Vienna Neurological Institute

07/10/2025

Some risks of developing Alzheimer's are in your control. What you can do varies by age:

Less than 45 years old:
- Continue your education: higher education levels lead to a lower risk of developing dementia

45-65 years old:
- Avoid head injuries: Traumatic Brain Injuries can increase the risk of developing dementia
- Keep your blood pressure controlled: Hypertension can increase the risk of developing dementia
- If you use alcohol, drink in moderation: More than 21 drinks a week (3 drinks a day) can increase your risk
- Monitor your weight and keep your Body Mass Index (BMI) below 30

Greater than 65 years old:
- Smoking will increase your risk
- Depression can make you more prone to dementia: Reach out to our behavioral health colleagues when you need it
- Social interaction maintains a healthy and active brain: Stay connected with family and friends
- Stay physically active!
- Diabetes can increase your risk: if you have diabetes, keep in touch with your primary care to keep this under control

04/16/2025

Take the First Step Toward Headache Relief!
Do you struggle with migraines or chronic headaches? Let us help. At the Vienna Neurological Institute, we specialize in diagnosing and treating all types of headaches, from tension to cluster headaches. Our expert team is dedicated to creating personalized care plans tailored to your unique needs.
✅ Comprehensive Diagnosis
✅ Cutting-Edge Treatment Options
✅ Compassionate and Expert Care
You don’t have to live with the pain.
📍 Conveniently located in Tysons Corner, VA
📞 Call us at (571) 290-7939
🌐 Visit us online at www.ViennaNeuro.com
Relief is just a call away!

Vienna Neurological Institute is focused on individualized neurology care with expertise in headaches and nerve disorders.

04/04/2025

What is an EMG?

EMG stands for electromyography and really has two tests rolled into one appointment.

The first test is a nerve conduction test (pictured below). This is where we send electrical impulses down the nerve and measure the output to get a sense of the health of the nerves.

The second test is the EMG which is a very small needle with an electrical receiver on it. We use this to evaluate the interaction of the nerves and the muscles.

If you've been recommended to have an EMG here are some tips for the day of:

1. Wear baggy clothing (exercise clothing is perfect)
2. Avoid using lotions or ointments on the skin
3. Let us know if you are on any blood thinners
4. Try to avoid caffeine or ni****ne for a few hours before the test

Give us a call if your doctor has ordered this test (571) 290-7939.

04/01/2025

When new patients come in with migraines we often discuss tracking things that might trigger your migraine. Here are the most common triggers:

-Stress
-Poor sleep or change in sleep
-Changes in weather
-Certain foods: cheese, dairy, artificial sweeteners, MSG
-Alcohol: red wine is most common
-Caffeine: it can treat migraines but also causes them for some
-Hormones
-Dehydration
-Certain lights: fluorescent being most common
-Some smells like perfumes
-Medications or taking some medications too frequently (like over the counter headache medicines)

If you can identify them, you can reduce your headaches by avoiding them.

03/26/2025

Cluster headache attacks are often described as more excruciating than broken bones, severe burns, or even childbirth. The intense pain can take a devastating toll—those living with cluster headache face a su***de rate 20 times higher than the national average.

On March 21st, we observe Cluster Headache Awareness Day to shed light on this debilitating neurological condition. Initiated in the UK by OUCH in 2018, this day aligns with the Spring Equinox, a period when many experience increased attacks.

What are the characteristics of cluster headache attacks?
→sudden, severe pain on one side of the head
→often described as a hot poker or ice pick behind the eye and temple.
→excruciating attacks can last from 15 minutes to 3 hours
→may occur multiple times a day
→occur in cyclical patters or clusters, which gives the condition its name

Other names for cluster headache include: Su***de Headache, Histamine Headache, Red Migraine, Horton’s Headache, Cephalalgia, Sphenopalatine Neuralgia

Despite affecting approximately one in every thousand people, cluster headache remains under-recognized and frequently misdiagnosed. To learn more about cluster headache and available resources, visit Clusterbusters.org, a dedicated organization providing education, advocacy, and support for those affected.

Join us in raising awareness and advocating for better recognition and treatment for those living with cluster headache. Your support can make a difference.

03/23/2025

Short naps ~15 minutes are good for your health.

Do you take naps? Maybe you should! A good nap can get you out of that afternoon slump, recharge your energy, and leave you more alert and in a better mood.

01/14/2025

In patients with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy, treatment with patisiran resulted in better outcomes and survival than those receiving placebo. https://ja.ma/3WcZOjX