Early stages of dementia, crying!

7 years ago

Today I was diagnosed with the early stages of dementia. I had some test done last week and today I went this morning for the results. Husband is at the pharmacy right now getting a prescription filled for me. I think it is called aricept but not sure. I glanced at the prescription. I noticed problems I was having and my husband did too so we made an appointment with our primary care Dr. and he made an appointment with another Dr. for me. I cannot remember what kind of Dr. he is, but I do remember a boat load of test he put me through. His name was Dr. Branch, I believe.

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User

7 years ago

Thank all of you. My grieving was done when he was in the nursing home for so long. Although I am sometimes sad that he is gone his struggles are over.

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Comments (60)

OutsidePlaying
7 years ago
Hugs to you, dear Naomi! I am so sorry, but am glad you recognized this early as medications can help. And glad you have your DH by your side. And of course the KT Army is always here for you.
jim_1 (Zone 5B)
7 years ago
As the husband of a retired geriatrician, i will comment that you need to take that medication. It can postpone a lot of what is happening. Good luck.
Naomi Hertz thanked jim_1 (Zone 5B)
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I think talking to the doctor before your father (who must already be under increased stress) is a wise choice. The drug therapies for elderly dementia patients can be so individualized, the doctor may have reason for prescribing this drug given her particular history - you'll know once you've asked. All I can add is that my good friend took her mother-in-law into their home for the last 5 years of her life with dementia, very rough on the household (and mother) for the first few months with episodes of paranoia, anxiety and aggitation....which couldn't be attributed to strange surroundings, she moved from next door back into the larger family home where she had raised the son who was now 'raising' her. The neurologist prescribed Aricept and shortly after she was sleeping more hours than anyone would like to have seen, but sweet and peaceful the hours she was awake. That continued to the time of her death 4 1/2 yrs later at age 90, at home and quietly.
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My grandma had dementia. She was much older, but none the less...What you're describing sounds a lot like my grandma. I was told to not neseccarily go along with what she says, but not try to argue what is "right" with her. For example, she thought the Bulgarians (whole nother story!) were after her. She was riding her bike by the train and they jumped off and threw her bike under the train. They then said they were after my dad. She was shaking and crying and telling me, begging me really, to call my dad and tell him to hide. I never in my life lied to my grandma...but I knew there was no way to reason with her...so I told her I would go call my dad immediatly. I then went to the bathroom and cried my eyes out! I gathered my strength and went back to her, told her I called my dad and he was safe. She then says "What about Bob?" (my brother). I thought fast and told her he was with dad. Whew. After that I talked to the nursing supervisor, who told me I did exactly what I should have done. Don't argue, don't reason, just nod and try to change the conversation. It was scary to go visit her as I didn't know from one day to the next how she'd be. The other thing your story reminded me of was my mom. At 60, she started forgetting things. Lots of things. Was paranoid. Acted like I was someone she didn't really like. She steadily got worse, where it was affecting my dad. One night she had a seizure, not the kind you associate with epilespy, more of a black out or fainting with a slight shake going on. She wouldn't wake up. My dad finally called 911. She "awoke" when the paramedics arrived, but didn't know who my dad was, didn't know who SHE was. She went to the hospital and they did an MRI. There was a mass in her brain. It was a brain tumor. At first they were told it was inoperable, and probably benign. After 2 yrs, she got steadily worse. She didn't remember how to spell my name. My given name. The name she gave me. She couldn't drive. She cried ALL the time. I went with to the neurologist. This time, they said they could operate. It was removed. She's gotten some of her "old self" back, but not fully. I'm not really comfortable with her as the driver. She doesn't remember from 1 day to the next something simple. Like turning on the t.v. and then turning on the DVD. Recipes. Something she's cooked forever. She now needs a recipe. Gosh, I don't mean to scare you, but have her checked. From head to toe. Terry
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suzilulas Molkano
7 years ago
((((((((((((( Naomi))))))))))))
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Rosie
7 years ago
I'm so sorry, Naomi. That is a tough and scary diagnosis to have to face. Catching it early, as you have, and taking the prescribed medications is a big factor in managing this disease. When you are feeling up to it and over the initial shock you've had, by all means, contact your local Alzheimer's groups. They can be a wealth of information and emotional support. Don't hesitate to come here either whenever you need a shoulder to lean on and an ear to listen.
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Uptown Gal
7 years ago
I am so sorry to hear this. But, as several have mentioned....the medicine has had

