Dr. Jason Lazarou – Neurologist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Jason Lazarou 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 St Joseph's Health Centre in Toronto, ON, he is an integral part of the local medical community. He provides comprehensive neurological care for a wide range of conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological conditions, ensuring compassionate and expert care.

Dr. Lazarou graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in Canada. With over 18 years of experience as a Neurologist since 2006, he has developed extensive expertise in managing complex neurological disorders. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), adhering to the highest standards of medical practice and patient safety. His ongoing commitment to professional development ensures that patients receive current and effective treatments.

Guided by a philosophy of patient-centered care, Dr. Lazarou adopts a holistic approach to neurological health, integrating evidence-based practices with ongoing patient education and support. He is dedicated to empowering his patients through clear communication and shared decision-making. Fluent in both English and Greek, he strives to make each patient feel understood and valued. His commitment is to improve quality of life for his patients in Toronto through compassionate, comprehensive neurological care.

Dr. Jason Lazarou 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.
• 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.
• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.

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.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-induced, Idiopathic): Damage to or disease affecting nerves, which may impair sensation, movement, gland or organ function, or other aspects of health.
• Muscular Dystrophies (e.g., Duchenne, Becker, Myotonic Dystrophy): A group of genetic diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass.

Headache Disorders

• 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.
• 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.

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

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

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

St Joseph's Health Centre is situated within Toronto's vibrant Kensington Market, Chinatown, and Grange Park neighbourhoods. The hospital serves as a key medical facility on the Toronto campus, providing specialized neurological services. It is conveniently located near the University of Toronto (St. George Campus south edge) and the MaRS Discovery District, making it accessible for patients from across the city. Public transit options are abundant, with the TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus) providing easy access. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and convenience for all patients. Parking is available at or near the hospital, facilitating easy visits for those arriving by car.

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

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

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

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

Your first appointment with Dr. Lazarou 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. Lazarou 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. Lazarou 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. Lazarou is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions.

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. Lazarou if needed.

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. Lazarou can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.

How does Dr. Lazarou 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. Lazarou 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.

St Joseph's Health Centre
60 Murray Street, Department of Family Medicine
Toronto, ON M5T 3L9

Phone: (416) 586-4800 | Fax: (416) 586-8623

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Lazarou 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. Lazarou 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/Lazarou-Jason/0180459-76446