Neurology

Frequent headaches of unknown cause, fainting and dizziness, accompanied by loss of consciousness are the leading signs that you need to contact a neurologist. Unstable gait and balance problems also indicate a disturbance in the work of the nervous system.

A neurologist's examination is also necessary for sleep disorders, memory problems, orientation, attention and perception disorders. Then, with speech, swallowing or odor disorders, vision disorders in one or both eyes, as well as the appearance of double vision and eyelid disorders.

The neurologist should also visit people who feel weakness of the arm or leg, tingling in extremes, tingling or weakness of one side of the body, as well as those who have noticed difficult body movements.

Symptoms that require the attention of a neurologist are also tinnitus of unknown origin, muscle pain, and even problems with urination or stool.

Neurological examination performed by a neurologist is the basis of neurology and implies painless examination of the nerves of the head, vision, strength and tension of the body muscles, reflexes, stability when standing and walking, precision of movement, sensibility, speech, as well as the psychological state of the patient in terms of memory, reasoning and orientation.

A diagnosis can only be made on the basis of such a detailed examination.

Based on the outcome of the examination, a neurologist may require additional research, including numerous tests: specific laboratory examination, ultrasound of neck vessels, electroencephalography, electromyoneurography, neuroimaging procedures (CT and MRI),...

The data obtained in this way help the neurologist to make the correct diagnosis and allow the patient to be treated correctly.

Diagnostic methods in The Standard Polyclinic

In the Polyclinic STANDARD diagnostic methods used to determine neurological diseases are:

• EMNG or electromyonneurography
• EEG or electroencephalography

EEG (electroencephalography) is a non-invasive technique, used to record the electrical activity of the brain.

EEG can be done if there is a suspicion of epileptic seizures, traumatic brain damage, inflammatory brain diseases, degenerative and sleep disorders and other neurological disorders.

EEG can be used in "neurofeedback" therapy, to help treat certain conditions, such as attention deficit disorders, anxiety, depression and sleep disorders.

EMNG (electromyoneurography) is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the function of muscles and nerves.

Patients who are usually referred to EMNG may have various symptoms, such as muscle weakness, tingling, numbness, pain, cramps or trembling.

This procedure can also be used to determine the cause of back and neck pain and monitor progress in the treatment of some diseases.

Emng examination is done without anesthesia and is not painful, if there is cooperation with the patient. It lasts from 20 to 30 minutes and can be more or less unpleasant.

The test is carried out on technologically highly computerized apparatus, usually first examining the conductivity of peripheral nerves, motor and/or sensory.

The test is usually done with percutaneous electrodes through the skin, while for muscle testing, as a rule, sterile needle electrodes are always used.

The examination is done at all ages, and in children (from birth).

If the patient is a child, the presence of one parent is desirable.

Preparing for EEG is very simple:

• Wash your hair on the day of the procedure and do not put any hair care products;
• If you are asked for an EEG with sleep tracking, you should be tired to help you fall asleep during the procedure. Therefore, it is recommended that you sleep shorter than usual the previous night or wake up earlier than usual;
• Clothing should not interfere with the procedure, so it is recommended to wear comfortable and loose clothes without metal parts;
• Before the procedure, you should tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including dietary supplements. Some medications may affect EEG and you may need to temporarily discontinue therapy before EEG;
• If you have any allergies, tell your doctor before the procedure;
• Avoid consuming foods and drinks containing caffeine (coffee, tea and energy drinks), at least four hours before the procedure. Also, avoid alcohol at least 24 hours before the procedure;
• During the procedure, it is important to be relaxed and comfortable.

Preparing for EMNG implies the following steps:

• Tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including dietary supplements. Some medications may affect EEG and may be required to temporarily discontinue therapy before EMNG;
• Wash the skin in the area to be tested to remove creams, lotions and other skin care products;
• On the day of testing, do not wear clothes that will interfere with access to the area to be tested. Clothing should be comfortable and easy to take off so that the area being tested can be accessed;
• If an arm or leg is tested, you may need to take off the jewelry or any other metal items you wear;
• If you have any allergies, tell your doctor before the procedure;
• Feel relaxed and comfortable before the procedure. EMNG can be uncomfortable, but it shouldn't be painful.