There are several medical conditions and factors that can mimic the early signs of Alzheimer’s phase. To begin with, it is important to understand what are the early signs of Alzheimer’s phase. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that impacts memory, thinking, judgment, and other mental abilities.
Early signs of Alzheimer’s phase include short-term memory loss, difficulty with planning and solving problems, trouble completing familiar tasks, confusion with time and place, changes in mood or personality, and difficulty with speech and communication.
One of the medical conditions that can mimic the early signs of Alzheimer’s phase is depression. Depression is a mood disorder that can affect memory, concentration, and cognition. The symptoms of depression such as memory loss, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and trouble sleeping can cause confusion and lead to a misdiagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.
Another medical condition that can imitate the early signs of Alzheimer’s phase is normal age-related changes. As we age, our cognitive abilities may decline, and focus, attention, and memory problems are common. These age-related changes can be a result of reduced brain plasticity, which means that the brain does not adapt and change as quickly as it used to, making it harder to learn and remember new things.
A head injury or concussion can also cause symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer’s disease, such as memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with motor skills. This is because a head injury can cause damage to the brain, leading to problems with cognitive function.
Additionally, certain medications or drug side effects can mimic the early signs of Alzheimer’s phase. For example, some anticholinergic medications used to treat depression, bladder problems, and allergies can cause memory loss, confusion, and other cognitive problems that can result in a misdiagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.
There are several medical conditions and factors that can mimic the early signs of Alzheimer’s phase, including depression, normal age-related changes, head injuries, and certain medications or drug side effects. Given that the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease is crucial for better outcomes and quality of life, it is important that doctors carry out a thorough evaluation of cognitive function and take into consideration all possible factors that could be contributing to cognitive decline.
What other conditions can mimic Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s disease is a common neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects the memory, thinking skills, and behavior of older adults. However, other conditions can mimic or resemble Alzheimer’s disease in terms of their symptoms and signs. Misdiagnosing Alzheimer’s can have serious consequences, such as delaying the appropriate treatment or subjecting patients to unnecessary interventions.
One condition that can mimic Alzheimer’s is a normal aging process. As people age, various physiological changes take place in the brain, such as shrinkage of certain regions, reduced blood flow, and decreased neurotransmitter activity. These changes can affect memory, concentration, and processing speed, similar to the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
However, the severity of these changes is not usually as severe as in Alzheimer’s disease.
Another condition that can mimic Alzheimer’s is mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI is a transitional phase between normal aging and dementia, where individuals experience cognitive decline that is noticeable but not severe enough to impact daily functioning. MCI can progress to Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, but not always.
Depression and anxiety can also mimic Alzheimer’s disease, especially in older adults. Depression can cause forgetfulness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and apathy, which are also common symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Therefore, it is essential to consider mental health issues in the differential diagnosis of Alzheimer’s.
Certain medical conditions can mimic Alzheimer’s disease, including vitamin deficiencies, thyroid dysfunction, and brain tumors. For instance, vitamin B12 deficiency can cause memory loss and confusion, while an overactive or underactive thyroid can lead to cognitive impairment. Brain tumors can also produce symptoms that resemble those of Alzheimer’s, such as trouble with memory, language, and movement.
Finally, other types of dementia can mimic Alzheimer’s disease, such as frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia, and vascular dementia. These conditions have distinct features, such as changes in personality, behavior, and movement, that differ from Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, a thorough clinical evaluation, including imaging tests and neuropsychological assessments, is necessary to differentiate between these conditions.
Alzheimer’S disease is not the only cause of cognitive impairment in older adults, and it is essential to consider other conditions that can mimic its symptoms. A proper diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. Early detection and treatment of these conditions can improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for older adults.
What disease is most commonly misdiagnosed as Alzheimer?
There are several diseases that may be misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s disease, such as frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia, vascular dementia, and depression. However, one of the most commonly misdiagnosed diseases as Alzheimer’s disease is “normal pressure hydrocephalus” or NPH, which is a neurological condition that occurs when there is an excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain without any increase in intracranial pressure.
The symptoms of NPH are very similar to Alzheimer’s disease, such as memory loss, difficulty with reasoning or problem-solving, and changes in mood or behavior. However, there are some unique symptoms of NPH, such as walking difficulty, urinary incontinence or urgency, and a decline in cognitive and physical abilities.
These symptoms may vary in severity and may come and go over several years.
The diagnosis of NPH can be difficult, as the symptoms of this condition may be similar to many other neurological disorders. Moreover, there is no specific test that can confirm the diagnosis of NPH. The diagnosis typically involves a thorough neurological and physical examination, imaging tests like a CT or MRI scan, and lumbar puncture to measure the pressure of the cerebrospinal fluid.
