The term Neurology is an amalgamation of two words – neuron (nervous tissue) and logy (means study). It is the branch of science that centers around the nervous system, including the brain, meninges, and the spinal cord.
Aster Hospitals strives to provide leading services to patients suffering from various kinds of neurological issues. It has a skilled neurological department that includes neurophysicians, neurosurgeons, neurologists and medical staff who specialize in rehabilitative and palliative care of such patients.
Neurology includes:
- Detailed study of the central, peripheral, and autonomous nervous system
- Study of the origin, progression, diagnosis, and treatment plans for all the structural and functional disorders of the brain
- Complete study and management of hereditary, degenerative, and congenital disabilities involving any part of the nervous system
- Understanding and interpretation of tests involving neurological disorders (CT, MRI, EEG, Spinal taps, VCV and Polysomnography etc)
The doctors who undertake neurological cases are neurophysicians, neurosurgeons, and neuropsychologists.
Symptoms of diseases related to the nervous system include the following:
- Facial paralysis
- Trouble with speech and walking
- Mental confusion
- Pain
- Dizziness or fainting
- Seizures
Health Conditions Treated
- Alzheimer Disease
- Parkinson Disease
- Stroke
- Multiple sclerosis
- Amyotrophic
- Lateral sclerosis
- Pain
- Tremors
- Epilepsy
- Brain trauma
- Spinal cord injury
- Neural tissue tumors
- Peripheral nerve diseases
- Neuromuscular diseases like myasthenia gravis
- Infections like encephalitis, meningitis, or TB
- Inflammatory disease of the spine
- Headaches like migraine, cluster headaches, or due to aneurysms
- Cerebral palsy
- Learning disabilities
- Mental status
- Sensory issues
- Autism
- Blood clots
- Brain aneurysms
- Sleep disorder.
Our Doctors
We have some of the best specialists from around the world, they bring years of experience and offer evidence-based treatment to ensure the best care for you.
Advanced Technology & Facilities
Well equipped with the latest medical equipment, modern technology & infrastructure, Aster Hospital is one of the best hospitals in India.
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test used to find problems related to electrical activity of the brain.
An EEG tracks and records brain wave patterns. Small metal discs with thin wires (electrodes) are placed on the scalp, and then send signals to a computer to record the results. Normal electrical activity in the brain makes a recognizable pattern. Through an EEG, doctors can look for abnormal patterns that indicate seizures and other problems.
Electroencephalography
Electromyography
Transcranial doppler
Outpatient (6 days in a week), Inpatient, follow-up clinic
24 hours emergency services
Neurocritical care
Comprehensive Neuro rehabilitation services
Cerebral angiography
Electroencephalogram (EEG)
Nerve conduction studies (NCS)
Electromyography (EMG)
Evoked potential (VDP, SSEP, BERA)
Nerve and muscle biopsies
Polysomnography
Video EEG monitoring
Neuronavigation systems facilitate image-guided neurosurgery ensuring accurate resection of brain tumours or biopsies of brain lesions and detailed brain surgery. Basic principles of navigated surgery are to see the tip of a pointer in an image space.
Continuous assessment of Intracranial Pressure is necessary to evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic measures and for evaluating the evolution of brain injury. This is being carried out using ICP monitoring system, ensuring an optimal level of Cerebral Perfusion Pressure.
The Neuro ICU at the department combines the service of ICU staff with advanced critical care training together with technological expertise. It facilitates round-the-clock close monitoring and personalised care for the patients.
Routine 32 channel digital video EEG
Round-the-clock, long-term 128 channel video EEG monitoring
Functional MRI and WADA study to assess eloquent cortex regions.
