Neurology in Hungary

Neurology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and the treatment of diseases of the nervous system. The nervous system is a complex and sophisticated system that regulates and coordinates our body activities. It is divided into two major parts:

• The central nervous system: the brain and spinal cord
• The peripheral nervous system: all nerves branching out from the brain and spinal cord, and extend to other parts of the body, including organs and muscles.

Since the nervous system is complex, there are numerous subspecialties within the field of neurology, including:

• Neurodevelopmental disabilities
• Pediatric or child neurology
• Neuromuscular medicine
• Pain medicine
• Hospice and palliative care neurology
• Headache medicine
• Vascular Neurology (stroke care)
• Sleep medicine
• Autonomic disorders
• Brain injury medicine
• Neuropsychiatry
• Epilepsy
• Neurointensive care

A doctor who specializes in treating diseases of the nervous system is called a neurologist. Symptoms that often require a neurologist help may include coordination problems, muscle weakness, confusion, dizziness, and a change in sensation. People who are having problems with their senses, such as vision, touch, or smell, may also require to see a neurologist since problems with senses are sometimes caused by disorders of the nervous system.

A neurologist may also treat patients with:

• Stroke
• Seizure disorders, such as epilepsy
• Migraines and headaches
• Brain aneurysms
• Brain tumors
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Multiple sclerosis
• Infections of the nervous systems, such as meningitis, encephalitis, or brain abscesses
• Neuromuscular disorders, such as myasthenia gravis
• Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Lou Gehrig’s disease
• Sleep disorders
• Spinal cord disorders, such as autoimmune and inflammatory disorders
• Speech and language disorders

Keep in mind that neurologist does not perform surgery. If you need surgery, you will be referred to a neurosurgeon.

What does Neurology Involve?

A wide variety of different tests and procedures are used to diagnose and treat neurological conditions. On your first appointment with a neurologist, a physical and neurological exam is likely to be performed. A neurological exam is done to test muscle strength, coordination, and reflexes.

Because different diseases can have similar symptoms, more than one testing may be required for your neurologist to make a diagnosis.

Some of the procedures that fall into the field of neurology may include:

Electromyography

Electromyography (EMG) is used to measure how well your muscles react to electrical stimulation from motor neurons, which are specific nerves controlling muscle movement. It can help neurologists diagnose general muscle or nerve dysfunction, as well as spinal cord disease.

During an EMG, small needles called electrodes are inserted into the muscle by a specially trained technician. The electrodes can measure the different electrical activity occurring in muscle tissue during periods of movement and rest.

Electroencephalogram

Electroencephalogram (EEG) is performed to assess and record electrical activity in your brain. Neurons in our brain communicate with other neurons through electrical impulses, which an EEG can record. Brain wave patterns can also be tracked by an EEG. It is used to help diagnose conditions of the brain, including tumors, inflammation, injuries, as well as psychiatric disorders, epilepsy, and seizures.

During an EEG, electrodes are placed on your head. The electrodes are connected to a computer, which converts electrical signals into patterns that can be seen from a screen or printed on a piece of paper.

Lumbar puncture

Lumbar puncture is done to test your spinal fluid. It involves inserting a needle into your spine after numbing it with an anesthetic. Using the needle, a sample of your spinal fluid is taken.

A lumbar puncture can help diagnose the following conditions:

• Meningitis
• Encephalitis
• Leukemia
• Myelitis
• Dementia
• Autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Bleeding in the brain

The procedure can also be used to treat conditions affecting the spinal cord. Your neurologist may inject anesthetics, cancer treatments, or antibiotics using a lumbar puncture needle.

Tensilon test

To help diagnose myasthenia gravis, your neurologist may perform a tensilon test. It involves the injection of a medicine called Tensilon. Then, your neurologist observes how medicine affects your muscle movements.

Sleep study

Chronic sleep problems are diagnosed in a Sleep Study. Also known as a Polysomnogram (PSG), this procedure involves monitoring patients during sleep and physiological data is recorded electronically.

Other tests

Other types of tests may be used by your neurologist to make a diagnosis. These may include:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scan)
• Computed tomography (CT scan)
• Positron emission tomography (PET scan)
• Biopsy
• Genetic testing
• Angiography

Botox injections

Botox injections can be done to treat some neurological conditions, such as cerebral palsy, that can cause your limbs to pull in toward your center. Sometimes, these contracted muscles can be relaxed with Botox injections.

Botox injections involve injecting tiny amounts of botulinum toxin into your skin of muscles using a thin needle.

Brain tumor treatment

A range of treatments can be done to treat a brain tumor. If your neurologist believes that you need surgery, you will be referred to a neurosurgeon who will remove as much of the brain tumor as possible through surgery.

A brain tumor may also be treated with radiation therapy, which uses high-energy beams to kill tumor cells.

Brain tumor treatment may be integrated between the departments of neurology and oncology.

Brain rehabilitation therapy

Brain rehabilitation therapy is used to help you relearn functions that are lost as a result of a brain injury. Brain rehabilitation therapy is usually integrated between specialty teams in the departments of neurology, sports medicine, psychiatry and psychology, neuroradiology, and the vestibular/balance laboratory.

