Alzheimer's Brain

If you are concerned that you may have Alzheimer’s disease or another memory or cognitive difficulty, see your doctor about obtaining a comprehensive assessment. There are several illnesses that exhibit dementia-like symptoms such as Alzheimer’s, but perhaps something that is treatable. The sooner you get tested, the higher your chances of receiving therapy.

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There is no one test that can tell you whether you have Alzheimer’s disease.

However, just a few tests can determine if memory and thinking impairments are caused by one of the various illnesses that cause dementia symptoms. 

Doctors can uncover the core cause of cognitive disorders by a process of elimination. Some conditions can be treated. Others, though, are not able to be treated. 

The benefits of being tested early: 

If changes in memory and thinking are interfering with your ability to perform what you need or want to do in your life, see your doctor. Even if the underlying cause of your issue is incurable, having a diagnosis as soon as feasible provides advantages. You may adopt lifestyle adjustments that may help reduce disease development and use drugs to alleviate bothersome symptoms. You will also be able to participate in clinical studies, putting you in line for cutting-edge therapy. And knowing sooner rather than later allows you to prioritize what you want to accomplish in the immediate future, as well as complete paperwork and make preparations with your family about your preferences for later in the illness. 

The components of a comprehensive assessment: 

To gain a thorough view of your brain’s health, the doctor can recommend specific expertise consultations, each of whom will provide a distinct perspective. 

A medical history and physical examination: 

Your primary care physician will examine your heart, hearing, vision, and prescriptions, as well as do a fast memory test. Expect to talk about your symptoms, as well as your family’s medical history. Your lifestyle choices, such as exercise, drinking, and recreational drug usage, are also taken into account. 

Tests in the lab: 

This usually includes blood tests and a urinalysis. Other than Alzheimer’s, bladder and renal problems might indicate to illnesses that cause memory difficulties. Lab tests will be performed to evaluate thyroid, liver, and kidney function as well as to check for infections everywhere in the body. Although genetic testing is available, they are contentious at present time since they produce no clear results, only probabilities. 

Imaging of the brain: 

To examine for structural abnormalities in the brain, a neurologist may conduct a CT scan, MRI, or PET scan. Perhaps you suffered a little stroke or a series of minor strokes. There might be bleeding, a tumor, or an accumulation of fluid in the brain. 

Tests of your mental and cognitive abilities:

Fuzzy thinking and memory loss are symptoms of both dementia and depression. A neuropsychologist’s testing can pinpoint the difference, which is critical for determining the best therapy. The examinations are generally made up of question-and-answer exercises or puzzles. They evaluate arithmetic, memory, focus, language, problem-solving, and spatial perception abilities. 

Do you suspect you have Alzheimer’s? 

Allow us to walk you through the screening process by calling us Toll Free at 855.456.7972. Learn more about our products and services, please visit us on our website at www.ikorofwpa.com