been to see neurologist

[ohpenny]

Hi everyone,

I went to see the neurologist for the first time on Monday. Well I was a bit perplexed to be honest. The whole appointment lasted about 45 minutes which is good, but the whole time he only wanted to focus on my headpains/aches, the other list of symptoms which I have been picking up over the last few months he wasn't interested in. He carried out some preliminary tests which my gp had already done prior to this appointment reflexes looking in eyes etc. I had some bloods done already and my gp wanted me to take the results along to my neuro appointment so they weren't repeated. I think my gp expected them to carry out some more. So did I actually. In the end he has told me to stop taking my Betahistine tablets which have been prescribed by my ent because of my suspected Minieres Disease.

I asked him what about my speech difficulties and other symptoms, he thinks the Betahistine has been causing them. He said my speech difficulties are probably because of my headaches and it's difficult to concentrate while in pain. I actually have speech difficulties when I don't have a headache.

I feel that all them weeks of waiting to see him and making a list of symptoms etc which I was told to do has been a waste of time. I need the Betashistine really because of my terrible balance. Aaah well I guess time will tell. Not sure I'll bother going to see him again though.

Bye for now everyone

[beachcomber13]

Sumana--That reporter may or may not have had migraines. That is what her press release said that she had. But you cannot believe everything you hear on the news. Or in person: I suppose that there have been MSers who have told people they were just tired or had twisted an ankle.

I love Buffy's idea of asking for your money back! You paid for care that you did not receive. My best friend has told me that I should ask for my money back from two of my neuros. She said they should give me my copay back and feel lucky that I did not report them to the licensing board. One actually said, "Well, I'll examine you, although I know I won't find anything." Amazingly, she didn't find anything when she examined me...

It is true that people will look for details that fit their vision of what you have. I got an incorrect diagnosis of endometriosis that way years ago. I regret letting that doctor railroad my answers. I was young and impressionable.

Penny, if you decide to switch doctors, try to avoid going to one in the same practice. Hopefully you have a few choices nearby.

[Buffy1970]

If you went in for a neuro work up and he didn't do in-office neuro tests (testing strength, watch you walk (in gown), stroke bottom of feet, etc.) I'd call his office and ask why he didn't and ask for your money back or the office visit you should have received.

I was a fool and it was over a year late when I found out my neuro was looking only for symptoms to fit his pref diagnosis.  Of course, it was also my fault.  I should have known when he started the visit by telling me of people he'd un-diagnosed of MS... ?  Truly.  I am a limbo-lander but have a slew of neuro issues.  So much that it turns out the docs were sure I was making them up.  I had no clue it was almost all neurological, didn't know anything about MS, and it's really only recently that I've realized how bad my care has been.

Don't settle for poor care from docs.  If you switch docs make sure the next won't do/not do the same.  You can't interview him but ask his office.  Know what he will do beforehand.  If he doesn't do something put him on the spot and ask why before you leave.

Demand the best care and see to it you get it.  Good luck.

[Sumanadevii]

I don't think the neuro gave your other symptoms the time of day and I would seek another opinion.  However, migraines can surely cause speech problems as witnessed by this reporter during a newscast.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IG7NuH5QTdE

[beachcomber13]

Speech difficulties because of your headaches? It is my professional opinion that this is very unlikely.

It is my personal opinion that this is BS, and I am so sorry for the disappointing visit.

[jensequitur]

It sounds like he really didn't give you a good workup.  I dislike when the neuro focuses on one thing to the exclusion of all else!  I personally would seek a second opinion.