A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in disorders of the nervous system , including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.
These disorders can include degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. Also, seizure disorders, such as epileptic seizures; sleep disorders ; headaches and migraines; spinal cord injuries ; neurodegenerative disorders; and many others.
The primary goal of the neurologist is to diagnose and treat these disorders , as well as provide information and support to patients and their families.
A neurologist must have strong and extensive knowledge in a wide variety of areas in order to provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for patients with damage to the brain or peripheral nerves. The areas that she must master are:
Anatomy and physiology of the nervous system: The
neurologist must know the normal structure and function of the brain, spinal
cord, and peripheral nerves.
Neuropathology: The practitioner must be familiar with
degenerative diseases, seizure disorders, head injuries, and spinal cord
injuries.
Neuroimaging : Knowledge of neuroimaging techniques such as
positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and
positron emission tomography (PET) should be known. As well as knowing how to
use them to diagnose and monitor diseases.
Pharmacology: Solid knowledge of drugs used to treat
disorders of the nervous system, including their mechanisms of action, side
effects, and interactions with other drugs.
Neuropsychology: Understanding how diseases and injuries of
the nervous system affect behavior and cognition, and how to work with patients
and their families to address these issues.
Clinical Assessment: Must be able to perform a thorough
assessment of patients, including a complete medical history, physical and
neurological examination. You should also make use of laboratory and imaging
tests to help in the diagnosis.
A neurologist may ask a wide variety of questions during a consultation, always depending on the reason for the patient's visit. The main objective is to obtain the most complete information to help in the treatment and diagnosis of disorders . Some common questions that a professional addresses the following topics:
Symptoms: The professional can ask about the sensations
that the person experiences . Like headaches, dizziness, muscle weakness, among
others.
Medical history: The neurologist asks about any previous
medical conditions , such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and more.
Family medical history: He or she may ask about any family
history of neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer's or multiple sclerosis.
Lifestyle: Asking about the patient's lifestyle is
important in order to know what diet, physical activity, alcohol and tobacco
use he or she does .
History of the disorder: You will ask questions about the
duration and course of the symptoms , as well as any changes in the severity of
the symptoms.
Previous Treatments: The neurologist inquires about any
previous treatment the patient has received, including medications, therapy,
and surgery .
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