Neurology Services

What is neurology?

Neurology is the medical specialty that studies the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. It deals with the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases such as epilepsy, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. It analyzes both the normal functions and disorders of the nervous system. Its goal is to preserve and restore the patient’s neurological function.

When should you see a neurologist?

Very strong or frequent headaches (migraines)

Sleep difficulties related to the brain.

Seizures or fainting

Memory loss, difficulty speaking, or confusion

Dizziness, vertigo, or loss of consciousness

Neuropsychological test panel

Tremors or strange movements

Tingling or loss of strength in arms or legs

Some common neurological diseases:

  • Epilepsy
  • Stroke (cerebrovascular accident)
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Neuropathies (nerve problems)

Diagnostic tests

Doppler echo of supra-aortic trunks (TSA)

It is an ultrasound that studies the arteries in the neck that carry blood to the brain: carotid and vertebral arteries.

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What it’s for:

To check for narrowing (stenosis) or cholesterol plaques (atheroma).
To prevent or manage the risk of stroke or embolism.
To monitor people with vascular risk factors: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, etc.

How it’s done:

You lie on your back.
The doctor inserts a gel-filled probe along both sides of your neck.
It’s painless, doesn’t use radiation, and takes about 15-20 minutes.

Transcranial Doppler ultrasound

It is a special ultrasound that measures the speed of blood within the arteries of the brain, through the skull.

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What it’s used for:

Detecting vascular spasms (for example, after a brain hemorrhage).
Observing alterations in cerebral blood flow after a stroke.
Studying migraines, syncope, or loss of consciousness.
Looking for silent embolisms in young stroke patients.

How it’s done:

The doctor places the gel-coated probe on areas of the skull where the bone is thinner (usually the temple or the back of the neck).
It can also be done through the eye (with great care).
It’s painless, safe, and lasts about 20-30 minutes.