Neurology is a branch of medicine that deals with the structure and function of the nervous system and the treatment of the diseases and disorders that affect it. A Neurologist is a physician specializing in Neurology and trained to investigate, or diagnose and treat neurological disorders.

Why would I need to see a Neurologist?
There are many reasons you may need a Neurologist. The following symptoms may indicate the need to visit one:

• Headaches
• Seizures or episodic spells
• Tremors
• Balance problems
• Forgetfulness or mental status changes
• Weakness of one limb
• Concussion
• Abnormal movements
• Slurred speech
• Numbness and tingling especially in one arm or leg
• Double vision not explained by eye problems

The above symptoms may have many causes, such as decreased blood flow to the brain, chemical imbalances, autoimmune disorders or damage from Diabetes. If you have any of the above symptoms, make an appointment with your primary care physician (your Pediatrician, Family Practitioner or Internist), to discuss whether a visit to a Neurologist is necessary.

Diseases managed by Neurologists include:

• Stroke
• Neurological trauma
• Tumors of the nervous system
• Infections of the nervous system
• Multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases
• Epilepsy
• Peripheral nerve disease
• Neuromuscular diseases
• Dementia
• Headaches
• Movement disorders
• Sleep disorders

Resources: American Academy of Neurology, patients.aan.com; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, www.ninds.nih.gov