Specialized Neurological Care in Teton Valley
The Neurology Team at Teton Valley Health offers expert care for conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, meningitis, stroke, epilepsy, headache, and cerebral palsy.
Having a problem in any one of these areas can be scary, but you can have confidence in our highly skilled neurology team who will take the time to listen to you, answer your questions, and develop a comprehensive care plan that best meets your individual needs. With the Neurology Team at Teton Valley Health, you don’t need to go far for world-class neurology care.
Advanced Expertise For Your Brain and Spine
Teton Valley Health’s compassionate and specially trained Neurology Team uses proven tests, advanced technology, and research-based treatments to diagnose and treat neurological conditions and disorders. Our primary goal is to safely and confidently guide you through your personalized care plan to help you regain function and return to a more active life.
We offer general and inpatient neurology consultations and treatment for a broad range of conditions, including:
Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other memory disorders – While there are no cures for memory disorders, medications can relieve symptoms of anxiety, irrational behavior, depression and treatments for sleep disturbance. Our team works with you, your family and your primary care provider to help coordinate care and provide you with ongoing support and medical management.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a group of rare neurological diseases affecting the nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movement such as walking and chewing. ALS is a progressive condition. This means that symptoms increase and get worse with time. While there currently is no cure for ALS, our neurosciences team is here to help keep your symptoms under control with a treatment plan tailored to your needs and preferences. Support may include medications, physical therapy, speech therapy, nutritional support and more to help maximize your quality of life.
Concussion care – A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). It’s caused by a direct blow to the head or a jolt to the body that jerks the head forward and backward. When the brain is pushed against the skull, delicate brain cells can become injured or bruised. Concussions are most common in contact sports such as football, rugby and hockey. However, concussions can also result from falls or car accidents. We do thorough concussion assessments to evaluate and develop a customized treatment plan.
Epilepsy and seizure disorders – Epilepsy is a central nervous system disorder in which nerve cell activity in the brain becomes disrupted, causing seizures or periods of unusual behavior, sensations and sometimes loss of consciousness. Our team works with you to understand the basis of your seizure and establishes a treatment plan to stop or lessen your seizures.
Headaches and migraines – Many headaches can be managed by your health care provider, but some require the help of a team of headache specialists. Our experts determine what type of headache you suffer from and identify treatment options suited to your needs. Together we will work to better manage your headaches and reduce their impact on your quality of life.
Multiple sclerosis – Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system—your brain and spinal cord. Our team will work with you to help slow the disease, manage the symptoms, and increase your quality of life.
Parkinson’s disease, tremor and other movement disorders – Movement disorders can manifest in numerous ways, with symptoms ranging from subtle to disabling. The most important part of the treatment plan for anyone affected by Parkinson’s disease or other movement disorder is a dedicated team who can monitor your progress and support your optimal health with the latest therapies. Our team works to maximize your comfort and quality of life with treatment options such as medication, assistive devices, and physical, occupational and speech therapy.
Peripheral neuropathy and other conditions affecting the peripheral nerves and muscles – Peripheral neuropathy can result from traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic problems, inherited causes and exposure to toxins. People with peripheral neuropathy experience weakness, numbness and pain, usually in the hands and feet. It can also affect other areas and body functions including digestion, urination and circulation. One of the most common causes is diabetes. Our neurology experts work with you to figure out a treatment plan that fits your needs. Many times, the goal is to manage symptoms of your condition and prevent it from progressing.
Sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless leg – Common sleep disorders like insomnia, restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy and sleep apnea can affect every aspect of your life including your safety, relationships, school and work performance, thinking, mental health, weight and the development of diabetes and heart disease. Not getting enough quality sleep can hurt your quality of life. There are a wide variety of treatment options for treating sleep disorders. Out team will help you identify the right treatment so you can get the long, deep sleep you need to function at your best.
Stroke – A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. A stroke is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is crucial. Early action can reduce brain damage and other complications. At Teton Valley Health we offer the highest level of care from when you enter our emergency room through your stroke recovery. In recovery, our neurology team offers effective treatments that can help prevent disability from stroke. We also help identify and manage risk factors that may lead to a future stroke.
Syncope – Syncope is another word for fainting or passing out and can happen when a person has a sudden drop in blood pressure, a drop in heart rate, or changes in the amount of blood in certain areas of the body. Treatment options will depend on what is causing syncope and the results of evaluation and testing. With the proper diagnosis and treatment, syncope can be managed and controlled.
When To See A Neurologist
Even the smallest change in the nervous system can have wide-reaching effects and symptoms. If you or a loved one has unexplained symptoms that could be related to the brain or nervous system, your provider may recommend a neurological exam with a specialist. Make an appointment with a neurologist if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Severe recurring headaches
- Dizziness or balance and coordination problems
- Numbness, weakness, or trouble moving
- Memory problems or confusion
- Trouble communicating, reading, or writing
Call 911 or seek emergency medical help if you have sudden or severe neurological symptoms.
What to Expect During a Neurology Appointment
Receiving an accurate diagnosis is the first and most essential step toward getting the right treatment. At Teton Valley Health, we have various tools at our disposal to help patients receive the right diagnosis.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan – A CT or CAT scan is helpful in detecting injuries to the head, chest, abdomen, and spine, and may also pinpoint the size and location of tumors. The images are produced by projecting small amounts of X-rays through the part of the body being examined and then converts that information into images with a special computer. For some CT scans, our team will inject a contrast medium or dye to highlight certain tissues for closer examination. This type of scan helps differentiate between healthy and diseased tissue, making it possible to accurately diagnose many diseases while in their early stages.
Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis – CSF is a clear, colorless liquid found in the brain and spinal cord. The brain and spinal cord make up the central nervous system. A CSF analysis is a group of tests that look at the cerebrospinal fluid to help diagnose diseases and conditions that affect the brain and spinal cord.
Electromyography (EMG) – An EMG measures muscle response or electrical activity in response to a nerve’s stimulation of the muscle. The test is used to help detect neuromuscular abnormalities.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – An MRI is an advanced diagnostic tool that uses radio waves and powerful magnets to image the human body. A specially designed computer creates extremely clear and precise images to help find subtle abnormalities within the body. For some MRI scans, a contrast dye injection may be necessary to highlight certain tissues for closer examination. MRI exams do not involve X-rays or radioactive material.
Electroencephalography (EEG) – An EEG is a test that detects abnormalities in brain waves, or in the electrical activity of the brain. During the procedure, electrodes consisting of small metal discs with thin wires are pasted onto the scalp. The electrodes detect tiny electrical charges that result from the activity of the brain cells. The charges are amplified and appear as a graph on a computer screen, or as a recording that may be printed out on paper. Through our partnership with Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center (EIRMC), we refer patients there for EEGs.
These and other tests help us develop an understanding of a patient’s reflexes, coordination, cognitive function, sensitivity to touch, and more in order to prescribe a specific course of action and treatment. Many neurological issues are resolved through medication and physical therapy. Some conditions may need more complicated treatments. This could include a referral to a neurosurgeon if a patient’s condition is serious.
Make An Appointment Today!
The Neurology Team at Teton Valley Health see patients at the Specialty Clinic located within Teton Valley Hospital. To request an appointment, please call us at (208) 354-2383.
Specialty Clinic
120 East Howard Avenue
Driggs, Idaho 83422
(208) 354-2383