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Suggest Tests For Dementia And Parkinson S Disease
Yes my mother was diagnosed with frontemporal dementia in 2007. She is showing alot of sign of parkinson. Ive had 3 therapist to tell me or rather ask me if she does. I have asked her nero dr many times but he keeps so no its the dementia. Could it be both and if it was parkinson instead of dementia how would the treatment vary? Desperate for answers....I am her only care giver. Her memory is fairly good for a 76 yr old. But its getting harder for her to control her walker and to even get her to walking now. Her hands shaky. When she lays down her feet move back and forth until she falls asleep. Her dr says she is in the moderate stage but I think she is in the severe stage. Alot of times now she doesn t respond if I ask her a question. She only wants to sleep. Any info would be greatly appreciated!
Wed, 3 May 2023
Hi,
Dementia and Parkinson's disease are two distinct neurological conditions, but there can be some overlap in symptoms. A person can have both conditions simultaneously.
To diagnose dementia and Parkinson's disease, doctors typically perform a variety of tests and evaluations, including:
* Neurological exam: This includes testing for balance, coordination, reflexes, and muscle strength.
* Cognitive assessment: This assesses memory, thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
* Brain imaging: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans can detect changes in the brain associated with dementia and Parkinson's disease.
* Laboratory tests: Blood and urine tests can rule out other conditions that can mimic symptoms of dementia and Parkinson's disease.
* Parkinson's-specific tests: These include tests like the Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) that are designed to specifically evaluate Parkinson's disease symptoms.
* Neuropsychological testing: This evaluates various aspects of cognitive function, including memory, attention, and language.
Treatment for Parkinson's disease may involve medications such as levodopa, dopamine agonists, and MAO-B inhibitors, as well as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Yet, there is no cure for Parkinson's disease as of now.
In the case of dementia, treatment may include medications such as cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine to help manage symptoms, as well as behavioral interventions such as cognitive stimulation therapy, reminiscence therapy, and music therapy. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to treat underlying conditions that may be contributing to dementia.
It is important to note that both dementia and Parkinson's disease are progressive conditions, meaning that symptoms are likely to worsen over time. Work closely with healthcare providers to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
Dementia and Parkinson's disease are two distinct neurological conditions, but there can be some overlap in symptoms. A person can have both conditions simultaneously.
To diagnose dementia and Parkinson's disease, doctors typically perform a variety of tests and evaluations, including:
* Neurological exam: This includes testing for balance, coordination, reflexes, and muscle strength.
* Cognitive assessment: This assesses memory, thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
* Brain imaging: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans can detect changes in the brain associated with dementia and Parkinson's disease.
* Laboratory tests: Blood and urine tests can rule out other conditions that can mimic symptoms of dementia and Parkinson's disease.
* Parkinson's-specific tests: These include tests like the Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) that are designed to specifically evaluate Parkinson's disease symptoms.
* Neuropsychological testing: This evaluates various aspects of cognitive function, including memory, attention, and language.
Treatment for Parkinson's disease may involve medications such as levodopa, dopamine agonists, and MAO-B inhibitors, as well as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Yet, there is no cure for Parkinson's disease as of now.
In the case of dementia, treatment may include medications such as cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine to help manage symptoms, as well as behavioral interventions such as cognitive stimulation therapy, reminiscence therapy, and music therapy. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to treat underlying conditions that may be contributing to dementia.
It is important to note that both dementia and Parkinson's disease are progressive conditions, meaning that symptoms are likely to worsen over time. Work closely with healthcare providers to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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