Over 5.8 million people in the United States over 65 years of age live with Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurologic disorder that may cause severe memory impairment. The Multiple Sclerosis and Neurology Institute of Austin uses the most up-to-date techniques to identify Alzheimer’s disease at the earliest stage possible, following which we curate unique solutions to slow the progression of symptoms, helping the individual maintain independence for a longer period. If you notice the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease in a loved one, please schedule a consultation with our Alzheimer’s specialist in Austin, TX.
Alzheimer’s Disease FAQs
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurologic disorder that leads to gradual brain atrophy, i.e., the brain cells gradually shrink and die. This is one of the world’s leading causes of dementia, which leads to a continuous loss of behavioral, cognitive, and social skills. Some of the earliest signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include the loss of memory of recent conversations and events, followed by a progressive worsening of the condition. Early intervention can slow down the progression of the symptoms, but there’s no cure for the disease.
What are the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease?
The primary symptom of Alzheimer’s disease is the progressive loss of memory. The earliest signs include difficulty in remembering recent events, conversations, and memories, following which the incidents of forgetfulness may increase. Family members of the individual with Alzheimer’s are more likely to notice the worsening symptoms. Over time, as the condition progresses, individuals with Alzheimer’s disease suffer from memory loss, difficulty in thinking and reasoning, and even changes in behavior and personality.
The following are some signs and symptoms of when to see our Alzheimer’s specialist in Austin:
- Difficulty remembering recent events and conversations
- Repeating certain statements and questions over and over
- Forgetting important events and appointments
- Misplacing possessions or placing them in illogical areas
- Trouble finding the right words for thoughts and objects
- Forgetting the names of family members
- Difficulty with concentration, thinking, and reasoning
- Inability to manage finances or pay bills on time
- Decline in the ability to make everyday decisions and judgments
- Forgetting how to perform basic tasks, such as bathing or cooking
- Mood swings, apathy, depression, and other changes in behavior and personality
- Loss of inhibitions or delusions
What causes Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease occurs when essential proteins in the brain stop functioning properly, leading to a disruption in the working of brain cells. The neurons eventually lose connections with each other and start dying, leading to the loss of memory. While the specific root cause of Alzheimer’s disease isn’t yet known, the primary risk factors include genetic predisposition, environmental factors, aging, head trauma, and lifestyle factors, such as high blood pressure, obesity, and lack of exercise.
How is Alzheimer’s disease
diagnosed and treated?
The Multiple Sclerosis and Neurology Institute of Austin performs state-of-the-art tests to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease at the earliest stage possible. Our diagnostic process includes physical and neurological exams, lab tests, neuropsychological testing, and brain imaging with MRIs and CT scans. Our Alzheimer’s specialist in Austin offers Alzheimer’s medications that improve the symptoms and delay the progression of the disease, and we also focus on lifestyle changes that can delay the symptoms and help the individual adapt.
