Neurology is a sub-section of medicine which is concerned with diseases of the nervous system.
This complex system in the body is responsible for sending, receiving and interpreting nerve impulses throughout the human body. These impulses control every muscle and organ in the body and enable them to function as they should.
The nervous system is comprised of the brain, nerves and spine and controls every process in the body.
It consists of three sub-systems which are joined together. These are:
This is a specially trained physician who specialises in diseases of the nervous system. He or she will investigate and/or treat a range of disorders which include:
He/she will treat a range of neurological diseases such as those mentioned above. Some neurologists specialise in neurological disorders in children whereas others are involved in clinical research.
A neurologist will carry out a physical examination before referring a patient for tests, for example an MRI scan. There are also a series of tests which are specific to a particular condition, for example an ‘electromyography’ for progressive nerve disorders. This involves the insertion of a needle under the skin to measure muscle activity.
Many neurologists choose to specialise in a particular area, e.g. multiple sclerosis.
If surgery is required then the patient is referred to a neurosurgeon.