Partnering With Your Doctor

Neurologists are doctors with advanced training in diagnosing, treating and managing disorders of the brain and nervous system.  After 4 years of medical school, a neurologist does a 1-year general medical internship, then 3 years of dedicated neurology residency training.  Many neurologists do another year of fellowship training as well.  To do a thorough job, a neurologist needs to know all about the patient’s symptoms and prior medical history. Then, he or she can be more effective in diagnosing and treating the problem.  Diagnosing and managing a neurological disorder is a partnership between the patient and the neurologist.

Questions to Ask Your Neurologist

• What type of disorder do I have?
• How will this disorder affect my health?
• What treatments are available?
• What are the risks and benefits of the treatment?  Are there any alternatives?
• How will this disorder affect my daily life and activities?

Understanding your disorder and treatment may make it easier to live with its effects.