If memory problems become more evident, it is always important to do cognitive tests and tests
It may be frightening not to know if sudden memory drops or other cognitive changes are just a natural aspect of aging or a first sign of cognitive impairment of light (CCL). The CCL is between the cognitive decline associated with aging and the most serious signs of dementia. With CCL, some changes are evident, but usually do not prevent the ability to perform daily functions.
“It is not uncommon to be forgotten with the advancement of age, but if the memory problems become more evident, it is always better to take a exam and perform a cognitive test,” says Sara Weisenbach, neuropsychologist of the McLean hospital, affiliated to Harvard.
“There are ways to slow down the progression of cognitive decline or treat the problems that could cause drops in memory, but first the problem is identified, the better the result is,” he adds.
Before consultationMake a list of your specific cognitive concerns to share with your doctor. Also, take a family member or friend a consultation. Their support can help relieve anxiety and can provide your observations. A cognitive screening test held in the office lasts from five to 15 minutes. The test can include:
- Repeat a list of words immediately and after a short break;
- Remember personal information as addresses or dates of birth;
- Appoint objects in an image;
- Answer questions about recent events;
- Draw a clock to evaluate space orientation.
“The results can indicate a potential problem, but they are usually not sufficient for a diagnosis of formal CCL,” says Weisenbach.
Moments of oblivion or warning signals?
It can be difficult to evaluate when memory problems require medical treatment. However, you should probably consult a doctor if one of the following symptoms is presented:
- Frequent episodes of Oblivion, how can we forget a recent conversation or lose appointments;
- Frequent difficulty in keeping new information, such as a telephone number or address;
- Errors in the payment of invoices or in the administration of medicines;
- Difficulty finding the parked car, problems located in family areas or small car accidents.
Additional tests
Based on the results of the tests and the evaluation of the doctor, it can be advised to perform additional exams. If the results indicate memory loss or other cognitive problems or if the doctor needs more information, the next step may include blood tests to exclude the reversible causes of cognitive impairment, such as the lack of vitamin B12, the lack of lack of lack of lack of lack of lack of lack of lack of lack of lack of lack of lack of lack of lack of lack of lack of lack iron or a hypothetical thyroid.
The doctor may also recommend one or more image exams of the brain. An magnetic resonance imaging imaging can identify structural changes in the brain, such as the loss of volume and the variations of the bloodstream. A positron emission tomography (PET) can detect the accumulation of amyloid plates in the brain, one of the characteristic signs of the disease of Alzheimer’s.
In addition, the doctor may suggest a neuropsychological evaluation with a specialist, such as a neurologist or neuropsychologist. This consultation can last a few hours and uses its cognitive problems in more detail, such as when they started and in what circumstances. For example, do you have difficulty finding the right words when you speak? Do you often lose the keys and the cell phone often? Don’t you remember a conversation of the previous day?
“All this information helps to determine whether the problems have started suddenly or worsen over time,” says Sara. “A neuropsychologist can also identify which cognitive skills remain strong and which they have more difficulties”. Other factors are also considered when evaluating test results. For example, the scores subjected following can be influenced by the side effects of medicine or for reasons of mental healthAs depressionanxiety or mourning.
Although the neuropsychological evaluation does not indicate CCL, the doctor or neuropsychologist can help you manage any problems that could be related to memory drops. “This initial screening also provides a point of reference for consultations Future, if other memory problems occur or their situation worsens over time, “Sara explains.
This text was translated with the help of artificial intelligence tools and revised by our editorial team. Find out more in our artificial intelligence policy.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
