Description A loss of normal br...
Description
A loss of normal brain function, such as memory, language, abstract thinking and analysis. It can occur from many different types of diseases. The two main causes are Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. The disease is progressive. Certain medications and alcohol can worsen the symptoms.
Symptoms
Confusion, loss of memory, delusions, hallucinations, gait problems, speech problems, insomnia, irritability, depression.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed, Imaging studies (CT scan or MRI) will be done to rule out structural defects and other conditions that could be causing the disorder. Blood tests will be done that could identify a reversible cause of the symptoms.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Geriatric Psychiatry, Family Practice, Geriatric Medicine
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed, Imaging studies (CT scan or MRI) will be done to rule out structural defects and other conditions that could be causing the disorder. Blood tests will be done that could identify a reversible cause of the symptoms.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Geriatric Psychiatry, Family Practice, Geriatric Medicine
Treatment
All medications that could be worsening the symptoms should be reviewed and changed or stopped with your doctor's approval. Other medical treatment depends on the severity of the disease and may include: serotonin-affecting drugs (trazodone, buspirone), dopamine blockers (haloperidol, Risperdal, olanzapine, clozapine), cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil /Aricept), rivastigmine/Exelon), mood stabilizers (fluoxetine, imipramine, citalopram) and/or stimulants such as methylphenidate to increase activity and spontaneity. Some patients may require long term 24 hour care as the disease progresses.