In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, it is crucial to take care of one’s physical and mental well-being. A lot of us experience symptoms like headache, back pain, etc. and are often confused when it comes to understanding which specialist to consult for such symptoms. If you suffer from persistent headaches, seizures, or experience numbness or tingling in your hands and feet, then you may want to seek a neurologist’s opinion. On the other hand, one should see a neurosurgeon when the illness is such that it has to be surgically corrected e.g. brain tumours or major spine injury.
Neurologists are medically qualified practitioners focused on investigating and treating issues related to the central and peripheral nervous systems including the brain. They concentrate on treatment without needing to perform any surgical procedures. Whereas neurosurgeons have specialised training to carry out surgical operations on the brain and spinal cord. It is important to appreciate the unique roles of these two specialists before undergoing treatment.
Below are some of the common neurological conditions:
Headaches: It’s almost impossible to find someone who hasn’t suffered from a headache at least once. However, recurrent and more severe headaches might be a sign of a neurological condition. Among them, there are tension headaches, migraine headaches (a particularly severe pain in the head that is often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light) and cluster headaches.
Stroke: A stroke occurs when there is an interruption in the blood supply to the brain, which causes brain cell damage. Sudden numbness of the face, arm or leg, confusion and difficulty in speech, and an acute headache are common symptoms. Stroke is a serious condition, and it is important to get medical attention as soon as possible.
Epilepsy: This neurological disorder is marked by repeated episodes of seizures due to abnormal brain electrical activity. Epilepsy is diagnosed and treated by neurologists with drugs and life changes, whereas neurosurgeons may take part in a surgical treatment where needed. If your neurologist advises you for a surgical treatment, then you must see the best neurosurgeon in Hyderabad.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS): It is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. It causes disturbance in the normal body and brain coordination. There is a huge variation of symptoms including weakness or tiredness, impaired walking, and memory loss.
Parkinson’s Disease: Parkinson’s disease causes a gradual inability to control bodily movements and is a part of a set of neurodegenerative disorders. Tremors of hands, rigidity of limbs, and disturbances in balance are some of the most common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Consulting an experienced neurology doctor in Hyderabad can help in alleviating the symptoms.
Brain tumours: It is an abnormal growth in the brain which can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). The diagnosis is usually made with the help of imaging, and treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. If there is a need for surgery, then neurosurgeons help in the removal of the tumour.
Spine disorders: Any condition that affects the spinal cord and surrounding structures can lead to spinal disorders, e.g. a herniated disc (the bulging of the soft cushion discs that sit between the vertebrae) or spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal). This can be debilitating in terms of movement and pain, and such conditions can be treated with a combination of neurology and neurosurgery specialties.
Clinical assessment: A neurology physician is an expert who is able to assess symptoms to be able to detect conditions affecting the nervous system. They are well versed with the use of specific diagnostic tools such as MRI (Magnetic Resonant Imaging) CT (Computed Tomography) scans etc., enabling the diagnosis of such problems.
Generalised approach: Neurologists treat patients and offer them several treatments which can include medications, rehabilitation and even lifestyle modifications. They customise the treatment as per the needs and requirements of the patients.
Integrated care: In a situation where surgery is required, neurologists will coordinate with the neurosurgeons to allow patients to receive integrated care. This improves treatment and helps in better recovery.
To have a healthy nervous system, it is necessary to have a diverse diet. Here is the list of foods that are good for the nervous system:
Fatty Fish: Fish such as salmon and mackerel, which are abundant in omega-3 fatty acids, help in promoting brain health and reduces chances of developing any neuro-degenerative diseases.
Leafy Greens: Vegetables like spinach and kale are high in vitamins and minerals including vitamin K, which has been linked to healthy cognitive functions.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and flax seeds are loaded with healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamin E that protect the brain cells against oxidative stress.
Whole Grains: Foods such as oatmeal, quinoa, and brown rice contain complex carbohydrates that sustain energy levels and help maintain appropriate blood sugar levels which is vital for the functioning of the brain.
Berries: Blueberries, strawberries and blackberries which contain antioxidants, have the potential to aid in facilitating better interactions among the brain cells and enhance memory.
Dark Chocolate: Foods (such as dark chocolate) containing flavonoids can stimulate blood flow to the brain and enhance cognitive function.
Avocados: Avocados are fruits that contain healthy fats and vitamins that contribute to health and blood circulation, therefore benefiting the brain as well.
To take care of the neurological system and any disorders involving neurosurgical procedures, it is advisable to opt for the best neurosurgeon in Hyderabad. It is also important to note the difference between neurologists and neurosurgeons and to understand common neurological conditions. Patients must take care of their diet and include foods that support a healthy nervous system. When it comes to neurology and neurosurgery, Citizens Specialty Hospital provides state-of-the-art technologies and an experienced team of specialists to treat patients effectively.
