Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's Disease?

What is Alzheimer's Disease?

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease which destroys memory and other important mental functions, typically occurring in older people.

Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia. This may show up in symptoms of memory loss or other cognitive abilities, which interfere with a person’s daily routine. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, meaning the symptoms get worse over a period of time. Those with alzheimer’s live 4 to 8 years after diagnosis, however, they may live up to 20 years.

Over 3 Million cases are diagnosed every year in the United States and nearly 200,000 are under the age of 65 (early-onset alzheimer’s). 

What is symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease

The most common symptom noticed is the increase in difficulty of remembering newly learned information. The slow to rapid memory loss and confusion may be the beginning of major changes signifying our brain cells are failing. Other symptoms of Alzheimer’s may include:

  • Disorientation
  • Mood or changes in behavior
  • Confusion about events, time, or place
  • Suspicious of family, friends, and professional caregivers
  • Increasing memory loss
  • Difficulty in speaking, walking, or swallowing

Most of the time those who recognize Alzheimer’s is a problem first – is family and friends.

Alzheimer's Disease

Sadly, there is not a cure for alzheimer’s. We are actively working and researching how to slow the dementia symptoms to improve a person’s quality of life. Dr. Alva has been a pioneer in the field of dementia and alzheimer’s treatment, in particular, TMS has been used to help with symptoms.

What are the types of conditions in Alzheimer's Disease

The most common conditions related to alzheimers are:

  • Dementia (thinking and social symptoms)
  • Psychosis (disconnection from reality)
  • Parkinson’s Disease (condition of the central nervous system)
  • Clinical Depression (depressed mood and loss of interest in activities)
  • Insomnia (problems falling and staying asleep)

Alzheimer's Orange County

Treating alzheimer’s early can help extend independence for a longer period of time. It will also allow for a transition to caregivers, as well. Most medications a neuropsychiatrist may prescribe are best for those in early or middle stages of the disease. No medications, to date, stop the disease, only reduce and control symptoms (such as behavioral).

Medicines should be used with caution and monitored for side effects.

Psychiatry Disorders

Erin Ortiz of Pacific Neuropsychiatric Specialists

More than 50% of adults over the age of 85 have Alzheimer’s and 50% of those who have Alzheimer’s do not know it.

Women tend to have Alzheimer’s more then men and in both male/female symptoms can begin in the 30’s.

Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S.

How do I contact a Psychiatrist near me?

The first step is to call Pacific Neuropsychiatry Specialists, we are the preferred Orange County Psychiatrist. Please call us with any questions, we are here to help!

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