Patient Conversation

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Patient Conversation ( Alzheimer’s ) Patient: “I have Alzheimer’s? What is that?” Me: “Well Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that causes problems memory, thinking, and change in behavior. It is a progressive disease that has different stages, from moderate to severe severity.” Patient: “What does that mean?” Me: “That means that it will get worse over time, and will continue to progress over the rest of your life.” Patient: “What can I expect during the early stages of the disease?” Me: “In the early stages of the disease, memory loss may be mild. You may feel confused in familiar places and it could take longer than usual to complete the usual daily tasks. You may have some trouble recognizing family, or friends, as well as continuously…show more content…
Can it be cured?” Me: “Unfortunately it cannot be cured, but it can be treated. Right now there are two types of medication that are being used to help treat and regulate the symptoms of the disease. One type of medication works by slowing the breakdown of a chemical in the brain called acetylcholine, which is a chemical that is involved in learning and memory. Another type of Alzheimer's medication helps regulate the abnormal activity of glutamate in the brain. Glutamate is also a chemical in the brain important for learning and memory.” Patient: “I am happy that there is something that can help me deal with some of these symptoms. I am still a little nervous though; can you talk about the severe stages of Alzheimer’s?” Me: “Well earlier I spoke a little about some of the symptoms in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. Those symptoms will progress to not being able to recognize family, and friends. It will become difficult for you to communicate, and you will need help with everyday activities, like getting dressed, all the way down to taking medication and eating. You may lose control of your bladder and bowel functions. So it is important that you are under careful watch and care of family, friends, or medical

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