The words "Alzheimer's" and "dementia" are often used in the same sentence. However, dementia refers to the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, not the disease itself. Dementia is common in other health disorders. Early signs of Alzheimer's dementia may be innocuous at first, presenting as lapses in memory or instances of poor judgment. Dementia in Alzheimer's patients is slow and progressive, and in its final stages, Alzheimer's dementia may prevent a patient from being able to communicate, walk or sit up without assistance. According to the Mayo Clinic, Alzheimer's disease accounts for 60 to 70 percent of dementia cases.
Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms of early Alzheimer's dementia include memory loss, decreased word-finding skills, inability to learn or recall new information, difficulty with planning and organizing, and decreased coordination and motor skills. An individual suffering from dementia may ask the same question over and over, become lost in a familiar environment or be unable to follow simple directions. More profound symptoms of dementia may include a dramatic change in personality, paranoia, hallucinations, agitation, and the inability to recognize family members and loved ones.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of dementia begins with a patient's medical history to determine if family history of dementia exists or an underlying physical cause, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. A physical examination can rule out causes such as a stroke or other health disorders. Neurological tests assess balance, sensory function and reflexes. Brain scans, such as a CT scan or MRI, can reveal changes in the brain structure. An electroencephalogram (EEG) detects abnormalities in the brain waves that suggest cognitive dysfunction common to those suffering from Alzheimer's dementia.
Treatments
While there is no cure for Alzheimer's, medications can slow down or reduce symptoms of dementia. Cholinesterase inhibitors that go by the trade names of Aricept, Exelon, Memantime and Razadyne may improve memory, judgment and learning skills. Dementia behavioral symptoms may be treated with sedatives and antidepressants. Additionally, a doctor may prescribe medication that reduces the chance of stroke or treat conditions such as blood clots, anxiety and insomnia.
Who's At Risk?
According to the Mayo Clinic, two risk factors cannot change---age and family history. Although Alzheimer's is not considered a normal part of aging, older individuals are more prone to displaying signs of Alzheimer's-related dementia. Those with a family history of dementia face the highest risk. Factors that can reduce the risk of dementia include limiting alcohol consumption, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels through proper diet and medication, stopping smoking and seeking treatment for depression.
Help for Caretakers
Since dementia gets progressively worse and results the need for in around-the-clock care, caretakers should discuss legal, financial and living-arrangement matters with their loved one as soon as symptoms of dementia appear. In the earlier stages of dementia, a patient will still have periods of lucidity, good communication, reason and judgment. The Alzheimer's Association has a 24-hour hotline at 800-272-3900 for caretakers of those with Alzheimer's dementia. Trained clinicians provide information on the disease, treatment options, the skills to care for a loved one, and find medical care and treatment.
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