3T MRI and an exclusive intraoperative MRI
PET (positron emission tomography)
SPECT (single-photon emission computerized tomography)
ECOG (ElectroCorticography)
Cortical Mapping
SSEP (Somatosensory Evoked Potential)
MEP (Motor Evoked Potential)
Different surgeries available:
Respective Surgery
Lesionectomy
Amygdalohippocampectomy
Corticectomy
Lobectomy (e.g. temporal lobectomy)
Multilobar resection
Disconnective/Palliative Surgery:
Hemispherectomy
Corpus Callosotomy
Multiple Subpial Transections
Conditions treated:
Mesial temporal sclerosis
Focal cortical dysplasia
Lesions like ganglioglioma, DNET
Hemimegalencephaly
Rasmussen’s Encephalitis
This comprehensive rehabilitation regimen can help the patient to maximise and regain normal muscle movement and function after a stroke or for neurological conditions such as:
Parkinson’s disease
Multiple sclerosis
Spinal cord injury
Head injury
Balance dysfunction
Bell’s palsy
Consultation
Outpatient electrophysiological diagnosis including: Nerve conduction studies Somatosensory, visual and auditory evoked potential studies EEG, Video EEG Carotid ultrasound and transcranial doppler
Speciality clinics for neurological problems
24/7 neuro trauma & critical care
Dedicated Neuro ICUs
Carotid ultrasound and transcranial doppler
Diagnostic cerebral angiography
Thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy for stroke
Angioplasty and stent for stroke management
Inpatient electrophysiological procedures including: Long-term video EEG Invasive intracranial monitoring Sleep lab Nerve conduction and evoked potential studies (somatosensory, motor, visual & auditory) Intraoperative electrophysiology
Brain perfusion imaging
Ictal SPECT imaging
Technetium TRODAT imaging
I - 131 MIBG therapy for malignant neuroendocrine tumours
Neuropsychology is the systematic evaluation of higher cognitive abilities including intelligence, memory, academic skills, cognitive and language, attention span, sensory motor, problem solving abilities, executive abilities, visual motor skills and personality/emotional functioning. The Neuropsychology Clinic at the Aster Centre of Excellence in Neurosciences offers:
Cognitive evaluation/ rehabilitation/ remediation in patients with neurological conditions like epilepsy, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and tumours
Study of functional aspect of brain through pre & post-operative evaluation
Study of decline of cognitive skills in the elderly
Evaluation of changes in thinking/ behavior pattern with people with serious illnesses
Evaluation/ management of behavioural problems
Counselling/ management of depression and anxiety
Counselling and management of depression and anxiety
Family counselling
Immunohistochemistry
Molecular diagnosis and genetic mutation analysis
Physical therapy
Occupational therapy and rehabilitation for patients with neurological/ physical disabilities
Speech therapy for patients with language disabilities
Flat panel bi-plane vascular hybrid cathlab
Fourth generation Time of Flight 16 Slide PET CT
True Beam Linear Accelerator for high-precision radiotherapy
Low radiation CLARITY cath lab
256 slice Philips iCT scanner
3 Tesla Wide Bore Digital MRI
GE SPECT-CT OPTIMA NM 640 Gamma Camera EPIQ
Image fusion for guided biopsies
OR 1 Karlstroz fusion integrated, Green OT certified Operation Theatres with autopilot anaesthesia
Stealth Station Navigation
C- Arm for surgical imaging
Dedicated ICCA (IntelliSpace Critical Care and Anaesthesia) Neuro ICUs
Level 3 Paediatric ICU
Aster Hospitals are well equipped to run all kinds of neurological diagnostic tests. Our top-of-the-line medical equipment and highly experienced doctors and surgeons strive to their maximum capacity to properly diagnose and offer treatments that help heal patients, prolong life, and improve the patient's quality of life.
Some of the neurology diagnostic tests with us are:
Physical examination
Different kinds of tests conducted by the neurologist to check for overall coordination between the limbs and their movements, the reflexes, and the cognitive health and function.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scans
This is the first investigative step in forming a neurological diagnosis. A computer-assisted X-ray imaging is done to detect deformities, infections, or lesions anywhere in the brain or the spinal cord.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses magnetic fields to develop 2-D and 3-D nervous system images.
Spinal tap or lumbar puncture
This is an outpatient procedure in which lumbar anesthesia is given to take a sample of the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) around the brain and spinal cord. Many degenerative disorders and neurological diseases like traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer’s etc., show abnormalities in the CSF.
