What Treatment Options Does a Neurologist Offer?
When you sustain any type of blow or bump to the head, the first thing you need to do is schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. Your doctor can conduct a preliminary assessment of the nature and severity of your injury and refer you to either a physiatrist or a neurologist, the only two specialists who can provide advanced care for a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI).
What Will a Neurologist Do to Treat You for a TBI?
The first thing a neurologist will do is conduct a thorough neurological exam in an effort to eliminate other potential causes of your symptoms. Typically, a neurological exam includes a CT scan, which can show signs of other causes, such as stroke, brain tumor, brain bleed, or skull fracture. Your neurologist may also use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology to see if you’ve had an aneurysm or to ascertain the presence of tumors, excessive fluid, or malformations on your brain.
Based on the results of the neurological exam, the neurologist may prescribe medication to manage or address symptoms such as persistent headaches and nerve pain. Many of the medications for TBI injury and concussion, however, have potential side effects, so you should work closely with the neurologist to adjust or suspend medications.
Your neurologist may also refer you to other specialists to assist you with the management of specific symptoms. For example, if you’re experiencing dizziness or vertigo, you may have problems in your inner ear, requiring vestibular rehab therapy.
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer a concussion or other type of TBI. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas, and San Antonio.