Since a one hundred percent accurate diagnosis is not possible until brain tissue is examined, which is usually only done in autopsies, a complete diagnosis must be made through the process of elimination. An accurate diagnosis can sometimes be difficult to make, the more specific details are learned. For example, Alzheimer’s disease and multi-infarct (or vascular) dementia can exist together. Also, if a person is elderly and is showing signs of severe and progressive brain dysfunction, while it could technically be some another irreversible form of the condition, Alzheimer’s disease is usually diagnosed since it is the most common type. It is possible, though largely improbable, that a misdiagnosis will be given to a dementia patient. However, treatments for Alzheimer’s disease and other irreversible forms of dementia remain largely the same.

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease or other severe forms of dementia. Therefore, medication and alternative therapy is available to reduce the symptoms as well as to enhance the memory. For Alzheimer’s disease, the drug Aricept is often prescribed to delay the worsening of symptoms, like memory loss and disorientation. In dealing with multi-infarct dementia, it is important to control high blood pressure and cholesterol, and so treating those conditions with medication would be an option. Medication for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia can also be prescribed to reduce agitation, anxiety, depression and insomnia.

However, medication for behavioral symptoms is not always necessary. This is particularly advised in mild to moderate cases of dementia, where Alzheimer’s disease has not been diagnosed, or even in a few cases where the dementia is reversible. Instead of medication, alternative forms of therapy like psychotherapy, aromatherapy, acupuncture, and herbal supplements have been used. A plan of healthy dieting and regular activity can be a treatment against dementia. Simple strategies designed to naturally enhance the patient’s memory, like visual aids or planning a schedule of daily routines, are also effective.

Treatments in dementia and Alzheimer’s sufferers are similar because Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia. However, as we learn more about the disease, we also see that not every case of dementia requires the same kind of treatment. A patient and his or her family should consult a doctor to find out what treatment is best for them.

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