WHAT IS NEUROLOGIST
Introduction to Neurology
Neurology is the branch of medicine concerned with the study and treatment of disorders of the nervous system. The nervous system is a complex, sophisticated system that regulates and coordinates body activities. It has two major divisions:
- Central nervous system: the brain and spinal cord
- Peripheral nervous system: all other neural elements, such as eyes, ears, skin, and other “sensory receptors”
A doctor who specializes in neurology is called a neurologist. The neurologist treats disorders that affect the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, such as:
- Cerebrovascular disease, such as stroke
- Demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis
- Headache disorders
- Infections of the brain and peripheral nervous system
- Movement disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease
- Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease)
- Seizure disorders, such as epilepsy
- Spinal cord disorders
- Speech and language disorders
Neurologists do not perform surgery. If one of their patients requires surgery, they refer them to a neurosurgeon.
Education to Become a Neurologist in the United States
- Four years of pre-medical education in a college or university
- Four years of medical school resulting in an M.D. or D.O. degree (doctor of medicine or doctor of osteopathy degree)
- One year internship in either internal medicine or medicine/surgery
- At least 3 years of specialty training in an accredited neurology residency program
Many neurologists also have additional training or interest in one area of neurology, such as stroke, epilepsy, neuromuscular, sleep medicine, pain management, or movement disorders.
Tests & Treatments
Tests
- Biopsies
- Carotid Artery Ultrasound
- Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Brain
- Electroencephalogram (EEG)
- Electromyography (EMG)
- Evoked Potentials Studies (EP)
- Lumbar Puncture (LP)
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Spine and Brain
- Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV)
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan
Treatments
The most common treatment for many neurological diseases is medication. Our neurologists have a broad knowledge of medications that are currently available on the market as well as investigational drug therapies that are on the horizon.
Surgery may be an option for some patients. We collaborate with some of the most highly skilled neurosurgeons in the region and will make referrals based on your unique situation whenever we determine that would be the best option for you.
