VEEG and Other Testing
 

I'm heading in for some testing soon and was hoping that there were some improvements in the VEEG's given. I've read Ellie's blog and am scared to death; I normally hate EEG's and am sensitive on the scalp (who isn't?) and would love to have any tips or info to go with so I'm a bit more at ease and assertive. Has anyone had one done at NYU? Or other neuro testing? What kinds of info do they ask you on a neuro/psychological test? Can you tell I'm nervous? :p

Thanks for any help for this newbie.

First :) May I PROMISE it's OK ? lol - I've been through the VEEG twice and done JUST FINE .... the neuropsych twice and done just fine. I started this odd-esy on Oct. 10, 2005. I've had no problems with the VEEG except bad food and advanced boredom but I managed to survive.

I'm on my way for the neuro psych for the third time in late November. I do not enjoy it but I do just fine and make it home in one piece. The neuro pysch test will be given for YOU.... a person of your education, age, yadda yadda.

When I was told "it was coming" my first impulse was to refuse taking it. I thought (incorrectly) that it was prying into personal stuff. It's not - it's just a test to learn your IQ, how each side of your brain works, how your memory works, things like that. MANY things like that.

I think each hospital had a very different VEEG and very different neuropsych. I'm certain other people will be along to tell you about theirs.
I'll be happy to answer any direct questions.

Thank you so much for your response. Plse r/o
 

I sent you a (lengthy) message, but wanted to publicly thank you. It really made me feel more at ease ~ although, I did send you a hundred questions! Your kindness really makes me feel part of this community. :)

Hi,
Welcome to the forum! Take my word I've had veeg done along with many other tests over the past 35 yrs. of seizures. The veeg is painless and the only thing that might bother you is the cream might to start to dry and make your head itch but that's normal. You might want to take a book or some puzzles to do while having the test done because sometimes a person can get board.
As far as the neurophsyc. testing take my word I had it done before I had brain surgery and then after I had surgery. All you have to do is answer simple questions and the Dr. can tell what side of the brain you are using it's really interesting to me.
I've also had Pet, Spect, CT, and wada tests done. It's amazing what the Drs. can find by doing these tests and they don't hurt at all. Here's wishing you well and May God Bless You!

Sue

Hi Sue ~
 

Sue, I had hoped and thought you would be along.
I've been told that it's important to have that neuropsych testing before surgery and then again 6 months after surgery. That's how I've had mine. And that's why it's scheduled again in November.

I had that MRI done again on the 4th, last Thursday, and the neurosurgeon said it was the important one for the future. It will be the BASIC view because of all the scar and surgery tissue that's there now. Wow.

Hi (and welcome)! First, don't let my experience scare you. :) I tend to be prone to bad luck. Heh. I have personally found that it is more comfortable on me when they use the cap versus the individual electrodes 'glued' on. I am not sure if accuracy differs, so you'd have to check on that (or I can if you like).

I should also mention that I am more prone to pain in specific areas due to my Trigeminal Neuralgia. There's two 'trigger' spots for me which unfortunately, are right where they put the electrodes. When they use the cap on me, it doesn't apply as much pressure on those specific areas and they also tend to not 'scrub' as much with that sandy paste stuff.

Since you seem to be sensitive (as I am, too) maybe you can ask if they could use a cap and ask if there's less accuracy with them (or more). I have never left an EEG in pain nor did I have pain during one when they used the cap.

I don't think I've had any Neuropsych testing, but I am going in soon for a SPECT scan (for Lyme Disease) pending insurance approval.

Hope that helps some :)