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Unsure about my diagnosis

lost1
lost1 Member Posts: 8
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in I Am Living With Alzheimer's or Other Dementia
I had a brain scan that showed my hippocampus is at 5%, but no tau tangles so it’s not Alz. My speech is slower then it was, I forget things all the time, I have trouble with thinking things through. My emotions are ridiculous. How long before I’m lost?
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  • Iris L.
    Iris L. Member Posts: 4,485
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    Welcome lost1. You do have some concerning symptoms. There are many dementia mimics. Has your doctor evaluated you with blood tests? Have you had an overnight sleep study to look for sleep apnea? Are you on medications that have cognitive side effects? Check with drugs.com or rxlist.com. Do you have a history of head trauma? Do you have a history of depression?

    Are you seeing a dementia-specialist neurologist? If so, we're you given a diagnosis? Were you offered any of the memory medications? How are you functioning at home? Are you working? There is time for you to make plans for yourself. Please post back, we will help you!

    Iris

  • lost1
    lost1 Member Posts: 8
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    https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/203766#Comment_203766

    sleep study - negative, no medications, taking aricept

  • Iris L.
    Iris L. Member Posts: 4,485
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    Lost1, it's good that you are on medication. Have you noticed any changes? I noticed improvement in my speech and in my memory within a few days when I began Exelon patch.

    The majority of PWDs (persons with dementia) are unaware of having dementia. The fact that you are aware means that you will be able to participate in your own care and make your wishes known. Have you made any plans yet?

    Iris

  • mkoscik
    mkoscik Member Posts: 11
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    When I was first diagnosed with Vascular Dementia I took Aricept (Donepezil). I had severe bowel issues and such incredible vivid dreams that I could not continue. I stopped after three months, but, recently I tried Namenda (Memantine) , it was horrible, I felt as if I had lost my mind completely, very similar to what I experience after nightmares, but it was after taking the med. It didn't go away for hours and I stopped it immediately. I am always looking for new drug developed to slow the cognitive decline and will keep in contact with my neuropsych doctor for updates.

  • mkoscik
    mkoscik Member Posts: 11
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    Member

    Iris, I am going to ask my doctor about the Exelon patch when I see her Tuesday. I hope she prescribes it and I receive the benefits,as you did! Thanks.

  • Iris L.
    Iris L. Member Posts: 4,485
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    Along with medication, you can add the lifestyle changes. Also take steps to organize your life and make your life easier.

    Iris

  • lost1
    lost1 Member Posts: 8
    First Comment
    Member

    Well my wife is supportive. Had lawyer revise our legal documents.

Commonly Used Abbreviations


DH = Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife, Darling Wife
LO = Loved One
ES = Early Stage
EO = Early Onset
FTD = Frontotemporal Dementia
VD = Vascular Dementia
MC = Memory Care
AL = Assisted Living
POA = Power of Attorney
Read more

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