Frequently Asked Questions

Chemotherapy involves using drugs to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells. It can be administered orally or intravenously, and treatment sessions vary in length and frequency. Side effects may include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and increased risk of infection, but these often depend on the specific drugs and dosage.

For your first visit to a neurologist, being well-prepared is key to ensuring a productive session. Here's a list of important documents and information to bring with you: Referral Letter: If your primary care doctor or another specialist referred you to the neurologist, make sure to bring the referral letter or any communication from them. This letter usually contains important information about your medical concern and why you’re being referred. Medical Records and Previous Tests: Include any relevant medical history, previous tests, or imaging studies related to your neurological concerns. This can include MRIs, CT scans, EEGs, or blood test results. If you don’t have the physical copies, ensure the neurologist’s office has access to these records before your appointment. List of Current Medications: Provide a detailed list of all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and prescriptions, along with their dosages. This is crucial as it helps the neurologist understand what treatments you are already on and avoid potential drug interactions. Symptom Diary: If applicable, keep a diary of your symptoms, noting what symptoms you experience, their frequency, triggers, and duration. This can provide valuable insights into your condition for the neurologist. Insurance Information: Bring your insurance card or any other health benefit cards. It’s also a good idea to know what your insurance covers regarding neurology visits, treatments, and procedures. Identification: A government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) is usually required for registration at the doctor’s office. Questions or Concerns: Write down any questions or concerns you have to ensure you don’t forget to discuss them during your visit. These can include questions about your symptoms, treatment options, and the impact on your daily life. Family Medical History: Information about your family’s medical history, especially any neurological diseases, can be important for your diagnosis and treatment plan.

Treatment options depend on the type and stage of cancer, as well as other factors like patient health and preferences. Common treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. Many treatment plans combine several of these methods to achieve the best outcome.

Symptoms of cancer can vary greatly depending on the type of cancer and its stage, but common signs include unusual lumps, unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, changes in skin appearance, abnormal bleeding, chronic pain, or changes in bowel or bladder habits. It's important to consult a healthcare professional if you have persistent or unusual symptoms.

Neurologists assess the degree and course of a patient's illness as well as how well non-surgical treatments are working. When deciding if surgery is required for the best course of therapy, they take into account various criteria, including the patient's general health, potential dangers, and the location and nature of the neurological disease.

Cancer diagnosis typically involves a combination of methods, such as medical history, physical exams, blood tests, imaging studies (like CT scans, MRI, or PET scans), and biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is examined for cancer cells.

There are several types of oncologists, including: Medical Oncologists who use chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy to treat cancer. Radiation Oncologists who use radiation therapy to target and destroy cancer cells. Surgical Oncologists who perform surgeries to remove tumors and affected tissues. Pediatric Oncologists who specialize in treating cancer in children. Gynecologic Oncologists who focus on cancers affecting the female reproductive system.

Neurologists diagnose and comprehend neurological problems by using a variety of technological innovations and breakthroughs, including functional MRI, PET scans, and EEG. They may also employ telemedicine to conduct remote patient consultations, and they are gradually integrating genetic testing and precision medicine into their practice.

Oncology is the branch of medicine that specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and study of cancer. Oncologists are medical professionals who focus on treating various types of cancer through methods like surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and more.

A Neurosurgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in the surgical treatment of conditions that affect the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. Neurosurgeons undergo extensive training to diagnose and surgically treat a wide range of neurological conditions, including: Brain Tumors: Neurosurgeons perform surgery to remove brain tumors and other growths within the brain. Spine Disorders: They treat conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and spinal deformities through surgical interventions. Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries: Neurosurgeons manage injuries resulting from trauma, such as concussions, brain hemorrhages, and spinal cord injuries. Cerebrovascular Disorders: They operate on conditions like aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, and stroke-related issues. Epilepsy Surgery: Neurosurgeons perform surgeries to treat medication-resistant epilepsy by removing the areas of the brain causing seizures. Functional Neurosurgery: This involves procedures to treat movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, by implanting deep brain stimulators.