Deep brain stimulation

During deep brain stimulation, electrodes are implanted within certain areas of the brain. The electrodes generate electrical impulses that can regulate abnormal impulses. These electrical impulses may also affect certain chemicals and cells within the brain.

Deep brain stimulation can be done to treat numerous conditions, including dystonia, essential tremor, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease. It is also being studied as a potential treatment for multiple sclerosis and stroke recovery.

Spinal stenosis treatment

Spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the spinal canal narrows and pinches the nerves, leading to back and leg pain. Spinal stenosis may be treated with pain medications, physical therapy, steroid injections, decompression procedure, or surgery. Surgery is usually performed if other treatments have not helped.

How Long Should I Stay in Hungary?

Your length of stay depends on the type of procedure you have, you may be allowed to leave the hospital on the same day or you will stay for several days. For diagnostic procedures, you should be allowed to leave the hospital on the same day. However, you should wait until the results of the test are ready before you can fly home, which may take as long as 7 days, sometimes even longer. If you undergo brain tumor treatments or other types of treatment, especially treatments that involve surgical intervention, you should aim to stay in Hungary at least for 10 days.

What's the Recovery Time?

The recovery time can be different for each procedure. It may also depend on the reason why you are having the procedure and your overall health. Your neurologist and neurosurgeon will give you a recovery timeline for each procedure. The recovery period for diagnostic procedures is typically short and you may be able to resume your normal activities within a week or so. For surgical procedures, you may need to wait 4 weeks or months until you can go back to your daily routine, including work and exercise.

What About Aftercare?

A detailed aftercare instruction will be given to you following your procedure. While the instructions will be different for each procedure, they typically include a diet plan, exercise, restrictions, and wound care (if any surgical intervention is involved). You should follow these instructions carefully in order to have a speedy and smooth recovery.

You may also need to attend follow-up checkups to monitor your overall condition and healing. For brain tumors, you may need to attend regular checkups to ensure the tumor has not come back.

What's the Success Rate?

The field of neurology is constantly advancing. The success rate of each procedure is typically high, particularly when performed by highly skilled and experienced medical professionals. Still, some procedures may carry some risks, such as bleeding, infection, and nerve injury.

Are there Alternatives to Neurology?

Since neurology is the branch of medicine to diagnose and treat problems of the nervous system, there are no other alternatives. However, if your doctor found that your disease or illness is found to be caused by other problems unrelated to the nervous system, your doctor will recommend you to see the relevant doctor.

Neurology in and around Hungary

About Hungary

Positioned in the core of Central Europe and completely surrounded by land, this historically enriched nation is among the world's top 15 tourist favorites. It's a hotspot teeming with UNESCO World Heritage sites, a testament to its rich past.

The country boasts eye-catching architectural marvels and relaxing thermal baths and spas, the most talked-about amongst these being the Szechenyi baths nestled in the nation's capital, Budapest. This combination of cultural heritage and relaxation opportunities lends the country a unique charm that continually lures in visitors from around the globe.

While Hungary possesses only one facility accredited by the Joint Commission International, it leans on the trusted expertise of its local accreditation board. This board, licensed by pillars of authority such as the Hungarian Ministry of Health and the State National Health Commission and Medical Service, ensures the maintenance of high healthcare standards.

Each year sees a burgeoning number of medical tourists making the journey to Hungary. Many among them travel specifically for Neurology procedures. Dental and cosmetic treatments, in particular, draw significant attention due to Hungary’s competitive pricing, often regarded as the most economical across Europe.

Popular Parts of Hungary

With less than 10 million inhabitants sprinkled across an approximate area of 93,030 square kilometers, Hungary may appear relatively modest in size. However, within its boundaries, it hosts an impressive number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Alongside these acclaimed landmarks, it also boasts a multitude of exquisite attractions, making it a country that belies its physical size with its magnificently rich offerings.

• Budapest is the capital of Hungary. From beautiful boulevards, extraordinary architectures, an abundance of hot springs, to sophisticated food and an electric nightlife. Budapest has everything to satisfy everyone. Castle Hill is one of the most visited places in Budapest with beautiful buildings dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries.
• Eger is known for its castle, historic buildings, and thermal baths and also for its red wine. There are many festivals and celebrations centered around wine and remember to enjoy the wine-tasting when visiting Eger.
• Debrecen is an important city in Hungarian Protestantism. The city has many religious sites and museums. Tourists should visit the Great Church, St. Anne Cathedral, and the Deri Museum. Debrecen also has a lot of bars and nightclubs.
• Siofok is located at the southern coast of Lake Balaton. The small town also has beautiful beaches, making it one of the most popular summer holiday destinations. The town has many entertainment options, tourists can spend a lovely day on the beach next to Lake Balaton or enjoy the food in beachside bars and restaurants.
• Szeged is known as ‘The City of Sunshine’ because it has wonderful weather. The city offers beautiful parks, cultural scenes, and amazing street side cafes. Szeged has a youthful vibe as it is a university town. In the summer, there are many festivals such as the Open Air Theater festival.

