You may see a neurologist with a wide variety of symptoms. These include headaches, dizziness, seizures, difficulty with coordination, balance, speech, or comprehension. The list can also include memory problems, weakness in the limbs or face, paralysis, and numbness in some parts of the body. You may equally have experienced a loss of bladder or bowel control, or visual problems such as double vision or involuntary twitching.
Neurologists also assess any sudden changes in behaviour. These may be due to a neurological issue, although a psychiatric assessment might also be needed to help make a diagnosis, or to manage your symptoms.
It is important to note that not all symptoms relate to something neurological.
Neurology at Blackrock Health
Blackrock Health is renowned for excellent neurological care, particularly at the Hermitage Clinic, which also has the largest private neurosurgical unit in the country. Our team of experts includes neurologists, neurophysiologists, clinical nurse specialists, radiologists, and radiographers. Working together, we can evaluate your condition and explore the best treatment options.
We treat a wide range of conditions of the nervous system, from chronic headaches to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and motor neuron disease. We offer fast access to critical diagnostic tests which provide the information needed to plan your treatment. These include imaging scans such as MRI, CT, and PET/CT, as well as physical and neuropsychological exams to identify the cause of your symptoms. We are committed to delivering patient-centred care and providing expert support to our patients. Dealing with the symptoms or diagnosis of a neurological condition can be very challenging, and we're here to help.
Why might I be referred to a Neurologist?
If you have any of the above symptoms, or a condition that affects the nervous system, your GP may suggest you see a neurologist. A neurologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Blackrock Health neurology teams can provide a detailed evaluation and explore treatment options.
Our team includes
Clinical nurse specialists (in certain locations)
Consultant neurologists
Radiographers
Who we treat
Our expert team helps patients with conditions including:
Blackouts
Brain tumours
Cerebrovascular diseases
Chronic headaches
Chronic neuralgic pain
Degenerative neurological diseases
Early-onset dementia
Epilepsy
Motor neuron disease
Muscular dystrophy
Multiple sclerosis
Parkinson's disease
Peripheral nerve disease
Seizure disorders
Spinal cord disease
Spinal cord tumours
What to expect
At your first appointment, your consultant will take a detailed medical history. They may also examine the area affected by your symptoms.
Our Neurology team has access to a variety of diagnostic tests to assess each patient, including specialist imaging such as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). This produces detailed 3-D images that can help diagnose diseases of the brain and spine. Other imaging options include a CT scan which can detect tumours or other abnormalities. Patients may also have an electroencephalography (EEG) test. This measures electrical activity in the brain and can help diagnose epilepsy. A lumbar puncture (or spinal tap) can help find infection or tumours in the nervous system.
The treatment plan for your neurological symptoms will depend on the condition diagnosed. For example, patients with chronic headaches may receive pain management or prescription medications. Patients with seizures may be helped by anti-seizure medication or surgical intervention. Those with stroke symptoms may need physiotherapy to improve their movement capabilities. The type of treatment chosen will be based on the severity and frequency of a patient's symptoms, as well as their general prognosis.
Scans and Diagnostics
Diagnosing a potential neurological issue often requires imaging techniques such as MRI, CT, and PET/CT scans. Blood tests or genetic testing also help provide information on a person's medical condition. To check sensory and motor functions, physical exams are performed. In addition, neuropsychological tests can be used to identify any brain issues that may have derived from an injury or stroke.
All these techniques provide details to your medical team which help them identify the cause of possible neurological issues and devise an optimal treatment plan.
CT of the brain
A CT scan (computed tomography) of the brain is an imaging technique used in medicine to create detailed, cross-sectional images. It uses X-rays to take detailed images of different layers inside the human body. It works by rotating around the patient while taking a series of X-ray images at specific points along its path. These are then combined using computer software to create a 3D model of the target area. This makes it useful to diagnose neurological problems, as it can identify issues like tumours, swelling, and blood clots. It may also be used to detect changes in the brain caused by strokes or other conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.
