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Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder affecting nearly 7 million Americans. It is a form of dementia that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out simple tasks. While the specific causes of Alzheimer’s are not fully known, it is characterized by changes in the brain, including amyloid beta plaques and neurofibrillary, or tau, tangle. This results in loss of neurons and their connections. These changes affect a person’s ability to remember, think and speak. In its earliest stages, Alzheimer’s may appear like lapses that might be considered a normal part of aging. A clinical evaluation by a neurologist can rule out dementia or pinpoint the specific type.
To schedule an evaluation by an Independence Health System Neurologist
at the Memory Clinic call:
Greensburg:
724-261-5619
Butler:
724-431-1613, select option 2
Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that causes gradual and progressive decline in memory, thinking, behavior, and social skills. It’s important to understand that Alzheimer's is a form of dementia. Dementia is the general term for a group of neurological conditions that affect memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. In nearly 70 percent of all dementia cases, Alzheimer’s is the cause.
According to the Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's disease kills more people than breast and prostate cancer combined.
While some cases of Alzheimer’s can be caused by a single inherited gene, most cases are not inherited. Alzheimer’s can be influenced by a combination of genes, lifestyle, and environmental factors.
While Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia may share similar symptoms, Alzheimer's is characterized by progressive memory loss and cognitive decline.
While some of these symptoms may be related to typical age-related change, it’s important to talk to your primary care provider or loved ones if you have concerns because there are treatment options available.
There is no single test that can determine if a person is living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Providers will use diagnostic tools combined with medical history and other information, including neurological exams, cognitive and functional assessments, brain imaging (MRI, CT, PET) and cerebrospinal fluid or blood tests to make a definitive diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. The following are two diagnostic tools used at the Memory Clinic at IHS to diagnose Alzheimer’s and help guide treatment planning.
Alzheimer’s is thought to be caused by an abnormal build-up of proteins in and around brain cells. This abnormal build-up can disrupt cell function and damage brain cells. While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer's, there are treatment options that may change disease progression, and drug and non-drug options that may help treat symptoms.
If you or a loved one is concerned about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, it’s important to talk to your provider sooner rather than later. Treatment options are available and evolving.
To schedule an evaluation by an Independence Health System Neurologist
at the Memory Clinic call:
Greensburg:
724-261-5619
Butler:
724-431-1613, select option 2
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