some tremendous results. Please hang in there....new research and findings are

happening every single day. Saying a prayer and sending a hug to you.
Naomi Hertz thanked Uptown Gal
marilyn_c
7 years ago
I'm so sorry to read this, but at least you know and hopefully the medicine will help you prolong the negative aspects of the disease. It is my greatest fear. I especially worry about it because I will probably face when I get it alone.
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raee_gw zone 5b-6a Ohio
7 years ago
Shocking and frightening! I feel for you. Do look up the Alzheimer's association and speak more with the specialist about what might be the root cause; it is not always Alzheimer's -- sometimes it is tiny strokes, which would only show up on an MRI, or generalized blood vessel disease (also visible on MRI) -- and measures can be taken beyond Aricept to prevent more deterioration if those are a factor. Exercise is important no matter what.
Naomi Hertz thanked raee_gw zone 5b-6a Ohio
Rusty
7 years ago
(((((Naomi))))) You will be in my prayers, Naomi. Apparently you've caught this coming on in the early stages, that is good! As others have said, there are meds now that can help a lot in slowing down progression of the disease. Hopefully a cure is just around the corner.

There are a number of different kinds of dementia, Alzheimer's Disease is just one of them. The Alzheimer's society is a very helpful organization, do look up their website, and/or any local support groups. And take your meds faithfully as prescribed!

When my husband was in about the 4th or so stage of Alzheimer's, someone asked me if the meds were helping him. My reply was, "I don't know, because I don't know where he would be without them, and I'm not about to withhold them to find out."

God bless you and your husband.

Rusty
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User
7 years ago
Hugs to you naomi
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patriciae_gw
7 years ago
I too am sorry, it is a diagnosis we all worry about but you have done the right thing and caught it early. Hopefully medication will work well for you.
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phoggie
7 years ago
Sending you many hugs and prayers for strength. This is my biggest fear! My mother, aunt, and now my brother has it... I really think I could have the beginnings myself. Have not had tests but when I mentioned it to doctor, he was not concerned. May God be with you and your family...it is hard on everyone. ((((O))))
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User
7 years ago
It's a big worry for most of us particularly if we have relatives history. It was very good you were diagnosed early on and the meds now do a great job of slowing it down. Please come here for support. We will be here for you.
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Sammy
7 years ago
“I noticed problems I was having and my husband did too so we made an appointment with our primary care Dr. ...”

That was a very brave thing for you to do; it must’ve been so hard to acknowledge that something wasn’t quite right and take action. My hat’s off to you.
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happy2b…gw
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
sammy and I posted at the same time .

You are so brave to have made the appointment to see your physician when you noticed something was off. Many would have ignored it and waited. Perhaps compromising their quality of life in the long run.

I concur that having a complete physical work up is a good idea to find out if there is an underlying cause of the symptoms you are experiencing.

Again, I admire your bravery. BTW, you do not have to remember the doctor's name. You have a lot on your mind.

Bravo to you.
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lgmd_gaz
7 years ago
So sorry to read about this, Naomi. I admire you for taking those very difficult first steps to get a diagnosis. That will make a difference in how you will/can manage in the days to come.
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Annie Deighnaugh
7 years ago
Oh so sorry to hear this. It's devastating news. Sending you thoughts of strength and comfort.
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Ava
7 years ago
Naomi, that is devastating news. Hard as it is, try to keep a positive outlook. Good that it was caught early and you are being treated.
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Kathsgrdn
7 years ago
((((Naomi))))
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raee_gw zone 5b-6a Ohio
7 years ago
Phoggie, I have known so many women who noticed that something was "off" but were blown off by their MDs -- and then it turned out to be something serious. Please persist in asking for an assessment, or go to another MD.
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User
7 years ago
Any more Alzheimer's is the catch all term for what used to be called old age dementia. You need to find a neurologist that will test for the most common types of dementia such as Vascular and those related to chemical imbalances as there is a type that is apparently caused by low B vitamins. I have a problem with statins of all types. When I take them I develop what was called pseudodementia.

Go as soon as possible and have POA's for both financial and health drawn up. My husband first started having problems in 2002/2003 and there was little progression. Four years ago he had a UTI that caused him to loose most of the mental processes and use of his body. Until then there was really very little mental change. I had to obtain a Guardianship and Conservatorship to do anything although most of our accounts were joint. Differing states have differing laws on what even a spouse can do. BUT you do not want to have your loved ones have to do this. You might even want to have several where if one person is unable for whatever reason the other person becomes your POA.

I do recommend the Alzheimer's Association groups but more for the caregiver than for yourself. We were in the patient and caregiver groups but my husband received little benefit from the patient group. Once my group started talking about real issues it became very helpful. The Caregivers forum has lots of suggestions but as a patient read for hints of what changes you might make in where you live to be more comfortable rather than for the disease.