Tensilon test
This medical procedure helps your neurologist to diagnose neuromuscular diseases, such as myasthenia gravis. Your neuro physician will inject you with Tensilon for this test and observe how it influences your muscle movements.
Electromyography (EMG)
Electromyography or EMG is a secondary diagnostic test to help check for the electrical activity between the central nervous system (brain, meninges, and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (nerves in the limbs). Your neurologist will attach small electrodes connected by wires to different parts of your body and over areas of the brain and spinal cord. The difference in the results of the test helps the doctor to determine neuromuscular functions.
NCV
Sometimes, an additional test is done with an EMG, known as a nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test. This test is done to check for the speed at which the nervous tissue sends impulses to the peripheral nerves. For this, similar types of electrodes rae used, which are placed at the same positions as in EMG, and another meter checks for the readings. This test might cause discomfort to sensitive patients; therefore, counseling is advised beforehand.
Electroencephalogram (EEG)
An EEG helps to measure electrical activity in the brain. It is also used to help diagnose brain disorders, including tumors, inflammation, injuries, seizures, and psychiatric disorders.
The test doesn't usually cause discomfort and is sometimes carried out while the patient is asleep. Small cups like electrodes are placed all over the scalp, and changes in the brain signals are measured. Your doctor might also adjust the surroundings to measure random brain signals, such as the effect of lighting or noises.
An EEG usually takes about an hour but does not require hospitalization. Like an EMG, you will need to avoid stimulants for 24 hours before the start of the test.
Preparation before an NCV/ EEG
Avoid taking any stimulus, caffeine, or drugs that can alter the nerve responses. Your physician may advise you to avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications or blood thinners before doing an EMG or NCV test. These tests are usually done together and may take around 1 to 1.5 hours. It is an outpatient procedure, though lengthy & the patient can return home as soon as it is done.
Other tests
● PET scan
Positron emission tomography and PET scan with Tauvid dye
This scan uses radiation to give detailed images of the central nervous system in 2-D and 3-D. A pet scan can detect tumors, infections, and blood vessel defects.
● NIRS
Near-infrared spectroscopy or NIRS is the latest type of brain imaging test that helps measure light absorbance to calculate oxy-hemoglobin and deoxy-hemoglobin levels, which indirectly provides a measure of the oxygenation of the brain.
● Brain angiography
A brain angiography uses a dye introduced into the arteries to mark the outline of all blood vessels around and inside the brain tissue. This helps to look for blockages, obstructions, and aneurysms.
· Sleep Study (Polysomnography)
Neurological Specialities Available at Aster Hospitals
Aster Hospitals is equipped with the following specialties:
- Neurocritical care
- Neuro-oncology
- Pediatric neurology
- Geriatric neurology
- Neurocritical rehabilitation
- Neuromuscular medicine
- Autonomic disorder
- Stroke care
- Epilepsy center
- Interventional neurology
Aster Whitefield Hospital's Epilepsy Comprehensive Program is a program where expertise meets compassion in the pursuit of managing and treating epilepsy. Our program is dedicated to providing holistic care, employing cutting-edge technologies and a multidisciplinary approach to improve the lives of individuals affected by epilepsy.
Epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, demands specialized attention and tailored treatment strategies. At Aster Whitefield Hospital, we understand the challenges faced by individuals with epilepsy and their families. Our team of renowned neurologists, neurosurgeons, and healthcare professionals collaborates seamlessly to offer personalized care and innovative solutions.
Our commitment to excellence extends to the forefront of epilepsy care, integrating advanced diagnostics, precise surgical interventions, and comprehensive follow-up care. We believe in empowering our patients through education, support, and access to the latest advancements in epilepsy management.
With a focus on individualized treatment plans, our program strives to enhance the quality of life for each patient. We prioritize patient comfort, safety, and successful outcomes throughout their journey with us.
Visit us to explore our range of specialized facilities, each designed to provide accurate diagnoses, targeted interventions, and ongoing support for patients.
