Neurologist Frequently Asked Questions
Medically reviewed byNancy Hammond, MD– Written byTim Jewell
What is a neurologist?
Neurologists diagnose, treat, and manage disorders related to the brain and central nervous system.
You can see a neurologist for conditions such asmigraines,epilepsy,stroke,multiple sclerosis, andAlzheimer’s.
Neurological testing often includes sensory testing of the eyes, ears, nose, and touch, as well as diagnostic testing likeMRIs,CTs,EEGs, andlumbar punctures.
Neurologists can perform the following procedures:
- electromyography (EMG)
- electroencephalogram (EEG)
- computed tomography (CT scan)
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scan)
- positron emission tomography (PET scan)
- lumbar puncture
- tensilon
- sleep studies
- skin biopsy
- botulinum toxin injections
- trigger point injections
This is not an exhaustive list. Contact your local neurologist for a full list of procedures they can perform. Keep in mind that most neurologists don't do surgery — this is usually done by neurosurgeons.
Neurologists treat the following conditions:
- general headaches
- cluster headaches
- migraine
- seizure disorders, such asepilepsy
- stroke
- multiple sclerosis (MS)
- neuromuscular disorders, such asmyasthenia gravis
- nervous system infections, such asencephalitis,meningitis, orbrain abscesses
- brain diseases (neurodegenerative disorders), such asLou Gehrig’s diseaseandAlzheimer’s disease
- disorders of the spinal cord, such as inflammatory and autoimmune disorders
- neuropathy
Some neurologists may specialize in other areas, too, in addition to what's on this list. Get in touch with your local neurologist to learn more about the full range of conditions they may be able to treat.
Neurologists may specialize in these areas:
- diagnosis and treatment of headaches
- diagnosis, treatment, and management ofepilepsy
- diagnosis and treatment of brain, nervous system, and muscular conditions (neuromuscular medicine)
- emergency or critical care for the brain and nervous system (neurocritical care)
- diagnosis and treatment of brain and nervous system cancers (neuro-oncology)
- treatment of brain and nervous system for children (pediatric neurology)
- treatment of brain and nervous system treatment for older adults (geriatric neurology), especially for conditions likeAlzheimer’s
- conditions that affect yourautonomic nervous system, which controls yourheart rate,body temperature,breathing, and more
- treatment or care of people who have strokes or other conditions that affect blood vessels in your brain (vascular care)
- imaging tests for brain and nervous system conditions (neuroradiology)