When NPH is diagnosed early, treatment can be very effective in reversing the symptoms of the disease. Treatment typically involves the surgical placement of a shunt, which is a thin tube that helps to drain the excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain and relieve the pressure on the brain tissue.
The earlier the treatment is started, the more chance for improvement in symptoms.
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus is a neurological condition that often gets misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s disease due to the similar symptoms. However, NPH has distinct walking abnormalities and urinary incontinence, which are not seen in Alzheimer’s patients. Early detection and timely intervention can improve the prognosis and help to manage the symptoms of the disease.
Therefore, it is important for healthcare professionals to be aware of this condition and consider it as a potential diagnosis for anyone presenting with Alzheimer’s-like symptoms.
What disease has the same symptoms as Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s disease, a type of dementia, is a progressive and irreversible brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease typically begin with mild memory loss and eventually progress to severe cognitive impairment, affecting also the patient’s ability to communicate, perform daily activities, and even swallow safely.
However, there are other diseases that have similar symptoms to Alzheimer’s disease.
One of the diseases that may present similar symptoms as Alzheimer’s is Lewy body dementia. This is a type of dementia that is caused by abnormal protein deposits in the brain, called Lewy bodies. Lewy body dementia shares many of the same cognitive symptoms as Alzheimer’s, including memory impairment, confusion, and difficulty with concentration.
Furthermore, patients with Lewy body dementia may experience visual hallucinations, Parkinson’s-like motor symptoms such as tremors and rigidity, and fluctuations in their cognitive abilities over time.
Another disease that may present similar symptoms to Alzheimer’s is vascular dementia. This type of dementia is caused by restricted blood flow to the brain, often from a stroke. The symptoms of vascular dementia, including memory loss, difficulty with decision-making, and disorientation, are similar to the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
In contrast to Alzheimer’s, however, vascular dementia may cause sudden changes in cognitive function, and patients may experience symptoms in a stepwise, rather than gradual, fashion.
Frontotemporal dementia is another disease that may have similar symptoms to Alzheimer’s. It is a type of dementia that affects the front and side parts of the brain, known as the frontal and temporal lobes, respectively. Frontotemporal dementia can affect language ability, social behavior, and emotional regulation, and patients may experience changes in personality, disinhibition, and impulsive behavior.
Unlike Alzheimer’s, frontotemporal dementia often affects people younger than age 65, and memory loss is not a primary symptom.
While each of these diseases may present with symptoms that overlap with those of Alzheimer’s disease, proper diagnosis is essential as different types of dementia require tailored treatments and support. In this regard, it is essential to consult with a doctor or specialist to help identify the specific cause of symptoms and develop a treatment plan that addresses the underlying disease.
Can B12 deficiency mimic dementia?
Yes, Vitamin B12 deficiency can mimic dementia. Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that is essential for many of the brain’s functions. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can cause severe damage to the nervous system, and if left untreated, it can even be permanent. The deficiency can also cause cognitive decline and memory loss, which are symptoms that are commonly associated with dementia.
Some studies suggest that the deficiency of Vitamin B12 is one of the primary causes of cognitive diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. In such cases, the symptoms can be mistaken for those of dementia. However, the difference is that dementia causes a permanent decline in cognitive function, which can’t be cured entirely, while a B12 deficiency can be quickly reversed through treatment.
The link between Vitamin B12 deficiency and dementia is mostly because of its role in regulating homocysteine levels in the body. Homocysteine is an amino acid that is found in the bloodstream, and high levels of homocysteine can lead to nerve damage and cognitive decline. Vitamin B12 is responsible for breaking down homocysteine in the body, so a deficiency in this vitamin results in elevated homocysteine levels, and consequently, may lead to dementia-like symptoms.
A B12 deficiency can mimic several symptoms of dementia, so it’s essential to ensure that you’re getting your recommended intake of this nutrient. If you suspect that you or a loved one has dementia, it’s always important to get a proper diagnosis from a physician. At the same time, it’s also worth checking vitamin B12 levels to rule out any possible underlying deficiency.
Early detection and timely treatment of a B12 deficiency are crucial in avoiding any irreversible damage to the brain and restoring cognitive function to normal levels.
What is the 2nd most prevalent type of dementia and often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s diseases?
The second most prevalent type of dementia is referred to as Lewy Body Dementia (LBD), a progressive disease that afflicts more than 1 million Americans. It is often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s disease due to the similarities between both conditions. However, LBD has distinct characteristics that differentiate it from Alzheimer’s disease.
