Dr. Radhakrishna Rao, MD is a Neurology specialist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive neurological care for older adults (65 and above) at his clinic in Tampa, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Rao understands the unique needs of this patient population and is committed to working collaboratively with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to ensure the best possible care. He specializes in diagnosing and managing complex neurological conditions like dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, stroke, and neuropathy, which are frequently encountered in seniors.
Neurologists provide specialized expertise in diagnosing and managing these conditions. Dr. Radhakrishna Rao, MD is a pediatric neurologist in Tampa, FL affiliated with HCA Florida Trinity Hospital and St. Joseph's Hospital. He earned his medical degree from Karnatak Medical College and approaches patient care with a commitment to collaborative, evidence-based medicine. He strives to create a supportive environment where patients and their families feel empowered in their healthcare decisions. He is currently accepting new patients and can be reached at (813) 876-3783 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Radhakrishna Rao provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Radhakrishna Rao is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Radhakrishna Rao is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, offering compassionate and comprehensive neurological care. He specializes in diagnosing and managing complex conditions like dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, stroke, and neuropathy, working collaboratively with primary care physicians and other specialists to create a personalized treatment plan that prioritizes the individual needs and goals of each patient.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Radhakrishna Rao can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- APCN Choice POS II
- Aetna
- Aetna HMO
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- BlueCard PPO
- BlueOptions
- BlueSelect
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Choice
- Choice Plus POS II
- Cigna
- Cigna PPO
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO
- Florida Blue
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Radhakrishna Rao provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Cerebral Leukomalacia: This brain condition, cerebral leukomalacia, involves damage to the brain's white matter, potentially impacting daily activities, but supportive care and medication can help manage symptoms and improve your comfort.
- Difficulty With Walking: If you're struggling with walking, it's important to discuss it with your doctor to rule out underlying medical conditions and explore options that may enhance your ability to move around more easily and confidently.
- Dystonia: Dystonia is a neurological condition causing involuntary muscle contractions, leading to repetitive or twisting movements and abnormal postures, but with proper management, seniors can maintain a better quality of life.
- Epilepsy: Seizures, the hallmark of epilepsy, can impact daily life, but advancements in treatment mean that many people with epilepsy can manage their condition effectively and live independently with the support of their healthcare team.
- Gait Abnormality: Gait abnormality refers to changes in the way a person walks, which can affect balance and stability, and often requires careful management to maintain independence.
- Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a condition where the pressure inside your skull is too high, often causing headaches and vision problems, but thankfully, treatment can help lower this pressure and improve your comfort.
- Insomnia: Insomnia, the difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, is a common problem for seniors that can affect their energy levels and overall well-being, but with the right strategies and sometimes medication, it can be managed to improve their quality of life.
- Migraine: Migraines are recurring headaches that may involve intense throbbing pain, visual disturbances, or other symptoms; working with your healthcare provider to find the right treatment plan can help you live more comfortably and independently.
- Primary Generalized Absence Epilepsy: Primary generalized absence epilepsy is a type of seizure disorder where someone may briefly lose awareness, appearing to stare blankly, and these episodes can often be managed with medication to improve their daily life.
- Sleep-Related Leg Cramp: Nighttime leg cramps can make it hard to get a good night's sleep, affecting your daytime energy levels. Fortunately, many effective treatments are available to help you manage these cramps and improve your quality of sleep.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Radhakrishna Rao offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response Test: For seniors experiencing unexplained dizziness or balance problems, a BAER test can help determine if the issue originates from the brainstem, supporting targeted treatment and improving quality of life.
- Dementia Evaluation: Dementia evaluation helps determine the best course of action, including medication, therapy, or lifestyle changes, to support a senior's ongoing well-being.
- EEG (Electroencephalogram): Following a stroke, an EEG can help determine the extent of brain damage and monitor your progress as you recover.
