concussion diagnosis, memory impairment, neuropsych testing, neuropsychological evaluation, neuropsychological assessment, evaluation for depression, neuropsychological testing, clinical neuropsychology, neuropsychology programs, pediatric neuropsychology
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Prosopagnosia Symptoms and Other Related Disorders

June 18th, 2012 | Posted by cognitiveassessment in clinical neuropsychology - (0 Comments)

neuropsychological assessmentProsopagnosia is a disorder where suffers have trouble identifying the faces of others. Some people learn to cope with the disorder by simply using other features like voice, build, and hair color to identify people. Although these useful coping skills can make the problem virtually undetectable it is important to undergo a neuropsychological assessment, especially if the problem develops overtime. Prosopagnosia can be a symptom of other problems, like degenerative neurological illness or brain injury.

Prosopagnosia is part of a larger family of visual agnosia. These are problems in the brain in identifying objects such as people, colors or places. Certain delusional disorders have similar systems and may affect the same part of the brain, the frontal cortex. In some cases the problem is only in the frontal cortext while in other cases the problem may be in the way the frontal cortex communicates with the limbic system, which is responsible for emotional responses. In such cases people can have issues making the emotional connection between themselves and other people.

Genetics is a big factor in such disorders, as they often run in a family. Treatment is limited to learning coping skills to help identify people, though sometimes a neuropsychological assessment can explain the underlying issue. If the underlying issue, like neurological disorder, is identified and treated, the problem often goes away.

Major Depressive Disorder; Most Common Misconceptions

June 11th, 2012 | Posted by cognitiveassessment in clinical neuropsychology - (0 Comments)

evaluation for depressionAlthough the term depression has been used to describe all forms of depressive disorders, major depressive disorder is the most common. It can affect every aspect of a persons life from their eating and sleeping habits to their mood and outlook. Major depression is a serious disease that lowers life expectancy and has been linked to other life-disrupting disorders. Make sure to get an evaluation for depression for yourself or a loved one if you feel depression may be an issue.

One of the most common misconceptions about depression is that it is easy to spot or manifest simply by someone feeling down. Many people do not realize that depression can manifest in a loss of interest, more risk taking behaviors, feelings of guilt or anger, and a host of other symptoms. Sometimes the person suffering doesn’t even know they are depressed they just know something doesn’t feel right. That is why it helps to have a clinician administer an evaluation for depression and make a diagnosis.

Treatment for depression has evolved dramatically over the past few decades. There are a range of effective drugs and treatments that a doctor can help you choose from. Only after a diagnosis is made can treatment begin.

Play it Safe when Dealing with Concussions

June 4th, 2012 | Posted by cognitiveassessment in clinical neuropsychology - (0 Comments)
concussion diagnosis

Unequal pupil size is an indicator a concussion has occurred.

Concussions are the most common type of brain injury. Although most are mild every concussion injury should be assessed by a doctor, especially if the concussion occurs in a child.

Concussions are generally rated on a 1 – 3 scale where 3 is the most severe. A slight concussion is marked by no loss of consciousness, mild headache, mild confusion and temporary vision problems. A more severe concussion can include a loss of consciousness, prolonged confusion, severe head pain, memory loss and convulsions. Very severe concussions can damage the structure of the brain and can lead to post-traumatic seizures, post-traumatic epilepsy, brain swelling, and other nasty symptoms.

Although every concussion should be taken seriously, the risk of more debilitating damage can increases dramatically when multiple concussions occur. If someone does receive a concussion diagnosis they should not take part in any activities that could lead to another injury (playing contact sports, doing physical labor) because even a minor blow to the head after a concussion can cause problems.

For the most part concussion will heal on their own, though you should check back with a doctor after a  concussion diagnosis to ensure there are no complications. Other than time and rest there are not real treatment options for concussions.

Conduct Disorder

May 29th, 2012 | Posted by cognitiveassessment in neuropsychological evaluation - (0 Comments)

neuropsych testing Conduct disorders affect kids and young adults and affect a number of cognitive functions. It troubles many in the field of pediatric neuropsychology because it can often be an indicator of mental health problems later in life. When treated early and with a lot of family involvement, it can be treated successfully.

