A new survey reveals that nearly 80% of Americans would want to know if they have Alzheimer’s disease before any symptoms appear. But with no cure for the disease at this early stage, the decision to get tested is complicated. Here’s what experts suggest about Alzheimer’s testing and when it’s worth considering.
Alzheimer’s Disease: Aging or Something More?
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, affecting around 6 million Americans. It’s a progressive disease, meaning its symptoms—like memory loss, trouble reasoning, and difficulty thinking—get worse over time. Symptoms usually begin in the mid-60s, but can appear earlier.
Common signs of Alzheimer’s include forgetting names, getting lost easily, mood changes, and difficulty completing tasks. However, not all memory lapses are signs of Alzheimer’s. Experts say it’s normal to forget things occasionally as we age.
If forgetting something occasionally (like why you entered a room) doesn’t affect your daily life, it’s likely just a normal part of aging. But if you forget things often and can’t remember them later, it could be time to talk to a doctor.
When to Talk to Your Doctor About Testing
If you or a loved one notice troubling memory changes, it’s important to see a doctor. Start by visiting a primary care provider, who can perform simple cognitive screenings. If necessary, they may refer you to a specialist for more detailed tests.
Doctors may use brain scans or cerebrospinal fluid tests to check for the abnormal proteins linked to Alzheimer’s. While these tests can be helpful, they aren’t always easy to access. Many people prefer non-invasive tests, like blood tests, which measure protein levels tied to Alzheimer’s. However, these blood tests are still mostly used in research and have not been approved for general use.
Should Healthy People Be Tested for Alzheimer’s?
While it’s possible to detect signs of Alzheimer’s long before symptoms appear, there’s debate about whether healthy individuals should be tested. Finding out early could motivate a person to adopt healthier habits like exercise, a good diet, and brain-stimulating activities, all of which can delay or prevent cognitive decline.
However, experts caution that testing may not always be helpful. Although there are treatments available for early-stage Alzheimer’s, they aren’t for people who don’t yet have symptoms. Additionally, the news of a possible Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be overwhelming, especially when there’s little doctors can do for those without symptoms.
For now, experts suggest focusing on healthy lifestyle choices that benefit everyone, regardless of Alzheimer’s risk.
Conclusion
The decision to get tested for Alzheimer’s, especially before symptoms appear, is a personal one. While early detection might help some people make lifestyle changes, there are currently no treatments for presymptomatic Alzheimer’s. If you’re concerned about memory or cognition, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor and focus on a healthy lifestyle to support brain health.
Read more:
- Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment
- The Mysteries of Alzheimer’s: Understanding its Causes
- What’s the Best over the Counter Estrogen Replacement?
