Help preparing for 1st neuro appt.

[Military_Wifey]

Hi all! I actually got Tricare and pcp off their butts to approve the Neuro consult. I was fortunate to find a participating MS Neuro at the University. I have my appt on Monday the 22nd. What should I do to prepare for it? Write a timeline, bring medical records of all visits for symptoms, list of questions, MRI CD? Will they do nero exam or EP's? I'm happy to be a step closer to finding out what's going on but nervous all the same.  :-) Help!

-Dee

[Military_Wifey]

Thanks for the link! I checked it out and now have a much better idea how to keep track of symptoms...for me, and for the doc. :-)   As always, I appreciate the help!

-Dee

[Lulu54]

Dee-I have bumped Q's timeline instructions.  I'm tired tonight but will check on you tomorrow to see if you have more questions.
my best,
Lu



http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Multiple-Sclerosis/Timelines---All-About/show/754326

[Military_Wifey]

Thanks to both of you! I appreciate the insight!

-Dee

[JulesL5S1]

My primary neuro referred me to another neuro for a second opinion.  I am as of yet undx.  The symptoms fit MS but there are no lesions visible on any MRIs.  

To prepare for this 2nd opinion appt I reviewed and updated my time lines.  I also had medical records with me from the last 10 years.  

This doctor did not want to see my written records.  Instead he asked me to detail my history and he typed it into his records (I assume making whatever comments he needed).  That took over 30 minutes just for that.  He also reviewed copies of the blood tests that I've had to eliminate rare diseases, etc and he reviewed the MRI reports.  

He then performed one of the most detailed neuro tests that I have had in a long time.

Finally my evoked potentials test with really abnormal results he is having redone at his University Hospital.

So bottom line, be prepared for any approach.  Many of the medical offices that I go to now are more computer based.  That can throw you for a loop.  However, having the written timeline will help YOU recall events and put things in order.  

My theory, better to have the records with you then not.  Just be organized.

Best of luck at your appt.

[ShockedToday]

I would take just your test results (mri, lp, etc) if you have any.  When I went for my 2nd opinion I decided to not take a time line as when I took one to my first neuro he just glanced at it briefly and tossed it aside.  Maybe just bring a list of medications and dates of tests and leave it at that?  HTH

ST

[Military_Wifey]

Thanks! I look forward to hearing from you! Also, when you are back on..for timeline do I only mention what I sought care for, or anything unusual? Because of my varied history I didn't always go and get seen for problems most people would be concerned about.

-Dee

[Lulu54]

Dee,
Yea for pushing TriCare to do the referral.  I have to leave now for the evening but will check in later and make sure you got some answers.

my best,
Lulu