What is memory loss?

Memory is a broad term that includes a person's ability to learn new things and to retrieve previously learned information. Most neurological problems, including Alzheimer's disease, impair the ability to learn new things. Some memory loss can be part of the normal aging process but if the memory loss begins to impair a person's ability to function in some of their usual activities it would be classified as abnormal and the person may benefit from a medical consultation. If a person is experiencing memory loss, even if it is mild, he or she should have a neurological evaluation to determine the cause of the memory loss. This can lead to the detection of a very treatable cause of memory loss such as depression or normal pressure hydrocephalus, or it may lead to the detection of a life-changing chronic illness such as Alzheimer's disease. There are prescription medications that can be helpful in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. The hope for the future is through clinical trials/research looking at investigational treatmenets for this disease. Several such clinical trials are currently being conducted at the Margolin Brain Institute.

If you think that you are experiencing memory loss it may be beneficial to seek advise from a professional such as Dr. Margolin in order to determine what the likely cause of memory loss is and if there are any known treatments that may alleviate your symptoms. Please contact our facility to make an appointment if you feel like your memory is impaired, there may be new treatments that you could benefit from that are currently being tested.

Click to learn more about enrollment in clinical trials.

What is Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive (worsens over time) neurodegenerative (loss of brain cells) disease. It is the most common cause of dementia (loss of memory and other aspects of intelligence) severe enough to interfere with the person's ability to function in at least some daily activities. Alzheimer's disease is most commonly found among the elderly and progresses in phases depending on the individual. These phases progress as follows:

• Mild (1-3 years) beginning with difficulty in finding words, forgetfulness, apathy and depression.
• Moderate (2-10 years) with chronic loss of recent memory, behavior changes and the need for help with most of the activities of daily living (dressing, bathing, etc.)
• Severe (8-12 years) eventual inability to use language or to recognize family, with total dependence on others.

The cause of Alzheimer's disease is currently unknown. Brains of Alzheimer's patients, as compared with normal functioning brains, contain deposits called neuritic plaques (which contain beta-amyloid) and neurofibrillary tangles. Also, it is known that cell loss occurs in certain areas of the brains of Alzheimer's patients, especially those related to memory.

Are there any treatment options?

There is no known cause and no known cure for Alzheimer's disease but treatments are available. It is also very important for those who might be suffering from the disease and those who provide care to receive education about the disease. Understanding more about the disease allows caregivers and patients to adequately adapt their lives and develop strategies to assist in their endeavor. There are prescription medications available and many new treatments are regularly being tested that may benefit people who suffer from Alzheimer's disease. Enrollment in studies is not guaranteed but patients may contact the staff at the Margolin Brain Institute to get more information about whether they qualify for participation.

Click to learn more about enrolling in clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease.

What is Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease belongs to a group of conditions called motor system disorders, which are the result of the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells. The four primary symptoms of Parkinson's disease are tremor, or trembling in the hands, arms, legs, jaw and face; rigidity, or stiffness of the limbs and trunk; bradykinesia, or slowness of movement; and postural instability, or impaired balance and coordination. The symptoms of the disease in the early stage of its development are subtle and changes occur gradually. Other symptoms may develop with the progression of the disease as secondary results of the motor impairment. Some people develop depression and other emotional changes; difficulty in swallowing, chewing, and speaking; urinary problems or constipation; skin problems; or sleep disruptions.

Parkinson's disease usually affects people over the age of 50. The disease is both chronic and progressive. This means that it persists over a long period of time and symptoms grow worse over time. Some or all of the before mentioned symptoms may afflict an individual to varying degrees rendering some people severely disabled while others only experience minor motor disruptions. There are no lab or blood tests that have been proven to diagnose Parkinson's disease. Diagnosis is based on medical history and a neurological examination. The disease is difficult to diagnose accuratey and as a result may require multiple tests and examinations to rule out other possibilities.

Are there any treatment options?

There is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease but there are a variety of medications that provide significant relief from related symptoms. No single medication works for all patients. Every drug has varying degrees of effectiveness for each individual. Certain drugs work better for specific symptoms than other drugs. After consultation with a specialist such as Dr. Margolin, if you are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease you may be prescibed medication to fit your needs. There are also many research studies that are currently being conducted that are attempting to improve treatment options. If you are suffering from the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and wish to know more about treatment options or possible enrollment in clinical trials for new medications please contact the staff at the Margolin Brain Institute.

Click to learn more about enrolling in clinical trials for Parkinson's disease.