Neurology
Neurological diseases are one of the most widespread in the world. The nervous system, considered the most complex in the body, consists of the central (brain and spinal cord) and peripheral nervous systems (nerves, their plexus and ending all over the body). The specificity of neurological conditions is that the entire human body is riddled with nerves. Accordingly, pain syndrome and dysfunction can occur in any part of it.
Modern neurology is developing very dynamically. But doctors of domestic countries have some difficulties with quality medical equipment for the treatment and diagnosis. In this regard, many patients seek to receive favourable results abroad.
Foreign neurologists will give more chances for complete recovery from nervous system diseases. Neurological clinics abroad are top-rated, and their neurologists are among the best in the world. Accurate diagnosis and modern treatment protocols allow patients to get rid of almost all diseases in this area.
Since complete recovery largely depends on the timeliness of treatment, the priority is an accurate diagnosis. The earlier the patient sought help from a doctor, the greater the chances of a quick return to everyday life. Therefore, doctors in clinics abroad use the most modern equipment for the primary task - establishing the cause and making the correct diagnosis. It is the key to successful treatment, positive results and survival rate.
Best hospitals for Neurology Worldwide
University Hospital Charite Berlin
University Hospital Rechts der Isar Munich
Department of neurology
University Hospital Frankfurt am Main of Goethe-University
Department of neurology
Beta Clinic Bonn
Department of neurology with epilepsy centre
Helios Hospital Berlin-Buch
Department of neurology with intensive therapy unit
Best doctors for Neurology Worldwide
Common neurological symptoms
Since the whole body is permeated with nerves, the focus of the disease and first symptoms can arise anywhere. Therefore, it can be accompanied not only by pain but also by a violation of the motor and sensory function of a specific part of the body.
The occurrence of diseases can be very diverse, but most have similar signs you cannot ignore. Typical symptoms that every neurologist will take into account include:
- Headache and tinnitus;
- Dizziness;
- Disturbance of consciousness, hallucinations;
- Numbness of the limbs or some parts of the body;
- Pain in the neck, across the chest;
- Various sleep disorders;
- Fatigue and reduced work capacity, constant weakness;
- Increased anxiety and panic attacks;
- Irritability, mood swings, tearfulness;
- Tremor, convulsions;
- Speech disorders.
Nevertheless, neurological conditions do not always manifest typically and can "simulate" other disorders. Specialists note such nonspecific signs as pain in the heart, joints, gastrointestinal tract, nausea, vomiting, loss of voice, and shortness of breath. Therefore, consultation with a neurologist in case of such complaints is mandatory.
What tests do neurologists use (diagnosis)?
The appointment of a neurologist is precisely the option that patients firstly need. After all, accurate diagnosis is always the key to quick and successful treatment. For this, specialists abroad use the latest and most accurate modern equipment:
- EEG (electroencephalography) is the registration of brain potentials using a unique device. The method makes it possible to identify lesions and establish various disorders and their nature. The technique is mandatory for epilepsy diagnosis and can be performed for 24 or even 48 hours;
- An X-ray of different parts of the spine is an option in diagnosing osteochondrosis. It is this pathology of the spine that causes many neurological disorders that, at first glance, are not related to the musculoskeletal system;
- Ultrasound examination of the head and neck is an indicative study for the assessment of blood flow in the brain and the detection of vascular changes;
- CT (computed tomography) is a leading study in the diagnosis of conditions associated with craniocerebral injuries and conditions after them;
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a method similar to CT but more sensitive and accurate for detecting soft tissue disorders. The technique is widely used for the brain ad spine for almost all neurological diseases;
- Magnetic stimulation is a study of the motor response to magnetic stimulation of the cerebral cortex and other structures of the nervous system;
- The study of cerebrospinal fluid allows microscopic analysis of the number of cells and cytology (microscopic differentiation of cells).
In addition, a planned visit to a neurologist is essential for preventing possible complications. If there have been nervous system disorders in your family, it is better to visit a doctor 1-2 times a year.
Newly available options for neurological patients
Every patient should understand that treatment by a neurologist is a rather long and complex process. Therefore, the best thing the person can do is to make an appointment with a physician on time after the first signs.
The choice of methods of confronting disease confronting is different for each person. Neurologists conduct tests and studies to find an effective treatment option. It will assess the functionality of the brain and nervous system. Treatment does not always mean the complete elimination of the disease. In particular, it is aimed at helping to relieve symptoms, slow the progression of pathology and maintain the quality of a patient's life.
