London Neurology Specialist

FAQ

Why do I need to see a Neurologist?

Neurologists are specialists in dealing with disorders of the nervous system. Whether organic or functional, neurological disorders are complex and require detailed assessment by an experienced Neurologist. 

How long will my appointment last?

Dr Falah offers a 30-minute appointment for new referrals, and 15-20 minutes for a follow up (face to face or telephone). If you need a longer appointment, this can be arranged in advance. 

What does neurological examination involve?

Neurological examination is an assessment of your nervous system. It is done in a specific way to identify the signs of your disease or their absence. Your neurological and medical history help to focus the examination on the relevant parts of the nervus system. 

What is MRI scan?

MRI refers to “Magnetic Resonance Imaging”. It is the best modality in most cases to identify disorders of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Dr Falah will refer you for an MRI scan if you need it (unless you had it before the appointment). 

What is EMG?

Electromyography and nerve conduction studies are performed to assess the function of the peripheral nervous system. Dr Falah works with excellent Neurophysiologists who will examine you and liaise with Dr Falah to manage your case appropriately. 

I do not know if I need to see a Neurologist, can I get advice?

Dr Falah reviews every referral and query to make sure the appointment is appropriate, and in your best interest. You will be given the honest advice if Dr Falah cannot see you in his clinic. 

I would like a second opinion; can Dr Falah offer me an appointment?

Seeking a second opinion is not uncommon in medical practice. Dr Falah will review your previous assessments and tests results before accepting the referral. If he believes the appointment is necessary, you will be offered an appointment. 

I am unable to attend a face to face appointment, can Dr Falah assess me remotely?

Dr Falah offers virtual appointments, by video or telephone, for people who are unable to attend in person.

Most common questions related to Neurology

What is Neurology?

Neurology is the specialty that deals with symptoms and disorders of the nervous system

What are the main components of the nervous system?

• Central nervous system: brain and spinal cord
• Peripheral nervous system: nerve roots, plexus, peripheral nerves, neuromuscular junction, and muscles

What are common neurological disorders?

• Headache and migraine
• Blackouts, seizures, and epilepsy
• Sensory symptoms and neuropathy
• Movement disorder, tremor, and Parkinson’s disease
• Memory difficulty and dementia

How is a neurological examination conducted?

Examination during neurology consultation is tailored according to the presenting symptom/s. Main components are gait, cranial nerves, cerebellar, motor, sensory, and extrapyramidal examination

What is a stroke, and what are its risk factors?

Stroke is divided into different types depending on the cause:

• Ischaemic: when blood supply is compromised due to a blockage in an artery
• Haemorrhagic: when bleeding occurs inside the brain
• Venous: when a blood clot blocks a vein or venous sinus, this may result in blood supply compromise due to increased pressure

What is the role of a neurologist?

Neurologists are medical specialists who deal with disorders of the nervous system. They work with you and your family doctor (or other specialists and allied healthcare professionals) to help manage your symptoms or disease

How is Alzheimer’s disease diagnosed and treated?

Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed clinically by a neurologist (or other specialists such as old age psychiatrists) with expertise in cognitive disorders. There are supportive tests such as cognitive assessments, brain imaging, and/or cerebrospinal fluid markers

What is Parkinson’s disease, and how is it managed?

Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder. It usually affects people of middle to old age. There are different causes of Parkinsonism. You need to see a neurologist (or specialist with expertise) to confirm the diagnosis and decide on treatment plan (including medications, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy)

What is the difference between neurology and neurosurgery?

Neurology is the speciality which deals with the medical aspect of managing neurological disorders. Neurologists work closely with neurosurgery specialists when surgical interventions, or monitoring, of brain and spine structural abnormalities is necessary (such as tumours, bleeding, or spinal disc disease)

How does the nervous system control movement?

The process of controlling body movement is complex. There are several brain and spinal cord pathways involved in the process. When you see a neurologist, you will be shown which pathway is affected in your case (if applicable)

What is a migraine, and how is it treated?

Migraine is a common headache disorder, and one of the causes of young people disability. Migraine is known to be a reason for absence from work, and can significantly impact life style. The treatment plan varies depending on type of migraine, life style factors, medical comorbidities, current medications, and previously tried headache medications. Seeing a neurologist will help tailor the options depending on your individual needs

What is epilepsy, and how is it managed?

Epilepsy is diagnosed when an individual has more than one seizure, or a seizure with high risk of recurrence. The liability to have seizures is related to multiple factors, genetic and acquired. Managing seizures needs to be done under supervision of a neurologist with expertise in treating epilepsy, you will be offered a medication which suits your life style, comorbidities, and concurrent medications if any

What are the symptoms of multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune mediated disease of the brain and spinal cord. It is one of the most common causes of disability in young people. Common symptoms include fatigue, loss of vision, imbalance, tremor, sensory disturbance, weakness, bladder or bowel symptoms. It is important to know that these symptoms are not specific for MS; being assessed by a neurologist is recommended if MS is suspected

What is a neuromuscular disorder?

Neuromuscular disorders are the group of diseases which affect the nerves, muscles, or neuromuscular junction. Examples of which are: peripheral neuropathy (acute/Guillain-Barre, chronic, hereditary and others), myopathy, muscular dystrophy, myositis, myasthenia gravis, Lambert Eaton syndrome, and motor neuron disease (ALS included)

Can lifestyle choices impact neurological health?

Lifestyle factors are crucial in neurological health. One of the important aspects of your neurological assessment is discussing lifestyle; this includes social history, diet, smoking, alcohol, recreational drugs, and sleep pattern

How is a concussion diagnosed and treated?

Concussion is often diagnosed after mild head injury or whiplash injury. While it is not life threatening, the impact on lifestyle can be significant and long-lasting. Treatment of concussion is usually supportive, and tailored depending to the predominant symptoms. However, it is important to be aware of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons recommendation to seek immediate medical assistance if any of the following occurs:

• slurred speech
• trouble waking up, or you cannot wake them
• seizures
• consistent vomiting
• history of multiple concussions