Dementia Diagnosis & Care at Florida Neurology
Compassionate Support. Advanced Neurological Expertise.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is a general term for a group of brain disorders that cause a progressive decline in cognitive function, including memory, reasoning, behavior, and the ability to perform daily activities. It is not a normal part of aging and requires a proper neurological evaluation for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Types of Dementia We Diagnose and Treat:
Alzheimer’s Disease – The most common form of dementia, affecting memory and thinking.
Vascular Dementia – Often caused by strokes or reduced blood flow to the brain.
Lewy Body Dementia – Characterized by movement issues and visual hallucinations.
Frontotemporal Dementia – Involves personality, behavior, and language changes.
Mixed Dementia – A combination of two or more types, often Alzheimer’s and vascular.
Signs & Symptoms to Watch For
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the following, schedule a neurological evaluation:
- Frequent memory loss or confusion
- Difficulty with language or word recall
- Changes in mood, behavior, or personality
- Trouble with familiar tasks or routines
- Poor judgment or decision-making
- Disorientation in time or place
How We Help
At Florida Neurology, we take a multi-step approach to dementia care:
Thorough Evaluation
Our neurologists perform a detailed neurological exam, review your medical history, and may order brain imaging (MRI or CT), blood tests, or cognitive assessments.
Accurate Diagnosis
We identify the type and stage of dementia to tailor the most effective care plan.
Personalized Treatment Plans
While there is no cure, we provide medications and strategies to help manage symptoms, improve daily function, and slow progression.
Family Education & Support
We guide families on how to best care for their loved one, providing resources and recommendations every step of the way.
Why Choose Florida Neurology?
- Experienced, board-certified neurologists
- On-site diagnostic testing
- Compassionate and patient-centered approach
- Telemedicine appointments available
- Ongoing care for every stage of the condition
Schedule an Evaluation
Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes and more time to plan for the future. If you have concerns about memory loss or other cognitive changes, we encourage you to reach out.
Other Services
Stroke Clinic
Hemifacial Spasm
Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Nervous System Tumors
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Bell’s Palsy
Myasthenia Gravis
FAQs
What is the difference between a migraine and a tension headache?
Migraines are severe headaches often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound, typically affecting one side of the head. Tension headaches cause a dull, aching pain around the forehead or back of the neck and head without the additional symptoms of migraines.
How is Alzheimer's disease diagnosed at Florida Neurology?
Alzheimer's is diagnosed using a combination of cognitive assessments, brain imaging (such as MRI or CT scans), blood tests to rule out other conditions, and a neurological exam to assess brain function and symptoms.
What treatment options are available for stroke patients at your Stroke Clinic?
Treatment options include thrombolytic medications (to dissolve clots), endovascular procedures (to remove clots or repair ruptured vessels), blood-thinning medications, and rehabilitation therapy to help patients regain mobility, strength, and cognitive abilities.
What are the early signs of cognitive and memory disorders, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease?
Early signs include memory loss, confusion, difficulty with problem-solving, changes in behavior, trouble with language, and disorientation in familiar settings or with time.
What causes vertigo, and how is it treated?
Vertigo can be caused by inner ear issues, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere’s disease, or vestibular neuritis. Treatment often includes vestibular rehabilitation exercises, medications to reduce dizziness, and in some cases, procedures to reposition inner ear particles.
How can I manage chronic migraines?
Chronic migraines can be managed with prescription medications like triptans, Botox injections, lifestyle changes (avoiding triggers, improving sleep), stress management techniques, and preventive medications to reduce frequency.
What is the process for diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?
MS is diagnosed through a neurological exam, MRI to detect lesions in the brain and spinal cord, lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to check for abnormal immune activity in the cerebrospinal fluid, and evoked potentials to measure nerve function.
What types of headaches do you treat at the Headache & Migraine Clinic?
The clinic treats various types of headaches, including migraines, tension headaches, cluster headaches, and chronic daily headaches caused by medication overuse or other factors.
What therapies are offered for patients recovering from a stroke?
Stroke recovery includes physical, occupational, and speech therapy to improve strength, coordination, communication, and daily functioning. Medications and lifestyle changes are also incorporated into long-term recovery plans.
How is Bell’s palsy treated, and how long does recovery take?
Treatment for Bell’s palsy often includes corticosteroids to reduce nerve inflammation, antiviral medications if a viral infection is suspected, physical therapy to restore muscle function, and eye protection to prevent damage. Most people recover fully within a few weeks to months.