A common misconception of some individuals is that Alzheimer's isn't a fatal disease, which unfortunately is not true. As Alzheimer's disease progresses, it builds up plaque in between neurons, which slows and retards their function. In moderate to advanced forms of this disease, a loss of brain cells will occur, leading to memory loss and poor concentration. As time progresses, these symptoms will only grow worse.
A additional myth about Alzheimer's is that the disease is made up by doctors, and that they don't really have a problem coping with life. This is untrue, and a delay in treatment can have devastating effects on treatment.
Many persons who have convinced themselves that Alzheimer's is a fake illness do not seek treatment until it is much too late to manage their symptoms. It may take an incident such as forgetting where one is and how they got there, before the family becomes concerned for the individual's safety and gets them treatment.
Some individuals believe that there is currently treatment that can stop the progression of Alzheimer's disease; however, this is unfortunately a myth. While research is being conducted at a rapid pace, the only options that exist in treating Alzheimer's involves drugs which temporarily relieve symptoms for as long as a year and then will cease to work. Management of the illness is currently the only alternative to the lack of treatment.
That silver fillings can increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease is the last myth to be debunked. As silver dental fillings are composed of half mercury in addition to tin and silver, it is widely surmised that this heavy metal will cause damage to the brain over an extended period of time.
The World Health Organization and the FDA have conducted numerous studies to set to rest any public health concerns regarding mercury amalgams, and the National Institute of Health, as well as the New England Journal of Medicine, have backed up these findings.
Even though a cure for Alzheimer's has not been found as of yet, it is essential to stay current and educated with regards to information about this illness. With these four myths debunked, it is essential to do proper research in order to better treat and manage this disease.
By Juliane Anders
