Symptoms are analyzed in relation to each other (further clarification of each symptom) and chronologically. Onset: Sudden ,acute or gradual. Course:
- Progressive
- Stationary
- Regressive
- Fluctuating
- Response to Tx
Negative information in some cases may be important e.g.
Follow in chronological order
The history of the presenting illness should include:
Symptom indicate whether the onset was abrupt or gradual
Intermittent or persistent
short lived or constant
Steady or increasing in severity
Find out if other signs and symptoms have developed
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Symptom onset (acute, subacute, chronic, insidious)
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Duration
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Course of the condition (eg, static, progressive, or relapsing and remitting)
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Associated symptoms, such as pain, Headaches, nausea, vomiting, vertigo, numbness, weakness, and seizures
| Aspect | Pain should be defined |
|---|---|
| Site | Where is the pain? Or the maximal site of the pain |
| Onset | When did the pain start, and was it sudden or gradual? Include also whether it is progressive or regressive. |
| Character | What is the pain like? An ache Stabbing |
| Radiation | Does the pain radiate anywhere? |
| Association | Any other signs or symptoms associated with the pain |
| Time Course | Does the pain follow any pattern? |
| Exacerbating Relieving Factors | Does anything change the pain? |
| Severity | How bad is the pain? |
Neurological History : Presenting Complaints?
Neurological presenting complaints include:
- Headaches.
- Seizures.
- Presyncope or Fainting-syncope.
- Muscular symptoms - weakness, tremor, spasm.
- Peripheral sensory symptoms - Numbness, paraesthesia.
- Visual changes - Blurred vision, diplopia.
- Pain. One of the most common symptoms of neurological diseases.
- Difficulties with Memory
- Sleep Issues
- Partial or Complete Loss of Vision
- Ataxia
- Gait
- Dizziness
- Vertigo
- Stroke
Other Conditions and their presenting symptoms
