Quick Answer: Why Would My Doctor Refer Me To A Neurologist?

What is the most common neurological disorder

Annually, of the 1.2 million most frequently diagnosed adult-onset brain disorders, 51.3% and 21% are due to stroke and Alzheimer’s disease, respectively.

Each year, the total number of new episodes of Parkinson’s disease and traumatic brain injury equals the total number of epilepsy episodes (135 million)..

What conditions can a neurologist diagnose

A neurologist is a medical doctor with specialized training in diagnosing, treating, and managing disorders of the brain and nervous system including, but not limited to, Alzheimer’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), concussion, epilepsy, migraine, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke.

Can stress cause neurological symptoms

Symptoms of functional neurologic disorders may appear suddenly after a stressful event, or with emotional or physical trauma. Other triggers may include changes or disruptions in how the brain functions at the structural, cellular or metabolic level. But the trigger for symptoms can’t always be identified.

What tests do neurologists perform

These tests may include one or more of the following:Blood and/or urine tests.Imaging tests such as an x-ray or MRI.A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) test. … Biopsy. … Tests, such as electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG), which use small electric sensors to measure brain activity and nerve function.

What are the top 3 common nervous system disorders

Examples include:Parkinson’s disease.Multiple sclerosis (MS).Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).Alzheimer’s disease.Huntington’s disease.Peripheral neuropathies.

When should I see a neurologist

A neurologist treats disorders that affect the brain, spinal cord and nerves. When you’re facing serious conditions like stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or ALS, it’s critical to find the right doctor for you. Your brain and its memory function depend on good blood flow and healthy nerves to work well.

How does a neurologist check for nerve damage

By measuring the electrical activity they are able to determine if there is nerve damage, the extent of the damage and potentially the cause of the damage. Frequently the neurologist will recommend common, noninvasive neurological evaluations such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) testing.

What does a full neurological exam consist of

The neurologic examination is typically divided into eight components: mental status; skull, spine and meninges; cranial nerves; motor examination; sensory examination; coordination; reflexes; and gait and station. The mental status is an extremely important part of the neurologic examination that is often overlooked.

What are the signs and symptoms of neurological disorder

Signs and symptoms of nervous system disordersPersistent or sudden onset of a headache.A headache that changes or is different.Loss of feeling or tingling.Weakness or loss of muscle strength.Loss of sight or double vision.Memory loss.Impaired mental ability.Lack of coordination.More items…

What happens when you are referred to a neurologist

If your primary care physician refers you to a Neurologist, here’s what you can expect. During your first appointment, a Neurologist will likely ask you to participate in a physical exam and neurological exam. Neurological exams are tests that measure muscle strength, sensation, reflexes, and coordination.

Can you see a neurologist without a referral

It is important to get a referral to the neurologist from your doctor. That way, your doctor can pass on useful information, and the neurologist can later tell your doctor about your visit. Also, if you don’t have a referral, neither Medicare nor private health insurance will contribute to the cost of your care.

What are the 5 components of a neurological examination

What is done during a neurological exam?Mental status. … Motor function and balance. … Sensory exam. … Newborn and infant reflexes. … Reflexes in the older child and adult. … Evaluation of the nerves of the brain. … Coordination exam:

Why would a child be referred to a neurologist

A child neurologist, or pediatric neurologist, is a doctor who treats children who have problems with their nervous system. Problems in the nervous system can start in the brain, spine, nerves, or muscles. These can lead to problems such as seizures, headaches, or developmental delays.

What disease attacks the nervous system

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks part of its peripheral nervous system—the network of nerves located outside of the brain and spinal cord.

Why would I be referred to a neurologist after MRI

A general practice doctor might make a referral to a neurologist if they believe that an individual shows signs of a neurological problem. Neurological issues encompass a broad range of conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, diabetic neuropathy, headache, and nerve damage.