Bouncing Back from Back Surgery

If you are struggling with symptoms that may be due to a neurological condition, then you should see a neurologist for an exam. They will usually start by conducting a basic neurological exam. While this exam may not tell your practitioner exactly what is wrong, it will tell them whether a neurological disease or condition is a likely cause of what you're going through. Here are some of the key tests you can expect to be performed as a part of this neurological exam. 

Evoked Potential Tests

An evoked potential test involves the practitioner placing some electrodes on your head and then measuring how your brain responds to various stimuli. With the electrodes in place, your neurologist may play certain sounds, or they may introduce you to various visual stimuli. The way your brain responds to certain stimuli can tell your neurologist whether your nerves are properly conducting impulses all of the way to your brain. It can also highlight possible issues with your brain function itself. These tests can take a while, but they are painless. The only uncomfortable thing you'll feel is the adhesive on the electrodes being peeled off your skin.

Thermography

Thermography is a test procedure that involves placing your body in a machine that measures the temperature of your body in certain areas, generating an image that shows hot and cold areas. This can show your neurologist areas where your nerves may be irritated, acting up, and inflamed. For example, if your wrists are lighting up, this could indicate a problem with the nerves in that area, such as carpal tunnel. This screening test is commonly used when a neurologist suspects you have peripheral nerve problems, such as neuropathy or neuroma.

Blood Test

A blood test for neurological conditions is more common and informative than you think. Your neurologist will have your blood tested for the presence of certain markers, which can indicate various brain and nerve conditions. They may also assess your levels of nutrients like magnesium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D. Deficiencies of these and other nutrients can cause nerve conditions, or they can cause symptoms that mimic those of nerve disorders. If nothing else, your neurologist will want to rule out deficiencies before exploring more pathological nerve conditions.

You can expect your practitioner to put you through some or all of the tests above. Hopefully knowing what to expect helps the process go smoother.

Contact a neurology office, such as North Texas Neuroscience Center PA, to learn more.