Nearly 6 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease today. At The Neurology Institute in Coral Springs and Sunrise, Florida, a multispecialty team offers expert Alzheimer’s disease care tailored to patients’ individual needs. If you or someone you love is suffering, the team is committed to making life easier and providing a more hopeful future. Call the office nearest you or click on the online scheduling feature for help today.
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common dementia, is a progressive disease that destroys brain cells. It affects memory, thought, and behavior, eventually causing difficulties with day-to-day function.
Alzheimer’s disease symptoms vary with the disease stage.
In the early stages, memory lapses are common, like forgetting words or struggling to remember people’s names. You might have difficulty at work, particularly with tasks involving organization and planning.
In mid-stage Alzheimer’s disease, symptoms worsen. Along with memory lapses, you may experience difficulty recalling events or milestones from your past. Some people experience mood changes or withdraw from social activities.
Mid-stage Alzheimer’s symptoms can also include wandering away from home and getting lost, being unable to control the bladder and bowels, and experiencing other disruptive changes that make it difficult to live independently.
Late-stage Alzheimer’s disease symptoms are far more severe. Most people need round-the-clock personal care because they have difficulty with eating, walking, communicating, using the bathroom, and performing other daily functions.
Most of those in the late stage of the disease aren’t aware of recent experiences and may not know where they are. They often don’t remember loved ones or caregivers. Delusions and distrust are common, and behavior may be erratic.
There are effective ways to manage care at every stage of Alzheimer’s disease, but it’s always best to get an early diagnosis and start treatment right away.
Diagnosis starts with a neurological exam, medical history, and review of symptoms. Imaging and lab tests can rule out other conditions and identify brain changes that may indicate Alzheimer’s disease.
You may also need an electroencephalogram (EEG) to check for changes in brain activity.
Although there isn’t yet a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, The Neurology Institute provides the neurological, behavioral, and rehabilitative services that provide the best possible quality of life for you or your loved one.
Drugs can reduce the effects of the disease, particularly in the early stage. Physical, occupational, speech, and behavioral therapies can improve daily function and overall wellness. There are also medications to alleviate troublesome symptoms.
The Neurology Institute helps patients safely enjoy better health and more independence. Click the online scheduling link or call the office nearest you to make an appointment today.