The idea of seeing a neurosurgeon can be scary. After all, neurosurgeons are specialists in brain problems. No one wants to think they have an issue with their brain as this can directly affect their quality of life and ability to rationalize properly.
Of course, neurosurgeons don’t just deal with brain issues. They are also specialists in neck and back pain. These issues are often linked to nerves that send impulses to the brain, a neurosurgeon is a doctor that understands these impulses best.
A reputable brain surgeon diagnoses diseases and disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and spinal column. They also deal with all the peripheral nerves in your body. Once they’ve diagnosed the issue they can help you with surgery or non-surgical options. In many cases both are necessary.
You should note that a neurosurgeon is highly trained. They need to have graduated from four years of training at a medical school, then complete a one-year internship, and finally undertake seven years of residency in an approved neurosurgical residency program.
Seeing one may seem scary but, if you’re displaying the most common warning signs listed below, the sooner you see one the better for your recovery.
Headaches
Everyone experiences headaches occasionally. They can often be attributed to specific occurrences. This may be the result of drinking, a fall, stress, or even dehydration.
In most cases you’ll know why you have a headache, you’ll also know what to do about it. That can mean taking painkillers or you may need to lie down, or even drink plenty of fluids. These types of headaches can be very painful, often referred to as migraines.
However, the most important point is that the headaches are definable. You know why they occur and how frequently you get them. When you start getting unexplained headaches and they arrive at all times of the day and night then you need to consider seeing a neurosurgeon.
This is especially true if the headaches aren’t relieved by traditional painkillers or they are associated with any of the following symptoms.
Dizziness or Balancing Issues
Dizziness is never a pleasant feeling. Again, it can be a natural response to something, such as standing up too fast or keeping your head between your legs for too long a period.
But, if you start to notice that you’re feeling dizzy or losing your balance for no apparent reason you should consult your doctor. It is worth consulting a doctor first as balance issues can simply be a sign of an inner ear infection. This can be cleared up with a short dose of antibiotics.
However, if there is no obvious reason for the balance issues then you’ll need to talk to a neurosurgeon and have it investigated further.
Numbness
Your nerves cover your entire body. They transmit signals to your brain allowing it to react. These signals can simply be that a specific lib is moving or that you’re in pain. Even walking uses these nerves as your brain needs to know how much pressure to put on your feet and when they are in contact with the ground.
If you start to experience numbness in any part of your body then you may have an issue with these nerves. If this is the case you’ll want to speak to the neurosurgeon to identify the issue and, hopefully, resolve it.
It doesn’t need to be numbness, you may also experiencing tingling, similar to pins and needles but without good reason. This can actually be a sign of a stroke but it can also be the result of a myriad of different neurological conditions that need to be investigated further.
Pain
Many people live with pain, feeling that it is a normal part of aging and something they simply have to put up with. In most cases, this is not true as there are things your doctor can do to identify the source of the pain and rectify the issue.
However, pain can also be a sign that your nerves are not working properly and the signals are becoming jumbled. This can result in feeling pain for no reason or not feeling pain when you should. In both cases, this is a sign of a deeper issue and you’ll need expert help to identify and treat it.
Movement Issues
As mentioned, the responsiveness of your nerves helps your brain to control how much weight to place on limbs and enables you to walk smoothly. If the nerves aren’t working properly you may find it difficult to walk, you could experience tremors, or your body may jerk uncontrollably.
Any issue with walking or using your arms and legs should be looked at by a neurosurgeon. This can be a sign of a serious condition.
Memory Issues
Neurosurgeons deal with brain issues as well, even if there is nothing that can be done about certain conditions. For example, memory loss is often associated with Alzheimer’s which currently has treatment options but no cure. It can also be a sign of brain tumors and other issues in your head.
That’s why it’s important to get it properly diagnosed and start treatment.
A Neurological Appointment
Once you’ve secured your appointment with a neurosurgeon you’ll probably start to worry about what they do during the exam. The process is straightforward. The neurosurgeon will start by talking to you, the questions will test your memory and speech patterns to identify any issues.
Of course, they’ll also discuss the issues that are concerning you. They are then likely to use reflex tools, such as reflex hammers. These will identify any issues with your nerve impulses. The neurosurgeon will also assess your balance and coordination to identify any potential issues.
The exam is likely to take at least thirty minutes. This ensures the neurosurgeon has all the information they need to make an accurate diagnosis. It may be necessary to undergo further tests to confirm the suspected diagnosis. These can include CAT scans, amongst other things.
Common Issues Dealt With By Neurosurgeons
The array of potential issues is large, that’s part of the reason neurosurgeons need extensive training. It’s not generally possible to identify an issue at home, you need specialist help. But, it can help to be prepared. The following issues are commonly diagnosed and treated by neurosurgeons:
Brain Tumors
Brain tumors are any type of mass growing inside your brain. They are usually attached to your brain and can be difficult to successfully remove, although radiotherapy can be very good at shrinking them. Brain tumors can be cancerous but they don’t have to be.
As the tumor grows it will press against your brain cells. The affected cells will depend on where it is located but you’ll notice the difference in speech, memory, or personality.
Head Trauma
Head traumas cause swelling of the bran and it has a limited space to swell into. This, again, can cause pressure on parts of the brain which results in changes n abilities or personality.
Brain swelling is often temporary after a head trauma but it needs to be carefully monitored and treated, if necessary, to prevent any permanent damage from occurring.
Degenerative Spinal Condition
Aging, tumors, arthritis, and infections can all cause the bones in your spine to degrade. This can cause an array of issues including mobility issues. It’s often not reversible but a neurosurgeon can prevent it from becoming worse.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a result of the wiring in the brain being slightly wrong. This cause fits or seizures but, in most cases, it can be controlled through the use of medication. Of course, it needs to be diagnosed first.
Infections in Nervous System
Infections in any part of your body can cause issues but these are particularly concerning if they are in your brain or spine as they are most likely to cause serious issues.
Spina Bifida
This is a defect that occurs during pregnancy and affects the neuro tube which houses the nerves and other vessels through the spine. A defect can cause growth issues and other complications. It’s usually diagnosed at birth but can’t be fully cured.
Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s is a disease of the brain, although it’s believed to be a genetic disorder. The infection causes shakiness, stiffness, tremors, and issues with balance and coordination. It can also cause issues with talking, making it hard to maintain your quality of life. Again, this isn’t something that can be cured but it can be managed with medications.
The Bottom Line
Your brain and nervous system are complex. Issues that affect it often lead to difficulties with everyday movements and tasks. However, in most cases, a neurosurgeon can identify the issue and help you to manage it. This minimizes its impact and helps you to maintain your quality of life.
That’s why if you start to notice any or all of the above symptoms you need to see your doctor and get yourself an appointment with a neurosurgeon.
By Jesse Huges