| Over four million people in the United States are living with
Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia. Its causes
aren't well understood, and there is no cure.
Alzheimer's Disease is a brain disorder, a distinct disease, which
results in progressive failure of the person to remember, to think, to
reason, to perceive, to make judgments and eventually the brain shuts
down all vital functions and death occurs. It is diagnosed
by excluding all other causes of dementia and one cannot be certain of
the diagnosis aside from an autopsy which reveals the plaques and
tangles in the brain that cauterizes this disease.
Dementia is a set of symptoms - not a diagnosis of a disease.
Alzheimer's is one of the diseases (once diagnosed) that shows itself
with the symptoms of dementia. Someone with Alzheimer's has had their
dementia diagnosed.
In Alzheimer's disease and other
dementias, problems with memory, judgment, and thought processes make
it hard for a person to work and take part in day-to-day family and
social life. Changes in mood and personality also may occur. These
changes can result in loss of self-control and other problems. Some 2
to 4 million persons have dementia associated with aging. Of these
individuals, as many as two-thirds have Alzheimer's disease.
Although there is no cure for
Alzheimer's disease at this time, it may be possible to relieve some
of the symptoms, such as wandering and incontinence. The earlier the
diagnosis, the more likely your symptoms will respond to treatment.
Talk to your doctor as soon as possible if you think you or a family
member may have signs of Alzheimer's disease. Research is under way to
find better ways to treat Alzheimer's disease. Ask your doctor if
there are any new developments that might help you.
The chances of getting Alzheimer's
Disease increase with age. It usually occurs after age 65. Most people
are not affected even at advanced ages. There are only two definite
factors that increase the risk for Alzheimer's Disease: a family
history of dementia and Down Syndrome.
Family History of Dementia: Some
forms of Alzheimer's Disease are inherited. If Alzheimer's Disease
has occurred in your family members, other members are more likely
to develop it. Discuss and family history of dementia with your
family doctor.
Down Syndrome: Persons with Down
syndrome have a higher chance of getting Alzheimer's Disease. Close
relatives of persons with Down syndrome also may be at risk.
What Are the Signs of Alzheimer's Disease?
What
to expect when you visit your Physician.
What
to do if diagnosed with Alzheimers
Alzheimer Stages
Alzheimer Links |
