|
|
|
It is important to understand the difference between the general forgetfulness that often accompanies old age and the onset of Alzheimer's. It is perfectly normal for older people to exhibit forgetfulness and mild forms of some of the other symptoms of Alzheimer's. This does not in any way mean that they are in the early stages of the onset of Alzheimer's, or that they will go on to develop a full-blown, extreme case of Alzheimer's. In addition, many other conditions can cause Alzheimer's like symptoms. A diagnosis from a professional medical doctor is the only way to be sure. Trying To Understand Alzheimers DiseaseEveryone sometimes forgets something; whether it is where they left their car keys or the reason they walked into a room. When things like this happen, people often joke and say that they had a “senior” moment or even worse – Alzheimer’s. There is one thing that Alzheimer’s disease is not – a joke. Alzheimer’s strikes the elderly predominantly. An age is hard to pin down, but typically, the majority of sufferers are over the age of sixty-five. No one really knows why Alzheimer’s disease exists or why symptoms start showing when we get older. Alzheimer’s disease is the most known form of dementia. This disease attacks the brain function, namely memory. It affects learning, reasoning skills and the ability to make common sense decisions. Alzheimer’s eventually robs patients of their independence. A simple walk to the corner grocery can turn into a scary ordeal as they lose their way on a path they had taken for years. They forget to eat or bathe. They might mix their grandchildren up with their children. Symptoms start gradually and slowly escalate. More advanced stages of the disease can cause changes such as apprehension, anxiety and delusional behaviors. Alzheimer’s patients can live for years. Thanks to the wonders of modern science, they can be healthy in every other way and linger for years with brain function steadily decreasing as time goes on. Each Alzheimer’s sufferer is different. Some can live for over twenty years after their diagnosis, while some only a few years. Of course, this is entirely subjective as it greatly depends on when the person got tested for Alzheimer’s disease. Years of research has been conducted to determine the cause of Alzheimer’s disease. Although a cure may not happen for several lifetimes, scientists are at least beginning to understand a little about it. Age, of course, is the most common factor of all sufferers. And secondly, genetic history is also a culprit in contributing to Alzheimer’s. However, age and genetics alone cannot account for the scores of people who have it. Some scientists are studying how our environment and diet could possibly be playing a role. In addition, scientists believe that many people, more than we think, may carry an Alzheimer’s “gene.” They believe that how that gene reacts to other genes could be the key to solving the mystery of why this disease exists. Treatment of Alzheimer’s is a multi-pronged attack. There are some drugs available that might slow down the disease somewhat. Some doctors decide to treat the symptoms of the disease like sleep aids for insomnia or anti-depressants for depression and restlessness. Some researchers believe that various vitamin and herbal remedies can help as well. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E have been shown to slow down the disease’s progress in some patients. The same applies to ginkgo biloba, long touted as a cognitive enhancer. Estrogen supplements used for menopausal symptoms have also shown some effectiveness in reducing some risk of acquiring the disease as well as slowing it down. Not much is known about Alzheimer’s disease, but strides in medical science are being made every day. The only thing we can do is take care of our loved ones stricken with the disease and hope that at some point in our lifetime, a cure will be found. The above is only a snippet to read the full article, click here!
Alzheimers Disease And Alternative Medicine Alzheimers Disease Knowing What To Expect A Brief History Of Alzheimers Disease Alzheimers Disease Brain Alzheimers Disease And Dementia Alzheimers And Drugs Alzheimers Disease Progression Alzheimers Disease Described What Is Alzheimers Disease Alzheimers The Most Common Form Of Dementia Alzheimers Disease Communication Tools For Caregivers |
Site MenuMore ArticlesThis Website is intended to provide assistance and information to people who are interested in learning more about Alzheimer's Disease, or who may be worried about the possible onset of Alzheimer's, or the friends, family, or relatives of those who might suffer or be at risk of suffering from Alzheimer's. While the articles on this Website were written with great care, errors or omissions may occur. The information is provided "as-is", without any warranty whether expressed or implied. All readers agree to use the information provided on this site entirely at their own risk. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a basis for any form of diagnosis or treatment for any medical condition whatsoever - including Alzheimer's Disease. Always seek the advice of a professional medical doctor. |
|
Alzheimer's Disease (Home) | Alzheimer's Disease Sitemap | Contact Us |
|
| © 2012 Alzheimer's Disease Info Center |