Neurology is the branch of medicine that deals with the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. It focuses on diagnosing and treating disorders that affect how the nervous system functions—from movement and sensation to cognition and behavior.

🧠 What Neurology Covers

Neurology encompasses a wide range of conditions, including:

- Stroke

- Epilepsy and seizures

- Parkinson’s disease

- Multiple sclerosis

- Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias

- Migraines and chronic headaches

- Neuromuscular disorders like myasthenia gravis and ALS

- Peripheral neuropathies (nerve damage outside the brain and spinal cord)

🧑‍⚕️ What a Neurologist Does

A neurologist is a medical doctor who:

- Evaluates symptoms like memory loss, dizziness, numbness, or seizures

- Performs neurological exams to assess reflexes, coordination, strength, and mental status

- Orders and interprets tests like MRI, CT scans, EEG, EMG, and lumbar punctures

- Develops treatment plans using medications, physical therapy, or referrals to neurosurgeons if surgery is needed

🧪 Diagnostic Tools

Neurologists use a variety of tools to pinpoint problems:

- EEG (electroencephalogram): Measures brain activity

- EMG (electromyography): Assesses muscle and nerve function

- MRI/CT scans: Provide detailed images of the brain and spine

- Lumbar puncture: Analyzes cerebrospinal fluid for infections or inflammation

🧩 Why It Matters

Neurology is essential because the nervous system controls everything from movement and sensation to thought and emotion. Disorders in this system can deeply affect quality of life, and early diagnosis often leads to better outcomes.