Lewy Body Dementia is caused by the accumulation of Lewy bodies, which are abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein, in the brain’s nerve cells. These deposits interfere with cognitive functioning, leading to the development of dementia symptoms such as forgetfulness, confusion, hallucinations, and difficulty with movements.
Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, LBD patients tend to experience more visual hallucinations in the initial stages of the disease, and they tend to experience sleep disturbances such as REM sleep behavior disorder. LBD patients may also have fluctuations in their cognitive abilities, rapidly shifting from moments of clarity to confusion.
Further, LBD patients are highly sensitive to antipsychotic medication, which is often prescribed for Alzheimer’s patients with behavioral and cognitive symptoms. Antipsychotic medications can worsen LBD symptoms and increase the risk of stroke and death.
Lewy Body Dementia is the second most prevalent type of dementia, but its unique characteristics and symptoms often lead to its misdiagnosis as Alzheimer’s disease. Proper diagnosis and early intervention for LBD patients can help manage the disease and improve quality of life.
What are the first signs of FTD?
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a progressive brain disorder that affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to changes in behavior, personality, and cognition. The first signs of FTD can vary depending on which area of the brain is affected, but generally, they include:
1. Changes in behavior: People with FTD may become more impulsive, act out of character, show a lack of empathy or social skills, or exhibit inappropriate behavior. They may also lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed.
2. Language problems: Some individuals with FTD may have difficulty with speech and language, including mixing up words, using inappropriate language, or struggling to express themselves.
3. Memory loss: Although memory loss is not as common in FTD as it is in other forms of dementia, it can occur in some individuals with this condition.
4. Movement problems: A small percentage of individuals with FTD may develop movement disorders, such as stiffness, tremors, or muscle weakness.
5. Difficulty with decision-making: People with FTD may find it challenging to make decisions, plan, organize, or carry out tasks.
It is important to note that these symptoms can often be confused with other conditions, such as depression or anxiety. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional if you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can help individuals with FTD manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life, as well as help families better understand and support their loved ones affected by this complex condition.
How can you tell the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia?
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia may be closely related, but there are some distinct differences that can be noted in order to understand and diagnose a patient’s condition.
Firstly, it is important to understand that dementia is actually an umbrella term used to describe a variety of symptoms and conditions that affect the cognitive functioning of the brain. It may manifest as memory loss, difficulty communicating or problem solving, and can lead to a decline in activities of daily living.
Alzheimer’s disease is just one specific form of dementia, but is the most common form.
Alzheimer’s disease, on the other hand, is a progressive neurological disorder that leads to memory loss, cognitive decline, and eventually, loss of basic physical functions. It is characterized by the death of brain cells and the shrinking of the brain’s tissue over time. One of the major differences between Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia is that it is characterized by a specific type of protein buildup in the brain called beta-amyloid plaques.
Another difference between Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia is the onset of symptoms. While dementia may occur at any age, Alzheimer’s disease is more common in people 65 and older, though early-onset Alzheimer’s also occurs in individuals younger than 65. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease gradually become more prominent over time, whereas other forms of dementia may develop more rapidly.
Other forms of dementia, such as vascular dementia, may be caused by a stroke or other damage to the blood vessels that supply the brain, and may have different symptoms than Alzheimer’s disease. Another type of dementia, Lewy body dementia, has symptoms that include visual hallucinations, difficulties with movement, and fluctuations in cognitive abilities.
Diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia typically requires a comprehensive assessment of a patient’s medical history, physical examination, and cognitive testing. Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans can help identify any changes in the brain caused by Alzheimer’s disease.
While Alzheimer’s disease is a specific form of dementia, there are still significant differences that distinguish it from other types of dementia. It is important to understand these distinctions in order to provide the best possible care to patients and support their families.
What neurocognitive disorder is frequently confused with Alzheimer’s disease?
There are several neurocognitive disorders that share some similarities with Alzheimer’s disease, making it challenging to differentiate them from one another. However, the most frequently confused neurocognitive disorder with Alzheimer’s disease is dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB).
DLB is a disorder characterized by the abnormal buildup of alpha-synuclein protein in the brain, which forms microscopic protein deposits called Lewy bodies. These deposits affect the normal functioning of the brain, leading to a decline in memory, thinking, and movement. DLB shares several clinical characteristics with Alzheimer’s disease, including impaired memory, cognitive decline, and changes in behavior.
However, some unique features distinguish DLB from Alzheimer’s disease. For instance, individuals with DLB may experience visual hallucinations, sleep disturbances, and fluctuations in cognitive abilities, whereas these features are less common in Alzheimer’s disease. Moreover, movement-related issues such as tremors and stiffness are more prevalent in DLB than in Alzheimer’s disease.
