Neurology

While it may sound scary, neurology simply involves the assessment and treatment of disorders that affect your nervous system – the network of nerves located throughout your body and the signals sent by these nerves.

A neurologist is a specially trained physician experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the nervous system, which include diseases of the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. Neurological conditions we treat at Cullman Primary Care Multi-Specialty Group include:

  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
  • Balance disorders
  • Dementia
  • Epilepsy
  • Headaches
  • Memory disorders
  • Multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Myasthenia gravis
  • Neuropathy (nerve pain & other symptoms)
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Seizures
  • Stroke
  • Tremors
<img src="neurologist.jpg" alt="neurology services at Cullman Primary Care Multi-Specialty Group" /> 

Signs & Symptoms of a Neurological Problem

While the symptoms you or a loved one experience will depend on the neurological condition involved, there are some general signs and symptoms that may indicate a disorder of the nervous system. These include:

  • Signs of muscle weakness
  • Difficulty moving
  • Paralysis, either partial or complete
  • Seizures
  • Comprehension problems
  • Difficulty reading or writing
  • Slurred speech

Stroke: A Medical Emergency

Time is of the essence if you or someone you know is having a stroke (when blood flow to the brain is restricted, interrupting the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the brain).

Blocked arteries or a burst blood vessel are common causes of stroke – and people with these conditions often have no symptoms until they have a stroke. This is why regular visits to your family doctor or internist is critical. Blood tests and certain diagnostic imaging tests can identify if there is a problem with your circulation that may put you at risk for a stroke.

The sooner you get to an emergency room after a stroke, the more brain tissue may be saved, and the better your chances of recovery. It is crucial to act FAST when you notice these warning signs of stroke:

F – face drooping
A – arm weakness
S – speech difficulty
T – time to call 911

Does one side of the face droop? Is a smile noticeably lopsided? When both arms are raised, does one arm drift downward? Do simple sentences come out garbled or difficult to understand? Can the affected person speak at all? If any of these signs occur – even if they go away – it is imperative to seek immediate medical treatment. Do not wait. Call 911 or visit your nearest ER right away.

What to Expect at Your Exam

When you visit our neurology specialists, you will undergo a physical exam as well as a neurological exam. The latter involves tests that will measure your muscle strength, reflexes, motor function and balance, and sensory abilities. Most of these assessments can be made by following simple instructions by your CPC provider.

In some cases, additional testing may be recommended, including electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) tests, as well as diagnostic imaging to either confirm or rule out a diagnosis.

Neurologists in Cullman, AL

Providers

Location

To find out more about our neurology services, or to make an appointment with our neurologist, call Cullman Primary Care Multi-Specialty Group in Cullman, Alabama, at (256) 736-2273 or request an appointment now.