Hello
@Aidan.....I've been incredibly fortunate with my neurologist and I've been seeing him for approx. 35 years. We both "started" together. Other doctors knew there was something wrong and kept referring me until I reached this (then) young man.
You really should have as many conditions as possible ruled out. There are many things that have the exact same symptoms and it takes specialized tests (and lots of time) to know you're free of them.
My neurologist has almost become my general doctor. He knows a lot about neurological deficits, as well as vitamins and herbs. Like I said, pure luck. He has helped me through so much in my life and I'm forever grateful to him.
You'll need an MRI, with and without contrast...unless an allergy is involved. A new machine is best as well as new methods of having the MRI. Always keep copies of the CD's yourself and in addition to the radiology report, have every doctor read the CD. You'd be surprised at how many things are missed. MRI's are a good way to see inside the body without having what used to be common - exploratory surgery.
I was an early patient, so won't even pretend to know what's available for testing today. My neuro does stay on top of all new drugs (I also have FM as well as two other neurological illnesses and heart disease). In the early days, we had nothing....not even something as simple as gabapentin for pain. We were all guinea pigs, including the doctors. So don't expect to walk out cured or even to have an answer....you just want other obvious illnesses to be ruled out. At the very least, print-outs of the illness will be provided.
Today there are things that help, but no cures at all. I've tried almost everything available and have never found the magic bullet. Still, you may get a diagnosis and you'll need it. I don't know if you're handicapped or not (many of us can walk, but not far), you can ask for a handicapped tag or even a license. I don't go out much any longer, but there were certain days when it helped a lot.
Rheumatologists also tend to know more about our illness, so failing a neurologist then that may be your next bet.
Please bear in mind that your first appt. may take months. Right now the U.S. is experiencing a severe shortage of specialists, especially neurologists. Be sure to tell them that it's your first appt., and ask to be put on a cancellation list if at all possible. Prepare a list of pertinent questions (but not everything that's troubling you). You may/may not be seen by a Physician's Assistant and some of them are extremely knowledgeable. Good luck in your search. Yours, Lenora