I just had two MRIs - one that showed a barely perceptible lesion on my cervical spinal cord and another that showed small brain lesions that they say most likely point to MS. The MRI report says the lesions are inactive at this time. Forgive me, I am new to all of this, so I'm not sure if I'm saying this right. Anyway, I have been referred to a neurologist, but how do I know if this is the best one? How does someone go about finding the right doctor?
The only symptom I have is some numbness in my right hand that has been present for the past 5 or 6 months. I have seen a chiropractic neurologist and a physiatrist who ordered the first MRI which then lead to the second. They both think that the numbness is not actually related to the lesions, but since they have been discovered, I obviously want to see a neurologist. My concern is getting a proper diagnosis and someone who will do a thorough job. Any suggestions?
Choosing a good neurologist?
Re: Choosing a good neurologist?
Hi Bibigallini,
Well, one idea that came to mind is that you could go to a local MS support group and ask the people there what they thought of their neurologist. You can contact your area's MS Society chapter to find support groups near you.
NHE
Well, one idea that came to mind is that you could go to a local MS support group and ask the people there what they thought of their neurologist. You can contact your area's MS Society chapter to find support groups near you.
NHE
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ShootingStar
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- Joined: Tue Mar 25, 2008 3:00 pm
- Location: Nevada, USA
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Check out the Dr. you have been referred to online and see if he/she SPECIALIZES in MS. If he/she works with a big university med center nearby, that's good. Then just see if you like the Dr. and go from there. Be sure the Dr. gets your MRI's before your appt. too.
He/she will do all these crazy (but ouchless) tests on you like watching you walk, do a toe-to-toe thing, finger to nose etc. and look closely at your eyes. I didn't even need an LP (Lumbar Puncture) myself, my neuro is an MS specialist and knows what to look for really well. Best Wishes.
He/she will do all these crazy (but ouchless) tests on you like watching you walk, do a toe-to-toe thing, finger to nose etc. and look closely at your eyes. I didn't even need an LP (Lumbar Puncture) myself, my neuro is an MS specialist and knows what to look for really well. Best Wishes.
~Kim in NV
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bibigallini
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- Joined: Mon Apr 28, 2008 2:00 pm
Hey thanks, that's helpful. I think I found a clinic that looks promising. Fortunately here in Seattle we have some great clinics and the University of Washington medical center, so there are some good ones to choose from, it's just finding which route is the best one to take. But your suggestions helped me narrow it down. Thanks!