NEUROLOGIA al J|medical

NEUROLOGY at J|medical

What is neurology? Neurology is a highly specialised medical discipline dedicated to the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system. This speciality addresses a wide range of conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases, balance disorders, epilepsy, migraines, stroke, and spinal injuries. Neurologists use advanced diagnostic techniques — such as neuroimaging and electrophysiological studies — to identify and understand the complex neurological conditions affecting patients. The neurologist focuses not only on the management of neurological diseases, but also on personalised pathways aimed at improving the quality of life of patients affected by these conditions.

Who is the neurologist? The neurologist is a physician specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the brain, cerebellum, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Unlike the neurosurgeon, the neurologist does not perform surgical procedures, but focuses on the medical management of neurological conditions.

What conditions affect the central and peripheral nervous system? There are numerous complex conditions that can affect the central and peripheral nervous system, causing a wide range of symptoms and problems for patients. The neurological consultation plays a crucial role in identifying, diagnosing, and understanding these conditions.

What diseases does the neurologist diagnose and treat? Among the main diseases within the neurologist’s remit are:
Aphasia
Dementias
Balance disorders
Migraine
Epilepsy
Stroke
Alzheimer’s disease
Parkinson’s disease
Peripheral neuropathy
Multiple sclerosis
ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis)
Cranial and spinal trauma

Brain tumours

When should the first neurological consultation be sought? A neurological consultation is useful when symptoms appear suddenly or gradually, or tend to recur over time, such as:
Headache
Vertigo
Confusional states
Chronic pain
Memory problems
Insomnia
Generalised muscular weakness or weakness focused on a specific limb
Movement problems
Coordination problems
Suspected epilepsy
Episodes of loss of consciousness
Repeated falls
Speech difficulties

Numbness and/or tingling in a part of the body

How does a neurological consultation proceed? During this specialist consultation, the neurologist carefully examines the patient, evaluating both the manifest symptoms and the details of the clinical picture. Through clinical assessment and any further diagnostic investigations, the neurologist is able to determine whether the patient is genuinely affected by a neurological problem and, if so, to identify the location of the problem. This analysis is fundamental, as many neurological conditions can mimic other diseases or manifest with different symptoms from patient to patient. The neurologist’s ability to identify the underlying cause of the symptoms is essential for ensuring an accurate diagnosis and, consequently, an effective treatment plan. Through the use of advanced diagnostic equipment and detailed knowledge of neurological diseases, the neurologist is able to offer a comprehensive and personalised assessment, contributing significantly to improving the quality of life of patients affected by nervous system disorders. The consultation involves the patient undergoing a physical examination, which may include:
Assessment of spatial and temporal orientation
Examination of the cranial nerves (eye movements, pupil reflexes, swallowing, movements of the mouth and tongue, facial sensation)
Assessment of balance and coordination
Examination of muscular strength in the limbs and muscle tone
Assessment of tactile, thermal, and proprioceptive sensitivity
Examination of osteotendinous reflexes
Assessment of coordination
Assessment of balance with eyes open and closed

Examination of gait

Where necessary, the neurologist may request complementary investigations to further the diagnosis.