Dispelling myths about Alzheimer's disease

In 1982 President Reagan signed a proclamation designating the first National Alzheimer's Awareness Week. Since then November has become National Alzheimer's Awareness Month and an opportunity to educate the public about a disease that affects more than 5 million Americans. Alzheimer's disease has received much press since President Reagan shared with the Nation in 1994 that he suffered from the disease. But with all the available information on Alzheimer's disease there are still many myths.

Myth 1: Memory loss is a normal part of aging

Although research suggests there may be a slowing down of recall as the brain ages, significant or progressive memory loss is not a normal part of aging. There is a saying that if you forgot where you parked your car at the mall you are probably OK, but if you forgot that you drove to the mall you should be concerned. If memory loss (forgetting appointments, losing things, forgetting names of familiar people, etc.) starts to affect your daily functioning it is worth discussing with your primary physician.

Myth 2: All memory loss is caused by Alzheimer's disease

It is important to know that there are many different causes of memory loss and to highlight that some causes are reversible. Dementia is a term used to describe symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, personality changes, and loss of mental function. There are many reversible causes of dementia such as drug interactions, untreated medical conditions, depression, and acute infection. When treated for one of these causes dementia often clears up. It has been estimated that 10 percent of reported dementia cases are reversible but if left untreated can cause permanent damage.

Myth 3: Since there is no cure there is no need for a diagnostic evaluation

If you or someone you know is suffering from memory loss, it is important to consult a doctor to determine the cause. Memory loss does not always mean that someone has Alzheimer's disease. There are many different causes of memory loss and some causes are reversible if treated in time. It is true that there is no one test to diagnose Alzheimer's disease but through a variety of tests other causes can be ruled out. A diagnostic workup usually involves a thorough medical history, a complete physical and neurological exam, mental status testing, blood tests and brain imaging.

Myth 4: There is nothing that can be done for someone with Alzheimer's disease

Early detection of Alzheimer's disease is crucial to one's overall wellbeing. Although there is no current cure, treatments are available to treat the symptoms associated with Alzheimer's. The disease causes a destruction of brain cells, which ultimately affects one's overall functioning.