my first neurophyscology appointment tomorrow
 

I got my injury on 5th November since I last posted (can't say when that was) I've improved a lot

I still have the constant headache/can't concentrate/read a paper etc but I can get around more easily I've changed my routine so I'm at the store when it's quiet etc

what happens at these appointments? I've heard about tests but what do they actually do?

thanks

There will be some tests where you fill in an answer sheet. There will be others where the Neuro Psychologist will administer the test orally. Some NP's use a computer to administer some of the tests. There is nothing you can do to prepare. Just show up.

The tests measure intelligence, memory function, reaction time, processing speed, emotional state, executive functioning, and other parameters.

thanks (10 characters) :)

Mine also checks simple neurological responses too ....following a pen/ pencil with eyes how well you walk, sleep, hand strength, how close I can see a dot before it doubles then how far back before it is clear.....nothing to fear. ;)

Laura,

Your description sounds more like a neurological exam. Was it done by an MD ? A Neuro Psychological Assessment is usually done by a PhD in psychology with additional training in Neuro Psychology. They will not usually do any medical tests like the eye tests. The first test you mentioned about following the pen is a Horizontal Gaze test to check for nystagmus. It is a classic medical test for brain function. They are looking for whether the eye moves smoothly or jerks as it tries to follow the object. A Neuro Psych would not normally do such a test.

It sounds like your doctor is thorough. Many docs do not do a comprehensive neurological exam.

I don't doubt that a bit, maybe she just goes above and beyond. Never the less I think it helps her decide what other professionals she needs to refer me to. I will PM you a link to the group I see.

I was tested almost 3 months after my accident when my PT kept suspecting a concussion. I was told not to work out the morning before my afternoon appointment - I didn't ask why, but I'm assuming they didn't want me to start out fatigued. The first time I did the IMPACT testing on a computer, and I think I filled out a survey on how my injury was impacting my life. Then I had a 2nd appointment that was "paper and pencil" - looking at line drawings and reconstructing them in proper order, drawing a continuous line from A to Z or 1-something (I forget which, but the letters/numbers were placed randomly on the page) and some other similar drills. Then I did some face-to-face testing with the Neuropsychologist that included things like her giving me a string of numbers and me trying to recite them back to her, listing as many words in 60 seconds that started with the letter she gave me, etc. Like Mark said, it's nothing you can study for, but I wanted to know what to expect just to help keep my anxiety level down!

thanks everyone

she didn't do any tests today (next time) but she did question me at length about every aspect of my life I am absolutely drained but didn't want to just not reply

ill reply better in the next few days when I feel like I can put a sentence together again

Feel Better!