Why control is especially important in neuroscience
Many neurological conditions are treated over a long period of time, and drugs are selected based on effect and tolerability: antiepileptics, drugs for neuropathic pain, drugs for migraine prevention require gradual dose selection. This can only be assessed on repeat visits. In addition, it is at the repeat appointment that the doctor analyzes the results of MRI, EEG and electroneuromyography - studies are prescribed at the initial appointment, and interpreted in the context of the clinical picture at the next one.
Primary and repeat appointment: what is the difference?
At the initial appointment, the doctor gets to know the patient: collects a detailed history, conducts a full examination, analyzes previously performed studies and builds a diagnostic hypothesis. This is the longest visit, and it is it that determines the entire further route.
A repeat appointment is shorter and solves another problem: to evaluate the results of prescribed studies, the effect of treatment and adjust therapy. You should not skip it - without control it is impossible to understand whether the assigned scheme is working.
How to prepare for your appointment
- collect the results of analyzes and studies, even old ones - dynamics are important
- write down the medications you are taking with doses
- formulate complaints: when did they start, what intensifies and what alleviates
- write down the questions you want to ask
What does the patient get as a result?
Conclusion with a diagnosis or preliminary diagnosis, examination plan, prescriptions with dosages and timing, as well as a guideline for the date of the follow-up visit. If the help of another specialist is required, the doctor gives a referral.