Symptoms / Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease
By Esther Heerema, About.com Guide
Knowledge is power. Learn the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia, as well as the possible causes and risk factors for Alzheimer's disease. Are you wondering whether it's normal to lose your keys or whether it's a symptom of Alzheimer's? You'll find a list of early warning signs here, along with a description of symptoms at each stage of the disease. You'll also learn how Alzheimer's disease is diagnosed and why diagnosis is so complex.
Alzheimer's 101
Over 90% of what we know about Alzheimer's disease has been discovered in the past 20 years. Learn the basics of Alzheimer's because understanding the disease will help you cope with it effectively.
- What is Alzheimer's Disease?
- What Causes Alzheimer's?
- Myths and Realities of Alzheimer's Disease
- Alzheimer's vs. Normal Age-Related Memory Loss
- Mild Cognitive Impairment
- Early-Onset Alzheimer's Disease
- Types of Dementia
- Vascular Dementia
- Lewy Body Dementia
- Prognosis for Alzheimer's Disease
Symptoms
While each person with Alzheimer's is unique, some trademark signs and symptoms occur as the disease progresses.
- Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease
- The Truth Behind Senior Moments
- Early Signs of Alzheimer's
- The Seven Stages of Alzheimer's
- Overview of Late-Stage Alzheimer's
- How Alzheimer's Affects Communication
- Alzheimer's and Sexual Behavior
- Alzheimer's Disease and Sleep Disturbance
- Managing Anxiety in Alzheimer's Disease
Diagnosis
No single test can definitively diagnose Alzheimer's disease. However, a qualified physician who completes several steps can diagnose Alzheimer's with over 90% accuracy.
