Neurological diseases and conditions can affect almost all areas of your body. Deciding whether you need to see a neurologist for symptoms you’re experiencing is not always straightforward. Symptoms can be subtle, varied, or resemble other health issues, which can make it challenging to determine if you need specialized neurological care. 

Let us help you recognize certain signs and symptoms for when it’s time to schedule an appointment with a neurologist. They can provide a thoughtful and accurate evaluation of your nervous system so you can get the right treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms.

What Does a Neurologist Treat?

A neurologist has specialized training in diseases that affect your brain, spinal cord, and nerves. They can diagnose and treat a wide range of neurological conditions including:

• Headaches and migraines, which can significantly impact daily life
• Dementia, which affects memory and thinking skills
• Stroke, which can affect your body in many ways, including physical movement, vision, memory and behavior
• Epilepsy, which is characterized by recurrent seizures
• Autoimmune, movement or neuromuscular conditions, like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease or polyneuropathy

Neurologists are capable of identifying complex conditions by obtaining a thorough history of your symptoms, detailed neurologic exam and varied diagnostic tests to assess your memory, speech, strength, coordination, and more. They have the expertise to recommend non-surgical treatments versus surgical interventions with a neurosurgeon.

“As a neurologist, my main goal is to improve my patient’s quality of life,” says Anila Thomas, MD. “Not only are we focused on getting to the root cause of a patient’s symptoms, but we’re also focused on treating them most effectively so that they can get back to doing the things they love.”

Top Signs That It’s Time to See a Neurologist

Headaches and Migraines

You may experience headaches from time to time, with varying degrees of intensity and duration. Headaches are usually temporary and can be treated by cold packs, hot compresses, or other home remedies. However, if your headaches become severe and persistent, and over-the-counter remedies fail to relieve your pain, it may be time to see a neurologist. This is especially true if your headaches occur alongside other neurological symptoms, such as vision changes, dizziness, or nausea. 

A neurologist can help diagnose the cause of your headaches and develop a treatment plan to manage them.

“When it comes to a headache, they’re not always serious, but they can be really debilitating. There’s no need to suffer when the neurologists at WMCHealth can help,” says Jin Li, MD. “In addition to prescribing medications, we recommend that our patients maintain healthy daily habits, such as staying well-hydrated. And to prevent future headaches, we help our patients identify a list of triggers, like stress.”

Memory Problems or Confusion

We all occasionally forget why we walked into a room. Occasional forgetfulness is generally not a reason for concern. But if your memory problems are starting to affect your daily life and ability to function, it may be time to see a neurologist. 

A neurologist can figure out what’s contributing to your memory loss, whether it’s something as simple as poor sleep or as serious as dementia. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in managing and potentially improving symptoms.

Numbness or Weakness

When your foot “falls asleep” after sitting in a certain position or you hit your “funny bone,” you may feel temporary numbness or a pins-and-needles sensation. This is usually harmless. However, if this sensation comes on for no apparent reason, the issue may be cause for concern.

Numbness or weakness can be a sign of an underlying neurological issue, especially if:

• The sensation happens on one side of your body. (This could be a sign of a stroke. If you think you are having a stroke, go to the emergency room or call 911 immediately.)
• You have difficulty lifting the front of your foot, causing you to drag it instead.
• Your hand grip is weakened.

A neurologist can accurately diagnose the cause of your numbness or weakness, whether it’s due to a nerve injury, a central nervous system disorder, or another underlying condition. 

Tremors and Unstable Gait  

If you experience shaking in your hands, called tremors, it could indicate a neurological condition. Disturbances in your walking, like shuffling or rigid steps, may be signs of a movement disorder. Consider seeing a movement disorders specialist to help identify the cause.

WMCHealth Neurology

If you’re experiencing any of the signs listed above, don’t wait until your symptoms worsen. It’s important to get a neurological evaluation to ensure there aren’t any underlying health issues. Your brain health matters, and we’re here to support you. 

How Should I Prepare for My First Neurological Appointment?

Being proactive will help ensure you receive the best care possible. Here are a few steps to take:

• Come prepared with your notes, including any recent symptoms or concerns. This will help your healthcare provider understand your condition better and address your needs more effectively.
• Share your health information openly with your healthcare provider. The more they know, the better they can help you. This includes your medical history, current medications, and lifestyle habits.
• Never hesitate to ask questions, no matter how small they may seem. Clarifying any doubts you have can lead to better understanding and management of your health. Remember, your healthcare provider is there to help you, and no question is too insignificant when it comes to your well-being.