Alzheimer's Diagnosis from a Traumatic Brain Injury

mvrgs67

Hello my name is Millie and I am new to this website. Last year on March 31 I blacked out while standing on the sidewalk and hit my head on the left side top of my eyebrow and upper cheekbone. I immediately started experiencing memory loss and confusion, I couldn't even remember the year I was on. Moving forward my primary doctor referred me to a neurologist which was very on point to doing all the tests necessary before I was diagnosed 3 months after my fall.
I am on medication to slow down the process of Alzheimer's and I am still on stage . Yes I have noticed some positive changes but also some things I can't explain. I have done extensive research to educate myself about the stages of Alzheimer's and I have been experiencing things that are related to more advance stages so I have a huge question can someone with the same diagnosis can explain to me why is this happening?
My mind is still sharp but I have some very bad days that I forget to shower or care for myself, I either sleep a lot or don't sleep much and my behavior it's extremely odd and all over the place to the point that I'm embarrassed to even go out cause I act like a child.

Iris L.

Welcome to our online support group, Millie. It appears that your neurologist is treating you as an early stage Alzheimer's Disease patient. I am puzzled, did your memory loss begin only after your head trauma in March, or had you been experiencing symptoms for some time before? For example, were you having difficulties writing checks or making out a grocery list or preparing a cooked meal in the oven or on the stove? Usually Alzheimer's Disease does not begin abruptly. Also, usually it does not progress quickly, but gradually.

You are concerned about symptoms from the advanced stages. Can you give me a couple of examples? Then I can respond better.

It is natural to feel a great deal of anxiety and depression on receiving a dementia diagnosis. In our present culture, the belief is that there is nothing that can be done. But the members on these boards have taught me a great deal about what I can do for myself to care for myself. You can learn, too!

For now, I suggest that you try to limit going out. I always believe it is vital to develop a philosophy of living with dementia. My own philosophy has helped me focus my self care and has made it possible for me to go forward in my life.

Can you tell more about yourself? Are you retired? Do you have a family member or close friend who might be willing to become your care partner? The answers will help in your planning for the future.

Iris