Neurologist Near Stony Brook

About Our Neurologist in Stony Brook

Our Patient Philosophy

Our goal is to provide world-class patient care utilizing our skills, experience and caring. We treat your entire person.
It is our equal understanding of your desired lifestyle and your disorder that we believe will provide the optimum positive results.  Visit our Neurologist in Stony Brook to see how we can help you.

In today’s world there are many pressures put on physicians to see high volumes of patients. We take the patient/doctor relationship back to earlier times when emphasizing the importance of preserving an appropriate amount of time for history taking and a detailed physical exam yielded the most accurate diagnosis. This leads to fewer trips to our office and less testing. We continue this extra time and care on each future visit.

Our new, home-like office reflects our caring philosophy as well. It is a place you feel relaxed, appointments are easily made – and timely kept, and a staff that always treats you with a warm and friendly attitude.

If you or someone you know is in need of a neurologist in Stony Brook, Long Island, get in touch with Three Village Neurology today.

D r. James D. Bruno, M.D., D.P.N.-N

Background
Dr. Bruno is board certified in Neurology and Sleep Disorders. He completed his Neurology training at George Washington University in Washington, DC in 2003. He then went on to complete a fellowship in both Neurophysiology (Epilepsy/Neuromuscular Disorders) and Sleep Disorders at SUNY Stony Brook in 2004 and 2005 respectively. He is currently in solo practice and is Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology at SUNY Stony Brook. Dr. Bruno is also Associate Clinical Director of The Comprehensive Epilepsy Center of Long Island and offers clinical evaluations at the Sleep Disorders Center, both located at St. Charles Hospital in Port Jefferson, NY.

Highly regarded by his patients, Dr. Bruno was rated at the highest level of satisfaction in a recent independent survey. He has won several merits of distinction, including several Patient’s Choice Awards, Americas Top Doctor Award and Most Compassionate Doctor Recognition. He was also the recipient of the Extraordinary People in Care Award by the Epilepsy Foundation of Long Island.

Specialties
Dr. Bruno specializes in both Sleep Apnea and Epilepsy,

as well as general neurology. In his practice, he only uses the most up to date technologies to diagnose and treat these conditions; Polysomnography and Electroencephalography respectively. Both Epilepsy and Sleep Apnea are treatable if properly diagnosed, and in most cases sufferers go on to lead incredibly fulfilling and uninhibited lives. If you are suffering with the symptoms of either of these diseases, contact Dr. Bruno, a neurologist in Stony Brook, Long Island and together you can get the answers you need, create a plan of action, and be on your way to living a healthier life.

Causes Of Sleep Apnea

Are you feeling tired even after a long night’s sleep? Do you receive complaints about loud snoring? If so, then you may be suffering from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea occurs when your breathing stops and starts repeatedly throughout your sleep. This breathing interruption usually lasts for at least ten seconds and can be problematic leading to complications such as daytime fatigue, drowsy driving, high blood pressure, heart problems, and type 2 diabetes. If you think you may be suffering from sleep apnea, our neurologist in Stony Brook, Dr. James Bruno can help you get the sleep you need and deserve.

There are three main types of sleep apnea:

Our neurologist in Stony Brook, Long Island will be able to diagnose and treat each type of sleep apnea.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea: this is the most common form of sleep apnea which happens when your throat muscles relax while you are sleeping creating a narrow airway. When this occurs you may make a snorting, choking, or a gasping sound.

Central Sleep Apnea: this form of sleep apnea occurs when your brain isn’t transmitting the correct signals to the muscles that control your breathing while you sleep.

Complex Sleep Apnea: this form of sleep apnea is defined by having a combination of both central and obstructive sleep apnea.

No matter what type of sleep apnea you may be suffering from, our neurologist in Stony Brook can diagnose and designate a treatment plan. Depending on the nature of your condition, Dr. James Bruno will conduct a variety of tests including Polysomnography. This will monitor your body functions during sleep to not only distinguish the type of sleep apnea you are suffering from but also the severity.

