About
Dr. Denise Susan Stirling 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 the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service in Oakville, ON, she is an integral part of the local medical community. Her practice adheres to the rigorous standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). She provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders, offering a nuanced approach tailored to each patient's needs. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological conditions, emphasizing compassionate and individualized care.
Dr. Stirling graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in Canada and has over 29 years of experience practicing as a Neurologist since 1995. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring her practice aligns with the highest professional standards and current medical guidelines. Her extensive training and clinical expertise enable her to address complex neurological issues with confidence and precision.
Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, integrating a holistic approach to neurological health. Dr. Stirling is committed to evidence-based practice, ongoing patient education, and providing support throughout the diagnostic and treatment process. She offers care in English and is dedicated to fostering a trusting doctor-patient relationship, particularly for residents of Oakville seeking expert neurological care in a compassionate setting.
Dr. Denise Stirling 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.
- Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Diseases
- Transverse Myelitis: Inflammation of the spinal cord, often causing weakness, sensory changes, and autonomic dysfunction below the level of the lesion.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Relapsing-Remitting, Primary Progressive, Secondary Progressive: A chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) by damaging the myelin sheath.
- Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM): A rare inflammatory demyelinating condition of the central nervous system, typically following an infection or vaccination.
Headache Disorders
- Cluster Headache: Intensely painful headaches that occur in cyclical patterns or cluster periods, one of the most severe types of pain known.
- 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.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia & Other Facial Pain Syndromes: Chronic pain conditions affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Denise Stirling.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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. Stirling 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.
Ontario Forensic Pathology Service is located in Oakville's West Oak Trails, Glen Abbey West neighborhood. It is a key medical facility within Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital, offering specialized neurological services in a modern, accessible setting. The facility is conveniently accessible via public transit, with Oakville Transit providing reliable service. The location is fully wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients, and parking is available at or near the facility, ensuring ease of access for patients and visitors alike. This setting is designed to support comprehensive neurological care in a professional and welcoming environment.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Stirling, a Neurologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Stirling, 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. Stirling's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Stirling, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Stirling 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 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. Stirling can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity.
- How does Dr. Stirling manage Parkinson's disease?
- Management of Parkinson's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. This typically involves medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain (like levodopa) or mimic its effects. Other medications can help with non-motor symptoms. Dr. Stirling will also emphasize the importance of exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For some patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option. Care is highly individualized.
- 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. Stirling can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.
- 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. Dr. Stirling will determine which tests, if any, are appropriate for your situation.
Ontario Forensic Pathology Service
3001 Hospital Gate, Office of the Chief Coroner and Forensic Service & Coroners Complex
Oakville, ON L6M 0L8
Phone: (905) 847-6456
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Stirling 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. Stirling 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/Stirling-Denise-Susan/0048598-62576