Alzheimer's disease, a neurological condition that affects an estimated four million people nationwide, results in the death of nerve cells in the brain. Symptom onset begins gradually, often as mild forgetfulness, and may be falsely attributed to normal aging. As the disease progresses cognitive abilities decrease, people are unable to make decisions or perform everyday tasks, and some patients may undergo personality changes. In its later stages, Alzheimer's disease causes dementia and ultimately death.
Commonly Prescribed (On-Label) Drugs: Donepezil, Galantamine, Memantine, Rivastigmine, Tacrine
Off-Label Prescription Drugs Breakthrough Options: Aripiprazole, Atorvastatin, Buspirone, Tegretol (Carbamazepine), Citalopram, Divalproex, Fluoxetine, Gabapentin, Haloperidol, Olanzapine, Paroxetine, Quetiapine, Risperidone, Sertraline, Trazodone
The onset of this disease is gradual. Progressive mental and physical deterioration and ultimately death characterize the disease.
Alzheimer's occurs usually in individuals who are in their 50s and older. 5-to10% prevalence is in those above 65 years.
The number of Alzheimer's patients is expected to grow to 14 million nation-wide; by 2050, anywhere from 1 in 20 to 1 in 30 Americans may suffer from Alzheimer's disease , according to census projections.Mean survival 5-7 years.
In Alzheimer's disease there are abnormal proteins, which multiply disrupting flow of signals and damaging the nerve cells.
Poor nutrition in childhood may render the brain more vulnerable to mental impairment and Alzheimer's disease.
Genetics: Well documented familial cases. Alzheimer's can be hereditary. Patient mostly has relatives with Alzheimer's disease. The defects in Alzheimer's disease are found in 2 genes.
Symptoms: There is progressive impairment of memory. Among the main symptoms are gradual memory loss, decline in the ability to perform routine tasks, impairment of judgement, personality and behavior changes.
Gas taps, electric lights and switches may be left open. People's names are forgotten especially those who are newly introduced, and appointments are missed. Patients cannot learn to find their way around in new situations. Patients who forget where they have left important personal possessions may believe people are breaking into their homes and robbing them.
Some people in the early stages of the disease are aware that there is a "problem" well before family members or their physician. Others cover up or deny their symptoms.
A person with Alzheimer's disease can do errors while writing. For e.g., can slip when writing cheque. Confusing the days of the week. Trouble telling the time. Many patients confuse day and night. The patient can stay awake whole night and can get agitated if forced to sleep.
But some people in the early stages of the disease are aware that there is a "problem" well before family members or their physician. Others cover up or deny their symptoms.
There is a decline in personal manners, social awareness and personal appearance and hygiene.
There are many other conditions that mimic Alzheimer's. They must first be tested for and the excluded before the diagnosis of Alzheimer's is made.
They are Potentially reversible conditions like:
- Depression
- Reaction to alcohol
- Over-medication
- Nutrition deficiencies
- Brain tumors
Measures to manage Alzheimer's:
Although the progress of the disease cannot be stopped or reversed there are tested ways in which symptoms can be managed to provide a reasonable measure of comfort and dignity for the suffers and ease the burden on family carers.
- Institutionalizing
Many Alzheimer's patients confuse day and night. Experts say sleep deprivation among caregivers is one of the leading reasons that patients are sent to special institutions.
- Music
Music is a very powerful tool for people who are memory impaired. Music triggers vivid memories in Alzheimer's patients.
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