Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Three Treatment Options for Alzheimer's Disease

By Juliane Anders

Unfortunately, there currently exists no cure for Alzheimer's disease; however, numerous treatment options are available which will treat the symptoms of the disorder. It is essential to be knowledgeable about this illness in order to it effectively. Current treatments for Alzheimer's disease include drugs, care giving by loved ones, and therapy.

There currently exist three drugs approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration and the European medicines agency, which are called Aricept, Razadyne, and Exelon. All three are effective in treating moderate or mild Alzheimer's, although these drugs are less effective when dealing in the treatment of advanced stages of the disease.

Over time, Alzheimer's disease will become more severe and emotional control will be lessened to the point where an individual with the illness may snap or lash out in anger at others. Pharmaceutical drugs can be used to such unpredictable behavior, which will improve the ability of someone with the disease to go out in the public and conduct normal activities without worries.

Widely criticized in some circles, therapy can have an important impact on treating Alzhemier's disease. Problem behaviors can be dealt with by learning what triggers improper actions and how to eliminate or deal with them. Often, those with Alzheimer's do not recognize these behaviors and identifying them can have a positive impact on manage this illness. Tests are still being conducted as to whether therapy does or does not have a beneficial impact on treating Alzheimer's disease.

More forms of therapy include showing persons with Alzheimer's disease familiar photographs or playing music, which can aid in improving memory and concentration.

Sound recordings of the voices of friends or family can also have a soothing effect on Alzheimer's patients by providing a sense of familiarity and security.

When Alzheimer's enters the moderate stage, more attention and care is required from a persons loved ones. Dangerous behaviors will become to emerge, such as setting off a smoke alarm by forgetting about the dinner in the oven, or turning the shower nozzle all the way to hot, potentially resulting in serious burns. A caregiver is needed to keep the person with Alzheimer's safe, and one's spouse can provide this role. As this disease doesn't manifest itself until the age of retirement, an elderly spouse may have difficulty taking care of their husband or wife with the illness. In this case, a nursing home that caters to such an illness can be useful.

With all the treatment options on the market, it is important to be informed and select the option that is right for you or your loved one. Whether it be care giving, medications, or therapy, be sure to consult with your doctor to find out the correct treatment plan.

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