When to See a Neurologist
Recognise the signs that warrant a specialist consultation. Not all symptoms require urgent care, but some should never be ignored.
🚨 Call 000 Immediately For:
- • FAST signs: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 000
- • Sudden, severe headache ("thunderclap")
- • Seizure lasting more than 5 minutes
- • Sudden loss of consciousness
- • Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes
- • Sudden severe dizziness or loss of balance
These could indicate a stroke or other medical emergency. Every minute matters.
Common Reasons to See a Neurologist
Headaches & Migraines
Not all headaches need a neurologist, but some patterns warrant investigation.
See a neurologist if you experience:
- • Headaches occurring 15+ days per month
- • Migraines not controlled by over-the-counter medications
- • New headache pattern after age 50
- • Headaches with neurological symptoms (vision changes, weakness, confusion)
- • Headaches that wake you from sleep
- • Headaches worsening over weeks or months
Numbness & Tingling
Abnormal sensations can indicate nerve damage or neurological conditions.
See a neurologist if:
- • Numbness persists for more than a few days
- • Tingling affects both hands or feet (stocking-glove pattern)
- • Numbness is spreading or worsening
- • Accompanied by weakness or clumsiness
- • Affects one side of your body
- • Associated with back or neck pain
Muscle Weakness
True weakness (not just fatigue) can signal nerve or muscle disorders.
See a neurologist if:
- • Weakness is progressive (getting worse over time)
- • Difficulty with specific tasks (climbing stairs, gripping objects)
- • Muscle wasting or visible shrinking
- • Weakness affects one side or specific muscle groups
- • Associated with muscle cramps or twitching
- • Double vision or difficulty swallowing alongside weakness
Movement & Balance Problems
Tremors, difficulty walking, or coordination issues may indicate movement disorders.
See a neurologist if:
- • Tremor affecting daily activities (writing, eating)
- • Stiffness or slowness of movement
- • Balance problems or frequent falls
- • Involuntary movements (jerking, twisting)
- • Changes in handwriting (smaller, cramped)
- • Shuffling gait or difficulty initiating movement
Seizures & Blackouts
Any unexplained loss of consciousness or seizure activity requires evaluation.
See a neurologist if:
- • First-time seizure (always requires urgent evaluation)
- • Unexplained blackouts or fainting spells
- • Staring spells or brief "absences"
- • Unusual sensations before losing consciousness
- • Confusion after waking up
- • Biting tongue or losing bladder control during episodes
Memory & Cognitive Changes
Changes in thinking, memory, or personality may warrant investigation.
See a neurologist if:
- • Memory problems affecting daily life
- • Difficulty finding words or following conversations
- • Getting lost in familiar places
- • Personality or behaviour changes
- • Difficulty with planning or problem-solving
- • Concerns raised by family members about cognitive changes
How to Get a Referral
See Your GP
Discuss your symptoms with your general practitioner. They can assess whether a neurologist referral is appropriate.
Get a Referral Letter
Your GP will provide a referral letter, which is required for Medicare rebates on specialist consultations.
Book Your Appointment
Contact our practice to book. We'll request your referral and any relevant test results before your visit.
Ready to Book an Appointment?
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, our specialist neurologists are here to help.
Book Appointment