About
Dr. Ammar Anwar Gilani 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 Toronto Western Hospital in Hamilton, ON, he is an integral part of the local medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Gilani provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His approach is patient-centered, focusing on personalized treatment plans that address each individual’s unique needs. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological conditions.
Dr. Gilani graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of the Punjab in Pakistan. With over 20 years of experience as a Neurologist since 2004, he has developed a deep expertise in neurological diagnosis and management. He is recognized as a CPSO Recognized Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, reflecting his extensive training and commitment to excellence in neurological care. His ongoing professional development ensures that his practice remains aligned with the latest advances and guidelines in neurology.
Dr. Gilani's clinical philosophy emphasizes patient-centered care, a holistic approach to neurological health, and evidence-based practice. He is dedicated to ongoing patient education and support, ensuring that patients feel informed and involved in their treatment journey. Fluent in English, Panjabi/Punjabi, and Urdu, he strives to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations in Hamilton. His commitment is to provide compassionate, comprehensive, and accessible neurological care to the adult community he serves.
Dr. Ammar Gilani addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)
- Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
- Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
- Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases
- 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.
- Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis (CVST): A blood clot in the dural venous sinuses, which drain blood from the brain.
Cognitive Disorders & Dementia
- Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): An intermediate stage between the expected cognitive decline of normal aging and the more serious decline of dementia.
- Vascular Dementia: Dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to stroke or a series of small strokes.
- Alzheimer's Disease: A progressive neurodegenerative disease that is the most common cause of dementia, affecting memory, thinking, and behavior.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Ammar Gilani.
- Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
- Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
- Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
- 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.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Gilani 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Toronto Western Hospital's Hamilton location is situated in the Hamilton Mountain Central (Inch Park, Eastmount) neighbourhood, serving as a key medical facility within the hospital's specialized neurology unit. The hospital is conveniently accessible via the West Harbour GO Station (North End) and is close to the James Street North Art District, making it easy for patients to reach. Public transit is well-supported by Hamilton Street Railway (HSR), with multiple bus routes servicing the area. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby lots are available for those arriving by car, providing flexible parking options for visitors seeking neurological care at this trusted hospital.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Gilani, a Neurologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Gilani, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON 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. Gilani's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Gilani, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Gilani 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 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. Gilani will determine which tests, if any, are appropriate for your situation.
- When should I consider seeing a Neurologist?
- You should consider seeing a Neurologist if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms such as: severe or frequent headaches (especially if new or different), chronic dizziness or vertigo, numbness or tingling in your limbs, unexplained weakness, seizures or blackouts, memory problems or cognitive decline, difficulties with movement or coordination (like tremors or unsteady gait), or significant changes in vision not explained by eye problems. Your family doctor can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a neurologist like Dr. Gilani if needed.
- How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?
- Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. Gilani will work with you to identify triggers, discuss lifestyle modifications (diet, sleep, stress management), and recommend acute treatments to stop a migraine when it occurs (e.g., triptans, CGRP antagonists). For frequent or severe migraines, preventive treatments may be prescribed, which can include oral medications, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, or newer CGRP monoclonal antibodies. A personalized treatment plan is key.
- What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Gilani?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Gilani will likely be quite thorough. He 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. Gilani 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 is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and how is it treated?
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. Treatment focuses on managing acute relapses (often with corticosteroids), slowing disease progression with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), and managing symptoms (like fatigue, spasticity, pain, bladder problems). Dr. Gilani can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity.
Toronto Western Hospital
668 Concession Street, East Wing Room 8-417
Hamilton, ON L8V 4T9
Phone: (905) 538-4146 | Fax: (905) 538-4147
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Gilani is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Gilani for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Gilani-Ammar-Anwar/0197093-78591