Common treatment options for sleep apnea include:

1. Lifestyle changes – Excess weight is a common cause of obstructive sleep apnea.
2. Continuous positive airway pressure device (CPAP) – this a mask that fits over your nose and or mouth and gently blows air into the airway to help keep your airways open.
3. Expiratory positive airway pressure (EPAP) – this is a small device that is placed in each nostril. It acts as a valve which allows air to go in and when you exhale the air goes through the small holes in the valve. This increases the pressure in your airways to keep it open.
4. Surgery – This option is used as a last resort if other treatment options are not successful.

How We Can Help

Our neurologist in Stony Brook offers polysomnography to help study and diagnose your sleep disorder. We will examine your brain waves, oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing while also monitoring eye and leg movements in order to determine the right treatment plan. If you are already being treated for sleep apnea but are not seeing any improvements, our study can help modify your current treatment plan to identify a plan that is right for you. Contact us today to make an appointment so you can get the sleep you deserve.

Dr. James Bruno, a neurologist in Stony Brook, Long Island, is committed to serving his patients with the highest quality. Visit our website to learn more about how we can help you.

Recent Blog Posts: Seasonal Affective Disorder

If you or someone you know suffers from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and requires the assistance of a neurologist near Stony Brook, Dr. James Bruno at Three Village Neurology is here to provide quality neurological care. Please visit our contact us page if you’re interested in scheduling an appointment. 

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

The seasonal affective disorder is a form of depression that strikes people during the changes of the seasons, just as the name would indicate. Typically, the condition is experienced from the fall into the late weeks of winter. Although in some more rare cases, exceptions can be made for the spring and summertime as well. This can have strong effects on an individual’s work and social life because they will tend to be moodier and socially withdrawn. Dr. James Bruno, a certified neurologist near Stony Brook, is highly trained and experienced when it comes to treating depressive disorders such as SAD. 

Patients who experience this kind of depression shouldn’t make the choice to simply endure without the assistance of others. That being said, there are treatments available that can help alleviate the symptoms of this disorder. If you are looking for help with managing your seasonal affective disorder, then Three Village Neurology can assist. Our neurologist near Stony Brook can help diagnose and treat your seasonal disorder and get you back to enjoying your everyday life! Before undergoing an evaluation, you should consider and evaluate your symptoms.

Symptoms Of Seasonal Affective Disorder:

• Feeling depressed most of or all of the day. 
• Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed. 
• Low energy levels.
• Issues with sleeping. 
• Changes in appetite or weight.
• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt.
• Thoughts of death or suicide. 
• Difficulty concentrating. 

Season Specific Symptoms:

• Winter and Fall SAD:
  • Oversleeping.
  • Overeating or cravings for foods high in carbohydrates. 
  • Weight gain.
  • Fatigue. 
• Spring and Summer SAD: 
  • Restlessness. 
  • Lack of appetite. 
  • Weight loss.
  • Heightened levels of anxiety. 
  • Violent behavior.

Causes of Seasonal Affective Disorder:

• Circadian Rhythm – The reduced levels of sun exposure in the winter and fall may throw off your internal clock and cause a feeling of depression. 
• Serotonin Levels – Reduced levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin which is responsible for making you feel good and happy will affect your moods greatly. A drop in serotonin could be due to the lack of sunlight in the colder months. 
• Melatonin Levels – The weather changes can also affect your levels of melatonin which helps your body relax and fall asleep.  

Treatments For SAD: 

• Light Therapy – This involves sitting close to lightboxes and exposing yourself to light for the first few hours of your day. This can help increase levels of serotonin and melatonin which may potentially relieve feelings of depression. 
• Medications – As for most psychological disorders, SAD can be treated with the use of anti-anxiety and antidepressant medications. This is used more for those who experience SAD at extreme levels, including depressive episodes. 
• Psychotherapy – Also known as talk therapy, psychotherapy is usually effective at helping those who experience SAD move past their feelings of sadness.
  

