Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid

The CEC Health Center, a Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid, (CEC) is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC)* that provides integrated healthcare services at its Bethpage, Hauppauge and now Glen Cove locations. We provide care with excellence and compassion to historically underserved community members with limited incomes including those with autism, learning and developmental disabilities, and behavioral health concerns.

CEC recently merged with the Melillo Center for Mental Health in Glen Cove, a health center with over 40 years of experience serving the community in the heart of Glen Cove. Renamed CEC at Glen Cove, the Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid will continue to provide supports that include mental health clinic, outpatient chemical dependency outpatient services, assertive community treatment (ACT), supervised community residences, supported housing and respite housing.

Common Conditions Treated By A Neurologist

Neurologists are specialized physicians that can diagnose and treat issues involving your brain and nervous system. As a multidisciplinary healthcare facility, the CEC Health Center recognizes the importance of having a trained neurologist as a member of our team. Issues with the brain and nervous system can be difficult to manage for some patients, but you won’t have to do it alone. To learn more about the common conditions that can be treated by a neurologist, please visit our website or contact us for more information.

Epilepsy 

Epilepsy is a disorder that affects the central nervous system. It occurs when one’s brain activity becomes abnormal, causing seizures in patients. While this condition is strenuous to handle and keep track of, through the use of medication and other suggested therapies, our neurologist will be able to help patients manage the below symptoms:

• Spells of temporary confusion.
• Loss of consciousness or awareness.
• Uncontrolled movements of the arms and legs.
• Feelings of fear, anxiety, or deja vu.

Headaches

Those who experience headaches now and again can find relief through over-the-counter medications and rest. However, there are times where the help of a neurologist is needed for treatment. If any of the below apply to you, it may be time to visit our neurologist:

• You experience chronic headaches.
• Headaches are accompanied by nausea, dizziness, vomiting, and confusion.
• Your headaches have begun directly after suffering a head injury.
• Symptoms have progressively gotten worse over time.

Sleep Disorders

Disorders relating to sleep can be highly detrimental to your health, since we rely on sleep for recovery and other benefits. When your body does not receive the necessary amount of sleep, you can spend your days feeling groggy, irritable, and as if you’re trapped in a haze. By visiting our neurologist at the CEC Health Center, a variety of sleep disorders can be diagnosed and treated, including some of the following:

• Insomnia.
• Narcolepsy.
• Restless leg syndrome.
• Sleep apnea.      

Additional Conditions

When you’re dealing with an issue that affects your brain or nervous system, receiving a proper diagnosis goes a long way in finding the treatment needed to make a full recovery. At the CEC Health Center, our neurologist works with patients to find the right treatment plan for them. In addition to the previously mentioned conditions, other ailments our neurologist may be able to diagnose and create a treatment plan for can include some of the following:

• Strokes.
• Brain aneurysms.
• Brain tumors.
• Neurodegenerative diseases.
• Neuromuscular diseases.
• Infections of the nervous system.  

Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid

At the CEC Health Center, our team is committed to providing the traditionally underserved members of the community with the medical attention and care they deserve. If you’re being affected by a brain or nervous system problem, the help of our experienced neurologist may be needed to gain a better understanding of what is taking place. To receive the necessary diagnosis and care, make sure to contact our team today.

Opioid Abuse Treatment

Addiction may be hard for you or someone you know to deal with. It can affect various aspects of your life such as work, friends, love, and more. If you or someone you know may be suffering from opioid abuse and are seeking treatment, consider contacting us today at CEC Health Center. We offer Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid. Our mission to serve underrepresented patients is our utmost priority regardless of their inability to pay. We will offer an individualized treatment plan that can get you back on the path to recovery. 

What are Opioids? 

Opioids are a group of drugs that are used to treat and relieve pain. These drugs when entered in the body bind to receptors in your brain, spinal cord, and other areas to release dopamine, the body’s natural pain-killer.

 A list of opioid drugs that are commonly prescribed are:

• Codeine
• Fentanyl 
• Hydromorphone 
• Methadone 
• Morphine
• Oxycodone 
• Oxymorphone 

 Heroin is derived from morphine and is considered the most highly addictive opioid drug. Whether obtained illegally or prescribed, opioids are highly addictive and it’s important to understand what are the side effects and how to tell if someone may be overdosing.  

