Walk-in clinic that *doesn't* suck?

If you already went to the ER, a walk-in clinic is not going to provide you with any more in-depth answers. You might as well follow-up with your family doctor on his/her return from vacation.

Having said that, if your symptoms worsen (nausea, vomiting, fainting, worsening vertigo/dizziness, double vision, difficulty producing speech, difficulty swallowing without choking, loss of use of your arms or legs, etc.), go right back to the ER.

Any testing the ER staff feel is necessary will be done on that visit. Any similar testing that a walk-in doctor wants done will take weeks to months to arrange, or they will tell you to go to the ER themselves.

I'm surprised the hospital you went to didn't do a CT or MRI when you were there. But if your neurological scan tests were normal, it likely wasn't necessary.

Always disclose all health information to any doctor or nurse examining you, including drugs/medications, history of recent injuries, etc. Not doing so can lead to a useless guessing game of cat and mouse that wastes everyone's time, can be harmful (to you) and may lead to unnecessary tests. They'll also think you're a nut and won't take you as seriously if you start withholding information (e.g. that you had sustained a concussion recently)

As for the concussion that you mentioned, how long ago did it happen and how severe was it? I'm inclined to think that your vertigo/dizziness may be the result of it. These symptoms can last awhile. Has anyone tried the Dix-Hallpike Maneuver on you yet?

Also, inner ear infections/problems do not always show up on testing, even on CT or MRI. Any significant brain injury would have revealed itself during the neurological screening tests.

If all your testing comes up negative, and your vertigo persists, your next step is a referral to a Ear-Nose-Throat specialist, or neurologist.

They'll do hearing tests and Caloric Vestibular system testing on you (the latter is NOT fun).

Hope that helps.
 
Alright, I feel like I need to clarify a few things.

One, I went to a walk-in clinic so that a doctor can stick a scope in my ear and throat and eliminate the possibility of an ear infection or a sinus infection (I also have had cold symptoms). They never did that at the ER. I'm very aware that walk-in clinics have otherwise very little capability for diagnosing these kinds of ailments, but I feel like basic things weren't even covered at the ER.

Second, I had no intention of withholding medical information or history. I simply no longer want to tell a doctor upfront what *I* think the problem is.

Third, looks like either way I'm waiting to see my family doctor so that I can likely get a referral to a neurologist or ear-nose-throat doctor. :(
 
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Years ago, my mom used to practice at the MCI Doctor's Office clinic at Battleford and Erin Mills Pkwy. I know one of the doctor's there - Domenic So - and if he still works the walk in clinic regularly, he's pretty good. He's been my GP for many years (even though I live in downtown) and is patient and observant. I'm just not sure if he only does family practice or still does walk in some days per week.

Hope you find out what's going on quickly.
 

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