Can Alzheimers Disease Be Treated?

Alzheimer's Disease: Pervasive and Challenging

Alzheimer's disease has permeated our lives. Regardless of our wishes, the number of individuals afflicted with this condition continues to rise. They may be living among us, even influencing our daily existence. The prevalent understanding among most of us is that Alzheimer's disease is incurable, a belief rooted in the current medical field's helplessness towards it.

Medically known as Alzheimer's disease (AD), it is a neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system characterized by insidious onset and chronic progressive development. It is the most common form of dementia among the elderly. Primary symptoms include memory impairment, impaired judgment and orientation, personality changes, behavioral disturbances, and more, significantly impacting the lives of seniors, sometimes to the point of losing self-care abilities and burdening family members.

Is Alzheimer's Irreversible? Is Medicine Powerless?

These are pressing questions on our minds. Alzheimer's disease is indeed a degenerative neurological disorder. While its etiology and pathogenesis remain incompletely understood, pharmacological treatments struggle to delay or reverse its progression. However, some cases of AD stem from cerebrovascular diseases, metabolic disorders, malnutrition, hydrocephalus, etc. In these instances, certain underlying causes can be corrected or effectively reversed through treatment. Thus, with proper intervention and therapy, such forms of AD may hold the potential for cure.

Early detection and subsequent early treatment are crucial for managing Alzheimer's disease. The onset of AD is not abrupt but gradual, and abnormalities in elderly individuals can be discerned during this process. When we notice forgetfulness, especially regarding recent events, diminished capacity to learn new information, and persistent difficulty in retaining reminders, it's imperative to promptly seek consultation at a neurology department in a general hospital.

Cognitive function assessments by treating physicians are essential. To distinguish between benign age-related forgetfulness and potential AD, initial screening via simple cognitive function scales is recommended. When suspicions arise, a comprehensive set of cognitive function scales should be administered for further evaluation. Currently, the Wechsler Intelligence Scale and Wechsler Memory Scale are widely used in China. Early identification of issues is instrumental in both treatment and slowing disease progression.

Beyond Medication: The Role of Family's Unwavering Love

Treating Alzheimer's disease necessitates not just medication but also the unyielding love and support of family members. Family stands as a cornerstone, more vital than any medication.