Another condition that is sometimes mistaken for Alzheimer’s disease is frontotemporal dementia (FTD). FTD is a group of disorders that affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to changes in personality, behavior, and language. Some types of FTD may present with memory loss, making it challenging to distinguish from Alzheimer’s disease.
However, the clinical picture of FTD is typically more dramatic than in Alzheimer’s disease, with more pronounced changes in behavior and language.
While Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, there are several other neurocognitive disorders that share similarities with Alzheimer’s disease and may be mistaken for it. Dementia with Lewy bodies is perhaps the most challenging to differentiate from Alzheimer’s disease, given its overlapping clinical features.
However, careful evaluation and use of diagnostic tools can help distinguish between these disorders, leading to more accurate diagnoses and improved management.
What is the 5 word memory test?
The 5 word memory test is a cognitive assessment tool that is commonly used in clinical and research settings to evaluate a person’s short-term memory capabilities. The test typically involves the presentation of a list of five words to the participant, who is asked to immediately recall as many of the words as possible after a short period of time has elapsed.
The test is designed to measure a person’s ability to hold and manipulate information in their working memory, which is a critical cognitive function that underlies many everyday tasks such as problem-solving, decision-making, and language comprehension.
One of the advantages of the 5 word memory test is that it is quick and easy to administer, making it a useful tool for clinicians and researchers who may need to assess large numbers of individuals in a short amount of time. In addition, the test has been shown to be reliable and valid across a wide range of populations, including individuals with neurological disorders, developmental disabilities, and psychiatric illnesses.
However, it is important to note that the 5 word memory test is just one of many measures of cognitive functioning, and should not be used in isolation to make clinical or diagnostic decisions. Other factors, such as age, education level, and cultural background, may also influence an individual’s performance on the test, and these factors should be taken into account when interpreting test results.
The 5 word memory test is a valuable tool for evaluating an individual’s short-term memory function, and can provide important insights into their cognitive abilities and overall health status.
What is the average age of onset for FTD?
FTD stands for Frontotemporal Dementia, a type of dementia that affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, which are responsible for behavior, personality, language, and movement. FTD is a rare disease that accounts for about 5-15% of all dementia cases, and it typically affects people between the ages of 45 and 65.
However, the age of onset can vary based on several factors, such as genetics, environment, lifestyle, and type of FTD.
There are three types of FTD, each with its unique symptoms and characteristics. The first type is called Behavioral variant FTD, which is characterized by changes in personality, behavior, and social skills. The age of onset for this type of FTD is typically between 45 and 65 years.
The second type is called Primary progressive aphasia (PPA), which affects language skills and the ability to communicate effectively. The age of onset for PPA varies based on the subtype, with some forms affecting people in their 50s and others in their 60s.
The third type is called Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), which affects movement and balance, causing difficulty in walking, swallowing, and maintaining posture. The age of onset for PSP is typically between 60 and 70 years.
While the age of onset for FTD can vary based on the type and subtype of the disease, research suggests that genetics play a significant role in the development of the disease. People who have a family history of FTD are more likely to develop the disease at a younger age than those without a family history.
Additionally, lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol use, poor diet, and lack of physical activity may also increase the risk of developing FTD at a younger age. Therefore, making healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of developing FTD and other types of dementia.
The average age of onset for FTD varies based on the type and subtype of the disease, genetics, and lifestyle factors. However, FTD typically affects people between the ages of 45 and 65, and people with a family history of the disease are more likely to develop it at a younger age. It’s essential to be aware of the early signs and symptoms of FTD and seek medical attention if you notice any changes in behavior, personality, language, or movement.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help improve the quality of life for people with FTD and their families.
Can early onset Alzheimer’s be misdiagnosed?
Early onset Alzheimer’s is a type of Alzheimer’s disease that affects individuals under the age of 65. It is a rare condition, accounting for only 5-10% of all Alzheimer’s cases. Because it is less common and less understood, early onset Alzheimer’s can be misdiagnosed.
The symptoms of early onset Alzheimer’s are similar to those of other neurological conditions, making it difficult to differentiate between them. Psychiatric illnesses, such as depression and anxiety, can also produce symptoms that mimic Alzheimer’s. Additionally, some medications and substances can cause cognitive impairment and memory loss.
To diagnose early onset Alzheimer’s, doctors typically use various tests and assessments. These may include medical history, neurological exams, blood tests, imaging tests, and cognitive tests. However, even with these tests, misdiagnosis may still occur.
