Dr. Myriam Chamsi – Neurologist | Laval, QC

Dr. Myriam Chamsi 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 Hôpital Cité de la Santé in Laval, QC, 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 high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring quality and safety in all aspects of neurological care.

Dr. Chamsi holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has accumulated over 6 years of experience as a Neurologist since 2018. She has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice Neurology (Disorders of the Brain, Spinal Cord, Nerves, and Muscles) in QC, demonstrating her commitment to ongoing professional development and excellence in patient care.

Her clinical philosophy is centered on providing patient-centered care through a holistic approach to neurological health. Dr. Chamsi emphasizes evidence-based practice, ongoing patient education, and support to empower individuals and families navigating neurological conditions. She is dedicated to serving the community in Laval, speaking both French and English, and fostering a compassionate, respectful environment for all patients.

Dr. Myriam Chamsi addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• 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.
• Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.

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.
• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): A rare neurological disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks part of its peripheral nervous system.
• 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.

Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Diseases

• 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.
• Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD): An autoimmune inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord.

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

• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• 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.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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

Hôpital Cité de la Santé, situated in Laval's Chomedey North neighbourhood, serves as a key medical facility specializing in neurological care. Easily accessible via the Major East-West Arterial, the hospital is well-connected by public transit, with the Société de transport de Laval (STL) providing convenient options for patients. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all patients can access the services comfortably. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, making your visit as smooth as possible. As a specialized unit within the hospital, Dr. Chamsi's practice offers state-of-the-art neurological diagnostics and treatments in a modern, patient-friendly environment.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Chamsi, a Neurologist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Chamsi, 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. Chamsi's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).

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

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Chamsi 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. Dr. Chamsi can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.

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. Dr. Chamsi if needed.

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

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. Dr. Chamsi 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.

Hôpital Cité de la Santé
1755 boul René-Laennec
Laval, QC H7M 3L9

Phone: (450) 975-5583 | Fax: (450) 975-5072

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Chamsi is a licensed Neurologist 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. Chamsi 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=18759