Assessing Stroke Risk: Are Neurological Tests Accurate?

Is the stroke test accurate?

Hello, Doctor.
I have a few questions to ask you.

1.
Recently, when I am working or talking to others, I sometimes suddenly speak with a regional accent or experience a slip of the tongue, similar to a verbal error.
Could this be due to speaking too quickly, or is it a sign of potential speech difficulties associated with a stroke?
2.
Is the testing method mentioned in this video accurate? The content describes a method where one hand extends the thumb, and the other hand touches the thumb while closing the eyes.
The hand with the extended thumb then moves randomly and stops, and the other hand must touch the thumb; otherwise, it may indicate a warning sign of a stroke.
Here is the video link: https://youtu.be/RiDmJkOmG4M?si=1-b8qVs-Htlj0gc5.
Thank you, Doctor.

Miss Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/04

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Ms.
Lin,
You mentioned, "Is slurred speech a sign of a stroke?" Acute stroke refers to a sudden neurological deficit caused by abnormalities in the brain's blood vessels.
The symptoms resulting from a stroke are related to the area of the brain that is affected.
If the memory circuits are impacted, there may be abnormalities in memory.
If motor functions are affected, motor impairments will occur.
In cases of transient ischemic attack (TIA), symptoms typically last for a short duration, usually within an hour.
I am unsure if you have metabolic syndrome (such as abdominal obesity, elevated fasting blood glucose, or abnormal lipid levels), as these conditions are considered high-risk factors for stroke.
Additionally, smoking can lead to cerebrovascular disease, resulting in cerebral infarction.
Regarding the video you mentioned, since the tests include assessments of motor function, balance, and proprioception, if there is a sudden functional impairment, cerebrovascular disease should be considered.
If you have concerns, I recommend consulting a neurologist for further discussion and examination.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to reach out for any related questions.
Wishing you good health, safety, and happiness.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Jiang Junyi

Reply Date: 2024/04/04

More Info

When assessing the risk of stroke and the accuracy of neurological tests, it is essential to understand both the symptoms and the methods used for evaluation. Your concerns about sudden changes in speech, such as slurring or mispronouncing words, can indeed be alarming. These symptoms may indicate a range of issues, from simple fatigue or anxiety to more serious conditions like transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or strokes.

1. Speech Changes and Stroke Risk: The sudden onset of speech difficulties, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as weakness on one side of the body, facial drooping, or difficulty understanding speech, can be indicative of a stroke or TIA. In your case, if you are experiencing these speech changes frequently, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. While speaking too quickly can lead to mispronunciations or "slips of the tongue," persistent or sudden changes in speech patterns should not be ignored. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to neurological symptoms.

2. Neurological Tests and Their Accuracy: The test you mentioned, which involves extending one arm and attempting to touch the thumb with the other hand while keeping the eyes closed, is a simple coordination test that can help assess neurological function. However, while such tests can provide some insight into motor function and coordination, they are not definitive indicators of stroke risk. A comprehensive neurological examination conducted by a healthcare professional is necessary to accurately assess stroke risk. This may include imaging studies like a CT scan or MRI, blood tests, and a detailed medical history.

The video you referenced may provide a basic understanding of coordination and balance, but it is essential to recognize that stroke symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. The FAST acronym (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, Time to call emergency services) is a widely recognized method for identifying stroke symptoms quickly. If you or someone else exhibits these symptoms, immediate medical attention is critical.

In summary, while simple tests can provide preliminary insights into neurological health, they should not replace professional medical evaluation. If you are experiencing concerning symptoms, it is vital to seek medical advice promptly. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes in the case of a stroke or other neurological conditions. Always prioritize your health and well-being, and do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for any symptoms that cause you concern.

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