In short
- Neurologists diagnose and manage migraine, epilepsy, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and related conditions.
- Reviewing a known condition or talking through recurring headaches often works by video.
- A full neurological examination and tests such as MRI and EEG are done in person.
- A drooping face, weak arm or slurred speech means calling 998 immediately.
Know the signs of a stroke
Remember FAST: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech problems, Time to call 998. Call even if the symptoms stop. Early on, nobody can tell a mini stroke from a full stroke, so you still need to be assessed in hospital.
Also call 998 or go to an emergency department for a headache that starts suddenly and is extremely painful, a headache after a recent head injury, a headache with numbness, confusion, loss of vision or a stiff neck, or a first seizure.
What a neurologist treats
According to the American Academy of Neurology, a neurologist is a doctor trained in disorders of the brain and nervous system, including Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, migraine, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and stroke. Neurologists do not usually operate. That is a neurosurgeon’s work, although the two often work together.
People commonly see one for recurring headaches, numbness or tingling, dizziness, tremor, memory concerns or seizures. WHO says headache disorders are among the most common disorders of the nervous system, so you will not be wasting anyone’s time.
What moves online, and what cannot
The American Academy of Neurology points out that diagnosis depends on a detailed history and a physical examination, testing things such as strength, sensation, coordination, reflexes and walking. A few of these can be partly observed on camera. Most need hands-on assessment, and a video visit does not replace that for a new problem.
Video tends to work better for follow-ups. A neurologist can review your headache pattern, talk through scan results you already have, check how treatment is going or help you decide whether a referral is needed. CT, MRI, EEG and nerve conduction studies all need a visit to a facility.
If you take a medicine classed as controlled, keep in mind that the DHA telehealth standard does not allow it to be prescribed through telehealth in Dubai. Ask how it will be managed, and do not stop it without speaking to your doctor.
Useful things to prepare
- A symptom diary. For headaches, note the date, how long it lasted, what came before it, and any changes in your vision. Some people notice a link to their periods.
- A video of the event, if someone can safely film a seizure or a tremor. It can tell a neurologist a great deal.
- A witness, if you lost awareness. Ask them to join the call.
- Scan images and reports, not only the summary.
- Your medicine list, including over-the-counter painkillers and how often you take them.
Finding a neurologist through medicAI
You can browse neurologists by specialty in the medicAI doctor list, and each profile shows the fee before you book. Neurologists on medicAI work at independent facilities licensed by DHA in Dubai or DoH in Abu Dhabi, and those facilities are responsible for your care.
Neurology doctors on medicAI
These doctors work with independent licensed facilities. See all doctors.
Questions people ask
Can a neurologist diagnose me by video?
A neurologist can narrow things down from your history, but diagnosis usually relies on a physical examination and sometimes tests such as MRI or EEG. Expect to be asked to attend in person for a new problem.
Should I see a neurologist for migraines?
Many people with migraine start with a GP. A neurologist is worth considering if attacks are frequent or severe, or if treatment has not helped. Bring a diary of your headaches to the appointment.
What should I do after a first seizure?
Call 998 if someone has a seizure for the first time. Afterwards, ask the hospital about follow-up with a neurologist, and write down what witnesses saw.
Sources and further reading
- What is a neurologist? (AAN)
- Migraine and other headache disorders (WHO)
- Symptoms of a stroke (NHS)
- Transient ischaemic attack (TIA) (NHS)
- Headaches (NHS)
- Migraine (NHS)
- Epilepsy (NHS)
- Standards for Telehealth Services, Version 4 (DHA)
Read next
medicAI is not for emergencies. If someone is seriously ill or injured, call 998 or go to the nearest hospital.
This page is general information. It does not replace advice from a doctor who knows your situation. medicAI is a technology platform. Care is given by independent licensed facilities, who are responsible for it and for its outcome.