Therefore, depending on the patient's condition, treatment measures can be:
- Urgent (emergency restoration of vital functions).
- Medicinal (improving nerve conduction, rapid repair of nerve connections, pain relief).
- Physiotherapeutic (aimed at restoring movement capabilities, abilities, skills and various body systems).
- Surgical.
There are some popular neurological procedures in foreign clinics:
Medications can successfully treat most diseases. There are hundreds of newly approved drugs for successful treatment. For example, Ocrelizumab (Ocrevus) was FDA-approved for multiple sclerosis and shows promising results. More than 40 drug groups are available for epilepsy that can be used in combination and provide seizure relief.
Transcranial magnetic therapy using NeuroAD and Brainsway installations - the method involves non-invasive deep stimulation of the cerebral cortex using magnetic impulses.
Deep brain stimulation technology is an excellent option for Parkinson's disease, tremors, epilepsy, dystonia, chronic pain and depression. It involves the introduction of electrodes into the subcortical regions of the brain of a device that sends electrical impulses. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a surgical procedure that involves placing an electrical device on the vagus nerve and activating signals in the brain. It allows doctors to increase activity in some regions of the brain.
Electrical stimulation to treat the consequences of an extensive stroke makes it possible to relieve muscle spasticity and restore motor activity as much as possible. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is also available to alleviate pain.
It is important to note that neurological diseases require different treatment conditions that a specialist can only determine.
Benefits for neurological treatment in foreign hospitals
Significant progress has been made in treating neurology abroad. Today it can help completely forget about the disease or improve the condition for a long time.
The clinics worldwide have unique electrophysiology laboratories, modern equipment, effective drugs, and blocks for monitoring the brain's work. All this helps establish the diagnosis and accurately prescribe the most effective treatment.
In addition, various diseases are treated with the help of drug therapy with the latest generation of drugs that have proven their effectiveness. Foreign doctors also use stem cell therapy as one of the latest methods.
Particular attention is paid to treating children with neurological diseases (mainly epilepsy or cerebral palsy). In addition, physicians treat small patients with relevant specialization in paediatrics. Some patients reported a long waiting list in their home country for a specialized doctor. However, private clinics in Europe have enough capability to make fast appointments and subsequent treatment programs.
FAQ
Can I get neurology treatment abroad?
Treatment abroad for neurological patients is the only way to fight the disease for many individuals. Often they turn to foreign clinics for help due to incompetence or defective equipment of household hospitals. And nowadays, this is no longer a problem and an unresolved issue, thanks to the presence of medical tourism. AiroMedical offers qualified assistance in organising treatment abroad. Our team will help you choose a clinic, select the treatment option, and provide translation and related services.
Is neurology treatment expensive in foreign countries?
The price of neurology abroad depends on the pricing policy of the country where the patient travels. Also, the final cost of the services is determined by the type of disease, severity, therapy methods and the doctor's qualifications. The minimum medical service prices are in hospitals in Turkey, and India and the maximum fees are in Germany and Israel.
Do I need a neurologist or a neurosurgeon?
The difference is that neurosurgeons deal with surgical problems related to the brain and spine. Neurologists are often more concerned with nonsurgical, degenerative issues related to neurological problems.
Can I see a neurologist without a referral from a primary doctor?
You do not need a special referral to receive qualified medical care and consultation. Leading private clinics and some public clinics accept patients by appointment. But to know for sure, you need to check the information of a specific clinic or specialist. AiroMedical team will help you choose an available clinic and neurologist for an appointment.
What are the most advanced treatment options in neurology?
Treating neurological diseases is very specific and requires an individualised approach for each case. In addition, this field of medicine is constantly improving and has great potential. After all, most nervous system disorders are still not completely curable. Popular neurological procedures are deep brain stimulation, focused ultrasound ablation, vagus nerve stimulation, and stereotaxic surgery.
What are the best clinics for Neurology?
Who are the best doctors for Neurology?
Prof. Dr. med. Christian E. Elger from Beta Clinic Bonn
Prof. Dr. med. Bernhard Hemmer from University Hospital Rechts der Isar Munich
PD. Dr. med. Florian Masuhr from Academic Hospital Bundeswehr Berlin
PD. Dr. med. Axel Lipp from Park Clinic Weissensee Berlin
Dr. med. Gerhard Siebenhuner from Centre of Advanced Medicine Frankfurt am Main