If you are experiencing sudden symptoms of a stroke, call 911 and seek medical attention immediately.
Our bodies are incredibly complex, and sometimes they send us signals that something might not be quite right. When it comes to your nervous system, these signals can manifest in a variety of ways. Neurologists are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the nervous system. But how do you know when it’s time to consider seeing a neurologist? Here are some common signs and symptoms that may indicate a need for neurological evaluation from a specialist.
1. Frequent Headaches or Migraines
While occasional headaches are a normal part of life, frequent or severe headaches could be a sign of an underlying neurological issue. Migraines, tension headaches, and cluster headaches are all conditions that may warrant a visit to a neurologist. Severe headaches or severe symptoms associated with headaches are also indicators that a neurologist can help, as they can help identify the cause of your headaches and develop a treatment plan to alleviate your pain.
2. Persistent Dizziness, Vertigo, or Balance Issues
If you frequently experience dizziness, spinning sensations, or a feeling of unsteadiness, it’s essential to consult a neurologist. Your primary care provider may be able uncover the cause of your symptoms, but a neurologist can diagnose and treat the root cause of these symptoms. These symptoms may be related to disorders of the inner ear or the central nervous system, and a neurologist can perform tests to pinpoint the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
3. Memory Problems and Cognitive Changes
Memory lapses and cognitive changes can be a natural part of aging, but they can also be indicative of neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. It can be difficult to tell whether memory or cognitive changes are occurring due to aging or a more serious underlying issue. If you or a loved one are experiencing noticeable changes in memory or cognitive function, it’s crucial to seek a neurological evaluation for an accurate diagnosis and potential interventions.
Talk to a neurologist about cognitive changes if patient:
- Repeats the same questions over again and again
- Gets lost in places that you or the affected person knows well
- Has difficulty following recipes or directions
- Is confused about time, places, and people
- Is not taking care of themself – poor eating, hygiene, and/or behavior
Memory loss is one of the first signs of dementia. Dementia is not one single disease, rather it is a group of symptoms that affect memory, reasoning, judgment, language, and other important thinking skills.
There are cases where cognitive changes or memory problems don’t indicate a more severe circumstance such as dementia. Mild Cognitive Impairment is diagnosed using multiple tests and a set of criteria developed by a panel of international experts. Neurological exams, lab blood tests, brain imaging, and testing of mental status are combined to determine whether a patient has MCI. Individuals with mild cognitive impairment experience memory and decision making problems, as well declined mental function over time. However, symptoms are not severe enough to impact daily activities nor have the issues the patient experiences been diagnosed as a form of dementia.
4. Numbness, Tingling, Weakness, or Tremors
Persistent numbness, tingling (paresthesia), or weakness in your limbs or other parts of your body may be a sign of a neurological condition such as multiple sclerosis (MS), peripheral neuropathy, or a herniated disc. Neurologists can perform tests, such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies, to assess nerve function and determine the underlying cause.
Muscle weakness, tremors, or uncontrolled movements can be signs of various neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or other movement disorders. A neurologist can conduct a thorough assessment, including neurological exams and imaging studies, to determine the cause and develop a personalized treatment plan.
If you’ve been consistently experiencing numbness and/or tingling, whether it occurs frequently or infrequently, you should make time to talk to a neurologist to determine the underlying cause of these sensations.
5. Seizures
Seizures are a hallmark symptom of epilepsy, a neurological disorder that affects the brain’s electrical activity. Many seizures and associated symptoms can be managed by a neurologist. If you or someone you know experiences unexplained seizures or episodes of altered consciousness, it’s essential to consult a neurologist for proper evaluation, diagnosis, and seizure management.
6. Chronic Pain
Chronic pain conditions, such as neuropathic pain, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), or chronic migraines, often have neurological components. Pain is considered chronic if it is persistent, recurring, and caused by a medical condition. Neurologists can help diagnose the underlying causes of chronic pain and recommend treatments that target the source of the pain. Nerve blocks can provide temporary relief of localized pain as well as allow your neurologist to pinpoint where the pain is coming from. There are also neurostimulant implant devices available that can help treat chronic pain and migraines.
7. Changes in Vision
Any sudden or unexplained changes in vision, including double vision, loss of vision, or difficulty with eye movements, should be evaluated by a neurologist. These symptoms may indicate issues with the optic nerves or other neurological conditions that affect vision.
Consulting with a neurologist for vision issues, such as optic nerve disorders, eye movement disorders, auras, double vision, thyroid eye disease, or eyelid abnormalities can help determine the underlying cause of the vision issues and determine the best path of treatment or correction.* Your primary care provider or neurologist may refer you to a neuro-ophthalmologist, who can diagnose and treat neurological and systemic diseases that affect your sight and the movement of your eyes.** Common neurological disorders that can affect vision or cause vision loss include nerve damage, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), stroke, and Alzheimer’s.***
8. New or Persistent Sleep Issues
Neurologists can play a crucial role in addressing a wide range of sleep issues that are typically associated with neurological causes. Conditions such as central sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome fall under their expertise. A neurologist can employ a comprehensive approach to diagnose and treat these conditions, utilizing their in-depth knowledge of the nervous system to develop personalized treatment plans that aim to improve sleep quality and overall well-being.
Is it Time to See a Neurologist?
Your nervous system plays a vital role in controlling every aspect of your body, so it’s essential to pay attention to any signs or symptoms that may suggest a neurological issue. If you or someone you know experiences any of the symptoms mentioned above, consider consulting a neurologist for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in managing neurological conditions and improving your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to seek help when you suspect that something might be amiss with your nervous system; your health and well-being are worth it.
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*https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/neurovisual-disorders
**https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/what-is-neuro-ophthalmologist
***https://neurologyoffice.com/neurological-disorders-and-vision-loss/