NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES

2021-08-31

NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES: WHY EARLY DIAGNOSIS MATTERS

Are you or someone close to you experiencing forgetfulness or changes in thinking skills? For neurodegenerative diseases, recognizing these signs early can be pivotal. These conditions, often linked to dementia, predominantly affect older adults but can also occur in younger individuals. Dementia, which usually worsens over time, can arise from various degenerative causes, including injury and illness. It impacts:

• Memory
• Language skills
• Problem-solving abilities
• Visual perception
• Daily task management
• Attention and focus

In this discussion, we’ll delve into different neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting the vital role of early diagnosis in maintaining the best possible quality of life.

THE MANY FACES OF NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASE

Neurodegenerative diseases come in several forms. Let’s look at some common types:
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD): Most prevalent in those over 60, AD gradually impairs memory, thought, and language.
Huntington’s Disease (HD): An inherited condition, HD often surfaces in middle age, leading to uncontrollable movements and cognitive decline.
Lewy Body Dementia (LBD): Accounting for 5-10% of dementia cases, LBD starts with cognitive issues and progresses to movement problems, hallucinations, and sleep disorders.
Parkinson’s Dementia (PD): Originating as a movement disorder, PD evolves into cognitive challenges in its later stages.
Vascular Dementia: Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, this type often coexists with Alzheimer’s or LBD.
Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD): FTD affects behavior, language, and personality due to nerve cell breakdown in specific brain regions.
Mixed Dementia: Often a blend of conditions like Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.

EARLY DIAGNOSIS: A CRITICAL WINDOW

Neurodegenerative diseases can begin 10-20 years before clinical diagnosis. This early stage is crucial for intervention. Late-stage therapies for conditions like AD are less effective due to significant neuronal loss. However, early-stage treatments show promise, with some studies suggesting that 10-20% of these cases might be reversible.
An early diagnosis can provide hope and necessary information for planning future care, addressing financial and legal matters, and making end-of-life decisions. At Thought Wise, we offer comprehensive evaluations in a compassionate setting to empower patients and their families.

OUR FOCUS: QUALITY OF LIFE

At Thought Wise, we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life through various therapeutic approaches post-diagnosis, including:

• Alzheimer’s Disease Management
• Chronic Illness Management
• Dementia Management
• Memory Problems Counseling
• Mild Cognitive Impairment Therapy

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all in dementia care, but early diagnosis is universally crucial.

CONCLUSION: TAKE THE FIRST STEP

If you or a loved one is experiencing significant memory lapses, difficulty articulating thoughts, or problem-solving challenges, don’t delay. Contact us for an evaluation. The sooner a diagnosis is made, the better the chances of managing the condition effectively.
You are not alone in this journey. Let Thought Wise be your partner in navigating these challenges.
If you’re concerned about memory loss or cognitive changes in yourself or a loved one? Early assessment is key in managing Alzheimer’s Disease. Learn more about our approach on our Alzheimer’s Disease Evaluation page. Our skilled team offers comprehensive evaluations and support, guiding you through every step of the process.