Question Title: alzheimers or parkinsons related

Forum: Neurology Forum
Topic: Neurology - General

Posted by CCF Neurology LG on February 28, 1998 at 15:32:50:

In Reply to: alzheimers or parkinsons related posted by Jeanette on February 28, 1998 at 09:54:54:

: My father has been to many doctors. He just a dementia study done at Burke Rehab Centeri n White Plains, NY. The diagnosis they are leaning towardsi s Alzheimers. His neurologist is not convinced nor am I. The main problem is not so much is forgetfulness as his falling. He seems to just suddenly lose his balance and he goes down. This has resulted in injuries as well as a trip to the ER. He has had tests to rule out heart problems, MRIs and artery tests. There is no reason for his falling that they can determine. Now he has started shuffling his feet. He is very upset since he can no longer go out by himself confidently. My question is: Is there a type of Alzheimer's that also can cause falling? Should he be on some type of Parkinson's med. The neurologist said he has a frontal lobe disorder. I would like a more definitive diagnosis. Thanks.

Dear Jeanette,

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a degenerative disorder of the brain that results in decline in intellectual and work performance. Memory impairment, especially more recent memory rather than remote, is an essential component to the diagnosis. There may also be changes in mood, hallucinations, personality and behavior changes. Gait can be affected in AD but is not essential for the diagnosis. Gait changes include a shortening of step, lower step frequency and speed, and poor balance. Parkinsons Disease, in general, is a slowly progressive disorder characterized by tremor, slowness, stiffness, and gait changes (stooped, difficulty starting, short steps, shuffling, difficulty turning, and balance changes). Memory and personality are not usually affected. The diagnosis is usually made clinically. There are no blood test etc. that are diagnostic. Brain scans (MRI, CT) may show subtle changes but again are not diagnostic. If your father has been falling alot, he may need a safety evaluation for the use of a cane, walker etc. If you are intereted in getting an evaluation at CCF, call 1-800-CCF-CARE. Ask for the neurology appointments secretary.

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