Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a type of memory loss that can be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Wellstar neurologists provide comprehensive testing and care for early diagnosis and treatment.
Expert Memory Care
Memory care experts at Wellstar evaluate problems with memory, language and judgement. Through early diagnosis and treatment, we aim to improve memory loss and the progression of MCI that may lead to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Between 12 and 18 million adults aged 60 and older live with MCI, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. MCI leads to Alzheimer’s disease or dementia for about 10 to 15% of people. If you or a loved one have memory problems, it is important to be evaluated as there are now early intervention treatments for people with MCI diagnoses related to Alzheimer’s disease that slow or halt the progression of the disease. Advanced diagnostic tools can confirm the presence of Alzheimer’s disease plaque in the brain and there are medications that can remove this plaque if it is present. Discuss any memory changes with your primary care physician or advanced practice provider. If your symptoms warrant further evaluation, contact a Wellstar neurologist. Learn about memory disorder care at Wellstar.Symptoms of MCI
Individuals with MCI are able to do most things independently and the condition does not tend to affect everyday activities. People with this condition may be aware that something is wrong and their families may also notice changes.Memory-related symptoms
Examples of MCI include forgetting conversations more easily and having difficulty recalling things as quickly as before. These types of memory relapses are more intense than expected as people get older.Other symptoms
With MCI, there may be issues that are not related to memory, but rather clarity of thinking, judgement and difficulty with organization. Memory may be relatively spared.MCI symptoms
- Forgetting things more often
- Missing appointments
- Language difficulties
- Losing train of thought
- Trouble following along in a conversation or a plot of a story
- Difficulty with decision-making
- Leaving tasks unfinished
- Poor judgement
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Short temper
- Aggressive behavior
- Lack of interest
Risk Factors for MCI
It’s important to understand what can play a role in increasing your risk of an MCI diagnosis. Lowering exposure to certain factors, either with lifestyle changes or the monitoring of certain medical conditions, may reduce your risk for MCI. Some contributing factors can be controlled and others cannot. They include:- Age
- Genetics
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Depression
- Traumatic brain injury
- Lack of mentally or socially stimulating activities