So, you’re diving into the whole Alzheimer’s testing thing for your loved one. It’s a lot. Let’s break the testing process down, step by step, and make this as straightforward as possible to ensure your loved one receives a thorough evaluation.
Step-by-Step Testing Process
- Initial Cognitive Assessment: This usually starts with a pen-and-paper test by a primary care physician, evaluating memory, cognition, language, and reasoning.
- Psychiatric and Psychological Evaluations: These evaluations help doctors understand your loved one’s mental health and well-being, distinguishing between Alzheimer’s and other possible conditions.
- Laboratory Tests: Blood and urine tests help rule out other diseases and deficiencies that might be causing the symptoms.
- Brain Imaging: CT scans or MRIs check for structural brain changes, such as damage from a stroke, and establish a baseline for brain health.
Rule Out Other Conditions
Several conditions can mimic Alzheimer’s symptoms but are treatable or reversible. Ensure that the doctor considers and rules out these possibilities
- Thyroid Problems: Measure TSH levels to assess thyroid function.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: Check levels of Vitamins B12, D, B6, and E, which are all essential for cognitive health. Deficiencies in these vitamins can affect cognition and mood.
- Infections: Discuss testing for UTIs, Lyme disease, meningitis, encephalitis, and HIV/AIDS, as these can impact brain function.
- Medication Side Effects: Review all current medications with the doctor and pharmacist to identify potential cognitive side effects.
- Depression and Anxiety: These conditions can significantly impact cognitive function.
- Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH): Consider NPH as a potential cause, as it can present with symptoms similar to Alzheimer’s.
Choosing the Right Neurologist
Selecting a neurologist who specializes in dementia care is crucial. Look for someone who spends significant time treating dementia patients. Memory Centers are great places to start, as they have specialists experienced in managing Alzheimer’s, conducting research, and teaching. We found an excellent neurologist for our mom at the Penn Memory Center. If a specialized center isn’t available, find a neurologist who dedicates at least 20 hours a week to dementia care.
Final Thoughts
Getting through Alzheimer’s testing and diagnosis is a journey. It’s a mix of patience and thorough evaluation; sometimes, it feels like trial and error. However, you can confidently navigate this by ensuring comprehensive testing and finding the right specialists.
Hang in there, and remember, we’re here to support you.
Take care! 💜
