin are simple tests showing how well your brain communicates with your body.
- Sensory tests: These can include feeling the temperature of objects, sensing light touches, or perceiving the sensation of a pin or vibrating object on your skin.
- Consciousness level: If needed, tests like the Glasgow Coma Scale assess your ability to follow basic commands, move, speak, and open your eyes.
- Autonomic nervous system: This involves monitoring vital functions like blood pressure and bowel or bladder control.
Each of these steps helps your healthcare provider get a clear picture of how your nervous system is functioning.
How can you get ready for your appointment with a neurologist?
Preparing for your first appointment with one of the best neurologists near you can contribute to a better understanding and diagnosis of your condition. Some preparation strategies include -
- Compile a list of the most significant issues you wish to discuss with your neurologist.
- Provide information about any changes in your overall health since your last visit.
- Communicate details about new symptoms or alterations in existing symptoms. Maintaining a symptom diary, including the date, time, duration, severity, triggers, symptoms, and any actions taken to alleviate the symptoms, can be particularly useful for conditions with intermittent manifestations, such as epilepsy, sleep apnea, headaches, or Parkinson's disease.
- Bring copies of test results, a CD with images, and any lab work conducted by healthcare providers not affiliated with your neurologist's network.
- Present a comprehensive list of all current medications you are taking, encompassing prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products. Additionally, inform your neurologist about any past medicines that were ineffective or caused adverse reactions.
- Request a follow-up appointment if you have additional concerns or issues to discuss.
These steps can help you have a more productive and informative appointment with the best neurologist near you, contributing to a thorough assessment and appropriate management of your neurological health.
Finding the top-rated neurologist near you in Las Vegas
Choosing a friendly and reliable neurologist is crucial. Moreover, given the vast diversity in clinical specializations and the high costs, you should be confident in your selection.
This is why all Zocdoc providers have detailed personal profiles—including their education, clinical training, experience, board certification, awards, and much more. The profiles also let you check if the eye doctor has any expertise.
Thanks to Zocdoc, you can easily browse through hundreds of high-quality doctors' profiles and make a booking within minutes. You can also conveniently look at their educational qualifications, experience in the field, board certifications, etc. If you have insurance, enter your provider's name into the drop-down bar, and the site will show you the top neurologists near you who accept your plan.
Are you concerned about the security of your insurance info? Don't worry—we follow industry best practices to keep it safe. Click here to learn more about how Zocdoc protects your data and privacy. For any insurance-related issues, visit Zocdoc's patient help center.
Once satisfied, you can book a virtual or in-person consultation with the best neurologist. You can also look at the verified customer reviews to learn more.
Prevalence of migraine in Las Vegas, Nevada
According to a report published by the Neuroscience Working Table, there are approximately 49,000 people affected by Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) in Nevada. This figure is expected to go up to almost 64,000 by 2025. In 2017, about 776 people died from Alzheimer's, making it the 6th most prominent cause of mortality in Nevada.
In addition, the report also states that stroke is the top 5th cause of death among the residents of Nevada. In 2017, the state reported nearly 1,137 deaths due to stroke. In 2015, there was a significant number (31,600) active epilepsy cases in the state. As per the quantitative data published by BlueCross BlueShield, the prevalence rate of multiple sclerosis in Nevada is 24.3 cases per 10,000 individuals.
Sources
WebMD
Healthline[1]
Healthline[2]
Western Washington Medical Group
Leavitt Center for Alliances
American Academy of Neurology[1]
American Academy of Neurology[2]
Medical News Today
Cleveland Clinic[1]
Cleveland Clinic[2]
