Hindsight is always 20/20 but when it comes to seeing a neurologist, foresight is vital. Time spent with the right neurologist can be the difference between relief and worry, prevention and treatment, and life and death. Here’s a quick cheat-sheet to ensure that you are educated, that you ask the right questions, and that you find the right solutions.
WHEN SHOULD I SEE A NEUROLOGIST?
Headaches - Coupled with light sensitivity, stiff neck, vomiting, or numbness.
Chronic pain - Coupled with numbness, weak muscles, bladder control, or worsening conditions.
Dizziness - Vertigo (like you’re on a nonstop merry-go-round).
Numbness or tingling - Non-gradual, instant, and leaving you weak (especially acute to one side of the body).
Weakness - When you suddenly can’t perform everyday tasks.
Movement - Tremors, stiffness, random lack of flexibility, immediate decrease in coordination.
Vision - Seeing double, light sensitivity, blurred (close one eye – if the problem remains, see a neurologist)
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO MY NEUROLOGIST APPOINTMENT?
List of all medications - Any you are on or have taken in the past few years.
Medical histories - Any labs results, images/scans, doctor notes/summaries, etc.
List of inabilities - Certain movements, tasks, or other behaviors that are becoming difficult and/or making others concerned.
List of ailments - Pain, discomfort, disturbances, symptoms that are presenting.
Family or friend - Somebody to take notes and ensure the neurologist is understood.
QUESTIONS TO ASK THE NEUROLOGIST
Medications - Do you understand everything you’ve been told (doses, side effects, results, warnings, etc) about prescribed medication?
Lifestyle – Any advice or suggestions on how you can improve and optimize sleep, eating, exercise, relationships, etc.?
Information - Are there any brochures, websites, or other information you can access for yourself and friends or family?
Time - When should you come back? When should you expect results? When should you start seeing changes?
You - Are there any tasks, exercises, or unique responsibilities your neurologist is expecting of you?
Of course, each situation and appointment is unique. The overall message here, and hopeful helpfulness, is to understand that preparation makes all the difference. Empower yourself to make the most of your time with your neurologist, and to see him or her before it’s too late. Christopher Duma and his team are especially focused on their patients’ comfort, understanding, and treatment. To talk to a specialist or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Duma, please call 949-642-6787.
