HYDERABAD: More than 4 million people in India are afflicted with some form of dementia, with Alzheimer’s being the most common cause. Alzheimer’s is a progressive, degenerative ailment of the brain. What makes this disease so severe is the fact that there is no definitive treatment to cure or slow its progress till date. Even though some medications can temporarily help manage symptoms from worsening, these drugs are effective only for shot periods of time. Its diagnosis can be life changing for not only the patient but also for the whole family. Myths and misleading information can make things worse for families coping with this illness. Time to bust some myths and bring to light some facts about this.
Myth 1 – Only elderly can get Alzheimer’s
Even though it generally occurs in people over the age of 65, it has been found to affect some people even in their 40s and 50s. This is called early-onset Alzheimer’s. While some early signs may appear similar to those that are age-related, there are ways to distinguish these symptoms from general signs of ageing. It causes the brain functions to slowly decline, and as the disease progresses, thinking and reasoning may be affected, making even the simplest of daily chores difficult.
Myth 2 – Alzheimer’s can be prevented
Unfortunately, it cannot be prevented. However, some studies show that vitamins E, B, and C taken regularly along with folate, selenium, and herbal remedies may be helpful. Regular exercise to the mind and body, coupled with eating nutritious food rich in omega-3 has also been shown to be beneficial.
Myth 3 – Alzheimer’s does not kill
It is the most common cause of death in the United States, killing more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer put together. The disease slowly causes brain cells to degenerate, leading to changes in memory. Patients exhibit erratic behavioural patterns and slow, progressive loss of basic body functions such as swallowing, talking, eating, and breathing. They often die of lung infections, or due to lack of nutrition. Patients may even land themselves into risky situations because they forget their way to home.
Myth 4 – Memory loss is indicative of Alzheimer’s disease
This is not necessarily true. While loss of memory is a common problem as you grow older, the memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s is progressive and debilitating. It interferes with the patient’s ability to perform daily chores and how they communicate with people. The memory loss associated with it may cause patients to forget their own name, that of their spouse, or even a longtime friend.
Myth 5 – Being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is end of life
Even if you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with it, you can continue to live a healthy life for many years ahead. While medications may, in some cases, help manage the symptoms to an extent, maintaining a heart-healthy diet, staying physically active, socialising regularly, and taking up activities that challenge the brain can benefit patients by slowing the progression of the disease.
Myth 6 – Alzheimer’s cannot be detected until much later
As with any other disease, early detection is the key to improving survival and life expectancy for patients. Most sufferers die from Alzheimer’s because they are not diagnosed. The lack of knowledge and failing to watch out for signs cause the disease to progress unchecked and undetected. Therefore, early detection not only gives you more time to draw up future plans, but also helps you and your family to tap maximum benefits out of the treatments available. Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination is a test that can successfully detect early signs. It was developed at the Ohio State University.
— Dr M Udaya Kumar Maiya, Medical Director, Portea Medical