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What's really true about Alzheimers syndrome...and what's not
In this situation, even specialists rely on trial and error and guesswork, to some extent. So it is quite natural that there should be a number of rumors and half-truths about the disease that serve to confuse things even more. Let's look at some real answers, at least, to the extent our present knowledge permits us to. The first myth is that Alzheimer's syndrome is restricted to old people above 65 or so. This is partly true. The incidence of Alzheimer's is higher among older folks, but there are many people in their 40s and 50s who have the disease as well. The second myth is that if someone in the immediate family has Alzheimer's, you will probably get it too. The fact is, genetics is possibly a factor, but it is by no means the only factor. There is no way of predicting if someone will develop the disease, based purely on genetics and whether family members have the disease or not. The third myth is that old dental fillings contain mercury that can contribute to the disease. Well, studies of patients with Alzheimer's have found mercury in the brain. But having a few teeth fillings will not send enough mercury to the brain via food or other means. This is not even a half-truth! The fourth myth states that if you cook in aluminum pots, you will contract Alzheimer's. The truth is, there is no clear link between aluminum and Alzheimer's. The disease comes on due to a complex of factors, which is not understood. Myth five is that if you are having trouble remembering things, you must be developing the disease. Now, loss of memory is among Alzheimer's early symptoms. But having occasional trouble remembering things is not even an indicator of anything wrong with the brain. And if you do have real trouble with memory at times, there are any numbers of other factors that can contribute to it. Like stress, change in diet, lack of proper sleep and lots more. The sixth myth is that a diagnosis of Alzheimer's means that you are finished and there is nothing you can do about it. It's true that we don't have a way to cure the disease reliably and consistently. However, there are many things you can do to slow its progress. Or perhaps even halt it completely. An antioxidant-rich diet, lots of social interaction, mental stimulation and activity, exercise and other things can help. The seventh myth states that Alzheimer's disease can be brought on by artificial sweeteners. Again, not proven at all. In fact, some of what might cause the disease may come from fresh fruits and vegetables! Bottomline -- when you hear a 'fact' about Alzheimer's syndrome, take it with a pinch of salt. Consult your doctor, speak to local support groups or do fact-finding on the 'net. It's better to get the real facts than to rely on hearsay.
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