Neurology in Greenwich

A consultant neurologist specialises in investigating, diagnosing and treating problems in the nervous system, comprising the brain, spinal cord and nerves.

The nervous system is an incredibly complex system, comprising many different parts and functions. As a whole, it is responsible for transmitting electrical impulses around the body in order to generate a specific response.

If anything prevents your nervous system from working properly, it can have a significant impact on every part of your body, your health and, ultimately, your quality of life.

The Consultant Neurologists at The Blackheath Hospital treat a very wide range of neurological conditions and symptoms for people in London and the South East. They would be delighted to help you too.

Your nervous system runs into and affects every part of your body, from head to toe. Because of its complexity and reach, symptoms can be varied.  

Some of the common reasons people visit our neurologists for help include:  

• Headaches and facial pain 
• Migraines - these are more common in women, affecting up to 20% of the female population.  
• Dizziness/unsteadiness and vertigo 
• Sensory symptoms – numbness, tingling  
• Weakness in any part of the body and falls 
• Loss of consciousness – fainting episodes or fits/ epileptic seizures 
• Increased forgetfulness or cognitive problems 
• Abnormal movement – tremors or slowing down 
• Change in sense of taste and/or smell 
• Bladder and/or bowel problems 

If you have any of these symptoms, it is sensible to see a neurologist for expert advice. The Neurology team at The Blackheath Hospital are highly experienced in investigating symptoms like these to determine the cause. They will then tailor a bespoke treatment plan for you that will help manage these symptoms as well as possible. 

Due to the complexity of the nervous system, many of the conditions that affect it will often have very similar symptoms. This can make diagnosis quite challenging, which highlights the benefit of consulting with a specialist at the earliest stage.  

Some of the serious conditions that affect the nervous system include: 

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – a lifelong condition with no cure, although treatments may help reduce relapses and disability and to manage symptoms 
• Parkinson’s Disease – a brain disorder, causes symptoms like shaking and stiffness.  
• Epilepsy – seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain 
• Dementia – when a decline in brain functioning affects our work or social interactions.  
• Motor Neurone Disease – occurs when the motor nerve cells stop working. Causes symptoms like slurred speech and muscle weakness.   

An earlier diagnosis of any of these conditions means you’ll be able to receive appropriate treatment(s) sooner. Indeed, many neurological conditions are best treated when they’re diagnosed at the earliest possible stage. We can provide you with quick access to comprehensive investigation from an experienced neurologist in London.  

For any neurological complaint, an accurate diagnosis is key to being able to formulate the best possible treatment plan. 

When you first meet with your neurologist at the hospital, they will take a medical history and will ask you to talk with in detail about your symptoms. They will want to know: 

• What symptoms you have 
• When these symptoms first appeared 
• Whether your symptoms have been getting more noticeable/severe  
• What ways your symptoms are affecting daily life 
• Whether you have received any treatment already, such as prescribed medication 

A physical examination may also be carried out when required. 

Your medical history, symptoms and physical examination (if done) will help inform the choice of additional investigations you may be referred for. These may include: 

• MRI of spine and/or brain 
• Neurophysiology test – electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction test (NCS) – tests for nerve damage in the peripheral nerves (those outside your brain and spinal cord)  
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) – measures electrical activity in the brain. This can be helpful when investigating epilepsy 
• Blood tests 

Any of these tests and investigations can be arranged for you by your neurologist at The Blackheath Hospital, and will performed at the earliest possible opportunity.  

Once any results are back, you will meet with your neurologist to talk through the results and diagnosis and to explore possible treatment options. You will always have the information you need to make an informed choice about treatment, and if you have any questions or concerns, they will be very happy to talk these through with you. 

A neurologist works closely with specialists in other fields like ophthalmology, ENT, cardiology and neurosurgery. If referral to another specialist is needed, this is easily and quickly arranged to ensure you receive treatment from the most appropriate specialist at all times. 

Many people are referred to a Consultant Neurologist at The Blackheath Hospital by their GP, another healthcare professional or their private medical insurance provider. Others choose to self-refer in order to get clarity sooner about what’s causing their symptoms. 

We treat private medical insurance and self-pay patients.  

When you choose to visit a Consultant Neurologist at The Blackheath Hospital, you will benefit from: 

• Fast access to expert assessment – Many neurological symptoms can be worrying to experience and you’ll want to get help as soon as possible. Our team of experienced neurologists can see you without delay, so that your symptoms can be investigated, diagnosed sooner.  
• Personalised care – Given the complexity of the nervous system, any investigations and treatments need to be carefully tailored to your specific symptoms and whatever may be best for you. Your neurologists will oversee every aspect of your care. Treatment is a collaboration between you and your neurologist. By regularly monitoring your symptoms, treatment can be adjusted quickly and easily where necessary to ensure you continue to get the best relief of symptoms possible.  
• Appointments to suit you – With neurology appointments available throughout the week, it is very easy to book an appointment for a time that suits you. We can also offer remote consultations by telephone or video call if required (and where clinically appropriate). 
• A whole team approach – With fast access to a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, you will always receive support and treatment from the most appropriate specialist throughout your time with us. 
• Recommended by our patients – In an independent survey, 97.9% of patients said they were likely or highly likely to recommend us to family and friends.   

Whether you’ve been experiencing new neurological symptoms that are causing you concern or you have a pre-existing condition that you would like us to help better manage, we would be delighted to help you.  

For peace of mind and known expert care, why not book your neurology appointment today? We look forward to welcoming you to The Blackheath Hospital soon.