Recent findings by the Mayo Clinic show that blood tests could provide clues when it comes to the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. The experts at St. Bernardine Hospice Care work with patients in Irvine and Orange County who are battling Alzheimer’s, and feel it is important for family members and loved ones of those with this debilitating disease understand their options when it comes to early detection and treatment plans.
Differences Shown by the Research
The research was performed in Rochester, Minnesota, and found that the plasma fluid in Alzheimer’s patients as well as patients with other cognitive impairments were slightly different from that of normal, healthy patients with no known ailments, diseases or conditions. The data sample looked at 45 different people, 15 who were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, 15 who had other cognitive disabilities and 15 who had no health issues or medical problems that they were aware of at the time.
After discovering that the plasma fluid was different between the healthy patients and patients with cognitive impairments and Alzheimer’s, the researchers noted that blood tests could be an accurate way to diagnosis Alzheimer’s. These tests could help greatly with early detection and early intervention strategies.
How This Can Help Potential Patients
One Mayo Clinic pharmacologist made a statement in a press release, saying that the goal is to be able to use biomarkers to determine if a patient has Alzheimer’s disease years before they start showing any signs or symptoms. Most people attribute Alzheimer’s disease to symptoms such as memory loss and confusion, but patients can actually begin battling the illness up to a decade before they experience any signs. Patients can explore various treatment options before the disease progresses too far because biomarkers can be used to provide early detection.
Scientists and medical researchers continue to study Alzheimer’s disease and its appearance in patients. Another Mayo Clinic study found that sometimes it is 15 years between when Alzheimer’s disease starts in a patient until when the patient experience the common symptoms of memory loss, confusion and frustration.
The Future of Treating Alzheimer’s
Researchers and medical professionals are hoping to be able to discover more early detection methods so that they can pinpoint the start of the disease as soon as possible. The earlier a patient is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, the more options the patient has for treatment. Researchers are noting that early intervention may be the key to halting Alzheimer’s and finding a cure.
If you or a loved one are in need of memory care, contact us at St. Bernardine Hospice Care. We are committed to keeping patients calm and comfortable during the final days of this disease. In addition to caring for patients, our health care experts are trained to help educate caregivers and provide them with the comfort and support they need during this difficult time. We work to ensure that everyone feels dignified, comfortable and secure as they battle difficult illnesses such as Alzheimer’s, and we pride ourselves on our caring, personable bedside manners when working with patients, their families and friends.