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What is it about ?
One of the roles of the brain is to provide so-called “cognitive” functions, ie memory, language, the ability to learn and the ability to perform more or less complicated actions.
It is not always easy to diagnose a memory problem. Having memory gaps or, from time to time, not finding a word, does not mean that you have a memory disorder. Moreover, the causes memory impairment are very diverse.
Recognize memory impairment
If the cause of the memory-related complaint is not obvious, the patient may be referred to a doctor with experience in memory disorders (e.g. neurologist, geriatrician, psychogeriatrician), as well as for further examinations. .
Thorough testing can detect a disorder in any of these brain functions and determine its severity. These tests include questionnaires on symptoms and an assessment of cognitive functions and the impact on daily activities.
Attention is also paid to changes in mood and changes in behavior to detect a depression underlying. There are questionnaires for the affected person and questionnaires for their relatives (family members living under the same roof, caregivers, etc.).
In addition, it is possible to carry out a neuropsychological examination to assess the ability to perform certain actions. This is important when the doctor needs to determine whether a person with memory impairment is still able to work, manage their finances, etc.
Clinical assessment of memory impairment
In addition to the questionnaires, your doctor will do a physical examination. He will first assess the general physical condition and the state of the nervous system. The examination of the nervous system examines the strength of the muscles, paralysis, abnormal movements, abnormal reflexes, tremors, the walking disorders…
At the start of the Alzheimer’s disease, the nervous system is usually free from abnormalities. If there is, it usually indicates some other disease of the nervous system.
The doctor will also take into account the medications used, as memory problems can be a side effect of some medications.
He will eventually order an exam to detect abnormalities in the brain. Most of the details are visible on an MRI. Sometimes a CT scan is done because the person has a pacemaker, for example.
Referral to a specialist
Depending on the situation, the general practitioner may refer the person to a neurologist, to a geriatrician or to a psychiatrist.
The specialist will carry out a more in-depth examination according to his area of specialty. This takes place in the following cases:
- when symptoms indicate the onset of dementia;
- when the symptoms or cause are unclear;
- when certain debilitating behavioral symptoms do not respond to treatment.
Want to know more?
Memory problems and other cognitive functions – CHU Montreal
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