January 4 - January 10, 2009
TREATMENT
Introducing Axona
Axona, for mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's, is a new FDA-regulated product to be released in the first quarter of 2009. It works by providing an alternative energy source to brain cells.
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DIAGNOSIS
Diagnosing Alzheimer's with MRI's
There are times when MRI scans can accurately diagnose Alzheimer's. One example is when they detect shrinkage in specific regions of the mid-brain. A new study shows how these MRI's work, and their importance in obtaining the best treatment.
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WEEKLY RESEARCH BULLETIN
Brain Starvation Appears to Trigger Alzheimer's
A new Northwestern University study found that as we age, the brain may not get enough glucose (sugar). This launches a process producing sticky clumps of protein that appear to be a cause of Alzheimer's.
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ASK NURSE DINA
A caregiver asks:
Dear Nurse Dina,
Is not drinking enough connected to dementia?
My dad has not been drinking on his own . He used to stop by the sink and get a drink in the kitchen many times a day. Now I cannot get him to take any water or juice during the day.
I have offered a wide variety of Gatorade, juice, or hot cocoa. He does drink a small glass of OJ and a cup of coffee for breakfast, then milk for lunch and dinner. That is it.
He says he is not thirsty and does not want the drink. How harmful is this? Dad has dementia. Does he not realize he is thirsty or does he forget? Could this lead to problems with kidneys, dehydration or muscle cramps? I guess I just need to know if this is normal behavior and what could happen.
To read responses, post a comment, or ask a new question, click here...
