DEAR DR. GOTT: My friends and I are very confused about this matter. What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's disease? How does a doctor determine the results, and what tests are used for this diagnosis?
DEAR READER: Dementia refers to a complicated condition marked by multiple signs and symptoms, including inappropriate behavior, confusion, loss of memory and diminished cognitive brain function.
The causes of dementia vary. Some are treatable, or even curable, while others are not.
Common causes of dementia include an underactive thyroid gland, vitamin B-12 and folate deficiencies, Parkinson's disease, stroke, neurotoxins (alcohol and other drugs), normal pressure hydrocephalus (brain swelling) and Alzheimer's disease.
There is no test to diagnose Alzheimer's. The progressive mental deterioration of Alzheimer's patients is relentless and untreatable — all of which can affect family members and caregivers.
At present, there are several medications on the market, such as Aricept and Namenda. However, significant improvements in patients' mental abilities are unpredictable.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Alzheimer's Disease."
DEAR DR. GOTT: When I see people wetting their fingers on their tongues to more easily turn pages, I find it not only unsanitary but also disgusting and inconsiderate. Other people may be handling those papers and may also do the same thing.
Can germs, infections and diseases be passed on by doing this? This action is so prevalent among newscasters, politicians and bank personnel; almost everybody does it.
DEAR READER: I do not believe that there are enough bacteria on dry paper to pose a significant threat. The practice you describe is universal, and I am not concerned about it being a public health menace, except in specific instances, such as a strep throat.
DEAR DR. GOTT: I am 81 years old. I have suffered with Meniere's disease since I was 30 years old. I have been to many doctors and was told there was nothing that could be done. My life has been hell. I saw Lipo-Flavonoid on television and have been taking it for three months now. I have not had one day of dizziness. I swear by this product.
DEAR READER: Lipo-Flavonoid effectively lessens tinnitus. Meniere's disease (vertigo, dizziness, loss of hearing and tinnitus) can be disruptive, as you know. I am printing your letter in hopes that your experience will help other readers.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Ear Infections and Disorders."
DEAR READER: Dementia refers to a complicated condition marked by multiple signs and symptoms, including inappropriate behavior, confusion, loss of memory and diminished cognitive brain function.
The causes of dementia vary. Some are treatable, or even curable, while others are not.
Common causes of dementia include an underactive thyroid gland, vitamin B-12 and folate deficiencies, Parkinson's disease, stroke, neurotoxins (alcohol and other drugs), normal pressure hydrocephalus (brain swelling) and Alzheimer's disease.
There is no test to diagnose Alzheimer's. The progressive mental deterioration of Alzheimer's patients is relentless and untreatable — all of which can affect family members and caregivers.
At present, there are several medications on the market, such as Aricept and Namenda. However, significant improvements in patients' mental abilities are unpredictable.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Alzheimer's Disease."
DEAR DR. GOTT: When I see people wetting their fingers on their tongues to more easily turn pages, I find it not only unsanitary but also disgusting and inconsiderate. Other people may be handling those papers and may also do the same thing.
Can germs, infections and diseases be passed on by doing this? This action is so prevalent among newscasters, politicians and bank personnel; almost everybody does it.
DEAR READER: I do not believe that there are enough bacteria on dry paper to pose a significant threat. The practice you describe is universal, and I am not concerned about it being a public health menace, except in specific instances, such as a strep throat.
DEAR DR. GOTT: I am 81 years old. I have suffered with Meniere's disease since I was 30 years old. I have been to many doctors and was told there was nothing that could be done. My life has been hell. I saw Lipo-Flavonoid on television and have been taking it for three months now. I have not had one day of dizziness. I swear by this product.
DEAR READER: Lipo-Flavonoid effectively lessens tinnitus. Meniere's disease (vertigo, dizziness, loss of hearing and tinnitus) can be disruptive, as you know. I am printing your letter in hopes that your experience will help other readers.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Ear Infections and Disorders."