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What is Alzheimers?

Dementia of the Alzheimers type is the most common form of dementia, occurring in at least half of all diagnosed dementia cases. Sometimes Alzheimer's disease is diagnosed with other types of cognitive disorders, but many times it is the primary condition.

It is not unusual to experience some memory lapses as a person gets older. However, there is a big difference between forgetting the name of an acquaintance one sees only occasionally and the inability to remember names of close family members.

This type of dementia is characterized by gradual memory loss, communication difficulties and an inability to care for oneself in most ways. The condition causes the destruction of brain cells over time, which is the reason behind these symptoms.

The disorder is considered fatal, and is the sixth reason for death in the United States today. However, early detection of the disease can allow the patient to enjoy a higher quality of life for a much longer period of time. For this reason, it is important to learn how to recognize the symptoms of this disorder so the patient can be diagnosed as quickly as possible.

Symptoms of Dementia of the Alzheimers Type

The symptoms of Alzheimer's disease mimic those of other types of dementia and may include:

• Repeating statements or questions over and over in a conversation
• Misplacing items in illogical places like placing the iron in the freezer
• Forgetting the names of family members and the names of common objects
• Difficulty with numbers, such as balancing the checkbook
• Communication problems that include inability to find the right words
• Disorientation with times, dates and places
• Inability to make decisions or follow a set of instructions
• Eventually forgetting how to perform everyday tasks like cooking a meal
• Mood swings or personality changes
• Distrust in other people or social withdrawal
• Increase in depression or anxiety symptoms

These symptoms may begin to appear when a patient hits his sixties, but will gradually worsen over time. There is no cure for this type of dementia, but there are steps that can be taken to improve a patient's quality of life for as long as possible.

Diagnosis of Dementia of the Alzheimers Type

Dementia of the Alzheimers type can be accurately diagnosed in the large majority of cases. Diagnosis can be made through a variety of lab tests and neuropsychological testing to analyze brain function. Doctors will also use brain scans like CAT scans and MRIs to evaluate areas of the brain that might be affected and other causes for the deterioration, such as blood clots or tumors. Through this testing process, an accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can usually be made. Unfortunately, treatment does not come as easily as a diagnosis.

Treatment of Dementia of the Alzheimers Type

There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but there are ways to improve the quality of life for the patient. This usually involves professional care, since dealing with Alzheimer's can put strain on family members who are not equipped to handle the many symptoms of this condition. There is also community support available for Alzheimer's patients and their families. Alzheimer's may not be an easy condition to deal with, but there is help and support available.

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