Neurology
Neurology
Neurology in laymen terms may refer to the in-depth study of the orchestra in your brain that focuses on health of your brain. Of course, neurologists and neurological surgeons are not the conductors of the orchestra in your brain. In fact, their sophistication and expertise in this branch of medicine extends beyond the delivery of a musical masterpiece. To put it simply, your brain works like a group of musicians in an orchestra. Yet, there are 15-33 billion neurons that are each linked to 10,000 synaptic connections in the cerebral cortex of the brain. Each neuron communicates by way of fibers called axoms which deliver pulse signals to recipient cells that perform specific brain and bodily activities. Much like a symphony, the brain performs a harmony with rhythmic arrangements, dissolving configurations, and flashing sub-patterns that flow precisely in and out using highly calculated measurements. Always expressive, every cell in your brain is part of a special network that contributes to your quality of life every day.
Neurology Forums: From brain fitness to anti-disability stroke shots, there is a wealth of great information for you to take advantage of to help preserve your quality of life for many years to come.
Brain Fitness at Its Finest, for quick brain fitness tips!
Learn about Brain Injury and Stroke
GET ImPACT, for all sports players this Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Test offers baseline brain data so if and when concussion strikes, you or your child can be diagnosed and treated with the standard of care you deserve to prevent long term damage.
Check Out The Anti-Disability Stroke Shot
Integrated Care Offered by Neurologists and Neurosurgeons
Neurologists and neurosurgeons in North America are among the most extensively trained physicians in medical science. While neurologists focus on medical conditions and traumatic injury to the brain, neurosurgeons focus on neurology in addition to neurosurgery when necessary. Neurologists and neurosurgeons tackle disorders of the nervous system—central, peripheral and autonomic—along with affected tissue, muscle, and blood vessels. The field of neurology also extends to clinical research and clinical trials, as well as, specialty areas, such as, pediatric neurology, oncology, Vascular Dementia, Parkinson’s disease, brain injury and much more. Neurosurgeons focus on the brain, spinal column, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and extra-cranial cerebrovascular system as well.
Too, neurologists may be brought in to consult with patients suffering from infectious diseases, cerebral palsy and a wide range of neuro-physiatric and neurochemical conditions, including: bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, Huntington Disease, vascular dementia, post-traumatic stress from war or crisis, clinical depression, as well as, neuro-rehabilitation issues. Accordingly, neurologists and neurosurgeons may also work together with or refer patients to physiatrists, orthopedic spine surgeons, vascular surgeons, or other related medical professionals. Some neurologists may sub specialize in other areas, such as a neurophysiatrist.
Neurological Conditions
There are over 600 medical conditions that relate to neurology. The good news is that neurologists receive very extensive training in many aspects of medicine to deliver some very optimistic resolutions for patients with many types of medical conditions. Some of the more common conditions of the brain are, as follows.
Migraine Headaches
Concussion
ALS
Brain tumors and aneurysms
Spinal cord injury and tumors
Movement Disorders
Neuromuscular Diseases
Mental and Psychological Conditions
Multiple Sclerosis
Dementia
Alzheimer’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease
Cerebral Palsy
Seizures
Birth Injury
Brain Hematoma
Neurological Treatments
As you might imagine, neurological treatments are as varied as the patient. Physical examinations, blood and laboratory tests, X-rays, and MRI’s are some of the fairly standard diagnostic tests available, but neurologists and neurosurgeons also have an arsenal of more advanced treatment techniques and equipment at their disposal. From 3 D brain mapping technology for the detection of tumors, to Robotics that offer a painless approach for tumor treatment, and Deep Brain Simulation for relief from Parkinson’s Disease, neurologists and neurosurgeons utilize some of the most advanced medical technology in all medical specialties to optimize care for their patients.
Will Insurance Cover a Neurologist and Prescribed Treatments?
In an emergent situation, such as, a traumatic brain injury or stroke, it is extremely important to call 911 and remain still until you are routed to the nearest hospital with the assistance of medical personnel. It is extremely important for stroke victims to have the opportunity for a swift examination to identify if they are a candidate for a clot blocking shot that may diminish long term disabilities by one third. Once you arrive at the hospital, hospital personnel will evaluate your health insurance information and payment options will be presented to you at a later date.
If you are interested in consulting with a neurologist, it’s also wise to follow your instincts. Generally speaking, it is advised to consult with your insurance company and the neurologist’s office to make sure that appropriate coverage is available to take care of visits and treatments. Often, a patient must see a primary care physician first for a referral to a board certified neurologist or neurosurgeon. It is best to know what your medical insurance covers prior to visiting a neurologist or neurosurgeon. Yet, it’s not wise to delay care for any reason. When you contact a neurologist, you can explain your insurance situation and work with their internal personnel to assist you, if necessary.
Neurology is a far-reaching medical specialty devoted to treating people with troubling medical and psychiatric conditions. Neurologists make a living helping people live better. So, have no fear, contact a neurologist today if you feel you need to.