Alzheimers Specialist

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia in the United States, affecting nearly six million people. It’s a progressive brain condition, initially displaying mild memory loss that slowly worsens over time, causing a person to lose their ability to carry on conversations and manage simple tasks. 

Researchers are still investigating what causes Alzheimer’s disease but theorize the condition starts with malfunctioning brain proteins that disrupt brain cell function. These changes cause a toxic reaction that destroys brain cells. 

A combination of factors may trigger the changes in brain function, including genetics, environment, and lifestyle. 

What are the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease?

Memory loss is one of the early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. These changes may affect a person’s ability to recall recent events. Over time, memory problems worsen. 

As the disease progresses, other symptoms may appear, such as the inability to find the right word or impairments in reasoning. 

Alzheimer’s disease symptoms progress in stages:

Mild Alzheimer’s disease

With mild Alzheimer’s disease, memory problems worsen, and cognitive function declines. Repeating questions, taking longer to complete tasks, and wandering are some of the symptoms that appear with mild Alzheimer’s.

Moderate Alzheimer’s disease

Moderate Alzheimer’s disease symptoms involve areas of the brain that control language and reasoning and may cause more confusion and the inability to recognize friends and family.

Severe Alzheimer’s disease

With severe Alzheimer’s disease, brain damage is severe, affecting a person’s ability to communicate and care for themselves.

How is Alzheimer’s disease diagnosed?

Houston Neurological Institute specializes in finding the root cause of a person’s memory loss. 

Your provider performs a comprehensive physical and neurological exam to determine whether Alzheimer’s disease, mini strokes, medication side effects, vitamin deficiencies, or some other condition is the cause of the changes in memory and recall. 

Brain imaging studies may also help pinpoint abnormalities that can identify the changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease. 

How is Alzheimer’s disease treated?

Treatment for Alzheimer’s disease focuses on improving quality of life. Houston Neurological Institute provides prescription medications, vitamin supplements, and family support. 

Your provider also makes recommendations regarding living situations, driving limitations, and long-term plans. 

Houston Neurological Institute is at the forefront of solutions for neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.