Dementia and Alzheimer Disease
Knowledge, support, and compassion are crucial elements in navigating dementia, including Alzheimer disease. The team at Sonoma Neurology, Pain & Headache is here to help in the North Bay and Petaluma area as we explore treatment options with our patients fostering hope and understanding.
Are dementia and Alzheimer disease the same thing?
Dementia is a level of memory loss and cognitive dysfunction precluding a person being able to live safely alone without any help. Paying the bills, driving, shopping and even using one’s cell phone can become more difficult over time, at least with progressive forms of dementia like Alzheimer disease. There are other progressive forms, some which have a much faster course. Dementia can occur with a head injury and not progress, or it can develop with strokes that are not necessarily progressive if the underlying cause can be halted. Some people with dementia have an underlying Alzheimer disease complicated by other issues, such as strokes. Neurologists can help clarify such overlapping situations.
Alzheimer disease is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits in the brain. If you suffer from Alzheimer disease, there is a disruption in the communication between nerve cells. This leads to a gradual decline in cognitive abilities. The journey through Alzheimer disease and other dementias often unfold in stages, each presenting its unique challenges.
Symptoms of Alzheimer Disease
Early detection is helpful as you strive to manage Alzheimer disease. It can affect people in their 30s but most often after 65 and usually progresses quite slowly. Knowing if you have it can help you make plans for both you and your family.
Some symptoms of Alzheimer disease:
- Consistently forgetting about recent conversations or events
- Misplacing items frequently
- Forgetting the names of people, places and common objects
- Having trouble thinking of the right word (which can also be a sign of other forms of dementia such as Primary Progressive Aphasia)
- Asking questions repetitively
- Showing poor judgement or find it harder to make even simple decisions
- Becoming less flexible and more hesitant to try new things
Diagnosing Alzheimer Disease and other dementias
Diagnostic procedures involve:
- Cognitive assessments by a neurologist or neuropsychologist
- Medical and neurological evaluations
- Imaging of the brain to rule in or out other conditions that might cause the same symptoms
- Taking a thorough medical history
- Blood and possibly cerebrospinal fluid lab testing
Despite the emotional difficulty in accepting such a frightening diagnosis, understanding the disease’s progression equips individuals and their families to plan for the future and access appropriate support.
Cognitive Consultation Services
There is no treatment yet that cures Alzheimer disease or other dementias, but cognitive consultation services and symptomatic treatment can help a person and his or her family cope.
We do provide research studies and education for those who want to be on the cutting edge of new medications and services. Ongoing research endeavors seek to unravel the mysteries of Alzheimer disease and develop innovative treatments. In the face of this condition, hope lies not only in scientific advancements but also in the resilience of individuals and communities.
We will work with you and your family to formulate the best possible treatment plan. We believe the patient needs to be an active participant in their plan of care and all decisions regarding treatments.
Sonoma Neurology, Pain & Headache Can Help
Sonoma Neurology, Pain & Headache has helped many with the challenge of Alzheimer Disease and other dementias. We know it is a difficult diagnosis to face, but you are not alone. We can help you as a caregiver navigate this new path and get the help and resources you need. We value your quality of life and can provide resources and other health services to help you on your journey.
*Please note: A clinician referral is required to schedule an appointment.