MRI of the brain
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan of the brain is a diagnostic tool that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images. MRI can help spot abnormalities in brain tissue. This includes injury due to stroke, tumours, and other neurological disorders. It can help to diagnose conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or Multiple Sclerosis. It is also useful to assess if a therapy has been effective in treating a neurological issue.
PET scan of the brain
A PET scan is a shortened name for Positron Emission Tomography. This imaging technique is used to visualise brain function - to look for diseases and other medical conditions. It is especially useful for diagnosing neurological issues as it can identify healthy and damaged areas of the brain. The scan can help doctors diagnose a variety of complex conditions that affect the brain. This includes dementia, seizures, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and Huntington’s disease. Doctors may use a PET scan along with other tests such as MRI or CT scans to assess the severity of a condition before determining a course of treatment.
FAQ's about neurology
At Blackrock Health Private Hospitals in Dublin and Galway, we understand that a visit to our neurology facility can be a stressful experience, filled with uncertainty for you and your loved ones.
To help ease your concerns and provide clear information, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions specific to our neurology services. Our goal is to care for our patients and to make your visit as smooth and reassuring as possible, ensuring you receive the support you require, both promptly and efficiently.
What is neurology?
Neurology is the branch of medicine that deals with disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. Neurologists are medical consultants who specialise in diagnosing, treating, and managing neurologic disorders.
What conditions do neurologists treat?
Neurologists treat a wide range of neurological conditions, including stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, neuropathy, headache disorders (such as migraines), brain tumours, movement disorders, and neuromuscular diseases.
When should I see a neurologist?
You may consider seeing a neurologist if you experience symptoms such as persistent headaches, seizures, weakness or numbness, difficulty walking or balancing, changes in cognitive function or memory, speech problems, vision changes, or other neurological symptoms.
What can I expect during a neurology consultation?
During a neurology consultation, the neurologist will review your medical history, perform a neurological examination, and may order diagnostic tests such as imaging studies (MRI or CT scans), electroencephalography (EEG), nerve conduction studies (NCS), or blood tests to aid in diagnosis.
What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, depriving the brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Strokes can be ischemic (caused by a blockage in a blood vessel) or haemorrhagic (caused by bleeding in the brain) and can result in symptoms such as sudden weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, or vision changes.
What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent seizures, which are sudden, unprovoked electrical disturbances in the brain. Seizures can vary in severity and may cause loss of consciousness, convulsions, unusual sensations, or involuntary movements.
What treatments are available for neurological conditions?
Treatment for neurological conditions depends on the specific diagnosis and may include medications, lifestyle modifications, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, surgical interventions, and supportive care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
What is a neurologist's role in a hospital setting?
In a hospital setting, neurologists play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing acute neurological emergencies such as strokes, seizures, traumatic brain injuries, and infections of the nervous system. They may also provide consultations for patients with complex neurological conditions.
Can neurological conditions be prevented?
While some neurological conditions may not be entirely preventable, adopting a healthy lifestyle (including regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing chronic medical conditions) can reduce the risk of certain neurological disorders.
Accessing our services
You can access Blackrock Health neurology services easily with a referral letter from your GP and can then expect world-class clinical care and comfort. Over 75% of our hospital rooms are single occupancy, which can help you make a quicker recovery in a safe environment. We aim to provide you with the best possible outcome, and to restore your quality of life.
How do I get this?
You will need a referral letter from your GP or consultant before you make an appointment. Please see our Request Appointment Form here.
Is this insured?
Not all services are covered by health insurance. To find out if you're covered, please check your health insurance before your visit. You can do this on our health insurance Cover Check page here, or by contacting your health insurer.
How do I pay?
If you do not have health insurance or your health plan does not cover the full cost, you will need to pay the balance due before your treatment or procedure. You may be able to claim back some fees on your insurance. To pay an excess not covered by your insurance or any other inpatient fees, please visit our payment page here. If you have any queries about paying for your care, please contact the finance team in your hospital.
