Care FAQs

Alzheimer’s and Dementia

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory, thinking skills, and even the ability to carry out the simplest tasks.

When was Alzheimer’s disease discovered?

Alzheimer’s disease was first described in 1906 by German physician Alois Alzheimer. He observed changes in the brain tissue of a woman who had died of an unusual mental illness.

What body system is affected by Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease primarily affects the brain, impacting areas of memory, thinking, and behavior.

What happens to the brain with Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease affects the brain in several ways. It begins with a gradual decline of memory and thinking, along with changes in behavior that can include confusion, disorientation, mood swings, and difficulty performing everyday tasks. As it progresses, it causes irreversible damage to the nerve cells in the brain, leading to further cognitive decline.

What is early-onset Alzheimer’s disease?

Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease is an uncommon disease affecting people younger than 65. It can present with the same symptoms as late-onset Alzheimer’s but may also cause seizures or changes in personality and behavior.

Congestive Heart Failure

What is congestive heart failure?

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition that occurs when the heart can’t pump enough oxygen-rich blood through the body. This can cause fluid to build up in the lungs, lower extremities, and other organs.

What symptoms are associated with congestive heart failure?

Common symptoms of CHF include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs, frequent coughing, rapid weight gain due to fluid build-up, and difficulty concentrating. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

What causes congestive heart failure?

CHF is often caused by an underlying heart condition, such as coronary artery disease, a weakened left ventricle, or damage to the heart muscle from a previous heart attack. Other causes can include high blood pressure, viral infections, and certain medications. In some cases, CHF can be hereditary.

What are the four stages of congestive heart failure?

The four stages of CHF are categorized based on the severity and progression of the disease.

Stage 1: Mild symptoms and preserved ejection fraction (EF).

Stage 2: Moderate symptoms with mild to moderate decrease in EF.

Stage 3: Severe symptoms, enlarged heart, and advanced decreases in EF.

Stage 4: End-stage CHF, the most severe and life-threatening stage.

Is congestive heart failure curable?

Unfortunately, CHF cannot be cured. However, with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments, it may be possible to slow the progression of the disease. Treatment options include medications to reduce fluid buildup and relieve symptoms, as well as lifestyle changes such as diet modifications and exercise. Surgery may sometimes be necessary to repair damaged valves or implant a pacemaker.

COPD

What is a COPD?

COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, is a lung disease that makes it harder for a person to breathe.

What causes COPD?

COPD can be caused by long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke and other tobacco products, air pollution, dust, and chemical fumes, a family history of COPD, advanced age, and being overweight.

What are the symptoms of COPD?

Common symptoms of COPD include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Other symptoms can include fatigue, frequent respiratory infections, swollen ankles or feet, and a bluish tint to the lips and skin.

What are the stages of COPD?

COPD is typically classified into four stages, with mild being stage 1 and very severe being stage 4. The symptoms and severity of the condition increase as the disease progresses from one stage to the next. Treatment options can help slow the progression of COPD and manage its symptoms.

How is COPD diagnosed?

COPD is diagnosed with a pulmonary function test (PFT), which measures how well your lungs can move air in and out. Your doctor may also order an X-ray or CT scan to look for signs of COPD, such as changes in the shape and size of your lungs.

 

Diabetes

What are the two types of diabetes?

There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.

What is type 1 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the body does not produce enough insulin. This type of diabetes requires lifelong management to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and prevent complications from developing. People with type 1 diabetes must monitor their food intake, exercise regularly, and take medication as prescribed to control their blood sugar levels.

What are the symptoms of type 1 diabetes?

The symptoms of type 1 diabetes can include excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurry vision, and weight loss.

What causes type 1 diabetes?

The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some research suggests that viruses or other environmental triggers can trigger the autoimmune process that leads to type 1 diabetes in those with a genetic predisposition for the condition.

Can you reverse type 1 diabetes?

No, type 1 diabetes cannot be reversed. While lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise can help to manage the condition, there is no cure for type 1 diabetes.

 

Hypertension

What is hypertension?

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a condition in which the force of blood pushing against the artery walls is consistently too high. This can cause damage to the body’s organs and lead to serious health issues such as heart attack or stroke.