One reason for misdiagnosis is that Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder. In the early stages, symptoms may be mild and subtle, making it difficult to distinguish from other conditions. The symptoms may also be attributed to normal aging, which can further delay diagnosis.
Another reason for misdiagnosis is that some of the symptoms of early onset Alzheimer’s can be attributed to other factors. For example, problems with language and speech may be caused by a stroke or brain injury, while changes in personality and behavior may be caused by psychiatric conditions such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
Misdiagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s can have serious consequences. Delayed diagnosis and treatment can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety for both the patient and their family. It can also mean missed opportunities for early intervention and treatment, which can slow down the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for the patient.
Early onset Alzheimer’s can be misdiagnosed due to the similarity of symptoms to other conditions and the progressive nature of the disease. A thorough evaluation by a medical professional is essential to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of cognitive decline, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
Can you be wrongly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s?
Yes, it is possible to be wrongly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is often diagnosed through a series of tests, including cognitive testing, neurological exams, brain imaging, and laboratory tests. While these tests can help doctors identify the symptoms and causes of dementia, the condition that underlies Alzheimer’s disease, they are not always perfect and can sometimes lead to a misdiagnosis.
One of the most common causes of misdiagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is the presence of other conditions that mimic its symptoms. For example, depression, anxiety, and even some vitamin deficiencies can cause memory loss, confusion, and difficulty concentrating, which can be mistaken for Alzheimer’s disease.
Similarly, other neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia can also cause memory problems and cognitive decline, leading to misdiagnosis.
Additionally, age-related changes, such as normal cognitive decline associated with aging, can sometimes be confused with the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. This can be particularly true for mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which affects many people over the age of 65 and can cause memory loss and other cognitive issues that may appear similar to early Alzheimer’s disease.
Finally, a misdiagnosis may also simply be a result of an error in the diagnostic process. This can occur if the tests were not conducted correctly, if medical records were incomplete, or if the physician lacked sufficient expertise in recognizing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
While there are many medical and diagnostic tools available to help physicians diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, it is still possible to be wrongly diagnosed with the condition. This highlights the importance of seeking a second opinion from a specialist in the field of dementia diagnosis and treatment.
Is there a disease that mimics Alzheimer’s?
Yes, there is a disease that mimics Alzheimer’s and it’s called frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
Frontotemporal dementia affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, whereas Alzheimer’s primarily affects the hippocampus and other areas of the brain. FTD is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that deteriorates the brain’s nerve cells, leading to cognitive, behavioral, and physical abnormalities.
Unlike Alzheimer’s, FTD usually affects people at a much younger age, typically beginning in the 40s and 50s. The symptoms of FTD can also differ from Alzheimer’s, with the former including more marked changes in behavior and personality, such as impulsivity, apathy, social and emotional disconnection, and changes in language, resulting in speech difficulties.
Meanwhile, Alzheimer’s symptoms tend to include more memory problems, confusion, and difficulty performing routine tasks.
Another difference between the two diseases is that FTD rarely affects thinking, reasoning, and memory skills in the earlier stages. Instead, individuals with FTD often experience difficulty with decision making, judgment, empathy, and inhibition. In contrast, Alzheimer’s primarily affects the hippocampus, which is responsible for memories of personal experiences and factual information, leading to significant memory loss, confusion and disorientation in its initial stages.
While Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia are different conditions, they share some similar symptoms, making a professional diagnosis especially important in confirming the diagnosis. Notably, both diseases present challenges for individuals and their caregivers, who may need to be prepared to make adjustments in their daily lives and seek appropriate support services.
What is a reversible condition which could be mistaken for Alzheimer’s disease?
One reversible condition that could be mistaken for Alzheimer’s disease is depression. Symptoms of depression, such as memory loss, confusion, difficulty concentrating and thinking clearly, can mimic those of Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, depression is a common comorbidity in elderly patients, who are also at increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
Depression in elderly patients can often be overlooked, as the presenting symptoms may be attributed to the aging process or to other medical conditions. However, it is important to differentiate between depression and Alzheimer’s disease, as depression is treatable with medication and psychotherapy.
Other reversible conditions that may be mistaken for Alzheimer’s disease include medication side effects, thyroid dysfunction, vitamin deficiencies, and other metabolic imbalances. In these cases, identifying and treating the underlying condition can lead to reversal of cognitive symptoms and improvement in overall health outcomes.
The key takeaway is that a proper diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease requires a careful and thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, physical exam, and cognitive testing. A number of medical conditions can cause cognitive impairment, and it is important to rule out these reversible conditions before considering a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.