Differentiating Between Neurological Sleep Disorders and SAD

Some individuals that believe they are suffering from seasonal affective disorder may actually be experiencing a neurological sleep disorder instead. A common symptom of SAD usually involves difficulty sleeping at night. If you are someone who happens to experience this symptom during the winter and fall seasons, you may be misdiagnosing yourself. It is important to distinguish between the two so that you fully understand your complication. 

The 3 most common neurological sleep disorders are the following: 

1. Narcolepsy – This disorder is described as falling asleep at random times while in the middle of performing daily tasks. 
2. Sleep Apnea – This involves the inability to breathe adequately while sleeping. 
3. Insomnia – This is characterized as being unable to fall asleep and/or stay asleep. Thus resulting in insufficient rest. 

These neurological sleep disorders can be diagnosed and treated by a neurologist near Stony Brook through the following tests:

1. Polysomnography – A study that evaluates the factors that may disrupt sleep such as oxygen levels and body movements.
   
2. Electroencephalogram – This study looks closely at brain waves and activity during sleep.
   
3. Genetic Blood Testing – A test that helps to diagnose any potential sleep disorders such as narcolepsy and others. 

A neurologist may treat these disorders through various methods including prescribing sleep medications or melatonin supplements. We may also suggest different lifestyle changes as well depending on your exact ailment and its severity. Nonetheless, Dr. James Bruno is here to help you through whatever neurological issues you may be facing and is committed to finding a solution for you.

Our Neurologist Near Stony Brook Can Help With Your SAD or Sleep Disorder

If you or a loved one experiences Seasonal Affective Disorder, then you already understand the difficulty and frustration that can come with trying to manage these feelings. However, you do not have to try and tough this out on your own. Dr. James Bruno at Three Village Neurology is here to help you with your neurological issues. We can help diagnose and treat your disorders and help you get back to enjoying your life. Our neurologist near Stony Brook treats each patient as individuals, doing all that we can for the patient themselves. If you would like to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, you can call our office at 1-631-751-0790 or you can contact us online! 

Treatment for Epilepsy & Seizures

If you or someone you know is searching for a neurologist in Stony Brook, Long Island, Three Village Neurology is here to help you.

Epilepsy is a chronic disorder that can affect people of all ages for a variety of reasons. Unfortunately, in many cases, the cause of epilepsy or seizures is unknown. At Three Village Neurology, Dr. James D. Bruno, a neurologist for Epilepsy in Suffolk County seeks to understand your condition and develop a plan to maximize your quality of life and reduce recurrence and damage caused by seizures.

What is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a condition that is known primarily for one of its symptoms, unpredictable seizures. Epilepsy is unique to the individual, and how a person is affected by epilepsy can vary greatly. Epilepsy is a spectrum disorder that encompasses many symptoms, rather than a specific diagnosis.

What is a Seizure?

There are many different types of seizures, but they are generally separated into two categories of focal and generalized seizures. Seizures can vary significantly between individuals, but the general mechanisms of how a seizure begins in the brain are similar.

• Your brain is continually sending chemical and electrical messages between different parts of your system, both ‘exciting’ or ‘inhibiting’ brain cells.
• A seizure occurs when parts of the brain experience an imbalance in the excitement and inhibition of brain cell activity, causing an electrical surge.
• This surge is, in essence, what triggers a seizure.
• While individual prognosis differs, if you experience two seizures, you are 80% more likely to have more in the future, so it is essential to seek medical attention.

Epilepsy Treatment From a Neurologist in Stony Brook

Though treatment plans will differ significantly, the goals for treatment of epilepsy are similar which are to reduce or eliminate seizures and side effects. The mainstay of most epilepsy treatments includes seizure medications. However, our neurologist for epilepsy in Suffolk County will be able to provide a comprehensive treatment plan, monitoring, and instructions for how to handle seizures when they do occur. Also, they may be able to offer alternative treatment recommendations depending on the circumstances of the patient’s condition.

