Mini Mental Test

Alzheimer's disease is a complex and complicated, and its symptoms are often indicative of other disorders as well. Consequently, the process of diagnosing the disease can be messy and complicated.

Currently, the only definitive way to diagnose Alzheimer's disease is to examine brain tissue for plaques and tangles. Unfortunately, until now, this can be done in an autopsy. So you may be wondering "how is Alzheimer's disease diagnosed?

Well, the doctors must conduct a thorough review so that they can eliminate other possible causes of the symptoms you feel. A diagnosis can be considered as "possible" if all other causes can not be excluded. It may be considered "probable" if all other causes have been excluded.

Fortunately, experts with extensive experience working with Alzheimer patients can diagnose Alzheimer's with 80-90% certainty.

Early Diagnosis - Do not waste time before seeing a doctor

According to Dharma Singh Khalsa, MD, president and medical director of research of Alzheimer's Disease and Prevention Foundation, is important that you go to a diagnostic test when symptoms appear. Mr. Khalsa has found that most currently available treatments work best when the diagnosis of early Alzheimer's is made.

There are many other benefits of having Alzheimer's disease diagnosed as soon as possible.

Firstly, early diagnosis allows patients and families plan for the future. It gives them time to discuss care options while the patient can still be part of decision making. It also allows time for patients to obtain financial affairs in order so that his mental functioning is still at a high level.

Second, early diagnosis allows access to drugs for Alzheimer's disease that are currently available. Several drugs have been approved by the FDA to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer's, but they are generally more effective when taken in the early stages of the disease.

Thirdly, early diagnosis can participate in an experimental drug for Alzheimer's and treatment studies. Currently, more than 200 clinical studies are underway to test new drugs and treatment methods. Most of these studies prefer to work with Alzheimer patients in the early stages of the disease.

Doctors to see and test for

Most people usually go to their general care doctor first. This is understandable - we generally feel more comfortable talking to someone with whom we already have a relationship.

However, it is a good idea to consult a neurologist or someone who works primarily with Alzheimer's patients when seeking an accurate diagnosis.

Since there is no practical test to determine if you have Alzheimer's disease, most neurologists will perform a series of tests to rule out other causes of your symptoms and to more confidently attribute your problems to Alzheimer's .

The following points should be part of your diagnostic evaluation:

1. Mini Mental State Examination:

It is generally interviews and tests designed to assess your level of cognitive function tests: These tests assess learning, attention, language, memory and thinking skills. Other family members may also be interviewed to obtain additional information on recent changes in memory, behavior and personality.

2. Medical History

A questionnaire is used to understand the past medical problems, injuries, illnesses, chronic diseases, and medications you are taking.

3. Mood Rating:

This assesses the presence of other issues such as anxiety or depression, which can cause symptoms such as Alzheimer's disease.

4. Physical Exam:

This generally assesses hearing.