Helpful Hint from Psychiatrist Re: Neuro Appt

[maitrimama]

Simply put -

When going to a Neurologist lead with the neurological items/issues. You want to catch their attention and keep them listening.

[rdmc]

Good advice.

I was having a hard time at first with a couple neuros I saw and was about to give up. I think I was overwhelming them with a long list of symptoms. My PT, who was convinced my problems were neurological, told me to lead off the neuro appt. With no more than 3 straightforward problems. Next appt. I said to the neuro, "I'm having problems walking." and left it at that. She started asking questions, and that appt eventually led to my diagnosis.

[maitrimama]

Balance

Exactly!

My balance has become terrible (especially if I try to turn without much room). Not a huge deal to me because I adapt and compensate (back-up to where I have more room and then turn around). But my Psychiatrist says that is a top 3 for me as far as the neurologist is concerned.

I get overwhelmed with all my stuff so I have made a prioritized, very simple, like symptoms grouped together, most important at the top of each group. My PCP and Psychiatrists names and numbers at the bottom. My name and DOB at the top and a copy to leave with the Neurologist (and put in my file).

This can be modified for each and any specialist you visit. I am sure the Opthamologist doesn't need (or want) to know that when I "see" the bathroom I start to pee (sorry if that is TMI but it makes me laugh

[rsb]

Thanks so much for this thread! I am seeing an epileptologist tomorrow, and I've been having trouble gathering symptom notes. I can't give a verbal narrative these days at all, so I need the written version, and I'm definitely using your technique!

[KyleW]

I found this to be true as well. With the first neuro and first MS specialist I was afraid I was going to leave out the one key symptom, the one that would answer all questions!

With my current neuro I lead with walking like a drunk and followed that with double vision. I stopped there and he asked questions for nearly an hour

[techie]

If I should ever see another neuro

I will do this too!
Great advise.
techie