If your child requires the attention of a neurologist, you might assume that any neurology doctor would suffice. However, understanding the disparity between adult and pediatric neurology can be enlightening.
Education
A crucial divergence lies in the educational background. Adult neurologists have fulfilled all the requirements for their specialization, while pediatric neurologists in NJ have undergone an additional average of 2 years focusing on pediatrics. This extended training equips pediatric neurologists in NJ to better interact with young patients.
Focus
The focus of pediatric neurology in New Jersey starkly contrasts with that of adult neurology. Neurological issues in children often stem from birth defects, leading pediatric neurology in New Jersey to prioritize symptoms that manifest suddenly rather than gradually over time.
Age Differences
Pediatric neurologists in New Jersey typically attend to patients under 16 years old, whereas adult neurologists cater to those above this threshold. If a patient has been under the care of a pediatric neurologist since childhood, they are typically referred to an adult neurologist upon turning 16.
Epilepsy
Pediatric seizures pose a significant challenge for children in New Jersey, potentially arising from various neurological disorders. If severe, pediatric epilepsy can be life-threatening and disrupt learning. However, a skilled neurologist should be adept at identifying pediatric epilepsy before it escalates into a major concern.
For further clarification on the distinctions between adult and pediatric neurology, feel free to reach out to the Neurology Center for Epilepsy and Seizures through their website.
