Common patient FAQs

No. A consultation helps assess the problem and discuss options. For example, many disc problems are treated without surgery. The recommendation depends on the diagnosis and clinical findings; some conditions do need urgent treatment.

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Source: AANS · Herniated disc .

Both assess conditions affecting the nervous system. A neurologist treats these conditions without performing surgery. A neurosurgeon assesses problems that may need an operation and also considers non-surgical options. The right specialist depends on your symptoms and referral; seeing a neurosurgeon does not automatically mean surgery.

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Source: Cleveland Clinic · Neurosurgeon .

Bring your scans and reports, earlier prescriptions, a current medicine and allergy list, and a short symptom timeline. Write down your questions. Ask the clinic how to share digital scans before sending files.

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Yes. Contact the clinic to arrange a second-opinion consultation and bring previous reports and treatment recommendations. Availability, fees and any need for further tests should be confirmed directly.

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Ask what the treatment aims to achieve, its benefits and risks, reasonable alternatives, and what may happen without it. Ask for unclear terms to be explained in language you understand.

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Source: NHS · Informed treatment decisions .

No. You can prepare a WhatsApp enquiry or request a callback. Your appointment is confirmed only when the clinic confirms availability and arrangements with you.

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Not automatically. For low back pain without signs of a serious underlying problem, routine scans are not usually needed at a general medical assessment. A specialist may request imaging if it could change treatment. New weakness or other concerning findings may need urgent assessment.

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Source: NICE · Low back pain and sciatica: imaging , AANS · Herniated disc .

No. MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves and does not use X-ray ionising radiation. CT uses X-rays. The appropriate test depends on the clinical question; one is not universally a substitute for the other.

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Source: NIH / NIBIB · How MRI works , NHS · CT scan .

Tell them about implants or metal in your body, earlier surgery, possible pregnancy, kidney problems and contrast allergies. Mention claustrophobia or anxiety in advance. Let the imaging team check safety and give preparation instructions.

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Source: NHS · Preparing for an MRI scan .

No. Some disc findings cause no symptoms. Decisions depend on symptoms, examination and the scan together. Persistent symptoms despite appropriate treatment or worsening neurological problems may change the recommendation.

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Source: NHS · Slipped disc .

No. Brain tumours include cancerous and non-cancerous types. The type, site, size and overall clinical picture influence treatment. Even a non-cancerous growth can be important if it presses on critical structures.

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Source: NHS · Brain tumours , AANS · Brain tumours .

A headache alone does not establish that diagnosis; many headaches have other causes. Recurrent or worsening headaches need assessment. A sudden, extremely severe headache, or headache with new weakness, speech difficulty or reduced alertness, needs emergency help.

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Source: NHS · Headaches .

Usually not for uncomplicated sciatica. Gentle activity and continuing normal tasks as tolerated are generally encouraged rather than long periods sitting or lying down. A recent operation, injury or individual medical instruction can change that advice.

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Source: NHS · Sciatica .

No. Risks depend on the exact operation and your condition. For lumbar decompression, serious complications are uncommon, but nerve injury and paralysis are recognised possibilities. Ask your surgeon about your individual risk, expected benefit and alternatives.

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Source: NHS · Lumbar decompression: recovery and risks .

There is no single timetable for every operation or patient. The procedure, recovery, medicines, job demands and local driving requirements matter. Follow your discharge plan and ask your treating team before restarting restricted activities.

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Source: NHS · Lumbar decompression: recovery and risks , UCLH · Craniotomy and biopsy patient guidance .

Do not change a prescribed plan on your own. In particular, anti-seizure medicines should not be stopped without specialist advice. Ask the treating team about continuing, adjusting or stopping each medicine, including any steroid plan.

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Source: UCLH · Craniotomy and biopsy patient guidance .

Ask whether your visit includes a test or procedure and follow the specific instructions you are given. Surgery preparation includes individual eating, drinking and medicine advice. Do not apply a generic surgery checklist to every outpatient visit.

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Source: NHS · Preparing for surgery .

Do not wait. Sudden stroke-like symptoms need urgent assessment even if they disappear. Note when they began and seek emergency help. In India, call 112 for emergency assistance; routine clinic messages are not an emergency service.

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Source: CDC · Stroke signs and symptoms , Government of India · Emergency Response Support System .

No. Do not put anything in the mouth or hold the person down. Move hazards away, protect the head and time the seizure. Read the first-aid guide for when to call emergency services.

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Source: CDC · Seizure first aid .