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SCL Health Medical Group - Butte

What to Expect – Neurological Care

Your brain and nervous system are delicate, complex and extraordinary. That’s why we take a team approach to neurological care. Our focus is the same as yours – effective, long-term outcomes.

Your neurological exam

When you come to us for your first visit, you can expect your provider to review your medical history and ask questions about your symptoms. During this visit it is likely you will have a physical exam, focusing on your brain and nerves.

Your doctor will assess:

  • Mental status
  • Speech
  • Vision
  • Strength
  • Coordination
  • Reflexes
  • Sensation (ability to feel things)

Preparing for your visit

It helps to prepare for your first exam:

  • Bring your medical history and previous test results, including your family medical history.
  • Write down all your symptoms, even the smallest ones can help your doctor diagnose your condition.
  • Make a list of your questions.
  • Bring a friend or family member to make sure you don't miss anything.
  • Bring a notebook to take notes. There will be a lot of information shared during this exam and you will want something to look at after you leave the office.

Diagnostic tests

At the end of this exam your doctor may have a good idea of your diagnosis, but you will probably have other tests to confirm it. Depending on your symptoms, these might include blood tests, urine tests, imaging tests, EEGs, EMGs, spinal tab or lumbar punctures or even a biopsy.

Learn more about neurological screenings and diagnostics.

Supportive care for your neurological condition

From your first visit through treatment and recovery, expect us to support you through every step. Our team coordinates your care, arranging for tests and procedures, consulting with other specialists and collaborating on the treatment that’s right for you.

Preparing for a neurological condition that requires surgery

 If you’re having surgery, we’ll help you and your family prepare and know what to expect. We’ll take care to control your pain and begin rehabilitation to get you moving as soon as possible. We’ll help you navigate paperwork, insurance and billing, as well as your transition home or to another care center.

What do I need to know before surgery?

Make sure you know why your doctor is recommending surgery and ask if you might need follow-up treatment. Ask how long it will be before you can get back to your normal routine so you have realistic expectations. Plan to take plenty of time to recover. Most importantly, follow your doctor’s instructions before and after your surgery.

What do I need to know about my surgery?

Many neurological procedures can be done while you are awake. Ask in advance so you’re not surprised. Our surgical and neurological team is dedicated to making this surgical treatment is painless; however, you may have a headache or feel uncomfortable after surgery. Ask your doctor how you can expect to feel and about your pain management options.

Understand how long your hospital stay might be or if this is an outpatient procedure

What about my surgery recovery?

Make sure you understand any long-term effects you can expect from surgery. Brain surgery can sometimes affect normal brain tissue so you may need additional physical therapyspeech therapy or occupational therapy to help you return to your day-to-day activities.

Learn more about rehabilitation you have after surgery.

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