My husband passed away on the 11th which means he had the process for at least 15 years and only the last three did he have the problems that people associate with dementia so you can have a long time to do what you enjoy doing.
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pudgeder
7 years ago
((((Naomi))))
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Elmer J Fudd
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
I'm sorry to hear of your husband's death, maifleur. Best wishes.

Also best wishes for Naomi and family.
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socks
7 years ago
Maifleur, what a helpful post. Are you saying your husband just passed away January 11? So recent, you must be in the midst of great emotions. Deepest condolences and wishes for a peaceful heart.

Naomi, may the wonderful, supportive posts you have here give you hope and also helpful information. I send you a hug, my dear.
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happy2b…gw
7 years ago
(((malfleur))) (((Naomi))) (((phoggie)))
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User
7 years ago
(((Naomi))). I’m so sorry.
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blfenton
7 years ago
((((maifleur))) You are in my thoughts
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dedtired
7 years ago
So sorry for the diagnosis but I am so glad you are getting help. My good friend is showing signs of dementia and as far as I can tell her family is just pretending nothing is going on. She has a terrible time bringing up words and has gotten lost twice while driving somewhere she's been many times before.

Good luck to you. I hope the disease progress is very slow.

Hugs to Malfleur.
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User
7 years ago
I just want Naomi to know that the diagnosis can be false and she can still have a useful life for a long time if it is true. My husband was in a water fitness class up until four years ago then it was his knee not his brain that made him withdraw. It is important to receive a full battery of tests including a PET scan. KU Medical Center has discovered that about a quarter of the people were misdiagnosed when they used this type of scan. She and anyone that thinks they are having similar problems should check to see if there is a dementia research facility. Last I read there were over 70 different types of dementia some of which can be actively treated vs. Aricept.
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katlan
7 years ago
Oh Naomi, you've been dealt a blow. I'm really sorry you have this to deal with. Kuddos for going early and getting a jump on this. You have your wonderful husband and medicine that is improving all the time, that's good. You have all your kt family for prayers and support. I will keep you in my prayers.
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salonva
7 years ago
I am so sorry to read this. It sounds like it's been diagnosed quite early so that is actually a good thing. The drugs and other treatments should really help. I wish you strength and love.
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abbisgram
7 years ago
((((Naomi))))
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marilyn_c
7 years ago
Maifleur, I'm very sorry. I know even when there is some relief and expected, it is still very sad.
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mare_wbpa
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
(((((((((Naomi))))))))) You'll be in my prayers.
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bpath
7 years ago
((((((( Naomi ))))))))
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Alisande
7 years ago
I'm so sorry you have to deal with this, Naomi. You've received some good advice above; all I can add is the suggestion that there may be some lifestyle changes that could help you. I put this book on my Kindle last week. I haven't read it yet, but in case you or your husband are interested I'll pass this along:

The End of Alzheimer's: The First Program to Prevent and Reverse Cognitive Decline

The very best of luck to you.
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glenda_al
7 years ago
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tennessee_swift
7 years ago
Oh, Naomi. I will be praying for you. Thinking of you!
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Ali
7 years ago
Naomi, sending kind caring thoughts your way. I would get a second opinion.
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georgysmom2
7 years ago
You've received some wonderful advice here, which is why I love this forum. I have nothing to add but hugs.
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OklaMoni
7 years ago
Naomi I have no advice... I just want to tell you, you are in my thoughts.

Moni
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chisue
7 years ago
Keep sharing this burden, Naomi. We are all in one another's 'corner' here. The promise of the internet for good is proven here on the KT every day.
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ldstarr
7 years ago
((((Naomi)))). I'm sorry you have to deal with this. As others have said, make sure your doctor does enough testing to ascertain the type of dementia you are developing. Appropriate treatment can delay the effects for many, many years.
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glenda_al
7 years ago
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artemis_ma
7 years ago
Hugs, Naomi.
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Naomi Hertz
Original Author
7 years ago
I was diagnosed with vascular dementia. I had a stroke about eight years ago. My walking is not good, and other problems.
kadefol
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
Naomi, I am sorry you have to cope with this diagnosis and I wish you the very best treatment and outcome possible.
jrb451
7 years ago
I've thought about your post the last two days. Wish I could find the right thing to say other than I'm sorry.
katlan
7 years ago
Maifleur, I'm sorry you lost your husband. God bless his soul, rest in peace.
sealavender
7 years ago
Just wish you the best.

Early stages of dementia, crying!

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