Pediatric neurological issues can be overwhelming and frustrating. For instance, as the parent of an epileptic, it can be difficult to know what to do when your child is having a seizure. With news stories about sudden infant death syndrome, shaken baby syndrome, and other neurological disorders making headlines in recent years, how can you protect your child from potential health problems? That is where a pediatric neurologist New York comes in.
Here are reasons why you should work with a pediatric neurologist.
1) A better understanding of the brain
Many conditions affecting children can be understood better by thoroughly examining the nervous system. This includes conditions such as traumatic head injury, developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, and speech disorders. A thorough understanding of how different parts of the brain are connected can lead to more effective treatment options for these conditions than simply treating symptoms alone.
2) Improved health outcomes
By better understanding how various parts of the nervous system interact with each other, physicians can provide more accurate diagnoses and treatments for children with neurological disorders. This leads to improved health outcomes for these patients by helping them receive treatment sooner rather than later when it is most effective. In some cases, early intervention can prevent permanent damage from occurring
3) Better treatment for seizures
Seizures are common in children and adolescents. In some cases, seizure activity may be related to underlying conditions such as epilepsy or other brain disorders. If you have a diagnosis of epilepsy or another seizure disorder, your doctor may recommend that you see a neurologist for further evaluations and treatment options.
But how do you know when is the right time to look for a pediatric neurologist? Below are the telltale signs;
4)Brain tumors and brain injuries
A brain tumor is rare in children, but it can have devastating consequences. A tumor affects the brain’s normal function and can lead to seizures or even death if left untreated. If your child experiences a seizure (convulsions), seeking medical attention immediately from a pediatric neurologist is crucial.
5)Neurological developmental childhood problems
A pediatric neurologist, familiar with specific conditions’ characteristics and associated diagnostic tests, should diagnose a neurological developmental childhood problem. The pediatrician will also be familiar with treatments for these conditions and can direct you to other specialists if necessary.
6)New or worsening symptoms of an existing condition
New or worsening symptoms of an existing condition may warrant visiting a pediatric neurologist. For example, if your child has been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and has been taking medication for it but has recently experienced new symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, or difficulty sleeping, you may want to discuss this with your doctor. This could be a sign that the medication isn’t working properly or that there may be another underlying issue causing these new symptoms.
If your child is experiencing movement or coordination problems, such as difficulty walking or climbing stairs, visit your pediatric neurologist. A pediatric neurologist can determine if your child has a neurological condition that requires treatment. For more information about pediatric neurology, contact NY Neurology Associates.
