The role of a neurologist

A neurologist is a specialist physician (doctor) who diagnoses and treats conditions of the brain, spinal cord and nerves. This can include muscle diseases and conditions that affect thinking and behaviour.

A neurologist has completed years of specialist training after becoming a doctor.

Neurologists are different from neurosurgeons (brain surgeons). Neurosurgeons have specialist training in surgery of the brain, spinal cord and nerves.

Neurologists treat conditions that affect your nervous system. The nervous system controls many body processes such as your:

• consciousness (being awake and alert)
• muscle movement
• breathing
• digestion
• senses of smell, hearing, touch and sight

Your doctor might refer you to a neurologist for diagnosis and treatment if you have symptoms such as:

• muscle weakness
• dizziness, loss of balance or coordination problems
• tingling, numbness or changes in body sensation
• confusion or loss of memory
• seizures
• certain types of severe or chronic pain

People see neurologists about:

• neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis (MS) and motor neurone disease
• disorders that affect thinking and memory, such as Alzheimer's disease
• brain or spinal injuries
• infections of the nervous system, such as meningitis or brain abscesses
• headaches and migraines
• seizures and epilepsy
• strokes

Your neurologist will ask you about your:

• symptoms and how long you have had them
• overall health
• family medical history

They will also do a physical examination. Neurological examinations can take a long time, because so much in the body is controlled by your nervous system.

Your neurologist will look at any previous test results, and may organise more tests.

Your neurologist can create a treatment plan for your condition. They may consider referring you to a neurosurgeon if surgery is an option.

Before you go to your first appointment, note down any questions you have about your symptoms, condition or treatment.

You could also ask:

• whether your neurologist specialises in a certain area
• if any special tests are needed
• about your diagnosis
• about the risks and benefits of any treatments
• about the side effects of treatment
• if there are other treatment options
• what follow-up is needed

Ask your neurologist to explain again if you don't understand what is being said during the appointment. You can also bring a trusted friend or family member to help you.

Ask your doctor to refer you to a neurologist who has an interest and skills in your condition or disorder.

You may be referred to:

• a hospital neurology unit
• an outpatient clinic
• a program for a particular neurological condition

It's important to get a referral from your doctor to see a neurologist. Your general practitioner (GP) will refer you to someone with the right qualifications to help you.

The information in the referral letter helps your specialist understand your condition, medical history and past test results.

After you see the neurologist, they will update your GP about your visit and condition. They will let your GP know about test results and treatments that are recommended.

The cost of seeing a neurologist varies, depending on the type of care you receive. Factors include whether it's in hospital, whether you have private health insurance and on what the neurologist charges.

It can be expensive to see a specialist. Before you go for the first time, ask the neurologist or their staff about the costs. You can also ask them how much Medicare will cover.

If you plan to use private health insurance, contact your health fund to check your policy details.

If the costs are too high for you, you can:

• ask for a reduced rate
• consider another neurologist or health service
• talk to your GP about other options, such as a different type of treatment

These organisations provide information about specific health conditions which might require a referral to a neurologist for diagnosis or treatment:

• Dementia Australia
• The Stroke Foundation's enable me
• Epilepsy Action Australia
• Parkinson's Australia
• Headache Australia

Visit the Brain Foundation's website for information on things to think about when looking for a neurologist for your health condition.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.