neurology-center-of-las-vegas

Stroke/TIA

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 14:43:40 GMT

Stroke/TIA

Strokes are one of the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. This is basically a vascular event affecting the brain, frequently leading to paralysis, balance problems, speech effects, vision problems, dizziness. A TIA or mini stroke is when the symptoms of stroke resolve within 24 hours. It is frequently a “warning” for a major stroke. The risk factor for stroke include age, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol and smoking. Irregular heart rate is another risk factor which may require potent anticoagulant treatment. Risk factor control and primary as well as secondary stroke prevention are undertaken in terms of treatment. Diseases of the carotid artery may also lead to strokes, which is sometimes corrected surgically.

IV Infusions

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 14:40:55 GMT

IV Infusions

Many powerful prescription medications aren't suitable for oral use and need to go straight into your bloodstream. Shanker Dixit, MD , and his team at Neurology Center of Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada, have an IV infusion center onsite where you can receive your treatment in relaxing, comfortable surroundings. To find out how you could benefit from IV infusions, call the Neurology Center of Las Vegas to speak to the specialist infusion nurse or book an appointment online today.

WHAT ARE IV INFUSIONS?

Many drugs aren't suitable for oral ingestion, so IV (intravenous) infusions provide an alternative to taking medications by mouth. Neurology Center of Las Vegas has an IV infusion suite for your convenience, staffed by an experienced registered nurse who specializes in delivering these treatments.

IV infusions can treat a variety of serious neurological conditions and other diseases, including:

Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Dementia
Parkinson's disease
Migraines
Myasthenia gravis
Neuropathy
Polymyositis
Guillain-Barré syndrome
Autoimmune disorders

IV infusions require you to have a needle in an arm or hand vein that connects to a slender tube (cannula). Your medication is a liquid solution suspended in a bag that goes straight into your bloodstream via the cannula.

The liquid medicine drips along the cannula and into your vein for about an hour. Other than a slight scratch as the needle goes into your vein, IV infusions are painless.

WHAT TYPES OF MEDICATION ARE AVAILABLE VIA IV INFUSIONS?

Neurology Center of Las Vegas offers a range of IV infusion medications for neurological and other conditions, including:

IVIg

IVIg (intravenous immune globulin) treats various autoimmune neurological disorders, such as myasthenia gravis.

TYSABRI®

TYSABRI treats relapsing types of multiple sclerosis (MS).

ENTYVIO®

ENTYVIO (vedolizumab) treats inflammatory bowel diseases, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease.

REMICADE®

REMICADE (infliximab) treats inflammatory bowel disease, as well as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and plaque psoriasis.

CINQAIR®

CINQAIR (reslizumab) is a monoclonal antibody that helps with adult asthma.

Rituxan®

Rituxan (rituximab) treats certain autoimmune diseases and some forms of cancer.

Cimzia®

Cimzia (certolizumab pegol) is a biological medication for Crohn's disease, ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.

Orencia®

Orencia (abatacept) is a modified antibody for autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Actemra

Actemra (tocilizumab) is an immunosuppressive medicine that treats rheumatoid arthritis.

HOW OFTEN WOULD I NEED IV INFUSIONS?

The frequency with which you'd need to use IV infusions depends on your condition. Some treatments require regular visits to Neurology Center of Las Vegas, while others may only need visits twice a year.

However many IV infusions you need, you can be sure of a warm welcome at the IV Infusion Center. You're in a comfortable, relaxing environment, and you can make use of the facilities available, including wireless internet and snacks and beverages.

To find out more about the IV infusions available at Neurology Center of Las Vegas and how they can help you, call the office or book an appointment online today.

Epilepsy

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 14:38:24 GMT

Epilepsy

Epilepsy can trigger alarming seizures that are sometimes so severe they're potentially life-threatening. Whatever type of seizures or epilepsy you have, neurologist Shanker Dixit, MD , Neurology Center of Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada, can help. Dr. Dixit has considerable experience using antiseizure medications and therapies like deep brain stimulation (DBS) to keep epilepsy under control. Call the Neurology Center of Las Vegas to book a consultation or schedule an appointment online today.

WHAT IS EPILEPSY?

Epilepsy is a condition that causes you to have seizures – disturbances in your brain's electrical pathways with sudden, uncontrollable changes in the way you move.

The most well-recognized symptom of epilepsy is jerking of the arms, legs, and sometimes the whole body that can be so severe it causes you to collapse. You might also experience confusion or a loss of awareness and feel fearful or anxious.

