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Transcript from the Interview with Dr. Pete Roy on Alzheimer's Disease Click here to listen to MP3 file of the interview Dave Kurten: The 3WZ Medical Minute is brought to you by Mount Nittany Health System. Our topic this week: Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our guest: Dr. Pete Roy. Thanks for joining us today. Dr. Roy: Thank you. Dave Kurten: Many people are not sure if they or a loved one is experiencing natural signs of aging or Alzheimer’s disease. Can you describe the signs of Alzheimer’s disease? Dr. Roy: Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include a significant loss of memory and other cognitive skills known as dementia. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia. Also, there is confusion with time and place, poor judgment and difficulty in doing one’s familiar tasks. This is very different from the mild forgetfulness and other problems that come with aging. Dave Kurten: Are there risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease? Dr. Roy: The greatest risk factors are advancing age and a family history of Alzheimer’s in a parent. Most people with Alzheimer’s disease are over the age of 65. Dave Kurten: What should a person do if someone they know has signs of Alzheimer’s disease? Dr. Roy: Be evaluated by a knowledgeable physician as soon as possible. The earlier it is diagnosed, the more that can be done for the patient. Since other conditions can be similar to Alzheimer’s disease, it is important to examine the person, perform blood tests, brain imaging and neuropsychological testing. Dave Kurten: Is there treatment for Alzheimer’s disease? Dr. Roy: Although there currently is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, there are medications and other nondrug treatments, which may help memory and behavioral symptoms. Dave Kurten: Where can community members get more information on Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia? Dr. Roy: The neurologists at Mount Nittany are specialized to diagnose and treat Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Call Mount Nittany at 814.234.8800 for more information regarding the Neurology Department, or visit mountnittany.org. Dave Kurten: Our guest has been Dr. Pete Roy. Thank you for your time. Dr. Roy: Thank you. Dave Kurten: The 3WZ Medical Minute is brought to you by Mount Nittany Health System. Mount Nittany – Life Forward. Links to previous broadcasts: |