1. Examine the Symptoms and Possible Causes
In point of fact, dementia is a symptom rather than a condition in and of itself. More accurately, it is a series of symptoms that can stem from a number of different causes. The first step to diagnosing it is to examine the history of your symptoms and the circumstances surrounding their onset. Your doctor may ask you when the dementia first appeared and in what order any of the specifics appeared. He might ask about any recent accidents or whether you are using any specific kinds of medication which may be causing the dementia. He'll check your medical history to see if there's a risk for conditions that result in dementia. Because treatment depends on the precise condition, it is very important to determine exactly what is behind the dementia, rather than simply spotting the symptoms. If you are having difficulty answering some of the questions, it may help to have a relative or caregiver familiar on hand.
2. Undergo a Neurological Exam
A CAT scan, MRI exam or other type of brain exam is useful in helping to isolate the cause of dementia. It can help identify places where the brain has been damaged following an accident, signs of a stroke, evidence of a tumor or the onset of conditions such as Parkinson's disease. In addition to isolating particular causes, brain tests can be given over time to monitor shifts in blood flow or biochemical activity.
3. Take a Cognitive or Neuropsychological Test
Cognitive tests are pencil-and-paper exams which can pinpoint possible problems with perception, memory, language skills and problem-solving abilities. By comparing the test with data based on your age, ethnicity and levels of education, doctors can help determine the severity of your dementia.
4. Look Into Possible Vitamin Deficiencies
In some cases, symptoms of dementia can occur from a dietary imbalance such as a lack of B12 or an excess of cholesterol. Lab tests can help determine whether they are a factor, as well as other metabolic conditions such as an infection or an imbalance of hormones.
5. Consider Non-Neurological Illnesses
Dementia can sometimes be caused by conditions affecting other parts of the body, such as the liver and kidneys. In addition, drug and alcohol abuse have been known to cause dementia, in which case the condition can be treated with detoxification and rehab. If you believe that your dementia may stem from a bodily illness not connected to the brain, ask your doctor about performing the appropriate tests.
