3 Subtle Symptoms That Mean You Need To Visit A Brain Specialist
Neurologists diagnose, treat, and manage brain and nervous system disorders. Some of the most common disorders they handle include:
- Parkinson's disease
- Stroke
- Brain or nervous system injuries
But, most of the above disorders often give early warning signs that people ignore. Hence, many people go to a brain specialist when the disorder has already developed and is more difficult to treat or manage.
Thus, you should learn about the warning signs that state you or a loved one should visit a neurologist. Here are three subtle signs that indicate you need to see a brain specialist immediately.
1. You Encounter Severe Migraines
Once in a while, it is common for a person to get a severe headache that only lasts for a short while. However, you may have a serious issue if you frequently encounter severe migraines lasting for hours or days without end.
Sometimes, prolonged migraines are the early warning signs of a stroke developing. Hence, if you encounter prolonged migraines, you need to see a brain specialist immediately. A neurologist will first conduct several tests to determine the migraines' root cause. After establishing the cause of the migraines, they can recommend a suitable treatment or drug to curb them.
2. You Experience Seizures
Seizures occur when there is a disturbance in the brain. For instance, if you have a tumor or brain infection, such factors can disrupt the normal functionality of the brain. As a result, the brain temporarily goes into shock, triggering a seizure.
However, seizures can also occur if you are developing epilepsy. Epilepsy is a condition caused by abnormalities in the brain such as:
- Cavernous malformations
- Tumors
- Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)
Epilepsy is a lifelong condition. But neurologists can prescribe medication that helps curb the frequency of seizures.
So, if you experience unprovoked seizures, visit a brain specialist as soon as possible. Besides, if the seizures are an early warning sign for epilepsy, you will want to start managing the condition early.
3. Sudden Weakness in Your Limbs or Muscles
The nervous system is responsible for transmitting electrical signals between the brain and the rest of your body (muscles, organs, etc.). Hence, when you encounter sudden weakness or numbness in the muscles or limbs, chances are there is an issue with your nervous system.
For instance, if the nerves connecting your brain to your arm incur damage, the brain can no longer send signals to the arm's muscles. As a result, you may be unable to move your arm (paralysis), or your arm will have a numb sensation.
Don't hesitate to visit a neurologist if you experience prolonged limb or muscle weakness or numbness.
Contact a neurology specialist for more information.