While other conditions, from fevers to brain tumors, can also result in such episodes, epilepsy is the most likely reason for recurrent seizures.

WHAT TYPES OF SEIZURES DOES EPILEPSY CAUSE?

Focal seizures in epilepsy originate in a specific part of your brain. They can cause impaired awareness, so you might not realize what's happening, make repetitive movements, or gaze into space.

Other types of focal seizures don't affect your awareness, but you might have sensory issues and move spontaneously.

Generalized seizures come from the whole brain. Types include:

Absence seizures (formerly petit mal seizures)
Tonic seizures
Atonic seizures
Clonic seizures
Myoclonic seizures

Tonic-clonic seizures (formerly known as grand mal seizures) are the most violent type of epileptic seizures, causing a sudden loss of consciousness, stiffening, and shaking. You may also suffer a loss of bladder control and bite your tongue. Tonic-clonic seizures are dramatic and may prove life-threatening.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR EPILEPSY?

Antiseizure medications such as lorazepam, carbamazepine, gabapentin, and benzodiazepines are primary treatments for epilepsy. Some drugs require custom compounding made specifically for you.

You need to see Dr. Dixit regularly to monitor your medication levels and perform liver function and blood tests.

Other therapies that can help treat epilepsy include:

Vagus nerve stimulation
Responsive neurostimulation
Deep brain stimulation (DBS)
Dietary therapy

Dr. Dixit aims to find the combination of treatments that's most effective in preventing your seizures while minimizing the risk of side effects. With his expert help, you can keep your epilepsy under control and lead a rewarding, healthy life.

To benefit from Dr. Dixit's expertise in treating epilepsy, call Neurology Center of Las Vegas or book an appointment online today.

EMG

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 14:36:01 GMT

EMG

Assessing your nerve function using electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) tests provides invaluable information about the cause and severity of certain neurological conditions. Neurologist Shanker Dixit, MD, of Neurology Center of Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada, provides EMG/NCV testing onsite for your convenience. To benefit from expertly administered nerve testing, call Neurology Center of Las Vegas to schedule a consultation or book online today.

WHAT IS EMG/NCV TESTING?

EMG/NCV testing (also known as electrodiagnostic testing) measures the electrical activity in nerves and muscles. This information provides valuable evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of a range of neuromuscular conditions.

EMG/NCV testing consists of two separate procedures:

Electromyogram (EMG)

To perform an EMG, your technician inserts tiny electrodes into your muscles to evaluate how well they’re working. The EMG machine produces a readout to show the electrical activity in detail.

Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test

NCV tests involve having a series of small electric shocks to your nerves. The highly skilled technician precisely calibrates the equipment to ensure the procedure is safe. NCV tests measure nerve function, speed, and efficiency.

WHY WOULD I NEED EMG/NVC TESTING?

You might need EMG/NCV testing if you have symptoms that could result from nerve damage or dysfunction. These symptoms could include:

Pain
Weakness
Tingling
“Pins-and-needles” sensation
Numbness
Spasms
Reduced mobility
Paralysis

Healthy nerves send messages to your muscles, instructing them how to move. If the signals aren't reaching your muscles because there's something wrong with your nervous system, EMG/NCV testing can locate the affected nerves.

WHAT CONDITIONS CAN EMG/NCV TESTING HELP DIAGNOSE?

EMG/NCV testing can help Dr. Dixit diagnose conditions such as:

Carpal tunnel syndrome
Myasthenia gravis
Neuropathy
Pinched nerves
Guillain-Barré syndrome
Lambert-Eaton syndrome
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease)
Muscular dystrophy
Polymyositis
Radial nerve dysfunction

EMG/NCV testing takes place onsite at Neurology Center of Las Vegas.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I UNDERGO EMG/NVC TESTING?

EMG/NCV testing is a two-part procedure with NCV testing first. Your technician places electrodes on the area under evaluation, then sends a series of mild electrical shocks to your nerves. This isn’t painful, but you might experience some discomfort.

Computer software records how long it takes for the electric current to pass between the electrodes.

The EMG involves inserting very fine needles into your muscles to assess electrical activity. You might need to flex your muscles or perform other movements as directed by the technician during your NCV test to measure nerve responses in the symptomatic area. The EMG can be painful but is over very quickly.

EMG/NCV testing typically takes 45-60 minutes, after which you can resume your usual daily activities. Dr. Dixit goes over the results with you at a follow-up appointment.