Weather and Climate in Hungary

Hungary is characterized by the presence of four clearly demarcated seasons.

• Hungarian summers, spanning from June to August, are typically warm and agreeable, with average temperatures oscillating between 23 to 28°C (73 – 82°F). However, mercury levels can sometimes soar as high as 35°C (95°F). Tourists are advised to opt for lightweight clothing during this period. This season generally sees a tourism surge in Hungary.
• Both spring and autumn showcase milder, comfortable temperatures. Spring, in particular, is a splendid time to visit Hungary as the country's parks and fields burst into vibrant, full bloom.
• Winter presents a stark contrast with severely cold conditions. Average temperatures fall within -3 to -7°C (27 to 19°F), and can plummet to lows of -10°C (14°F). While rural areas may not be very visitor-friendly during this time, the more prominent cities continue to offer an enjoyable experience despite the cold.

Getting Around in Hungary

Hungary has five large airports, but international flights usually land at Ferenc Liszt International Airport. The airport is still commonly called “Ferihegy.” It offers international connections mainly to Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and North America. Several budget airlines such as Wizz Air, EasyJet, and Ryanair operate many flights from this airport. Flights to/from Schengen countries use Terminal 2A (also known as the Schengen terminal), while flights from non-Schengen countries use Terminal 2B. Another year-round international airport is Debrecen International Airport. The airport serves Wizz Air and Lufthansa along with several seasonal airlines. There aren’t many domestic flights in Hungary because traveling to one city to another usually only takes three hours by train or bus.

Visitors can get into the city from the airports by bus or taxi. If you wish to travel by taxi, make sure to use regulated taxis such as Főtaxi, the company has trained and experienced drivers to ensure passengers’ safety. The fare is 300 HUF/Km (1.03 USD). A ride to Budapest from Ferenc Liszt International Airport should cost around 7200 HUF (24.8 USD).

Buses are another easy option to get to the city center. Bus tickets are relatively cheap, single tickets are 350 HUF (1.30 USD) and can be purchased at the airport post office, BKK customer points in arrivals halls, the newsagents, and from the ticket machine at the bus stops. Drivers also sell tickets for 450 HUF (1.60 USD). It is recommended to buy daily or multi-day travel-cards and passes which are valid for an unlimited number of trips within their validity periods. The multi-day pass costs 1650 HUF (6.15 USD)

Hungary has a highly developed transport system. To travel to another city, tourists can use Intercity (IC), the fastest trains that link major cities with Budapest. Buses are a more economical way to travel inter-city. Buses are efficient. Tickets can be purchased from the bus driver. Taxis are good, but make sure to always inspect the change that taxi drivers give you. Drivers commonly give tourists outdated Romanian currency that looks similar to Hungarian currency but has no value. Hiring a car is another good option if you want to travel to many destinations, most roads are two lanes and the main roads are in good shape.

Tourist Visas in Hungary

European Union, American, and Canadian passport holders can stay in Hungary without a visa for up to 90 days, as long as the passport is valid for at least three months. Citizens of EU/EEA member and 33 countries are granted visa-free entry for a maximum period of 90 days.

Hungary is also a part of the Schengen Agreement. The Schengen Visa allows the holder to travel to any member countries using one single visa. The Schengen Visa is only issued to citizens of countries who are required to obtain a visa before entering Europe. For more information:

• Visitors to Hungary must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
• It is recommended to have travel insurance, as it is not required by law but can be very helpful in case of an emergency.
• Visitors to Hungary should be aware of the country's currency, the Hungarian forint (HUF). The exchange rate for the Hungarian forint fluctuates daily, but it is currently trading at around 350 HUF to the US dollar.
• Most businesses and establishments in Hungary accept credit cards and debit cards. However, it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases and for tipping.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: Although the Hungarian government wants to use the Euro as Hungary’s currency, the official currency is still Hungarian Forint (HUF). 1 USD is equivalent to 362.80 HUF.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are easily available within the country. Hotels, shops, and restaurants accept credit cards, especially, MasterCard, Visa, and American Express. Several taxis in Budapest also accept credit cards. Many hotels and guesthouses that give their rates in euros will accept payment with euros or forint. Tipping is not mandatory but will be appreciated.
3. Local Language: The official language is Hungarian. English is widely taught in schools and universities, so many young people can speak very good English. German is almost as widely spoken as English.
4. Local Culture and Religion: More than half of the population follows Christianity as it is a historically Christian country. Jewish, Buddhist, and Muslim are freely practiced and are in the minority.
5. Public Holidays: Hungary celebrates Christian holy days. The country hosts many annual festivals such as Hollókő Easter Festival, Busójárás, and Balaton Festival. Note that on national and public holidays, most businesses including shops and restaurants are closed. Public transportations also run less frequently.

With its stunning landscapes, laden with history and soaked in culture, Hungary truly is a gem to behold. Brimming with a myriad of delights to cater to diverse preferences, it offers everything from captivating landscapes and historical marvels to lively metropolises teeming with life, and a wealth of culinary delights. Indeed, Hungary ensures every visitor takes away an indelible wealth of wonderful memories.