Aster Whitefield Hospital's Stroke Comprehensive Program is dedicated to providing exceptional care and comprehensive solutions for individuals affected by strokes. Our program embodies a multidisciplinary approach, combining expertise, innovation, and compassion to address the complexities of stroke care
The Neurophysiology Program at Aster Whitefield Hospital is where cutting-edge technology meets expert care to provide a comprehensive array of services dedicated to diagnosing and treating neurological conditions. Our program is committed to delivering accurate assessments and personalized care, ensuring optimal outcomes for our patients.
FAQs
Want to find out more about the treatment? The answer to your questions can be found below.
When should you see a neurologist?
If the patient has
Headache
Vomiting
Tingling
Numbness
Burning or pricking sensation or loss of sensation
Weakness of limbs
Facial deviation
Speech and swallowing disturbances
Memory disturbances
Sleep disturbances
Seizures
Abnormal movements
Back and neck pain, etc.
What does a neurologist check for?
Diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases by complete neurological examination and investigations.
Is Neurological disorder curable?
Most of the neurological disorders are curable.
What is epilepsy?
Patients having two or more seizures or a tendency to have recurrent seizures, are termed to be having epilepsy.
What are the major types of seizures?
Sometimes it is difficult to determine when a person is having a seizure. A person with a seizure may look confused or as if they are staring at something that is not there. Other seizures can cause a person to fall, shake, and become unaware of what’s going on around them.
Seizures are classified into two groups.
Generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain.
Focal seizures affect just one area of the brain. These seizures are also called partial seizures.
What causes epilepsy?
Epilepsy can be caused due to various conditions that affect a person’s brain. Some known causes include:
Stroke
Brain tumor
Traumatic brain injury or head injury
The cause of epilepsy is unknown for 2 in 3 people. This kind of epilepsy is termed as cryptogenic or idiopathic.
Developmental anomalies of the brain
Hereditary causes
Loss of oxygen to your brain. Example: Birth time
What is pre-surgical evaluation for epilepsy surgery?
The pre-surgical evaluation consists of various domains. Most important is video EEG followed by investigations like MRI, PET scan, SPECT scan. This MRI scan performed here is not the regular MRI but a customized scan which will depend on recordings of your video EEG. A neuropsychological assessment is also a vital part of presurgical evaluation which gives important insight into the localization and potential problems you will be having after surgery. Once all these investigations are ready, it is generally discussed in meetings to reach a consensus about the plan.
When to consult a Neurologist?
Neurologist opinion is required when the patient has signs and symptoms of disorders related to the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and muscles<
How to identify stroke?
Unexpected numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body. sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech. Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes. Sudden in trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is defined as having two or more unprovoked seizures.
What is the average age for dementia to begin?
The risk rises as age increases, especially after age 65. However, dementia is not a normal part of ageing, and dementia can occur in younger people. Family history. Having a family history of dementia puts you at greater risk of developing the condition.
How important is Epilepsy from a neurology department perspective?
Epilepsy, the fourth most common neurological disorder, affects people of all ages and can cause unpredictable seizures.
Could you specify the new drugs and therapy options accessible in the country?
The pharmacological armamentarium against epilepsy has expanded considerably over the last three decades, and currently includes over 30 different antiseizure medications. The new medications which have been added over the past decade by the FDA include Brivaracetam (Levetiracetam derivative), Perampanel (AMPA antagonist), Cenobamate (Carbamate derivative), Everolimus (Rapamycin derivative), Fenfluramine (Amphetamine derivative) and Cannabidiol (Cannabinoid). Among these Brivaracetam and Perampanel are available in India.
How easy is it to get the right qualified medical expertise and the related support staff to treat and manage the patients?
The treatment gap in epilepsy in India ranges from 22% in the urban setting to as high as 90% in villages. The treatment gap has 2 components- People unable to access healthcare services and People who do not adhere to appropriate medical therapy.
One million Indians have medically refractory seizures. Approximately 5 -6 lakh people are candidates for epilepsy surgery in India. Still... Just about 500-600 epilepsy surgeries per year are performed.
What are the types of neurological disorders?
Neurological disorders are differentiated based on the following:
- Genetic defects: Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and epilepsy can run in families.