To find out more about EMG/NCV testing and how it can help you, call Neurology Center of Las Vegas or book an appointment online today.

Dementia

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 14:33:54 GMT

Dementia

Dementia is one of the most challenging conditions, causing worsening confusion, memory loss, and other cognitive difficulties. If you're starting to suffer from symptoms of dementia, neurologist Shanker Dixit, MD , at Neurology Center of Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada, can help. Dr. Dixit has extensive experience supporting patients with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia using the most up-to-date treatments. To benefit from his expertise, call Neurology Center of Las Vegas to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online today.

WHAT IS DEMENTIA?

Dementia is a symptom of diseases that affect your cognitive abilities, such as memory and concentration, so severely it interferes with your everyday life. The primary types of dementia are:

Alzheimer's disease
Frontotemporal disorders
Vascular dementia
Lewy body dementia

The likeliest cause of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, responsible for up to 70% of cases.

WHAT SYMPTOMS DOES DEMENTIA CAUSE?

Memory problems are the most well-known symptom of dementia. Other signs include:

Confusion
Disorientation
Difficulties problem solving
Visual disturbances
Personality changes
Problems judging distance and time
Tending to wander or get lost
Difficulties finding or using the right words
Increasing social isolation
Depression and mood swings

Symptoms like aggression and hallucinations can also affect some people with dementia. Loss of physical function typically occurs in the later stages of the disease.

HOW IS DEMENTIA DIAGNOSED?

Dr. Dixit performs a physical exam and asks you to complete some cognitive and neuropsychological tests to diagnose your condition.

These tests assess your memory, problem-solving ability, use of language, and attention. In addition, Dr. Dixit may need to speak to your family members or friends to find out about any changes in your behavior.

The signs of dementia are evident to an experienced neurologist like Dr. Dixit.

To confirm the diagnosis, find out which type of dementia you have, and assess its progress, you may need to undergo an MRI scan or a positron emission tomography (PET) scan to view your brain activity. In addition, laboratory tests can rule out other possible causes like vitamin deficiencies.

HOW IS DEMENTIA TREATED?

Dementia due to chronic conditions like Alzheimer's disease is incurable, but Dr. Dixit's expert treatment can help slow down the disease’s rate of progression and help you manage your symptoms.

Medications called cholinesterase inhibitors can help with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease symptoms, while NMDA (N-Methyl-D-aspartate) antagonists can treat moderate to severe Alzheimer's. Both these medications enable you to continue with normal daily living for longer.

Reducing your blood pressure and cholesterol levels can prove beneficial if you've got vascular dementia due to diseased blood vessels. There are also various treatments to help with behavioral changes and improve your sleep patterns. Physical and occupational therapy techniques can help keep patients’ minds and bodies active.

Science continues to research prevention and treatment options for dementia, and Dr. Dixit conducts research trials for Alzheimer's disease at Neurology Center of Las Vegas. To schedule a consultation, call the office or book an appointment online today.

Botox Treatment

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 14:31:40 GMT

Botox Treatment

Botox® is one of today’s most popular cosmetic treatments for eliminating facial wrinkles. However, it was first used as a medication to treat muscle spasms and is now approved to relieve several painful conditions. Shanker Dixit, MD , at Neurology Center of Las Vegas, offers Botox injections to treat chronic migraines and muscle spasticity. If you suffer from pain due to these conditions, schedule an appointment online or call the office in Las Vegas, Nevada, today.

WHAT ARE BOTOX INJECTIONS?

Botox is a purified form of botulinum toxin, a neurotoxin that stops nerves from releasing the neurotransmitters to trigger muscle movement. As a result, Botox injections temporarily relax muscles, an action that relieves pain caused by muscle cramps and spasms.

Botox also blocks the release of neurotransmitters that carry pain signals to the brain. You can’t feel the pain or the full extent of your pain when your brain doesn’t get the message.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Botox to treat:

Chronic migraines
Cervical dystonia
Severe underarm sweating
Strabismus
Blepharospasm
Upper and lower limb spasticity

After a medication is FDA approved, doctors can use it off-label, meaning they’re allowed to use it for other conditions if they consider it medically necessary. One of the off-label uses of Botox injections is relieving pain caused by neuromuscular conditions such as low back pain.

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT CHRONIC MIGRAINES?

Migraines are one of the most severe headaches you can experience. They cause intense pain that lasts at least four hours and may continue for several days. Along with the pain, you may also have symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light and sounds.