What are the symptoms of hypertension?

High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, so it’s important to get regular check-ups. If left untreated, hypertension can produce physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and dizziness.

What causes hypertension?

Hypertension can be caused by various factors, including age, family history, obesity, diet, alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise. Additionally, some types of

medications can cause hypertension.

What is stage 1 hypertension?

Stage 1 hypertension is when your systolic blood pressure (top number) is between 140-159 mmHg and/or your diastolic blood pressure (bottom number) is between 90-99 mmHg. This indicates that you have an increased risk of developing more serious hypertension.

What is stage 2 hypertension?

Stage 2 hypertension is when your systolic blood pressure (top number) is 160 mmHg or higher and/or your diastolic blood pressure (bottom number) is 100 mmHg or higher. This indicates that you have a high risk of developing serious health complications and require immediate medical attention.

 

Parkinson’s

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder affecting the brain’s nerve cells. It can cause tremors, slow movement, stiffness or rigidity of your muscles, and balance issues. Other common symptoms include problems with speech, writing, and swallowing; becoming easily fatigued; changes to facial expression; depression or anxiety; and trouble sleeping.

What causes Parkinson’s disease?

The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, although research suggests it may be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In some cases, genetics can play a role in developing the condition – meaning that if one or both parents have Parkinson’s, their children are more likely to develop it. Additionally, certain environmental toxins or viral infections may increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.

What are the four cardinal signs of Parkinson’s disease?

The four cardinal signs of Parkinson’s disease are tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowed movements), and postural instability (imbalance). Tremor is an involuntary shaking movement that typically affects the hands and arms. Rigidity refers to stiffness or resistance to movement in the body’s muscles. Bradykinesia is a condition that causes slowed movement and difficulty starting movements. Postural instability is an imbalance of the body when standing or walking, resulting in falls.

What are the five stages of Parkinson’s disease?

The five stages of Parkinson’s disease include:

Preclinical — no physical symptoms

Mild/Early Stage — noticeable tremor, slowness of movement, soft voice

Moderate/Middle Stage – increased difficulty with balance and walking

Severe/Late Stage – more significant mobility and possibly dementia

End of Life — major movement and cognitive issues

Each stage is different for each individual, and the progression through the stages can vary dramatically.

How is Parkinson’s diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is typically made by a neurologist based on an evaluation and assessing symptoms. This may include physical examination, lab tests such as imaging scans (CT or MRI), and a medical history review. In some cases, the doctor may also use special types of testing to evaluate balance, coordination, reflexes, and muscle strength. If the doctor suspects Parkinson’s, they may send a sample of cerebrospinal fluid to a lab for analysis.

Stroke Recovery

What is a stroke?

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that supplies the brain with oxygen-rich blood becomes blocked or bursts, disrupting the supply of oxygen and nutrients. This can cause damage to the affected area of the brain and impair functions such as movement, vision, speech, memory, and behavior. The risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and high cholesterol.

What causes strokes?

Strokes can be caused by various factors, including blockage of an artery (ischemic stroke) due to the buildup of fatty deposits or the rupture of an artery that supplies blood to the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Other causes include blood clots in the brain or arteriovenous malformation (AVM).

How do doctors diagnose strokes?

Doctors may use a variety of tests to diagnose strokes. These tests can include an MRI, CT scan, ultrasound, or arteriogram to assess the type and extent of the damage caused by the stroke. Doctors may also order blood tests to check for clotting issues or elevated levels of certain substances.

What is the treatment for strokes?

The treatment for strokes depends on the type and severity of the stroke. Treatment may include medications to treat high blood pressure, diabetes, or other conditions that can contribute to a stroke; clot-dissolving drugs; surgery to repair damaged vessels or remove blockages; or physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to help with rehabilitation.

How long do you have to stay in the hospital after a stroke?

The length of hospital stay after a stroke depends on the severity of the stroke. Generally, patients with mild strokes may only require a short stay in the hospital. At the same time, those with more severe conditions or complications may need to remain hospitalized for several days or weeks.

 

Do you have further questions about how a trained Amada caregiver can help you or a loved one manage the symptoms of a chronic condition or a progressive disease? Please contact call us today at 832-209-8846