Sunday, July 12, 2015

General Information Related To Neuropsychological Testing

By Jordan Schmidt


The brain is one of the most complicated organs of the body. It is responsible for so many different functions of the body. However, there are numerous issues that can arise when it comes to its function. If it malfunctions, a number of problems may develop in different parts of the body or there may be noticeable changes in the thoughts and actions of an individual. Neuropsychological testing is provided by medical professionals to people in many regions, including New York, NY.

This type of testing is done so that doctors can identify if there is a problem with the brain. Through this assessment, they will see if their patients have an issue that is affecting their ability to concentrate, solve problems, reason or remember. A variety of tests are used in this process. Multiple tests are usually done. This is often performed by psychologists who have been specially trained in this area.

Test results offer greater insight for doctors who are concerned with brain function. The information that is gathered can be used to identify the best solutions for treatment or rehab. Practitioners might encourage this for people with diseases that knowingly impact brain health, such as: AIDS, dementia, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Parkinsons disease, stroke and tumors.

People may have this done if they had a concussion or other brain-related injury. The test is sometimes performed on people with history of alcohol and drug use, as these substances alter brain health. Patients exposed to chemicals, pollution or poisons are usually tested this way, as are ADHD sufferers. It is not uncommon for the doctors to do these tests just to check the effectiveness of certain treatment methods being administered.

Preparation is important. Consult with the practitioner if there are any questions or concerns related to pre- or post-care procedures. Patients may also look into potential risks, meaning of results, need for testing and how the process is carried out. It is important that they are fully informed of how the process is to be carried out. Eating before hand and getting adequate rest is important, as hunger and tiredness can have an affect on results. Patients should bring along hearing aids and glasses, if they need them.

More than one test can be taken. The kind given to a patient is based on what the practitioner wants to assess. Exams of this kind are meant to test limits for the patients. That is, they can expect some parts to be challenging. Most times these tests will involve the patients completing certain tasks or answering a set of questions. Tests are conducted with special objects, computers, or with standard paper and pencil.

Tests may strive to identify the memory and attention span of an individual. Other times they test their skills when it comes to speech and language. There are even the tests that are based around checking planning, reasoning and organizing abilities. Feeling nervous prior to taking the test is a common feeling.

The results will offer insight into the thinking, reasoning and remembering capabilities of patients. Typically the doctors will take the time to explain results in a way that patients are able to understand what is going on and the next steps in the process. It could take several weeks before the official and complete results are available.




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