A neurologist is a medical doctor who diagnoses, treats, and manages problems associated with the brain and nervous system. Epilepsy disorders have an underling connection to the brain so an epileptologist (a neurologist who specializes in caring for people with epilepsy) can frequently assess these conditions and work with you to determine the best possible treatment.
A pediatrician treats children, and is often one of the first people who will see someone with seizures, particularly DEEs. Even when it’s recommended that your child see a doctor who specializes in epilepsy or brain disorders, it is important to keep the pediatrician involved in all aspects of the child’s care.
These doctors are often the first to treat new seizures during times of an emergency. They may diagnose epilepsy initially and/or refer you to a specialist.
Epilepsy disorders are associated with serious health conditions, and primary care providers (PCPs) are often the first clinicians to become aware of a patient’s epilepsy condition. PCPs play a critical role in assessing patients who exhibit seizures and other associated problems. In many cases, PCPs can deliver initial treatment but will frequently refer patients with suspected epilepsy-related cases to specialized caregivers.
This physician is a psychologist who specializes in the underlying causes of brain disorders, including head injuries, central nervous system infections, and strokes. They also evaluate learning and cognitive issues that could affect how a child is performing at school.
In addition to physicians, several other caregivers are often involved in the care of patients with epilepsy-related conditions.
