What type of medical specialist focuses on disorders of the nervous system?

A neurologist is the medical specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating disorders of the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. This specialty encompasses a wide range of conditions, including stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and neuropathies, among others. Neurologists utilize a variety of diagnostic tools such as MRI and CT scans, as well as neurophysiological tests like EEGs and EMGs, to assess and manage neurological conditions effectively.

In contrast, a cardiologist specializes in disorders of the heart and circulatory system, focusing on conditions like heart disease and hypertension. An oncologist is concerned with cancer and the treatment of tumors, and a gastroenterologist specializes in disorders of the digestive system, including diseases affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. Each of these specialists plays a crucial role within their area of expertise, but it is specifically the neurologist who is dedicated to understanding and addressing issues related to the nervous system.