Alzheimer's disease is a serious disorder that causes the cells of the brain to deteriorate. As the disease progresses, it affects the memory and mental abilities causing loss of skills both socially and intellectually. Although there is no specific diagnostic test available to confirm a diagnosis of this disease, neurologists can use various tests to provide them with enough information to make an accurate diagnosis ninety percent of the time. These include neurological examinations, physical examinations, lab tests, mental status testing, neuropsychological testing and brain imaging results.
Early Stage Symptoms
During the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, the individual may begin to notice problems with forgetfulness and episodes of slight confusion. As it progresses, more evident symptoms may occur such as loss of judgment, inability to solve problems, speaking and writing difficulties as well as memory loss. Thoughts may also become disorganized without the individual realizing that their thinking skills have become impaired, although it may be evident to close family members.
Basic Tests
When an individual suspects that they or a loved one may have Alzheimer's disease, their primary care physician will refer them to one of several Suffolk neurologists who specialize in this disease. The neurologist will perform an examination to check the patient's balance, coordination, reflexes, senses and muscle strength. They will also order blood tests to rule out any other disorders that could produce the same symptoms. Neurologists may test the patient's thinking abilities and memory by asking specific questions such as what the date is and where they are. They may also ask them to write a complete sentence, remember a list of words or follow the doctor's commands that involve three-steps.
Advanced Testing
If the neurologists suspects that the patient may have early stage Alzheimer's, they may require a more thorough assessment of their memory and thinking skills. These types of tests can take several hours, as enough detailed information must be collected so it can be compared with individuals of the same age and education. Neuropsychological testing can be helpful in determining patterns that are associated with dementia disorders.
Diagnostic Imaging Tests
Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI and PET scans may be used to view any abnormities within the brain that could also produce the effects of early stage Alzheimer's disease. These imaging devices are primarily used to rule out another possible cause of symptoms. There are however, certain new imaging devices that are being used in major hospitals today that may help neurologists visually identify changes in the brain that are caused by Alzheimer's disease.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.massagebyben.com/articles/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites 