Neurology is the field of medicine that studies diseases of the central and peripheral nervous systems. It covers the causes, mechanisms, symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment, and prevention of neurological disorders.
Neurology is closely related to other medical specialties such as neurosurgery, ophthalmology, otorhinolaryngology, endocrinology, and psychiatry. Practically any pathological change in the body may, to some extent, affect the nervous system. The neurologist’s main task is to determine whether a nervous system disorder is primary or secondary.
Diagnostic Methods in Neurology
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Used primarily to examine the brain and spinal cord; especially effective in diagnosing degenerative and space-occupying lesions of the nervous system.
Computed Tomography (CT): Preferred in cases of cranial and spinal trauma, as well as for patients with claustrophobia or contraindications to MRI. Often used in emergencies due to its speed.
Angiography: Imaging of blood vessels using a contrast medium to detect aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations in the brain.
Doppler Ultrasound: Assesses blood flow in the carotid and vertebral arteries and helps detect atherosclerotic plaques.
Electroencephalography (EEG): Measures brain electrical activity, especially used in diagnosing epilepsy and other functional brain disorders.
Electroneuromyography (ENMG): Evaluates muscle and peripheral nerve disorders.
Audiometry: Used in hearing assessments, particularly in sensorineural and conductive hearing loss, tinnitus, and dizziness.
Fundus Examination: Conducted by an ophthalmologist to detect optic nerve atrophy, papilledema, and signs of intracranial hypertension.
Lumbar Puncture: Used to collect cerebrospinal fluid to diagnose infections, bleeding, and other conditions; remains an irreplaceable diagnostic tool.
Neurosonography: Ultrasound imaging of infants' brains through the fontanelle to assess brain ventricles and parenchyma.
Neurological Examination: Involves assessment of cranial nerves, motor and sensory function, coordination, and helps determine the location and cause of neurological damage. Patient history (anamnesis) is often key to diagnosis in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and migraines.
Genetic Testing: Used for diagnosing inherited conditions such as myopathies, ataxias, genetically linked epilepsies, and polyneuropathies.
When Should You Consult a Neurologist?
Headaches and dizziness
Unexplained fatigue, numbness in limbs, or sensory disturbances
Muscle weakness
Changes in gait or balance
Involuntary movements or tremors
Fainting or seizures
Memory loss
Sleep disorders
Double vision
Unexplained vomiting, etc.
Diagnosis must be established under medical supervision, as similar symptoms may occur in other diseases. Treating the root cause is critical for successful therapy.
Neurology
Neurology is the medical field that examines the functions and disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems. It studies the mechanisms regulating the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. Neurology plays a key role in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of nervous system disorders such as epilepsy, migraine, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, sleep disorders, and neuralgia.
Neurologist
A neurologist is a specialist trained in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological conditions. They are skilled in identifying the causes of disorders, establishing accurate diagnoses, and developing individualized treatment plans.
Neurologists evaluate symptoms such as headache, dizziness, memory loss, muscle weakness, and limb numbness, and are involved in treating serious neurological conditions like stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease.
Early consultation with a neurologist is essential for the timely detection and treatment of nervous system diseases. Following your neurologist’s advice, undergoing regular check-ups, and managing stress are key to maintaining neurological health.
You can consult the professional neurologists at Sağlam Ailə to relieve your symptoms and restore your well-being.