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Alzheimer's Disease Myths vs Facts

Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging. It’s the result of complex changes in the brain that start years before symptoms appear and lead to the loss of brain cells and their connections. Alzheimer’s is a leading cause of death and hence, it’s important to distinguish the facts from the myths. Read on to learn more about this.

Myths & Facts You Should Know

1. Myth

-Alzheimer's is same as dementia.

● Fact

-Alzheimer’s is not identical to dementia. However, it is one of the most common causes of dementia in older adults.

2. Myth

-Alzheimer's is hereditary.

● Fact

-While Alzheimer’s can be passed on through genetic coding, however, familial Alzheimer’s is rare. For children who have been diagnosed with familial Alzheimer’s, it just increases their risk but does not guarantee that they will develop the disease as well.

3. Myth

-Only people in their 70s and above get Alzheimer’s disease.

● Fact

-While the greater known risk of Alzheimer’s disease is age, it does not mean that only older adults develop it. There are people who experience Alzheimer’s symptoms at an early age, even as young as their 30s.

4. Myth

-Age-related memory loss is Alzheimer's disease.

● Fact

-It is common to become forgetful with age but mistaking it for Alzheimer’s disease is a dangerous mistake as Alzheimer’s bring forth other serious conditions such as impaired judgement, complete amnesia and losing track of time.

5. Myth

-There are treatments to stop the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

● Fact

-Currently, there aren’t any treatments that offer a cure. With that being said, there are medications that have been approved to temporarily hinder the progression of certain symptoms.

6. Myth

-Memory loss is the only Alzheimer’s symptom.

● Fact

-Though memory loss is the most recognizable symptom of Alzheimer’s, other symptoms include challenges in planning or solving problems, difficulty completing familiar tasks, confusion with time or place, trouble understanding the relationship between space and objects, problems with writing and speaking, losing the ability to retrace steps, misplacing things, poor judgment, withdrawal from social activities, and general changes in mood, personality, and behavior.

7. Myth

-Alzheimer’s disease is a normal part of aging.

● Fact

-Though the mind can become less sharp over time, the memory symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease are not a normal part of aging.

8. Myth

-Researchers know what causes Alzheimer’s disease.

● Fact

-The exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is unknown and like other neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, it is believed that Alzheimer’s disease is caused by a mix of genetic and environmental factors.

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Conclusion

Alzheimer’s disease is a serious ailment that affects the brain of a person. It is important to be able to differentiate myths from the facts so you or your close ones can get the right Alzheimer’s disease treatment.

Sources: Antidote, WebMD

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on September 20, 2022