To a neurologist in Lublin
A neurologist is a doctor who treats patients with diseases of the nervous system. We know that the nervous system consists of the brain and nerves, which are located throughout the human body. Disturbances in their functioning will cause disorders related to the nervous system and individual organs. For this reason, observing so-called neurological symptoms is not easy.
We talk to doctor Olga Trzciniecka, a neurology specialist who provides advice under the National Health Fund in Lublin, about what should worry us and when we should see a neurologist.
What problems do patients most often bring to a neurologist? What do they complain about?
A common reason for a visit to a neurologist is pain—headache, back pain, sciatica, or sciatica. Patients report dizziness, numbness or tingling in the limbs, and memory problems. Rarely is there a single cause or symptom. Most often, there are several symptoms.
What symptoms should prompt a patient to see a neurologist, but are often ignored?
The symptoms of neurological diseases are not always easy to recognize. Often, especially in the early stages, they can be explained by fatigue, a general, temporary weakness, or a low mood. Not all problems are immediately indicative of serious illnesses. However, if certain symptoms concern a patient, they should consult a neurologist.
These may include, for example:
- dizziness and frequent headaches,
- disturbances of consciousness,
- memory disorders,
- balance and coordination disorders,
- sensory disorders,
- visual disturbances,
- tinnitus,
- muscle tremors,
- weakening of muscle strength.
What neurological symptoms do patients most often ignore?
These are symptoms that patients don't mention because they consider them insignificant or don't connect them with a given problem. These are highly individualized issues. Patients often downplay the growing symptoms of nervous system dysfunction, such as muscle weakness or increased muscle fatigue. They delay appointments due to vision problems, attributing the difficulties to age. They ignore sleep disturbances, considering them insignificant. All of these symptoms can be significant and signal underlying pathological changes.
What does a neurologist treat?
Simply put, a neurologist treats diseases related to abnormal functioning of the brain, spine, and muscles. They work with patients suffering from:
- degenerative diseases of the spine,
- sciatica,
- strokes, brain tumors,
- epilepsy,
- multiple sclerosis,
- Alzheimer's disease,
- Parkinson's disease,
- migraine,
- myasthenia,
- polyneuropathy…
There are many other illnesses that could be listed, but these seem to be the most common.
Which neurological symptoms are life-threatening?
Symptoms of a stroke can be particularly dangerous, so it's important to be aware of them so you can intervene immediately. Prompt treatment increases the patient's chances of survival and recovery. The most characteristic symptoms of a stroke include:
- weakness or paresis of the limbs on one side of the body,
- drooping of the corner of the mouth on one side of the face, raising of only one corner of the mouth when trying to smile broadly (weakening of the facial muscles),
- slurred, indistinct speech,
- sudden, severe headache,
- sudden visual disturbances,
- disturbances of balance and coordination of movements,
- confusion, disorientation in place and time,
- loss of consciousness.
What rare diseases are treated by a neurologist?
The neurology clinic treats patients with conditions such as Huntington's disease, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Many diseases manifest with symptoms affecting the nervous system.
If symptoms suggest a neurological condition appear, it's best not to delay a visit to a clinic. Consultation with a neurologist in Lublin through the National Health Fund (NFZ) or a commercial service.
Free consultations are available at the Luxmed Medical Centre locations in Lublin at 7 Orkana Street and 4D Koncertowa Street. Registration is available by phone at 81 532 37 11.
Frequently asked questions – FAQ
What does a neurologist do?
A neurologist diagnoses and treats diseases of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. They help with conditions such as headaches, dizziness, spinal disorders, migraines, epilepsy, and memory disorders.
When should you see a neurologist?
It is worth seeing a neurologist if you experience frequent or severe headaches, dizziness, numbness in the limbs, sensory disturbances, muscle weakness, memory problems, balance disorders, or chronic back pain.
What neurological symptoms should cause concern?
Signs of concern include sudden disturbances in speech, vision or balance, limb paresis, severe sudden headache, loss of consciousness, seizures, memory impairment and progressive weakness or numbness in the arms and legs.
What diseases does a neurologist treat?
A neurologist deals with conditions such as migraine, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebrovascular diseases, sciatica, spinal pain syndromes, and other diseases of the nervous system.
What is a visit to a neurologist like?
A visit to a neurologist typically begins with a history of symptoms, medical history, and medications. The doctor may assess sensation, muscle strength, reflexes, motor coordination, and balance, and then recommend further diagnostics or treatment.
How to prepare for a visit to a neurologist?
It is a good idea to bring your medical records, previous test results, a list of medications you are taking, and information about your symptoms: when they appeared, how often they occur, what makes them worse, and what brings relief.
What tests can a neurologist order?
A neurologist may order imaging studies, laboratory tests, and specialized neurological tests, such as EEG or EMG, among other things. The scope of diagnosis depends on the patient's symptoms and condition.
Do I need a referral to see a neurologist?
For private consultations, a referral is usually not required. For consultations covered by the National Health Fund, a referral to a neurology clinic is required.
The information contained in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is recommended that you consult a physician or other qualified healthcare professional for advice regarding specific symptoms, ailments, or health conditions.