Dr. Emily Wing Yun Tam – Neurologist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Emily Wing Yun Tam 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 a neurology clinic within a hospital department in Toronto's Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood, she is an integral part of the local medical community. The facility is situated near the Toronto Reference Library and is easily accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). The practice is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusive access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, facilitating ease of visitations. Dr. Tam adheres strictly to the standards set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), maintaining the highest level of professional and ethical practice.

She provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. With a focus on adult patients, Dr. Tam offers tailored diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to optimize neurological health. Her approach emphasizes patient-centered care, fostering a supportive environment for individuals and families navigating complex neurological issues.

Dr. Tam graduated with a Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in Canada. She has over 16 years of experience as a Neurologist, having practiced since 2008. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Committed to continuous professional development, she stays current with the latest advances in neurological care. Dr. Tam believes in a holistic and evidence-based approach to managing nervous system health, dedicated to ongoing patient education and support. She is fluent in English, Cantonese, and French, allowing her to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations in Toronto.

Dr. Emily Tam 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.
• Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.

Headache Disorders

• 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.
• Chronic Daily Headache: Headaches occurring 15 or more days per month for at least three months.

Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases

• Carotid Artery Stenosis (Symptomatic): Narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck, increasing stroke risk if it causes neurological symptoms.
• Hemorrhagic Stroke (Intracerebral & Subarachnoid): Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds into or around brain tissue.
• Ischemic Stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is obstructed, leading to brain cell damage.

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

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

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

Located within a neurology department in Toronto's Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District), Dr. Tam's practice is situated in a modern facility close to the Toronto Reference Library. It is easily accessible via public transit, including TTC subway, streetcar, and bus routes. The clinic is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusive access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently available nearby, making visits straightforward and stress-free. The practice is committed to providing a welcoming environment that prioritizes patient comfort and accessibility.

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

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

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

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

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. Tam if needed.

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. Tam 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.

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. Tam will determine which tests, if any, are appropriate for your situation.

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. Tam 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 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. Tam can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.

Suite 109, 175 Elizabeth Street
Toronto, ON M5G 2G3

Phone: (416) 813-6660

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Tam 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. Tam 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/Tam-Emily-Wing-Yun/0203377-79290