What to Expect During a Neurology Clinic Consultation
Learn what happens during a neurology consultation, the conditions neurologists manage, as well as the examinations and tests that may be considered.
A neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles. You may be referred to a neurologist when your doctor believes that a symptom or medical condition requires a more detailed assessment of the nervous system.
A neurology appointment does not automatically mean that you have a serious neurological disease. The consultation allows the neurologist to understand your symptoms, examine you and determine whether further investigation, treatment or follow-up is necessary.
What conditions do neurologists manage?
Neurologists assess and manage a wide range of conditions, including:
- Epilepsy and seizures
- Stroke and its complications
- Migraine and other headache disorders
- Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders
- Memory disorders and dementia
- Multiple sclerosis
- Peripheral neuropathy and other nerve disorders
- Muscle and neuromuscular conditions
- Infections or inflammatory diseases affecting the nervous system
- Certain sleep-related neurological disorders
Neurology is primarily a medical specialty. Neurologists do not usually perform brain or spinal surgery. Operations involving these areas are generally performed by neurosurgeons.
Why might you be referred to a neurologist?
A doctor may recommend a neurology consultation after assessing symptoms such as recurrent seizures, persistent or unusual headaches, unexplained weakness, numbness, tremors, difficulties with balance, changes in memory or problems with coordination.
Having one of these symptoms does not confirm that you have a neurological disorder. Similar symptoms may have several possible causes, so the neurologist considers your history, examination findings and available test results before advising on the next step.
What happens during the consultation?
The appointment usually begins with a conversation about your symptoms and medical history. The neurologist may ask:
- When did the problem begin?
- Did it start suddenly or gradually?
- How often does it happen?
- How long does each episode last?
- Has it become better, worse or remained unchanged?
- Does anything appear to trigger it?
- What medications have you already used?
- Have you had a previous illness, injury or hospital admission?
- Does anyone in your family have a similar condition?
Some questions may appear unrelated to your main complaint. This is because the nervous system controls many functions. Details involving vision, speech, sleep, movement, sensation, memory or bladder function may help the neurologist understand the pattern of the problem.
What is a neurological examination?
After taking your history, the neurologist may perform a neurological examination. This assesses how different parts of your nervous system are functioning.
Depending on your complaint, the doctor may check your:
- Memory, concentration or speech
- Eye movements, pupils and facial movements
- Muscle strength and tone
- Reflexes
- Sensation
- Coordination
- Balance and walking pattern
The examination may involve following a light with your eyes, pushing against the doctor’s hands, responding to gentle touch, walking a short distance or having your reflexes checked with a reflex hammer.
A routine neurological examination is generally not painful, although some parts may be uncomfortable when an already painful area is assessed.
Will tests be performed during the first visit?
Not every patient needs a test. Many specialized investigations are arranged for another day rather than performed during the initial consultation.
Depending on your history and examination findings, the neurologist may request:
- Blood tests
- CT or MRI scans
- An electroencephalogram, commonly called an EEG
- Nerve conduction studies
- Electromyography, commonly called an EMG
- A lumbar puncture
- Other tests relevant to the suspected condition
A test is usually selected to answer a particular clinical question. The neurologist should explain why it is being considered and whether there are any preparations or risks.
The availability and cost of these tests vary between Nigerian hospitals. Ask whether the test is available at the hospital, whether it requires a separate booking and when the result is expected.
Finding a neurology clinic
Neurology clinic days and referral requirements vary between hospitals.
Before visiting, confirm the clinic day and other requirements with the hospital.
FindClinicDays helps you find hospitals offering neurology services and check other relevant visit information.
Medical disclaimer
This article provides general information about neurology consultations and does not replace an assessment by a qualified healthcare professional. The exact consultation process may vary according to the patient, neurologist and healthcare facility.
