Short term memory loss is usually affected first, therefore someone may have more trouble remembering what was just said to them 5 minutes ago, and be able to remember memories from 30 years ago like it was yesterday.
STATISTICS
Research has shown that the amount of people diagnosed with this disease have doubled every 5 years in people above 65 years of age, though some people are diagnosed even earlier. Through the years the disease has risen up the list and is now considered the fourth leading cause of death in adults after heart disease, cancer and stroke, although this is usually caused due to a secondary factor such as infection.
The U.S. society spends at least $100 billion a year on AD, but neither Medicare nor most private health insurances cover the long term care most patients need.
SYMPTOMS
Many of the early signs of AD are frequently missed because they are so similar to the natural signs of aging, including forgetfulness and loss of concentration, but as the severity of the disease continues to progress we deal with more severe symptoms such as memory loss, deterioration in speech, confusion, the inability to perform routine tasks, personality changes and mood swings. Eventually most people with AD need the assistance of a caregiver to help take care of them.
DIAGNOSIS
There is no one test that could give us a true diagnosis of the disease, so a comprehensive evaluation is performed to rule out any other diagnosis. These may include, a physical examination, complete health history, neurological and mental assessments, blood and urine analysis, EKG and/or CT Scan/MRI.
TREATMENT
Although there is no cure available for this disease, there are medications developed to help alleviate and possibly slow down some of the cognitive symptoms, as well as other medications to help control some of the behavioral symptoms. Clinical trials are always an option for those searching for a comprehensive evaluation such as previously discussed, at no charge. The trials usually entail using medications already approved on the market as well as new medications being studied. Studies done on an outpatient basis are very similar to regular doctor visits except that patients are monitored more closely.
To learn more or about this disease or to find out how your loved one can get a free memory screening, and determine whether they can participate in one of our clinical trials at no cost, please contact us at the Schuster Medical Research Institute 1-877-77-TRIAL (87425)
Call us Now 1-877-77-TRIAL(87425)