Do you get headaches regularly? Hurt your back, and it just won’t stop hurting? Or can’t seem to remember where you left your keys last week? We hate to break it to you, but any of these things and more might require a visit to an Alexandria neurology specialist. Neurologists study the nervous system and help diagnose and treat nervous system disorders.
While neurologists frequently treat people with brain or spinal cord issues, they can also help diagnose and manage many other nervous system conditions. Nerves are present throughout the body including in the arms, legs, stomach, intestines even your eyes. Now that’s a whole lot of awesome work for one doctor to do. So when should you see a neurologist?
Don’t worry. We’ve got this. Read on to learn more.
You Have Trouble Moving
Have you recently injured your leg, arm, back, or neck? Nerve damage to the area you injured may cause muscles in that part of the body to weaken. Additionally, sometimes when nerve signals are blocked or interrupted due to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis, people experience muscle weakness.
If you’re hurting and having trouble moving, see your primary care provider, who can refer you to a neurologist if needed.
You Experience Chronic Migraines
Chronic migraine sufferers know all too well the pain and agony that comes along with those dreadful headaches. People who suffer from migraines often feel like they’re living in a dark room even when their eyes are open, and it can be hard to do everyday tasks like washing your hair, grocery shopping, or cooking dinner.
Although some people who suffer from migraines can manage their symptoms with medication, others don’t experience any relief unless they see a neurologist.
You Have Develop New Memory Issues
New memory issues are not something to take lightly. If you’re having trouble concentrating, remembering basic information like where you left your cell phone, or if you ate lunch already today, these new habits may be cause for concern. Memory loss that is sudden and severe can be a sign of a severe neurological issue.
Vertigo and Balance Problems
Incredibly, a whopping 32 million Americans experience dizziness or balance issues at any given time. Without help from a neurologist, these folks can’t pinpoint the cause of their vertigo and ultimately will never know how to treat it. If you feel you’re constantly about to trip or bump into things, your best bet is to visit a neurologist.
You Experience Frequent Tingling, Numbness, or Pain
Just because you’re feeling something weird in your arm, leg or hand doesn’t necessarily mean there’s anything wrong with you. But if it happens all the time, this strange sensation could be nerve damage caused by diabetes, thyroid issues, or even simple dehydration. Pains in your arms, legs, and hands should only last a few minutes when you touch something hot or cold, but if the pain lingers, see a neurologist immediately.
In summary, neurologists study the nervous system and help diagnose and treat nervous system disorders. You may need to see if you have new memory problems that did not exist before. Balance issues and vertigo can also prompt a visit to a neurologist. Additionally, you may need to make an appointment if you experience frequent tingling, pain, or numbness, have chronic migraines, and or trouble moving.
