Neuro rec? please--still undiagnosed (charlotte area)

[Hope2]

Hi,

I've been mostly reading & learning from this site for the last several years. My son, now 8, began tics around age 4. His pediatritian thought Tourettes, referred us to a neurologist, but I knew I didn't want meds, so we didn't go. I've used magnesium & other rec. from this site, especially all of Chemar's helpful posts, and he has improved a lot, though the tics are never completely gone for more than a month. Recently they've gotten worse, and friends at school are teasing him.

 

So, I realize it's time for an official diagnosis and I am OVERWHELMED to tears at how to go about that. The tics don't scare me, or him--his heart is amazing and he does well accademically. He does have anxiety issues, but not to the point that he won't go to school or anything, he's just not interested in new foods...and as a baby he was very attached to me. He was also adopted so I do not know medical history. I only know he was exposed to cigarettes, alcohol, and benzodiazapine inutero.The mean comments from others is the only reason I would pursue help, though not meds. But I am overwhelemd at where to begin to get a diagnosis.

 

I do not "think" he fits PANDAS, though we've not tested for that. I haven't tested allergies or an MRI, nothing. I found Dr. Corbier from this site, and called them this morning but they are changing the way they treat and said I have to have a "firm diagnosis" first. They suggested Dr. Wallace in Huntersville, about an hour from me. I'd love a rec. of someone in Charlotte who could diagnose, so that maybe then I could go to Dr. Corbier.

 

Thanks for any help.

Edited October 6, 2014 by Hope2

[Sheila]

Hi Hope2, So sorry to read that your son's symptoms are worsening.

 

It sounds like you are wanting a standard diagnosis for him.

 

The Tourette Syndrome Association says they maintain a list of physicians who are familiar with Tourettes. (Once you have some names, you could call the doctors office and ask about PANDAS also, if you are wanting to rule that out.)

 

From the TSA site:

 

"We get requests for referrals to physicians or therapists (TSA maintains lists by state for Physicians and Allied Professionals as well as legal resources and various camps and schools). . . . Telephone 718-224-2999 or email us. Link: Email TSA "

 

Hopefully you can call them and get some referrals for a diagnosis.

 

I hope this help! Please let us know how you make out.