August 05, 2008

Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease - Why Some Treatments are so Similar (1)

Treatments in dementia and Alzheimer’s sufferers are a lot similar because while not the same thing, the two conditions can be related to one another. Dementia is a progressive brain dysfunction that eventually leads to the restriction of daily activities. Dementia is not a disease, but a general description of symptoms, which could include various different specifics depending on the cause. There are many causes of dementia, some fifty different types of diagnosis, and among them are Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Pick’s disease, brain tumors and even some cases of HIV or syphilis.

Alzheimer’s disease is a specific kind of dementia and it’s defined as a form of degenerative brain disease resulting in progressive mental deterioration. This deterioration can lead to memory disorder and confusion just like other cases of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the mainly common type of dementia, accounting for seventy percent of diagnosed cases, and certainly one of the most severe cases, as it is incurable.

The symptoms that affect Alzheimer’s and dementia sufferers are also similar. Symptoms of dementia include asking the same questions repeatedly, getting lost in familiar surroundings, being unable to follow directions, disorientation of time and people, and neglecting hygiene and nutrition. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s are generally the same, yet in many cases become more severe as the disease progressively worsens. Finally some patients need constant care as serious mental impairments begin to set in.

Treatments for Alzheimer’s and dementia sufferers are similar in many ways because of the fact that Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia. What happens first is that a diagnosis is needed. Sometimes symptoms of forgetfulness and general confusion are not proof of dementia at all, let alone a severe case of Alzheimer’s disease. If a doctor believes the symptoms to be serious a thorough physical, neurological and psychiatric evaluation is then ordered for the sufferer. A complete medical history is also required, including prescription and OTC medicines that have been taken, diet, and any other general health issues. An accurate diagnosis depends on accurate information and so the doctor may also ask a family member for more information about the person.

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