While researchers continue to explore the underlying causes of migraines, they’re considered a neurological disorder. The headaches begin when something triggers a reaction in the trigeminal nerve. The nerve then releases chemicals that cause blood vessel swelling and pain.

HOW DOES BOTOX PREVENT CHRONIC MIGRAINES?

Botox injections block the nerve signals, reducing the severity of your pain and preventing future migraines. However, Botox is only approved for chronic migraines.

You have chronic migraines when you have 15 or more headache days a month, and on eight or more of those days, you have migraines that last at least four hours.

While your Botox procedure involves multiple injections, it only takes about 15 minutes for all of them. Then you need additional Botox injections — one every three months — to maintain your results.

HOW DO BOTOX INJECTIONS RELIEVE PAIN DUE TO MUSCLE SPASTICITY?

Muscle spasticity occurs when your muscles contract and stay that way without relaxing. As the muscles tighten, their stiffness interferes with your ability to move the affected arm or leg.

You may also experience pain that becomes severe. Your Neurology Center of Las Vegas provider injects Botox into the muscle, where the neurotoxin stops the contraction and relaxes the muscle.

Botox to relieve migraines and the pain of spasticity is available at Neurology Center of Las Vegas. To schedule an appointment, call the office or book online today.

Multiple Sclerosis

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 14:29:44 GMT

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) causes a decline in physical and cognitive function, often leading to disablement. If you have early signs of MS or struggle with your diagnosis, neurologist Shanker Dixit, MD , of Neurology Center of Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada, can help. Dr. Dixit offers advanced treatments for multiple sclerosis to keep you active and enjoying life for longer. To benefit from expert treatment for your MS, call Neurology Center of Las Vegas to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online today.

WHAT IS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disabling condition of the central nervous system.

The central nervous system consists of your brain and spinal cord and contains billions of nerves. Multiple sclerosis develops when your immune system becomes dysfunctional and attacks the myelin sheath. Damage to this fatty casing surrounding your nerve cells is known as demyelination.

When demyelination and nerve fiber damage occurs, your brain and body have difficulties communicating with each other, resulting in the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

WHAT SYMPTOMS DOES MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS CAUSE?

Multiple sclerosis causes a variety of symptoms, such as:

Loss of balance
Weakness in the limbs
Fatigue
Tingling
Numbness
Blurred vision
Muscle stiffness
Pain

Multiple sclerosis can also affect cognitive functions, so you might have trouble with your memory or find it hard to focus.

ARE THERE DIFFERENT TYPES OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS?

Neurologists classify multiple sclerosis into four different types:

Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)

CIS causes neurological symptoms due to demyelination and inflammation, but patients don't fulfill all the criteria for a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. However, you may develop MS in the future.

Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS)

RRMS patients switch between periods when their symptoms worsen (relapse) and then improve (remission).

Secondary-progressive MS (SPMS)

RRMS progresses to SPMS when the remission periods cease, and your condition continues to deteriorate.

Primary-progressive MS (PPMS)

There are no remission periods with PPMS, but you could experience acute relapses where your symptoms worsen at a faster rate.

HOW IS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS DIAGNOSED?

To confirm a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, you have blood tests, and Dr. Dixit performs additional procedures as necessary. These could include a brain and spine MRI scan, a lumbar puncture to extract spinal fluid for testing, and electrical tests called evoked potentials to detect nerve damage that isn't present on an MRI.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS?

Multiple sclerosis is currently incurable, but Dr. Dixit provides effective, personalized treatment programs to address your symptoms. Your plan might include:

Steroid medications (to reduce nerve inflammation)
Plasmapheresis (replacing your blood plasma)
Physical therapy
Mobility aids
Muscle relaxants
Antidepressants
Pain relief medication

Other medications can help improve walking speed and reduce fatigue. Disease-modifying therapies are drugs that reduce demyelination and may benefit patients who suffer relapses.

When you have multiple sclerosis, changing your lifestyle also plays a vital role in retaining physical and mental function and improving your quality of life. Dr. Dixit can advise you on appropriate diet and exercise programs and help you address issues like smoking cessation and weight loss.

If you have multiple sclerosis or feel concerned you're in the early stages of the disease, call Neurology Center of Las Vegas or book an appointment online today.

Migraine

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 14:27:05 GMT

Migraine

Migraine headaches are overwhelmingly painful, causing an agony that leaves you unable to function for hours or sometimes days at a time. If you have migraines, neurologist Shanker Dixit, MD , Neurology Center of Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada, can help. Dr. Dixit offers advanced migraine medication management and innovative treatments like Botox® injections to help prevent migraines and reduce their intensity. To benefit from expert migraine therapies, call Neurology Center of Las Vegas and schedule a consultation or use the online booking form today.

