What do neurologists do?
Reprinted from the Parkinson’s Australia infohub | Neurologist infosheet.
A neurologist is a medical doctor specialising in diagnosing and treating disorders affecting the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. They are trained to evaluate and manage a wide range of neurological conditions, such as epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s disease, and neuropathies.
Some neurologists have further subspecialty training as Movement Disorder Specialists (MDS); these doctors have the most expertise in Parkinson’s’ and other movement disorders.
Sometimes older people with Parkinson’s are referred to geriatricians. These are doctors specialising in caring for elderly people. Many geriatricians are very familiar with the treatment of Parkinson’s, and this is a particularly good option if an elderly person has multiple, or complex non-neurological health issues.
Why see a neurologist?
Seeing a neurologist is crucial for managing Parkinson’s. Neurologists are medical doctors who specialise in diagnosing and treating disorders affecting the nervous system, including Parkinson’s. They guide patients through treatment options and connect them to clinical trials, support networks and other resources.
Neurologists CAN:
- clinically diagnose Parkinson’s by evaluating symptoms and conducting neurological examinations
- monitor the condition as it progresses
- develop tailored treatment plans to manage symptoms and improve quality of life
- help people make informed decisions about lifestyle changes that can significantly impact brain health and overall wellbeing.
- prescribe and adjust Parkinson’s medications to address motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and bradykinesia
- adjust medications to address your most bothersome non-motor symptoms – these may change over time.
- refer you to other specialists, such as physiotherapists or speech pathologists, for comprehensive care.
Neurologists CANNOT:
- Neurologists do not perform surgeries; this is typically done by neurosurgeons.
- They do not provide daily care or personal assistance; this is managed by caregivers and healthcare professionals.
- While they can offer medical advice, they do not provide non-medical support such as financial or legal advice.
Benefits of seeing a neurologist:
- Regular visits can help manage symptoms and side effects in a timelier manner.
- Neurologists can provide access to the latest lifestyle recommendations, new treatments and clinical trials.
- They offer individualised care plans based on your specific needs.
- Regular monitoring helps detect and address complications or co-morbidities early.
How do I access a neurologist?
Access to neurologists in Australia can vary, especially in regional areas. For many Australians with a prospective Parkinson’s diagnosis, waiting 6 to 18 months to see a neurologist is common, and much longer waits are not unusual in the public system.
It’s important to find a neurologist experienced in treating movement disorders and neurological conditions like Parkinson’s.
- Your general practitioner (GP) can refer you to a neurologist. In Australia, you may be directed to a neurologist in your public hospital catchment.
- Some hospitals and clinics have neurologists specialising in PD.
- Use online directories to find private practice neurologists with experience in treating Parkinson’s.
Don’t be afraid to seek a second or even third opinion, as you will have a long relationship with your neurologist, and it needs to be the right fit for you.
