Neurologist Summary: A Neurologist is a physician who diagnoses, treats, and manages disorders, disease and injuries to the nervous system. This includes such areas as the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles. A referral is usually required from a family or attending physician.
A neurologist also manages long-term care for patients who are afflicted with diseases and disorders present at birth or that have developed later on in life. Conditions such as MS, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease are just some of the disorders a neurologist may offer long-term care for.
Education and Training: In order to become a neurologist, 4 years of undergraduate study followed by 4 years of medical school are required. An addition 4 years must be spent doing an internship in neurology. A total of 12 years of study and training are required, along with writing certification exams, to become a certified neurologist.
Neurologist FAQs:
What is a Neurologist
?
A Neurologist is a physician who treats nervous system disorders, including diseases of the spinal cord, nerves, and the brain. A Neurologist examines nerves in the head and neck, muscle movement, balance, reflexes, memory and speech.
What procedures does a Neurologist perform?
A Neurologist can perform CAT scans, MRIs, EEGs and spinal taps.
What type of nervous system disorders does a Neurologist treat?
A Neurologist can treat Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, Meningitis, Parkinson's Disease, Speech Disorders, Seizure Disorders, Spinal Cord Disorders, and many other nervous system diseases.
What can I expect during a neurological exam?
A neurologist will perform a physical examination and check the performance of different areas of the body. This includes checking the level of consciousness and memory; eye reflexes, hearing, taste, and smell; abnormal movements or twitching; skin and muscle sensations; coordination; and the ability of the patient to walk. If need be, the neurologist will then order additional tests such as a CT scan or MRI.
When should a person see a neurologist?
Usually, a family physician will refer a patient to a neurologist if there is a concern regarding a possible disorder or illness involving the nervous system. If involved in an accident or if an illness of the nervous system has been contracted, a patient will also be referred to a neurologist.
Does a neurologist treat children?
Certainly, your best bet is to consult a pediatric neurologist who has received specialized training in pediatrics. Many of the concerns regarding nervous system health in children are diseases or conditions that are present at birth and need to be monitored over a long period of time. Such conditions include epilepsy, ADHD, autism, brain tumor and migraines, developmental disorders, and mental retardation.
How do I find a Neurologist in my city and state?
The wellness.com directory will help you locate a Neurologist in your state. Select Neurologist from the professionals menu and select the state that you are looking to locate a Neurologist in. After you have located your state, find the city that you will need a Neurologist in. Select the state and city and you will see a list of Neurologists in your city and state.
Neurologist Related Terms: neurology, spinal cord, nervous system, neurologist, Parkinson's Disease, brain, nerves, memory, seizures, reflexes
