Neurological tests evaluate sensory, motor, speech, hearing, vision, balance, coordination, and mood to diagnose neurological disorders. The test is done in stages, examining different functions of the nervous system, and accuracy in responses is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.
A neurological test is the means used by a doctor or neurologist to test a person’s neurological function. The test is designed to evaluate sensory skills, motor skills, speech, hearing, vision, balance, coordination and mood. A neurological exam may be performed by a doctor, but in some cases, a specialist may be needed to administer tests and interpret the results. These types of tests are used to diagnose a wide variety of neurological disorders. Genetic disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Huntington’s disease, as well as brain tumors and traumatic injuries, can be evaluated and diagnosed with neurological tests.
Neurological testing is usually done in several separate stages, each of which tests different functions of the nervous system. In the mental state part of the test, for example, the patient will answer a series of questions that examine his mood and thoughts, his awareness and aspects of his intellectual capacity such as speech, language, memory and judgment. During this portion of the test, the patient’s behavior for particular types of emotional or behavioral responses is also noted.
Other parts of the neurological test examine the patient’s nervous, motor, and sensory systems. One of the most important is the cranial nerve test, which investigates physical functions such as peripheral vision, gag reflex, smell and taste, and sensation in the head and neck area. In motor system testing, the patient’s muscle function is examined for signs of atrophy or abnormal movements that could indicate abnormalities.
To examine the sensory system, your doctor or neurologist will look at your responses to pain, pressure, temperature, and other stimuli. This part of the neurological test is usually repeated at least once to ensure that the results are accurate. Reflexes and coordination are tested in a similar way. In coordination tests, for example, the patient is asked to move their fingers or other body parts in various ways, with the doctor noting how the patient can perform these requests.
During a neurological test, it is imperative that the person being tested be as accurate as possible with their answers to the test questions. Inaccurate answers can lead to an inaccurate diagnosis, and as many neurological disorders are progressive in nature, this can mean a patient does not get the vital medical help they need right away. By the same token, anyone taking such a test should make sure they don’t omit any information from their responses, even if it may seem irrelevant.
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