Neurologists: What They Do & When to See One

Neurological disorders are the world’s leading cause of ill health and disability, but people are often slow to recognize the relevant symptoms. More than 3.4 billion people have a disorder of the nervous system — the brain, spinal cord and nerves — and the numbers will only keep growing as the population ages. The disorders range from Alzheimer's disease to neuropathy and stroke to multiple sclerosis and cause a wide range of symptoms. So what are the early symptoms that suggest you might have a neurological disorder? And how can a neurologist help? In this week’s episode, we discuss the most common of the more than 600 neurological disorders and what patients should expect during a first-time appointment with a neurologist. Expert: Dr. Tanu Garg, Neurologist Interviewer: Todd Ackerman Notable topics covered: The neurology symptoms that warrant an immediate trip to the ER Might an episode of vertigo really be a symptom of stroke? Spouse staring into space? They might not be ignoring you, they might be having a seizure  The role neurologists play in the diagnosis and management of brain tumors How do you know if the pain in your arm or lower back is caused by a pinched nerve Why shingles patients need to make an appointment at the first sign of pain and rash Not getting headache relief? You might get a different medication from a neurologist The stroke acronym that has replaced FAST The questions and tests you’ll likely get at an initial neurologist appointment If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.