Dr. Dulara Hussain – Neurologist | Richmond Hill, ON

Dr. Dulara Hussain 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 Ottawa Hospital in Richmond Hill, ON, she is an integral part of the local medical community. She provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. Her practice adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and evidence-based neurological care.

Dr. Hussain graduated with a Medical Degree from Deccan College of Medical Sciences in India. With over 9 years of experience as a Neurologist since 2015, she has developed a deep expertise in managing complex neurological conditions. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her clinical training and ongoing professional development enable her to deliver specialized neurological services tailored to each patient’s needs.

Her clinical philosophy centers on providing patient-centered care through a holistic approach to neurological health. Dr. Hussain is committed to ongoing patient education, fostering a supportive environment for individuals and families navigating neurological challenges. She emphasizes evidence-based practice, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support. Fluent in English and Urdu, she strives to communicate clearly and compassionately, ensuring her patients feel heard and understood throughout their care journey.

Dr. Dulara Hussain 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.

Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders

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

Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Diseases

• Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM): A rare inflammatory demyelinating condition of the central nervous system, typically following an infection or vaccination.
• 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.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• 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.

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

The Ottawa Hospital's Richmond Hill facility is situated in the vibrant Central Richmond Hill, Mill Pond neighborhood. It serves as a key medical center within the hospital's specialized units, offering advanced neurological services. The practice is conveniently located near the Richmond Green Area and Business Parks, making it accessible for residents and visitors alike. Public transit options include York Region Transit (YRT) and Viva, providing easy access from various parts of the region. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Metered street parking and nearby lots are available for those arriving by car, ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience for all patients seeking neurological care in Richmond Hill.

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

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

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

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

How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?

Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. Hussain 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 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. Hussain can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity.

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. Hussain 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. Hussain if needed.

The Ottawa Hospital
Room C159, 10 Trench Street, Department of Radiology
Richmond Hill, ON L4C 4Z3

Phone: (905) 883-1212 | Fax: (905) 883-2246

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Hussain 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. Hussain 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/Hussain-Dulara/0300975-107620