Conditions Of The Brain That A Neurologist Can Diagnose
A neurologist is a brain specialist who is able to diagnose a variety of conditions. This type of doctor can order MRIs, CT scans, and other tests for patients who are showing signs of brain damage, disease, or other problems of the brain. Neurologists often diagnose these conditions that affect the brain.
Traumatic Injuries
An auto accident, a sports injury, or a sudden blow to the head can leave people with traumatic brain injuries. Imaging tests can be performed so that the neurologist can identify any brain damage and determine the extent of the damage. A brain hemorrhage can also occur with some injuries, and neurologists can work to stop the bleeding and save a patient's life if tests reveal bleeding in the brain.
Tumors
Both benign and malignant tumors can grow inside the brain and cause various neurological problems. CT scans and MRIs are effective tools for diagnosing brain tumors, and neurologists who have received the proper training can read the tests and give patients the correct results. A lumbar puncture, hormone blood test, and biopsy may also be performed by the neurologists to determine if a brain tumor is present. Some of the most common types of brain tumors that neurologists diagnose include the following:
- Meningiomas
- Glioblastomas
- Pituitary adenomas
- Chondromas
- Gliomas
Cysts
What initially appears to be a tumor may in fact be a cyst, and neurologists can diagnose and treat many of these fluid-filled sacs as well. Even though a brain cyst isn't cancerous, the fluid-filled sac could still be problematic if it presses against certain nerves and causes chronic headaches and nausea, and a qualified brain specialist can eliminate a cyst to rid the patient of the associated symptoms.
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Neurodegenerative disease, which gradually deteriorates neurons, can interfere with physical and cognitive functioning, and a neurologist can diagnose many of these conditions with image tests and an analysis of a patient's symptoms. Even though not all neurodegenerative diseases are curable, neurologists can still offer treatments that may lessen the symptoms and slow the disease's progression. Neurologists can diagnose neurodegenerative diseases like:
- Alzheimer's disease
- Huntington's disease
- Parkinson's disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Epilepsy
People who experience frequent seizures often seek treatment from a brain specialist. If the neurologist diagnoses epilepsy, prescription medications, such as clobazam, gabapentin, and vigabatrin, may be suggested to try to stop the seizures or at least reduce their frequency. Vagal nerve stimulation and surgery are other treatment options that the brain specialist may recommend if medications have been ineffective.
People who are experiencing different symptoms related to the brain can visit a neurologist for an accurate diagnosis. These brain specialists have helped many patients improve their brain and body functioning through treatments that often produce favorable results.
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