WHAT IS A MIGRAINE?

A migraine is one of many types of headaches. Some headaches are due to sinus infections or exposure to an allergen, while others can come on seemingly for no reason. A mild headache results in minor discomfort that fades quickly, but a migraine causes significant, disabling pain and can last for several days.

The cause of these debilitating attacks is unclear. However, they seem to originate in the trigeminovascular system in your brain, where nerve cells and blood vessels connect.

Other factors include increased levels of a protein in your body called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and imbalances in the brain chemicals that help regulate pain in your nervous system. The tendency to get migraines may also have genetic origins.

Some people experience migraines infrequently, but others get them several times a month or more.

WHAT ARE THE STAGES OF A MIGRAINE?

A day or two before a migraine, you might experience prodrome – subtle neurological and physical changes that warn of a migraine coming. Prodrome may cause food cravings, constant yawning, excessive thirst, and mood swings.

Around one-third of people who get migraines experience an "aura" shortly before the head pain hits. Auras can cause visual disturbances like blurriness, blind spots, flashing lights, and squiggly lines.

You might develop numbness, tingling, or weakness, or you may feel like someone invisible has touched you and have problems speaking.

When the pain begins, it's likely to be severe and throbbing. It often affects just one side of your head, bringing on symptoms like extreme sensitivity to light or sound, nausea, and vomiting.

After your pain subsides, you're likely to be exhausted and might continue to feel weak, dizzy, moody, sensitive, and confused for another day or so.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR MIGRAINES?

To treat your migraine appropriately, Dr. Dixit assesses your medical history and performs a thorough neurological examination to rule out any other causes for your symptoms.

Your individualized treatment program for migraine might include various medications plus nerve block or medical Botox® injections. Some treatments stop the migraine from progressing, while others help prevent it from starting.

It's also important to learn what triggers your migraines so you can reduce your exposure. Common triggers include:

Processed foods
Aged cheeses
Food additives like aspartame and monosodium glutamate (MSG)
Alcohol
Bright lights
Strong smells
Stress

Fluctuating levels of the female sex hormone estrogen in women can also play a part.

You can identify your triggers by keeping a diary of everything you do, eat, drink, and experience, so you can see what occurs before a migraine.

Don't let recurring migraines continue to disrupt your life. Call Neurology Center of Las Vegas or book an appointment online today .

Neuromuscular Diseases

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 14:24:29 GMT

Neuromuscular Diseases

These are conditions which involve the peripheral nervous system and muscles. Diseases of the peripheral nerves are known as peripheral neuropathy. The most common cause of neuropathy is diabetes but there are several other etiologies such as vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune diseases and demyelination. Most common complaints for neuropathy include numbness, tingling and pain. This is usually a progressive condition and help is available if caught early. Tests performed include nerve conduction studies and electromyography. Diseases of muscles are known as myopathy. These usually present with fatigue, weakness and at times pain. Some of these conditions may be inherited and others may be acquired diseases. Lab tests and electromyography are done to determine some of the causes of these conditions.

Concussion/Traumatic Brain Injury

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 14:22:38 GMT

Concussion/Traumatic Brain Injury

Head trauma due to accidents, either due to motor vehicle accidents or from falls or sports injury are a very common occurrence in this day and age. These can result in various neurological symptoms depending on the severity of the injury. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, difficulty in focusing, memory problems. In the Neurology Center of Las Vegas, we customize the approach to each patient depending on symptoms, severity of the injury and results of radiological investigations. We also do a battery of tests to assess the concussion and follow-up the past to record progress. Appropriate medical treatment is prescribed. Medico-legal aspects of the case are also looked at closely.

Other Neurological Conditions

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 14:21:03 GMT

Other Neurological Conditions

Essential tremor
Huntington’s disease
Attention deficit disorder
Tourette’s syndrome
Cervical spondylosis and radiculopathy
Lumbar spondylosis and radiculopathy
Cerebellar disorders and ataxias
Headache: Cluster headache, temporal arteritis, cervicogenic headache
Neuropathies: AIDP, CIDP
Neuromuscular diseases: Muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis, stiff man syndrome

Peripheral Neuropathy

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 15:34:32 GMT

Peripheral Neuropathy

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy describes damage to the peripheral nervous system, which transmits information from the brain and spinal cord to every other part of the body.

