After Your Neurology Visit: Follow-Up Care Guide

Managing Your Medications

Medication Safety Checklist

Understand Your Prescription

Know the name, dosage, frequency, and purpose of each medication. Ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Know the Side Effects

Review common side effects. Know which are normal and which require immediate medical attention.

Take as Prescribed

Don't skip doses or stop medications without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.

Track Your Response

Note any changes in symptoms, side effects, or concerns to discuss at your follow-up.

⚠️ Important Medication Warnings

• Never double up if you miss a dose - follow the instructions or call us
• Check interactions before taking any new medications or supplements
• Avoid alcohol unless specifically told it's safe with your medication
• Don't share your prescription medications with others

Keeping a Symptom Diary

A symptom diary helps track your condition and treatment effectiveness. Record the following daily:

What to Track

📊 Symptom Severity

Rate symptoms 1-10. Note timing, duration, and any triggers.

💊 Medication Taken

Record when you took each medication and any side effects.

😴 Sleep Quality

Hours slept, difficulty falling/staying asleep, how rested you feel.

🏃 Activity Level

Exercise, physical activities, and how they affected symptoms.

🍽️ Diet & Hydration

Meals, caffeine, alcohol, and water intake.

😰 Stress & Mood

Stress levels, emotional state, significant life events.

When to Seek Urgent Care

🚨 Call 000 or Go to Emergency If You Experience:

• Sudden severe headache ("worst headache of your life")
• Sudden weakness or numbness on one side
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden vision changes or loss

• Seizure (especially first-time or prolonged)
• Loss of consciousness
• Severe dizziness with vomiting
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

📞 Contact the Practice Promptly If:

• Symptoms significantly worsen or new symptoms develop
• You experience concerning medication side effects
• You have questions about your treatment plan
• You need to reschedule tests or follow-up appointments

Lifestyle Recommendations

😴

Prioritise Sleep

Aim for 7-9 hours. Maintain consistent sleep/wake times. Poor sleep can worsen many neurological symptoms.

🥗

Eat Well

Balanced diet, stay hydrated, limit alcohol and caffeine. Some conditions benefit from specific dietary changes.

🧘

Manage Stress

Stress can trigger or worsen symptoms. Consider relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or gentle exercise.

✅ Post-Visit Checklist

Within 24 Hours

Within 1 Week