Question
Is it possible for Alzheimer's to have a rapid onset and progression?
Answer
Alzheimer's is a degenerative disease, which usually implies a slow progression. However, rarely Alzheimer's can progress more rapidly — over weeks or months instead of years.
A rapid progression may also suggest that a second type of dementia is complicating the Alzheimer's — such as vascular dementia or Lewy body disease. In addition, rapid progression of dementia may indicate another condition that mimics the symptoms of Alzheimer's, such as:
- Infections that affect the central nervous system, such as HIV and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
- A side effect of certain medications, such as anticholinergic drugs and narcotic pain relievers
- Vitamin B-12 deficiency
- Depression
- Hypothyroidism
A prompt and thorough medical evaluation is important to determine the exact cause of rapidly progressing dementia. Some causes are treatable.
Last Updated: 03/06/2006