- Anatomic or structural defects: Bell's palsy, cervical spondylitis, carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Degenerative changes due to age: stroke, dementia, precipitation of Parkinson's.
- Blood supply issues(vascular) like brain damage, memory loss, and vascular dementia.
- Cancer: paraneoplastic disorders of the nervous tissues can cause problems like loss of consciousness, loss of muscle movement, thinking, memory, and sensory perception.
- Injuries and trauma related: can be due to physical(acute spinal cord injury, ALS, Ataxia) or emotional trauma(adverse childhood experiences can precipitate neurological symptoms).
- Infections: several viral infections can cause neurological disorders like meningitis, encephalitis, chickenpox, and polio.
- Seizure disorders: epilepsy.
Are all neurological disorders incurable?
Neurological disorders hamper the quality of life, are severe, and can be fatal. Though most are still incurable, many treatment outcomes depend on causative factors. With advanced medical procedures and palliative care, many symptoms can be improved and reversed in some cases.
What role does the spine play in neurological disorders?
Your spine connects your limbs and lower body to the brain with the help of nerve fibers and nervous tissue. Any damage to the spine can cause neurological disorders and vice versa. Spinal cord disorders have the potential to cause long-term & severe neurological issues.
What is neurology?
It is one of the bigger domains of neuroscience that deals with nervous system disorders of the brain, blood vessels, muscles and nerves.
What are the most common neurological disorders?
Some of the most common neurological disorders are:
- Stroke
- Migraine
- Parkinson’s disease
- Epilepsy
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Muscular Dystrophies
- Peripheral Neuropathy.
How can you identify signs and symptoms of neurological disorders?
Common signs and symptoms of neurological disorders include:
- Complete or partial paralysis
- Weakness in muscles
- Pain without any injury
- Poor cognitive skills and difficulty in reading and writing
- Seizures.
How can you differentiate between a neurosurgeon and a neurologist?
Neurosurgeon - Neurosurgeons are doctors who use surgical and nonsurgical treatments to treat injuries and conditions related to the brain, spine, and nervous system. Some of the most common conditions treated by neurosurgeons are :
- Aneurysm
- Blocked arteries
- Brain tumor
- Spinal surgery.
Neurologist - They are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and management of the conditions related to the nervous system such as:
- Sleep disorders
- Headaches
- Strokes
- Brain Tumours
- Epilepsy
- Injuries and infections related to brain and spinal cord
- Alzheimer's disease
- Multiple sclerosis and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Pain in the back
- Seizures
- Parkinson’s disease.
A common difference between a neurologist and a neurosurgeon is that, a neurologist can only monitor and supervise the treatment and can refer patients to neurosurgeons who require a surgery.
What advancements or technologies are utilized by neurologists?
Neurologists utilize various advancements and technologies such as functional MRI, PET scans, and EEG to diagnose and understand neurological conditions. Additionally, they may use telemedicine for remote patient consultations and are increasingly incorporating precision medicine and genetic testing into their practice.
What question should you ask a neurologist ?
When consulting a neurologist, consider asking about the nature of your specific neurological condition, available treatment options, potential side effects of medications, long-term prognosis, and any lifestyle modifications that may help manage the condition effectively.
How should I prepare for my first visit to a neurologist?
For your first neurologist appointment, it's beneficial to organize your medical history, list of current medications, and any relevant diagnostic test results. Consider preparing a list of symptoms, questions about your condition, and bringing a trusted family member or friend for support.
What is the role of a neurologist in a patient's treatment journey?
Neurologists play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing disorders of the nervous system. They provide expert guidance, develop treatment plans, monitor a patient's progress, and, when necessary, collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care for the patient's neurological condition.
What does a neurologist do?
Neurologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating disorders of the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves throughout the body. They often treat conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. If you need to consult a neurologist in Kochi, contact us
Which are the five most common neurological disorders?
Some of the most common neurological diseases are:
- Headaches: tension and cluster
- Stroke
- Seizures
- Parkinson's
- Dementia
What is the first step in a neurological examination?
