About
Dr. Jean Rivest, a Epileptologist, provides expert care for adult patients with conditions related to Epilepsy. Practicing at CHUS - Hôp Fleurimont in Sherbrooke, QC, he is an integral part of the local medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring quality and safety in neurological care. Dr. Rivest's focus is on the comprehensive management of epilepsy and seizure disorders, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and developing individualized treatment plans. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological conditions, emphasizing compassionate and patient-centered care.
He holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has accumulated over 37 years of experience as an Epileptologist since 1987. Dr. Rivest has completed extensive post-graduate training in neurology and epilepsy, and he holds the necessary certifications to practice in Quebec, including licensure through the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).
Dr. Rivest is committed to providing patient-centered care through a holistic approach to neurological health. He emphasizes ongoing education and support for his patients, ensuring they are well-informed about their conditions and treatment options. Fluent in French, he is dedicated to serving the diverse community of Sherbrooke with empathy and professionalism.
Dr. Jean Rivest addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders
- Generalized Epilepsy (e.g., Tonic-Clonic, Absence Seizures): Seizures that affect both sides of the brain from the onset, leading to various types of convulsions or alterations in consciousness.
- Status Epilepticus: A medical emergency where a seizure lasts too long or when seizures occur close together without recovery in between.
- 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.
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.
- Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases
- Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis (CVST): A blood clot in the dural venous sinuses, which drain blood from the brain.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke (Intracerebral & Subarachnoid): Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds into or around brain tissue.
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) / Mini-Stroke: A temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, often a warning sign for a future stroke.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Jean Rivest.
- 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
- Evaluation for Epilepsy Surgery, Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS), or Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS): Assessing suitability for advanced epilepsy treatments when medications are not fully effective.
- Diagnosis & Comprehensive Management of Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders: Including seizure type classification, anti-epileptic drug (AED) selection and management, and lifestyle counseling.
- Management of Status Epilepticus (in hospital setting): Emergency treatment for prolonged or recurrent seizures.
- Long-Term Epilepsy Monitoring (LTM) / Video-EEG Monitoring - Interpretation & Management Planning: Extended EEG recording, often with video, to capture seizure events and aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Rivest for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
CHUS - Hôp Fleurimont is situated in Sherbrooke's Fleurimont West (Hospital Area) neighborhood, providing convenient access for patients. The facility is located near the Université de Sherbrooke Main Campus, with multiple public transit options available through the Société de transport de Sherbrooke (STS). The hospital premises are wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of movement for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, offering flexibility for visitors and patients attending appointments.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Rivest, a Epileptologist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Epileptologist like Dr. Rivest, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC 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. Rivest's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Rivest, a Epileptologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Epileptologist like Dr. Rivest 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 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. Rivest can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.
- 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. Rivest 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. Rivest 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. Rivest 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.
- How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?
- Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. Rivest 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.
CHUS - Hôp Fleurimont
3001 12e Avenue N
Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4
Phone: (819) 346-1110 | Fax: (819) 564-5395
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Rivest is a licensed Epileptologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Rivest for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=81082