Neurologist: what they treat and when to see one
A neurologist specializes in the nervous system: the brain, spinal cord, and the nerves running through the body. They diagnose and manage conditions ranging from migraine to epilepsy to neuropathy.
What a neurologist treats
- Frequent or severe headaches and migraines
- Dizziness and vertigo
- Numbness, tingling, and nerve pain
- Tremors and movement disorders
- Seizures and epilepsy
- Memory problems and cognitive change
- Multiple sclerosis, neuropathy, and stroke follow-up
When to see a neurologist
- Headaches are frequent, worsening, or not responding to treatment
- You have persistent numbness or tingling in your hands or feet
- You notice a tremor that is getting worse
- Memory lapses are affecting daily life
- You experience recurring dizziness or balance problems
When to seek urgent or emergency care instead
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you experience any of the following. Do not wait for an appointment.
- Sudden severe headache described as the worst of your life
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Sudden trouble speaking, seeing, or walking
- A first-time seizure, or a seizure lasting more than five minutes
Do you need a referral?
Many insurance plans require a referral from a primary care physician before they will cover a specialist visit. Our referral checker shows how each plan type usually works. If you are unsure, start with your primary care physician. They can evaluate the problem, treat it directly if appropriate, and refer you if not.
Related symptom guides
Related specialties
Prepare for your appointment
Appointments are short. Our appointment prep sheet builder puts your symptoms and the right questions on one printable page you can take with you.
Sources
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine (medlineplus.gov)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov)
- Relevant national medical specialty association guidance
This is not medical advice. This guide explains what a specialty treats so you can pick the right type of doctor. It does not diagnose conditions. In an emergency, call 911. Read our full medical disclaimer.