More than 100 types of peripheral neuropathy have been identified, each with its own characteristic set of symptoms, pattern of development, and prognosis. Impaired function and symptoms depend on the type of nerves — motor, sensory, or autonomic — that are damaged. Some people may experience temporary numbness, tingling, and pricking sensations, sensitivity to touch, or muscle weakness. Others may suffer more extreme symptoms, including burning pain (especially at night), muscle wasting, paralysis, or organ or gland dysfunction. Peripheral neuropathy may be either inherited or acquired. Causes of acquired peripheral neuropathy include physical injury (trauma) to a nerve, tumors, toxins, autoimmune responses, nutritional deficiencies, alcoholism, and vascular and metabolic disorders. Acquired peripheral neuropathies are caused by systemic disease, trauma from external agents, or infections or autoimmune disorders affecting nerve tissue. Inherited forms of peripheral neuropathy are caused by inborn mistakes in the genetic code or by new genetic mutations.

Is there any treatment?

No medical treatments exist that can cure inherited peripheral neuropathy. However, there are therapies for many other forms. In general, adopting healthy habits — such as maintaining optimal weight, avoiding exposure to toxins, following a physician-supervised exercise program, eating a balanced diet, correcting vitamin deficiencies, and limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption — can reduce the physical and emotional effects of peripheral neuropathy. Systemic diseases frequently require more complex treatments.

What is the prognosis?

In acute neuropathies, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, symptoms appear suddenly, progress rapidly, and resolve slowly as damaged nerves heal. In chronic forms, symptoms begin subtly and progress slowly. Some people may have periods of relief followed by relapse. Others may reach a plateau stage where symptoms stay the same for many months or years. Some chronic neuropathies worsen over time, but very few forms prove fatal unless complicated by other diseases. Occasionally the neuropathy is a symptom of another disorder.

What research is being done?

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and other institutes of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) conduct research related to peripheral neuropathies in laboratories at the NIH and also support additional research through grants to major medical institutions across the country. Current research projects funded by the NINDS involve investigations of genetic factors associated with hereditary neuropathies, studies of biological mechanisms involved in diabetes-associated neuropathies, and investigations exploring how the immune system contributes to peripheral nerve damage. Neuropathic pain is a primary target of NINDS-sponsored studies aimed at developing more effective therapies for symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Some scientists hope to identify substances that will block the brain chemicals that generate pain signals, while others are investigating the pathways by which pain signals reach the brain.

Headache

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 15:22:00 GMT

Headache

What is Headache?

There are four types of headache: vascular, muscle contraction (tension), traction, and inflammatory. The most common type of vascular headache is migraine. Migraine headaches are usually characterized by severe pain on one or both sides of the head, an upset stomach, and, at times, disturbed vision.Women are more likely than men to have migraine headaches. After migraine, the most common type of vascular headache is the toxic headache produced by fever. Other kinds of vascular headaches include “cluster” headaches, which cause repeated episodes of intense pain, and headaches resulting from high blood pressure. Muscle contraction headaches appear to involve the tightening or tensing of facial and neck muscles. Traction and inflammatory headaches are symptoms of other disorders, ranging from stroke to sinus infection. Like other types of pain, headaches can serve as warning signals of more serious disorders. This is particularly true for headaches caused by inflammation, including those related to meningitis as well as those resulting from diseases of the sinuses, spine, neck, ears, and teeth.

Is there any treatment for headaches?

When headaches occur three or more times a month, preventive treatment is usually recommended. Drug therapy, biofeedback training, stress reduction, and elimination of certain foods from the diet are the most common methods of preventing and controlling migraine and other vascular headaches. Regular exercise, such as swimming or vigorous walking, can also reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches. Drug therapy for migraine is often combined with biofeedback and relaxation training. One of the most commonly used drugs for the relief of migraine symptoms is sumatriptan. Drugs used to prevent migraine also include methysergide maleate, which counteracts blood vessel constriction; propranolol hydrochloride, which also reduces the frequency and severity of migraine headaches; ergotamine tartrate, a vasoconstrictor that helps counteract the painful dilation stage of the headache; amitriptyline, an antidepressant; valproic acid, an anticonvulsant; and verapamil, a calcium channel blocker.

What is the prognosis for a headache?

