A neurologist is a physician who specializes in the care of the brain, spinal column, and nervous system. Neurological practice tends to focus broadly on adult and childhood conditions, with some overlap between the two. Neurosurgeons are neurologists trained in invasive procedures.

Neurologists are extensively educated, completing four years of medical school, a one-year internship, a three-year residency in neurology, and additional years of training in their specialty. Prior to practicing, they are licensed and board certified by a professional governing body. They maintain this certification throughout their career with supplemental training and testing.

What Does a Neurologist Do?

Neurologists diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions in the brain, spinal column, and nervous system, including concussions, dementia, epilepsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (“Lou Gehrig’s disease”), migraines, meningitis, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, Parkinson’s disease, sleep disorders, strokes, and some forms of cancer. They accomplish this through doctor-patient interaction, conducting physical exams, ordering tests, prescribing medications, and arranging for surgical procedures and other forms of specialized medical care. Neurologists are found in both private-office and hospital settings. Because neurologists are specialists, you will typically require a referral from your primary care physician prior to scheduling a visit.

What Types of Neurologists Are There?

Neurologists can train in a wide range of specialties within the field of neurological medicine. Some of these include:

• Autonomic disorders
• Brain injury
• Cancers of the nervous system
• Developmental disabilities
• Epilepsy
• Headaches and migraines
• Movement disorders
• Muscular neurology
• Neuropsychiatry
• Pain and palliative care
• Sleep conditions
• Vascular neurology

When Should You See a Neurologist?

You should see a urologist whenever you experience symptoms commonly associated with a medical condition of the brain, spine, or nervous system:

• Back pain
• Difficulty walking or remaining upright
• Difficulty swallowing
• Frequent or severe headaches
• Memory loss
• Numbness in face or limbs
• Lightheadedness or loss of consciousness
• Muscle weakness
• Prolonged ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Seizures
• Sensory disturbances (hearing, taste, or smell)
• Tremors or spasms
• Vertigo
• Vision problems

What Can I Expect at My Visit to the Neurologist?

Your first neurology appointment will proceed like other physician visits. Your neurologist will ask about your symptoms, record your family history, and perform a physical exam. This exam can be extensive, because of the critical roles played by the nervous system throughout your body. Your neurologist will be interested in both your physical (movement, strength, balance, and coordination) and psychological conditions.

In this or a follow-up visit, your neurologist might also arrange for one or more tests to gather additional data about your condition. Depending on his or her concerns, these tests could include:

• A biopsy
• Blood and urine samples
• An electroencephalograph (EEG) for evaluating brain function
• An electromyogram (EMG) for evaluating muscle function
• Evoked potentials testing for analyzing sensory responses
• Imaging scans of the brain or spinal column (computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or ultrasound)
• A lumbar puncture (“spinal tap”)

With this information, your neurologist can create a treatment plan specific to you, possibly including medications and/or specialized medical care, including surgery.

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have a family medical history that concerns you, the Baptist Health neurology team is ready with expert care. For more information, contact your Baptist Health Primary Care Provider for a referral.