What are the Side Effects?

When taken, opioids release the body’s natural pain-killing hormone known as dopamine. These give a feeling of pain relief which is temporary. As a result, people will continue to take doses of it to achieve the same “high” feeling. However, over time your body begins to build a tolerance and it will require more doses to achieve the same effect which can lead to dependency or addiction.  

Side effects include not limited to:

• Pain relief
• Confusion
• Constipation 
• A slower rate of breathing 
• Dizziness 
• Depression 
• Drowsiness
• Headaches 
• Itchiness
• Nausea

 What If I am Addicted? 

 It is important to understand the difference between dependency and addiction. Dependency is where your body becomes dependent on the drug. You begin to need more and more of the doses to achieve the same effect and experience withdrawal if you stop taking the drug. Addiction occurs when you cannot stop using the drug regardless of any consequences. 

The signs of addiction vary from person to person depending on the type of substance they take. However, the general warning signs include:

• Daily use of the drug.
• Experiencing a sense of urgency to use the drug that it prohibits you from concentrating on anything else. 
• You begin to take larger doses of the drug or prolong use than intended. 
• You take larger doses to achieve the same effect. 
• You always have a supply of the drug. 
• You begin to spend your money on the drug which was meant for necessities. 
• Develop risky behaviors to get the drug such as stealing or becoming violent. 
• Engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence such as unprotected sex and driving. 
• Experiencing withdrawals when you stop using the drug.

If you notice a shift in personality, behavioral, physical, performance or health, you or someone you know may be experiencing an addiction. Contact us today and start an Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid to get you back the path of recovery.  

What Are My Options? 

The first step if you think someone may be experiencing addiction is to learn about the misconceptions of the drug and how it can affect the brain. Asking is the next step when you or a loved one is ready to seek treatment. We advise bringing a family member or friend who can help you begin the road to treatment. 

Once acceptance has been filled, detoxification begins. This is the process of ending opioid usage as quickly as possible and can take anywhere from several days to weeks.  Our doctor will complete an examination and develop a treatment plan that is right for you. Once the drug is out of your system, treatment can begin. 

Treatment options include: 

• Medicines
• Counseling Therapy
• Support groups
• Residential and hospital-based treatment centers

Relapse is also part of the recovery process. it is important to avoid outside triggers and reduce your risk of relapsing in the future. 

Contact Us Today For A Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid

If you are seeking Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid, contact us today at CEC Health Center. We will assist you by developing a treatment plan that is right for you and take your life back from opioid addiction.

What Are The Five Developmental Disabilities?

Developmental disabilities are conditions due to an impairment in learning, behavioral, physical, or language areas. Many people have one or more developmental disabilities or delays. Five developmental disabilities that are often seen are ADHD, ASD, cerebral palsy down syndrome, and Tourette syndrome. If you are looking for Neurologist in Amityville that Accepts Medicaid, the CEC Health Center can help. 

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD is a very common neurodevelopmental disorder that is diagnosed in childhood and often carries on through adulthood. Individuals with ADHD typically have a hard time paying attention, being too active, or controlling impulses. ADHD can cause a lot of issues in a person’s life, affecting their work performance, school, or interpersonal relationships. Typically discovered during childhood, symptoms of ADHD in children include:

• Forgetfulness or the tendency to lose things. 
• Fidgeting.
• Talking too much.
• Difficulty working with others.
• Trouble concentrating.

There are actually three types of ADHD. Predominantly inattentive presentation is the type where it is hard for the individual to stay organized and finish tasks. The individual might get easily distracted. Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation is where the individual talks and fidgets a lot. This person might have a hard time sitting still for an extended period, and often might feel restless and impulsive. This person might also have a hard time waiting their turn and can speak at inappropriate times. The combined presentation is where symptoms of the previous two types are equally present. Presentation can also change over time. Most of the time, ADHD is best treated with a combination of behavioral therapy and medication. If you are looking for ADHD treatment, there are Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid. 