It is vital when selecting a neurologist for epilepsy in Suffolk County that you choose a team that offers a comprehensive and individualized approach for your specific needs. Contact us today at Three Village Neurology to gain more knowledge on treatment plans and how our team can help you.

Our experienced neurologist in Stony Brook, Long Island is here to help you through your epilepsy, by diagnosing and treating it.  Get in touch with us, or visit our website today for more information.

Diagnosing Your Neurological Disorder

Diagnosing a patient with a neurological disorder can often be a complex process.  This is especially because these disorders can be accompanied by psychological disorders that can have effects on a patient. A neurological disorder can have great effects on not only a patient’s physical health, but can also affect a person’s levels of anxiety and depression. If you are experiencing symptoms of a neurological disorder, there is a good chance it is your overall cognitive functions. At Three Village Neurology, our trained staff is here to help you find the best treatment for your ailments. Our expert neurologist near Stony Brook is equipped to make your treatment process as simple and painless as possible. 

Common Neurological Disorders 

• Parkinson’s disease
• Dementia 
• Stroke 
• ALS
• Brain Tumor
• Brain Aneurysm 
• Multiple sclerosis 

These disorders can affect patients in many different ways including issues with memory, loss of mobility, difficulty concentrating even behavioral issues. Neurological disorders have effects on the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system and are often lumped in with psychiatric problems. This is because neurological disorders can lead to damaged parts of the brain which result in mood or personality changes which typically manifest in the form of depression or other psychiatric disorders. It is important for patients experiencing symptoms of both to try and work with a neurologist near Stony Brook as well as a psychiatrist to properly treat their symptoms. 

How Can a Neurologist Near Stony Brook Help You

Dealing with the symptoms of a neurological disorder can take a toll on a patient, but when it begins to affect mental health it becomes even more of a pressing issue. These disorders can damage a person’s quality of life drastically and we want to help mitigate those issues. We offer a wide variety of treatments that we specialize in that can help treat your disorders and alleviate your psychiatric symptoms. Dr. Bruno is determined to help his patients get back to living their lives. If you or someone you know is in need of a neurologist near Stony Brook, Three Village can help you. See our services offered and schedule an appointment with us today!

Diagnosing Depression

Our neurologist near Stony Brook can target the cause of your depression and rule out any potential health problems through his diagnosis. Because several medical conditions mimic depression symptoms, neurologists can help confirm a diagnosis of depression. Symptoms that look similar to depression are common among adults who have substance abuse issues, medication side effects, medical problems, or other mental health conditions. 

Although only a professional can diagnose depression, the condition can reveal itself in a variety of different warning signs. For an example of these initial warnings, please consider the following:

• Depressed mood, constantly feeling sad or empty.
• Loss of appetite, significant weight loss, significant weight gain. 
• Sleeping too much or not enough.
• Feeling guilty, mood swings, irritable mood.
• Fatigue or difficulty performing tasks.
• Thoughts of suicide or death.

How Can a Neurologist Help Treat Depression?

The common notion that mental illnesses have no neurological significance is vastly incorrect. Believe it or not, neurology is closely related to psychology or psychiatry, because all three of these fields focus on the aspects of the brain. Depression can link back to several neurological disorders because physical diseases related to the brain sometimes cause emotional or psychological reactions. Visiting a neurologist near Stony Brook can help patients who are having trouble finding a diagnosis elsewhere.

Contact Three Village Neurology Near Stony Brook

A misdiagnosis can often lead to more psychological reactions, but at Three Village Neurology, we look carefully into our patients’ symptoms and medical history. We stand out because of our desire to get to the root of the problem. If you are looking for treatment, contact Three Village Neurology today or visit our website to learn more about the causes of depression. Let us provide you with the best care during this difficult time. 

Can A Neurologist Help With Lower Back Pain?

