If you have a family member that you feel may be showing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, the first thing you need to do is find a great doctor. Finding a doctor who is skilled in treating and diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease is very important since there is no actual, specific Alzheimer’s test that can diagnose the disease. Although a standard Alzheimer’s test does not exist, there are a variety of tests and other contributing factors that can lead a good doctor to diagnose a patient with Alzheimer’s disease.
If you are taking your family member to the doctor, be prepared to help them answer many questions. You may need to help your loved one answer questions about the symptoms, when they began and if they have been getting worse. Usually the doctor will want to know the patient’s complete medical history as well and may even want to know information about family members and if any of them have Alzheimer’s disease. While there is no stated Alzheimer’s test, the doctor will probably do what is known as a mini-mental state exam, known as a MMSE. This test will help the doctor see the extent of mental function that the patient has. Some of the questions may include asking the patient to spell words backwards, following simple instructions and giving the current date, year and season.
Another test that may be administered by the doctor is known as a “mini-cog” test. This test also tests the mental abilities and even psychological abilities of the patient. You should also be prepared for the doctor to ask about diet, medications and alcohol consumptions. Usually, the doctor will perform tests such as blood pressure checks and anemia tests to rule out other causes that could be causing dementia in the patient. A neurological exam should be performed, as well, to make sure there is not another type of brain disease causing the problems the patient is having. Many times, the doctor will have brain imaging tests done, as well, to see the size of the brain. Over time, the actual size of the brain will begin shrinking if Alzheimer’s disease is the problem.
Although there is no one specific Alzheimer’s test that can be done to make a final diagnosis, there are a variety of tests that can be done to help a doctor make the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. If you are caring for a family member that is dealing with these problems, it is important to have them see a doctor as soon as possible to get a final diagnosis so measures can be taken to help your loved one.
alzheimers, alzheimers disease
Tags: alzheimers, alzheimers disease