Dr. Andrew Gomez Vargas – Neurologist | St Catharines, ON

Dr. Andrew Gomez Vargas 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 Sault Area Hospital in St Catharines, ON, he is an integral part of the local medical community. Dr. Vargas adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that his patients receive care that is both safe and evidence-based. He provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His approach emphasizes accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support to improve patient outcomes. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological conditions, fostering trust and collaboration in managing complex health issues.

Dr. Vargas earned his Medical Degree from the National University of Colombia (Colombia), bringing a strong foundation in medical sciences and a global perspective to his practice. With over 11 years of experience as a Neurologist since 2013, he has developed a deep expertise in managing adult neurological conditions. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards and ongoing education in his field.

His clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, combining a holistic approach to neurological health with evidence-based practices. Dr. Vargas is dedicated to ongoing patient education and support, empowering individuals to participate actively in their health management. He believes in clear communication, compassion, and a thorough understanding of each patient’s unique needs. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Dr. Vargas ensures that language is not a barrier to effective care, fostering a welcoming environment for diverse patient populations in St. Catharines and surrounding areas.

Dr. Andrew Vargas 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.
• Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
• Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.

Headache Disorders

• Trigeminal Neuralgia & Other Facial Pain Syndromes: Chronic pain conditions affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain.
• Migraine (with or without Aura): A type of headache that can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
• Tension-Type Headache: The most common type of primary headache, often described as a constant ache or pressure around the head, especially at the temples or back of the head and neck.

Neuromuscular Diseases

• Muscular Dystrophies (e.g., Duchenne, Becker, Myotonic Dystrophy): A group of genetic diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass.
• Myasthenia Gravis: A chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease characterized by varying degrees of weakness of the skeletal (voluntary) muscles of the body.
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) / Motor Neuron Disease: A progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Andrew Vargas.

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
• 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.
• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Vargas 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.

Sault Area Hospital, situated in the areas near central St Catharines’ neighborhood, serves as a key medical facility in the region. The hospital provides specialized neurological services within a dedicated neurology unit, offering a comprehensive approach to nervous system health. The hospital is conveniently accessible via local public transit, making it easy for patients to reach. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all visitors. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, providing flexibility for patients and their families. The hospital's setting is close to local points of interest, making it a practical choice for those seeking expert neurological care in a welcoming and well-equipped environment.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Vargas, a Neurologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Vargas, 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. Vargas's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Vargas, a Neurologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Vargas 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 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. Vargas 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.

How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?

Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. Vargas 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 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. Vargas will determine which tests, if any, are appropriate for your situation.

Sault Area Hospital
125 Welland Avenue, SAH Hospitalist Program
St Catharines, ON L2R 2N5

Phone: (905) 688-6289 | Fax: (905) 688-0720

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Vargas 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. Vargas 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/Gomez-Vargas-Andrew/0241427-86291