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Most people with early-onset Alzheimer's disease develop symptoms of the disease in their 30s and 60s.

Causes
Most people with early-onset Alzheimer's disease have the most common form of the disease, called sporadic Alzheimer's disease. This type is not caused by genetics, and experts do not know why these people get the disease at a younger age than others.

But others with early-onset Alzheimer's disease have a type of disease called familial Alzheimer's disease. They likely have a parent or grandparent who also developed Alzheimer's disease at a younger age.



Coping with early-onset Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease has a tremendous impact at any age. But people with new-onset Alzheimer's disease may face some unique challenges.

They may face stigmas and stereotypes about the disease. Due to their young age, people with new-onset Alzheimer's disease may find that others do not believe they have the disease or question the diagnosis.

People with new-onset Alzheimer's disease may lose relationships or jobs as a result of this misunderstanding rather than being identified as sick or disabled.

They may also face a loss of income from being diagnosed while still working.

Diagnosis

An important part of diagnosing Alzheimer's disease includes being able to explain the symptoms, as well as a family member or close friend's perspective on them and their impact on daily life. Also, a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is based on tests your doctor performs to assess memory and thinking skills.

Laboratory and imaging tests can rule out other potential causes or help your doctor better identify the disease causing your dementia symptoms.

Alzheimer's disease can be safely diagnosed only after death, at which point microscopic examination of the brain reveals the characteristic plaques and tangles.



TreatmentMedicines

Current medications to treat Alzheimer's disease may help memory-affecting symptoms and other cognitive changes for a time. Currently, two types of medications are used to relieve symptoms that affect the cognitive system:


Cholinesterase inhibitors. These drugs increase the levels of communication between cells by preserving a neurotransmitter that is depleted in the brain by Alzheimer's disease

Memantine (Namenda). This drug works on another brain cell communication network and slows the progression of symptoms in moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. It is sometimes used in combination with a cholinesterase inhibitor. Relatively rare side effects include dizziness and disorientation.Other medications, such as antidepressants, may sometimes be prescribed to help control the behavioral symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Other medications, such as antidepressants, may sometimes be prescribed to help control the behavioral symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease.







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