What is Neurology?
Neurology is the medical science that deals with the nervous system and disorders affecting it.
What is a Neurologist?
Neurologists perform neurological examinations of the nerves of the head and neck; muscle strength and movement; balance, ambulation, and reflexes; and sensation, memory, speech, language, and other cognitive abilities.
They also perform or order diagnostic tests such as the following:
- CT (computed axial tomography) scan
- MRI/MRA (magnetic resonance imaging/magnetic resonance angiography)
- Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
- EEG (electroencephalography)
- EMG/NCV (electromyography/nerve conduction velocity)
To become a board-certified neurologist several requirements must be met.
Education consists of:
• Four years of premedical education in a college or university.
• Four years of medical school resulting in an MD or DO degree
(doctor of medicine or doctor of osteopathy degree).
• One year internship in either internal medicine or medicine/surgery.
• At least 3 years of specialty training in an accredited neurology residency program.
What is a Neurological Examination?
A neurological examination, also called a neuro exam, is an evaluation of a person’s nervous system that can be performed in the physician’s office. It may be performed with instruments, such as lights and reflex hammers, and usually does not cause any pain to the patie
nt. The nervous system consists of the brain, the spinal cord, and the nerves from these areas. There are many aspects of this examination, including an assessment of motor and sensory skills, balance and coordination, mental status (the patient’s level of awareness and interaction with the environment), reflexes, and functioning of the nerves. The extent of the examination depends on many factors, including the initial problem that the patient is experiencing, the age of the patient, and the condition of the patient.
Why is a Neurological Examination Performed?
A complete and thorough evaluation of a person’s nervous system is important if there is any reason to think there may be an underlying problem, or during a complete physical. Damage to the nervous system can cause problems in daily functioning. Early identification may help to identify the cause and decrease long-term complications. A complete neurological examination may be performed:
- During a routine physical.
- Following any type of trauma.
If the person has, among other things any of the following complaints:
- Headaches
- Blurry vision
- Change in behavior
- Fatigue
- Change in balance or coordination
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Problems related to the head, neck, or back
- Memory problems
- Seizures
- Slurred speech
- Weakness
Dr. Jose A. Gaudier, MD is highly skilled in the medical management of neurological disorders. He applies the best diagnostic technology, medications, and therapeutic techniques available to ensure patients receive the highest quality care possible for their conditions from acute conditions to chronic and debilitating syndromes.
What is a Nurse Practitioner?
A Nurse Practitioner is a Registered Nurse with an advanced level of education and experience in medical science. Nurse Practitioners have a Masters Degree and Board Certification. Nurse Practitioners provide medical care for patients independently but in collaboration with physicians.
Neurological Nurse Practitioners care for patients with a variety of neurological symptoms and are able to evaluate, diagnose, and treat many neurological disorders. Nurse practitioners prescribe medications, order and interpret diagnostic tests like MRI’s and laboratory studies. They can guide patients and families through important health care decisions. The Nurse Practitioner collaborates with the Neurologist to provide you with the best neurological care.