Frequently Asked Questions - Adults
Who is a neurologist?
A neurologist is a medical specialist who treats disorders of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and neuromuscular system (nerve and muscle).
How should patients choose a neurologist?
The most efficient way to determine that your neurologist is up-to-date is to verify his board certification. Neurologists should be certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. In addition to this general certification, physicians may have specific interests such as sleep medicine, vascular neurology (stroke medicine), epilepsy, to name a few. Board certification requires rigorous study and assures competence.
What does a neurologist treat?
This depends somewhat on the training and interests of the neurologist. All neurologists treat problems such as headaches (migraines and otherwise), seizures, dizziness, strokes, carpal tunnel syndrome and neuropathy (often resulting in numbness/tingling in the extremities). Other common conditions cared for by sub-speciality neurologists include sleep-related problems.
What is sleep apnea?
The most common form of sleep apnea encountered in a practice is obstructive sleep apnea. In this condition, breathing is disrupted in sleep by collapse of the airway during inspiration. This results in a drop of blood oxygen, an increase in blood carbon dioxide, and is often by conditions such as stroke, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, artrial fibrillation and hypertension. Patients’ families report loud snoring with occasional interruption in breathing. Patients typically report non-restful sleep with poor energy level despite what they consider to be adequate nocturnal sleep.
How is sleep apnea treated?
Obstructive sleep apnea is most commonly treated initially with CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure). In selected patients, most notably patients with relatively mild apnea or positional apnea (less prominent when not lying on back), a dental orthosis (mouth piece called a mandibular advancement device) may be helpful. There are surgical procedures that may be beneficial in carefully selected patients.
How has the neurology field evolved?
The most notable advances in neurology over the past decade have been in the field of imaging, such as magnetic response imaging (MRI) and genetics. It is increasingly important that neurologist remain up-to-date with these advances when directing a workup. For example, the protocol for performing an MRI of the brain varies depending on the problem (i.e., different views are needed in MS or vertigo than in seizures). This direction can streamline patient evaluation and help to hold down costs.
What can patients expect when they visit a neurologist?
Patients should expect a physician who listens tot heir medical history and pays attention to their concerns. If diagnostic testing is suggested, the neurologist should explain why it is needed in understandable terms Treatment options should also be explained with the goal of helping the patient participate in treating their neurological condition.
What is an EEG?
An EEG is otherwise called as a “brain wave test”. It records the electrical activity of the brain. Your doctor may order the EEG testing to evaluate for seizures, dizzy spells and varied neurological conditions as described in testing.
How do I prepare for the EEG testing? Can I still take my regular medications on the day of the testing?
Sometimes your doctor may advise you to be sleep deprived prior to the EEG testing. In that case, you will be required to sleep no more than 4 hours. This will help us in getting a more detailed assessment of your brain wave testing.
We recommend that you wash your hair the night before or on the day of the EEG testing. Please do not use any conditioners, hair creams or styling gels. You may take your regular medications, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions - Pediatric
I am concerned about my child’s development and learning. How can I get help?
Our pediatric neurologist evaluates and treats children with developmental delay, learning disabilities, Autism and ADHD. A comprehensive neurodevelopmental evaluation is performed at our office and some diagnostic testing may be recommended based on the evaluation. Our pediatric neurologist works closely with the family and the school to help advocate for the child’s academic and developmental needs.
I am concerned that my child may have autism. How can I get help?
Our pediatric neurologist has special interest in the field of Autism Spectrum Disorder. She evaluates and treats children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, performs diagnostic testing, including genetic tests (if needed). Following the diagnosis, you will also be guided about the various resources you could use for your child, to help with his/her overall development.
If you are concerned that your child may have autism, please call our office at 440-946-1200. We will be happy to accommodate you, within 1-2 weeks for a diagnostic evaluation.
I would like to bring in my child for an evaluation. Do I need a referral?
For pediatric patients, referral from your pediatrician is not mandated. However, if you happen to have any prior IEP reports or school evaluations, it may be helpful.
Do you offer same day appointments?
Our pediatric neurologist does offer same day appointments for children and young adults from 0-25 years of age, for both new and established patients.
What is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by children demonstrating significant difficulties with paying attention, staying on task, being hyperactive and sometimes impulsive. Sometimes, these behaviors are significantly disruptive at school as well as at home, necessitating further intervention.
What is the need for early diagnosis?
ADHD usually affects the part of the brain, which is involved in executive functioning. This includes multiple aspects including paying attention, organization, working memory, multi-tasking and impulse control. Any challenges in performing these tasks can result in long term consequences including academic failure, family stress and sometimes depression. One third of these children may continue to manifest these symptoms into adulthood. Early recognition and treatment is therefore very essential.
How can we help children with ADHD?
The diagnosis of ADHD in young children could be challenging, as there could be other conditions or mimickers, which may manifest in a similar way and may need a different approach. A comprehensive evaluation is therefore imperative and hence the need for early referral.