General Neurology is the broadest field of neurology. A physician practicing general neurology provides a wide range of services to patients with all types of neurological disorders. It includes both diagnosis and treatment, but also consultations for many other medical specialties. General neurologists treat the full spectrum of neurological diseases, including epilepsy, movement disorders, stroke, dementia, sleep disturbances, headaches, and much more. Medical professionals specializing in general neurology in Oxnard often care for patients whose conditions affect a large number of organ systems in addition to the nervous system. This can include patients with cardiovascular disease, endocrine disorders, autoimmune diseases, and many others.
Conditions Treated Through General Neurology
General neurology deals with a wide variety of neurological conditions. Below are three of the most common.
1. Brain Aneurysm
A brain aneurysm refers to a bulging, weakened area of an artery wall. Rupture (a sudden and complete break) results in internal bleeding, leading to several symptoms. It is diagnosed using a variety of diagnostic tests, including imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs. Treatment can be either medical or surgical, depending on the patient's location, size, and age. The goal of treatment is to prevent rupture. General Neurology Treatments for Brain Aneurysm Brain aneurysms are typically treated through neurosurgical procedures, which require the skills of a specially trained neurosurgeon or neurologist. Medical treatment mainly helps with unruptured brain aneurysms.
The exact method will vary depending on the location, size, and type of aneurysm. It is common for patients to receive both medical and surgical treatment. Preventive treatment includes close monitoring through regular follow-up imaging studies.
2. Stroke
A stroke occurs due to a disruption in blood flow to the brain. Brain cells are deprived of oxygen, leading to loss of function in the parts of the body controlled by that part of the brain. The effects depend on what area of the brain is affected by lack of oxygen.
The most common form is an Ischemic stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel or artery is blocked. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when an artery in the brain bursts, causing bleeding into the surrounding tissues.
Blockages cause strokes to blood vessels that reduce oxygen flow to the brain. They are commonly treated through thrombolytic drugs, which dissolve the clot, but sometimes surgery is required to remove the blood clot.
3. Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injury refers to brain injury that occurs as a result of major trauma to the head. The effects depend on the nature and severity of the damage.
Common symptoms include;
• Headache
• Loss of consciousness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion and disorientation
• Slurred speech
• Memory problems
Treatment Depends On The Type Of Injury
There is no specific treatment for traumatic brain injury, but symptom management can help reduce the impact of particular neurology symptoms. Antidepressants may help minimize long-term memory loss and loss of concentration. Some patients benefit from rehabilitation therapy to help them relearn how to live independently.
Conclusion
To summarize, general neurology is a field of medicine that deals with different kinds of neurological disorders. Some of the most common conditions treated by general neurologists include brain aneurysms, traumatic brain injury, and stroke.