Conduct disorder mainly affects the frontal lobe of the brain and manifests in problems with executive function and social interaction. Young people with conduct disorder may have trouble multitasking, organizing and switching between activities. Socially, it can manifest with an inability to keep track of social norms, trouble respecting personal space, and violent or aggressive behavior. Conduct disorder is highly comorbid with other disorders like ADHD, personality disorders and early instances of substance abuse disorders. Although genetics plays a strong role in conduct disorder, there are certain environmental factors. Kids that come from disorganized or troubled homes are more likely to suffer from conduct disorder.

Since it is more difficult to diagnose mental illness in young people, thorough neuropsych testing is required. Such is especially the case if there are multiple disorders at play. Family therapy is the most common treatment for those suffering from conduct disorder.

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Impulse Control Disorders

May 21st, 2012 | Posted by cognitiveassessment in clinical neuropsychology | neuropsychological evaluation - (0 Comments)

neuropsychological test Many psychological illnesses are linked to impulse control issues. Suffers of OCD, ADD, and personality disorders can all suffer from issues with impulse control. Impulse control can also lead to issues with substance abuse and behavioral addictions. To better understand the root of impulse control issues doctors must first determine if there is an underlying issue that manifests itself as an impulse control problem. For this they turn to neuropsychological evaluation.

Impulse control problems can manifest in many ways. Some people become emotionally impulsive and may go through bouts of extreme anger and rage in otherwise normal situations. Others experience hyper-sexuality and act on sexual desires without thinking. Some develop behavior addictions to stealing, gambling, or shopping. In some cases these disorders can manifest as repetitive OCD, like issues such as compulsive hair pulling or skin picking.

People suffering from impulse control problems are often stigmatized as weak willed. Increasingly, scientists believe that the problem stems from over activity of nerves in the front of the brain. Treatment ranges from therapy to medication and even surgery. Before any diagnosis can be made a neuropsychological test must be given. This will help determine the underlying problem and its severity; from there treatment can be pursued.

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Extreme Acting Out in Children

May 14th, 2012 | Posted by cognitiveassessment in clinical neuropsychology | neuropsychological evaluation - (0 Comments)

clinical neuropsychologicalAlthough some tantrum throwing and impulsive behavior is part of being a child, these behaviors in extreme or with a lack of remorse can indicate problems. Although many clinicians agree that giving a diagnosis to a child, whose mind is still developing, can lead to inaccurate diagnosis, leaving these problems untreated can be worse. Diagnosis is the first step to getting treatment and recovery.

Some symptoms that problems may be occurring are acting out with a lack of remorse, daily tantrums passed the appropriate age, acts of violence, and a lack of emotion. These symptoms can be indicative of anything from ADD/ADHD to OCD to depression or psychopathy. A neuropsychological assessment can help bridge the gap between symptoms and diagnosis.

Although clinical neuropsychological issues in children can be scary for parents and difficult for clinicians, there is also a lot of hope. Are you same person you were when you were five? Or even fifteen? The brain does so much developing in childhood and adolescents that many problems can be successfully cured before adulthood. The worst thing you can do is ignore the problem. Many parents fear the stigma of a neuropsychological diagnosis but the matter is kept private and without a diagnosis there cannot be treatment.

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Anorexia Nervosa

May 7th, 2012 | Posted by cognitiveassessment in clinical neuropsychology - (0 Comments)

pediatric neuropsychologicalOne of the most dangerous pediatric neuropsychological disorders is anorexia nervosa. Although it can affect men and women of all ages, it if 10 times more prevalent in young women. Anorexia is marked by extremely limited food intake, distorted self-image and feelings of inadequacy. In more severe cases the effects of self-starvation can also visibly damage the skin, hair, and teeth.

Anorexia nervosa is dangerous because it has such drastic effects on both the body and mind. The majority of anorexia cases are comorbid with other disorders like depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety, autism spectrum disorders or post-traumatic stress disorder. The effects of starvation are detrimental to every major organ system in the body and can even lead to death in extreme cases.

