Neurology is a medical specialty. It is dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the nervous system . Neurology consultation is the main activity of neurologists. In this consultation, the diagnosis and follow-up of all neurological diseases is carried out and the appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic approach for each patient is defined. Neurology also has several diagnostic tests and therapeutic procedures. Neurological symptoms are diverse , can manifest in various parts of the body, and it is sometimes difficult to identify its origin. Thus, it is common and advisable for patients to complain first to their attending or family doctor, who then refer them for a neurology consultation. Who should go to a neurology consultation A neurology consultation may be indicated when there are symptoms such as: Recurring, disabling or very frequent headaches; Muscle aches or pains like electric shock and / or tingling in one part of the body; Numbness, tingling or lack of sensation in one or more parts of the body; Lack of muscle strength, by episodes or progressive, in one or more parts of the body; Loss of vision in one eye or on one side, without pain, red eye or eye problems; Transient or progressive double vision; Difficulty in controlling movements, incoordination, imbalance; Difficulty swallowing liquids, with easy choking; Involuntary movements (tremor, tics, spasms, intermittent contractures); Sudden loss of consciousness, especially if associated with seizures; Problems with memory, concentration or speech difficulties; Changes in behavior and / or personality; Sleeping problems, especially insomnia or sleep phenomena (movements, speech, among others); Family history of hereditary or family neurological disease. Attention, in view of the following symptoms, care must be sought in an Urgent Care service: Lack of strength in one half of the body and / or face or sudden difficulty in seeing or speaking; Abruptly very intense explosive headache; Quick (hours) loss of sensation and / or strength in the legs; Seizure that lasts more than 5 minutes or two successive seizures without regaining consciousness between it; Sudden or rapid confusion / disorientation, especially if there is also a fever. Read about the objectives, how to prepare yourself and what to expect from a neurology consultation . Author : Raquel Gil.Gouveia Meet the Neurology team of Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