- Evoked Potential Test: For seniors with suspected nerve damage, this test helps create a comprehensive understanding of their condition, enabling targeted therapies for improved quality of life and better management of symptoms.
- Grip and-or Muscle Group Pull Test: The grip and muscle group pull test helps healthcare providers assess muscle strength and coordination, which is crucial for managing conditions like Parkinson's disease and stroke.
- Home Sleep Study: To better manage conditions such as Parkinson's disease or dementia, a home sleep study helps assess sleep disturbances that can impact daytime functioning and overall well-being.
- ImPACT Testing: This neurocognitive test helps healthcare providers monitor the impact of various neurological conditions on a senior's brain function, guiding care plan adjustments for improved outcomes.
- Memory Evaluation: A memory evaluation helps doctors understand if changes in memory are due to normal aging or a more serious condition like Alzheimer's disease.
- Quantitative Sensory Test (QST): To better manage your nerve pain or discomfort, a QST helps your healthcare provider assess your sensitivity to different types of touch and temperature, guiding treatment decisions.
- Sudoscan: Sudoscan is a non-invasive test that helps healthcare providers assess small fiber neuropathy in seniors, contributing to a more comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Wada Test: The Wada test helps doctors determine which side of the brain controls language and memory before brain surgery, ensuring the safest possible procedure for seniors.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Neurology in Florida.
Dr. Radhakrishna Rao is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- After receiving specialized care for cerebral leukomalacia, a senior was able to resume their beloved hobby of knitting, finding comfort and joy in the familiar activity. The family felt a sense of relief and renewed hope, knowing their loved one could engage in meaningful activities again.
- With improved balance and gait, a senior was able to confidently navigate her home and resume her cherished weekly book club meetings.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
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- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
Here are answers to some common questions about Neurological care with Dr. Radhakrishna Rao:
- What is a Neurologist, and when should a senior see one?
- A neurologist is a doctor specializing in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. They are experts in diagnosing and treating conditions like significant memory loss, Parkinson's disease, stroke, persistent dizziness, or nerve pain. If you or your loved one has concerns about these or other complex neurological issues, a neurologist can provide expert care.
- My parent seems confused and is forgetting things. How can Dr. Radhakrishna Rao help?
- Dr. Radhakrishna Rao specializes in evaluating memory and cognitive changes to determine the cause. He can diagnose conditions like Alzheimer's or other dementias, rule out other medical issues, and create a comprehensive management plan to support both you and your loved one.
- What can I expect during a neurological exam?
- During a neurological exam with Dr. Radhakrishna Rao, you can expect a series of simple, painless tests to evaluate your strength, coordination, reflexes, balance, and memory. This helps Dr. Rao understand how your nervous system is functioning.
- Can family members be involved in the appointments and care planning?
- Absolutely. For neurological care, especially with cognitive concerns, family involvement is vital. With the patient's permission, Dr. Radhakrishna Rao welcomes family participation to ensure everyone understands the diagnosis and treatment plan.
- What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's disease?
- Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, much like how a specific brand of car is a type of vehicle.
- Does your practice manage sleep disorders like sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome?
- Sleep is critical for brain health, and Dr. Radhakrishna Rao's practice can evaluate and manage sleep disorders like sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome, as these are often linked to neurological conditions and can significantly impact a senior's daily life.
- What happens after a stroke?
- Dr. Radhakrishna Rao will work with you to identify the cause of the stroke, prescribe medications to reduce your risk of future strokes, and coordinate with rehabilitation specialists to help you regain as much function as possible.
- What are EEGs and EMGs used for?
- EEGs record the brain's electrical activity, helping investigate seizures. EMGs check the health of muscles and the nerves that control them, diagnosing weakness or neuropathy.
2508 W Saint Isabel St
Tampa FL 33607
Phone: (813) 876-3783
Dr. Radhakrishna Rao, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1326264177
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Neurology like Dr. Radhakrishna Rao are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.