[This content is a story-based medical science article, please read it rationally, and do not sit down]
"Doctor, I've been forgetting what I've said lately, is this a sign of Alzheimer's?" Aunt Li asked nervously, her eyes full of worry and fear.
As a neurologist who has been practicing medicine for many years, I have long been accustomed to such problems. Whenever I look at the patient's eyes full of anticipation, I can't help but feel a little heartache. Alzheimer's disease, a discoloring disease, how many people still don't know anything about it?
Aunt Li is 65 years old and was a middle school Chinese teacher before she retired. Her son, Xiao Wang, accompanied her to the hospital, said that his mother had been repeating the same things lately, often forgetting what she had just said, and sometimes leaving the keys in the refrigerator, which worried the whole family.
I listened carefully to Xiao Wang's description, and asked Aunt Li about some daily life. Then I said to Aunt Li gently, "Don't worry too much, let's do some simple tests first, and then talk about your situation in detail, okay?" "
Aunt Li nodded and followed me to do a series of cognitive function tests and neurological examinations. The results of the examination showed that Aunt Li's cognitive function decreased slightly, but it was not enough to diagnose Alzheimer's disease.
After returning to the office, I explained the results in detail and told Aunt Li and Xiao Wang: "At present, Aunt Li's situation is more like mild cognitive dysfunction in the normal aging process. However, we still need to pay close attention, as it may be an early manifestation of Alzheimer's disease. "
Seeing Aunt Li's relief, I took the opportunity to start a small lecture on Alzheimer's disease.
"Alzheimer's disease, whose scientific name is Alzheimer's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease. It causes a gradual decline in memory, thinking skills, behavior, and daily living abilities. Early symptoms are often subtle and many people may mistake them for normal aging. "
I paused, saw that Aunt Li and Xiao Wang were listening attentively, and continued: "There are some common 'mantras' that may be early warning signs of Alzheimer's disease. For example, I often say, 'Where did I just go?' 'Who is this?' 'Where did I put my key?' 'What day of the week is today?' 'Why did I forget again?' 'What's the name of this thing?' 'Am I suffering from Alzheimer's?' '"
When Aunt Li heard this, her eyes lit up, and she interjected: "Doctor, I seem to say these things a lot!" Is it really going to become Alzheimer's? "
I smiled and reassured, "Aunt Li, please don't worry. These 'mantras' may indeed be early signs, but they may also just be manifestations of normal aging, and the key is the frequency and severity of these symptoms. Occasional forgettings or slips of the tongue are quite normal and only require special attention when these problems seriously affect daily life. "
Xiao Wang nodded thoughtfully and asked, "Doctor, are there any other early symptoms besides these mantras?" "
"Good question," I glanced at Xiao Wang approvingly, "In addition to memory loss, early symptoms include impaired judgment, personality changes, increased mood swings, and decreased verbal skills. For example, there may be a decrease in numeracy, disorientation to time and place, difficulty making decisions, and loss of interest in things that used to be enjoyed. "
Aunt Li listened carefully and suddenly asked, "Doctor, how is Alzheimer's disease caused?" Can we prevent it? "
I patiently explained: "The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is not fully understood, and it may be related to genetic factors, environmental factors, lifestyle and other factors. While we can't prevent it completely, there are ways to reduce the risk of disease. "
For example, maintain an active social life and communicate with friends and family frequently; Adhere to moderate physical exercise to enhance physical fitness; Keep your brain active and learn more new knowledge and skills; Maintain a healthy diet and eat foods rich in antioxidants; Control blood pressure, blood lipids, blood sugar, quit smoking and limit alcohol, etc. Not only do these methods help prevent Alzheimer's disease, but they also have great benefits for overall health. "
When Xiao Wang heard this, he said thoughtfully: "I see, it seems that we still have to pay more attention to the living habits of the elderly." "
I nodded and added, "Yes, early detection and early intervention are also important. If you notice that the elderly have significant cognitive decline, such as often forgetting important things and having difficulty completing daily tasks, they should seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow disease progression and improve quality of life. "
After listening to this, the anxiety on Aunt Li's face was obviously reduced a lot. She said gratefully, "Thank you, doctor, I understand a lot now." In the future, I will pay more attention to my lifestyle habits and will come back regularly. "
I smiled and nodded, and then admonished, "Aunt Li, you don't need to worry too much about your current situation. It's important to maintain an optimistic and positive mindset, as excessive anxiety can affect your health. It's good to communicate with family and friends, keep your mind active, and exercise moderately. If you or your family notice a change in the situation, you can always come to me. "
Seeing off Aunt Li and Xiao Wang, I looked at their departing backs and couldn't help but fall into deep thought. Alzheimer's disease is like a sword of Damocles hanging over everyone's head, making people feel fearful. Fear does not solve the problem, scientific awareness and active prevention are the right attitude for us to deal with this disease.
As a doctor, I know that prevention is better than cure. It is hoped that through such science popularization and communication, more people can understand Alzheimer's disease, pay attention to early symptoms, and take active preventive measures. After all, a healthy life in old age is the good wish of each of us.
In this era of increasing population aging, caring for the physical and mental health of the elderly is not only the responsibility of every family, but also the common mission of the whole society. Let's work together to create a healthier and happier living environment for the elderly.