Alzheimer's Disease Diagnosis and Treatment by Expert Neurologists in Arizona

Are you concerned about memory loss or changes in cognitive function that could be early signs of Alzheimer's disease? At Neurology Associates Neuroscience Center located in Chandler and Mesa, Arizona, our team of expert neurologists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for Alzheimer’s patients.

With our experienced neurologists and advanced diagnostic technologies, we offer early detection and personalized treatment to help manage Alzheimer's symptoms.

Worried You Have Alzheimer's? Know the Symptoms

Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia. It is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. As of 2022, it ranked as the 7th leading cause of death among all U.S. adults.

Recognizing the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease is important for early diagnosis and treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), common symptoms include:

• Memory loss that disrupts normal day-to-day activities

• Challenges in planning or solving problems

• Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or even at leisure

• Confusion with time or place

• Problems with visual perception

• New problems with words in speaking or writing

• Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

• Decreased or poor judgment

• Changes in mood and personality

  
  

READ: When to Seek Help for Memory Loss: 15 Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

Neurological Examination

During a neurological exam, the physician will carefully assess the patient for potential signs of brain disorders other than Alzheimer's disease. This thorough evaluation helps rule out conditions that could cause memory or cognitive issues. The doctor will specifically check for signs of stroke, Parkinson's disease, brain tumors, hydrocephalus (buildup of fluid in the brain), and other neurological conditions that may affect memory, thinking, or overall brain function.

The physician will assess key areas of neurological function, including:

• Reflexes: Testing involuntary responses to ensure the nerves and spinal cord are working correctly.

• Coordination, muscle tone, and strength: Evaluating balance, motor skills, and muscle condition to identify potential motor system disorders.

• Eye movement: Checking for abnormal eye movements that may signal neurological or brain issues.

• Speech: Observing speech clarity, fluency, and the ability to follow verbal commands, which may reveal problems in brain areas responsible for language.

• Sensation: Testing the ability to feel sensations like touch, temperature, and pain, which can highlight nerve damage.

In some cases, the neurological exam may also include brain imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to provide detailed pictures of the brain and help identify abnormalities.

If the initial evaluation does not indicate Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia, but symptoms persist or worsen over time, the physician may recommend further tests to explore other causes. In some cases, seeking a second opinion from a specialist may be advisable to confirm the diagnosis and ensure appropriate care.

Comprehensive Diagnostic Services at Neurology Associates

While your visit with one of our experienced board-certified neurologists is a cornerstone of our diagnostic approach for Alzheimer's, we offer a range of other advanced diagnostic tools to ensure comprehensive neurological evaluations. Our full suite of neurology services includes:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This imaging technique provides detailed pictures of the brain, allowing doctors to detect structural abnormalities such as tumors, strokes, or brain atrophy, which can help differentiate Alzheimer's from other conditions that cause cognitive decline.

• Electroencephalogram (EEG): This test measures electrical activity in the brain and can help rule out other conditions that may cause cognitive symptoms.

• Electromyogram (EMG): While not directly related to Alzheimer's diagnosis, EMG can assess nerve and muscle function, contributing to a thorough neurological evaluation.

• Video Electronystagmography (VENG): This test assesses the vestibular system and can be valuable in diagnosing balance disorders that may coexist with or mimic cognitive issues.

• Nerve Conduction Studies: These tests can help diagnose peripheral nerve disorders, which may be relevant in a comprehensive neurological assessment.

• Cognitive and Neuropsychological Testing: We offer a battery of tests to assess memory, thinking skills, and other cognitive functions, which are crucial in diagnosing and monitoring Alzheimer's disease.
  

Visit Neurology Associates Neuroscience Center in Arizona

Early diagnosis is key to managing Alzheimer's disease effectively. At Neurology Associates Neuroscience Center, we combine advanced MRI technology with a comprehensive suite of diagnostic procedures to provide accurate, early diagnoses for our patients. Our expert team is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of neurological care, from initial assessment through long-term management.

If you or a loved one are concerned about memory issues or cognitive changes, don't wait! Contact Neurology Associates Neuroscience Center in Arizona today for your face-to-face visit or for a teleconsultation.