Patient Services
Patient Services
Our neurologists conduct initial evaluations and provide consultative second opinions for patients with possible neurodegenerative disorders. They also provide ongoing care for patients and their families.
Neurological Evaluation: During the neurological evaluation, our neurologist will review your medical history, including any current or past illnesses and medications you are taking. He or she will also ask about key medical conditions affecting other family members, including whether they may have had Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. In addition, our neurologist may test:
- Mental status
- Reflexes
- Coordination
- Muscle tone and strength
- Eye movement
- Speech
- Sensation
- Gait
The neurological evaluation helps determine whether patients’ concerns and symptoms are due to normal age-related changes, common medical problems, or a neurological disorder. The evaluation can also be used as a tool to help differentiate among diseases. After the evaluation, our neurologist discusses the findings with the patient and his or her family and provides recommendations for further evaluation and/or treatment. In some cases, neuropsychological testing, brain imaging, and/or lab work may be recommended to better identify the causes of the symptoms.
Brain Imaging: A standard medical workup for Alzheimer’s and related diseases often includes brain imaging with MRI or CT. In some cases, more advanced diagnostic imaging, such as a PET scan, may be recommended. Imaging can reveal different patterns of brain atrophy or functioning, as well as evidence of small or large strokes, tumors, or buildup of fluid in the brain that can help determine a diagnosis.