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A neurological exam can seem daunting. But these assessments are completely painless. They also provide valuable information about the nervous system, brain function, and behavior, especially following a stroke. Read on to learn more.
More than 795,000 Americans have a stroke each year. Fortunately, early action and effective interventions have significantly reduced the number of stroke-related deaths and disabilities in the country.
But even a mild stroke can cause brain damage. Neurological tests can help identify these areas of dysfunction to better understand the relationship between the brain and behavior.
The Associates in Behavioral Science team offers neuropsychological testing at our offices in Berwyn and West Dundee, Illinois.
Here’s what to expect if you or a loved one needs a neurological test after a stroke.
The purpose of neurological testing
A specially trained psychologist performs a neurological exam known as a neuropsychological test.
During the assessment, your provider checks a variety of mental functions, such as
- Reading comprehension
- The ability to use language and understand others
- Memory, concentration, and attention
- General intellect
- Learning and reasoning
- Personality and mood
- Processing speed for receiving, understanding, and responding to information
- Fine motor skills
Neuropsychological testing also assesses higher-level skills, like multitasking, time management, and problem-solving.
Assessing all of these mental functions provides numerous benefits.
First, our team can identify the source of your symptoms. At the same time, we can also identify strengths and weaknesses in cognition.
This information enables us to develop personalized treatment plans and interventions tailored to your unique needs.
What to expect during a neurological test for stroke
No one wants to undergo testing. But neuropsychological exams don’t require any studying in advance — and there aren’t any needles!
Instead, they usually involve surveys and questionnaires about your mood and psychological symptoms. We also talk with you and your family members or friends about any concerns regarding cognitive function.
Your provider also reviews your background, including your medical and psychological history, education, and employment.
Based on this assessment, we can recommend more detailed tests, like writing or drawing, solving puzzles, or responding to items on a computer.
The best part is that there’s no way to fail a neuropsychological exam! The whole point is to look for strengths and weaknesses to ensure you get the care you need moving forward.
What happens after neurological test
Neuropsychological tests often take several hours. Once complete, your provider reviews the information and interprets the results.
Based on our findings, we can offer more insight into which areas of your brain were most affected by the stroke. We can also use these details as a guide for the best path to rehabilitation.
In addition to neuropsychological testing, we can also provide services to help navigate the emotional aspects of a stroke.
Whether you experienced the event or it was a loved one, a stroke can cause behavioral, emotional, and cognitive changes that cause profound stress. Our team has the services and skills you need to find a path forward with an excellent quality of life.
Did you or a loved one experience a stroke? Contact Associates in Behavioral Science to learn more about the neurological testing and psychological services offered at each of our locations today.