neuroloog

A neuroloog, or neurologist, is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and muscles. They evaluate symptoms such as headaches, seizures, weakness, numbness, vision or speech problems, and cognitive changes, and coordinate care with other healthcare professionals when needed. In Dutch, the profession is called neuroloog; in English, neurologist.

Training for a neuroloog typically begins with completing a medical degree, followed by several years of specialty training in neurology. Many physicians pursue additional subspecialty fellowships in areas such as stroke, epilepsy, neuromuscular diseases, sleep disorders, or neurodegenerative conditions. Licensure or board certification is usually required to practice independently.

Neurologists perform thorough neurological examinations and interpret a range of diagnostic tests, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scans, electroencephalography (EEG), electromyography (EMG), and lumbar punctures. They develop and manage treatment plans, which may involve medications, lifestyle advice, rehabilitation referrals, or coordination with other specialists. They also manage acute neurological events in hospital settings, such as strokes or seizures.

Conditions commonly managed by neuroloogi include stroke and transient ischemic attack, epilepsy, migraines and other headache disorders, Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders, multiple sclerosis, neuropathies and other neuromuscular disorders, dementias, and sleep disorders. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or academic centers and often participate in multidisciplinary teams or research.

Pediatric neurology is a related subspecialty focusing on neurological conditions in children, while general neurologists typically treat patients across the lifespan.