Neuropsychology programs to treat anorexia nervosa usually entail therapy, medication, and strict dietary supervision. It is important to treat the anorexia, any physical harm caused to the body, and any underlying disorders that could trigger anorexia.

Since people with anorexia deny they have a problem and tend to cut themselves off from the world, it can be hard for loved ones to tell exactly what is wrong. Rapid weight loss, vomiting, and a sudden change in personality are all signs that someone you know could be struggling with anorexia.

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The Lingering Effects of Head Trauma

April 23rd, 2012 | Posted by cognitiveassessment in clinical neuropsychology - (0 Comments)

neuropsych testingRecent studies have shown an alarming correlation between certain high impact sports and memory impairment, verbal problems and other negative changes in the brain. Boxers, football players, MMA fighters and others have shown neurological degeneration in the memory center of their brain. Some ex-NFL players and boxers have begun actively encouraging young players to get routine MRI’s and neuropsych testing. Some professional sports teams are stepping up their concussions diagnosis and treatment.

Certain high profile cases involving athletes and military personal have also questioned the correlation between these injuries and depression, violence and suicide. The correlation there is hard to make however, especially in the case of military veterans who may be suffering from emotional stress as well as traumatic brain injuries. Other studies have linked repeat concussions with higher instance of early onset Alzheimer’s and other degenerative mental disorders.

These recent studies have prompted changes in everything from the way high school football helmets are designed to the way the military help soldiers who have suffered multiple concussions. Unfortunately many of these problems do not become apparent till years after the injuries are sustained. If you suspect someone you know may be suffering the after effects of repeated blows to the head you should urge them to see a neurologist for testing.

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Neurodegenerative Disorders

April 16th, 2012 | Posted by cognitiveassessment in clinical neuropsychology | neuropsychological evaluation - (0 Comments)

memory impairmentNeurodegenerative disorders are a broad category of diseases that are marked by loss of brain and nerve function that typically get progressively worse over time. Some of the more common neurodegenerative disorders include Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s Disease. Although there is no cure for these diseases treatments can slow and sometimes even stop the progression of neurological decline.

Unfortunately the cause of these diseases is a mystery. Genetics play a role but other contributing factors remain unclear. Some symptoms include memory impairment, shaking or tremors, loss of fine motor function and coordination, difficulty with speech, and seizures. Although the majority of these disorders do not present until older adulthood some can be apparent in childhood, adolescence or adulthood. Neuropsychological assessment, and in some cases genetic testing, can detect the presence of these diseases.

Although treatment options are limited there are some promising treatments being developed. Some seek to suppress the production of defective cells (gene silencing) while other aim to use stem cells to repair damaged brain tissue. Drug therapies can easy the onset of symptoms and improve quality of life. New reach suggest keeping the mind active through social interaction and mentally stimulating activities can stave off or slow the progress of theses disorders.

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Mania and Hypomania

April 10th, 2012 | Posted by cognitiveassessment in neuropsychological evaluation - (0 Comments)

Neuropsychological assessment Mania and hypomania are two of the most common psychological diagnosis. Mania is marked by episodic bouts of symptoms that include feelings of grandeur, racing thoughts, hyperactivity, euphoria and agitation. When these mood cycles also include severely depressive episodes the diagnosis is usually bipolar disorder.

Mania can be hard to diagnosis because people with disease are often highly adaptable. Hypomania, which is milder, is even easier to miss. People with mania are often mistaken as simply being overly passionate, opinionated, or quirky. Mania manifest differently in people with different personalities so it can be hard to pinpoint. Specially designed neuropsychological assessments are needed to determine the presence of the disorders.

The mechanism by which mania affects people is complex and mysterious. People with mania have been observed to have abnormal function in many areas of the brain. Mood stabilizers are the most common treatment though anti-psychotic drugs and other treatments can also be helpful. Usually, medication is paired with long term therapy. Neuropsychological assessment is needed to make a diagnosis and to begin treatment.

Many people with diseases are able to take the symptoms and transform them into success. Increased passion and energy can help people get ahead. It is up to the patient and their loved ones to determine how best to manage the illness.

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