Better Together

aphsia

Updated on December 10, 2021 in Ask A Coach
3 on December 9, 2021

A friend just called and said she has aphasia. She had an MRI. Is that enough to tell what damage she has had? I think that the Spect imaging is the one she needs but what can you recommend she ask to be tested for outside of going to the Amen Clinic? I don’t think that is a possibility for her due to insurance. Thanks!

 
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0 on December 9, 2021

Sorry. I spelled aphasia wrong in the title!  

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1 on December 10, 2021

It’s my understanding that an MRI or CT scan can illuminate the level of damage and cause of aphasia, but it’s always helpful to ask the physician what other options are available for best care. It is very helpful to have an advocate (friend or family member) gather information from the physician about best next steps and to understand the evaluation process. Often as a patient, you may be flooded with a lot of emotion and may not be able to ask all the questions you need to, or take in all the information. It helps to have support in that, especially with a condition involving the brain.

No matter the extent of damage, lifestyle interventions a brain health perspective will be largely the same, including many of the principles on this site.

Best to your friend-Zoe

 

on December 10, 2021

She has 4 rotating relatives to take her to the MD, so that is ok. I am not sure of their advocacy ability, but I did recommend Dr.Amen’s book MEMORY RESCUE to her.                  Thanks for your well wishes. Though we are not close, we grew up together, so this is extra sad.

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