Alzheimer’s disease affects millions worldwide, yet many people don’t fully understand this progressive brain condition. At LECC’s Neurology Clinic, Dr. Alagbe specializes in helping patients and families navigate this challenging diagnosis with expert care and compassionate support.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of all cases. It’s a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys memory, thinking skills, and the ability to carry out simple tasks. While it primarily affects people over 65, early-onset cases can occur in people as young as their 40s or 50s.
The disease involves two key abnormalities in the brain: amyloid plaques (protein deposits between nerve cells) and neurofibrillary tangles (twisted protein fibers inside cells). These structures interfere with brain cell communication and eventually cause cells to die, leading to the symptoms we associate with Alzheimer’s.
Recognizing the Signs
Alzheimer’s progresses through three main stages:
- Early Stage: Memory lapses become noticeable like forgetting names, misplacing items, difficulty with planning and organizing. People can still function independently but may struggle with complex tasks.
- Middle Stage: The longest stage, often lasting many years. Symptoms include forgetting personal history, confusion about dates and places, mood changes, difficulty with routine tasks, and increased risk of wandering.
- Late Stage: Individuals need extensive help with daily care. They may lose awareness of their surroundings, have difficulty communicating, and experience significant physical decline.
What Increases Your Risk?
Some risk factors you can’t change like age, family history, and genetics. But others are within your control: cardiovascular health, physical activity levels, smoking, alcohol consumption, sleep quality, social engagement, and continuing education throughout life.
The good news? Research shows that maintaining heart health, staying physically and mentally active, eating a brain-healthy diet (like the Mediterranean diet), and staying socially connected may help reduce your risk.
Treatment Options at LECC
While there’s no cure yet, Dr. Alagbe offers comprehensive treatment approaches that can improve quality of life:
- Medications like cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA antagonists help manage symptoms by supporting brain chemistry.
- Lifestyle interventions including exercise programs, cognitive stimulation, social activities, and therapeutic approaches like music and art therapy.
- Personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique stage and needs, with regular monitoring and adjustments.
Supporting the Whole Family
At LECC’s Neurology Clinic, we understand that Alzheimer’s affects entire families. We provide education, resources, and support for caregivers, because taking care of yourself is essential when caring for someone with Alzheimer’s.
When to Seek Help
If memory problems interfere with daily life, it’s time for professional evaluation. Early diagnosis is crucial because it allows for earlier treatment, time to plan for the future, and access to clinical trials and new therapies.
Don’t dismiss memory changes as “just getting older.” Dr. Alagbe can determine whether symptoms are due to Alzheimer’s, another condition, or normal aging.
Take the First Step
Living with Alzheimer’s is challenging, but expert care makes all the difference. At LECC’s Neurology Clinic, Dr. Alagbe provides thorough diagnostic evaluation, personalized treatment plans, medication management, and ongoing support for both patients and families.
Contact LECC’s Neurology Clinic today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Alagbe. Together, we’ll develop a comprehensive plan to address your concerns and provide the support you need. Your brain health is our priority.
For appointments at LECC’s Neurology Clinic with Dr. Alagbe, contact us today 08173651737
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