Neuropsychological testing and how it can help diagnose a myriad of neurological conditions.

Neuropsychological testing can help your doctor find out how a problem with your brain is affecting your ability to concentrate, reason, remember or solve problems.

Doctors use a wide variety of tests for neuropsychological testing. In most cases testing involves a series of tests, rather than a single test.

This type of testing is most often done by a Neuropsychologist with special training in this area.

Neuropsychological testing is done in order to give your doctor an overall picture of how well your brain works. Your doctor can use the results to decide the best treatment or rehabilitation program for you.

Your doctor may recommend neuropsychological testing if you have a disease that can affect the brain, such as:

• • Alzheimer's disease or another type of dementia
  • Stroke
  • Multiple Sclerosis
    
  • Brain tumor
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Epilepsy
    
  • AIDS
• You have an injury that may have affected your brain, such as a concussion or a more serious brain injury.
• You have a history of drug or alcohol abuse that may have affected your brain.
• You have been exposed to poisons, chemicals, or pollution that can cause brain damage.
  
• You have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or problems in school.
• Your doctor wants to see how well treatment for one of these diseases, conditions, or injuries is working.

HOW IT IS DONE
There are many kinds of neuropsychological tests. The ones you take will depend on the particular brain functions that your doctor wants to check.

The tests are meant to test your limits, so don't be discouraged if they seem difficult.

Most of the tests involve answering questions or performing tasks. You may be taking some of the tests using pencil and paper, on a computer or using other objects.


HOW IT FEELS
You might feel nervous if you know your ability to think is being judged by the person giving you the tests. The tests are meant to test your limits, so don't be discouraged if they seem hard.

You may get tired, because the tests can take several hours.

If you are being checked for a health condition, such as Alzheimer's disease, you may be afraid of what the tests will show.

RISKS
Some problems are hard to diagnose and your doctor may not be able to find the cause of your symptoms. Also, other tests may be needed to accurately diagnose your problem. Seeking a second opinion is always advised.

RESULTS
Test results give your doctor an overall picture of how well you are able to think, reason, and remember. Your doctor may discuss some results with you right away. Complete results may not be available for several weeks.

The results of the test may help determine when a person who has had a concussion can return to sports or other activities. Testing can also identify mood or emotional problems.

Many conditions can influence the results of neuropsychological tests. For example, depression can slow your thinking. But your doctor will consider your other symptoms when looking at the test results.


WHERE TO GO
There are many expert Neuropsychologists, Neurologists and hospital-affiliated memory clinics in the Chicago area. They can answer your questions and help with any of the above mentioned information. Many of these clinics provide social work services as well. If you need direction or have questions about resources where you can turn for help, please contact Gentle Home Services.

(Please note: None of the above information should be considered medical advice. Always consult with your primary care physician.)

---