Alzheimer disease attacks brain cells and can affect memory, reasoning and currently has no cure. The Alzheimer's Association estimates that more than 5 million Americans currently live with Alzheimer's disease and consider it one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Early identification of the disease can provide an opportunity to slow the progression and institute measures that can allow patients to maintain a normal lifestyle for as long as possible.
Onset
Alzheimer's disease begins gradually in most patients and often begins with minor lapses in memory. In the beginning, patients begin to rely on reminders such as notes or an electronic calendar. When these lapses begin to interfere with daily activities or if you discover that it is becoming more difficult to make plans or solve problems, discuss these changes with your physician. Other early symptoms include confusion, difficulty speaking, writing or reading and misplacing items without being able to retrace where you have been.
Intervention
Family and friends often begin to notice changes as well. A banker or financial advisor may take notice if the person is making poor money management decisions. Friends may notice that this person is not dressing properly or taking proper care in terms of make up or other grooming habits. Unfortunately, people who have Alzheimer's disease also withdraw socially and may experience mood changes or changes in personality. Family members might be helpful when discussing these changes with the physician.
Diagnosis
Once alerted to memory or behavior changes, your physician will likely run tests to eliminate other cause before determining a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. This evaluation may also include questioning to establish mental status, a review of current medication to rule out chemical causes and blood tests to check for anemia, diabetes or other physical problems. Your physician will likely perform an exam to check reflexes and balance and will note if you are having difficulty speaking. Additionally, a scan of the brain might rule out possible tumors or other damage.
Treatment
Based on the results of the tests and the level of deterioration in the patient, your physician may determine that Alzheimer's disease is the cause of the symptoms. Currently, there is no known cure for this disease. However, your doctor may prescribe medication to slow the course of the disease and manage existing symptoms such as mood changes. Some patients find it helpful to modify living arrangements to lessen stress and provide assistance with daily activities. This may include moving in with family or having someone live with the patient for companionship and safety. As the disease progresses or if confusion and dementia manifest, it may become necessary for the patient to consider a nursing home or other care facility.
Later stage symptoms
The disease continues to progress, albeit at different rates. Later stage patients can experience increasingly severe memory loss. Long-time friends and family members are no longer recognized. Patients may need help with daily activities such as dressing or going to the bathroom; incontinence is common. Eventually, these patients may be unable to speak, feed themselves or walk and sit up without assistance. It will become difficult for patients to hold up their head, smile or even swallow food without difficulty.
