About Dr. Carolyn Aldendail

Founder and Director of Neurology Explained

I grew up in a family where no one worked in medicine or healthcare. My care came from many kinds of providers, like physicians, naturopaths, and chiropractors.

Sometimes I felt that doctors talked down to me, especially when I did not understand or did not agree. I expected a lot from doctors. I assumed they would give me more time and clear answers. When visits felt rushed, I felt dismissed.

I have always loved science, teaching, and languages. These interests took me to Nicaragua, where I worked with a nonprofit to teach about health. For one project, I interviewed people about their experiences with certain infections. Many felt afraid or embarrassed, especially when something smelled or looked wrong.

I got to tell them they were not alone. When people understood what was happening, their fear eased. That feeling of connection helped me decide to become a doctor.

When training to be a doctor and a neurologist, I learned to speak using correct scientific terms. When I came home, my family often asked me to explain things in plain language. This was harder than I expected! In school, I learned a lot about how to talk to other doctors. I learned much less about how to talk to patients in ways that are easy to understand.

I’ve Now Seen Doctors From Both Sides: Before and After I Became One

After I became a doctor, I felt the pull of time. On some days, I had to see many patients with complex neurological problems, with little time for each visit. When I spent more time with patients and ran late, nurses, staff, and people waiting felt upset.

When I spent less time, patients felt frustrated, even though the system ran smoothly. When I tried to balance both, no one felt fully satisfied.

Today, more and more people need care, and the cost of medicines and tests keeps rising. Something has to give. More and more, that something is doctors’ time with patients.

I went into medicine for the magic that happens when a patient truly understands their condition and their options. Teaching well takes time, and many modern medical appointments don’t allow enough of it.

So
Neurology Explained
Was Born

That is why I created Neurology Explained: to teach patients and the public about their neurological health. I also explain electrodiagnostic medicine, which is testing of the nerves that connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body.

I remember what it felt like to sit on the other side of the exam room. I remember wanting clear answers and enough time to understand them. Through Neurology, Explained, I offer what I hoped for: accurate information, explained calmly and clearly, so no one feels talked down to or left in the dark.

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