Alzheimer's Symptoms -The Importance of Timely Detection

The earlier Alzheimer's symptoms are detected, the better it is for the patient. Early detection can not only improve their overall quality of life, but can also extend it. By diagnosing the disease early, patients are able to access critical care, recreation and therapy programs and even drugs that can help reduce the effects and onset of the disease.

For more information on diagnosing and understanding Alzheimer's, along with information on its symptoms, read on.

Diagnosing and Understanding Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease does not have a cure. It affects close to 4 million Americans and is prevalent among older individuals. However, many patients are often misdiagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, often because the associated symptoms are similar to those connected with other forms of senile dementia.

Alzheimer's Disease is considered to be a progressive degenerative disease. This means it is constantly progressing as it attacks the brain. The effects of Alzheimer's include memory loss, reduced brain function, physical breakdown and a general loss of social and emotional skills.

Alzheimer's disease is very common and is considered to be the leading form of senile dementia, particularly in adults beyond 85.

Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's symptoms vary. However, they typically include chronic depression, forgetfulness, bouts of fatigue, poor dietary decisions, disorientation and possibly even paranoid or aggressive behavior.

However, a diagnosis of symptoms is never definitive while the person suffering the effects is alive, and a surefire diagnosis can only be obtained through a postmortem autopsy of the brain. Because of this, many instances of other forms of senile dementia are often incorrectly determined to be Alzheimer's even when they are not.

Understanding the Differences of Alzheimer's vs. Other Dementia Forms

Because the symptoms associated with Alzheimer's Disease often mimic those of many forms of senile dementia, it's critical that doctors eliminate alternative possibilities before making a definitive diagnosis.

For example, even certain types of toxic reactions - for example to food, alcohol or environmental triggers like carbon monoxide, aluminum and diesel fumes - can cause symptoms of dementia. Identifying and removing those possible underlying root causes could help to improve the onset of the disease.

How Alzheimer's is Treated

Not surprisingly, nutrition and nutritional supplements have been demonstrated to instill positive change and even improvement in many Alzheimer's patients. Whether it's nutritional supplements like a blend of B6, iron and coenzyme Q10 or simply improving a patient's diet to reduce toxins, the results are often profound. Like many diseases, healthy diet and exercise can have a very positive impact.

What to Do if You Suspect Alzheimer's Disease

If you or a loved one has recently started to exhibit some of the Alzheimer's symptoms listed above, then it's critical that you speak with your doctor as soon as possible. Early identification can make a huge difference in both treatment and ongoing quality of life.