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Suggest Treatment For Dementia
Question: I am concerned about early-onset dementia and/or Alzheimers. For the past 2-3 years, I have been having problems recalling information that I know very well. For example, a person's name, whose face I could picture in my head; a login password; in conversation that I know the meaning of, but can't recall -- I've had to say, "The thing that does ..., or the place that we ...." I also find myself forgetting about actions that I've agreed to take, and either not doing it or doing the opposite.
This phrase should have read: "in conversation, a word that I know the meaning of, but can't recall"
This phrase should have read: "in conversation, a word that I know the meaning of, but can't recall"
Brief Answer:
Possible but neuropsychological testing needed.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
Since dementia is defined as impairment of memory and other cognitive functions among which is language you do have a point in worrying. Memory loss and word finding difficulties may be manifestations of dementia.
However those episodes alone are not enough to reach to conclusions. To a degree most individuals experience such episodes at times without the presence of dementia. Factors like stress, anxiety, depression often play a role as they impair concentration thus not retaining information and giving the false impression of dementia.
It is for that purpose that neuropsychological tests are recommended to assess a patient for dementia, a series of questions and tasks administrated by a physician or a neuropsychologist, testing different areas of cognition. Most common ones are MMSE (mini mental state exam) or MoCA (Montreal cognitive assesment) tests which are the usual screening tests.
If there are abnormalities other neuropsychological tests more aimed to one area of cognition or the other may be done. If indeed cognitive impairment is found then some blood tests for correctable causes of dementia (such as vitamin B12 deficiency, low thyroid function) as well as imaging tests for causes like stroke, tumors etc will be done.
But unless neuropsychological tests are done one can't label those episodes as indicative of dementia, not enough. So you should discuss with your doctor your concern and about the need to be referred for neuropsychological testing (if he can't do it him/herself).
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Possible but neuropsychological testing needed.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
Since dementia is defined as impairment of memory and other cognitive functions among which is language you do have a point in worrying. Memory loss and word finding difficulties may be manifestations of dementia.
However those episodes alone are not enough to reach to conclusions. To a degree most individuals experience such episodes at times without the presence of dementia. Factors like stress, anxiety, depression often play a role as they impair concentration thus not retaining information and giving the false impression of dementia.
It is for that purpose that neuropsychological tests are recommended to assess a patient for dementia, a series of questions and tasks administrated by a physician or a neuropsychologist, testing different areas of cognition. Most common ones are MMSE (mini mental state exam) or MoCA (Montreal cognitive assesment) tests which are the usual screening tests.
If there are abnormalities other neuropsychological tests more aimed to one area of cognition or the other may be done. If indeed cognitive impairment is found then some blood tests for correctable causes of dementia (such as vitamin B12 deficiency, low thyroid function) as well as imaging tests for causes like stroke, tumors etc will be done.
But unless neuropsychological tests are done one can't label those episodes as indicative of dementia, not enough. So you should discuss with your doctor your concern and about the need to be referred for neuropsychological testing (if he can't do it him/herself).
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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