About
Dr. Alexandra Jane Sequeira is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at a neurology clinic within a hospital department in Richmond, BC, she is an integral part of the local medical community. She adheres to the high standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Sequeira offers comprehensive neurological care, addressing a broad spectrum of conditions such as headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. Her practice provides a supportive environment for patients and their families navigating complex neurological issues.
She graduated with her MD from St. George's University School of Medicine in Grenada. She holds specialty certification as a Neurologist and is board-certified by recognized medical authorities. Her credentials include certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, as well as the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. These qualifications reflect her commitment to maintaining a high level of expertise and staying current with advances in neurological medicine.
Dr. Sequeira is dedicated to delivering patient-centered care through a holistic approach to neurological health. Her practice emphasizes evidence-based medicine, ongoing patient education, and support to empower individuals in managing their conditions. Fluent in English, she provides compassionate and tailored care to her patients in Richmond, ensuring they receive the attention and information necessary to make informed decisions about their health.
Dr. Alexandra Sequeira addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)
- Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
- Numbness, Tingling & Weakness (Focal or Generalized): Sensory changes or loss of strength in limbs or other body parts, potentially due to nerve or muscle disorders.
- Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders
- Generalized Epilepsy (e.g., Tonic-Clonic, Absence Seizures): Seizures that affect both sides of the brain from the onset, leading to various types of convulsions or alterations in consciousness.
- Refractory (Drug-Resistant) Epilepsy: Epilepsy that does not respond adequately to treatment with two or more appropriately chosen anti-seizure medications.
- Focal (Partial) Epilepsy (with or without secondary generalization): Seizures originating in one area of the brain, which may or may not spread to become generalized.
Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases
- Carotid Artery Stenosis (Symptomatic): Narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck, increasing stroke risk if it causes neurological symptoms.
- Ischemic Stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is obstructed, leading to brain cell damage.
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) / Mini-Stroke: A temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, often a warning sign for a future stroke.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Alexandra Sequeira.
- Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.
- Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
- Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
- Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Sequeira for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Sequeira practices within a well-equipped neurology department located in the Central Richmond neighborhood, near Richmond Hospital and Minoru Park. The facility is easily accessible via public transit, including the TransLink (SkyTrain Canada Line and bus services). The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, providing flexible options for patients arriving by car. The practice's setting in Richmond's vibrant community allows for seamless integration of neurological care with local health services, fostering a welcoming environment for patients and families alike.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Sequeira, a Neurologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Sequeira, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Sequeira's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Sequeira, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Sequeira for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.
- What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Sequeira?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Sequeira will likely be quite thorough. She will take a detailed medical history, including your current symptoms, past illnesses, family history of neurological conditions, and any medications you are taking. A comprehensive neurological examination will be performed, which assesses things like your mental status, cranial nerves (vision, hearing, facial movement), strength, coordination, reflexes, and sensation. Based on this, Dr. Sequeira may discuss potential diagnoses, order further tests (like an MRI, EEG, or blood work), or suggest initial treatment options. Bring a list of your medications and any relevant medical records or imaging reports if you have them.
- What are common diagnostic tests in Neurology?
- Common tests ordered or interpreted by a neurologist include: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans to visualize the brain and spinal cord; Electroencephalogram (EEG) to record brain electrical activity (often for seizures); Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) to assess nerve and muscle function; Lumbar Puncture (spinal tap) to analyze cerebrospinal fluid; and various blood tests to look for infections, inflammation, or genetic markers. Dr. Sequeira will determine which tests, if any, are appropriate for your situation.
- What are the treatment options for epilepsy?
- The primary treatment for epilepsy is anti-seizure medication (ASM), formerly known as anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). There are many different ASMs available, and the choice depends on the type of seizures, epilepsy syndrome, age, other medical conditions, and potential side effects. For some individuals whose seizures are not controlled by medication (drug-resistant epilepsy), other options may include dietary therapies (like the ketogenic diet), neurostimulation devices (like Vagus Nerve Stimulation - VNS), or epilepsy surgery. Dr. Sequeira can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.
- What does a Neurologist do for stroke patients?
- For acute ischemic stroke, neurologists in a hospital setting are involved in rapid diagnosis and administration of time-sensitive treatments like thrombolysis (clot-busting medication) or coordinating endovascular thrombectomy. After a stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack), a neurologist like Dr. Sequeira focuses on identifying the cause and implementing strategies for secondary prevention to reduce the risk of future strokes. This includes managing risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and recommending antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications and lifestyle changes.
7000 Westminster Hwy
Richmond, BC V6X 1A2
Phone: (604) 278-9711
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Sequeira is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Sequeira for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/381799/Sequeira%2CAlexandra