No diagnosis yet but hiding symtoms - Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia Message Board

khd383 · 11-06-2007, 08:38 AM

I believe my husband of 42 yrs is in the second stage of Alz. Basically I'm afraid. He is still working and probably won't quit until he is forced to. I don't know what to do. He said he'd mention it to his dr on his next physical but I don't think he will. Should I get the saliva test that is offered online or rely on the dr? His perceptions are changing. His cognitive ability is changing, as is short term memory. He is good at hiding the fact that something is wrong always blaming everyone/thing for the problem. How to proceed is the question. He hates drs. He has started taking Huperzine, and other supplements and does morning exercises. Do the new drugs help? Thanks for your input. KHD383

Gabriel · 11-06-2007, 09:42 AM

Patient denial is not uncommon. I do understand your fears, and his. Why don't you go with him to his next doctor's appointment and if he doesn't bring it up then you can prompt a discussion. There are simple test a doctor can do in office that will give you a guideline to how to proceed next. Or you could suggest a gerintologist or neurologist to find out why he is having these symptoms. It may be something as simple as a medication side effect. Then there are cognitives test that can determine the extent of the impairment.

There is no need for him to quit work until his impairments make it necessary. Exercise is good for him. Many of the herbal supplements are unproven. My mom took them all and what she got in return was very expensive urine and a lighter wallet. Your body will only absorb what it needs and the rest is wasted.

Welcome to the board. There are great people here who have been a god send to me. Their knowledge and support has been invaluable. I hope you find the answers and support you need here. Know you are not alone and there are many willing to share their knowledge and support.

Love, Deb

Martha H · 11-06-2007, 10:25 AM

It is absolutely esential that he get a complete checkup - soon. It is very unlikely he has Alzheimers; he is far too young, even for 'early onset' which may appear in the 50s or 60s. He may have any one of a number of CURABLE conditons ranging from a blood clot, or a mini stroke, to a brain tumor. All of these can be treated and cured. Do not wait. It is not a matter of 'he says he will go and doesn't'. GET him there. Make it a huge issue - tell him YOU need a physcial exam and want him to be with you - do anything you need to do to get him into medical care!

Good luck!
Martha

angel_bear · 11-06-2007, 01:35 PM

ditto with Martha.

42 is most unusual for early onset Dementia, although I have heard of a 45 yo being diagnosed, but that's one out of .......how many?

He could have: thyroid problems, anaemia, Vit B12 deficiency, blood pressure, low testosterone levels, kidney disease, liver problems ........ the list is endless.

ALL these diseases mimic dementia in various forms, it is ESSENTIAL that he has a full blood work up and physical to discount anything else before anybody jumps to the conclusion of Early Onset.

Early Onset is UGLY and cruel ..... you do NOT want to go there if you can help it.

Make the appointment for him TODAY. Get him in the car TODAY. I don't care how you do it, lie if you have to, but get him checked out NOW!

Gabriel · 11-06-2007, 02:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by khd383

I believe my husband of 42 yrs is in the second stage of Alz.

Maybe I misread but I thought they were married for 42 years not her husband was 42?

That is why I said the things I did. If it is cognitive problems at age 42 I agree with both of you. Get to the doctor fast... either way it is best to get a doctor's opinion.

Love, Deb