When you experience issues with your brain, spine, or neurological system, you need solutions right away. A neurosurgeon might be the best professional to give you the care you require.
Neurosurgeons specializes in operating on the brain, spine, and body’s nerves. After completing four years of medical school, they undergo a 7-year surgical training residency. Some neurosurgeons pursue fellowship training for an additional two or three years.
Most neurosurgeons hold board certification, which signifies that they have finished an accredited residency program in neurosurgery. After several years of practice, they have successfully passed an examination administered by the American Board of Neurological Surgery.
What do neurosurgeons do?
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Neurosurgeons perform expert complex surgery.
According to the American Academy of Neurological Surgeons, neurosurgeons specialize in particular disorders. For instance, some neurosurgeons only address problems with the skull or brain. Others focus on spinal issues, such as brain and spinal cord injuries, blood vessel issues in the brain and/or spine, or cervical (neck) or lumbar (low back) illnesses. They also understand various types of neurosurgery,
The majority of neurosurgeons focus on diseases that afflict adults. Pediatric neurosurgeons also do a fellowship to learn more about treating babies and young patients.
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Neurosurgeons provide ongoing medical care.
As surgeons, neurosurgeons spend the majority of their time performing various types of neurosurgery or getting ready for it. However, they also offer continuous treatment for various brain, spine, and peripheral nerve diseases. Surgery is not always the first or only course of action. Neurosurgeons tend to start with less invasive treatment alternatives wherever possible, despite their focus on surgical remedies.
For instance, it can be a surprise if you go to a neurosurgeon with back pain, but you’re prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs, and/or are referred to physical therapy. Your neurosurgeon may suggest surgery if these treatments are ineffective in improving your condition.
When to see a neurosurgeon
Here are signs that you should see a neurosurgeon as soon as possible
1. Frequent headaches or migraine
Many different issues can cause headaches. The head and the rest of the body both can experience pain and suffering as a result. The term “migraine” refers to a particularly severe kind of headache, which is common among persons who occasionally get headaches. But if these headaches or migraines start to appear more frequently or become noticeably worse, it can indicate something is amiss.
Although uncomfortable, most headaches are relatively temporary. Most of the time, conservative measures like over-the-counter painkillers may relieve symptoms. You should consult a neurosurgeon in the following situations:
- The intensity of your headaches increases to the point that they interfere with your regular activities or render you disabled.
- You take daily headache medication.
- Upon awakening, you frequently have a constant headache.
- Nausea, vomiting, or even seizures may accompany the symptoms.
- Your sensitivity to light, strong smells, and loud noises is increased by your head pains, which may indicate a migraine or brain injury.
2. Unusual numbness or pain
Many people experience discomfort in their daily lives. Constant discomfort and/or numbness may indicate nerve injury. The brain and spinal cord, which regulate pain, receive signals from different body parts through nerves. The body might experience pain when there is a communication breakdown, even if nothing physically uncomfortable occurs.
Your extremities may become numb or tingly for various reasons, such as the “pins and needles” feeling that comes from sitting too long or wearing tight clothing. If they persist or appear abruptly and for no apparent reason, there could be a more serious problem. If you develop any of the following symptoms: numbness and/or weakness accompanied by other neurological symptoms like nerve pain or a burning feeling, consult a neurosurgeon.
3. Memory loss or confusion
Have you ever had difficulties remembering someone’s name? Have you ever entered a room intending to retrieve something but forgot what it was? Everybody has occasionally been forgetful, and forgetfulness becomes more common as we age. It is not a cause for concern. But if memory problems start interfering with your daily activities, it might be time to speak with a professional. Alzheimer’s disease may be detected by worsening memory loss, personality changes, or verbal blunders.
4. Blurred vision and related issues
The nervous system may bring on vision issues, genetics, aging, and accidents. You should have your vision evaluated if blurred vision suddenly appears in both eyes. If you have a visual problem, your primary care physician or an eye doctor may advise you to seek expert neurological assistance; however, you should not disregard this advice.
5. Unsteadiness or balance problems
Anyone can experience occasional dizziness or lightheadedness. It’s not a good sign, though, if this frequently happens. It’s probably time to see a neurosurgeon if you frequently feel lightheaded, lose your balance, or even trip and fall. This is especially true if you suffer any of the following symptoms or have a personal or family history of neurological problems.
- Unexpected weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Numbness that persists for days, weeks, or months or worsens (including unconsciousness)
- Prolonged muscular deterioration or a sharp decline in muscle strength
- A poor grip on your hands makes it difficult for you to carry out regular duties like writing, eating, or other activities.
- Foot drop, or the inability to elevate the front of your foot, can make it drag.
- Persistent weakness or numbness after a stroke or head injury
6. Sleep issues
Although there are certain apparent reasons for sleep problems that we are all familiar with, such as staying up late, having apnea or anxiety, or having nightmares, there are also neurological abnormalities that can cause sleep problems. This includes narcolepsy, other neurological disorders, and chronic genetic diseases primarily affecting the nervous system. In general, if you feel any of the following, you should consult a neurosurgeon
- Experiencing longer than typical spells of acute weariness during the day, despite getting a full night’s sleep,
- Having trouble staying awake in cozy environments
- Having recurrent nightmares, difficulty getting asleep, or trouble remaining asleep.
