Changes in brain functioning, whether subtle or more severe, can result from a variety of medical conditions that may indirectly impact brain functioning (e.g. heart disease, diabetes, COPD, multiple sclerosis, thyroid disorders, acute illness related to infectious processes such as a UTI in an older adult, etc.). In other cases, medical treatments may pose challenges for brain functioning (e.g. complex medication schedules, effects of chemotherapy). Even environmental conditions (e.g. chronic stress) and mental health issues may have significant impacts on brain functioning.
When there are significant concerns about changes in thinking abilities, emotional functioning, and behavior related to health issues, neuropsychological evaluation may be help bring into focus specific areas of concern, to help with both diagnosis and treatment planning, as well as assisting the patient and family with practical functioning in daily life.