Noticing changes in memory or thinking can be unsettling, but not all cognitive decline means dementia. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is often the first clue that something’s shifted. Some causes are reversible. Others may be early signs of a neurodegenerative condition. Getting evaluated early makes a real difference.
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Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

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Patients with MCI experience changes in memory and thinking that are significant enough to disrupt some aspects of daily life, yet the patient still remains independent overall.

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Sometimes MCI is caused by a reversible condition, such as sleep apnea, depression, excessive alcohol use, or job burnout. However, it more often represents the first symptomatic stage of a neurodegenerative condition that requires medical evaluation and further testing.

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Symptoms may include

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• Difficulty remembering and storing information that was recently learned.
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• Struggling to find names of ordinary items.
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• Previously straightforward tasks or beloved hobbies become more challenging or stressful.  

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Treatment approaches

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While no medications are approved specifically for MCI, a provider might recommend:

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• A cholinesterase-inhibiting medication (which is approved for mild and moderate stage Alzheimer’s Disease). This class of medications compensates for a chemical deficit and can sometimes boost attention and focus while delaying further decline in cognition. These have been available as standard-of-care treatments for approximately 25 years.
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• Anti-amyloid therapies that are administered by IV infusion. In the last few years, this new class of treatments has become available, which may help slow cognitive and functional decline in early stages by targeting amyloid plaques in the brain.  
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• Personalized counseling to identify practical strategies for compensating for and coping with day-to-day challenges.
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• Addressing underlying reversible factors when present (such as treating sleep disorders, managing depression, moderating alcohol consumption, reducing stress).

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Learn more about the other memory disorders we treat at Neura Health.

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Neura Health’s memory specialists are ready to help you or a loved one with any of these issues, and offer video appointments within just one week, on average.  These short wait times mean more opportunities for early intervention.  Book a video visit today!

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