Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that is often difficult to diagnose in its early stages. However, researchers have discovered new ways to detect Alzheimer’s even before a person shows many symptoms. This is a positive development in many respects, especially if it leads to future treatments, but it also raises some tough questions for people deciding whether to get tested for a disease that is currently incurable.
A couple in California recently shared their story “The Curse of a Diagnosis” with the Wall Street Journal and it’s easy to relate to their story. Linda Dangaard, 57, decided to get tested after she noticed she was repeating herself and getting confused. Typically with Alzheimer’s, the first several tests weren’t conclusive. But ultimately, a spinal tap detected the proteins associated with the brain plaques and tangles that are a hallmark of the disease.
Dangaard was caught off guard. She says she doesn’t have a family history of Alzheimer’s and other than her mild symptoms, she felt healthy. Her husband, Colin Dangaard, says the diagnosis has been much worse than the disease. He says his wife is still highly functioning in most respects, but now the state has taken away her driver’s license and it’s made her more dependent. She tried to re-take the driver’s test but failed it. He blames stress. Meanwhile, Mrs. Dangaard’s sister says the couple is in denial.
While empathizing with the Dangaard’s situation, my advice is to take action as soon as you notice symptoms, and if you have a family history of Alzheimer’s, then even earlier. While mild memory loss is normal with aging, a common sign of Alzheimer’s would be difficulty performing mental tasks that were once routine. Get guidance from your physician about testing. Once you are certain you or your loved one has the disease, there are steps you can take to manage it. The diagnosis also gives you and your family more time to prepare for the time when symptoms become more pronounced.
Accurately diagnosing Alzheimer’s is still tricky, but a tool approved just last month by the FDA will make it easier. The radioactive dye, called Amyvid, will make brain plaque visible on a PET scan. It is expected to be available starting this summer.