All about cognitive impairment. Diagnosis and treatment
What to know about this topic
Cognitive impairments (disorders)
Cognitive impairments (disorders)is one of the most common neurological symptoms. This is a dysfunction of the brain, which manifests itself in a decrease in memory, perception, mental abilities and speech impairment.
Causes of cognitive impairment
Cognitive impairment can be caused by various diseases, such as:
- Alzheimer's disease;
- Vascular dementia;
- Parkinson's disease;
- Cranial brain injuries;
- Depression or alcoholism.
They can also be a consequence of unfavorable upbringing conditions or hereditary predisposition.
How to recognize a cognitive disorder?
Cognitive impairment usually manifests itself with the following signs:
- Inability to perceive and recognize information transmitted by the senses;
- Difficulty remembering, saving and replaying received data;
- Problems with verbal communication, including reading and writing;
- Difficulty concentrating and maintaining a conversation;
- Misunderstanding of the emotions and logic of the actions of people around you.
Diagnostics of cognitive impairment
A psychiatrist or psychotherapist will help identify cognitive impairment. The doctor will conduct a detailed examination to determine the type of disorder:
Anamnesis - studying the patient's medical history and his complaints.
Neuropsychological tests - testing memory, attention, speech and perception.
Instrumental methods - MRI, CT to detect physical changes in the brain.
Laboratory tests - to exclude physiological causes (for example, vitamin deficiency or hormonal disorders).
Treatment of cognitive disorders
Treatment methods depend on the cause of the disorder:
In the case of dementia or Alzheimer's disease, medications are used to help slow the progression of the disease.
For depression or other emotional disorders, psychological support and psychotherapy are important.
Regular memory exercises and physical activity help maintain cognitive function.
How to maintain cognitive health?
It is important to check regularly cognitive function, especially in older people or those at risk. This will help to identify disorders in time and begin treatment at an early stage. A healthy lifestyle - physical activity, proper nutrition and adequate sleep - plays a key role in prevention.
Expert opinion
“The most important thing is an approach that takes into account the individual needs of the patient, his physical and emotional state. During the treatment process, social activity and support from loved ones are also extremely important.” —Christina Zhivago, Candidate of Medical Sciences, psychiatrist of the highest category, child psychiatrist.