Consult a doctor when you have concerns about memory loss, thinking
skills and behavior changes in yourself or a loved one. For people with
dementia and their families, an early diagnosis has many advantages:
time to make choices that maximize quality of life lessened anxieties about unknown problems a better chance of benefiting from treatment more time to plan for the future
It is also important for a physician to determine the cause of memory loss or other symptoms. Some dementia-like symptoms can be reversed if they are caused by treatable conditions, such as depression, drug interaction, thyroid problems, excess use of alcohol or certain vitamin deficiencies.
Finding the right doctor: In some cases, the primary care doctor may refer a patient to one of the following
specialists:
— A neurologist, who specializes in diseases of the brain and nervous system.
— A psychiatrist, who specializes in disorders that affect mood or the way the mind works.
A psychologist with advanced training in testing memory, concentration, problem solving, language and other mental functions
Understanding the problem.
Reviewing medical history.
Mental status tests.
Physical exam and diagnostic tests
Neurological exam:During the neurological exam, the physician may test:
— Reflexes.
— Coordination and balance.
— Muscle tone and strength.
Eye movement.
Speech.
Sensation.
time to make choices that maximize quality of life lessened anxieties about unknown problems a better chance of benefiting from treatment more time to plan for the future
It is also important for a physician to determine the cause of memory loss or other symptoms. Some dementia-like symptoms can be reversed if they are caused by treatable conditions, such as depression, drug interaction, thyroid problems, excess use of alcohol or certain vitamin deficiencies.
STEPS TO DIAGNOSIS
Finding the right doctor: In some cases, the primary care doctor may refer a patient to one of the following
specialists:
— A neurologist, who specializes in diseases of the brain and nervous system.
— A psychiatrist, who specializes in disorders that affect mood or the way the mind works.
A psychologist with advanced training in testing memory, concentration, problem solving, language and other mental functions
Understanding the problem.
Reviewing medical history.
Mental status tests.
Physical exam and diagnostic tests
Neurological exam:During the neurological exam, the physician may test:
— Reflexes.
— Coordination and balance.
— Muscle tone and strength.
Eye movement.
Speech.
Sensation.
No comments:
Post a Comment