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a development condition that affects how a person socializes, and can cause problems with communication and socialization. The word “spectrum” in autism spectrum disorders refers to the differences in symptoms and their severity. ASD includes conditions such as autism, Asperger’s syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder, and childhood disintegrative disorder. Though the term “Asperger’s syndrome” is no longer widely used, it is on the more mild end of the spectrum. ASD typically begins in early childhood, but some children appear to be developing normally in the first year, and gradually develop autism symptoms between the ages of 18 and 24 months. Signs of ASD are usually seen at around 2 years of age. Individuals with ASD typically have a unique pattern of behavior and varying severity levels. Some of the signs and symptoms include:

• Does not respond to their name, or does not appear to hear you. 
• Resists affection, prefers to play alone. 
• Lack of eye contact or facial expression.
• Delayed speech, or no speech. 
• Repeats words or phrases, but does not understand their use. 
• Trouble understanding nonverbal social cues. 

While there is no cure for ASD, Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid can lend their treatment services, which can make a big difference in a child or adult’s life. 

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is the most common motor disability caused by abnormal brain development that affects a person’s muscle control. The symptoms and severity of cerebral palsy vary among individuals. A severe case of cerebral palsy might cause a person to not be able to walk, or require equipment to help them walk. A person with mild cerebral palsy might have trouble walking normally, but might not need special care. Cerebral palsy does not worsen over time, but symptoms can change. All people that have cerebral palsy have posture and movement problems. A lot of people may also have seizures, intellectual disability, or joint problems. The signs of cerebral palsy are different for many individuals as there are many types and levels of the disability. The clearest sign that indicates cerebral palsy is the delay in reaching movement or motor milestones. There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but treatment can help improve the lives of those who have the condition, and treatment should begin as early as possible. The Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid can work with you and your family to come up with a treatment plan that best suits your needs. 

Down Syndrome

Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition that occurs when a person has an extra copy of chromosome 21. Down syndrome can be diagnosed before or at birth. Prenatal screenings estimate the chances of Down syndrome in the fetus. Diagnostic tests provide a definitive diagnosis. At birth, Down syndrome is identified by the presence of these physical traits:

• Upward slant to the eyes.
• Flattened profile.
• Low muscle tone. 
• Small hands and feet, and a crease across the palm. 

While Down syndrome is a lifelong condition, starting treatment at an early age can help improve a person’s intellectual ability and physicality. Services like occupational and speech therapy can also help people with Down syndrome reach their full potential. 

Tourette Syndrome

Tourette syndrome is a condition that includes unwanted sounds or repetitive movements that are not easily controlled. A person with Tourette syndrome might make unusual sounds or movements. They might also repeatedly blink or make other involuntary movements. The clearest symptom of Tourette syndrome are the tics. They can range from being mild to severe.

Each individual with Tourettes may show symptoms in different ways as each case is unique to the person that suffers. There are not always defining characteristics that a person with Tourettes may carry. Often times tics can be subtle and unnoticeable to many. A common misconception of this disorder involves the idea that people who suffer may blurt out vulgar or obscene words or sentences which is not the case. An individual with mild Tourettes’ close friends or family may be the only ones who notice symptoms. 

Tics are classified into two categories, simple tics, and complex tics. Simple tics are sudden and brief, and they involve less muscle groups. Complex tics are coordinated movement patterns that involve many muscle groups. Common motor tics include:

• Blinking 
• Shrugging
• Nose twitch
• Touching objects
• Stepping in a pattern

Common vocal tics include:

• Grunting
• Throat clearing
• Repeating words or phrases

In addition, tics vary in their frequency and may worsen if you are anxious or excited. They can also worsen during early teenage years, and improve as the individual transitions into adulthood. Before the onset of tics, the individual will likely experience an uncomfortable urge, and expressing the tic will bring them relief. Treatment for Tourette syndrome is aimed at controlling tics that interfere with life. Medication is also used to help control tics. Behavioral therapy can also help an individual affected by Tourette syndrome. While there is no cure, combined treatment can improve symptoms. 

Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid

If you or someone you know is affected by any of the disabilities mentioned, CEC Health Center can help guide you and give you the appropriate care. Our goal is to provide you with the highest quality care possible with our patient-centered approach. Call to schedule your appointment today! 

What Are The Most Common Types of Mental Disorders?

Mental disorders, commonly known as mental illnesses or psychological disorders, can be defined as a wide range of behavioral or mental patterns that can impact several areas of life. It can cause distress and impairment in ones’ life, inhibiting their proper functions such as thinking, speaking, or responding to certain situations. Therefore, it is important to understand the most common types of disorders. If you or someone you know may be suffering from a mental illness, contact us today at CEC Health Center. Our Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid will develop a treatment plan that can help you find relief and find ways to cope effectively.

What Are The Most Common Disorders? 

There are many kinds of disorders that fall into different categories. Although it is not a fully comprehensive list, below are the most common types of disorders:

• Anxiety Disorders
• Mood Disorders 
• Psychotic disorders 
• Eating Disorders
• Personality disorders

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the symptoms described below, our Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid will provide proper diagnosis and treatment that is right for you. 

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorder is an uncontrolled fear or response to certain situations or objects. It is diagnosed when a person’s response to a situation isn’t appropriate for that situation, the control of the response to that situation is missing, or the anxiety or response affects and/or interferes with normal functioning. Physical signs include panic, rapid heartbeat, or sweating. Common types of anxiety disorders include:

• Social Anxiety disorder– Having a fear of being watched, judged, and or embarrassing themselves.
• Panic disorder– Experiencing sudden fear or terrors when there is no real danger involved.
• Specific phobia– Having an irrational fear of specific objects or situations. For example, fear of snakes, fear of spiders, fear of heights, etc.

Mood Disorders

 If you are experiencing a mood disorder, you may experience persistent fluctuations of sadness or extreme happiness. Your general state mood is distorted and not reflective of your current circumstances and can interfere with your ability to function daily. Common types of mood disorders include: 

• Depression-prolonged periods of extreme sadness.
• Bipolar disorder– shifts between extreme happiness, also known as mania, or feelings of extreme sadness, depression.
• Cyclothymic disorder– like bipolar disorder but less extreme. 

Psychotic Disorders

 Psychotic disorders can be described as having distorted or abnormal thinking and awareness. People who suffer from psychotic disorders experience symptoms such as delusions, false beliefs, hallucinations, and hearing sounds or seeing images that are not real. Our Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid can help diagnose and treat some common types of psychotic disorders which include:

• Schizophrenia–  A severe mental disorder that affects multiple areas such as thinking, acting, expressing emotion, and perceiving reality. People with schizophrenia have trouble doing well in society and are often withdrawn and can appear to have lost touch with reality.
• Delusion disorder– Possessing a fixed false belief that could involve a real-life situation but isn’t true. For example, the individual could believe they have a disease or are being followed, etc. 

Eating Disorders

People who suffer from eating disorders have extreme attitudes and emotions about their weight and body image. They develop an unhealthy relationship with food and it can interfere with their nutritional needs. Common types of eating disorders include:         

• Anorexia disorder– This involves having an extreme fear of gaining weight. People with anorexia will often diet and workout relentlessly to the brink of starvation. They will think they are overweight when in fact they are underweight and when confronted will deny there is a problem.
• Bulimia disorder– Episodes of binge eating followed by purging (vomiting) or fasting, or over-exercising to make up for overeating. People with bulimia will have normal weight but will see themselves as “fat” or overweight and often have feelings of disgust or shame with themselves. 

 Personality Disorders

 People with personality disorders have traits that are extreme and inflexible. They cause stress and problems at work, school, and relationships. Their behaviors are viewed as or perceived to be different from societal norms and expectations and they can interfere with normal functions of daily living. Common types include:

• Antisocial personality disorder– Having a disregard of social norms, rules, expectations, and the right to others. Lacking empathy for others and remorse for their destructive behaviors.
• Narcissistic personality disorder– Having a pattern of extreme or exaggerated self-image and self-centeredness. Tend to be more interested in themselves than others.
• Borderline personality disorder–  Unstable moods and emotions that affect relationships, behavior, and self-image. People with borderline tend to have intense relationships with their loved ones, followed by unpredictable mood swings, and impulsive behaviors. 

CEC Health Center – A Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid

Mental disorders can be distressing and disruptive to one’s life. Discovering ways to cope effectively and live a healthy lifestyle is crucial. That is why CEC Health Center is here to provide high-quality comprehensive care despite a patient’s background or ability to pay. Our Neurologist in Levittown that Accepts Medicaid will develop an individualized treatment plan that will help you relieve symptoms and cope effectively.