Dr. Dariush Dowlatshahi – Neurologist | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Dariush Dowlatshahi 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 Strathroy Caradoc Family Medicine in Ottawa, 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. Dowlatshahi provides comprehensive neurological care for a wide spectrum of conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating complex neurological health issues.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in Canada and has been practicing as a Neurologist since 2008, bringing over 16 years of clinical experience to his patients. Dr. Dowlatshahi is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring his adherence to rigorous professional standards and ongoing education in his subspecialty of neurology.

Guided by a commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Dowlatshahi adopts a holistic and evidence-based approach to neurological health. He emphasizes ongoing patient education, collaborative decision-making, and personalized treatment plans. Fluent in English, he provides attentive care to adult patients in Ottawa, aiming to optimize neurological outcomes and improve quality of life through compassionate and expert medical service.

Dr. Dariush Dowlatshahi addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• 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.
• Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
• Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.

Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders

• Status Epilepticus: A medical emergency where a seizure lasts too long or when seizures occur close together without recovery in between.
• 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.

Neuromuscular Diseases

• 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.
• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): A rare neurological disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks part of its peripheral nervous system.
• Muscular Dystrophies (e.g., Duchenne, Becker, Myotonic Dystrophy): A group of genetic diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• 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.
• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.

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

Strathroy Caradoc Family Medicine is situated in Ottawa's vibrant Hintonburg neighborhood, close to the Civic Hospital and Westboro East. The practice is conveniently located near landmarks such as Library and Archives Canada and the Supreme Court of Canada, making it accessible for residents and visitors alike. Public transit options include OC Transpo services, including the O-Train LRT and bus routes, providing easy access for patients from across the city. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and convenience for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, offering flexible parking solutions for visitors. The practice is committed to providing accessible, patient-centered neurological care in a welcoming environment.

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

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

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

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

Your first appointment with Dr. Dowlatshahi 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. Dowlatshahi 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 does a Neurologist like Dr. Dowlatshahi specialize in?

A Neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord), and muscles. He is a Neurologist specializing in disorders of the nervous system. Dr. Dowlatshahi is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions. He employs a comprehensive, evidence-based approach and provides ongoing support to his patients, ensuring tailored care that addresses individual needs and promotes neurological health.

Strathroy Caradoc Family Medicine
1053 Carling Avenue
Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9

Phone: (613) 761-4709 | Fax: (613) 761-5360

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Dowlatshahi 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. Dowlatshahi 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/Dowlatshahi-Dariush/0200764-79068