Alzheimer’s Disease, Part 1

Mysterious and frustrating, Alzheimer’s afflicts nearly four million Americans, about 10 percent of the over-65 population, and 45 percent of those 85 years or older. (In rare instances, it strikes earlier than 65.)

Sympoms of Alzheimer’s include:

• Brief attention span
• Decreased bowel or bladder control (rarely)
• Depression

• Disorientation

• Forgetfulness (especially about recent events)
• Inability to handle minor tasks, or to speak clearly
• Irritability, hostile behavior, or paranoia

• Lack of spontaneity

• Mental deterioration

• Neglecting to perform routine tasks

If someone you care about shows signs of Alzheimer’s disease, see that they get medical attention to confirm (or rule out) the diagnosis. Not everything that looks like Alzheimer’s is Alzheimer’s. Brain tumors, blood clots in the brain, severe vitamin B12 deficiency, hypothyroidism, and some drug side effects can mimic Alzheimer’s disease. (Unlike Alzheimer’s, these problems can be treated.)

(to be continued next week -J.P.)

Used with permission from A Year of Health Hints by Don R Powell, PHD and the American Institute for Preventive Medicine, copyright 2010. www.healthylife.com