Alzheimer's disease is one of several disorders that cause the gradual loss of brain cells. The disease was first described in 1906 by German physician Dr. Alois Alzheimer. Although the disease was once considered rare, research has shown that it is the leading cause of dementia. Dementia Dementia is an umbrella term for several symptoms related to a decline in thinking skills. Common symptoms include a gradual loss of memory, problems with reasoning or judgment, disorientation, …showed first 75 words of 1701 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1701 total…be causing dementia. After diagnosing Frank with Alzheimer's, I prescribed Galantamine and a Vitamin E supplement. Although current drugs cannot alter the progressive loss of cells, they may help minimize or stabilize symptoms. These medications may also delay the need for nursing home care. 1/8/03: Frank is in a better mood. His symptoms are suppressed and he is not as disoriented. I continued the medication and will see him in a month to evaluate his progression..