Specialist neurological examination

Neurology is the medical specialty that deals with disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. If you experience symptoms that may indicate a neurological condition, it is important to consult a specialist.

Common Symptoms That May Require a Neurological Examination:

1. Headaches and Migraines

• Frequent or persistent headaches
• Severe, throbbing pain accompanied by nausea or sensitivity to light and sound
• Sudden onset of intense headache

2. Dizziness and Balance Problems

• Feeling unsteady while walking
• Spinning sensation (vertigo)
• Sudden loss of balance

3. Numbness and Sensory Disturbances

• Numbness or loss of sensation in one or more limbs
• Burning, tingling, or "pins and needles" sensation
• Impaired temperature perception (difficulty sensing heat or cold)

4. Movement Disorders and Muscle Weakness

• Weakness or clumsiness in the limbs
• Tremors or involuntary muscle movements
• Muscle stiffness or spasms

5. Memory Issues and Cognitive Impairment

• Forgetfulness or decline in mental performance
• Disorientation or difficulty navigating familiar places
• Speech difficulties or trouble finding the right words

6. Epilepsy and Seizures

• Recurrent loss of consciousness
• Uncontrollable muscle jerks or convulsions
• Periods of confusion or unusual behaviors

7. Chronic Pain Trigeminal neuralgia (sharp facial pain)

• Persistent neck and back pain due to nerve issues
• Nerve pain, such as post-herpetic neuralgia (pain following shingles)

8. Sleep Disorders

• Chronic insomnia
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Unusual movements during sleep

If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to seek a consultation with a neurologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

How does a neurological examination work?

The purpose of a neurological examination is to assess the condition of the nervous system and identify any potential disorders. During the examination, the neurologist takes a detailed medical history and performs various tests to check neurological functions.

1. Medical History (Anamnesis)

The doctor will ask detailed questions about:

• The nature, onset, and severity of symptoms
• Previous illnesses, surgeries, and family medical history
• Lifestyle habits (e.g., smoking, alcohol consumption)
• Current medications

2. Physical and Neurological Examination

The neurologist will perform different tests to evaluate nervous system function, including:

• Reflex Testing: Using a reflex hammer to check reflexes (e.g., knee-jerk reflex).
• Muscle Strength and Coordination: Asking the patient to perform various movements (e.g., finger-to-nose test).
• Balance Testing: Gait analysis and Romberg test (standing with eyes closed).
• Sensory Tests: Assessing temperature sensation, touch perception, and pain sensitivity.
• Speech and Cognitive Function: Evaluating memory, attention, and speech ability.

3. Additional Examinations

If necessary, the neurologist may order further tests, such as:

Imaging Studies:

• MRI or CT scan to examine the brain and spinal cord
• EEG (Electroencephalogram): Measures brain electrical activity, often used in epilepsy diagnosis
• ENG/EMG (Electroneurography/Electromyography): Assesses nerve and muscle function in suspected neurological disorders
• Laboratory Tests: To rule out inflammatory or metabolic causes of neurological symptoms

At the end of the examination, the neurologist will analyze the results and provide a diagnosis, recommend treatment, or suggest further investigations if needed.