After Diagnosis
Consulting With Your Doctor
After receiving a dementia diagnosis, it’s essential to work closely with your doctor to establish a comprehensive care plan. Your GP can guide you through necessary tests to rule out reversible causes of cognitive decline and identify any underlying health issues that may impact brain function. Regular consultations and referrals to specialists ensure you receive the best care tailored to your needs.
Tests and Specialist Referrals After Diagnosis
|
Test/Referral |
Applicability |
Reason |
|
Vitamin B12 |
Highly applicable |
Rules out reversible causes of cognitive decline. |
|
Vitamin D3 |
Highly applicable |
Associated with cognitive health and secondary mood/mobility issues. |
|
Folate |
Highly applicable |
Helps identify reversible cognitive decline. |
|
Thyroid Function |
Highly applicable |
Rules out mimicking conditions like hypothyroidism. |
|
Liver |
Generally applicable |
Excludes liver-related cognitive impairments (e.g., hepatic encephalopathy). |
|
Heart Health Indicators |
Highly applicable |
Addresses vascular risks influencing dementia progression. |
|
Urine Check |
Highly applicable |
Detects reversible cognitive impairments (e.g., UTIs) and ensures systemic health. |
|
Neurologist Referral |
Highly applicable |
Critical for specialized care and ongoing management of dementia. |
|
Psychologist Referral |
Case-dependent |
Valuable for managing emotional and behavioral symptoms but not mandatory in all cases. |
Disclaimer:
The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional for specific guidance and recommendations related to your diagnosis and care.
