Alzheimer’s is one of the most feared diseases in the United States, according to research by MetLife. A precise diagnosis followed by a custom-designed treatment plan designed by the expert team of neurologists at Shankle Clinic, led by William Shankle, MS, MD, FACP, helps slow Alzheimer’s progression. Shankle Clinic is located within the Hoag Neurosciences Institute in Newport Beach, California. To set up an Alzheimer’s evaluation for yourself, a parent, or other loved one, contact the knowledgeable staff by phone or use the online form.
Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the progressive degeneration and death of brain cells, which leads to memory problems, cognitive difficulties, and the loss of social skills and independence. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States. Alzheimer’s is more deadly than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.
Though most women and men with Alzheimer’s in the US are over age 65, about 200,000 have early-onset Alzheimer’s. Because Alzheimer’s is progressive, symptoms worsen over time. You’re more at risk for Alzheimer’s if you:
Keeping your heart, brain, and body healthy by adopting lifestyle changes such as improving diet, losing weight, and exercising may prevent or delay Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s is not the same as age-related forgetfulness and isn’t a normal part of aging. Some warning signs of Alzheimer’s are:
Early evaluation helps someone in the early stages of Alzheimer’s get the care they need to slow the disease’s progression.
If your neurologist at Shankle Clinic diagnoses Alzheimer’s disease, they tailor the treatment plan to the stage of your disease and current symptoms. Some therapies include:
FDA-approved Cognex®, Aricept®, Razadyne®, and Exelon® increase the availability of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and slow production of beta-amyloid plaques, which are the primary cause of Alzheimer’s disease.
FDA-approved Namenda® blocks neuronal suicide and facilitates the release of normal amounts of glutamate, which is needed for proper brain communication. Namenda may also block the formation of neurofibrillary tangles that occur with Alzheimer’s disease.
Medications may delay disease progression by up to six years. Adopting a healthy diet, adding more exercise and activities, and getting social support can also improve or delay Alzheimer’s.
To set up an Alzheimer’s evaluation, contact Shankle Clinic by calling or using the online form.
