Common Medical Problems That Accompany Alzheimer’s Patients

Besides the common signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, an individual suffering from Alzheimer’s is also at risk of developing other health issues, especially in the progressive stages of the disease. These ailments can further have a negative impact on the patient’s behavior, cognitive and psychological being. The person may not be able to follow or join a conversation, making it difficult to express themselves and how they feel at that particular moment.

Of all the top 10 cause of death in the United States, Alzheimer’s condition is the only disease that cannot be stopped, suppress or cure. The best solution is to manage the condition through specialized care offered in various memory care homes. As a caregiver, you need to observe symptoms of illness and report back to the doctor immediately. To ensure quality care for a loved one with Alzheimers, there are some common health issues to watch for and could help administer the right care.

Flu and Pneumonia
With the rate in which these diseases spread, people with Alzheimer’s are more susceptible to infection and virus attacks. As such, it’s important that the patient receives a flu and pneumonia shot to protect them against recurrent infection. Infections symptoms are chills, aches and pains, difficulty breathing coughing, fever and vomiting. Failure to act on these infections could lead to more serious illnesses because of weak immune systems by patients with Alzheimer?s disease.

Although no single vaccine can guarantee Alzheimer’s patients maximum protection against flu, there are simple ways it can be prevented. Wash your hands often, change your clothes, clean and disinfecting commonly used objects to prevent the spreading of germs and viruses. When it comes to offering care for a loved one with Alzheimers, these are prevalent conditions to expect at advanced stages of the condition.

Fever
This is another common complication in Alzheimer’s patients, and it simply means an increase in body temperature above the normal range. Fever is common in late stages of Alzheimer’s and it’s may be a sign of other health problems such as infection, constipation, dehydration, heat stroke and more.

Dehydration
Sometimes it becomes difficult to administer proper care for a loved one with Alzheimers, especially when they can’t ingest food or water. With lack of nutrients obtained from consuming food and taking adequate water, patients become malnourished and suffer dehydration. Signs of dehydration to watch for include increased thirst, dry skin, headache, dizziness, dry mouth, hallucinations, rapid heart rate among others.

Incontinence
Incontinence for Alzheimer’s patients can be as a result of various factors, including stress, constipation, medications, urinary tract infections and prostate issues in men. The main cause being a dysfunction problem with messages between the brain and the bladder or bowel. There are many skilled nursing facilities and also assisting living facilities that have been offering support to patients with different forms of dementia.

This condition can manifest at all 7 stages of Alzheimer’s, but it’s much serious in advanced stages. Signs to look for are soiled undies, neurogenic bladder, and leaking urine. In case you start noticing this, be sure to inform the doctor who’ll administer more specialized care.

Diarrhea
Alzheimer’s treatment may cause abnormally frequent bowel movements. Some medicines too are known to cause diarrhea. Introducing a lot of fluids to this patient diet can help with the problem. Also, ensure they eat low-fat diets and plenty of antioxidants. And remember to notify the doctor about this issue.

Falls
At later stages of Alzheimer’s, the better part of the brain is damaged and patients find it difficult to move and even maintain posture. They misjudge distance and run into stuff while trying to walk. To avoid chances of a fall, ensure the room is clean of clutter, pathways should be clear and spacious, and good lighting in the house.

Offering care for a loved one with Alzheimers can be difficult, especially when you don’t know what to expect. Regular check and quality Alzheimer care should help manage the condition more effectively.