Brain and nervous system diseases can be complex; hence, it is important to know when to reach out to a neurologist or a neurosurgeon. Neurologists are doctors specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of nervous system disorders, which include the brain, spinal cord, and the network of nerves. Neurologists often provide care through non-surgical means for conditions that affect the nervous system. On the other hand, a neurosurgeon is a specialist who is qualified to perform surgical operations on the brain and the spinal cord.
Chronic headaches, seizures, numbness, or cognitive difficulties are some of the symptoms of neurological disorders that are treated by a neurologist. However, if your condition is such that you require surgery, for instance, if you have a herniated disc or a brain tumour, you will need to look for the best neurosurgeon in Hyderabad.
Accurate Diagnosis: Neurologists screen and diagnose patients with disorders of the nervous system by employing their acquired skills and knowledge of the nervous system. Practitioners employ MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan and CT (Computed Tomography) scan, among other methods to detect the internal disorders that are present.
Comprehensive Treatment Plans: Based on the assessment, a thorough and unique treatment plan is prepared for the patient which may include drugs, diet changes, and physiotherapy, among others.
Working together with neurosurgeons: Whenever appropriate, neurologists have close interaction with neurosurgeons to make sure patients are in effective management care. This cooperation is essential for improving the results of the treatment.
Preventive Strategies: Neurologists may assist in making patients aware of lifestyle modifications and preventive measures to avert neuromuscular diseases from developing. This involves controlling such risk factors as hypertension, diabetes, or smoking.
Neurosurgeons are trained to perform various surgical procedures, including:
Craniotomy: This surgical technique is done for opening the skull to expose the brain and its structures. Its common indications include tumor removal, decompression of brain structures, and reconstruction of the brain.
Spinal Fusion: This operation locks together two or more vertebrae bones to fuse together a spinal segment that is causing pain. This procedure helps in alleviating the suffering caused by possible herniated discs or degenerative disc diseases.
Endoscopic Surgery: These are special techniques for performing surgical procedures to treat conditions within the skull or spinal column. This method is usually associated with less pain and rapid recovery.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): A surgical treatment of Parkinson’s or other movement disorders, through electrodes placed in selected areas of the brain to help control the symptoms.
Below are some common neurological disorders that require a neurologist’s treatment. If you are suffering from any of the conditions given below, then you must seek help from a neurology doctor in Hyderabad.
Stroke: A stroke is caused by the obstruction of blood vessels or the rupture of blood vessels supplying blood to the brain. Stroke patients may suffer symptoms, such as sudden loss of feeling in a hand or leg together with confusion, difficulty in speaking, and a severe headache. As time is crucial in the management of such patients, they must be brought to the physician immediately.
Epilepsy: It is a neurological and chronic disorder of the brain characterised by unprovoked, recurrent seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Epilepsy has many specific seizure symptoms varying from loss of eye contact for seconds to jerking of the body part from muscle spasms. For epilepsy, neurologists treat many cases with anti-epileptic drugs, but some may require surgery by neurosurgeons.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS): MS is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by autoantibodies produced by the immune system. The immune system attacks the cells that cover the nerves resulting in difficulty in language and coordination between the brain and the rest of the body. Symptoms are highly unpredictable but fatigue, walking difficulties, and/or a change in the cognitive function may be seen.
Parkinson's Disease: Parkinson's is a degenerative brain disorder which is known to be progressive in nature. Shaking, muscle rigidity, and trouble with balance are common symptoms that are known to occur. There is no permanent cure for this disease, though neurologists are able to treat the symptoms with the help of medication and lifestyle changes.
Brain Tumours: These are abnormal tumours that can either be noncancerous or cancerous and most of the time require surgery. These masses usually might be discovered via imaging tests, and treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. Surgical removal of tumors, such as meningiomas or malignant tumors of the brain can be done by neurosurgeons.
Spinal Disorders: These surgical conditions of the spine or spinal cord include herniated discs (the medical condition where cushioning discs between vertebrae bulge), spinal stenosis (abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal) etc. These conditions result into pain and restricted movement. Most of the time, a combined approach of neurology and neurosurgery is necessary to treat the condition.
There are different neurological diseases which can cause pain and discomfort to the patients. Timely intervention as well as completion of the different treatment modalities can prove to be very helpful. With the help of cutting-edge technology and a team of specialists, including the best neurosurgeon in Hyderabad, the Citizens Specialty Hospital provides comprehensive treatment for various neurological disorders.