The primary goal of our neurologist near Stony Brook is to diagnose and treat ailments that plague the nervous system. Although many people assume it is being caused by a muscular issue when dealing with back pain, that is not always the case. Our staff at Three Village Neurology can confirm that sometimes the main culprit is a nerve issue. Whether it be an acute injury or a symptom of a progressive disorder, our experts are here to help. If you have been unable to solve your lower back problems, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr. James Bruno.

Neurological Issues That Cause Lower Back Pain

The nerves that run through your body are very susceptible to issues. Even the slightest impingement or irritation can leave your lower back filled with pain. Fortunately, our neurologist near Stony Brook is well versed in diagnosing these issues and creating a beneficial treatment plan for patients in need. Some of the most common neuro/back problems a person can face may include:

• Herniated discs pressing against the nerves.
• Sciatica.
• Degeneration or misalignment of vertebrae.
• Growths on the spinal cord.

When To Visit Our Neurologist

Knowing when you should visit a neurologist to evaluate your back pain will allow you to help overcome your issue in a timely fashion. Our neurologist near Stony Brook will carefully assess your symptoms and undergo the tests that correspond with them. Patients who find themselves faced with the below in and around your back shouldn’t wait to visit our practice:

• Weakness.
• Numbness.
• Tingling.
• Pain that radiates into your arm or leg.

The Benefits Of Choosing Our Neurologist Near Stony Brook  

There are various benefits to be had when visiting our neurologist near  Stony Brook for back pain. Choosing to do so can make all the difference in your recovery time. Examples of some of the most prolific benefits include:

• Receiving a second opinion to help avoid the need for surgery.
• Professional assessment of all potential treatment options.
• Having a more nerve-based approach taken to your issue.

Contact Us

Back pain is one of the most prevalent issues adults can face. If you have been plagued with this ailment, it may be time to visit our neurologist near Stony Brook. Here at Three Village Neurology, we can determine if a neurological issue is causing your back pain and devise a treatment plan on how to help. To schedule your first appointment with us, contact our team today.  

What Does A Neurologist Do On Your First Visit? 

If you’ve never had to visit a neurologist before, we understand that your first one may be a bit nerve-racking. Our team at Three Village Neurology wants you to be as comfortable as possible. That is why our neurologist near Stony Brook wants to walk you through what you can expect. For more information on this subject, be sure to schedule an appointment online via our website.

Common Conditions Checked For

As a trained professional, our neurologist near Stony Brook is well versed in diagnosing, managing, and treating the most common neurological issues a person can deal with. If you’re gearing up for your first appointment, you’re likely to be screened for various conditions to help determine the issue you are currently experiencing. Examples of the most common neurological problems we will test for include the following:

• Epilepsy.
• Seizures.
• Multiple sclerosis.
• Parkinson’s disease.
• Tremors.

The Examination

Upon your arrival, our neurologist near Stony Brook will go over your medical history. Doing so will help them gain a better understanding of the issue at hand. Once your medical history has been discussed, you’ll have to undergo a physical examination to test your brain and nerves’ health. During this examination, we may check your:

• Mental status.
• Coordination.
• Reflexes.
• Speech.
• Vision.
• Sensation.
• Strength. 

Preparation Methods

To get the most out of your first appointment, preparing yourself in advance can make the visit the most productive. Below is some helpful advice on how you can prepare for your initial appointment:

• Make a list of your current symptoms, medications, allergies, previous illnesses, and family history to help our neurologist get a better idea of your condition.
• Think of questions you may want to ask ahead of time.
• Have all previous medical tests sent to us.
• Bring something to take notes with, as you may be given a lot of information.     

Contact Our Neurologist Near Stony Brook Today!

If you are dealing with neurological issues, you must work with a team you can trust. At Three Village Neurology, we want you to feel comfortable coming to our facility. To learn more about what to expect during your first visit, contact our neurologist near Stony Brook today.

If you or a family member suffers from a common neurological disorder, do not be afraid because help is here. Three Village Neurology is committed to helping our patients live their lives to their best ability.

For more information about how may be able to help you or someone you know, contact us today!