According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 5.8 million Americans have Alzheimer’s. In addition, it is estimated that by 2060, the number of Americans suffering from Alzheimer’s will nearly triple to 14 million. With these statistics in mind, it is not surprising that there are a lot of questions surrounding the disease. To complicate matters, sometimes Alzheimer’s is misdiagnosed.
If someone you love has been recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it is important to be aware that a misdiagnosis is possible. In fact, according to a recent study of 900 patients, it was found that around one in every four patients had an Alzheimer’s misdiagnosis. It’s most common for patients who are misdiagnosed to have frontotemporal dementia.
So, what can you do to protect your loved one from an incorrect diagnosis? Below are three tips.
Keep These Helpful Tips in Mind
Get a Second Opinion
If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it is crucial to get a second opinion—preferably from a neurologist specializing in dementia. While their primary care physician may be well-meaning, they may not have the specialized training necessary to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease accurately. A second opinion can ensure that your loved one receives an accurate diagnosis and the appropriate course of treatment.
Keep Track of Your Symptoms
If your loved one has been experiencing memory problems or other changes in cognition, make sure to keep track of their symptoms. This will help their doctor determine whether or not their symptoms are part of the normal aging process or if they are indicative of a more serious condition. Be sure to write down when the symptoms began, how frequently they occur, and any other relevant information.
Be Honest With Your Doctor
It is also essential to be honest with your doctor about your family history and any other health concerns you may have for your loved one. Family history is one of the risk factors for developing Alzheimer’s disease, so it is vital for the doctor to know if anyone in the family has been diagnosed with the disease.
In addition, certain health conditions—such as thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies, and sleep disorders—can cause symptoms that mimic those of Alzheimer’s disease. By being honest with the doctor about your loved ones' health concerns, you can ensure that you receive an accurate diagnosis.
Let Us Help You
If your loved one has been a victim of an Alzheimer's misdiagnosis, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our team of compassionate and experienced medical malpractice lawyers is here to help you recover the compensation you deserve for the lack of appropriate treatment your loved one hasn’t been able to receive. We understand that this is a difficult time, and we will handle your case with the utmost care and discretion.
Please call Grewal Law PLLC today at (888) 211-5798 for confidential legal representation.