Neurosurgery is a massive step. Not only financially, but also emotionally. Any medical interventions can leave a huge emotional impact on both – the child and you.
While you may pray for the good health of your child, sometimes it is inevitable to make a visit to a hospital. Especially when it comes to problems related to the brain and nervous system.
In this article, lets understand when does a child need a pediatric neurologist’s consult. Some of the points which we will be covering below are:
- Symptoms which call for neuro care
- A brief understanding of pediatric neurologist
- A brief understanding of pediatric neurosurgeon
Which symptoms should you watch out for?
Following symptoms may seem like a passing thing, however, if these are not addressed at the right time, they could land your child in an OR.
Migraines or headaches:
While headaches can be a cause of insufficient sleep or indigestion, migraines aren’t. A migraine is predominantly a very severe and debilitating headache. It can cause sensitivity to light, nausea, and difficulty in vision.
Many times, headaches can be treated with water, rest, and over-the-counter pain medication. However, prolonged or repeated migraines may require professional medical assistance such as a pediatric neurosurgeon’s consult.
Seizures:
When it comes to children, there are certain things which are common, and seizures aren’t one of them. Nevertheless, they aren’t as uncommon as you think. Febrile seizures may appear scary however, they do not lead to epilepsy or cause lasting harm. However, if it is left unattended, the repercussions of it could be severe.
If you see your child experiencing these seizures, we recommend you visit a pediatrician at the earliest. Your child’s pediatrician will be in a better position to recommend a neurologist and a pediatric neurosurgeon.
Usually, the process for a pediatric neurosurgeon’s consult is:
Who is a Pediatric Neurologist?
Pediatric neurologists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating problems with children’s brain and nervous system. The nervous system is a complex system and is responsible for sending signals which move between the brain and other parts of the body. The pediatric neurologists generally recommend treatments and medicines based on the diagnosis. However, if your child needs a medical procedure such as neurosurgery, then the neurologist recommends a pediatric neurosurgeon.
Who is a pediatric neurosurgeon?
Pediatric neurosurgeons are doctors who perform complex surgeries of the brains and nervous system on children. They are skilled to understand, diagnose, and offer apt treatments which are required for the proper functioning of a child’s brain and nervous system. It is true that ‘prevention is better than cure,’ however certain problems are beyond prevention. Neurological dysfunctionality is one of them. Hence, as soon as you notice the slightest change in your child’s behavior, it is best to visit their pediatrician to know if a pediatric neurosurgeon’s consult is required.