5 big signs you should see a neurologist

If you’ve had a brain injury, seizure, or stroke—the fifth leading cause of death in the United States—it’s likely you saw a neurologist at the hospital. A neurologist is trained in diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the nervous system, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), epilepsy, and other ailments of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.

Neurologists deal with some serious stuff, but they also help manage smaller shifts in your health, like a change in sleep patterns or sudden memory trouble. These shifts may not seem all that significant, but they shouldn’t be ignored.

If you experience changes in balance, cognition, headaches, or vision, make an appointment with a healthcare provider (HCP) to be checked out. An HCP who knows the most about your physical and mental health history may be best suited to help. After assessing your condition, your HCP can refer you to a neurologist if necessary.

Here are five common but lesser-known reasons you should be referred to a neurologist, plus signs you should head right to the emergency room.