Many patients that walk through our doors ask us about neurodegenerative disease and if you can test for it ahead of time. They may have noticed changes in memory, concentration, mood, or coordination. Or, they may have a family history of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or other neurological conditions. The answer is… Yes!
There is no single comprehensive test for neurodegenerative disease, but a combintation of neurological exams, advanced bloodwork, and nutritional assessments can provide valuable insight brain health.
At the Center for New Medicine, we specialize in comprehensive testing to help identify risk factors early. It’s our goal to uncover early warning signs of cognitive decline or neurodegenerative disease through these tests at our Irvine clinic.
Why Testing for Neurodegenerative Disease Matters
If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you test for neurodegenerative disease?” you’re likely aware that these conditions often progress silently for years before symptoms become noticeable. By the time significant symptoms appear, the brain may already have experienced measurable damage. This is why early testing and screening are so important—they give us the opportunity to address underlying causes before irreversible changes occur.
The Components of a Comprehensive Evaluation
When a patient asks, “Can you test for neurodegenerative disease?” we explain that it’s not about a single diagnostic tool—it’s about combining multiple methods to create a complete picture of brain health. Our approach typically includes the following:
- Neurological Function Testing – Evaluating reflexes, coordination, balance, strength, and sensory perception to detect subtle neurological changes
- Cognitive Assessments – Measuring memory, attention, processing speed, and executive function to identify early cognitive decline
- Bloodwork Analysis – Checking for markers of inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, hormone imbalances, and toxins that may contribute to neurological dysfunction
- Nutritional Assessments – Ensuring the brain has the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants needed for optimal function
- Imaging When Needed – Using MRI or CT scans to rule out structural changes or other causes of symptoms
What We Can Detect
So, can you test for neurodegenerative disease? While no screening method can predict with 100% certainty whether someone will develop a specific condition, we can detect the following:
- Early cognitive impairment (mild cognitive impairment or MCI)
- Inflammatory markers associated with brain cell damage
- Oxidative stress levels and mitochondrial function
- Heavy metal toxicity that may impact brain health
- Deficiencies in nutrients such as B vitamins, omega-3s, and antioxidants
- Hormonal imbalances that affect brain performance
These findings allow us to build a proactive care plan to protect brain function.
Why Bloodwork Is So Important
One of the most overlooked aspects when asking “Can you test for neurodegenerative disease?” is the role of advanced blood testing. Inflammation, blood sugar regulation, cardiovascular health, and nutrient status all have a profound impact on the brain:
- High homocysteine levels can indicate increased risk for cognitive decline.
- Low vitamin B12 can cause memory problems and nerve damage.
- Chronic inflammation can accelerate brain aging.
- Poor blood sugar control can impair brain metabolism and increase Alzheimer’s risk.
By correcting these factors early, we can help slow—or in some cases, reverse—certain patterns of decline.
The Role of Lifestyle and Nutritional Assessments
When we answer whether we can test for neurodegenerative disease, we emphasize that testing is only part of the process. Equally important is identifying how lifestyle choices, diet, and environmental exposures are affecting your brain health.
Our nutritional assessments evaluate whether your current eating habits are providing the necessary building blocks for healthy brain cells. We look at omega-3 fatty acid intake, antioxidant levels, hydration status, and overall diet quality to ensure your brain is getting what it needs to function optimally.
Who Should Get Tested?
If you’ve been wondering, “Can you test for neurodegenerative disease?” you might already have a reason to consider screening. Testing may be especially beneficial for…
- Individuals over 50 concerned about memory changes
- Those with a family history of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or ALS
- People exposed to environmental toxins such as heavy metals or mold
- Individuals with a history of head injuries or concussions
- Patients with chronic inflammation, autoimmune conditions, or metabolic syndrome
Taking Action on Results
Testing only matters if it leads to action. That’s why, when patients ask us if we can test for neurodegenerative disease, we also explain how we use the results to create a targeted plan. This may include the following:
- Nutritional supplementation to correct deficiencies
- Anti-inflammatory dietary protocols
- Detoxification support for heavy metals or other toxins
- Hormonal balancing
- Cognitive training exercises
- Recommendations for physical activity, stress reduction, and sleep optimization
By acting early, we aim to slow or prevent the progression of cognitive decline.
Local Testing and Personalized Care
If you are located in Orange County and are wondering, “Can you test for neurodegenerative disease?” the Center for New Medicine in Irvine offers a local, personalized, and holistic approach. Our team blends advanced diagnostics with functional medicine principles to ensure we’re not just identifying problems but also addressing their root causes.
Partner with Center for New Medicine in Irvine, CA
Can you test for neurodegenerative disease? The answer is, yes! Through neurological exams, bloodwork, nutritional assessments, and more, we can evaluate your brain function, uncover early signs of decline, and create a plan to protect your cognitive health. Testing is most powerful when it’s done before significant symptoms appear, which gives you the best chance at long-term brain health and quality of life.
Learn more or schedule your evaluation here:
https://cfnmedicine.com/services/bloodwork-tests-and-scans
