Are there any medications that might be causing your memory loss?

Sometimes a reaction to a medication, an interaction between medications you are taking or an incorrect dosage can cause a memory problem. When you go to your appointment, make sure you bring with you a list of all medicines you are currently taking, including over the counter cold medicines and painkillers, diet pills, vitamins and minerals, nicotine patches and gums, and even topical medicines.

Will it be necessary to do any tests, and if so, which ones?

There are a number of tests your doctor can do to diagnose a memory problem, from neurological exams to chest X-Rays and EEGs. If your doctor is doing any tests, makes sure you understand why, and equally important, make sure you understand why he is not doing others.

How long will it take to diagnose your problem?

Diagnosing a cause for memory related problems can be a lengthy process, but asking this question will allow you to prepare yourself for what to expect and keep your expectations realistic.

If your doctor does diagnose Alzheimer’s, what should you expect?

The potential of an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is intimidating to patients. Take the time to go over in detail the progress of Alzheimer’s disease with your doctor. You may want to bring a family member or friend who may be a potential caregiver in with you as well.

What kinds of medications are available to you?

Make sure your doctor put all your options out on the table for you, and ask about the pros and cons of each. Also make sure to ask your doctor if the suggested medications are compatible with medicine you already taking, in case any changes need to be made. There are medications out there that can help patients in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease maintain cognitive functioning for longer than they could expect to without medication, and there are medications available that can treat other symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, such as depression and behavioral issues.

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