Patient Resources
Can a neurologist diagnose Alzheimer's disease?
Short answer
Yes. A neurologist diagnoses Alzheimer's disease by combining the history, a neurological examination, cognitive testing, laboratory studies, and brain imaging, with biomarker testing added when it is clinically appropriate.
Understanding this
There is no single test that stands alone. The diagnosis rests on the pattern of symptoms over time, the examination, and testing that both supports the diagnosis and excludes other causes.
Biomarker testing — blood-based, cerebrospinal fluid, or specialized imaging — can add information when the diagnosis is uncertain. Whether it is appropriate depends on the individual situation.
If you are wondering whether memory changes are expected with age, learn about the differences between normal aging and possible signs of dementia.
After the diagnosis is clarified, learn how dementia treatment may combine medical care, lifestyle support, safety planning, and caregiver education.
For confirmed early Alzheimer's disease, learn who may qualify for Leqembi or Kisunla and why amyloid, MRI, and APOE testing matter.
Symptoms and signs
- Difficulty forming and retaining new memories
- Repeating questions
- Word-finding difficulty
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Difficulty with finances or medications
How it is evaluated
- History and neurological examination
- Cognitive and memory testing
- Laboratory studies to exclude other contributors
- MRI or CT of the brain when appropriate
- Alzheimer's biomarker testing when clinically indicated
When to seek care
- Progressive memory change that affects daily life should be evaluated.
- Sudden change in thinking or alertness requires emergency attention — call 911.
Emergency symptoms
Need a Neurologist?
Choose the scheduling line for the state where you will be located for your appointment.
In-Person Neurology Visits
Available at three office locations:
Crystal Lake, Illinois
Woodstock, Illinois
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Telehealth Neurology Visits
Telehealth neurology appointments are available to patients located anywhere in Illinois or Wisconsin. You do not need to live near an office, but you must be physically located in Illinois or Wisconsin at the time of the appointment.
Learn about telehealth neurology →Call to schedule
Illinois appointments: 815-337-7100. Wisconsin appointments: 262-245-0535.
Choose your visit
Our office will confirm whether an in-person or telehealth visit is appropriate and provide the details.
Insurance and referrals
Insurance participation and referral requirements vary by plan. Our office will confirm what your plan requires before your visit.
If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention.