Health
Doctor Shares 30-Second Hand Test That Could Reveal Hidden Brain Tumor
A doctor from London who uses the TikTok handle “Medifectious” has gained widespread attention after posting a brief but intriguing hand test. Early detection of a brain tumour or other neurological conditions may be aided by this easy test. He demonstrates how to check for dysdiadochokinesia (pronounced dis-dee-ad-oh-ko-ki-nee-zee-ah) in his video, which has received over 185,000 views. Having difficulty with quick, alternating hand movements is referred to by this medical phrase.
How to Do the Hand Test
- Hold your arms out straight in front of you
- Put your hands facing down
- Turn your hands over so they face up
- Keep flipping your hands from down to up as fast as you can for 30 seconds
Most people can do this test easily. The doctor explains, “If someone has trouble with this, it might indicate a problem in the part of the brain that controls movement.” Healthy people can usually do this smoothly and quickly.
What Does Dysdiadochokinesia Mean?
It indicates difficulty performing rapid, fluid back-and-forth motions. It’s an indication that something may be amiss with your brain, but it’s not an illness. This symptom could be a sign of a tumour or other cerebellar neurological disorders. Those that have this issue may observe:
- Being awkward or frequently dropping objects
- Having issues balancing when walking and pressing buttons on shirts
- Uncomfortable or rigid movements, particularly with the hands
- Writing more sloppy than previously
Your body’s cerebellum functions similarly to a traffic light. It ensures that all of your movements occur in the proper sequence and is located at the rear of your brain. Even basic movements become difficult when something is affecting it.
Brain Tumor Signs: Understanding the Science Behind the Test
The cerebellum, sometimes referred to as the “little brain,” contains about half of your brain’s neurones although making up only 10% of its total volume. It adjusts your motions without your conscious awareness.
The cerebellum coordinates muscle shifts and produces minute adjustments in real time during rapid movements, such as the hand-flipping test. This examines what medical professionals refer to as “cerebellar timing circuits,” which aid in regulating the timing of the muscles that raise and lower your palm.
Cerebellar peduncles are the routes that connect the cerebellum to the motor cortex. Damage to these channels results in delayed or jerky movement. Because of this, this easy test can assist identify mild neurological problems, which may be a sign of an early-stage brain tumour.
What Could It Mean If You Can’t Do the Test Well?
A poor performance on the hand-flipping test does not necessarily indicate a serious illness. However, unusual findings could lead to additional research. Cerebellar issues can initially appear gradually and without any noticeable symptoms. Early detection of these problems greatly enhances treatment results. Brain-related growths can occur at any age and affect about 700,000 Americans.
Other health issues could also make the test challenging. Because MS damages the sheath around nerves, it might be difficult. The test may be difficult for older individuals who have experienced a stroke. Problems with hand motions can also be caused by a condition known as cerebellar ataxia, which affects the back of the brain.
Parkinson’s disease and related conditions may make it difficult to do well on the test. While a number of illnesses might cause problems with coordination, a tumour needs to be treated right away. These kinds of movements can be problematic for people who have been heavy drinkers for a long period. Your performance on the test may even be impacted by some medications. Another factor that could make the exam challenging for you is a deficiency of vitamin B12.
When to See a Doctor About a Possible Brain Tumor
If you find yourself unable to do a formerly effortless movement, you should consult a physician. If one side of your body functions significantly worse than the other or if you struggle with daily duties, it’s also crucial to be checked out.
Keep an eye out for additional warning indicators. Inform your physician if you begin to get severe headaches, particularly in the morning. The same is true if your speech or vision changes. Additionally, let them know if you feel ill or throw up without cause, if your arms or legs seem weak or numb, or if others comment on your strange behaviour or confusion.
The doctor says, “Finding problems early makes a big difference, especially with brain tumors.” If you’re worried, your doctor will check you and might order a special picture of your brain called an MRI to look for a possible abnormality.
Brain Health: Maintaining Cerebellar Function
Activities that Test Coordination: Activities that test hand-eye coordination and activate cerebellar pathways include juggling, playing musical instruments, and table tennis.
Balance Training: Activities that enhance balance and fortify cerebellar connections include yoga, standing on one foot, and utilising a balance board.
Cognitive-Physical Combinations: Exercises that mix movement with memory, such as martial arts, dance, or tai chi, are excellent for the cerebellum.
Brain-Healthy Nutrition: Foods high in antioxidants (fruits and vegetables), omega-3s (fatty fish), and B vitamins (eggs, whole grains) promote brain function. Another important factor in avoiding major health issues is staying hydrated.
Limit Alcohol: Too much alcohol might impair coordination because the cerebellum is sensitive to it.
Brain Tumor Prevention: Why This Test Matters
This exam, often known as the “pronation-supination test,” has been utilised by doctors for many years. It’s fantastic since anyone can check for neurological problems at home in a matter of seconds without the need for specialised equipment.
TikTok has helped more people learn about this test. The doctor says, “Knowing about your health gives you power. But remember, social media should be just the start of learning about your health, not the end.” Paying attention to how your body normally works helps you notice when something changes. Have you tried the test? Your coordination matters, and noticing changes in your body could make a big difference in the early detection of serious conditions like brain tumors.
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