Monday, February 13, 2012

Tuesday, October 14, 2008 Anne Lindsay asks

Q: Is there a test I can take to see if I have Alzeimers Disease?

I have alzheimers on my mother and father's side of the family - my grandad and great grandad on both sides. I have researched the possibility of me getting AD and found out there is a 5 - 10 per cent of me getting this hereditary. Is there a test to see if i have this? I am 27 years old, I am fit (go to the gym at least 3 times a week) and eat healthy

Answer This
Answers (4)
10/14/08 1:41pm

Generally speaking, there are two tests you can take for Alzheimer's disease - one to diagnose if you currently have it, and one to predict if you might have it in the future. Testing for diagnosis involves a series of exams including a blood/urine test, comprehensive medical history, cognitive screen, and series of MRI/CAT/PET scans. Although most people will consider testing once they start noticing certain symptoms or in their later years, since age is the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, people as early as their 30's and 40's have been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. If you are noticing symptoms, it is important to consult with a physician right away to determine the cause. If you are not experiencing symptoms, but are wondering if you might have Alzheimer's disease in the future, you might want to consult with a genetic counselor to decide if genetic testing is right for you. Also, please note that genetic testing is not conclusive - in fact it is about 50% accurate. Going for genetic testing may or may not give you insight into your future, so it is important to understand the limitations of this kind of test before considering it. On the other hand, I want to commend you for being physical fit and healthy, and encourage you to continue doing so for as long as possible. Taking care of your physical and mental health is the single best thing you can do for yourself to promote successful aging.  

Reply
10/16/08 10:41am

It is called a C T scan or Halo. Thios test shows the parts of the brain chambers. In Altzheimers Disease these parts are misshapened. It is though that ingestion of Aluminum may play a part in the development of this abnormality.

Reply
10/16/08 10:44am

C T Scans and Pet scans show if Altzheimers exist. These are expensive. Research the signs and symptoms as this abnormality also may be one of a number of other ones such as Dementia.

Reply
10/16/08 8:21pm

Hi Anne, Looks like you and I share the same concerns.

Jacqueline Marcellposted posted this information (I think)a couple of weeks ago. I sat here and tried to think of people who might need this information, not even considering myself. Well...in the past few days I have begun to realize that something is going on with me. I am going to start with this test that Jacqueline recommends.

Sincerely,

Kay

Suspecting Dementia in Your Loved One? Know the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE)
by  Jacqueline Marcell

http://www.healthcentral.com/alzheimers/c/43/41840/suspecting-mental

Reply
Answer This

Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of The HealthCentral Network. The HealthCentral Network does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.

Ask a Question

Get answers from our experts and community members.

Btn_ask_question_med
View all questions (1454) >