Neurological Care (Migraines, Dementia, Neuropathy etc.)

“Neurological conditions affect many people, including the elderly. I see patients with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, migraines, neuropathy and other common neurological problems. If you think you have a condition requiring neurological care, I am happy to see you.” 

-Dr. Bella Zimilevich, MD

Neurology 101

Neurology is the branch of medicine dealing with problems affecting the nervous system. Your nervous system controls both voluntary and involuntary actions and movements. It is divided into two branches, the central nervous system, which includes the brain and the spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system, which is comprised of nerves which communicate (send signals) between the brain and the spinal cord and the rest of your body.

Neurological problems I can help with:

– Dizziness
– Migraine Headaches
– Shingles
– Trigeminal Neuralgia

What are common symptoms requiring neurological care?

The following is a list of common symptoms/conditions that I see in my clinic:

• tremors/Parkinson’s disease
• migraines/headaches
• facial pain (trigeminal neuralgia)
• cognitive dysfunction (Alzheimer’s/dementia)
• numbness/tingling in the extremities (peripheral neuropathy)
• dizziness/vertigo
• seizure disorders
• restless legs syndrome
• sleep apnea
• sciatica/back pain

What can I expect when I come to see you?

If you come in to see me with a neurological complaint (or what I suspect may be a neurological problem), I will begin by asking you about your symptoms- how long have you had them, what makes them better or worse and if they are getting worse over time. I’ll ask about your family history, your past medical history and any medications you are taking.

I will perform an exam which may be limited to a specific area or may include your entire body. I may test your reflexes, check your vision and/or hearing, watch you walk, test for sensation in your extremities or check for other signs of a neurological condition. What I  do will be largely dependent on what brought you in to see me.

I may order tests depending on your symptoms and the results of my examination. Tests may include blood work, some of which can be done here in the clinic. Sometimes specialized tests are required, such as CT scans, MRIs or other imaging exams. If I feel such a test is necessary, arrangements can be made through the clinic.

Why is seeing a geriatrician important if I have neurological symptoms?

I have completed a fellowship in gerontology, which means that I have specialized training in treating problems affecting the elderly, including neurological conditions. Chances are, I have treated other patients with your condition or symptoms.

Rest assured, however, that if I can’t get to the bottom of what is causing your symptoms I can help you find a variety of different doctors in other fields to get you the comprehensive treatment you need.

If you are experiencing headaches, migraines, numbness and tingling, pain or other symptoms that you feel may be related to a neurological condition, make an appointment today to come in and see me. With some neurological conditions, it is important that you receive a diagnosis and receive the proper treatment as soon as possible, so don’t delay- make an appointment today.

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