Neurology

From the brain to the spinal cord to the nerves and muscles throughout the body, neurology deals with the study and treatment of disorders of the nerves and nervous system. The neurologists at Deaconess Illinois Medical Center provide a variety of services to treat the health of this vital system.

Conditions Treated:

Alzheimer’s Disease/Dementia
A disorder of the mental processes caused by brain disease or injury, marked by personality changes, memory loss, confusion and related symptoms.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Commonly called Lou Gehrig’s disease. ALS is a disease of the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, affecting voluntary muscle movement.

Bell’s Palsy
A temporary paralysis of the facial nerve, causing muscular weakness or drooping on one side of the face.

Encephalopathy
Abnormal brain function occurring from different conditions, such as lack of nutrients, poisoning, infection, structural changes or lack of oxygen to the brain.

Epilepsy
Condition in which brain activity becomes abnormal, causing seizure, unusual behavior, sensations and loss of consciousness.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Rare syndrome in which body’s immune system attacks the nerves, causing weakness, tingling and paralysis.

Meningitis and Encephalitis 
Acute inflammation of membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include confusion, vomiting, inability to tolerate noise or light, weakness, visual problems and dizziness.

Multiple Sclerosis
Condition where the immune system attacks myelin, the “insulation” of the nerves. Common symptoms include fatigue, numbness, difficulty walking, weakness, visual problems, bladder issues and pain.

Parkinson’s Disease
Disorder of the central nervous system causing tremor, slowed movements and rigid muscles.

Peripheral Neuropathy
Damage to peripheral nerves causing weakness, numbness and pain, usually in hands and feet.

Headache
Pain anywhere in the head or neck. They can be classified as migraine, tension-type and cluster headaches.

Stroke
Blood supply to the brain is interrupted or severely reduced. Symptoms include trouble speaking, understanding, paralysis, numbness, visual problems, headache and trouble walking.