It is not unusual for any individual to experience absentmindedness or moments of confusion due to stress or temporary illness. If, however, these symptoms persist and worsen, it would be well to consult a physician to discuss your concerns. The sooner there is a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or that possibility is eliminated, the better. Not knowing the cause can be very stressful. This additional stress can amplify the Alzheimer’s symptoms and make it seem like it is getting worse.
To determine if a patient has Alzheimer’s disease, a doctor will first try to eliminate other possible causes of any symptoms of dementia. If there is the possibility that the cause of dementia can be corrected or improved, by all means, do it. Dementia is not considered a disease but is a word used to describe conditions suffered by someone who indicates a progressive brain function problem.
These symptoms can result from a stressful illness such as diabetes or Parkinson’s. They could be due to an accident or a brain tumor. Certain medications can also produce similar symptoms as side effects. Nutritional deficiencies can be a significant factor. Even being slightly dehydrated can cause considerable problems for some older people.
Some of these symptoms may include such things as an inability to concentrate. Not able to follow simple directions. Chronic (chronic meaning for a long time) forgetfulness. The person may be neglecting proper hygiene. They may get easily disoriented, asking the same things repeatedly, and getting lost in what should be familiar surroundings.
Although a physician may readily diagnose a patient has dementia, it is more difficult to pinpoint the cause. Hopefully, we will have a simple, definitive test someday. Right now, it’s limited to eliminating everything else and calling it Alzheimer’s.
To begin with, the physician will want to know as much as possible about when the symptoms started, how often they occur, and if they have progressively worsened. He will conduct a series of simple tests involving memory, cognitive ability, and the capacity to follow a set of directions. These tests are not meant to be challenging and are designed to test everyday skills.
He will also be concerned with the overall state of health of the patient. Are they aware of the problem themselves? Are they disinterested, having trouble paying attention, or perhaps unusually moody?
Another area of concern will be the family medical history. It is to find out if others connected genetically to the patient have had Alzheimer’s or a similar condition. They still don’t know if Alzheimer’s has a genetic connection.
A comprehensive physical exam is needed to discover or eliminate the possibility of another disease or disorder that can cause similar symptoms. Plus, a neurological examination that tests such aspects as reflexes, speech, balance, coordination, and eye movement.
Advancement in technology, with the use of MRIs, also allows the doctor to investigate the brain’s structure. There is no current standard defining what a brain looks like with Alzheimer’s. MRIs help eliminate other problems such as tumors.
Since some researchers believe in the evidence of brain shrinkage, reduced brain activity in certain areas may indicate the presence of Alzheimer’s. MRIs may be valuable in a diagnosis. However, there is yet no common value to use for each unique individual that would be conclusive as to the presence of Alzheimer’s.
So the doctor’s goal in making a diagnosis is to start by eliminating as many other options as possible. Testing to eliminate other causes of dementia. But going further to verify this disease with MRIs is something you will have to decide.
When facing a disease like Alzheimer’s, it is easy to keep testing. It is easy to let a doctor talk you into an expensive MRI. The lastest test, each more costly than the last. If a test is suggested, question what it is for and the benefit of knowing the results. Doctors have a way of adding every test they think they can.
Take charge of your health, or for the person you are helping. Don’t let doctors do whatever they want. IT is especially true if you are a caregiver. Again, question everything and anything you don’t understand. Ask again if you don’t understand or feel comfortable with the answer. Keep asking until you do. The doctor will soon forget the decision you make. You will have to live with it for the rest of your life.
If the Alzheimer’s symptoms turn out to be Alzheimer’s disease, you will have more time to prepare. The person with Alzheimer’s, their family, their friends. The person or people that will become the caregivers. It usually is a slow-moving disease; however, you will need to learn what to expect.
Please take time to have fun and laugh. To love and enjoy time together. These moments can give you joy. Please remember to see your loved one as that person even when they can’t remember.