Your neuro physician will first ask about your general health, medical history, family history, lifestyle, diet, and current symptoms.
How long does it take to get an MRI done?
An MRI test can take 15 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending upon the area of the target organ.
What conditions do neurologists treat?
Stroke, seizures, headache, backache, neck, pain in any part of the body, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, movement disorders, neuromuscular diseases, sleep disorders, neuropathy, myopathy, etc.
What is a common neurological disorder?
Most common neurological disorders are migraine, stroke, epilepsy, backache.
What is a seizure?
A Seizure is a condition in which sudden, uncontrolled electrical irregularity occurs in our brain. It may cause changes in behavior, movements or feelings, and levels of consciousness.
How long do seizures usually last?
Usually, a seizure may last from a few seconds to a few minutes, based on the type of seizure.
If I have a seizure, then does it mean that I have epilepsy?
Not always. Seizures can also happen because of other medical problems. These problems include:
A high fever.
Alcohol or drug withdrawal.
Low blood sugar.
What are the steps for epilepsy surgery?
Once you are being considered for epilepsy surgery, you will have to undergo three major steps
Pre-surgical evaluation
consensus decision and
finally surgery
In pre-surgical evaluation, we decide the specific portions of your brain which are responsible for this epilepsy with different tests, clinical evaluations, etc. And a team of doctor specialists from various related fields meet together to discuss and reach a consensus about the type of surgery you will need. A final plan is decided in the multidisciplinary meeting.
Why test sudomotor function?
A sudomotor function test is a quick and reliable way of identifying certain types of neuropathies. The presently available tests detect only 50-60% of neuropathies. This test helps the clinician to identify small fiber neuropathies and improve diagnostic accuracy.
What is a stroke?
Stroke is sudden onset weakness in one half of the body due to the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients.
What is Seizure?
A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain. It can cause changes in your behaviour, movements, or feelings, and in levels of consciousness.
Is There a Cure for Parkinson's Disease?
There is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease, but treatments are available to help relieve the symptoms and maintain your quality of life.
Why choose Aster MIMS for Neurosurgery?
Aster MIMS offers highly qualified and dedicated neurosurgeons. Our facility put forward advanced guidance and the latest technology, as well as a warm, family-like atmosphere, we are well known for the quality of care we provide.
Aster Mims neurosurgeon Dr. Jacob P. Alappat is nationally recognised as well. Our certified doctors and nurses monitor the progress of our patients round the clock.
What is the current scene in the country for Epilepsy in terms of patients and advances in treatment?
At the global level, it is estimated that nearly 70 million people suffer from epilepsy and the prevalence of epilepsy across the globe is estimated to be 5-9 per 1,000 population. There are 12 million people with epilepsy in India, contributing to 1/6th of global burden.
In majority of the people with epilepsy ie 70-80%, the seizures can be well-controlled by giving anti-epileptic drugs. The rest 20-30% have medically refractory epilepsy, in these patients advanced modalities of treatment such as dietary therapy, epilepsy surgery and neuromodulation are the emerging therapeutic options.
Are there any new clinical trials going on for epilepsy?
There are several medical and surgical trials going on for epilepsy treatment in the Western countries. Few of them are enlisted here:
- XEN1101 As Adjunctive Therapy In Focal-Onset Epilepsy
- Stereotactic Laser Ablation For Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
- Perampanel Study For Infants With Epilepsy
- Cannabidiol As An Add-On Therapy In Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
- Focused Ultrasound For Treatment Of Epilepsy
What is a neurological disorder?
In medical terms, a neurological disorder can be defined as a disease, abnormality, or disorder affecting the brain, nerves, spinal cord, or nervous tissue present anywhere in the body. These disorders involve all electrical, biochemical, and structural problems related to the organs of the nervous system.
When to go to a neuro physician?
Symptoms that persist for a long time need to be reviewed by a neuro physician like
- Severe or chronic headaches.
- Chronic pain in the body which is not of skeletal origin.
- Dizziness or problems with body balance.
- Chronic numbness or tingling in feet, fingers, wrists, etc
- Mild tremors or chronic twitching of muscles.
