Alzheimer’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by cognitive deterioration, a decline in the activities of daily living and behavioral changes. Alzheimer’s Disease more commonly known as Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia.Memory loss, erratic behavior, and confusion are common among the elderly, but how can you tell whether it’s just old age or the onset of Alzheimer’s disease? Those with Alzheimer’s are usually unaware of their condition so it becomes important for family members to notice the behavioral changes and symptoms and report it to physicians. Interviewing family members can give physicians an idea of normal functions of the individual which can help detect the significance of the symptoms and the stage of the disease.
Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease can be key. Early detection allows physicians and family members to develop treatment plans and daily routines. Prescription medications can also be prescribed to slow down the progression of the disease.
These days doctors are making Alzheimer’s screening a routine check up as people age. Keeping track of one’s cognitive function has become just as important as tracking ones weight, heart rate and blood pressure.
Inside the Brain Here’s an interactive website that explains what’s going on in the brain.
Detecting Alzheimer’s
Contrary to what most people think, brain scans and genetic screenings are not the most effective ways to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease; complete physical and neurological exams are key in ruling out other possible causes like depression or stroke.
As of now, there are no medical tests available to conclusively diagnose Alzheimer’s before death. Definitive diagnosis of Alzheimer’s results from microscopic examination of brain tissue during an autopsy. Alzheimer’s is a clinical diagnosis based on characteristic neurological features and the absence of alternative diagnoses.
Various tests include:
- Psychological screening – psychological tests can lead to diagnosing Alzheimer’s years before the most serious symptoms occur. These tests focus on memory, attention, abstract thinking, the ability to name objects, and visuospatial abilities
- EEG (Electroencephalogram) – measuring the electrical activity of the brain
- Neuropsychological tests – specifically designed to measure psychological function linked with particular structures or pathways of the brain
- Scratch and Sniff – these tests can predict loss of smell
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s include:
- Short-term memory loss
- Confusion of place and time
- Incontinence
- Irritable or agitated behavior
- Childlike mental ability
- Sleeplessness
- Depression
- Loss of everyday function
- Repetitive speech
- Paranoia
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