Not all headaches require medical attention. But some types of headache are signals of more serious disorders and call for prompt medical care. These include: sudden, severe headache or sudden headache associated with a stiff neck; headaches associated with fever, convulsions, or accompanied by confusion or loss of consciousness; headaches following a blow to the head, or associated with pain in the eye or ear; persistent headache in a person who was previously headache free; and recurring headache in children. Migraine headaches may last a day or more and can strike as often as several times a week or as rarely as once every few years.

What research is being done about headaches?

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) conducts research relating to headaches at its laboratories at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and supports additional research through grants to major medical institutions across the country. NINDS also supports and conducts studies to improve the diagnosis of headaches and to find ways to prevent them.

Do you suffer from recurring headaches? Contact us today.

Huntington’s Disease

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 15:19:06 GMT

Huntington’s Disease

What is Huntington’s Disease?

Huntington’s Disease (HD) results from genetically programmed degeneration of brain cells, called neurons, in certain areas of the brain. This degeneration causes uncontrolled movements, loss of intellectual faculties, and emotional disturbance. HD is a familial disease, passed from parent to child through a mutation in the normal gene. Each child of an HD parent has a 50-50 chance of inheriting the HD gene. If a child does not inherit the HD gene, he or she will not develop the disease and cannot pass it to subsequent generations. A person who inherits the HD gene will sooner or later develop the disease. Whether one child inherits the gene has no bearing on whether others will or will not inherit the gene. Some early symptoms of HD are mood swings, depression, irritability or trouble driving, learning new things, remembering a fact, or making a decision. As the disease progresses, concentration on intellectual tasks becomes increasingly difficult and the patient may have difficulty feeding himself or herself and swallowing. The rate of disease progression and the age of onset vary from person to person. A genetic test, coupled with a complete medical history and neurological and laboratory tests, helps physicians diagnose HD. Presymptomic testing is available for individuals who are at risk for carrying the HD gene. In 1 to 3 percent of individuals with HD, no family history of HD can be found.

Is there any treatment for Huntington’s Disease?

Physicians prescribe a number of medications to help control emotional and movement problems associated with HD. In August 2008 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved tetrabenazine to treat Huntington’s chorea (the involuntary writhing movements), making it the first drug approved for use in the United States to treat the disease. Most drugs used to treat the symptoms of HD have side effects such as fatigue, restlessness, or hyperexcitability. It is extremely important for people with HD to maintain physical fitness as much as possible, as individuals who exercise and keep active tend to do better than those who do not.

What is the prognosis for Huntington’s Disease?

At this time, there is no way to stop or reverse the course of HD. Now that the HD gene has been located, investigators are continuing to study the HD gene with an eye toward understanding how it causes disease in the human body.

What research is being done about Huntington’s Disease?

Scientific investigations using electronic and other technologies enable scientists to see what the defective gene does to various structures in the brain and how it affects the body’s chemistry and metabolism. Laboratory animals are being bred in the hope of duplicating the clinical features of HD so that researchers can learn more about the symptoms and progression of HD.

Investigators are implanting fetal tissue in rodents and nonhuman primates with the hope of understanding, restoring, or replacing functions typically lost by neuronal degeneration in individuals with HD. Related areas of investigation include excitotoxicity (over-stimulation of cells by natural chemicals found in the brain), defective energy metabolism (a defect in the mitochondria), oxidative stress (normal metabolic activity in the brain that produces toxic compounds called free radicals), tropic factors (natural chemical substances found in the human body that may protect against cell death).

Concerned that you or a loved one may be suffering from Huntington’s Disease? Contact us today.

Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) & Electromyography (EMG)

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 15:03:11 GMT

Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) & Electromyography (EMG)

Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyography are two separate tests that are usually done one after the other.

Preparation for this procedure:

No children please.
Please be on time. If you are more than 10 minutes late your test may be rescheduled.
You may eat, drink, and keep your normal schedule until the test.
If you smoke, please refrain from doing so until after the test.
Please notify your doctor if you are on blood thinner medications such as Coumadin. Your dosage may need to be adjusted, or the doctor may take you off the medication a few days before the test.

What can I expect?

The technician may ask you to remove your clothes and give you an appropriate robe. This test is a two part test beginning with the NCS portion, during this time the technician will place some electrodes on the area to be tested and with an instrument send a series of electrical shocks through to test the nerves in the area. This usually does not hurt, although it can be uncomfortable. The computer will register how long it takes for electricity to pass between electrodes. This is done to evaluate the nerves.

