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Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's Disease is a progressive, degenerative disease that attacks the brain, impairing memory, thinking and behavior. Today it is the most common form of dementia (a loss of thinking, remembering and reasoning so severe that it affects daily functioning, ultimately resulting in death). Men and women are affected equally, and most cases are diagnosed in patients over 65.
Symptoms
Symptoms progress in three key stages, but the rate of progression varies with each patient. The time from the onset of symptoms until death ranges from three to 20 years; the average is eight years. Family members should be aware that patients with Alzheimer's Disease will eventually become incapable of caring for themselves.
 Gradual memory loss
Decline in the ability to perform routine tasks
Disorientation
Difficulty learning
Loss of language skills
Impairment of judgment and planning
Personality changes
Testing
Many conditions, including some that are treatable or reversible (such as depression, adverse drug reactions, metabolic changes and nutritional deficiencies) can cause dementia. For this reason, early and thorough evaluation of the patient is important to rule out other conditions that
have similar symptoms.
A firm diagnosis of Alzheimer's involves a comprehensive evaluation requiring several tests and examinations, including a chest X-ray, a complete health history, physical examination, neurological, mental and psychiatric status assessments and blood and urine analysis. In addition, your doctor will probably conduct:
EEG (electroencephalogram)
This is a safe and painless test that gives
important information about the health and functioning of the brain. It detects the brain's electrical impulses, creating patterns that can then be viewed on a computer screen and printed. These patterns help the physician determine the nature of your problem and how best to treat it.
To conduct the EEG, electrodes will be applied to your scalp with a gel. During the test, you will be asked to breathe deeply and quickly. This may cause mild dizziness or tingling, which is normal. You will open and shut your eyes, as a light flashes on and off (this can cause you to see various colors and patterns). It is important that you follow all instructions, relax and remain quiet during the course of the test. You will be able to resume all normal activities following the test.
EKG (electrocardiogram)
This is a recording of the electrical activity of the heart. Electrodes are placed on your arms, legs and chest to record a series of heartbeats that will help determine your diagnosis. It is completely painless.
CT (Computed Tomography) scan
This is a combination of an X-ray device and a computer. X-rays are taken of the brain, and this information is fd into a computer which transforms the data into a picture. In some cases, the patient is injected with a special dye to make abnormal tissue more evident. It will be of great assistance to your physician for you or a family member to document your symptoms and behavior over time, and report it to him or her on a regular basis. This will help track the nature and schedule of progression.
Treatment
Currently there is no cure or long-term treatment for Alzheimer's. There are, however, some medications and strategies to help alleviate symptoms which have proved especially effective in reducing anxiety, improving sleep and enabling participation in various life activities. Some medications result in a small, transient improvement in memory.
Also, good planning and far-sighted medical and social management can be most helpful in easing the burdens and anxiety this disease causes patients and their caregivers. Key among these considerations is involving the patient in healthcare directives and decisions as long as he or she has the capacity to do so. Physical exercise, social activity, proper nutrition, and a familiar, calm and well-structured environment may help the patient to continue functioning longer and better.
Research
According to the Alzheimer's Association, scientists are applying the latest knowledge and research techniques in molecular genetics, pathology, immunology, toxicology, neurology, psychiatry, pharmacology, biochemistry and epidemiology to find causes, treatments, and, eventually, a cure.
By the end of the 20th century, more than 50 major medical research centers across the country were conducting studies to evaluate an investigational treatment to slow the progression of memory loss in patients with Alzheimer's Disease.
Prevention
The cause of Alzheimer's remains a mystery, although this is an area of intense scientific investigation. Suspected possibilities include diseased genes or a genetic predisposition, abnormal protein buildup in the brain and environmental toxins. Obviously, until there are definitive answers regarding why and how people contract Alzheimer's, it is not possible to structure a preventive course of treatment.
Support Groups/Resources
Many patients and families find great comfort and support in talking with other patients, families and caregivers who have had (or are having) similar experiences. Support group meetings are free of charge, and are facilitated by a trained peer or qualified professional.
For more information, plus a comprehensive list of local support groups, contact the Alzheimer's Association - Southeastern Virginia Chapter at 757-459-2405.
Call the Alzheimer's Association's 24/7 helpline for information, referral and support at 1-800-272-3900.
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