The thought of visiting a neurosurgeon can be intimidating. When we think of important body organs, the brain is definitely top of the list. So surgery on the brain seems especially dangerous and scary. However, there is no need to be scared of seeing a neurosurgeon.
Let’s take a look at what a neurosurgeon does and why you shouldn’t be scared of seeing one.
What Is a Neurosurgeon?
A neurosurgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating a variety of medical issues dealing with the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and peripheral nervous system (the nervous system outside of the brain and spinal cord).
Neurosurgeons have to go through extensive education and training in order to become certified. This includes four years of college, four years of medical school, a general surgery internship, several years of neurosurgery residency training, and continuing education.
Neurosurgeons are highly qualified medical professionals who understand their specialization better than any other type of physician. It’s this knowledge and experience that helps patients to trust their expertise in the field.
How to Tackle Your Fears
If going to a neurosurgeon seems intimidating to you, it’s time to take a deep breath and follow some steps designed to make you feel more comfortable.
- Learn about the neurosurgeon before going to the appointment. Researching the education, experience, and medical center history of a neurosurgeon can help you understand his or her accomplishments and credibility. By learning about the surgeon beforehand, you’ll have the opportunity to feel comfortable with him or her before even stepping into their office. Arming yourself with this information can help relieve some pre-appointment jitters.
- Understand your condition. If you are referred to a neurosurgeon, take some time to learn about your condition. Not everyone is an expert in nervous system conditions and chances are you don’t have much knowledge about your diagnosis.
- Take a friend or loved one with you. Having someone trustworthy and reliable by your side can help reduce pre-appointment jitters and make you feel more comfortable during the appointment.
- Make a list of questions to ask. Seeing a neurosurgeon may seem intimidating because people can get overwhelmed thinking about what they will learn. Take some time to make a list of questions that you would like answered by the neurosurgeon before you go to the appointment. This will help you gather your thoughts and prevent you from becoming overwhelmed.
- Trust your instincts. If you meet a neurosurgeon and do not feel comfortable with him or her for any reason, it’s time to see a new one. You will be embarking on a long-term relationship with your neurosurgeon for your treatment, which will include sharing a lot of personal information and time together. If for any reason you don’t feel happy with your decision, find a new neurosurgeon who you mesh better with.
If you need to see a neurosurgeon and are nervous about the appointment, it’s essential to find an understanding and reliable physician who will work with your fears. The experts at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery not only have a wealth of knowledge and experience treating a plethora of neurological conditions but also understand that seeing a neurosurgeon can be intimidating.
The medical team at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery would love to accommodate to your needs and make you feel comfortable about your visit. Call (303) 790-1800 to make an appointment today. You can also request an appointment online.
