How does a neurologist check for nerve damage?

By measuring the electrical activity they are able to determine if there is nerve damage, the extent of the damage and potentially the cause of the damage. Frequently the neurologist will recommend common, noninvasive neurological evaluations such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) testing.

What are the signs of nerve damage?

What does a neurologist do for nerve damage?

A neurologist can help identify the cause of symptoms and create a treatment plan for both common and complex neurological conditions. During a neurological exam, instruments, such as lights and reflex hammers, may be used to assess the nervous system.

How does a neurologist test your nerves?

A test of the communication between a nerve and the muscle it works with called an electromyogram, or EMG. This is done with electrodes on your skin or a needle put into a muscle. A series of tests called evoked potentials to measure your brain's response to stimulation of your hearing, vision, and certain nerves.

How painful is EMG test?

Is an EMG test painful? EMG testing may result in some discomfort, but it is usually well tolerated without any need for pain medication.

Neurology - Nerve Damage and Regeneration

Where are needles inserted for EMG?

A neurologist will locate the muscle(s) to be studied. The skin will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution. Next, a fine, sterile needle will be inserted into the muscle. A ground electrode will be positioned under your arm or leg.

Can you be sedated for an EMG?

Your EMG will be performed in a hospital or outpatient setting. The procedure takes one to three hours and generally includes these steps: You will dress in a patient gown and remove any items that may interfere with the an electromyogram. You might take a mild sedative.

What does neurologist do on first visit?

During your first appointment, a Neurologist will likely ask you to participate in a physical exam and neurological exam. Neurological exams are tests that measure muscle strength, sensation, reflexes, and coordination. Because of the complexity of the nervous system, you may be asked to undergo further testing.

What does a neuro exam consist of?

The neurologic examination is typically divided into eight components: mental status; skull, spine and meninges; cranial nerves; motor examination; sensory examination; coordination; reflexes; and gait and station. The mental status is an extremely important part of the neurologic examination that is often overlooked.

What to do if you think you have nerve damage?

Depending on the type and severity of your nerve injury, you may need medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) to relieve your pain. Medications used to treat depression, seizures or insomnia may be used to relieve nerve pain.

Can an MRI show nerve damage?

Nerve damage can usually be diagnosed based on a neurological examination and can be correlated by MRI scan findings. The MRI scan images are obtained with a magnetic field and radio waves. No harmful ionizing radiation is used.

Can blood test detect neurological problems?

Blood tests can monitor levels of therapeutic drugs used to treat epilepsy and other neurological disorders. Analyzing urine samples can reveal toxins, abnormal metabolic substances, proteins that cause disease, or signs of certain infections.

How long do damaged nerves take to heal?

If your nerve is bruised or traumatized but is not cut, it should recover over 6-12 weeks. A nerve that is cut will grow at 1mm per day, after about a 4 week period of 'rest' following your injury. Some people notice continued improvement over many months.

Is nerve damage a disability?

If you suffer from a condition that causes nerve damage that is so severe that it impacts your ability to work for at least a year, you may be eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits.

Can nerve damage heal on its own?

Occasionally, the nerve is bruised, and may heal on its own in time. However, if a nerve is cut or crushed, it may need surgical treatment in order to help improve or restore function to the hand or arm. Sometimes, certain illnesses can affect nerves and cause similar symptoms in the upper extremity.

Which is the most common neurological disorder?

1. Headache. Headaches are one of the most common neurological disorders—and there are a variety of different kinds of headaches, such as migraines, cluster headaches, and tension headaches.

Why does a neurologist look in your eyes?

As functional neurologists, the eyes are our window to look into the brain and nervous system.

Why would I be referred to a neurologist?

Neurologists are specialists who can assess, diagnose, manage, and treat conditions that affect your nervous system. Your doctor might refer you to a neurologist if you're having symptoms that could be caused by a neurological condition, such as pain, memory loss, trouble with balance, or tremors.

What questions should I ask the neurologist?

How do I prepare for a neurologist appointment?

It's important to plan what you want to tell your doctor. If possible, let your physician know at the start of the office visit (or even before the visit, such as by phone) about changes in your health. Make a list of the top three things you want your neurologist to know and bring it with you to your visit.

When should you see a neurologist for numbness?

Numbness or weakness that comes on suddenly or happens on one side of the body (if you think you are having a stroke, however, go to the emergency room or call 911 immediately) Persistent (over weeks or months) or worsening numbness. Chronic muscle weakness or a rapid decline in muscle strength.

How long does it take to get results from an EMG?

When should I know the results of an electromyography (EMG) test? You can expect to receive the results of the test typically within 24 to 48 hours after testing is completed.

What can throw off an EMG test?

Certain drugs that act on the nervous system (such as muscle relaxants) can interfere with electromyography results. You may need to stop taking these three to six days before the test. Have had bleeding problems or are taking blood thinning drugs, such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin.

Is a nerve conduction test painful?

As the nerve is stimulated, you will experience a brief electrical shock. This may feel uncomfortable, but it usually isn't painful. The entire procedure usually takes about 20-30 minutes to complete. In some cases, nerves may be tested in multiple locations, which can make the procedure take slightly longer.

What should you not do before an EMG?

If you're able to have an EMG, you should do the following beforehand: Avoid smoking for at least three hours before the procedure. Bathe or take a shower to remove any oils from the skin. Don't apply any lotions or creams after washing.