What To Expect - Diagnosing Alzheimers Disease: Alzheimers
Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School
What to expect
A complete evaluation will take more than a day and is generally done on an outpatient basis. In most areas, the evaluation can be done locally, and tests can be spread over several days to avoid tiring the person being examined. Other specialists besides the treating physician may be involved in the evaluation, including technicians, nurses, psychologists, occupational or physical therapists, social workers, and often psychiatrists.
It will take several days before test results are reported and the physician reviews them. When the doctor discusses the findings, be prepared for an equivocal diagnosis. Physicians are often hesitant to diagnose Alzheimer's disease without first observing that the dementia is progressive. This means repeating the evaluation, usually in 6–12 months. At this later time, a much more confident diagnosis is sometimes possible, but when cognitive changes are gradual, the doctor may recommend repeated testing at yearly intervals.
| Last updated: | January 23, 2007 |
|---|
Medical content reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School. Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, Use of Content Agreement and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Related Articles
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