The second portion of the test is EMG. The doctor does this portion of the test and it involves some very fine needles being inserted into the muscle to check the electrical activity within the muscle. The doctor will ask you to move in different positions to evaluate the muscle. This portion of the test can be painful, but it is usually done very quickly. The NCS and EMG may take from 45-60 minutes. You may resume your daily activities as usual. Please make a follow up appointment with the doctor to get the results of the test. Results are usually available within a week.

Ambulatory EEG

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 14:59:01 GMT

Ambulatory EEG

What is an ambulatory EEG test?

This test is similar to that of the EEG monitoring test and records the patterns of electrical changes both normal and abnormal, from the millions of nerve cells in the brain. The Ambulatory EEG monitoring test gives patients the capability to walk around and carry on normally while recordings are being made. The test is not harmful and is painless. This test typically lasts 3 to 4 days.

Preparing for the Ambulatory EEG monitoring test.

Prior to the ambulatory EEG test, you should:

Wash your hair the night before using only shampoo and water. Do not use styling aids such as hair gels, mousse, hairspray, or oils of any kind. These products can interfere with the electrodes and limit the usefulness of the test.

Eat normally and take your regularly scheduled medications as prescribed by your doctor.

Wear shirts that button or zipper so they can be removed without passing over your head. Once the electrodes are in place it will be difficult to take off your shirt over your head if you cannot unbutton or unzip them.

Electrode Application

You will be given a time and location to report for the application of the electrodes. During this time the electrodes will be placed on your head and the recording of the brain activity will start. The electrodes used in this test are small metal disks placed on the skin by the EEG technologist in a simple procedure, which should take approximately 1 hour. A paste or clue will be used to stick the electrodes to your scalp. A gauze wrap is then used to keep the electrodes and wires together out of your way.

Please note the following:

Children having the test should have a parent or guardian with them throughout the entire electrode application procedure.
If you do not speak English it would be helpful to arrange for a translator to accompany you to the test.

You may bring with you a hat or scarf to wear over the head wrap once the electrode application has been completed.

The Ambulatory EEG Test

Once the electrodes have been applied to your scalp they will be connected to a small computer that you will be taking home with you. The computer is small enough to be easily carried. It is placed in a sack that can be slung over the shoulder. The technologist will go over the operation of the device. This is a good time to ask any questions that you may have thought of, you will be going home with the electrode head wrap and computer. A typical test will last 4 days (3 nights).

Please note the following:

Do not under any circumstances take a shower while the test is in progress. You may wash from the neck down with a washcloth. Be careful not to get any water into the computer.
No gum chewing during the test.
No tampering of any kind with the computer or electrodes.
Do not drop the computer.
You will be provided with an Event Calendar that needs to be filled out in the event of any episodes. Recording the date and time of the event along with a brief description of what occurred is extremely important.
The technologist will discuss the event button. This is a small button on the side of the computer that should be pressed in the event of an episode. By pressing the is button the physician reviewing the study will know exactly when the episode occurred and will be able to see what changes occurred on the EEG.

Completion of the Test

The technologist will inform you of when and where to return for the removal of the electrodes and computer. The Event Calendar should be returned at this time as well.

Botulinum toxin for Chronic Migraine

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 14:50:45 GMT

Botulinum Toxin for Chronic Migraine

What is the definition of chronic migraine ?

Typically, if an individual has greater than 15 migraine headaches a month, then they are given the diagnosis of chronic migraine. Usually these individuals have suffered from migraines since childhood or teenage years.

How does Botulinum toxin work to relieve symptoms of chronic migraine?

Botulinum toxin is one of the most powerful toxins in the world. It acts by paralyzing the muscles. It is believed that by relieving the tension in the muscles of the head and neck, symptoms of migraines are relieved. This is a preventative treatment for chronic migraine.

Is the botulinum toxin same as the one used for wrinkles?

Yes

How is the botulinum toxin administered for chronic migraines?

Typically, a total of 155 units of botulinum toxin (type A) are used. Botox is the most common commercially available botulinum toxin. A total of 31 shots, consisting of 5 units each are given at various sites including the forehead, multiple sites in the side and back of the head, neck and shoulder muscles.

How long do the effects last?

The effects last 3 months. Botulinum toxin injections are given every 3 months.

Are there any side effects?

Potential side effects include eyelid drooping, neck muscle weakness. These are rare. Similar to be beneficial effects, the side effects also go away in 3 months.

How efficacious is this for chronic migraines?

I have had a 60-70% success rate. Most of the patient have a greater than 50% reduction in headache frequency and intensity.

Is this covered by insurance?

We usually get authorization from the insurance companies. Depending on the plan, they may have co-pay.