- Confused thoughts, random train of thoughts, memory problems.
Neurological disorder vs mental illness/disorder?
Neurological disorders are caused due to malfunction or damage to the central/ peripheral nervous system.
Mental illnesses or disorders are manifestations of disturbed behavioral issues and emotional problems.
What is neuroscience?
Neurosciences is a scientific study of the nervous system. This is a multidisciplinary branch that deals with the cellular, functional, behavioral, evolutionary, computational, molecular, and medical aspects of the nervous system. Neurosciences also focuses on the human brain and analyzes how it regulates our body and our behavior.
What is the role of a neurologist?
A neurologist is a medical professional that specializes in treating diseases and conditions related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles. These doctors are also responsible for diagnosing, managing and treating neurological disorders.
Is there a treatment for neurological disorders?
With the rapid advances in neurology, almost all the neurological disorders are treatable. Today, rapid strides in technology have enabled early diagnosis of the disease, improving the overall outcomes.
What causes neurological disorders?
There are several factors that can lead to a neurological disorder -
- Genetic factors
- Lifestyle causes
- Infections and environmental causes
- Physical injuries
- Lack of proper nutrition.
When should you visit a neurologist and what happens during your first visit?
Your doctor may refer you to a neurologist if your symptoms are intense and require immediate care from a specialist. During your first visit, your neurologist will review your medical history and will perform a physical exam of your nerves and brain. Your doctor may also recommend you to undergo other tests to check your vision, smell odors, hearing, coordination, memory, strength, reflexes and cognitive abilities. Based on the analysis from these tests, your neurologist will manage your condition in the best way possible.
How do neurologists decide if surgery is necessary?
Neurologists evaluate the severity and progression of a patient's condition, along with the response to non-surgical treatments. They consider factors such as the location and nature of the neurological issue, potential risks, and the patient's overall health when determining if surgery is necessary for optimal treatment.
How does a neurologist decide on a treatment plan?
Neurologists carefully evaluate a patient's medical history, symptoms, and diagnostic test results to determine the best course of treatment. They may prescribe medication, physical therapy, or other interventions tailored to the specific neurological condition and the individual patient's needs.
When should I consider seeing a neurologist?
Consider consulting a neurologist if you experience persistent or severe headaches, dizziness, numbness or tingling, memory problems, coordination difficulties, muscle weakness, or unexplained changes in personality or behavior. Additionally, seek a neurologist's expertise for ongoing issues with movement or speech.
What are the most common types of conditions that neurologists treat?
Neurologists commonly treat conditions such as epilepsy, migraine, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, neuropathy, and brain or spinal cord tumors. They also address movement disorders, neuromuscular diseases, and various forms of chronic pain.
What are the eight checkup pointers to help diagnose neurological disturbances?
The 8 diagnostic criteria for neurological disturbances are:
- Mental status
- Physical status of the brain, spinal cord and meninges, and cranial nerves
- Motor examination
- Sensory examination
- Reflexes
- Gait
- Station
- Coordination
Can nerve damage be detected?
Yes, with the help of various neurological diagnostic tests, such as EEG and EMG, nerve damage can be detected by a qualified neurologist.
What are some of the risks associated with a CT scan?
A CT scan is generally a very safe diagnostic test. However, it is not advised during pregnancy as it can harm the fetus.
A CT scan with a dye can cause an allergic reaction to the ingredients like iodine, barium, and gadolinium.
What are some of the common pediatric neurological problems?
Child-based neurological issues can include the following:
- Epilepsy
- Autism
- Cerebral palsy
- Concussion due to a fall
- Malformation in the brain or spinal cord
- Severe headache
- Tumors of the nervous tissue
- Birth-related musculoskeletal problems
- Seizures
Patient Stories
Our patients are our best advocates, hear the inspiring stories of their treatment journey
Blogs
The source of trustworthy health and medical information. Through this section, we provide research-based health information, and all that is happening in Aster Hospital.
News & Events
Stay updated with the latest happenings at Aster Hospitals. Explore our News and Events section for insightful articles, health tips, upcoming events, and noteworthy achievements.
