Alzheimer Disease
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the disease affects 16.1 million Americans and is the sixth leading cause of death in the nation.
Your risk for Alzheimer’s disease increases as you age, but Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of the aging process. In fact, nearly 200,000 men and women under 65 are diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s.
Approximately 60%-80% of dementia cases are connected to Alzheimer’s. There is currently no cure for the disease, and symptoms gradually grow more pronounced as the disease progresses. Treatments can help slow progression of the disease, giving you improved quality of life and enhancing your independence.
How is Alzheimer’s treated?
Dr. Saeed creates a customized treatment plan for every man and women in his care. Treating Alzheimer’s is easier and more effective when your family is involved in your care plan and can provide the support and assistance needed.
Medications might play a role in your care. Drugs like memantine and donepezil can help with memory loss. Medications come with a risk of side effects and drug interactions, however, which is why it’s so important to discuss all of your medications and supplements with Dr. Saeed early in your treatment process.
Behavior-modifying treatments can also help manage Alzheimer’s. This is an area where loved ones can really make a difference. Creating a calm, soothing, non-confrontational living environment can go a long way toward reducing the anxiety that many Alzheimer’s patients experience. Enhancing sleep is another important area of focus.